Angel Society awards donations

FALLBROOK -- The Board of Directors for Fallbrook's Angel Society recently approved donations totaling $5,900 to various organizations as follows:

- Fallbrook Union High School Gymnastics Team to help obtain new gym equipment such as mats, bars and a cover for the vault.

- Head Start to help purchase educational materials such as painting easels and math games.

- North County Health Services to cover the cost of 40 vision screenings for children in the community.

- National Charity League "Kids on the Block" to provide funds to replace an important puppet used in the volunteer program of women puppeteers. The program is made up of disabled and non-disabled puppets designed to teach what it is like to be different and to teach tolerance.

- Boy Scouts of America to purchase materials for Joseph Noblit's Eagle Scout project for placement of interlocking bricks and erecting a small retaining wall for a picnic table at the Palomares House.

- Boy Scouts of America to purchase materials for Alex Kettenhofen's Eagle Scout project of installing locking pavers at the Palomares House.

- The Fallbrook Art Association-Art Assist Program to purchase art supplies for teaching art to sixth-grade students in the local schools. The Art Assist Program now provides art lessons in three schools. This funding will allow expansion of the project to a fourth school.

- The San Onofre School at Camp Pendleton to provide funds to take their fourth-grade students to the USS Midway to study electricity and magnetism and to Dana Point Harbor to participate in the Ocean Institute's program, "Two Years Before the Mast."

- Operation Clear Vision to provide eye glasses for needy military dependents (E-6 and below).

The Fallbrook Angel Society uses proceeds from the Angel Thrift Shop, member dues and other donations to fund requests for worthy community projects.

All of the merchandise sold in the Angel Shop comes from community donations. The Angel Shop is open for business Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the shop at 1002 S. Main St.

Garden Club announces tour

FALLBROOK -- The Fallbrook Garden Club has scheduled its third annual garden tour for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 9. It will feature a number of Fallbrook's private gardens.

Tickets and maps are available for $20 each or two for $35 by mail (check payable to Pat Rinker, care of Fallbrook Garden Club, P.O. Box 1702, Fallbrook, CA 92028) or the day of the tour at the Village Square at the corner of Alvarado and Main in downtown Fallbrook. The square also will offer a variety of displays, raffle prizes and garden items for sale.

Proceeds from the garden tour will benefit the Fallbrook Garden Club Scholarship Fund and other community projects. Contact Sandi LeMasters at (760) 723-3783.

Fallbrook Baptist Church announces services theme

FALLBROOK -- "Keeping the Main Thing the MAIN Thing" is Pastor Gary's focus when Fallbrook First Baptist Church celebrates Easter Sunday. On Easter, the church will offer a free breakfast at 8 a.m. followed by the Worship Service at 9. The regular schedule is Worship Service at 9 a.m. followed by Sunday School for all ages at 10:30. AWANA Club meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Call the church office at (760) 728-7771 for information about any of the church ministries. The church is at Pico and Hawthorne.

Golf group concludes successful event

VISTA -- The Vista Valley Women's Golf Association, with the help of its male members and the Vista/Fallbrook community, held another successful charity event March 6 from which two local charities benefited: St. Clare's Home and Pro Kids Golf Academy.

St. Clare's Home is a shelter for abused women and children. Pro Kids is a San Diego inner-city program that helps kids develop socially, intellectually and physically through golf. The silent and live auctions were preceded by an 18-hole golf tournament with more than 100 participants. Encouraged by Tom Simmons, a professional auctioneer who donated his time, members bid on artwork, handcrafted items, bridge luncheons, gourmet dinners, golf equipment, tickets to sporting events and more.

The feature item this year was a La-Petite Spa Package donated by Cal-a Vie. Sandi Ritter, Carol Needham and Cathy Loadman, who co-chaired the event, reported that more than $27,000 was raised for the two charities.

NARFE yard sale to start today

ESCONDIDO -- The National Association of Retired Federal Employees, Chapter 455, will hold its annual fundraising yard sale at 8 a.m. today and March 31 at 1640 Bear Valley Parkway.

Blood donors can get free tax preparation

ESCONDIDO -- Liberty Tax Service will offer free tax return preparation to people who donate blood at its fourth annual San Diego Blood Bank blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. today at 2335 E. Valley Parkway. For information, call (760) 233-0180.

