Newman Library Announces December Programs

The Newman Library has scheduled a series of community programs throughout December, offering activities for all ages.

Winter Ornament Decorating kicks off the month Monday, Dec. 1, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. The library will host Trading Card Game Night on Tuesdays, Dec. 2 and Dec. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., and Lego Day on Thursdays, Dec. 4 and Dec. 18, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Teens can join a Dungeons and Dragons session Saturday, Dec. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by an All Ages Switch Party Monday, Dec. 8, from 2 to 3 p.m. A Teen Switch Party is set for Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Adults will have their own Dungeons and Dragons program Saturday, Dec. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m.

All events will be held at the Newman Library.

Gustine Library Offers Free December Programs For All Ages

The Gustine Library is hosting a variety of free programs throughout December, offering creative and tech-based activities for children, teens and adults.

The month kicked off with a Crafteroon on Dec. 2, where attendees of all ages enjoyed an afternoon of hands-on crafting. Upcoming events include:

• Adult VR Game Time (ages 18+): Thursday, Dec. 11 at 3:30 p.m.
• Teen VR Game Time (ages 13–17): Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 3:30 p.m.
• Holiday Card Making Workshop (all ages): Thursday, Dec. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Teen Upside Down Waterless Snow Globes (ages 13–19): Tuesday, Dec. 23 at 3:30 p.m.

Children ages 6–12 can also participate in the ongoing “Find All the Winter Items” game by locating seasonal objects hidden throughout the library to earn a prize.

All materials are provided for craft-based programs. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, visit the Gustine Library or call the branch directly.

Gustine Historical Museum Welcomes Holiday Shoppers

The Gustine Historical Museum invites the community to explore local history during its open hours on Thursdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors can browse exhibits highlighting the region’s past and stop by the museum’s gift shop, which offers a wide selection of items including books, Christmas mugs, jewelry, puzzles, stickers, and children’s books and toys.

With affordable prices and family-friendly options, the shop is an ideal spot for kids to find thoughtful Christmas gifts for loved ones.

Mobile Fresh food truck to visit Newman Dec. 11

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley’s Mobile Fresh program will make a stop in Newman on Wednesday, Dec. 11, offering free groceries and pantry staples to local residents ahead of the holidays.

The food truck will be stationed at Central Valley High School, 649 Orestimba Road, from 10 to 11 a.m. Community members are encouraged to bring a cart or sturdy bags and arrive on time.

Mobile Fresh is part of Second Harvest’s seasonal outreach across the Central Valley, aimed at helping families stock up on ingredients for warm winter meals. The program provides fresh produce, shelf-stable items and other essentials at no cost.

For more information or to find additional stops, visit Second Harvest of the Greater Valley’s website or social media pages.

Youth baseball and softball registration opens in Newman

The Newman Youth Baseball Softball Association has opened registration for the upcoming season, with early bird discounts available this month.

Families can register players for T-ball at $65 and all other levels at $100. An additional $50 snack bar volunteer fee will be refunded upon completion of required shifts. New players must bring a birth certificate to registration.

Early bird registration — which includes a $10 discount — will be held Saturday, Dec. 13 from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Community Room.

Additional registration dates are scheduled for:

• Tuesday, Jan. 7 from 6 to 8 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Jan. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 24 from 9 to 11 a.m.

For more details, families can follow the Newman Youth Baseball Softball Association on social media or check updates in the Newman Community Circle group.

West Side Theatre Foundation Seeks Volunteers for “Shine Crew”

The West Side Theatre Foundation is calling on community members to join its “Shine Crew,” a volunteer team dedicated to keeping the historic West Side Theatre in top condition. Volunteers are asked to donate just one hour of their time one to two Thursdays per month to help maintain the venue’s welcoming atmosphere.

Organizers say the Shine Crew plays a vital role in preserving the theatre’s charm and cleanliness for patrons and performers alike. Those interested in lending a hand can contact the West Side Theatre Foundation directly for scheduling and details.