ENCINITAS -- San Dieguito Adult School will offer a class for working moms called "Jobs and Moms: Finding New Ways to Blend Careers and Family" from 6 to 9 p.m. April 25 and May 9 at Sunset School, 684 Requeza Drive. Gain a clear understanding of the importance of your skill sets and a better understanding of what employers look for in applicants. Cost is $39 plus $3 for materials. Call (760) 753-7073.

Golf tournament benefits sick kids

SOLANA BEACH -- The 10th annual Conner's Cause for Children Golf Classic will begin at 11 a.m. May 22 at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club, 1505 Lomas Santa Fe Drive. Benefiting families with the monumental task of caring for a child with a life threatening illness, Conner's Cause for Children is the only nonprofit organization in the San Diego region that offers direct family assistance for out-of-pocket expenses relating to any and all life-threatening illnesses associated with children.

Cost is $185, advance registration is required. Dinner is $35. Call Tina Egge (760) 804-5948 or visit the Web site at http://www.connerscause.org.

Quail Gardens offers art classes

ENCINITAS -- Linda Luisi, trompe L'oeil artist, will teach "Relax and Draw, plus Paint!" with beginner to advanced instruction with pencils, pastels and watercolors from 10 a.m. to noon Mondays April 17 through May 22 at Quail Botanical Gardens, 230 Quail Gardens Drive. Cost is $30 for members, $35 for nonmembers. Call (760) 436-3036, or visit the Web site at http://www.qbgardens.org.

Deadline approaches for college scholarship

CARDIFF -- The application deadline for the Friends of the Cardiff-by-the-Sea scholarship is April 28. Up to four scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors and to continuing students at either undergraduate or graduate levels. To be eligible, applicants must be a Cardiff-by-the-Sea resident living in the 92007 zip code and hold a current San Diego County library card.

Applications, essays and letters of recommendation must be postmarked no later than April 28, 2006. Winners will be notified on or before June 1. Applications are available at the Cardiff library Book Nook, 2081 Newcastle Ave., or online at http://www.friendscardifflibrary.org.

Completed forms should be sent to Scholarship Panel, Friends of the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Library, P. O. Box 657, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007.

Streets closed April 19-21

CARLSBAD -- Grand Avenue between Washington and State streets will be closed late from 9 p.m. April 19 through 7 a.m. April 21; Carlsbad Village Drive will be closed between Washington and State streets from 9 p.m. April 21 through 11 a.m. April 23 so construction crews can perform maintenance on the railroad tracks.

Democrats meet April 22 in Carlsbad

CARLSBAD -- The Democratic Club of Carlsbad-Oceanside will hold its regular meeting from 10 a.m. to noon April 22 at the Carlsbad Woman's Club, 3320 Monroe St. Call Carol Law at (760) 753-4082 or e-mail gclaw@cox.net.

Class explores myths, facts about hypnosis

CARLSBAD -- Swiss Systems presents a class on "Myths and Facts about Hypnosis" from 6 to 7 p.m. April 25 at The Sacred Pathway Bookstore, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 103. The class will show how hypnosis works and what can and can't be achieved by it. Call (760) 729-2434 or visit the Web site at http://www.SwissSystem.com.

BPD support group meets

CARLSBAD -- Family education and support for borderline personality disorder group meets from 6:30 to 9 p.m. May 2 at Room 27, 3175 Harding St. The meeting is for a family member of someone who suffers from BPD, but it is not appropriate for the person who has BPD. Call (760) 729-2331.

Learn about reverse mortgages May 2

CARLSBAD -- Learn all about reverse mortgages from a state licensed reverse mortgage specialist who has been helping seniors through the process since 1990 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. May 2 in the dance studio, Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Call (760) 602-4654.

Seniors center hosts dance

CARLSBAD -- Brighton Gardens will host a dance for seniors featuring music by the Rumble Seat Rascals from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. May 4 in the auditorium, Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Cost is $3. Call (760) 602-4654.

