This presentation , based on her experience of living with her family in several different countries and cities, will give Jana McBirney-Lin's point of view regarding the cultural differences between Americans and people of the countries in the "Far East".  http://rouxcarmel.com/home

In case you haven't had enough of the TV show, here is an opportunity to show off the arcane knowledge you have stashed away in those nooks and crannies of your memory. If you win you'll have something to show for all those hours spent watching the adventures of the characters. Good Luckhttp://sovinowinebar.com

IN order to support their efforts at helping struggling people whose pets require expensive care the people at Max's Helping Paws hold a fundraiser or two. This is their premier event. http://maxshelpingpaws.org

This is one of the best ways to see the the Aquarium. While enjoying wonderful music you can stroll about, finding food at nearly every corner, and participating in auctions, live and silent. At the same time you are supporting one of the area's premier music organizations and their outreach program which brings musical experiences […]

The first Saturday of each summer month the Salinas Library is sponsoring a walk through the downtown area designed to expose the public to the history and different parts of the legacy of Salinas. Wear comfy shoes, bring a curious mind also.  http://salinaspubliclibrary.org

Yes, it's that day. This celebration, unlike many will be family friendly, involving costumes, face-painting, and other family oriented activities. Which is not to say that it won't be fun. Contests, trivia etc. will be there to challenge your inner Jedi or Sith, you decide. All the proceeds go to support Soquel preschool programs. soquelpensevents@gmail.com

Join with historians and descendants of the Chinese settlers of the Monterey area in a walk and talk about the history of the Chinese in the area. Beginning at the Pacific Grove Natural History Museum and continuing along the Recreational Trail the walk (featuring local Lion Dancers)will include sites important to this historical legacy.

After touring for 25 years Mr. Halford and the band have some serious chops. Not only that but they are recognized by many nationally recognized musicians and bands, as a result they have played with lots of well-known names. Here they are in the lovely setting of the Crossroads at the best possible price. Come […]

The title may be confusing. Several artists,using only acrylic paints and some non-mechanical implements, paint for twenty minutes and then the audience votes on the best creation. After that the audience bids in a silent auction for the recently created (dry?) pieces of art. Sounds very interesting.  http://daliexpo.com

This informative walk through one of the local wetlands will give you insight into the local flora and fauna, both as it reflects on that lagoon as well as the greater area. Birds, mammals, and reptiles all fill their niches throughout the area. Walk through this wonderful reserve and take away a greater appreciation of […]

Every Sunday from one until three the Seymour Center offers family fun. Lots of crafts and other fun stuff to engage the participants in the importance of our oceans and the variety of life in them. Looking for something to do with everyone in the family? http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/

This is the big day for the Tor House folks. Not only is it the only day when one can take photos indoors but you will hear poetry read, see painters painting, and enjoy refreshments. One can climb the tower handbuilt by the poet himself and look out at the view of Point Lobos that […]

Hailed as one of the leading virtuosi of the instrument, Mr Barrueco is coming to the Sunset Center to give us the pleasure of his music and its history. http://sunsetcenter.org

This focuses on elderberries but is so much more. Baskets created by the Ohlone, the original residents of the area, and tours of the first store in Monterey are included. info@historicgardenleague.org

St. Dunstan's, with their fabulous organ is again sponsoring a concert of Organ music. John Ourensma will be performing the music and there will be a reception before the performance which will allow you a chance to talk to the organist. http://stdcv.org

Every second Tuesday Peter B's Pub and restaurant treats it customers to a tour of the works that make their wonderful elixirs. Come by and see how it's done. http://portolahotel.com

Presented by Viras Pandya, a PhD candidate at UCSC, this program will give the layperson some insight into the working of our universe and the marvels that occupy the sky we take for granted. Come and have your mind expanded in the best possible way. pro@santacruzpl.org

The well-known writer and economist will come to town and tell us why, in spite of recent developments, he is still an optimist. This is sure to be an enlightening evening and will serve as beacon to positivity. http://sunsetcenter.org

Once a month, when the weather is suitable, the track at Weather Tech Laguna Seca opens for bicyclists to enjoy. What's not to enjoy? The Corkscrew, the steep declines, the corresponding inclines, and eleven curves all present unique challenges and fun.  Helmets required, lights recommended, and fun is mandatory. The evenings are often hosted by […]

Movies for, by, and about women will be presented for this one day film fest. Obviously,  some of them are rather short but all of them have something to say or inform us about the situations women find themselves in.  Come for an insightful evening There are so many things to learn about the role […]

