BONSALL —— Coffee Break, a women's and children's Bible study, meets from 9:45 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Riverview Evangelical Free Church, 4980 Sweetgrass Lane.

An evening group meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, and child-care is provided.

Coffee Break provides women the opportunity to investigate the Bible and experience unconditional, loving friendships in a nondenominational, small group setting. Beginning, intermediate and advanced levels are offered. For information, call (760) 941-1430 or visit www.refc.org.

Caregivers support group meets

FALLBROOK —— Caregivers are invited to join the Elizabeth Hospice staff members for support group meetings from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the Fallbrook Senior Center.

Caregivers can meet with facilitators Kym Grey, MSW and Eileen Fagan, LCSW. The group is open to the public at no cost. The center is at 399 Heald Lane. For information, contact AnnMarie Whitehead at (800) 797-2050. To contact the Fallbrook Senior Center, call (760) 728-4498.

Girl Scout Rally set for Oct. 4

FALLBROOK —— The Fallbrook/Bonsall Service Unit of Girl Scouts of America will conduct its fall registration drive at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 4 in the sanctuary of Zion Lutheran Church at 1405 E. Fallbrook St.

The scouting program is intended to help girls develop leadership skills, become active community members and explore career possibilities through programs in technology, sports, camping, arts and travel. Membership is open to all girls ages 5 through 17 in the Fallbrook/Bonsall area. Short- and long-term adult volunteer opportunities are also available.

For more information, contact Roxanne Dunn at (619) 298-8391, Ext. 706 or visit www.girlscoutssdi.org.

Retired teachers group to meet

FALLBROOK —— The California Retired Teachers, Division 81, will gather for brunch at 9 a.m. Oct. 12 at the Fallbrook Golf Club, 2757 Gird Road.

Attendees will hear and discuss information on the November special election. Everyone interested in education is welcome. Call Jewell Roberds at (760) 728-1092 by Oct. 7 for reservations.

Children's festival planned

PALA ——A children's festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 2 at Pala Park on the Pala Indian Reservation. There will be food and game booths, music and a raffle. The reservation is on Pala Mission Road off Highway 76, six miles east of Interstate 15.

Angel Society approves funding

FALLBROOK —— The board of directors of the Angel Society of Fallbrook recently approved grants for the following organizations:

— Youth lacrosse program for middle school students for uniforms and equipment.

— The Art Center at Fallbrook for front entrance planters and landscaping.

— Fallbrook High School field hockey team for uniforms and field hockey stick bags.

— Sullivan Middle School Music Department for instrument repairs, music and other needed items.

— Fallbrook Land Conservancy's Save Our Forest for pruning and maintenance of the South Mission Road tree plantings.

— Fallbrook High School tech department to update video equipment for closed-circuit network.

— Potter eighth-grade trip to New York and Washington D.C.

— Bonsall Charter Academy to help purchase lab equipment and lab carts for college prep science program.

— Operation Clear Vision to provide eye-wear for in-need military family members.

— Fallbrook Union High School District and Educational Foundation to improve athletic facilities.

— Historical Society of Fallbrook to help solve a moisture problem and install a ventilation system.

The Fallbrook Angel Society uses proceeds from the Angel Thrift Shop, member dues and other donations to fund requests for worthy community needs. All of the merchandise sold in the Angel Shop comes from community donations.

The Angel Shop accepts donations from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its shop at 1002 S. Main St.

Local woman attends reunion

FALLBROOK —— Jennifer Jones, of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide of Fallbrook, participated in the company's recent annual reunion in Las Vegas.

Highlights of the event included continuing education sessions, meetings with vendors and DreamMaker's national awards ceremony. In addition, attendees had time to network and re-connect with fellow DreamMaker franchisees nationwide.

Based in Waco, Texas, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide has approximately 190 independently owned and operated franchises in 11 countries and has been in more than 2 million homes. For more information, call DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen at (800) 583-9099, or visit the Web site at www.DreamMaker-remodel.com.

Church to host Blessing of the Animals

ESCONDIDO —— Trinity Church invites all creatures great and small to attend its annual Blessing of the Animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi at 4 p.m. Oct. 2. The service will include treats and personal blessing for all. Offerings will be received for the care of pets displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The church is at 845 Chestnut St. For information, call (760) 743-1629.

Woman's Club to host luncheon

ESCONDIDO —— The Woman's Club of Escondido will meet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 3 at the clubhouse, 751 N. Rose St. Sallyanne Bachman will perform music of the 1930s. Luncheon cost is $8. Reserve with Callie Zurcher at (760) 743-5730.

