‘Masterful’ whip cracker Forrest Noda remembered

This year’s Cracker Day will not just be about the things that define cracker culture: cattle ranching, cracker food and music, and a love of independence.

It will also be about remembering one “masterful” whip cracker, Forrest William “Gump” Noda.

“He was a good kid,” said Diane Ross, who helps organize the event and is the president of the St. Johns County Cattlemen’s Association. “He was always good at cracking a whip.”

Noda died on Jan. 9. His obituary said that he ”had an infectious smile and an extremely outgoing personality, which helped him to make friends with everyone he met.”

Noda, 24, was a native and lifelong resident of St. Augustine. An accomplished whip cracker, Noda often put on demonstrations at Cracker Day as well as other places throughout the county. He was active in Cracker Day as well as the St. Johns County Cattleman’s Association.

Cracker Day will feature a memorial to Noda at noon Saturday, Ross said. A horseless rider will walk around the arena as the song “When I Get to Where I’m Going” plays. And then there will be a whip cracking demonstration in his honor.

Cracker Day will also feature the old favorites, including horse racing, livestock shows, bluegrass music and barbecue.

Cattle ranching is an integral part of the cracker culture, and whip cracking was an elaborate part of ranching, said Dana Ste. Claire, author of “The Cracker Culture in Florida History.”

A good whip cracker could “kill a rattle snake on the ground, pop a quail out of flight, drive his cattle or let everybody know that he’s in trouble,” Ste. Claire said.

Ste. Claire said that Noda was “almost legendary” in the cattle ranching industry. He kept up the old cracker culture, a culture on which the south was built, and a culture that is beginning to disappear.

“He was a wonderful representative of the cracker culture,” Ste. Claire said. “He was masterful at his craft.”

If you’re going

Cracker Day is Saturday at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 State Road 207, Elkton. Enjoy a full day of horseback games, horseback racing, barrel racing, bluegrass music, livestock shows, cracker whipping demonstrations and exhibits of Florida Cracker equipment. Events will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with barbecue served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $5 per vehicle.

Some people will tell you that “Cracker” comes from the sound made by early cow-hunters cracking their whips to chase cows out of the scrub. Others will say it comes from the cracked corn that was a staple of diets of poor whites, as in cornmeal, grits and corn whiskey.

Article Sources: Cracker Day will honor the life of local ‘Cracker’

Google yesterday unveiled an automated system that scans Android apps for potential malware or unauthorized behavior, a move critics have long called the company to make.

The scanning service, appropriately codenamed “Bouncer,” has been in action “a number of months,” said Hiroshi Lockheimer, the vice president of engineering for Android, in an interview Thursday. “The interesting thing is that no one really noticed. It didn’t disrupt the end user’s experience [in the Android Market] or disrupt the developers. They didn’t have to think about it at all.”

Once an app is uploaded to Google by its developer but before it’s published to the Android Market, Bouncer scans the code for known malware, including spyware and Trojan horses, and looks for behaviors that match apps which the company has previously decided are unacceptable.

Some apps that sound Bouncer’s alarm are immediately denied entrance to the Android Market, said Lockheimer. Others are flagged for human review.

Bouncer also features a simulator that runs each app as if it was on an actual Android phone, said Lockheimer. “We can observe the application for hidden behavior, and then flag it for review if it’s questionable,” he said.

Google also has the ability to recheck already-published apps as it adds more detection and analytical skills to Bouncer. “As our knowledge of bad apps increases and we become aware [of new malware], we feed that into the system and rescan everything in the catalog,” Lockheimer said.

Critics in the security industry have called on Google to proactively scan Android apps for potential malware, rather than wait until unacceptable or infected apps are reported by users or researchers.

“This is absolutely a good move,” said Chet Wisniewski, a security researcher at U.K.-based vendor Sophos. “Bouncer clearly makes sense. [But] most Android users would be surprised that they weren’t already doing this.”

Lockheimer denied that Bouncer was a reaction to any single security incident, including the appearance of the first Android Trojan horse: In March 2011, Google yanked more than 50 DroidDream-infected apps from the Android Market, and within days used its “kill switch” for only the second time to remotely erase the programs from users’ smartphones.

Instead, Lockheimer said, Bouncer was an evolution of Google’s security philosophy.

“Bouncer wasn’t in response to any one thing,” Lockheimer said. “Security is important to Android, that’s always been a theme of ours.”

But Android malware played a prominent role in security news last year. Following the first DroidDream campaign, attackers launched planted more infected apps on the Market last June and July. Malicious apps have also regularly popped up on third-party download sites, which Google doesn’t regulate, especially in China.

And last November, Juniper Networks said that the number of

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Article Sources: Google reveals Android malware 'Bouncer,' scans all apps

With the Cheltenham Festival now just around the corner, Donald McCain gave further evidence his string are in peak form by saddling a double at Wetherby.

Provided all goes well in the meantime, the master of Cholmondeley will be heading to Prestbury Park with an impressive array of talent, with leading stars Peddlers Cross and Cinders And Ashes set for their respective assignments next month.

Recent Ayr winner Railway Dillon got the show on the road when bolting up in the wetherbyracing.co.uk Novices’ Chase.

The 5-1 chance had shown precious little in his first three outings over fences but, fitted with headgear for the first time in Scotland, he easily got the better of a match with Yes Tom.

The headgear once again had the desired effect for Jason Maguire’s mount as he galloped his rivals into submission and came home 16 lengths clear of Pena Dorada.

“He was one that I was really worried about when the new whip rules came in as he is notoriously lazy, but the blinkers have been the making of him,” said McCain.

“We always knew he would need them at some stage, but we’ve had to use them earlier than we imagined and to be honest, the man on top makes a big difference to him.

“Today has been the plan for a couple of weeks because he’s got three owners and this is the first time they’ve all been on track together.”

The Bramham Hall For Conferences & Banquets Novices’ Hurdle looked a warm heat on paper, with last season’s Champion Bumper runner-up Destroyer Deployed facing well-fancied Alan King raider Volcan Surprise.

But neither could live with the front-running Jackson Cage (11-2), who beat 100-1 shot Valsesia by six lengths, with Destroyer Deployed beating Volcan Surprise to third.

“He’s no star, but it was a fair performance giving away a penalty. He was giving a stone to the favourite and plenty to a horse who was second in a Champion Bumper, although, to be fair, that one hasn’t jumped well,” McCain added.

“He’ll get further and he’ll jump a fence and the better ground has made all the difference.”

Mac Aeda recorded his second victory at the track in the Yorkshire Post Ladies Day – 24th May Handicap Chase.

Malcolm Jefferson’s 9-1 chance travelled like the best horse throughout on his first start outside novice company, cruising to front under a confident Brian Hughes after rounding the home bend.

He began to wander after jumping the final obstacle, but still passed the post with three and a quarter lengths in hand over the staying-on Jaunty Journey.

Jefferson said: “He’s a grand horse and he lost a shoe, so it’s an even better performance than it looks.

“He stays well and he’ll go on most ground and he’s still learning about the game really.

“That’s two he’s won this year and if we can win another with him, I’d be over the moon.

“He’s a horse for next year and he’ll get four miles if we want him, too.”

Lucy Alexander got 8-1 shot Stanley Bridge up in the Wetherby Racecourse Sunday Car-Boot-Sale Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle, while the Martin Keighley-trained Total Submission (12-1) defied a big weight in the Follow Wetherby Racecourse On Facebook & Twitter Handicap Hurdle.

Alan Swinbank’s Saveiro (9-1) landed a few hefty bets when also carrying a welter burden to victory in the Party In The Paddock – 7th June Handicap Chase.

Oliver Sherwood’s 8-1 chance Many Clouds made a most impressive start to his career in the concluding bumper.

