Abraham Lincoln's birthday is Feb. 12. But instead of cerebrating his birthday, the Los Gatos History Museum will recall his death with a ceremony on Feb. 16 to bring attention to its new exhibit, "Ashes to Ashes: The Birth of the Death Industry, 1850­1920."

A commemorative march will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the museum at Forbes Mill and will travel to the front lawn of Los Gatos High School. Mayor Steve Glickman will say a few words and volunteers will offer a Civil War reenactment. Following the ceremony, participants will return to the museum for refreshments.

Local author to present workshop

Local author Bill Schaffer will present a six-hour interactive workshop on Feb. 14, 8:45 a.m.­3:30 p.m., that promises to demystify the world of publishers, agents, book distributors and editors.

The workshop will also help writers learn how to move from vague ideas to a concrete plan. The emphasis will be on nonfiction, but ideas surrounding fiction will also be covered.

The program is offered by the Los Gatos­Saratoga Community Education and Recreation Department. For more information, call 408.354.8700, ext. 221.

Brodsky guest speaker for Morning Rotary

Monte Sereno City Councilman Mark Brodsky will be the guest speaker at the Los Gatos Morning Rotary Club meeting on Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., at the Los Gatos Lodge. Brodsky will discuss transportation issues.

Valentine's Day dinner at the Mountain Winery

The Mountain Winery is hosting a special six-course dinner on Feb. 14, along with a live performance by guitarist Scott Whitney. From 5 to 7:30 p.m., guests will be entertained by jazz, classical, Latin, Spanish, pop and bossa nova musical styling while dining on an impressive meal that includes braised striped bass with green and white asparagus confit and truffle jus, filet mignon, seared foie gras on raisin brioche, and a trio berry tart with vanilla bean sauce and cognac caramel. Tickets are $150 per person. Advance reservations are required by calling 408.741.2819.