Preschoolers can take dance classes

ESCONDIDO —— Georgia's School of Dance, 142 E. Grand Ave., will offer new dance classes for young children in pre-ballet and tap beginning Oct. 6. A class for children ages 2 1/2 to 4 will be held from 9 to 9:45 a.m., followed by a class for ages 4 and 5 from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. For information, call (760) 745-6662.

Grandmothers Club to meet Oct. 6

ESCONDIDO —— The Escondido Grandmothers Club will meet at 12:15 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Joslyn Senior Center, 210 Park Ave. A bake sale will start at 12:30 p.m. Pizza will be served for lunch or bring a sack lunch. A short meeting is planned. For information, call (760) 745-5407.

Classical music concert planned

ESCONDIDO —— The Trio Lyrique will present a concert of classical music for violin, cello and piano at the Escondido Public Library's First Thursday Concert at 7 p.m. Oct. 6 at the library, 239 S. Kalmia St. In addition to the performance, trio members will provide insight into the composers' music. The free concert is sponsored by the Friends of the Escondido Library. No reservations are required. For information, call (760) 839-4329 or visit the Web site at www.library.escondido.org.

Hearing loss support group to meet

ESCONDIDO —— A hearing loss support group will meet at 10 a.m. Oct. 8 at the Joslyn Senior Center, 210 Park Ave. The speaker will be audiologist David Illich. For information, call (760) 747-9351.

Support the arts as a volunteer

ESCONDIDO —— Find out about opportunities to support the arts through volunteerism at an Art Connection event from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 8. The free event, hosted by the Escondido Arts Partnership, will take place at the Escondido Municipal Gallery, 142 W. Grand Ave. Coffee, fresh orange juice and pastries will be provided. The Escondido Arts Partnership serves as the city of Escondido's official arts agency. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting art and culture in Escondido, supporting its artists and providing art education to the community. For information, call (760) 480-4101

Karate school to offer free self-defense class

ESCONDIDO —— Family Karate will offer "Self Defense for Women and Teens" from 2 to 5 p.m. Oct. 8 at the studio, 410 E. Felicita Ave (behind Pizza Hut). The free class will be taught by Ray Plevyak and Rick Pearson, black belts and internationally certified instructors in tae kwon do. The class is for girls and boys ages 12 through 18 and women of all ages. Wear sweat pants, a comfortable shirt and tennis shoes. R.S.V.P. to Rick at pikrick@aol.com and leave a phone number for confirmation. For information, e-mail Rick at the above address or call him at (858) 207-1237.

Volunteers spruce up child care center

ESCONDIDO —— A team of Hewlett Packard employees recently donated their time and talents to the Escondido Community Child Development Center through the Hands on San Diego Project. The team painted classrooms, cleaned furniture and equipment, cleansed and sanitized toys and did various small repairs at the Dove's Nest site.

Art work on display at animal shelter

ESCONDIDO —— The Escondido Art Association has been invited to exhibit its members' fine art on the walls of the adoption center at the Escondido Humane Society, 3450 E. Valley Parkway. The exhibit will be a year-round rotation, with works changing every three months.

Currently, there are 36 pieces on display in various media, including watercolor, oil and pencil. All artwork depicts domestic or wild animals and is for sale. Proceeds will be shared by the artist, the Escondido Humane Society and the Escondido Art Association.

For viewing hours, call the Escondido Humane Society at (760) 888-2275. For information about the Escondido Art Association, call (760) 743-1474.

Unity Coalition to meet Oct. 8

ESCONDIDO —— The North County Unity Coalition will meet at 9 a.m. Oct. 8 at the Communication Workers of America Local 9511 Union Hall at 1525 Simpson Way. The coalition operates independently of any political party and serves to organize and coordinate local political action efforts in North San Diego, southwest Riverside and southern Orange counties. It provides grassroots resources for progressive candidates seeking office at all levels of government. For information, call Matt O'Connor at (619) 647-9306 or e-mail moconnor@NCUnity.org.

Auction item donations sought

ESCONDIDO —— The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, North County Inland, will hold a live and silent auction from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at Kinesis North, 474 W. Vermont Ave. Auction item donations are sought and may include baked goods, white elephants, gift certificates, artwork, stuffed animals, toys, small appliances and "very-gently" used items. Cash donations also are welcome. For information, call Cindy at (760) 489-0541.