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Article Sources: WETHERBY BRACE FOR ON-SONG McCAIN

Thousands of Shriners pack downtown for annual parade

Sunshine and temperatures in the 60s brought thousands of onlookers to downtown New Bern Saturday for the annual Sudan Shriners Winter Ceremonial Parade. It was a stark contrast to 2011, which featured cold, wind and snow.

For those who enjoyed Saturday’s hour-long parade of 46 Shriners’ units from throughout Eastern North Carolina, May will provide an added treat.

Newly inducted Potentate Steve Norris said Saturday that the Shriners  are bringing their Spring Ceremonial and parade back to New Bern for the first time since 1996.

“We had great weather today,” he said. “(Last year) it snowed terrible. 2012 is going to be a very exciting year.”

This year’s event was easier on the onlookers and the participants. Ron Packard of the Sudan Chef Crew, said the unit’s annual outdoor cooking of the Moslem Feast for upwards of 1,000 parade participants was “miserable and cold” a year ago.

This year, his job of breading more than 900 pieces of chicken was much easier. The Chefs, headed by Shriners Bobby Dail and Arthur Broom, are among a number of units headquartered at the Broad Street Sudan Shrine Center. Others include the Patrol, Truckers, Cooligans and Mini-Cars, all participants Saturday.

Another Sudan-based unit is the Roadrunners, volunteer drivers who transport sick and burned children to Shriners hospitals in Greenville, S.C., and Cincinnati — all at no expense to the families.

John Moore of Pitt County, longtime TV personality and the voice of the Sudan parade in New Bern for the past 15 years, again entertained the crowd from the Middle Street reviewing stand.

“My job is to let people know that it’s big boys with big toys,” he said of the self-sustained units that come from throughout the east. “These guys buy their own (equipment) and they do this for their love of children. We have men here today parading from 18 to 75 years old. And, coming to New Bern is just beyond friendly for us.”

Shriners raise money to buy and maintain the fleets of tiny cars, trucks and other vehicles, along with costumes and props for other acts that range from clowns to the Mourners, a Pamlico group in black suits accompanied by a horse-drawn hearse.

Lenwood Banks of Reelsboro is one of the Sudan Truckers, a unit that was featured early in the noon parade. With units still rolling along Middle Street, he walked through the crowd, looking for his wife Shirley. Banks sported an embroidered shiny black truckers jacket. He also carried a portable oxygen unit in one hand, with tubes leading up to his nose.

He shrugged off notions that being on an oxygen supply should keep him from driving his  tiny truck to raise awareness for the Shriners’ cause.

“No sir,” he said. “Joining the Shriners is the best move I ever made, considering when you see all the people out there, especially the children.”

Eddie and Kelly Sinnette of New Bern bring their children to the parade every year.

“It’s entertainment for them and we buy a cane and donate a little money for the Shriners,” he said. “I like the cause more than anything, what it stands for.”

The event annually brings thousands of Shriners to town for a weekend that boosts the local economy and showcases the Shriners’ work. There are plenty of Shriners in the crowd watching, too.

Joe Hardison and his wife, Ann, drove 50 miles from Jamesville to watch. He’s been a Mason since 1970 and a Shriner since1974.

“I like all of it,” he said of the streaming procession of Shriner units as they passed. “I don’t know anything I don’t like about it. It’s the best parade there is.”

Another Shriner watching was Bill Harrison, a member of the Havelock Shrine Club.

He said he had been attending parades for 40 years, two years longer than he has been a Shriner. He knows first-hand about the work his fraternal organization does. He had a niece with serious burns who was treated at a Shriners’ hospital.

But, he added that becoming a Shriner was not the number one accomplishment in his life.

“No, marrying my wife Mildred was,” he said. “But being a Shriner, that takes a pretty good second place.”

Charlie Hall can be reached at 252-635-5667 or . Follow him on Twitter @charlierayhall

Article Sources: Thousands of spectators pack downtown for annual Shriners parade

Some bloodlines run really deep.

And we’re not even talking about the lineage of Union Rags, the No. 1 Kentucky Derby contender on The Associated Press’ opening Run to the Roses Top 10 list.

It’s the owner of the 3-year-old colt and her husband who have caught the attention of the racing world. And why not? Owner Phyllis Mills Wyeth is the daughter of the late Alice du Pont Mills, a thoroughbred owner and breeder, noted aviatrix, environmentalist, philanthropist, and prominent member of the du Pont family. Her husband is contemporary realist painter Jamie Wyeth, son of artist Andrew Wyeth, grandson of artist and illustrator N.C. Wyeth.

Mrs. Wyeth, though, almost ended up as Union Rags’ former owner. She sold the horse for $145,000 as a yearling, then dreamed she had to buy him back because his bloodlines trace back to horses owned by her family. To do so, she paid $390,000 at a 2-year-olds in training sale early last year.

“It’s really an amazing story,” Jamie Wyeth has said. “The dream was that she really should own the horse in the family name. It turned out to be a pretty good bet.”

The listed owner is Chadds Ford Stable, a one-horse operation named for the Pennsylvania town where the Wyeths reside and is home to the Brandywine River Museum, where three generations of Wyeth works are on display.

Add Michael Matz — the trainer of 2006 Derby winner Barbaro — to the team, and racing could have quite a story line by the time the Derby at Churchill Downs rolls around on May 5.

Union Rags, by the way, has quite the resume himself: three victories, including the Saratoga Special and the Champagne, and a narrow loss to Hansen in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile in November.

Spending the winter in Florida, Union Rags is in training for his 3-year-old debut in the Fountain of Youth at Gulfstream Park on Feb. 26. He will be ridden by Julien Leparoux, who replaces regular rider Javier Castellano.

On Monday, Union Rags worked five furlongs in 1:03.08 at Palm Meadows Training Center in Boynton Beach, Fla., with Leparoux aboard for the first time.

Castellano gave up the ride on Union Rags to stick with Algorithms, who is No. 2 on this week’s Top 10 list.

There are three Derby preps this weekend — the El Camino Real Derby (G3) at Golden Gate Fields on Saturday, the San Vicente (G2) at Santa Anita on Sunday, and the Southwest (G3) at Oaklawn next Monday.

One horse to watch in the Southwest is Reckless Jerry, owned by country music star Toby Keith. The colt has two wins in six starts, with runner-up finishes in two stakes races.

A total 398 3-year-olds were nominated for the Triple Crown races, a significant increase over last year’s total of 366. Todd Pletcher leads all trainers with 32 nominees — including Algorithms — for the Derby, Preakness and Belmont Stakes.

1. Union Rags (Michael Matz, trainer; Javier Castellano, jockey): Won three in a row, including Champagne (G1) before losing to Hansen by head in BC Juvenile (G1). … Castellano looking for first Derby win. … Next start: Fountain of Youth (G2), Gulfstream, Feb. 26. … Derby future wager odds: 7-1.

2. Algorithms (Todd Pletcher, Castellano): Defeated 2-year-old champ Hansen in Holy Bull (G3) on Jan. 29. … Son of Bernardini 3-for-3 lifetime. … Next start: Fountain of Youth. … Odds: 12-1.

3. Hansen (Mike Maker, Ramon Dominguez): Stumbled at start of Holy Bull, had little left in stretch and finished second by 5 lengths. … Capped 3-for-3 2-year-old season with close win in BC Juvenile. … Son of Tapit headed to New York. … Next start: Gotham (G3), Aqueduct, March 3. … Odds: 26-1.

4. Liaison (Bob Baffert, Rafael Bejarano): The 3-2 favorite in Robert B. Lewis (G2) on Feb. 4 clipped heels with another horse in stretch and unseated rider. … Won 3-of-4 as 2-year-old, including CashCall Futurity (G1). … Next start: San Felipe (G2), Santa Anita, March 10. … Odds: 56-1.

