Around the Region (2/19/13)

Modesto

• SCIENCE THAT MATTERS

When: Wednesday, 4 to 5 p.m.

Where: Modesto Junior College East Campus, Science 115, 435 College Ave.

Info: The Modesto Junior College science, mathematics and engineering division presentation will feature Laurie Hatch on "The Heart-Brain Connection: Why Love Nurtures Intellect." It's part of a Science Colloquium series for the spring semester — free miniseminars offered under the theme "Science That Matters." Sessions are open to the public and admission is free, campus parking passes are $1.

• NEWCOMERS DINNER

When: Wednesday, 6 p.m.

Where: Sizzler restaurant, 3416 Dale Road

Info: Valley Super Singles also meets most Fridays at 6 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel on Sisk Road for a social hour. For more information about the dinner or other activities, call Anne at (209) 614-4404.

• BOOK CLUB MEETING

When: Wednesday, 7 p.m.

Where: Modesto Library conference room, 1500 I St.

Info: The Modesto Library book club's monthly selection is "State of Wonder," by Ann Patchett. "State of Wonder" is about Dr. Swenson, a pharmaceutical company employee who travels to Brazil to gather information about seemingly miraculous drug research being conducted there. For more information, visit the Modesto Library reference desk or call (209) 558-7814.

Ceres

• AUDUBON SOCIETY MEETING

When: Wednesday, 7 p.m.

Where: Tuolumne County Library community room, 480 Greenley Road

Info: The Central Sierra Audubon Society will hear a presentation by Lee Pagni about LightHawk, a nonprofit organization that assists conservation efforts. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact David at (209) 533-1668 or dharden@sonnet.com.

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