Organizations All area codes 509 unless otherwise noted

Agriculture
     4-H. Youth development program of Washington State University Extension. Provides formal and non-formal, community-focused, experiential learning; develops skills that benefit youth throughout life; fosters leadership and volunteerism in youth and adults, and strengthens families and communities. Open to all youth ages 5-19. Ann Fagerlie, program coordinator. Information: 422-7245.
     Family Farm Support Network. Online information in English and Spanish. Peter Rodionoff, coordinator. Web site http://ffsn.wsu.edu/.
     North Country Wool Pool Cooperative Group. Information: Kathlene Schrock, 486-2098.
     Okanogan Producers Marketing Association. A marketing association of agriculture producers. Information: Diana Weddle, 486-1219, nwed@televar.com.
     Okanogan Conservation District. Provides voluntary assistance to Okanogan County landowners for the conservation of natural resources. Board meets first Thursday of month at Ag Service Center, 1251 S. Second Ave., Okanogan. Ivan Oberg, chair; Tom Doran, vice chair; Albert Roberts, auditor. Information: 422-0855 Ext. 5.
     Okanogan County Farm Bureau. Sara Kretz, Wauconda, president, 779-4105; Noble Kelly, Malott, vice president, 422-5428; Jim Hajny, Okanogan, treasurer, 422-4703; Darlene Hajny, Okanogan, secretary, 422-4703.
     Okanogan County Horticultural Pest and Disease Control. Dan McCarthy, pest control agent. Address: 123 N. Fifth Ave., Room 150, Okanogan. Information: 322-1286.
     Okanogan County Noxious Weed Control. Assists landowners with weed problems, enforces weed laws. Information: 422-7165. E-mail: nw-insp@co.okanogan.wa.us; Web site: www.okanogancounty.org/nw.
     Okanogan FFA Alumni. Supports Okanogan High School FFA. Information: Lonnie Dixon, 422-3770.
     Okanogan Valley Farmers' Market. Home-grown, handmade products are sold at the market 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, May through October, at Legion Park, Okanogan; and 3:30-7 p.m. Tuesdays, July to October, at Civic League Park, Omak. Baked goods, fruit, vegetables, herbs, plants, starts, honey, crafts and household items. Information: Stephanie Clark, Okanogan market, 826-1259; Debbie Mayberry, Omak market, 826-5845.
     Washington State University Extension for Okanogan County. Provides education and information on agriculture, livestock, family living, home economics, food safety, 4-H and gardening. Norman Suverly, extension educator. Information: 422-7245. Address: P.O. Box 391, Okanogan 98840.

Apples/pears
     Okanogan County Horticulture Association. Annual meeting is Jan. 24, 2008, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Agriplex on the Okanogan County fairgrounds; also holds board meetings the third Monday of each month. Dick Lorz, president, 486-2202; Chuck Root, vice president, 826-9183; Dan McCarthy, secretary, 50 Sylvester Road, Tonasket 98855, phone 486-2404 or 322-1286.

Cattle
     Colville Indian Livestock Association. Promotes sound range management on the Colville Indian Reservation. Information: Charlie Moses, president, 633-3555; Patricia Scott, secretary, 923-2740.
     Okanogan County Cattlemen's Association. Supports cattle producers, provides education and information on beef cattle production. Meets second Tuesday of the month. Information: Jerry Asmussen, first vice president; Craig Vejraska, vice president; Leroy Hirst, treasurer.
     Okanogan County CattleWomen. Promotes cattle industry, beef information and education. Information: Jeanne Whitley, president, 422-4480; Mary K. Vejraska, vice president/secretary, 826-1700; Donna Harkness, treasurer.

Grange
     Okanogan County Pomona Grange. "Mother" organization for county Grange organizations. Grange provides economic self-help on a cooperative basis, legislative liaison, social and recreational opportunities, and community/civic opportunities. State Grange convention is in June. Information: George Penner, 485-1922.
     Subordinate Granges are:
     - Brewster. Ralph Morgan, 689-2939; meets second Thursdays at 6 p.m.
     - Mount Olive (Riverside). Albert Wilson, 486-2045; meets 6:30 p.m. first and third Thursdays for potlucks.
     - Malott. Dwain Denton, 422-3665; meets second Mondays.
     - Molson. George Penner, 485-1922; meets 7 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays.
     - Okanogan. Harry Alexander, 826-6181.
     - Oroville. Delores Patterson, 476-3563.
     - Tunk Valley. Henry Wilson, 486-2011.
     - Twisp Valley. Camden Shaw, 997-0273 or Billie Somerville, 997-4841.


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Arts and music

Arts, general
     Artists in Residence program for Okanogan region schools. Program through Methow Arts provides supplemental art education partnerships with Omak, Okanogan, Methow and Pateros school districts, and Paschal Sherman Indian School. Mailing: Box 723, Twisp 98856. Phone: 997-4004, email: artseducation@methowarts.org. Web: www.methowarts.org/edu/art_residence.html.
     Colville Tribal Artists Association. Non-profit organization; members believe in practicing the traditional and contemporary arts, keeping alive spirits of the people and perpetuating the traditions passed down for generations. Officers: Georgia Tongel, president; Kathy Womer, secretary; Alice Stewart, sergeant at arms; Virgil "Smoker" Marchand, treasurer. Information: Georgia L. Tongel, 634-4515.
     Community Cultural Center. Supports arts and culture in Okanogan County. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Address: 411 Western Ave., Tonasket. Mail: P.O. Box 664, Tonasket 98855. Information: 486-1328 or cccoftonasket@yahoo.com. Online at www.cccoftonasket.org.
     Methow Arts. Non-profit organization focusing on bringing many forms of art to the Methow Valley. Works as a liaison and support group to schools, community and other arts organizations. Mailing: Box 723, Twisp 98856. Phone: 997-4004. Web: www.methowarts.org.
     Okanogan County Artists Association. Promotes and encourages local artists and art exhibits, brings in visiting artists for lessons; participates in Art Appreciation Week in June. Holds monthly meetings and periodic paint-ins. Officers: Sandra Walters, president, 826-5372; Naomi Alloway and Esther Hinger, vice presidents. Information: Carol Cranfill, 826-1344.

Dance
     Children's Dance Theater. Stages productions and workshops for youngsters in Okanogan County so they can gain experience in dance and drama performance. CDT is a non-discriminatory, non-profit organization that promotes the performing arts through education, scholarships and theatrical productions. Information: Lorrie Fraley-Wilson, 996-2544. Mail: P.O. Box 3959, Omak 98841-3959.
     LFW Dance. Dance instruction for 4-years-old to adult. Information: Lorrie Fraley-Wilson, 996-2544.

Fiber arts
     Methow Valley Spinners/Weavers Guild. Meets at 1 p.m. every Thursday at 22 Intercity Airport Road near the North Cascades Smokejumper Base. Information: Kay Reiber 997-5666. Dues are $2.
     Shear Creative Guild of Okanogan County. A spinning weaving and fiber arts guild. Meets every two weeks at varying times. Information: Marilynn Knapp, 422-3020.

Music
     Cascadia, the Methow Music Association. Promotes music education, participation and appreciation in the Methow and Okanogan valleys; sponsors concerts and a scholarship program. Information: 997-0222 or project coordinator Gudrun Brunot, 997-4601; e-mail gbrunot@methow.com; P.O. Box 1013, Twisp 98856, or www.methownet.com/cascadia/.
     North Central Washington Blues Association. A non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote, preserve and advance the culture and tradition of blues music as an art form. Information: Wardell Henderson, 826-1682, wardell98841@peoplepc.com.
     Okanogan County chapter of Washington State Music Teachers' Association. Encourages and supports all private music teachers who are seeking to improve their teaching and grow professionally while adhering to the Music Teachers National Association code of ethics. Roz Nau, president, 486-4673.
     Okanogan Music Boosters. Mission: To create and enhance musical opportunities for the children of our community. Jill Appleton, chair, jill_appleton@yahoo.com or 422-0773.
     Okanogan Valley Friends of Music. Promotes and sponsors musical performances, with an emphasis on but not limited to classical music. Information: Nora Ridenour, 826-4323.
     Okanogan Valley Orchestra and Chorus. Non-profit organization that promotes fine music for Okanogan County, provides performance opportunities for county musicians, performers and singers, and promotes music education and appreciation. Also offers costume rentals. Information: Grace Yelland, board president, 422-5304. Mailing: P.O. Box 1636, Omak 98841.
     Omak Music Boosters. Supports middle school and high school bands and choirs in Omak. Information: Music director Don Pearce, 826-8510 (message).

Performing arts
     Dawg Stars. Okanogan High School drama club. Information: Marile Kunkel, 422-3580 or 422-3770.
     Entertainment Extravaganza. Showcases local talent and raises money for various school-related clubs, athletic teams and community causes; organizes Okanogan Valley Nashville Country Star contest for singers in fourth through 12th grades. Information: Ed Lisenbey, 422-1544.
     Merc Playhouse. Summer and holiday plays, year-round concerts, recitals and community events. Monthly Open Merc! Free and for all ages. A non-profit theater celebrating all performing arts. Information: www.mercplayhouse.org; 997-PLAY; P.O. Box 425, Twisp 98856. Address: Second and Glover St., Twisp.
     Methow Arts. Non-profit organization focusing on bringing many forms of art to the Methow Valley. Works as a liaison and support group to schools, community and other arts organizations. Mailing: Box 723, Twisp 98856. Phone: 997-4004, email: art@MethowArts.org. Web: www.methowarts.org.
     Methow Valley Community Theater. Stages community productions two to three times a year. Information: 997-2926.
     Omak Performing Arts Center. Theater owned by the Omak School District. To book an event: Kathie Brown, scheduling, 826-0320; Ray Pritchard, technician, 826-8323.
     Omak Performing Arts Center Foundation. Promotes use of the Omak Performing Arts Center and raises funds to maintain and improve the facility. Jim Kalberer, president; Greg Grillo, vice president; Charles Arvidson, treasurer; Linda Black, project coordinator; Kate Wallace-Johnson, secretary. Information: P.O. Box 327, Omak 98841; Omak School District, 826-0320.
     Pioneer Players and improv group. Omak High School drama club. Information: 826-8323 or adviser Ray Pritchard, rpritcha@omaksd.wednet.edu.