Alzheimer's Association seminar slated

ESCONDIDO -- The Alzheimer's Association, San Diego-Imperial Chapter, will offer a free seminar designed to help families make dementia-related legal and financial decisions from 9 a.m. to noon March 31 at Redwood Elderlink, 1151 S. Redwood St. To register, call (858) 492-4400.

Easter Egg Hunt set for March 31

ESCONDIDO -- St. Mary's of Escondido's High School Youth Group will host an Easter egg hunt for children ages 10 and younger March 31 at 1160 S. Broadway. Get pictures taken with the Easter Bunny starting at 10 a.m., followed by the hunt at 10:30 a.m.

Cost for the hunt is $3 in advance and $5 at the event. Cost per picture is $5 in advance and $7 at the event.

Proceeds will help defray costs for the group's attendance at this summer's Steubenville Youth Conference. For information, call (760) 745-8255.

Trinity to offer Vacation Bible School

ESCONDIDO -- Trinity Episcopal Church will host Vacation Bible School for kindergartners through fifth-graders from 9 a.m. to noon during spring break, April 2 through 6.

Children can participate in crafts, games, music, cooking, stories and other activities. Cost for the week is $10 per child or $20 per family.

To register, call (760) 743-1629. Trinity Episcopal Church is at 845 Chestnut St.

City recreation classes to begin

ESCONDIDO -- The city's Community Services Department is accepting registration for the spring session of recreation classes. Most classes will begin the week of April 2.

A wide variety of classes are scheduled for adults in computers, personal enrichment, arts and crafts, music, dance, health and fitness, tennis and golf. For youths, classes will be offered in arts and crafts, preschool, animal exploration, cooking, yoga, dance, music, gymnastics, tennis, ice skating, swim and golf.

New classes offered for adults include "A Parent's Survival Guide to the Internet," "The Art of Sushi," "A Taste of Italy," "The Food of Greece," "Give Fido a Chance" and "Beaded Spiral Rope." New activities for youths include "Young Rembrandts Cartoon Drawing," "Improvisational Theater for Young Actors" and "Saturday Youth Tennis" classes.

The spring recreation activities brochure with a registration form is available at City Hall, the East Valley Community Center, the Escondido Sports Center or online at http://www.escondido.org/recreation. All classes require preregistration by mail, fax, phone, Internet or in person at City Hall, 201 North Broadway, or at the East Valley Community Center, 2245 E. Valley Parkway. Information: (760) 839-4691, recreation@escondido.org.

Grandmothers Club to meet April 5

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Grandmothers Club will hold a ham dinner and meeting at noon April 5 at the Joslyn Senior Center, 210 Park Ave. If bringing a dish, plan for eight people. Attendees are encouraged to wear Easter bonnets. For information, call Marie at (858) 487-6714.

Toastmasters to host open house

ESCONDIDO -- The Downtown Escondido Toastmasters will host an open house from 12:05 to 1:10 p.m. April 5 in the Mitchell Room at Escondido City Hall, 201 N. Broadway. Through Toastmasters, participants can improve their communication skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Seminar slated for veterans, spouses

ESCONDIDO -- Aegis of Escondido will hold a free seminar to educate U.S. veterans and spouses about their eligibility for a veterans benefit that can cover assisted living costs. The benefit pays up to $1,780 a month, and the income from the benefit is tax free.

The seminar will take place at 2 p.m. April 5 at Aegis of Escondido, 3012 Bear Valley Parkway. For information, call (760) 735-8084.

Composting workshop set for April 14

ESCONDIDO -- A free composting workshop will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. April 14 at the Escondido Community Garden. The workshop will be staffed by master composters and will include instruction and demonstration in the building and maintenance of a backyard compost pile and worm bin. No registration is required. Workshop will be canceled for rain.

The Escondido Community Garden is just north of Highway 78 on Centre City Parkway. Park behind the garden, in the cul-de-sac at Morning View Drive and Lincoln Avenue (access via El Norte Parkway or Rock Springs Road).

Composting demonstration workshops are held quarterly and hosted by the Escondido Community Garden and the city of Escondido. For information, call the recycling hotline at (760) 839-4818.

Garden tour ready to bloom

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Spring Garden Tour featuring four gardens will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 14. Attendees can visit the gardens in any order. A plant sale also will be included in the event.

Tickets cost $15 and are available in advance at the Escondido History Center in Grape Day Park, 321 N. Broadway, or at any of the four gardens on the day of the tour. A program with map, refreshments and goodie bags will be provided.

