Luke Judge

THE government is being urged to respond to moves by India and Korea to build research stations in the Australian Antarctic Territory.

Australia claims 42 per cent of Antarctica, but with Russia and China well-established in the territory, there is concern the presence of two other nations would lessen Australia’s influence.

Officials of the Australian Antarctic Division, in briefing notes to Environment Minister Tony Burke after the election, made "revitalising our Antarctic presence" a government priority.

The officials told mr Burke "presence and science are the currency of Antarctic influence" on treaty partners, and highlighted Australia’s financial interest in fishing, tourism and services, along with the need to maintain "the military-free status of our southern borders".

Russia has seven stations in the AAT; China opened its second station last year; India will start construction on its first over summer; and South Korea is planning to set up a new station near the Easter sector by 2014.

With the pending termination of some government funding, the officials are keen to bolster Australia’s Antarctic program to "firstly guarantee, and then improve, access to and around Antarctica, and to rebuild stations as next-generation facilities".

While Australia’s research stations are on the coast and offer only "limited access to the vast interior" of the AAT, the officials do not appear to be looking at new sites, focusing on "expanding the range of remote, deep-field areas accessible beyond Australia’s permanent stations".

The three stations would be rebuilt as "next-generation, energy efficient and environmentally friendly facilities", with stockpiles of contaminated waste finally treated and removed.

The existing Airlink would be expanded to create a network of inter- and intra-continental air transport, while state-of-the-art icebreaking and other shipping resources would be brought in to allow Australians to go further afield in the territory.

"a modern program would revitalise our leadership and protect Australia’s national interest in Antarctica by ensuring we have a physical presence compatible with our sovereignty; facilitating scientific research that meets the policy needs of government and provides the currency to influence Antarctic diplomacy; allows for collaboration and therefore influence in the logistics and science activities of other nations; positions us to develop sustainable economic activities; and ensures we continue to lead on environmental management," the briefing notes state.

The briefings, obtained by the Australian under the Freedom of Information laws, were partly censored out of fear the publication of the officials’ other observations and plans might affect national security, defence or international relations.

While the continent is coveted by some for its resources and potential as a defence base, the Madrid Protocol prohibits mining and the Antarctic Treaty prohibits any military activity.

Australia is one of seven countries to have staked a claim on Antarctica, and while Russia, China and India are not claimants, they are still considered treaty partners.

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COLUMBIA CAMERA CLUB: 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Capital Senior Center, 1650 Park Circle (Maxcy Gregg Park). Meeting will feature the group’s photojournalistic contest of projected images. (803) 786-7022. columbiacameraclub.com

NATIONAL ACTIVE AND RETIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION: Columbia Chapter 87 of NARFE luncheon meeting, 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 9, at Seawell’s, 1125 Rosewood Drive. Guest speaker will Adriene Huffman, executive director of the State Museum Foundation. Open to all active and retired federal employees and spouses in Richland and Lexington counties.

DUTCH FORK CHAPTER, S.C. GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY: Annual reunion, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 17, at Mount Horeb Lutheran Church, 101 E. Boundary St., Chapin. Morning speaker will be Debbie Bloom of the Richland County Public Library; afternoon presentation by John Bigham will feature photographs of Confederate soldiers and their families. Registration, $16 (includes lunch); reservations deadline is Sunday, April 11. (803) 345-5815

CAMDEN ART ASSOCIATION: 7 p.m. Monday in Bassett Gallery, Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County, 810 Lyttleton St. Meeting will feature a presentation by jewelry maker Shirley Jean Muncaster. (803) 425-6663

WOODFIELD PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8, at Woodfield Park Baptist Church, 1834 Morninglo Lane.

GO FIGURE: Artists group meets 6-8:30 p.m. Mondays to draw or paint live models. $20 membership fee plus $5 model fee per session. Group meets at The Village Artist Gallery, Village at Sandhill. (803) 699-8886; thevillageartists.com

PALMETTO PERSONAL COMPUTER CLUB: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8, at Capital Senior Center, 1650 Park Circle (Maxcy Gregg Park). Group meets the second Thursday monthly. palmettopc.org

FOR ADULTS

50+ FITNESS: 9 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road. Low-impact cardio, strength training, balance/flexibility for beginner to advanced levels. (803) 787-5156

GOSPELROBICS: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Antioch AME Zion Church, 1136 Antioch AME Church Road, Eastover. Monthly fee, $15. (803) 353-7143 or e-mail

SOUL LINE DANCING: 7:15-8:15 p.m. Thursdays at Caughman Road Park, 2800 Trotter Road. Coed, ages 18 and older; $5 per class. (803) 783-0400

CAPITAL SENIOR CENTER: Zumba Gold fitness class, 5:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. R&B line dancing, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays; wear smooth-soled shoes, $5; members, $2.50. Salsa socials, lessons and dancing, 5:30-7:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays monthly, $5, members, $3. Golden Friendship Club, potluck dinner, socializing and dancing, 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays monthly; bring your favorite covered dish to share. Arthritis exercise class, 10-11 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; light stretching and flexibility exercises for those with rheumatic conditions. Afternoon aerobics, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Shag dance lessons and more, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays; $4, members, $3. Tai Chi, 9 a.m., 5:45 p.m. Wednesdays and 11:15 a.m. Fridays. Qi Gong, 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Movies with Marcia, 2-4 p.m. Wednesdays. Yoga for Peripheral Neuropathy, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Fridays. Non-members, $25 per year. 1650 Park Circle, (803) 779-1971

BUS TRIP: Harrah’s Casino, Cherokee, N.C., Saturday, April 10; $45. Call (803) 873-9365 for a flyer.