OASIS tutoring program seeks volunteers

ESCONDIDO —— The OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring Program and local school districts are looking for volunteers to become OASIS tutors. The training program is free, including materials. No teaching experience is necessary. Training classes will be conducted through Oct. 14. OASIS tutors help youngsters in kindergarten through third grade who have difficulty learning to read. For information, call (760) 432-0635.

Holiday decorating classes on tap

ESCONDIDO —— Canterbury Gardens and Gifts, 2402 S. Escondido Blvd., is offering dozens of holiday decorating classes, demonstrations and events through December, including how to build a Halloween Village/Christmas Village, Thanksgiving cornucopia, Christmas tree decorating, table settings, wreaths and holiday centerpieces. Register to (760) 746-1400.

Free senior legal services offered

DEL MAR —— Many legal services, including healthcare directive, power of attorney and probate will be offered free for seniors 60 and over in the 92014 zip code by appointment from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today. Private consultations with an attorney from Elder Law & Advocacy are available by appointment on the last Friday of each month.

Call the Del Mar Community Connections at (858) 792-7565.

Opening of new garden set

ENCINITAS —— The new Landscape for Fire Safety Garden will open to the public at 10 a.m. Oct. 1 with a docent-led tour at Quail Botanical Gardens, 230 Quail Gardens Drive. The tour will begin at 10 a.m. Additionally, "Between Wildfires," a 30-minute, magazine-quality video, will be screened at 11:30, 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Ecke Building for no extra charge.

The Landscape for Fire Safety Garden surrounds the Ecke building and demonstrates principles and concepts of fire safe landscaping. Diverse and attractive plantings in a buffer zone of defensible space are placed between an adjacent preserve of native coastal sage scrub habitat —— a fire-adapted ecosystem, and the structures that need protection. Interpretive signage explains key features of the design and the habitat. Take-home brochures will help homeowners assess their own home's risk factors and suggest strategies to decrease their vulnerability.

Cancer lecture scheduled

ENCINITAS —— "Cancer Facts," the second in a series of free educational lectures by Dr. Hugh Smith, will be offered at 10 a.m. Oct. 1 at the Open Door Wellness Center, 1054B Second St.

The lecture will focus on the growing epidemic of cancer, simple steps one can take to decrease one's risk and alternative treatment options for those already living with the disease. In addition to Smith's lecture, there will be a demonstration in live-cell analysis or vital hematology using a sample of one of the member of the audience's blood cells.

For more information, contact the Open Door Wellness Center at (760) 942-4422.

Golfers gathering slated

SOLANA BEACH —— San Diego Saturday Golfers will meet at 8:15 a.m. (tee-off is 8:45 a.m.) Oct. 1 at Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course, 1580 Sun Valley Road, near Lomas Santa Fe Blvd.

This is a fun group of golfers, ages 55-plus, with all levels of playing skills. Participate in games, prizes and social events. The golfers meet every Saturday morning.

For more information, call (858) 481-4465 or (760) 966-0955.

Knife skills class offered

ENCINITAS —— Robert Sevaly, a well-known cooking instructor, will host a hands-on basic knife skills class at 11 a.m. Oct. 1 at the Kitchen Witch Gourmet Shop, 127 N. El Camino Real, Suite D. Cost is $45 and participants should bring their own favorite chef's knife.

Good knife skills are required of all cooks and in this class Sevaly will show participants how to choose and care for a quality knife, demonstrate safety skills and teach students how to read and complete a recipe and execute ten different cuts. Class participants will also enjoy a special discount on cutlery for this day only.

For more information or to register, call (760) 942-3228 or visit www.kitchenwitchonline.com.

Cell phone recycling program offered

DEL MAR —— The public is urged to drop off used cell phones between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily at the Del Mar Community Connections office at the Del Mar City Hall Annex behind City Hall at 1050 Camino del Mar.

Officials estimate that more than 500 million used cell phones in the U.S. are sitting in people's drawers or our landfills and another 130 million will be added this year alone.

If the cell phones are usable, they will give them to seniors who can use them for 911 calls. If they are not, they will be sent to a nationwide recycling program. Cell phones, chargers, pagers, PDAs and accessories can be recycled, saving the environment and contributing to DMCC programs.

Artist group show scheduled

ENCINITAS —— Artists Diane Burch, Janice Holmberg, Cathy Seyler and Artie Mattson from the Off Track Gallery will exhibit their works from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at the Bank of America, 1340 Encinitas Blvd., located at the corner of El Camino Real and Encinitas Boulevard.

Paintings in watercolor, acrylics and mixed media will be on exhibit through the month of September.