Called the best lyricist in the US, Mark has embarked on a "living room" tour of the country.  In this area he is playing in a living room in the Santa Cruz area. The location will be given when you by your tickets. Quite interesting, No? http://undertowshows.com/collections

This is one of the premier language training facilities in the world. Every year they gather the staff and students to present some aspect of their native country's traditions. Food, dance, stories, songs, and martial arts are a few of the categories available to the public. Great fun and just about as multi-cultural as you […]

Come down to the mall and have the artists from Hijos del Sol pain that lovely belly of yours. When the baby does arrive you can show off the pictures of how you decorated the baby growing quarters. Or not. There will be refreshments available and it's free.  mmartinez@starwoodretail.com

Youth Music of Monterey County is presenting a concert by their talented youth musicians. You don't even have to travel too far. http://youthmusicmonterey.org

Join in meaningful service projects at Pinnacles NP to help conserve the natural and cultural resources of the park. Contact them at the website for details. pinn_volunteer@nps.gov   or call 831-389-4486 x243

You can participate n the Birthday celebrations at Dali Expo for free!  Come by the museum today and enter for free. What a great way to celebrate an artist of worldwide fame. http://daliexpo.com

Investigate the history of Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf and its immediate area. With historian Tim Thomas, you will learn the highs and lows of local history. Come by for a big bite of local lore. Participants must be 10 years of age or older.  timsardine@yahoo.com

This area is part of a major flight path for migratory birds as well as home for many other migrators. Join the naturalists at the park along with many other dedicated knowledgeable people willing to share their knowledge with you and have some fun while learning. http://parks.ca.gov.

No not a maze-like confusing walk. It's a contemplative and thoughtful meditation done while walking a designated path. Many people find it calming and centering. Others find it a quiet, simple walk. Either way it can be a good thing. Come and give it a try, it might be nice. http://montereybaymeditation.com

A fundraiser for the worthy notion that horses have a role to play in the emotional development of many children who are afflicted with various emotional and cognitive difficulties. The folks sponsoring this event are committed to helping kids with serious issues develop the means to better communicate with the rest of us through identifying […]

Since 1984 this group from UCSC has been presenting shortened versions of the BArd's plays. This year The Tempest gets their treatment. In fifty minutes they will present the play and after that there will be a question/answer opportunity with the cast and director. http://santacruzpl.org

This local community chorus is presenting lots of songs with travel and places as their theme. Many of these songs are already known to you and the chorus invites you to sing along with them. Sounds like a good time for all. http://mpvoices.org

We all know this is generally very good advice. The Ladies from Center Stage Theater are giving their insights and thoughts on this topic. Some will be funny, others poignant and touching. All of them will give you a good reason to call mom and wish her a great day. Or take her along after […]

Since its early days Carmel has fostered a Bohemian attitude and a flourishing art culture. Here it is for you to wander around and enjoy. Visit the artists in their studios and get close to their artistic visions. Look for the blue balloons indicating participants. Maps available at each site.  Every second Saturday. http://CarmelArtWalk.com

Yes, it's the birthday of the famous Spanish surrealist. Come and celebrate that with lots of other fans of his art. There will be a painting created by an artist painting in Dali's fashion. Come, have an artistic evening for a good cause. http://daliexpo.com

One of the more prolific songwriters on the scene right now, Keb' Mo' is also outstanding as a singer and musician. Not only that but he is known to nerds as one of the stars of "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy". The man's talent is unlimited!http://goldenstatetheatre.com

Every Sunday from one until three the Seymour Center offers family fun. Lots of crafts and other fun stuff to engage the participants in the importance of our oceans and the variety of life in them. Looking for something to do with everyone in the family? http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/

Three musicians, Guitar, mandolin, and violin play  music from a variety of genres from Celtic to Bach to Bluegrass. In the friendly, comfy Folktale Winery you will have a great time eating and drinking and listening while enjoying that great Carmel Valley weather. The show starts at 6:30 and there is a reception at 5:00. […]

You might not think that there is a brewery in downtown Monterey, let alone that you might tour it. But, there is one, Peter B's. Every second Tuesday until December of this year. Check their website for details and any changes. http://portolahotel.com

One of the more difficult and technical bike races in the world runs right through Monterey County. This year their only stop here is at WeatherTech Laguna Seca Raceway. For one night the racers will be staying there. If you are so inclined you might come out and take a look at the huge undertaking […]

