Our Town

Welcome to Our Town

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:00:40 +0000

Welcome to the 23rd annual edition of Our Town, Your Guide to Living in the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Those of us fortunate enough to live, work and play here believe we are surrounded by the best Oregon has to offer. We live in an area rich in beauty. From the green Douglas fir trees that cover the snow-capped Cascade Mountains, to the lush farmlands of the valley floor, the mid-valley offers a constantly changing panorama of colors and recreational opportunities.

Whether one lives on a small farm near Scio, or in Corvallis — home of the Oregon State University Beavers — we’re within easy driving distance of varied shopping, excellent medical care, and educational opportunities of all levels, from pre-school through doctoral programs.

Our Town is a handy reference guide for longtime mid-valley residents, or newcomers. We encourage you to bookmark Our Town, keep it handy and use it often to discover the many resources available in Albany, Corvallis, Lebanon, Sweet Home and the many other towns that make up this special place we call home.

If you are part of an organization, club or activity that you would like to see included in next year’s publication, look for the Our Town submission forms that will appear in the Albany Democrat-Herald, Corvallis Gazette-Times and Lebanon Express newspapers in the spring.

Community Programs

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 23:12:53 +0000

Communities in the mid-Willamette Valley strive to be family-friendly. After all, nearly a quarter of the population in Linn and Benton counties is 18 or younger. From an emphasis on supporting education to the sports and recreational opportunities available here and the wide variety of youth activities offered all year long, it’s obvious mid-valley residents care about their children.The following organizations and programs aim to serve youths of all ages, from infants to high school graduates. In addition to the information listed below, be on the lookout for special sections such as Early Years and Summer in the City which are published annually by the Corvallis Gazette-Times and Albany Democrat-Herald and provide even more resources for families in the mid-valley.

In Benton County

Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis

1112 N.W. Circle Blvd.
541-757-1909
www.bgccorvallis.org
Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F).

The Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis offers 40,000 square feet of fun with two gyms, an art center, games room, computer lab, audio mixing lab, teen center, high school coffee shop/study lounge and study lounges for elementary and middle school age youth. Seasonal activities include football, volleyball, basketball, t-ball, baseball, softball and track and field. An extra fee is required for these activities.

During the school year, the club is open from 2:457 p.m. A free daily dinner is available to all members. Summer hours are 1-6 p.m. The club has Saturday hours from Oct. 17-March 13 from 14 p.m. An annual membership costs $25 which is valid from Sept. 1-Aug. 31. For additional fees, the club offers the following during the school year: STARS from 2:45-6 p.m. at most elementary schools; the Lincoln Lion’s Den program from 2:45 – 5:15 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary School and non-school day programs at the club. There also is a Summer Day Camp that takes place at the club from June through September and includes snacks, lunch and field trips.

Corvallis Parks and Recreation Department

1310 S.W. Avery Park Drive
541-766-6918
www.ci.corvallis.or.us
Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M-F).
Corvallis residents receive two catalogs in the mail during the year detailing the many fall/winter and spring/summer activities sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department for preschoolers through adults. Programs cater to a variety of interests from performing arts to sports and fitness. The department also hosts a lot of field trips, especially during the summer, and special events including an annual children’s parade and Penny Carnival.

Philomath Youth Activities Club

421 S. 19th St.
541-929-4040
www.pyac.org
Open 8 to 11 a.m. (M-F). The Youth Center is open 3 to 6 p.m. (M-F) and noon to 6 p.m. (M-F) during the summer.
The club’s 6,000-square-foot building offers foosball, pool, air hockey, video game machines, a computer room, arts and crafts and a snack area to Philomath students. The organization also sponsors a variety of recreational activities, sports teams, after-school programs, summer day camps and special teen activities.
Fees vary by activity, but no child will be denied access to programs because of inability to pay. Financial assistance is available for program/registration costs.

In Linn County

Albany Parks and Recreation

333 Broadalbin S.W.
541-917-7777
www.cityofalbany.net
Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M-F).
Residents receive a different catalog each quarter of the year detailing the many programs and activities sponsored by Albany Parks and Recreation for the city’s youth. The department offers various sports programs, classes, day camps and special events for preschoolers up through teens, including the popular family River Rhythms concerts in Monteith Riverpark during the summer.

Boys & Girls Club of Albany

1215 Hill St. S.E.
541-926-6666
www.bgc-albany.org
Open 2:30 to 7 p.m. (M-TH) and 2:30 to 6 p.m. (F); summer hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F).
The Albany club features two full-sized gymnasiums, classrooms, concessions and a computer lab. It offers seasonal activities for all ages of kids, including tackle football, touch football, coed soccer, volleyball, basketball, track, baseball and softball, plus free meals and snacks for kids, after-school programs, summer day camps (including those focusing on sports and computer skills) and teen nights.

The annual membership fee is $25 per child. Summer membership is $45 per week including annual membership.

Boys & Girls Club of Lebanon

305 S. Fifth St.
541-258-7105
www.bgclebanon.org
Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F); summer hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F).
The Boys & Girls Club of Lebanon sponsors seasonal activities for youth of various age groups including indoor soccer, outdoor soccer, flag football, tackle football, volleyball, basketball, track, baseball and softball. The club also has a games room, arts and crafts, a homework club and a computer room.

During the school year, the Boys & Girls Club is open to kids from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drop-in hours during the summer are from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (M-F). A summer day camp is offered on a weekly basis through the end of August from 7:30 a.m. to noon (M-F).

The annual membership fee is $30 per child. The membership year begins Sept. 1.

Boys & Girls Club of Sweet Home

890 18th Ave.
541-367-6421
www.bgclubsweethome.com
Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F).
The Sweet Home club offers most of the same activities and seasonal sports that the Albany and Lebanon clubs offer. Membership costs $20 per year.

Mid-Willamette Family YMCA

3311 Pacific Blvd. S.W., Albany
541-926-4488
www.ymcaalbany.org
Open 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. (M-F), 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (SAT) and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (SUN).
The YMCA offers family-based programs that help people develop a healthier spirit, mind and body. The facility features an exercise studio, strength training rooms, a gymnasium, a swimming pool and a whirlpool, as well as racquetball, handball and volleyball courts, a Child Watch center, men’s and women’s saunas and a cardio-TV center. Swim and fitness classes are available year-round. Fun zone for kids is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F) during the summer.

Most activities are free to members or offer a member rate. Memberships are available from month to month. The daily fee for use of the facility by non-members is $15 for families, $10 for adults, $4 for youths and $7 for seniors.

Other Youth Organizations

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 22:03:38 +0000

Educational

4-H Youth Program

Benton County

1849 N.W. Ninth St., Corvallis
541-766-6750
http://extension.oregonstate.edu/benton

Linn County

104 Fourth St. S.W., Albany
541-967-3871
http://extension.oregonstate.edu/linn
Volunteer-led clubs for youths in kindergarten through high school focusing on such areas as animal science, natural resources, horticulture, home economics, leadership skills, community service, personal development and expressive arts. Sponsored by Oregon State University Extension Service.

A Child’s Place Enrichment Program

541-745-2027
After-school and summer enrichment classes in Corvallis for ages 2 and up.

AFS Intercultural Programs

541-928-1009, 541-926-4172 (Albany)
541-752-6866, 541-752-0351 (Corvallis)
www.afscascades.org
International, nonprofit organization that promotes intercultural learning through worldwide high school student exchanges.

Avery House Nature Center

541-758-6198
www.corvallisenvironmentalcenter.org
Nature education programs for youth and their families based in the Avery House at the edge of Avery Park in Corvallis. The center offers classes for preschoolers, summer day camps, in-service programs and field trips during the school year, plus family nature walks/programs in the summer and fall. Avery House also has live animal exhibits and can be hired to host small parties; call for a detailed schedule.