Quilting
     The Quilters' Group. Provides an opportunity to work on projects, show and tell, have a snack, share information and do community service projects. Meets second Mondays of the month at various member homes. Information: Carol O'Dell, 826-0379, or Narda McNally, 422-2595.

Square dancing
     Circle Square Dance Club. Holds dances the first Saturday of the month December through April at Tonasket Elementary School. Information: Karen Spencer, 422-2715; Sally and Levi Toulouse, 422-0105.
     Country Squares Dance Club. Holds dances the third Friday of November, first Saturday January through April and second Saturday in May at Tonasket Elementary School. Information: Glenna and Pee Wee Jones, 486-2324; Karen Spencer, 422-2715; Sally and Levi Toulouse, 422-0105.
     Northern Area Council of Square Dance Clubs. Holds dances the fifth Saturday of the month October through May at Tonasket Elementary School. Information: Glenna and Pee Wee Jones, 486-2324; Karen Spencer, 422-2715; Sally and Levi Toulouse 422-0105.

Writing
     Bridgeport Poets Group. Information: Richard McGraw, 686-3102, gdmac@televar.com.
     Them Dam Writers. Writing group in the Grand Coulee Dam area. Information: Dusty Niendam, 633-3315; president Jean Nicholson, 633-0405.
     Writers' Group. Meets 1 p.m. first Monday of the month at the Tonasket Public Library. Information: 486-2366.


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Community

Community groups
     Action Corps Association. Non-profit corporation formed after the 2004 Omak-Okanogan community assessment. Concentrates on building a therapeutic swimming pool/complex and other projects, accepts donations of old cars for fund-raising, works with other non-profit organizations. Information: Joan Pfeiffer, 422-7393.
     Chiliwist Club. Assists with community projects in Malott area; helps fire victims. Information: Rena Stout, 422-2717, or Eileen Hand, 422-2556.
     Community Cultural Center. Operates and promotes a multi-purpose facility for entertainment, creative arts, education; provides a gathering place for youth and adults. Located at the community center, 411 S. Western Ave., Tonasket; 486-1328 or cccoftonasket@yahoo.com.
     Community Foundation of North Central Washington. Administers endowments for scholarships and grants, and grants funds to community groups. Information: 663-7716; 7 North Wenatchee Avenue, Suite 201, P.O. Box 3332, Wenatchee 98807; Beth A. Stipe, executive director, beth@cfncw.org; www.cfncw.org.
     Ladybugs, Conconully Women's Auxiliary. Raises funds to provide Conconully Volunteer Fire Department with equipment and apparatus; aids those who are burned out by residential fires. Information: Patsy LaBree, 826-5343; P.O. Box 226, Conconully 98819.
     Malott Improvement Club. Community social and support group; meets periodically. Meetings are open to the public.
     Mid-Valley Hospital Foundation. Secures financial resources necessary to maintain high-quality, personalized patient care at Mid-Valley Hospital. Information: 826-1760.
     Okanogan County Search and Rescue Advisory Council. Information: Dave Schindler, 826-0767.
     Okanogan Volunteer Fire Department Ladies' Auxiliary. Supports fire department. Mailing: 753 N. Fourth Ave., Okanogan. Information: Patti Hennigs, 422-2192.
     St. Nicholas Fund. Provides Christmas gifts to community members in need. Holds a December benefit concert in conjunction with Entertainment Extravaganza. Information and contributions: Kim Toulouse, 826-2448; P.O. Box 3453, Omak.
     Wauconda Club. Women's group that assists the Wauconda community. Meets the third Thursdays of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wauconda Community Church. Information: Kristi Breezee, 486-1431.

Fairs
     Okanogan Family Faire. Holds barter event in the fall. Information: 486-2173 or www.okanoganfamilyfaire.com/.
     Okanogan County Fair. Annual fair is the weekend after Labor Day; 2008 fair is Sept. 4-7. Spring Home and Garden Show 2008 is March 21-22. 175 Rodeo Trail Road, Okanogan. Information: 422-1621 or fair@communitynet.org.

Hispanic culture
     English as a second language classes. Information: Wenatchee Valley College at Omak, 422-7800.
     Fuerza Latina. Formed to represent the Latino ethnic group in the community and foster cultural understanding among the different ethnic groups in the county. Information: Nancy Nash, 826-6279; Norma Rivera, 422-6593.

Indian culture
     JOM programs. Indian education; operated through school districts. Information: Omak, 826-0320; Okanogan, 422-3629.
     Omak Stampede Indian Encampment Committee. Plans and stages Indian encampment and powwow during the Omak Stampede, second weekend in August, with emphasis on native American culture. Information: Norine McCraigie, 422-7410.
     Red Road Association. Student club at Wenatchee Valley College at Omak. Information: 422-7800.

Political groups
     Democratic Central Committee. Meets third Saturday of the month at Sun Valley Restaurant, Okanogan, except November. Conducts business of the Democratic Party in Okanogan County. Information: Jackie Bradley, 422-3723.
     Republican Party. Conducts business of the Republican Party in Okanogan County. Officers: Teri Mitschelen, chair; Bud Hover, state committeeman; Jacque Sklar, state committeewoman. Information: Teri and Joe Mitschelen, 422-3944.

Reading/library support
     Adult education/English as a second language, Wenatchee Valley College at Omak. Information: 422-7800.
     Book Clic! Meets from 3:30-4:30 p.m. the third Thursday of each month. A book discussion group with popcorn, pop and fun for grades 5 through 7. Information: 826-1820.
     Bookworms Book Discussion Group. For children in grades three through five. Meets after school from 4-4:45 p.m. the second Thursday of the month to discuss recommended fiction for younger grades. Information: 826-1820.
     Brown Bag Book Club. Meets at 11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of month at Okanogan Public Library for informal discussions of a variety of books. Information: Coral Harrison, 826-1105.
     ECKANKAR Book Discussion Group. Information: Lee Jeanne Karim, 826-2315, or David Nicholas, 846-0130.
     Mindbenders. Non-fiction book discussion group at Omak Public Library. Information: 826-1820.
     Okanogan preschool story time. Meets at Okanogan Public Library for stories, games and fun activities. Information: 422-2609.
     Okanogan County Literacy Council. Volunteer group that promotes literacy and provides learning opportunities to all Okanogan County adults who wish to gain or improve basic skills in the use of written and spoken English and arithmetic. Information: Janyth Arvidson, project coordinator, Omak Public Library, 826-1820. Mail: P.O. Box J, 30 S. Ash St., Omak.
     Okanogan Friends of the Library. Supports the library; holds fund-raisers to benefit the library. Information: 422-2609.
     Omak story time. Meets 11:30-noon every Friday at the Omak Public Library for stories, rhymes, magic tricks and songs putting children birth to 5 years and books together for learning and fun. Information: 826-1820.
     Omak Library Foundation. Meets annually. Group receives bequests, gifts, memorials and donations for the Omak Public Library's furnishings and equipment to enrich the library. Information: Dean Nichols, 826-1420; Betty Jeglum, 826-1872. Mailing: Dean Nichols, P.O. Box 3158, Omak.
     Omak Pioneer Club. Meets noon the second Friday of the month at various restaurants. Social group serves as friends of the Omak Public Library; helps with library events and fund raising for library furnishings and events, and children's reading and craft programs. Information: Diane Doust, 826-1630; Betty Jeglum, 826-1872. Mailing: Betty Jeglum, P.O. Box 306, Omak.
     Oroville Friends of the Library. Meet first Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at the Oroville Public Library. Information: Ellie Braman, 476-3121.
     Popular Novels Club. Meets 1-2:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the Omak Public Library. Information: 826-1820.
     Room One. A one-stop resource center offering programs, classes, workshops, support groups and a resource library. Located in the Sun Country building, 315 South Lincoln, Twisp 98856. Information: 997-2050; roomone@methownet.com.
     Third Saturday. Teen book discussion group, ages 13 through 18. Meets third Saturday of each month at Omak Public Library. For time, more information: 826-1820.
     Tonasket Friends of the Library and Tonasket Library Board. Holds book sales to support library's summer reading program and other projects. Supports library, takes books to shut-ins and the nursing home, assisted living center and senior center. Information: John Williams, 223-3144.
     Tonasket Library Book Club. Meets at 4 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at the Tonasket Library. Information: Rosemary Zook, 486-2507.
     Tonasket preschool story time. Meets 11-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at the Tonasket Public Library. Information: 486-2366.

Television
     Methow Valley Communications District. Serves the Methow Valley. Information: Cam Pierce, secretary, 997-3284.
     Okanogan County Television Reception District No. 1. Provides television and FM radio reception relay service into the Okanogan Valley. Annual dues are requested from anyone who listens to or watches radio or TV from outside the valley on a non-cable or non-satellite system. Dues are payable to the Okanogan County Treasurer's Office. Information: Laurie Morgan, 422-3621.
     Oroville TV Association. Maintains and operates Oroville television reflector system for local subscribers; all-volunteer board of directors. Information: Raleigh Chinn, 476-3437; P.O. Box 143, Oroville 98844.
     Okanogan County Television Reception District No. 3. Manages TV and radio translators in south county. Information: Mildred Powell, 689-2200.


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Economic

Business/economic development
     Colville Confederated Tribes' Small Business Center. Ted Piccolo, director: ted.piccolo@colvilletribes.com.
     Family Farm Support Network. Online information in English and Spanish. Web site http://ffsn.wsu.edu/.
     North Central Washington Business Loan Fund. Goal is to provide start-up and expansion financing for new and existing businesses in north central Washington and the Colville Indian Reservation. Rich Watson, executive director. Information: 860-4330; mailing P.O. Box 3032, Chelan 98816; e-mail ncwloanfund@nwi.net; Web site www.ncwloanfund.org.
     Okanogan Communities Development Council. Community-based, non-profit group focused on creating and marketing wood products from small-diameter timber. Information: Mike Ferris, executive director. Information: 997-2245; e-mail ocdc@okanogancdc.com; Web site www.okanogancdc.com.
     Partnership for a Sustainable Methow. Promotes practices that help people live sustainably in the Methow Valley. Information: 997-1050; e-mail info@sustainablemethow.net; Web site www.sustainablemethow.net; mailing PO Box 264, Twisp 98856.
     SCORE. Part of a national organization of volunteers with a wide range of business experience who provides free business counseling and low-cost workshop. Information: Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce, 662-2116 or www.wenatcheescore.org.
     Small Business Development Center. A cooperative effort of The Economic Alliance, Washington State University and the Small Business Administration providing business management, technical assistance, training and research to small business owners and managers to improve profitability and stimulate economic growth. No-fee, confidential one-on-one counseling is provided. Information: 826-5107; Web site www.wsbdc.org.
     The Economic Alliance. Promotes economic development in Okanogan County; provides small business counseling. Roni Holder-Diefenbach, executive director; Carolyn Davis, administrative assistant. Information: 826-5107; located at 320 Omak Ave., Omak. Mailing: P.O. Box 626, Omak. Web: www.economic-alliance.com.
     Tonasket Visitors and and Business Resource Center. Houses Tonasket Chamber of Commerce, Tonasket Visitor Information Center and business resource center offices. Information: 486-4543, info@tonasketwa.org or www.tonasketwa.org.
     
