ESCONDIDO - The North County Times will present the first "Girls World Explosion," an all-day expo created for the educational and cultural development of girls ages 10 to 18 to be strong, smart and bold, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 3 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd.
The event will feature seminars, a job fair, an art exhibition, a market place of local vendors and workshops by local dance groups and the San Diego Sunwaves girls soccer team. There also will be a professional runway fashion show and live musical performances will take place throughout day.
The event is co-sponsored by Invitrogen, Cal State San Marcos, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, and Girls Inc.
Cost is $5. Tickets are available at all North County Times offices, as well as at the Carlsbad Boys & Girls Club, 3115 Roosevelt St.; Girls Inc., 400 S. Melrose Drive, Suite 110, Vista; and Invitrogen, 1600 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad.
For information, call (760) 839-3318 or go to http://www.nctimes.com/gwe/.
LIFE at MiraCosta to meet Feb. 23
OCEANSIDE - LIFE at MiraCosta, a lifelong learning group, will meet at 1 p.m. Feb. 23 in Room 1068 of the Administration Building at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Drive. In "Snakes Around the World," herpetologist Susan Nowicki will give an introduction to the planet's snakes.
At 2:30 p.m., LIFE members Rick and Ann Appleton, who have volunteered in the Veterans' History Project, will discuss its impact. Visitors are welcome. Call Tillie at (760) 721-8124.
Oceanside Pop Warner, Cheer sign-ups set
OCEANSIDE - Oceanside Pop Warner Football and Cheer sign-ups will be accepted at the following times. Coaching applications also will be accepted during all scheduled sign-ups. Call (760) 726-8124 or visit http://www.eteamz.com/opw.
Blood drive at CinemaStar Feb. 27
OCEANSIDE - The San Diego Blood Bank will accept blood donations from 2 to 7 p.m. Feb. 27 at CinemaStar Luxury Theaters, 431 College Blvd. The bloodmobile will be parked in the parking lot.
All donors will receive one complimentary admission to a movie, courtesy of CinemaStar, as well as a voucher for a free whale-watching trip donated by Helgren's Oceanside Sportfishing. Due to rising fuel costs there will be a $5 surcharge per person for the trip. Participants also will have the opportunity to join the San Diego Blood Bank's new Donor Difference program, which includes access to an online store for donors and the ability to track cholesterol, pulse and blood pressure after each donation.
To make an appointment, call (800) 4MY-SDBB.
Medicare workshop to be held March 7
OCEANSIDE - A new 2007 Workshop on Medicare will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. March 7 at the Oceanside Senior Center, 455 Country Club Lane. This free workshop is designed to help people on Medicare understand their health care options and benefits for 2007. The workshop will provide attendees with the whole picture of the new Medicare Advantage-MA plan choices for 2007 and provide Part D Prescription plan updates.
Information will be presented by Nick Salerno Jr. from the Senior Transition Advisory Group. Salerno is one of San Diego's leading authorities on Medicare coverage and owner of SSIS, an independent agency specializing in the Medicare field since 1982. Call (760) 435-5250.
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. 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.
Bingo at Oceanside Senior Center
OCEANSIDE - The Oceanside Senior Center holds bingo from 1:30 to 4 p.m. each Thursday at 455 Country Club Lane. Last game is sold at 1:20 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Senior Nutrition Program. Call (760) 435-5285.
Stuffed cabbage dinner planned at VFW
VISTA - VFW Post 7041 will hold a special stuffed cabbage dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Dinner includes salad for $6.50. Items on the regular menu also will be available. Active-duty military are always welcome. Proceeds are used for veterans programs. The post is at 1717 E. Vista Way, Suite 117. Call (760) 724-7041.
'Celebration of Black Gospel Music' set
VISTA - A "Celebration of Black Gospel Music" will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at Higher Dominion Worship Center, 2136 Industrial Court. The event will feature Danny Graham, Eddie Baltrip & the Voices, Two for Hymn, Cheryl Dearing & Blessed and more. Call Brenda at (760) 458-6258.
Pancake breakfast planned
VISTA - A pancake breakfast will be held from 8 a.m. to noon Feb. 25 at the Vista Masonic Center, 761 Eucalyptus Ave. Proceeds will benefit the Golden Star Assembly Girls and Pledge Girls. Cost is $8 adults; $4 for those age 12 and younger. Call (760) 845-3649.