Medicare talk set for May 8

CARLSBAD -- Nicolas Salerno Jr. will speak on "Medicare -- Part D : Confusion to Clarity" from 1 to 3:30 p.m. May 8 in the Art Room of the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Time is running out to enroll in the new prescription program. The workshop will give you a clear understanding of this valuable coverage. Find out how to get enrolled into the right plan for your prescriptions before May 15th and avoid the late enrollment penalties. Call (760) 602-4654.

Senior center screens film

CARLSBAD -- The Matt Damon, Heath Ledger film, "The Brothers Grimm," will screen from 1 to 3 p.m. May 11 in the auditorium of the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Two men who have made a career out of spinning remarkable stories find themselves bringing them to life in this inventive fantasy inspired by the creators of some of the world's best-loved fairy tales. Call (760) 602-4654.

Common household hazardous wastes

CARLSBAD -- Jan Daniels will identify common hazardous household wastes from 10 to 11:30 a.m. May 16 in the dance studio of the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. The presentation will cover identification of HHW, reduce, reuse and recycle strategies, safe household alternatives and guidelines for safely disposing of HHW. Call (760) 602-4654.

Choral group performs Porter love songs

CARLSBAD -- The Choraleers will offer a performance of "So in Love: Songs by Cole Porter" from 1 to 2 p.m. May 18 in the auditorium of the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Call (760) 602-4654.

Center offers financial advice

CARLSBAD -- Terry T. Uchida, an agent of New York Life Insurance Co., will discuss concepts on the uses of the lifetime income annuity from 10 to 11:30 a.m. May 23 in the dance studio of the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Call (760) 602-4654.

Microchip your pet at shelter

CARLSBAD -- The county Department of Animal Services is offering microchips for dogs, cats or rabbits from 1 pm to 3 p.m. every Thursday at the County Animal Shelter, 2481 Palomar Airport Road. Cost is $20, and includes national registration. Call (760) 438-2312 or visit the Web site at http://www.sddac.com.

Sutro leads talk on 'Fahrenheit'

CARLSBAD -- Dirk Sutro will lead a discussion of the themes found in Ray Bradbury's book, 'Fahrenheit 451' at 7 p.m. April 20 in the Schulman Auditorium, City of Carlsbad's Dove Library, 1775 Dove Lane. Call (760) 602-2012.

'Illustrated Man' screens April 26

CARLSBAD -- The Cinema Society of Carlsbad will screen Ray Bradbury's film, "The Illustrated Man," at 6 p.m. April 26 in the Schulman Auditorium, City of Carlsbad's Dove Library, 1775 Dove Lane. Call (760) 602-2012.

Fair returns to Carlsbad on May 7

CARLSBAD -- More than 90,000 shoppers are expected to attend the biannual Carlsbad Street Fair, sponsored by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 7 along Carlsbad Village Drive and intersecting streets. Call (760) 931-8400.

Poetry reading set for May 10

CARLSBAD -- Magee Park poetry reading featuring the works of Sam Hamod at 7 p.m. May 10 in the Cole Library Community Room, 1250 Carlsbad Village Drive. Call (760) 602-2012.

'Hotel Rwanda' airs May 17

CARLSBAD -- The Cinema Society of Carlsbad will screen the 2004 film 'Hotel Rwanda,' at 6 p.m. May 17 in the Schulman Auditorium, City of Carlsbad's Dove Library, 1775 Dove Lane. Call (760) 602-2012.

La Jolla Arts festival set for June

LA JOLLA -- The 20th annual La Jolla Festival of the Arts will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 24-25 at UCSD campus, Regents Road and Genessee Avenue. The festival will feature art works by 190 award-winning artists, cuisine from local restaurateurs, music, and a fun zone for kids. Cost is $10 for adults. Visit the Web site at http://www.lajollaartfestival.org.

Gem and mineral club to host mining historian

ESCONDIDO -- The Palomar Gem & Mineral Club will meet at 7 p.m. April 19 at the Joslyn Senior Center, 210 Park Ave. Federal and state registered historian Frank Lorey of Escondido will talk about local mining history. He has written extensively on Western mines and narrated two seasons of "Wild West Tech," a series on ghost towns and mines on the History Channel. For information, call (760) 739-5504, (760) 741-0433.

