Calendar

OVO by Cirque du Soleil - Feb. 4 thru Mar 21, 2010

Check the listings below for more details. 

 

Downtowner Online

New This Week

February 3-9, 2010

Contents

Featured Events

South First Fridays gallery crawl free for everyone – this Friday

Explore the SoFA district, downtown’s hub of art and creativity, this first Friday of the month.  Meet people and appreciate art in an inviting environment. Galleries along South First Street from San Carlos to Reed streets and along Market Street open their doors late with exhibit receptions, readings, performances, live music and more.  Use a pedicab to get around. 8 pm-late.  Free, South First Street, various locations.  www.southfirstfridays.com

Make downtown your Super Bowl XLIV headquarters this Sunday

Come watch the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts battle it out during this year’s Super Bowl XLIV.  Several sports bars downtown such as Britannia Arms and San Jose Bar and Grill will show the game on a big screen, offer drink and food specials and much more.  The game starts at 3:25 pm.  For complete listing of restaurant downtown visit www.sjdowntown.com/Dining.html

Valentine’s Day is next Sunday, Feb. 14

There’s nothing better than treating your sweetie to a nice dinner in downtown San Jose, where there are bunches of romantic choices, along with good food, and service.  Paolo’s, The Grill, A Perfect Finish, Morton’s and others have special events planned for lovers. Check www.sjdowntown.com/Dining.html for names, places and phone numbers. We’ll have a more complete list next week. 

Cirque du Soleil comes to town with “Ovo” – starting Thursday

Always a family treat, and always loved.  Grand Chapiteau at Taylor Street Bridge and Highway 87.  More details below.  www.cirquedusoleil.com

This week’s events

Stage and Concerts

Wednesday – Comedy at the Improv: Chicano Kings of Comedy – The lineup includes Chris Storin, Ricky Del Rosario, Big Al Gonzalez, Butch Escobar, Big Worm and Fernando Soltero.  8 pm.  62 S.  Second St.  $12, 280-7475 or www.symfonee.com/Improv/sanjose/home/index.aspx

Thursday-Sunday through Feb. 21 – City Lights Theater presents “Dead Man Walking” – Tim Robbins' adaptation of the Academy Award winning film about what justice really looks like and what it means to find redemption.  8 pm Thurs-Sat; 2 pm or 7 pm Sun.  529 S. Second St.  $15-$40, 295-4200 or www.cltc.org 

Thursday-Saturday – Comedy at the Improv presents Jim Jeffries – Jeffries has performed at several comedy festivals and has appeared in comedy shows on HBO and Comedy Central.  8 pm Thurs; 8 pm and 10 pm Fri; 7 pm and 9 pm Sat.  62 S.  Second St.  $15-$17, 280-7475 or www.symfonee.com/Improv/sanjose/home/index.aspx

Thursday-Sunday, Tuesday through Mar. 7 – Cirque du Soleil’s “OVO” – OVO tells the tale of a mysterious egg that magically appears before a group of insects full of life, love energy and curiosity.  The show highlights the physical demands of human performance. 8 pm Thurs-Fri and Tues; 4 pm and 8 pm Sat; 1 pm and 5 pm Sun.  Grand Chapiteau at Taylor Street Bridge and Highway 87. $42-$125, www.cirquedusoleil.com

Thursday- Sunday through Feb. 20 – The Tabard Theatre Company presents “Hold on to Love” – A comedy by James M. Barrie about life’s second chances.  8 pm Thurs-Fri; 3 pm and 8 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun.  Theatre on San Pedro Square, 29 N. San Pedro St. $35, www.tabardtheatre.org 

Friday-Saturday – ComedySportz – See competitive improvisational teams perform. Fri, 9 pm (family friendly) and 11 pm (adult-oriented).  Sat, 7 pm and 9 pm (both family friendly). Camera 3 Theater, 288 S. Second St.  $7-$15. 985-5233 or www.national-comedy.com

Friday – Valentine’s Super Love Jam – Oldies concert.  7:30 pm.  HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $23-$35, www.ticketmaster.com

Saturday-Sunday through Feb. 21 – Opera SJ presents “The Marriage of Figaro – Lust collides with love through a series of hilarious deceptions, famous melodies, and a richly varied and beautiful score.  8 pm Sat; 3 pm Sun.  California Theatre, 345 S. First St.  $51-$91, 437-4450 or www.operasj.org

Saturday-Sunday – Arclight Rep of San Jose presents “Persimmons in Winter” – World premiere presentation by Korean-American playwright Vivian Sung Soon Keh about two Korean sisters who find their love and friendship challenged by the brutality of war and poverty.  8 pm Thurs-Sat; 2 pm Sun.  MACLA, 510 S. First St.  $15-$25, www.arclightrep.org

Saturday – “Ridin' Through That Rainbow” A Tribute to Burt Lancaster – Steven Earl Oliver, an award-winning actor and playwright, presents a tribute of Lancaster’s life and acting roles through humor and passion.  8 pm.  Montgomery Theater, 271 S. Market St.  $26-$29, 792-4111 or http://sanjose.org

