July 2007 Newsletter

    Summer Activities in the San Jose Area...

    Children need to take part in activities throughout the summer to keep their minds sharp and their bodies healthy. This month the Office of Assemblymember Coto has highlighted summer opportunities for families in and near San Jose. Listed below are a variety of activities available in the area for families along with a few tips to ensure you have a safe and fun summer.

    Coto Summer Tips

    Make Academics a part of summer fun

    • Set aside time for your children to read everyday during the summer break to sharpen their skills and help them develop reading as a life long activity
    • Take the opportunity over the summer to take your children to a museum, cultural center or educational type exhibit

    Pool Safety

    • Never leave children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment  
    • Caution your children to not swallow pool water. In fact, tell them to try to avoid getting any pool water in their mouth  

    Fun in the Sun

    • Apply sunscreen (SPF 30) at least 30 minutes before  going outside, and use sunscreen even on cloudy days

    Travel Safety

    • Put your child in the back seat. It is the safest place in the car
    • Keep supplies with you, such as snacks and water

    Free Activities!

    San Jose Public Library

    San Jose libraries are a great place to take children during the summer. They have an incredible number of resources - books, CD's and computers. Many offer special activities and story time. For more specific information on summer activities or story time or if you have any questions call your local library or visit http://www.sjlibrary.org/index.htm.

     

    Almaden Branch Library
    6445 Camden Ave.
    San José, CA 95120
    (408) 808-3040
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/almaden/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 PM - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed

    Educational Park Branch Library
    1770 Educational Park Dr.
    San José, CA 95133
    (408) 272-3663
    (408) 272-3662 (Recording)
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/ed_park/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Alviso Branch Library
    5050 North First St.
    San José, CA 95002
    (408) 263-3626
     http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/alviso/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 pm - 8:00 pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Evergreen Branch Library
    2635 Aborn Rd.
    San José, CA 95121
    (408) 808-3060
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/evergreen/index.htm
     Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Berryessa Branch Library
    3355 Noble Ave.
    San José, CA 95132
    (408) 808-3050
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/berryessa/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 pm - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 pm - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    Hillview Branch Library
    1600 Hopkins Dr.
    San José, CA 95122
    (408) 808-3033
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/hillview/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Biblioteca Latinoamericana Branch Library
    921 South First St.
    San José, CA 95110
    (408) 294-1237 http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/biblioteca/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Rose Garden Branch Library
    1580 Naglee Ave.
    San José, CA 95126
    (408) 808-3070
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/rosegarden/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
     Calabazas Branch Library
    1230 Blaney Ave.
    San José, CA 95129
    (408) 996-1536
    (408) 996-1535 (Recording)
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/calabazas/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Santa Teresa Branch Library
    290 International Circle
    San José, CA 95119
    (408) 281-1879
    (408) 281-1878 (Recording)
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/santa_teresa/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Cambrian Branch Library
    1780 Hillsdale Ave.
    San José, CA 95124
    (408) 808-3080
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/cambrian/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Seventrees Branch Library
    3597 Cas Dr.
    San José, CA 95111
    (408) 629-4536
    (408) 629-4535 (Recording)  http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/seventrees/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday Closed
    Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library
    150 E. San Fernando St.
    San José, CA 95112
    (408) 808-2000
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/king/index.htm
    Hours:
    May 25, 2007 - August 21, 2007
    Monday - Wednesday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Thursday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    Tully Community Branch Library
    880 Tully Rd.
    San José, CA 95111
    (408) 808-3030
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/tully/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    Dr. Roberto Cruz Alum Rock Branch Library
    3090 Alum Rock Ave.
    San José, CA 95127
    (408) 808-3090  http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/alum_rock/index.htm
    Hours:
    May 25, 2007 - August 21, 2007
    Monday - Wednesday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
    Thursday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
    Sunday 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    Vineland Branch Library
    1450 Blossom Hill Rd.
    San José, CA 95118
    (408) 808-3000
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/vineland/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    East San Jose Carnegie Branch Library
    1102 E. Santa Clara St.
    San José, CA 95116
    (408) 998-2069
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/east_carnegie/index.htm
    Hours:
    May 25, 2007 - August 21, 2007
    Monday - Wednesday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Thursday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
    West Valley Branch Library
    1243 San Tomas Aquino Rd.
    San José, CA 95117
    (408) 244-4766
    (408) 244-4747 (Recording)
    http://www.sjlibrary.org/about/locations/west_valley/index.htm
    Hours:
    Monday 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
    Tuesday - Wednesday 11:00 am - 8:00pm
    Thursday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

