RANCHO BERNARDO -- San Diego City College's member-supported public radio station KSDS Jazz 88.3, in partnership with Studio West Recorders of San Diego, will present a "Live Lunch" summer concert series, offering three, free jazz concerts along with a free lunch to the first 50 people (per concert) who make reservations.

The concerts will be held at 11:30 a.m. June 30, July 28 and Aug. 25 in the A Studio of Studio West Recorders, 11021 Via Frontera. Lunch will be provided by Togo's. Jazz vocalist and pianist Sue Palmer will kick off the series June 30, and each concert will be broadcast live on Jazz 88.3.

For reservations and information, call (619) 388-3037.

Nursery offers free gardening classes

POWAY --- Walter Andersen Nursery, 12755 Danielson Court, will offer these gardening classes at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays. All classes are free unless otherwise noted. For information, call (858) 513-4900.

- July 1, "Water Gardens."

- July 8, "Controlling Critters."

- July 15, "Fairy Furniture" workshop conducted by artist Suja Pritchard. The workshop is limited to 15 adults paired with 15 children. Cost: $15 per person for materials. R.S.V.P. at (858) 513-4900.

- July 22, "Fairy Furniture" workshop part two.

- July 29, "Orchids: Care, Culture, Repotting and Mounting" with guest speakers Bud Close and Charlie Fouquette.

- Aug. 5, "Plumerias: Care and Culture."

- Aug. 12, "Summer Flowers."

- Aug. 19, "Fairy Gardening."

- Aug. 26, "Herbs."

- Sept. 2, "Fall Veggie Gardening."

- Sept. 9, "Fall Bulbs."

- Sept. 16, "Make a Terra Cotta Coil Pot" workshop with artist Suja Pritchard. Cost: $20 for materials. R.S.V.P. at (858) 513-4900.

- Sept. 23, "Fall Flowers."

- Sept. 30, "Fall Rose Care."

Poway art center has new Web site

POWAY -- The Poway Center for the Performing Arts has a brand new Web site, http://www.PowayPerformingArts.com. With the launch of the site, patrons can now purchase tickets online to more than 150 events hosted at the theater.

In addition to performance information, photos and a schedule of monthly art exhibits, the Web site offers information on volunteer opportunities and rental applications for use of the 815-seat facility.

For information about the art center's 2006-07 season, visit the Web site or call the box office at (858) 748-0505.

Sheriff's Department seeks senior volunteers

RAMONA -- The San Diego County Sheriff's Department's Ramona Substation is seeking men and women who want to help their community as members of the Senior Volunteer Patrol. Volunteers must be at least 50 years old, U.S. citizens and of good moral character and have a valid California driver's license and medical and automobile insurance. A training academy will begin soon. Call Bill Hicks at (760) 738-2481.

Stamping Details offers art classes

POWAY -- Stamping Details, at 14009 Midland Road, will offer these classes:

- "Basic Rubber Stamping Card Making," 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m. July 6. Learn basic rubber stamping techniques for card making and other projects. Cost of $18 includes class supplies.

- Visiting teacher Felicity Straba from the Stamp Act of El Paso will teach three classes July 8: "Faux Distressed Collage Cards," 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; "Outlines," 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.; and "Using the Wizard Card Making," 4:30 to 6 p.m. Cost is $20 per class.

- Two-part "Domino Wire Art Necklace Class," 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 10 and 5:30 to 8 p.m. July 12. Create a necklace like those featured on the cover of the March/April 2005 issue of Expression magazine. Linda Moore, project creator and author of the magazine article, will teach participants how to make their own expressive jewelry using a domino, rubber stamps, alcohol inks, wire and beads. Cost of $44 includes supplies, except student-supplied beads.

For information or to register, call (858) 513-8024 or visit http://www.stampingdetails.com.

Golf tourney to benefit PHS football

CARMEL MOUNTAIN RANCH -- The Poway Titan Football Boosters will present the third annual golf tournament, dinner and auction to benefit the Poway High School Titan Football program July 15 at the Carmel Mountain Ranch Country Club.

