Art
Art in the Park
The Alamo Danville Artists’ Society & the town of Danville presents its seventh annual Art in the Park from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1, and Sunday, Oct. 2, on Front Street (next to the Library and Community Center). Benefits Art in the Schools Program. Admission is free.
Art of Fashion
The show, which benefits Danville Area Cultural Alliance (DACA), will be from 4-7 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 18, in the Village Theater, 233 Front St. There will be a bazaar and wine tasting after the show. For information, call Yasmine Austere at 998-9747.
Artist Reception
The Blackhawk Art Gallery is hosting a free artist reception on Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Blackhawk Art Gallery, 3628 Blackhawk Plaza Circle. The Reception is open to the public and will feature the paintings of Bill Weber, the sculptures of Michael Rizza, and holographer Nancy Gorglione. Wine and appetizers will be served from 5-9 p.m. For information, call 736-5640.
Fine Art & Fine Craft Show
The 20th annual Alamo Fall Art & Craft Show will be from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday and Saturday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 2, at the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center.
Photo exhibit
Photographers Jason Pachura and Luke Gilford, who use the limbic system, will be hosting an art show and reception at 4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21, at Salon Tarrazzo, 12131 Alcosta Boulevard, San Ramon.
Auditions
Author Visit
Bestselling author Joshua Braff visits
Joshua Braff will read and sign his new book, “The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green,” at 7p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 28, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave. For confirmation, call 837-7337.
Bestselling Author M.J. Ryan
Join one of the creators of the “Random Acts of Kindness” series, bestselling author M.J. Ryan as she discusses and signs her latest book, “The Happiness Makeover,” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 20, at the Danville Library, Mt. Diablo Room. For information, call 937-4889.
Children’s Author Thacher Hurd
Thacher Hurd, author of “Sleepy Cadillac,” will visit Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave., at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 19, to share his new book with an audience of school children. For confirmation, call 837-7337.
Children’s Novelist Jeff Stone
Children’s novelist Jeff Stone will be introducing his second book, “Monkey,” at 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 14, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave. For confirmation, call 837-7337.
Christopher Paolini Book Signing
Meet Christopher Paolini at a reading and signing of his latest book “Eldest,” at 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17, at the San Ramon Valley High School Performing Arts Center. This event is sponsored by Rakestraw Books. Tickets are $5.25 and can be purchased at Rakestraw Books on Aug. 15. For additional information, call 837-7337.
Joan Bechtel, Linda Cohen
Local authors Joan Bechtel and Linda Cohen will discuss and sign their new book, “Motherhood Confidential: The Strange Disappearance of My Best Friend,” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 20, at Rakestraw Books at 409 Railroad Ave. For confirmation, call 837-7337.
Lily King returns
Novelist Lily King will return to celebrate the publication of her new novel, “The English Teacher,” at 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 6, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave. For confirmation, call 837-7337.
Book Clubs
Evening Book Club
Rakestraw Books is re-starting its Evening Book Club. Designed for adult readers, the group will meet at 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 25, and will be reading “Acts of Faith” by Philip Caputo. New members are welcome. For information, call 837-7337.
First Wednesday Programs
The Friends of the Danville Library and Tri-Valley Community Foundation sponsor First Wednesday programs in the Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library at 1 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month, October through May, with the exception of January. Subjects include art lectures and slide shows, music programs, and book and author programs. The program is free and everyone is welcome to attend. For information, call 938-7323.
Library Book Discussions
The Book Discussion Group will resume meeting Thursday, Sept. 8, to discuss what members have read over the summer and to choose books for December and 2006. In October the selection is “Housekeeping” by Marilynne Robinson; in November it is “Will in the World,” by Stephen Greenbelt, a non-fiction book that explores 16th Century England and what enabled Shakespeare to become Shakespeare. The discussion group meets at 11 a.m. the second Thursday of every month from September through May at the Mt. Diablo room of the library. Everyone is welcome.
Careers
Civic Meetings
Danville Parks and Leisure Services Commission
The Commission meets regularly on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front St.
Danville Planning Commission
The Commission meets regularly on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front St.
Town Council Meeting
The Danville Town Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7:30 p.m., at the Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front St.
Class Reunions
Classes
Become a Blackhawk Docent
The Blackhawk Museum’s docent training starts in the fall. Learn new things, serve our community, meet new friends and have fun! For information, call 736-2277, ext. 236.