Vista Garden Club to meet
VISTA - The Vista Garden Club will meet March 2 at the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, 1400 Vale Terrace Drive. A light luncheon will be served at noon with a business meeting and program at 1:15 p.m.
Karen England, a local herbist, will present an informative and entertaining presentation on the many ways to use the Herb of the Year. Call (760) 758-4120 or e-mail trudy77@cox.net.
Mobile-home park holds bingo
VISTA - Bingo is held at 2 p.m. Tuesdays at Vista Royalodge Mobilehome Park, 1010 E. Bobier Drive. Doors open at 1:15 p.m. Payout depends on attendance. Cost is $5 for a pack of 11 games. Call Bobbi at (760) 639-4353.
NCAAWA holds benefit performance
CARLSBAD - The North County African American Women's Association will present its annual benefit production of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues" in honor of V-Day 2007 at 8 p.m. March 2 and 3 at the Carlsbad Village Theater, 2822 State St.
The goal is to raise awareness to stop violence against women and to raise funds for the Women's Resource Center in Oceanside.
Cost is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. For tickets, call Robbie Haas at (760) 754-9991 or go to http://www.eventbrite.com (enter search word: ncaawa).
Library hosts Stein memorial concert
CARLSBAD - Concert saxophonist Ashu and pianist Kuang-Hao Huang will take to the stage as part of the La Jolla Music Society North County Concert Series, in memory of Pat Stein, at 7:30 p.m. March 30 at the Schulman Auditorium, Carlsbad City Dove Library, 1775 Dove Lane.
Accompanied by pianist Kuang-Hao Huang, Ashu will perform masterworks by Ibert, Villa-Lobos, Debussy and Demerssemen in addition to his own arrangements of works by Rachmaninoff and Piazzolla. Cost is $20 for adults; $5 for students and children. Call (858) 459-3728, or visit the Web site at http://www.LaJollaMusicSociety.org.
Learn to make earrings
OCEANSIDE - "Earrings, Earrings, Earrings," a one-day workshop designed to teach students to create their own stylish earrings, will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 10 in Room T110 at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Drive. Cost is $98 and includes all supplies. Bring a sack lunch. To register or for more information, call 9760) 795-6820 or log on to http://www.miracosta.edu/commsvcs.
Hospice offers support group
OCEANSIDE - The Elizabeth Hospice facilitates a free education and support group for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, whether recent or in the past. The group meets from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays at First Oceanside Religious Science Center, 4079 Oceanside Blvd., Suite E. No reservation is required. Group facilitators are bereavement counselors from The Elizabeth Hospice. Call (760) 737-2050.
Breast cancer support group meets
OCEANSIDE - Mara Davis, social worker at Tri-City Medical Center, facilitates a breast cancer support group from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at the hospital at 4002 W. Vista Way. For meeting room location, check in at the front lobby. For more information, call (760) 940-3119.
Whelan Lake Bird Walk set
OCEANSIDE - A Whelan Lake Bird Walk, featuring a premier birding location not open to the public, is held at 8 a.m. the first Saturday of each month. Expect to see many different species. Take Interstate 5 to Highway 76 east to Douglas Drive. Turn left on Douglas and continue to the traffic light at North River Road. Turn left and meet at the end of the cul-de-sac by the entrance gate. The walks are sponsored by the Buena Vista Audubon Society. The leader is John Haddock. Call (760) 941-7824.
Expo for girls planned for March 3
ESCONDIDO - The North County Times will present the first "Girls World Explosion," an all-day expo created for the educational and cultural development of girls ages 10 to 18 to be strong, smart and bold, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 3 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd.
The event will feature seminars, a job fair, an art exhibition, a market place of local vendors and workshops by local dance groups and the San Diego Sunwaves girls soccer team. There also will be a professional runway fashion show and live musical performances will take place throughout day.
The event is co-sponsored by Invitrogen, Cal State San Marcos, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, and Girls Inc.
Cost is $5. Tickets are available at all North County Times offices, as well as at the Carlsbad Boys & Girls Clubs, 3115 Roosevelt St.; Girls Inc., 400 S. Melrose Drive, Suite 110, Vista; and Invitrogen, 1600 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad.