CAPITAL SENIOR CENTER: Friday night dances, 7:30-10:30 p.m. weekly at 1650 Park Circle (Maxcy Gregg Park). Informal ballroom dancing to live music. $5; setups provided. (803) 786-2049

U.S. AMATEUR BALLROOM DANCERS ASSOCIATION: Greater Columbia Chapter dance, 7:15-10:30 p.m. Saturdays, April 10 and 25, at the Hugh Dimmery Memorial Center (The Barn), 680 Cherokee Lane, West Columbia. Casual dress; nonalcoholic drinks, refreshments and snacks will be available. April 10 event is the group’s semi-formal Azalea Ball. Complimentary dance lesson, 7:45-8:15 p.m. Admission, $8; USADance members, $5; students, $3. usadance.us

BUS TRIPS: Orlando and Winter Park, Fla., June 7-11, $475. Charleston, June 24-27, $382. Charleston, July 10; tour, lunch and shopping, $92. Nonrefundable deposit of $25. (803) 776-9127 or e-mail

FOR ALL AGES

CONGAREE NATIONAL PARK: Visitor center open 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at 100 National Park Road, Hopkins. Owl Prowls, 8-10 p.m. Fridays, April 9, 16 and 30 Guided Canoe Tours, 9 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, April 10, 11, 17, 18 and April 25. River Trail Tromp, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, April 17. Free; reservations must be made two weeks in advance. Tree Treks, 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, April 14; Friday, April 16 and Sunday, April 18. Nature Discovery Hikes, 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, April 10 and 17. Call (803) 776-4396, ext. 0, or go to nps.gov/cong.

DENNY TERRACE COMMUNITY CENTER: Offering the following adaptive activities at 6720 Bishop Ave. Green Thumb Gardening for all ages, 10 a.m.-noon the first Tuesday monthly; free. Family and Friends Night Out for ages 18 and older, 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays; free. Family Games and Activities, 10 a.m.-noon the fourth Saturday monthly; free. (803) 754-6720, ext. 204, 209 and 214

AGES 18 AND YOUNGER

FRIARSGATE PARK: Group guitar lessons for ages 7 and older will meet 3:30-4:15 p.m. Tuesdays, individual lessons 4:30-5 p.m.; $40/$80. Basic tap and ballet classes for ages 3-12, 6:30-7:15 p.m. Wednesdays; $45 per month. The park is at 1712 Chadford Road, Irmo. (803) 732-3220

CAROLINA CHILDREN’S GARDEN: Sessions meet at the Clemson Sandhill Research and Education Center, 900 Clemson Road. Recommended for ages 5-12, but all are welcome; registration required unless otherwise noted. Egg Hunt, 3:30-5 p.m. Friday; free, drop-ins welcome. (803) 459-3212 or e-mail

COLUMBIA CHILDREN’S THEATRE: Creative Dramatics for students in kindergarten through third grade, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, April 13-May 18; $150. Kidstage! for students in fourth through eighth grades, 4:30-6 p.m. Thursdays, April 15-May 20; $150. Page to Stage – Play Creation Workshop for home-schooled students ages 5-14 , 1:30-3 p.m. Mondays, April 13-May 17; $150. Sessions meet at Midtown at Forest Acres, 3400 Forest Drive (upper level). (803) 691-4548; columbiachildrenstheatre.com

FOR ADULTS

VETERANS HEALTH CARE AND BENEFITS: 10 a.m.-noon the first and third Tuesdays monthly at the Columbia One Stop Workforce Center, 700 Taylor St.

ZUMBA DANCE PARTY: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Seven Oaks Park, 200 Leisure Lane. Bring water bottle and comfortable shoes. (803) 772-3336

TAI CHI FOR BEGINNERS: 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays at McGregor Presbyterian Church, 6505 St. Andrews Road; 10-11:30 a.m. and 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays , at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church, 2701 Heyward St. Donation for the five-month beginner session is $165; discounts for seniors, students and families. (803) 647-9283; taoist.org

SHEPHERD’S CENTER OF ST. ANDREWS: Adventures in Learning for ages 50 and older, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays through May 25 at Ashland UMC, 2600 Ashland Road. Classes include “Another Look at Churchill,” “Rembrandt in His Times,” “The Early Church and the Spread of Christianity,” “I Dig South Carolina.” “Hot Off the Press,” “What I Did While I Was Waiting to Retire,” “The Curious History of …,” tai chi, classic movies, art, exercise/line dance, beginning and intermediate Spanish, quilting, creative writing and day trips. Lunch is available for $6.50, followed by entertainment or a speaker. Tuition for the 10-week program is $25. (803) 731-9394

HISTORIC COLUMBIA FOUNDATION: “Home to Many People: Discovering the People, Places and Progress of the Hampton-Preston Mansion,” 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through April 13 at 1615 Blanding St. Participants will go behind the scenes for accounts of the lives, work and culture of those who lived at the Hampton-Preston property. Each week features a new topic, tours and discussions. Series, $35; Historic Columbia members, $20; students, $15. Single session, $10; students and members, $5. Reservations required. (803) 252-1770; historiccolumbia.com

BEGINNERS BALLROOM DANCING: Ballroom, Latin and social dancing, 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays at the Hugh Dimmery Memorial Center, 680 Cherokee Lane, West Columbia. $6; couples, $10 (10 weeks payable in advance). Preregistration required, call (803) 791-9881 or e-mail

RICHLAND 2 ADULT EDUCATION: Diploma programs, 8:30 a.m.-12:35 p.m., 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays. GED course, 8:30-10:30 a.m., 10:35 a.m.-12:35 p.m., 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays. Ten-week prep, $50; 15-week course, $65. English as a Second Language, 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays-Thursdays at Windsor United Methodist Church, 9500 Windsor Lake Blvd.; free. Skills Lab, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays; free. Introduction to Computers, 1-3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, April 12-May 5; $60 (ages 60 and older, $30). Introduction to Computers II, 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 13-May 6; $60 (ages 60 and older, $30). eBay the Right Way, 1-3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, May 12-24; $30. Digital Photography, 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 13-25; $30. All classes meet at W.R. Rogers Adult Education Center, 750 Old Clemson Road unless noted. (803) 736-8787, ext. 306

