Palo Alto Weekly Entertainment Listings

The best of what's happening on the Midpeninsula

Live Music

Rock/pop/folk

Borders Books, Music, Cafe, 456 University Ave., Palo Alto. Call 326-3670.

British Bankers Club, 1090 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Live music Friday and Saturday. There is a cover charge. Most shows begin at 9:30 p.m. Call 327-8769.

The Edge, 260 California Ave., Palo Alto. DJ music and dancing or live band starts at 9 p.m., weekend nights until 3 a.m. Insane Clown Posse, Twiztid Oct. 3. Warrant, American Heartbreak, The Stumps Oct. 20. ABC Oct. 21. Call 324-EDGE.

Elbe Restaurant, 117 University Ave., Palo Alto. Csardas Gypsy Ensemble the second and fourth Sunday of every month, 6:30-10 p.m. Call 321-3319.

The House The Palo Alto Teen Center features high school bands from 8 p.m.-midnight every Saturday. Free. 425 Bryant St. Bands interested in playing should call 321-1095.

Hugo's Cafe and Sports Lounge, Hyatt Rickeys, 4219 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Entertainment every Wed. 5-8 p.m. No cover. Call 843-2521.

Jose's Caribbean Night Club, 2275 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. DJ music and dancing or live band Friday's and Saturday's beginning at 9:30 p.m. There is a cover charge. Call 326-6522.

Kirk's Steakburgers, 361 California Ave., Palo Alto. World renowned guitarist Hugo Wainzinger plays his traditional and South American jazz in the garden Sundays at 5:30 p.m. Call 326-6159.

Los Altos Bar & Grill Music is from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Call 941-3418.

Palo Alto Cafe, 2675 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Geri McGilvray and Mike Bechler perform traditional folk songs and originals from the heart the second Friday night of every month, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. No cover charge. Call 322-8644.

Q Cafe, 529 Alma St., Palo Alto. Live music every Thursday and Saturday; DJ dancing every Friday. Call 322-3311.

Jazz and blues

Cafe Fino, 544 Emerson St., Palo Alto. Nancy Gilliland, piano and vocals, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, accompanied by bass on Friday and Saturday nights. Call 326-6082.

Chantilly II Restaurant, 530 Ramona St., Palo Alto. Live music Fri. and Sat. starting at 7 p.m. Call 321-4080.

Late for the Train 150 Middlefield Ave. (at Willow Road), Menlo Park. Call 321-6124.

Nouveau Trattoria, 541 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Solo piano Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Jazz trio Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. All shows 7-11 p.m. Call 327-0132.

Mac's American Grill, 325 Main St., Los Altos. Jazz with the Cole Hamlin Trio, Thursdays. Call 941-0234.

Classical

MacArthur Park, 27 University Ave., Palo Alto. Live music Mondays-Saturdays, 6-10:30 p.m. Sundays 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-10 p.m. Call 321-9990.

Concerts

Classical

Of Myth & Masks & Dreams The music of Daniel Gautier Sept. 18, 8 p.m. at Zohar School of Dance, Cubberley Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $10. Call 852-9690.

The Whole Noyse Musick for Elizabeth I and Beyond Sept. 24, 8 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 600 Homer St., Palo Alto. $22/$19. Call (510) 528-1725.

Rock/pop/folk

The Bridge School Benefit concert featuring Neil Young, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Pearl Jam, Billy Corgan & James Iha, Sheryl Crow, Green Day, Lucinda Williams, Brian Wilson, The Who, and Tom Waits Oct. 30, 5 p.m. and Oct. 31, 2 p.m. at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View. $45 reserved seating, $35 general. Tom Waits will be performing at the Oct. 30 performance only. Call 478-BASS.

Etc.

An Attic Full of Songs A musical concert with songs from Broadway Sept. 25 and 26, 7:30 p.m. in the Ballroom of Stent Family Hall on the Menlo School campus, 50 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton. $10 donation requested. Call Steve or Nancy Gill at 948-4648 or 330-2001 ext. 2256.

On Stage

Fortinbras Presented by Menlo Players Guild Sept. 24 through Oct. 16 at Burgess Theatre in Menlo Park. Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 8 p.m. Sunday matinees Oct. 3 and Oct. 10 at 2:30 p.m. Call 322-3261.

Forever Plaid Presented by Palo Alto Players Sept. 18-Oct. 3 at Lucie Stern Theater, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Preview performance Sept. 17. Tickets are $16 for preview, $20-$22 for regular performances, $24 for opening night gala. Call 329-0891.

Pride's Crossing Presented by TheatreWorks through Sept. 19 at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $20-$37. Call 903-6000.

As Bees in Honey Drown Presented by TheatreWorks Through Oct. 3 at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, Second Stage Theatre. Tickets $20-$37. Call 903-6000.

Peninsula Dinner Theatre "Prince of Phantoms" mystery dinner theatre every Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. in Los Altos. $49 per person includes show, dinner, tax and tip. Reservations required. Call 941-0234.

Auditions

Stanford Savoyards Auditions for Gilbert & Sullivan's "Pirates of Penzance." Auditions for Stanford students only Sept. 22, 7-9:30 p.m. Open auditions Sept. 23, 7-9:30 p.m. and Sept. 25, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Braun Rehearsal Hall, Braun Music Center, Stanford University. Callbacks Sept. 26, 1-4 p.m. Call Kris Jennings at 566-9150.

The Foothill College Repertory Dance Company Open dance auditions for 15th season of productions directed by Bubba Gong. All levels and types of dancers wanted for Winter Concert. Men needed for partnering. Sept. 24, 6 p.m. in G-4 Dance Studio. A brief combination will be taught. Call 949-7354.

Modern a Capella Group Tenors needed with group singing experience and good solo skills. Vocal percussion skills a plus. Rehearse weekly, perform approximately monthly. Modern rock/pop repertoire with a lot of variety. Call 965-4832.

Dance

Classes and parties

Vintage Dance with Paul Price's Society Orchestra Sept. 24, 8-10 p.m. behind Saint Mark's Church, 600 Colorado Ave., Palo Alto. $10 single, $18 couple. Call 855-1858.

Argentine Tango Learn the basics of "a secret danced by two." Fridays, 9-10 p.m. at the Menlo Park Masonic Hall. $60 for six weeks or $12 drop-in. No partner necessary. Call 340-9739 to register.

Art for Peace International Dance and Music Group Free world dance classes from different cultures. Emphasis on tango, milonga, Celtic (like Riverdance), neareastern, African. Monday evenings, 7:30 p.m. at Stanford University Bechtel Center, Mayfield and Lomita streets. Call 497-7161 or 853-1864.

Basic dance for teens with special needs Features ballet, jazz, and tap with focus on building self-esteem, promoting positive self-image, importance of physical activity. Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 and older. Call Constance Wise at (408) 730-1516 for location and information.

Beginning Folk Dance with Marcel Vinokur at the Menlo Park Recreation Center, Tuesdays at 7 p.m. No partner necessary. Intermediate class at 8 p.m. Call 327-0759.

Belly Dance, Mystic Sun Studio of Mid-Eastern Dance Learn the ancient rejuvenating art of belly dance. Classes are ongoing and held at Lucie Stern Community Center and Cubberley Community Center in Palo Alto. Beginning through advanced. Call 361-0688 for schedule.

Brazilian Dance class Learn both the traditional and popular dances of Brazil, including samba, samba-reggae, afoxe, frevo, and others. All levels welcome. Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. at Mid-Peninsula YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 494-0972.

Beginning Ballet for Adults Learn the basics of ballet in a fun and uplifting environment. Palo Alto location. Taught by Constance Wise. Call (408) 730-1516.

Big Band Swing Every Friday night, 7-8 p.m. at the Menlo Park Masonic Hall. No partner necessary. $60 for six weeks or $12 drop-in. Call 340-9739.

Beaudoin's School of Dance Beginning classes for preschool through high school students in ballet, tap, jazz. Ballroom classes for junior high and high school. Adult beginning tap and ballet classes Thursday evenings. Beginning adult ballroom Tuesday evenings, intermediate on Wednesday evenings. Advance registration required. Call 326-2184.

Contact Improv workshop with Tony Kramer All levels welcome. Three Sundays, 7:15-9 p.m., Sept. 19, 26 and Oct. 3 at DanceVisions, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. $30 series, $12 drop-in. Call Pierre at 325-1246.

Congolese African Dance class with Regine B. Ndounda, drumming by Massengo Constant and others. Ongoing Sundays, 3:30-5 p.m. at Parish Hall, All Saints Episcopal Church, Hamilton at Waverley, Palo Alto. $10 drop in. Call 325-1566 or (510) 441-9389.

Dancing From the Inside Out An improvisational dance class with no steps to learn and no dance experience necessary. Each dancer is encouraged to allow the movements to emerge, not to impose an idea of what the movement should be. Try one class free. Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. at Peninsula School, Peninsula Way, Menlo Park. Call Fran Bell at 327-0457.

English Country Dances Drop in on the first, third and fifth Fridays, 8 p.m., at the Palo Alto Masonic Temple, 461 Florence Ave. (near University), Palo Alto. Beginners welcome. Call 858-0843 or 327-0269.