Community Before and After School Program

(P.O. Box 1717, Albany, OR 97321)
541-967-9322
www.cap.peak.org
State-certified child care before and after school in Greater Albany Public Schools from 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open all year — seven sites during school year, three sites during summer.

Community Services Consortium

541-928-6335 (Albany)
541-752-1010 (Corvallis)
541-451-1071 (Lebanon)
www.csc.gen.or.us
Youth programs include work training for youths ages 14 to 24, alternative schooling and YouthBuild.

Corvallis Destination Imagination

541-754-3811
oregondi@comcast.net
www.oregondi.org
Extracurricular creative problem-solving program for students in kindergarten through high school.

First Robotics Team 1359

541-259-1450
robotics@imtech-or.com
www.scalawags.org
Inspiring interest and excitement in science and technology combined with high adventure activities. Meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday; call for location.

OSU Precollege Programs

541-737-5231
www.oregonstate.edu/precollege
Oregon State University offers a full range of programs for kids in kindergarten through high school designed to open pathways to higher education though academic opportunities.

OSU Science and Math Investigative Learning Experiences (SMILE)

541-737-2388
http://smile.oregonstate.edu
Enrichment program for educationally under-served youth in partner communities in Oregon.

Parents for Education Plus (PE+)

541-753-6719
parentsforeducationplus@yahoo.com
Nonprofit, volunteer organization interested in providing quality educational programs for children.

Saturday Academy

541-737-1822, 541-737-8139
http://academy.engr.oregonstate.edu/
A year-long, extracurricular education program sponsored by Oregon State University. OSU works with business, educational and professional community partners to provide small, hands-on classes in math, science and technology for students in grades five through 12 on Saturdays. Weeklong camps offered in summer; some tuition assistance available.

Start Making a Reader Today (SMART)

541-754-4965
www.getsmartoregon.org
Weekly reading program for students in kindergarten through third grade in low-income schools.

The Joan Craig Center

537 S. Third St., Jefferson
541-327-1363
www.joancraigcenter.com
Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (school year) and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (T-TH during summer).
Allied educational therapists offer counseling and testing and specialize in helping people with dyslexia. Testing by appointment only.

Leadership

Boy Scouts of America

Benton County

541-760-9043
www.bentonbsa.org

Linn County

541-928-6694
www.cpcbsa.org
Youth organization for boys 7 to 18 and coed organization for boys and girls 14 to 21 emphasizing leadership skills, personal growth and skill development through hands-on educational experiences, service, outdoor activities, friendship and fun.

Camp Fire USA

503-581-0477
www.campfireusawillamettecouncil.org
Youth clubs and camps to promote self-esteem and self-reliance among students in kindergarten through high school.

Girl Scouts

800-875-2451
www.girlscoutsofsantiam.org
International organization for girls ages 5 to 18 that builds courage, confidence and character through friendships, fun and service.

Linn-Benton Young Marines.

541-367-3822 or 541-928-4558
www.linnbentonyoungmarines.com
North Albany Elementary School
815 E. Thornton Lake Drive N.W.
Meets from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. second and fourth Saturday. Registration costs are $250. A program to positively impact America’s future by providing quality youth development programs for boys and girls that nurtures and develops its members into responsible citizens who enjoy and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Philomath Scout Lodge, Inc.

(P.O. Box 662, Philomath, OR 97370)
541-929-7619
www.philomathscoutlodge.org
This nonprofit group is starting a youth lodge to provide educational and outdoor activities. The building sits on 58 acres in east Philomath, and the land, a former mill site, includes wetlands. A sports field, hiking and viewing trails and camping areas also are planned for the land. Board members include representatives of Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H and the Philomath School District.

Preschool

Albany Indoor Park Co-Op

Boys & Girls Club of Albany, 1215 Hill St. S.E.
541-926-6666
www.albanyindoorpark.org
Open 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. (M-F, except Wednesday, during school year).
Parent cooperative offering indoor play areas for infants through pre-kindergarten age children under supervision of their parents. Membership is $45 per family.

Corvallis Community Children’s Center

541-753-0191
ccccadmin@peak.org
http://corvallischildcare.org
Developmentally appropriate schools that provide safe, nurturing environments and enriching activities, plus child care, for all ages. Hours vary by location.
Growing Oaks Center: 3731 S.W. Jefferson Way
Lancaster Center: 3285 N.E. Oxford Circle
Monroe Center: 1165 N.W. Monroe Ave.

Corvallis Indoor Park

Boys & Girls Club of Corvallis, 1112 N.W. Circle Blvd
Tunison Fire Station (community room), 364 S.W. Tunison Ave.
541-740-1600
www.indoor-parks.org
Nonprofit organization that provides indoor, unstructured play areas for infants through kindergarten-age children under the supervision of their parents. Playtimes on weekdays from September to May.

Early Learning Center

First United Methodist Church, 1115 SW 28th Ave., Albany
541-928-4363
lori@albanyfirstumc.org
Open 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (M-F).
Nonprofit Christian preschool, kindergarten and child care program for kids ages 2½ to 11.

First Christian Pre-Primary

432 Ferry St. S.W., Albany
541-917-1931
Open 9:15 to 11:30 a.m. (M-F).
Preschool opportunity for 3- to 5-year-olds, including a speech and language enhancement program.

Kidco Head Start

541-758-1164
corvallis@kidcoheadstart.org
Preschool program for children of income eligible families who are 4 years old by Sept. 1. Assistance with referrals and support services for families.

LBCC Parent/Child Classes

541-917-4897
jerri.wolfe@linnbenton.edu
www.linnbenton.edu/go/parenting-education
Linn-Benton Community College offers a variety of courses for parents and children up to 5 years old with information, activities, songs and games focused on supporting young children’s development in a number of Linn and Benton county locations.

LBCC Parent Cooperative Preschools

541-917-4897
jerri.wolfe@linnbenton.edu
www.linnbenton.edu/familyresources/parenteducation
Preschool cooperatives in Albany, Central Linn, Corvallis, Philomath and Scio for parents with children 3 to 5 years old designed to support children’s optimal growth and development while preparing them to enter school. Also offers support to parents who work in the classroom and attend seminars.

Maple Lawn Preschool

1950 Salem Ave. S.E., Albany
541-917-7753
www.cityofalbany.net/parks/programs/maplelawn.php
Preschool operated by the Albany Parks and Recreation Departmenterves children with a variety of needs by focusing on group interaction and skill building.

OSU Child Development Center/Oregon Head Start Prekindergarten Program

541-737-2516
joanne.sorte@oregonstate.edu
Offers programs for community and Head Start-eligible families with children age 3 (by Sept. 1) to 5 years old (kindergarten eligible). Children with special needs welcome. Meets from 8:45 a.m. to noon or 1 to 3:45 p.m. (T-F).

Periwinkle Child Development Center

Linn-Benton Community College, 6500 Pacific Blvd. S.W., Albany
541-917-4898
beuderj@linnbenton.edu
www.linnbenton.edu/familyresources/pcdc
Open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F).
Full-time, year-round child care for children ages 18 months through kindergarten; breakfast and snacks provided.

Service

Squires of the Round Table

Albany Masonic Hall, 431 First Ave.
www.oregondemolay.org
Service organization for boys ages 9 to 12 sponsored by Oregon DeMolay.

Social

Corvallis Young Life

541-908-3333
www.midvalley.younglife.org
Christian organization featuring weekly, monthly and seasonal events for middle school and high school students.

Pioneer Club

541-757-8021
office@calvin-church.org
Bible stories, games, singing and skits for kids age 3 through 5th grade; everyone is invited.