For information, call (760) 839-3318 or go to http://www.nctimes.com/gwe/.
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. Call (866) 917-2227 or visit the Web site at http://www.crediteducation.org.
Optimist club holds oratorical contest
OCEANSIDE - The Optimist Club of Oceanside is encouraging area students to speak their minds on the topic of "My Biggest Challenge is . . ." as part of the Optimist International Oratorical Contest for 2007.
The club will judge local students' speeches based on content and presentation to determine the top winners. Winners and the winning speeches will be sent to the zone level and possibly the district level for the opportunity to win college scholarships. Students younger than 16 as of Dec. 31, 2006 are eligible to participate.
The deadline to hand in speeches is March 1. Students wishing to participate can find out more by contacting Dorothy Baker at (760) 945-7495.
Stamp club meets weekly
ENCINITAS - The Encinitas Senior Center meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Encinitas Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive. Learn how to mount and protect collections; the history of stamps, collecting for your grandkids and appraisals, auctions, sales and dealers. Call (760) 943-2250.
Rotary meets at Chart House
CARDIFF - The Encinitas - La Costa Rotary Club meets at 12:15 p.m. Tuesdays at the Chart House, 2588 S. Coast Highway 101. Members provide a wide variety of service projects locally and internationally, ranging from granting scholarships locally, to painting at the Boys & Girls Club to traveling to Nicaraguan villages to donate dairy goats.
The club also serves as the sponsor of the La Costa Canyon Interact Club. Call Paul Ainsworth at (760) 944-1056 or visit the Web site at http://www.elcrotary.org.
Project provides senior services
ENCINITAS - Free senior services are available through Project C.A.R.E. (Community Action To Reach The Elderly) at the center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive. These free services are offered as a safety net: Vial of Life, Gatekeeper, Postal Alert, Home Safety Check, Your Are Not Alone and Are You Okay. Call Gloria Aronson at (760) 943-2255.
Toastmasters meet weekly
ENCINITAS - Encinitas Moonlighter's Toastmasters Club meets at noon Thursdays at Encinitas City Hall, 505 S. Vulcan Ave. Learn to speak in public with no fear in a supportive and positive learning environment. Call Blair Knoll at (760) 633-2793 or visit the Web site at http://www.moonlighters.us.
Support offered for families
ENCINITAS - Families Anonymous, a 12-step, self-help support program for parents, relatives and friends who are concerned about substance abuse of a loved one, meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays in the community room, San Diego National Bank, 131 N. El Camino Real.
Advisory elections set for March 8
DEL MAR - Elections will be held for seven open positions on the Torrey Pines Community Planning Group from 6 to 8 p.m. March 8 at the Del Mar Heights Elementary School, 13555 Boquita Drive. The planning group consists of 16 board members. There are seven available openings: two from Area 1 - Del Mar Terrace Area, Sea Point, Sea Village, Sorrento Valley; one from Area 2 - north of Area 1 and south of Del Mar Heights Road; two from Area 3 - north of Del Mar Heights Road; and two business positions.
The Torrey Pines Planning Area lies west of I-5 and east of the city of Del Mar. It extends from I-805 in Sorrento Valley to Via de la Valle. It is part of the city of San Diego and includes Del Mar Heights, Del Mar Terrace and the Sorrento Valley industrial areas.
Community Planning Board members are elected by and from eligible members of the community. An eligible community member is an individual who is at least 18 years of age and must be affiliated with the community for at least 30 days as a property owner, resident or business owner/operator in a business district. Community members are encouraged to vote and will be required to show proof of eligibility with a driver's license, utility bill, etc.
Issues and projects affecting the community include: Carmel Valley Road improvements; aircraft and highway noise; pedestrian and driver safety on neighborhood roads; cellular phone antennas; a landscaped, raised median on Del Mar Heights Road; the widening of I-5; double tracking railroad across Los Pe"asquitos Lagoon; SR 56 connectors; protection of community open spaces; and the Sorrento Valley Linear Park.