Emblem Club to meet April 20

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Emblem Club No. 161 will hold its business meeting and salad luncheon at 11:30 a.m. April 20 at the Escondido Elks Lodge, 2430 S. Escondido Blvd. For information, call Carolyn Sandvik, (760) 745-3489.

Learn 'Nuts & Bolts' of running a small business

ESCONDIDO -- "The Nuts & Bolts of Financing," a business workshop, will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 20 in the Turrentine Room at the Escondido Public Library, 239 S. Kalmia St.

The free workshop is the second in a series of four that are being offered this year to help new and future business owners learn the basics of planning and running a small business. The workshops are sponsored by the city's library and economic development division, in cooperation with the Small Business Development Center. Register at (760) 839-4601.

Future workshops include "The Nuts & Bolts of Hiring, Payroll and Tax Information," July 20 at City Hall; and "The Nuts & Bolts of Marketing and Small Claims Court," Oct. 19 at the library. For information, call the number above or visit http://www.escondido.org.

Radio talk show host to speak

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Democratic Club will meet from 10:30 a.m. to noon April 22 at the Escondido Public Library, 239 S. Kalmia St. Radio talk show host Jon Elliot, who calls himself the "most dangerous liberal in America," will speak. For information, go to http://www.escondidodems.com or call Ginny Armbrust, (760) 737-5026.

Kids can meet Curious George

ESCONDIDO -- Costume Character Storytime with Curious George will be held at 11 a.m. April 22 and 23 at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 810 W. Valley Parkway. Kids can meet Curious George and have pictures taken. Call (760) 480-2760.

Benefit concert set at Metaphor

ESCONDIDO -- Judy Brown and her Avocado Moon Band will play blues, jazz and rock songs at 6 p.m. April 22 at the Metaphor Coffee House & Gallery, 258 E. Second Ave. Cost is $10. Proceeds will benefit the "Wild Jammin' Women" music camp. For information, call (858) 270-7922.

Seniors can learn to search the Internet

ESCONDIDO -- Sharon Timko, an expert on senior resources, will present an orientation class called "Help for Seniors on the Internet" at 11 a.m. April 25 in the Dorothy E. Boeger Building, 728 N. Broadway (in the Joslyn Senior Center complex). Seniors can learn how to use the Internet to find information on Medicare, Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security, Department of Motor Vehicles and other sources. To register, call the Senior Service Council at (760) 480-0611.

'Cracking da Vinci's Code' program set

ESCONDIDO -- Emmanuel Faith Community Church will present a free evening seminar by noted author Dr. Peter Jones on "Cracking da Vinci's Code" from 7 to 8:30 p.m. May 3 at the church, 639 E. Felicita Ave. Jones will discuss the myths and historical fallacies on Dan Brown's best-selling fiction book, "The da Vinci Code." For information, call (760) 745-2541 or go to http://www.efcc.org.

Sculpture garden open to families

ESCONDIDO -- Queen Califia's Magical Circle, a unique mosaic sculpture garden by artist Niki de Saint Phalle, is open from 8:30 a.m. to dusk Tuesdays through Sundays in Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Parkway. Admission and docent-led tours of the family-friendly attraction are free. For information, call (760) 839-4331.

Federal employee group to hold yard sale

ESCONDIDO -- The National Association of Federal Employees, Escondido Chapter 455, will hold its annual fundraising yard sale at 8 a.m. May 26 and 27 at 1640 Bear Valley Parkway. Donations are being accepted. To have items picked up, call (760) 743-5330 or (760) 432-0081.

'ER Disaster Preparedness Fair' planned for April 18

ESCONDIDO -- Palomar Pomerado Health will hold its second "ER Disaster Preparedness Fair" for health care workers and the community from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 18 at Palomar Medical Center, 555 E. Valley Parkway. Parking will be at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, with free shuttle service.

The fair will include demonstrations by Southwest Search Dogs and information about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Medical Assistance Team and International Relief Teams. Attendees can also look at PPH's new disaster equipment and learn about the health district's Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment plan. Lectures are scheduled throughout the event.

Information: (858) 675-5100.

