KFCF Community Calendar: Updated 12/13/19

 ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​​​ To post an event on our calendar e-mail the information to

calendar@kfcf.org, at least 2 weeks before the event.

DAILY CALENDAR

(Multiple Day and Ongoing Events are at end of posting)

Friday, December 13th

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker Vic Bedoian talking about being a news stringer at KPFA. ​​ Vic Bedoian reports from Central California primarily on issues involving natural resources and environmental justice. He ran his family farm before becoming General Manager of KFCF Radio from 1996-2008. Vic graduated from UC Berkeley with a BA in Physics and was a producer at KPFA in the 1970’s and 1980’s.The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church,​​ 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Saturday, December 14th

The Bach Children's Choir and Bach Youth Chorale presents​​ “Christmas Carols Reimagined.”​​ Come and enjoy carols both old and new, from classic renditions to reimagined. Each of​​ their four choirs, grades K-12, will perform.​​ The event takes place starting at 4 p.m. at the​​ Fresno City College Old Administration Building​​ at​​ 1101 E. University Ave, Fresno. ​​ Doors open at 3:40. ​​ Tickets are $10 and available online or at the door. ​​ Children 12 and under are free. ​​ For tickets or more information, go to

www.BachChildrensChoir.org, or call​​ 559-226-6500.

Saturday, December 14th

The Holiday Tea Party at Kearney Mansion on takes place at 3:00 pm. ​​ Tickets are $60 and advance reservations are required. ​​ Tea will include a delicious selection of scones, tea sandwiches and other savory and sweet treats, along with hot tea and all the trimmings. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Kearney Mansion all decked out for the Christmas season. ​​ For tickets and more information, go to​​ www.valleyhistory.org​​ or​​ https://store.valleyhistory.org/index.php?dispatch=categories.view&category_id=171.​​ 

Saturday, December 14th

The​​ Trans-E-Motion Annual Holiday Party​​ takes place from 5-8 p.m. at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church,​​ 2101 N. Fruit (at Yale, South of Clinton, on Fruit).​​ ​​ Join​​ them​​ as​​ they​​ celebrate the year at​​ their​​ 2019 Holiday Party and board election. All are welcome to attend.​​ They​​ will be holding​​ their annual election for next year's board positions. All positions are open. Anyone can run and can also vote. Voting will take place at the Holiday Party.​​ ​​ This is a potluck, so if you can, bring a tasty dish. Also​​ they​​ will holding a White Elephant gift exchange so, if you can, bring a $5 value gift. Trans-E-Motion will hand out awards to​​ their​​ fantastic volunteers this year. ​​​​ To RSVP, message them at​​ https://facebook.com/events/s/trans-e-motion-annual-holiday-/1384881038350963/.​​ 

Sunday, December 15th

Join the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization in celebrating World Meditation Day from 4-5:30 p.m. at 7319 North Fourth Street in Fresno. ​​ Join them to meditate together and send peaceful and powerful thoughts for healing and harmony to our world. ​​ With guided meditation, they will engage in:

 Turning our attention inwards, experience inner calm and become free from tension

 Focus our mind in the experience of inner peace and feel rejuvenated

 Collectively send our vibrations of love and light to the world

World Meditation Day is observed each month by Brahma Kumaris Meditation

Centers throughout the world. ​​ Contact them at BKWSOfresno@gmail.com or (559) 435-2212 for more information.

Sunday, December 15th

Fresno Pacific University presents "Fresno Pacific University San Joaquin Chorale Concert," at 3:00 p.m. at University Presbyterian Church, 1776 E. Roberts Ave., Fresno. Tickets are $15 for general audiences, $10 for students and FPU community, or $5 for ages 5-18. ​​ For more information, go to fpu.edu/events/music, e-mail​​ music@fresno.edu, or call 559-453-2267.

Sunday, December 15th

Join the Fresno Art Museum for Family Fun Day, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2233 N. First Street. ​​ There will be art projects for the whole family, an art treasure hunt in the galleries, visit with the real Santa & Mrs. Claus, enjoy the Fresno Unified Third Grade Art awards & reception, and do some holiday shopping at the Museum Store. ​​ There is free Museum admission through the generosity of a friend of the Museum. ​​ For more information, go to​​ www.fresnoartmuseum.org.​​ 

Sunday, December 15th

Join the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization for a Spiritual Celebration honoring all faiths. ​​ Ignite the inner light of peace, love and happiness, to bring hope and healing to our world. ​​ Participate in spiritual songs, guided meditation, and a deep experience of sending our loving and peaceful vibrations to the world. ​​ The gathering is from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. at 7319 N. 4th​​ Street in Fresno. ​​ Light refreshments will be served, and the event is free and all are welcome. ​​ For more information, call 559-435-2212.

Wednesday, December 18th

Join the Tehipite Chapter of the Sierra Club at its December meeting for a photographic tour of New Zealand. After sailing their 45 foot sailboat from Honolulu to New Zealand, JoAnne Clarke and George Deane purchased a camper van and toured this beautiful country in search of hot springs, waterfalls, glaciers and little Blue Penguins. Traveling from Whangarei in Northland where their boat was moored, the couple made their way to the South Island stopping at beaches, hot springs, waterfalls and places of interest along the way. ​​ A ferry ride to the South Island began their ​​ southern adventure with stops in Marlborough wine country, Kaikoura in Canterbury for some kayaking, hot springs fun at Hanmer Springs, a sobering visit to Christchurch, some spectacular hikes at Aoraki/Mt. Cook, a visit to the Tasman Glacier, a stop in Oamaru where the litte Blue​​ Penguin was found, a street faire in Dunedin, a visit to Sandfly Bay in search of the rare Yellow Eyed Penguin, a stop in Curio Bay, kayaking in Milford Sound, and waterfall chasing in Fjordland. ​​ There are too many places to mention, you'll just have to come see for yourself! ​​ The event takes place at 7 p.m. at UC Merced Center, 550 E. Shaw Ave. in Fresno. ​​ The event is free and open to the general public.