Anyone interested in running for election to fill a vacancy on the Torrey Pines Community Planning Board can call Cliff Hanna at 858) 805-2104, e-mail channa@biosite.com or call Pat Finn at (619) 594-4050, e-mail pfinn@kpbs.org.
Senior center offers rides
CARLSBAD - Carlsbad residents 60 years of age and older who cannot drive and are in need of transportation for medical appointments or grocery shopping can contact the Carlsbad Senior Center's Transportation Program for assistance.
Transportation for medical appointments is provided Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Appointments must be made no earlier than 2 p.m. and end by 4:30 p.m.
Service area is limited. Wednesday afternoons are reserved for grocery shopping at Stater Brothers. The first Thursday afternoon of the month transportation is provided to go to Wal-Mart or Trader Joe's. Mondays through Fridays, seniors can enjoy lunch at the Carlsbad Senior Center. Transportation is provided to and from the center. Call (760) 602-4650.
Learn to identify birds
CARLSBAD - Visit Buena Vista Lagoon for a look at local birds with Buena Vista Audubon Society host Tom Troy at 8:30 a.m. the last Saturday of each month at Buena Vista Lagoon Landing. Learn to identify birds by sight and sound with added instruction in the use of binoculars and scopes. Call Tom Troy at (760) 967-6915.
Disaster preparedness meeting set
CARLSBAD - A Neighborhood Disaster Awareness Program is planned from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Harding Community Center, 3096 Harding St.
Sponsored by the Carlsbad High School Parent Association, the meeting will feature speakers from local fire departments, school districts, hospitals, animal shelters and the Red Cross. Families will learn if they are ready for a disaster, how to reach children at school with debris in the streets, stock up on water and food, take care of animals and how to offer first aid. Establishing neighborhood programs similar to Neighborhood Watch also will be discussed.
Seating is limited to the first 200 people. For more information, contact Ann Wicks at seabreeze2705@adelphia.net or (760) 729-8705, or Lorraine Melendez at drmelendez@goldcoastchiro.com.
CCC Band plans anniversary concert
NORTH COUNTY - The Coastal Communities Concert Band will present its 24th Anniversary Concert at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 25 at Carlsbad Community Church, 3175 Harding St., Carlsbad. The award-winning band will play selections from both classical and popular band literature.
This year's anniversary concert will feature trombone soloist Bill Tole, director of the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Tole portrayed Tommy Dorsey in the film "New York, New York," was the assistant director of the Air Men of Note (the U.S. Air Force's jazz band) and performed to a full house with the Coastal Cities Jazz Band in August.
Ticket prices are $15; $12 for students and seniors. For advance tickets, call Kris Sims at (760) 436-6137, Bill Brackman at (760) 489-2383 or Beck Abell at (858) 793-8258. For information, go to http://www.cccband.com or http://www.billtole.com.
In addition, Tole will conduct a free trombone clinic/master class from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at Oak Crest Middle School, 675 Balour Drive, Encinitas. For reservations, call Bill Brackman at (760) 489-2383 or e-mail wdbrackman@cox.net.
Microchip your pet
CARLSBAD - The County Department of Animal Services offers microchips for dogs, cats or rabbits from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays at the County Animal Shelter, 2481 Palomar Airport Road. 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, please ask about the $50 coupon.
Call (760) 438-2312 or visit the Web site at 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.
Bridal fair set for Feb. 25
CARLSBAD - All Wedding Sites & Services will present the Fifth Annual Windmill Bridal Faire from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 25 at Windmill Catering & Banquets, 890 Palomar Airport Road. The event will feature 60 San Diego-based wedding service providers, fashion shows and cake tastings. Cost is $7. Call (760) 295-9005, e-mail Lawrence Jones at info@allwedsites.com, or visit the Web site at www.AllWedSites.com.
Human resource managers meets
CARLSBAD - San Diego SHRM's North Coast March breakfast meeting will feature a highly interactive seminar presented by Sandy Asch, "Engage 'em or Lose 'em" - Strategies to Increase Employee Engagement and Drive Retention" from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. March 28 at the Grand Pacific Palisades, 5805 Armada Drive.
Attendees will learn how to make the transformation from employee satisfaction to employee engagement and gain practical strategies to monitor, reinforce and reward engagement to help drive retention. Cost is $30 to $50. E-mail sdshrm@sdshrm.org or visit the Web site at http://www.sdshrm.org.
