The first of many fundraisers to save the 1952 American Legion Hall along the north side of the Tuolumne River opposite Ceres is coming up on Saturday, May 9.

A social complete with wine tasting, appetizers, desserts, silent auction, dancing and no host bar starts at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $35 per person.

Ceres resident Brandy D. Meyer, a member of the Tuolumne River Regional Park (TRRP) Citizens Advisory Committee, is helping to raise funds to save the structure.

The hall is currently used as a rental for residents of Stanislaus County and is in serious need of repairs. If repairs are not completed soon the building is in jeopardy of being demolished, said Meyer.

"The building is grandfathered into the current location, but sits on a flood plain," she said. "If the building is removed, another building cannot be built in the same location."

During the historic flood of 1997, the Tuolumne River poured over Don Pedro Dam and flooded the neighboring area including the American Legion Hall. On the wall in the dining area is the marking of how high the water rose during the flood. When the water receded, the hall was repaired and re-opened for rentals. But it has never been the same.

The city of Modesto is holding off on rentals during the winter months due to leaks in the roof. The city is losing money by not renting the building, but continuing to provide maintenance.

"This building is a diamond in the rough. We, the community, cannot let this building disappear."

The cost of tickets is tax deductible. To purchase tickets or donate items for the auction, contact Brandy D. Meyer at 988-6166 or email savetheamericanlegionhall@aol.com. Check out the Facebook Page at Save The American Legion Hall.