What’s happening in Oak Ridge from March 7-12

Here is a summary of events happening in Oak Ridge starting Friday, March 7, and continuing through March 12.

This weekly listing of events is compiled by the Oak Ridge Convention and Visitors Bureau.

FRIDAY, MARCH 7

“Guys and Dolls” – Oak Ridge High School Masquers – March 7

Location:  Oak Ridge High School – Performing Arts Center.  Time:  7pm

This Damon Runyon story takes place in 1950s New York City and follows Sarah Brown, the object of Sky MastersonÂ’s, a high-rolling gambler, affection.  Masterson must get Brown to agree to go on a date with him to win a $1,000 bet placed with Nathan Detroit, a gambler obsessed with the idea of the next game.  Advanced tickets can be purchased at the Ferrell Shop at 235 Jackson Square in Oak Ridge, or at the Oak Ridge High School BookkeeperÂ’s office.  Advanced tickets are $7; at the door is $8 for students and $10 for Adults.  For more information, send email to [email protected].

 

Open Painting Studio – March 7

Oak Ridge Art Center – 201 Badger Avenue, Oak Ridge

9:30am – 12:00pm

Non-instructed studio time. Bring all your materials and work at your own pace.  Any media.  For more information visit:  www.oakridgeartcenter.org

 

Open Fiber Studio – March 7

Oak Ridge Art Center – 201 Badger Avenue, Oak Ridge

1:30pm – 4:00pm

Non-instructed studio time for all fiber/textile enthusiasts.  Bring your machine if desired and work with others.  For more information visit:  www.oakridgeartcenter.org

 

SATURDAY, MARCH 8

Come to the Library to Enroll in the Affordable Care Act! – March 8

Location:  Oak Ridge Public Library Auditorium – 1401 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  2:00-5:30pm

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) event will be manned by volunteers who will provide both ACA information and ACA enrollment assistance for those interested in signing up for health insurance under the new ACA Exchanges.  Individual computer stations will be available, and volunteers will be on-hand to assist as needed.  In addition, a Spanish-language translator will also be available.  The official web site for enrollment is www.healthcare.gov ; this site also contains detail information about the ACA, and its costs and benefits.  Those interested in enrolling are encouraged to bring Social Security numbers, income and tax information, and details of employer-sponsored insurance options (if any).  Participants should bring this information for themselves and for any family members who may be enrolling.  This event is FREE and open to the public and light refreshments will be provided.  For more information about the program, contact the library at 865-425-3455 or email the library at [email protected].

 

“Guys and Dolls” – Oak Ridge High School Masquers – March 8

Location:  Oak Ridge High School – Performing Arts Center.  Time:  2pm and 7pm

This Damon Runyon story takes place in 1950s New York City and follows Sarah Brown, the object of Sky MastersonÂ’s, a high-rolling gambler, affection.  Masterson must get Brown to agree to go on a date with him to win a $1,000 bet placed with Nathan Detroit, a gambler obsessed with the idea of the next game.  Advanced tickets can be purchased at the Ferrell Shop at 235 Jackson Square in Oak Ridge, or at the Oak Ridge High School BookkeeperÂ’s office.  Advanced tickets are $7; at the door is $8 for students and $10 for Adults.  For more information, send email to [email protected].

 

Saturday Tennis – Oak Ridge Tennis Club – Every Saturday

Location:  Jackson Square Tennis Courts – Broadway Avenue, Oak Ridge

Participate in an informal get-together of local tennis players on Saturdays. Play begins at 1:30pm in the winter, 9:00am during the Spring through Fall, weather permitting (above 40 degrees and dry courts). If play is cancelled on Saturday, we try again on Sunday afternoon at 1:30pm.  All skill levels are welcome.  Just ask for the coordinator when you arrive.  To join the Saturday tennis email list, visit[email protected].

