Wendy Arman: Friendship over the quilts

Embroidery is just one of many types of needle-craft.

A quilting /needlework group in Dargaville is inviting new members to join. The social group welcomes new members who enjoy good company, coffee and a chat, making friends, catching up with old friends, learning and/or teaching crafts. Bring your sewing machine, stitchery - any handcraft you choose.

The group used to meet at the Country Dawn Quilt Shop until the business moved to Whangarei and now meets at what members affectionately call "Our Place" at 5 Cranley Street, Dargaville. Gatherings are held each Tuesday from 9am to 4pm and Fridays from 10am to 4pm. For more contact Lois on 027 473 0598.

Keep informed

Do you want to be able to vote knowing what candidates' views are on disability issues/policies?

Meet the candidates and have the opportunity to ask them questions during two "Meet the Candidates" forums to be held in Northland this week.

The Whangarei event takes place on Wednesday, September 3 from 2.30pm in the Ratu Room, Manaia PHO, Rust Avenue and is hosted by 20percent and Tiaho Trust.

The second will take place in Kaitaia on Thursday, September 4 from 1.30pm at the Te Ahu Centre, corner of Mathews Avenue and South Road, SH1 Kaitaia. A NZSL interpreter and refreshments will be provided at both venues.

Throughout the build-up to the election the aim is to keep you updated with what parties are saying and how you can get involved regardless of your political beliefs. There will be topics to debate, spotlights placed on electorates and video interviews with key players.

For more information contact 09 430-3406; check out the website: www.tiaho.org.nz; Facebook or Twitter @20percentNZ.

Celebrate Dad

Mark Sunday, September 7 on your calendar as the day to have fun at Kiwi North in celebration of Father's Day. Barnardos and other family service providers have joined forces with Kiwi North to provide a whole day of activities:

• Free event entry to all dads and their children (everyone else gold coin donation)

• Free rides and barbecue

• Free entry at Kiwi House and Museum for dads and their children.

The event will run from 10am to 3pm. Entry: Gate 2, Kiwi North, 500 SH 14 Maunu, Whangarei.

For more information about this event, contact Barnardos on 09 438-2954 or Kiwi North on 09 438-9630.

Show auditions

Join a happy band of performers offering classic Octagon Theatre fare from a menu of well-loved songs and skits - audition for the happy Christmas show Here We Are Again.

Auditions will be held on Sunday, September 7 from 4 to 6pm and Monday, September 8 from 7 to 9pm at the theatre in Aubrey Street. Be prepared to sing a bit, move a bit, act a bit and be just a little bit silly, too.

The show will run from November 14 to 29 (including matinees) and promises a pub scene, Irish songs, an army skit plus wartime songs and a medley of Christmas numbers - all designed to herald the festive season in a fun and stylish way.

And don't forget the excellent three-course dinner with complimentary wine.

For more information about the audition, and to anyone wanting to help out behind the scenes, contact Bill Finn on 09 436-2949 or Carol Freebairn on 09 435-6547. You can also check out the website: www.octagontheatre.co.nz.

Community day

Newcomers are welcome to take part in a Christian Meditation Community Day happening on September 13 from 9.45am to 3.30pm at 735 Owhiwa Road, Mt Tiger, Whangarei.

The theme for the day will be "Christian Mindfulness/Living in the Present Moment". Focusing on how the Christian tradition teaches us to live mindfully in the present moment; practising the presence of God in all we do and say. An emphasis will be placed on silence and recollection. Bring your own lunch. A small koha would be appreciated.

To register your interest and for more information, contact Michael on 09 436-5663, or email: md1@ihug.co.nz.

Say it here

Are you a club, group, community organisation, business, or individual contributing positively to Whangarei District? Do you want to share your news and information with the public for free?

Items are currently being accepted for the Community Spirit Whangarei column. Get in quick - don't leave it until the last minute! Contact Wendy Arman on 09 430-0980 or email: exnonblonde@hotmail.com.