For garden addresses and information, contact the history center at (760) 743-8207 or barker@escondidohistory.org. The tour is organized by and benefits the nonprofit Escondido History Center Endowment Foundation.

Escondido man attends Alzheimer's forum

ESCONDIDO -- Escondido resident Steve Hermes, board chairman for the local Alzheimer's Association, was among hundreds of Alzheimer's advocates from across the country participating in the Alzheimer's Association's 19th annual public policy forum March 20 in Washington, D.C. Hermes and the other advocates encouraged legislators to support the "Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act of 2007." Also, at this year's forum, the Alzheimer's Association released a new report titled "Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures."

OASIS classes on tap at mall

ESCONDIDO -- OASIS will offer these classes for seniors at its education center in the former Robinsons-May South store, third floor, Westfield North County. Preregistration is required. Call (760) 432-0635.

- My Linh Tran of San Diego County's Aging & Independence Services will present "I'll Take Care of Myself" from 10:30 a.m. to noon April 4. Cost is $3.

- World travelers Barry and Corinne Smedley will present a two-part slide show of their latest trip called "New Zealand Up Close and Personal" from 10:30 a.m. to noon April 5 and 12. Cost is $7.

- Henry George will present "Jewel of the Balkans" from 1 to 3 p.m. April 10. George will talk about the history and show sights of the four countries that made up the former Yugoslavia. Cost is $4.

- Carolyn Collins, OASIS tutor coordinator, will show how to weave science into tutor reading sessions and read-aloud times with grandchildren in "Bubbles, Clouds and Bones" from 10:30 a.m. to noon April 11. Free.

Watercolor classes to begin

NORTH COUNTY -- Local watercolor artist Tom Tiedeman will teach watercolor classes for beginning to advanced students. Students will paint a new watercolor at each class.

- "Soft Watercolors," offered through Palomar College's Venture Program, will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 14 and 21 in Escondido. To enroll, call (760) 744-1150, Ext. 2702.

- Watercolor classes will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays, April 12 through May 23, at Tiedeman Watercolors Studio, 115 W. Grand Ave., Escondido.

- "Watercolor Magic" classes will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, April 24 through May 22, at the Rancho Bernardo Joslyn Senior Center, 18402 W. Bernardo Drive.

For information and to ask about watercolor kits, call Tiedeman at (760) 743-1474 or go to http://www.arttom.com.

Schools offer ESL classes

ENCINITAS -- English as a Second Language classes are offered free by San Dieguito Adult School at various coastal locations including Oak Crest Middle School, 675 Balour Drive. Classes range from beginning to advanced levels. Daytime and evening classes offered. Information: (760) 753-7073 or go to http://www.sdadulted.com.

Weight-loss group meets

ENCINITAS -- TOPS -Take Off Pounds Sensibly, a nonprofit weight-loss support group, meets from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesdays at the San Diego County Credit Union, 501 N. El Camino Real. Information: (760) 632-9471 go to http://www.tops.org.

Gardeners meet monthly

DEL MAR -- The Friendship Gardeners of Del Mar meet from 1 to 3 p.m. the fourth Saturday ofeach month (September to June) for field trips, speakers, seasonal plantings and to explore many other topics of interest. Call (858) 259-9636.

Studio offers swing dance

ENCINITAS --- Jim and Margie of 2toGroove Dance will offer the five-week adult swing and Lindy dance classes at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Wednesdays starting April 4 at Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite100. Cost is $12 per class. Information: (619) 291-3775 or go to http://www.2toGroove.com.

Pet store hosts dog health fair

SAN DIEGO -- Muttropolis' annual Howlistic Health and Spaw Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 21at the store, 227 S. Cedros Ave. in the Cedros Design District. The event for well-behaved pets and their two-legged companions will include trainingand wellness shared by knowledgeable experts. Local pet professionalsincluding veterinarians,groomers, petmassage therapists, expert trainers and 'Doga Yoga' instructors will be on hand. Guests can schedule a free massagefor theirpet at (858) 755-DOGS or go to http://www.muttropolis.com.

Microchip your pet

CARLSBAD -- The county Department of Animal Services will offer microchips for dogs, cats or rabbits from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays at the County Animal Shelter, 2481 Palomar Airport Road. The cost is $20 and includes national registration. Please bring dogs on a leash and cats or rabbits should be in a carrier. For those whose animal is unaltered, ask about the $50 coupon. Information: (760) 438-2312 or go to http://www.sddac.com.