International Folk Dancing Emphasis will be on Israeli and Balkan dances. Rollnick Auditorium, Albert L. Schultz Jewish Community Center, 655 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. Beginners, 7:30-8 p.m., intermediate, 8-9 p.m. and request dances, 9-10:30 p.m. Drop-in fee $5 per evening. Call 493-9400 to register.

Irish Dancing The McGrath School of Irish Dance holds a Ceili (an Irish barn dance) on the third Saturday of every month at the YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Beginner lessons are 8-9 p.m. with open dancing and live music from 9 p.m. All welcome. No partner required. $8 adults, free for children under 12. Call 494-0972.

Jazz Dance Technique A class for adults and teens. Drop-ins encouraged. Dance Visions, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L-3, Palo Alto. Classes are every Tuesday morning from 9-10:15 a.m. Call 299-1919.

Jazz Dance with Gino Torrey Dance for everyone. Newcomers encouraged. Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. and Sundays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Dance Visions, Cubberley Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L-3, Palo Alto. $10 drop-in. Call 692-3300, ext. 30.

Jazz Stretch/Dance with Annie Zane A rigorous workout for anyone. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8:15 a.m. for intermediate/advanced, 9:30 a.m. for open class. Monday at 7 p.m. is open class. Wednesday at 4 p.m. is open class. DanceVisions, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L3, Palo Alto. $10 drop-in. Call 858-2005.

Modern Dance Beginning level classes for adults and teens. Learn the basics of modern dance in a creative, fun and encouraging atmosphere. Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m. at DanceVisions, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L-3, Palo Alto. Call 858-2005 or 856-3054.

Modern Dance Intermediate level classes for adults Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Slow intermediate level classes Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. at DanceVisions, Room L3, Cubberley Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 858-2005.

Mostly Balkan Folkdancers The group meets Thursdays. Lessons, 7:45-8:45 p.m.; request dancing, 8:45-10:15 p.m. at Menlo Park Recreation Center. $5. Call Derek or Mary at 851-8498 or Sue at (408) 247-2420.

Raices de Mexico dance classes Learn Mexican regional dance for children, teens and adults (beginner and intermediate) on Mondays and Fridays, and on Saturdays at Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. There is a registration fee and monthly tuition. There is no age limit or previous dance experience required. Call 322-1501 for class times.

Salsa/Mambo club style Latin dance classes Saturdays ongoing, 9 p.m. at Jose's Caribbean Restaurant, 2275 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Beginning and intermediate levels. Solo and partner dancing. $5 drop in fee. Call Rachel at 233-8824.

Scottish Country Dancing Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. at the JLS Middle School gym, East Meadow Drive and Waverley, Palo Alto. For beginner and intermediate levels. New beginners welcome all year. No partner required, singles welcome. $5 per night. Call 493-5974.

Seniors and others dance group meets Fridays, 7:30 p.m. at Mitchell Park Community Center, 3800 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Live music from "Bigger Than Life," music from the '30s, '40s and '50s. Dancing on a hardwood floor. $4 includes refreshments. Call 326-1483.

Kids

Events

Afterschool Special: S-S-S-Snakes! Snake stories along with a visit from some live snakes from the Junior Museum Sept. 22, 3:30 p.m. at Children's Library, 1276 Harriet St., Palo Alto. For grades 1-6. Call 329-2134.

Daffy Dave at Taxi's Restaurant Free balloon animals, prizes, and magic performance the first Wednesday of every month, 6-8 p.m., at Taxi's Restaurant, University Ave. at Waverly, Palo Alto. Call 322-TAXI.

Hidden Villa The farm is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to dusk. The public is invited to participate in special activities and guided farm tours, or to hike the wilderness trails. Activities scheduled include A Puppet Show with the Johnson Brothers on Sept. 26; Halloween Haunts on Oct. 29 and 30; and Campfire Stories with Ane Rovetta on Nov. 12. Guided visits with the farm animals are offered on Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. For information, fees and reservations, call 949-8653.

Guitar Classes For kids and teens ages 5-16 begin week of Sept. 20. Divided by age and skill level. Held at Gryphon Stringed Instruments in Palo Alto. Call 306-0332.

Preschool Storytime Palo Alto City Library offers two preschool storytimes a week for children ages 3-5. Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. at Children's Library, 1276 Harriet St., or Wednesdays at 11 a.m. at College Terrace Library, 2300 Wellesley. Call 329-2134.

Modern Dance beginner's class Teaches the basics of Modern Dance to adults and teens. Dance Visions, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Rd., Room L-3. Meets Thursdays 10:30 a.m. to noon. Call 858-2005.

Learnarium programs Internet/computer/academic courses plus personalized individual learning programs where children can learn to create their own web pages and post them on the Internet, besides improving their academic skills in computer literacy. Two-way transportation provided. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays. $5-$12 per hour. Learnarium, 4600 El Camino Real, Los Altos. Call 948-7888.

Clay Classes Clay for pre-schoolers and parent meets Wednesdays, 3-3:45 p.m. for 2 1/2 to 5 year olds. Playing with Clay meets 4-5 p.m. for 6-11 year olds. Eight week session begins Sept. 29-Nov. 17 at Menlo Recreation Department, 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park. Call 858-3470.

Clay Parties A fun and tactile experience for birthdays and other occasions by Rona Foster. Call Dawning Day Ceramics at 424-9329.

Auditions

Trinity Palo Alto Choir School Children's choir class has openings for children grades 1-8 who love to sing. Class/rehearsals on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1295 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. There is a tuition fee. Call Laura Barton at 965-0139.

Clubs

Peninsula Gem & Geology Society Annual show Sept. 25, 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m. at the Rancho Shopping Center, corner of Foothill Expressway and Magdalena Road, Los Altos. Call 965-9427 or 493-9301.

Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America (SPEBSQSA) The Peninsulaires, men's a capella harmony singing, has weekly meetings that include vocal production training, chorus and quartet singing, and performance rehearsals, Scheduled activities include theatre and cabaret performances, plus numerous informal performances at community socials, art fairs, etc. Guests are welcome to be considered for membership or to just enjoy and evening of listening. Meetings are every Tuesday, 7:30-10:30 p.m. at Cubberley Community Center, Room M-2, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call Al Ward at 969-1882.

Business Networking International (BNI) The Silicon Valley Chapter meets every Tuesday, 7-8:30 a.m. at Il Fornaio, 520 Cowper St., Palo Alto. Guests welcome. Call 364-5576.

Creative Enrichment Alliance New membership organization offering interactive, ongoing, goal, processing, discussion and activity groups for fun, creativity, personal growth and development, service, and to foster development of community into the 21st century. Quarterly Shine-Your-Light party/open house. Mountain View and other locations. Call Laura Worth, MSW at 949-4230.

Newcomers Club in Atherton, Menlo Park, Portola Valley and Woodside, open to residents new within the last five years. Variety of activities include: bridge, book discussion, lunches, tennis, wine tasting, walking, moms & tots, dinners, gardening. Call 365-4242.

Peninsula Coin Club Meets the second Monday of each month at 7:45 p.m. at the Palo Alto Elks, Board Meeting Room, 4249 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. If the door is locked when you arrive, please knock. Meetings feature auctions, raffle, "free" exhibit and door prizes, special events and occasional guest speakers. Call 326-6212.

Professional Women's Fellowship Breakfast Meets the first Friday of every month, 7:30 a.m. at Stanford Park Hotel in Menlo Park. Call 323-8686 for reservations.

Mothers' Club of Palo Alto/Menlo Park A group for moms and dads offering a monthly newsletter, weekly playgroups, monthly meetings, guest speakers, a babysitting co-op, family activities and more. The group meets every second Tuesday at 7 p.m. for socializing and 7:30 p.m. for a program at the Lucie Stern Community Center, Community Room, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. The first meeting is free; membership is $36 per year. Call 306-8182.

East Palo Alto Women's Walking Club Monthly orientations offer important tips for walking safety and maximizing benefits and are held the third Wednesday of every month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at The Hagar Women's Center. The sessions provide a support group and ongoing discussion for beginning and advanced walkers. The center is located at 1836A Bay Road, East Palo Alto. Call 473-6915.

Palo Alto Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m. in the first, second, and fourth Tuesdays of the month at the Palo Alto Community Center, Embarcadero and Newell, Palo Alto. Visitors welcome. Call 321-4288.

Daughters of the American Revolution Do you have an ancestor who helped in the American Revolution? The chapter holds a genealogical workshop on the first Wednesday of each month. Call Patricia Stebbins at 324-2826.

Sons in Retirement (SIRS) Branch 5 meets for lunch at the Palo Alto Elks Lodge on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Each luncheon includes a speaker on a subject of interest to members. All retired men are welcome to attend and join. There are no initiation fees or monthly dues. Monthly activities include bridge, computers, dominoes, fishing, golf, indoor and outdoor bowling, tennis and travel. Call Bob at 368-8449.

Sons in Retirement (SIRS) Branch 35 meets every third Wednesday at the Palo Alto Elks Club. The meeting includes lunch, a guest speaker and entertainment. Many activities including golf, bowling, travel, bridge, fishing, etc. All retired men are invited to join and attend. Call 493-8401.

Palo Alto Chapter of the American Business Women's Association meets the fourth Wednesday of every month (except for the third Wednesday of November and December) at Mac's American Grill, 325 Main St., Los Altos. Social/networking at 5:45 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:45 p.m. with a guest speaker. The group is dedicated to the professional, business and personal development of women and welcomes newcomers. Call Vicky at (408) 973-1203..