This time they are benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Come over and enjoy one of the three specialty cocktails they will concoct for you. Or if you are driving they have delightful non-alcoholic drinks as well.  In addition, there will be games, auctions, raffles, and of course. food. http://splashthat.com

The Weathertech Laguna Seca track is 2.5 miles long, filled with curves and interesting challenges for auto racers. It's also a challenge for bicyclists. Just imagine riding your bike through the legendary Corkscrew. In the evening as it gets a little cooler and the light becomes more interesting, what an experience. Once a month on […]

If you are good at trivia and you would like to find a bigger purpose to put your skill to, here is your chance. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society will benefit from this fund raiser. Lots of prizes, good wine to drink, and a good cause. How can you beat that? http://sovinowinemerchant.com

He doesn't need much intro here. You have probably heard of or seen Mr. Anderson n his standup routines (he is mentioned as one of the top 100)or in his TV appearances as wildly different characters. Now he's here and ready to entertain. http://sunsetcenter.org

A celebration of the women who have made a difference in Santa Cruz and the Central Coast. Music by Ace of Cups a legendary SF band, and presentations by writers and provocateurs from the area.   This will be an enlightening evening not only from a local point of view but plenty to say about changes […]

Over thirty different vendors are among many reasons to visit the Monterey Buddhist Temple for their boutique sale. Many Asian art items will be available for sale. To say nothing of the delicious food and other cultural activities that will delight you. http://montereybt.org

The folks at ALBA, a training center for farmers, is holding an open house to let the rest of the world know what it is that they do. If you are interested in the processes involved in organic farming, here's your chance to ask a lot of questions. Kid's activities, pick your own fruit and […]

A celebration of the wines of the Santa Lucia Highlands. A dozen of the wineries in the area will be presenting their best creations for your enjoyment and purchase.  In addition, the gala will be happening at the unique location , the Mer Soleil Winery. So this is a special evening in more than one […]

If you need more info about beekeeping, or if you want to see how it's done, or just something fun to do with the kids, here it is. EarthBound Farms has over 35,000 bees in their hives. There are two tours an 11:00 tour aimed at adults and a second at 1:30 for kids. (I […]

Bring your old photos, memories, stories and share your family's story. The Capitola History Museum is interested in collecting lots of information about the area. There will be kid's activities, and lots to learn about the area. http://capitolamuseum.org

Don't let the triple X fool you it's a legit Bike ride through the fields of the Watsonville area. Not surprisingly they are growing strawberries. With rides of varying lengths 30, 65, and 100 miles it is for more serious cyclists. Don't let this scare you off. There are still other fun things to do […]

All those autos from your youth and before will be on display in their polished and restored glory. The weather in San Juan Bautista is always wonderful this time of year so be ready for a lot of sun and shiny cars. Sunblock and shades are definitely called for. http://goldcoastrods.com

From the indigenous women working in the area to the female archaeologists working in the modern era, there have been many of them. Here we have a presentation encompassing their lives and work.

Every Sunday from one until three the Seymour Center offers family fun. Lots of crafts and other fun stuff to engage the participants in the importance of our oceans and the variety of life in them. Looking for something to do with everyone in the family? http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/

Join Douglas Steakley, intrepid explorer,  and the Asian Art Society will present his reflections on the interesting and historic country of Mongolia. http://aasmb.com

Wednesdays at the Palomar Ballroom you can trip the light fantastic in the East Coast Swing style. Lessons for beginning and intermediate dancers are available and then it is dancing for everyone. There are two fees for participation, one for dancing and party and the other for just dancing. Check the website for details. http://palomarballroom.com  For […]

The innovative people at the Dali Expo have a new method to aid you get in touch with your inner artist. This time they are giving us a chance to make prints. They supply the materials and an all-day pass to the museum, you bring an open mind and your creativity.  Begins April 27 and […]

Fridays at the Palomar Ballroom you can trip the light fantastic in the Salsa style. Lessons for beginning and intermediate dancers are available and then it is dancing for everyone. There are two fees for participation, one for dancing and party and the other for just dancing. Check the website for details. http://palomarballroom.com  For you […]

Looking for some local merchants and interesting, unique items? Here's your place. The folks at The Lab are gathering lots of interesting and talented vendors to their venue and inviting you to come and take a look around, buy something and have a good time doing it. info@thelabarts.com

If you need more info about beekeeping, or if you want to see how it's done, or just something fun to do with the kids, here it is. EarthBound Farms has over 35,000 bees in their hives. There are two tours an 11:00 tour aimed at adults and a second at 1:30 for kids. (I […]

No, this is not an event featuring Ice Cube movies. Rather it is a celebration of the music style. Lots of harmony and interesting arrangements of songs from our modern era. A wonderful setting and good acoustics will make this a wonderful experience. http://uucmp.org

Joining up with the students from the print classes at Monterey Peninsula College, the folks at the Dali are giving you the chance to create your very own art print. We'll call it art in spite of what the snobs in the art world might say. The last Saturday of each month through the end […]

Embassy Suites hosts local jazz musicians and they in turn host a rotating list of other musicians. The upshot for you is that you get to hear good music played well at the best possible cost. Sundays from 1 to 4 through the end of the year.

