P.K.'s Weekend Roundup–last-minute around-the-Bay activities Jan 18, and more (Photos)

Are you looking for something to do this weekend, as early as this weekend? No worries folks with P.K.’s Weekend Roundup on Examiner.com, not only will you find activities that include the latest and greatest, but reader favorites as well. We've compiled some of the hottest happenings from inland to the coast, from the exquisite to the slightly bizarre, from this weekend to the next and just a few days – and occasionally a few weeks beyond – so you can plan ahead. And, with St. Valentine’s Day fast approaching we’ve included a few extra events to get you ready for some magical heart-kissing moments. So whatever you decide to do and who ever you decide to invite to join you, just give it your all, be safe (and please, designate a sober driver if you plan to drink). And always remember to make your memories count as they should be cherishable, charitable and magnificently unforgettable. Ciao for now.

This weekend, Friday, Saturday and Sunday January 18, 19 & 20, 2013

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, January 18, 19 & 20, 2013 – (event runs through Feb. 3)

San Jose – The San Jose Rep presents,“Next To Normal” directed by David Ira Goldstein is a unique and very interesting musical about a family who is about to face the music – a musical everyone should see. While struggling to maintain “normal” – or something close enough to it – a mother has to find a way to deal with a growing mental illness. This poignant and powerful rock musical is not only Tony Award-winning but also Pulitzer prize-winning. “Next To Normal” is playing through February 3, 2013. Tickets range from $66 - $20. Book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey; music by Tom Kitt; with co-production by with the Arizona Theatre Company. Cast includes Jose Casside (Dan); Mark Farrell (Doctor Madden/Doctor Fine); A.J. Holmes (Henry); Kendra Kassebaum (Diana); Andrea Ross (Natalie); and Jonathan Shew (Gabe).

Friday & Saturday, January 18 & 19, 2013

Oakland or San Francisco – There is usually live music on Friday and Saturday so for those singles out there who don’t want to be single any longer, or, who just want to get out and enjoy some live entertainment without a partner – check out Yoshi’s in either Oakland or San Francisco, all with live entertainment to satisfy those cravings. Check out your nearest Yoshi’s and see what’s happening for live entertainment.

Friday, January 18, 2013 – (event through Sunday)

San Jose – The Caravan with a “Live Rock Show” on Friday, Jan. 18 from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. with three different bands. Located at 98 South Almaden Avenue in San Jose, this is a hot singles happening place for 21 and over and it’s free admission. “Severe Bass and the Bad Decisions,” Poetically Square” and “Resistant Me” playing until 1 a.m.

Friday, Saurday, January 18, 2013

San Francisco – Café Prague located at 4242 Merchant Street in San Francisco (1-415-627-7464) has a singles event on Jan. 18, until 11 p.m.) so attend and you never know what will happen.

Saturday, January 19, 2013 – (In preparation for St. Valentine's Day)

Anywhere – Give the gift of life, or the gift that keeps on giving this Valentine’s Day by donating your blood to the Red Cross. If you have someone that would rather you donate than give them a gift (such as that person who “has everything”) – give them the gift of life by donating your blood to save a life. The life you save might be your own, or someone you love, and that is priceless.

Saturday & Sunday, January 18 & 19, 2013(event date: opens Jan. 29)

San JoseBroadway San Jose, A Nederlander Presentation in association with Team San Jose presents “Rock of Ages.” a spectacular show with mind-blowing musical hits from Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more.

Four additional shows in the 2012-2013 season include the South Bay debuts of “Rock of Ages,” theatrical phenomenon Blue Man Group,” Tony Award-winning Best Musical “Billy Elliot” and “Green Day’s American Idiot.” Beginning on January 29, the first of these wonderful four will be “Rock of Ages” on stage at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. Dates, times and prices vary (stay tuned to Examiner’s Event section and P.K.’s reviews for additional information); and visit Broadway San Jose's website for details. For season ticket information, call 1-866-395-2929 or 1-408-792-4111.