Parkinson's group to meet

LA JOLLA -- The Parkinson's Resource Organization will hold a support group meeting for caregivers from 7 to 9 p.m. April 19 at Scripps Mende Well Being, 4305 La Jolla Village Drive. A board certified sleep specialist from Pacific Sleep Medicine will discuss the impact of sleep apnea on a person with Parkinson's disease. There is no charge; however, due to parking restrictions, reservations are requested. Call (877) 775-4111.

Woodworking club to meet April 20

ESCONDIDO -- The North County Woodworking Club will meet at 7 p.m. April 20 at Tool Mart, 750 Citracado Parkway. Park in the back of the building; the meeting will take place in the warehouse. Doors open at 6 p.m. Information: Ray, (760) 489-7187; http://www.ncwood.org.

Tai chi, oigong stress release classes set

ESCONDIDO -- The complementary therapies program at the Elizabeth Hospice will offer free tai chi and oigong stress release classes from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays, April 24 through June 26, at the hospice office, 150 W. Crest St.

The slow, dance-like speed of tai chi creates balance, flexibility and calmness. Reduce stress by learning simple movements using the elements of tai chi and oigong that emphasize deep breathing and mental imagery and provide therapeutic value for the mind, body and spirit.

For information and to register, call Ann Marie Whitehead, (760) 737-2050.

Brain Tumor Foundation golf tourney on tap

RANCHO SANTA FE -- Local golfers who want to swing for a good cause can support the San Diego Brain Tumor Foundation at the fourth annual Dennis Campbell Memorial Golf Tournament on April 24 at Morgan Run Resort & Club. Shotgun start will be at 1 p.m. and the dinner auction will begin at 5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $250; $60 for dinner only. Reservations: (619) 515-9908; Connie Campbell, conniecampbell@cox.net.

Help for families of mentally ill

ESCONDIDO -- The North Inland chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill will offer a free, 12-week "Family to Family" education program from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, starting April 26.

The course is designed for family members of the mentally ill and provides practical information and educational tools to help deal with major mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar illness, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and anxiety disorders.

Family participation, along with medication and therapy, can be critical for stabilization and recovery. Family members can learn ways to help their loved ones who may be suffering with a mental illness, while also receiving emotional support themselves.

For information or to sign up, call Wendy at (760) 740-0330 or Bob at (760) 480-0057.

Baseball game fundraiser to benefit ALS fund

SAN DIEGO -- The Erich Wendel Families of ALS Relief Fund will host its second baseball game fundraising event May 7 on the rooftop of the Western Metal Building at Petco Park. The game will be between the Chicago Cubs and the San Diego Padres, and money raised through the ticket sales will assist families affected by ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) through the ALS Association of Greater San Diego Chapter. ALS is better known as Lou Gehrig's disease. There will be a silent auction of sports memorabilia at the event. Tickets cost $100. Call (619) 697-7134.

Women in Business symposium slated

DEL MAR -- The seventh annual Women in Business symposium, "Sharing the Power of You," will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 18 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Keynote speakers and their topics include Jennifer Rousseau Sedlock, principal of Executive Enhancements, "Running Toward Your Dream … Actualizing Life Goals"; Julie Caitlin Brown, actress, musician and talent manager, "Love First and Business"; and Patrice Baker, chief executive officer of The Power of Words, "The Power of Words: 7 Principles to Powerful Living."

Registration fee is $95 before May 10. For information and to register, call (858) 755-5913, http://www.WIBSymposium.com.

Valor Scholarship Awards Reception set

ESCONDIDO -- The Community HousingWorks board of directors will host its fourth annual junior leader Valor Scholarship Awards Reception on May 18 at the Escondido Children's Museum at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 380 N. Escondido Blvd. The reception at 6:30 p.m. will be followed by the awards presentation at 7:30. Donation is $25. R.S.V.P. to Anne Lawrence at (619) 282-6647, Ext. 308, by May 12.

Soroptimist of the Year named

NORTH COUNTY -- Soroptimist North County Inland has named its Soroptimist of the Year -- Lisa Lipsey, who has been instrumental in introducing Soroptimists to Sun and Moon Visions, a nonprofit organization that focuses on helping women and children.

