You’ve seen him on television and newspapers throughout the country. Michael Hingson and his guide dog Roselle were on the 78th floor of Tower One of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11th when the world stood still.

The Place of Refuge and the City of Manteca will welcome Michael and Roselle to the Sunday morning service at 10 a.m. on Sept. 13, at 486 Button Avenue in Manteca.

“I lived through 9/11 and have only Roselle and the New York Fire Department to thank.”

Michael will be sharing his personal story about the events that unfolded in his life on that day and will share a message of courage and hope in these days of such great challenge. Special tribute will be paid to all law enforcement, fire personnel, first responders, and civic servants at the service.

On Thursday, Sept. 10, The Place of Refuge will join along with other churches in serving a tri-tip lunch on the grounds of City Hall. This annual luncheon has become a tradition and is presented as an opportunity to thank those who serve and protect the city. 9/11 created in all of us a new sense of understanding and appreciation for the work of these men and women. Watching them pressed into service during this national emergency brought us to an awareness of the important and vital service of these people. A moment of silence at the luncheon will be given to mark the loss of more than 3,000 lives of our fellow citizens on that day that we shall never forget.

The public is cordially invited to attend the 10 a.m. service to extend appreciation to our public servants at The Place of Refuge Church.

The Portuguese and what they have contributed to Manteca’s history will be discussed Thursday, Sept. 10, at 7 p.m. at the Manteca Historical Society Museum.

Retired school teacher Marie Nunes, who grew up in Lathrop, will be guest speaker and others are invited to share their memories.

“Many came here in the ‘teens’ to work on dairies or farm their own lands and they each contributed so much to the community that we decided it was time to learn a little more about their lives, or the lives of their children, growing up here,” museum director Evelyn Prouty said.

The public is invited to the free 7 p.m. program. Refreshments will follow. The museum is located at 600 W. Yosemite Ave