 

SUNDAY, MARCH 9

Free Coffee Concert – Oak Ridge Civic Music Association – March 9

Location:  First Presbyterian Church – 1051 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  7:30pm

The concert features Preston Davis on double bass along with Will Yager on double bass and Pam Robertson on piano.  They will perform Bach’s Double Violin Concerto arranged for double basses and piano; G. Bottesini’s Passiona Amorosa; and more.  For more information, visit www.orcma.org or call 865-483-5569.

 

“Guys and Dolls” – Oak Ridge High School Masquers – March 9

Location:  Oak Ridge High School – Performing Arts Center.  Time:  2pm

This Damon Runyon story takes place in 1950s New York City and follows Sarah Brown, the object of Sky MastersonÂ’s, a high-rolling gambler, affection.  Masterson must get Brown to agree to go on a date with him to win a $1,000 bet placed with Nathan Detroit, a gambler obsessed with the idea of the next game.   Advanced tickets can be purchased at the Ferrell Shop at 235 Jackson Square in Oak Ridge, or at the Oak Ridge High School BookkeeperÂ’s office.  Advanced tickets are $7; at the door is $8 for students and $10 for Adults.  For more information, send email to [email protected].

 

Ebony Imagery XV, Creative CrackerJacks at the Oak Ridge Art Center – Last Day!

Oak Ridge Art Center – 201 Badger Avenue, Oak Ridge

In addition to the featured Exhibition, come and see selections from the Art Center’s Permanent Collection which features International Artists including Henri Matisse, Edouard Manet, Salvador Dali and many others.  This event is FREE and open to the public.  Bring your friends and family!  Call the Art Center for questions at 865-482-1441.

 

MONDAY, MARCH 10                  

Aid to Distressed Families of Appalachian Counties (ADFAC) Dine & Donate Begins – March 10

On March 10, the following restaurants will be donating a significant portion of their sales to ADFAC, a local nonprofit working to provide hope and stability to our less fortunate neighbors:  Nature’s Marketplace, Papa Murphy’s, The Other One, and Razzleberry’s in Oak Ridge and Hoskins Restaurant in Clinton.   For additional information, please visit, www.adfac.org.

 

Exercise for Fitness – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings

Location:  Oak Ridge Civic Center – 1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  9:00am-10:30am

This class will help you look and feel healthier!  Exercise for Fitness is an adult, well balanced program that offers exercise routines that include stretching, toning, Pilates, and aerobics.  The instructor incorporates the use of a variety of equipment including fitness balls, hand weights, steps, stretch bands and h oops to provide a comprehensive workout for each participant.  Classes meet year round.  Fees are $30 per month or $5 per class.  An annual “non-resident” fee of $20 per year is charged where applicable.  For more information about this or other fitness options at the Oak Ridge Civic Center, please check out the Civic Center’s webpage at http://orrecparks.oakridgetn.gov/civic-center/classes-and-activities/  or call 865-425-3450.

 

Aqua Power Classes – Every Monday and Wednesday

Location:  Oak Ridge Civic Center – 1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.

The program is geared toward participants who wish to receive a workout in the water and will be encouraged to work at their own pace.  Participants do not have to be able to swim or get their hair wet. Interested participants may register at the Civic Center front desk.  For further information, call 865-425-3450 or visit the website at www.orrecparks.org.

 

Ballroom Dancing – Every Monday, 6:30 p.m.

Location:  Wildcat Den Room of the Midtown Community Center.

Come join the Secret City Ballroom Dancers every Monday night at 6:30pm for ballroom dancing.  Fee:  Admission is $6 on live band nights and $3 on regular Mondays.

For more information contact Ann Stuck at 865-482-2658 or Patti at 865-482-3701.

 

TUESDAY, MARCH 11

Camera Club of Oak Ridge Meeting – March 11

Location:  Roane State Community College – Oak Ridge Branch – City Room.  Time:  7:30pm

Douglas Hubbard will be offering a presentation on “Portrait Photography” at this meeting.  This is a great opportunity to hear from one of the Club’s best portrait photographers, and to learn the secrets of compelling portrait photography with a small amount of equipment.  This meeting is FREE and open to the public.  If you would like to become a member of the Camera Club, the cost is $20 annually.  For more information, visit www.cameraclubofoakridge.org.