Wednesday, December 18th

You are invited to participate in an Afro-Centric conversation with​​ a​​ 2020 Candidates for Congressional District 22. ​​​​ The event takes place at​​ 5:30 pm​​ with​​ Bobby Bliatout,​​ 22nd Congressional District Candidate, at​​ Fresno County Democratic HQ​​ at​​ 1033 U St.​​ in downtown​​ Fresno. ​​ Come listen, hear, and learn how African Americans will be included in the agenda of the this candidate. ​​​​ This is a public event focused on the political and civic needs of the African American community in the metropolitan area of Fresno. ​​​​ Light refreshments will be provided.

Friday, January 10th

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ Joshua Shirley on the topic​​ of leveraging​​ Veterans​​ Voice​​ for Peace. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Friday, January 10th

Every year, the Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concert Series brings eight internationally recognized piano and organ artists to Fresno State. The fingers that play the Steinway Werz found in the basement have also played in the most famous concert halls around the world -- making the series one of the best-kept secrets in Fresno. ​​ In the 2019-20 series, each of the artists has included Fresno State as part of their international performance schedule. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The January 10th​​ concert features Claire Huangci. ​​ First Prize winner of the 2018 Géza Anda International Piano Competition in Zürich, Claire Huangci is characterized as a musician of uncommon sensibility and maturity. This 29-year-old Chinese-American artist has already appeared in many of the world’s most prestigious venues. The Salzburger Nachrichten said Huangci captivates her audience with “radiant virtuosity, artistic sensitivity, keen interactive sense and subtle auditory dramaturgy.” Huangci will perform works by Mozart, Chopin, Brahms and Schubert. ​​ The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com. ​​ 

Friday, January 10th

Tickets to see the Harlem Globetrotters in a world tour at the Save Mart Center will be on sale starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 16. The event will take place at 7 p.m.​​ January 10th. Tickets start at $26.50 and are available at ticketmaster.com or at the Save Mart Center Box Office.

Friday, January 17th​​ 

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker Sheri Plett Wiedenhoefer. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Friday, January 17th​​ through Sunday, January 19th

Fresno Pacific University​​ is hosting a Wind Conducting Symposium.​​ Guest clinician Gary Hill is emeritus professor of music and director of bands at Arizona State University.​​ ​​ This symposium offers professional development for band directors at all stages of their careers.​​ ​​ The event is from​​ 4:00-8:00 p.m.​​ on January 17th, from​​ 8:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.​​ on​​ January 18th, and​​ from​​ 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.​​ on​​ January 19th, all in Ashley Auditorium on the​​ FPU main campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno.​​ The cost is from​​ $50-$200. Register at​​ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fresno-pacific-university-wind-conducting-workshop-tickets-59337366661.​​ ​​ More​​ information​​ at 559-453-2267,​​ music@fresno.edu,​​ or​​ http://events.fresno.edu.​​ 

Saturday, January 18th

Join the​​ American​​ Red Cross to install free smoke alarms and provide preparedness education for​​ their​​ annual MLK Day of Service event from 9​​ am-2​​ pm in Fresno. Sign up at soundthealarm.org. ​​ The event takes place at the​​ Westlake Mobile Home Park, 2760 West Ashland, Fresno, from​​ 9:00​​ am to 2:00​​ pm. ​​ For more information, contact​​ Taylor.poisall2@redcross.org​​ or​​ call​​ 559-513-1656.

Sunday, January 26th

Fresno Pacific University’s Pacific Artist Series concerts span ages and places for 2019-20. ​​ From exploring early music to premiering a new composition, the eighteenth season of the Pacific Artist Series at Fresno Pacific University—offered during the university’s 75th Anniversary year—includes a variety of performances from artists known in the Valley and around the world. ​​ Tickets are available at the door for each of the five concerts. More information about the entire series is available online at​​ http://www.fpu.edu/pacificartist, by email at​​ music@fresno.edu, or by calling the FPU Music Office at 559-453-2267. ​​ The January 26th​​ event is the CASK Quartet in Concert, featuring Cactus Sam Harris, organ, Aaron Burdick, tenor, Sherah Moore-Burdick, soprano, and Krista Harris, flute. ​​ It begins at 4 p.m. at University Presbyterian Church, 1776 E. Roberts Avenue, Fresno. Admission is $15 general audience, $10 for the FPU community, or $5 for FPU students.

Tuesday, January 28th​​ and Thursday, January 30th

There will be a​​ Central Valley Justice Coalition Human Trafficking Parent Class hosted by the Center for Community Transformation at Fresno Pacific University.​​ ​​ This​​ new class helps parents develop a basic understanding of human trafficking, commercial​​ sexual exploitation and vulnerability, as well as understand the cultural and media influences on teens and how to keep them safe.​​ ​​ This is an introductory course to help recognize myths and misconceptions, red flags and learn what is happening locally.​​ It takes place both days at​​ Wiebe Educational Center (WEC 114) on the main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. Register at​​ https://justiceco.org/register.​​ 

Thursday, January 30th​​ 

As part of its​​ Janzen Writers Series,​​ visiting​​ writer Sofia​​ Samatar and Artist Del Samatar will speak at​​ Fresno Pacific University’s​​ Seminary Chapel on the main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno.​​ ​​ This event is free.​​ ​​ For more​​ information, call​​ 559-453-5554 or​​ e-mail​​ Billie.Jean.Wiebe@fresno.edu.​​ 

Friday, January 31st​​ 

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ William Rempel on the topic “The Gambler: How Penniless Dropout Kirk Kerkorian Became the Greatest Deal Maker in Capitalist History.” ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Saturday, February 1st​​ and Sunday, February 2nd