American Legion Post 52 meets every Friday morning at the Palo Alto Elks Club. The meeting at 11:30 a.m. is followed by lunch. All veterans are invited to attend. Call 856-1616 or 328-2656.

Menlo Park Library Mystery Readers Join fellow mystery readers the third Wednesday of each month at 7:15 p.m. at Menlo Park Library meeting room, 800 Alma St., Menlo Park. Call Jackie Drew at 325-4048.

Mid-Peninsula Network Breakfast for Women meets Thursdays, 7:15-8:30 a.m. at The Cookbook Restaurant, Town & Country Center, Palo Alto. Newcomers welcome. Call Dina at 855-1809.

Great Books Group meets second Wednesday of every month, 8-10 p.m. at Oak Creek Clubhouse, 1610 Oak Creek Drive, Palo Alto. Call 321-9920.

Speech Improvement and Leadership Skills Training ITC Club is a self-help group for learning speaking and leadership skills that meets every first and third Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at Denny's. Call 948-0276.

Stanford Newton User Group meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at Printers Inc. Bookstore Cafe, 310 California Ave., Palo Alto.

Stanford/Palo Alto PC User Group meets the last Wednesday of every month, 7:30 p.m. at Palo Alto Elks Club, 4249 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Call Jim Dinkey at 493-9307.

Delta Zeta Alumni of the San Francisco Peninsula meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. in homes around the Peninsula. The club is open to all alumni of Delta Zeta Sorority. Call Kelly Rubingh at 327-7141.

Quotables Toastmasters Club meets every Wednesday 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at lobby conference room Building A, 1801 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto. Call Karen at 424-3209 or Cliff at 424-3139.

Early Risers Toastmasters Club meets Tuesdays 6:30-8 a.m. at Unity Church, 3391 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Guests and drop-ins are welcome. The club will celebrate its 40th anniversary Sept. 29. Call Bob at 948-5615.

Sunset Toastmasters Meets the first and third Thursdays of every month from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Allstate Insurance, 321 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park. Call 833-6241.

Telstar Pacesetters Toastmasters meets the second and fourth Tuesday at OICW, 1200 O'Brien, Menlo Park, from 6:30-8 p.m. Beginners are welcome. Call David Dailey at 854-0476.

Menlo Presbyterian Toastmasters meets on Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. at 950 Santa Cruz Ave. Room A-21, Menlo Park. Beginners are welcome. Call David at 854-0476 or Pat at 323-2121.

Varian Toastmasters Meets each week to practice public speaking. The club meets at Varian Associates in Palo Alto, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Call Greg Kalkanis at (408) 253-6187 evenings, or 424-5105 during the day.

Lee Emerson Bassett Toastmasters Meets every Wednesday at 7:15 p.m. at Stanford Graduate School of Business, Room 72. Open to all. Call (415) 861-2444.

Electric Toasters Toastmasters Club meets every Wednesday, 12-1 p.m. at EPRI, 3412 Hillview Ave., Palo Alto. All are welcome. Call 855-2733.

Lectures/Workshops

Feng Shui workshop Uncover your "lightness of being" at this hands-on workshop Sept. 18, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call Andrea Lenox at 857-0919 for location and registration.

How to Simplify Your Life A day-long retreat Sept. 18, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Ananda, 2171 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. $40. Call 323-3363.

If Your Can't Change Human Nature, Why Not Change Human Behavior A talk by Bill Jacobsen at the Humanist Sunday Forum Sept. 19, 10 a.m. at Palo Alto Senior Center. Call 424-8626.

What's Making News in Medicine? A Look at Recent Events Dr. Harold Itskovitz and Dr. Fred Behling Sept. 21, 10:30 a.m. at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St.,Palo Alto. Free. Call 327-2811, ext. 22.

socially Responsible Investing Progressive Portfolios that Pay! Sept. 21, 7-9 p.m. at Peninsula Conservation Center, 3921 East Bayshore Ave., Palo Alto. Call 962-9876.

Women and Children: Community Challenge Luncheon and panel discussion celebrates 60th anniversary of League of Women Voters of Palo Alto. Sept. 21 at Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel, 629 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Reservations required. $30. Call 327-9148.

Scholar and author Lauren Arnold will reveal details of little known missionary monks who shuttled lavish gifts and diplomacy between Chinese Imperial Court and the Vatican for nearly 100 years in the 14th century before fear of the dread Black Death slammed the door shut on East-West communications. Two Wednesday evenings Sept. 22 and 29, 7:30 p.m. at Los Altos Christ Church, 1040 Border Road, Los Altos. Call 948-2151.

Reflections Within The Womb of God A weekend silent retreat for women Sept. 24-26 at Vallombrosa Center, 250 Oak Grove Ave., Menlo Park. The weekend will be devoted to exciting ways to read the Scriptures. $130 for single occupancy room, $120 for shared (includes room and meals). Call 325-5614.

How well is the Metropolitan Transportation Commissions addressing our regional transportation planning needs? Sue Lempert, newly appointed to represent the cities in San Mateo County on MTC, will speak on this issue Sept. 24, 10 a.m. at the Menlo Park Library downstairs meeting room, 800 Alma St., Menlo Park. Call 325-5780.

Blossom Birth Services offers classes in childbirth preparation, baby care, surviving the first six weeks, breast feeding basics, infant massage and yoga. Classes are taught in small groups in warm, supportive setting. Private classes also available. Call 856-2140 or visit the website at www.blossombirth.com

Master Your Money workshop A great way to learn more about money. Every Thursday, 7-9 p.m. during the month of September at YWCA of the Mid-Peninsula, 4161 Alma St. Palo Alto. The classes are free. Call 494-0972.

Shyness Drop-in Clinic An opportunity to learn more about shyness and how to deal with it. Sponsored by The Shyness Institute and held the first and third Friday of each month, 6-7:30 p.m. at 407 Burgess Drive, Menlo Park. No fee. Call 493-6398.

Freethought Book Reviews and Discussions Each Wednesday, 7:30 p.m., at Humanist Center, Stanford Villa Professional Building, 3525 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 424-8626.

Life is a Journey. Are You Lost? Confused? Overwhelmed? This Saturday workshop will give you a map to help you make sense of what's happening in your life and to discover options you can't see right now. Led by Carol L. McClelland, Ph.D. Call 322-8661 or check website at www.seasonsofchange.com

Couples in Business Together A full day workshop led by Laura Worth and Robert Bornn who have been in business together for 18 years. This workshop addresses topics with a focus on couples engaged in entrepreneurial business ventures together. Monthly workshops offered. $165. Call 368-1946 or 949-4230 for dates and locations.

Inner Child Workshop For adults who want to develop true self-esteem and a recognition of their own personal value. Wednesday evenings at Center for New Beginnings. Call Pat Look at 856-4088, ext. 11.

Personal Vision: Finding Joy and Purpose Interactive workshop offering practical exercises and techniques to cheer you on or get you started. Stimulate your creative imagination, strengthen your social and emotional connections, feed your soul in a restful setting. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday workshop. For date and location, call Laura Worth at 949-4230.

Freedom From Stress Free introductory lecture on transcendental meditation technique at Maharishi Vedic School every Wednesday at 8 p.m., 1101 Embarcadero Road (at St. Francis), Palo Alto. Call 424-8800.

Coping with the Blues A seven-week course about dealing with depression and mood swings in our lives and relationships. Topics include understanding causes and results, healing, grief, self-esteem, relationships and shyness. Held at Menlo Park Presbyterian Church. For dates and times, call Joanna Watson at 343-1540.

Slide Shows & Talks at Phileas Fogg's Call for complete schedule of events. Admission to slide shows and talks is $2, good toward any purchase of $10 or more at any time. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Phileas Fogg's is located at No. 87 in the Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto. Call 327-1754.

Exhibits

Opening

A Feast for the Eyes Oils, acrylics and mixed media by Audrey Guerin and porcelain stoneware by Barbara Brown. Sept. 21-Oct. 16 at Gallery House, 538 Ramona St., Palo Alto. A reception will be held Sept. 24, 6-8 p.m. Call 326-1668.

Continuing

Secret Places Recent oil paintings by John Mancini through Oct. 14 at Gallery Europa, 611 Emerson St., Palo Alto. Call 473-6522.

Imaginings Watercolors by Jena Warren through Sept. 30 at Viewpoints Gallery, 315 State St., Los Altos. Call 941-5789.

Salon d'Automne 1999 Original art from Argentina, Switzerland, Hungary and France, combined with works by local artists. Through Oct. 8 at La Galerie Internationale, 370 California Ave., Palo Alto. Call 322-2700.

Tercera Gallery New paintings and monotypes by artist Jamie Chase through September at Tercera Gallery, 534 Ramona St., Palo Alto. Call 322-5324.

Portola Valley Art Gallery Featured works by painter Stuart Givot and pottery by Jan Simpson through Sept. 19 at the gallery, 765 Portola Road, Portola Valley. Call 854-2799.

Marvelous Musical Machines View some of the first machines that made music through Sept. 19 at the Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer St., Palo Alto. Hours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free. Call 321-1004.