Clay Character Modeling for Kids
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers a Clay Character Modeling for Kids class from 10-11:30 a.m. on Saturdays, for ages 6-13. Michael Yen is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $86 for four weeks plus $15 for materials. For information, call 838-1959.
Mixed Media Fun for Kids
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers a Mixed Media Fun for Kids class from 3-4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, for ages 6-13. Marilyn MacDougall is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $78 for five weeks, plus $8 for materials. For information, call 838-1959.
Oil and Acrylic Painting Class
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers an Oil and Acrylic Painting class from 10 a.m.-noon on Mondays, and from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesdays. Charles White is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing and for all levels. Fee is $84 for four weeks. For information, call 838-1959.
Pencil Sketching
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers a Pencil Sketching class from 10 a.m.-Noon on Tuesdays, for beginner-intermediates. Michael Yen is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $84 for four weeks. For information, call 838-1959.
People, Pets and Wildlife Portraits Classes
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers a People, Pets and Wildlife Portraits class on Thursdays for all levels. Beth Batchelor is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $30 per class or $100 for 4 weeks. For information, call Beth at 837-5654.
The Art of Drawing
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers the Art of Drawing class from 6-8 p.m., on Fridays for all levels. Ron Norman is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $140 for eight weeks. For start dates, call 838-1959.
Watercolor
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front St., offers a Watercolor class from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays, for all levels. Karen Mason is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $84 for four weeks. For information, call 838-1959.
Watercolor
Danville Fine Arts Gallery, 233 Front Street, offers a Watercolor class from 7-9 p.m. on Tuesdays, for all levels. Marilyn MacDougall is the Instructor. Classes are ongoing. Fee is $80 for four weeks. For information, call 838-1959.
Clubs
Alamo Cribbage Club
The club plays cribbage for fun. It meets at 6:15 p.m. every Wednesday at the Safeway conference room, 200 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. Call 935-3325.
Alamo Rotary
The Alamo Rotary meets at noon every Wednesday at Roundhill Country Club, 3169 Roundhil Road. Call Mark Kahn at 837-3262.
Alamo Women’s Club Federated
The club meets on most Wednesdays at its clubhouse, 1401 Danville Blvd. It holds a business meeting and tea the second Wednesday at noon; meets for Mah Jong at 10:30 a.m. the third Wednesday; and holds a luncheon with program at noon the fourth Wednesday. For information, call Jean Stringfellow at 552-9733.
Alamo-Danville Newcomers’ Club
This club is open to new and long-time residents of Alamo and Danville interested in making new friends while learning more about the area. Activities include games, day trips, sports, crafts, couples events, volunteer projects and book, movie, international and cooking groups. A prospective member coffee is held the fourth Thursday of the month, and a monthly luncheon on the second Tuesday. Call 775-3233 or visit www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com
Bay Area Single Christians
BASC club is a free, large, online group with event listings for Christian single adults around the S.F. Bay Area. See information at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bascsingles/.
Blue Star Moms California
Blue Star Moms is a support group for families of members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It meets at 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at the Danville Veterans Hall, 400 Hartz Ave. Call Peggy at 866-7035 or Patty at 838-9096 or visit www.bluestarmoms.org.
Brass Era Cars
Blackhawk Museum presents Brass Era Cars in collaboration with the Horseless Carriage Club of America-NorCal Chapter, from 10:30 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Sept. 24, at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle. Several HCCA member cars will be on exhibition in front of the museum and the museum’s docents will tour the Brass Era cars.
Business Development Network
BDN is a group of professionals that share resources and develops business through relationships. It meets 7:45-9 a.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month at Denny’s, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Call Bonnie at 648-0222.
Country Western Dance Club
When do the Country Hustlers dance in Danville? From 8-11 p.m., Saturdays, Sept. 10 and Sept. 24 at the Danville Veteran’s Hall at 400 Hartz Ave.; Fridays, Nov. 11, and Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Danville Grange Hall at 743 Diablo Blvd.; and Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Danville Veteran’s Hall. Admission is $9 for guests, $7 for members, and $5 for senior members. For information, visit the Web site at www.countryhustlers.com/whenwedance.htm
Danville AM Toastmasters Club
The club meets from 7-8:30 a.m. every Tuesday at Father Nature’s, 178 E. Prospect Ave. Guests are welcome. Call Marge, 831-3802.
