Around Town: Dance classes

World dance fall classes are Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 645 W. Main St., on the third floor. The cost is $40 for six weeks or $7 at the door. No experience or partner needed. Call (209) 756-6039 or go to worlddance519@att.net.

Grant applications

Merced County Historical Society is accepting nominations and applications for history awards and grants from $200 to $2,500. Applications are available at the Merced County Courthouse Museum office or by calling (209) 723-2401. Completed applications must be received today and should be sent to the museum, 21st and N streets, Merced, 95340. Awards and grants will be presented at the society's annual meeting in February.

Pancake breakfast

The Elks Park pancake breakfast will be held from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Sunday at the Elks Lodge on M St. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children. Breakfast is pancakes, eggs, sausage, fruit, orange juice and coffee. All proceeds will support the Elks Park.

College classes offered

Merced College Community Services will offer spring 2013 classes starting in February. Junior Blue Devil Water l, 2 and 3 for children and teenagers; Social Media Safety for teens and parents; and Crazy for Cupcakes for adults. Call (209) 384-6224 or go to www.mercedcommunityservices.com.

Shelter needs food

The D Street Homeless Shelter needs food. Cold weather brings in many more people. The shelter serves an evening meal to a group that can number up to 65 on any given night. Prepared meals and volunteers to come to the shelter to help prepare meals are needed. There is freezer space available for donations of meals that are prepared in advance. Call (209) 704-4384.

VFW Club Hall for rent

ATWATER -- The Atwater VFW Club Hall is available for the public to rent for parties. It holds 150 people and has a full-service kitchen. Also, the organization has hamburger night every Wednesday from 5 to 7. Call (209) 358-7224.

Sponsor a cat or kitten

Love cats but unable to adopt? Last Hope Cat Kingdom has the solution. Become a sponsor for a cat or kitten with a one-time donation or a monthly donation to help care for our adoptable cats and kittens. Businesses are also welcome to sponsor animals at the nonprofit organization. Call (209) 357-5425.

If you would like to have your event announced in the Around Town Column, send your information to Connie Hodges at least 10 days prior to the event, at chodges@mercedsunstar.com. Items run according to space available.