Sun Maid Kennel Club of Fresno is hosting two American Kennel Club approved all-breed dog shows. ​​ Show hours are 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ​​ Saturday and Sunday February 1-2, 2020. ​​ There will be 700-800 dogs each day at the Big Fresno Fairgrounds. ​​ Admission is free; there is a $10 parking donation. ​​ Come see breeds of dogs you have never seen before as well as your favorite breeds. ​​ There is a Pee Wee handling class for children ages 5-9 (accompanied by a parent or guardian) on Saturday. ​​ (Bring a leash for your dog). ​​ Registration for Pee Wee Handling is at the show on Saturday before noon. ​​ There will be Hip, Eye, Heart and Microchip Clinics both Saturday and Sunday. ​​ Vendors selling items for dogs and their people will be on site. ​​ Bring the entire family but please leave your pets at home (unless they are there for a health clinic or Pee Wee Handling). For more information contact Barbara at (559) 840-2299 or email​​ doghouse16@gmail.com.​​ 

Friday, February 7th

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ Lauren Friesen. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Tuesday, February 11th

Save the date for a reception at the UC Cooperative Extension Office in Tulare County, from 4-6 p.m. at 4437-B S. Laspina St., Tulare. ​​ Join UC ANR leadership and scientists to enjoy locally sourced refreshments. ​​ Learn about some of their new research, hear​​ and update from Vice President Humiston on the future of their organization, and catch them up on your news. ​​ 

Friday, February 7th

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ Lauren Friesen. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Friday, February 7th

Fresno State’s Institute for Food & Agriculture asks you to “Save the Date!” for their​​ 

Olive Oil Milling Workshop. ​​ The workshop takes place at the​​ Institute for Food and Agriculture​​ at​​ California State University, Fresno,​​ 2910 E. Barstow Ave.​​ More information will follow.

Friday, February 14th

Every year, the Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concert Series brings eight internationally recognized piano and organ artists to Fresno State. The fingers that play the Steinway Werz found in the basement have also played in the most famous concert halls around the world -- making the series one of the best-kept secrets in Fresno. ​​ In the 2019-20 series, each of the artists has included Fresno State as part of their international performance schedule. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The February 14th​​ concert features Natasha Paremski. ​​ Born in Moscow, Natasha Paremski came to the United States at a young age winning numerous awards including the 2006 Gilmore Young Artist Prize. She enjoys a flourishing career that has included performances as soloist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony, Houston Symphony, Toronto Symphony, Tonhalle Orchester Zürich, and the Moscow Philharmonic. The London Classical Source lauded her “fiery and widely dynamic playing.” Paremski will perform works by Prokofiev, Ravel and Mussorgsky. ​​ The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com. ​​ 

Friday, February 21st

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ Robert Navarro. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Friday, February 28th

The Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concerts has teamed up with the Fresno State Armenian Studies Program to co-sponsor the Young Armenian Talent Series.

The October 20th​​ concert features Nara Avetisyan. ​​ Born in Yerevan into an artistic family, Nara Avetisyan is currently completing her doctorate in piano performance at Stony Brook University in New York. Prize-winner at competitions in the United States, Armenia, Italy, Greece and Lithuania, she has garnered accolades for her performances as recitalist, soloist with orchestras, and chamber music partner at concert halls in Vienna, Munich, Geneva, London, Monaco, São Paulo, Sochi, Boston and Los Angeles. Avetisyan will perform works by Händel, Zakarian, Granados, Babadjanian and Prokofiev. ​​ The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com.  ​​​​ 

Friday, February 28th

The Reedley Peace Center presents speaker​​ Radley Reep. ​​ The event takes place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall of First Mennonite Church, 1208 "L" street,located on L Street between 12th and 13th Streets in Reedley. (Pot-luck at 6:30.) (Map at​​ www.reedleypeacecenter.org.) ​​ For more information, contact Don Friesen at​​ dfriesen0@gmail.com.

Saturday, February 29th

Fresno Pacific University’s Pacific Artist Series concerts span ages and places for 2019-20. ​​ From exploring early music to premiering a new composition, the eighteenth season of the Pacific Artist Series at Fresno Pacific University—offered during the university’s 75th Anniversary year—includes a variety of performances from artists known in the Valley and around the world. ​​ Tickets are available at the door for each of the five concerts. More information about the entire series is available online at​​ http://www.fpu.edu/pacificartist, by email at​​ music@fresno.edu, or by calling the FPU Music Office at 559-453-2267. ​​ The February 29th​​ event is a concert featuring Nicola Mazzani, Piccolo, and Natasha Kislenko, Piano. ​​ It takes place at 2:00 p.m. at the McDonald Hall Atrium, main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. Admission is ​​ $25 for all audiences.​​ 

Sunday, March 8th

Every year, the Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concert Series brings eight internationally recognized piano and organ artists to Fresno State. The fingers that play the Steinway Werz found in the basement have also played in the most famous concert halls around the world -- making the series one of the best-kept secrets in Fresno. ​​ In the 2019-20 series, each of the artists has included Fresno State as part of their international performance schedule. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The March 8th​​ concert features Monica Czausz. ​​ Currently completing an artist diploma at the famed Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, Monica Czausz enjoys a thriving performance career in Europe and the United States and has quickly made a name for herself as one of the finest young American organists on the scene today. The American Organist praised Czausz for her “artistic mastery far beyond her years.” Czausz will perform works by Buxtehude, Schildt, Praetorius, J.S. Bach, Brahms,​​ Schumann, Merikanto and Hakim. The concert is co-sponsored with the San Joaquin Valley Chapter, American Guild of Organists. The concert begins at 3 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com. ​​ 

Sunday, March 22nd

Fresno Pacific University’s Pacific Artist Series concerts span ages and places for 2019-20. ​​ From exploring early music to premiering a new composition, the eighteenth season of the Pacific Artist Series at Fresno Pacific University—offered during the university’s 75th Anniversary year—includes a variety of performances from artists known in the Valley and around the world. ​​ Tickets are available at the door for each of the five concerts. More information about the entire series is available online at​​ http://www.fpu.edu/pacificartist, by email at​​ music@fresno.edu, or by calling the FPU Music Office at 559-453-2267. ​​ At the March 22nd​​ event, Faculty Emeritus Larry Warkentin presents his Menno Simons Cantata and Premiers his Sonata for Violin and Piano. ​​ The concert takes place at 4:00 p.m. at Willow Avenue Mennonite Church, 2529 Willow Avenue, Clovis. Admission is $15 general audience, $10 for the FPU community, or $5 for FPU students.​​ 