Danville Business Network International (BNI)
The Danville Business Network International (BNI) meets at 7 a.m. every Friday at the Marriott Residence Inn, 1071 Market Place, San Ramon. Guests are welcome. Call Susanne Olsen, 937-5055.
Danville Mid-day Referral Group, BNI
Danville Mid-day Referral Group, a chapter of Business Network International, meets from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. every Wednesday at Louka’s, 267 Hartz in Danville. Call Fran Bates at 363-4327 or e-mail franbates@marykay.com.
Danville PM Toastmasters
The club meets from 7:30-9 p.m. every Monday at the San Ramon Campus of Diablo Valley College, 315 Crow Canyon Place, Room 109. Guests are welcome. Call Debra Elmore at 934-3113.
Diablo Singles Dance Club
The Nob Hill Sounds plays for the Diablo Singles Dance Club’s regular dance from 7:30-10:30 p.m., the last Wednesday of each month, at the Arts Education Building, corner of Ygnacio Valley Road and Wiget Lane. All are welcome. Admission is $9 for non-members and $7 for members. Refreshments. For information, call 837-2851.
Diablo Valley Single Parents
This group meets at 6:30 p.m. on various days each month at different locations in the valley. Contact Rich at abersr@toast.net or 838-9487.
Diablo View Toastmasters
This chapter meets from 7:55-9 a.m. every Tuesday at the San Ramon Community Center, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. Novice and veteran speakers meet to develop speaking skills. Guests are welcome. Call Pat Griffin, 426-3844.
eWomen Network Accelerated Networking Luncheon
The eWomen Network holds its monthly accelerated networking luncheon from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. the second Thursday at the Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Contact Claire at 648-3105 or clairesheperdson@ewomennetwork.com.
Honda Riders’ Club of America
Members’ motorcycles will be displayed on Blackhawk Plaza from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 25. For information, contact your local HRCA Chapter Dealer or call the HRCA at (310) 785-3955.
Mt. Diablo Genealogical Society
The society meets 1:15-3 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month except August at the California Savings Building, Rossmoor Shopping Center, Tice Valley Blvd. and Rossmoor Parkway, Walnut Creek. Guest speakers are at each meeting.
Mt. Diablo Macintosh Users Group
Get questions answered, solutions for problems, share experiences and explore new Mac developments. Club meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Monday of every month at the Alamo Safeway Community Room. For information, call 837-1111 or 829-5501.
Newcomers “Get Acquainted Coffee”
The San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club invites prospective members to join them for their Get Acquainted Coffee from 10 a.m.-noon, Wednesday, Sept. 28. Come meet the members and learn about their various activities. For information, call Audrey at 244-1492.
Porsche Club
Porsche Club of America Concours will display 70-90 cars on the Blackhawk Museum Plaza at 10 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 18. For information, call 736-2280 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Porsche Club of America, Diablo Region
This club is for owners and enthusiasts of all Porsches. It meets at 8 a.m. every Saturday for breakfast at Denny’s, 803 Camino Ramon, Danville. For information, visit www.pca.org/dia.
San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society
The society meets at 10 a.m. every third Tuesday of the month, except August and December, at the LDS Church, 2449 Stone Valley Road. Guest speaker at every meeting. All welcome. For information, call Ed at 299-0881.
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club
Members and guests are invited to attend the San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club luncheon at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 15, at Garlic dePasta in Pleasanton. Come enjoy lunch and bingo. For information, call Mickey at 803-2918.
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club
The San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club Hiking Group invites prospective members to join as they explore East Bay Regional Parks. The group meets at 8:30 a.m. every Friday. Hikes are usually two hours and within 30 minutes of San Ramon. For information, call Sharon at 735-8960.
San Ramon Valley Rotary Club
This club meets for dinner at 7 p.m. each Wednesday at the Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Guests are welcome. The club offers a great way to make new friends while making a difference in your community. Call Bill at 838-9110.
Veterans of Foreign Wars
The organization meets at 7 p.m., every second Thursday at the Danville Veterans Hall, 400 Hartz Ave. For information, call Post Commander Mac McCuskey at 837-2740.
Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley
Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley meet the first Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at Hula Mama’s Bar & Grill located in Camp Parks, Dublin. The general business meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and is open to all members and visitors. For information, call Bob Franco 736-5272 or visit the Web site at www.vnvdv.com.
