Los Gatos Weekly-Times

The Prowler

With so much to do and so little time in which to get it done, the Prowler understands why some people are tempted to stay home and collapse on evenings and weekends. But all work and no play makes for a dull cat. For those who, like the Prowler, are searching for diversions that don't involve a whole day, a long trip or a lot of money, consider the following, where you can actually learn something while enjoying yourself:

* For health-conscious women and those who care about them, the Community Hospital of Los Gatos is holding its annual Women's Health Fair on Oct. 5. Find out about your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, attend free seminars and enter drawings for cool prizes. While you're thinking about health, try attending one of the newly formed meditation classes held by a spiritually inclined group Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at the Toll House. Among other things, the classes teach you how to calm your mind. Call 924-4328 for more info.

* Looking for a party atmosphere? Check out the Saratoga Community Parade on Oct. 6, capstone to our neighboring city's week-long Celebrate Saratoga! festivities. Community-made floats will float through the village, while school bands and even a bagpipe band play music. Civil War re-enactors will also make an appearance--hopefully not to do battle with the deputies at the Sheriff's Department Saratoga substation. Don't forget the barbecue in Wildwood Park afterwards.

* Although not happening around here, the Youth Science Institute is holding its Wildlife Festival on Oct. 13 at its Alum Rock Park branch in San Jose. The Prowler is partial to this event because it features cougars and leopards as honored guests. Of course, there are also birds of prey and local amphibians and lizards. If you like to prowl in the outdoors, take one of the nature walks. And if you missed the barbecue in Saratoga, the YSI is having one too. Bring along $3 for a parking fee; the rest is free.