Friday, March 27th​​ 

Every year, the Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concert Series brings eight internationally recognized piano and organ artists to Fresno State. The fingers that play the Steinway Werz found in the basement have also played in the most famous concert halls around the world -- making the series one of the best-kept secrets in Fresno. ​​ In the 2019-20 series, each of the artists has included Fresno State as part of their international performance schedule. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The March 27th​​ concert features Rafal Blechacz. ​​ Since winning all prizes at the 2005 Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw, Rafal Blechacz has established himself on the international concert scene and is celebrated worldwide for his virtuosic interpretations. He was recently awarded a prestigious Gilmore Artist Award in recognition of his brilliant achievements and passionate commitment to his art. Blechacz will perform works by J.S. Bach, Beethoven, Franck and Chopin. ​​ The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com. ​​ 

Saturday, March 28th

The Central California SPCA and Airways Golf Club are hosting their 2nd Annual Dog Days @ Airways Golf Tournament and Family Fun Day. This event is open to all golfers (no matter your handicap) and families! Don't golf? That's okay! ​​ They have fun & games planned ALL DAY! There will be lots of fun games, vendors, putting tournament, raffle prizes, and children’s activities planned all day. They will also have adoptables​​ there hoping to find forever homes! ​​ All proceeds go to further the CCSPCA’s ongoing mission: “To Provide Protection, Placement and Education to Ensure Responsible Animal Care” in our community. ​​ Sign up as an individual golfer for $70, or get your friends together in a team of four for $260. It includes 18 holes, bucket of range balls, cart use, & lunch! If interested in sponsoring this event either by fielding a foursome, sponsoring a hole for $100, or by donating goods or services for their event “Goodie Bags”, Raffle, Prizes, Food, or Drinks, contact​​ dogdays@ccspca.com​​ or call 559-233-7722 ext. 124 to arrange donations. Please include a contact person and their information in donation package.

Saturday, April 4th

TRASHIQUE 2020 is THE PRIMARY FUNDRAISER for the Fresno Art Museum in 2020. Proceeds from the event directly support the stellar exhibitions and programs of FAM. The centerpiece of this fun-filled evening is a fashion show that you do not want to miss! The event will be highly publicized and is expected to sell out. This outrageously fun and stylish affair begins with VIP seating at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30). Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. ​​ As in years past, the evening will include art, music, dancing, food, cocktails, and Fresno’s most anticipated fashion show of the year, featuring ensembles created by artists out of what most people regard as trash. Join them at an exciting NEW location, the Commerce Building at the Fresno Fairgrounds! ​​ 

Doors open for General Admission at 7:30 p.m. and the Fashion Show starts at 8:30 p.m. ​​ Following the fashion show, meet the artists, take a closer look at the garments, and enjoy some drinks! ​​ Tickets are $225 for VIP seating which includes a full-course dinner and wine prior to the show, early entry, and VIP seating during the fashion show, plus access to VIP lounge with bar service.​​ A​​ VIP TABLE​​ is​​ $1,600.00 (limited seating)​​ and includes a table of 8 with all of the above. ​​ Preferred Seating​​ is​​ $100.00 (limited seating)​​ and includes Preferred seating during the fashion show in Rows 3 & 4​​ and a No Host Bar. ​​ Advanced General Admission $75.00 (after Sunday, February 16, 2020, the price will increase)​​ includes​​ the​​ fashion show & No Host Bar.​​ General Admission $85.00 (Purchased after Sunday, February 16, 2020)​​ includes fashion show & No Host Bar. ​​ For more information, go to​​ www.fresnoartmuseum.org.​​ 

Sunday, May 3rd

Every year, the Philip Lorenz International Keyboard Concert Series brings eight internationally recognized piano and organ artists to Fresno State. The fingers that play the Steinway Werz found in the basement have also played in the most famous concert halls around the world -- making the series one of the best-kept secrets in Fresno. ​​ In the 2019-20 series, each of the artists has included Fresno State as part of their international performance schedule. Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season​​ tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The March 27th​​ concert features Jeremy Denk. ​​ Winner of a MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship, the Avery Fisher Prize and Musical America's Instrumentalist of the Year award, Jeremy Denk was recently elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The New York Times said, “Jeremy Denk, clearly, is a pianist you want to hear no matter what he performs, in whatever combination – both for his penetrating intellectual engagement with the music and for the generosity of his playing.” Denk will​​ perform works by J.S. Bach. ​​ The concert begins at 3 p.m. ​​ Tickets are $25 for general admission, $18 for seniors and $5 for students, and season tickets at $160, $120 and $30 respectively. ​​ The Concert Hall is located at 2380 East Keats Avenue, MB77, M-126. ​​ Tickets can be purchased on-line at​​ http://keyboardconcerts.com. ​​ 

MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS:

Now through 2020

The U.S. Census Bureau is now hiring workers for 90 temporary jobs in Fresno County Calif., in advance of the 2020 Census for the following positions:

Supervisors  ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​​​ $18.00 per hour

Non-supervisors  ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​​​ $16.50 per hour

Applicants can apply online at 2020census.gov/jobs. ​​ Applicants can also learn about available jobs at the Census Bureau’s Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages. They may also contact the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 for TTY/ASCII.

During Flu Season 2019-2020

The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) is offering its vaccination clinic schedule for the 2019-2020 flu season. ​​ The first flu vaccination clinic will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the American Legion Hall located at 3509 N. First Street Fresno. The no cost flu vaccination clinics will be held throughout the season at multiple locations across the county. ​​ The 2019-2020 flu vaccine is designed to protect against the viruses that are most likely to cause disease this season. While it cannot prevent all cases of the flu, the vaccine is the best defense against the disease and the potential serious complications from it that can include pneumonia and or death. ​​ After receiving the vaccine, it takes about two weeks for protection to develop and protection lasts several months to a year. If a child nine years or younger is receiving their first flu vaccine, they should receive two vaccines this season separated by a timeframe of four weeks. ​​ Health officials are encouraging everyone over the age of 6 months to get vaccinated regardless of age or health status. Fresno County residents with insurance coverage should contact their health care provider regarding flu vaccination availability. Vaccines may also be available at physician offices, clinics, pharmacies and at special flu vaccination events promoted in retail stores. ​​ Information regarding flu vaccination opportunities can be found at​​ www.flu.gov. ​​ For dates, times and locations of the FCDPH flu vaccination clinics for Fresno County residents, please visit​​ www.fcdph.org/flu​​ or call the toll-free immunization information line at 1-888-993-3003.

