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far from The Gods Must Be Crazy’s disruptive Coke bottle scenario. Rural access to information technology can help people access emergency services, improve education, dispel ignorance and solve arguments with a quick Google search. (Let us not discount this important use of the Internet.) UC Santa Barbara professor Lisa Parks has spent years in the field studying how access to mobile phones can make a difference in the lives of women in rural Zambia, where electricity is rare and education limited. In science journals, Parks has said that bringing technology to remote communities brings with it the responsibility of first understanding and respecting the local culture. Parks’ work includes projects like VillageCell, which provides cellphone service to places where before, people had to walk for miles to get a signal. Parks will chat about her work at an upcoming edition of YWTalks, the brown bag lecture series hosted by the YWCA Missoula. —Kate Whittle The prevalence of mobile devices in our modern society is often derided by stand-up comedians and crabby older folks alike. It’s easy to forget what a privilege it is to have access to mobile devices and wireless Internet, and just how important they can be for quality of life, especially in rural areas. This is
UC Santa Barbara professor Lisa Parks chats about her years of field work in “Women, Internet and Mobile Phones in Rural Zambia,” Fri., Aug. 15, at the YWCA Missoula, 1130 W. Broadway. Noon-1 PM. Free.
[AGENDA LISTINGS] THURSDAY AUGUST 14 Mullan Reserve combines the best of regional design and environmental sensitivity with amenities that promote an exceptional lifestyle. The result is Missoula's most innovative and comfortable apartment community.
Energy-Efficient Features: LED Site Lighting Energy Star Appliances High-Grade Insulation Exterior features include an extraordinary clubhouse, private gardens, open spaces and a pool and fitness center. Residences include oversized storage and balconies, bike hangers, shaker cabinetry, plank-style floors and custom finishes.
Social Security claims expert Mary Olson hosts a Social Security Q&A session and brown bag lunch at Missoula Aging Services, 337 Stephens Ave. 11:30 AM. $5 donation requested, and folks are welcome to bring a lunch. Space is limited, so register by calling 728-7682. Homeword presents a tour of the Orchard Gardens Community Center and info about housing counseling and education. 210 N. Grove St., noon-1 PM. Free, with light lunch provided. RSVP to jessica@homeword.org or 532-4663, ext. 16. Overcome your fears and take a stand when Treasure State Toastmasters mentors folks in leadership and public speaking. Community Medical Center meeting rooms, 2827 Ft. Missoula Road. 6–7 PM. Free.
SATURDAY AUGUST 16 Sifu David Briggs, of Philadelphia, teaches a Tai Chi weekend, where beginners and experienced chi-ers alike can learn this ancient practice. Montana Sky Lodge, 211 Tippy Toe Trail in Anaconda. Aug. 1617. $60 per day/$100 for both. Email erictither@gmail.com to register, or visit butteacupuncture.com/taichi for more info. Folks are welcome to take what they need at the King’s Christian Church Annual Clothing Giveaway, with many sizes and household items, too. 9830 Valley Grove Drive in Lolo, from 9 AM-5 PM. You can also donate items by bringing them to the church office before Aug. 14, or call Donna at 273-3294. Habitat for Humanity of Missoula hosts a dona-
4000 Mullan Road • Missoula • 406 543 0060
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[34] Missoula Independent • August 14–August 21, 2014
tion drive to help stock its future nonprofit home improvement store. Drop off new or gently used household goods and building materials at 3655 Highway 200 East from 10 AM-4 PM. Call 549-8210 with any questions. The Blue Skies Campaign hosts a nonviolent protest against coal exports at the intersection of East Spruce and Madison Streets. 11 AM-noon. Visit blueskiesmt.com to learn more and RSVP. Paws for a moment and check out the Bitterroot Humane Society’s benefit with food, music, games and raffle at the St. Mary’s Family Center in Stevensville. 7 PM.
MONDAY AUGUST 18 The Right Question Project hosts a Bullying in Schools workshop, followed by ice cream social. Council Groves Community Center, 1904 S. Third St. W., 2-4 PM. Free, and childcare provided. Register by contacting Erica at edeforrest@wordinc.org or 543.3550, ext 211.
THURSDAY AUGUST 21 Overcome your fears and take a stand when Treasure State Toastmasters mentors folks in leadership and public speaking. Community Medical Center meeting rooms, 2827 Ft. Missoula Road. 6–7 PM. Free. Blue Mountain Clinic hosts another edition of Sex in the Zoo: Abortion, where local women and men share their personal experiences. Stage 112. Doors at 6:30 PM, speakers from 7:30-9:30. Visit the Blue Mountain Clinic Family Practice Facebook page to find the event listing and contact info to submit your own story.
AGENDA is dedicated to upcoming events embodying activism, outreach and public participation. Send your who/what/when/where and why to AGENDA, c/o the Independent, 317 S. Orange, Missoula, MT 59801. You can also email entries to calendar@missoulanews.com or send a fax to (406) 543-4367. AGENDA’s deadline for editorial consideration is 10 days prior to the issue in which you’d like your information to be included. When possible, please include appropriate photos/artwork.