Senior computer classes offered

ENCINITAS —— A variety of computer classes are offered during October to boost seniors' computer skills, including basics, internet and e-mail, word processing, scanners and digital cameras at the Encinitas Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive.

The center's computer instructor is Joan Yap. For more information about fees and scheduling, call the Encinitas Senior Center at (760) 943-2250.

Fire prevention open house slated

CARLSBAD —— The Carlsbad Fire Department will host an open house from 10 a.m. Oct. 1 at Fire Station No. 1, 1275 Carlsbad Village Drive. Kids can draw a home fire escape plan and become eligible to win prizes.

In honor of the 12th Annual Fire Prevention Week, a tour of the fire station and equipment will begin at 10 a.m. with tours available throughout the day. At 10:30 a.m., the first live fire demonstration will begin and at 11 a.m. there will be an auto-extrication demonstration. A lunch of hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be offered for sale by the Carlsbad Firefighters Local No. 3730 at noon with a second live fire demonstration set for 1:30 p.m.

Youth theater fund-raiser planned

CARLSBAD —— Classic Youth Theater Inc. will hold a garage sale from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 1 to benefit the group's fall production of "Arsenic and Old Lace." The sale will be at 4203 Sierra Morena Ave. "Arsenic and Old Lace" will be performed the weekend of Oct. 28 at the Carlsbad Village Theatre. For show times and other information, visit the group's Web site at www.ClassicYouthTheatre.com.

Czech volunteers needed

CARLSBAD —— The Carlsbad Arts Department is seeking volunteers to translate from Czech to English during a visit to various sites around Carlsbad from Sept. 28 through Oct. 2 of the delegation from Carlsbad's sister city, Karlovy, Vary. Call Colleen Finnegan at (760) 434-2900 or by e-mail at cfinn@ci.carlsbad.ca.us.

Health seminar offered

CARLSBAD —— Divine Visions presents a one-day seminar entitled "Taking Back Your Life" at 9:30 a.m. Oct. 1 at the Holiday Inn Carlsbad, 850 Palomar Airport Road. Cost for the seminar is $45. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Door prizes and fine art opportunity drawing will also be available.

Adoley Odunton and Deborah Deras of Synergy Unlimited in Los Angeles will present practical techniques to revolutionize any life and help participants accomplish their goals. Other topics presented will include the power of positive thinking, maximizing health and fitness potential, transforming debt into wealth and mind renewal.

To register or for more information, call (951) 212-8375 or visit www.divinevisions.net.

'Peter and the Wolf' show set

CARLSBAD —— The Philharmonic Wind Quintet will perform "Peter and the Wolf" at 1 p.m. Oct. 1 at the Museum of Making Music, 5790 Armada Drive. There is a $5 suggested donation.

"Peter and the Wolf" is an international favorite that features the original music by Sergei Prokofiev and the concert is part of the Museum's Music Ventures Family Activity Day programs, which aim to musically engage parents and children.

The Philharmonic Wind Quintet is an in-residence performing arts group with Young Audiences of San Diego and the San Diego Institute for Arts Education. They have performed this program at more than 100 elementary schools in San Diego County.

For more information, please contact the Museum for Making Music at (760) 438-5996 or visit www.museumofmakingmusic.org.

Runners and walkers meeting set

CARLSBAD —— Front Runners, a running and walking group for members of the gay and lesbian community and their family and friends, meets every Saturday for group runs and walks in Carlsbad.

The Front Runners, founded 25 years ago in San Francisco, is part of an international organization of gay and lesbian running and walking clubs. The North County chapter was organized by a medical student from San Diego's North Park neighborhood. It has about 25 members and organizers are anxious to increase that number. This unique outdoor group, open to both runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, offers people who live in North County a venue to meet other gay people.

For more information, contact FrontRunnersNorthCounty@Yahoo.com or call (760) 436-1702.

Train Song Festival set for Oct. 1

POWAY —— The city of Poway and San Diego Folk Heritage will sponsor the eighth annual Train Song Festival to be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 1 at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road. Admission is free.

The event will feature live musical entertainment, including songs inspired by the history and culture surrounding railroads. There will be train-related vendors and displays, food, storytelling, mock train robberies, a boardwalk craft market, children's games and crafts and more.

In addition, the fourth annual Railroad Movie Under the Stars will be presented at 7 p.m. Bring a blanket and enjoy a traditional railroad movie projected from the park's gazebo. The movie will be appropriate for all ages. Popcorn, hot cider and other refreshments will be sold for a nominal fee.

For information, call (858) 668-4576.