Calvin Presbyterian Church
1736 N.W. Dixon St., Corvallis
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (W)

Star Wars Fan Club

541-791-0015
For kids and adults who enjoy Star Wars. Meetings for kindergarten through fifth grade and for sixth grade through adult scheduled throughout the year; call for details.

Sports & Recreation

Albany Aquatic Association

Albany Community Pool, 2150 S.E. 36th St.
541-926-1976, 541-928-6257
www.albanyaquaticassoc.com
Competitive swim team for ages 5 and up with experienced coaches. Practice is 4 to 6 p.m. (M-F)

American Youth Soccer Association (AYSO)

541-924-9114 (Albany)
www.albanyayso.com
541-929-7422 (Corvallis)
www.corvallisayso.org
Recreational soccer programs in the fall and spring for ages 4 to 18.

Corvallis Aquatic Team

541-766-6306
www.corvallisaquaticteam.org/
Swim team offering year-round professional instruction, training and opportunities for competition to Willamette Valley athletes of all ages, abilities and interest levels.

Corvallis Girls Rugby Club

keirtanna@yahoo.com
www.oregonyouthrugby.com
An after-school program for high school girls around the mid-Willamette Valley that emphasizes sportsmanship, fitness, teamwork and leadership. Season runs from February through May, with practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Participation fees vary.

Corvallis Sports Park

175 S.W. Twin Oaks Circle
541-757-0776
onegoal@peak.org
www.corvallissportspark.com
Year-round, multi-use facility that provides a safe and fun place to play sports.

F.C. Willamette

541-753-4902
www.fcwillamette.org
Competitive and recreational soccer program for U7-U10 (Junior Academy) and U11-U18 (Premier Academy).

Future Spartans Basketball

541-908-4335
fs@futurespartan.com
Program teaches basketball fundamentals and team play to middle school students in Corvallis. Three practices or games each week from November through mid-March.

Gym on Wheels

541-929-2003
Non-competitive gymnastics classes for children ages 18 months to 12 years on Tuesday afternoons during the school year. Summer camps also available.

Lil’ Kickers Child Development Program

541-757-0776
lilkickers@peak.org
www.corvallissportspark.com
A soccer development program for kids ages 1½ to 12 years old.

Corvallis Sports Park
175 S.W. Twin Oaks Circle
Classes, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (W-SAT)

Linn Benton High School Rugby

541-926-0411
corvallisyouthrugby@yahoo.com
www.eteamz.com/lbyr
An after-school program for high school students around the mid-Willamette Valley that emphasizes sportsmanship, fitness, teamwork and leadership. Season runs from January through May, with practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Participation fees vary.

Little League

503-585-6892
541-917-8811 (Albany)
www.albanyll.com
541-752-5440 (Corvallis)
www.corvallisll.net
Youth baseball and softball programs with several different instructional and competitive divisions for ages 5 to 18. Season runs from spring into summer.

Oregon Elite All-Star Cheerleading & Tumbling

2440 S.W. Ferry St., Suite C, Albany
541-905-5050
suzistavas@comcast.net
www.oregonelitecheer.com
Offers all-star cheerleading teams to boys and girls in kindergarten through high school as well as beginning, intermediate and advanced tumbling lessons.

Oregon Ki Society, Corvallis Dojo

115 S.W. Second St., Corvallis
541-757-2746
www.oregonki.org
Teaches mind-body coordination and how to apply it to Aikido and daily life. Free introductory lessons available.

OSU KidSpirit Program

541-737-5437
http://kidspirit.oregonstate.edu
Offers recreational opportunities and day camps throughout the year, including Red Cross-certified swim classes for children ages 18 months and up, gymnastics, rock climbing, tennis and arts and crafts programs, plus American Red Cross babysitting and dance classes for sixth-graders and older. Sponsored by the OSU College of Health and Human Sciences.

Tennis West

541-929-6212
powerserve@fastermac.net
Friendly, informal environment to learn or play tennis. Individual and group lessons offered for all ages and levels of expertise.

Timberhill Tennis Club

2775 N.W. 29th St., Corvallis
541-753-1043
www.timberhilltennis.com
Junior Development Program available at member-owned tennis club with six indoor and two outdoor tennis courts. Junior and adult instructional courses offered; club sometimes hosts tournaments.

West Coast Extreme Cheer

2200 Three Lakes Road S.E., Albany
541-917-0200
ultimate1906@aol.com
www.westcoastextremecheer.com
All-star cheerleading teams and after-school youth programs.

The Arts

ACTeens

Albany Civic Theater, 111 W. First St.
541-791-1020
www.albanycivic.org (Click “ACTeens”)
Theatrical training on-stage and off for teens ages 12 to 19. Meets one Saturday per month, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., September through June.

Adventures in Acting

www.adventuresinacting.com
Annual musical theater camp for youth, ages 8 to 18, culminating in thrilling public performances. Auditions in early May. Camp is in mid- to late June.

Albany Library Anime Club

Albany Main Library, 1390 Waverly Drive S.E.
541-917-0015
doris.hicks@cityofalbany.net
http://library.cityofalbany.net
Students in grades five through adults who like to watch Japanese animation, read the popular Japanese comic book-format Manga books or draw in Manga style are invited to join the Anime Club to meet others with similar interests. Meets one Saturday each month September through May; no registration necessary.

Albany Marionette Troupe

Albany Downtown Carnegie Library, 302 Ferry St. S.W.
541-917-0015
http://library.cityofalbany.net
Youths entering grades six through 12 in the fall are invited to help perform an original show using stringed puppets beginning in May of each year. Registration is free; no auditions required.

The Arts Center

700 S.W. Madison Ave., Corvallis
541-754-1551
www.theartscenter.net
Art classes, dance instruction, summer camp and other arts-related activities throughout the year for children ages 3 to 12. Artist residencies provided to Linn and Benton county schools.

Cascade Performing Arts Center

800 Harrison St., Lebanon
541-258-2572
Year-round classes and performance opportunities in tap, jazz, ballet, tumbling and adult fitness.

Corvallis Montessori School Summer Arts Camp

2730 N.W. Greeley Ave.
541-753-2513
www.corvallismontessori.org
A variety of hands-on art activities, cooking, sports, music, dance and nature activities for ages 2 to 12 in July and August.

Corvallis Youth Symphony Association

541-766-4903
cysassoc@peak.org
www.cysassoc.org
A non-profit organization dedicated to providing students in grades 3-12 with opportunities for exceptional musical experiences. Sign ups, auditions and contacts throughout the year for students in the Mid-Valley.

Creative Development Lab

Benton Center, 757 N.W. Polk Ave., Corvallis
541-917-4897
www.linnbenton.edu/go/parenting-education
Weekly class with an emphasis on creative activities for ages 2-½ to 5 and their parents during the school year.

Dramatic Storytellers Group

Albany Main Library, 1390 Waverly Drive S.E.
541-917-0015
http://library.cityofalbany.net
Youth in grades three to 12 are invited to join the Albany Public Library’s storytelling troupe, the Wonderkeepers – Next Generation. During monthly workshops, youths learn the basics of traditional storytelling, movement, voice projection and interaction with an audience, performing with masks and costumes for audiences of all ages September through May.

Elementary Strings Program

541-766-4903
cysassoc@peak.org
www.cysassoc.org/es
Provides beginning instruction in violin, viola and cello at local elementary schools.

Heart of the Valley Children’s Choir

541-738-7888
choir@peak.org
www.hvcchoir.com
Choral singing and performance choir for ages 8 to 18; by audition.

Kindermusik

541-929-3771
teacher_sue@comcast.net
www.kindermusik.com
Music and movement program for children from birth through age 8. Classes run September through May. Summer program runs June to July. Classes are held at the First Congregational Church, 4515 S.W. West Hills Road, Corvallis.