For additional information regarding the flu season, please contact the FCDPH Immunization Program at (559) 600-3550. ​​ 

Wednesdays, starting August 28th ​​​​ 

New Horizons Music provides adults a great entry or reentry into music making! Whether you were in school band or orchestra, would like to learn a new instrument or have only dreamed of playing, New Horizons offers a welcoming environment that offers you the chance to participate and progress at your own rate. Some 70 people already participate-and we have a mariachi band! ​​ Rehearsals are weekly on Wednesdays beginning August 29 at 5:30 p.m. for string ensembles and 6:30 p.m. for band. Groups perform at least two concerts each school year. All meetings are at the Bullard High​​ School Band Room, 5445 N. Palm, Fresno. For more information, contact Craig Erker at​​ craig.erker@gmail.com. ​​ Register through Fresno Adult School at​​ www.fas.edu.​​ 

Friday, October 25th​​ through Sunday, December 22nd

“She Loves Me” will be performed in Good Company Players’ 2nd​​ Space Theatre starting October 25th. ​​ Holiday happiness takes the stage with a romance that inspired “You’ve Got Mail”. ​​ In this 1930s romantic comedy, two feuding perfume clerks have no idea that they have been falling in love with each other as pen pals. As far as they know, they can’t stand each other, but, in the evening, each rapturously writes to their anonymous “dear friend” when the workday is done. They soon arrange to meet in person – which doesn’t go well. Written by the composers of Fiddler On The Roof, She Loves Me is one of the most charming musicals ever written, featuring a talented ensemble playing a range of memorable characters. ​​ “She Loves Me” plays at Good Company Players’ 2nd Space Theatre through December 22nd.​​ Show times are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., & Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.  The cost is $20 general admission; $17 for students/seniors/military; $12 student rush.  For more information, call 559-266-0660/800-371-4747, or buy tickets online at 2ndspacetheatre.com. ​​ 2nd Space Theatre is located at 928 E. Olive in the Tower District. 

Thursday, November 7th​​ through end of December

For the next two months, the Fresno County Public Library’s Central Library will host a national exhibit that graphically illustrates poverty and housing issues in America today. ​​ It was inspired by Matthew Desmond’s book, EVICTED: Poverty and Profit in the American City.  ​​​​ Desmond is a professor of sociology at Princeton University. ​​ He has authored four books, including EVICTED, which won a Pulitzer Prize, National Book Critics Circle Award, and Carnegie Medal, and PEN / John Kenneth Galbraith Award for nonfiction. ​​ In EVICTED, Desmond follows eight families in Milwaukee as they struggle to keep a roof over their heads. ​​ The book seeks to improve our understanding of 21st-century poverty and economic exploitation, while providing fresh ideas for solving one of America’s most persistent problems. Its scenes of hope and loss remind us of the importance of home, without which nothing else is possible. ​​ The Central Library is located at 2420 Mariposa Street and Warnors at 1400 Fulton Street, both in Fresno. ​​ For more information about the EVICTED exhibit and other Library programs, services, and specific branch hours, please go to www.fresnolibrary.org or call Rocky Vang at (559) 600-6274.

Thursday, November 14th​​ through Sunday, January 12th

Good Company Players' exuberant production of Elf the Musical is on stage now at Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater! ​​ Based on the hugely popular holiday film, this hysterical family treat follows everybody’s favorite elf as he searches for his true identity.  ​​​​ Buddy is a 30-year-old foundling who mistakenly crawled into Santa’s bag of gifts as a baby and was transported to the North Pole and raised by Santa and his pint-sized personnel. Unaware that he is actually a human, Buddy’s larger-than-usual-elf-size and poor toy-making abilities finally force him to face the truth. Santa sends him on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and his true destiny. Buddy discovers​​ his father is on the Naughty List, his half-brother does not believe in Santa, and most New Yorkers have lost the spirit of Christmas. He also finds true love. With a score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin and book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin, Elf the Musical overflows with song, dance, silliness, and good cheer. This holiday classic will tickle your funny bone and open your heart to your own inner elf.​​ Performances take place at Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater, 1226 N. Wishon, at Olive and Wishon in The Tower District. Shows are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.; Friday & Saturday at 8:00 p.m., & Sunday matinee at 2:00 p.m.  On Thursdays, a buffet is served beginning at 5:30 p.m., with a Pre-Show featuring Good Company Players’ Junior Company at 7:00 and the performance at 7:30 p.m.  On Fridays & Saturdays, dinner is served beginning at 5:30 p.m., with the Pre-Show at 7:30 p.m. and the performance at 8:00 p.m.  For the Sunday matinees, a brunch buffet is served beginning at 11 a.m., with the Pre-Show at 1 p.m. and the performance at 1:30 p.m. And on Sunday evenings, a buffet is served beginning at 5:00 p.m., with the Pre-Show at 7:00 p.m. and the performance at 7:30 p.m.  The cost for Thursdays & Sundays Buffet & Show is $59.00 per person; Show Only - $33.00.  The cost for Friday & Saturday Served Meal & Show is $62.00 (Show-Only: ​​ $33.); Special drink & dessert packages available.  Groups of 16 or more are eligible for discounts. For tickets and more information, call 266-9494 or 800-371-4747 or go online to www.rogerrockas.com. Reserve online at http://rogerrockas.com/dinner-shows/ or call 559-266-9494 or 800-371-4747.

Thursday, December 5th​​ through Friday, December 13th​​ 

The community is invited to enjoy the best artwork from undergraduates in the Fresno State Fine Arts program during the 2019 Student Art Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays from December 5th​​ to December 13th​​ in the Phebe Conley Art Gallery. An opening reception and juried awards will be held at 5 p.m. December 10th. ​​ The exhibition will feature the Department of Art and Design students’ best work over the past year. Prizes will be awarded to the selected winner of each category and one student will be awarded the coveted best of show award. The exhibition and reception are free. Parking is $5 is lot P5.

