Recreation | Almaden Valley Real Estate & Therese Swan – Almaden’s #1 Realtor 2011, 2010, 2009

Cindy Art Studio 2011 Summer Art Classes

March 19, 2011 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Summer Art Classes are back! In addition to its regular weekly art classes, Cindy Art Studio is offering special 3-day Summer Art Classes for children ages 4 and older. Choose the week and medium that suits you!

You can choose from a variety of art mediums that interest your child, including pencil, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, and oil.

Summer Art Classes are at Cindy Art Studio. There are ten 3-day Summer classes to choose from. The classes begin June 6, 2011 and end August 12, 2011. Classes are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 3:30–5:00pm or 5:00–6:30pm.

The price is $100 per student per week (1 week consists of 3 classes, including supplies). If you do not want to commit to three classes in a week, you can opt to take any one class at a time. The fee is $35 per class. Enroll now!

Filed Under: Kids, Recreation Tagged With: Cindy Art Studio, Summer Art Classes Almaden

Spring 2011 Wildflower Scavenger Hunt in Almaden Quicksilver County Park

February 21, 2011 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

photo: Wildflower Scavenger Hunt - Almaden Quicksilver

Photo by Jason Hollinger

New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association is holding its annual Wildflower Scavenger Hunt.

Join Docent Kitty Monahan and Friends of New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association as they take you on a wildflower scavenger hunt in beautiful Quicksilver Park.

This outdoor hunt for flowery delights will take you through various stations at Jacque Ridge along Wood Road Trail in Almaden Quicksilver Park.

The meeting location is at the Wood Road Trail parking lot. The event is Saturday, April 9, 2011 from 10am to 12pm.

The event is free. Registration is required. You can register online. For more information call 408-355-2240 or view the flier.

Filed Under: Family, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Wildflowers, Kitty Monahan, Parks, Quicksilver Wildflowers, Wildflower Scavenger Hunt

Spring 2011 Activity Guide for Almaden Community Center

February 16, 2011 By Therese Swan 1 Comment

logo: Almaden Community Center Activity Guide San Jose Parks Recreation & Neighborhood Services has released its City Wide Activity Guide for Spring 2011.

The Activity Guide includes all of the programs and classes planned for the Almaden Community Center in Spring 2011.

Almaden Valley residents have a variety of activities from which to choose. There’s something for everyone – from toddlers to seniors.

Choose from arts and crafts, camps, dance, early childhood recreation, education and enrichment, health and fitness, music, sports leagues and drop-ins, cooking, specialty programs, senior programs and events, and family events.

Registration for Spring 2011 activities begins on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 10am. You can register online.

Filed Under: Kids, Recreation, Seniors, Teens Tagged With: Almaden Community Center, Almaden Community Center Activity Guide, Music

Learn the Art and Science of Professional Trail Work in Almaden Quicksilver Park

February 9, 2011 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

logo: Almaden Quicksilver Park Help the expert County Parks Trail Crew with new trail construction, tread work, and brushing.

Work along some of the most beautiful and pristine trails in Santa Clara Valley while learning the art and science of professional trail work. No special skills are required but the work may be moderately strenuous.

This volunteer work day will focus on brushing trails near the Mockingbird entrance of the Almaden Quicksilver Park. Tools, work gloves, and snacks will be provided. Please bring your own water bottle, which we can refill for you.

The mission of the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department is to provide, protect, and preserve regional park lands for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations.

This event is at the Mockingbird entrance of Almaden Quicksilver County Park on Saturday, February 12, 2011, from 9:15am to 11:30am. RSVP online.

View the Almaden Quicksilver Historic Trail Guide.

Filed Under: Community, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Quicksilver County Park, Almaden Quicksilver Park, Almaden Trail Day, Almaden Trails, Parks

Hanley’s Chess Academy Holding Chess Tournament for Kids in Almaden Valley

January 29, 2011 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Photo by Adam NFK Smith

Hanley’s Chess Academy is holding a Scholastic Chess Tournament for Kids in Almaden Valley.

The tournament is a Quad format. Players are listed from highest to lowest based on rating. The top 4 are placed in Quad 1, the next highest 4 in Quad 2, and so on.

Participants play one game against each player in their Quad for a total of 3 games each. The time control for each game is G/40 with a 5 second delay. Trophies are awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners in each quad.