    San Pedro Square Movie Night

    For more information:
    (408)279-1775 ext 43 and 45.
    http://www.cinequest.org/festival_info/cinemaSanPedro.php

    Get out of the heat!  Friends and family can kick back and relax as you cozy up on your lawn chair in the cool summer air to watch a great movie. Starting June 20 through August 29, Cinequest is providing short films and entertainment. All screenings are free. It's a great event for all.


    Movie Schedule

    July 11-Blue Hawaii (1961) PG
    Starring: Elvis Presley and Angela Lansbury
                                                                                                            
    July 18-Old School (2003) R
    Starring: Luke Wilson, Vince Vaughn and Will Ferrell

    July 25-Goldfinger (1964) PG
    Starring: Sean Connery and Gert Frobe

    August 1-Rocky (1976) PG
    Starring: Sylvester Stallone and Talia Shire
    Beer and wine will be available starting at 7:30 p.m. (Cinema San Pedro only)
    pre-show begins at 8:00 p.m. and the films begin at dusk.

     

    Visit one of San Jose's Historical Sites

    Japantown, also known as Nihonmachi or J-Town, is the portion of San Jose, bounded by 1st street to the west, 8th street to the east, Jackson Street to the south and Taylor Street to the north; it is just north of Downtown San Jose. The area was home to many Japanese Americans who settled in the area after returning from relocation camps in World War II, and is today one of only three California State Legislation designated authentic Japantowns, making this historical gem of San Jose a hot spot destination for the whole family.

    Home to fine traditional Japanese dining at reasonable prices, the town boasts a collection of bookstores, art destinations, a karaoke bar and a lounge for the weekend goers. This summer, be sure to catch the free events and don't forget to stroll around one of San Jose's most historical sites.

    Free Events in Japan Town
    Obon Festival - Japan Town
    5th and Jackson, July 14-15th

    The 72nd annual San Jose Obon Festival will be celebrated July 14 and 15, 2007 in Japantown. Presented by the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, the free outdoor festival offers a rich cultural experience complete with traditional dance, food, music and games.

    On this occasion you'll be witness to the amazing site of over 700 dancers, dressed in traditional kimonos or hapi coats, dancing under colorful lanterns around an outdoor pavilion. Everyone is welcome to join in the festivities ... and the dance!  Adults and children can expect to enjoy a variety of food and entertainment. The family can partake in Japanese and American favorites such as sushi, beef and chicken teriyaki, gyoza, udon, tempura, corn on the cob and strawberry shortcake. They can also browse books and purchase fresh flowers or hear folk stories and play carnival games. In addition San Jose Taiko as always, will deliver a powerful, rhythmic drum performance on each festival day.

    "In the Buddhist tradition, Obon is a time to reunite with loved ones," said Michael Jones, president, San Jose Church Betsuin. "Our annual San Jose Obon Festival, held in one of the three remaining Japantowns in the United States, offers a weekend of fun for the whole family."

    Japantown Certified Farmers' Market
    Jackson Street between 6th and 7th Streets, directly in front of MiraidoVillage
    SUNDAY mornings from 8:30 to noon
    Fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers are available for sale or viewing.

    San Jose Taiko
    Families can see San Jose Taiko practices at their rehearsal hall, Japantown's historic Okida Hall, on 6th Street just south of Jackson.  A short walk from great dining, visitors can hear the drumming as they stroll on by.  Step in for a sneak peek of the team's rehearsals, every Tuesday and Thursday from 7pm - 9pm; and a chance to purchase their CD or sign up for classes. 

    Remember that these are rehearsals, so be mindful not to interrupt or be obstrusive.