Friday, December 6th​​ through Saturday, December 14th

Fresno State’s University Theatre presents “As You Like It,” written by William Shakespeare. The production is directed by Kathleen McKinley and runs December 6 to 14, at the John Wright Theatre at the Speech Arts building on the campus of Fresno State. All performances at 7:30 p.m. except for a 2 p.m. matinee on December 8. No performance December 9. Tickets are $17 general; $15 for Fresno State faculty, staff, alumni and military; and $10 for students. Children under 5 not admitted. Shakespeare's sparkling comedy of betrayal, courtship, lust, and mistaken identity has been updated to a modern time-period. The daring Rosalind, unjustly banished, casts off societal constraints and unexpectedly finds truest love in this gender-bending romance. Parking is free for shows on Friday through Sunday night. For shows on Tuesday through Thursday night, $5 parking permits are required.

Election Season 2020

Fresno County Clerk/Registrar of Voters, Brandi Orth, is seeking Fresno County residents interested in actively participating in County elections as Election Workers and Election Outreach Coordinators. These part-time paid positions will help to support elections activities throughout the County during peak election season. ​​ The Elections Office is currently recruiting for the following two positions:

Elections Outreach Coordinator (Extra Help)

An Elections Outreach Coordinator plans, organizes and coordinates a specific election activity during an election period. These individuals will troubleshoot vote center equipment; assist with the preparation of supplies for set-up and storage at a vote center; operate modern office equipment used in voter registration and election activities; and perform related work as required.​​ 

Elections Worker (Extra Help)

Elections Workers provide support to elections activities during peak election periods. These individuals will assist the public with inquiries related to voter ballots and the voting process; perform data entry of voting information; process and/or resolve electronic record issues; operate extraction machines to open and extract ballots for processing; and perform other duties as required.​​ 

The Elections Office recently produced a recruitment video to encourage participation. The video may be found at​​ https://videopress.com/v/BsJi4AQB. ​​ More information may be found by calling (559) 600-1620 , by emailing​​ Clerk-Elections@fresnocountyca.gov​​ or online at http://votefresnocounty.com.​​ 

Monday, January 13th​​ through Friday, March 6th

Fresno Pacific University is hosting an​​ Art Exhibit​​ with​​ Andrew Shinn: Photographs, and Del Samatar: Monster Portraits.​​ ​​ Recent photographs by Andrew Shinn, MBA, instructor of business and adjunct faculty in photography at Fresno Pacific University​​ and drawings created for the collaborative book project Monster Portraits by Del Samatar and Sofia Samatar. ​​​​ The Shinn exhibit will be in the​​ McDonald Hall, First Floor Gallery, FPU main campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno.​​ The Del Samatar exhibit takes place in Sattler 104 Art Gallery on FPU’s main campus. ​​ Both exhibits are open from​​ 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.​​ and admission is free.

Monday, January 13th​​ through Friday, May 8th

Fresno Pacific University Student Art Exhibit​​ will be shown in the​​ Gallery space in Charlotte's Corner in Alumni Hall and McDonald Hall Second Floor, FPU main campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno.​​ ​​ Exhibited will be drawings, paintings, sculptures and designs by FPU students created during the 2018-2019 school year.​​ The exhibit is free​​ and open to the public.

ONGOING

Every Day

Fresno County’s Public Library and Department of Public Works have teamed to offer a first-of-its-kind recycling program. ​​ Starting September 5, 2017, county residents can drop off used compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), fluorescent tubes, alkaline and rechargeable batteries at eleven different Library branches.  ​​​​ These items contain hazardous substances and must be deposited at approved facilities, sometimes for a​​ fee. This new service is being provided free of charge to County residents to encourage and ensure proper disposal of universal waste. ​​ Public Works will provide approved hazardous material collection containers at eleven Library branches: ​​ the Central Library, Betty Rodriguez Regional Library, Clovis Regional Library, Fig Garden Regional Library, Sunnyside Regional Library, Woodward Park Regional Library, Mendota Branch Library, Orange Cove Branch Library, Reedley Branch Library, Sanger Branch Library and Selma Branch Library. ​​ This program might be expanded to other branches in the future. ​​ For more information about Library programs, services, and specific branch hours, please go to www.fresnolibrary.org, or call the Library at (559) 600 – READ (7323). ​​ 

Every Monday

The Poor People's Campaign/Moral Mondays launched nationally on May 14 with many people visiting their state capitols to do protest/vigil work. ​​ WILPF US is a partner in this campaign and the Fresno WILPF branch is inviting all peace and justice groups to join them in Fresno Mondays from 3-4 P.M. in front of the Coyle Federal Court House, 2500 Tulare (at P St.).  ​​​​ This Campaign is more than a 40 day or one-year effort. Rather, it is a multi-year undertaking to unite tens of thousands to challenge the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy and ecological devastation, and the nation’s distorted morality. It is a commitment to build a broadly diverse movement based on acknowledging the validity of the many issues and “silos” we are each committed to personally and organizationally, yet acting together to create a people-centered and mutually supportive fusion movement. ​​ Please join them as they begin our Moral Mondays. ​​ All are welcome. You may want to bring a sign that reflects the evils of systemic racism, poverty, the war economy and ecological devastation. ​​ Raging Grannies will sing! You can join in! ​​ For more information, call Teresa at 559-360-8054.

