Attached is a photo of Anthem Blue Cross Vice President and General Manager Steve Scott announcing the donation of 350 iPads at the Armed ServicesYMCA in San Diego. He is joined by Assemblymembers Marty Block and Brian Jones. Credit: Darrel Ng, Anthem Blue Cross

“These selfless men and women put their lives on the line to defend the freedoms that we too often take for granted,” said Pam Kehaly, president of Anthem Blue Cross. “We hope these iPads can play a small role in their recovery as a tool in the rehabilitation process and help them keep in touch with loved ones.”

The gift of the iPads – valued at more than $175,000 – demonstrates the commitment of Anthem Blue Cross and its associates to helping America’s veterans.

“We have a duty to take care of those who have been injured while fighting for our country,” said Steve Scott, vice president of Anthem Blue Cross. “At Anthem Blue Cross, our mission is to help our members get healthy and stay healthy. We sincerely hope these iPads will help some of the military heroes get healthy and stay healthy.”

The donation will be made to the Armed Services YMCA. Anthem expect that the iPads will then distribute it to wounded warriors currently recovering from injuries at Balboa Naval Medical Center and the Purple Heart recipients at the Wounded Warrior Battalion, West at Camp Pendleton.

“Approximately 60% of those injured by an explosion while deployed had a Traumatic Brain Injury. For service members with a moderate-severe Traumatic Brain Injury the iPad can be an effective tool used to help organize and retrieve information. Thanks so much for this very generous donation,” said Cherri Barnswell, senior program director at the Armed Services YMCA, Naval Medical Center in San Diego.

Named by G.I. Jobs magazine to the list of Top 100 Military Friendly Employers® three years running, Anthem Blue Cross’s parent company and associates continue to support America’s heroes by:

·         100,000 Jobs Mission: Last month, Anthem’s parent company joined the 100,000 Jobs Mission, a coalition of major corporations that have jointly   committed to hiring 100,000 transitioning service members and military veterans by 2020. Anthem’s parent company was the first health benefits company to do so.
·         USO: The company donates $50,000 annually to the USO, and employees put together care packages for deployed military personnel.
·         Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project: In addition, our Life and Disability Insurance companies further demonstrate Anthem’s commitment to helping disabled veterans live active lives through sponsorships of sporting opportunities run by The Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project.

About Anthem Blue Cross
Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California.  Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. ® ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc.  The Blue Cross name and symbol are registered marks of the Blue Cross Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/healthjoinin, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HealthJoinIn, or visit our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/healthjoinin.

The I Love Poke Festival has announced an impressive lineup of competing chefs who, along with participating restaurants and food vendors, will be present at this large-scale Hawaiian food and culture-fest, taking place May 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Bali Hai Restaurant on Shelter Island.

The event’s main focus will be a competition between fifteen top San Diego chefs to create the best poke dish in San Diego. Competing chefs include Justin Shea, Hapa J’s; Kari Rich, Food Farm Truck; Kurt Metzger, Kitchen 4140; Antonio Friscia, Gaijin; Simon Dolinky, Saltbox; David Bland, Peohe’s; Tommy Fraioli; Syd Marshall, Sushi Foods Catering; Johnny Duran, Top Of The Market; Paul Murphy, Humphrey’s Restaurant and Marc Brislin, Blue Wave Bar and Grill.

With the price of admission, attendees will be able to taste each competing chef’s poke creations in both the “Traditional” category (use of tuna required) and the “Any Kine” category (anything goes). Poke (pronounce “POH-keh”) is a Hawaiian delicacy traditionally made with raw ahi tuna, cut into cubes and lightly seasoned. In addition to the anticipated poke competition, a bevy of San Diego’s best restaurants and food brands will also provide party-goers with complimentary tastes of Hawaiian, Asian and South Pacific Island-inspired cuisine through an assortment of savory and sweet food and drink. Restaurants will be divided into savory and sweet categories, which the festival has aptly named “Food Land” and “Sweet Land.”

Participating restaurants and food vendors of the savory (Food Land) variety include Gabardine, Isabel’s Cantina, Da Kine’s Catering, Bad Ass Coffee Company, Cups Culinary, Quality Time Catering, King’s Hawaiian Bread, Casanova Fish Tacos, Chris Onolicious Grinds, Pop Chips, Honest Tea. These restaurants’ dishes will include Kalua pig and cabbage, musubi, coffee from Kona, brazil bowls with carnitas, fish tacos, chicken wings, macaroni salad and seafood. King’s Hawaiian Bread will also serve hot dogs in the company’s newest item debuting at the I Love Poke Festival: hot dog buns.

Sweet-oriented restaurants and food vendors of the festival’s “Sweet Land” will include Kam Shave Ice, Chuao Chocolate, Specialty Produce, Sweet Layers, Wahine Kai Shave Ice, Ho’onani Cakes, Kona Kakes, CUPS and more. Sweet treats will vary between shave ice, cupcakes, bon bons, li hing mui fresh fruit and an assortment of cakes and other desserts.
Bali Hai Restaurant is located at 2230 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106. Tickets are available at http://ilovemusubi.com. Connect with the I Love Poke Festival at http://www.facebook.com/ilovemusubifb or https://twitter.com/ilovemusubi.