Dolly Cahill Johnson and Brandon Lidgard will be displaying paintings at the Palo Alto Mission of the Church of Scientology through Sept. 30. This exhibit coincides with the Mission's grand opening of expanded facilities at 3505 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Call 424-1990.

Sharon Park Gallery New painting by James Leonard through Sept. 30 at the gallery, 325 Sharon Park Drive, Menlo Park. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Call 854-6878.

Healing Visions: Animal Spirit Paintings with Gemstones Works by San Rafael artist Laura Almada running through Oct. 31 at Nature Gallery, 87 Town & Country Village, Palo Alto. Call 327-8700.

Messages An interactive exhibition and program series exploring aspects of human, electronic and animal communication through Feb. 27, 2000. Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo. Call 329-2111.

History Corner Featuring historic photographs of Palo Alto from the collection of the Palo Alto Historical Association and the grand safe from the first bank of Palo Alto (1892). Ongoing display is at Cal Fed Bank, 525 University Ave., Palo Alto. Call 323-9290.

Classes

Life Stories This class will teach students easy, enjoyable and creative ways to write about the events of their lives. Section 1 is held Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m., Sept. 21-Dec. 7; Section 2 is held Thursdays, 1-3 p.m., Sept. 23-Dec. 9. Classes are held at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Advance registration required. Call instructor Sheila Dunec at 324-9937.

Staging Your Home For Sale: How to Maximize Your Profits Sept. 22, 7-9 p.m. at Palo Alto Adult School, 50 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto. $20. Call the Adult School at 329-3752 or course instructor Kit Davey at 367-7370.

Palo Alto Kundalini Yoga & Meditation Circle Learn practices to strengthen the body, balance the emotions, activate your creative potential, and experience your own highest consciousness. Ongoing classes on Tuesday evenings at the Willow Room, Oak Creek Apartments, 1824 Sand Hill Road, Palo Alto. Call Linda at 969-9101.

Painting classes Private and semi-private classes in a studio or Plein Air style. Call Cindy at 314-0164.

Ceramic Lessons Explore the medium of clay with an experienced ceramic artist in her studio in Palo Alto. Small classes. Private and semi-private lessons available in handbuilding and glazing. Call Dawning Day Ceramics at 424-9329.

House Call Yoga with Kim Hatha (Iyengar style) yoga. Increase flexibility, tone your body, calm your mind. Individual and group classes at home or work. Open ongoing classes in studio. Call Kim at 326-5988.

Private Lamaze Childbirth classes Is your busy schedule preventing your from participating in a birth class with your labor coach? Are you unable to attend for medical reasons? Private class in your home taught by nationally certified Lamaze instructor, 15 years experience teaching classes at Stanford and El Camino Hospitals. Call Amy Roberts at 813-1317.

Classes at Common Ground Classes at Common Ground, 2225 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Better Plant Health and Food with Compost Crops Sept. 18, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $10. Double-Digging Sept. 25, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $10. Call 328-6752 to register.

Reiki I and II classes Reiki works on all levels to alleviate stress, promote relaxation and healing. Learn how to give treatments to self and others. Join small classes or arrange your Reiki initiation at your convenience. Call Carloyn Franklin, Reiki Master, at 856-6448.

Raising Children in Interfaith, Intercultural, and Interracial Marriages This three-session class will explore the challenges of raising children of intercultural marriages and discuss topics related to beliefs and values, family identity, and cultural expectations and clashes. Presented by the Children's Health Council Parent Education Program. Call 688-3608 for information and dates.

Language Studies Institute of Palo Alto offers all levels of instruction for Italian, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Russian. Group instruction and private classes taught by qualified native teachers. 456 California Ave., Palo Alto. Call 321-1867.

LanguageArts Ongoing classes in German, Italian, Portuguese, and French in a personalized, professional and enjoyable manner. Located in downtown Palo Alto. Call 329-1731.

Mime classes Taught by Stella Filler. Classical mime, street mime, mime for profit, mime for fun. Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. at Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. at Western Ballet Studio. Call 424-1713.

Feldenkrais Method--Awareness Through Movement Reconnect with your natural ability to move. Verbally directed, gentle movements for overuse injuries and underused bodies. Mon. at 6:30 p.m. and Fri. at 10 a.m. Series or drop in fee of $10. First Congregational Church, Embarcadero and Louis. Call Elizabeth Robinson at 321-0921.

Public Speaking Made Painless Find your voice and develop your personal power for confident and effective presence. Monday evenings, 6:15-7:15 p.m. in Palo Alto. $120 for six-week session. Taught by Constance Wise. Call (408) 730-1516.

Weekly Improvisation Group Will meet 6-7:30 p.m. weekly in Palo Alto. For beginner or intermediate. Call 326-1241.

Water Aerobics for Women No swim skills are required. Open to all ages, abilities, sizes and shapes. Classes held Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday evenings at C.A.R. Center in Palo Alto. Call 325-7664.

Opening the Breath, Cooling the Mind This meditation and breathing class is an introduction to stress reduction, improving concentration, promoting better breathing habits and providing overall wellness and peace of mind. This class will use creative visualization, breathing, sound and other techniques that will introduce the beginner to the many benefits of meditation and breathing techniques. Class held Tuesdays 7:30-8:30 p.m. or Thursdays 7:30-8:30 p.m. $55 for a four-week session or $15 per class. Call 323-9698 to register.

Yoga with Exercise By Design Class held every Wednesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Ladera Oaks, 3249 Alpine Road, Portola Valley. $12 drop-in, $10 monthly. Call 854-3089.

Body & Sole--relaxation for recovery Appropriate for persons who desire a more natural and spiritual life, who are short of time, crave intimacy, suffer from pain/addiction, wish to cut down on medications, have difficulty in sleeping or who just enjoy taking off their shoes. Ongoing Wednesdays. Call 969-3932 to register.

Meditative Yoga taught by Andrea Lenox. We explore inner and outer realms based on the philosophical and meditative aspects of Hatha Yoga and Tantra. Prana (vital force) and the evolutionary ascendance of energy within (Kundalini) will be specifically addressed. Call 857-0919.

Early Morning Dance Exercise An alternate or a complement to an aerobics program. Modern dance movements, lots of stretching and toning exercises, a little ballet and jazz. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 6:30-7:30 a.m. at DanceVisions Studio, Cubberley Community Center, L-3, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call Laura Zweig at 324-8751.

Evening exercise at the YWCA of the Mid-Peninsula Hi-Low Strength and Power, Mondays and Wednesdays 6-7 p.m.; Low Impact Aerobics, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-7 p.m.; and Beginning/Intermediate Yoga, Mondays 5:30-6:30 p.m. or Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Classes have started, drop in for $5. Mid-Peninsula YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 494-0972.

Daytime fitness at the YWCA of the Mid-Peninsula Stretch, Tone & Trim, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30-9:30 a.m.; New Wave Workout, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:45-9:55 a.m.; Easy Exercise, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m.; Beginning/Intermediate Yoga, Mondays, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Classes have started, drop in for $5. Call 494-0972.

Mother/Baby Workout Fridays, 12-12:45 p.m. Get back in shape and bring the baby. DanceVisions, 4000 Middlefield Road, L-3, Palo Alto. Babies must be six weeks to eight months only. Call 968-5959.

Exercise Galore! Stretch, energize, trim down, Tuesdays and Fridays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at St. Andrew's Methodist Church, 4111 Alma St., Palo Alto. Instructor: Alicia J. Loffler. Call 856-3054.

Flexing the "Wish Muscle" Honor your "life intentions" with practical techniques and practice hope with confidence. Six-week class based on Barbara Sher's book, "Wishcraft" and others begins each month in Palo Alto. $120. Private 1:1 personal life coaching also available. Advance registration recommended. Call Laura Worth, MSW, at 949-4230.

Hot Metal Printing The Museum of American Heritage is offering classes in letter press printing. Each student will learn a little of the history of printing and then do some hot metal typesetting using the museum's linotype typesetting machine. Call John Grant for class times at 494-0433.

TV Production Orientation A free one-hour orientation and tour at Mid-Peninsula Access Corporation, 3200 Park Blvd., Palo Alto, for those interested in public access cable TV Channel 6, learning to produce TV programs with video field production equipment or in the TV studio. Orientation available most Monday evenings, 7-8 p.m. Call Annie at 494-8686.

Build Personal Power with Kundalini Yoga Many benefits including improved concentration, creativity and increased physical energy. Classes held 9:30 a.m. Sundays at the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, 744 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto. $50 per month for non-students; $30 per month for students (sliding scale also available). Call Michael Cougar at 368-1281.

Book Proposal Writing: Taking the First Step to Becoming a Bestselling Nonfiction Author If you are an expert in health, business, personal growth or spirituality, literary agent Carol Susan Roth can teach you their success secrets. One on One coaching. Call 323-3795.

Jazz Stretch with Annie Zane For both beginning and experienced. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:15 a.m. for intermediate/advanced, 9:30 a.m. for all levels. Mondays at 7 p.m. for all levels. Wednesday at 4 p.m. for all levels. DanceVisions, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L3, Palo Alto. $10 per class. Call 858-2005.

Congolese African Drumming Ongoing class with Ma Boukaka meets Tuesdays. All levels welcome. 7:45-10 p.m. at Peninsula School in Menlo Park. Drop-in $10. Call 325-1566.