Dog obedience classes offered at parks

SAN DIEGO —— Poway-based Good Dog Training School will conduct basic obedience classes for puppies and dogs at the following San Diego recreation centers this fall:

— Doyle Community Park Recreation Center, 8175 Regents Road: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 20 through Nov. 17.

— Rancho Bernardo Glassman Recreation Center, 18448 W. Bernardo Drive: 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 3 through Nov. 7; and 9 a.m. Thursdays, Oct. 6 through Nov. 10.

— Scripps Ranch Community Recreation Center, 11454 Blue Cypress Drive: 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Oct. 5 through Nov. 9; and 11:30 a.m. Saturdays, Oct. 8 through Nov. 12.

— Mira Mesa Recreation Center, 8575 New Salem St.: 8 a.m. Saturdays, Oct. 22 through Nov. 19.

In addition, Poway classes will be offered at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Oct. 25 through Dec. 6, at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road; and 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, Oct. 29 through Dec. 10, at Garden Road Neighborhood Park, 14901 Garden Road.

Cost is $80 per class, plus $20 for materials. For information or to register, visit www.gooddogtrainingschool.com or call Bob Burkhardt at (858) 748-7943.

Travel club plans meeting, trips

RANCHO BERNARDO —— The RB Travelers will meet at 2 p.m. Oct. 7 in the auditorium of the Seven Oaks Community Center, 16789 Bernardo Oaks Drive. Doug James will present a travelogue titled "An American Train Ride."

In addition, the club is planning these trips.

— Nov. 24, "Thanksgiving Extravaganza": Thanksgiving dinner and a musical review at a dinner theater with a view. Cost is $99. Call Marianne at (858) 485-7645.

— Dec. 3, "Reagan Library and Air Force One": Visit the Reagan Library and view Christmas trees of countries visited by President Ronald Reagan. Cost of $65 includes lunch. Call Shirley at (858) 487-9687.

— Dec. 14, "Christmas Lights": See San Diego neighborhoods decorated for the holidays. Cost of $43 includes coach transportation, dinner and holiday treats. Call Kathy at (858) 485-9722.

— Nov. 22 through 25, "Santa Barbara Thanksgiving." Cost is $624 per person, double occupancy; $799 single. Call Paddy at (858) 451-9579.

— Dec. 21 through 26, "Sedona Holiday." Cost is $1,359 per person, double occupancy; $1,659 single. Call Shirley at (858) 487-9687.

Mind reader to entertain at meeting

RANCHO PENASQUITOS —— The Diamond Gateway Women's Organization will present professional entertainer David Winston in his "Mind to Mind" show at its next meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Doubletree Resort, 14555 Penasquitos Drive. Admission is free.

In his show, Winston demonstrates the mysterious power of the mind, punctuated with fast-paced humor and audience participation.

Light refreshments will be served. All adults are welcome. For information, call Judy at (858) 484-9684.

Poway Relay for Life postponed

POWAY —— The American Cancer Society has postponed the Poway Relay For Life event scheduled for Oct. 8 and 9 at Valley Elementary School. The event will be rescheduled once organizing committees are formed.

Relay For Life is a 24-hour event that encourages the community to take part in the fight against cancer while honoring its survivors and remembering loved ones lost to the disease.

A variety of sponsorship opportunities for local businesses are available. In addition, volunteers are needed to serve on committees for entertainment, kids' camp, logistics, food, survivorship, team recruitment, luminaria, cancer information, sponsorship, prizes, publicity, youth teams and accounting. For information, call (619) 682-7479.

San Marcos Alive Street Fair set

SAN MARCOS —— The city's Community Services department will present its eighth annual San Marcos Alive street fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 2 at the San Marcos Civic Center and on San Marcos Boulevard between Mission Road and Rancheros Drive.

Everyone is invited to participate in 20 hands-on art projects and demonstrations and shop at more than 80 arts-and-crafts vendor booths. Attendees will have the opportunity to view art in a variety of ways, meet local artists and see the creations of local students who have entered their artwork in art contests. They also can relax on the grass while enjoying performances by various local bands, dancers, vocalists, baton twirlers and magicians. In addition, kids can enjoy the first "Under the Big Top" children's carnival, which will feature fun activities and games for young children, as well as castle block-building, clowns and face-painters. Food vendors also will be available.

For information, call (760) 744-9000.

Democratic club to host speakers

LAKE SAN MARCOS —— The Lake San Marcos Democratic Club will meet at 2 p.m. Oct. 8 in the Gallery Room at the Lake San Marcos Resort, 1105 La Bonita Drive.