5. Gemologist (Pletcher, Castellano): Kentucky Jockey Club (G2) winner 3-for-3 as he readies for 3-year-old debut. … Next start: Tampa Bay Derby (G2), Tampa Bay Downs, March 10 or Rebel (G2), Oaklawn Park, March 17. … Odds: 22-1.

6. Creative Cause (Mike Harrington, Joel Rosario): Strong third in BC Juvenile followed win in Norfolk (G1). … Training at Hollywood Park for 3-year-old debut. … Next start: San Vicente (G2), Santa Anita, Feb. 19. Odds: 17-1.

7. Discreet Dancer (Pletcher, Castellano): Won first two races by combined 15¼ lengths at Gulfstream. … Castellano says “It’s almost scary how good he is. He was quick out of the gate and just did everything right.” … Next start: Fountain of Youth. … Odds: 30-1.

8. Alpha (Kiaran McLaughlin, Dominguez): Won Withers (G3) by 3¼ lengths. … With two winning preps this year, one more planned for Godolphin-owned colt before Derby. … Next start: Wood Memorial (G1), Aqueduct, April 7. … Odds: 19-1.

9. I’ll Have Another (Doug O’Neill, Mario Gutierrez): A $35,000 purchase, colt won Robert B. Lewis by 2¾ lengths at odds of 43-1. … Has two wins in four starts for owner J. Paul Reddam. … Next start: Santa Anita Derby (G1), Santa Anita, April 7. …Odds: 29-1.

10. Mr. Bowling (Larry Jones, Robby Albarado): Won Lecomte (G3) by a head Jan. 21. … Colt has three wins in five starts. … Next start: Risen Star (G3), Fair Grounds, Feb. 25. … Odds: 85-1.

Keep an eye on: Dullahan, Ever So Lucky, Fed Biz, Out of Bounds, Reckless Jerry.

Article Sources: Horse Racing News: Union Rags on road seeking Kentucky Derby riches

Ballots for choosing 2011 New York-bred divisional champions are out. The state-bred program for Thoroughbreds has become increasingly important in New York, making up approximately one-third of the total races carded over the course of the year.That figure does not include New York-breds which win open company allowance, claiming, and stakes events. The New York Racing Association (NYRA) has been carding more of the last and boosting purses on the others, a result of the revenue stream now flowing from the Resorts World Casino now operating at Aqueduct. In addition, since December 31, 2011, NYRA has carded eight stakes races restricted to New York-breds.If anyone needs a primer on just how much those higher purse levels mean to horsemen, I recommend they watch episode three of the on-going HBO series “Luck.” There is a scene were a trainer is reciting all the expenses to a group of new owners.The list goes on-and-on-and-on-and-on, including such items as $3.00 per day for vitamins, to $25.00 if a pony escorts the horse from the paddock to the track before a race. Recently a long-time horse owner told me she equates it to “having a kid that never graduates from college.”End-of-season awards usually don’t put money in the pockets of Thoroughbred owners and trainers, other than the odd instance of boosting a selling price or breeding fee. However, they are an acknowledgment of hard work and good judgment.The juvenile male category should come down to NIGHT MANEUVER and SWAG DADDY. The former won the first three races of his career, including the Bertram Bongard Stakes. The latter won three races as well, closing out the year with a pair of stakes victories. I’m leaning toward Swag Daddy.The juvenile filly award seems almost sure to go to WEEMISSFRANKIE. After breaking her maiden at first asking, the filly raced exclusively in Grade 1 company, winning twice. Her $560,000 bankroll towers over the rest.I consider the three-year-old male division wide open. There are several worthy contenders, dual stakes winner PREACHINTOTHEDEVIL and Albany Stakes winner SOCIALSAUL among them. Both of those are trained by New York stalwart Gary Contessa.However, I can make a case for sprinter DR DISCO. The colt made nine starts last year and finished on the board every time. He did so on dirt and turf, running short and long. Dr Disco closed out 2011 with a convincing stakes win versus older horses.Voters in the three-year-old filly division may be faced with going dirt with AVA K., or turf with HESSONITE. The former captured three stakes and $201,000 in earnings. The latter also won three stakes, banking $272,000. Racing fans usually lean toward dirt in situations like this. Continued…

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Article Sources: New York-breds in spotlight

Saturday afternoon at the K-State Rodeo was a light-hearted, kid-centric performance filled with pint-sized cowboys and a well-attended, enthusiastic boot scramble.

The 1 p.m. performance was the second of the weekend’s series of rodeo shows put on by a few dozen of the 436 contestants who entered in the K-State rodeo this year.

“The competition is really strong this year,” said Josh Griggs, a dual competitor in bareback and bull riding and student at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. “It’s a good region and you have to cock your hammer in every event to do well.”

Bareback, saddle and bull riding all provided the onlookers with plenty to gasp at as contestants were thrown this way and that on their mounts, typical of any competitive rodeo. In return for their acts, the audience cheered and applauded the performances, including those from events such as calf roping, steer wrestling and barrel-racing.

The Saturday afternoon session was designed specifically as a kid-friendly show as a way to get families to come out and participate, said Beth McQuade, adviser for the K-State Rodeo Club and research assistant in the veterinary school.

Community service was also part of the day, as children 12 and under were given free admittance if the adults accompanying them brought two canned food items to go towards the Flint Hills Breadbasket.

“We’re doing it as a way to help out Manhattan,” McQuade said. “And we wanted to get families out here to introduce kids to the sport of rodeo.”

As a traditional part of this subculture, halfway through the bucking broncos and steer wrestling show came the boot scramble. For those who do not know, a boot scramble is an event where children are invited down to the dirt floor of the arena, where they remove one shoe, throw it in a pile, then race from the opposite end of the arena to relocate and put on their lost shoe as fast as they can.

About 40 children participated in the Saturday afternoon boot scramble, with a handful sporting their own cowboy hats and boots, like true boot scramble veterans.

The K-State Rodeo Club was not alone in sponsoring the rodeo this weekend. Block & Bridle Club, Kansas State Collegiate Cattle Women, K-State Horseman’s Association and the Meat Lab were also involved, helping to run the concession stand and other various duties throughout the performances.

Audience members traveled from across the state to watch the contestants perform. A large contingent of Oklahoma residents were in attendance to root on the competitors from schools like Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

Tim Thomas, who drove from Shawnee, Kan., to support his sons, who are in the K-State Rodeo Club, said this was the first rodeo he and his wife had ever been to.

“It’s awesome,” Thomas said. “I’ve seen them on TV, but never been to one, and I’m really enjoying myself.”

Sharing their love of the sport is a powerful motivational factor for many of those involved in putting on and performing in the rodeo, McQuade said.

“If you’ve grown up with it,” she said, “it’s something that’s in your heart and soul. It’s a great way of life and we’re glad that people can experience that with us here.”

McQuade also noted what a privilege it is to be part of the program here at K-State.

“These kids here are here for their education and their love of the rodeo,” she said. “It is such a great feeling to be able to bring that together. This is one of the best rodeos in the region.” 

Article Sources: K-State Rodeo provides classic family fun with kid-friendly boot scramble

Riding Unlimited will have its semiannual volunteer training session from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

The therapeutic riding center in Ponder needs volunteers to work as horse handlers or side walkers. Horse handlers work with an animal before, during and after a riding lesson, and these volunteers need to have some experience with horses, according to a news release.

Volunteers without prior horse experience will be assigned as a side walker to assist a rider either physically or verbally. Side walkers who are interested in becoming horse handlers may work to train for that position.

All volunteers must be 14 or older to work with a horse and rider in the arena.

Classes are 10 weeks long and meet once a week for one hour. Riding Unlimited needs volunteers for hourly sessions between 9 a.m. and noon and 4 and 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, as well as between 9 and 11 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Volunteers do not have to work in all of the classes, but will be assigned to a team according to their schedules.

The first class will be on Feb. 22.