Zorina's Beginning African Drum Class Thursdays, 7 p.m. African and Caribbean polyrhythms, songs and chants. Drums are available. Call 493-8046.

Chinese Calligraphy for Beginners Lessons in Chinese calligraphy will be offered every Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. The class is free and taught by Marie Hu. Register at Hua Kuang Chinese Reading Room H4 (Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.) or by calling 856-3733.

Stroke Survivors The Foothill College REACH Program for adults offers mobility and gait training; speech, language and communication and daily living skills. Continuous enrollment. Reach program is at Foothill College Middlefield Campus, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 354-8380.

Seniors

Week of Caring A community Open Hous at Avenidas Senior Day Health celebrates Adult Day Services Week. Sept. 20-24, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at 701 East Meadow Drive, Palo Alto. Call 494-8018.

Alternatives to Moving A panel discussion of services available to older adults who wish to remain living in their homes. Sept. 22, 7-9 p.m. at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St., Palo Alto. $5 fee includes "Making It Work for Your" resource packet. For reservations, call 327-2811, ext. 51.

Life Stories This class will teach students easy, enjoyable and creative ways to write about the events of their lives. Section 1 is held Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m., Sept. 21-Dec. 7; Section 2 is held Thursdays, 1-3 p.m., Sept. 23-Dec. 9. Classes are held at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Advance registration required. Call instructor Sheila Dunec at 324-9937.

Seniors Bike Ride Every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. This casual road ride is for seniors of all ages at all riding levels and with all types of bikes. Non-seniors are also welcome. There are three loops to choose from through the hills of Los Altos Hills depending on the "elevation challenge" each rider wants. Meet behind The Bicycle Outfitter at Loyola Corners in Los Altos. Helmets mandatory. Rain cancels. Call 948-8092 for more information.

Free Chiropractic Consultations at Little House Free consultations with Lewis E. Connor, D.D. on the third Tuesday of each month. The consultations will be 20 minutes in length and available between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. by appointment. Seniors may bring their physical problems for discussion and treatment suggestions. Call 326-2025.

Better Movement with Feldenkrais Reduce neck and back pain, improve flexibility and balance, reverse age-related limitations by learning simple and gentle movements. Class meets Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. at Stevenson House, 455 East Charleston, Palo Alto. $24 for four weekly classes. Call Aviva at 941-1379.

Mitchell Park Senior Dancers meets Fridays 7:30-10:15 p.m at 3800 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Enjoy ballroom dancing on hardwood floor to a live band. Music from the '30s, '40s and '50s. $4. Call 326-1483.

Senior Friendship Days The Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, hosts Senior Friendship Day every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Events include exercise and craft classes, dancing classes and more. Call Betsy Dickie at 856-7750.

La Comida Have lunch with friends and make new friends at La Comida at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St. Lunch served Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. No reservations necessary.

Caring for an Older Spouse An ongoing group that meets twice a month on Tuesdays, 10-11:30 a.m., at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Newcomers are welcome to share in mutual support and practical advice. Call Mimi Goodrich at 327-2811 for dates and more information.

Thursday Senior Programs presented at the Albert L. Schultz Jewish Community Center All programs at 12:30 p.m. in the Senior Community Room at the JCC, 655 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. All programs are free. Call 493-9400.

Sunday Programs at Little House All programs begin at 1:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Little House, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Call 326-2025.

Movies at Little House Members and friends of Little House are welcome to attend the movies on Mondays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. in the auditorium at 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Admission is 50 cents. Call 326-2025.

Senior Home Repair Low-cost electrical, plumbing, painting, furnace and handyman repairs for all Palo Alto/Stanford homeowners 55 and older. Subsidies for low-income seniors. A service of Avenidas. Call 326-5362, ext. 26.

Adventure walks, runs, bike rides and swims sponsored by the Fifty-Plus Fitness Association. Local outings in Palo Alto, Portola Valley and Stanford. Rain or shine, includes all holidays except Christmas. Call 323-6160 for more information.

Sports

Over The Hill Gang Ski trips and hikes for those over 50. Call Henry at 322-3760.

Peninsula Sports Club Promotes healthy lifestyles and physical fitness through co-ed recreational sports programs including Ultimate Frisbee, Extreme Golf, SCUBA Certification, Fencing, In-line Skating, Running clinics, Rock Climbing, Tennis and more. Call 329-0340.

Los Altos Masters swim Workouts and lap swimming for adults 19 and older three times daily Monday through Friday. Twice daily on Saturday and Sunday. All levels welcome. Call 941-2406.

Palo Alto Lightning Track Club practices weekly in Palo Alto and includes runners of all ages. For membership information, call 323-7632.

Tennis at Ladera Oaks Experienced USPTA pros make tennis fun to play and easy to learn, and can help any level of player progress. Daytime and evening schedule. Also inquire about the free "Play Tennis America" program for beginner and infrequent (or rusty) players. Call 854-6661.

Fifty-Plus Fitness Association Weekly Walk Held every Tuesday beginning at 4 p.m. (leaves 4:15 p.m.) from Nordstrom's parking lot (Sand Hill entrance) at Stanford Shopping Center. Distance will be as far as you can go in one hour. There is no charge and you do not have to be a member. Call Elena Kubby at 234-9533 or Mildred King at 328-7225.

Stanford campus walk and run Sponsored by the Fifty-Plus Fitness Association. Meets the fourth Saturday of the month at the Track House, Angell Field just west of Stanford Stadium on Galvez Street at 8:45 a.m., leave at 9 a.m. There is an easy walk option. Call Milton Borgens at 364-2747 or Joel Waldman at 327-4259.

Palo Alto Soccer Club For information about the soccer club, call 361-0561.

Singles

Sierra Singles A group of environmentally conscious single adults ranging in age from 20's to 40's. Join a variety of activities including hiking,biking, volleyball, backpack and camping trips, game nights, dancing, dinners and other social events. See website at www.lomaprieta.sierraclub.org/lpss or call (408) 795-3237.

Miscellaneous

Music and Memories Held the third Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at Los Altos History House Museum, 51 S. San Antonio Road (behind the library), Civic Center complex, Los Altos. Featuring children's games of the 1930's, an ice cream social, face-painting, music and more. All ages are welcome. Call 941-0950.

Gamble Garden Center Hotline For answers to your gardening questions, call the Master Gardener Hotline at 329-1356 Fridays from 1-4 p.m. or bring your ailing plants to the Plant Clinic held the second Saturday of every month from 9-11 a.m. at the Gamble Garden Center, 1431 Waverley St., Palo Alto.

Tours of Stanford University Hospital Tours available for staff and general public at 10 a.m. Thursdays. Tours will begin to the left of the Information Desk near the front entrance. Docent-led tours are approximately 1 1/2 hours. Group tours may be arranged. Call 723-7167.

Cohousing is a new style of housing development that fosters close-knit communities by sharing some facilities, meals and other activities for all ages. Planning meetings for a peninsula cohousing project are held Sundays, 3-6 p.m. Call 852-0315.

Working Writers sought for ongoing critique group. Wednesday afternoons in Palo Alto. Call Antoinette May at 322-9334.

Gourmet Vegetarian Dinners Every Monday, 6:30 p.m. Sit down or takeout $11. A suggested donation of $5 for lectures that follow the dinners at First Baptist Church, 305 N. California Ave. at Bryant Street, Palo Alto. Sponsored by the Peninsula Macrobiotic Community. Call 599-3320.

Launch Your Invention or Business Now A mentoring service for the struggling inventor/entrepreneur. Promote your ideas or inventions, demystify inventing, assemble your resources, strategize commercialization. Whether your goal is to license to a Fortune 500 company or build your own enterprise, three decades of inventing, patenting and business experience will help you with a mentor-for-hire. Call Robert Bornn at 368-1946.

Vegetarian Friends The group holds its monthly potluck dinner in Palo Alto on the third Saturday of every month. Both vegetarian and vegan food is served, and you need not be a vegetarian to attend. A guest speaker typically addresses the diners after the meal. Call (408) 929-1143 for location and other information.

Spiritual

Spiritual Mentoring An opportunity to reflect on your life, including your spiritual life and your relationship with the divine. Call 960-3566. Sliding fee.

New Bridges to Jewish Community A new venture dedicated to creating and fostering meaningful connections for Peninsula Jews seeking sense of belonging and involvement in Jewish community in traditional and non-traditional ways. Call 857-1800 for more information.

Noontime Break The sanctuary is open for prayer and quiet meditation on weekdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. All are welcome. First Baptist Church, 305 North California Ave., Palo Alto. Call 327-0561.

Centering Prayer Group Meets every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Church sanctuary, 745 Waverley St., Palo Alto. A half-hour study video is followed by two prayer periods of silent meditation. Call 326-5256.

Christian Meditation A contemplative discipline based upon the New Testament parables and sayings of Jesus. We are using the mystical interpretations and techniques discussed in "The Mystic Way of Radiant Love" by John Francis. The methods practiced include breath awareness and silent prayer repetition. Beginners to advanced meditators are welcome. Every Sunday, 8-9 a.m. Call 941-9904.

Unafilliated Jews Are you interested in starting a group of people who could get together periodically for discussion and possibly but not necessarily for worship as Jews or even non-Jews who feel a lack of something in their lives. If you are interested, call Bert at 493-3752.