Friday, January 18, 2013 – (Two events; one Jan. 20; the other Feb. 18)

San Jose – The HP Pavilion in San Jose hosts some pretty good shows with “P!NK” February 18, 2013. Don’t miss this spectacular entertainer who touches hearts all over the globe through her incredible music. On Friday, January 18 it’s time for amazing tricks with “The Harlem Globetrotters” on Sunday, January 20, 2013, for a special basketball fan treat.

Friday & Saturday, January 18 & 19, 2013

Los Gatos – Are you looking for some of the best BBQ rub on the planet, or maybe you’re just crazy for good live entertainment on a weekend – whatever you're looking for be it Country & Western mood or the finest BBQ rub on the planet, The Cats Restaurant and Tavern is a good-time for all. And don't forget for those not wanting to drive that one or two exits up Hwy. 880/17 from San Jose they can always catch a free shuttle offered by The Cats. Catch the shuttle from the parking lot across from the Toll House Inn in downtown Los Gatos (free shuttle every 25 minutes, from 5 p.m. until midnight; every Friday and Saturday). Savings Tip for Examiner readers: Co-owner Mark Thomas said for those who "Like" The Cats on Facebook, they can receive a free "Cowboy Chip Platter" appetizer. The Cats is located at 17533 Santa Cruz Highway in Los Gatos. Call 1-408-354-4020 for additional information.

Saturday, January 18, 2013

Santa Clara – Yes, a Saturday’s market to offset the usual Sunday affair and this one in Santa Clara: The Santa Clara Farmer's Market is also a year-round event held in front (or back near the post office) at Franklin Square Mall in Santa Clara (at Jackson Street and Homestead Road), and happens to be quite the quaint little farmer’s market indeed – perfect for those Saturday shoppers who like to get it done and out of the way. From caramel corn to flowers and vegetables to fresh fruit you’re bound to find what you need (with many growers that are also at the Campbell’s Farmer’s Market); live entertainment, laughter, trades, goods and treats. Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sunday, January 19, 2013 – (event date: Jan. 19 Passport Day/Weekend)

Santa Cruz – It’s Wine Passport Day again in Santa Cruz and the Santa Cruz Mountain Winegrowers Association is having a spectacular weekend with most wineries pouring not just on Passport Day, but all weekend, beginning Saturday and through Monday (since Monday is a holiday), such as Copious Winery, who will be pouring on Saturday at Equinox Champaign Cellars (pouring from noon to 5 p.m., Equinox is located at 427 Swift Street – thank you for the email note) with many other wineries will be pouring on Passport Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. so be sure to check winery websites and do enjoy! Be sure to designate a sober driver, and please, be safe and be merry. Oh, and don’t forget that wine makes a great Valentine’s Day gift for that sweetheart or friend – visit your favorite winery today. Santa Cruz has a prize for completing Passport Books, although everyone knows that the true reward is in visiting all of the unique wineries in the valley; check the website for a list of participating wineries. (Note: The Santa Clara Valley Association is having their Passport Weekend on March 24 & March 25, with a special Vineyard Day on February 7, 2013 so stay tuned for further details.)

Sunday, January 20, 2013 – (Festa Gioia just in time for pre-Valentine shopping)

Los GatosFesta Gioia Open House in celebration of color with new gift arrivals from from Italy, Florentine trays and ceramics, Italian jewelry, Limoncello ceramic cups and decanters, Italian flatware from Lake Garda and certamics from Deruta. Open House to be held on January 20, 2013 at 16395 Roseleaf Court in Los Gatos where folks can do lunch and shop Italian-style. Sacramento – Venetian Mask Making Class with artist Carla Almanza de-Quant at the Sacramento Italian Cultural Society located at 6821 Fair Oaks Blvd. in Carmichael. Preregistration required; RSVP: 1-408-640-6628.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

San Jose – A special Wednesday Farmer's Market in San Jose to catch up on your family shopping needs at the Cambrian Park Farmer’s Market San Jose held at the lot at Camden and Union Avenues in San Jose every Wednesday, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, January 25, 26 & 27, 2013

Friday, January 25, 2013

San Jose – Don’t forget that St. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so plan ahead and what better thing than to do something unique. P.K. will be putting together her usual list of “unique” gifts for that special someone, however, until then don’t forget about giving the gift of life either by donating blood at the Red Cross, or