The tournament is at Round Table Pizza (1159 Redmond Ave) in Almaden Valley on February 12, 2011 from 5pm to 9pm. The price to participate in this tournament is $28 for each player, which includes tournament play and a kid’s pizza meal (pizza and drink).

All participants must also be members of United States Chess Federation (USCF). The price for this membership is $25 annually.

The USCF membership entitles your child to play in any tournament he/she wishes. Each child will earn an official rating and receive the bi-monthly USCF magazine, which includes articles, pictures, and stories about youth chess tournaments throughout the USA.

You can register online for the chess tournament and USCF membership.

Filed Under: Kids, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Chess Club, Almaden Chess Tournament, Chess, Hanley's Chess Academy, United States Chess Federation

Winter 2011 Open House Schedule for Almaden Valley Child Development Centers (CDCs)

December 29, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

logo: Almaden Valley Child Development Centers Almaden Valley Child Development Centers (CDCs) are holding open house for the new year. CDC programs offer before and after school educational and recreational opportunities for school age children.

Child Development Centers aim to enrich the lives of children through quality, accredited child development programs that support emergent curriculum based on the child’s learning style, temperament, and needs. CDCs put children at the center of an interconnected circle of families, teachers, and the community.

Almaden Senior Program 2011 Trip Schedule

December 27, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Almaden Senior Program has a number of domestic and international trips planned for 2011, including South Pacific, Copper Canyon, Canadian Rockies, and the Nile. These trips are a wonderful and hassle-free way to see the world with your significant other and/or friends.

Sustainable Home Vegetable Gardening in Almaden Valley

November 25, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

logo: Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County Gardening year round is easy and rewarding in our mild climate here in Almaden Valley. Learn from Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County how to have a successful, environmentally responsible food garden that provides delicious vegetables and herbs every month of the year.

This course stresses sustainable gardening practices such as mulching, efficient watering methods, on-site composting, integrated pest management, and use of organic fertilizers and soil amendments.

This six-week course is taught by Bette Lloyd, Master Gardener. The class meets at the Almaden Community Center on Saturdays, January 22 – February 26, 2011, from 10am-12pm. Register online or by calling 408-268-1133. The price is $70 per person.

Filed Under: Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Valley, Gardening, Home Gardening, Master Gardeners, Sustainable Gardening, Vegetable Gardening

North Pole Party in Almaden Valley

November 20, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Photo by Ian Muttoo.

Make the holidays extra special for your kids with a fun-filled party in winter wonderland.

The party will include singing, art activities, food, and a special gift from the North Pole. The party is for children ages 4-7.

The North Pole Party is at the Almaden Community Center on Monday, December 6, 2010, from 5-7pm.

Filed Under: Kids, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Community Center, Christmas Party, North Pole Party

Star Party and Heavenly Story Time in Almaden Valley

November 14, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Photo by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center

Join the San Jose Astronomical Association for Stories Under the Stars and Star Party.

From the stargazing station telescopes, see Jupiter, Ring Nebula, Great Global Cluster in Hercules, Coathanger, Albireo, and other show objects of the autumn sky.

The event is at the Almaden Library and Community Center on Tuesday, November 16, 2010, from 5:30-8:00pm. Story time starts at 5:30pm, followed by the star party at 6:00pm. For more information, call 408-808-3040.

Check out the star party etiquette and helpful tips. You can also subscribe to Ephemeris, San Jose Astronomical Association’s monthly newsletter.

Filed Under: Family, Kids, Recreation, Teens Tagged With: Almaden Star Party, Stories Under the Stars

Winter 2011 Almaden Community Center Activity Guide

November 14, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

photo: Almaden Community Center Activity Guide San Jose Parks Recreation & Neighborhood Services has released its Citywide Activity Guide for Winter 2011. The guide includes all of the activities planned for the Almaden Community Center.

Almaden Valley residents have a variety of activities to choose from, including the following: arts and crafts, camps, dance, early childhood recreation, education and enrichment, health and fitness, music and theater, sports leagues and drop-ins, cooking, specialty programs, senior programs and events, and family events.

Registration begins Saturday, December 11, 2010. Programs and classes begin the week of January 18, 2011. Download the guide and register online.

View the most recent Almaden Community Center Activity Guide.