Every Sunday from one until three the Seymour Center offers family fun. Lots of crafts and other fun stuff to engage the participants in the importance of our oceans and the variety of life in them. Looking for something to do with everyone in the family? http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/

Although we know Mr. Steinbeck primarily for his work as a novelist he also spent time on battlefields with the soldiers fighting in different theaters of war. Dr. David Wrobel, a historian of note, will present his work on this interesting area of Steinbeck's life. http://steinbeck.org

While it isn't May 4th, there really isn't a wrong time to celebrate all things Star Wars. Come down armed with all those bits of insignificant knowledge about Luke, Darth and Obi-Wan. What is Luke's uncle's name anyway? Sovino Wine Bar is hosting  so you know there will be good wine to help lubricate those […]

Wednesdays at the Palomar Ballroom you can trip the light fantastic in the East Coast Swing style. Lessons for beginning and intermediate dancers are available and then it is dancing for everyone. There are two fees for participation, one for dancing and party and the other for just dancing. Check the website for details. http://palomarballroom.com  For […]

If you have ever wondered, How many bands would it take to reproduce the music of The Band? Here's your answer, two. Dust Bowl Revival and Hot Club of Cowtown both work together and separately to create the wonderful, unique sound of the iconic group. If you haven't had the pleasure of hearing anything by […]

Fridays at the Palomar Ballroom you can trip the light fantastic in the Salsa style. Lessons for beginning and intermediate dancers are available and then it is dancing for everyone. There are two fees for participation, one for dancing and party and the other for just dancing. Check the website for details. http://palomarballroom.com  For you […]

Join in meaningful service projects at Pinnacles NP to help conserve the natural and cultural resources of the park. Contact them at the website for details. pinn_volunteer@nps.gov   or call 831-389-4486 x243

The first Saturday of each summer month the Salinas Library is sponsoring a walk through the downtown area designed to expose the public to the history and different parts of the legacy of Salinas. Wear comfy shoes, bring a curious mind also.  http://salinaspubliclibrary.org

What is this? It is the celebration of 249 years of Monterey's history. A sort of birthday party for the town, it includes mariachis, dancing, food, and costumes of the founding era. It is a colorful and interesting event, unique in its flavor and history. It all happens in the Memory Garden, a special part […]

They call it "the best party in the Santa Cruz Mountains". Why don't you come out and see if that is the case? It is in a beautiful setting and the fun will benefit their local school. Probably the name says it all, but there will be activities, games and fun for the family. http://bonnydoonartandwinefestival.com

A bold step for a Salinas restaurant, Chef Arranda is creating a special menu and apired its elements wiht wines from respected winery, Morgan Vineyards. Check out the menu at their website, it looks delectable. http://pastamiasalinas.com

Embassy Suites hosts local jazz musicians and they in turn host a rotating list of other musicians. The upshot for you is that you get to hear good music played well at the best possible cost. Sundays from 1 to 4 through the end of the year.

Looking for a fun, educational way to spend some time in a beautiful setting? Here's your answer. Walk around Asilomar with a naturalist and learn about the efforts to restore the plant life around the beach and through the park. See the greenhouse, meet the people making Asilomar the gem that it is. Register for […]

An inspiring program of religious and secular music presented by the magical voices of the Community Chorus. Taking place in the Church of the Wayfarer, well known to have wonderful acoustics, this will be an enjoyable way to take in some fine music in Carmel. http://churchofthewayfarer.com

This is billed as American Folk with Swedish roots. Ms. Talvik is described as having a voice reminiscent of the Laurel Canyon sound of Joni Mitchell and other singers of that era. She has opened for many well-known acts and is touring in support of her eighth recording. Why not come out and see for […]

Comedian Joe Raiola presents his acclaimed work, The Joy of Censorship. It follows the efforts of the government to censor the work of Mad Magazine and William Gaines, its publisher. Sure to be an interesting evening especially for the magazine's fans. http://henrymiller.org