The hot rod and motorcycle-themed silent auction, dinner and dance took place Friday, April 20 at the Liberty Station Conference Center and the proceeds benefit the school’s Friends of Silver Gate Foundation (FSG), a non-profit organization devoted to financially supporting the school’s enrichment programs such as the school’s Eco-lab, classroom assistants, teacher grants, the computer lab and more.

One highlight of the evening included a highly-successful live auction to raise money to bridge the funding gap and help save the school’s seven classroom assistants who will provide extra support to teachers and students next year.

L to R: Silver Gate Silent Auction Committee member Wendy Engel; Sandy McClure, Silver Gate Elementary principal; auction chair Jammie Ritchey; Nathalie Humphry, Friends of Silver Gate president; and Karen Sullivan, Silent Auction Committee member enjoy the fun at Hot Rods and Hogs fundraiser.

“The outpouring of support and commitment from our parents and community was overwhelming,” said Sandy McClure, principal, Silver Gate Elementary. “It was a truly spectacular event. We all had a great time for a great cause and I appreciate all the contributions that help make school great at Silver Gate.”

Sponsors included Rancho Buena Vista Real Estate (Brennand Schoeffel), Catrina Russell, Dukes Construction, Ameriprise Financial, National Residential, Embassy Cleaners, Pacific Western Bank, Reliable Man Movers, Performance Yacht Rigging, Joe & Jennifer Caltabellotta of Re/Max Realty, Rigworks and Point Loma Nazarene University.

Vendors donating products included JLR Events, Melissa Koehler Photography, Studio Enso, Blue Water Ink, Crown Point Catering, Event Technology Services, Michael David Winery, Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn & Suites, Rancho La Puerta, Southwest Airlines, Ballast Point Brewery, Sugar Mama’s, ETS, The Menu, and Allsco.

All proceeds go toward The Friends of Silver Gate Foundation (FSG), a non-profit organization devoted to financially supporting Silver Gate Elementary School’s enrichment programs.

DATE: Saturday, May 19, 2012

TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Point Loma, San Diego

DAY of EVENT: Ticket sales; maps; inquiries – 3595 Talbot Street (near Canon Street) Westminster Presbyterian Church (parking lot)

Before Event: SD Floral Assoc. 619-232-5762  or sdfloral.org (paypal)

COST: $20 / $25 Day of Events ADVANCE On sale from April 1, 2012

On Saturday, May 19, 2012, the San Diego Floral Association again presents its garden tour with a difference. The annual event includes gardens with historic roots: gardens surrounding older homes, gardens of noted San Diegans, gardens of famous designers, and gardens with majestic trees in full maturity. Monies go to ongoing projects and scholarships

This year the Floral Association returns to Point Loma to celebrate the centenary of Rosecroft, with its Italianate mansion designed by noted architect Emmor Brooke Weaver for the Alfred D. Robinson family in 1912. Robinson was a begonia breeder, a founder of the San Diego Floral Association and the long-time editor of its magazine, California Garden. He was a civic activist and the inspiration for the Botanical Building that graces Balboa Park today.

In addition to its gardens, the Rosecroft Estate will open some of its public rooms for viewing on the day of the tour. Five other Point Loma gardens will be on the tour, including exquisite examples of California Japanese-style gardens. Garden shopping tops off the day. Look for creative arts and crafts in the boutique marketplace and find your own garden treasures at a well-stocked plant sale sponsored by the Point Loma Garden Club.
Rosecroft Revisited: Historic Gardens of Point Loma

TICKETS: Purchase at:
Green Gardens Nursery (Pacific Beach)
Kniffing Discount Nurseries (El Cajon)
Mission Hills Nursery (San Diego)
Walter Andersen Nursery (San Diego and Poway)
Weidner’s Gardens (Encinitas)

Art Around Adams 2012 is back with an outrageously fun eclectic mix of performance, music, and art.

Happening Saturday, June 2nd from 2pm-10pm, with extended hours due to popular demand.

This years Art Around Adams will stretch from Oregon St. in Normal Heights to Vista St. in Kensington, we’ve expanded to over 2 miles of art, music, craziness, and fun!

The event will kickoff at 2pm with an introduction from councilmember Todd Gloria followed by a meet & greet. Some of the music acts you’ll see are The Burning of Rome, Wendy Bailey, Ugly Boogie, Colin Clyne and Friends, Neon Cough, Scott Mathiasen & The Shifty Eyed Dogs, amongst many more.

As always our “Comedy Trolley” will be provided to guide you up and down Adams Avenue in a hassle free environment.

Cost: Free
All Ages
Family Friendly

Come one, come all… We’ll see you Saturday, June 2nd at Art Around Adams!

Jen Coburn is the author of four successful “chick lit” novels and a staunch defender of the genre. In spite of its enormous popularity, it’s been under attack, treated as a shameful secret, something to hide behind the current issue of Harper’s or the latest—somehow more acceptable—pulp thriller by James Patterson.