Guest speakers Francine Busby, a candidate for the 50th Congressional District, and Martha Ranon, public affairs legislative coordinator for Planned Parenthood in San Diego and Imperial counties, will discuss propositions that will be on the November ballot.

All are welcome. For information, call Betty Ball at (760) 752-1035.

Search-and-rescue dogs to show skills

SAN DIEGO —— Jan Frazee, president of Southwest Search Dogs, will speak and give a demonstration at a meeting of Sisters in Crime at 7 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Joyce Beers Community Center in the Uptown Shopping Mall in Hillcrest. Search-and-rescue dogs Mandy and Aura will show off their skills. Guest tickets cost $3 at the door. Sisters in Crime is a group of mystery writers and readers. For information, visit www.sincsd.org.

Camera show, sale on tap

SAN DIEGO —— Bargain Camera Shows will present a camera show and sale featuring vintage to modern photographic equipment from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Al Bahr Shrine Auditorium, 5440 Kearny Mesa Road. Free appraisals will be available. Cost of admission is $4; $3 for students and seniors. Children ages 12 and younger and active military will be admitted free. For information, call (310) 578-7446.

Volunteers to spruce up neighborhood

NORTH COUNTY —— Volunteers from Canyon Hills Community Church in Carmel Valley will participate in a Neighborhood Make Over and Barbecue on Oct. 1 at Leisure Life Village, 10955 Carmel Mountain Road, in Rancho Penasquitos. Volunteers will help the residents of Leisure Life Village by mowing lawns and cleaning homes and patios, and then enjoy a free barbecue lunch with the residents. Additional volunteers are invited to join in the day of the event. For information, call Jill Baker at Canyon Hills Church at (858) 353-0841.

RBHS Foundation to host blood drive

RANCHO BERNARDO —— Local residents are encouraged to give blood at American Red Cross blood drive hosted by the Rancho Bernardo High School Foundation from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Oct. 1 at the high school, 13010 Paseo Lucido.

All donors at the drive will receive an American Red Cross T-shirt, a health history review and blood pressure, pulse, temperature and iron level checks.

Individuals ages 17 and older and weighing at least 110 pounds may be able to donate blood. Eating a good meal is recommended before donating.

Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. To make an appointment or to host a blood drive, call (858) 514-1635. For a list of public blood drives, visit www.sdarc.org. To volunteer at a blood drive, call (858) 514-1671.

Viking Festival 2005 upcoming

VISTA —— Viking Festival 2005 will be held from noon to 9 p.m. Oct. 1 at Norway Hall, 2006 E. Vista Way. The event will feature food, live music, a Viking Village, arts, crafts, a Viking Log Toss and opportunity drawings. Admission is $5; children 12 and under are free. Call (760) 630-4428.

RBV Adobe holds Wearable Arts Faire

VISTA —— Rancho Buena Vista Adobe will host a Wearable Arts Faire from noon to 4 p.m. Oct. 2 at the adobe at 651 E. Vista Way. Local artists will demonstrate silver work, glass bead making and pearl stringing and there will also be clothing, jewelry and accessories for purchase. Also featured will be face painting and a Henna tattoo artist. Admission is $4 adults; children $1. Proceeds will benefit the adobe. Call (760) 634-2050.

San Luis Rey Chorale gives concert

VISTA —— David Lewis will direct the San Luis Rey Chorale in a light program of sacred choruses, spirituals, opera highlights and Gilbert & Sullivan favorites at 3 p.m. Oct. 2 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 651 Eucalyptus Ave. Fr. Joe Rees, rector of the church, will sing a duet with soprano Susan Rumbold. A $10 or $20 family donation is requested as a benefit for the church's music program.

Vista Art Foundation meets

VISTA —— Michael Dowell will be the guest speaker at the Vista Art Foundation membership meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at the VFW Memorial Hall, 1717 E. Vista Way. The public is invited to come and see Dowell demonstrate bird carving and air brush painting. Call (760) 622-4891 or e-mail info@vistaartassoc.com.

Reception held for featured artist

VISTA —— Joyce Ferraro is the featured artist for October at the Vista Village Art Gallery, 127 Main St. A reception will be held in her honor from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 14. Ferraro began watercolor lessons with instructor Ed Moores since moving to California and had grown to love the challenging medium. She is a member and volunteer of the Vista Art Foundation. Call (760) 622-4891.

Tennis Club of Vista seeks members

VISTA —— The Tennis Club of Vista is having a special membership fall drive during the months of September, October, November and December, waving its initiation fee. The club is located at 685 Taylor St. Call (760) 726-4406 or visit www.tennisclubofvista.com.