Every Tuesday​​ 

There is a Vigil, at Devin Nunes' Clovis Office, 3rd and Clovis Ave. from 11:45am to 12:45pm. ​​ Dave and Bev Derby hold a weekly, hour-long quiet vigil of peaceful prayer and reflection in the pursuit of "justice, tolerance, fairness, inclusion, actions and laws that protect all people." ​​ Although signs are welcome, they are not coming here to yell at motorists, scream, and demonstrate wildly on the sidewalks and streets. ​​ For more information, e-mail​​ dderby@cvlaweb.com.​​ 

Every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday:

The Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization is offering free drop in classes three days per week, featuring Meditation for Stress Reduction and Personal Growth. ​​ You can learn relaxation techniques, regain control over the mind, increase self esteem, and experience inner peace and harmony in your life. ​​ The classes will be offered Wednesdays from 7 - 8 pm at St. Paul’s Catholic Newman Center In the Library - west end of hallway - 1572 E. Barstow Ave. Fresno. ​​ Also on Thursdays from 7- 8 pm, and Sundays from 10- 11 am, both meeting at 7319 N. Fourth St. Fresno.

First and Third Thursday of each month:

ArtHop occurs the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. It’s one of the most active and successful programs organized by the Fresno Arts Council. Art lovers and enthusiasts from all walks of life flock downtown Fresno and the Tower District on the first Thursday of each month, and the rest of ArtHop venues in the Fresno metro areas on third Thursdays, to meet and greet with the artists and enjoy the reception and music. Museums, studios, galleries and other venues open their exhibitions to the public at 5:00 p.m. and run the free event until 8:00 p.m.  ArtHop has received a remarkable response from the Fresno community. Over 50 participating artist studios, galleries, museums, and other venues exhibit art and artists reception during ArtHop, and it has become both a cultural and special event for the community with a great deal of media coverage. For the complete list of venues go to fresnoartscouncil.org. 

Every Tuesday through Thursday

The Fresno County Department of Public Health offers free confidential rapid HIV testing at the Fresno County Department of Public Health building at 1221 Fulton Mall, Specialty Clinic Area, First Floor, from 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

For more information, contact Jena Adams, Supervising Communicable Disease Specialist, at (559) 600-3434.  

Every Wednesday and Friday

Patricia Wells Solorzano and Agustin Lira, founders of El Teatro Campesino), have formed a theatrical group with Fresno youth that will raise awareness of the problems negatively affecting the health of boys and young men of color, such as drugs, gangs, obesity, teen pregnancy, high numbers of youth incarcerated or expelled from schools, unemployment and poverty.  The Theater for Boys and young Men of Color will be composed of youth ages 16-28 who will be trained in acting to the extent that they will be capable of performing before general audiences. The participants will be engaged in the creation of skits, one-act plays and in the development of a one and a half hour theatrical production with music to be performed toward the end of this year long project. Along with theater, musical presentations will also take place performed by the participants who will also receive musical training.  This project will be taking place at The Cecil C. Hinton Community Center, 2385 South Fairview Ave., 93706, on Wednesdays and Fridays at 5:30-8:30 p.m.  For more information, contact Gwen Morris at (559) 412-7118.

Every Friday

Join Fresno Ideaworks, Fresno's community workshop for prototyping, building, designing, and building our community of makers, for 'Fabrication Fantasy Friday'. This is about letting your inner maker-nerd out. From sub culture to pop culture cosplay has boomed in the past decade and is continuing to grow. Fresno Ideaworks is proud to recognize prop makers and cosplayers as part of the maker movement. We have experts to help you put your kit together for whatever your passion is. ​​ The event is free for members, a suggested $5 donation for non-members. ​​ Fresno Ideaworks is located at 1742 H St (temp during remodel), Fresno. ​​ For more information, call (559) 840-8749. ​​ 

Every Friday

California Employment Development Dept. invites you to attend the Resume Preparation Assistance program with one on one assistance provided to all job seekers with CalJOBs registration, creating a strong and effective resume, obtaining job leads and referrals, information on training and education opportunities and other helpful resources.  The workshops are every Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fresno EDD office at 2555 S. Elm.  No appointments are necessary.  Bring a valid ID and social security card.  For more information, call (559) 445-6747.

Every Saturday  

There is a medical clinic for the homeless, actively injecting drug users and prostitutes every Saturday from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. or until the last patient is served. You can find them near Hughes and Olive Ave. The clinic is staffed by Dr. Marc Lasher and volunteers. Financial donations are accepted. For more information, call 266-0444. 

Every Saturday 

Food Not Bombs feeds the hungry from 1 - 2 p.m. near the Olive Ave entrance to Roeding Park. If you would like to help them prepare the meal, they meet every Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church (1343 E. Barstow) at 10am. For more information email fresnofnb@hotmail.com or visit the official FNB website, foodnotbombs.net. 

Most Saturdays 

Most Saturdays there is a Fresno Free Bicycle Repair Clinic from 1- 3 p.m. near the Olive Ave entrance to Roeding Park, beside Food Not Bombs. Donations of bicycle parts, inner tubes, and blinky lights are welcome. Volunteers are needed to help with minor repairs. For more info and to arrange donations, e-mail: garza.reyes@live.com. 

Saturdays

Harmony & Balance School of T’ai Chi Ch’uan is offering $5 weekly classes in the Yang style 37 posture short form. Join Francisco Alvarez, certified instructor, every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Central Valley Center for Spiritual Living, 723 W. Clinton Ave. Fresno. ​​ For more information, call 559-549-3989.

1st Saturday of each month:

The South Valley Peace Center holds a demonstration for peace at Mooney and Walnut in Visalia, from 1-2 p.m. For more information visit southvalleypeacecenter.org. 

2nd Saturday of each month: 

Divorce Options Workshops are offered on the second Saturday of every month by Central Valley Collaborative Law Affiliates. This program provides information about the divorce process and the options available to anyone considering divorce. Each workshop is presented by an interdisciplinary team of legal, financial and mental health professionals on the second Saturday of each month at the Fresno Ramada Inn, 324 East Shaw Avenue, Fresno, California from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is offered at NO CHARGE to attendees as a public service of Central Valley Collaborative Law Affiliates. Pre-registration is recommended due to limited seating. Further information and pre-registration may be obtained at divorcefresno.eventbrite.com, or contact John McDaniel at (559) 226-4420. 

Every Sunday 

Food Not Bombs serves free food at Courthouse Park to anyone who is hungry. They start cooking at 1 PM and serve the food at 3 PM (meet at the Tulare side of the park). For more information go to http://cafefresno.org.  