NFL Coach Mike Martz is the honorary chairman for the event. Participating sports celebrities will include former Charger Leslie O'Neal, former New York Giant Phil McConkey and current St. Louis Ram and Poway High graduate Drew Wahlroos.

Check-in will begin at 10:15 a.m., with a shotgun start at noon. Dinner and auction will follow the tournament.

For information, contact Don McKillop at (858) 487-8118 or don@mckilloplaw.com or go to http://eteamz.active.com/titanfootball.

Fourth of July event planned in SM

SAN MARCOS -- The city will host its annual Fourth of July celebration July 4 at Bradley Park at Linda Vista Drive and Rancho Santa Fe Road.

The celebration will feature live entertainment, carnival games, concession booths and a spectacular fireworks display. Entertainment will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will include performances by the Fabulous Woodies, as well as local singers and dancers. The fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

The fireworks display is sponsored solely through community donations. Local business and individuals donate their time and money to make the display possible. For information, call the San Marcos Fireworks Committee at (760) 744-9000.

Calligraphy class to begin July 12

SAN MARCOS -- San Marcos Community Services will offer a beginning calligraphy class for adults from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, July 12 through Aug. 2, at the San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Drive. Registration is required by June 30. Cost is $40 for the entire course or $12 per class (drop-in). For information or to register, contact Claire Burns at (760) 744-0292 or pronto1@adelphia.net.

VFW forms men's auxiliary

SAN MARCOS --- Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3795 of San Marcos has launched a men's auxiliary. Eligibility is limited to husbands, widowers, fathers, grandfathers, sons, grandsons, brothers and half brothers of those who were or are eligible to join the VFW and who are at least 16 years old. For information, stop by the post at 212 Mission Road, or call (760) 744-3795.

Free forum for parents of teens set

SAN DIEGO -- Experts in the field of adolescent development and mental health will conduct a free educational forum for parents at 7 p.m. June 28 at the San Diego University for Integrative Studies, 3900 Harney St., Suite 210.

Parents can gain effective tools to improve communication with their teenagers, learn the signs and symptoms about which they should be concerned and regain the close relationship they once experienced with their teenagers.

R.S.V.P. at (619) 297-1999.

Boys & Girls Clubs present awards, scholarships

SAN DIEGO -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego honored its 2006 Youth of the Year winners from all 12 branches at an awards dinner held June 5 at the Doubletree Golf Resort. Staff members from each branch voted on the member they felt best represented the Boys & Girls Clubs' core values.

The following club members were recognized for their generosity, enthusiasm and leadership qualities: Emily Zheng, 4S Ranch branch; Avelina Amescua, Baker branch in Escondido; Maya Eckhardt, Borrego Springs branch; Mike Houtz, Clairemont branch; Ta'Shara Washington, Encanto branch; Aaron Ferguson, Linda Vista Teen Center; Evelyn Cazanas, Mitchell branch in Escondido; Georgina Avina, Oakes branch in Logan Heights; Priscilla Patrick, Ramona branch; Wendy Zepeda, Roberts branch in Linda Vista; Lauren Kehetian, Sulpizio branch in Poway; and Nick Abeyta, Valley Center branch.

In addition, college scholarships were awarded to graduating high school seniors through the Greater San Diego Boys & Girls Clubs Foundation. The recipients are Dustin Aschbrenner, Jeffrey Davis, Marcos Favela, Joseph Fletcher, Kristen Hensley and Hunter Hubers, all of Valley Center High School; Sara Bayles, Austin Witty, Brandon Williams and Nicholas Wright, all of Escondido High School; Sabrina Owens, Poway High School; Jason Goldfine-Middleton, Scripps Ranch High School; Brandon Lang and Cody Sparling, Ramona High School; Bailey Livesay and Mary Riegler, San Pasqual High School; Aubrey Hoyle, University City High School; Andrew Moir, La Jolla Country Day School; and Edmon Rubi, Kearny High School.

Elks hold bingo today

OCEANSIDE -- Oceanside Elks Lodge 1561 will hold bingo at 1 p.m. today at 444 Country Club Lane. Call (760) 433-1561.