Dog adoption event planned
RANCHO BERNARDO - The Foundation for the Care of Indigent Animals, a nonprofit pet rescue organization, will hold a dog adoption event from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 24 at Kahoots Animals and Supplies, 11965 Bernardo Plaza Drive. For information, call (619) 466-0426.
Mortgages is the topic
RAMONA - The Ramona branch of the San Diego County Library will host a "Coffee and Conversations" program on mortgages at 11 a.m. Feb. 24. Learn about mortgages from an expert. The library is at 1406 Montecito Road. For information, call (760) 738-2434.
Theater to host blood drive
POWAY - UltraStar Cinemas, 13475 Poway Road, will host a San Diego Blood Bank blood drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 24. The bloodmobile will be in the parking lot.
The first 60 donors will receive a free movie pass from UltraStar Cinemas, and all donors will receive a voucher for a free whale watching trip. Participants also will have the opportunity to join the San Diego Blood Bank's new Donor Difference program, which includes access to an online store for donors and the ability to track cholesterol, pulse and blood pressure after each donation.
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: http://www.sandiegobloodbank.org or (800) 4MY-SDBB.
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.
Other services available at the center include hot meals delivered to home-bound seniors; a referral list of drivers, caregivers and handymen; reassurance telephone calls; and income tax assistance by appointment.
Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Information: (858) 487-2640.
Stamping Details offers classes, events
POWAY - Stamping Details, at 14009 Midland Road, will offer these art classes.
For information or to register, call (858) 513-8024 or visit http://www.stampingdetails.com.
Volunteer park rangers needed
POWAY - The city's Community Services Department is recruiting volunteers to become reserve park rangers. The reserve park ranger program helps to secure and manage 3,000 recreational acres, including 61 miles of pedestrian, bicycle and equestrian trials and city recreation programs.
Prospective volunteers must be age 17 or older, have a valid California driver's license and pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting. The application process includes completing an application form and participating in a screening interview, which will take place March 24 at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road.
New volunteers will participate in a training academy. The first session will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. March 27. Following sessions will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Mondays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays through April 28.
For information or to receive an application by mail, call Ed Allert, park ranger, at (858) 668-4577.
Weight-loss challenge under way
RANCHO BERNARDO - Fitness Together Rancho Bernardo's annual 12-week weight-loss challenge, "Lose to Cruise," is under way. New and existing clients can compete for a four-day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. A weigh-in will be held April 30, and the competitor who has lost the most weight will win the cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise line. Information: (858) 451-6051 or http://www.ftranchobernardo.com.
Madrid Manor Follies planned
SAN MARCOS - Madrid Manor Mobile Home Park, 1401 El Norte Parkway, will present its 24th annual Follies, "Dancin' U.S.A. 1890-2000," a five-piece live show featuring Bruce's Band Boys, on Feb. 24 and 25.
For the Feb. 24 show, cocktails will be served beginning at 5 p.m. followed by the dinner at 6 and the show at 7. On Feb. 25, cocktails will begin at 1 p.m., with dinner at 2 and the show at 3. Cost is $16.
For reservations, call Jan at (760) 746-9451.
'Couples Massage' class offered
SAN MARCOS - A "Couples Massage" class will be offered from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Feb. 24 at Palomar College, 1140 W. Mission Road.
Participants can learn how to give and receive a massage with their partners and how touch can be used to relieve stress, pain and injury. Couples can feel relaxed and balanced while enhancing their loving bond.
Cost is $70 per couple. Bring bathing suits or running shorts. For information, call (760) 730-0798.
Democratic club to meet
RANCHO BERNARDO - The North Central Democratic Club will meet at 7 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Remington Club Phase II, 16916 Hierba Drive.
CBS News consultant Dr. Marjorie Cohn will discuss the Military Commissions Act.
Information: Bob Mott, (858) 451-3469.
Native plant club to meet Feb. 26
RANCHO BERNARDO - The Lake Hodges Native Plant Club will meet at 2 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Rancho Bernardo Library, 17110 Bernardo Center Drive.
Cary Sharp, horticulturist for the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park, will talk about the park's plans for horticulture.