Chambers of commerce
     Brewster Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Conconully Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Grand Coulee Dam Area Chamber of Commerce. Meets at noon every Thursday in various local businesses. Information: 633-3074, fax 633-2366; e-mail chamber@grandcouleedam.org; Web site www.grandcouleedam.org.
     Okanogan Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Omak Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Oroville Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Pateros Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Tonasket Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Twisp Chamber of Commerce, see pages XX.
     Winthrop Chamber of Commerce. Meets at 8:30 a.m. second Thursday of the month at the Winthrop Barn. Information: 996-2125, toll free 1 (888) 463-8469; mailing P.O. Box 39; address 202 Highway 20, Winthrop 98862; e-mail info@winthropwashington.com; Web site www.winthropwashington.com.


Tourist information
     Colville Tribal Museum and Gift Shop. Open from May through October. Located at 512 Mead Way, Coulee Dam. Information: 633-0751.
     Grand Coulee Dam Visitor Arrival Center. Open daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Business hours October through Memorial Day weekend: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Sunday. After Memorial Day: 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. August: 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. September: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Information: 633-9265; mail P.O. Box 620, Grand Coulee, WA 99133
     Methow Valley Community Center and Twisp Information Center. Located in old Twisp High School building on Highway 20. Open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. p.m. Monday through Friday, year-around. Information: 997-2926; e-mail mvccenter@methow.net.
     Okanogan County Tourism Council. Promotes tourism in Okanogan County. Goal is to increase tourist visits by 10 percent each year and increase the length of people's stay in the county. Information: 826-5107 or 1 (888) 431-3080; Web site www.okanogancountry.com; e-mail info@okanogancountry.com; mail P.O. Box 626, Omak.
     Okanogan County Tourism Advisory Board. Advises county commissioners on spending of county tourist tax money. Funding requests to Brenda Crowell, clerk of the board, 123 N. Fifth Ave., Room 150, Okanogan. Information: Rebecca Sawyer, 486-3135; e-mail rlsawyer73@hotmail.com.
     Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Offers recreation information, firewood and Christmas tree permits, state Sno-Park permits, information on hiking, camping and scenic opportunities. Headquarters/supervisor's office, Wenatchee, (509) 664-9200; Okanogan Valley office, 1240 S. Second Ave., Okanogan, phone 826-3275; Tonasket Ranger District, 1 W. Winesap, Tonasket, phone 486-2186; Methow Valley Ranger District, 24 W. Chewuch Road, Winthrop, phone 996-4003; North Cascades Smokejumper Base, 23 Intercity Airport, Twisp-Winthrop Eastside County Road, Route 1, Box 180, Winthrop, phone 997-9750. Operates informational radio transmitter, 530 AM, on Pitcher Mountain.
     Omak Visitor Information Center. Located in East Side Park, Omak. Open year round; offers information on Washington and British Columbia. Information: 826-4218 or 1 (800) 225-6625; mailing 401 Omak Ave., Omak; email omakvic@northcascades.net.
     Oroville Visitor Information Center. Information center on Highway 97 at 1730 Main St. Closed in winter. Information: 476-2739.
     Tonasket Visitor Information Center. Located at 215 S. Whitcomb Avenue. A visitors' booth also is open during the summer on Highway 97 at the north entrance to town. Information: 486-4543; e-mail info@tonasketwa.org
     Winthrop Chamber of Commerce Tourist Information. Located at the main downtown intersection with Highway 20. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through the summer, closed for winter. mail P.O. Box 39, Winthrop 98862; phone 996-2125; website www.winthropwashington.com


Education

Educational organizations
     ACE (Adventures in Community Education). Supports Omak schools. Information: Carrie Anthony, 826-6231.
     American Association of University Women. An organization for women with a four-year college degree or a graduate holding an associate or equivalent degree from a qualified educational institution. Meets third THursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in member's homes. Information: Donna Sanford, 826-1151.
     Okanogan County School Retiree Association. Serves both active and retired educators in sponsoring scholarships and legislation to improve the quality of retirees' lives and the quality of education. Meets at 11 a.m. the last Friday of September, October, and February through May at the Cariboo Inn. Information: Jennie Hedington, 422-2954; Keith Davis, 422-3787.
     Okanogan County Child Development Association. Offers services for children ages zero to 5 and pregnant women. Executive director, Tami Miller. Information: 826-2466.
     Okanogan Valley Home Schoolers. Local home schooling parents available to answer questions and encourage the home schooling adventure. Annual book swap, testing, info nights and other scheduled activities. Call for meeting times or visit www.okanoganvalleyhomeschoolers.org. Information: Emily Hale, 826-1653.
     Omak Booster Club. Supports all student activities at Omak High School. Membership costs $20 for an individual or family and $50 for a business. Proceeds from dues and fund-raisers are directed back to student activities. Information: Debbie Springer, 422-3030.
     Omak Early Childhood Program. Affiliated with Omak School District. The program serves preschoolers. Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) available based on income. Information: 826-4908.     
     Omak School Secretaries Association. Mailing: Box 833, Omak. Information: Lana Smith, 826-8531.
     Paschal Sherman Indian School parent group. Information: Susan Best, 422-7734; Ryan Christoph, 422-7590; website www.psischiefs.org.
     P.E.O. Meets 7:30 p.m. first and third Tuesday most months in members' homes. Assists women in attaining higher education through loans and grants. Information: Marsha Aufenkamp, 826-3423.
     Room One. An education and human resource center to promote health and well being for people of all ages. Many services offered. Information: Melissa Cauley-Evans, 997-2050; e-mail roomone@methownet.com.
     Tonasket Athletic Booster Club. Information: Diane Moser, 476-3331.
     Wenatchee Valley College at Omak Foundation. Supports programs and facilities at Wenatchee Valley College at Omak. Information: 422-7835; fax 422-7801; mail WVCO Foundation, P.O. Box 1374, Omak 98841.


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Fraternal

Fraternal organizations
     Okanogan County Shrine Club. Dedicated to helping children of any family. Organization offers free treatment. Meets 7 p.m. second Monday of month. Information: Allen Fisher, 422-4544.
     Okanogan Eagles, Aerie No. 3004. Meets at 7 p.m. first and third Mondays; auxiliary meets 7 p.m. first and third Mondays. Located at 1820 N. Second, Okanogan. Information: 422-1936.
     Okanogan Masons. Meets the second Wednesday of each month. Information: Don McNett, Secretary, 422-2597 or Roy Goss, Master, 422-3016.
     Okanogan Order of Eastern Star. Meets first and third Wednesday of every month except July and August. Information: Mary Lou Mosby, 422-1816.
     Omak Elks Lodge. Family oriented group that does community activities including hoop shoots for youngsters, veterans' assistance, scholarships and helping families in need. Information: Omak Elks Lodge, 826-5452.
     Omak Masons Palestine Lodge No. 214. Meets at 8:00 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Information: Donald MacKenzie, 826-3359 or John McDonald, 422-2109.
     Omak Moose Lodge. Information: 826-2544.
     QuadCity Eagles. Meets at 8 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, at the Eagles Lodge in Bridgeport. Auxiliary meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, at the Eagles Lodge in Bridgeport. Information: Garnet Hill, 686-6535.
     Tonasket Eagles. Meets 8 p.m. first and third Wednesday of month at Aerie Hall. Auxiliary meets at 7:30 p.m. first and third Thursday at Aerie Hall. Information: 486-2299.


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History

Genealogy
     Okanogan County Genealogical Society. Promotes interest in preserving family history, offers continuing education and assistance in research procedures, provides a growing genealogical library at the Wilson Research Center (next to the Okanogan County Historical Museum, Okanogan) and publishes Okanogan County cemetery and vital statistic records. Phil Brown, president; Sandra Lehrman, vice president; Gero Mitschelen, treasurer; Eleanor Markel and Karyl Hubbard, co-secretaries. Information: Mailing P.O. Box 701, Okanogan 98840; e-mail ocgs@ncidata.com; Lola Power, 826-1686.

History/museums
     Bruce and Merilynn Wilson Research Center. Houses reference materials of the Okanogan County Historical Society and Okanogan County Genealogical Society. Information: 422-4272.
     Colville Tribal Museum and Gift Shop. Open from May through October. 512 Mead Way, Coulee Dam. Information: 633-0751.
     Fort Okanogan Interpretive Center. Features information on Fort Okanogan, the first American settlement in what would become Washington state. Part of the Washington State Parks system. Information: www.parks.wa.gov/alpha.asp, click on "Fort Okanogan."
     Okanogan County Historical Society. Promotes Okanogan County history. Publishes quarterly magazine, The Heritage; conducts pioneer interviews; operates museums in Okanogan, Molson (Old Molson, Molson School), Conconully and Winthrop (Shafer); maintains research facilities, photographic files and historical signs. Board meets quarterly. Coordinates with Okanogan County Genealogical Society to operate Wilson Research Center. Marilynn Moses, coordinator; Richard Ries, president; Sandy Brightbill, vice president; Don Hruska, treasurer; George Penner, secretary. Information: 422-4272; mailing P.O. Box 1129, Okanogan; e-mail ochs@ncidata.com.
     Conconully Museum. Information: 826-4308.
     Molson Museums. School museum open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Old Molson Museum open April to November, weather permitting. Information: Mary Louise Loe, 485-3292.
     Okanogan Fire Hall Museum. Replica of historic Okanogan Fire Hall. Located in Okanogan's Legion Park, adjacent to Okanogan County Historical Museum and Wilson Research Center. Information: 422-4272.
     Okanogan Historical Museum. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during summer months, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Self-guided museum detailing the county's history, includes old-fashioned "Main Street" display, apple history, farm implements and settler's cabin. Information: 422-4272.
     Shafer Museum, 385 Castle Ave., Winthrop. Features Guy Waring cabin, stamp mill, photographs and newspapers. Open Thursday through Monday from Memorial Day weekend through September; hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Information: 996-2712. Web site: www.winthropwashington.com/winthrop/shafer/ E-mail: shafermuseum@winthropwashington.com.
     Old Oroville Depot Historical Society. Promotes North County history
with records, photos and artifacts for Oroville, Molson, Chesaw and Tonasket. Two museums are maintained, the Old Oroville Depot and the Old Customs House.
     Old Oroville Depot. Open on request year round. Call Mary Seamans,
476-2570. Normal open hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day.
     Old Customs House, Oroville. Available year round for look-in viewing. 509-476-2570.
     Omak Rodeo and Native American Center. Works to develop and build a museum and community center to house Omak Stampede and native American historical information, and serve as community meeting place. Information: 826-1983. www.omakstampede.org.
     The Society for Creative Anachronism Inc. Non-profit, educational organization dedicated to the study and re-creation of the Middle Ages. Information: Kelly Cariker, The Shire of Dregate, 422-5101.