Ballroom dance today at senior center

OCEANSIDE -- The Oceanside Senior Center will hold a ballroom dance featuring music by The Tenor Tones from 3 to 5 p.m. today at 455 Country Club Lane. Admission is $4 and anyone 55 and older is welcome. Refreshments will be served. Call (760) 435-5250.

Macintosh users to meet

OCEANSIDE -- "The Switch to Intel: What's In It For Me?" will be the program topic for the meeting of the Oceanside Macintosh User Group at 6:30 p.m. June 28 at Oceana Clubhouse Auditorium, 550 Vista Bella. Charles Finn will present an overview of Apple's switch to Intel processors including how it will impact those who buy the new computers and those who do not. He will also discuss Boot Camp and other ways to run Windows software on a Mac.

Visitors are welcome. The group provides a forum for Macintosh computer users of all levels to share knowledge and experience. Call (760) 727-7255 or visit http://www.omug.net.

Dinghy parade on tap for July 4

OCEANSIDE -- The Oceanside Yacht Club will hold the fifth annual decorated dinghy parade at 1 p.m. July 4. The event is open to the public and all ages are encouraged to participate. There is no entry fee. Register and decorate any dinghy, 12 feet long and shorter, the most patriotic way. Trophies will be awarded for most decorated as well as first, second and third place. There will be a refundable deposit of $5 for laminated numbers.

The event can be viewed throughout the harbor or at the yacht club. The Doll-Fins, the ladies organization of the club, will serve burgers and hot dogs for a nominal charge. For entry forms and more information, contact the club at (760) 722-5751.

Gibralter Foundation plans golf tournament

OCEANSIDE -- The Gibraltar Foundation is a newly established nonprofit organization working in conjunction with the Oceanside Unified School District, the city of Oceanside, local business leaders and private community partners to improve student education and awareness in the areas of health and nutrition, science and physical fitness. Through effective grant-making the foundation will lead the way in implementing new programs to help counteract the nation's childhood obesity epidemic.

TGF will kick off its first annual "We ROCK 4 Kids!" golf tournament July 7 at Camp Pendleton's Marine Memorial Golf Course. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m. shotgun start. The tax-deductible entry fee, 100 percent of which goes to OUSD and Camp Pendleton elementary schools, is $125 per person, $500 per foursome and $650 per foursome with a hole sponsorship. Hole sponsorship alone is $200.

For additional information, registration and fee information, call (760) 672-2603 or visit http://www.TGFWeROCK4Kids.org.

Metal smith offers workshops

OCEANSIDE -- Sharon K. Novak, artist and metal smith, will offer two workshops at the Oceanside Museum of Art School of Art, 219 N. Coast Highway:

- Mixed Media Assemblage, 1 to 5 p.m. July 10.

- Metal Collage, 1 to 5 p.m. Sept. 4.

Pre-registration is required. Tuition is $45 for museum members, $65 for nonmembers. A $12 materials fee is payable to the instructor. No experience necessary. Tools are provided. Call (760) 721-2787.

Golf tourney benefits Boys & Girls Club

OCEANSIDE -- The Boys & Girls Club of Oceanside's first annual Charity Golf Classic will take place July 14 at Arrowood Golf Course. Registration is at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. The tournament is an 18-hole scramble format. Entry fee is $150 per player and sponsorships are available.

Every player will receive an embroidered BGCO golf shirt and goodie bag, beverages and snacks. Call (760) 433-8921.

Fundraiser to purchase defibrillators

OCEANSIDE -- The Kiwanis Club of Oceanside Pacific is embarking on a community service project designed to place portable defibrillators in places where none currently exist. All Hooters restaurants in San Diego County have made half of the revenue generated from their chicken wings on Mondays available as a restricted gift to the OPK Foundation. As the funds accumulate, they will be used to purchase the defibrillators.

