Community Notes: Week of Dec. 14

Published Dec. 13, 2007

MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Toys for Tots donations being accepted
Donation boxes for Toys for Tots have been set up at the base chapel, fitness center, base exchange, clinic, building 500 and the military personnel flight for new, unwrapped toys. In conjunction with the wing holiday party's theme "Airmen in Toyland," donations will also be collected at the party Dec. 8. The Toys for Tots campaign runs through Dec. 21. For more information, call Airman 1st Class Matthew Splichal at 731-7773 or 1st Lt. Miranda Thompson at 731-3639.

MSFS children's holiday part is Dec. 15
The 341st Missile Security Force Squadron children's holiday part is Dec. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Youth Activities Center. Play games, make crafts and meet Santa. Question about this free event should be called in to 731-7779.

Children's holiday program at chapel
The Protestant community children will conduct their holiday program, "Live from Bethlehem" Dec. 16 during the 11:15 a.m. worship service. All are invited to attend and sing along. For more information, call Janet Smith at 731-3258 or the chapel staff at 731-3721.

Commissary holiday hours announced
The commissary will be open Dec. 24 and 31 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be closed Tuesday, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 to observe the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

Thrift Store closed through holidays
There is still time to shop for holiday bargains at the Malmstrom Thrift Store. It is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; consignments are accepted until 1 p.m. The store will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 3, reopening Friday, Jan. 4. Additionally, the store is open the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Questions about the Thrift Store should be made at 731-3213.

Holiday tree recycling
A recycling container will be set up in the parking lot at the corner of Goddard Drive and 72nd Street (stoplight corner) to recycle holiday trees Dec. 26 through Jan. 11. Trees are used for wildlife habitat and to stop erosion. Trees can also be taken to the Citizens Convenience Center on 15th Street North.

Pre-school screening coming to YPC Jan. 18
Representatives from the Great Falls Public Schools will be at the Youth Program Center Jan. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to conduct pre-school screenings for children ages infant to 5 years old. Tests will be conducted in vision, hearing, motor skills, communication and basic concepts to assess children's developmental levels and to locate children with potential or existing problems that may interfere with their learning. They will be performed by local special education personnel, quality of life personnel, an audiologist and an optometrist. Appointments are required and can be made by calling 268-6025. Only 40 slots are available so early registration is encouraged.

HAWC staff available for meetings
The Health and Wellness Center will come to any small group meeting, such as a spouses group or an afternoon gathering of friends, and bring their "fact or fiction" kit which debunks popular fitness and nutrition myths and brings about great discussion and motivation. The staff can also supply a list of healthy snacks that can be provided by the participants. For more information, call Kelley Suggs at 731-4482.

Volunteers needed to help with Tops In Blue
Tops In Blue, the Air Force's premiere touring entertainment group, will be in Great Falls Jan. 22 for one performance at the Four Seasons Arena. Volunteers are needed to usher, hand out programs, assist with security and help backstage during the performance. The show begins at 7 p.m.; volunteers will need to report by 5 p.m. Anyone interested should call Kathy Desy at 731-3394 or e-mail her at kathy.desy@malmstrom.af.mil.

Salvation Army seeking volunteers
The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for the holiday season to help the less fortunate during the holiday season. Opportunities include:
- Bell ringing at 13 locations through Dec. 24, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in two-hour shifts.
- Helping set up food and toys Dec. 19 starting at 9 a.m.
- Food, toy and clothing distribution Dec. 20 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Meals on Wheels Dec. 25 at 8 a.m. for food preparation or at 10 a.m. for meal deliveries.
For more information or to volunteer, call 453-0391.

Winter golf schedule determined
Anaconda Hills will open for winter golf Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. Eagle Falls will open from Jan. 2 to Feb. 15, weather conditions permitting. Hours will be 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with no extensions. Golfers need to be off the course by 4 p.m. There is no charge to golf during the winter, however golfers are asked to sign in. Play will be in reverse order and temporary greens, marked with blue stakes, will be used. Carts will not be allowed. For more information, call Connie Caouette at 761-1078 or Patty Rearden at 771-1265.