Three bands and a big truck show are among the highlights of the third annual Park-a-Palooza at Woodward Park on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 5 to 10 p.m.

The free entry event is the Manteca Community Services’ annual farewell to summer event.

The bands include Norman and the Boyz at 5 p.m., Night Shift at 6:30 p.m. and the headliner band Pop Fiction at 8 p.m.

The event also includes , food trucks, vendor booths and games.

There will be games and carnival-style rides for kids as well.

For more information call 209-456-8600 or go to www.mantecagov.com/recreation

Empty Bowls community

brunch is this Saturday

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley is staging its 12th annual Empty Bowls Community Brunch on Saturday, Sept. 13.

It takes place at 10 a.m. at the MRPS Hall in downtown Manteca at 133 North Grant St.

“Empty Bowls is about more than a meal, it’s about connection, compassion, and commitment,” said Jessica Vaughan, CEO of Second Harvest of the Greater Valley. “When our community comes together at the table, we’re not just sharing a meal, we’re creating a future of impact and change.

The gourmet brunch is being prepared by BESITOS Fine Cuisine.

There will also be an online auction showcasing the generosity of local businesses and artists

The goal this year is to raise $130,000 to fight hunger.

Proceeds will fuel the core operations that keep food moving to those who need it most.

As such, it ranges from food safety and transportation to community outreach and program growth.

More than 300 guests are expected to gather.

Ticket info can be found at localfoodbank.org/empty-bowls/

Courts of Praise hosting

baptism festival  Sept. 20

The Courts of Praise is hosting a community baptism on Saturday, Sept. 20.

It will include festival touches such as games, music, food truck, vendors and more.

Jo Johnson of the Courts of Praise said the event is open to the entire community.

They will also be working with other churches in the community.

It takes place Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church at 275 North Main Street.

For more information, Johnson can be contacted at (209) 227-0087. You can also email lovecourtsofpraise@gmail.com

 Addition information about the community baptism event and the church cab be found at copcommunitytchurch.com

 To contact Dennis Wyatt. email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com