Senior writers meet weekly

CARLSBAD -- Writers ages 55 and up meet from 9 to 11 a.m. Mondays at the Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave. Call (760) 602-4650.

Tutor a child in reading

CARLSBAD -- Olivenhain Pioneer Elementary School is seeking tutors for its award-winning "Everyone a Reader" volunteer program. Tutors will be trained and will work in weekly, 90-minute sessions with students in grades one through four. Call (760) 943-2027.

Hospice seeks volunteers

CARLSBAD --- Hospice of the North Coast, 5441 Avenida Encinas, Suite A, is seeking volunteers to serve in several capacities. Each one helps this nonprofit organization to provide medical, emotional, physical and spiritual support to patients and families who are going through the most difficult of times. The Hospice Re-Sale Shop is looking for volunteers to sort, display and cashier at their Encinitas store. Opportunities are available for patient care volunteers, Hospice Auxiliary members who work on special events to raise funds for hospice, people to help with the October Golf Tournament, and office assistance.

Information: (760) 431-4100 or go to http://hnc@hospicenorthcoast.org.

Summer school classes offered

CARLSBAD -- Fully accredited and University of California approved summer school classes in math, Spanish, English and history will be offered from 9 to 11 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays by Study Depot, 7750 El Camino Real, Suite H. Information: (760) 632-0242 or e-mail cchristopher@studydepot.com.

Newcomers meet April 4

CARLSBAD -- The Carlsbad Newcomers group will meet at 10:15 a.m. April 4 at 2650 Garfield Ave. Guest speaker Marilyn Imig of Fallbrook will talk about laughter and healing through laughter. Carlsbad Newcomers meet the first Wednesday of each month. Socializing begins at 9:45 a.m. and the meeting begins at 10:15 a.m.

Museum hosts guitar concert

CARLSBAD -- The Museum of Making Music will host a performance by renowned guitarist Henry Kaiser, whose recent Antarctic diving excursion is explored through video footage and slideshows set to his live improvisational music, at 7 p.m. April 7 at the museum, 5790 Armada Drive. The footage was filmed during Kaiser's recent stay in Antarctica, where he served as producer and cameraman for director Werner Herzog's upcoming film "Encounters at the End of the World." Cost is $7 to $10. Call (760) 438-5996.

Magee Park site for Healing Day

CARLSBAD --The 8th annual World Tai Chi/Qigong Healing Day will be celebrated from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 28 at Magee Park, Carlsbad Boulevard and Beech Avenue. Master Mingtong Gu, founder of the Wisdom Healing Foundation, will lead the Wisdom Healing Spiral, a sacred form of universal energy to amplify healing for individuals and the planet as a whole. In honor of World Tai Chi/Qigong Day, Master Gu will lead a special workshop, "Healer Within," from noon to 6 p.m. April 28 at Heritage Hall, 2650 Garfield, and also "Inner Vibrational Sound Healing" from 1 to 7 p.m. April 29, also at the same location. Cost is $50 April 28, $120 for April 29, and $150 for both days. Information: (619) 757-7387 or go to http:// www.chicenter.com or http://www.worldtaichiday.org.

Credit counselors offer help

SAN DIEGO --- Consumer Credit Counseling Services of San Diego and Imperial Counties' mission is to improve the financial stability and quality of individual and family life in the communities it serves through a variety of programs, including financial counseling, debt repayment programs, education workshops, financial literacy programs, credit report counseling and housing programs. Information: (866) 917-2227 or go to http://www.crediteducation.org.

Dog health is topic of workshop

SAN DIEGO -- Muttropolis' annual Howlistic Health and Spaw Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 21 at the store, 7755 Girard Ave., La Jolla. The event for well-behaved pets and their two-legged companions will include training and wellness shared by knowledgeable experts. Local pet professionals including veterinarians, groomers, pet massage therapists, expert trainers and "Doga Yoga" instructors will be on hand. Guests can schedule a free massage for their pet at (858) 459-WOOF or go to at http://www.muttropolis.com.

Author to attend Book Fair

OCEANSIDE -- Award-winning author Janell Cannon will appear at the Kiwanis Club of Oceanside Book Fair from 2 to 3 p.m. March 31 at Barnes & Noble, 2615 Vista Way. Cannon is a self-taught artist and writer who has always admired animals. She wrote "Stellaluna" in 1994 in hopes that she would transform young people's fear of bats into informed affection. She also has written other children's books, including "Trupp: A Fuzzhead Tale."

