Around Town: Art Hop rummage sale

There will be a huge rummage sale fund-raiser to support the Art Hop, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. today in the parking lot at M and 16th streets, by Hansen's Tires. Donations and volunteers are still needed. Call (209) 658-2587.

Book Fair at Mitchell

ATWATER -- Mitchell Elementary School will host a Book Fair from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, until March 15, at

1761 Grove Ave. Call (209) 357-6112, ext. 14816.

Help with financial aid

Two workshops will be offered through Merced College's Financial Aid office and will guide people through the process of applying for financial assistance. Today, the workshop is on how to complete the free application for Federal Student Aid. On March 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the workshop will be on how to complete the Dream Act application. Bring your 2012 income tax statement (student's and parents') and W-2 form. Both workshops will be in the Lesher Student Services Center, Room 102. Call (209) 386-6686.

Polenta, chicken dinner

The Italian Catholic Federation will host its annual polenta and chicken dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Italo American Lodge, 18th and U streets. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children under 12. No tickets will be sold at the door. Proceeds will be used for scholarships and various community and religious programs. Call (209) 383-4819 or (209) 722-8833.

Peripheral neuropathy

The Merced Peripheral Neuropathy Support Groups will meet at 1 p.m. on Thursday at the Hoffmeister Center,

1920 Canal St. Call (209) 358-2045.

Soroptimists luncheon

Soroptimists will host the Women's Opportunity Awards Ceremony Luncheon at noon on Thursday at the Elk's Club on M Street. At noon on March 21 will be the Violet Richardson Awards ceremony, also at the Elk's Club. Call (209) 381-0890 or (209) 628-0924.

Carnival at Mitchell

ATWATER -- Mitchell Elementary School will hold a carnival starting at 5 p.m. on Friday at the school, 1761 Grove Ave. Call (209) 357-6117.

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.