Willamette String Orchestra

541-758-7661
Chamber orchestra made up of students in third through eighth grade in private, public and home schools throughout the Willamette Valley. Auditions held twice a year, weekly rehearsals and two concerts. Rehearsals start at the end of September.

Year-round Story Times

541-917-7591
Stories, songs and rhymes for children of all ages.

Albany Downtown Carnegie Library
302 Ferry St. S.W.
10:30 a.m. (T)

Albany Main Library
2450 14th Ave. S.E.
7 p.m. (M) and 10:30 a.m. (W/TH) and 10:30 a.m. Saturday (Sept. to May)

Farmers’ and Artisans’ Markets

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:43:22 +0000

The Albany and Corvallis Farmers’ Markets offer much more than fresh, local produce for eight months out of the year – from mid-April to mid-November. The markets often feature live entertainment, cooking demonstrations or gardening workshops as well.

For detailed information, call 752-1510 or send an e-mail to landisr@peak.org. Also, the Web site of the local farmers’ market association, www.locallygrown.org, offers a photo gallery, notices of special events, recipes and links to vendors and other markets in Oregon and Washington. Here is a roundup of all the markets in the area:

Saturdays

Albany Farmers’ Market
9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Albany City Hall parking lot at Fourth Avenue and Ellsworth Street in Albany. Locally grown produce, flowers, nursery plants, honey, eggs, meats and baked goods.

Corvallis Farmers’ Market
9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First Street and Jackson Avenue at the north end of Riverfront Park. Locally grown produce, flowers, nursery plants, honey, eggs, cheese, meats and baked goods.

Corvallis Artisans Market
9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., First Street and Monroe Avenue near the riverfront, Corvallis. Features works of local artists, food and more. Can also be found at an indoor location between Thanksgiving and Christmas. 541-752-ARTS (2787), www.corvallisartisansmarket.com.

Wednesdays

Corvallis Farmers’ Market
3 to 7 p.m., Second Street and B Avenue on the south downtown riverfront near the skateboard park, Corvallis. Locally grown produce, flowers, nursery plants, honey, eggs, meats and baked goods.

Thursday

Lebanon Farmers’ Market
3 p.m. to 7 p.m., West Ash Street at Main Street, Lebanon. Markets run May to September. 541-570-0444 or 541-2594649, http://lebanondowntown.org.

Sundays

Kings Valley Farmers’ Market
1 to 4 p.m., Kings Valley Community Center, at Highway 223 and Maxwell Creek Road. (June through October). 541-929-5910, www.kingsvalleyfarmersmarket.org.

Dancing

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:35:33 +0000

Whether you like folk dancing, ballroom dancing, line dancing or old-fashioned square dancing, there are plenty of opportunities throughout the mid-Willamette Valley to join others with the same interest. In the weekly entertainment guide, The Entertainer, published in the Friday edition of the Albany Democrat-Herald and the Friday edition of the Corvallis Gazette-Times, dances are listed with the most current information.

The following dance clubs and organizations often sponsor public dances and are always looking for new members.

Albany Eagles Senior Dance

541-926-6622 or 541-928-4185
Weekly dance with live music and refreshments; admission costs $3.

Albany Eagles Lodge
127 Broadalbin N.W.
1:30 to 4:30 p.m. (W)

Albany Timber Twirlers

541-926-0280 or 541-967-4031
www.angelfire.com/sd2/timbertwirlers
Mainstream square dances with easy level rounds; admission costs $4.

Albany Oddfellows Hall
738 Fifth Ave. S.E.
7:30 p.m. (first and fifth Fridays, September to May)

Corvallis Belly Dance Performance Guild

541-757-3598
www.corvallisbellydance.org
Guild members do not have to dance to be a member. Credits are available for Oregon State University and Linn-Benton Community College students. Guild meets monthly at The Arts Center, 700 S.W. Madison Ave., and hosts weekly performances at 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at Old World Deli, 341 S.W. Second St.

Corvallis Squares Club

541-758-4351, 541-745-7121
www.corvallissquares.com
A group of folks ranging in age from teens to 90-year-olds that enjoy traditional American round and square dancing to music and live callers. Admission is $4.50 for dancers, free for spectators. Group also sponsors lessons on Thursday nights starting in September.

First Congregational Church
4515 West Hills Road
7:30 to 10:30 p.m. (second and fourth Saturdays)

Friday Night Dancers

541-766-6959
Dancers gather to enjoy live music, refreshments and special theme nights; admission costs $4.

Corvallis Senior Center
2601 N.W. Tyler Ave.
7 to 9:30 p.m. (first three Fridays of each month)

High Steppin’ Country Dance Club

541-752-3123 (Benton County)
541-926-1159 (Linn County)
www.highsteppincountry.com
Promotes country and western dancing in the Willamette Valley. Admission to dances costs $4 (members), $7 (non-members) and $2 under 21. Line dancing classes cost $3.

Corvallis Elks Lodge
1400 N.W. Ninth St.
Dances, 7 p.m. to midnight (third Saturday)

Corvallis Elks Lodge
1400 N.W. Ninth St.
Classes, 7 to 9:30 p.m. (W)

Hoolyeh Folkdancers

541-753-7638
www.hoolyeh.com
A local dance group that dates back to the 1960s. International folkdancing for all ages. Reunion dance held in mid-April at the Corvallis Senior Center, 2601 N.W. Tyler Ave.

Rumbanana Cuban Salsa Group

www.rumbanana.org or rumbanana@gmail.com
Rumbanana promotes Cuban Salsa music and dance in Oregon by hosting dances and several levels of salsa classes throughout the year.

Sweet Home Squarenaders

541-451-3480

Oak Heights School
605 Elm St.
7:30 p.m. (second and fourth Saturdays, September to June)

Libraries

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:28:04 +0000

Albany Public Library

2450 14th Ave. S.E. (Main Library)
302 Ferry St. S.W. (Downtown Carnegie Library)
541-917-7580 (main), 541-917-7585 (downtown)
library.cityofalbany.net/

Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (M-W), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (TH/F) and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (SAT) at the Main Library; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (M-F) at the Downtown Carnegie Library.

Hundreds of thousands of books, magazines, videos, CDs, tapes and more are available at Albany’s Main Library and historic Downtown Carnegie Library. Other resources include Internet access, microfilm of Albany newspapers back to 1859, public information assistance by skilled reference staff during regular library hours and access to the libraries’ Apollo online catalog. The children’s area of each branch offers weekly story times, monthly kids’ activities and help with homework and research.

To get a library card: Services and borrower cards are free to Albany residents with proof of residency. Those living outside the city limits must pay an annual non-resident fee of $60 per family, $30 for individuals and $10 for the children’s area only.

Brownsville Community Library

146 Spaulding Ave.
541-466-5454
Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (T/W/F), 1 to 7 p.m., (TH) and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (SAT).

The Self-Improvement Club, now known as the Brownsville Women’s Study Club, established the Brownsville library in 1911. The facility is a large one for the size of its service area and it offers a wide variety of educational and entertaining reading and resource materials. Library patrons can enjoy a quiet, comfortable reading room or do research in the newly organized genealogy/history room. Computer stations are used by students and Internet surfers.

To get a library card: Free to city residents with proof of residency. Non-residents pay an annual fee of $15 per family or $7.50 for seniors.

Corvallis-Benton County Public Library

645 N.W. Monroe Ave., Corvallis
541-766-6926
www.thebestlibrary.net
Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (M-F), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (SAT) and noon to 6 p.m. (SUN).

The Corvallis library system boasts an annual circulation of about one and a half million items including books, periodicals, books on tape, videos, video games, DVDs, CDs and electronic information sources. A bookmobile travels regularly throughout rural Benton County to visit residents who would otherwise not have access to a library. Homebound patrons can get books delivered for free through the Dial-A-Book service.