Sun and Moon's recent documentary seeks to give voices to women peacemakers of the world. The Escondido-based Sun and Moon Visions was founded by Kathy Sangha, Soroptimist North County Inland's Woman of Distinction.

With Soroptimist support, Lipsey organized, produced, directed and acted in "The Vagina Monologues," a fundraiser that raised $2,000 for Sun and Moon Visions. Lipsey will be honored April 22 at Soroptimist's Desert Coast Regional Spring Conference in Yuma, Ariz.

'Razzle Dazzle' gala to benefit Arthritis Foundation

SAN DIEGO -- The fourth annual Arthritis Foundation Gala will be held at 6 p.m. May 19 at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. The 1920s-themed "Razzle Dazzle" gala will benefit the Arthritis Foundation San Diego Area Chapter. Tickets cost $250. For information, call (858) 492-1090, Ext. 116.

Volunteers sought to patrol Daley Ranch

ESCONDIDO -- The Daley Ranch Volunteer Association is recruiting hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians for volunteer patrols that monitor trail conditions, visitor activity and wildlife sightings while out on the trails. Apply in person at the Dixon Lake Ranger Station or call (760) 839-4241.

American Indian Walking Club open to public

SAN DIEGO -- The San Diego American Indian Health Center, a private nonprofit corporation that provides health care and wellness services to American Indians living in San Diego, offers a free Walking Club for the general public from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Meet at the center, 2602 First Ave., Suite 100, in the Banker's Hill section of San Diego. For information and to register, call (619) 234-2158, Ext. 102 or 111; or go tohttp://www.sdaihc.com.

'Happiness in retirement' is seminar topic

RANCHO BERNARDO -- Dr. Tobin Barrozo will conduct a seminar titled "Epictetus: Freedom and Finding Happiness in Retirement" from 2 to 3 p.m. April 17 in the Multipurpose Room at the Remington Club Phase II, 16916 Hierba Drive. The seminar is based on the concepts of Epictetus, a Roman from the first century. Admission is free. Reservations are not required. For information, call (858) 673-6340.

Encore Trio to perform April 19

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The Friends of the Rancho Bernardo Library will present a free chamber music concert featuring the popular Encore Trio at 6:30 p.m. April 19 in the second-floor Community Room at the library, 17110 Bernardo Center Drive. The group will perform selections by Glinca, Rachmaninoff and Smetana. Call (858) 592-0177.

Girls Scouts plan Food Fair

RAMONA -- Ramona Girl Scouts will hold their annual Food Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 22 at Collier Park, 626 E St. Each representing a different country, the troops will offer tasty treats at a minimal cost. Proceeds will benefit New Orleans Girl Scout troops affected by Hurricane Katrina. Information: Tamara Sharpe, sharpetd@gmail.com.

Golf tourney to benefit youths

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The sixth annual North County Christeens Golf Tournament will be held April 24 at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m., with the tournament to kick off at 12:30 p.m. An awards banquet will follow.

The event is sponsored by the Church of St. Timothy's LIFE Youth Ministry. All proceeds will go toward youth group activities. Entry fee is $150. For information, call Bill Swihart at (760) 796-7976 or Ed Maucere at (760) 745-6722.

Rancho Bernardo Historical Society to meet

RANCHO BERNARDO -- "The Daley Ranch and Its Historic Connection to Rancho Bernardo" is the theme of the Rancho Bernardo Historical Society's general meeting set for 2 p.m. April 24 at the Rancho Bernardo Library, 17110 Bernardo Center Drive. The guest speaker will be Robert Leriget, a ranger with the Lakes and Open Space Division of the city of Escondido and volunteer coordinator at Daley Ranch.

Also, RB Historical Society President Tom Cook will give an update on the plans for a permanent museum building.

Refreshments will be served and there will be an opportunity drawing for a gift certificate. All are welcome; however, seating is limited. R.S.V.P. to Susan Floyd at (858) 487-4599.

Community garden plots available

POWAY -- The Poway Community Garden has several plots available for vegetable gardening. For information, call (858) 486-4595.