Concerts
Blackhawk Summer Music Series
The 11th annual Blackhawk Plaza Summer Music Series 2005 concludes Saturday, Aug. 27, with Pride and Joy (R&B, Soul and Motown). The concert is free with paid reserved seating available. Advance reserved seats are available for $5 each, while they last. Ticket proceeds benefit the Troy and Alana Pack Foundation. Purchase tickets at Cinemark Blackhawk Movies 7 at 736-0368. Seating area opens at 4 p.m. No outside chairs, coolers, food or beverages allowed.
Concerts at Livorna Park
Bring the family and a picnic and enjoy local talent. The last concert of the year will feature Silk and Soul (jazz, blues and soul) from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 16, at Livorna Park, Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo.
Music In The Park 2005
Danville’s 20th annual Music in the Park summer concert series for 2005 ends Aug. 20 with Best Intentions (Motown Mania tribute show features the renditions of Smokey Robinson, the Four Tops and many more). The free concert takes place from 6-8 p.m. at Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road.
Summer Nights at Danville Livery
Danville has one remaining Summer Nights at the Danville Livery show, from 6-9 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 25, with cool music for hot nights the whole family is sure to enjoy.
Events
Art for Charity Day
The Blackhawk Art Gallery presents Art for Charity Day to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, from 3-6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 20, at 3628 Blackhawk Plaza Circle. There will be art by local artists, wine, appetizers, live music, silent auction and a drawing. Tickets are $15 and will be sold at the door (charity contribution). Call 736-5640.
Art, Jazz and Wine Fest
Pleasant Hill’s third annual Art, Jazz and Wine Fest is from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 8; and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9, on Crescent Drive in downtown Pleasant Hill. For information, call Pleasant Hill’s Chamber of Commerce at 687-0700.
Blackhawk Museum Open House
Join Blackhawk Museum the day after the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance concludes for the 17th annual Pebble Beach Open House from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday, Aug. 22. Enjoy hors d’oeurves, beverages and live jazz music by the fabulous Earl Watkins. Free to the public. For information, call 736-2280.
Docent-led Tour of the Blackhawk Museum
Blackhawk Museum sponsors a docent-led tour of the museum’s Renowned Exhibitions at 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. The tour is free with admission. For information, call 736-2280.
Farmers Market
The Danville Farmers Market is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday at the Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking Lot, at the corner of Railroad and Prospect avenues. Call 825-9090 or visit www.pcfma.com.
Hot Summer Nights Car Show
The final 11th annual Hot Summer Nights Car Show will take place from 4-9 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 25. Over 300 pre-1960s vehicles will be on display along Hartz Avenue in downtown Danville.
KKIQ Halloween Party
That Old Blackhawk Magic:KKIQ Halloween Party for ages 21 and over takes place from 8 p.m.-midnight, Friday, Oct. 28, at the Blackhawk Museum. There’ll be a DJ, dancing, cocktails, finger foods, costume contests and prizes. When the sun goes down and the moon is overhead, the creatures will come out to play at the Blackhawk Museum! Event is free with paid admission. (Museum members free.) Call 736-2280 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Moonlight Movies on the Town Green
The Danville Community Services and Police Youth Services invites you to watch free movies on the Town Green, located between the Danville Library and Community Center. “Are We There Yet?” (PG) will show Friday, Aug. 26. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks and enjoy movies under the stars. Movies begin when the sun goes down at approximately 8:45 p.m.
Old Town Walking Tours
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley conducts Old Town Danville Walking Tours the second Saturday each month through September. Meet at 10 a.m. for one-hour tour at the museum, at the Danville Depot, 205 Railroad Ave. Call 837-3750.
Pet Adoptions
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue offers cats and dogs for adoption noon-4 p.m., Sundays, at Petco, 2005 Crow Canyon Place, San Ramon. Call TVAR at 803-7043 or visit www.tvar.org.
Exhibits
Early Auto Touring in California
The Blackhawk Museum is presenting the AAA of Northern California traveling exhibition, titled “The Tourist Frontier: Early Touring in California,” at the Blackhawk Museum through Sunday, Sept. 18. This exhibition was created in 2000 to recognize AAA of Northern California’s first 100 years helping California’s motorists. The museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday, at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle. Call 736-2280 or visit www.BlackhawkMuseum.org.