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Hobbies

Airplanes/airports
     Anderson Field. Brewster municipal airport. Information: 689-3464.
     Civil Air Patrol. Provides leadership activities for young people; instructs cadets in air space education; members can participate in searches for missing persons; operates a drill team and color guard. Based at Okanogan Legion Airport. Information: Vickie Scholla, 322-0438.
     Dorothy Scott Municipal Airport. Owned by City of Oroville. Information: Oroville City Hall, 476-2926.
     Methow Valley State Airport. Operated by the state Department of Transportation. Information: www.wsdot.wa.gov/aviation/airports/MethowValley.htm.
     North Cascades Smokejumper Base. Operated by Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests at Methow Valley State Airport. Assists with firefighting activities locally and throughout the nation. Information: 997-9750, www.ncsbsmokejumpers.com.
     Okanogan County Chapter of the Washington Pilots' Association. Meets third Thursday of month in Okanogan or Tonasket, alternating each month. Information: Justin Smith, 775-3911; Monica Oakes.
     Okanogan Legion Airport Improvement Association. Manages Okanogan Legion Airport under contract with the City of Okanogan. Information: Harlan Warner, 422-3748.
     Okanogan Legion Airport. Owned by City of Okanogan. Information: 422-3600.
     Omak Municipal Airport. Owned by City of Omak. Information: 826-6270.
     Tonasket Airport Improvement Club. Information: Leroy Orr, president, 486-4502.
     Tonasket Flying Club. Information: Don Gray, president, 486-8800; Glenn Culver, treasurer, 476-4679.
     Tonasket Municipal Airport. Operated by the City of Tonasket. Information: 486-2132.
     Twisp Municipal Airport. Operated by Town of Twisp. Information: 997-4081.

Cars
     Coulee Cruizers Car Club. Stages Best Rod Run by a Dam Site in Grand Coulee area. Information: P.O. Box 665, Grand Coulee 99133. Information: Steve Kinghten, 633-0382.
     Friendly OK Car Club. Meets 7 p.m. first Tuesday of month. Produces monthly newsletter; holds an annual car show, swap meet and flea market at East Side Park, Omak, Mother's Day weekend. Purpose is to preserve and maintain motor vehicles of classic and historical value, and to unite owners of special vehicles. Open to all ages. Information: Bill Douglas, 826-2013, president; Marv Morton, treasurer, 826-1954.
     North Country Car Club. Meets 6:00 p.m. fourth Thursday at Free Methodist Church, Tonasket. Promotes interest in older vehicles and networks with people with like interests. Car show held in June, on Father's Day,in Tonasket, in conjunction with the Fly-In; also does car runs, meets with other clubs. Information: Kathlene Schrock, 486-2098.

Demolition derby
     Omak Stampede Inc. Sponsors demolition derby in late June and Omak Stampede the second weekend in August; 2008 Stampede marks the event's 75th anniversary. Information: 826-1983; tickets 826-1002 or 1 (800) 933-6625; e-mail stampede@northcascades.net; Web page www.omakstampede.org.
     Tonasket Comancheros. Sponsors the Tonasket Founders Day Rodeo, which will be held on Fri. and Sat., May 30 and 31, 2008, evening shows only. "Tonasket Founders Day Bulls and Broncs". The Tonasket Demolition Derby on Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Information: Gerry Beeman, 486-4297; Mike Stansbury.

Dolls
     Okanogan Valley Doll Club. A blanket club with small chapters throughout the county meeting to share the love of dolls, doll repair and doll making and to host the annual doll show and sale in October. Information: P.O. Box J, Omak 98841; 826-1820.

Gems
     Chief Joseph Gem and Mineral Club. Promotes interest in rock collecting, and gems and minerals. Meets second Wednesday of month at various locations. Information: Bette Harneit, treasurer, 826-0111; Betty Bair, 486-0628.

Lawnmower racing
     Okanogan Valley Lawnmower Racing Association. Promotes racing of modified riding lawnmowers. Information: John Dow, 826-3707.

Radio
     Okanogan County Amateur Radio Club. Meets third Wednesday each month upstairs in the sheriff's office's classroom, Okanogan. Information: Loren Holthaus, 422-0307.


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Miscellaneous

Animals
     Abandoned Cat Team. Provides financial assistance for spaying and neutering of cats and dogs of low-income families and feral (wild) cats; gives information and lends equipment for the trap-neuter-return program for feral cats. Information: Dot Schank 996-3784.
     Animal Foster Care. Aids abandoned cats in Okanogan County by giving foster care and eventual placement in a permanent home; shelter located at 4 Spring Coulee Road, Okanogan. Offers pet care education. Cats can be adopted between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays. Board meets at 3 p.m. the third Sunday of each month at Animal Foster Care Shelter, Okanogan. Mailing: P.O. Box 3385, Omak 98841; Information: 422-3364.
     Howling Ridge Animal Rescue. Information: Wendy Steever, 486-4506; mail Howling Ridge Rescue, P.O. Box 1940, Tonasket 98855.
     Okanogan County Farm Animal Shelter. Cares for unwanted, abandoned or injured farm animals. Goal is to reduce animal abuse; animals are adopted whenever possible. Shelter does not take cats or dogs. Livestock feed donations welcome. Information: Pat Byrd, 422-6388.

Gardening/trees
     Okanogan County Master Gardeners. Organized to educate and promote sound gardening practices. Information: Washington State University Extension for Okanogan County: 422-7245.
     Okanogan Garden Club. Jackie Fanning, president, 422-3326.
     Okanogan-Omak Tree Board. Promotes planting and maintenance of urban trees. Information: Donna Newell, 422-4568.
     Okanogan Valley Farmers' Market. Home-grown, handmade products are sold at the market 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, May through October, at Legion Park, Okanogan; 3:30-7 p.m. Tuesdays, July to October, at Civic League Park, Omak. Baked goods, fruit, vegetables, herbs, plants, starts, honey, crafts and household items. Information: Stephanie Clark, Okanogan Market, 826-1259; Debbie Mayberry, Omak market, 826-5845.
     Tonasket Garden Club. Usually meets at 1:30 p.m. second Monday of the month. Information: Audrey Holmes, 486-4940.
     Tonasket Garlic Festival. Tourist activity includes music, food, arts and crafts; promoted by the Community Cultural Center. Held in August. Information: 486-1328 or www.cccofTonasket.org.
     Tonasket Tree Board. Group interested in planting trees in downtown Tonasket and being listed as an official Tree City USA. Information: Harriet Stangeland 486-2517.

Peace groups
     Community Monitoring Mine Minerals. Information: Michael "Buffalo" Mazzetti, 485-3912.
     Greater Okanogan Community Network. Provides youth and family advocacy. Meets monthly. Information: Rochelle Riling, 422-1223.
     Nuclear-Free Okanogan. Information: Michael "Buffalo" Mazzetti, 485-3912.
     Okanogan Peace Links. Information: Rochelle Riling, 422-1223.


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Recreation

Bicycles
     Methow Valley Sport Trails Association. Maintains trail network for cross country skiing and biking/hiking trails. Information: Jay Lucas, 996-3287; www.mvsta.com.

Fishing
     Methow Valley Fly Fishers. Meets at 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at Liberty Bell High School, Winthrop. Information: Chad Rosenstine, 997-5140.
     Okanogan County Fly Fishing Club. Promotes fly fishing. Meets second Thursday of month at Okanogan Grange Hall during winter; various lake locations in summer. Information: Jim King, 826-5221.
     Okanogan Valley Bass Club. Promotes fun and recreation, preserves fisheries through catch-and-release program, works with state Department of Fish and Wildlife and other agencies. Web: www.okanoganvalleybassclub.com; mailing P.O. Box 1255, Omak 98841.

Golfing
     Okanogan Valley Golf Club. Meets 8 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at the Okanogan Valley Golf Course. Information: Betty Harneit, 826-0111.

Guns, sport
     4-H shooting sports clubs. Clubs promote safe gun use, shooting skills; members work and often meet together. Information: Washington State University Extension for Okanogan County, 422-7245.
     FFA. Student organization for agricultural education. School-affiliated clubs provide instruction in agricultural pursuits and competition in shooting sports. Information: Lonnie Dixon, Okanogan, 422-3770; Gale Wilson, Omak, 826-5150; Matt Deebach, Tonasket, 486-2126.
     Okanogan Wildlife Council. Meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the council's gun club, 54A Spring Coulee Road, Okanogan. Operates trap, rifle and pistol ranges for members. FFA and 4-H groups also use the range. Information: Brian Kirchner, 422-2498; mailing P.O. Box 133, Okanogan 98840.
     Omak Fish and Game Club. Provides trap shooting, indoor .22 rimfire shooting; competitions held Sundays for eight weeks during winter, starting in mid-January. Information: Clay Brown, 826-2812
     Riverside Sportsmen's Association. Meets second Thursday of each month at the Riverside Gun Club at 7 p.m. Information: Lonnie Scott, 826-1818; Dave's Gun and Pawn, 826-0544.

