February 23, 2007

CALENDAR

Unless otherwise noted all phone numbers are in the 408 area code.

MUSIC

February 24 – Saturday
A Touch of Brass, the noted local 18-piece Big Band, will perform in concert at 7:30 p.m. at Joint Venture Churches of Almaden in San Jose, 6581 Camden Avenue. The band incorporates brass, woodwinds, rhythm and two vocalists to cover all styles from Swing, Latin, Blues, Rock and Ballads to Swinging Gospel. Advance tickets are $15 general, $8 students and $5 children ($20, $10 and $5 respectively at the door). Child care will be provided. For more information, please call 408-268-0243.

THEATER

March 7 – 10
“Nipples To the Wind” is based on 14 unforgettably funny female characters, all portrayed by 2 actors, Janye Anderson and Paula Coco. Ranging from intelligent humor to all-out hilarity, this “must-see” event wins over both male and female audiences. With live and original music featuring Kacey Jones. All performances are held at the Center for the Performing Arts in San Jose. Admission is $30 - $45. For more information, visit www.Nipplestothewind.com

ART

Beginning February 4 - Sunday
The Art Exhibit “Manuel Valencia: California’s Native Son” opens to the public at History Park in San Jose. Manuel Valencia was one of the earliest of the California artists of note.  After the 1906 earthquake and fire destroyed his studio, Valencia moved his family from San Francisco to a home on Vine Street in San José. His passion for the spirit of the Californios is demonstrated in his work, which will open at the Leonard and David McKay Gallery inside the Pasetta House at History Park at Kelley Park in San José. This exhibit is on loan from the Hearst Gallery at St. Mary’s Collage in Moraga and contains over 25 paintings, as well as personal item lent by Valencia descendants Mary Lou Valencia Giller and Edwin Valencia, Jr. To learn more about Valencia’s life and art Curator Julie Armistead will lead a gallery tour at 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 18 in the Leonard and David McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House in History Park.

February 6 – April 30
The new exhibit, "Lacey Beginnings--Vintage Christening Gowns and Accessories" will be featured at the Sunnyvale Lace Museum, 552 South Murphy Avenue, Sunnyvale.  This free exhibit showcases lace-trimmed christening gowns and accessories including bibs, booties, mitts, jewelry, feeding cups, and blankets from the 1800's to the present.  Cultural traditions are often carried on through lace and the examples in the exhibit can be traced back to the turn of the century.  Christening gowns, made especially for the ceremony of baptism, usually became family heirlooms and were used generation after generation.  Traditionally white to represent purity and innocence, the same gowns were used by both boys and girls and richly decorated with embroidery or lace.  All ages will enjoy viewing this informative exhibit.

Hours areTuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. parking is free.

CHILDREN/FAMILY

February 24 – 25
West Valley Gymnastics’ Annual “Spirit of the Flame” competition will feature 700 of the nation’s top gymnasts. Held at the San Jose Convention Center South Hall, this event will showcase gymnasts ranging from Level 4 – Elite as they challenge each other on floor, bars, beam and vault. Pre-Olympic caliber Level 10 and Elite gymnasts are expected to compete in the Friday and Saturday evening sessions. The Friday session starts at 4:30 p.m.; Saturday sessions starts at 8 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.; and Sunday’s sessions start at 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. Tickets are available at the door ($5-$30).

March 1 – 4
Children’s Musical Theatre of San Jose presents “Wizard of Oz.” Join Dorothy, the Tin Man, Scarecrow and the Lion as CMT brings this timeless family classic to life. Based on the film, this colorful stage version includes your favorite Ozian songs including, “Follow the Yellow Brick, Road”, “If I Only Had A Brain”, and the “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”. All performance staged at the Montgomery Theater. For show times and other information, call 288-KIDS or visit www.cmtsj.org. Admission is $16 – $19 per person.

March 7 & 21
The Pruneyard’s Camera 7, 1875 South Bascom in Campbell presents its “Diaper Days” film program catering exclusively to moms, dads and their kids. The special screenings are twice a month and feature first-run films. Diaper Days screenings are the first and third Wednesday of each month. Bring your baby bjorns and infant carriers; changing tables and baby-safe lights and sound levels provided. Showings are at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are only $6.75, with kids 4 and under admitted free.

March 9 – Friday
Join the Friends of Guadalupe River Park & Gardens for the “Plant A Pizza” after-school workshop. What makes a pizza taste so good? Freshly grown ingredients, of course! Come and learn about where your food comes from. We’ll be planting tomatoes, basil, wheat and other yummy pizza ingredients. Hours are 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Admission is $5 members/$10 non-members per child. This workshop is designed for children five years of age and older and will be held at the GRP & G Visitor & Education Center, 438 Coleman Avenue in San Jose. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early by sending a check to: Friends of Guadalupe River Park & Gardens, 438 Coleman Avenue, San Jose, CA 95110. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted via phone or mail. For more information please visit www.grpg.org , e-mail education@grpg.org or call 298-7657.