To attend training or for more information, e-mail , visit ridingunlimited.org or call 940-479-2016. E-mail communication is preferred.

Event focuses on teaching youngsters financial skills

A seminar titled “How to Raise a Money-Smart Child” will be offered at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Denton’s South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane.

Kathy Bower, a financial adviser, will discuss how to teach children or grandchildren about setting financial goals, self-discipline and the basics of making wise choices about money.

To check space availability and register for the program, call 940-349-8752 or e-mail .

‘Understanding Hospice’ program set for Thursday

The Sanger Public Library, 501 Bolivar St., will host a program titled “Understanding Hospice” at 7 p.m. Thursday.

The featured speaker will be Sandra Mann of Ann’s Haven VNA, and the program will explain the role of hospice care and cover the variety of services offered.

The program is free and open to the public. To reserve a space or for more information, call 940-458-3257, visit the library or e-mail .

Keep Lewisville Beautiful plans free class on birds

Keep Lewisville Beautiful will offer a free class about birds and creating an environment to attract them from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday in the community room attached to the Lewisville Public Library, 1197 W. Main St.

The class is part of the “Garden Secrets” series. A speaker from the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area will discuss bird habitat, silhouettes, field markings and other bird identification tips. A question-and-answer session will follow.

Reservations are requested. Call 972-538-5949 or e-mail .

Volunteer recruitment, orientation sessions set

The first of two volunteer recruitment and orientation sessions offered by the Denton County Museums will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, according to an announcement from Sherrin L. Hubert, administration specialist for the museums.

The “Lunch ‘n Learn” session will be in the 1896 Room of the Courthouse on the Square, 110 W. Hickory St. Participants will have the opportunity to learn county history and share it with visitors.

The second volunteer recruitment and orientation session is scheduled for April 13.

For more information, contact Gretel L’Heureux, tourism coordinator at the Denton County Museums, at 940-349-2850 or , or visit dentoncounty.com .

Fundraiser planned Saturday night in Sanger

The Krum FFA Young Leaders of Tomorrow, an alumni group of the Krum FFA, will have the Buffalo Dance fundraiser on Saturday to benefit young people involved in Krum agriculture programs.

The band Eleven Hundred Springs will perform at the event, which will be at The Campsite (formerly Sundown Ranch), 13037 Interstate 35 in Sanger.

Doors are scheduled to open at 6:30 p.m., and a $100 donation will provide admission for two for a steak dinner, dancing, adult beverages, cash prizes and live and silent auctions. Single tickets are also available. The meal will be provided by Old Town Market of Lewisville, organizers said.

For tickets or other information, call Diana Johnson at 214-534-8440; Terry Knight at 940-367-5753; Kara Meyer at 940-368-3578; Jana Bullock at 940-390-3936; or Marilyn or Danny Reeves at 940-391-0638.

Champions for Children Gala scheduled Saturday

The Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County will host the third annual Champions for Children Gala at 7 p.m. Saturday at Circle R Ranch in Flower Mound.

Several current and former professional athletes and coaches are scheduled to attend, and University of North Texas head football coach Dan McCarney is also scheduled to participate, according to a news release.

More than 15 area chefs and restaurants will serve signature hors d’oeuvres, and the event will also include wine tastings, live and silent auctions and live music from Good Question Band.

The evening’s theme is “Phantom of the Gala,” with volunteers dressed in full costume and UNT College of Music students set to perform songs from Phantom of the Opera. Attire will be cocktail; 1800s Phantom attire and masks are optional.

For ticket availability and other information, visit cacdc.org  or call 972-317-2818, ext. 244.

Denton American Legion Post hosts competition

American Legion Post 71 in Denton hosted the Division 1 Oratorical Competition on Feb. 5 at the Courthouse on the Square.

John T. Brown of Graham, representing District 13, took top honors. Other contestants were Brad Johnson of McKinney, representing District 4 and taking second place, and Katherine McElroy of Duncanville, representing District 5, who came in third.

Brown now moves on to represent Division 1 at the State Oratorical Competition on Feb. 20 in Brenham.

The American Legion High School Oratorical Competition on the Constitution of the United States is held annually, and this is the 74th year. Any high school student is eligible to participate.

The process begins in the fall, with competitions in January, February and April. Students can get more information from their school principal or by calling Lynn Vowell, Post 71 commander, at 940-727-8067.

Co-chairmen for the event were Jim Heath and Lee Keith.

LES COCKRELL is interested in your input for Out & About. Help share information about Denton County events and people by calling him at 940-566-6887. His e-mail address is .

Article Sources: Les Cockrell: Riding Unlimited plans training for volunteers

Hailing from the lineage of Northern Dancer, Dance Smartly well of course lived up to her name. The filly was a Champion Canadian thoroughbred who also became the first ever Canadian horse to win a Breeder’s Cup. Dance Smartly won the Breeder’s Cup Distaff in 1991 with legendary jockey Pat Day and made history. Even though primarily a Canadian horse with ample participation in Canadian thoroughbred racing tournaments, Dance Smartly’s performances made her to be voted American Eclipse Award 1991, being the best three year old filly that year.

Dance Smartly may not have had a very long racing career but it most definitely was touted as an short yet extremely impressive one. The filly not only ran and won the Canadian Triple Crown but also Prince of Wales Stakes and Queen’s Plate among others.

The filly with a star studded forehead retired to a grand career earnings of $ 3.2million, the highest any female horse earned in her time.

The equestrian lovers on the planet no longer need to feel disheartened by the fact that Dance Smartly had to be euthanized following an irreparable injury. horseracegame.com honours the invincible heroes of racing and brings them alive through 3D simulations in their host of horse racing games. The games have a built in database that boasts of more than 5000 fine thoroughbreds from across all corners of world horse racing games meticulously handpicked to be the best of the best. The champions are seen in virtual flesh and blood racing on a variety of track surfaces from dirt to sloppy mud, the various camera angles make it seem if not better, as good as real.

Horse Race Game is a giant creator of online horse racing that has been designed after almost a decade of crucial study and research of race horses’ natures, their behaviour on the paddock and race tracks under varying conditions, their racing styles depending upon the condition of the field and also their stamina and speed. Not just the horses, even the race tracks have been the subject for this study in order to develop them precisely. The players get to choose their horse, competition and even the racetracks. The online platform helps support a multitude of players from around the globe who you can compete with real time.

Another exciting feature horseracegame.com offers is allowing the players to free download racing games. The games can be played on the consoles of their choice and whenever they want, off the grid. There’s breeding from choicest sires and broodmares, stable management, foal training and much more. The players can develop all their racing skills from breeding a new foal to competing in challenges with their ‘ready for a fight’ contenders. The bettors can work on their betting skills without the risks of losing money while the players can completely bypass any physical injury and still win a real prize on a virtual race. VIP privileges make racing even more exciting and real.

To explore more features and get started with racing, free download racing games and embark on your winning streak.

Article Sources: Dance Smartly Back to Racing ? Online Horse Racing Games Revives Them

Indian River Community Calendar

NEW LISTINGS

Looking Ahead

Revival Services: Guest speaker Rev. Rick Baldwin. First Baptist of Wabasso, 4720 86th St., Wabasso, 7 pm, Feb. 21. 772-589-5256; firstbaptistwabasso.org.

Pet Dog Manners, Behavior: Teach your dog basic skills. Humane Society of Vero Beach, 6230 77th St., Vero Beach, 9:15 am, Feb. 21, Mar 6. $75. Register: 772-978-7863; bestbehaviordogtraining.org.

Benefit Performance: “The Music Man.” Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 5:30 pm cocktails, 6:30 pm dinner, 8 pm show; Feb. 21. $500-$1,000; Benefits Riverside Theatre.

