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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Kids’ Events Planned At Japanese Garden

Lynn Gibson Correspondent

Kids can enjoy a sampling of Japanese culture during “Children’s Day at the Japanese Garden” on Saturday at Manito Park.

The entire family is invited to the free event, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., sponsored by The Friends of Manito.

Children can listen to stories at various stations in the garden. And, immediately outside the garden, ongoing activities will be offered for children of all ages. They can learn the art of calligraphy or try origami, test their dexterity with chopsticks, experiment with sand or learn a new card game called Hana Fuda.

There will also be the traditional carp raising ceremony at 1.

Also offered will be light refreshments, music and a table of educational resources for adults.

While not required, preregistration is appreciated; call 456-8038.

Fund-raiser

Support the work of Catholic Charities by attending the annual Bishop’s Dinner on Friday at the Spokane Club, 1002 W. Riverside.

The public is invited to the formal gala, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Bishop William Skylstad will host a reception and social hour followed by a salmon dinner - all with an environmental theme.

Well-known classical guitarist Leon Atkinson will provide the musical entertainment.

The evening’s highlight will be the presentation of the coveted Bishop’s Medal, awarded to an individual for outstanding service to Catholic Charities. The winner will not be announced until the presentation.

Since 1912, Catholic Charities, a non-profit organization, has worked as a servant to the poor and a supporter of families, meeting social service needs of people in Eastern Washington.

Proceeds from the dinner will help support programs such as Family Services, House of Charity, St. Anne’s Children’s Home and St. Margaret’s Shelter for women and children.

Tickets are $150 each.

For reservations, call 358-4250.

Community notes

The Dispute Resolution Center of Spokane County has changed its name and location.

The non-profit agency is now called the Inland Mediation Center and has moved under the leadership of Volunteers of America.

Its new location is in the lower level of the Volunteers of America Building, 525 W. Second.

“The merger is a perfect fit,” says Susan Whaley, spokeswoman for the mediation center, “because Volunteers of America has historically provided rental housing mediation services.”

The center handles a variety of disputes including housing, small claims, family, divorce, property and employer-employee problems. Its goal is restorative justice, reaching a peaceful agreement between disputing parties that both sides help create.

For those involved in disputes, mediation is an alternative to court-mandated judgments, says Whaley. Mediation saves time and money, and the outcomes are often more agreeable to the parties involved.

For more information, call 456-0103.

This is the 13th year that Windermere Real Estate agents will roll up their sleeves for Community Service Day on June 20.

The company is seeking suggestions for service projects. Sales associates and staff members plan to contribute time and energy to activities such as landscaping, light carpentry and general cleanup.

Community Service Day, recognized nationally as a model hands-on volunteer program, has been adopted by organizations around the country.

Last year, Windermere was involved in more than 140 projects nationwide, benefiting parks, playgrounds, beaches, clubs, low-income housing facilities, senior centers, emergency shelters and public schools.

To submit a proposal to be considered for Community Service Day, call Windermere at 326-1311.

Nominations are being accepted for the President’s Youth Service Award, sponsored by the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Young people between 5 and 22 years old are eligible.

The President’s Award honors an individual or group who has demonstrated outstanding community service. It recognizes voluntary, ongoing work in the community, although a one-time service project would also be considered.

A second honor, the National Award, will be granted for community service of a lesser degree.

The awards are based on achievement, initiative and leadership skills, as well as how the nominee developed and implemented an idea and inspired the service ethic among young citizens.

Winners will receive a sculptured pin that carries the Seal of the President of the United States, as well as a certificate signed by President Clinton.

To submit a nomination or request an application, write to: Jonas Babcock D.A.R., P.O. Box 206, Sprague, WA 99032.

Health notes

Learn how to prepare for and enjoy the annual Bloomsday run at a free health-education program sponsored by Huckleberry’s Fresh Market.

“How to Survive Bloomsday” is Wednesday, 7:30 to 9 p.m., at Huckleberry’s, 926 S. Monroe.

Mark Springer, a sports injury expert, will discuss preventing and treatment of running injuries before, during and after the race.

Reservations are recommended.

Call 624-1349.

, DataTimes