The Book Fair will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Purchases at Barnes & Noble during the book fair, other than coffee products, will raise funds for Rady Children's Hospital and local children's charities in Oceanside sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. Pick up a voucher at the Kiwanis table at the event. Call (760) 433-3737.

Arts center to host open house

RANCHO BERNARDO -- Lil' Arts, a cultural performing arts center, will host an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. March 31 at 11501 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 150-A.

The event will feature free dance classes, performances and refreshments. Also, Ruben "Fusion" Monet, San Diego's choreographer to the stars, will be on hand to teach classes.

Information: (858) 592-1490 or http://www.lilarts.com.

Events planned at Ramona library

RAMONA -- The Ramona branch of the San Diego County Library, 1406 Montecito Road, will offer these programs for adults. Information: (760) 738-2434.

- 1 to 2 p.m. Mondays, Computer Tutors. Reservations are required.

- 5 p.m. April 2, Temas Actuales, a discussion of topics of interest to the Spanish-speaking community.

- 6:30 p.m. April 17: Ramona Library Book Discussion Group meeting. This month's book selection is "The Tortilla Curtain" by T. Coraghessen Boyle.

- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 21: Friends of the Library book sale.

- 11 a.m. to noon April 24, Coffee and Conversations -- "Remembering the '50s."

CVS to host blood drive

POWAY -- CVS Pharmacy, at 12358 Poway Road, will host a San Diego Blood Bank blood drive from 1:30 to 7 p.m. April 2. The bloodmobile will be in the parking lot.

Anyone age 17 or older in good health and weighing at least 110 pounds may be eligible to donate blood. Eating a good meal before donating is recommended.

Information: (800) 4MY-SDBB or http://www.sandiegobloodbank.org.

Services offered for seniors

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The following events and services will be offered at Rancho Bernardo Senior Services, 16769 Bernardo Center Drive, Suite K-14.

- Free consultations with an attorney, 1 to 3 p.m. April 2 and 9. Call for a 20-minute appointment.

- Republican Women's Club board of directors meeting, 9:30 to 11 a.m. April 2.

- Free blood-pressure checks given by a nurse, 10 a.m. to noon April 4 and 11. No appointment is needed.

- Free income tax assistance: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays; and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays through April 15.

- Two-part AARP Safe Driving Course, noon to 4 p.m. April 6 and 13. Participants can earn a certificate entitling them to a discount on auto insurance. Cost is $10. Reservations are required.

Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Information: (858) 487-2640.

RB Sunrise Rotary to host programs

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The Rancho Bernardo Sunrise Rotary Club meets at 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, 12280 Greens East Road. Speakers begin their presentations at 8 a.m. Guests are welcome. An optional breakfast is available for $12.50.

Upcoming programs and speakers will include the following:

- April 3: Trudy Armstrong, Rotary projects in Africa.

- April 10: Carol Davis, Paws-itive Teams.

- April 17: Paul Steffans, YMCA Armed Forces.

For information, visit http://www.rbsunrise.org.

San Marcos library to host programs

SAN MARCOS -- The San Marcos branch of the San Diego County Library, 2 Civic Center Drive, will offer these programs. Information: (760) 891-3000.

Programs for adults:

- 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 3, Knitting Club meeting. The group meets the first Tuesday of the month and is to open to adults and teens who like to knit.

- 9 a.m. April 19, Friends of the Library meeting.

- 2 to 3 p.m. April 19, Book Club meeting.

Children's programs:

- 10 a.m. Wednesdays, "Terrific Twos" story time for 2-year-olds and an accompanying adult.

- 11 a.m. Wednesdays, "Wee Read Wednesdays" story time for families with preschool-age children.

- 11 a.m. April 23, bilingual story time.

- 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 25, preschool craft time.

- 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, movies for kids of all ages.

- 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays, after-school crafts for children in grades two through five. Limited to 20 participants.

Teen programs:

- 4 to 6 p.m. Mondays, "Dungeons and Dragons" game. Players meet in the library's conference room.

- 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, teen crafts -- origami.

- 1 to 2 p.m. Saturdays, Anime and Manga Club meeting.

- 5 p.m. April 24, If Teens Ruled the Library meeting. Teens meet monthly to plan programs and present ideas while enjoying pizza and popcorn.

CSUSM to present 'The Bald Soprano'

SAN MARCOS -- Cal State San Marcos' Visual and Performing Arts Department will present absurdist playwright Eugene Ionesco's "The Bald Soprano" at 8 p.m. April 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 in Room 111 of the Arts Building on campus, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road.