Marathon baseball event set

VISTA -- Former Yankees' catcher and athletic director for the Vista Boys & Girls Club Gordon Sanchez has announced that the club plans to hold a 100-inning marathon baseball event July 1 to 3. The event, called The All American Baseball Bash, will take place for three days at Vista's new Little Padres Park. "This is an event to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the national organization," said Sanchez. "But we hope to do it every summer for a long time to come."

Children 6 and older can sign up for free to play. They will be placed onto one of two large teams: Team Stars or Team Stripes. Then, based on age and ability, they'll be sent to a sub team to be assigned innings of play. There is no entry fee, but each player will be asked to get as many pledges as they can for the innings they will play. The goal is to get 100 or more kids to raise $100 or more each. Plans are to include celebrity pitchers at regular intervals. Corporate and community sponsors are still being sought for the event. To register or support a child through an online donation for this event, sponsor this event or for more information, visit http://www.bgcvista.org or call (760) 724-6606.

Pitching, baseball camps offered

VISTA -- Prime Time Sports Academy will hold two pitching camps, July 10 to 13 and July 17 to 20, led by instructor Ryan Heil. Cost for each camp is $200. The academy also will hold week-long summer camps designed to help ball players ages 5 to 13. Camps will run from 9 a.m. to noon July 10 to 14 and Aug. 7 to 11. Cost for each camp is $199.

For more information, call (760) 727-4487.

Kids craft classes offered

VISTA -- Kids Club craft classes for children age 5 to 12 will be held from 10 a.m. to noon every Saturday at Michael's, 1851 University Drive. This is a come-and-go class where kids can drop in and create a new craft each week. Cost is $2 and includes all supplies. Call (760) 941-7350.

Vacation Bible School offered

VISTA -- Registrations are being accepted for Vacation Bible School at the United Methodist Church of Vista, 490 S. Melrose Ave. The "Adventures of the Treasure Seekers, Exploring God's Promises" for preschool through elementary school-age children will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, July 24 to 29. There will be daily "discovery digs" to explore the scriptures and find God's promises as well as local mission projects, Treasure Seeker tunes, creative crafts, games and an opportunity to make new friends. Call Juna Spitz at (760) 726-0442.

VCC holds after-school programs

VISTA -- Vista Community Clinic's after-school programs, REACH, will run through the summer months are open to all youths in the Oceanside and Vista area. The programs are structured by age groups: Junior REACH for ages 9 to 12; and Project Reach for teens age 12 to 18.

Junior and Teen REACH (Recreation, Employment readiness, Academic achievement, Communication skills, and Healthy lifestyle choices) are after-school youth development programs designed to increase protective factors among disadvantaged youth, including education skills that reduce risk behaviors such as school dropout, teen pregnancy, substance abuse and violence. REACH operates out of community-based sites in the cities of Vista and Oceanside and the programs are comprehensive and age appropriate. Children and teens also participate in field trips and cultural activities.

Parents may call for an information packet and may visit the facilities with their children to learn more about the programs. The programs are free to all participants. REACH has operated successfully for more than eight years and was recognized as a "proven practice" in 2001 by the California Department of Health and Human Services. For more information, contact Maria Yanez, program manager, at (760) 407-1220, Ext. 140.

Bocce fans are on a roll

ENCINITAS -- Bocce enthusiasts in Encinitas invite players of any age to participate. Games start at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Oakcrest Park, 1219 Encinitas Blvd. Organizers provide smiles, instruction and a cup of coffee. Call Joseph Granata at (760) 942-9675 or Mike Punaro at (760) 632-2258.

Wine, food fest set for July 11

DEL MAR -- The Del Mar Regional Chamber of Commerce 2006 Annual Wine & Food Festival will be begin at 5:30 p.m. July 11 at Del Mar Plaza. Enjoy an evening of networking while tasting wines, beers and great food from local wineries, breweries and restaurants. Cost is $35 to $60. Call Reisa Hall (858) 847-6421 or e-mail Nancy Wasko info@delmarchamber.org or visit the Web site at http:// www.delmarchamber.org.

Public speaking workshop offered

ENCINITAS -- The Encinitas Moonlighters Toastmasters Club will offer the five-week public speaking workshop for individuals from noon to 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays, beginning July 11 through Aug. 8, at the Encinitas City Hall, 505 S. Vulcan Ave.