PALMETTO ACTIVITY CENTER: Fitness 123, yoga/tai chi combo class, 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; $40 for a four-week session. Zumba Mornings, 10 a.m. Tuesdays; $35 for a four-week session. Zumba Fitness, 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; monthly fee, $45. Soul Line Dance, 6 p.m. Mondays; $35 for a four-week session. Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m. Tuesdays; $70 per couple for a four-week session. No experience necessary for dance classes. All sessions meet at 105 Summit Centre Circle. (803) 865-6516

SHEPHERD’S CENTER OF COLUMBIA: Wednesdays for ages 55 and older in the Leisure Ministries Building at Trenholm Road UMC, 3401 Trenholm Road. Offering Yoga, Bridge, Acrylic and Watercolor Painting, Europe in the 1920s and ’30s, Dulcimers, Classic Movies and Great Stars, Gardening, For the Ladies, Producing Written Products: Prizes in Print, How I Spend My Free Time, Creative Stew, Music and Scenes from Famous Operas and Ballets, Playreading in the Round, Religious Discussion Series and Handbells. Classes meet at 9:05, 10, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Lunch and speaker at noon, $7 (reservations required). Tuition for unlimited classes, $25. (803) 779-4449

“SOIL NOT OIL” LECTURE: 3:30 p.m. Friday in Belk Auditorium at USC’s Darla Moore School of Business. Environmental activist Vandana Shiva will discuss food insecurity, peak oil and climate change. Free. (803) 777-3735

GROUP FITNESS PROGRAMS: Sessions for new exercisers at Drew Wellness Center, 2101 Walker Solomon Way. SIT (Seat Inspired Training), 9 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays; MYYOGA, 9 a.m. Mondays; M.E.L.T. (More Exercise, Less Time), 12:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; and Body Balance, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (803) 545-3200 or go to drewwellnesscenter.com for membership information.

LINE DANCE CLASS: 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at Ripley’s Retreat, 1230 Louis LeConte Road (off Sumter Highway, near Mr. Bunky’s); $5. (803) 776-5436

FINE ART DRAWING AND PAINTING CLASSES: Mondays and Tuesdays at Quail Lane Racquet & Swim Club, 4927 Quail Lane. Drawing and watercolor, mixed media painting, 9:30 a.m.-noon Mondays. Drawing and oil, acrylic and mixed media painting, 5:30-8 p.m. Mondays and 9:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays. francesmnelson.com

CAPITAL SENIOR CENTER: Needlecraft Group, 1-3 p.m. Mondays; weekly instruction in crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, crewel, knitting, needlepoint and bunka. Jewelry Making with Carole Barnes, 3 p.m. Mondays. Genealogy Workshop, 10 a.m.-noon Tuesday, April 13. Drawing Class with Lee Swallie, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays through May 25; $50, members, $25. Educational classes, social classes and activities are $25 per year. The center is at 1650 Park Circle (Maxcy Gregg Park). (803) 779-1971

LINE DANCE CLASS: 7-9 p.m. Thursdays at Ozzie’s Country Island, 1420 Charleston Highway, West Columbia; $5. (803) 776-5436

BASIC SHAG LESSONS: 2:30 p.m. Sundays at the Batesburg Music and Dance Academy, 112-C W. Church St., Batesburg-Leesville. Six-week session, $90 couples; singles, $60. (803) 924-1231

ADULT EDUCATION AND ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES: 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays (GED) and Wednesdays (ESL) at Gilbert Primary School, 520 Main St., Gilbert. Free; child care will be provided by the GPS Parenting Center. (803) 821-1400

LEXINGTON 2 AND 4 ADULT EDUCATION: Certified Nursing Assistant classes, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, April 19-May 18, May 31-June 30; $575. Offering Pre GED/GED preparation, WorkKeys, high school diploma, HSAP preparation, English as a Second Language and GED online. Classes are offered in Cayce, West Columbia, Gaston and Swansea. (803) 739-4048 or (803) 568-1025

MIDLANDS TECHNICAL COLLEGE: Accepting registration for the following continuing education classes: Defensive Driving, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Beginner’s Motorcycle, Defensive Driving, Photography at Riverbanks, e-Bay and Beyond: Sales, Photographic Composition, Intermediate Motorcycle, Experienced Motorcycle, Cake Decorating II and Financial Strategies for Successful Retirement. (803) 732-0432; mtctraining.com

FOR ALL AGES

YOGA WITHOUT WALLS: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Mondays at the Kershaw Recreation Department, 1042 W. Dekalb St., Camden. Monthly fee, $36; (803) 425-6009. 6:55-7:55 p.m. Thursdays at the Camden Library, 1304 Broad St.; donations accepted; (803) 425-1508. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturdays at Grace Episcopal Church, 1315 Lyttleton St., Camden. yogawithoutwalls.net

VISUAL ARTS CLASSES: 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesdays or Thursdays, Crescent Lake, Blythewood. LaDonna Dixon, (803) 735-9982

HOPKINS PARK: Basic drawing for ages 12 and older, 6-7 p.m. Mondays through April 26; $10. Ceramics classes for ages 12 and older, 6-8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays through April 28; $20. Spades tournament for ages 12 and older, 6-8 p.m. Thursdays through April 29; $2 entry fee. All activities at 100 Hopkins Park Road, Hopkins. Lee Davis, (803) 783-9374

ZUMBA WITH JANAE: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays and 11 a.m.-noon Saturdays at Flying High Academy, 75 Old Barnwell Road, West Columbia. $5 per class; monthly fee, $35. (803) 446-7413

TRADITIONAL KARATE CLASSES: Classes forming for ages 6 through adult at Shotokan Karate Center, 528 Columbia Ave., Lexington. $90 month. (803) 359-3632

Advance registration required for most programs

RICHLAND COUNTY

Richland County Public Library will be closed Sunday and Monday for Easter.