Ladies Night Out: Gold buyer, venders, handmade-jewelry. Heritage Amber Bead Shop, 951 Old Dixie Hwy, A-10, Vero Beach, 5-7 pm, Feb. 21. Bring canned goods for Breath of Heaven Ministries. 772-770-9891; .

Caring For Your Senior Cat: Humane Society of Vero Beach and IRC, 6230 77th St., Vero Beach, 1-2 pm, Feb. 22. 772-388-3331 ext. 18; hsvb.org.

Ribbon Cutting: Launch of web-based program Whole Child program. Junior League office, 2nd floor, Dyer Mazda at 999 US 1, Vero Beach, 5-7 pm, Feb. 22. RSVP: 772-563-9287; .

Save the Chimps: Special screening of Disneynature film “chimpanzee” benefitting Save the Chimps. Majestic Theatre, 940 14th Lane, Vero Beach, 3:30 p.m., Apr. 22. $10-$20. Ticket: 772-770-0773; savethechimps.org.

Pet Dog Manners & Behavior: Teach your dog basic skills. Florida Veterinary League, 1360 US 1, Vero Beach, 6:30 pm, Feb. 22, 29, Mar. 7. $75. Register: 772-978-7863; bestbehaviordogtraining.org.

Safe Driving Refresher: AARP course. Senior Resource Center, 694 14th St., Vero Beach, 2-5 pm, Feb. 23-24. Ages 50+. $12-$14. Register: 772-562-3184

Stephen Marley: With the Resolvers. Capt. Hiram’s, 1606 Indian River Dr., Sebastian, 8 pm, Feb. 23. $16-$20+. Ticket: 772-589-4345; hirams.com.

Bubbles, Bangles & Bingo: Senior Resource Association benefit. Quail Valley River Club, A1A, 11:30 am., Feb. 23. $85-$150. Ticket: 772-469-2060; seniorresourceassociation.org.

Tennis Tournament: King of the Hill Tennis Tournament. Boulevard Village & Tennis Club, 1620 Blvd., Village Ln., Vero Beach, 6 pm. Feb. 23. $5. pmircyouth.com.

Rummage Sale: Community Church, 1901 23rd St., Vero Beach, 7 am-3 pm, Feb. 23; 7-11 am, Feb. 24.

Rod Stewart Experience: Rick St. James & his all-star band do tribute. King Center, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Feb. 24. Cost TBD. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Stan Smith Tennis Tournament: Boulevard Tennis Club, 1620 Village Ln., Vero Beach, 5 pm, Feb. 24. $20-$50. Benefits TEAM program. Ticket: 772-770-6000; bbbsbigs.org.

Dancing On The Deck : “The Dolls” with Jerry the singing DJ. North County Aquatic Center, 9450 CR 512, Sebastian, 6:30-9:30 pm, Feb. 24. Adult. $4-$6. Ticket: 772-581-7665; ircrec.com.

AARP Treasure Coast Chapter: Refreshments, door prizes. Bldg. A, Barefoot Bay. 11:15 am-1 pm, Feb. 24. 321-536-8882.

Boots & BBQ: Downtown Friday Street Party with Crooked Creek. 14th Ave. and 21st St., Vero Beach. 5:30-8:30 pm, Feb. 24. 772-480-8353; mainstreetverobeach.org.

Blood Drive: Bring ID. Community Church of Vero Beach, 1901 23rd St., Vero Beach, 8:30-10:30 am, Feb. 24.

“Into The Woods”: St. Edward’s School’s theater department’s musical production. Waxlax Centers, 1895 St. Edward’s Drive, Vero Beach, 7 pm Feb. 24-25; 2 pm Feb. 25. $5-$10. Ticket: 772-231-4136; steds.org/waxlax.

Driver’s Education: St. Edward’s Upper School, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 8 am-4 pm, Feb. 25. $450. Register: 772-492-2113; .

Indian River Pops Orchestra: Copeland Davis to perform. The Lyric Theatre, 59 S.W. Flagler Ave., Stuart, 7:30 pm, Feb. 25. $25. Ticket: 772-286-7827; secure.lyrictheatre.com.

Rummage Sale: Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1850 Sixth Ave., Vero Beach, 8:30 am-1 pm, Feb. 25. Proceeds to charities.

Multi-Team Garage Sale: Benefits Relay for Life of the Beaches. Florida Eye Institute, 2750 Indian River Blvd., Vero Beach, 7-10 am, Feb. 25. 772-569-9500; fleye.com.

Genealogy Organizational Conference: Woodfield Community Clubhouse, 2755 Woodfield Blvd, Vero Beach, 8:30 am-3:30 pm, Feb. 25. $5-$8. Reservation: 772-567-7463; .

GALS/GFNFF Coffee: Starbucks, Guardians For New Futures/Guardian ad Litem to inform, educate, promote volunteers. Starbucks Vero Beach, 1235 US 1, Vero Beach, 10 am, Feb. 25. Ages 18+. 772-807-3868; gfnf4kids.org.

“Motions of The Tao” film showing: Tai Chi open house Short silm. Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Dr., Vero Beach, 1-4 pm, Feb. 25. RSVP: 772-563-7165; .

Nature Deficit Disorder: Speaker, author Richard Louv. McKee Botanical Garden, 350 US 1, Vero Beach, 10:30 am & 6 pm, Feb. 25. $75-$200. Launch Discovery Backpacks program. Reserve: 772-794-0601; mckeegarden.org.

Art In The Park: Sebastian River Art Club. Riverside Park, Sebastian, 10 am-4 pm, Feb. 25.

Florida Craft Brew & Wingfest: Royal Palm Point, 65 Royal Palm Point, Vero Beach, 11:30 am-5 pm, Feb. 25. $25. Ticket: FloridaCraftBrewAndWingfest.com.Daddy Daughter Dance: Polish American Club, 7500 US 1, Vero Beach, 6-8:30 pm, Feb. 25. Ages 3-9. $30/couple. Register: 772-226-1732; ircrec.com.

Occasionally Clay: Working with clay through hand building. Lower School, 1895 St. Edward’s Drive, Vero Beach, 9 am-noon, Feb. 25, Mar. 24, Apr. 21. Grades 2-5. $50 session. Register: 772-492-2113; .

Genealogy Trip: Bus trip to Orlando Public Library. 8 am, Feb. 25. Adults. $21. Register for pickup location: 772-567-7463; .

Juvenile Diabetes Walk: Vendors welcome, raffles, blood drive. Riverside Park, Vero Beach, Register, 9 am; walk 10 am, Feb. 25. 772-226-0765.

“Dolphin Tales”: Movies at the ranch under the stars; refreshments. LaPorte Farms, 7700 129th St., Sebastian, 5:30 pm, Feb. 25. $5. 772-633-0813; LaPorteFarms.com.

Genealogy: Workshop. Indian River County Main Library, 1600 21st St., Vero Beach, 10:30 am- 12:30 pm, Feb. 25. RSVP: 772-562-6624.

Celebrated Speakers Series: Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach, 4 pm, 7 pm. Neil DeGrasse Tyson, Feb. 25; Joe Scarborough, Mar. 10; Bob Woodward, Mar. 31. $65-$275. Ticket: 772-778-5249; TheEmersonCenter.org.

“Jazz 4 Dasie’s Hope”: Concert to benefit the Dasie Hope Center. Pointe West, 1999 Pointe West Dr., Vero Beach, 3-6 pm, Feb. 25. $5-7. Ticket: 772-589-535; dasiehope.org.

Bike Safety Seminar & Rodeo: Gifford Youth Activities Center, 4875 43rd Ave., Vero Beach, 10 am-1 pm, Feb. 25. Age 9- 2. 772-794-1005.

Genealogist Organization Conference: Classes on organization for all family history researchers. Go Paperless. 2755 Woodfield Blvd., (behind Indian River Mall) Vero Beach, 8:30 am-3:30 pm, Feb 25. Adults. $8. Register: 772-567-7463; .