The Fine Art of Being President
Visit the Blackhawk Museum exhibition, “The Fine Art of Being President,” with nearly 100 portraits, sculptures and unique historical artifacts related to the American Presidency, some dating back to the 1700s. The exhibit runs through Oct. 30. Museum is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), $5 for students, free for children under 6 and military personnel. Call 736-2280 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Wildlife in the Valley
An exhibit from the Lindsay Wildlife Museum is now at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley through Sept. 15. It has displays of mounted animals, including birds, a bear and a mountain lion. Demonstrations will feature live birds and other native animals on Saturdays, Aug. 20 and 27. Hours during August are 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Tuesday-Friday, and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. During September, museum hours are 1-4 p.m., Tuesday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. The museum is located at 205 Railroad Ave. Call 837-3750 or visit www.museumsrv.org.
Film
Fundraisers
Greenbrook Golf, Tennis Tourney
Join the third annual Greenbrook Open 2005 Charity Golf and Tennis Tournament benefiting the Greenbrook Elementary Eagle Fund, on Monday, Sept. 12, at the Crow Canyon Country Club. For information and registration, e-mail Lea and Dennis McSweeney at dlmcsweeney@msn.com.
Quilt Drawing for Hospice
“Hearts of Hospice” is the name given to a spectacular double-bed size quilt that features 70 large “ragged” hearts set on a mixed off-white background and has been professionally machine quilted. More than 150 hours have generously gone into making this quilt. Tickets are $10 each or three for $20. The winning ticket wil be drawn at the Hospice of Contra Costa Foundation’s annual auction and gala at Blackhawk Country Club on Oct. 29. Make checks payable to Hospice of Contra Costa Foundation, 3470 Buskirk Ave., Pleasant Hill 94523. You need not be present to win. Proceeds go directly to the Hospice of Contra Costa Foundation, benefiting Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa.
TVAR Annual Fundraiser
Join Tri-Valley Animal Rescue for its sixth annual “That’s Amore” Fundraiser Dinner and Auction, from 6-10 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17, at Garre Winery in Livermore. This elegant evening affair includes a sit-down dinner, auctions, prizes and a canine couture fashion show. Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $55 at the door. Tickets are available at the Pleasanton Farmers Market TVAR adoption booth, or send a check to TVAR – That’s Amore, P.O. Box 11143, Pleasanton 94588. For information, go to TVAR.org or leave a message at 803-7043.
Health
Hospice Offers Support
Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa offers a variety of support groups and classes for people experiencing grief and loss after the death of a loved one. Individual counseling for Hospice families is also available. Groups are offered from 7-9 p.m. on Friday evenings at the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church in Alamo. All groups and classes are offered without fee and require preregistration. Contact Lee Ann Morgan, Bereavement Program Manager at 855-9317.
Seminar on Cholesterol, Exercise and Diet
Learn how cholesterol, exercise and diet can affect your heart health at a free educational seminar from 7-8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 30, at the San Ramon Regional Medical Center in the South Conference Room in the South Building, 7777 Norris Canyon Road in San Ramon. Reservations are required. Call to register at 800 284-2878 or on-line at www.sanramonmedctr.com.
Holiday
Kids & Teens
Back to School Bike Safety Night
On Track Learning presents Alamo’s first Back to School Bike Safety Show. Everyone is invited to this free, community-sponsored event. Three shows will run from 4:30-6:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 2, at Creekside Community Church, 1350 Danville Blvd. Picnic facilities are available and some food will be available for sale.
Blackhawk Museum and AAA
You’ll be going on a family-funshop of a simulated road trip all around California! Robin Wiley will be your guide on this imaginary trip to all of the wonderful and beautiful places in our state. You can have popcorn at a drive-in theatre or pick up some fruit at a stand on the way to the Monterey Bay. On-going from 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21, at the Blackhawk Museum. Feel free to stop in anytime and take part. For information, call 736-2280 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Children’s Book Readings
Local authors of children’s books will be reading at 6:30 p.m.,Tuesday, Aug. 23 (John Muir and Strickeen) in the courtyard behind the Polka Dot Attic in the Danville Hotel, 411 Hartz Ave. This event is free. For information, visit www.thepolkadotattic.com.
‘Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince’
Join Rakestraw Books for an informal discussion of “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 24, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave. Light refreshments will be served. Call 937-7337 for a reservation.
New SAT Strategy Session
A free strategy session on taking the new SAT college entrance exam and getting into the college of your choice will be presented by the professionals from the Princeton Review from 6-7:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 29, at the Danville Library, Mt. Diablo Room. Seats are limited and a registration is required. Reserve your spot at the Danville Library Information Desk or call 837-4889.