Information: (760) 745-6435 or http://www.lhnpc.org.
CYT to stage 'Schoolhouse Rock, Live!'
SAN MARCOS - The North County Inland Division of Christian Youth Theater will present "Schoolhouse Rock, Live!" at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23 and 24 and March 2 and 3; 3 p.m. Feb. 25 and March 4; and 2 p.m. March 3 in the auditorium at Mission Hills High School, 1 Mission Hills Court. Ticket prices range from $8 to $12.
"Schoolhouse Rock, Live" is a stage adaptation of the original School House Rock vignettes. A fun throwback to the 1970s, most attendees will remember and be able to hum along with the many catchy tunes such as "Three Is a Magic Number," "Lolly, Lolly, Lolly," "Conjunction Junction," "I'm Just a Bill" and many others. The show features a cast of young actors ages 8 to 18 from Escondido, San Marcos, Poway, Rancho Bernardo and Rancho Penasquitos.
For information and tickets, call (800) 696-1929 or (619) 588-0206, or go to http://www.cyt.org.
Cisneros' books will be discussed
ESCONDIDO - The Escondido Public Library is hosting book discussions exploring the works of author Sandra Cisneros, who has been named this year's author for the Escondido Reads One Book community reading project. Writer and journalist Miriam Ruvinskis will facilitate the following discussions.
The library is at 239 S. Kalmia St. Information: (760) 839-4601, http://www.escondido.org/library.escondidoreads.
State of the City address planned
ESCONDIDO - Mayor Lori Holt Pfeiler will present the State of the City address at a meeting of the Escondido City Council at 7 p.m. Feb. 21 in council chambers at City Hall, 201 N. Broadway. The address also will be broadcast live on Channel 19 (in Escondido only) and can be viewed at http://www.ci.escondido.ca.us.
Church to host infertility seminar
ESCONDIDO - A one-day seminar, designed to provide encouragement and practical help to couples who are experiencing infertility or have dealt with pregnancy loss, will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 24 at Emmanuel Faith Community Church, 639 E. Felicita Ave.
The conference will focus on how to keep a marriage healthy and intact while navigating the journey of infertility issues.
Guest speakers John and Sylvia Regenmorter will address the mental, emotional, spiritual, medical and other ethical aspects of infertility, such as adoption. Six sessions and lunch will be offered. Cost is $50 per couple or $30 per person.
The Regenmorters, co-directors of a Christian-based infertility ministry called Stepping Stones, have written two books, "Dear God, Why Can't We Have a Baby?" and "When the Cradle Is Empty: Answering Tough Questions About Infertility."
For information, call Cheryl Jordan at (760) 741-7923 or Joyce Marks at (760) 781-2114.
VC Library to host mortgage expert
VALLEY CENTER - The Valley Center branch of the San Diego County Library, 29200 Cole Grade Road, will host Coffee and Conversations, featuring a mortgage expert, at 11 a.m. Feb. 24. For information, call (760) 749-1305.
Teen art, writing contest deadline nears
ESCONDIDO - The Escondido Public Library invites seventh- through 12th-graders to enter its sixth annual Teen Art and Writing Contest. Teens can submit short stories, poetry and artwork now through Feb. 28. This year's contest includes a new Comics category.
The contest is being held in conjunction with the Escondido Reads One Book community reading project, which encourages everyone to read the book "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros, and to participate in programs that have been designed to link to the themes in the book.
The Teen Art and Writing Contest will culminate with a special gallery showing of the winning entries and an awards reception March 21 at the Escondido Municipal Gallery. The highlight of the evening will be Cisneros' appearance and presentation of the awards to teens.
Official rules and entry forms are on the library's Web site, http://www.library.escondido.org/teens. For information, call (760) 839-4828 or stop by the library at 239 S. Kalmia St.
'Cabaret' to open March 2
ESCONDIDO - Patio Playhouse will present "Cabaret" at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, March 2 through April 1, at the theater, 201 E. Grand Ave., Suite 1D. Admission is $17; $15 for seniors and students; and $7 for youths younger than 16. For tickets and information, call (760) 746-6669 or go to http://www.patioplayhouse.com.
