June 6, 2006 > Passport to Adventure

by Arathi Satish

For one day only, talking will be allowed, even encouraged at the Fremont Main Library. What's more, singing, dancing, eating and general fun will also be allowed. It all happens Friday evening, June 9, when the annual fundraiser, "Passport To Adventure" takes over.

This year's theme "A Taste of California" promises attendees many experiences of the Golden State's rich and varied cultural heritage. The Alameda County Library Foundation, grant and donor supported, began this event last year to help achieve their goal of reaching $5 million in five years for the County's libraries. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Alameda County Library programs and services that include purchase of books, literacy projects, etc.

This year's adventures will include foods from many nations, plus tasting of fine California wines, olive oils, coffees, teas, honeys and chocolates. In addition, numerous food preparation demonstrations will be presented. Learn from experts how to prepare everything from tamales to sushi.

Entertainment will be provided by California's many diverse ethnic communities. Some of the participating groups are Taiko Drummers, Mission San Jose High Musical Theater Workshop, Exotic Henna Art, Academy of Chinese Performing Arts Dancers, strolling violinists, and the Jawani Punjab Dancers.

County Supervisor Scott Haggerty will conduct several auctions throughout the evening. But beware, you might get "shushed" during the silent auctions! Be ready to bid on some fabulous items, like trips to Acapulco, Las Vegas, Disneyland, Hood Mountain and Monterey; San Francisco getaways include dinners at Boulevard and Left Bank; original works from California artists; lessons in sculpting, drawing and guitar; Bay Area sporting events, and a whole lot more.

Tickets are $100 per person, $70 of which is tax-deductible. A block of 12 tickets is $1,000. For more information contact Tiona Smith, development director at (510) 745-1542 or send an email to tsmith@aclibrary.org.

Passport to Adventure
Friday, June 9
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1542