Around the Region (11/22/12)

Modesto

• BOOK SIGNING

When: Sunday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Where: McHenry Mansion Gift Store, 924 15th St.

Info: Author and Bee community columnist Claudia Newcorn will be signing her books, "Crossover," "Dark Fire" and the newly released "Firestar" during the McHenry Mansion open house from noon to 4 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the mansion. "Firestar" is the final book in Newcorn's award-winning fantasy fiction trilogy and is published by local indie publisher Shalako Press in Oakdale. To learn more, go to www.claudianewcorn.com.

• TAMALE LUNCHEON

When: Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Petersen Event Center, 720 12th St., Modesto

Info: El Concilio is having its Christmas in the Valley fund-raiser to feed needy families. The tamale luncheon, $10 per plate, includes two tamales, rice, beans and salad. At noon, there will be a posada re-enactment by Teatro from California State University, Stanislaus. Proceeds from the luncheon will provide Christmas food baskets to local needy families this holiday season. For tickets or delivery (free in Modesto and Ceres with a minimum of 10 orders), call (209) 523-2860 or go to www.elconcilio.org.

Send Region items to Region, The Modesto Bee, P.O. Box 5256, Modesto 95352; call (209) 578-2330; fax (209) 578-2207; or e-mail region@modbee.com.