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Niles – Shopping for St. Valentine’s Day is the perfect way to start your weekend off, and what better place to do that than in a quaint little town like Niles? And afterwards, why not take a ride on the Niles Train or check out the “Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum” or maybe the “Niles Depot Museum” with railroad signals, lanterns, tools and assorted artifacts from the old Niles Tower. Shop ‘til you drop with assorted gifts, books, antiques and so much more. Be sure to check out the “Silent Movie Night” at the Edison Theater where silent movies play every Saturday night. Edison Theater is located at 37417 Niles Blvd.; movies begin at 7:00 p.m. and last until 9 p.m. (check website to verify times and for movie titles). Silent movies are just $5 each. There is so much to do and so many great folks for such a small town.

Saturday, January 26, 2012

TurlockThe Turlock Swap Meet everyone goes to but forgot to tell you about – it’s in Turlock, but it’s worth the drive. The Big Turlock Swap Meet will be held on Jan. 26, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for only $8 admission at the gate; children under 12 free (if accompanied by an adult). For additional info visit website. (Advice: Always check site to be sure event is not canceled prior to venturing to any swap meet.)

Saturday, January 26, 2013 – enlighten your soul and brighten your world with art and technology

San JoseSan Jose Institute of Contemporary Art is always a great afternoon visit, or schedule to go with your sweetheart or child on the weekend. Located at 560 South First in downtown San Jose and with a collection of amazing exhibits from very talented artists from all over the Bay Area, this is more than a gallery. Also, check out the “Make Art Here” area (more on the website). Open Saturdays, from Noon to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday. Visit their website or call 1-408-283-8155.

Santa Clara – The Triton Museum of Art is also another museum worth the visit and if you’re closer to Santa Clara, then maybe the Triton Museum might be on your list of museums to visit; located at 1505 Warburton Avenue at Don Avenue in Santa Clara. Showcasing all sorts of artwork from artists all over the Bay Area, with the recent (through Feb. 3) a statewide watercolor competition on exhibit; this is another museum worth spending an afternoon in. Parking is free. Visit their website or call 1-408-247-2136. Currently on exhibit: Karen Frey.

Santa Clara – Educate yourself and your children with the latest technology at The Intel Museum, the place where folks can "Journey through decades of Innovation." The Intel Museum truly is a place of wonder where technology is concerned, and where kids and adults alike can share the world of technology and a little tech knowledge. Discover the making of silicon chips or cruise the Intel Museum store for holiday gifts. Located at 2200 Mission College Blvd. in Santa Clara. Open Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For additional information or museum schedule, call 1-408-765-5053.

San Carlos – Carlos at the Hiller Aviation Museum located at 601 Skyway Road in San Carlos. This is not only a place where those interested in flight, exploration or flying – but children are always amazed by technology. Explore the wonderful world of aeronautics with your child, or what the heck, go by yourself. Call 1-650-654-0200 for additional information.

AnywhereArt-o-mat – Truly fine art for an affordable price for collectors; smaller versions of the original artwork that artists create available in incredible, vintage cigarette machines renovated into art vending machines that are also pieces of art. Definitely one way to replace greeting cards and they are the same price! For just $5 people can own a piece of fine art and add to their collections; children can learn about fine art – there are simply no limitations when it comes to art.

San Jose – The San Jose Museum of Art is but another great place to hang and also a great place for the every third Thursday San Jose Made (SJMADE) and GoGo Craft (for just $5 after 5 p.m.) where a platform for local San Jose makers, labels, brands, small businesses and artists can showcase and sell current projects and goods. For one night only, SJMADE will gather a small group of independent makers in SJMA’s lobby for our SJMADE Mini Mart where folks can peruse the wares and then create a unique up-cycled cup cozy or t-shirt bracelet with the help of GoGo Craft, a mobile crafting workshop that provides exciting and accessible make-and-take projects for participants an all skill levels. Admission to SJMADE Mini Mart is free; admission to workshop and galleries is just $5, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Santa ClaraThe de Saisset Museum, Santa Clara University is also another great museum to check out; located at 500 El Camino Real in Santa Clara. For additional information visit their website or call 1-408-554-4528.