    For a listing of performances contact San Jose Taiko at 408-293-9344 or visit www.taiko.org

     

    Chinese Cultural Gardens

    2145 McKee Rd.,
    San Jose, California;
    Tel. 408.251.3323
    http://www.chineseculturalgarden.org/

    A partnership with the City of San José transformed six acres of Overfelt Gardens into a delightful setting of traditional Chinese culture, philosophy and architecture. The Chinese Cultural Garden represents the untiring efforts of Mr. Lowe and Dr. Chen Li-Fu of Taiwan plus many other citizens who saw the wisdom and value of this cultural collaboration for future generations, believing in the fulfillment of a dream that would advance peace and harmony. A 30-foot high bronze and marble statue of big-thinker Confucius forms the centerpiece of the Chinese Cultural Gardens inside Overfelt Gardens Park in San Jose. Overfelt Gardens is a garden sanctuary for plant, wildlife and the quiet contemplation and enjoyment of nature in the urban setting. It is a place where all ages can experience the unending lessons of diversity and nature, and where shared visions are renewed through the appreciation celebration and enrichment of community life.

    Open daily 10am to sunset

     

    Activities Costing $15 and under

    Emma Prusch Farm Park
    647 S. King Road
    San José, Ca 95116
    http://www.pruschfarmpark.org/

    Families can enjoy the historical structures and the farm animals. You can picnic with your family and friends, while the children interact with farm animals and play in the playground.
    The following summer camps are available for kids:

    • Down on the Farm
    • Summer Space Odyssey
    • International Flair
    • Insect A-Mania ... and much more!

    Feed the Farm Animals is offered one Saturday a month. For this evWent there is a $3.00 registration fee per child. First come, first serve.

    Contact the park to enroll your child

    © HHP&Z logo

    Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
    1300 Senter Road
     San Jose, CA 95112
    (408)277-3000
    http://www.happyhollowparkandzoo.org/

    Since 1961 Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has brought education and fun for the family. The Zoo provides hands on experience with animals and educates visitors on the importance of securing endangered species. This is a great place for all ages, particularly the 2-10 year olds. From puppet shows to children rides, Happy Hollow will create smiles and memorable experiences for families.

    FREE Admission to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo TM
    Tuesday, July 10, 2007
    One can or box of food per person equals Free Admission for the day! Gates open at 10:00am and Admission includes all rides, puppet shows, and both Park and Zoo adventures.

    Food will be donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank. Preferred items include: canned tuna, powdered milk, canned stews and beans, peanut butter, pasta, and chili.

    Where Animals Call Home - Animal Show
    Tuesday, July 10, 2007
    2 shows: 11:00am and 1:00pm
    Join wildlife presenters, Conservation Ambassadors, for an interactive animal show. Take an imaginary trip around the world to discover the habitats and niches that some animals call home. Learn what they eat and how they survive in our ever-changing world.

    San José History Park
    1650 Senter Rd.
    San José Ca 95112
    (408) 287-2290
    http://www.historysanjose.org/visiting_hsj/history_park/

    San José History Park provides innovative regional history of the city. Come and ride the trolley as you learn about San José's history.

    Admission is free
    Parking is $6

    Single Game Tickets

    San José Giants

    San José Municipal Stadium
    588 East Alma Avenue
    San Jose, CA 95112
    (408) 297-1435
    www.sjgiants.com

    The San José Giants are a minor league professional baseball team in the class A Advanced California League. The Giants afford thousands of San José residents the opportunity to bring their families to watch a national pastime at a fraction of the cost of a major league game.

    Single game tickets: $6 - $16  For more information on group packages visit the website.

    Museum logo

    Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium
    1342 Naglee Ave
    San José, CA 95191
    (408) 947-3636
    http://www.egyptianmuseum.org/

    Families can explore ancient Egypt's captivating view of the afterlife with mummies, jars, carved hieroglyphics and statues of Egyptian Gods. This fascinating museum houses the largest collection of Egyptian Artifacts. Come and explore the history of Egypt through planetarium shows or weekend workshop series.  On the second Saturday of each month, the museum offers a presentation on the history of cosmetics in ancient Egypt, including how and why certain minerals were used, and how other nearby cultures influenced cosmetics in the region. You will also be able to experience first-hand the techniques and application of cosmetics handmade by museum volunteers and staff.
    Visit the website to take an online Museum tour and discover the features of Egyptian history.