Should we apologize for books written by, for and about women? Why should chick lit—let’s take the quotes off—be regarded any differently from Sue Grafton mysteries, Zane Grey westerns, or books about teenage vampires? Most of us enjoy reading for escape and undemanding entertainment, yet chick lit seems to have been singled out for disparagement as mindless fluff, empty calories.

And anti-feminist. The label itself was an indictment, condescending and dismissive, but while I personally bristle at hearing women called “chicks” or even “girls,” I’m with those who refuse to be contrite about what they read and write, who defend the genre proudly, name and all. Like GoodReads.com, reminding us with its Popular Snooty Woman’s Guide to Chick Lit Books that “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights,” all of Virginia Woolf and Jane Austen, “Little Women” and even “Romeo & Juliet” might fall under the rubric.

“The Chick Lit Challenge,” a 2004 Utne Reader article, asked if trendy novels for young women smother female expression or just put a little fun in feminism. It comes down favoring the latter interpretation as I do. In a nutshell, feminism is about choices. Helen Fielding, the author of “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” said: “If we can’t laugh at ourselves without having a panic attack over what it says about women, we haven’t got very far with our equality.”

The article begins: “If Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway arrived on the literary scene today, she would probably own a cute bag from Prada, a totally to-die-for SoHo loft, and a string-bean cellphone on which she negotiated her topsy-turvy love life.” I’d add my belief that when Virginia Woolf exhorted women in “A Room of One’s Own” to “write all kinds of books, hesitating at no subject however trivial or however vast,” she was anticipating chick lit. She would have applauded and defended it.

Jennifer Coburn’s books, like Woolf’s, have followed the trajectory of women’s lives. “Reinventing Mona” is about a single woman, “Wife of Reilly” a young married. Then she moved on to “Mom lit” with “Tales from the Crib” and “The Queen Gene.” In these last two she created my favorite character, Anjoli, a grandmother whose outrageous antics add spice and spark. I call it “Gram lit.” Now she’s shopping her newest novel, about a boy who wants to be a Girl Scout.

Sales are down, with fewer publishers in the mix, thus the question about the health of the genre. But book sales and publishing in general are in flux, trying to survive, adapt and compete in a changing world. Chick lit may be struggling, but don’t count it out. Check out the “Chick lit is not dead” blog, its premise that “books with high fashion and happy endings never go out of style.” Whether we read paperbacks in pink covers or discreetly download the latest Sophie Kinsella on a Kindle, there will always be a demand and an audience for these frothy frolics. Jen Coburn sums it up well. Chick lit, she says, “may not change your life or give you spiritual enlightenment, but it’s just as important to have a good laugh and be entertained.”

Fridays at the Fleet Film Schedule – IMAX film: 7:00 p.m., Mysteries of Egypt and 8 p.m., Forces of Nature.  For information, visit www.rhfleet.org.

The San Diego Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s “Team In Training” has launched its training season and invites participants of all ages and athletic levels are supported in achieving the ultimate goal of walking or running a marathon or half marathon; swimming, biking and running a triathlon; or cycling a 100-mile century bike ride while raising funds to find cures for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma. For information, call 858-277-1800 or visit www.teamintraining.org/sd

Water Awareness Month in San Diego! – “Tap” into City resources and participate in a series of fun and educational activities.  For a comprehensive listing of events including various story times at local libraries, money-saving resources and more, visit www.wastenowater.org.

Thru May 13

“Black Holes: Space Warps & Time Twists” – Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.  Don’t miss your final chance to be disoriented as the search for evidence of real black holes. For information, visit www.rhfleet.org.

May 1

Whale-watching Cruise at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.  Don’t miss your chance to watch whales migrate past San Diego. Tickets available at the Museum’s Visitor Services Desk or by visiting www.hornblower.com/hce/home/sd.

May 2

Loma Portal Elementary School Kindergarten Tour, 9:30-11 a.m., Loma, 3341 Browning St. (92106). Parents of Pre-K children and new students can bring their child to the “Day as a Dolphin,” a tour featuring student interaction, crafts and stories. Contact: Glenda Gerde at 619-223-1683. Open to the public. Registration required.

Seminar: The Doctor Is in – Get Answers to Women’s Top Health Questions.  Primary care physician, Dr. Lloyd Kuritsky and Nurse Practitioner Amy Chambers offer answers to the top questions about women’s health. 5:30 – 7 p.m., Sharp Grossmont Hospital’s Main Auditorium.  Complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided. Please register at 1-800-827-4277, or visit www.sharp.com/grossmont.

Two FREE Concerts: 12/noon & 7:00 p.m. in Smith Recital Hall on the SDSU Campus.  SDSU School of Music & Dance Presents an “Opera Arias.” The best-loved arias of all time performed by SDSU Opera Theater students and alumni. For  information, visit www.music.sdsu.edu.

May 4

Fiesta de Reyes Presents: A free performance of Joseph Julian Gonzalez’s, Misa Azteca by the Southwestern College Concert Choir in the middle of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.  For  information, visit www.fiestaoldtown.com.