Oakland – Free first Sunday of the month is “free” admission day at the Oakland Museum of California located at 100 Oak Street in Oakland. Visit the website for additional information on exhibits, new hours of operations and event info.

Sacramento – Art by Michelle Cordova – her amazing Apple Hill-themed art greeting cards and Delta Landscapes available on small, easy to hang canvas (such as for Art-o-mat) are now available at Trezhers Gift Shop located at 3214 Riverside Blvd. (across from Vic’s Ice Cream, closed Sun. & Mon.).

Los AngelesKi’i Boards Fine Art – Have you given up surfing and want to turn your surf board into fine art? Do you love the ocean and the theme and fine art and want to incorporate the two? The ideas are endless and so is the art by this extremely talented young lady – Tara Berger out of southern California

San Francisco – First Tuesday of every month comes the Conservatory of Flowers – a great place with a lot of incredibly beautiful flowers – no doubt as beautiful as you are, ladies. A great place to take a date gentleman, and a great place to take the kids – they have a good time, too. Current exhibits include Boomtown’s Barbary Coast’s Gold Rush Days through April 14, 2013. Check out the slide show photo of the San Francisco Conservatory, how beautiful just the architecture of the green house.

Saturday, January 26, 2013(Check for adoption fee specials)

San Jose and Sunnyvale – Adopt-a-pet, save a furry little life and provide a “forever’ home to that New Year’s gift for your family member with the Humane Society of Silicon Valley’s because everyone knows that HSSV is the best place to get a pet, with some of your pet’s favorite toys, food and other pet accessories available at Petco Sunnyvale and San Jose locations (off Saratoga Avenue near Westgate).

The adoption benefits of going through Humane Society of Silicon Valley include everything from spay/neuter surgery to all vaccines and routine de-worming – the benefits are as priceless as the felines or pooches awaiting your smooches – and your time is equally priceless, so don’t forget to tell a friend and remember, if you can’t adopt get those volunteer hours in to help these little munchkins feel loved. Petco San Jose is located at 500 El Paseo de Saratoga Avenue in San Jose; 1-408-370-2732; and Petco Sunnyvale is located at 160 East El Camino Real in Sunnyvale; 1-408-720-1419. Choose a new pet who is looking for a “forever” home and thank you to everyone who has shown their support and for giving the past almost dozen animals we’ve shown a loving home – your support is much appreciated. These purring and furry animals needed you and you came through!

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Ben Lomond – Towne & Country Antiques and Uniques is a unique antique store and quite frankly one of the best on our list, and one that will absolutely become one of your favorites – especially during the holidays when shopping needs to get done. From the outdoor garden area with iron structures and statues be it mermaids, angels or animals to various iron structures to the indoors where collections of sorts from dolls to houses to furniture and sorts covering every holiday from St. Valentine’s to Christmas with displays that will make you feel right-at-home. The owner, Jan, will also make you feel welcome and is very helpful, and one of the friendliest owners we've met in a long time. Be sure to add “Towne & Country Antiques and Uniques” to your list of antique shops and spend an afternoon browsing for that have-to-have treasure find. Towne & County Antique and Uniques is located at 9280 Highway 9 in Ben Lomond. For additional information and hours please call 831-336-5993.

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Marin – The San Rafael Gem Faire with assorted jewelry, gems, crystals, silver, rocks, minerals and so much more at incredibly low prices. Event wil be held at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall located at 10 Avenue of the Flags in San Rafael; from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; with free hourly door prize, drawings throughout the weekend. For additional information call 1-415-499-6800.

Sunday, January 27, 2013or any day of the week

Your homeanytimeDon't feel like going out? How about some tunes to get your heart pumping? Check out these latest releases:

P.K.’s music video fav’s and picks of the week:

–Train – in previous weeks I mentioned “Drops of Jupiter” and Save Me San Francisco" but for those who haven’t yet listened to Train’s newest release, "50 Ways to Say Goodbye," it’s pretty hilarious so check it out.

The Stragglyrs are a “rootsy” group who produce some of the best folk-rock and country rock music in the Bay Area playing somewhere near you with quality songs that are nothing short of superb, some with politically correct (or incorrect) – you choose!