Kids 4 Kids' walk-athon planned

SAN MARCOS -- The Kiwanis Club of San Marcos Foundation will host its first Kids 4 Kids Miracle Mile Walk-A-Thon from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 22 at Walnut Grove Park.

The walk-athon is open to all children and teens ages 17 and younger. Participants will seek pledges and donations based on how many times they walk the 1/8-mile course, with all funds raised going to Children's Hospital in San Diego.

The walk will be divided into five age categories: Stroller Squad (powered by parents); 3 to 5 years; 6 to 10 years; 11 to 14 years; and 15 to 17 years. All participants will receive an event T-shirt and other prizes. The top money-raisers from each age group will be honored at the Division 100 Kiwanis Miracle Mile of Quarters event May 7 at Children's Hospital.

The registration fee is $10. Register online at http://www.kiwanisclubofsanmarcos.org. For information, e-mail event Co-chairwoman Carrie Clevers at info@kiwanisclubofsanmarcos.org or leave a message at (760) 471-3201.

Harlem Ambassadors team to perform

SAN MARCOS -- The Rotary Club of San Marcos will host a performance by the internationally acclaimed Harlem Ambassadors basketball team at 2 p.m. April 30 at Mission Hills High School, 1 Mission Hills Court.

The Harlem Ambassadors do not travel with a preselected opponent or present a choreographed show. The team is challenged by local players who do not always know what will happen next, creating a show loaded with spontaneous improvisational humor.

Tickets cost $10. Proceeds will be used to support the Rotary Club's community and humanitarian activities. Tickets are available from any San Marcos Rotary Club member or by calling event Chairman George Burrola at (760) 471-1006 or Rod Jones at (760) 744-0711. Information: http://www.sm-rotary.org.

Genealogy group to meet

RAMONA -- The San Diego Genealogical Association will meet at 7 p.m. April 20 at the Sizzler restaurant, 344 Main Street. The meeting will be preceded by an optional dinner at 6 p.m.

Professional genealogist Penny Feike will speak on "Land Records and Their Importance in Genealogical Research."

Anyone interested in researching their family tree is invited. For information, call (760) 789-2534.

Tire recycling event set

RAMONA -- The county of San Diego will hold a free Tire Recycling Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 22 at Ramona High School, 1401 Hanson Lane.

Residents of Ramona, Valley Center and surrounding unincorporated areas of the county can drop off their used passenger and small truck tires at the event. Residents can recycle up to nine tires per vehicle. Tires must be reasonably clean and free of excessive dirt or other foreign matter. Inside tire diameter size is limited to 16 1/2 inches. No large truck or commercial tires or tires mounted on rims will be accepted.

Information: (877) 713-2784.

Continuing Education Center offers classes

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The Continuing Education Center at Rancho Bernardo will offer these classes.

- "Robert Penn Warren: The Burden of History, the Future of Time and the Search for a Usable Past, Part II" with Dr. Dennis Rohatyn, 1:30 p.m. April 19.

- "17th-century English Literature" with Dr. Catherine Blecki, 10 a.m. April 18.

- "Racism, Slavery and American Freedom, Part II" with Dr. William Cheek, 1:30 p.m. April 20 and 27 and May 4 and 11.

- "Taoism: Tracing the Path of the Universe" with Dr. Alan Sparks, 10 a.m. April 26.

- "Existentialism in King Lear" with Dr. Pat Boni, 10 a.m. May 2.

- "Ethical Issues in Stem Cell Research" with Bruno Leone, 1:30 p.m. May 3.

The CEC's office and classrooms are at the Remington Club Phase II, 16916 Hierba Drive. Class fees are $7; $5 for members.

The center also is offering a trip to the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens on May 5. A docent-let tour of the gardens will follow an English Tea luncheon. The bus will depart from the Remington Club II at 10 a.m. and return at around 5:30 p.m. Cost is $70; $65 for CEC members, which includes transportation, admission, lunch and tour. The deadline for reservations is April 20.

Information: (858) 487-0464 or http://www.cecrb.org.