The workshop will provide participants with the tools needed to develop effective public speaking skills and to gain confidence in front of an audience. Cost is $25 to $35. Call Zsuzsa Morgan at (760) 224-7735.

Aging naturally with grace

ENCINTAS -- The Encinitas Senior Center will offer the lecture by Jon Dunn on the prevention and management of age-related ailments at 10:30 a.m. July 19 at the Encinitas Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive. The presentation will focus on avoiding ailments including cancer, heart disease, stroke, memory loss, joint pain, digestive disorders, fatigue and diabetes. Call (760) 943-2250.

Fairgrounds hosts concerts

DEL MAR -- The Del Mar Races is back with the Four O'Clock Fridays concert series. The free concerts kick off after the last horse race with the Flaming Lips at 4 p.m. July 21 at Plaza de Mexico, Del Mar Fairgrounds, Jimmy Durante Boulevard. The line-up continues with the Violent Femmes (July 28); Common Sense (Aug. 4); Pinback (Aug. 11), Matt Costa (Aug. 25); and Louis XIV (Sept. 1). Call (858) 755-1141 or visit the Web site at http://www.delmarracing.com.

Country Friends visit the races

DEL MAR -- The 46th Annual Country Friends "Day at the Races" will be held July 20 at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on Jimmy Durante Boulevard. All proceeds raised from the event will be donated to Elizabeth Hospice. Call (858) 756-1192, Ext. 4; e-mail events@countryfriends.org or visit the Web site at http://www.elizabethhospice.org.

Learn Access in one day

CARDIFF -- MiraCosta College will offer the one-day database workshop, "Introduction to Access 2003," from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 28, Room 112, MiraCosta's San Elijo Campus, 3333 Manchester Ave. Learn to create tables and run queries; store, locate and print just about any type of important information; create basic forms and reports; and use templates and Wizards. Cost is $89. Call (760) 795-6820 or register online at http://www.miracosta.edu/commsvcs.

Senior center offers rides

CARLSBAD -- Are you or someone you know a Carlsbad resident 60 years of age and older who cannot drive and is in need of transportation for medical appointments or grocery shopping? If so, the Carlsbad Senior Center's Transportation Program could be your solution. Transportation for medical appointments is provided Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Appointments must be made from 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. The senior center provides transportation to and from the center. Call (760) 602-4650.

Pet microchip services offered

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, please ask about the $50 coupon (DAS jurisdiction only). Call (760) 438-2312 or visit the Web site at http://www.sddac.com.

Genealogy for young people

CARLSBAD -- The North San Diego County Genealogical Society and the Carlsbad City Library will jointly sponsor "A Beginning Genealogy Class for Young People" from 1 to 3:30 p.m. June 26 in the Community Room of the Carlsbad Cole Library, 1250 Carlsbad Village Drive. Participants should be between ages 11 and 17. Call instructor Margaret Read at (760) 757-0528.

Author Robb speaks at Henry's

CARLSBAD -- Henry's Farmers Market will host a special appearance by San Diego-based clinical nutritionist and author Jay Robb from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 27 at the store, 3243 Camino de los Coches. Robb will share his insight and expertise on nutrition plus a "protein party," where customers can sample organic fruit along with Robb's proprietary whey protein powder. Call (760) 635-0625.

College offers Excel 2003

OCEANSIDE -- MiraCosta College's Community Services Program will offer the one-day workshop on Microsoft Window's spreadsheet program Excel, "Introduction to Excel 2003," from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 12, in Room 1038, MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Drive. Cost is $89. Call (760) 795-6820 or visit the Web site at http://www.miracosta.edu/commsvcs.

Guts & Glory 5K Walk/Run

SAN MARCOS --- Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America Greater San Diego & Desert Area Chapter will host the 2006 Guts & Glory 5K Walk/Run starting at 6:30 a.m. Aug. 6 at Cal State San Marcos' Track & Field House, Twin Oaks Valley Road. Funds raised will benefit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America's mission. Call (858) 547-8200 or visit the Web site at http://ccfa.org/chapters/sandiego/.