 

Pugh CPAs Value Series Lunch – March 11

Location:  Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce – Joyce Conference Room – 1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike

Time:  11:30am – 1:00pm

Speaker will be Marilyn Roddy, Director of STEMspark, the East Tennessee STEM Education hub of the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network.  For members of the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce, the cost to attend our VALUE Series Lunch is included in your membership investment.  For non-members, the cost to attend is $30.  For information about this event, contact Kathy Gillenwaters at 865-483-1321.  To register for this event, visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e8vvdy9rc48b6521&oseq=&c=&ch=.

Contact Lisa Hoyt at [email protected] for information on how to join the Chamber of Commerce.

 

Print Making Studio – March 11

Oak Ridge Art Center – 201 Badger Avenue, Oak Ridge

1:30am– 3:30pm

For more information visit:  www.oakridgeartcenter.org

 

Zumba Fitness Classes at the Oak Ridge Civic Center – Tuesdays and Thursdays

Location:  Oak Ridge Civic Center – 1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  6:00pm

Are you ready to party yourself into shape?  That’s exactly what the Zumba program is all about.  It’s an exhilarating, effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie-burning dance fitness-party that’s moving millions of people toward joy and health.  Join us on Tuesday & Thursday evenings at 6:00pm for an hour-long workout party!  Fees are $6 per class, or you may purchase a punch card for 5 classes for $25 and a 10 class card for $45.  Click here to print out a release form to have signed and ready to turn in at your first class:  http://orrecparks.oakridgetn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/ZUMBA-Release1.doc . For more information about this or other fitness options at the Oak Ridge Civic Center, please check out the Civic Center’s webpage at http://orrecparks.oakridgetn.gov/civic-center/classes-and-activities/  or call 865-425-3450.

 

Disc Golf:  Random Draw Doubles – Every Tuesday

Location:  Carl Yearwood Disc Golf Course – Bus Terminal Road, Oak Ridge

Time:  6:00pm – 8:00pm

This is a challenging but short Par 3 disc golf course.  This course has tee signs, access to a water fountain, and there are two different basket locations and tee lengths on each hold.  For more information, call 865-425-3450.  This schedule will continue every Tuesday until September 25, 2015.

 

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12

Exercise for Fitness – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings

Location:  Oak Ridge Civic Center – 1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  9:00am-10:30am

This class will help you look and feel healthier!  Exercise for Fitness is an adult, well balanced program that offers exercise routines that include stretching, toning, Pilates, and aerobics.  The instructor incorporates the use of a variety of equipment including fitness balls, hand weights, steps, stretch bands and h oops to provide a comprehensive workout for each participant.  Classes meet year round.  Fees are $30 per month or $5 per class.  An annual “non-resident” fee of $20 per year is charged where applicable.  For more information about this or other fitness options at the Oak Ridge Civic Center, please check out the Civic Center’s webpage at http://orrecparks.oakridgetn.gov/civic-center/classes-and-activities/  or call 865-425-3450.

 

Aqua Power Classes – Every Monday and Wednesday

Location:  Oak Ridge Civic Center – 1403 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.

The program is geared toward participants who wish to receive a workout in the water and will be encouraged to work at their own pace.  Participants do not have to be able to swim or get their hair wet. Interested participants may register at the Civic Center front desk.  For further information, call 865-425-3450 or visit the website at www.orrecparks.org.

 

ONGOING EVENTS:

Ebony Imagery XV, Creative CrackerJacks at the Oak Ridge Art Center – thru March 9

Oak Ridge Art Center – 201 Badger Avenue, Oak Ridge

In addition to the featured Exhibition, come and see selections from the Art Center’s Permanent Collection which features International Artists including Henri Matisse, Edouard Manet, Salvador Dali and many others.  This event is FREE and open to the public.  Bring your friends and family!  Call the Art Center for questions at 865-482-1441.