Sunday – Haiti Benefit Concert at SJSU – The event will feature San Francisco Symphony guest performers with SJSU faculty members and students.  Parking fees will be waived at SJSU's Seventh Street Garage.  7:30 pm.  SJSU Music Concert Hall, One Washington Square.  Free – but donations will be accepted, www.facebook.com/SJSU4Haiti

Monday – Comedy Night at The Brit – Various local comics.  173 W. Santa Clara St.   278-1400 www.britanniaarmsdowntown.com

Tuesday – Will Durst: American Political Satirist – An evening of common sense ranting and comedy by Will Durst author of “The All American Sport of Bipartisan.”  7 pm.  Historic Hoover Theatre, 1635 Park Ave.  $10-$15, tickets.commonwealthclub.org

More Live Music 

Wednesday-Sunday and Tuesday – Live music at Smoke Tiki Lounge – Wed: Local musicians (6:30 pm).  Thurs: House Party (9:30 pm).  Fri: Soulful hip hop (9:30 pm).  Sat: DJ’s (9:30 pm).  Sun: Hazy Sundays House Party (5 pm) Tues: Local musicians (6:30 pm).  152 Post St.  292-4266 or www.smoketiki.com

Wednesday-Sunday – Live music at Poor House Bistro – Wed: Ron Thompson and Friends (6-9 pm).  Thurs: Lara Price and Yesterdays Band (6-9 pm).  Fri: Chris Cain Band (7:15-10 pm).  Sat: Kid Anderson Band (6-10 pm).  Sun: Zydeco Voodoo Revival “Preview Superbowl Party” (Noon-6 pm).  91 S.  Autumn St.  Free, 292-5837 or www.poorhousebistro.com

Wednesday, Friday-Sunday – Live music at Morocco’s Restaurant – Wed: Open Mic night for the strings family of instruments.  Fri: Rumba and Flamenco Concert Dinner.  Sat: World Music Night.  Sun: Moroccan Music Night.  5 pm.  86 N.  Market St.  Free, www.moroccosrestaurant.com

Wednesday, Friday-Saturday and Tuesday – Music at the Blank Club – Wed: Worker Bee, By Sunlight and Ugly Winner ($5).  Fri: This Charming Band and Sing Blue Silver ($10).  Sat: Cash’d Out and Preaching to the Animals ($10).   Tues: Scott H. Biram, S-kickers and The Dirt Daubers ($8).  9 pm Wed, Fri-Sat; 8 pm Tues.  44 S. Almaden Ave.  292-5265 or www.theblankclub.com

Thursday-Saturday – Jazz at the Hedley Lounge – Thurs: Russo Alberts Trio (8-11 pm).  Fri: Primary Colors (8:30 pm-12:30 am).  Sat: Brian Ho Trio (8:30 pm-12:30 am).  Hedley Lounge, inside Hotel De Anza, 233 W. Santa St.  Free, 286-1000 or www.hoteldeanza.com

Thursday-Saturday – A Perfect Finish Wine and Dessert Bar – Various artists.  8:30 pm Thurs; 9 pm Fri-Sat.  55 S. First St.  Free, 288-6000 or www.apfwinebar.com

Thursday – Live Jazz at the Loft Bar and Bistro – Various artists.  7-10 pm.  90 S. Second St.  Free, 291-0677 or www.loftbarandbistro.com

Thursday – Music at Voodoo Lounge – Various artists.  9 pm.  14 S.  Second St. 286-8636 or www.voodooloungesj.com

Thursday – Live music: Open Mic at Iguanas Burritozilla – Come check out local musicians perform a wide range of music while enjoying a burrito, taco, nacho fries or other Mexican favorites.  Plus, feed your appetite by taking the Burritozilla challenge. 9 pm.  330 S. Third St.  271-9772 or www.burritozilla.com 

Thursday – Live Music at The Brit – Various artists.  173 W. Santa Clara St.   278-1400 www.britanniaarmsdowntown.com

Friday-Saturday – Live Music at Temple Bar and Lounge – Various artists.   52 S. First St. Free, templebarlounge.com

Friday-Saturday and Tuesday – Live music at Caffe Trieste – Fri: Opera San Jose (8 pm).  Sat: Emperor Norton's Jazz Band.  Tues: Open Mic (2 for 1 Peronis).  Also, drop in at lunch you may find someone singing or playing piano.  315 S. First St.  Free, 287-0400 or www.caffetriestesj.com

Fridays – Live Jazz Music at Hawgs Seafood Bar – Various artists.  8 pm.  150 Second St.  Free, 287-9955 or www.hawgsseafood.com

Saturday – Live music at South First Billiards – Various artists.  420 S. First St.  294-7800 or www.sofapool.com

Sunday and Tuesday – Music at O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub – Traditional Irish Seisun, toe-tapping music.  5 pm.  25 N. San Pedro St.  Free, 947-8007 or www.oflahertyspub.com

Monday-Saturday – Live music at the Fairmont’s Lobby Lounge – Mon: Solo Grand Piano (8-11 pm).  Tues: Dueling Grand Pianos (8:30-11 pm).  Wed: The Girlz Band (8:30-11 pm).  Thurs: Contemporary or Latin Jazz (8:30-11:30 pm). Fri-Sat: Cocktail Hour Light Piano (5-7 pm) Weekly scheduled bands playing Jazz and Pop Dance hits (9 pm-Midnight).  Fri: Free Dance Lessons (8:30-9 pm).  The Fairmont San Jose, 170 S. Market St.  998-3909 or www.fairmont.com/sanjose

