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JESSICA FINCH Associate Editor

• ARTHRITIS CLASSES - The Arthritis Foundation will hold an exercise program at Slim and Tone, 55 CrossPoint Parkway, Suite 106, Getzville. The class will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 4-28. The Arthritis Foundation has developed a gentle exercise program especially designed for people with arthritis. Exercises can be done sitting or standing and have a goal of increasing or maintaining flexibility and increasing endurance and strength. The cost is $24.

The foundation has also planned a tai chi class, specifically adapted for people with arthritis. It is gentle on joints, with rhythmic movements and breathing to help manage pain and bring stress relief. Classes will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, also at Slim and Tone. For information on either program, call 636-5300.

• JAM SESSION - Kate Mikoley of Williamsville will play the drums along with other Girl Scouts as they perform with the jazz group Ladies First Big Band on Saturday, March 1 at the Tralf Music Hall to celebrate Women's History Month.

Mikoley, a sophomore at Williamsville South High School, has been playing the drums for eight years. Other Girl Scouts participating this year include Abby Fornes, piano; Susan Fimbel, alto saxophone; Leah Bartnik, keyboard; Emma Janicki, clarinet; and Michaela Scozzaro, tenor saxophone.

"This has been a dream come true for most of the girls," said Laurie Mahoney, director of fund development. "Many of the girls participate in their school bands, but not with the exposure that they receive every year with Ladies First Big Band."

The band will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 1 at the Tralf Music Hall, 622 Main St., Buffalo. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, call Mahoney at 837-6400, ext. 247.