March 9 -18
Children’s Musical Theatre of San Jose presents “Evita ” at the Montgomery Theater. Argentina’s controversial First Lady is the subject of this dynamic musical masterpiece written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Told through a compelling score that fuses haunting chorales with exuberant Latin, pop and jazz influences, Evita creates an arresting theatrical portrait as complex as the woman herself. Admission is $16 - $19. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 288-KIDS or visit www.cmtsj.org

Ongoing
Exchanged old cell phones for passes to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo: Now through February 28, bring in your old cell phones to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and they will give you one free admission pass in exchange.  One cell phone = one free pass. Cell Phones can be dropped off daily from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. in exchange for the passes, or can be mailed to: Happy Hollow - Cell Phone Recycle Program 1300 Senter Road, San Jose, CA  95112 Tax receipts are available upon request. Limit 2 passes per person. 100% of funds raised through the program are donated to the Orangutan Conservancy, protecting one of the most critically endangered species on Earth. For more information, call 277-3065 or visit www.hhpz.org

CLASSES

February 10 – March 17
Friends of Guadalupe River Park & Gardens Healthy Living Classes co-sponsored by Kaiser Permanente San Jose: The first in this series, “Walking for Health” is a step-by-step course led by Fitness Professional Kristin Strellis that will lead participants through the paved trails of Guadalupe River Park. Learn how to stretch and exercise before and after walking and other helpful tips. Participants will also receive a “Choosing Health” book/DVD and pedometer generously donated from Kaiser Permanente San Jose. Time is 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Fee is $25. Pre-registration is required and participants must be 18 years of age or older. All classes will begin at the Guadalupe River Park and Gardens Visitor & Education Center located at 438 Coleman Avenue in San Jose. For more information and to register, visit our website www.grpg.org, e-mail us at education@grpg.org, or call 298-7657.

February 27 - Tuesday
Caring for Mom and Dad? – Don’t go it Alone - If you are helping your aging parent(s) retain their quality of life by offering physical, financial and mental support, you owe it to yourself to maintain the stability and balance of your own life. Process Therapy Institute of Los Gatos and Belmont Village Senior Living of San Jose are offering a new evening support group for adult children who are responsible for the day-to-day health and safety of their aging parents.  Learn to balance this new role and face the challenges with Mary Serrano, wife, mother, daughter, and MFT trainee – Don’t go it alone. All sessions are held at Belmont Village Senior Living, 500 South Winchester Blvd. in San Jose from 7 – 9 p.m. Light refreshments are served. For specific questions contact Mary Serrano at Process Therapy Institute of Los Gatos, 358-2218 ext. 447 or mary@processes.org. RSVPs are suggested as space is limited; 984-4767

March 13 – Tuesday
Parents Helping Parents is partnering with several other Bay Area non-profits to present a learning disabilities resource event for parents and professionals. “Navigating Learning Disabilities” will be presented from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Parents Place Resource Center, 200 Channing Avenue in Palo Alto. Event Keynote speaker is Carol Zepecki, Ed.D., Director of Student Services, Palo Alto USD. This event will also feature a student panel sharing experiences and success stories,  a learning disability simulation designed to increase awareness of the experiences of children with learning disabilities; a book fair, Parents Booth, vendor exhibits, and assistive technology demonstrations. Sponsored by Parents Place, Parents Helping Parents, Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic, WestEd and First 5 Santa Clara County. Admission is $25 - Scholarships available.  Register at www.parentsplaceonline.org.

Ongoing
Interested in learning German or refreshing your skills?  SouthBay Deutscher Schulverein, a German Saturday Language School, offers German language instructions at the Willow Glen Educational Park, Middle School Section, 2001 Cottle Avenue in San Jose. The school offers classes for pre-school - teenagers, as well as adult beginners, intermediate and advanced courses on Saturdays from 9a.m. – 12 p.m. For more information visit our website www.sbds.org or call 266-5100. Please note that no information is available weekdays at the school location. Our new semester has just begun; new students can join any time.