 

“Atomic Energy:  A Life Magazine Exhibition Prepared in Consultation with the United States Atomic Energy Commission” – thru April 20

Location:  American Museum of Science and Energy (Lobby) – 300 South Tulane Avenue.

A 1948 panel exhibition prepared by Life magazine for distribution, and was announced in National Committee on Atomic Energy newsletter 66 years ago.  The vintage photographic panel exhibit portrays the constructive uses of atomic energy, and the need for international control.  Artifacts included are the panel display shipping crate, an exhibition pamphlet stamped American Museum of Atomic Energy, and at least one book mentioned in the pamphlet will be displayed.  This exhibit was donated to AMSE in 2013 by the Samuel P. Hayes Research Library at Perkins School for the blind in Watertown, MA. For more information, visit www.amse.org or call 865-576-3200.

 

Life Development Center – Haw Ridge Park

Located:  Haw Ridge Park on Edgemoor Road, Oak Ridge

This facility has a challenging but safe rope course and the staff can provide other exciting adventures such as rock climbing, backpacking, white water rafting, and caving.  The center is also available for camping, family reunions, team building retreats, company picnics, birthday parties, and youth group outings.  The CenterÂ’s proximity to Haw Ridge Park and Melton Hill Lake also make it ideal for mountain biking, trail running, and canoeing.  The rates are determined based on the size of the group and the activities.  You can contact the staff at 865-200-1790 or send an email to [email protected].

 

Outdoor Activities in Oak Ridge (and surrounding areas) – Ongoing

For outdoor activities such as Golfing, Birdwatching, Hiking, Fishing, Horseback Riding, Swimming, Water Skiing, Camping or ATV fun, visit the following website for detailed information and locationshttp://oakridgevisitor.com/around-town/what-to-do/outdoor/.

 

Winter/Spring activities at Girls, Inc.

Girls Incorporated Sports Program, offers a variety of sports each year such as, volleyball, tumbling and running in the Fall; basketball and bowling in the Winter; and softball, tennis and a basketball clinic in the Spring.  For more information, contact Tracy Crossno, Sports Director at 865-482-4475 or email her at [email protected]

 

Sports in Oak Ridge

If you are looking for sports activities in Oak Ridge, check out the Oak Ridge Recreation and Parks Department webpage, www.orrecparks.org.  Many different sports are played throughout the year for adults and children, (men and women’s softball, soccer, basketball, swimming, tennis, volleyball, etc.)  You will find the schedules for team sign-ups, and the dates and times that each sport is played on their webpage.  You can also contact them at 865-425-3450.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Registration Open for AMSE Science Explorer Camp

Science field explorations, hands-on activities, and a tour of Oak Ridge National Laboratory will be offered during the AMSE’s Science Explorer Camp for rising fifth (must be 10 years old by June 10, 2014), sixth and seventh graders during two June sessions.  Located at Freels Bend Cabin in Oak Ridge, AMSE’s Science Explorer Camp is scheduled for June 9-13 (Mon – Fri) and June 16-20 (Mon – Fri) from 8:00am-3:30pm.  Cost for a one-week camp session for AMSE members is $150 and for Non-Members $175.  Camp registration is available online now at http://amse.org/visitors/summer-camps or you can pick up a registration form at the Museum.  For more information, visit www.amse.org or call 865-576-3200.

 

 “Health Trees – Healthy Tennessee” Lecture – UT Arboretum Society – March 13

Location:  Roane State Community College – Oak Ridge Branch – Oak Ridge Room.  Time:  7:00pm

Lecturer:  Alex Wyss, Director of Conservation Projects, Tennessee Nature Conservancy.  For more information, call 865-483-3571.

 

East Tennessee Wanderers Walk – March 15

Join the East Tennessee Wanderers for a 10/5K walk (your choice) on the beautiful trail system at Ft. Loudoun State Historic Area on Saturday, March 15^th.  Start point at the Visitor Center.  10K starts at 10:00am; the 5K starts at 10:30am.  Walking sticks advised; some significant hills and rough paths. There will be lunch at a restaurant following the walk.  For information, visitwww.easttennesseewanderers.org or call 865-742-6882.