Monday – Philz Coffee “Open Mic” – 6:30 pm. 118 Paseo de San Antonio, Free, www.philzcoffee.com

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Miscellaneous events

Daily through Apr. 11 – The Tech Museum of Innovation presents “Star Trek...The Exhibition” – The exhibit includes an authentic replica of the bridge from the U.S.S Enterprise NCC-1701, as featured in the original Star Trek television series. It also contains the trifecta of the Star Trek universe: a tricorder; a phaser, and a communicator - all from the original series. Visitors will have a chance to ride through a Star Trek adventure in a full-motion flight simulator and to see the actual shooting model for the Borg Cube.  Exhibit Hours: 10 am-5 pm Mon-Wed; 10 am-6 pm Thurs; 10 am-8 pm Fri-Sat; 10 am-6 pm Sun. 180 Park Ave. $13-$25, www.thetech.org/StarTrek

Wednesday – Law Foundation of Silicon Valley: Open House – Join the Law Foundation as they celebrate their new location with refreshments, hors d’oeurves and entertainment.  5-7 pm.  152 N. Third St.  Third Floor.  www.lawfoundation.org

Wednesday – Karaoke Night at the Dive Bar – Bring all your friends to enjoy drink specials and karaoke all night.  Plus, have the chance to win cash prizes.  9 pm-1 am.  78 E. Santa Clara St.  Free, 288-5252 or sjdivebar.com

Wednesdays – Learn to salsa at Agenda Lounge – Receive free salsa lessons and stay after class and practice what you learned with live music, DJ and dancing.  8 pm. 399 S. First St. Free.  287-3991 or www.agendarestaurant.com

Wednesdays – Learn how to dance Ballet Folklorico at MACLA – Los Laureles dance group teaches you the art of Folkloric dancing.  Ages 4-12: 5-7 pm; Ages 13+: 7-9 pm. 510 S. First St.  Free, 649-1968 or www.maclaarte.org

Thursdays – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. library tours – The library has more than 1.5 million items in its collections, plus nice views, California and local history collections, the Beethoven and Steinbeck centers, and more than 30 pieces of public art.  Free docent tours are available every Thursday.  Even some of the bathroom fixtures are artistic.  11:30 am.  150 E. San Fernando St. Free, 808-2181 or www.sjlibrary.org

Fridays – Learn how to salsa at Miami Beach Club – Bring your friends, family or love one and learn how to salsa.  9 pm.  417 S. First St.  Free, 242-9621 or www.yourmiamibeachclub.com

Saturday – Pride and Passion: Freedom March– Demonstrate support for the ideals of Dr. King and for achieving social change using non-violent methods.  Noon-2 pm.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E. San Fernando St.  Fourth St. Lobby.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Saturday – Pride and Passion: Civil Rights Resource Fair – A gathering of civil rights and social service agencies share information on available community resources.  11 am-3 pm.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E. San Fernando St.  Fourth St. Lobby.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Sundays – Japantown Farmer’s Market – A year-round market of produce and hand-made goods.  8:30 am-noon.  Jackson St. between Sixth and Seventh Streets. Free, 298-4303

Tuesday-Friday – Tour Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph – Learn from docents about California’s oldest parish, downtown centerpiece and national historic landmark.  One-hour tours occur from 1-3 pm.  Market and San Fernando Streets. Free, 283-8100

Tuesdays – Learn the art of Aztec dancing at MACLA – This class will teach you the art of Aztec dancing, indigenous culture and at the same time provide you with a great workout.  All ages welcomed.  7-9 pm.  510 S.  First St.  Free, 649-1968 or www.maclaarte.org

Tuesdays – SoFA Sharks Pool School – Enjoy a free one-hour lesson on a Simmons Professional felt 9 ft. Olhausen pool table by Edgar "El Matador."  7 pm.  South First Billiards, 420 S. First St. Free, www.sofapool.com

Film

At Camera 12  

 “Avatar” (in RealD and 3D), “The Book of Eli,” “Broken Embraces (Los Abrazos Rotos),” “Crazy Heart,” “Creation,” “Edge of Darkness,” “Extraordinary Measures,” “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus,” “It’s Complicated,” “Leap Year,” “Legion,” “The Lovely Bones,” “Nine,” “Precious,” “Sherlock Holmes,” “Tooth Fairy,” “Up in the Air,” “When in Rome,” “The White Ribbon (Das Weisse Band)” and “Youth in Revolt.”  

At Camera 3

“Broken Embraces (Los Abrazos Rotos),” “Creation” and “Nine.”

Camera 12 is at Paseo de San Antonio and South Second Street. Camera 3 is at 288 S. Second St. Admission:  $10 general, $7.50 students with current ID, $7 matinees, and $6.75 seniors 63+ and children 12 and under (10 movies for $60 discount card also available).  For show times: www.cameracinemas.com

At the IMAX at The Tech Museum of Innovation:  

Now Playing: “Lewis and Clark,” “Space Station,” “Star Trek” and “Under the Sea.”  The IMAX Theatre is located inside the Tech Museum at 201 S. Market St.  $8, tickets include admission to the museum. Go to www.thetech.org for complete show times and ticket prices.

