Oasis in the hunger desert 

Why not start September out on a community note by stopping by this event at the Oasis Food Center — a program based in Caldwell that provided nearly 300,000 meals for people through its summer feeding program this year?

The open house is from 3-6 p.m., Tuesday, at the Oasis Food Center, 611 13th Ave., Caldwell. Caldwell’s Mayor Nancolas will be there to cut the ceremonial ribbon at 4 p.m.

A little more info about Oasis: From January 2009 through July 2009, the Center gave out 2,840 hot meals, and 16,627 food boxes. Next up for Oasis is its School Back Pack Program serving needy kids in the Caldwell School District when school begins.

Want more info about the open house or programs? Call Dr. Royce Wright at 459-6000, or check out the website.

Rollin,’ rollin,’ rollin’: Boise Bicycle Project calling all volunteers

The local organization that provides rehabbed bikes for people who need them has two major opportunities coming up for volunteers:

— Adult Refugee Bike Safety: Noon, Monday (Aug. 31, that is) and Sept. 1, Ann Morrison Park.

BBP is partnering with the International Rescue Committee to help teach new citizens about safe biking.  The class, which will have about 75 attendees, will cover bicycle maintenance and safe bicycle commuting. After completion of the safety program, refugees will receive a free pump, lock, tool kit, and correctly fitted helmet. Interpreters will be onsite to help with any communication issues, but BBP needs as many volunteers of any experience level as possible to help out.  

— Youth Refugee Bike Safety: 11 a.m., Oct 1-2, Ann Morrison Park. Same idea as the adult class, but this time with kids.

Email Boisebicycleproject@gmail.com, stop by the BBP shop on Lusk Street, or call 429-6520 to sign up as a volunteer.