ST. ANDREWS REGIONAL BRANCH: Teen Game Time, 3-5 p.m. today and Thursday, April 15. Story Time for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Saturdays through April 17. Let’s Speak English for adults, 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Tuesday and Tuesday, April 20. Hey! Listen to This! stories and songs for all ages, 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Read with Curious George for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Fly Guy Says “Hi!”, craft and story session for ages 3-12, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 8. Mind Games for adults, 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays, April 13, 27; exercise your brain with Sudoku, chess or crosswords. Book Banter for adults, 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 13; Fran Rizer, author of the Callie Parish mystery series, will discuss her works. Fruit and Vegetable Carving for adults, 3 p.m. Saturday, April 17. Earth Day story and craft session for ages 3-12, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 22. Gospel Soul for teens, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 22; contemporary gospel performance featuring Regina Skeeters and J. Michael Peeples. Computer Basics: Introduction to Computers for adults, 7 p.m. Monday, April 26. 2916 Broad River Road, (803) 772-6675

THE LINK, BALLENTINE: Hey! Listen to This! stories and songs for all ages, 11 a.m. Fridays. Pajamarama Bedtime Story Time for all ages, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15. 1321 Dutch Fork Road, (803) 781-5026

SANDHILLS BRANCH: Story Time for all ages, 11 a.m. Saturdays through April 17. Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 1-2:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Toddler Story Time for you and your 2-year-old, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays beginning April 8. hip2crafts for adults, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8; bring a portable project and connect with other crafters. Japanese Tea Ceremony for adults, 2 p.m. Saturday, April 10. Teen Advisory Board meeting, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 13. Book discussion groups for adults, 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 and 1 p.m. Thursday, April 15; selection is “Memoirs of a Geisha” by Arthur Golden. Garden Like a Master: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15; organic gardening for adults. Kids Kraft: Super Stamps for ages 6-8, 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 20. 1 Summit Parkway, (803) 699-9230

NORTHEAST REGIONAL BRANCH: Mother Goose Story Time for ages 12 months and younger, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays through April 15. Never Wear Woole at the White House: Ansel Adams, America’s Photographer for adults, 7 tonight. Story Time for all ages, 11 a.m. Saturdays through April 17. Teen Cafe, 3 p.m. Saturday; express your creative side or just hang out and chat. Celebrate the Earth for ages 6-8, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. Book Group for adults, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 8; selection is “How Starbucks Saved My Life” by Michael Gates Gill. Hey! Listen to This!, stories and songs for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Sun and Snow: Early Photography, sunprint photo session for ages 9-12, 4 p.m. Monday, April 12 (rain date will be Friday, April 16). Let’s Speak English for adults, 7 p.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, April 13, 20. Game on: Wii for teens, 3 p.m. Saturday, April 17. Teen Advisory Board meeting, 3:30 p.m. Saturday, April 17. hip2crafts for adults, 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 24; bring a portable project and connect with other crafters. Computer Basics: E-mail Basics for adults, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29. 7490 Parklane Road, (803) 736-6575

BLYTHEWOOD BRANCH: Hey! Listen to This!, stories and songs for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Fridays. Silly Songs for ages 6-8, 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 20. Starry Night, craft and story session for all ages, 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 26. 218 McNulty Road, (803) 691-9806

COOPER BRANCH: Mother Goose Story Time for you and your child 12 months and younger, 10:30 a.m. today. Knitwits, knitting basics for teens, 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday and April 20; all materials provided. Family Story Time for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. Book Group for adults, 10 a.m. Monday, April 12; selection is “The Optimist’s Daughter” by Eudora Welty. Infant and Toddler Sign Language for adults, 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 14. Puppet Playhouse for all ages, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Garden Like a Master: Growing Herbs in Containers for adults, 10 a.m. Friday, April 16. Butterfly Gardening for ages 6-12, 10 a.m. Saturday, April 17. Back to Nature: Earth Day Celebration for ages 6-12; 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 22. 5317 N. Trenholm Road, (803) 787-3462

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL BRANCH: Mother Goose Story Time for ages 12 months and younger, 9:30 a.m. today and Thursday, April 8. C.A.V.E. Book Group for adults, 7 tonight; selection is “The Higher Power of Lucky” by Susan Patron. Story Time for all ages, 11 a.m. Saturdays through April 17. Now I Am One! stories and songs for you and your child ages 12-23 months, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday and April 13. Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Spring Into Art, spring break activities for ages 6-12, 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, April 9. Hey! Listen to This!, stories and songs for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Teen Advisory Board meeting, 3 p.m. Saturday, April 10. Pajamarama Bedtime Story Time for all ages, 7 p.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Get Your Resume Ready for adults, 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 13 and 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 14; bring work and education history and contact information for three professional references. Book Group for adults, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 15; selection is Mary Ann Shaffer’s “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society.” Hands-on Art for ages 2-5, 10:30 a.m. Friday; April 16; simple art for the very young – dress for a mess. Computer Basics: E-Mail Basics for adults, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 17 and Tuesday, April 20. Celebrate! Children’s Day for all ages, 2-5 p.m. Saturday, April 17. Computer Basics: Microsoft Word 2007 Overview for adults, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 25. The Dramatic Legends and Literature of Werewolves and Vampires for adults, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 29. 7421 Garners Ferry Road, (803) 776-0855

NORTH MAIN BRANCH: Sew Divine, A Gathering of Crafters for adults, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. today and Thursday, April 15. Silver Screen Movies for ages 55 and older, 11 a.m. Fridays. Twixt-n-Between story session for ages 9-12, 12:30 p.m. Saturday. Hey! Listen to This!, stories and songs for all ages, 11 a.m. Tuesdays. Jumpstart Your Job Search for teens, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 8. Computer Basics: Microsoft Publisher for adults, 1 a.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Wii are the Champions, video game challenge for all ages, 4:30 p.m. Monday, April 12. International Day for ages 9-12, 3 p.m. Saturday, April 17. Garden Like a Master: Centipede Lawn Care for adults, noon Saturday, April 24. Page Turners Book Club for adults, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 27; selection is “Gather Together in My Name” by Tracy Price-Thompson. 5306 N. Main St., (803) 754-7734