Meditation and Self-Development Group Every Thursday, 6:30-7 p.m. for beginning meditation; 7-8 p.m. for meditation and self-development, at Pathways to Self-Healing, 4157 El Camino Way, Suite C, Palo Alto. Free. Call Paul Sibcy at 424-1118.

Sunday Mornings for Spiritual Health Every Sunday, 10-11 a.m. (early meditation at 9:15 a.m.) at Pathways to Self-Healing, 4157 El Camino Way, Suite C, Palo Alto. Free. Call Paul Sibcy at 424-1118.

Ananda Seva Mission Friday evening of chanting, meditation and intuitively transmitted discourses at 7:30 p.m. Call 364-9559 or 364-8645 for information.

Dances of Universal Peace Second and fourth Saturdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Unitarian Church, 505 E. Charleston, Palo Alto. Simple circle dances to sacred phrases from many spiritual traditions. No partner needed, only an open heart. Donations accepted. Call 493-1852.

Ananda Church of Self Realization Offers guidance and support for those who understand spirituality in terms of inner freedom and soul joy and who strive to experience these divine states within themselves. It is a positive, practical blend of mystical Christianity with the meditation tradition of the East. For information about classes, Sunday worship service or a free brochure call 323-3363.

Environment

Environmental Volunteers teaches school aged children the wonders of nature through hands-on learning at local public and private schools. If you're interested in helping children to love nature and learning, call 961-0545

Foothills Restoration Learn how restoring native habitat benefits foothill ecology. Join Rangers Debra and Michelle the first Saturday of each month at 9 a.m. at Foothills Park Interpretive Center. Dress in layers, ready to work. Wear sturdy shoes or boots, bring gloves, water, and a lunch. Call 329-2423 to sign up.

Nature Walks at Foothills Park Docent-led, gently paced tours of selected trails to explore seasonal changes in plant life and animal trails and habitats. Every second and fourth Wednesday. Meet at the front gate of the Park on upper Page Mill Road at 9 a.m.

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Offering a variety of hikes for all levels. Call 691-1200 for reservations, location of hikes and directions.

Health

RSI and Chronic Pain support groups forming in Los Altos. Daytime and evening groups emphasizing stress reduction, coping skills, and family impact of these conditions. For information, contact Kathy Kermit, Ph.D., registered psychological assistant, at 566-0535.

Women with Gynecological Cancer Join a Stanford Study on the effects of group psychotherapy for women who have had gynecological cancer. Participation involves 12 weekly psychotherapy groups with a clinical psychologist that specializes in the treatment of sexual issues. Participants will receive $50 for completing three questionnaires. Call Rebecca Caldwell, Stanford Research Assistant, at 723-8480.

Prenatal/Postpartum Counseling and Psychotherapy For individuals and groups (taking names for group starting soon) support for the emotional issues of pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, infertility, and neonatal loss. Experienced, empathic therapist. Insurance and sliding scale fees. Call Amy Roberts, LMFCC, at 813-1317. Palo Alto location.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous <\q\q\q\q>A 12-step program for people suffering from food addiction, bulimia, anorexia or overeating meets every Sunday, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal, 600 Colorado Ave. in Midtown Palo Alto. No dues, fees or weigh-ins. Call the meeting line at 408-491-9824.

Nicotine Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women helping each other to quit the tobacco habit. It meets every Saturday in the Fireplace Room, All Saints Episcopal Church, Waverley and Hamilton (on the Hamilton side), Palo Alto. The newcomers meet at 9:30 a.m., followed by the regular meeting at 10 a.m. Smokers welcome. Call (408) 236-2196.

Bodywork for the Prenatal and Postpartum period using the art of body listening, an integrative body awareness process which includes massage, exercises and guided imagery to prepare for, and recover from, childbirth. Call Elizabeth at 424-1256.

Healing Imagery Sessions for breast cancer patients every other Wednesday evening at the Community Breast Health Project. Medical hypnotherapist Jeanne Fournier leads the group in meditations and discussions for healing through the body, mind, and spirit. Group meets every other Wednesday, 5:30-7 p.m. at 545 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Call 326-6686.

Dermatology and Skin Care Seminar on the latest in cosmetic surgery. Call for date and time of next seminar. All attending will receive a complimentary skin analysis and consultation. Call 940-4460.

Has Your Spouse Been Unfaithful? Come and talk to other women who share the same experience. We are forming a group in which you can express your feelings, share your coping strategies and hopes for the future. The group will be facilitated by an experienced therapist at MRI, 555 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. For meeting dates and times, call Isobel Scher, MA, at 306-0433.

The menopausal and perimenopausal years An opportunity to meet with other women for support and information. Topics include coping with emotional symptoms, sexuality and self perception, loss and possibilities. The workshop will meet for six sessions on weekday evenings. Call Ellen Russin, LCSW at 327-4792 to schedule a no-cost consultation.

Breast Cancer Support Group A self-help group for women dealing with breast cancer. Meetings offer a time for sharing experiences, information and emotional support in a friendly environment. Group meets second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30-9 p.m. at Mid-Peninsula YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call Nancy Block at 327-5175 or Dory Meier at 988-6612.

Working with Arthritis Workshops Monthly workshop to explore the physical, emotional, spiritual and intellectual aspect of life as a working age person with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. First Tuesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Blake Wilbur Clinic, 900 Blake Wilbur Drive, Room W1084, Stanford University. Sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation. Call 493-5000, ext. 64476.

Support Network for Battered Women in Mountain View offer free and very low cost psychotherapy to battered women/formerly battered women and their children who reside in Palo Alto and Los Altos. All inquiries handled confidentially. Call weekdays, 940-7855.

Alexander Technique Learn how to regain good posture and effortless movement. Ongoing instruction in improving posture, balance and coordination; reducing tension and pain. George Lister, certified teacher, at Town & Country Village, Palo Alto. Call 325-8806.

Yoga & meditation workshop Learn the practices of yoga and meditation on the second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 27160 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills (about 2 miles beyond Foothill College). $30 (includes vegetarian lunch). Call Victoria at 322-4626.

The Cardiac Therapy Foundation Exercise classes daily, supervised by R.N.'s. M.D. referral necessary. Classes are held in the gym at the Jewish Community Center, 655 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto. Call 494-1300.

A Healing Breath workshop for people with cancer and their caretakers. During the course, you will learn techniques for overcoming emotional and physical burdens of life-threatening illness. Call 326-4740 for more information.

Need counseling services? The clinic at the Mental Research Institute, M.R.I., in Palo Alto offers counseling to individuals, couples or families. The clinic works with a variety of problems including the effects of attention difficulties and other school problems, depressed or angry adolescents in conflict with parents, individuals struggling with anorexia, etc. Fees are on a sliding scale. Call 306-0433.

Pre- and Post-Natal Exercise The Palo Alto Family YMCA offers Pre- and Post-Natal Exercise Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12-12:50 p.m. The YMCA is at 3412 Ross Road, Palo Alto. Call 842-7162 to register.

Adventure walks, runs, bike rides and swims sponsored by the Fifty-Plus Fitness Association. Local outings in Palo Alto, Portola Valley and Stanford. Rain or shine, includes all holidays except Christmas. Call 323-6160 for more information.

Research subjects

Fighting about money? The Mental Research Institute in Palo Alto is offering free brief therapy for couples not presently in individual or couple therapy. Learn a new way to resolve money differences. Call Eileen Bobrow at 321-3055.

The Mental Research Institute in Palo Alto is seeking chronic pain patients, ages 18-50. Offering up to 12 free psychotherapy sessions as part of a study on a new approach to chronic pain. Call MRI at 321-3055.

Surgical Treatments Outcomes for Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (STOP-DUB) Women who have periods that they think are too heavy, too frequent, too long, or unpredictable are needed for a study. You must be 18 or older, still having menstrual periods, seeking treatment for excessive bleeding, not diagnosed as having fibroids, not diagnosed as having endometrial polyp. Call Dr. Bertha Chen, assistant professor of Gynecology & Obstetrics, at 725-9977.

Urinary urgency or loss of urine Looking for healthy postmenopausal women 55 years or older with symptoms who would like to participate in a study using new medical treatment. Free physical examinations and study medications. Four month study. Call Bertha Chen, M.D., or Sophia Rahman at Stanford University Medical Center, 498-7081.

Male caregivers needed Volunteers 50 years of age or older needed. You must be currently taking care of a spouse or relative in your home who has been diagnosed with dementia due to conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, interested in learning how the daily challenge of caregiving might affect your physical and emotional well-being, interested in making an important contribution to science. Call Kellie Rhodes at 723-9530.

Seeking depressed persons 65 years or older If you are currently not in treatment, you are needed for a free research treatment study of depression at Stanford Medical School. Call 725-4620.

Stanford study of the effects of group psychotherapy for people with HIV Participation involves receiving educational information and possibly weekly group psychotherapy, as well as completing four interviews over one year, earning $25 for each one. Call Michelle Gill at 723-2661.

Fear of driving? Stanford University and the VA Health Care System of Palo Alto are offering free evaluations for people who have a fear of driving in some or all situations. You may be eligible for free treatment. For more information call 856-1736.

Support Groups

About Kids A six-week course for separating and divorcing families is being offered by Family Service Mid-Peninsula on Wednesday evenings. Children meet with kids their own age, while parents meet with other parents. Divorcing parents are in separate groups. Sliding scale fee. Call Elizabeth Rosenfeld at 326-6576 for information or to register.