Red Light, Green Light
Robin Wiley has put together an informative and entertaining Family Funshop on bus safety with something for every child. Learn about safety while playing games like Red Light, Green Light and making stoplight cookies. On-going from 1-4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 11, at the Blackhawk Museum. For information, call 736-2280 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Story-Telling at Rakestraw Books
Rakestraw Books has a free storytime for children ages 3-6, followed by a simple craft activity that complements the story. This activity is weekly at 11 a.m., at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave. Aug. 24 the story is “Don’t Be Silly, Miss Millie!” by Judy Cox; Aug. 31 is “My Granny West to Market” by Stella Blackstone. For information, call 837-7337.
Lectures/Workshops
Internet Essentials Workshop
The Danville Library is offering a free, hands-on computer training on how to conduct effective Internet searches using different search engines and how to perform searches on the library catalog and databases. The workshop is from 6-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 24, at the Danville Library at 400 Front St. Registration is required. Call 837-4889, Ext. 03, or stop by the Danville Library Information Desk to register or obtain more information.
Olson debunks myths of “The Da Vinci Code”
The September breakfast event of the Catholics@Work fellowship will feature Carl E. Olson, co-author, and medievalist Sandra Miesel, of “The Da Vinci Hoax: Exposing the Errors in the Da Vici Code” at 6:45 a.m. (full buffet breakfast), Tuesday, Sept. 13, at the Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive. Mass is offered at 6:15 a.m. at the same location. Cost is $20 for members and $27 for non-members. To register, visit www.catholicsatwork.org/EventDesc.aspx.
Live Music
Antonia Venezia performs live
Vocalist Antonia Venezia and Patti Leidecker on the piano will perform from 5:30-8:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 19, at the Six 80 Lounge, 519 San Ramon Valley Blvd. No cover charge for the Happy Hour jazz show. For information, call 552-6050.
‘Hearts for the Arts’ Smooth Jazz
“Hearts for the Arts Smooth Jazz Series 2005” will feature Earl Klugh at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 26, at the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. The show will include performances by the Moving Arts Dance. For tickets ($175 for three shows), call 943-7469 or visit www.dlrca.org and www.heartsforthearts.cc.
Miscellaneous
Adopt a New Best Friend
Tri-Valley animal Rescue (TVAR) offers wonderful animals for adoption every Saturday and Sunday, excluding most holidays. On Saturday, from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., dogs and cats are available at the Pleasanton Farmers Market at West Angela and First Street. On Sundays, cats are available at PetSmart in Dublin from 1-4 p.m., and cats and dogs are available at Petco in San Ramon from noon-4 p.m. For information, call TVAR at 803-7043 or visit its Web site at www.tvar.org.
Mt. Diablo Macintosh Users Group
Get questions answered, solutions to problems, share experiences and explore new Mac developments. Meets at 7:30 p.m. third Monday of every month at Alamo Safeway community room. Call 837-1111 or 829-5501, for information.
On Stage
Multi-Media Musicals
A cabaret in concert event benefiting the Contra Costa Youth Council, features Danville’s own Sophie Tamiko Oda and Samantha Samuels in “Multi-Media Musicals” at 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts at 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets are $25 general admission and $23 for seniors and youth. Call the box office at 943-7469.
Role Players Ensemble Theatre
Season tickets are now available for “Red Hot & Cole” (Cole Porter is throwing a party and you are invited!), Oct. 1-Nov. 5; “Wrong Turn at Lungfish” (story of a blind and bitter college professor and his encounter wth a saucy, street-wise young woman who volunteers to read to him in the hospital), Jan. 20-Feb. 11; and “Gun-Shy” (no-holds-barred comedy about marriage, divorce, infidelity, incompatibility, eternal love, etc.), April 21-May 13. Performances are at the Village Theatre, 233 Front St. For information and ticket purchases, call 820-1278.
Political Notes
Recreation
Scholarships
Seniors
Bridge
Seniors meet to play bridge from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Friday at the Danville Veteran’s Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Ave. Cost is $1. Reservations are required. Call Jerri Kaldem at 837-6283.
Danville Senior Citizens Club
The club meets from 9:45 a.m.-2 p.m. every Monday at the Danville Veterans’ Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Ave., for line dancing exercise, bingo, mah jong and more. Membership is just $9 a year. Call Fran Britt at 743-4026.