Hiking
     Methow Valley Sport Trails Association. Information: Jay Lucas, executive director, 996-3287; www.mvsta.com.
Horses, riding
     AHA, Adventist Horsemen Association. Local group, North Cascade Trail Riders, meets every two months. Ten chapters meet twice annually at Milton-Freewater, Ore. Information: DeDe Lavezzo, 429-1915.
     Boots and Saddles Barrel Racing Club. First race of 2007 is March 18. Barrels and poles events held twice monthly at the Salmon Creek Arena. Lead line to open divisions. Points given for year-end awards. Family oriented and beginners welcome. Information: Bonnie Crockett, 826-4242.
     Caribou Trail Reined Cow Horse Association. Attracts horse people and their families to reining horse, cutting horse, Western pleasure and working cow horse training, and competition. Shows at Salmon Creek Arena, with beginning to advanced competition. Information: Bill Ives, 826-5921.
     Methow Valley chapter of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington. Meets 7 p.m. first Thursday of month at Methow Valley Senior Center, Twisp. Works to preserve people's rights to use horses on public lands and protection of back country environment. Educates and informs equestrians and others on the impacts of horse use on the backcountry and the "leave no trace" concept. Annual trail ride the last weekend in April. Information: Nancy Palagruti, 997-4802, or Web site, www.mvbch.com.
     Methow Valley Riding Unlimited. Provides equine-facilitated mental health and therapeutic riding program. Annie Budiselich, program director and head instructor. Information: 996-9881, or North American Riding for the Handicapped Association Web site, www.narha.org.
     North Central Washington Horse Breeders Association. Goal is to bring attention to the horse breeders in north central Washington and provide avenues for members to market their horses and services. Information: Tim and Rita Jensen, 486-1965; Web site www.ncwhba.org.
     Okanogan Valley chapter of the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington. Educates and informs interested persons about the impacts of horse use on back country lands and works with governmental agencies to build and maintain trails and campgrounds. Information: Dave Swanberg, 486-1107.
     Okanogan Valley Team Penning Association. Meets at 7 p.m., first Wednesday of the month at the Eagles, Okanogan. Information: Dennis Fadden, president, 422-5046.
     Unlimited Riding of Okanogan County. A 4-H program specializing in individualized horsemanship for special people. Clubs serve individuals with a wide range of disabilities, and also able-bodied individuals interested in learning about horse care. Carey Hunter, instructor/coordinator and registered instructor with North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, 826-9492. Web: www.pinestumpfarms.com.

Motorcycles/ATVs
     Christian Motorcyclist Association. Meets once a month. Information: Richard Halsted, 486-4376.
     Desert Drifters Motorcycle Club. Holds toy runs in Okanogan, Chelan, Wenatchee and Methow Valley. Information: J.D. Davis, 826-9020; mailing P.O. Box 749, Omak 98841; www.lakechelanrally.com.
     North Central ATV Club. Promotes off-road vehicle activities to educate about ATV use. Meets at 7 p.m. the second Friday of each month at Conconully Community Hall. Information: Tim Weller, 826-2780; mailing P.O. Box 346, Conconully 98819; Web site, www.ncatvclub.org.
     Okanogan Valley Wings. Promotes motorcycle touring on a Honda Gold Wing. Motto is "Destination Friendship." Group is involved in community affairs. Meets 8 a.m. third Saturday of month at the Cariboo Inn, Okanogan. Information: Joe and Teri Mitschelen, 422-3944.

Rodeo
     Caribou Trail Junior Rodeo Association. Coordinates competitive junior rodeos. Club members compete in junior rodeos in northeastern Washington and in the Washington State Junior Rodeo final. Tracks Okanogan County competitors' scores and presents end of the year awards to participants. Information: Codi Marchand, 826-3109.
     Chesaw Rodeo Club. Non-profit group produces Chesaw Fourth of July Rodeo. Proceeds to community support. Information: Mildred Leslie, secretary, 485-3041; Rodney Field, president, 485-3500.
     Methow Valley Horsemen. Stages rodeos on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends at Twin Lakes Rodeo Arena. Information: Leanna Melton, secretary, 996-2439, or Dennis Gardner, president, 996-3869.
     North Central Washington High School Rodeo Association. Organizes and promotes rodeo for high school students. Information: Wade and Stacey Jess, 633-3165, or Lucky and Kathy Proctor, 633-2480.
     Okanogan County Junior Rodeo. Events for kids 18 and younger. Rodeo will be held at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds May 17-18, 2008. Buckles and cash awarded. All profits go to Children's Hospital in Seattle. Meets 6 p.m. second Monday of the month at Koala Street Grill, Omak. Information: Mike Abel 422-1058.
     Omak Stampede and World-Famous Suicide Race. Stages annual professional rodeo the second weekend in August. Information: 826-1983; tickets 826-1002 or 1 (800) 933-6625; e-mail stampede@northcascades.net; Web site www.omakstampede.org.
     Tonasket Comancheros. Sponsors the Tonasket Founders Day Bulls and Broncs May 30-31 and the Tonasket Demolition Derby on Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Information: Gerry Beeman, 486-4297, or Mike Stansbury, 486-4160.

Skiing
     Loup Loup Ski Education Foundation. Operates Loup Loup Ski Bowl, located between Okanogan and Twisp on Highway 20. Features quad chair lift, Poma platter pull and bunny rope; rentals and ski shop; tubing area; rentals and certified ski school; cross country ski trails nearby; rest rooms, day lodge with cafeteria. Information: (509) 557-3401; Web site www.skitheloup.com; mailing address P.O. Box 768, Okanogan.
     Loup Loup Ski Patrol. Volunteer group provides emergency medical, rescue and communications services at Loup Loup Ski Bowl. Information: John Bartella, 826-6511.
     Methow Valley Sport Trails Association. Maintains cross country ski, biking and hiking trails in the Methow Valley. Jay Lucas, executive director, 996-3287; www.mvsta.com.
     Sitzmark Ski Hill. Located in Havillah in Okanogan Highlands. Offers chair lift, rentals, concessions. Information: Sandy Sutton, 486-2700 or 485-3323; Web site, www.skisitzmark.org.

Snowmobiling
     206 Snowriders Snowmobile Club. Promotes safe snowmobiling and works with the Forest Service to keep areas open for winter recreation; family oriented. Club gives a scholarship each year, holds fund-raisers and events. Meets at 10 a.m. first Sunday of month at Bonaparte Lake Resort. Officers: Dennis Rawley, president; Rick Rose, vice president; Rose Rawley, secretary-treasurer. Information: Dennis Rawley, 486-2247.
     Butte Busters Snowmobile Club. Meets third Wednesday of month during winter. Information: Gary Allard, 826-5215; Bob Henrie, president, 826-2652.
     Methow Valley Snowmobile Association. Promotes family snowmobiling. Works with Forest Service to keep trails open and safe for all snowmobilers. Meets at 6 p.m. last Tuesday of each month at the Methow Valley Senior Center, Twisp. Information: Bev Schultz, 996-2220.
     Okanogan County Snowmobile Advisory Board. Meets 7 p.m. first Monday of month in the Okanogan County Public Services Building, Okanogan, during winter months. Advises the county's parks and recreation division on snowmobile trail grooming needs. Information: Okanogan County department of public works, 422-7300.
     Snowmobile information hotline. Information is updated once a week once trail grooming begins. Hotline: 422-7324.
     Washington State Snowmobile Association, District 2 North. Information: Richard Coppock, chairman, 826-2404; mailing 171 Duck Lake Road, Omak; e-mail dick.coppock@wssa.us.

Swimming pools, municipal (summers only)
     Brewster Pool, 689-6689.
     Okanogan Pool, 422-5711.
     Omak Pool, 826-9543.
     Tonasket Pool. Information: Tonasket City Hall, 486-2132.
     Twisp Pool. Information: Twisp Town Hall, 997-4081.

Travel
     Cariboo Trail Good Sams. Recreational vehicle enthusiasts. Information: Keith and Pat Davis, 422-3787; Bud Doust, wagonmaster.

Wildlife
     Mule Deer Foundation, Okanogan County chapter. Promotes habitat for county's mule deer population. Information: Arvid Iverson, 997-9455; Web site, www.muledeer.org.
     North Central Washington Audubon Society. Members share information on
birds, conduct birding trips (including Christmas bird counts), organize
outdoor education for all ages, and participate in decision-making in
natural resource management. Information: P.O. Box 2934, Wenatchee
98807; Mark Oswood, president, 662-9087; www.ncwaudubon.org.
     Okanogan County Strutters. Local chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. Information: Dave Danilson, (509) 428-9206.
     Okanogan Wildlife Council. Meets at 7 p.m. first Thursday of month at the council's gun club, 54A Spring Coulee Road, Okanogan. FFA and 4-H groups also use the range. Information: Brian Kirchner, 422-2498.
     Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Meets monthly. Information: Paul Estep, 826-1587.


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Religion

Campgrounds
     Camp Ortoha. Youth camp at Lost Lake sponsored by Lutheran churches in Oroville, Tonasket and Havillah. Information: Billie Kuhlmann, 485-3352.
     Conconully Holiness Association Camp. Located at 202 C Ave., Conconully 98819; phone 826-0888.
     Faith Frontier Ministries. Christian, non-profit corporation that owns and operates Peniel Ranch on the Columbia River. People can meet God face to face through Bible study and experience the wonders of His creation. Information: Darlene Delano, 633-3649 Ext. 100. Located at 2500 Columbia River Road, Okanogan; phone 633-3649; e-mail PenielRanch@direcway.com.
     North Country Christian School and Campground. Located at 737 Mary Ann Creek Road, Oroville; 485-2011; e-mail, margolthompson@yahoo.com.

Christian groups
     Christians in Action. Non-profit corporation that unites local Christians to share the gospel of Jesus Christ through the KMBI translator, Stampede outreach, Shellrock Point Sonshine Cross and other activities. Information: Kathleen Christensen, 422-4660.
     CROP Walk for Hunger. Annual walk for health and to end world hunger. Organized by United Methodist Church. Part of money raised stays in Okanogan County. Information: 826-1660.
     Moms in Touch International. Non-denominational group meets to pray for children in kindergarten and up. Information: Sue Johnson, 486-4964, or Billie Kuhlmann, 485-3352.
     Okanogan Valley Christian Women's Club. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries Inc. Meets at noon the second Monday of month at the Cariboo Restaurant, Okanogan. Information: Lynn Welch, 826-2900.
     Prayer and Share. Group meets to pray for the needs of others. Meets 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays at American Legion Apartments, 1100 Appleway, in Apt. 7. Information: Lois Homan, 476-2704; Winnie Barker, 476-2295; Margo Thompson, 485-2011.