The library also offers an Ask-A-Librarian e-mail service, online catalog access to library cardholders, access to many informational databases, downloadable audio books and wireless Internet access. The children’s area features several computer stations, weekly story times, a summer reading program, book clubs and other special activities for ages up to 18. Two self-checkout stations allow patrons to check out their own items, useful for those in a hurry.

To get a library card: Anyone who resides, works, or goes to school in Benton County may get a free library card upon showing verification of address. Others may purchase a card for $75.

Library Branches

Philomath Community Library

1050 Applegate St.
541-929-3016
Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M/TH-SAT) and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (T/W).

Alsea Community Library

19192 Alsea Highway
541-487-5061
Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (M/W/SAT) and 2 to 8 p.m. (T/TH).

Monroe Community Library

668 Commercial St.
541-847-5174
Open 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. (M), 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (T/TH), 3 to 8 p.m. (W) and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (SAT).

Jefferson Public Library

128 N. Main St.
541-327-3826
www.jefferson.plinkit.org
Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (T-TH) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (SAT).

The library is located in the historic Joseph Conser House and offers books, magazines, videos, DVDs, cassette tapes and books on cassette and CD. Free Internet access is also available and a number of children’s programs are offered, including homework help and a summer reading program.
The library is a member of the Chemeketa Cooperative Regional Library Service, which includes all libraries in Marion, Polk and Yamhill counties and which shares materials between the member libraries. The main Web site for CCRLS is www.ccrls.org.

To get a library card: Everyone who lives within the Jefferson city limits can receive a free library card upon showing two pieces of identification that show their address; one must be a picture ID. Children under 16 must have a parent’s permission to get a card. Non-residents can check out one item at a time for free or they may purchase a local option card for use only in Jefferson for $25. A full-service card good at all CCRLS libraries costs $60 per family per year.

Lebanon Public Library

626 Second St.
541-258-4926
Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (M/T), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (W/TH) and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (F/SAT).

Nearly 45,000 items are available to Lebanon residents at the city library including a collection of large-print books, magazines, newspapers, videos, DVDs and books on tape and on CD. Patrons can also access the Internet and do word processing at the library’s computer stations. Story times for toddlers and preschoolers are offered weekly, as is a summer reading program for children in preschool through high school. There is also an adult summer reading program. People can renew their books, check to see if a book is available and put items on hold through the library’s online system at www.lebanon.plinkit.org.

To get a library card: Proof of residency must be shown to get a free library card. Those living outside the city pay $50 for a family per year, $40 for seniors and $15 for a child card, which includes all children in the family but is good only for the children’s book section.

Linn-Benton Community College Library

6500 S.W. Pacific Blvd., Albany
541-917-4638, 541-917-4645 (reference desk)
libref@linnbenton.edu
lib.linnbenton.edu/library/portal2.html

Open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (M-TH) and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (F). Summer hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (M-TH).

LBCC’s library is open to all district residents. The library has open book shelves for leisurely browsing, wireless computer access for personal laptops and a quiet study atmosphere. The library also provides computers and printers for drop-in access to the Internet and other electronic information sources. Magazines, newspapers, tapes, videos, DVDs and copiers are available. Reserve materials for classes are provided for supplementary reading and viewing. The library staff offers assistance with information and research needs. Materials not available at LBCC may be obtained at no charge through interlibrary loans.

To get a library card: Proof of residency in Linn or Benton counties required.

Oregon State University Valley Library

Jefferson Way (near the main entrance to the campus), Corvallis
541-737-3331
osulibrary.oregonstate.edu

Open 7:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. (M-TH), 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (F), 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (SAT) and 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. (SUN). When school is not in session, the library is open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (M-TH), 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (F), 1 to 6 p.m. (SAT) and 1 to 9 p.m. (SUN).

The Valley Library offers more than 1.6 million books and journals, electronic databases and an extensive reference section. It features several special collections including the papers and memorabilia of two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling and his wife Ava Helen Pauling; records of other important 20th century science discoveries, including a section on atomic energy science; and a unique collection of Northwest art created by regional artists. The library also has portals to a Linus Pauling DNA Web site, an Oregon Explorer Natural Resources Web site, Oregon Multicultural Archives and an OSU Baseball Centennial Web site.

To get a library card: Oregon residents, members of the OSU Alumni Association, Friends of the Library and Extension volunteers 16 years of age and older can get a card at the circulation desk with proof of Oregon residency, proof of age, photo identification and a forwarding address.

Sweet Home Public Library

1101 13th Ave.
541-367-5007
ci.sweet-home.or.us/index.aspx?NID=75
Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (M/T/TH) and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (F/SAT).

Sweet Home’s city library has a circulation of about 38,000 items including 1,400 videos, DVDs and CDs. The library receives a lot of support from the Friends of the Sweet Home Library, who sponsor three major fundraisers during the year to purchase more books, shelves and other resources the library needs. The Friends also sponsor the Bookends bookstore, at 1234 Main St., to raise funds for the library. Other services include a summer reading program for children and computer workstations for both adults and children to use.

To get a library card: Library cards are available to Sweet Home residents with proof of residency. Users living outside the city limits pay $35 per household.

Harrisburg Public Library

354 Smith St.
541-995-6949
ci.harrisburg.or.us
Open 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (M), noon to 6 p.m. (T-TH) and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (F).
Harrisburg’s city library has a circulation of about 12,000 books, 100 videos and 100 audio books. It also offers a variety of activities throughout the year including special reading events and speakers.

To get a library card: Library cards are available to Harrisburg residents with proof of residency. Nonresidents pay $10.

Scio Public Library

38957 N.W. First Ave.
503-394-3342
www.scio.plinkit.org
Open 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. (M/W/TH/F), 3 to 8 p.m. (T) and 1 to 4 p.m. (SAT).
Scio’s city library has a circulation of about 12,000 books, videos, DVD’s and audio books. There is a summer reading program for toddlers through middle school children. The library also offers a variety of activities throughout the year including a children’s story time, Chautauqua speakers and a weekly genealogy class.

To get a library card: Library cards are available to Scio residents with proof of residency. Adult users living outside the city limits pay $30. Children’s cards for those in eighth grade or younger are free. Teens pay $5.

Museums

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:21:19 +0000

Albany

Albany Regional Museum

136 Lyon St. S.
541-967-7122
armuseum@peak.org
www.armuseum.com
Open noon to 4 p.m. (M-F) and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (SAT) to school groups and tours by appointment.
The Albany Regional Museum is a nonprofit organization that acquires, documents, preserves and interprets materials illustrating the history and development of Albany. The museum offers educational and historical exhibits and the Rod and Marty Tripp Reference Room, which holds historical information for Albany and the surrounding area, and work space for research. Admission is free; donations accepted.

Monteith House

518 Second Ave. S.W.
541-928-0911
www.albanyvisitors.com/historic-albany/museums/monteith-house/
Open noon to 4 p.m. (W-SAT, June 15 to Sept. 15) and by appointment.
This is the town’s oldest frame building built in 1849 by Albany’s founders, Walter and Thomas Monteith. It is said to be the most authentically restored pioneer home in Oregon and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Brownsville

Linn County Historical Museum

101 Park Ave.
541-466-3390
lchm@centurytel.net
www.co.linn.or.us./museum
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (M-SAT) and 1 to 5 p.m. (SUN). The Moyer House is open to tours only from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (SAT) and 1 to 5 p.m. (SUN); tours depart hourly from the historical museum.