Tickets are $10; $5 for students with ID. Information: (760) 750-4137 or http://www.csusm.edu/vpa/.

Trailblazers club offers trips

SAN MARCOS -- The San Marcos Senior Center's Trailblazers travel club is offering these trips. For details and costs, call (760) 744-5535, Ext. 3609.

- Santa Anita Racetrack, April 19. Cost includes clubhouse admission, lunch at Club Court, program and professional handicapper to preview the day's races.

- Napa Valley, May 21 through 25.

- Catalina Island, June 4 and 5.

Wednesday Etc. to host luncheon

CARMEL MOUNTAIN RANCH -- Wednesday Etc. will hold its annual fashion show luncheon April 11 at the Carmel Mountain Ranch Country Club, 14050 Carmel Ridge Road.

Fashions from Sensation in Poway will be presented, and Jamie Carson, an esthetician from Twin Scissors and representative of the Laser Center and Aesthetics, will be available to answer questions about skin care, anti-aging and laser treatments. Attendees also will have the opportunity to win a piece of jewelry from the SueAnn McCarthy Collection.

Reservations and prepayment are required by April 6. Cost of $25 includes an entree selection and dessert. Call Marianne at (760) 753-4784.

World Affairs group plans meetings

RANCHO BERNARDO -- The World Affairs Council, North County Chapter, meets at 10 a.m. Thursdays in the second-floor meeting room at the Remington Club Phase II, 16916 Hierba Drive. The meetings are free, and guests are welcome.

April programs include the following:

- April 5: Cal State San Marcos political science professor Cynthia Metoyer will speak on "The Return of Daniel Ortega: Why Now?"

- April 12: Member Cal Watson will discuss his recent trip to India.

- April 19: Member Don Gragg will speak on "Nuclear Weapons Issues: An Interview With Herb York."

- April 26: Member Murray Kuritsky will discuss "What Is Aft of the Warhead on a Nuclear Missile: A Tutorial on Missile Guidance."

Information: http://www.sdwac.org.

VFW serves chicken Parmesan today

VISTA -- VFW Post 7041 is open to the public for special meals four times a week at 1717 E. Vista Way, Suite 117. The special served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. today is chicken Parmesan served on a bed of spaghetti with sauce, with vegetables, garlic bread sticks and salad. Cost is $6.50. Regular menu items also will be available.

Grandma's burgers and fries will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 31. Cost is $4.50. Breakfast served from 8:30 a.m. to noon April 1 is chicken fried steak. Cost is $4.50.

Steak, baked potato and salad is the special served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 3. Cost is $5.50. French dip sandwiches will be served April 4 and the cost is $4 for meals served from 4 to 5 p.m.; $5 after 5 p.m.

Active-duty military are always welcome. Proceeds are used for the post's many veterans programs. Call (760) 724-7041.

Passover program slated

VISTA -- A special, free Passover Program for families with young children will be presented at 11 a.m. March 31 at Congregation B'nai Tikvah, 1600 Buena Vista Drive. Information and reservations: (619) 261-9839 or http://www.angelfire.com/sd2/bnaitikvah.

Sports for youngsters offered

VISTA -- The city of Vista Parks and Community Services Department will hold sessions for preschool and after-school sports beginning April 9. Preschool sports are for boys and girls ages 4 to 5; after-school sports are for children in first and second grade. Sessions are held at Brengle Terrace and Shadowridge parks. Cost: $35 to $54.

Children will experience physical activity and develop and strengthen motor skills. They will work as a team and play simulated games like indoor soccer, flag football, basketball, t-ball or the multi-sport program that combines all four. Everyone will receive a jersey and enrollment is limited to 20 participants per session. Call (760) 726-1340, Ext. 1576.

Egg Hunt, Bonnet Contest planned

VISTA -- The city of Vista will hold a Spring Egg Hunt and Bonnet Contest April 7 at Brengle Terrace Park, 1200 Vale Terrace Drive. The Bonnet Contest will be held at 10 a.m. with the egg hunt, for ages 9 and younger, starting at 10:45 a.m. The Bonnet Contest will award prizes to all participants. Categories include most creative, funniest and prettiest. Bonnets must be homemade and cannot use live animals. Pictures with the Easter Bunny, available through the city Youth Commission, cost $3. Proceeds support the commission. Call (760) 726-1340, Ext. 1501.