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Resources

Mining
     Colville Indian Environmental Protection Alliance. Mailing: P.O. Box 142, Nespelem 99124. Opposes mining on Colville Indian Reservation. Information: Steve Iukes, vice president, 634-4108, or Jerry Gabriel, 633-3456.
     Committee Monitoring Mined Minerals. Information: Michael "Buffalo" Mazzetti, 485-3912.
     Okanogan Highlands Alliance. Dedicated to educating the public about the threat of chemical leach mining and milling to water, air, economy and natural ecosystems. Information: David Kliegman, executive director, 485-3361; Web site, www.okanoganhighlands.org.

Resources/environment
     Coalition for Your Conconully Lakes Ecosystem. Informs others of activities that threaten plants, wildlife and people in the area. Directors: Bob Anthony, 826-6437; Dena Byl, 826-2287; Joe Berney.
     Columbia River Bio-Regional Education Project. Publishes Columbiana magazine and Columbiana Magazine Online. Explores the culture and environment in the upper Columbia River bioregion. P.O. Box 792, Okanogan. Information: 422-1976. Web: www.columbiana.org.
     Methow Valley Citizens Council. Purpose is preserving rural characteristics of the Methow Valley. Information: Vicki Welch, chairwoman.
     Methow Conservancy. Board meets at 6 p.m. second Thursday of month, location varies in Winthrop. Inspires land protection through conservation easements, community-based education and special projects. Information: Jason Paulsen, director, 996-2870.
     North Central Washington Resource Conservation and Development Council. Deals with regional natural resource and rural development issues. Information: 422-2750; mailing 1251 Second Ave. S., Suite 101, Okanogan.
     Okanogan Valley Land Council. Enhancing wildlife, fish, agricultural and forestry values in the Okanogan Valley. Information: 486-2765 or 1 (877) 486-2765; mailing P.O. Box 293, Tonasket; e-mail info@ovlandcouncil.org; Web www.ovlandcouncil.org.
     People for Alternatives, Conservation and Education (PACE). Seeks solutions to the power needs of the Methow Valley. Information: Maeyowa, 997-4142.
     Upper Columbia Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group. Formed to undertake stream restoration projects, collect and analyze scientific data, and coordinate educational efforts related to salmon and other endangered or threatened species of fish. Membership open to anyone interested. Information: Daphne Cockle, 476-3444; mailing P.O. Box 932, Oroville 98844; Web http://ucrfeg.org.
     Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board. A standing committee of the North Central Washington Resource Conservation and Development Council. Recovery board is responsible, under the Governor's Salmon Recovery Office, for writing plans for recovery of endangered spring run Chinook, endangered steelhead and threatened bull trout listed under the federal Endangered Species Act. Information: Okanogan County water resources, 422-7160 or 422-7113, or www.okanogancounty.org/planning.


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Seniors

Senior citizens/retired
     AARP Safety Driving Program. Instructor: Keith Davis, 422-3787.
     Aging and Adult Care of Central Washington. Serves north central Washington from East Wenatchee. Information: 1 (888) 437-4147; www.aaccw.org.
     Colville Confederated Tribes Area Agency on Aging. Information: 634-2758.
     In-Home Care of Central Washington. Provides non-medical, in-home services for seniors and the disabled so that they can maintain a life of independence in their own home without being institutionalized. Information: 130 N. Main, P.O. Box 3699, Omak; 826-5825.
     Okanogan County School Retiree Association. Serves both active and retired educators in sponsoring scholarships and legislation to improve the quality of education. Information: Marge McGaha, 422-3105.
     Okanogan County Senior Citizens Association. Offers programs to senior citizens, including recreation, education, information, referral services, social activities and serves nutritious meals.
     - Brewster-Bridgeport-Pateros Senior Center. Information: 109 S. Bridge St, Brewster, 689-2815.
     - Methow Valley Senior Center. Information: 215 Methow Valley Highway, Twisp, 997-7722.
     - Okanogan Area Senior Center. Information: 1300 Second Ave. S., Okanogan, 422-6776.
     - Omak Senior Center. Information: 214 N. Juniper, Omak, 826-4741.
     - Oroville Senior Center. Information: 1521 Golden, Oroville, 476-2412.
     - Tonasket Senior Center. Information: 22 E. Fifth, Tonasket, 486-2483.
     Okanogan County Transportation and Nutrition. Provides meals, transportation to seniors, general public and the handicapped. Information: 431 Fifth Ave, Omak; 826-4391 or 1 (800) 635-4391.
     Omak Senior Center of the Colville Confederated Tribes. Provides programs for Omak-area seniors on the Colville Indian Reservation. Information: 422-7449.
     Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA). Information: 1 (800) 562-6900 http://www.insurance.wa.gov/consumers/SHIBA_HelpLine/dirdefault.asp.


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Service

Service organizations
     Chiliwist Club. Identifies needs and works on projects to benefit the Malott community. Raises funds through various activities such as auctions, raffles, dinners and yard sales. Projects include support for 4-H, upkeep of the Malott Cemetery, improvements and maintenance of the Malott Park, and making quilts for families and nursing home patients. Information: Eileen Hand, 422-2556, or Rena Stout, 422-2717.
     Civil Air Patrol. Provides leadership activities for young people; members can participate in searches for missing persons; operates a drill team and color guard and teaches members aerospace education. Based at Okanogan Legion Airport. Information: Vickie Scholla, 322-0438.
     DeRouge Orthopedic Guild. Raises money for Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Seattle. Meets noon the third Tuesday of month at different locations. Information: Adelene VanBrunt, 826-4600.
     Kiwanis Clubs. Provides service to the community. Clubs sponsor fund-raisers, do hands-on service to their communities, give scholarships and support other community organizations. Sponsors youth organizations, including Key Clubs at local high schools. International organization operates student exchange program.
     - Brewster Kiwanis Club. Meets noon Tuesdays at the Lindsay's Drive Inn. Sandy Walter, secretary, 689-2517 ext. 3342.
     - Okanogan Kiwanis Club. Meets noon Wednesdays at the Cariboo Inn, Okanogan. Robert Chiles, secretary, 826-2629. Web site: www.okanogankiwanis.org.
     - Omak Kiwanis Club. Meets 6:30 a.m. Thursdays at Koala Street Grill, Omak. Ella Houston, secretary, 826-1036.
     - Tonasket Kiwanis Club. Meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Tonasket Senior Center. Bertha Wandler, secretary, 486-4577.
     - Twisp Kiwanis Club. Meets once a month at Methow Valley Senior Center, Twisp. Shep Kuester, secretary, 997-0397.
     - Winthrop Kiwanis Club. Meets 6:30 a.m. Tuesdays at The Barn, Winthrop. Roy Reiber, secretary, 997-5666.     
     Knights of Columbus. Meets 6 p.m. last Sunday of the month, Our Lady of the Valley Church, Okanogan. Information: 422-5049.
     Mid-Valley Hospital Auxiliary. Supports hospital gift bar, donates funds for hospital equipment, donates scrubs to children admitted to hospital, gives nursing scholarships. Meets at 3 p.m. third Wednesday in the Family Medical Building next door to the hospital. Information: Rosa Pederson, 826-4509.
     Okanogan County Search and Rescue. Assists sheriff's office in various capacities, including locating lost and missing persons. Information: Chief criminal deputy Dave Rodriguez, 422-7210.
     Okanogan County Sheriff's Posse. Information: Sheriff Frank Rogers, 422-7200.
     Okanogan County Sheriff's Reserve. Information: Chief criminal deputy Dave Rodriguez, 422-7210.
     Okanogan-Douglas District Hospital Guild. Information: 689-2517.
     Okanogan Oldie Goldies Red Hatters. Information: Sandy Karstens, 422-1387.
     Okanogan-Omak Rotary Club. Community and world service, fellowship, vocational service by promoting high ethical standards in business, worldwide youth exchange program, service to youth on both a local and worldwide level. Meets at noon Thursdays at Koala Street Grill, Omak. Information: Dick Roberts, 422-4412 or 826-1191.
     Okanogan Women's Club. As a member of General Federation of Women's Clubs, Okanogan Women's Club is an international women's organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. Information: Jane Cline, 422-3115.
     Omak Junior Civic League. Serves and educates the community, and broadens members' interests. Meets 7 p.m. third Monday of month from January to May and September to November in members' homes. Information: Kathy Miller, 826-6576 or 826-5578.
     Omak Police Reserve. Aids Omak Police Department with special functions (Stampede, parades, dances, etc.), assists on patrols when needed, helps with crowd control and some drug enforcement, anti-drug programs in schools, performs some office clerical duties and provides bicycle safety sessions. Information: Sgt. Sean Isaac, coordinator, or Larry W. Schreckengast, chief, 826-0383.
     Ora Yarwood Orthopedic Auxiliary. Raises money for Children's Hospital Guild Association, which supports Children's Hospital, Seattle. Meets 7 p.m. the third Thursday of each month in members' homes. Information: Peggy Fisher, memorial chair, 826-2033.
     Red Hat Society. A women's social club open to any woman. Group began with a few women deciding to greet middle age with verve, humor and spirit. Helps neighbors in need, cheers the grieving, hosts tea parties, takes cookies to rest homes and does other service projects. Information: www.redhatsociety.com/.
     Soroptimist International of Okanogan Valley. Offers $500 scholarships to Omak and Okanogan high school seniors continuing on to a community college or a university. Offers a vo-tech scholarship to any Okanogan County graduating senior continuing education at a technical school. Other service projects include the Christmas Sharing Tree, Christmas families project, women's opportunity awards, Violet Richardson award, Business Week, The Support Center and Valley Care Center. Information: Rae Jean Kelley, 422-5907; Marie Dunlap, 422-6501.
     Tonasket Civic League, GFWC. Part of international group that serves the community by raising funds, doing beautification, tackling community projects. Meets 7 p.m. second Wednesday of month (September through June) at Tonasket Senior Center. Information: Sue Castelda, 486-1482.