FIFTY PLUS

February 1 – April 14
A free tax preparation program is available to assist seniors (ages 50-plus) and lower income clients with tax returns. Tax Aide volunteers will answer basic tax issues and assist clients with tax preparation. This year, all taxpayers regardless of income, can request a one-time telephone tax refund and receive an extra $30 - $60 on their return. This service is offered by the City of San José's Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services, Office on Aging/Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in conjunction with American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). To schedule an appointment or to find out more information about the program, please contact the RSVP Volunteer Tax-Aide Program at the Office on Aging at 979-7906. Participating locations include: Evergreen Library, 2635 Aborn Road, each Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and The Eastside Neighborhood Center, 2159 Alum Rock Avenue, each Monday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

March 10 –Saturday
SeniorNet, computer classes for adults 50 and over, will hold its class registration at the Almaden Community Center, 6445 Camden Avenue in San Jose. Registration for Intermediate courses begins at 1:30 p.m. followed by Beginner Computer registration at 3 p.m. All classes will be held at the Almaden Community Center. For more information, call Don House at 268-1703 or visit www.snlcsj.org

Ongoing
Attention recently retired or semi retired men! Sons in retirement (SIRS) meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Elks Club, 444 West Alma in San Jose for lunch. Join us for good food, great speakers and the chance to meet new friends. SIRS has many activities including bowling, golf computer clubs. SIRS has no initiation fees or dues. If you are interested come to one of the Branch 94 luncheons or call Ron Bianco at 267-0386
The Evergreen Community Center, 4860 San Felipe Road in San Jose offers a variety of classes and special monthly events, as well as a Senior Nutrition Program. The Nutrition Program serves a delicious and well-balanced meal to seniors 60 and over every Monday – Friday at noon. The suggested donation is $2 per person. To make reservations at least one day in advance, but not more than two weeks in advance, call 270-1244. For more information of the Evergreen Community Center programs, call 270-2220.

Eastside Neighborhood Center of Catholic Charities, 2150 Alum Rock Avenue in San Jose offers a variety of activities and services for seniors on an ongoing basis. These include Bingo, Free legal assistance, Senior club dancing, Senior Care Advocacy, Nutrition Programs, Nurse Screenings, Free Insurance Screenings, and more. Call for times and appointments. 251-0215.

The San Jose Widow/Widowers Club meets at 12:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month for lunch at the Cup & Saucer Restaurant, 1375 Blossom Hill Road in Princeton Plaza. They also meet for breakfast every Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. at Goodies Coffee Shop on the corner of Bascom and Apricot in Campbell. Call 408-275-6178 or 408-292-3406 for information.

AARP Information Center needs volunteers to staff their office. Duties include helping seniors find various services and programs, and providing information on senior needs. The office is located at 840 Willow Street, Suite 300, at the corner of Bird and Willow Streets on bus route #25. The hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 278-1855.

VOLUNTEERS

Kaiser Permanente San Jose is seeking volunteers who want to make a positive difference in someone's day. Your ability to be proactive in approaching our members and attentive in helping our visitors and members will make you a valued and key member of our healthcare community. Become a Volunteer at our medical center and start sharing your interest in helping others. We currently have day, evening, and weekend opportunities available for those 18 and over. For more information, all 972-6233 or www.kpsanjose.org

MISCELLANEOUS

February 25 – Sunday
Vipassana (Insight) Meditation One-Day Retreat – Instruction and Practices on Vipassana and Metta meditations, led by Meditation Master Venerable Beelin Sayadaw, sitting and walking meditations, interviews, Dharma Talks, lunch provided, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, free, at the Mindful Living Alliance Insight Meditation Center, 419 California Street in Campbell. RSVP to Tony at 408-732-3322 or e-mail MLA899@Gmail.com, or visit www.MindfulLivingAlliance.org.

February 25 – Sunday
Modern Bridal Faire at Parkside Hall: Meet with more than 150 of the bay area’s finest wedding professionals, view exquisite bridal fashions, and get inspired for your own wedding. The Modern Bridal Faire showcases incredible exhibits featuring florists caterers, cakes, photographers, videographers, music, and great honeymoon getaways. Doors open at 11 a.m. admission is $12. For more information, call 800-400-2099 or visit www.modernbridal.com

March 1 – Thursday
Unique Lives presents “Shirley MacLaine” at San Jose’s Center for the Performing Arts. Join Renaissance woman Shirley MacLaine for an amazing journey of the spirit. From Hollywood secrets to the secrets of the Universe…there is never a dull moment with the legendary Shirley MacLaine. Event time is 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 1-877-882-8124 or visit www.uniquelives.com

March 6 – Tuesday
Local author Richie Unterberger, will appear at the new Barnes & Noble bookstore, in the Eastridge Shopping Mall at 7:30 pm to sign copies of his newly published book The Rough Guide to Shopping With A Conscience. All encompassing and written for the novice, The Rough Guide to Shopping With A Conscience takes an in depth look at the issues surrounding each and every one of our purchases. Sweatshops, fair trade, climate change, ethical investments, organic foods are just a part of what can feel like a moral minefield. With so many claims of social responsibility out there, which can we trust? Following a lively discussion, Unterberger will be on hand to autograph his book for one and all.