A fun evening of slide guitar, harmonica, & blues with Robin Henkel & Billy Watson – featuring an opening set by steel guitarist Ben Powell.  8PM, The Backroom performance space of 98 Bottles, 2400 Kettner Blvd, Suite #110, San Diego. 21 & up only.  For information, call 619-255-7885.

May 5

San Diego Humane Society and SPCA’s 18th annual “Walk for Animals,” 7 a.m. – 12 p.m., Crown Point Shores, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach.  Join animal lovers and their furry companions for a walk that features a complimentary pancake breakfast, vendor village and plenty of fun activities. For registration and information, visit www.sdhumane.org.

“Dancing through the Ages: Good Mental Health is Ageless.” – Annual Mental Health Celebration, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Embarcadero Marina Park North near Seaport Village. Free and open to the public.  For more information, visit www.mentalhealthmonthsd.org  or call 619-584-5086.

Bliss 101 Boutique presents a Premier Exhibit of Photography from local surf icon, Rob Machado. Machado will be present to mingle with guests to personally autograph t-shirts and prints. The evening will include live music, food, drinks and face painters for kids.  6:00 – 9:00 p.m., 687 S. Coast Highway 101, Suite 151, Encinitas.

The Point Loma Artists present: A Spring Art Happening and Sale at the home of Landscape Photographer Dave Ness, 10 AM to 3 PM, 3993 La Cresta Drive in Ocean Beach.  Come see a wonderful collection of paintings, sculpture, photography, cards and more, created by talented local artists. Visit with the artists and enjoy the refreshments. For more info, visit www.pointlomaartists.com.

San Diego Youth Symphony’s Annual ENCORE! Scholarship Fundraising Celebration – Enjoy exceptional music performed by our top students, dance to our fabulous jazz band, savor fabulous Brazilian barbecue and sit side-by-side with our young performers as they teach you to play the instrument you’ve always wished you’d learned.  5:00 – 9:00 pm, Casa del Prado, Balboa Park.  For more information, visit www.sdsy.org or call 619-233-3232 ext. 160.

The Jewels of San Diego Gala to Benefit the Arc of San Diego – Black Tie Gala Honors Contributions of San Diegans and Benefits People with Disabilities. An evening of fabulous cuisine and culture for a great cause, 6:00 p.m. at The Grand Del Mar.  For information and reservations, call Jennifer at 619-685-1175, ext. 291 or jnavarra@arc-sd.com.

Ascent Real Estate and Al Green Electronics Recycling present: Free E-waste Collection in Mission Hills from  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grant K-8, 1425 Washington Place, San Diego. Acceptable items: computers, monitors, printers, TVs, VCRs, stereos, and other electronic equipment; anything with a plug and circuit board.  For information regarding what to drop off, visit www.allgreenrecycling.com.

The Arc of San Diego’s Annual Gala – The Jewels of San Diego- Moulin Rouge Cabaret Extravaganza.

6 p.m. at San Diego’s Five Star Resort-The Grand Del Mar.  The exceptional evening of dinner and entertainment features a Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show produced by Leonard Simpson and choreographed by celebrity choreographer, Mary Murphy. For information & reservations, contact Jennifer Bates Navarra at 619-685-1175, ext. 291 or jnavarra@arc-sd.com.

The Junior League of San Diego is holding an Island Divine event from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Ellen Browning Scripps Park at the La Jolla Cove. Tickets are $70 to taste scrumptious cuisines and drink exotic cocktails, fine wines and flavorful brews. For information, visit www.islanddivine.com or call (619) 233-5008.

May 5 & 6

Danielle Agami – Gaga Workshop.  One of few dancers authorized to teach Ohad Naharin’s explosive Gaga Technique. This intuitive approach to movement and dance training brims with unexpected, sometimes whimsical, juxtaposition and is appropriate for all dancers regardless of their skill level. To enroll, call 619-225-1803 or visit www.sandiegodancetheater.org/workshops.

California Ballet Presents: “Cinderella” with International award winning dancer, Vadim Solomakha.  San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave, Downtown San Diego.  For tickets and information, call 858-560-6741 or visit www.californiaballet.org.

The San Diego Women’s Chorus Presents:  ”Heart & Harmony” – The first concert of the 25th anniversary season. For information or to purchase tickets, visit www.sdwc.org,  email info@sdwc.org or call 619-291-3366.

May 5, 6 & 7

Preliminary round auditions for the 2012 Globe Honors and The Road to the Jimmy™ Awards, an annual competition recognizing excellence in High School Theater will take place at The Old Globe.  For information, visit www.theoldglobe.org.

May 6

Spring Family Day – Maritime Museum of San Diego.  Kids of all ages get to design and create their own scrimshaw pendants. A Historic Bay Cruise on San Diego Bay aboard the Pilot boat is available for just $3 plus the cost of admission. And best of all-kids 12 and under get in free all day! 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. For information, call 619-234-9153 ext. 101 or visit www.sdmartime.org.

Talmadge Art Show: 10 am – 4 pm, NTC Central Promenade at Liberty Station, Corky McMillin Events Center, 2875 Dewey Road and Truxton Road, San Diego. Find the complete list of artists at www.talmadgeartshow.com.