 

Cardinal Regatta – Oak Ridge Rowing Association – March 15 and 16

Location:  Melton Hill Lake, Oak Ridge

 

 “Spring Break at AMSE:  Every AMSE visitor saves $1.00 off regular AMSE Admission” – March 15-23

Location:  American Museum of Science and Energy – 300 South Tulane Avenue, Oak Ridge

Visitors to AMSE can explore the WWII Manhattan Project history creating the 1940’s secret city of Oak Ridge and the science that evolved.  Do experiments and discover more about basic science and energy sources.  Enjoy the live demonstrations with audience participation.  Extend history and science with the purchase of an educational souvenir from the Discover Shop.  For more information, visitwww.amse.org or call 865-576-3200.

 

Huck Finn’s Story – Oak Ridge Playhouse – March 29-30

Location:  Oak Ridge Playhouse – Jr. Playhouse – 227 Broadway Avenue, Oak Ridge.

Alive with colorful characters and action-filled scenes, this play for young audiences reveals Huck as a clever, lovable boy who is baffled by the greed, hypocrisy and absurdity of society.  His conscience troubles him about what is wrong and what is right, and on a long journey down the Mississippi, he embarks on an adventurous tale of excitement and suspense that is delightfully sprinkled with Mark Twain’s home-spun humor.  Times of Performances:  March 29 at 1:00pm and 4:00pm and March 30 at 2:00pm.  For more information, visit www.orplayhouse.com or call 865-482-9999.

 

“Assisted Living: The Musical”–MASSKUS Production’s TN Premier of Musical-Comedy Show – April 3-6, 2014

Location:  The Historic Grove Theatre – 123 Randolph Road, Oak Ridge.

“Assisted Living:  The Musical” is a fast-paced 75 minute show with two performers and a pianist appearing as 18 characters.  It is a good-hearted look at getting older with side splitting humor and catchy tunes.  It’s a show for those of a certain age, those that have parents and friends entering this phase, and for everyone that hopes to grow old with humor and dignity.  It tells the story from inside the “process” by being funny yet without being insulting or sarcastic.  The show will be performed five times at The Historic Grove Theater, dates and times are as follows:  Thursday, April 3 at 7:30pm; Friday, April 4 at 7:30pm; Saturday, April 5 at 3pm and 7:30pm; and Sunday, April 6 at 3pm.  Tickets for these performances are available through www.KnoxvilleTickets.com , by phone 865-656-4444, or toll free at 877-995-9961, and in person at Knoxville Tickets outlets or at the door.  Take a look at the “Assisted Living the Musical video link” at http://youtu.be/6PAf5rTGiPA.

 

Butterflies for Hope 5K and Bike Ride – April 4^th and 5^th

The 5K run will be on the evening of April 4^th beginning at 6:00pm.  On April 5^th, the bike ride will begin at the Hot Bagel Company, located at 1155 Oak Ridge Turnpike.  For the April 5^th bike ride details, visit http://racedayevents.net/events/butterflies-for-hope/ . You can contact Donna Sullivan at the Hot Bagel Company – 865-482-2435, if you have questions.  More details will be presented as the date gets closer.

 

“Spring Colors” – Secret City Scenic Excursion Train – April 5

Spring Colors:  11:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm

This train ride gives you the opportunity to experience the journey enjoyed by travelers during the golden age of rail travel in the 1930’s and 40’s.  Passengers will begin their journey back in time abroad Southern Railway coach Fort Oglethorpe, built in 1947.  Advance reservations are required as seating is limited.  Call for ticket prices and departure times at 865-241-2140 and visit the website atwww.southernappalachia.railway.museum.

 

Spring Plant Sale – UT Arboretum – April 11 and 12

Location – UT Arboretum – Program Shelter – 901 S. Illinois Avenue, Oak Ridge.