    Museum Admissions:
    $9.00 general admission
    $7.00 seniors/students w/ I.D.
    $5.00 children ages 5 - 10
    FREE for children under 5

    The Tech Museum of Innovation

    201 South Market Street
    San Jose, CA 95113
    (408) 294-TECH
    http://www.thetech.org/

               
    The Tech Museum of Innovations provides a hands- on technology and science museum is for people of all ages and backgrounds. It's a great place for families as they explore the tech highlights and interactive exhibits. This truly memorable experience allows you to zoom through the process of DNA and experience the IMAX Theater.

    Ticket Type  Price
    Museum + 1 IMAX    $8.00
    Additional IMAX  $4.00
    IMAX DMR© Feature Film  $10.00

    Children Discovery Museum of San Jose

    Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
    180 Woz Way San Jose, CA 95110
    408-298-5437 (phone)    408-298-6826 (Fax)
    http://www.cdm.org/

    The Museum's exhibit philosophy is rooted in its mission and responds to the distinctive need for children to learn through concrete interactions - touching, exploring, manipulating and experimenting. Over 28,000 square feet of semi-permanent and traveling exhibits address the educational and cultural needs of CDM's audience through the themes of Connections, Community and Creativity.

    Adult (18-59): $8 Child (1-17): $8
    Senior (60+): $7 Infant (under 1 year): Free        



    Keep Cool and Healthy this Summer!!
    Go for a Swim at the Neighborhood Pool

    Public Pools in San Jose

    San Jose State University Aquatic Center
    Pool Address: At the corner E. San Carlos St.
    & S. 8th St.
    San Jose , CA  95192
    Phone: (408) 924-6341
    Visitors: $3
    Membership: $25/month
    M/W : 7am to 8pm
    T/Th: 7am to 10pm
    Friday: 7am to 7pm
    Sat/Sun: 10am to 5pm

    Del Mar High School
    1224 Del Mar Avenue
    San Jose, CA 95128
    (408) 277-2291
    Minimum Height Requirement: 42"
    Recreation Swim
    Monday- Friday: 2:00-4:00pm
    $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

    Fair Swim Center
    1350 Bacchus Dr.
    San Jose, CA 95122
    (408) 277-2291
    Minimum Height Requirement: 36"
    Recreation Swim
    Monday though Saturday: 12:45-3:45pm
    Tuesday and Friday: 7:00-8:30pm
    Cost: $2 per person or $30 for a 20 visit pass

    Peter Burnett Pool
    850 N. 2nd St.
    San Jose, CA 95112
    Minimum Height Requirement: 42"
    Recreation Swim
    Monday-Friday: 2:00-4:00pm
    Tuesday and Friday: 7:30-9:00pm
    Saturday: 2:00-4:00pm
    Cost: $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

      Piedmont Hills High School
      1377 Piedmont Rd.
      San Jose, CA 95132
      408-277-2291
      Minimum Height Requirement: 48"
      Recreation Swim
      Monday thru Saturday: 1:00-3:00pm
      Tuesday and Friday: 7:00-8:30pm
      Cost: $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

      Santa Teresa High School
      6150 Snell Ave
      San Jose, CA 95123
      408-277-2291
      Minimum Height Requirement: 48"
      Recreation Swim
      Monday thru Friday: 1:00-3:00pm
      Saturday: 12:00-4:00pm
      Cost: $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

      Silver Creek High School
      3434 Silver Creek Rd
      San Jose, CA 95121
      408-277-2291
      Minimum Height Requirement: 48"
      Recreation Swim
      Monday-Saturday: 1:00-3:00pm
      Tuesday and Friday: 7:00-8:30pm
      Cost: $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

      Willow Glen Middle School
      2105 Cottle Ave
      San Jose, CA 95125
      (408) 277-2291
      Minimum Height Requirement: 48"
      Recreation Swim
      Monday thru Saturday: 1:00-3:00pm
      Tuesday and Friday: 7:00-8:30pm
      Cost: $2 per visit or $30 for a 20 visit pass

       



    The GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL in Gilroy, California!!