May 6, 13, 20, & 27

Wacky Science Sundays with Ms. Frizzle™ and The Magic School Bus© Wahoo! Get ready to explore the wild and wacky worlds of mysterious creatures, fascinating habitats, and phenomenal hands-on science.  12:15 & 2:15 p.m., the Nat, 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park.  For more information or to register, visit www.sdnat.org or call 619-255-0210. The theme for May will be Rainforest/Chocolate.

May 7 – Jun 7

19th Annual Lipinsky Family San Diego Jewish Arts Festival.  For more information on the line-up and to purchase tickets, visit www.sdrep.org.

May 8

Art of Élan 5th Anniversary Season Concludes with “Americana.”  Drawing from American folk music to blur the lines between what is classical and what is not. Featuring local San Diego band The Tree Ring.  7 pm, San Diego Museum of Art, Hibben Gallery, Balboa Park.  For information visit: www.artofelan.org, info@artofelan.org or call 619-692-2081.

May 10

HomeAid San Diego Presents: 10th anniversary Tailgate Tribute – Interactive sports games, tailgate food and drink, live music, a photo booth & Cheerleaders from the Chargers and San Diego State. 6 – 10 p.m., Rancho Bernardo Courtyard, 16935 W. Bernardo Drive. For tickets and info, visit www.homeaidsd.org.

Nature and Me Storytime – Calling all budding naturalists!  Come enjoy an imaginative journey into nature through dynamic readings and visits to exhibitions. Open to all ages with a parent (recommended for ages 1–5). 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.sdnat.org or call 619-255-0210.

International Bipolar Foundation presents:  “Bleeding on the Inside,” a lecture by Dr. Suzanne Fiala. She is an award-winning board-certified family physician from Seattle Washington, who suffers from bipolar disorder herself. 5:30 – 7:00 p.m., Sanford Children’s Research Center (Building 12), 10905 Road to the Cure, San Diego. RSVP to areitzin@internationalbipolarfoundation.org. Event and parking are free.

May 11

21st annual Mama’s Day Fundraiser – Guests enjoy music, food and fun as well as bidding on an extensive silent auction, an opportunity drawing for outstanding prizes, Wine Vault and a Super Silent auction, with text bidding, which allows party goers to keep tabs on their bids via their smart phones.  5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency La Jolla.  To purchase tickets, visit www.mamaskitchen.org.

May 11-13

Gator by the Bay – Zydeco Blues and Crawfish Festival.  Live music, Cajun food and family fun at Spanish Landing.  More than 85 Performances on 6 Stages, free dance lessons and 8,000 Pounds of Crawfish straight from Louisiana!  For a complete line-up with bios and schedule, please visit www.gatorbythebay.com.

May 12

Middle School Math Field Day, Grades 6-8, 8 a.m., Francis Parker Middle School, 6501 Linda Vista Road (92111). Students compete in math activities on topics such as pre-algebra, algebra and geometry.

Contact: Christi Cole at 858-569-7900, ext. 4207 or ccole@francispaker.org. Registration required.

Bay Park Elementary PTA Black and White Gala, 6-11 p.m., Hyatt Regency La Jolla, 3777 La Jolla Village Drive (92122). Evening includes music, three food stations, a dessert station, silent auction, class room art and raffle drawings. $40 per person. Contact:  Allison Rogers or Kristen Miller at 619-276-1471. Open to the public.

20th Annual Stamp Out Hunger, Food Drive – The Food Bank is requesting its most-needed food items: canned tuna, canned meats, canned stews, canned fruits and vegetables, canned soups, pasta, rice and cereal.  Leave food near residential mailboxes for letter carriers to collect, or drop off at local Post Offices.  For more information, visit www.sandiegofoodbank.org.

The San Diego Epiphllum Society is holding an early bird sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Casa del Prado Room 101, Balboa Park. Visit www.epiphyllum.com for information.

May 12 & 13

Art Glass Guild Show & Patio Sale – All forms of Art Glass, including blown, fused, torch worked, stained glass, cast, etched, mosaic and more.  10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Spanish Village Art Center, Balboa Park, 1770 Village Place.  For more information, call 619-702-8006 or visit www.artglassguild.com.

May 13

Sketchy Black Dog – 7 performers, a string quartet that swirl & swell around the sounds of a jazz trio led by 2004 Monk Institute Composers Competition winner, pianist Misha Piatigorsky, & creative LA drummer Chris Wabich. It’s jazz like you’ve never heard it before! 7:00 p.m., The Backroom performance space of 98 Bottles, 2400 Kettner Blvd, Suite #110, San Diego. For information, call 619-255-7885.  21 & up only.

The San Diego Epiphllum Society presents Epies on Wheels. The society’s annual Mother’s Day show and sale is from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Casa del Prado Room 101, Balboa Park. The show will include arrangements, educational displays and competition tables. Cuttings and plants will be on sale in the courtyard. Visit www.epiphyllum.com for information.

May 14

Patient Education Program presented by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This special meeting is free to patients, caregivers, family members and healthcare professionals, limited to 100 people, pre-registration is required. Please RSVP with the total number attending. 6:00 – 7:15 p.m., Speaker, Q&A, dinner to follow.  Four Points by Sheraton, 8110 Aero Drive, San Diego.  For Reservations, email Elliot Recht at elliotrecht@san.rr.com or call 858-273-5008.