Filed Under: Family, Kids, Recreation, Seniors, Teens Tagged With: Almaden Community Center, Almaden Community Center Activity Guide, Almaden Community Center Summer Camps, Music

3rd Annual / 2010 “Almaden Valley’s Run, Turkey, Run!” – Fun Runs and Shoe Drive

October 27, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

logo: Almaden Valley's Run, Turkey, Run!
Join Almaden Valley’s Run, Turkey, Run! on Thanksgiving Day for its annual fun run and shoe drive benefiting Soles4Souls. The race features 5K and 10K courses, with a combined start. Walkers are also welcome!

Registration for the event is free. Participants are asked to donate a pair of new or gently worn shoes for those in need. Shoe donations will be accepted from 7:30 to 10:30am on race day. Tax deductible donations are also accepted; all proceeds benefit Soles4Souls.

Almaden Valley’s Run, Turkey, Run! is a non-profit organization established by a group of Almaden Valley residents to foster community commitment to personal health and welfare, and community involvement and giving.

Almaden Valley’s Run, Turkey, Run! event offers sponsorship opportunities to local businesses, and volunteer opportunities to anyone who wishes to support the cause. Contact AVRTR at avrtr10k@gmail.com for more information about sponsoring or volunteering for the event.

The race starts at Leland High School on Thursday, November 25, 2010, from 8:30-10:30am. Bibs must be picked up prior to race start; they will not be mailed. Bib pick-up starts at 7:30am.

We hope to see you on race day! You can register online. Almaden Valley’s Run, Turkey, Run! is also on facebook.

Filed Under: Fundraisers, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden 10K, Almaden Valley 10K, Almaden Valley 5K, Almaden Valley Fundraisers, Almaden Valley Thanksgiving Day Run, Almaden Valley's Run Turkey Run!, Run, Soles4Souls

UNWINED Wine Tour to Napa Valley Wineries

October 16, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Join Cesar from UNWINED for a tour of select Napa Valley wineries. You will go by bus to a variety of wineries, including Alpha Omega, Silver Oak, Turnbull Wine Cellars, and V. Sattui Winery.

The wine tour is Saturday, November 6, 2010, from 10am to 6pm. Meet in the parking lot at UNWINED in Almaden Valley.

Breakfast will be provided prior to the bus departure, which will be at 10:30am. Lunch will be available for purchase at the V. Sattui Winery.

The price is $75 per person. Wine tasting fees are an additional $15-$20 at each winery and applied towards any wine purchase. Register online to reserve your seats (the tour bus accommodates 54 passengers).

Filed Under: Recreation Tagged With: Napa Valley Wine Tour, UNWINED, UNWINED Wine Tour, Wine, Wine Tasting

Dandia Raas Night – Ethnic Folk Dance

October 12, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Photo: Dandia Raas Night Dancers Go to Dandia Raas Night for an enchanting evening of ethnic folk dance. Dandia is a high energy group dance from India that is rhythmic and fun for everyone. Beginner instruction will be available. Adults and children are welcome.

This fundraiser event is presented by Leland Parent Club. All proceeds go to Leland High School academic enrichment programs, capital improvements, and student equipment and supplies.

The event is at Leland High School on Saturday, October 16, 2010, from 8-11pm. The price is $15 per person. Children under 3 are free. See the flier for more information.

Filed Under: Fundraisers, Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Dance, Almaden Dancing, Almaden Valley Fundraisers, Dance, Dandia Raas Night

Memoir Writing Class in Almaden Valley

October 11, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Photo by matsuyuki (Toshiyuki Imai)

Learn how to write your memoir. Attend a creative memoir writing class to learn useful techniques that will help you identify memories of pivotal events and moments in your life. Preserve your personal stories on paper for yourself and to share with future generations of your family. The class is for adults age 50 and older.

The Memoir Writing class is at the Almaden Community Center, AL Room 4. The class meets every Monday beginning November 15, 2010 and ending December 13, 2010, from 10:30am – 12:00pm. The price is only $34. Three ways to register: online, at the community center, or mail or fax the registration form.

Filed Under: Recreation, Seniors Tagged With: Almaden Memoir Writing Class, Almaden Valley Writing Class

Drawing & Painting for Teens in Almaden Valley

October 9, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Line drawing in sanguine by Leonardo da Vinci

Drawing & Painting for Teens is focused on developing specific skills in representational drawing and painting. Participants will learn through teacher demonstrations, individual instruction, and class critiques.

