Saturday, Jul. 05, 2008

News & Notes

Out & About

Three things to do this weekend, plus Free Fun:

1 Want more snap, crackle and pop this Fourth of July weekend? Then check out the fireworks show over Woodward Reservoir with family activities from the Police Activities League beforehand. Today, noon to 4 p.m. activities; 9:30 p.m. fireworks. Woodward Reservoir, 14528 26 Mile Road, Oakdale. $8 per vehicle. 525-6750.

2 Celebrate with festivities from the Greater Arnold Business Association and its 27th annual Independence Day Parade. Today, 10 a.m. parade. Highway 4, Arnold. Free. 795-4305.

3 Get patriotic at the 39th annual Fire Brigade Independence Day celebration featuring live music, barbecue, games and more. Today, noon to 6 p.m. Coulterville Park, Junction Highways 49 and 132. $5-$10. 878-3015, 878-3227.

FREE FUN: Explore downtown Turlock and celebrate the city's birthday as its Centennial Celebration continues with a street fair. Today, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Downtown Turlock Free. 632-2221.

-- Marijke Rowland

Kids bored? Check city's activity guide

The city of Modesto Parks, Recreation and Neighborhoods Department is offering an activity guide that provides information on activities that the family can enjoy. Residents can express their creativity, learn to dance, use computer software or participate in sports and fitness classes. The guide includes fee and free programs and events for kids, teens, adults and seniors. It can be viewed or downloaded at www.modestogov.com

Metering automated under MID proposal

The Modesto Irrigation District would revamp its electricity metering under a $19.7 million proposal going to its board Tuesday. The electronic system would replace manual meter reading and help district workers track power failures, a staff report says. The meters also would aid MID's move toward time-of-use billing, which allows customers to save money if they use power outside the peak demand hours. The conversion is expected to be done by June 2009. The board will meet at 9 a.m. at the district office, 1231 11th St., Modesto.

Yesteryears

75 YEARS AGO: Thirteen-year-old Millard Dean of Modesto was honored by Gov. James Rolph during Fourth of July ceremonies for rescuing his twin sister and his younger brother from drowning in an irrigation canal near Modesto on Memorial Day.

25 YEARS AGO: The Roller King pee wee roller hockey team won two opening-day games at the Roller Skate Rink Owners' Association national tournament in Lincoln, Neb.

-- Karen Aiello