May 15

National book launch, writers’ workshop, & reception with Steve Berry – Workshop:  9 a.m. – 1 p.m.  Evening reception with hor d’oeuvres and wine begins at 6 p.m., followed by a talk featuring Berry’s well-known wit and historical insight at 7 p.m. Books will be available for signing. A tour of the Marston House Museum is included before the reception. For tickets, visit www.brownpapertickets.com.

May 16

Eat. Drink. Read. – The San Diego Council on Literacy Hosts A Culinary Event for Literacy, 5:30 – 8 p.m. at NTC Promenade McMillan Event Center (Building 177), 2875 Dewey Road, San Diego  Noted chefs from some of San Diego’s most celebrated restaurants are taking inspiration from their favorite books in order to concoct literary-inspired dishes.  Silent Auction from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  Space is limited.  For tickets and information, visit www.eatdrinkread.com.

May 17

Project KEPPT Pet Food Bank – San Diego Humane Society and SPCA, 1-3 p.m. at 5500 Gaines Street, San Diego 92110.  For program qualifications and details, contact ahoang@sdhumane.org, call 619-299-7012 ext 2907 or visit www.sdhumane.org.

Kiwanis Club Foundation of San Diego presents: 5^th Annual Harry D. Frels Golf Tournament & Awards Dinner.  Tee off for the kids!  Golfer check in: 11:30 a.m., Cocktails, Auction & Dinner: 6:00 p.m. Riverwalk Golf Club, 1150 Fashion Valley Rd, San Diego. Contact Monica Ball at 619-708-3512 or Mark McDonald at 619-890-6088.

May 18

Point Loma High School Presents Rhapsody on the Point, 6:30 p.m. Reception & Silent Auction, 7:30 p.m. Humphrey’s Concerts on the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive (92106). The fifth-annual event includes hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. Visit www.sites.google.com/site/rhapsodyonthepoint or

vanguard.parent@gmail.com.  Tickets required.

Amgen Tour of California Stage 6 finish in Big Bear Lake.  For more info, visit www.bigbear.com or call 800-424-4232.

May 18 & 19

“The Door is Open: An Intergenerational Dance Project” – Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater – 2650 Truxtun Road, San Diego.  For more info, call 619-225-1803or visit www.sandiegodancetheater.org.

May 19

Loma Portal Elementary Stages Home & Garden Tour, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Loma Portal Elementary School, 3314 Browning St. (92106). At this fundraising event, participants peek into the homes and gardens of eight or more Loma Portal residences. The event includes a craft fair and raffle. Contact: Glenda Gerde at 619-223-1683. Open to the public.

10th Annual Barona “Battle of the Badges” Charity Boxing Event – Supported by local law enforcement, first responders and uniformed service members who lace up their boxing gloves in order to raise money for the Community Youth Athletic Center dedicated to helping San Diego’s at-risk youth.  4:00 – 8:00 p.m., Barona Convention Center.  For more information, visit www.cyacyouth.org.

May 19 & 20

Pirate Party on the Embarcadero. A two day celebration for kids will include kids costume contests, carnival games, cannon firings, weapon demonstrations, sword fights, and costume parade down the embarcadero, scary stories, appearances by mermaids and scavenger hunt for pirate treasure.  9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For more information, call 619-234-9153 ext. 101 or visit www.sdmartime.org.

May 20

The New Children’s Museum presents: Musical Trash – Birthday Bash featuring Machine Project.  Experience a day of listening, building, and performing with sound projects based on trash and recycling, and work alongside artists, scientists, musicians and engineers to create original musical compositions. For more information, visit www.thinkplaycreate.org.

The Navy’s 26th Bridge Run/Walk – Capped at 10,000 participants with chip timing for all. Each individual official race time begins when you step on the timing mat directly under the RACE START scaffolding. Registration is available at www.mwrtoday.com/bridgerun.

North Park Festival of the Arts will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event is free. There is a fee to sample beers at the Craft Beer Block. For information, visit www.northparkfestivalofarts.com, or call (619) 294-2501.

May 21

Patrick Henry Alumni Golf Tournament and Reunion Barbecue, 11 a.m. Registration, 12:30 p.m. Tournament, 5:30 p.m. Barbecue, Admiral Baker Golf Course & Clubhouse, 2400 Admiral Baker Road No. 3604 (92120). The newly created Patrick Henry High School Alumni Association invites golf

enthusiasts to compete for a chance to win a new car valued at about $30,000. Contact:

http://henry.sandi.net/ alumni/class78/2012_golf_tourney.htm.  Registration required.

Final round auditions for the 2012 Globe Honors and The Road to the Jimmy™ Awards, an annual competition recognizing excellence in High School Theater, will take place on the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage in the Old Globe Theatre, part of the Globe’s Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, and conclude with the announcement of the winners.  8:00 p.m. For eligibility and audition requirements, visit

www.TheOldGlobe.com/GlobeHonors  or email GlobeLearning@TheOldGlobe.org.