Kids

Wednesday-Friday and Tuesday – Drop-in Theatre Workshops – Wed and Fri: Move to the Music.  Thurs and Tues: Let’s Improvise. 11 am.  Children’s Discovery Museum, 180 Woz Way.  Free with admission, 298-5437 or www.cdm.org

Wednesday, Friday and Tuesday – Joyce Ellington Library Story Time –  Bring the family to a fun and interactive story time and listen to classic stories as well as new ones in Spanish and English.  5:30 pm Wed; 10:30 am Fri; 5 pm Tues.   491 E. Empire St.  Free, 808-3043 or www.sjlibrary.org

Thursdays – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library presents “Studio 150” – Join the King Library Children's Room for exciting art activities every Thursday. Children, teens and their families are welcome.   4-5 pm.  150 E. San Fernando St. Children's Room, First Floor.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Friday – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library presents Friday Fun – Join the King Library every Friday for fun activities for children and their families.  4-5 pm.  150 E. San Fernando St., Exploration Room, Mezzanine.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Sunday – San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles: Kids Create – Celebrate culture through story and a hands-on art projects for children ages 5-10. Reservations required. This month’s theme: Super Sewing: Recycle jeans pockets and learn a stitch or two. 11 am-12:30 pm and 2-3:30 pm. 520 S. First St.  $7.50, 971-0323 or www.sjquiltmuseum.org

Sunday – Trinity Children’s Choir – Come and sing, laugh, learn new songs, and make new friends.  Ages 5 and up.  After the service.  Trinity Cathedral, 81 N. Second St. Free, 293-7953 or www.trinitysj.com

Tuesdays – Joyce Ellington Library: Chess Class – Learn Chess strategies and tactics on how to play Chess and then challenge others.  Ages 5 and up.  6 pm.   491 E. Empire St.  Free, 808-3043 or www.sjlibrary.org

Sports

www.sjdowntown.com/Parks_Recreation.html#sports

Monday-Tuesday through Feb. 14 – SAP Open 2010 – Features some of tennis’s greatest players such as Hewitt, Verdasco, Roddick, Sampras, Haas and more.  Don’t miss the action.  9:45 am and 7 pm Mon-Tues and Feb. 10-11; 11 am and 7 pm Feb 12; 1 pm and 7 pm Feb. 13; 1 pm Feb. 14. HP Pavilion, 525 W. Santa Clara St.  $20-$112 (Look for Downtowner Online Special below), www.ticketmaster.com or www.sapopentennis.com

Downtowner Online Special: SAP Open Sideline Box Seats discounted on Feb 8, 10 and 13

Get almost 40% off tickets to see Pete Sampras, Andy Roddick or the tournament semi-finals.  SAP Open – HP Pavilion; Feb. 8-14 – www.SAPOpentennis

Must-see tennis!  The 2010 SAP Open promises to be one of the greatest events in the tournament's 121-year history.  Tennis superstar Andy Roddick brings his 27 singles titles to San Jose, along with Australia's two-time Grand Slam winner Lleyton Hewitt, Spanish sensation and #9 in the world Fernando Verdasco, world's former #2 Tommy Haas, reigning champion and #12 ranked Radek Stepanek, #20 ranked Tomas Berdych, the Bryan Brothers, Mardy Fish, Sam Querry - plus a Monday night charity exhibition match between the legendary Pete Sampras and Fernando Verdasco. 

$48 Sideline Box Seats (regularly $78 Weekday / $91 weekend)

To purchase, click any of the following links and use the password: SJTENNIS in the “Special Offers” box then go to bottom of page and click “Find Tickets.”

Monday, February 8 – 7PM – Pete Sampras vs. Fernando Verdasco in a Charity Exhibition followed by another Featured Main Draw Match ticketmaster.com

Wednesday, February 10 – 7PM – Featuring Andy Roddick (1st Round Singles match) followed by Fernando Verdasco (1st Round Singles match) ticketmaster.com

Saturday, February 13 – 7PM – Tournament Semi-Final #1 ticketmaster.com

Discount available through February 7.

Classes, conferences, meetings and workshops

Classes at the San Jose Entrepreneur Center

84 W. Santa Clara St., Suite 100.  www.acteva.com/go/ecenter

Other classes, workshops, conference

Daily:  Financial Knowledge Institute employee financial workshops – The Financial Knowledge Institute, a 501c3 non-profit organization, holds free on-site employee educational workshops on personal financial matters at downtown area businesses. Call 866-734-8465 or visit www.financialknowledgeinstitute.org

Weekly through Mar. 1 – SJ Chamber: Two great ways to build your business in 2010 – The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce partners with Achievex Corporation for a comprehensive 8 week sales training program.  6 pm.  SJ Chamber of Commerce, 101 W. Santa Clara St. $99 per workshop or $599 for all 8 workshops, 404-6764 or 960-1180