New Kiwanis club is forming

VISTA —— A new Kiwanis Club is forming in Vista with the sole purpose of supporting the homeless children of North County Solutions for Change. Kiwanis is designed for individuals who desire personal involvement in the leadership and improvement of their community. The first information meeting was held recently at NCSC. Call Tammy Megison at (760) 941-6545, Ext. 304, or George Francis at (760) 724-2124.

Dentist collects Teddy bears for kids

VISTA —— Dr. Ginger Hansen, DDS, and her staff are collecting new or unused Teddy bears and other stuffed animals for the abused children's center. Donations can be delivered to her office at 1235 W. Vista Way. Call (760) 940-0366.

Women's ORT to meet

VISTA —— The next meeting of Women's American Organization for Educational Resources and Technological Training/Ocean Hills will be at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 11 at the Shadowridge Country Club. The featured speaker will be Rabbi Ben Leinow, a licensed professional counselor at the new Oceanside Interfaith Coastal Center, an organization supported by more than 400 churches, synagogues, temples and other faith communities in North County. Contact President Lee Kramarz at (760) 941-2696.

Christian Women's group to meet

LAKE SAN MARCOS —— "Come to the Fair" is the theme of the San Marcos-Vista Christian Women's Club's next luncheon meeting scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Oct. 17 at the Lake San Marcos Country Club, 1750 San Pablo Drive. Cost is $11. Attendees are encouraged to dress in country or western attire.

The event will feature club's annual Country Fair from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., which will include handmade crafts, baked goods, jewelry and white elephant items. A live auction featuring gift baskets and other specialty items also is planned. All proceeds will go to Stonecroft missionaries.

Guest speaker Valerie Garrett, a businesswoman from Mission Viejo, will share one woman's guest for "Finding Love in the Personal Ads." Donna Manners and pianist Jewel Turbeville, both of San Marcos, will provide the music.

The club has no membership dues. All women are welcome. Reservations are required by Oct. 13. Call Vera at (760) 727-1372 or Muriel at (760) 744-3744.

The luncheon is sponsored by Stonecroft Ministries/Christian Women's Clubs. For information, visit www.stonecroft.org.

Bereavement support offered

VISTA —— Hospice by the Sea will offer a bereavement support group from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Mondays for eight weeks beginning Oct. 1 at First Lutheran Church, 1410 Foothill Drive. There is no charge. Call (858) 794-0195 or (800) 451-6016 or e-mail sarahs@hospicebythesea.org.

Vista Garden Club to meet

VISTA —— The Vista Garden Club will meet at noon Oct. 7 at the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, 1400 Vale Terrace Drive. Luncheon is at noon with a program and business meeting at 1:15 p.m. Wally Kerns of Evergreen Nursery will talk about grasses and fall planting. The public is invited. Call Karen at (760) 214-3685 for more information.

VFW ladies host chicken dinner

VISTA —— The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 7041 will host an "Apple Daze Dinner" featuring baked chicken from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at 1717 E. Vista Way. Cost is $6 and deserts can be purchased for $1. Items also available are fried fish, French fries, steak and shrimp at menu prices. Take-out dinners are also available. Proceeds are designated for the Veteran's Hospital. Call (760) 724-7041.

Art at the Creek Walk show upcoming

VISTA —— October 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. is the final "Art At The Creek Walk" show for the 2005 season and it is also "Breast Cancer Awareness Month." Carole Lee has designated the commission from the October show to breast cancer research. All are invited to come by the art show on Recreation Drive behind the Wave Water Park to meet the artists, see their work and enjoy the autumn air.

The Creek Walk Park is a beautiful, meandering walkway along Recreation Drive. Various styles of visual arts will be on display, such as photography, watercolors, canvas paintings, metal works, glass, jewelry and more. There will also be an interactive children's art booth. The event is sponsored by the Rancho Buena Vista Adobe with support from the Vista Art Foundation.

Oceanside Elks hold bingo

OCEANSIDE —— Oceanside Elks Lodge 1561 will hold bingo at 1 p.m. Oct. 2 at 444 Country Club Lane. A free breakfast will be served from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to all who buy in. Call (760) 433-1561.

Community garage sale slated

OCEANSIDE —— Rancho San Luis Rey Mobile Home Park will hold a Community Garage and Bake Sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 1 at 200 El Camino Real, Clubhouse 2. For more information, call (760) 433-6508.