This museum features exhibits of pioneer life, tools and clothing; a genealogy section; and movie theater with a video collection including the 1986 movie “Stand By Me” filmed in Brownsville. One of the few remaining covered wagons that made it across the Oregon Trail is displayed, a wagon belonging to the William Drinkard family who came to Oregon in 1865 on a six-month journey from Missouri. The 1881 Moyer House, around the corner at 204 N. Main St., is also a part of the museum. Guided walking tours around Brownsville available by appointment. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Harrisburg

Harrisburg Area Museum

490 Smith St.
541-995-4844
Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (T/TH/SAT) and other days by appointment.
The museum includes an 1867 house that contains many antiques and memorabilia from the area, including two steam tractors, a 1923 Star Touring car and a 1910 Overland Touring car. Other buildings house a collection of pioneer era farm implements, antique tools and machinery that show what it took to make a living in the early years of Oregon’s history. There is also a collection of models by the late Bruce Witmer, including a farmstead, the Crater Lake Lodge and Noah’s ark. Admission is free, but a donation is suggested.

Independence

Heritage Museum

112 S. Third St.
503-838-4989
heritagemuseum@minetfiber.com
www.heritage.org
Open 1 to 5 p.m. (W/SAT), 1 to 4 p.m. (TH/F) or by appointment.
Constantly changing exhibits keep this museum fresh and interesting. Tours can be scheduled by appointment. The museum holds a large collection of artifacts, photos and memorabilia from the 1950 Oregon Cavalcade, plus an impressive military exhibit. Admission is free.

Monmouth

Jensen Arctic Museum – Western Oregon University

590 Church St.
503-838-8468
www.wou.edu/arctic
Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (W-SAT); closed on federal holidays.
This is the only museum on the West Coast dedicated wholly to informing and educating the people about the environment of the arctic and the culture of arctic people. The museum collection includes arctic art, artifacts, everyday objects and an authentic walrus skin whaling boat used by Dr. Paul H. Jensen on one of his last expeditions in the arctic during the 1970s. There is also a wild arctic theater with taxidermy wolves, caribou, musk oxen and a polar bear. Special children’s activities are held from 1 to 3 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month. Admission is a suggested donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under.

Monroe

South Benton Communities Historical Association Museum

140 Highway 99W
541-847-7226 (W), 541-847-5288
Open 1 to 4 p.m. (W) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the last Saturday of the month.
Monroe, Alpine, Bellfountain, Irish Bend and other communities are featured in this museum opened in the fall of 2002. Its exhibits include artifacts from pioneer days, information on area schools and displays related to the local logging industry. A rotating exhibit is often featured at the museum. Admission is free; donations accepted.

Newport

Oregon Coast History Center

545 S.W. Ninth St.
541-265-7509
coasthistory@newportnet.com
oregoncoast.history.museum
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (T-SUN) and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (T-SUN, June to September).
The site offers a look at Native American, maritime and coastal settlement history, including a log cabin museum, an 1895 Victorian home museum, research library and two museum stores. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Philomath

Benton County Historical Museum

1101 Main St.
541-929-6230
info@bentoncountymuseum.org
www.bentoncountymuseum.org
Open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (T-SAT).
The museum occupies an historic Georgian-style brick building, constructed in 1867, with wings added in the early 20th century. It was the home of Philomath College from 1867 to 1929. Exhibitions address a variety of cultural themes.

The museum also maintains a year-round visual arts exhibition program, including an out-standing quilt exhibition, children’s art and shows by local artists. A research library is available (by appointment only) to help students, writers and other researchers learn about local history. A small museum store specializes in books on Oregon history, genealogy and local history. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Scio

Scio Depot Museum

39004 N.E. First St.
503-394-2199
Open 1 to 4 p.m. (SAT/SUN, May to October) or by appointment.
Mid-valley memorabilia and exhibits, with an emphasis on the Scio area, are displayed in the 1890 West Scio train depot. Run by the Scio Historical Society, the site also features a train caboose and picnic grounds. Admission is free.

Shedd

Shedd Museum

29990 First St.
541-369-2317
Open by appointment.
The old Shedd bank building contains artifacts and collections of the late Lucille Shedd and her brother Harold. The displays include community memorabilia, items from the Civil War and Oregon Trail eras and fine collectibles. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Sweet Home

East Linn Museum

746 Long St.
541-367-4580
Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (TH-SAT), 1 to 4 p.m. (SUN) and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (W, May to August).
Exhibits and memorabilia emphasizing the late 1800s and early 1900s in Sweet Home and east Linn County are housed in the former Sunnyside School building that later became a church. There are completely furnished turn-of-the-century rooms, including a kitchen, parlor and bedroom. Logging equipment from the same era is also on display. Admission is by voluntary donation.

Toledo

Toledo Historical Museum

Toledo City Hall on Main Street
541-265-7509
coasthistory@newportnet.com
Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M-F).
Founded in 1984, this collection of early sawmill, logging and railroad memorabilia reflects the region’s timber industry over the years. The museum is managed by the Lincoln County Historical Society in Newport. Admission is free.

Waldport

Waldport Heritage Museum

320 N.E. Grant St.
541-563-7092
waldportmuseum@peak.org
Open noon to 4 p.m. (W-F), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (SAT/SUN) or by appointment.
Exhibits include views of Native American history, the logging business, period clothing, cooking utensils and photographs. The museum is a 1941 Civilian Conservation Corps structure and it also houses a genealogical library. Admission is free; donations accepted.

Music

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:05:11 +0000

Chamber Music Corvallis

541-752-6286
www.violins.org
Chamber Music Corvallis is in its 51st concert season. Season tickets are $110 for all six concerts or $95 for any five concerts. Individual concert tickets are $25 at the door, and $22 if purchased in advance from Grass Roots Books & Music in Corvallis, or Sid Stevens Jewelers in Albany. Season tickets may be purchased at the door, by calling 757-0902, or by using PayPal on the Web site. Admission is free for K-12 students and OSU students with ID. Tickets are $5 for other students and OSU student spouses.

2009-2010 season:

Oct. 22: Belcea Quartet
Nov. 10: Zemlinsky Quartet
Jan. 12: Falla Guitar Trio
Feb. 20: Trio Solisti (matinee performance time)
April 14: Amelia Piano Trio
May 11: Aviv String Quartet

Chintimini Chamber Music Festival

541-753-2106
dcaldwell26@comcast.net
www.chintimini.org
Each year, the Chintimini Chamber Music Festival sponsors an event featuring classical music performed by musicians who grew up in the Willamette Valley and now have performing careers. Concerts in 2009 will take place at 7:30 p.m. on June 19, June 23, June 26 and June 28 at the First Congregational Church, 4515 S.W. West Hills Road, Corvallis.

Corvallis Community Band

541-745-5843
www.c-cband.org
The Corvallis Community Band began as part of the 1976 Bicentennial Celebration. In 1980, the band began its summer evening concert series, playing popular favorites at Corvallis’ Central Park. The band plays at 8 p.m. Tuesdays mid-June through the end of August. During the school year, the band rehearses at 7 p.m. each Tuesday at Linus Pauling Middle School and gives several concerts at various locations in the community. The band is open to all musicians with high school performance ability. Community Band concerts are always free and open to the public.

Corvallis Community Choir

http://corvalliscommunitychoir.us
Fun, no-audition choir where the whole family is welcome. Rehearsals are at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2945 N.W. Circle Blvd. Registration is $50 a term.

Corvallis First Presbyterian Church and Community Choir

541-753-2228
church@1stpres.org
www.1stpres.org
Interested musicians in the community join together to present two choir and orchestra performances during the year.

Corvallis Folklore Society (CFS)

541-753-2617, 541-737-5256
dave@freeshell.org
www.cfs.peak.org
Local club that presents folk music concerts throughout the year and hosts contra dances on first and third Saturdays.