Workplace excellence nominations needed

SAN DIEGO -- Employees of local companies have until the end of June to nominate their employer as one of the best in the area as part of the seventh annual Workplace Excellence Awards which will be hosted by the San Diego Society for Human Resource Management Nov 1 at the San Diego Convention Center. The event highlights innovative, employee-friendly practices that lead to improved company performance. Any employee may nominate their company, except for human resources managers and senior executives. Nomination forms are available through the San Diego Union-Tribune and SignOnSanDiego, call (619) 589-0111 or visit the Web site at http://www.sdshrm.org.

Summer reading program events set

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Public Library's "Paws, Claws, Scales and Tales" summer reading program for children ages 3 through sixth grade is under way. Register at either the main library, 239 S. Kalmia St., or at the East Valley Branch, 2245 E. Valley Parkway.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the free program runs through Aug. 9 and is intended to encourage children to get in the habit of reading every day. It also includes special guests, story and craft programs, prizes and family activities.

Upcoming activities include:

- 2 p.m. June 26, main library's "Furr"ociously Fun Flicks for kindergartners through sixth-graders: Learn a little movie trivia and join in some fun before the movie begins.

- 11 a.m. June 28, main library's "Twisted Whiskers" Tales for kindergartners through second-graders.

- 2 p.m. June 29, main library's "Iguana Read" for third- through sixth-graders: Your own real-live, imaginary or stuffed pet will inspire literary delights.

- 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays at both libraries, "Critter Crafts." Make and take home a pet-inspired craft.

For information, call the main library at (760) 839-4837 or the East Valley branch at (760) 839-4392.

'Summer Nights' to begin at Redwood Town Court

ESCONDIDO -- Redwood Town Court, a nonprofit senior rental community, will host a series of entertaining evenings starting June 29. "Summer Nights at Redwood Town Court," featuring music, food and wine, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on various dates in the courtyard at Redwood Town Court, 500 E. Valley Parkway. Admission is free; however, reservations are required. Call (760) 737-5110.

Get dogs licensed, vaccinated at clinics

ESCONDIDO -- The Escondido Humane Society will conduct low-cost rabies vaccination and dog license clinics from 10 a.m. to noon July 1, Aug. 26 and Sept. 30 at the animal shelter, 3450 E. Valley Parkway.

Cost for the rabies vaccination is $6. Fee for a one-year license is $12 for altered dogs and $30 for unaltered; and for a three-year license, $28 for altered dogs and $64 for unaltered. Late fees will be waived at the clinics. Call (760) 888-2275.

Fourth of July celebration on tap

ESCONDIDO -- A Fourth of July picnic and fireworks event will take place July 4 at Grape Day Park, 321 N. Broadway. Beginning at 3 p.m., there will be free entertainment, including performances by the Texas Toothpicks, the Santana Tribute Band, the Fabulous Ultratones, the Lindley Lopez Circus and the Marine Band San Diego.

The celebration also will feature magicians, baton twirlers, children's arts projects and old-fashioned contests. The fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

Pack a picnic or purchase a variety of refreshments at the event. Barbecues, pets and alcohol should not be brought to the park.

The event, presented in cooperation with the city of Escondido, is sponsored by American Legion Post 149; the Linden Root Dickinson Foundation; California Center for the Arts, Escondido; and the North County Times.

Information: American Legion, (760) 745-1159.

Fireworks set for July 4 in Valley Center

VALLEY CENTER -- Michael Crews Development will present the sixth annual Valley Center Fireworks Extravaganza from 5 to 9 p.m. July 4 at the Valley Center High School Football Stadium, 31322 Cole Grade Road. Sam Bruggema of Pyro Spectaculars, which will produce the fireworks display, said it's the second largest show in North County.

The event also will feature live music, dancing and activities for children. With a $1 donation to Valley Center High School and a signed liability waiver from a legal guardian, participants can ride and play games for free all evening.