University cheerleaders honored

MOREHEAD, Ky. -- Morehead State University's Board of Regents recently honored the university's co-ed cheerleading squad for capturing the 2006 title in the Collegiate National Cheerleading Championships. Sponsored by the Universal Cheerleaders Association, the competition was held in January at Disney's Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla. Three members of the squad are from North County. They are Joe Arkansas of San Marcos, Mo Rodriguez of Escondido and Jennifer Vilaboy of Ramona.

Weight-loss groups meet weekly

NORTH COUNTY -- Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a nonprofit support group that provides inspiration, encouragement and education to help individuals shed unwanted pounds. Local TOPS groups meet Wednesday mornings in Encinitas and San Marcos. Call (760) 632-9471 for the Encinitas group, or (760) 213-2501 for the San Marcos group.

Post office has extended hours April 17

OCEANSIDE -- The Oceanside Post Office will offer extended hours for retail service and collections on the tax filing deadline, April 17. The post office, located at 1895 Avenida Del Oro, will be open for retail service until 6 p.m. with collections/postmarking available until 9 p.m. Visit http://www.usps.com or call (800) ASK-USPS.

Agnostics to discuss illegal immigration

OCEANSIDE -- The Agnostics will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. April 18 in the community room, 3861 Mission Ave. The topic will be illegal immigration and related issues such as economics, enforcement and guest worker programs. The Agnostics is a casual discussion forum that people of all beliefs and disbeliefs are welcome to participate in. Topics are not just about religion. The forums are intended to provide an educational experience as well as a feeling of community. Call Michelle at (760) 815-4313.

OCNA to hear Mayor on state of city

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Coastal Neighborhood Association will meet at 7 p.m. April 18 at St. Mary's School, 515 Wisconsin Ave. Speaker will be Mayor Jim Wood, who will present the State of the City Report. There will be a raffle and refreshments. The public is welcome. Call (760) 754-1363.

MiraCosta offers human resources program

OCEANSIDE -- MiraCosta College's Community Services Program will offer the Human Resources Certificate Program from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fridays, April 21 to May 12 in Room 3201 of the college at 1 Barnard Drive. The program is designed to provide students with an overview of important subject areas in the field of human resource management. It is made up of four core classes that fit the needs of those who may want to start a new career in human resources, employees in human resources who want to expand their knowledge or other employees in human resources who may want to brush up their skills.

The program consists of four workshops. Students who complete all four classes will receive a certificate of completion. Health professionals may earn four continuing education contract hours for each individual workshop. Cost for each workshop is $92. Enroll in all four for $328. Call (760) 795-6820.

Free sailing seminars offered

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Yacht Club will hold four free performance sailing and racing seminars starting at 6 p.m. April 19 at the yacht club in the Oceanside Harbor. OYC membership is not required. Both skippers and crew are welcome. Call the OYC Office at (760) 722-5751.

Sunset Poets to meet

OCEANSIDE -- The next reading of the Sunset Poets will be 3 p.m. April 23 in the banquet room of the Flying Bridge restaurant, 1105 N. Coast Highway. The reading is free and open to the public. The featured poets this month will be a group of advanced creative writing students from Palomar College. Students of Dr. Rocco Versaci and Dr. Carlton Smith, this group serves as editors and staff of Bravura, Palomar's award winning literary magazine.

Following the featured poets will be an open mic reading. Those who wish are invited to stay after the reading for conversation and no-host food and beverages in the dining room starting around 5:30 p.m. Visit http://www.SunsetPoets.org.

College plans health fair, blood drive

OCEANSIDE -- MiraCosta College Health Services and the MiraCosta Police Department will host a Health and Safety Fair from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 25 at the fountain near the library and Information Hub at MiraCosta College, One Barnard Drive.

Topics will include birth control, HIV and other STDs, smoking cessation, mental health counseling, tattooing safety and ocean safety. Information will be presented by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Oceanside lifeguards, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, the Women's Resource Center, Planned Parenthood and Tri-City Medical Center.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the same day, the San Diego Blood Bank will hold a blood drive on campus at the same location. Free parking will be available in Lot 1B. For more information, call Catherine Halmay at (760) 795-6675.