Just for Kids A ten-week group for children ages 7-10 is being offered by Family Service Mid-Peninsula on Wednesday afternoons. This is a support group designed for children who are going through the experience of separation and divorce of the parents. Sliding scale fee. Call Elizabeth Rosenfeld at 326-6576 for information or to register.

Young Survivors Group Support for young individuals (ages 30-55) grieving the loss of a spouse. Discussion of healing process and issues unique to young survivors. Mondays, 7:30-9 p.m. Groups beginning September and October. Sliding fee. 800 Menlo Ave., Suite 121. Led by sue Shaffer, Ed.D., MFCC. Call 323-1535.

Women's Group Meet Monday evenings 6-7:30 p.m. in Menlo Park. A support group for building self-esteem and relationship skills, managing transitions and support for meeting personal goals. Reasonable fee. Call Maggie Smith, Ph.D., MFCC at 306-0391.

Women's Ongoing Groups for Therapy and Personal Development are now forming in Menlo Park. Come together with 4-8 women in an intimate, safe setting where you can explore whole beings--personal history, relatedness, consciousness, divine soul self, dreaming self, shadow self. Experience nurturance, humor and wisdom of other women. One session (one hour, 45 minutes) per week at $45 each session. A three month commitment is asked. Facilitated by Sandra Glickman, MFCC. Call 323-9304 for more details and a free 30 minute interview.

Nicotine Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women helping each other to quit the tobacco habit. It meets every Saturday in the Fireplace Room, All Saints Episcopal Church, Waverley and Hamilton (on the Hamilton side), Palo Alto. The newcomers meet at 9:30 a.m., followed by the regular meeting at 10 a.m. Smokers welcome. Call (408) 236-2196.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous <\q\q\q\q>A 12-step program for people suffering from food addiction, bulimia, anorexia or overeating meets every Sunday, 7-8:30 p.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal, 600 Colorado Ave. in Midtown Palo Alto. No dues, fees or weigh-ins. Call the meeting line at 408-491-9824.

Mid-Peninsula Gay & Bisexual Men's Discussion Group Meets every first and third Thursday of the month, 7:30-9 p.m. at Lavender Dragon Book Store, 605 Cambridge Ave., Menlo Park. Call 323-4778.

Dating Support & Education Group Meets Thursday evenings, 7-8:30 p.m. in Menlo Park. This 10-week group covers overcoming obstacles and learning skills useful for dating and forming healthy relationships. $25/week. Space is limited. Call Karen Gebura, MFCC at 634-9398.

What to do when your teenager is acting their age and more A support group to help parents effectively and appropriately parent their teens. Twice monthly on Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. at Parents Place of the Peninsula, Jewish Family and Children's Services, 480 California Ave., Suite 303, Palo Alto. Fee determined by sliding scale. Call 326-6696.

The Mid-Peninsula Widows & Widowers Association meets every Tuesday evening at 7:30 p.m. at the Los Altos Lutheran Church, 460 S. El Monte Ave., Los Altos. The organization is committed to helping people begin a new way of life following the death of a spouse. All widows and widowers are invited to attend. Call (925) 968-1408.

Ongoing Women's Support Group Explore self-esteem, aging, loneliness, depression and relationships. Two experienced and licensed therapists. No charge for interview, Call Addie Macovski at 854-5509.

Therapy Group for Mothers Motherhood is not always the joy it's made out to be. This therapy group will focus on real-life issues and concerns experienced by mothers of young children. Group members will have an opportunity to share their experiences as well as to receive validation, support and feedback. Call Barbara Finn, Ph.D. at 325-6660.

Men's Psychotherapy Group now forming Some topics: anxiety, depression, grief/loss, father/son, sexuality, soul. Palo Alto location. Call Dr. Alzak at 568-1265.

Father Support Group forming Join other fathers in discussing parenting, fathering, life transitions and relationships. Married, re-married, divorced and single fathers are welcome. This group will meet weekly at Family Service Midpeninsula, 375 Cambridge Ave., Palo Alto, from 6-7:15 p.m. on Thursday evenings. Call David Sitzer, Ph.D. at 326-6576, ext. 143.

Miscarriage Support Group Palo Alto group forming to be facilitated by an experienced, licensed psychotherapist specializing in perinatal issues. Call Amy Roberts, LMFCC at 813-1317.

Eating Disorders Group Educational support for women with eating disorders. Sessions based on stories taken from spiritual or cultural traditions. Call Aly Feldman at 366-2328 for information.

Men's Support Group A place to work on important emotional issues and to get support and feedback from other men. Led by an experienced, licensed therapist. Meets Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. in Los Altos/Mountain View area. Call Brian Winkler, Ph.D. at 306-8188.

Breast Cancer Support Group A self-help group for women dealing with breast cancer. Meetings offer a time for sharing experiences, information and emotional support in a friendly environment. Group meets second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30-9 p.m. at Mid-Peninsula YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call Nancy Block at 327-5175 or Dory Meier at 988-6612.

The Attitudinal Healing Network of the Peninsula A nonprofit organization based on the Course in Miracles and Jerry Jampolsky's work, offers a support group for anyone wishing to learn about attitudinal healing as a way to enhance their life and improve relationships. Group meets Thursday evenings in Palo Alto. No fee. Call 1-800-597-5918.

A Parent's Loss Support group for bereaved parents to provide a safe environment to share the many intense, painful feelings common to bereaved parents - feelings such as disbelief, anger, sadness, guilt, depression, isolation. Meeting times are worked out. Group meets at 851 Fremont Ave., Suite 210, Los Altos. $25 per session. Call Mary Astor at 948-8601.

Pregnancy Support Groups are held weekly at The Peninsula Birth Connection, a pregnancy & childbirth education and resource center in Palo Alto. Join with other pregnant women to share experiences and explore feelings. Call Janine at 856-2140.

New Mother Support Groups are held weekly at The Peninsula Birth Connection in Palo Alto. Bring your baby and spend time with other new moms. Call Janine at 856-2140.

Overeaters Anonymous A 12-step recovery/support program for people with compulsive eating disorders meets Mondays at 7:30 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 670 E. Meadow, Palo Alto. The group also meets at Trinity Church, 330 Ravenswood Ave., Menlo Park. Call 493-0358.

Feeling Good (Whether in a relationship or not) An ongoing support group for women. Cost is $20-$40 per session. Led by Ann Gifford, LCSW, MFCC. Call 327-3484.

Neuropathy A support group for sufferers of neuropathy meets once a month in Palo Alto. Call 493-3752 for details.

Prenatal and Postpartum support groups offered at the Birth Connection, a pregnancy and childbirth support center. Share with others during this special time of life. Call 856-2140 for information.

Job Seekers, Career Changers Get helpful feedback to achieve your career/life goals. A counseling support group is forming for men and women who want assistance with clarification and achievement of of career/life goals. Focus will be on empowerment and goal attainment, enhance optimism, strengthen will to risk, manage fear, and achieve desired results. There is a fee. Call Questers at 969-1163.

Parents of Teens Support Group Designed especially for single parents of preadolescents and adolescents, providing a broad range of guidelines and ideas for successful parenting in a safe, non-threatening environment. Thursdays, 7:30-9 p.m.. $15 per session (sliding scale available). Sponsored by Jewish Family and Children's Services in Palo Alto. Call 591-8991.

Recovery and Support Group for Pregnant Women Group for pregnant women with recovery issues and difficulty with substance use. Group meets weekly, Saturdays, 9:30-11 a.m. at Stanford Clinic, OB-GYN Unit, Third floor. Donation fee. To register, call the Women's Health Promotion Unit at 723-7114.

Short-term individual counseling for sexual assault survivors The Mid-Peninsula YWCA Rape Crisis Center offers short-term individual counseling for women and men who are survivors of sexual assault, rape, incest, sexual harassment and emotional and physical abuse. $20 per session, sliding scale available. Counseling is by appointment only. Call 494-0993, Ext. 27.

The Attitudinal Healing Network of the Peninsula offers support groups for individuals dealing with stress, transition and illness in Palo Alto on the first and third Thursdays of the month from 7-9 p.m. Call (800) 597-5918.

Emotional Expression for Men Group the focuses on relationships, career issues, and emotional awareness and expression meets Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. in Palo Alto. $20 per session. Call the Bay Area Men's Center at 969-8265.

Women in the Workforce: Turning Toward Power A therapeutic support group for women struggling with conflicts at work. The group will focus on the development of personal empowerment and conflict resolution. The group meets Monday evenings at Integrated Healing Arts in Palo Alto. Call Dena Anthony at 493-2667 to reserve a space.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 3149 Waverley St., Palo Alto, Room 2 (off parking lot). Call Doris at 967-4967.

Parents Without Partners For single parents in the Palo Alto, Los Altos and Menlo Park areas. Call Leona at (408) 779-6226 or Paul at (408) 275-9057.

Discovery Breast Cancer Support Group A self-help support group for women dealing with breast cancer held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30-9 p.m. at Mid-Peninsula YWCA, Ballentine Room, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 494-0972.

Single mothers of teenage daughters with ex-husbands who are Frustrating A monthly rap support group forming for women in similar situations. Call Cheryle at 948-1247.