Doc Roc and the Disorderlies – That’s right, there is a cure for what ails you right here in the Bay Area with Doc Roc and the Disorderlies and, you get the hottest cover music in the nation or, maybe even some of their awesome originals. From good old-fashioned Rock & Roll, jazz and all sorts of mix of music and they play at all sorts of nonprofit events such as the upcoming Boomer Lifestyle Show on Feb. 9 and Feb. 10 to be held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Check out Doc Roc, the drummer in the slide show.

MATCHBOX TWENTY3AM” a favorite song; with another fav CD release, “North.”

–Soon to be released: Another great song by Justin Timberlake, “Suit & Tie” (set to outsell Sexyback)

Phillip Phillips – the hot new sound is always at "Home" in your heart.

Dream Music: Part 2 by Marc Donahue & Sean Michael Williams plus a few others out of Los Gatos – you’ll enjoy this time lapse video as much as I did; check out their first, plus watch for their new videos (each a filmmaker putting out their own, soon).

–Gary Allen “Every Storm Runs Out of Rain” – his website should have the video front and center; if not, search it, it’s well worth it. Word on the music strip is that those who donate to Hurricane Sandy victims can receive a free Gary Allen download; check out details here,

–Here’s a new one for the girls (and boys): “Mean Girls” by Rachel Crow – now this bullying just has to stop. Parents, kids, girls – everyone needs to give this song a listen – this is an important one to give a real good listen to, lyrics and all. The message is pretty clear…folks, in and out of school really ought to be nice to one another!

–Mathew West and his new song, “Forgiveness” for the New Year this is a great song to listen to – and for perhaps more people to learn about and to follow.

–Another great one by Bruno Mars “When I was Your Man” – it is a great song for that lost love of yours that got away and of course, “Locked Out of Heaven” – another great one.

Christina PerryA Thousand Years” – from the movie, Twilight – their latest, where Edward "gets the girl." And, well, where us women realize that the one we love is worth fighting for, (as long as he fights back, that is). An absolutely great song; among the best – so do give it a listen.

–And what about Owl City with “Fireflies” – another cool favorite. Who can resist that cutie on the keyboard but more importantly it’s a great song with hope.

Christina PerriA Jar of Hearts” – Maybe it’s time to let go of the ghosts – and a long lost love?

–Music video by the Queen of Country Music, Carrie Underwood, who sung this song, “Blown Away” with her amazing voice at the Billboard Music Awards 2012.

P!nk is always in and it’s never complete without that one last kiss (isn't there a wine by that name in northern California?) …be sure to check out, “Blow Me (One Last Kiss)” by the extremely talented and beautiful P!nk. (Note: She will be at the HP Pavilion in February.)

Monday, Januray 28, 2013

Los GatosIt’s “Girls Night Out” in Los Gatos at the Toll House Inn on Main Street from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with wine tasting and shopping, a girls two favorite things – at “Three Degrees Restaurant” inside the Toll House Inn. Join Gioia (who will have a booth of wonderful goodies just in time for Valentine’s Day) as well as other exhibitors with gifts and so much more.

Monday, January 28, 2013 – (any day of the week or weekend)

Since “living” and giving is the theme for 2013, how about a “live” moon-rise or glow, with the naming of a star for your sweetheart? (Stay tuned for P.K.’s 2013 Valentine’s Day special for those looking for that “unique” Valentine’s Day gift). But for now, for those who simply can’t take their sweetheart on a coastal drive or who maybe have a sweetheart long-distance, try webcamming together and visit some of the cam sites below for a treat to do together online. Try witnessing a sunrise together – in your pajamas; webcammin’ is the “in” thing whether it be from the tops of Mt. Tam. Whatever your desired view, we have it here for you:

Online – Name-a-Star with “Star-Namer” after your sweetheart for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion – starting at just $19.95 with all sorts of packages available.

Online – Register a star with “Online Star Register” for just $48.95 – either one will be a unique gift you won’t be able to resist for that special someone in your life.