Prime Time for ‘Seasoned Citizens’
Prime Time for “seasonal citizens” begins Tuesday, Sept. 13, and will continue to meet from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Tuesday thereafter, at the Community Presbyterian Church, 222 W. El Pintado. Homecooked lunch is $3. For transportation, call 837-5229. Call 820-6387 with questions.
St. Isidore’s Young at Heart
The Young at Heart meets from 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m. every third Tuesday at St. Isidore’s Church, 440 La Gonda Way, Danville. Mass at 11:15 a.m. is optional. Lunch is served at 11:45 a.m. at no charge. Nonprofit bingo follows. Reservations appreciated. Call Joan Singer at 820-4447.
Walking Buddies
Morning hiking walks geared toward seniors meet in the lobby of the Walnut Creek Senior’s Club at Civic Park, 1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Meet at 8 a.m. Tuesdays for walks on paved trails lasting 1 to 1-1/2 hours or Thursdays (same time) for 2-3 hour walks usually on unpaved trails. Group carpool to area locations for the more challenging outings. Call Maureen at 256-0690.
Spiritual
Matthew Kelly comes to Danville
Internationally acclaimed author and dynamic speaker Matthew Kelly will be in Danville discussing our common yearning for happiness and an alternative to our chaotic liefstyle, focusing on the well-being of the whole person, physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. The evening will build upon the powerful message that we are only truly happy when we are striving to become “the-best-version-of-ourselves.” The event will be at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 25, at St. Isidore Church, 440 La Gonda Way, and will last approximately one hour. The event is open to the public. For information, call 837-2122.
Sports
Adult open gym basketball
Danville Parks and Recreation Department holds drop-in basketball year-round at the Los Cerros Middle School, 968 Blemer Road, for ages 18 and over. Drop-in times are 7:30-9 a.m. Saturdays. Bring your own ball. Cost is $3 for residents, $5 for non-residents. Call 314-3400.
Adult Softball
Adult Softball plays pickup softball at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays year-round. New members welcome. Call Bob Randall at 855-4646 for more information.
Danville Tennis Club
The Danville Tennis Club meets 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; and 9-11 a.m. Saturdays for drop-in tennis at San Ramon Valley High School. This free co-ed club provides play for 4.0 to 5.0 and very strong 3.5 level players. See information at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/danvilletennisclub.
St. Isidore School Golf Classic
St. Isidore School Golf Classic annual golf tournament to benefit St. Isidore School in Danville takes place Monday, Sept. 19, at Diablo Country Club. Four player scramble begins at 9 a.m. The cost is $235, which includes green fees, cart, lunch, refreshments and tee prizes. To register or become a sponsor, e-mail Cyndi and Dave McEntush at sigolf2005@pacbell.net.
Walnut Creek Tennis Club
WCTC is a free, co-ed tennis group for single adults of all ages and levels (primarily 2.5-3.5). It plays drop-in tennis from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturdays and Sundays at Las Lomas High School in Walnut Creek (S. Main). See information at http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/wctc/.
Support Groups
American Chronic Pain Association
The ACPA group meets from 11a.m.-1p.m. every second and fourth Monday at the Community Presbyterian Church, Library at 222 W. El Pintado Road. For information call Kathie at 930-0524 or Emily at 831-3279.
Bipolar Support Group
The Tri-Valley Support Group provides free peer support for people with mood disorders. It meets from 7:15-8:45 p.m. every Wednesday at St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton. Call 560-0842.
Breast Cancer Support Group
This is a staff-facilitated support group for women with breast cancer. It meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the San Ramon Regional Medical Center, 7777 Norris Canyon Road, in the West Day Room of the South Building. Call Lisa Peguese at 275-8414.
ClutterLess (CL) Self Help Group
Is clutter stressing you out? Cluttering is a psychological issue, not just an organizing issue. Meetings are from 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays (except holidays) at the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church, Room 7, 4300 Mirador Drive, Pleasanton. For information, call 426-5311 or 443-0766.
Danville TOPS
The Danville chapter of Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets at 9 a.m. every Tuesday at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 1550 Diablo Road. Call Bob Blendow at 935-9344 or Rosemarie at 838-7870
Fibromyalgia/Pain
The San Ramon Valley Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Support Group meets from 7-9 p.m. every other Monday in Danville. Call Denise for location and information at 837-0510.