EASTOVER BRANCH: Game On! Video Game Weekends for teens, 2-5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 9, 10. Game Day: The Old-Fashioned Way, board game competition for all ages, 2-5:30 p.m. Monday, April 12. National Library Week Story Time for all ages, 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 14. Tween Screen for ages 9-12, 3:30 p.m. Monday, April 19; kick back at the library for refreshments and “Confessions of a Shopaholic.” 608 Main St., Eastover, (803) 353-8584

WHEATLEY BRANCH: Spring Break Crafts for all ages, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, April 9. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Earth Day program for ages 6-12, 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 21. 4931 Woodrow St., (803) 799-5873

MAIN LIBRARY: Hey! Listen to This! stories and songs for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Southern Writers Series: Robert Inman for adults, 6 tonight. Story Time for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Saturdays through April 17. Teen Advisory Board meeting, 3:30 p.m. Saturday. Toddler Story Time for you and your 2-year-old, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. Wii are the Champions, 4 p.m. Tuesday; all-ages video game challenge. Let’s Speak English for adults, 10 a.m. Wednesday and April 14. Mother Goose Story Time for you and your child 12 months and younger, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Poetry Workshop with Eboniramm for adults, 7 p.m. Wednesday. Backyard Birds for all ages, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8. Computer Basics: Typing for adults, 10 a.m. Saturday April 10 and 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 28. Alfred Hitchcock Presents, movie series for teens and adults, 3 p.m. Sundays. Lineup includes “Rope” (1948), April 11; “The Trouble With Harry” (1955), April 18; and “Shadow of a Doubt” (1943), April 25. Now I Am One!, stories and songs for you and your child ages 12-23 months, 10:30 a.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Teen Otaku Association, 6-8 p.m. Mondays beginning April 12. Great Books Discussion Group for adults, 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 14; “Culture and Anarchy” by Matthew Arnold. Lunch and Listen for all ages, performance by Kimberly Summer, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays, April 15, 22. Southern Writers Series: Margaret Maron for adults, 6 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Computer Basics: Introduction to Computers for adults, 10 a.m. Saturday, April 17. Garden Like a Master: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, 3 p.m. Sunday, April 18. Get Your Resume Ready for adults, 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 22; bring work and education history and contact information for three professional references. A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen: A Celebration of Stories, 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 23; lecture by author Jack Gantos will be followed by a reception book sale and autographing. Computer Basics: Basic Internet for adults, 10 a.m. Saturday, April 24. A(ugusta) Baker’s Dozen: A Celebration of Stories, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 24. Outdoor event will feature storytellers, theater, live music and book signings. Writing Your Family History: Life Experiences Through Oral History, hands-on workshop for adults, 6 p.m. Monday, April 26. Pajamarama Puppets for all ages, 7 p.m. Monday, April 26. Computer Basics: E-mail Basics for adults, 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29. Meet the Explorers II, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29; panel discussion featuring members of the Greater Piedmont Chapter of the Explorers Club. 1431 Assembly St., (803) 799-9084

KERSHAW COUNTY

Kershaw County Library will be closed Friday and Sunday for Easter.

CAMDEN BRANCH: Baby Story Time for you and your child age 2 and younger, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays. Be Creative with Origami for ages 8-12, 4 p.m. today. Yoga with Scott, 6:55 p.m. Thursdays. XL1 computer class, 2:30 p.m. Monday. Let’s Go Fly a Kite for ages 6-12, 4-5 p.m. Tuesday and April 13. Get Set to Read for ages 3-4, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Reader’s Story Time for ages 5-9, 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays. XL2 computer class, 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 12. Classic Southern Humor Series, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 13; selection is “The Kandy-Kolored Tangerine-Flake Streamline Baby” by Tom Wolfe. Enjoying PowerPoint 2003, 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15. XL3 computer class, 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 19. Planet Earth for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 20. Library Book Club, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 21. Enjoying the Computer, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 24. Classic Southern Humor Series, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 27; selection is William Faulkner’s “The Hamlet.” Stones and Stories for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 27. Enjoying Word 2003, 2:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29. 1304 Broad St., (803) 425-1508

ELGIN BRANCH: Get Set to Read for ages 3-4, 10:30 a.m. Mondays. Baby Story Time for you and your child age 2 and younger, 11:15 a.m. Mondays. Let’s Go Fly a Kite for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. Thursdays, April 8, 15. Stones and Stories for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 22. Planet Earth for ages 6-12, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 29. 2652 Main St., (803) 438-7881

LEXINGTON COUNTY

Lexington County Public Library System will be closed Sunday for Easter.

IRMO BRANCH: Toddlertime for you and your child ages 12-23 months, 9:30 a.m. today and Wednesdays beginning April 14; sessions for ages 24-35 months meet at 10:30 a.m. Family Movies for all ages, 2 p.m. Tuesday and 10 a.m. Thursday, April 8. Lapsit, stories and songs for you and your child 11 months and younger, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13. Preschool story Time for ages 3-5, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13 and 2 p.m. Wednesdays beginning April 14. Books & Beyond, story and craft session for students in 5K through fifth grade, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Fan Fiction, 3 p.m. Saturday, April 17; creative students in grades 6-12 can control their favorite characters. Chips & Chatter, book discussion for students in grades 6-12, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18. Puppet show for all ages, 11 a.m. Saturday, April 24. Book Discussion for students in grades 3-5, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 27; selection is “The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits and a Very Interesting Boy” by Jeanne Birdsall. 6251 St. Andrews Road, (803) 798-7880

CHAPIN BRANCH: Toddlertime for you and your child ages 18-35 months, 11 a.m. Friday and April 23, 30. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5, 1 p.m. Wednesdays beginning April 14. Books & Beyond, springtime craft and story session for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 15. 129 N.W. Columbia Ave., (803) 345-5479