Attendees can bring a picnic or buy it at the school. Alcohol, tobacco and pets are not allowed on the school campus.

Learn to make fabric baskets

ESCONDIDO -- A "Quick and Easy Fabric Baskets" workshop will be offered through Escondido Adult Education from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 9 at 463 N. Midway Drive. Learn how to make baskets using scraps of fabric, yarn or even old clothing. Cost is $14, plus $15 for materials. The course number is 406. Preregistration is required. Call (760) 739-7300. For information, go to http://www.nadinespier.com.

Vacation Bible School set for July

ESCONDIDO -- Bethel Baptist Church will offer Vacation Bible School for 3-year-olds through sixth-graders, plus four classes for adults, from 6 to 8:45 p.m. July 17 through 21 at the church, 855 Brotherton Road. The week also will include contests, music, food and fellowship. There is no charge to participate. Information: http://www.bethelbaptistesc.org, (760) 745-4995.

Memoir writing workshop planned

ESCONDIDO -- Metropolitan Writing Works will offer a memoir writing workshop, "Telling Your Story," from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 22 at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. Cost is $145. Information and registration: http://www.metrowriting.com, (760) 208-1913.

Singles can take day trip to Getty Museum in Malibu

ESCONDIDO -- The Singles Group of the United Methodist Church has organized a bus trip Aug. 12 to the Getty Villa Museum in Malibu. The museum is newly reopened and features art from Italy and Greece. The bus will leave the church at 9 a.m. and returns at about 7 p.m. Cost is $25. For reservations, call Ann at (760) 745-6139 by Aug. 1.

Warm water exercise classes offered

ESCONDIDO -- These warm-water exercise classes are offered at the Charles Hulme Community Pool, 420 N. Falconer Road. Cost is $48 per month for two classes a week.

- Back strengthening, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 5 to 6 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

- Wellness class (circuit training), 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

- Adult swimming lessons, 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

- Arthritis aquatics, 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

- Water aerobics, 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

- Adult swim lessons, 6 to 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

For information, call (760) 781-3077.

Learn to swim at Hulme pool

ESCONDIDO -- Swim classes for youths are offered at the warm-water Charles Hulme Community Pool, 420 N. Falconer Road.

Thirty-minute lessons are offered at 3, 3:45, 4:30 and 5:15 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. Cost is $40 per month for two classes a week.

Morning and early afternoon classes, as well as private and semi-private lessons, also are available.

For information, call (760) 781-3077.

Daley Ranch hikes planned

ESCONDIDO -- Free, guided nature hikes are offered at Daley Ranch. All trails include steep and/or slippery sections. Bring at least a quart of water and wear a sun hat, sunscreen and hiking boots or treaded footwear. Youths younger than 18 must be with an adult. No pets are allowed. Meet at the Daley Ranch entrance on La Honda Drive.

The hike schedule and trail map are online at http://www.ci.escondido.ca.us.

Reservations are requested. Call (760) 839-4680. A shuttle with handicapped accessibility runs Sundays.

- 8:30 a.m. July 1: Naturalists Simone Green and Barbara Van Horne will lead a strenuous three-hour, 4 1/2-mile hike to search for late summer blooms tucked away in shady areas along the Engelmann Oak, Cougar Ridge and Burnt Mountain trails.

- 8:30 a.m. July 8: Join naturalist Dorothy Klitzing for a moderate two- to three-hour, 2.1-mile hike to learn about safety, sheltering, fire-safe landscaping and community resources along the Creek Crossing, East Ridge, Middle Pond Creek Crossing and Ranch House trails.

- 8 a.m. July 9: Volunteers are invited to join ranger staff for trail maintenance.

'Fossil Mysteries' museum exhibit to open

SAN DIEGO -- On July 1, the San Diego Natural History Museum will open "Fossil Mysteries," showcasing the last 75 million years in the Southern California and Baja California bioregions -- known among scientists for its rich fossil record, which includes sharks three times the size of great whites, mammoths, sea cows, lions, dinosaurs, giant sloths, whales, walruses, saber-tooth cats, dire wolves and more.