Vero Beach Gun/Outdoor Gear Show: 200 exhibits. IRC Fairgrounds, 7955 58th Ave., Vero Beach, 9 am-5 pm, Feb. 25; 9 am-4 pm, Feb. 26. $6. 772-228-6045; patriotshows.com.

Poker Run: Benefits Veteran’s Unmet Needs Program. VFW Post 10210, 815 Louisiana Avenue, Sebastian, 10 am, Feb. 26. $10. 772-918-4664.

Indian River Pops Orchestra: Copeland Davis to perform. The Eissey Campus Theatre, 11051 Campus Dr., Palm Beach Gardens, 7 pm, Feb. 26. $25. Ticket: 561-207-5900; palmbeachstate.edu/x13030.xml.

Distinguished Lecturer Series: Niall Ferguson. Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Dr., Vero Beach, 4 pm & 6 pm, Feb. 27. $65-$75. 772-231-6990.

Kayavibe Movie Fundraiser: Support Local Band Kayavibe. Majestic Theater, 940 14th Lane, Vero Beach, 7 pm, Feb. 27. Ages 17+. $30. Ticket: .

ORCA Science Cafe: Short film, talk with Dr. Widder, Chief Scientist at ORCA. Majestic Theatre, 940 14th Ln., Vero Beach, 10 am, Feb. 27. $10. Ticket: 772-770-0773; teamorca.org.

Auditions: Cast sought for ‘Bell, Book & Candle.” Vero Beach Theatre Guild, 2020 San Juan Ave., 7 pm, Feb. 27. 772-562-8300; verobeachtheatreguild.com.

Dog Training: Six weeks. Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County, 6230 77th St., Vero Beach. 9 am, Feb. 29. $35. Registration thru Feb. 28. 772-388-3331; .

Atlantic Classical Orchestra: Featuring violinist Elmar Oliveira. Waxlax Center, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 8 pm, Feb. 29. $55. 866-310-7521; acomusic.org/store/Single-Tickets-Vero-Beach/Vero-Beach-Program-III.html.

Ballad Of America Concert: IRC Main Library, 1600 21st St., Vero Beach, 4 pm Feb. 29. 772-770-5060; irclirary.org.

The Music Man: Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30 pm, Feb. 29, Mar. 1, 7-8, 14-15; 2 pm, Feb. 25-26, 29, Mar. 1, 3-4, 7-8, 10-11, 14-15, 17-18. $36-$70. 772-231-6990.

Dinosaurs, Dead Or Alive?: Robotic exhibit. Brevard Zoo, 8225 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 10 am-5 pm, Feb. 18-May 28. $5 plus zoo admission. 321-254-9453; brevardzoodinos.com.

MARCH EVENTS

Janet King Artist Workshop: Watercolor Workshop. Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1850 6th Ave., Vero Beach, 9 am- 4 pm, Mar. 1-3. $220-$240. Reservation: 772-231-0303; .

Pink Floyd Experience: “Wish You Were Here,” music, light, video show. King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Mar. 1. $22. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Opera Studies 2012: “The Age Of Bel Canto.” Leonhardt Auditorium, Vero Beach Museum of Art, 1-4:30 pm, Mar. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. $40-$50. Register: 772-231-0707 ext. 116; vboperastudies.com.

Rapunzel & Me: Riverside Children’s Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 1:30 pm, Mar. 1, 14-15; 7:30 pm, Mar. 23. $5-$16. 772-231-6990.

Student Showcase, Open House: Culinary Institute at IRSC; program information, financial aid information, kitchen tours, free food samples. Indian River State College Mueller Campus, 6155 College Lane, Vero Beach, 6 pm, Mar. 1. 772-226-2511; irscculinaryinstitute.com.

World Day of Prayer: Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2555 58th Ave., Vero Beach, 9:30 am, March 2. 772-567-8802.

Flametree Expansion Celebration: Meet new artists, see the new space, share a drink. Flametree Clay Art Gallery, 2041 14th Ave., Vero Beach, 5-8 pm, Mar. 2. 772-202-2810; .

HairPeace: Folk/rock sound. Library Coffee House, North Indian River County Library, 1001 Sebastian Blvd., Sebastian, 7-9 pm, March 2. 772-589-1355.

Lewis Black: Comedian. Kings Center, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Mar. 2, $35. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Italian Food Festival: Italian-American Civic Association, 1600 25th St., Vero Beach, 11 am-11 pm, Mar. 2-3; 11 am-7 pm, Mar. 4. Ticket: 772-778-1522.

St. Edward’s Trunk Show: 50 vendors w/ unique merchandise. St. Edward’s School, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 9 am-5 pm, Mar. 3; 10 am-4 pm, Mar. 4. $5. 772-231-5192; steds.org/trunkshow. Also: Preview Party, 6-8 pm, Mar. 2. $50. Age 21+.

LoPresti Charity Breakfast: Airport fly-in, SkyDive Sebastian. Speaker, Golden Knights Parachute team. Sebastian Airport, 210 Airport Dr., East, 9-11:30 am, Mar. 3. Benefits local Boy Scouts. $8 donation. LoPrestiAviation.com.

Fashion Show: Dinner at 6 pm. American Legion Post 189, 807 Louisiana Ave, Sebastian, 5:30 pm, March 3. $12. Ticket: 772-581-4869.

EL-DOE’s Flea Market & Bake Sale: Sebastian Elks Lodge 2714, 731 S. Fleming St., 8 am-noon, Mar. 3. Benefits Florida Children’s Therapy Services & The Youth camp. 772-589-3179.

Sunset Saturday Night: OceanSide Business Association concert with Z Street. Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, 5:300-8:30 pm, Mar. 3. 772-532-7983.

5K Run/Walk: Hustle for Home Health & Hospice for runners & walkers. Race begins near Sebastian Hidden Treasures, 11646 US 1, by Riverview Park, 7:30 am, Mar. 3. $20-$25. Benefits VNA services. Register: vnatc.com; active.com.

Cracker Hoedown: Riverside Park, Vero Beach, 6:30 pm, Mar. 3. $75; Benefits Habitat for Humanity. 562-9860 ext. 229.

Disney’s Phineas & Ferb: King Center, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 3:30 & 6:30 pm, Mar. 3. $15. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Cracker Day Rodeo: Fellsmere Riding Club. Bull-riding, barrel-racing, mutton- bustin, etc. 3101 99th St., Fellsmere, 1 pm, Mar 4. $4-$8. Register: 772-571-1847; .

AAUW Book Review Breakfast: Samantha Baita. Richardson Center on IRSC Mueller Campus, 6155 College Ln., Vero Beach, 9:30 am, Mar. 5. 772-532-4712; aauwverobeach.org.Vero Beach Computer Group: Discussion of current tax software programs. IRC Main Library, 1600 21st St., Vero Beach, 7 pm, Mar. 5. vbcg.org.Legislative Office Hours: State Rep. Debbie Mayfield. North County Library, 1001 CR 512, Sebastian, 10 am. Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 2, May 7. Register: 772-778-5077; .

Birds In Flight: Bird photography. Island Images/Gallery of Hope, 2036 14th Ave., Ste. 101, Vero Beach, 6:30-8 pm, Mar. 6. Ages 16+. $15. Register: 772-643-6994; adventurephotographyworkshops.com.

Badfish — A Tribute to Sublime: Capt. Hiram’s, 1606 Indian River Dr., Sebastian, 8 pm, Mar. 6. $16.50/$19. Ticket: 772-589-4345; hirams.com.

Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons: King Center, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, March 7, $49.50. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Dance Socials/Pizza Party: Downtown, 2140 14th Ave., Vero Beach, 7-9:20 pm, March 7. Ages 18+. $5. Ticket: 772-643-8838; .