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Sports

Baseball and softball
     Babe Ruth League (Cal Ripken), 13-15 years. Information: Mike Saunders, 826-1284.
     Okanogan Senior Babe Ruth, 16-19 years. Information: Rick Duck, 826-1692.
     Okanogan Valley Co-ed League. Information: Shirley Bowden, 422-3577.
     Okanogan Valley Women's Softball League. Information: Shirley Bowden, 422-3577.
     Okanogan Youth Baseball Association. T-ball, minor league and major league baseball for kindergarten through sixth grade age boys and girls. Information: Anthony Popelier, 846-0147.
     Omak-Okanogan Girls' Softball Association.
     Omak Youth Baseball (Randy Smith). Offers T-ball, minor and major league teams; all-star program. Mike Saunders, 826-1284.
     Tonasket Youth Baseball. Makes T-ball, baseball and softball available to all 6- to 12-year-old girls and boys in Tonasket. Information: Tom Cory, 486-1646 or 322-3986.
     Washington State Amateur Softball Association, District No. 16. Commissioner for district: Shirley Bowden, 422-3577.

Football
     Okanogan County Commandos. Semi-professional football team. Information: Malcolm Townsend, 422-2218.
     Pop Warner Football. Flag football for youngsters ages 6-12. Information: Lisa VanderWeide, 422-4680.

Golf
     Ladies Golf Association. Meets during golf season at noon first Thursday of month at Okanogan Valley Golf Club. Information: Okanogan Valley Golf Club, 826-6937.
     Men's Golf Association. Information: Okanogan Valley Golf Club, 826-6937.

Miscellaneous
     Central Valley Sports Complex. Information and field scheduling Okanogan City Hall, 422-3600.
     Friends of the Plex. Supports the Central Valley Sports Complex through fund raising and volunteer projects. Information: Scott Bessire, 422-6510.
     Okanogan Valley Ultimate (team Frisbee). Information: Tim Patrick, 422-4401; Dick Roberts, 422-4412.

Soccer
     Columbia Cove Youth Soccer League. Program conducted by the City of Brewster. Information: 689-2994.
     Futsal. Indoor soccer, played during winter months. Information: Bill Gagne, 826-5748.
     North Central Youth Soccer. Web site: www.ncwsoccer.com.
     Methow Valley Soccer. Information: Dotti Wilson, 996-2583. Web site: www.ncwsoccer.com/Methow/home.htm.
     Oroville Youth Soccer Club. Web site: www.ncwsoccer.com/Oroville/home.htm.
     River Valley Soccer Club. Provides recreational and traveling soccer teams for youth ages 5-19. Sponsors summer soccer camp. Web site: www.ncwsoccer.com/RiverValley/home.htm.
     Tonasket Youth Soccer Club. Web site: www.ncwsoccer.com/Tonasket/home.htm.

Sports officials
     High School Softball/Baseball Umpires Association: Dave Kirk, 486-2898 or 486-2161.
     Okanogan County Basketball Officials. Information: Jim Brucker, 826-4376.
     Okanogan County Football Officials. Information: Clyde Pock, 422-3958.
     Okanogan County Volleyball Officials. Information: Clyde Pock, 422-3958.
     Omak Softball Umpires Association. Information: Roy Bowden, 422-3577.
     Soccer referees. Information: Bill Gagne, 826-5748.


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Support

Alcohol/narcotics
     Alcohol/drug abuse 24-hour crisis line. Information: Okanogan Behavioral HealthCare, 826-5600.
     Al-Anon. Part of world-wide organization offering self-help recovery program for families and friends of alcoholics regardless of whether the alcoholic seeks help or recognizes the existence of a drinking problem. Information: Nancy Wells, 486-2093.
     - Okanogan, meets 7 p.m. Fridays, United Methodist Church, 231 S. Third Ave., Okanogan; 826-6437.
     - Omak, meets 7 p.m. Tuesdays, 327 Edmonds; Nancy 486-2093 or Kim at 485-3753.
     - Spanish-speaking, meets at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at 219 W. Gypsum, Inchelium. Information: 687-5006 or 687-9709.
     - Tonasket, meets 8 p.m. Mondays at Hillside Park Apartments community room. Information: Deana Visser, 486-2687.
     Alcoholics Anonymous. Confidential support group for people with alcoholic substance problems.
     - Okanogan, meets at 7 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at United Methodist Church, 231 Third Ave., Okanogan; 7 p.m. Mondays (women only); 10-11:30 a.m. Sundays for breakfast at Cariboo Restaurant, Okanogan. Information: 826-6299.
     - Omak, meets at noon Mondays and Thursdays, First Presbyterian Church, 9 S. Birch, Omak; 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 530 Jackson St., Omak. Information: 826-6299.
     - Tonasket, meets 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 416A S. Whitcomb, Tonasket. Information: 429-1904.
     - Wauconda Candlelight Group of Alcoholics Anonymous. Meets 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Wauconda Community Church. Information: 486-4974.
     Manfisher Ministries. Located in downtown Omak. Christian-based help for those overcoming drugs and alcohol. Information: David and Dawn Hellyer, 826-5699.
     Narcotics Anonymous. Help and information: 826-6371.
     Okanogan Behavioral HealthCare. Information: 826-6191.

Alzheimer's
     Alzheimer's caregiver support group. Meets 8:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Apple Meadows, Omak. Nobel Kelly, leader, 422-5428,Kathy Mackie, 422-2928 or Apple Meadows, 826-1196.

Cancer
     American Cancer Society. Information: 1 (800) 537-7710; mailing American Cancer Society, 103 Palouse No. 28, Wenatchee 98801.
     American Cancer Society's Okanogan County memorial chairs: Donations can be mailed to Okanogan County Memorial Chairs, P.O. Box 1569, Omak. Donations may be submitted by credit card at 1 (800) 537-7710. Information: Linda Clayton, 664-6728.
     Okanogan County Relay for Life Committee. Plans the American Cancer Society Relay for Life in Okanogan County the Friday and Saturday following Mother's Day. Team members raise money for cancer research and education. Information: Linda Clayton, executive director for area, 664-6728; Charleen Groomes, chair of relay steering committee, 422-4006.

Child abuse prevention
     Adult/child domestic violence and sexual assault help line, 24 hours a day at the Support Center: 1 (888) 826-3221 or 826-3221. Support Center provides assistance for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and general crime.
     Family Empowerment Project. Offers family advocacy support groups and education. County-wide project operated through Okanogan School District. Address is 516 Tyee St., Okanogan. Information: 422-5414, fax 826-9674.

Deaf services
     Deaf Washington State Department of Social and Health Services text telephone device (TTY). Upgraded TTY accessibility makes it easier for people with hearing loss or speech disabilities to report suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult. 1 (800) 624-6186 or 1 (866) EndHarm (363-4276), or www.washingtonrelay.com/.

Domestic violence, rape crisis, sexual assault
     The Support Center. Assistance for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, date rape, sexual assault and general crime. Runs domestic violence support group, child and adult sexual assault support groups, survivors of sexual abuse group. Information and assistance, 24 hours: 826-3221 or 1 (888) 826-3221.

Emergency assistance
     Emergencies (police, fire, ambulance, etc.): Dial 911.
     North Cascades chapter of the American Red Cross. Provides emergency and disaster assistance, first aid classes, help in contacting military service people, other services. Meets 6:00 p.m. third Wednesday of month. Sponsors youth group. Sheron Sheldon, executive director, 422-3440 Monday-Friday.
     Okanogan Behavioral HealthCare. Offers 24-hour crisis line, 826-6191; counseling available throughout Okanogan County, call 826-6191 (collect calls OK) or 1 (866) 826-6191.
     Okanogan County Community Action Council. Provides a variety of assistance to low-income. Food Bank. Located at 424 S. Second Ave., P.O. Box 1067,Okanogan; phone 422-4041 or toll free 1-877-641-0101.
     Poison Control Center. Toll-free: 1 (800) 732-6985.
     The Support Center. Assistance for victims of domestic violence, child abuse, date rape and sexual assault. Information and assistance, 24 hours: 826-3221 or 1 (888) 826-3221.
     Runaway Hotline. Toll-free, 1 (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929).
     Suicide prevention. Okanogan Behavioral HealthCare, 826-6191, 1 (866) 826-6191.

Food and clothing banks, emergency food
     Brewster Clothing Bank, 1-3 p.m. Tuesdays, 515 W. Indian Ave., St. James Episcopal Church basement.
     Brewster commodities, 9-11 a.m. every third Wednesday of the month, 17 N.E. Hospital Way, Seventh-day Adventist Church community service building. Information: 689-3537.
     Brewster Food Bank, 9-10:30 a.m. Thursdays, 515 W. Indian Ave., St. James Episcopal Church basement.
     Colville Tribal Food Distribution, Nespelem. For Colville Indian Reservation residents only, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday in old HRD building at Colville tribal agency, 634-2767.
     Conconully Commodities, 1:30-3 p.m. first and third Wednesdays of the month, Conconully Town Hall. Information: Lisa Atkins, 826-4958.
     Inchelium Community Center. For Colville Indian Reservation residents only, food distribution 10 a.m. third Thursday of the month. Information: 722-7031.
     Keller Senior Meal Site. Food distribution is at 10 a.m. third Tuesday. Information: 634-8206.
     Okanogan County Community Action. Offers various emergency services. Closed Fridays. Information: 422-4041.
     Okanogan Food Bank and commodities. Distribution 9-11 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays, Community Action office, 424 S. Second, Okanogan, 422-4041. Also emergency food assistance.
     Omak food distribution - 2nd Harvest. For Colville Indian Reservation residents only, food distribution 10 a.m. third Wednesday of the month at Omak senior building in east Omak. Information: 422-7449 or 634-2767.
     Omak Food Bank and commodities. Distribution 9-11 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays, 101 W. Fourth, Omak. Information: Jo Schweikert, 826-1717 or 826-0384.
     Oroville Food Bank and commodities. Distribution 9:30-11:30 a.m. every Thursday (in weeks with Thursday holidays, distribution is Tuesday) in the basement of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Oroville. Information: Nella and Jeff Austin, 476-3978.
     The Cove. Food bank and commodities for Methow Valley, 1-4 p.m. Thursdays, 128 Glover St., Twisp. Non-profit outreach program provides emergency food service. Information: 689-2994.
     Tonasket Food Bank and commodities, 9-11 a.m. Thursdays at 300 S. Whitcomb Ave. Information: Jack Gavin, 486-2480.