Therapy support group for anorexia or bulimia sufferers Meets Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in Palo Alto. There is a fee. Call Dr. Nash at 851-0103.

Support group for compulsive overeaters and non-compensating binge eaters Meets Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in Palo Alto. There is a fee. Call Dr. Nash at 851-0103.

Single Parents of Teens Support Group Jewish Family and Children's Services is forming a support group for single parents of teens in Palo Alto. Facilitated by Ilene Wolff, MFCC, the group is held Tuesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Call 326-6696 for registration and information.

Baylands Family Circle A nonprofit group of families headed by gay, lesbian and bisexual parents welcomes new members. Families meet once a month for social/play time and parents meet once a quarter to socialize and discuss issues. If you are a parent or even interested in becoming one and would like more information on the group, call Tom Hartland at 858-2800.

A group for women New members are being accepted for an ongoing, interactive group for women where you can learn to value yourself as a woman and address concerns about self-esteem, intimacy and achievement. The group meets Tuesdays, 6:15-8 p.m. at 4970 El Camino Real, Suite 110, Los Altos. Call 968-1028.

Palo Alto Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month from 7-9 p.m. at Palo Alto Medical Clinic, Main Lobby, 300 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. Call Phyllis Seidman at 321-9081.

Separating/Divorcing Small, confidential, support groups for adults led by professionals at Center for Changing Families, Family Service Mid-Peninsula, Palo Alto. Sliding scale fee. Call 326-6576 for dates and times.

Diabetes Support Group Meets the first Wednesday of every month, 7-9 p.m. at Palo Alto Medical Foundation Building, 860 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Call 856-0838 (evenings only).

For families facing homosexuality Parents and families of gay and lesbian Catholics are invited to a support group that meets the second Thursday of every other month at 7:30 p.m. in Palo Alto. Call Terrie Iacino at (408) 983-0137.

Women in the Workforce: Turning Toward Power A therapeutic support group for women struggling with conflicts at work. These conflicts may involve issues with status-oriented hierarchies, conflicts integrating demands of work with the demands of family or other work-related issues. The group will focus the development of personal empowerment and conflict resolution. The group will meets Monday evenings at Integrated Healing Arts in Palo Alto. Call Dr. Dena Patterson at 493-2667.

La Leche League of Menlo Park/Palo Alto A support group for expectant and nursing mothers. The group meets the third Monday of every month, 10 a.m., at First Lutheran Church, 600 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. For expectant and employed mothers, the group meets the third Thursday of every month, 7 p.m., at Rosener House Adult Day Support Center, 1060 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Babies always welcome. Call 873-6525.

Cancer Support Group An ongoing weekly 90-minute group focused on cancer-related issues and quality of life for all cancer patients. The group meets Mondays, 4-5:30 p.m. at Stanford Medical Psychotherapy Clinic, 401 Quarry Road, Room 2218, Stanford. Call 498-5126 or 723-2632.

Support groups for people with cancer and their partners/families. Call Ginger Levick, LMFC, at 327-5552.

Women of Width Fat-positive support group based on the idea that women are healthy and beautiful at any size, meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30-9 p.m. Call Joyce at 965-8416.

Kara's Grief Support Group meets every first and third Wednesday of the month at Kara, 457 Kingsley Ave., Palo Alto. Grief counseling on an individual basis will be available on request. Call 321-5272.

Mid-Peninsula YWCA Rape Crisis Center offers support groups for survivors of rape, incest, emotional and physical abuse and assault. Groups are limited to eight members and are offered on a 12-week cycle. Groups meet at the YWCA, 4161 Alma St., Palo Alto. Appointments and each group session cost $20 (sliding scale available). Call 494-0993 to schedule an initial appointment.

Volunteers

Library Reference Associate at Avenidas Enjoy a unique opportunity for service and learning: volunteer as a Library Reference Associate at The Heath Library of Avenidas, an affiliated branch of The Health Library at Stanford in the Senior Center in downtown Palo Alto. Help seniors with health information searches using InfoTrac, the internet, and a state-of-the-art collection relating the health issues of older adults. Apply at Avenidas, 450 Bryant St., Palo Alto, or call 327-2811, ext. 22.

Partners in Caring Volunteers needed to provide practical and emotional support to members of our community who are homebound. Opportunities include friendly visiting, essential transportation, telephone reassurance, shopping and meal assistance. Training and ongoing education provided. For details and an interview, call Stanford University Hospital Chaplaincy Office at 723-5101.

Palo Alto Art Center There are openings for volunteers to greet gallery visitors, lead children's tours, host artists' receptions, and work on special projects. No art background is necessary; training will be provided through briefings, lectures, and field trips. Day, evening and weekend shifts are available. Call the Volunteer Office at 329-2370.

Parental Stress Hotline and Teenline Volunteer consultants are needed to staff the hotlines, which provide free, confidential listening and referral services to parents and teenagers. These crisis lines are programs of Family Service Mid-Peninsula. Extensive training provided. Call Susan Stone at 326-6576.

Canteen host and hostess are needed at the Stanford Medical School Blood Center. Duties include serving refreshments to donors and monitoring their health after their donation. Friendly and outgoing individuals willing to train are invited to call. Positions available at Palo Alto and Mountain View center. Call Maureen Roskoph at 723-6795 for an interview and a tour.

City of Palo Alto's Performing Arts Department Volunteers needed for mailing and distributing. Anyone interested should call 329-2527.

Palo Alto Senior Center Discover more about your community by volunteering at the information desk of a busy senior center. Help is also needed in the computer lab, health library, crafts shop, with bulk-mailing and weekend programs. Call Sue at 327-2811.

Pacific Art League of Palo Alto Volunteers are needed in many areas including gallery docent, exhibit installations, exhibit receptions, fundraising activities, special events, groundskeeper, handyperson, volunteer director's assistant, computer input, office assistants, caterer for events, and more. Volunteers obtain substantial discounts on gallery purchases and class tuition and participate in an annual awards dinner. Pacific Art League is located at 668 Ramona St., Palo Alto. For more information, contact Joe Hardegree at 321-3891.

Project Look! The arts education program at the Palo Alto Cultural Center is looking for new docents to join the program. Volunteers are needed to guide a small group of students on a tour of current exhibitions. Experience with children and art are a plus. Call 329-2176.

Westwind 4-H Riding for Handicapped needs volunteers. Classes are Mondays and/or Thursdays, 4-5 p.m. Call 965-2698.

English-in-Action Program seeks volunteers to converse in English one hour weekly with Stanford's International students, scholars or spouses. Call 961-3539 or 326-5252.

Diversity Network of the Palo Alto Area A group of volunteers working to promote understanding of and respect for racial, cultural, sexual, physical and religious differences throughout our community is seeking new members to get involved with projects. The group meets the first Wednesday of every month, 9-10:30 a.m. at Cubberley Community Center, Suite T-2, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 329-2388.

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) The group matches individuals 55 and older with volunteer opportunities at more than 120 nonprofit organizations in northern Santa Clara County. There are a variety of volunteer positions available. Your experience can make a difference. Call 326-5362.

Explorers-Docents needed by The Junior Museum and Zoo in Palo Alto Volunteers are needed to spend a few hours explaining exhibits, answering questions and performing simple activities with kids. Training will be provided. If you love kids and want to be a part of their educational growth, call Maggie Kane at 329-2112.

The Peninsula Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired needs volunteers to offer emotional support and assist with reading, errands or exercise for those who are blind or visually impaired. The center is located at 2470 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. Clients live between South San Francisco and San Jose. Call 858-0202.

Friendly visitors for Holocaust Survivors Jewish Family and Children's Services is currently recruiting community members to volunteer as friendly visitors with older adults who are survivors of the Holocaust. Volunteers must be able to work with elders, have sensitivity to individuals' experiences in the Holocaust and have knowledge or interest in learning about the Holocaust. Volunteers must commit to four to six hours each month for one year. Training will be provided. Call Sheryl Groden at 561-1244.

Stanford University Medical Center Auxiliary is seeking mature volunteers to work in the Intensive Care Units. Volunteers are needed to take care of the waiting room and offer support and comfort to the families. Volunteers are needed for 3 1/2 hour shifts either a.m. or p.m. Call 723-6636.

California Literacy Campaign Teach someone to read and change a life. Project Read Menlo Park needs volunteer tutors. Free training session will be held at the Menlo Park library on April 7 at 5:30 p.m. Call 321-8818 for more information.

Cat lovers needed to help homeless cats No experience necessary. Openings and trainings in fostering, feeding, spay/neuter and trapping, adoptions, publications, computer graphics and data entry, and public education. Call CatWorks at the Palo Alto Humane Society at 327-0631, Ext. 3, leave name, phone number, city and interests.

Partners in Learning The tutoring program of Palo Alto Adult School is recruiting volunteer tutors to work with adults who are learning English. Volunteers receive free training and ongoing support. You do not have to speak a foreign language or have teaching experience. Call 364-9718.

Give nature a hand Restore biodiversity in our state parks by removing invasive exotic plants. Projects every Sunday. Call Wildlands Restoration Team at (408) 662-3039.

The East Palo Alto Community Garden at 831 Weeks St. needs volunteers every Saturday 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The garden is a collaborative project of the East Palo Alto Historical and Agricultural Society (EPA HAS) and Bay Area Action. Call 325-9184.

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