Concert: U.S. Coast Guard Academy Idlers perform patriotic songs and sea shanties. Sebastian River High School Performing Arts Center, 9001 90th Ave., 7 pm, Mar. 8. Donations accepted. 772-589-4938; .

“Wizard Of Oz”: King Center, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne. 10:30 am, Mar. 8. $8. 321-242-2219, kingcenter.com.

Navy League Dinner: RADM McAneny. Heritage Center, 2140 14th Ave., Vero Beach, 5:45 pm, Mar. 8. $28. Reservation: 772-231-6101.

Jazz In The Garden: McKee Botanical Garden, 350 US 1, Vero Beach, 6-8 pm, Feb. 3, Mar. 9. $5-$9, Pre-ordered dinner $17.95. 772-794-0601; mckeegarden.org. Also, Jazz Brunch, noon-2 pm, Mar. 18. $13.95.

Genealogy Class: 1940 Federal Census class. South Mainland Library, 7921 Ron Beatty Rd, Micco, 1-3 pm, Mar. 9. Adults. $3.50. 772-567-7463; .

Under the Oaks Fine Art & Craft Show: Vero Beach Art Club’s premiere art show. Riverside Park, 3001 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 9-5 pm Mar. 9-10; 10 am-4 pm Mar. 11. 772-231-0303; VeroBeachArtClub.org.

Christopher Coleman: Inspirational presentation. Sebastian River High School Auditorium, 9001 Shark Blvd, Sebastian, 1 pm, Mar. 10. 772-388-5566; . Also: Indian River County Firemans Fair, IRC Fairgrounds, 6-9 om, March 9.Safe Boating Course: Boat handling, piloting, navigation rules, knots, trailering, charts, safety. Vero Beach Power Squadron, 301 Acacia Rd-MacWilliams Park, Vero Beach, 9 am-5 pm, Mar. 10. $35. Register: 772-978-9769; verobeachps.com/boatingclass.html.

Dancing With Vero’s Stars: 10 star dancers w/ professional instructors in fundraiser competition. Waxlax Center, St. Edward’s School, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 7 pm, Mar. 10. All ages. Ticket: 772-563-9118; irchealthystart.org.

Family Kayak Camping: Learn how from the Becks. Florida Outdoor Center, 1606 N Indian River Dr., Sebastian, 9 am, Mar. 10-11. Ages 6+. $45-$225. Reservation: 772-202-0220; floutdoor.com.

Treasure Coast Chorale: Broadway music. First Baptist Church of Vero, 2206 16th Ave., Vero Beach, 3-7 pm, Mar. 11. 772-643-0019; treasurecoastchorale.org.

Jazz on Sunday: “Blues, Boogie, Be-Bop and Beyond.” Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach, 2:30 pm. Mar. 11. $20 and $25. Ticket: 772-778-5249; TheEmersonCenter.org.

5th Annual “Flamingo Fling”: Fundraising golf tournament, dinner auction. Benefit breast cancer patients. Pointe West, 1999 Pointe West Dr., Vero Beach, 12:30 pm, Mar. 11. Adult. $45-85. Register: 772-770-3401; theclubatpointewest.com.

“Give Our Regards To Broadway”: Favorite Broadway music concert. First Baptist Church of Vero Beach, 2206 16th Ave., 3, 7 pm, Mar 11. treasurecoastchorale.org.

“Angels Help Our Kids Take Flight”: Sun Aviation Hangar, 3350 Cherokee Dr., Vero Beach, 6 pm, Mar. 22. Ages 21+. $275. Benefits summer camp scholarships for IRC Boys & Girls Clubs. Ticket: 772-299-7449; bgcirc.org.

Carefree Ranch: Horseback riding, safety, games, swimming. Carefree Ranch, 7290 53 St., Vero Beach, 9 am-2 pm, March 12-16. Age 7+. $120- $150. Register: 772-564-9222; carefreeranch.org.

Stephanie McAfee: Book signing; author of “Diary Of A Mad Fat Girl.” Vero Beach Book Center, 2145 Indian River Blvd., 6 pm, Mar. 12.

Genealogy Class: 1940 Federal Census. St Augustine Episcopal Church, 475 43rd Ave, Vero Beach, 1-3 pm, Mar. 12. Adults. $3.50. Register: 772-567-7463; .

Kids Kayak Camp: Learn kayaking, ecology during spring break. Florida Outdoor Center772-202-0220; floutdoor.com.

Spring Horse Camp: Horseback riding, trails, hayrides, petting farm, crafts, perform in show. Carousel Party Acres, 15055 93rd St., Fellsmere, 9 am-2 pm, Mar. 12-16. Ages 6+. $200. Register: 772-571-1463; carouselpartyacres.com.

Critter & Horse Camp: LaPorte Farms, 7700 129th St., Sebastian, 8 am-3 pm, Mar. 12-16. Age 5-14. $150. Register: 772-633-0813; LaPorteFarms.com.

Spring Horse Camp: Horseback riding, safety, games, etc. Carefree Ranch, 7290 53 St., Vero Beach, 9 am-2 pm, Mar. 12-16. 7+. $120-$150. Register: 772-564-9222; carefreeranch.org.

The Moody Blues: King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Mar. 14. $39.50. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

St. Patrick’s Day Party: Dinner will be served after the entertainment. Vero Beach Elks Club, 1350 26th St., Vero Beach, 2 pm and 5 pm, Mar. 17. $17-$25. Reservation: 772-562-8450.

Bridges to Life Walk 2012: Walkathon. Riverside Park, 350 Dahlia Ln., Vero Beach, 9 am, March 17. Benefits Care Net Pregnancy Center of IRC. Register: 772-569-7939; carenetwalk.com.

The Distinguished Lecturer Series: Dr. Richard Haass. Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 4 and 6 pm, March 19. $65-$75. 772-231-6990.

Kids On The Court Tennis: Learn fundamentals, build tennis skills. Upper School Hard Court, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 3:30-4:30 pm, Mar. 20, 27; Apr. 3, 10, 17. Grades K-5. $125. Register: 772-492-2113; .

Silver Tones Concert: Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach, 7 pm, Mar. 20. Suggested donation $5. 772-469-2062; .

Wilson Phillips: Kings Center For The Performing Arts, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, March 22. $29. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Florida Humanities Series: Seth Bramson, “The Florida East Coast Railway.” Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach, 7 pm, March 22. 772-778-5249; TheEmersonCenter.org.

Apr. 19: Carrie Sue Ayvar, “Florida Stories with Latino Sabor (Flavor)”

Rapunzel & Me — The Muzical: Anne Morton Theatre, 3280 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 1:30 pm, Mar. 24, 25, 31, Apr. 1, 14, 15; 7:30 pm, Mar. 23. Ages 4+. $5-$16. Ticket: 772-231-6990; riversidetheatre.com.

“School House Rock”: Musical based on ’70s cartoon series. Anne Morton Theatre, 3280 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30 pm, Mar. 23; 1:30 pm, Mar. 24, 25, 31, Apr. 1, 14, 15; 10 am, Mar. 30, Apr. 13. Ages 4+. $5-$16. Ticket: 772-231-6990; riversidetheatre.com.

Glen Campbell: The Goodbye Tour. King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Mar. 23. $35. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Every Woman Is My Sister: Fundraiser. A celebration of survivors, featuring Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos. Grand Harbor Golf Club, Vero Beach, 5:30, Mar. 24. $125. 772-223-2399; .

“An Evening With Andrew Lloyd Webber”: Sebastian Elks Lodge, 731 Fleming St., Sebastian, 5 pm cocktails, 6 pm dinner, 7 pm show, Mar. 24. $30; benefits Sebastian Woman’s Club high school scholarship fund. Ticket: (772) 581-3976.

Edwidge Danticat: Author and Haitian expert. The Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation. Emerson Center, 1590 27th Ave., Vero Beach. 4 pm, Mar. 24. $25 for reception; $25.

