Albert Lea and Geneva are getting a head start this weekend on raising money for the Eagles Cancer Telethon.

The Geneva Cancer Auction is being held this Friday and Saturday night and again next Friday and Saturday night at the Geneva Bar & Grill.

At the Albert Lea Eagles Club on Saturday will be the drive-by cash and aluminum can collection beginning at 8 a.m. People can call 373-1162 to have their cans picked up. At 10 a.m., registration for pool and cribbage tournaments will begin. A silent auction and food auction runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hot beef will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be live music from 1 to 4 p.m. A stuffed pork chop supper will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. All proceds go to cancer research. The public is welcome at all events.

Following is a roundup of other events happening in the area this weekend.

Saturday, Jan. 9

The Grapevine Twist Square Dance Club will hold a dance at the Senior Center in Skyline Plaza from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 10

 The Albert Lea United States Bowling Congress will hold a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Albert Lea Moose Lodge. Dennis Brue’s famous pancakes, egg bake, coffee, juice and milk will be served. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 10 years and children younger than 5 years eat free. The event is a fundraiser for upcoming city tournaments.