Datebook lists upcoming events and items of interest for residents of Escalon, Farmington, Collegeville and the surrounding area.
Stop by the Escalon Trinity Church – Assembly of God for a free meal, being offered to all in the community this evening, Aug. 31. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. and the church is at 1900 California St., Escalon. The last two Wednesdays of each month are set aside for the free meal. The church also opens its adjacent Clothes Closet at 6:30 p.m. the night of the dinners for those that need clothing.
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Toddler/Preschool Storytime at the Escalon Library, 1540 Second St., is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 1 at 10:30 a.m. On Tuesdays, the drop in knitting group is open to all with an interest in the craft; bring your own materials and enjoy knitting and socialization from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Also don’t forget that the Senior Gentle Exercise Class is open to local seniors every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., in the Ekholm Meeting room at the library, focuses on strength and flexibility.
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United Cerebral Palsy of San Joaquin County and Health Plan of San Joaquin as the Signature Sponsors are joining forces for STEPtember, an international fundraising event that takes place Sept. 1 through Sept. 28. STEPtember challenges teams of four people to each walk 10,000 steps a day, improving fitness while raising awareness and funds for your local UCP. The challenge isn’t just limited to walking; participants can run, swim, cycle, or even do yoga to meet their goals. Individuals are also encouraged to raise money from friends and family, with the incentive being a little friendly competition. For further information email events@ucpsj.org, visit the UCP website at www.ucpsj.org or call the UCP of San Joaquin office at 209-956-0290.
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Riverbank welcomes the REO Speechtrain Toastmasters Club for regular meetings every Wednesday morning from 6:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. at Perko’s Cafe, Patterson and Oakdale roads, Riverbank. This is a fun way to learn the self-confidence and skills needed for public speaking. All are invited to come and check out the group. The next meeting will be Wednesday, Sept. 7. For more information, call (209) 614-8462.
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The Stanislaus County Library is looking for local published authors from around the Central Valley to take part in the seventh annual Local Author Fair on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event will take place outside on the 16th Street side of the Modesto Library portico. Local authors will have the opportunity to promote their works, as well as sell and sign copies of their publications. There is no cost to participate, but advance registration is required as space is limited. Interested authors should contact Laura Ferrell at (209) 558-7817 to request an event registration form. Completed forms must be received by Friday, Sept. 9 in order to participate.
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Cultural Homestay International (CHI), a non-profit high school organization is looking for volunteer local host families for international high school boys and girls. These students are 15 to 18 years old and are coming to this area for the school year or semester. Those persons interested in obtaining more information about becoming a host family should call Adrianne Koford, 1-707-637-3775 or e-mail, akofordchi@gmail.com.
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Micke Grove Zoological Society Zoo Zoom is a health-driven, family-friendly event that includes a children’s fun run, 5K race, games, crafts, award ceremony and a pancake breakfast. It is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 18 with check-in and on-site registration from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Early Bird Pre-Registration is being taken until Monday, Sept. 12. Register On-Line at: www.active.com (Search “Micke Grove Zoo”).