You will get to choose from acrylic paints, water-soluble oils, and drawing instruments and materials. Each student will also use his or her own choice of subject-matter photos, pictures, etc. to use for inspiration.

You will gain confidence to take on greater challenges in painting or drawing, so you can go on to produce great works of art!

The class is for teens ages 13-18. All levels of experience are welcome. The instructor is Nancy Franck.

Drawing & Painting for Teens is at Almaden Community Center in AL Room 3. Class will be held every Thursday, from 4:30-6:00pm, beginning November 16, 2010 and ending December 21, 2010 (6 meetings). The price is $88 per participant. Register online.

Filed Under: Recreation, Teens Tagged With: Almaden Teens, Art, Arts & Crafts, Drawing, Painting, Teen

2010 Pioneer Day & Casa Grande Re-Opening in New Almaden

October 3, 2010 By Therese Swan 1 Comment

Bring the whole family for a day of fun at Pioneer Day in New Almaden. Enjoy food, games, history, and speeches from officials.

The event will also celebrate the grand re-opening of the newly renovated Casa Granda, an historical landmark built in 1854, and now home to the New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum. The event is free. Lunch and gifts will be available for purchase.

Pioneer Day will be at the Casa Grande in New Almaden on Saturday, November 13, 2010, from 11am to 3pm. The event is being held by the New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association.

Updated December 29, 2010: Photos of Casa Grande Reopening on November 13, 2010.

Filed Under: Family, Kids, Recreation Tagged With: Casa Grande New Almaden, Casa Grande Reopening, NAQCPA, New Almaden Quicksilver County Park Association, New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, Parks, Pioneer Day New Almaden

Learn How to Use Facebook at Almaden Valley Branch Library

September 6, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

Learn how to use Facebook to connect and share with the people in your life. You will learn how to create a Facebook account, setup your Facebook profile, and begin using Facebook’s networking features. (You just need to have an email account and be familiar with how to use a computer keyboard and mouse.)

The class is at the Almaden Branch Library Technology Center on Saturday, September 11, 2011, from 11am to 12pm. Pre-registration is required. To register, call the Almaden Branch Library at 408-808-3040, or go to the front desk inside the Almaden Community Center.

Filed Under: Recreation Tagged With: Almaden Computer Classes, Almaden Computer Training Center, Almaden Internet Training

2nd Annual Leland High School Charger Invitational Golf Tournament

September 5, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

The Leland High School Booster Club is holding its 2nd Annual Charger Invitational Golf Tournament.

The tournament format is a four-person scramble with a shotgun start. The event features golf, tee prizes, lunch, on-course games and refreshments, raffle, silent auction, and awards dinner.

The event is at Santa Teresa Golf Club on Friday, September 24, 2010, beginning at 1pm. You can register online.

Filed Under: Fundraisers, Recreation, Sports Tagged With: Charger Invitational Golf Tournament, Golf, Leland Golf Tournament

Floral Demonstration to Feature Bloomster’s Kren Rasmussen

April 20, 2010 By Therese Swan Leave a Comment

[photo: bloomster's floral designs] Martino Interiors is hosting a floral demonstration event at its studio in Los Gatos. The event will feature Kren Rasmussen, founder of Bloomster’s Floral Designs in Almaden Valley. The event is free.

Kren will show you how to create striking floral arrangements and combine them with home accessories, creating beautiful vignettes and centerpieces.

Bloomster’s has been in Almaden Valley for more than 20 years, assisting interior designers with their floral and plant design projects, and providing unique floral designs and personal service to residents in Almaden Valley and the entire Bay Area.

The floral demonstration event is at Martino Interiors in Los Gatos on May 6, 2010 at 10:30am. Reservations are requested as seating is limited. To reserve your spot, call 408-354-9111 or email info@martinointeriors.com.

Filed Under: Recreation, Services Tagged With: Almaden Valley, Bloomster's Floral Design, Bloomster's in Almaden Valley, Floral Designs, Florist, Interior Designs, Kren Rasmussen Bloomster's, Martino Interiors

Almaden Valley Realtor, Therese Swan, specializes in Almaden Valley homes and real estate. She been the #1 Almaden Valley Real Estate Agent for 2011, 2010, and 2009. During each of these years she has sold more Almaden Valley houses than any other agent. This includes both the total number of homes sold and total dollar volume when measured per individual real estate agent. This website will help you learn about the Almaden Valley real estate market in order to buy and sell Almaden Valley homes.