May 24

It’s Bob Dylan’s 71st Birthday. Join us for a poetic night of music honoring the man who        has had a profound impact on popular music & American culture – featuring Folding Mr. Lincoln, Steph Johnson, Sven-Erik Seaholm & Brooke MacIntosh, Greg Pluth, & Chuck Perrin with special guest Jamie Shadowlight, violin.  8:00 p.m., McCrea Music Company, 8361 Allison Ave, La Mesa. For more info, call 619-698-7272 or visit www.dizzysjazz.com.

May 25

On the eve of Miles Davis’ birthday – a rare performance by the ESP Quintet  performs at 8 p.m. at McCrea Music Company, 8361 Allison Ave, La Mesa. Since 1992, making music inspired by Miles’ creative, adventurous approach – featuring Mitch Manker trumpet, Bob Campbell saxophone, Lynn Willard keyboards, Dave Curtis bass, & Gary Nieves drums.  For information, call 619-698-7272.  All ages welcome.

May 26

“Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body” – Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.   Explore why your body produces mushy, oozy, crusty, scaly and stinky gunk!  Come on – gross out your friends! For information, visit www.rhfleet.org.

May 27

Robin Henkel Band with Horns: Blues, jazz, funk, slide and steel guitar music at 8 p.m., Lestat’s, 3343 Adams Ave., Normal Heights.  $8, all ages.  For information, call 619-282-0437.

Gilbert Castellanos presents an all star tribute to the San Diego Jazz Legends featuring Daniel Jackson, Marshall Hawkins, Gary LeFebvre,  Mundell Lowe & Carlos Vasquez, with special guest, Graham Dechter guitar, and more special surprise guest at 8 p.m., Tango Del Rey, 3567 Del Rey Street, San Diego.  For information, call 858-581-1114.

May 28

Birds of a Feather Family Day – What flies, lay eggs, sings, hunts for prey, and dates back to the age of dinosaurs? Birds of course. Join us from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. For information, visit www.sdnat.org.

May 29

Future Point Loma High Students Welcomed to “Pointers Got Game,” 5:30-7 p.m., Point Loma High School Main Gym, 2335 Chatsworth Blvd. (92106). Representatives from 50 teams and activity groups will answer questions about tryouts and participation requirements. Contact: Eleanor Snyder, the booster director at boosters@pointerassociation.org. Open to the public.

May 30

An Evening with Gillian Welch – 7:30 p.m., Humpreys Concerts by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. For more information, visit www.gillianwelch.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

May 31

Correia Middle Stages 8th-grade Career Fair, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Correia Middle School, 4302 Valeta St. Parents and community members will deliver short presentations about their careers to eighth-grade students. Contact: Beverly Fitzpatrick at 619-222-0476. Open to the public.

24 Challenge Math Competition, Grades 4-6, Marina Village, 1936 Quivira Way (92109). Students compete using the 24 Challenge Single-Double Digit and Variable cards. Contact: Carole Manderson at 619-444-5573 or cmanders@cox.net.

21st Annual Spinoff: Auction for Life – Benefits Lifesaving Cancer Care at Scripps at 5 p.m., Hyatt Regency La Jolla Aventine.  The theme: “Champagne et Chocolat”, guests can sip champagne and enjoy chocolate, while bidding on luxury items, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and lavish getaways.

For information, visit www.dizzysjazz.com.

5/01, 5/08, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29 (Every Tuesday) 6:30-7:00 p.m.

Children are invited to an evening storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets.

LEGO Playtime

5/02, 5/09, 5/16, 5/23, 5/30 (Every Wednesday) 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Kids can have fun and get creative while building with LEGOs.

Mission Hills Book Group

5/03, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

The Mission Hills Book Group will discuss “Labyrinths” by Jorge Luis Borges. New members are welcome to participate. Please read the book beforehand.

Preschool Storytime

5/04, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 (Every Friday) 10:30 to11:00 a.m.

Children are invited to a fun storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets.

Free Presentation: Reigniting Your Passion, Purpose, and Playfulness after 50

05/05, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Suzan Tusson, CPCC, will present this compelling, interactive experience designed to help you prioritize your life, get into action, and enjoy life more.

Free Presentation: Is It ADHD or Just Inattention?

05/10, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Psychiatrist R. Larry Schmitt, MD, will provide background information about ADD/ADHD.

Free Concert: Chamber Music from the San Diego Symphony

05/12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Three Symphony members (Mei-ching Huang, Chi-Yuan Chen, and Jeremy Kurtz-Harris) will perform chamber music.

Book Sale

05/19, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Friends of the Mission Hills Branch Library will hold a book sale.

Children’s Craft Time

05/19, 10:00 a.m. to noon

Kids can enjoy a fun craft time.

Mission Hills Mystery Book Group

05/23, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

The Mission Hills Mystery Book Group will discuss a mystery novel. New members are welcome to participate. Please read the book beforehand.

Free Presentation: Long-Term Care: What Does the Future Hold for You?

05/30, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

You’ll learn about ways to manage the increasing costs of long-term care, while protecting your assets at the same time.

