Thursday, August 19, 2010

Saturday Fun Sails: Fun at Treasure Island

Many of us zip across the Bay Bridge, never guessing that instead we could be quietly sailing underneath.

The Treasure Island Sailing Center provides a variety of boats - from stand-up paddleboards and access dinghies to kayaks to 24-foot keelboats - along with expert assistance, so that even the most inexperienced landlubbers can get their feet wet. And younger kids can participate, as long as they have an adult with them.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Burlingame Artzfest: Music, food, family fun


Music, art, food and fun for the family hit downtown Burlingame this weekend.

A fundraiser for the Burlingame Chamber of Commerce, the annual event (formerly known as the Burlingame Art and Jazz Festival) showcases local talent: The festival's two stages will play host to Bollywood dancers, show choirs and the winners of the 'Burlingame Idol' competition.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Pointe magazine – Stepping up your training



Kathleen Breen Combes knew at 14 that she wanted more serious training. A student at Fort Lauderdale Ballet Classique, Combes had gone to summer programs since she was 10. “I was always the one who wanted to stay for two more weeks,” says Combes, now a principal at Boston Ballet. “So it was easy to make the decision that I wanted an intense environment year-round.”

Tall and powerfully built, Combes felt that the Harid Conservatory could help her prepare for professional life. “Usually in your school, you’re the best one,” she notes ruefully, “and then all of a sudden, you have people around you who’re just as talented, just as focused.”

Dancers have to be made of tough stuff. Many decide to pursue a professional career in their teens, and make the choice to leave home to attend prestigious conservatories and ballet academies at a relatively young age. What are some pitfalls to watch out for and what are graceful ways to navigate the transition?

Read more: Pointe magazine – Stepping up your training