Mount Hamilton – The hamcam at Mt. Hamilton is a great thing to check out anytime, from home or office – just to check out what’s going on in the sky from where you are

Mount Tamalpais – not only is this one place you’ll definitely want to go check out for a morning or afternoon hike if not for the beautiful view, the webcam is a neat thing, too

Mount Umunhum – There is also the famous Mount Umunhum live webcam, at the foothills of the valley (although not many know the name of the mountain – but it’s the one that everyone looks to when they want to see if there is any snow)

Lake Tahoe – The ever beautiful Lake Tahoe webcam is a must when it comes to live cams so naturally we included it; with a special inclusion toward the bottom of the same page of Heavenly and Yosemite, so enjoy!

Sunday, January 26, 2013

CampbellCampbell Farmer’s Market – That’s right folks, Campbell’s Farmer’s Market is still one of the best Farmer’s Market’s around; attended by thousands so meet your old friends or heck, why not meet some new ones. Purchase some plants or pick out some fresh fruits and veggies and let the kids walk off some useless energy before heading home to do that book report; soak up some sun or a few drops of rain and let that good energy form beneath whatever sun you can find – just enjoy a little family time. Held on Sundays in downtown Campbell from 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.; find everything from bread to soup to nuts-or whatever your needs for the week ahead, including live entertainment, taste-testing and shops open downtown – this is one market that just can’t be beat.

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Your home, with your sweetheart, televised – When was the last time you were a lounge lizard with your sweetheart and watched a little football? Get ready for 2013 and the NFC Championship game of the season when the San Francisco 49ers take on the Atlanta Falcons in Georgia. To be televised on Sunday, Jan. 20, at 3 p.m. on Fox (ET) and be sure to see P.K.'s article on the wager placed by two mayors regarding these two incredible teams; it is a great read. Although both teams deserve to be where they are today, I am a 49er faithful; go SF!

Sunday, January 27, 2013 – (event dates: Jan. 20 and Feb. 8)

Los Gatos – Festa Gioia with Italian gifts galore for the new “lucky” New Year 2013, and for the upcoming masquerade Ball to be held at Ria in Campbell; as well as for the St. Valentine’s Day festivities to be February 8 – don’t miss these exciting events that are not only colorful, exciting, lucky – but also joyful and not to be missed in this new year 2013.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

San Jose – Twirl beneath the lit palms of downtown San Jose, bring your own skates and get in for free – that’s right folks, at Downtown Ice beneath the palms on Tuesdays it’s BYOS “Bring Your Own Skates” night and admission is free night. Wednesday is college night (with college ID) and skate for $10 – and, the first 30 will receive a free coupon for a free donut at Psycho Donuts; now that’s a deal that can’t be beat. Also, Aloha Fridays – dress Hawaiian and skate for $10 (also register to win a Hawaiian getaway courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines and JW Marriotto Ihilani Resort. (See site for details.)

Thursday, January 31 and Friday & Saturday, February 1 & 2, 2013

San Francisco – Zinfandel Advocates and Producers Festival to be held on January 31 through February 2, 2013 so prepare for one of the best in town. Event will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday, January 31, February 1 & February 2, 2013, at the Fairmont Hotel at 960 Mason Street in San Francisco and at The Concourse located at 635 8th Street (at Brannan) in San Francisco. Make your reservations early for the best rates and availability.

A sneak peek into February 2013

San JoseDisney on Ice: Dare to Dream will be at San Jose’s HP Pavilion with an all new ice skating production of Disney On Ice magic and merriment of three productions in one with “Tangled,” “The Princess and the Frog,” and Cinderella.” A class of world skater spectacular performers combine modern-day princesses and princes with humor, adventure, amazing talents and romance to bring to life more than stories filled with the modern-day fairytale that audiences will expect – from the variety of tales filled with charm and excitement such as Rapunzel, Flynn and Maximus who embark on an hilarious journey going beyond the normal seek-and-find to Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen’s magical and musical adventure leading to a fateful kiss to fanciful dreams of Cinderalla and her prince charming and that all-too-familiar glass slipper that makes an unforgettable fairytale come true with all sorts of beauty, sparkle and spirit on the ice when Disney On Ice presents “Dare to Dream” in February 2013 at the HP Pavilion. Tickets: FR $80, VIP $50, $27 and $20 with some opening night seats available for $15 (not premium seating). Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000; tickets to be subject to additional fees.