A sleazy nightclub forms the backdrop to the Nazi's rise to power in Kander and Ebb's groundbreaking musical. This production is based on the 1987 revival and is directed by Deborah Zimmer.
Teens invited to enter talent show
VALLEY CENTER - Teen Talent, a nonprofit organization established to showcase young talent, is seeking participants for its 2007 competition.
The competition, to be held at the Maxine Theater, is open to youths ages 13 to 19. Cash prizes will be awarded in four categories - drama, dance, instrumental and vocal. First-place winners will receive $500; second-place winners, $250; and third-place winners, $125. The deadline to register is March 10.
In addition, the organization needs a master of ceremonies for the show and will hold auditions at 2 p.m. March 17 at the Valley Center Library. Reservations are required.
For information, go to http://www.teentalentshow.com.
Laughlin trip on tap for seniors
ESCONDIDO - Joslyn Senior Center Travel Service is offering a three-day, two-night trip to Laughlin, Nev., from March 27 through 29. Stay at the Riverside Hotel, which has a movie theater, bingo parlor, bowling alley, spacious rooms and overlooks the Colorado River. Cost is $85 per person, double occupancy; and $105 per person, single occupancy. For information, call (760) 745-5414 or stop by the senior center at 210 Park Ave.
Assistance League to meet Feb. 28
ESCONDIDO - The Assistance League of Inland North County will meet at 10 a.m. Feb. 28 at the McLaughlin Chapter House, 2068 E. Valley Parkway. For information, call (760) 746-7532 or go to http://www.assistanceleague.info.
Resource fair set for women in need
SAN DIEGO - The 18th annual Women's Resource Fair for homeless and battered women will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 3 in Golden Hall, adjacent to the Civic Administration Building, 202 C St. The fair is a community outreach event sponsored by the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program, the Lawyers Club of San Diego and the San Diego County Bar Association. For information or to volunteer, call (619) 338-6620. Bilingual volunteers are especially needed.
Ikebana chapter to host flower show
SAN DIEGO - The Ohara School of Ikebana, San Diego chapter, will hold its 34th annual flower show and bazaar from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 3 and 4 in Room 101 at Casa del Prado in Balboa Park.
This year's theme is the Girls Day Celebration, which takes place each March 3 in Japan. Because the flower for Girls Day is the peach blossom, this traditional flower will also be part of the festivities.
On display will be more than 60 Japanese style floral arrangements made by the Ohara members, as well as demonstrations of the Ohara style of flower arranging by teachers from the group. Demonstrations will take place at noon, 1 and 2 p.m. both days
Admission is free. Sushi and tea will be available for purchase, as well as baked goods and small flower arrangements made especially for the occasion.
Boating seminars slated
Boaters are invited to attend free seminars to learn about nontoxic bottom paint alternatives, ways to prevent invasive species from being transported on boat bottoms and how to protect water quality.
Sponsored by the University of California Sea Grant Extension Program, the seminars will take place at 10 a.m. March 10 at Sun Harbor Marina, 5000 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego; 6 p.m. April 19 at Chula Vista Marina, 550 Marina Parkway, Chula Vista; and 9 a.m. May 19 at Sunroad Resort Marina, 955 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego.
Information: Jamie Gonzalez, jagonzalez@ucdavis.edu, (858) 694-3414.
State Fair offers scholarships
The Friends of the California State Fair Scholarship Program is accepting applications for the 2007-08 academic year. California college students and graduating high school students are eligible and must apply by March 23.
This year, as many as 32 scholarships will be awarded in the following areas: arts, general studies, agriculture, international studies, teaching credential programs, viticulture, oenology and culinary.
Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of personal commitment, goals established for their chosen field, leadership potential and civic accomplishments. All applicants are also eligible for the Ironstone Concours d'Elegance $5,000 outstanding candidate scholarship.
For an application, go to http://www.bigfun.org or call (760) 263-3636.
William Horlick High reunion set
ESCONDIDO - Escondido resident Bob Lentz will hold a reunion for graduates of William Horlick High School of Racine, Wis., on March 24 at his home. Many graduates live in Southern California, and rather than make the trek back to Wisconsin, reunions have been held in La Jolla, Palm Desert, Rancho Santa Fe, Indio, Menifee and Oceanside.