CAYCE-WEST COLUMBIA BRANCH: Homeschoolers Series for ages 6 and older, 1 p.m. today and Thursday, April 15; students and parents can learn to crochet. Toddlertime for you and your child 23 months and younger, 10 a.m. Monday and April 12; sessions for ages 24-35 months meet at 10:45 a.m. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5 years, 10:45 a.m. Tuesday and April 13. Movie Afternoon for all ages, 3:30 p.m. Thursday, April 8. Bedtime Story Time for all ages, 6 p.m. Monday, April 19. 1500 Augusta Road, West Columbia, (803) 794-6791

GASTON BRANCH: Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for ages 5 and older, 4 p.m. today and Thursday, April 15. Trivial Pursuit for students in grades 6-12, 6 p.m. Monday. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays. 3214 S. Main St., (803) 791-3208

SWANSEA BRANCH: Preschool Story Time for ages 3-6, noon Tuesdays. Guitar Hero session for students in grades 6-12, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for students in grades 1-5, 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 20. 49 N. Lawrence Ave., (803) 785-3519

SOUTH CONGAREE-PINE RIDGE BRANCH: Toddlertime for you and your child ages 18-35 months, 10:30 a.m. Mondays. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5, 11:15 a.m. Mondays. Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, 3:30 p.m. Friday, April 23. Teen Time – On Your Mark … Get Set for students in grades 6-12, 4 p.m. Friday, April 30. 200 Sunset Drive, West Columbia. (803) 785-3050

LEXINGTON MAIN LIBRARY: Books & Beyond story and craft session for students in grades 1-5, 4 p.m. today. Toddlertime for you and your child ages 12-23 months, 9:30, 10:30 a.m. today and 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays beginning April 14; sessions for ages 24-35 months meet at 11:30 a.m. today; 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13. Get your Game On!, an afternoon of Playstation and Wii for students in grades 6-12, 2 p.m. Saturday, April 10. Anime Kessha for students in grades 6-12, 3 p.m. Sunday, April 11. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-6, 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13 and 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays beginning April 14. Lapsit for you and your child ages 11 months and younger, 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays beginning April 14. Between the Lines, book discussion for ages 8-12, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 15; selection is “The Magician’s Elephant” by Kate DiCamillo. Story Time for all ages, 11 a.m. Saturday, April 17. Novels in Verse for students in grades 6-12, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 20. Poetry Slam for students in grades 6-12, 6 p.m. Thursday, April 22. 5440 Augusta Road, (803) 785-2600

GILBERT-SUMMIT BRANCH: Chess Club for students in grades 3-5, 2:45 p.m. today. Toddlertime for you and your child ages 18-35 months, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5, 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays beginning April 13. Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for ages 6 and older, 2:45 p.m. Thursday, April 15. 110 Broad St., (803) 785-5387

PELION BRANCH: Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for students in grades 5K-5, 4 p.m. Tuesday. Preschool Story Time for ages 2-5, 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Teen Time for students in grades 6-12, 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 13. Bedtime Story Time for all ages, 6 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Family Movie Morning for all ages, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 17. 1206 Pine St., (803) 785-3272

BATESBURG-LEESVILLE BRANCH: Toddlertime for you and your child ages 18-35 months, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, April 14 and 21. Preschool Story Time for ages 3-6, 10:45 a.m. Wednesdays, April 14 and 21. Books & Beyond, stories and crafts for students in grades 1-5, 4 p.m. Thursday, April 15. Flower Power for students in grades 6-12, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 26; bring your gardening gloves and help plant a butterfly garden on the library grounds. 203 Armory St., (803) 532-9223

CHRISTIAN LIFE CHURCH: Good Friday service, 7 p.m. at 2700 Bush River Road. Easter services at 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Child care for ages 2 and younger. (803) 798-4488

KENNERLY ROAD BAPTIST: Easter services, 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday at 1526 Kennerly Road, Irmo. Easter Cantata, 6 p.m. Sunday.(803) 732-9797

LAKE MURRAY PRESBYTERIAN: Maundy Thursday service and Invisible Children of Uganda program, 7 tonight at 2721 Dutch Fork Road, Chapin. (803) 345-5140; lmpchurch.org

McGREGOR PRESBYTERIAN: Maundy Thursday service with Communion, 7 tonight at 6505 St. Andrews Road. Easter sunrise service, 7 a.m. Sunday (outdoor service, dress accordingly); Sunday school, 9:45 a.m.; Easter worship with Communion, 11 a.m. Sunday.

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI EPISCOPAL: Maundy Thursday service featuring the Newberry College Madrigal Singers, 7 tonight at 735 Old Lexington Highway, Chapin. (803) 345-1550

RIVERLAND HILLS BAPTIST: Maundy Thursday service, 7 tonight at 201 Lake Murray Blvd., Irmo. Easter services at 9, 10:15 and 11 a.m. Sunday. (803) 772-3227; riverlandhills.org

LAKE WATEREE BAPTIST: SonRise service, 7 a.m. Sunday at 5856 River Road, Ridgeway (near the Dutchman Creek Bridge). Breakfast will follow. Sunday school, 9 a.m.; Easter praise and worship, 10 a.m. (803) 337-2838

NORTHEAST PRESBYTERIAN: Maundy Thursday Communion service, 7:30 tonight at 601 Polo Road Good Friday worship, 6:30 p.m. Traditional Easter services, 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday; Spanish, 4 p.m., contemporary, 4:23 p.m. (803) 788-5298

NORTH TRENHOLM BAPTIST: Good Friday service at noon; music by the Circle of Praise Choir begins at 11:30 a.m. The church is at 6515 N. Trenholm Road.