Travel club visits Nixon library

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Senior Center's Happy Wanderers travel club will visit the Nixon Presidential Library May 23. Cost is $60 per person and includes round-trip transportation, luncheon at the White House in Anaheim and the library in Whittier. Deadline for reservations is May 1. Call (760) 435-5250.

Travel club visits Morro Bay

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Senior Center's Happy Wanderers travel club is planning a three-day, two-night trip to Morro Bay June 6 to 8. Cost is $305 per person double occupancy and includes round-trip bus transportation and lunch at the Madonna Inn; continental breakfast and tour of Hearst Castle, shopping in Cambria and a dinner cruise aboard the Tiger Folly with complimentary champagne; continental breakfast at hotel and lunch in Solvang. Reservation deposit is due May 5. Call (760) 435-5250.

Postal Centre holds tax filing party

VISTA -- Postal Centre will hold its 18th annual Tax Filing Party from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. April 17 at 993C South Santa Fe Ave., next to the Vista Post Office. Technet Financial will be on hand to discuss current mortgage rates and give free mortgage and loan advice. There will be free hot dogs and soda served from 1p.m. on.

Most tax forms and books will be available as well as envelopes, stamps and the address to the IRS and Franchise Tax Board. Call (760) 941-4392.

Village Idiots to meet

VISTA -- The Village Idiots Literary Society will meet at 7 p.m. April 21 at the Vista Village Art Gallery, 127 Main St. The meeting will feature poet Charlaine Coleman and Pushcart Prize nominee, poet Ruth Rice. The meeting also will have open mic time and refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Call (760) 726-0764.

Medical Part D is topic

VISTA -- A Medical Part D talk will be given by SSIS Advisor Nick Sallerno, Jr. at 10 a.m. April 21 in the Jasmine Room of the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, 1400 Vale Terrace Drive. Call (760) 639-6160.

NC Lifeline holds workshop

VISTA -- North County Lifeline will hold a free workshop, "Raising the Optimistic Child," from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 25 at 200 Michigan Ave. Parents will learn how to teach children to "think about their thinking"; help children increase confidence and optimism; support children in learning how to deal with frustration and disappointment without an emotional meltdown; and teach their children how to manage conflict with their peers. To R.S.V.P., call (619) 477-0242.

Buena Vista Audubon Society meets

OCEANSIDE -- The Buena Vista Audubon Society will meet at 7:30 p.m. April 26 at the Buena Vista Nature Center, 2202 S. Coast Highway. Speaker will be Melissa Studer, who will discuss the Grunion Greeter Project for San Diego County. She will show a film about the life of grunion and discuss efforts to ensure breeding success. The society will monitor a grunion run the following Saturday, April 29 from 10:30 p.m. to midnight.

Invasive plants topic of hike

OCEANSIDE -- Dr. Jon Rebman, botanical curator of the San Diego Museum of Natural History, will lead a guided nature hike and give a lecture on the impacts of invasive plants on native habitat from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 22 at Oak Riparian Park. A vegetarian picnic will feature edible invasive plants. Tickets cost $20 per person and advanced ticket purchase is required by calling (760) 720-5220 or (760) 438-1209. All proceeds will benefit the preservation of Calaveras, the largest remaining native habitat in coastal North County. Visit http://www.preservecalavera.org.

Horticulture club holds plant sale

OCEANSIDE -- Miracosta Horticulture Club of Oceanside will hold its 10th annual Gardener's Market Plant Sale from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 22 outside the West Oceanside Wal-Mart at 2100 Vista Way. Most plants are home grown, prices are low and club members will be on hand to provide gardening information and advice. Books, baked goods and garden gifts also will be available. Proceeds benefit the club's scholarship fund.

Annual Native Garden Tour set

OCEANSIDE -- The Buena Vista Native Plant Club and the Oceanside Coastal Neighborhood Association will hold the fourth annual Native Garden Tour starting at 2 p.m. April 23. This one-mile walking tour visits more than 10 residential native plant gardens in the historic Seaside Neighborhood of downtown Oceanside. Meet at St. Mary's School, 515 Wisconsin St. The walk is free and there will be lemonade and cookies for sale along the route. E-mail BVNPC@sbcglobal.net.