VFW serves Easter brunch

VISTA -- VFW Post 7041 will hold an Easter Sunday Brunch Eggstravaganza from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 8 at the post, 1717 E. Vista Way. The buffet will feature and omelette station, carving station with prime rib, ham and pork, waffle station, lasagna, Salisbury steak, barbecued pork and many other dishes. Cost is $8. Call (760) 724-7041.

Christian women's club to meet

SAN MARCOS -- The San Marcos-Vista Christian Women's Club will host an "April in Paris" luncheon at 11:30 a.m. April 16 at the Lake San Marcos Country Club, 1750 San Pablo Drive. Cost is $15 all inclusive.

Speaker Yrena Friedmann of Carlsbad will talk about her "Prescription for Peace." Donna Manners, a professional actress and singer from San Marcos, will entertain with piano by Jewel Turbeville, also of San Marcos. Doris Soyland, professional landscape designer, will present a program, "All You Wanted to Know About Flowers."

The club has no membership dues. Reserve before April 12 by calling (760) 726-2927 or (760) 744-3744.

Vista Pop Warner seeks coaches

VISTA -- Vista Pop Warner Football urgently needs coaches for the upcoming season that begins in August. Anyone age 18 and older with experience coaching football in middle school, high school or college is asked to attend a coaching clinic to be held July 24 and 25. Vista Pop Warner includes children ages 8 to 16. Call (760) 500-1501.

Canine classes offered

VISTA -- Kindred Spirits Canine Education Center has several new dog training classes beginning this spring and summer, including puppy classes, basic obedience, therapy dog training, dog carting and more. Information: (760) 630-4824 or http://www.kindredspiritsk9.com.

Prosperity workshop held at O'side church

OCEANSIDE -- First Oceanside Religious Science Center for Enrichment will host a prosperity workshop, "Your Divine Heritage Is Not Debt," from 1 to 4 p.m. March 31 at 4079 Oceanside Blvd., Suite E. A $15 donation will support the Children's Ministry. Reserve to (760) 630-2730.

Funds for legal fees to fight development

OCEANSIDE -- A Wine and Cheese Party will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. March 31 at the Buena Vista Audubon Nature Center, 2205 S. Coast Highway. Join the Buena Vista Audubon Society and the Friends of the Buena Vista Lagoon to raise funds to save the open space across from the nature center and adjacent to the lagoon on Coast Highway. Development of an 82-room hotel, restaurant and condominium complex called the Coastal Lagoon Hotel was approved Feb. 14 by the Oceanside City Council. Since then, 11 environmental groups and individuals have filed formal appeals to the Coastal Commission opposing the city council's decision to proceed with the hotel development. The final decision now rests in the hands of the California Coastal Commission. Primary concerns are the negative impacts of the lights, concrete, paving and non-native landscaping on the more than 200 species of birds found in and around the lagoon.

A silent auction of works of art and other donated items will be held at the party to raise funds for legal assistance. Tickets to the fundraiser are available at the nature center for $10 and will include an entry in a raffle for lunch for two at the Flying Bridge Restaurant. Those unable to attend the party but who would like to donate to the cause can address donations to Buena Vista Audubon Society - Legal Fees, 2202 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054. Call (760) 439-2473.

Or, sign the petition at the nature center or online at http://www.PetitionOnline.com/7369/petition.html. Opposition to this project can also be expressed to the California Coastal Commission at (619) 767-2370.

O'side dog park closed for maintenance

OCEANSIDE -- The North County Humane Society & SPCA will close the dog park for maintenance April 1 through 30. Every year as part of the maintenance schedule, the park must be closed for a month to maintain the landscape.

The dog park is routinely closed every Wednesday, on rain days and the day after. It is NCHS policy to keep the park closed after rain until the ground is dry, which can take up to two days. The dog park is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. six days a week. Beginning May 1, a new hotline will allow residents to check park conditions. Park status will be available by 7 a.m. each day by calling (760) 757-4357, Ext. 1265.

O'side Elks to hold bingo

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Elks Lodge 1561 will hold bingo at 1 p.m. April 1 at 444 Country Club Lane. A free breakfast will be served from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to all who buy in. Call (760) 433-1561.

Eastside to hold Easter Egg Hunt

OCEANSIDE -- An free Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by Eastside United Community Action, the NAACP and the city of Oceanside, will be held at 9:30 a.m. April 7 at Joe Balderrama Park, 709 San Diego St. Only children ages 3 to 12 will be allowed in the hunt area. There will be prizes and the Easter Bunny will attend. Call (760) 439-9831.