For reunion information, contact Lentz at (760) 781-1097 or rlentz2@cox.net.
Little League to kick off season
FALLBROOK - Bonsall-Fallbrook Little League will kick off its season with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. Feb. 24 at the baseball fields on Ivy Street between the Boys & Girls Club and the North County Fire Department. Honorary Mayor Rhonda Reinke will be there and Deputy Fire Chief Charlie Glasgow will throw out the first pitch.
The Fallbrook Warriors High School Baseball Team will be present to show their support. The Marine Corps Color Guard will present the flag and lead the Pledge of Allegiance, and Gabriella Barbato, a player in the league, will sing the national anthem.
The ceremony will be followed by a carnival on the field, featuring a rock-climbing wall, a giant slide, games and prizes. The snack bar will serve hamburgers, hot dogs and carne asada plates, as well as the usual snack bar fare.
Renovations at the facility are continuing, including installing a third backstop. The league is celebrating its second season at its new home. This season, there will be an opportunity to host an interleague games with another league in the district - Oceanside National Little League. Although the teams have been formed and have begun practicing, it's not too late to register a player. Call (760) 736-2736 or go to http://www.eteamz.active.com/bfll.
Bible teacher to speak via simulcast
FALLBROOK - On Feb. 24, author and Bible teacher Beth Moore will speak to tens of thousands of women across North America in a live satellite simulcast based on her new book "Get Out of That Pit." (Integrity Publishers)
In a message titled "Straight Talk About God's Deliverance," Moore will discuss her belief that deliverance is for everyone - no matter how one gets stuck, no matter how one's been down, whether one thinks they deserve it or not. From her own experience, Moore will share the healing she found in Jesus and will present a message of hope.
Presented by Church Communication Network (CCN) and Integrity Publishers, the event will be broadcast live via satellite to hundreds of churches in the United States and Canada.
Fallbrook Presbyterian is hosting this live international simulcast event. For information or ticketing, register online at http://www.fallbrookpres.org or call (760) 644-6791.
Gardens sought for AAUW tour
FALLBROOK - The Fallbrook chapter of the American Association of University Women is seeking gardens for its 12th annual Country Garden Tour of Fallbrook taking place May 12. It is the organization's only fundraiser for the year. For information on how to participate, call Marj Freda at (760) 723-9686 or Nancy Wilshire at (760) 723-1958.
Income tax preparation help available
FALLBROOK - Free state and federal income tax preparation is offered daily at the Joslyn Senior Center at the corner of Heald Lane and Fallbrook Street. This service is available to all Fallbrook residents regardless of age and is sponsored by the AARP in cooperation with the IRS.
Tax counselors are available between 8 a.m. and noon weekdays through April 13. Appointments may be made by calling (760) 728-4498. People with complicated returns involving the sale of real estate, multiple stock transactions and inheritance issues should seek the help of a professional preparer.
Fallbrook Senior Citizens trips planned
FALLBROOK - More participants are needed for the Fallbrook Senior Citizens trip to Palm Springs on March 15. People of any age can participate. Travelers will see "Senior Class," a musical comedy celebrating the golden years and starring Anna Maria Alberghetti. Cost of $64 per person includes transportation, show ticket and driver's tip. Lunch is on your own.
The bus will leave the center at 399 Heald Lane at 9 a.m. Participants will have time to gamble, shop and eat lunch, but must be seated by 1:45 p.m. The show begins at 2 p.m. and lasts for 90 minutes with no intermission. Seats will be assigned when the reservation is paid; there will be no cancellations or refunds unless a replacement is found. Call (760) 728-4498 or Dee at (760) 723-7469 for more information.
A nine-day, eight-night trip to Mount Rushmore will take place May 12 through 20. Cost is $659 per person, double occupancy; and $909 per person, single occupancy. The cost includes motorcoach transportation and lodging, including four consecutive nights in South Dakota; 14 meals (eight breakfasts and six dinners); and several tours of places of interest. Tips for two step-on guides and the bus driver are extra. The bus is a 55-passenger bus, so everyone is free to change seats and move around.
Posted in Community on Tuesday, February 20, 2007 12:00 am Updated: 8:13 am.
© Copyright 2009, North County Times - Californian, Escondido, CA | Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