Every Sunday

It’s Sawdust Sunday at Fresno Ideaworks. ​​ If you have an interest in woodworking, woodturning on a lathe, carving, or any other means of sawdust production, join us. This is a good way to get some pointers on an existing project or gather information on how to get started in the exploration of the infinite possibilities of carpentry. This event is open to the public and requires no fees. Some experience is necessary for equipment use. No experience is necessary to explore the possibilities. ​​ Fresno Ideaworks is located at 1742 H St, Fresno. ​​ For more information on this event and what Fresno Ideaworks has to offer, go to​​ http://www.fresnoideaworks.com.​​ 

First Wednesday of each month:

A Women in Black Silent Vigil takes place from noon to 1 p.m. at the Fresno County Courthouse, 1100 Van Ness Ave. Show your support for peace and negotiated settlements of current U.S. military actions. Stand silently and advocate for peace. For more information, call 559-278-7140 or 559-225-2850.  This vigil takes place the 1st Wednesday of each month.

Every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month:

A new Toastmasters club in Exeter meets twice a month. More info can be found on our site as well: http://exeter.toastmastersclubs.org, or send an e-mail to

officers-4405971@toastmastersclubs.org. 

The “Goodie Bag Project” is collecting small toiletry items brought home from hotels and vacations to provide gifts for women incarcerated in Central Valley Women’s Prisons. This is a collaborative effort of the CCWF Inmate Family Council, the Fresno Center for Nonviolence, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Fresno Social Justice Committee, and the United Methodist Church of Merced. They are seeking sample/travel size bath gels, body soap, lotions, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, small combs and pocket sized packages of tissues (no food, candy, edibles, drinkables, mouthwash or anything containing alcohol). They are also collecting all kinds of greeting cards, wooden pencils and clear, colorless pens, as well as paper scratch pads and picture postcards. Items may be dropped off at the Center for Nonviolence, 1584 N. Van Ness Ave., south of McKinley, during open hours, M - F, 11 AM - 3 PM. Checks can be made out to "FCNV Prison Ministry - Goodie Bags," and mailed to the Center at the above address, or dropped off in person. Receipts will be given. All donations are tax-deductible. For additional information or to see if an item is allowable under prison rules, call Maria Telesco at 559-255-9492. Please remember all items must be SMALL. 

Volunteers Needed: Collective for Arts, Freedom, and Ecology (CAFE) Fresno,​​ whose mission is to provide a safe space for all people and provide programs and events that provide enrichment and information to Fresno and the Central Valley, is looking for volunteers, especially for Food Not Bombs, an organization that provides a nutritious meal to anybody that would like and need one. Food Not Bombs is in dire need of physical and financial help, and will accept anything that might go to waste that is still useful. This includes but is not limited to: clothing, toys, tools, and furniture. All of these items will be redistributed to others that need them. Food Not Bombs meets on Sundays at CAFE Infoshop (935 F. Street in Fresno) at noon sharp, to chop and cook until 3. At 3 p.m., they serve at the courthouse park. For more information call Vanessa at (559) 485-3937 or e-mail vanpadilla@gmail.com. 

Host an International High School Exchange Student 

High school students from around the world come to the US to spend a year or a semester in American schools. Your family can learn about Germany, China, Finland, Italy, or another country by hosting a student. International Experience is a non-profit that helps you connect with an exchange student hoping to study abroad and invites you to share your home with a student who will become a part of your family. Students in the International Experience program must meet strict guidelines and complete multiple screenings in their home countries. During their stay they are covered by their own health insurance and provide their own spending money. These students want to come to the US to practice English and learn about our culture. As a host family, you simply provide a bed, family meals and invite your student to participate in your family’s traditions and introduce them to our American culture. To learn more about the opening your heart and home to an exchange student contact International Experience at 888-266-29 21. or visit ie-usa.com. 

Every Thursday: 

On Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. guitarist and singer/songwriter Steve Ono is hosting the Smugglers Open Mic Night. The Smuggler's lounge is like a large living room with a small PA set up in the corner. Listening will be encouraged. Musicians, singers and spoken word are all welcome. The content must be family friendly. Each guest artist will be playing 2 to 3 songs depending on the number of participants. Minors are allowed when accompanied by a responsible adult.  Steve will play back up guitar or read sheet music (lead sheets preferred) for the artists on request. Steve Ono has been playing and teaching guitar in the Fresno/Clovis area for more than 35 years with hundreds of former students.  The Smuggler's at the Park Inn is a full service restaurant with a full bar. There is a two drink minimum. Dinner is available. The restaurant is located at 3787 North Blackstone Avenue in Fresno. For information, call (559) 230-8450

Ongoing:

The AMVETS Call of Duty Endowment Career Centers provide FREE career training and employment assistance to veterans, active duty service members, National Guard, and Reserve members and spouses.   For additional information please call 877-726-8387, once again that is 877-726-8387.

Fresno County Public Library is recruiting skilled volunteers​​ to assist teens and parents fill out applications for college and financial aid. When schools are closed, rural students throughout the county often find it difficult to access materials and computers that can help with this milestone in a student’s life. The Fresno County Public Library not only provides a safe and welcoming environment for these students and families, but also has the needed technology and print materials to help them navigate the college and career path. Those with Spanish language skills are encouraged to apply.  By becoming a College Prep Coach, volunteers will dedicate a few hours each week to help families unfamiliar with the task of completing important applications. "All students must have direct access to materials and technology to succeed in life,” says County Librarian Laurel Prysiazny. “By staffing several rural branches with trained volunteers, the Library’s College Prep Program will assist students and families with laying the groundwork for making college a reality.”  If you would like to help a teen go to college visit http://www.fresnolibrary.org and click on the volunteer banner, or call Elizabeth Finkle at (559) 600-9230.

The Artists' Loft group at The Studio Community Center in North Fork presents an ongoing Arts & Crafts program of classes for young and old. The classes are affordable and help support The Studio. To view the calendar go to nfstudio.org.  You can click on Artists' Loft @ The Studio from the Home page to learn more about the group.