 Mission Hills Branch Library

925 West Washington Street

San Diego, CA 92103

(619) 692-4910

www.tinyurl.com/missionhillslibrary

A very beautiful transsexual, Jenna Talackova, has been in the news lately. She was dropped from appearing in the Miss Universe contest in Canada and the United States.

Gloria Allred was the lawyer Jenna chose to represent her.  Donald Trump owns most of the franchises. Well, Gloria won her case, although some transsexuals are not yet allowed in all the international contests.

I had a case I wanted Allred to handle. I had a matchmaking business then and a prominent national magazine refused by classified ad. Allred said I didn’t have a good enough case. She didn’t charge me for the interview. This was about 20 years ago when she had a beautiful office on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Restaurant Chat

Some good restaurants I’ve recently tried are East Buffet at 8995 Miramar Road in San Diego; The Beach Grass American Eatery in Poway, at 12845 Poway Road; The Omelet Factory at 5270 Baltimore Drive in La Mesa;  Mimi’s Café (best onion soup in town), 5180 Mission Center Road in San Diego; and King’s Fish House at 825 Camino De La Reina in San Diego. They serve a delicious version of one of my favorite salads, shrimp Louie.

Mother’s Day Chat

I miss my parents all the time. Yet, at my age, they’d have to be way over 100, which is not possible. Thinking of parents, here are some wise sayings pertaining to Mother’s Day.

“If you’ve never been hated by your child, you have never been a parent,” stated Bette Davis.

“Neurotics build castles in the air. Psychotics live in them. My mother cleans them,” offered Rita Rudner.

“If you bungle raising your children, I don’t think whatever else you do matters much,” offered Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

“No matter how old a mother is, she watches her middle-aged children for signs of improvement,” stated Florida Scott Camwell.

And now, however you plan to honor your mother, go on out and hold someone’s hand!

(C. David Kulman can be reached at Presidio Sentinel, 325 W. Washington Street, Suite 2-181, San Diego, CA 92103.)

Nine students from throughout the area are in the cast of the pilot stage production of “Disney’s Peter Pan Jr.,” presented by San Diego Junior Theatre: Camille Fundingsland, Gabriela Villafranca and Eliana Villafranca of Middletown; Xochitl McCarthy and Benjamin Shaffer of Mission Valley; Sabrina Brooks and Elizabeth Morse of Bay Park; and Sara Eckmann and Samantha Wang of University City. The celebrated tale of a boy who never grows up and whisks friends away on an unforgettable adventure runs through May 13 at Balboa Park’s Casa del Prado Theatre on Fridays at 7 p.m. and weekends at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online at juniortheatre.com or by calling (619) 239-8355.

“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Disney on this presentation,” says San Diego Junior Theatre artistic director Desha Crownover. Based on Disney’s 1953 animated feature film version of Sir James Matthew Barrie’s original play, the musical includes “The Second Star to the Right,” “You Can Fly!,” “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)” “Never Smile at a Crocodile” and other songs from the movie.

InnerMission Productions

InnerMission Productions, in collaboration with the Mesa College Drama Department, is proud to present the San Diego Premiere of “No Child…” by Nilaja Sun. The play runs May 12-20 at the Apolliad Theater at San Diego Mesa College, 7250 Mesa College Drive.

Tickets to “No Child may be purchased online at www.innermissionproductions.org, or at the box office an hour before curtain. Call 619-324-8970 for details and information on group discounts.

Lyceum Theatre

Local talent lead the cast for the San Diego production of “Respect: A Musical Journey of Women,” which runs through June 24 at the Lyceum Theatre in downtown San Diego.

Taking the lead role of the narrator is well-known San Diego musical theatre artist Leigh

Scarritt, a veteran of theatre both as a performer and director.

Performing the other three roles are Nancy Snow Carr, Lisa H. Payton, and Kelsey

Venter. Carr got her start on the national tours of “Phantom of the Opera”

and “The Buddy Holly Story.” Lisa H. Payton is a native of San Diego and a graduate of the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. Kelsey Venter was last seen in “Guys and Dolls” (Sarah Brown) at Lamb’s Players Theatre.

The show will play at the Lyceum Theater, 79 Horton Plaza in downtown San Diego. For information, call 619-544-1000 or visit www.lyceumevents.org. 

Old Globe Theatre

Conrad Prebys Theatre Center

“The Scottsboro Boys,” with music and lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, is based on a book by David Thompson. Directed and choreograped by Susan Stroman, five-time Tony Award winner. “The Scottsboro Boys” explores a pivotal moment in American history with arresting originality, innovative staging and a breathtaking score. Based on the notorious “Scottsboro” case of the 1930s, this inspiring and shocking story tells of the nine unjustly accused African American young men whose lives would eventually spark the Civil Rights Movement. Possibly the most important musical Broadway has seen in recent memory.

“The Scottsboro Boys” opens May 5, closes June 10.  The Old Globe is located in San Diego’s Balboa Park at 1363 Old Globe Way.  For information, call (619) 23-GLOBE [234-5623].

PHOTOS:  Digital images of The Old Globe productions are available at www.TheOldGlobe.org/pressroom.