Wednesday and Saturday – Rose Pruning Clinics at the Heritage Rose Garden – Learn how to prune roses, spread mulch and pull weeds.  9 am.  West Taylor Street, at Spring Street, within Guadalupe Gardens.  Free, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org

Wednesday – TYP February Social – Mix and mingle with some of today’s young professionals.  6-8 pm.  Fahrenheit Ultralounge, 99 E. San Fernando St.  Free,   todaysyoungprofessionals.com 

Monday-Feb. 10 – Tom Ferry's Business by Design Seminar – Tom Ferry, a motivational speaker specializing in Real Estate, hosts this mega-training event.   9 am-5 pm.  McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St.  www.yourcoach.com

Monday – Unique Lives and Experiences presents Candice DeLong – DeLong will discuss her life as a female FBI agent for 20 years and the killer instinct she needed to survive.  7:30 pm.  Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd.  $35-$72, www.uniquelives.com

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Literature/Art

All South First Friday events begin at 8 pm unless otherwise noted.

For more info visit www.southfirstfridays.com

Wednesday-Saturday – Axis Art Gallery – The gallery showcases sculptures, paintings, photography, ceramics and textiles arts by local talent.  Noon-6 pm.  Axis, 38 N. Almaden Blvd., #101.  Free, 623-9888 or www.AxisArtGallery.com 

Wednesday – Pride and Passion: Author/ Illustrator Matt Tavares – Enjoy a presentation by Matt Tavares, featuring his latest release “Henry Aaron's Dream”. A book signing will follow the presentation.  7-9 pm.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E. San Fernando St. Rooms 225/229, Second Floor.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Friday – South First Friday: Anno Domini – Opening reception through Mar. 13: “Art of Zines 2010” featuring hundreds of worldwide zines. Music and performance by Adam Lynn, Zoe Boekbinder and Corpus Callosum.  366 S. First St. Free, 271-5155 or www.galleryad.com

Friday – South First Friday: Art Glass Center of San Jose – Live demonstrations of one-of-a-kind blown glass sculptures and beads.  465 S. First St. Free, www.sjgaa.org

Friday – South First Friday: Caffe Trieste – Opening reception: “All but Purple” by Tamar Belson.  Live music by Opera San Jose.  315 S. First St. Free, 287-0400 or www.caffetriestesj.com

Friday – South First Friday: Downtown Yoga Shala – Opening reception for Nadia Nasir a self-taught photographer and avid yoga practitioner.  8 pm.  450 S. First St. 885-1000 or http://downtownyogashala.com

Friday – South First Friday: MACLA – Opening reception for “Conceptual Landscapes.” The exhibition features ancestry, nature and site instillation and works on paper. 510 S. First St. 998-2783 or www.maclaarte.org

Friday – South First Friday: Good Karma Vegan Cafe – Opening reception for “Both Before and After” by Benjamin Caprile.  Music by DJ Richard Gutierrez and Claude Cardenas.  37 S. First St. www.myspace.com/goodkarmasj

Friday – South First Friday: METRO Photo Exhibit – “Heart Show” featuring photos by the First St. Photo Collective.  550 S. First St. www.metroactive.com

Friday – South First Friday: Phantom Galleries – Temporary exhibits in vacant storefronts:  “Book of Dreams” by Guy Brookshire (386 S. First St.) and “We Are Not From Here” by Kate Stewart (388 S. First St.). 

Friday – South First Friday: ICA – On view in the Main Gallery through May. 15 “By A Thread,” works by artists who use threads as their primary medium.  Through April 3: “Ted Fullwood” featuring abstract and colorful sculptures made of pipe cleaners.  On view in the Focus Gallery and Cardinale Project Room through Feb. 20 “Theodora Varnay Jones: Manifold. 560 S. First St. Free, 283-8155 or www.sjica.org

Friday – South First Friday: San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles – On view: “Still Crazy” and “Reincarnation: The Crazy Collage Aesthetic of India and Japan.”  520 S. First St.  Free, 971-0323 or www.sjquiltmuseum.org

Friday – South First Friday: Works San Jose – (Anti) Valentine’s Silent Auction and exhibition.  Bidders pay just $5.  451 S. First St.  Free, 286-6800 or workssanjose.org

Friday – South First Friday: Kaleid gallery – Opening reception for “Transfiguration” a collection of three dimensional art by Sandi Billingsley.  Also,  “Relative Matter” a series of paintings by Mark Damrel with live music by INFM, Tyler Boyd. 7-9 pm.  88 S. Fourth St. Free, www.KALEIDgallery.com

Friday – South First Friday: South First Billiards and Lounge – On view: Heart of Chaos “Uproar.”  All ages welcomed.  420 S. First St. Free, www.sofapool.com

Friday – South First Friday: SLG Art Boutiki & Gallery – Opening reception by “escape from Dullsville” by artist and writer Andy Ristaino.  Also, local author Dianne Sweeney will sign copies of her new book “Kissing Frogs in Cyberspace.”  Live music by Assemblehead.  577 S. Market St. 971-8929 or www.slgcomic.com

Saturday – Pride and Passion: “The African-American Baseball Experience” – The featured exhibit will be on view during library hours through Mar. 12.  The opening reception includes entertainment and light refreshments.  2-4 pm.  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E. San Fernando St.  Rooms 225/229, Second Floor.  Free, 808-2183 or www.sjlibrary.org

Museums and galleries

Check out South First Fridays gallery crawl the first Friday of the month - Explore the SoFA district, downtown's hub of art and creativity, meet people and appreciate art in an inviting environment. Galleries along South First Street from San Carlos to Reed Street and on Market Street open their doors late to offer free exhibit receptions, readings, performances, live music and more.  Use a pedicab to get around. All events are free and start at 8 pm unless otherwise noted. 