There will be a wide assortment of plants, and individuals will be there to help you choose good plants for your landscape.  There will be various plant vendors there such as:  Beaver Creek Nursery, East Fork Nursery, Sunlight Gardens, and Riverdale Nursery.  Dano’s Hot Dogs will be there selling food.  April 11^th will be for members only and will be from 5:00-7:00pm.  April 12^th will be the public sale and will be from 9:00am-3:00pm.  For more information on this or any Arboretum Event, visit http://forestry.tennessee.edu/arboretum.htm or call 865-483-3571.

 

Aid to Distressed Families of Appalachian Counties (ADFAC) Dine & Donate Begins – April 14

On April 14th, the following restaurants will be donating a significant portion of their sales to ADFAC, a local nonprofit working to provide hope and stability to our less fortunate neighbors:  Razzleberry’s, Subway, and The Soup Kitchen in Oak Ridge and Hoskins Restaurant, Subway, and Riverview Grill Seaford & BBQ in Clinton.   For additional information, please visit, www.adfac.org.

 

The Secret City Scenic Excursion Train – April 19

April 19 – Spring Colors – 11am, 1pm, and 3pm

April 19 – Easter Dinner Train – 6pm

This train ride gives you the opportunity to experience the journey enjoyed by travelers during the golden age of rail travel in the 1930’s and 40’s.  Passengers will begin their journey back in time abroad Southern Railway coach Fort Oglethorpe, built in 1947.  On the “dinner train ride”, a delicious dinner prepared by Chef Andras will be served.  Advance reservations are required as seating is limited.  Call for ticket prices and departure times at 865-241-2140 and visit the website at www.southernappalachia.railway.museum.

 

Registration Open for Fiesta Primetime – Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce – April 24

Location:  Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce (Parking Lot) – 1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge.  Time:  4:30-6:30pm

This is one of the ChamberÂ’s biggest networking opportunities of the year!  We hope youÂ’ll plan to participate.  Visit http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e8wzuwq0f1706f6a&llr=sttrkqcab to reserve your spot.  Contact Lisa Hoyt at [email protected] for information on how to join the Chamber of Commerce.

 

AinÂ’t MisbehavinÂ’ – Oak Ridge Playhouse – April 25 – May 11 (Various Dates and Times)

Location:  Oak Ridge Playhouse – 227 Broadway Avenue, Oak Ridge.  Mainstage

This Tony-winner evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of honky tonk dives, rent parties, and stride piano players, in 1930’s Harlem.  The rollicking, swinging music of the inimitable “Fats” Waller gets the joint a-jumpin’ as the cast struts, strums and sing songs made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood and concert stages in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.  For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.orplayhouse.com or call 865-482-9999.

 

Spring Workshops and Classes – Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge

There are many Workshops and Classes that will be starting up soon at the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge.  Please visit their website at www.childrensmuseumofoakridge.org  to see a full list of all the fun activities that will be starting soon and how to register for them!

 

IN THE AREA:

New General Store at Windrock

Windrock Park has a new General Store at the trailhead in Oliver Springs.  In addition to selling trail supplies and permits, the store is where you can rent one of their new Kawasaki Teryx 750 (side by side). This is a great opportunity for visitors to have easy access to Windrock’s 72,000 acres without bringing or owning their own equipment.

 

Spring Porch Sale – Appalachian Arts Craft Center – March 13

Location:  The Appalachian Arts Craft Center

The Craft Center’s annual Spring Porch Sale will start on March 13^th and run for about two weeks.  The Porch Sale, held each spring and fall, features outdated stock, seconds, student crafts and unjuried work by members of the Craft Center.  Regular hours are 10:00am to 6:00pm, Monday-Saturday, and 1:00pm to 5:00pm on Sunday.  For more information, call 865-494-9854, or visit www.appalachianarts.net.

 

Five County Norris Lake Spring Clean Up – March 22

Spring is just around the corner and with spring comes spring cleanups.  The Five County Norris Lake Spring Clean Up will be from 9:00am to 1:00pm.  There will be multiple launch points in each county. You can find all the information at www.yallcome.org/anderson-county-highlights/norris-lake-cleanup .  If you have questions, please call Anderson County Tourism at 865-457-4547.