Tour Of Homes: Hosted by Junior League of Indian River. 999 US 1, Vero Beach, 8am-5 pm, Mar. 24. $35. Ticket: 772-563-9287; jlir.org.

Racin’ With Cars: Parent/child pre school enrichment program. Agnes Wahlstrom Youth Playhouse, 3280 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 10 am, March 24. Ages: 3 and 4. $10. Register: 772-234-8052; riversidetheatre.com.

Goby Fest: Nature Festival. Visitor Center, St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, 1000 Buffer Preserve Dr., Fellsmere, 10 am-4 pm, Mar. 24. 772-750-4361; nbbd.com/npr/cpa.

13th Army Band Patriotic Concert: Vero Beach High School Auditorium, 1707 16 St., Vero Beach, 7 pm, March 28. Ticket: 954-893-5070; 13tharmyband.ticketleap.com/verobeach.

Atlantic Classical Orchestra: Featuring Luis Gomez, Double Bass. Waxlax Center, 1895 St. Edward’s Dr., Vero Beach, 8 pm, Mar. 29. $55. Ticket: 866-310-7521; acomusic.org/store/Single-Tickets-Vero-Beach/Vero-Beach-Program-IV.html.

Super Kid Triathlon: Gifford Aquactic Center, 4895 43rd Ave, Vero Beach, 8:30-10:30 am, March 31. Ages 3-14. $10. Register: 772-226-1732; ircrec.com.

Open Days Program Garden Tour: Visit five Vero Beach private gardens, open one day only. Drea’s Garden, 2661 Victory Blvd., Vero Beach, 10 am-4 pm, Mar. 31. $5/garden. 888-842-2442; opendaysprogram.org.

APRIL EVENTS

Fab Four: Beatles tribute. King Center, Melbourne, 7 pm, Apr. 1. $26+. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Sebastian Elks Charity Golf Tournament: Luncheon, door prizes. Sebastian Golf Course, 101 Airport Dr. E., Sebastian, Apr. 7. $60/per person. Benefits Elk Charities. Register: 772-589-1616.

Bill O’Reilly: King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Apr. 7. $45. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

The Distinguished Lecturer Series: Charlie Cook will be singing. Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 4, 6 pm, Apr. 9. $65. .

Sergio Mendes & Jon Secada: King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, Apr. 12. $35. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Hibiscus Festival: Entertainment, music, food, children’s activities, 5K race, art show. 14th Ave., Vero Beach, 9 am, Apr. 14. 772-234-4412; HibiscusFestival.org. Also: Miss Hibiscus Pageant, 7 pm, Apr. 13.

Concert: Songs of Spring. Trinity Episcopal Church, 2365 Pine Ave., Vero Beach, 7:30 pm, Apr. 13 and 3 pm, Apr. 15. $5-$20. 772-494-5011; verobeachchoralsociety.org.

“A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum”: Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 8 pm Apr. 12-14, 20-21, 27-28; 2 pm, Apr. 14-15, 18-19, 21-22, 25-26, 28-29. $36-$70.

ARC Spring Swing Golf Tournament: Sandridge Golf Course, 5300 73rd St., Vero Beach, 7 am, April 14. $85. Reservation: 772-562-6854; .

ARC Swing Golf Tournament: Sandridge Golf Course, 5300 73rd St., Vero Beach, 8 am, Apr. 14. $85; Benefits ARC. Reservation: 772-562-6854; .

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum: Riverside Theatre, 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30 pm, April 18, 19, 25, 26. . $36-$70. 772-231-6990; .

Spring Home & Landscape Show: IRC Fairgrounds, 7955 58th Ave., Vero Beach, noon-8 pm, Apr. 20; 10 am-8 pm Apr. 21; 10 am-6 pm Apr. 22. Ages 13 +. $5. Ticket: 772-228-6045; patriotshows.com.

Elvis Costello And The Imposters: Kings Center For The Performing Arts, 3865 N Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 7:30 pm, April 23. $35+. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Six Dance Lessons In Six Weeks: Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 8 pm, Apr. 26-28; 2 pm Apr. 28-29. $40.

Art Of Music: Art auction. Northern Trust, 755 Beachland Blvd., Vero Beach, 4:30-7:30 pm, Apr. 27. $50. Benefits Vero Beach Choral Society’s Music Scholarship Program. Ticket: 772-494-5011; verobeachchoralsociety.org.

Bill Maher: Political humor. King Center, 3865 North Wickham Road, Melbourne, 8 pm, Apr. 28. $35+. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

End Of The Season Party: Schumann Hall Senior Center, 686 14th St., Vero Beach, 5 pm, April 28. $15. Ticket: 772-469-2062; .

Noodle Doodle Box: Riverside Children’s Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 1:30 pm, Apr. 28, 29. $8. .

MAY EVENTS

Dance Lessons: Six in six weeks. Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 8 pm, May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. $40. .

Dance Lessons: Six in six weeks. Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 2 pm, May 2, 5, 6. $40. .

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum: Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30 pm, May 2-3. 2 pm, May 2,3,5,6, 8 pm, May 4,5. $36-$70. (772) 231-6990; .

The Aristocrats Kids: Riverside Children’s Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7 pm, May 4, 1:30 pm, May 5, 12. $8. (772) 231-6990; .

“The Aristocats”: Stage adaptation of Disney classic. Anne Morton Theatre, 3280 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, 1:30 pm, May 5, 12; 7 pm, May 4. Ages 4+. $8. Ticket: 772-231-6990; riversidetheatre.com.

Cinco de Mayo: St. Francis Manor, 1750 20th Ave., Vero Beach, 4-8 pm, May 5. $10-$25. Ticket: 772-562-8575; stfrancismanor.org.

Pops Concert: Benefits IRMC Foundation. Windsor, 3125 Windsor Blvd., Vero Beach, 3:30 pm gates open, 5:30 pm concert begins, May 6. $25-$200. Ticket: 772-226-4952; irmcfoundation.org.Steve Trash: Trash & Recycle Show. King Center Theatre, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne. 10:30 am, May 9. $8. 321-242-2219, kingcenter.com.The Comedy Zone: Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30, 9:30, May 11-12. $15. 772-231-6990; .

Straight No Chaser: King Center, 3865 N. Wickham Rd., Melbourne, 8 pm, May 12. $29.50. 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.

Spring Dance Festival: Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7 pm, May 17. $8. (772) 231-6990; .

Spring Repertory Dance Concert: Anne Morton Theatre, 3280 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7 pm, May 17-18. Ages 3+. $8. Ticket: 772-231-6990; riversidetheatre.com.

Spring Fiesta: Celebration of performing arts for kids. Agnes Wahlstrom Youth Playhouse & Anne Morton Theatre, 3280 Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, 10 am-3 pm, May 19. Ages 3+. 772-231-6990; riversidetheatre.com.

Ride To Beat Hunger: Bike ride to raise money for food charities. Waldo’s Restaurant, 3150 Ocean Dr., Vero Beach, 5 pm, May 22. Nonperishable food donations. 772-494-5009; ridetobeathunger.org.

Comedy Zone: Riverside Theatre, 3520 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach, 7:30-9:30 pm, May 25, 26. $15. 772-231-6990; .

SEPTEMBER

Argentine Tango: Workshops w/instructors, Judy & Jon. Group/private lessons. Florida Irish American Club, 1314 20th St., Vero Beach, 3-6:30 pm, Sept. 4-5. $20-$95. RSVP: 772-564-0066; .

NOVEMBER EVENTS

Golf Tournament: Benefits Boy & Girls Clubs of IRC. Vero Beach Country Club, 800 30th St., 11:30 am, Nov. 5. Ages 21+. $300. Register: 772-299-7449; .

Article Sources: Indian River County Community Calendar, Updated Feb. 20