Overeaters Anonymous
The group offers a 12-step approach to issues around food, overeating, anorexia and bulemia. It meets from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday at the Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. No fees. Call Susie at 275-1391.
PFLAG
The Danville/San Ramon Valley Chapter of Parents Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is a support group that meets at 7:30 p.m. on every third Monday at the Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Call 831-8172.
Volunteering
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association of Northern California, East Bay branch, seeks volunteers to facilitate support groups, staff the help line, and perform a variety of office support at its office in Lafayette. Call (800) 660-1993.
Assistance League of Diablo Valley
This chapter of the National Assistance League seeks new volunteer members to help with a wide range of philanthropic service projects in many Contra Costa communities. These include vision screening in elementary schools, distributing clothing to school children in need, daily reassurance phone calls to homebound elderly and handicapped clients, and staffing the chapter’s Lafayette thrift shop. Call 934-0901 or visit http://diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
Child Abuse Prevention Council
The Contra Costa County Child Abuse Prevention Council needs volunteer speakers for the community education program. Volunteers must complete a mandatory 24-hour speaker’s training course. For information, call 946-9961.
Contra Costa Academy of Fine Art
The academy seeks new volunteers and members to help with tasks ranging from bookkeeping to recruiting instructors. The group meets noon-1 p.m. on the second Friday of the month at Richard’s Art & Craft Store, 225 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. Call Beth Batchelor at 837-5654.
‘Help Wildlife and People Too’
The Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek is seeking volunteers to help children and adults learn about wildlife and the wonderful animals at the museum – hawks, owls, mountain lions, gray foxs, ravens , snakes and many more. Training is provided and hours are flexible. Orientation is free, however pre-registration is strongly suggested. Orientation classes are 3-4:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24. Call 254-4773.
Lindsay Wildlife Museum
Docents are needed to lead class tours, teaching children and others about our important connection with wildlife and the world we share. Call 935-1978 or visit www.wildlife-museum.org.
Moonlight on the Mountain
Save Mount Diablo needs volunteers for its Moonlight on the Mountain, a formal dinner Sept. 17 at the Mt. Diablo State Park’s China Wall. Volunteers are needed to help with auction item solicitation, exhibit display, set-up and registration. For information, contact Brenda de la Ossa at 947-3535 or visit smdinfo@savemountdiablo.org
Mt. Diablo Bike Challenge
Save Mount Diablo needs volunteers for its Mt. Diablo Bike Challenge being held Sunday, Oct. 2. There will be 1,000 riders going from Athenian School to Mount Diablo’s summit. Volunteers needed to help with registration and logistics.For information, contact Brenda de la Ossa at 947-3535 or visit smdinfo@savemountdiablo.org
Project Second Chance
Help an adult to read, write and spell better. Project Second Chance (PSC), the Contra Costa County Library adult literacy program, will train volunteers to become literacy tutors. Training will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m., Wednesday evening, Sept. 14; and 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturdays, Sept. 17 and Sept. 24. Volunteers are needed in East and Central Contra Costa County. For registration information, call 927-3250 or e-mail pcs@ccclib.org.
Regional Medical Center
The Contra Costa Regional Medical Center needs volunteers to work in patient services, gift shop or at the information desk. For an application or information, call Julie Kelley, Volunteer Coordinator, at 370-5441.
Search and Rescue
The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year round. The program provides required training including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass, tracking disaster response and search skills, and may additionally include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike or other rescue skills. For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar.org or call 646-4461.
Trails Maintenance
East Bay Trail Dogs is an all-volunteer group that has built, repaired and helped maintain single-track trails in the East Bay Regional Park District, the Mt. Diablo State Park, and Walnut Creek open space. Volunteers meet the fourth Saturday and one weekday each month. To participate, call Harry at 443-3925.
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue (TVAR) offers volunteer orientations from 1-2:30 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month at East County Animal Shelter (ECAS) in Dublin. Contact Noella Hartshorn at 846-0745 or e-mail noellehartshorn@comcast.net for information.
Volunteer Interpreters
The California Medical Association seeks community volunteer interpreters for Contra Costa County to assist physicians when other interpretation resources are not an option. If you possess a proficiency in any foreign language and experience interpreting in a health care setting, you are encouraged to apply. Contact CMA, 866-241-4262, or e-mail communityvip@cmanet.org.