March 10 – Saturday
Ballet San Jose Presents “The Blue Suede Shoes Gala” held from 6 p.m. to Midnight in the Imperial Ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel, San Jose. Put on your Dancing Shoes and join us for an elegant evening of Dining, Dancing and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Live music provided by Wayne Foster Entertainment of Beverly Hills - back by popular demand. Admission is $275 per person, Donor tables of 10-$2,500, and Sponsor tables of 10-$3,500 are available. This event includes a Cocktail Reception, Dinner and Dancing as well as both Live and Silent Auctions. To purchase tickets, contact Gala Reservations at 288-2820 x 240. Black Tie or Elvis Era Attire. For additional information visit www.balletsanjose.org

March 10 – Saturday
Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Denim to Diamonds, with a James Bond-inspired twist, Diamonds are Forever. Guests begin the evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Tech Museum for a champagne reception and silent auction, followed by a gourmet dinner and awards presentation/live auction at Parkside Hall. The evening ends back at the Tech with the Casino Royale, desserts, and dancing to the music of the Fabulous CruiseTones. Admission is $300 – 1,000. For more information call 650-470-6000 or visit www.ronaldhouse.net

March 10 -11
The Warehouse Sale at the McEnery Convention Center: Don’t miss your chance to buy high-end designer jeans for men and women at bargain basement prices – up to 80% off! Our racks are filled with Diesel, True Religion, Genetic Denim, Monarch, 575 Denim, Blue Cult, Hudson, Joe’s Jeans, Chip & Pepper, Antik Denim, Earnest Sewn, Sacred Blue, Taverniti, J & Company and lots more. We also carry hoodies, sweats, and tees by 2B Free, Monarchy, Grail, Ed Hardy, and more! Admission: Free with RSVP or $3 at door.Event hours for both days are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. For more information, or to RSVP, visit www.thewarehousesale.com

Ongoing
The Billy DeFrank LGBT Community Center will be hosting Women’s Movie Night every third Thursday of the month. The evening starts with socializing at 6 p.m. followed by the movie at 7p.m. with LCD large-screen projection with digital quality. Bring your favorite snacks to enjoy during the movie and the socialization. Contact the DeFrank Center at 293-3040 for more information.

The South Bay Astrological Society meets at 1 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month at the Divine Science Community Center, 1540 Hicks Ave in San Jose. The March 11 meeting will feature a presentation and discussion - "Chiron and Pluto: Centaur and upstart planet wannabees" - by Zane Stein. Stein will present his research and ground breaking ideas on the ways in which Chiron and the "centaur" space objects are related to Pluto and the newly-classified "minor planets". Come for refreshments and fellowship at 1 p.m.; Lecture starts at 1:30 p.m. For more information call 512-1187 or visit www.southbayastrology.org.

San Jose Flycasters meet the second Wednesday of the month at Senior Citizens Center at the NE corner of Payne Avenue and Saratoga Avenue intersection in San Jose. All meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, call Jim at 278-7077; online: www.flycasters.org. San Jose Flycasters is a non-profit organization promoting the sport of fly fishing, education on fisheries and habitat preservation and restoration.

Humane Society Silicon Valley Companion Animal Loss Support Group Meetings are the first Tuesday of each month, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Location: Humane Society Silicon Valley, 2530 Lafayette St., Santa Clara. Facilitator: Adam Dorsay, M.A. For more information, call 450-1800 or visit: www.hssv.org and click on Services and then Pet Loss. Meetings are free and open to the public.

The Hearing Loss Association of Silicon Valley meets on the third Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Moose Lodge, 1580 Hamilton Avenue in San Jose. Meetings begin at 12:30 p.m. Our mission is to improve the world of communication for people with hearing loss through information, education, support and advocacy. Visitors are welcome. For more information, call 229-1041 or visit www.hearingloss.org.

We are seeking calendar items pertaining to the South Bay communities we cover in our seven monthly community newspapers: Blossom Valley, Cambrian, Campbell, Evergreen, Santa Teresa, Willow Glen, and our weekly publication, Almaden Times Weekly. Items must be submitted by e-mail or fax several weeks before the event. Send an email to candy@timesmediainc.com or fax to Candy Richter at 494-7078. Photos should be sent digitally as jpegs or mailed to Calendar, Times Newspapers, 1310 Tully Rd., Suite 107, San Jose, CA 95122. Due to the large volume of items received calendar requests left on voice mail cannot be used. Space is limited.