Anno Domini // the second coming of art and design – Through Jan. 9: "Fresh Produce" Group exhibit and Art Sale. Open noon-7 pm Tues-Fri; noon-5 pm Sat. 366 S. First St. 271-5155 or www.gallery AD.com

Art Object Gallery -Open 1-4 pm.  Thurs-Sat.  592 N. Fifth St. www.artobjectgallery.com

Children's Discovery Museum- Opening Jan. 12: “Mask” an exhibition created by visually impaired or blind youth.  Through Jan. 24: "Children of Hangzhou: Connecting with China." The museum also hosts a variety of ongoing, hands-on exhibits for kids.  Open 10 am to 5 pm Tues-Sat and noon-5 Sun. $7-$8. 180 Woz Way. 298-5437. www.cdm.org

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Library – Ongoing: Displays of original Beethoven manuscripts, first editions, a lock of the composer's hair, art and demonstrations of historical keyboards.  150 E. San Fernando St.  808-2000 or www.sjlibrary.org

History San Jose - Through Jan.31: "Home Front" explores how San Jose was affected by World War II. Opens Nov. 27: “Everyday San Jose” paintings by Wayne Jiang.  History Park, 1650 Senter Road.  287-2290 or www.historysanjose.org

KALEID gallery - Stop by the gallery during "Two Buck Tuesdays" - $2 art sale and eclectic speaker series on the third Tuesday of every month.  Open Noon-7 pm Tues-Fri; Noon-5 pm Sat.  88 S. Fourth St. 271-5151 or www.KALEIDgallery.com

MACLA – On view: “Cultural Disjuncture” features sculptures and works on paper and installation.  Open noon-7 pm Wed-Thurs; Noon-5 pm Fri-Sat.  Free, 510 S. First St. 998-2783 www.maclaarte.org

Natalie and James Thompson Art Gallery- Open 11 am-4 pm and 6-7:30pm, Tues and 11 am-4 pm, Wed-Fri.  Art Building, San Jose State University, 1 Washington Square. 924-4328.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum - Ongoing Egyptian historical artifacts and displays.  Open 10 am-5 pm Mon-Fri; 11 am-6 pm Sat-Sun.  $9, $7 seniors/students, $5 ages 5-10, free for ages 4 and younger. 1342 Naglee Ave. 947-3636 www.egyptianmuseum.org

San Jose City Hall - Ongoing: "San Jose: Generations of Innovations and Diversity" and "In Full View: Historic and Contemporary Panoramas."  200 E. Santa Clara St.  Free, 535-8168

San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art - Through Jan. 23: “Afterlife,” a group exhibition of works created to breathe new life into re-purposed materials and objects.  Through Feb. 20: “Theodora Varnay Jones: Manifold,” the exhibition reflects the artist’s systematic exploration of repetition, form and material. Open 10 am-5 pm, Tues-Wed, and Fri; 10 am-8 pm, Thurs and Noon-5 pm, Sat.  560 S. First St. Free, 283-8155 or www.sjica.org

San Jose Museum of Art – On view through Jan. 10: Chuck Close Prints “Process and Collaboration.”  Through Feb. 7: "Variations on a Theme."  Through Feb. 28: Ansel Adams “Early Works.”  Open 11 am-5 pm Tues-Sun. 110 S. Market St.  $5-$8, 271-6840 www.sjmusart.org

San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles - Through Feb. 7: “Still Crazy,” an exhibition that explores the crazy quilt with a broad survey of the movement. Open 10 am-5 pm Tues-Sun (open from 8-11 pm on the first Friday of every month).  520 S. First St.  $5-$6.50/ Free during South First Fridays, 971-0323  www.sjquiltmuseum.org

SLG Art Boutiki & Gallery – Open 10 am-5 pm Mon-Fri; Noon-4 pm Sat.  577 S. Market St.  Free, 971-8929 or www.artboutiki.com

Tech Museum of Innovation – Through Apr. 11: “Star Trek… The Exhibition,” the exhibit includes an authentic replica of the bridge from the U.S.S Enterprise NCC-1701, as featured in the original Star Trek television series. It also contains the trifecta of the Star Trek universe: a tricorder; a phaser, and a communicator - all from the original series.  New permanent exhibit: “Technology Benefiting Humanity,” a 3,000 square foot interactive exhibition and the only exhibition on the West Coast that links social responsibility with technology.  Open daily 9 am-9 pm.  201 S Market St.  Pricing for regular galleries and one IMAX film is $8 all ages.  Add an additional IMAX film for only $4.  294-8324 or www.thetech.org

Works/San Jose - Open noon-4 pm Tues-Sat (to 7 pm Thurs), 451 S. First St. 295-8378 or www.workssanjose.org

Dancing Downtown

Agenda – 399 S. First St. 287-3991. agendalounge.com.