REHOBOTH BAPTIST: Good Friday service, “Jesus’ Last Seven Words,” 7 p.m. at 4646 Hard Scrabble Road. Easter sunrise service, 6 a.m. Sundays; breakfast will follow. Sunday school, 8:45 a.m., regular worship, 10 a.m. (803) 788-3397

ANTIOCH BAPTIST: Passion/Holy Week services, 7:30 tonight and Friday at 5715 Koon Road. abccolumbia.org

FAIR LAWN UNITED METHODIST: “One Sacrifice,” featuring the Chancel Choir, 9 a.m. Sunday at 9203 Wilson Blvd. (803) 754-2070; fairlawnumccolumbia.com

GOOD SHEPHERD HOLINESS: Easter worship service, 11 a.m. Sunday at 6824 Cabin Creek Road, Hopkins. Guest speaker will be the Rev. Matthew Mickens. (803) 776-1309

NEW BEGINNING BAPTIST: Easter sunrise service, 6:30 a.m. Sunday; breakfast will follow. The church is at 9601 Caughman Road. (803) 695-1195

NEW LIGHT BEULAH BAPTIST: Spring festival, 10 a.m.-noon Saturday at 133- Congaree Road, Hopkins. Games, face painting, children’s activities and refreshments. (803) 783-2050

SHANDON PRESBYTERIAN: Maundy Thursday music program and Communion, 7 tonight. Good Friday service at noon. Easter sunrise service and Communion, 6:30 a.m. Sunday; regular worship services at 8:45 and 11 a.m. The church is at 607 Woodrow St. (803) 771-4408

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN: “The Living Last Supper,” 7 tonight at Blanding and Bull streets. Holy Communion will be served following the performance. (803) 779-0030

ST. TIMOTHY’S EPISCOPAL: Maundy Thursday service with foot washing and stripping of the altar, 6 tonight at 900 Calhoun St. Good Friday services at noon and 6 p.m. Easter services at 10 and 11 a.m. Sunday; breakfast will be available at 10 a.m.; egg hunt for the children, 10:30 a.m. (803) 765-1519

STEDFAST CHRISTIAN CENTER: Easter sunrise service, 6:30 a.m. Sunday at 5200 Fairfield Road; Resurrection service, 10 a.m. (803) 786-9129

TRINITY EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL: Compline service featuring the Cathedral Choir, 8 tonight at 1100 Sumter St. (803) 771-7300

LEXINGTON BAPTIST: Maundy Thursday service and Lord’s Supper observation, 6:30 p.m. tonight. Easter services at 9, 10:15 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Child care for ages 4 and younger will be available. Sunday school at 8, 9 and 10:15 a.m. The Edge and The Edge Jr. children’s worship, 9 and 11:30 a.m. The church is at 308 E. Main St., Lexington. (803) 996-8832; lexingtonbaptist.org

LIFE SPRINGS WORSHIP CENTER: Easter sunrise service, 6:45 a.m. Sunday; Easter celebration, baptism and Communion, 10:30 a.m. The church is at 5630 Platt Springs Road. (803) 957-2221; lswc.com

NORTHSIDE BAPTIST: “Got Questions?” sermon series begins Sunday at 1303 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia. Easter worship includes a traditional service at 8 a.m., blended service at 9:15 and contemporary service at 10:45 a.m. (803) 926-3029

PLEASANT HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST: Revival services, 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday at 300 Hermitage Road, Lexington. Revivalist will be the Rev. Rickie Glenn of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist, Cayce. (803) 359-7022

ST. DAVID LUTHERAN: Holy Week observances at 132 St. David’s Church Road, West Columbia, include: Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services at noon and 7 p.m.; Easter sunrise service, 7 a.m. Sunday; Easter festival service, 10:30 a.m. (803) 356-3035

SAXE GOTHA PRESBYTERIAN: Maundy Thursday service with Communion, 7 tonight at 5503 Sunset Blvd., Lexington. Tenebrae service, 7 p.m. Friday. Easter sunrise service, 6:15 a.m. Sunday (breakfast will follow); traditional services, 8:30 and 11 a.m.; A.W.E. contemporary service, 10:45 a.m.; no evening programs. (803) 359-7770

MUSIC, ARTS, THEATER

“ROUTE 66″: 7 tonight in Wood Auditorium at the Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County, 810 Lyttleton St., Camden. Adults, $15; students, seniors and military, $10. (803) 425-7676; fineartscenter.org

CLASS REUNIONS

B-C HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES OF 1968-72: Reception 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 31, at Embassy Suites on Greystone Boulevard. Live entertainment with Second Nature, 8 p.m.-midnight. $50 before Thursday, April 15; $75 after. Marcia Wadford, (803) 796-5808; classyears.com/b-creunion

B-C HIGH SCHOOL BAND REUNION: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 24, at the Wingate Hotel, 108 Saluda Pointe, Lexington; $60. Carl Brown (band director 1968-82) and his wife will be present. Debbie Moore Kidney, (757) 879-0588

RIDGE VIEW HIGH CLASS OF 2000: Seeking classmates for June 11-12 reunion. (803) 409-9646 or e-mail

GILBERT HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES OF 1955-75: Seeking classmates for Aug. 14 reunion. Mildred Hicks, (803) 957-5949; Wilma Warren, (803) 532-5635;

TO MARKET, TO MARKET

HEALTHY CAROLINA FARMERS MARKET: Tuesdays through April 20, between the gates on Greene Street (in front of the Russell House). Fresh and locally produced fruits and vegetables, homemade breads, specialty and handmade items. (803) 777-0597

SEASONAL EVENTS

FREE EASTER BANQUET: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 1529 Assembly St. Turkey, ham, potatoes, vegetables, salad, tea and dessert. Sponsored by the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Easter treats and toiletry bags for attendees.

BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY: 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday at the Young Chefs Academy, 7320 Broad River Road, Irmo. Easter egg hunt, egg relay races and more. Prize egg contains a free week of summer camp. $25 per child. (803) 749-0670 or e-mail

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA: 10:30 a.m. Saturday at NorthStar Christian Center, 711 Longtown Road. Egg hunt for children in fifth grade and younger (bring your own basket). Easter Bunny photos; prizes include a Nintendo Wii. (803) 736-9250; northstarcolumbia.org

VILLAGECHURCH EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the Jeep Rogers Family YMCA, 900 Lake Carolina Drive. Event will feature a soccer field with 15,000 eggs, goody bags, the Easter Bunny and lunch. (803) 736-2023

EASTER EGG HUNT: Noon-2:30 p.m. Saturday at New Beginning Baptist Church, 9601 Caughman Road. (803) 695-1195

GIGANTIC EGG HUNT: 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Oakwood Baptist Church, 3520 Mineral Springs Road, Lexington. Free event will feature 30,000 filled plastic eggs, live music, prize baskets, door prizes and lunch for the first 2,000 people. (803) 356-0260

COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT: 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Saluda River Baptist Church, 3459 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia. Open to fifth-graders and younger; free hot dog lunch will follow. (803) 796-5583; saludariverbc.com

FUNDRAISERS

WEST METRO CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT: Noon, Wednesday, April 14, at Charwood Country Club, 222 Clubhouse Drive, West Columbia. Proceeds benefit the scholarship fund for Lexington seniors. $320 per team, $80 per player. Limited to 32 teams; registration deadline is Friday. westmetrochamber.sc

THE THERAPY PLACE GOLF TOURNAMENT: 9:30 a.m. Monday, April 19, at Charwood Country Club, 222 Clubhouse Drive, West Columbia. Proceeds will help provide physical and occupational therapy to children with motor disorders. $260 per team. thetherapyplace.org.

SHELTIE RESCUE GARAGE SALE: 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 10, at 123 Norse Way (Northwoods subdivision). No early birds, please. Proceeds will benefit S.C. Sheltie Rescue.

CHORDS FOR KIDS BENEFIT CONCERT: 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 9, 10, at the White Mule, 1530 Main St. Friday performers include Joal Rush, The Mason Jars and John Satterfield. The Casual Kings, The Reason Your Listening and Sai Collins take the stage on Saturday. Advance tickets, $10; at the door, $12 (both nights, $15); available on etix at thewhitemule.com

KIDS DAY AT WINGARD’S NURSERY: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday at 1403 N. Lake Drive, Lexington. Learn about native wildlife and rehabilitation, visit with live animals, plant a tomato and enjoy a hot dog lunch. $5 per child. Rain date will be Thursday, April 8. Proceeds benefit Carolina Wildlife Care. Call (803) 359-9091 or e-mail for reservations.

HAITI FOOD AND BOOK DRIVE: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at 1525 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia (Bonham Chiropractic parking lot). Bring non-perishable food items for a book or purchase books for $1 each. Donations will go to the Haiti relief fund sponsored by charitytextbooks.org.

FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday on Railroad Avenue, Batesburg-Leesville. Seminars, demonstrations, Master Gardeners booth, crafts, food and children’s activities. Booth rental, $50. Sponsored by the Batesburg-Leesville Business Association, proceeds will help fund downtown revitalization efforts. (803) 532-6670

SPECIAL EVENTS

GOOD DEED FRIDAY – SPRING CLEANING FOR CHARITY: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday at 121 Alexander Road, West Columbia (former location of the New Orleans Restaurant). Donate your unneeded treasures to the following participating charities, Adam Turner Children’s Foundation, Babcock Center, Burton Center, Chemo With Style, Dickerson Center for Children, Friends of the Department of Juvenile Justice, God’s Helping Hands, Harvest Hope Food Bank, Lexington County Foster and Adoptive Parent Association, PETS Inc., S.C. Autism Society, Soles4Souls, Sistercare and West Metro Salkehatchie Camp. Refreshments for those who bring by a donation. Services in exchange for monetary donations include Easter photos, windshield repair and document shredding. Go to gooddeedfriday.org for charities’ wish lists. Sponsored by the West Metro Chamber of Commerce.

FREE BASIC TAX RETURNS: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, April 10, at Burger Time (Dutch Square Mall). Members of the Columbia chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants will prepare basic tax returns for individuals. (803) 479-3860

SPRING FLOWER SALE: Begonias and vincas (36 plants per flat), $13; Gerbera daisies (18 plants per flat), $22. Pick up 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, April 13, at Lexington County Extension Office, 605 W. Main St., Suite 109, Lexington. Make checks payable to Lexington County Family and Community Leaders and mail to Bette Chinners, 152 Cherokee Hills Court, Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 957-9163

PALMETTO PET DAY: Dog show and pet fair, 3-5:30 p.m. Saturda, at Palmetto Activity Center, 105 Summit Centre Circle (across from Summit Parkway Middle School). Grooming, microchipping, pet portraits, food concession. Vendor fee, $20; dog show fee, $3. (803) 865-6516

SPRING N2 ART: Noon-6 p.m. Saturday at the Keenan House, 801 Wildwood Ave. Youth Gallery, live music, tai chi demonstration, food and more. theartistsroundtable.org

HAPPY HOUR HISTORY TOURS: 5:30-7 p.m. Fridays, April 9-May 21, beginning at Gervais & Vine, 620-A Gervais St. Walking tours of the Vista with stops at restaurants and bars. Participants must be at least 21 years of age. $25 (includes appetizers, two beverage tickets and free parking); Historic Columbia Foundation members, $20. Reservations required, call (803) 252-1770, ext. 24 or e-mail .

COME SEE YOUR ARMY TOUR: 7:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Friday, April 16, at Fort Jackson. Tours give civilians a chance to see how soldiers train, get some hands-on experience with the Weapons Simulator System, attend a basic combat training graduation and eat in an Army dining facility. Registration deadline is Thursday, April 8. (803) 751-1474

LEXINGTON COUNTY RABIES CLINICS: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 10, at the Lifelong Learning Center, 101 W. Columbia Ave., Batesburg-Leesville; and 4-5 p.m. at the Gilbert IGA, 4760 Augusta Highway. Vaccination fee, $3 per animal. Dogs must be on a leash and cats in a box or carrier. Sponsored by the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, Lexington County Environmental Health and local veterinarians. Saturday, April 17, locations include: 1-2:30 p.m. at First Citizens Bank, 129 N. Pine St., Batesburg-Leesville; and 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Celebrations, 6704 Augusta Highway, Batesburg-Leesville.

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