February 2013

New Orleans – Not that there s much to prepare for with the SuperBowl XLVII, however, there’s always BBQ fixin’s, munchies, football jersey’s from the official NFL store – and so much more! Get your football gear and goodies now and be prepared because the Superbowl is almost here; and while we are on the subject, good luck SF 49ers!

February 2013 (Happy St. Valentine’s Day)

Those looking for a Disneyland adventure, it’s always a grand time for a weekend or week getaway – especially with St. Valentine’s just around the corner (ehem, gents – it’s always a grand time). Stay tuned for P.K.’s update on which Disneyland hotels, as well as which nearby hotels rate. Whether for the holidays, special occasions or anytime, Disneyland is your kind of place. Disneyland truly is the happiest place on earth with all its new attractions

Thursday, February 7, 2013(event time: from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 pm.)

Mountain ViewBig Wig Luncheon State of the City luncheon with Assembly member Rich Gordon, 24th District, for an informative discussion about California. This BigWig Luncheon and YIPEE State of the City/State event with will be held at Michael’s at Shoreline in Mountain View located at 2960 N. Shoreline Blvd. in Mountain View.

Friday, February 8, 2013

Campbell – The 18th Annual VIA Masquerade Ball to be held at Villa Ragusa in Campbell – event begins at 5:30 p.m. Shop for your mask at Gioia Company Italian Art & Products.

Sunday, February 10, 2013 – (please note date change for this event)

Los GatosFesta Gioia Open House Valentine Celebration from noon to 8 p.m. located at 16395 Roseleaf Court in Los Gatos. Jewelry, ceramic heart glass plates, inlaid wood boxes, glass hearts, gift boxes and so much more. Lunch and shop Italian-style. For Limoncello Making or Venetian Mask Making classes, contact Kathy at 1-408-640-6628. A glass of wine, a cup of tea and Gioia Italian Art & Products; a formula for a relaxing evening when you shop online at Gioia.

Saturday & Sunday, February 23 & February 24, 2012

Santa Clara – Don’t miss the 72nd Annual Camellia Show in Santa Clara at the Community Center located at 969 Kiely Blvd. in Santa Clara. Saturday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with over 70 exhibitors and 3000 bloom varieties, including miniature and dinner-plate size varieties. As a special bonus for this event, the Santa Clara Art Association will be participating with a horticultural-inspired art show with a variety of art on display at the Camellia Show. Don't miss this spectacular event co-sponsored by the Camellia Society of Santa Clara and Santa Clara Parks & Recreation. Admission is free.

“A kiss is but another way to find the shortest distance between two people.” –Unknown

‘Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” –William Shakespeare

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Stay tuned for more of the creative and behind-the-scene goodness as P.K. researches, unfolds and shares a little of that sweetness with everyone you know for what will be a spectacular year (and we all know it will be). And remember, support the arts, music and education as it feeds the brain and calms the soul; and as we strive to balance life by opening our hearts to new experiences by staying tuned to the Examiner.com you’ll be able to find even more ways to stay healthy, alternatively-wealthy and wise. Stay tuned for much more excitement to come in 2013.

Answer to last week’s “Mystery Photo”: Last week’s Mystery Photo was two butterflies, almost as if one butterfly was facing a mirror; or two butterflies were in the photo, one upside down to the other as if mating or kissing. The answer, in the spirit of St. Valentine's Day that is just around the corner, is that since we were told that these two precious butterflies were kissing and just about to mate, either answer would be acceptable. The photo was taken at the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers and it is such a beautiful place that all of the animals, medium or small, were in a heavenly, serene state. So, in the spirit of their serenity, may you all be holding a smile.

This week's Mystery Photo: Hint: It's on the side of a building, visible from the street, and at a place that was once very busy and only about the driving distance of about hour from San Jose (did we give it away?)

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, San Jose Events Examiner

P.K. has been a journalist and editor for over 17 years, has pursued multiple careers in journalism, high-tech marketing, real estate and has written two books: A volume of poetry and a guide to self-publishing. P.K. is an advocate of truth, traditions and unconventional philosophy, with an even...

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