Fire department holds open house

OCEANSIDE —— The Oceanside Fire Department will hold its annual open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 9 at Fire Station 7 at 110 Jones Road. There will be food, photographs, fun and valuable, life-saving information. The event will feature dozens of displays, demonstrations and activities. Visitors can see how firefighters rescue victims trapped in a vehicle, try their hand at crawling under smoke to get out of a burning structure, view a demonstration of how to properly use a fire extinguisher, learn how to "stop, drop and roll," or how a rescue hoist system works.

This year's theme is "Use Candles with Care." Most popular styles of candles produced today are manufactured to industry standards that make them safe if used properly. However, others, including popular multi-wicked candles can pose a serious safety hazard if not supervised closely. These candles tend to burn unevenly and can result in pooling of wax and collapse of a wick resulting in uncontrolled burning.

To learn about Fire Prevention Week or the Oceanside Fire Department's annual open house, call (760) 435-4101 or visit www.firepreventionweek.org.

Hospice offers support group

OCEANSIDE —— The Elizabeth Hospice offers an ongoing support and education group for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. This group meets from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. every Wednesday at a new location. The group now meets at the First Oceanside Religious Science Center at 4079 Oceanside Blvd., Suite E.

The group is no longer offered at Fairwinds Ivey Ranch and the location change is effective immediately. Cecilia Rodarte will facilitate. No reservations are necessary and there is no charge. Call AnnMarie Whitehead at (760) 737-2050.

Volunteers needed for tax season

OCEANSIDE —— For the coming tax season, AARP Tax-Aide, the nation's largest, free, volunteer-run tax counseling and preparation service, is seeking volunteers to assist in the preparation of federal and state tax returns for middle and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. No accounting background or special tax knowledge is necessary. Computer keyboard skills are desirable.

Tax counselors receive free tax training at a local site in January and become IRS certified by passing an IRS exam. They help customers one-on-one at tax sites using computers and tax-preparation software provided by the IRS. Volunteers are reimbursed for qualified program-related expenses. Volunteers are asked to serve one day per week from Feb. 1 to April 15 to perform this valuable community service.

For more information on how to join the AARP Tax-Aide team, contact Chuck Youde at (760) 967-6967 or call the national toll-free number, (888) AARPNOW or visit www.aarp.org/taxaide.

Clinic offers insurance assistance

VISTA —— Vista Community Clinic offers assistance to low-income families in need of health insurance by providing assistance in preparing the applications for Healthy Families and Medi-Cal. The service is free of charge, but an appointment is required. Additionally, the following documents will be required for the application process: copy of the applicant's birth certificate; social security card; proof of income (example: pay stubs for the most recent month; employer's letter. If self-employed, copy IRS Form 1040, etc.). For more information and to make an appointment, call Rosie at (760) 407-1220, Ext. 126.

Questers plan bus tour of museums

The El Camino Real Chapter of Questers has planned a bus trip Oct. 27 as a fund-raiser to begin conservation on the painting "Resurrection of Christ" by Leon Trousset, which is located in the Mission San Luis Rey Museum. The first stop will be The Edward-Dean Museum of Decorative Arts in Cherry Valley to see the collections of Edward Eberle and Dean Stout. The exhibit is primarily 16th through 19th century Asian and European fine arts, including furniture, ceramics, glass, textiles, sculptures and many small collections such as miniature paintings, fans and pocket watches, all displayed to appear as though you are in a private residence.

The tour will continue to the Wilshire Apple Shed, owned by one of Oak Glen's original pioneering families, where participants will have lunch, time to buy apples, gourmet foods and coffees or Christmas gifts, or enjoy a quick visit to the historic Oak Glen School House next door, which gives visitors an idea of what materials, books and lessons were used in schoolhouses 75 years ago.

After lunch, the group will travel to the Historical Glass Museum of Redlands, as seen on Huell Howser's California Gold program, where a special tour has been arranged. The museum is housed in a 1903 Victorian-styled home and contains six rooms of approximately 3,000 pieces of American glass from the mid 1800s to current times.

Precious Times Antique Mall & Vintage Gardens in Redlands is the final stop. There are over 145 quality booths and include items such as art pottery, furniture, linens, glassware and more. The Vintage Garden has items such as fountains, birdbaths, patio furniture and other garden items.

Cost for the trip is $55 and includes bus, driver gratuity, entrances and lunch. The bus will leave from the Oceanside Park & Ride on the south side of Highway 78 and College Boulevard at 7:30 a.m., and from the Fallbrook Park & Ride at Interstate 15 and SR-76 at approximately 7:45 a.m. For more information and reservations, call (760) 726-1819.