    Gilroy Garlic Festival

    Where else can one feast on food laced with over two tons of fresh garlic, enjoy three stages of musical entertainment, shop in arts and crafts, view the great garlic cook-off and other celebrity cooking demonstrations, spend time in the children's area, visit interactive displays set up by many of our sponsors, soak up some glorious sunshine, and mingle with a fun bunch of garlic-loving people'

    Whether you are a first-time visitor or a "seasoned" veteran, the Gilroy Garlic Festival is always a fun and fragrant experience. Over 3 million honored guests have made the pilgrimage.

    General Admission: $12 
    Children/Youth: $6
    For more information http://www.gilroygarlicfestival.com/

    Major Attractions - $20 and up

    Winchester Mystery House
    525 S. Winchester Blvd
    San José, CA 95128
    http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/

    This haunted 160 room Victorian mansion from the 1800's, built by the Winchester Rifle heiress, has many unexplained stories. Mrs. Winchester believed that there were evil spirits in the house and the only way to get rid of them was to continue building. It's a great time for family and friends to have a scare.  The Mystery House provides an array of tours to suit the taste of every ghost hunter, so prices will vary and be sure to check out their website for more information.

    Adults (Ages 13-64): $20.95-$28.95
    Seniors (Ages 65+): $19.95-$25.95
    Children (Ages 6-12): $19.95-$25.95

     

    Raging Waters San Jose

    2333 South White Road
    San Jose, CA 95148
    (408) 238-9900
     http://www.rwsplash.com/

    This is Northern California's largest water park where families and friends of all ages wait in line to have water fun. Raging Waters features many thrilling and family attractions for the San José community. From celebrating your birthday or catered picnics, Raging Waters brings families and friends together with its interactive fun!

    One Day Admission Tickets:

    • General Admission $27.99
    • Junior Admission (under 48") $21.99
    • Senior Admission (age 55+) $17.99
    • Age 2 and under Free

     

    Paramount's Great America

    Paramount's Great America
    P. O. Box 1776
    Santa Clara, CA  95052
    (408) 988-1776 x8858
    http://www1.cedarfair.com/greatamerica/index.cfm

    Families can enjoy the exhilaration of roller coasters and water rides at this amusement park, along with live shows, Kidzville, Nickelodeon Central and family rides and much more.

    General Admission
    Adult
    ages 3 -61 and 48" and taller      $49.95
    Junior/Senior
    ages 3-61 and 48"and under, ages 62+          $29.95

    Season Pass : WOW Card
    Adult                                                        $51.95                                     
    Ages 3-61 and 48" and taller                             
    Junior and Senior                                      $34.95
    ages 3-61 and 48" and under, ages 62+

     

     

    Gilroy Gardens

    3050 Hecker Pass Hwy (Hwy 152)
    Gilroy, CA 95020
    (408) 840-7100
    http://www.gilroygardens.org/

    The park is designed to educate guests and to foster a greater appreciation of horticulture. The Park features over forty rides, attractions, educational exhibits and majestic gardens.  Enjoy a family fun time with Gilroy Gardens beautiful garden settings.

    General Admission
    Ages 7-64yrs               $39.99
    Ages 3-6yrs                 $29.99
    Ages 65+yrs                 $29.99

    2007 Premium Pass (unlimited admission for 2007)
    Family and Friends       $59.99
    (purchase 4 or more)

    Individual  Pass                    $69.99
    (purchase 3 or less)

     

    For more information on please contact:
    Assemblymember Joe Coto's office
    State Capitol, Room 2013
    Sacramento, CA  95814
    916.319.2023 (phone)
    916.319.2123 (Fax)
    assemblymember.coto@assembly.ca.gov

    San Jose District Office
    100 Paseo de San Antonio #319
    San Jose, CA  95113
    408.277.1220 (phone)
    408.277.1036 (fax)