Corvallis New Horizons Band

541-754-6098
ko@gracewinds.com
www.corvallisnewhorizonsband.org
New Horizons is an adult band of beginners, or former players, who enjoy making music together. The concert band meets September through June; the jazz band meets for six weeks during the summer. New players are always welcome. Practices are at 6 p.m. every Thursday at Cheldelin Middle School, 987 N.E. Conifer Blvd., Corvallis.

Corvallis-OSU Symphony Orchestra

541-737-4061 or 541-758-6822
www.symphony.peak.org or syminfo@peak.org
Experience the 104th season of the Corvallis-OSU Symphony Orchestra, a treasured cultural resource in our community! The nearly 80member orchestra directed by Dr. Marlan Carlson, chairman of the OSU Department of Music, features professional musicians as well as community members and OSU students. At least 35 of the orchestra’s musicians teach some type of music in our community. Choral music is often a part of the concert season. Since 1906, the orchestra has been a leader in the musical life of the mid-Willamette Valley. With community members performing alongside OSU faculty and students — and listening together in the audience — our concerts provide a shared musical experience that’s unique and fulfilling. The 20092010 season will offer a series of concerts featuring the best of classical repertoire:

Tickets: $15, $25, $30. Oregon State University students are admitted for free with their ID card. Up to three K-12 students are admitted for free with an adult ticket holder while seats last. Tickets for reserved seating available at Beard’s Framing, Gracewinds Music and Grass Roots Books & Music in Corvallis, and Sid Stevens Jewelers in Albany.

2009-2010 season:

Oct. 7: “Classic Vienna I,” Beethoven, Mozart, Brahms, featuring pianist William Wolfram, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 22: “Russian Power,” Shostakovitch and other works reflecting on Russia’s Tzarist history, 3 p.m.
Dec. 6: “Holiday celebration,” Vivaldi, Lauridsen and holiday favorites featuring OSU choirs, 7 p.m.
Feb. 24: “Germanic Giants,” Mozart, Schumann, Hindemith, featuring pianist Roberto Plano, 7:30 p.m.
May 25: “Classic Vienna II,” Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, Brahms, featuring OSU Chamber Choir, Jessica Lambert, Anne Ridlington, Rachelle McCabe, 8 p.m.

Corvallis Repertory Singers

541-753-2106
dcaldwell26@comcast.net
www.repsing.org
Corvallis Repertory Singers is a professional-level, mixed-voice ensemble under the direction of Steven M. Zielke, head of choral activities at Oregon State University. The singers are drawn together by their passion for sharing high quality choral music with music lovers in the central Willamette Valley.

Corvallis Youth Symphony Association

541-766-4903
cysassoc@peak.org
www.cysassoc.org
The nonprofit Corvallis Youth Symphony Association provides beginning strings education and performance opportunities for youth and teens in grades three to 12. The association sponsors three separate orchestras: Elementary strings for fourth and fifth graders, Corvallis Junior Symphony for students with more experience and the Corvallis Youth Symphony for advanced students. Sign ups, auditions and concerts are held throughout the year for students in the mid-Willamette Valley.

Heart of the Valley Children’s Choir

260 S.W. Madison, Suite 101, Corvallis
541-738-7888
choir@peak.org
www.hvcchoir.com
Now in its 26th year, the Heart of the Valley Children’s Choir consists of five active choirs involving more than 300 singers age 8 to 18 from throughout the mid-Willamette Valley including Corvallis, Philomath, Albany and Tangent. The choir provides choral performance opportunities locally and abroad.

Jubilate! The Women’s Choir of Corvallis

jubilate@comcast.net
http://home.comcast.net/~rivinc/
Jubilate! a community choir open to all women singers, sings music of all styles and genres with a strong spiritual, feminist and lesbian focus. The choir meets 7:15 to 9 p.m. on Mondays (September through June) at First Congregational Church, 4515 S.W. West Hills Road in Corvallis, and performs concerts for the community throughout the year.

Linn-Benton Opera Guild

541-757-8949
miner@exchangenet.net
Linn Benton Opera Guild offers previews of and chartered coach transportation to per-formances of the Portland Opera. Preview meetings are held the Tuesday prior to opening night at 7:30 p.m. in 303 Benton Hall, Oregon State University. The chartered coach transportation is for the Saturday performance, with pick-up points in Corvallis, Albany and Salem.

2009-2010 season:

Puccini’s “La Boheme” – Sept. 21 preview; Oct. 3 trip
Glass’ “Orphee” – Nov. 2 preview; Nov. 14 trip
Mozart’s “Cosi Fan Tutte” – Feb. 1 preview; Feb. 13 trip
Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” – May 3 preview; May 15 trip

Linn Benton Organ Club

541-928-7379
For those who love listening to and playing popular, classical and religious music. Meets second Sunday, 2 p.m., in members’ homes.

OSU Department of Music

541-737-4061
http://oregonstate.edu/cla/music/
The Oregon State University Department of Music hosts public concerts by a variety of vocal and instrumental performance ensembles throughout the year. These include the OSU Chamber Choir, Wind Ensemble, Bella Voce, Meistersingers, Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble, Opera Workshop, Outspoken, Divine, and numerous small groups, solo recitals and chamber ensembles. The department, in conjunction with the Memorial Union and the Associated Students of Oregon State University, also hosts the free “brown bag” concert series, Music a la Carte, in the Memorial Union Lounge, at noon, most Thursdays while school is in session. Check the OSU web calendar at: http://calendar.oregonstate.edu or the music department Web site for detailed event listings.

Sweet Home Singing Christmas Tree

541-367-4639
sgolson@comcast.net
A community choir that presents a free holiday program in December. All area adult singers are welcome. Rehearsals are 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Sweet Home High School, 1641 Long St.

The O.K. Chorale

541-758-7104 or 541-744-7211
A senior choir with an average age of 78, the O.K. Chorale performs throughout the Willamette Valley for senior groups and public events such as the Corvallis Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Crystal Lake Cemetery Memorial Day Program. Rehearsals are at 10 a.m. on Mondays (September through May) at First Baptist Church, 125 N.W. 10th St., Corvallis.

Willamette Valley Concert Band

541-926-8258
charlie@kgal.com
http://wvcband.org
This group is comprised of volunteer musicians high school age and older from throughout the valley. The band plays several concerts a year and is open to musicians with high school level or better experience. Students are encouraged to join only with the recommendation of their school band director. Rehearsals are at 7:30 p.m. on second and fourth Thursdays of the month in Albany. Optional sectionals also meet on the first and third Thursday.

Spectator Sports

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:01:39 +0000

Spectator sports in the mid-valley are at an all-time high, thanks to the successful athletic programs at Oregon State University in Corvallis and the University of Oregon in Eugene, the area’s high school programs and local American Legion baseball teams.

OSU and Oregon are members of the Pacific10 Conference, which bills itself “The Conference of Champions” because it has won more national titles than any other. But the two major colleges aren’t the only source of sports entertainment.

For small-college fans, Western Oregon University in Monmouth is an NCAA Division II member with strong programs in football, basketball and volleyball. There are several NCAA Division III and NAIA schools within a 60-mile radius and Linn-Benton Community College in Albany offers several junior-college sports.

When it comes to high school sports, Corvallis, Crescent Valley, West Albany, South Albany and Lebanon are 5A schools that compete in the eight-team Mid-Willamette Conference. Philomath and Sweet Home are the area’s 4A schools, while Santiam Christian, Harrisburg and Jefferson are 3A schools, and Monroe, East Linn Christian, Central Linn and Scio compete in 2A. Alsea, Eddyville Charter and Fairview Christian compete as 1A schools.

The Corvallis Richey’s Market and Linn County’s Mid-Valley Rockets play American Legion baseball all summer. Richey’s Market has advanced to four of the past five state tournaments and finished third in the 2003 World Series in Bartlesville, Okla.