The Blank Club – . 971-8511. theblankclub.com.

Britannia Arms – 173 W. Santa Clara St. Free. 278-1400. britanniaarms.com.

Brix Nightclub - 349 S. First St.  947-1975 or brixnightclub.com

Capers Loft Bar and Bistro – 90 S. Second St.  loftbarandbistro.com

Dive bar – This bar includes a full bar, lounge, music and billiards. Open 7 days a week from noon to 2 a.m. 78 E. Santa Clara 288-5252 sjdivebar.com.

Elixir Ultra Lounge – Inside South First Billiards. No cover. 420 S. First St. 408-294-7800 sofapool.com.

Fahrenheit Ultralounge – 99 E San Fernando St.998-9998. fultralounge.com

Freddie J's –  97 E. Santa Clara St. No cover. 292-4058. www.freddiejs.com

Habana Club Restaurant – 238 Race St. 998-CUBA (2822) 998cuba.com

Island Grill – 1355 N. Fourth St. Free. 392-2468. theislandgrill.com. 

LidoNightclub -30 S. First St.  298-4318 or lidoclub.net 

MiamiBeach Club - 417 S. First St.  242-9621 or www.yourmiamibeachclub.com

MotifRestaurant and Club - 389 S. First St.  279-1888 or motiflounge.com

Pearl Nightclub – Doors open at 9 pm. Dress code strictly enforced. 21+.  8 S. First St. 279-4444 www.pearlsj.com

SaborTapas Bar and Lounge - 72 N. Almaden Ave.  287-1737

San Jose Bar and Grill – Sunday night DJ dancing. 85 S. Second St. 286-2397.

Smoke Tiki Lounge – 152 Post St. 292-4266. smoketiki.com

SplashBar and Grill - 65 Post St. 993-0861 or splashsj.com 

Temple Bar and Lounge – 52 S. First St. 288-8518.

Toon’s – 52 E. Santa Clara St. 292-7464. toonsnightclub.com 

Vault Ultra Lounge– 81 W. Santa Clara St. 298-1112  

Voodoo Lounge – 14 S. Second St. 286-8636. voodooloungesj.com 

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Downtown Dining and Business promotions

Discover Downtown Card: Use your card to receive great deals at participating venues downtown.  www.sjdowntown.com/Discover_Downtown_Card.html

Now Open – Get your Ultimate Wax “European Wax Center” – Complimentary first time women guests receive bikini line, eyebrow or underarm waxing; men receive eyebrow, ear or nose.  Full body wax treatment available.  567 Coleman Ave.  298-2929 or waxcenter.com

Daily through Feb. 14 – Give Your Loved One a Special Valentine’s Day Rose – With a donation of $50 you can adopt the perfect rose from the SJ Heritage Rose Garden and also receive other special gifts.  Friends of Guadalupe River Park & Gardens, 438 Coleman Ave.  $50, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org

Daily - Discounted movies at Camera Cinemas - Get 10 movies for $60 with a Camera Cinemas Discount Card.  Good for any film, any day of the week (except Sat. after 6pm) for up to two people per visit.  Available at www.cameracinemas.com or at any Camera Cinemas box office location. Camera 12 is at the corner of Paseo de San Antonio  and S. Second St.  Camera 3 is at 288 S. Second St.

Wednesday – Specials at Koji Sake Lounge – “Explore the Art of Sake” and get half-off the special sake of the night.  7 pm.  48 S. First St.  287-7199 or www.kojisakelounge.com

Sunday – Soula Wellness Center Open House – Be the first to come preview our new Acupuncture, Ayurvedic Counseling, and Thai Massage services before they start. This event will feature free therapy, demos, and food.  1-3 pm.  200 S. First St., Suite 70.  Free, 993-9642 or www.soulapoweryoga.com

Downtown Living

The 88 – This collection of unique high-rise residences offers unsurpassed views and immediate access to the arts, fine dining, parks, open space, and all of the everyday necessities.  88 E. San Fernando St.  279-8882 or www.the88sj.com 

Axis – Come home to arresting views, unparalleled convenience and palpable luxury— the ideal cosmopolitan lifestyle. 38 N. Almaden Blvd. 297-9888 www.axissanjose.com

City Heights – Each home boasts a contemporary kitchen, modern bath finished, parking and much more.  175 W. St. James St.  286-2489 or www.cityheightssanjose.com

Three Sixty Residences – Soaring 23 stories over the vibrant SoFA district, Three Sixty Residences features dramatic architecture, impeccable finishes and a seamless, cosmopolitan lifestyle blend.  170 S. Market St.  297-3003 or www.360residences.com

For more information visit www.sjdowntown.com/Find_Your_Home.html

Volunteers needed  

2010 Amgen Tour of California – Volunteer and participate in the fifth-annual cycling race. Apply online for positions, including hospitality, volunteer course marshals, security, and media operations, among others. Stage 4: Wednesday, May 19.  For more information visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/Tour/volunteer