Admission is $11; $9 for seniors; $7 for military and youths ages 13 to 17; $6 for children ages 3 to 12; and free for members. Information: http://www.sdnhm.org, (619) 232-3821.

Children's books featured at bookstore sale

FALLBROOK -- All children's books, CDs and videos will be sold for half price from June 26 through July 3 at the Bottom Shelf bookstore.

In addition, all "first editions," both fiction and nonfiction, are half off the regular price and specials continue on selected paperbacks.

During this week the bookstore will be open its regular hours, which are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The store will be closed July 4 for the Independence Day holiday.

The store, located on the lower level of the library at 124 S. Mission Road, is operated by Friends of the Fallbrook Library and all proceeds benefit the library and its programs.

Donations of materials that are clean and in good condition are always welcome and there is a particular need of hardback general fiction. Anyone wishing to volunteer may stop by the store and pick up an information form. Information: (760) 728-3835.

Ticket sales begin for summer concert

FALLBROOK -- Tickets for one of Fallbrook's summertime traditions, the annual Symphony "Pops" on the Green concert, are now for sale through the Fallbrook Music Society. The concert will feature a variety of light classics, patriotic and American popular music.

The 21st annual concert is set for Aug. 11 on the grounds of the Grand Tradition at 1602 S. Mission Road, and will feature the Redlands Symphony Orchestra with associate conductor Co Boi Nguyen and baritone soloist Paul Sahuc, a singer in musical theatre as well as opera.

Fallbrook Music Society President Brenda Montiel said Fifth District county Supervisor Bill Horn will be Title Sponsor for this year's event.

New this year will be a Western-themed barbecue dinner, available by reservation. The dinner includes a choice of sandwich, three homemade salads, cornbread, chocolate cake and a choice of beverage. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets and low chairs for lawn seating and picnics are welcome.

Tables for four, six or 10 people are also available by reservation.

Tickets for adults are $25 and $5 for children 12 and younger. Cost for the dinner is $16. Free parking is available at South Mission Road and Peppertree, and a courtesy shuttle will run continuously from the parking area to the ticket gate at the Grand Tradition.

The benefit concert is supported by Bank of America Investment Services, Inc: the Hegardt Group of Fallbrook.

Advance tickets, table and dinner reservations are available for purchase by credit card by calling (760) 451-8644.

For additional information about this year's summer concert, call (760) 728-4056 or visit www.fallbrookmusicsociety.org. Beginning July 1, concert tickets can also be purchased in Fallbrook at Major Market, Apple Market and Grand Tradition. Dinner tickets will also be available at Major Market and Grand Tradition.

Fallbrook Democrats to meet

FALLBROOK -- The Fallbrook Democratic Club will screen the documentary "The Oil Factor," a look at the subject of oil politics, at its next meeting at 7 p.m. July 6 in the board room at the Fallbrook Public Utility District, 990 E. Mission Road. Admission is free.

This documentary, filmed on site in Central Asia and the Middle East, looks at international oil strategy, the ramifications of its finances, and the business connectedness of the principals involved.

The club also will begin advance ticket sales for its annual picnic, set for Sept. 9. The members' lending library will also be available.

The club meets the first Thursday of every month. For information, contact Jon Monday, club vice president, at (760) 451-1599, jon@mondaymedia.org or visit www.fallbrookdemocraticclub.com.

Fallbrook chamber gears up for golf tournament

FALLBROOK -- The Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce 26th annual golf tournament, known as the Avocado Open, will take place July 24 at Golf Club of California at 3742 Flowerwood Lane. Chairman is John Henker, assisted by Bill Walter, Melinda Stone, Jeff Minch and George Archibald.

Tournament check-in is at 11:30 a.m. and a putting contest will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The shotgun start is at 1 p.m. Heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served at 5:30 p.m. At that gathering, various awards will be presented, including closest to the pin, longest drive, straightest drive, hole-in-one, low gross and low net.

Cost is $125 per person and deadline for entries is July 7. Sponsorships also are available and range in price from $100 to $600. For entry forms, contact the chamber at (760) 728-5845.