The Corvallis Knights took up residency in Corvallis in 2007. The Knights are members of the West Coast Collegiate Baseball League. The team is made up of college players and uses wood bats. The Knights played in Gresham prior to moving to Corvallis and now call Goss Stadium on the OSU campus home. They won the West Division’s regular season and divisional playoff championships in 2007. Corvallis defeated Kitsap, Wash., 2-1 in the best-of-3 divisional playoff series to advance to the WCCBL’s Championship Series against Moses Lake, which it lost 2-0.

For professional sports buffs, there are two minor-league baseball teams within an hour’s drive of Corvallis and Albany. The Eugene Emeralds and Salem-Keizer Volcanoes are Class A baseball teams in the Northwest League.

Auto racing fans can get their motors going at Willamette Speedway, 36606 Airport Drive in Lebanon (541-258-8503). The closest horse racing track is Portland Meadows in Portland.

Annual events include the Philomath Frolic and Rodeo and the Sportsman’s Holiday and Sweet Home Rodeo in July.

Here is a look at some various spectator sports within a short drive of Corvallis and Albany:

Oregon State University

OSU offers 18 NCAA Division I programs and is highly competitive in most. The football team halted its streak of 28 consecutive losing seasons in 1999 under former coach Dennis Erickson and has played in seven bowl games in the past nine seasons. OSU, now coached by former Corvallis High standout Mike Riley, has six home games at Reser Stadium in 2008, including the Civil War.

OSU men’s basketball is under the direction of first-year coach Craig Robinson, who replaced Jay John who was fired in January. Robinson previously coached at Brown for two years before taking the OSU job. The women’s basketball program is under the direction of fourth-year coach LaVonda Wagner, formerly an assistant at Duke University.

The Beavers are perennially strong in the so-called non-revenue or Olympic sports, with top-25 rankings typically in women’s gymnastics, wrestling, softball and men’s and women’s golf. The Beavers baseball team became the first team in 10 years to repeat as national champions in 2007. The softball team missed the postseason for the first time in 10 years in 2008.

OSU’s football success is leading to a building explosion. A new softball stadium was recently completed; an indoor practice facility for football, baseball, soccer and softball was completed in September 2001; lights were added to Goss Stadium in April 2002 and to Lorenz Field in July 2006; the Prothro Field practice area was renovated in 2003, and a $93 million renovation/expansion of Reser Stadium in 2005 resulted in a brand-new East grandstand that increased capacity to about 43,000 from just over 35,000. A new Sports Performance Center opened in May of 2008 and the expansion of Goss Stadium is still in progress. A new track is in the works as well.

For ticket information, call 1-800-GO-BEAVS.

University of Oregon

Oregon offers 16 NCAA Division I programs, a slate that includes men’s and women’s track but not women’s gymnastics. Oregon cut wrestling after the 2008 season but will bring baseball back in 2009.

The football team has become a perennial bowl contender, including an appearance in the Rose (1995) and Fiesta (2002) bowls, and regularly sells out Autzen Stadium. The Ducks play six home games this season.

Men’s and women’s basketball play in McArthur Court, the second oldest on-campus facility in the nation.
Eugene bills itself as the “Track Capital of the World” and is known for its large crowds for meets at Hayward Field. The U.S. Olympic Trials took place there in June and July.

For ticket information, call 1-800-WEB-FOOT.

Eugene Emeralds & Salem-Keizer Volcanoes

Both baseball teams are short-season Class A teams that compete in the Northwest League. Their schedule begins in mid-June and concludes in early September.

The Emeralds’ parent major-league team is the San Diego Padres and the Volcanoes are affiliated with the San Francisco Giants.
The Emeralds play at Civic Stadium, 2077 Willamette St. in Eugene. For ticket information, call 541-342-5367 or go to www.go-ems.com for more information.

The Volcanoes play at Volcanoes Stadium, which is just off Interstate 5 in Keizer, north of Salem. For ticket information, call 503-390-2225 or go to www.volcanoesbaseball.com for more information.

Theater

Midvalley Newspapers — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 20:54:38 +0000

Albany Civic Theater

111 First Ave. S.W.
541-928-4603
www.albanycivic.org

ACT is one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the Pacific Northwest, offering a year-round schedule of comedy, drama and musicals.

Performance times are 8 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. Admission prices for plays are $11 general and $8 for those 60 and older, or younger than 18. Admission prices for musicals are $13 and $10. Tickets are sold at the door or in advance at Sid Stevens Jewelers in Albany or Rice’s Pharmacy in Corvallis. Season ticket packages are also available. Season ticket holders get a substantial discount from single-seat prices and first choice on seats, five days before they go on sale to the general public. Season passes — good for admission to all regular-season shows — cost $102 for general audiences and $75 for those younger than 18 or 60 and older. Season Samplers — good for admission to any five regular-season shows, including the musical — cost $51 and $38.

ACT is open to anyone interested in becoming involved in theater, both behind the scenes and on stage.

2008-2009 season

Sept. 12-24: “Play Ball” a.k.a. “Chicago,” by Maurine Dallas Watkins

Oct. 17 to Nov. 1: “The Vampyre,” by Tim Kelly

Nov. 28 to Dec. 20: “Miracle on 34th Street,” adapted by Will Severin, Patricia Di Benedetto Snyder and John Vreeke from the novel by Valentine Davies

Jan. 9-17: “Forever Plaid,” by Stuart Ross

Feb. 6-21: “A Love Affair,” by Jerry Mayer

March 20 to April 11: “Cabaret,” by John Sander

May 1-16: “Humble Boy,” by Charlotte Jones

June 5-20: “Of Mice and Men,” by John Steinbeck

July 17 to Aug. 8: “The Music Man,” by Meredith Willson

Bard in the Quad

541-737-2784
http://oregonstate.edu/bardinthequad/index.html
OSU’s Bard in the Quad series, presented “Romeo & Juliet” in 2006, “Much Ado About Nothing” in 2007, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in 2008 and “Twelfth Night” in 2009 outside on the quad at Oregon State University. Productions open the first week of August and have an audience capacity of more than 5,500, the 2009.

Corvallis Community Theater

115 S.W. Second St.
541-738-6097
www.corvalliscommunitytheatre.org

Corvallis Community Theater is in its 47th year of producing live theater. CCT is always open to people wishing to become involved in all areas of production.

Ticket prices vary by show; call 541-738-7469 for details and for show times.

The 2009-2010 season is abbreviated because of scheduled seismic upgrade construction at the theater. More productions at other venues may be added to the schedule at a later date.

2009-2010 season:

Feb. 19-28: “I Hate Hamlet”

May 14-30: “Guys and Dolls”

Majestic Theatre Education Program

541-766-7827 or 541-753-0284
www.majestic.org
Majestic Theatre Education provides quality theater instruction for schools and the community through residencies, after-school classes and children’s productions at the Majestic Theatre, 115 S.W. Second St., Corvallis.

OSU University Theater

541-737-2853
http://oregonstate.edu/dept/theatre
Oregon State University Theater presents a mix of plays during the school year in OSU’s Withycombe Hall Theater, corner of 30th Street and Campus Way. Curtain time for all performances is 7:30 p.m. For reservations and ticket prices, call 541-737-2784.

Willamette Stage Company

541-368-7092
www.willamettestage.org
Willamette Stage Company was founded in early 2007 by a group of theater artists and enthusiasts led by artistic director Robert Delk Hirsh, a veteran professional actor and director. The group recognized the potential for a professional live theater company to augment and complement the many thriving mid-Willamette Valley performing arts groups. A nonprofit, private corporation, it is dedicated to creating provocative, professional live theatre experiences for local artists and audiences. In 2009, the STAGE U Actors Studio program was added to give actors at all levels workshop opportunities to hone their craft.