The Lake Norman State Park is inviting the public to a special nature trip this week.

Participants can join a ranger in canoes, as they explore the natural habitat of Lake Norman.

No experience is necessary. However, the minimum age is 8 years. Also, anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

There is a limit of two people per canoe. Pets are not allowed on the trip.

Nature lovers can join the fun at the Lake Norman State Park, located at 159 Inland Sea Lane in Statesville, Wednesday May 22, at 4 p.m.

The cost is free, and the program is open to the public.

For more information on the Nature Trip, call 704-528-6350.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina is hoping the public can help them click their way to a grant from Walmart by voting for them in the "Fighting Hunger Together" initiative.

This initiative is a national campaign where money is awarded to programs that get the most votes for their innovative and effective programs that help alleviate child hunger. The public will decide what organization will receive the grants through a voting campaign at www.facebook.com/walmart that includes more than 300 different hunger relief organizations from across the country.

The more votes a Feeding America food bank or partner agency gets, the better chances they have of winning the money.

The campaign kicked off April 1, and ends 11:59 pm ET on April 30.

Mitchell Community College is hosting its International Festival this week.

The Festival features a parade of nations for children, cultural table exhibitions, food sampling and traditional clothing.

International music and dancing are the day's entertainment.

Those wishing to learn more about other cultures can catch the fun at Mitchell Community College, located at 500 West Broad Street in Statesville, Friday April 19, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.

The event is free and open to all ages.

For more information on the Festival, call 704-978-1321.