Health services
     CareNet Pregnancy Center of Okanogan County. Free pregnancy tests, pregnancy education; "Earn while you learn" clothing boutique and abstinence education. Information: 422-5506; 24-hour hotline, 1 (800) 395-HELP (4357).
     Greater Okanogan Health and Safety Network. Meets monthly; call for location and time. Grants for youth projects available. Information: Rochelle Riling, 422-1223.
     Healing Gathering. Alternative healing workshop held in the spring. Information: Michael "Buffalo" Mazzetti, 485-3912.
     Okanogan Family Planning. Located at 127 N. Juniper, Omak. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Information: 422-6593 or 1 (800) 660-1624.
     Okanogan County Public Health. Offers international travel shots, HIV testing, food handler permits, issues birth certificated records and other services. Information: 422-7140.
     Okanogan Regional Home Health and Hospice. In-home nursing care, nurses' aides, therapy, counseling, hospice, medical equipment for loan. Information: 422-6721, 486-2876, 997-8981, 633-1751 or 1 (800) 442-0779.
     Room One Health Education and Human Resource Center. An education and human resource center to promote health and well being for people of all ages. Many services offered. Information: 997-2050.
     Twisp Family Planning. Located at Room One Health Education and Human Resource Center, 110 W. Third Ave, Twisp. Information: 1 (800) 660-1624.

Housing
     Housing information: Okanogan County Community Action, 422-4041.
     North Okanogan Habitat for Humanity. Works to build housing for low-income persons. Information: Ivetta Howell, 486-2458, or Joan Smith, 486-2372.
     Okanogan County Housing Authority. Meets 5:30 p.m. second Tuesday of
month in Room 203, Okanogan post office. Claudia Clausnitzer, executive
director; Bonita Duncan and Serena Holman, housing specialists; Bob Blank,
chairman. Mission is to assist in acquiring affordable, safe, sanitary and
decent housing for low-, very low- and moderate-income residents of Okanogan
County. Offers Section 8 and TBRA rental assistance and owns Caribou Trail
Apartments and Twisp Gardens Apartments. Information: Claudia Clausnitzer,
422-3721; e-mail claudia_ocha@communitynet.org.
     Okanogan Country Dwellers. Non-profit organization providing low-income housing for people with developmental disabilities. Information: Linda Topping, 486-4706.

Legal
     Okanogan County Bar Association. Jennifer Richardson, president, 422-7280.
     Okanogan County Community Action Council, 424 S. Second, Okanogan. Offers referrals. Information: 422-4041.
     Okanogan County Dispute Resolution Center. Provides mediation, a non-adversarial, inexpensive option for resolving a conflict, whether it be dissolution of marriage, neighbor/neighbor, merchant/consumer or employee/employer. Information: 826-1776.
     Victim-Witness Program. Provides accompaniment to court, witness notification, victim advocacy, assistance in applying for crime victim compensation, information and referral, community education. Information: 422-7280 Ext. 4; fax 422-7290; 237 N. Fourth, Okanogan; mailing P.O. Box 1130, Okanogan 98840.

Mental illness
     Family support group, sponsored by National Association for the Mentally Ill. Group meets the fourth Monday of the month to provide support and understanding for people affected by mental illness. Information: 997-0272 or 826-4845.

Parenting services/groups
     Breastfeeding Coalition, Okanogan County. A group of nurses, midwives, physicians, lactation specialists, nutritionists and peer counselors who advocate the health and well being of women by promoting successful breastfeeding by education, information and support. Information: Joan Pfeiffer, lactation consultant, 422-3281 or 422-7393.
     Family Empowerment Project. Offers family advocacy support groups and education. Countywide project operated through Okanogan School District. Information: 422-5414; fax 826-9674.
     Los Ninos Bien Educados. Offers parenting classes. Information: 826-6191.
     Okanogan County Dispute Resolution Center. Mediators are available to help clients develop their own parenting plans. Offers "Your Child and Divorce or Separation" classes. Information: 826-1776.
     Okanogan County Public Health/Okanogan County Health District. Offers public health nurse visits during pregnancy and after delivery to help women have healthy babies, and to infants with health risks, teaches positive parenting skills. Helps families find special needs medical care or therapy. Information: 422-7140.
     Room One Health Education and Human Resource Center. An education and human resource center to promote health and well being for people of all ages. Information: 997-2050.

Social services
     Okanogan County Community Action Council. Offers a variety of food and emergency services, educational services, weatherization assistance, anti-poverty programs. Information: 422-4041.
     Okanogan County Dispute Resolution Center. Information: 826-1776.
     Okanogan County Interagency Consortium. Various social agencies meet quarterly to exchange information. Meetings are open to the public. Information: 422-5414, fax 826-9674.
     Okanogan County Teen Pregnancy Prevention Task Force. Services through Okanogan Family Planning, 422-6593.
     Salvation Army, Omak and Okanogan area. Information: 422-4041.
     Welfare Fraud Hot Line. Accepts anonymous calls 24 hours a day with tips on suspected welfare fraud: 1 (800) 562-6906.

Special needs
     Career Path Services. Provides employment counseling, job placement and community integration activities to developmentally disabled and handicapped adults. Information: Roni Holder-Diefenbach, 826-2417.
     Early Childhood Program, affiliated with Omak School District. Serves infants, toddlers and preschoolers ages 3-5. Information: 826-4908.
     Okanogan County Developmental Disabilities. Information: 826-6191.
     Okanogan County Infant-Toddler Network. Information: 826-8497.
     Okanogan Country Dwellers. Non-profit organization providing low-income housing for people with developmental disabilities. Information: Linda Topping, 486-4706.
     Parent to Parent Support Program. Information: 826-8496.
     Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC). Composed of representatives of community, education and parents. Meets quarterly. Collaboration between parents and schools, works with Omak School District regarding special education programs. Information: Brent Stark, 826-7684; Barb Orr, representative for family educator parent project for Okanogan County.
     Special Olympics. Provides a variety of activities including track and field, bowling, gymnastics, basketball and swimming. Information: 826-7117.
     Washington Department of Services for the Blind, 1 (800) 552-7103.
     Washington Talking Books and Braille Library, 1 (800) 542-0866.

Veterans' groups/military support
     American Legion Auxiliary, Omak-Okanogan. Aids and assists veterans and their families in need; gives aid where needed in veterans' hospitals. Information: Thelma Richards, 422-3622.
     American Legion Auxiliary. Information: Dee Patterson, 476-3563.
     American Legion Post No. 56, Okanogan. Meets 7 p.m. third Monday of the month. Information: Don Cate, 826-4849.
     American Legion Post No. 97, Brewster. Located at 102 N. Third; phone 689-3307.
     American Legion Post No. 114, Nespelem. Serves Colville Indian Reservation. Information: Veteran's Resource, 634-2755.
     American Legion, Oroville. Information: Vicki Hart, 476-4633.
     Blind Veterans Association. Provides assistance with claims for legally blind veterans. Information: 1 (800) 669-7079.
     Colville Business Council Veterans Committee. Meets Wednesdays. Information: Ted Bessette, committee chairman, 634-2219
     Soldiers and Sailors' Relief Fund Board (Veterans' Relief Board). Okanogan County commissioner-appointed board that administers tax-supported veterans' relief fund. Provides assistance for veterans needing clothing, food, assistance with utilities and rent, and other needs when other avenues of help have been exhausted. Apply through service representatives of veterans' groups. Meets 1 p.m. first Tuesday of the month at Community Action building, Okanogan. Information: Don Cate, 826-4849.
     U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs. Benefits information and assistance: 1 (800) 827-1000.
     Veterans of Foreign Wars, U.S.S. Okanogan Post No. 10440. Information: Don Cate, post commander and service officer, 826-4849.
     Veterans' services, Colville Confederated Tribes. Phone: 634-2200.
     Vietnam Veterans' Wives Inc. Information: 775-8893; headquarters P.O. Box 396, Republic 99166.
     Visual Impairment Services. Programs for legally blind veterans, counseling for visually impaired. Information: VA Hospital in Spokane, 1 (800) 325-7940 Ext. 7670.

Weight loss
     Overeaters Anonymous. Supports people with compulsive eating disorders. Open to anyone with a desire to stop eating compulsively. Meets 9-10 a.m. Monday mornings and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, Okanogan. Information: 422-2951.
     Take Off Pounds Sensibly. Local affiliates:
     - TOPS No. 882, Winthrop. Meets 9 a.m. Tuesdays at the United Methodist Church; Barbara Beattie, 997-0121.
     - TOPS of Omak No. 1193. Meets 6-7 p.m. for weigh in and 7-8 p.m. for a meeting every Thursday at Cornerstone Christian Church, Omak. Information: Barbara Scarborough, 422-3864.


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Youth

Miscellaneous
     Community Cultural Center, Tonasket. Non-profit organization dedicated to providing a place for quality family activities. Events are strictly family oriented. No alcohol is served, there is no smoking in the building and the atmosphere is one of acceptance and tolerance for people of all ages, as well as race, creed and station in life. Information: Mail: P.O. Box 664, Tonasket 98855. Address: 411 Western Ave., Tonasket. Phone: 486-1328.
     
Recreation
     Columbia Cove Community Center, City of Brewster. Phone: 689-2994.
     Manfisher Ministries. Located in downtown Omak. Christian outreach to youth and adults. Information: David and Dawn Hellyer, 826-5699.
     Methow Recreation Teen Group. Information: Twisp Kiwanis, 997-4821.

Service
     Civil Air Patrol. Provides leadership activities for young people; members can participate in searches for missing persons; operates a drill team and color guard. Based at Okanogan Legion Airport. Information: Vickie Scholla, 322-0438.
     Liberty Bell High School Key Club. Service club sponsored by Winthrop Kiwanis Club. Information: Roy Reiber, adviser, 997-5666.
     Okanogan High School Key Club. Service club sponsored by Okanogan Kiwanis Club. Information: 422-3770.
     Omak High School Key Club. Service club sponsored by Omak Kiwanis Club. Information: Stephen Smith, faculty adviser, 826-5150.
     
Youth clubs
     4-H. Youth development program of Washington State University Extension. Provides formal and non-formal community-focused experiential learning, develops skills that benefit youth throughout life, fosters leadership and volunteerism in youth and adults, and strengthens families and communities. Open to all youth ages 5-18. Information: 422-7245.
     Boy Scouts. Mission is to serve others by helping to instill values in young people and in other ways prepare them to make ethical choices during their lifetime to achieve their full potential. Information: Gus Tillberg, chairman, 997-4481.
     Camp Fire USA. Information: 1 (800) 548-8884.
     Girl Scouts Mid-Columbia Council. Address: P.O. Box 2895, Wenatchee 98007. Information: 783-7721 or 1 (800) 967-8113.