The Oakdale-Riverbank-Escalon Branch (ORE), founded in 1962, is committed to the educational, cultural and environmental improvement of our area as well as our world. We offer thought-provoking programs, varied interest groups and the opportunity to socialize with a diverse group of educated, interesting women. We share a common commitment to continued learning, women’s issues and community betterment. Our common mission in AAUW is to break through barriers for women and girls. Our branch’s primary function is to support and mentor young girls from our community, beginning in junior high with Tech Trek and continuing through high school and college.
Our membership base draws from the three Central Valley towns – Oakdale (population 23,045), Riverbank (population 25,001) and Escalon (population 7,246). There are no barriers to membership based on gender, race, creed, age, sexual orientation, national origin or disability. We are privileged to share membership in the National AAUW and the California AAUW communities.
Current Events – 2025
Get Festive – Sing, Tap Your Toes to Lively Accordion Music,Circle up and Dance! Thursday, December 11, 2025, 6:00 P.M.
Accordionist, Gene Bartolomei
Festivities will start with food, drink and socializing at 6:00 P.M. in the Escalon Library Community Room. Then Cindy Moreno’s father, local accordionist Gene Bartolomei of Escalon, will regale us about his favorite instrument – the accordion of course and will add festive cheer by playing several holiday tunes. He has been playing the accordion for over eighty years and has been teaching accordion for over sixty-five years. In the 1960’s and 1970’s he had over 150 students, conducted several accordion bands, which gave concerts and recitals at different venues in Stockton. Gene even played with Myron Floren (of The Lawrence Welk Show) at some of those concerts.
Once we have warmed up our voices, we will be invited to circle up and warm up the rest of their bodies through dance. Our favorite folk dance teacher and long time AAUW-ORE member, Judy Kropp, will teach us three easy to learn, no partner dances from Sweden, Turkey and Serbia. Judy says: “wear comfortable shoes and a cool top for a twenty minute workout to interesting music.” She also says that people can dance holding onto or sitting in chairs.
Oakdale, Riverbank, Escalon Branch Leaders
2025-2027 ORE Officers: Leah Silvestre Franklin, President; Mary Wolgamot, Co-Secretary; Sharon Hawley Crum, Treasurer; Diane Korupp, Co-Secretary
Meetings are open to members, guests and prospective members. Individuals wanting more information about meetings, locations, or about AAUW’s mission can email membership director, Gail Marganelli at gmarganelli@att.net .