Make a difference in your park … Volunteer – Become a one day volunteer and invite others to join you.  Learn gardening skills, clean up local parks and enjoy nature all in just 2-6 hours.  For more information please e-mail ParkVolunteer@sanjose.gov or call 535-3588

Guadalupe River Park – Volunteers needed to help clean and organize the gardens/parks, as well as lead educational activities.  San Carlos St. and Woz Way.  For more information call 298-7657 or visit www.grpg.org

MACLA – Volunteers needed to work openings, office assistance and to help prepare the gallery for exhibitions.  If interested call 998-2808 or e-mail info@maclaarte.org

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Coming Up

Wednesdays, Feb. 10 through Mar. 17 – Sustainable Vegetable Gardening – Learn how to have a successful, environmentally responsible food garden that provides delicious vegetables and herbs every month of the year.  7-9 pm.  438 Coleman Ave.  $60-$72, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org 

Feb. 12 – Hear to Heart – Learn some cool facts about the heart and how it differs between species.  Plus, create some colorful Valentine hearts to take home.  Ages 5-10.  3:30-5 pm.  438 Coleman Ave.  $10-$15, 298-7657 or www.grpg.org

Feb. 12 – 2009 State of the Valley Conference – State of the Valley is Silicon Valley’s annual “town meeting” that attracts over 1,500 attendees in the past.  The conference will feature keynote speakers Richard Florida, Tom Campell, Steve Poizner and Will Dirst.  8 am-2 pm.  McEnery Convention Center, 135 W. San Carlos St.  $150, www.jointventure.org

Feb 23-March 7 – Cinequest Film Festival: Tickets on Sale Now – One of the Top 10 festivals that features films and technology forums has arrived to San Jose.  Various venues.  $5-$500, 295-FEST or www.cinequest.org

HP Pavilion 

hppsj.com

Feb. 22 – Bon Jovi.  7:30 pm.  $39.50-$138

Feb. 24-28 – Disney on Ice: Worlds of Fantasy.  Various times.  $17-$72

Mar. 18 and Mar. 20 – 2010 NCAA Men’s Division Basketball Championship.  Various times.  $249

Mar. 22 – WWE Super Show.  5:30 pm.  $16-$72

Mar. 24 – Jay-Z.  7 pm.  $45.50-$129.50

Mar. 26 – John Mayer.  7:30 pm.  $21-$182

San Jose Civic

nederlanderconcerts.com/venue/venue.asp?id=64

SJSU Event Center

union.sjsu.edu/ec/Event_Center_Arena/event_center_arena.html 

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Parking / Pedicabs/ Traffic / SJ Mineta Airport

Convenient and Affordable Downtown Parking – www.sjdowntownparking.com 

Pedicabs - Eco City Cycles – Now a fleet of 10!  Look for Eco City Cycles door-to-door pedicab service.  The service is available Wednesday-Saturday from 7 pm-2 am.  Call ahead for reservations or pick ups 771-7723.  Negotiate your price – it’s all fun.  For more information www.ecocitycycles.com

Mineta San Jose International Airport

  • Visit www.tsa.gov for the latest information about security procedures

  • For more information on Airport changes, maps, and services, go to www.flysanjose.com

  • Starting May 13 – New Service: JetBlue Airways – JetBlue will begin a daily nonstop service between San Jose and Boston.  To book these new flights, visit www.jetblue.com or call 1-800-538-2583. Initial fares are $99 each way.

Mineta San Jose International Airport Construction - Over the next several months there will be frequent adjustments to airport roadways and curbsides because of construction near Terminal C.  Drivers will still be able to leave the airport by any of the exits via Skyport Dr. Coleman Ave. or Airport Parkway.  View a complete update at www.sjc.org/improvement/updates.html 

Plenty of parking in Terminal A garage - Drivers parking for a day or more should use this garage and take the blue shuttle bus to Terminal C.  The Terminal A garage is an easy alternative when parking lots may fill during mid-week peaks. 

Terminal C - Checkpoints now consolidated for reduced lines and waiting times, the new set up is viewable here www.sjc.org/inside/termc.pdf  .  New hourly parking lot now open, generally for those who are picking up and dropping off passengers.  Entrance to the new lot is from Airport BLVD south of Terminal C, view a map here www.sjc.org/travelers/overview_map_1207.pdf  
  
Terminal A Roadwork - All traffic coming from Terminal A and the Terminal A garage to use the new overcrossing in front of Terminal B.  All traffic from the Rental Car Center and the Long-Term Parking lot will also use the overcrossing to leave the airport.

Relocation of VTA bus stop at Terminal C - The VTA Airport Flyer (Route #10) will stop at the south end of the Terminal A Departures curb, as well as in front of Terminal C.

 

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Downtowner Online is a weekly electronic newsletter for downtownresidents and employees from the San Jose Downtown Association. Wewelcome feedback, suggestions, or contributions. E-mail your thoughtsto rjensen@sjdowntown.com.

To subscribe or unsubscribe, e-mail rjensen@sjdowntown.com.

Editor: Rick Jensen
Assistants: Elizabeth Chavarin / Jenna Tenorio

 


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