O'side to hold Easter Egg Hunt

OCEANSIDE -- The city of Oceanside's free Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 3 to 11 will be held from 10 a.m. to noon April 7 at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 4500 Mesa Drive. The event will include prizes, candy and a visit by the Easter Bunny. Call (760) 435-5215.

Church to hold community Egg Hunt

OCEANSIDE -- Lighthouse Christian Church will host a community Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. April 7 at 4700 Mesa Drive. All children in preschool through elementary school are invited to participate. Call (760) 726-0590, Ext. 18.

Income tax help offered

OCEANSIDE -- Professionally trained AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will provide free income tax services for low and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to seniors age 60 and older, at the Oceanside Senior Center, 455 Country Club Lane.

This year, there will be a one-time refund for individuals who paid excise tax on long-distance or bundled telephone service billed after Feb. 28, 2003 and before Aug. 1, 2006. Filing for this tax rebate will be included for those individuals filing an income-tax return. For those who do not have to file an income tax return, assistance will be available to fill out Form 1040 EZ-T to get the excise tax refund. Appointments need to be scheduled as follows for all income tax assistance:

Tax-preparation services will be provided every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning on Feb. 5 and running through April 16. To participate, come to the senior center by 8 a.m. the day you want to have your income tax form prepared. Ask the receptionist for a number. Appointment times will be scheduled for that day only on a first-come, first-served basis as patrons arrive at the center until all appointment times are full for that day only. No appointment times will be scheduled in advance for any other day.

Bring with you: All IRS income statements for 2006 including W2s & 1099s; copy of income tax returns for 2005; and expense records, if itemizing. The number of appointment times to be scheduled will be based on the number of volunteers available to prepare your taxes. Space is limited. This service is sponsored by AARP.

Local author talks about new book

OCEANSIDE -- Author and award-winning North County Times reporter and columnist Tom Morrow will talk about his new book, "For Love of Their Country," at 11 a.m. March 31 at the Mission Branch Library Community Room, 3861-B Mission Ave.

Morrow will talk about this compilation of stories as told by residents of Oceanside, Vista and Carlsbad who served in World War II. The book and Morrow's 2006 novel, "Nebraska Doppelganger," will be available for purchase and signing. Also, Bill Ryherd of Oceanside will share his story and answer questions about his experiences in World War II. Ryherd was a B-26 pilot who spent 90 days in Buchenwald concentration camp. The free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Oceanside Public Library. Information: (760) 435-5640 or http://www.oceansidepubliclibrary.org.

O'side Woman's Club to meet

OCEANSIDE -- The Woman's Club of Oceanside will meet April 5 at the clubhouse, 1606 Missouri St. Coffee and chat is at 9:30 a.m. with a business meeting at 10 a.m. Bruce Radder will entertain. Lunch costs $7. Call (760) 370-7379.

Animal handling classes set

OCEANSIDE -- The North County Humane Society will hold free Volunteer Animal Handling classes April 14 and 28 at 2905 San Luis Rey Road. The course will train volunteers to care for and handle animals properly. Participants must attend volunteer orientation first, offered April 7 and 21. Call (760) 757-4357, Ext. 1244.

OMA visits Bowers Museum

OCEANSIDE -- The Oceanside Museum of Art will host a trip to the Bowers Museum of Cultural Art on April 26. The trip includes an exhibit of 75 Ansel Adams images; "Mummies: Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt; and "Treasures from Shanghai: 5,000 Years of Chinese Art and Culture."

There will be time to browse and enjoy a no-host lunch at the museum restaurant, Tangata. Cost is $40 for OMA members; $50 nonmembers. The bus will depart at 10 a.m. from the southwest corner of the parking lot at Westfield Plaza Camino Real mall in Carlsbad and return at approximately 5 p.m. Reserve to (760) 721-2787.

Youth sailing programs offered

OCEANSIDE -- The Oceanside Yacht Club will offer a summer youth sailing programs for ages 8 to 12 beginning July 9. The five-day programs will focus on learning the basic skills of seamanship and safety.

Cost is $175 for beginners; $125 intermediate. There will be a parent information session at 1:30 p.m. April 14 at 1950 Harbor Drive North. Yacht club membership is not required. Information: (760) 722-5751 or http://www.oceansideyc.com.