Tip A Cop fundraiser

So the Chili's locations in SJ have been participating in the Tip A Cop fundraiser which benefits the Special Olympics. My husband, bro-in-law, and I hit the Almaden Chili's the other night and had the privilege of meeting some of the SO athletes. (From their experience and stellar scores, they could definitely outbowl and outsport any of us at any time. It was truly inspiring to meet them). In any case, there were cops aplenty on hand--all handing out envelopes, filling in patrons, serving drinks, and even bringing post-meal boxes for those leftovers. So drop in at Chili's, but definitely hit the Santana Row one (the Almaden one seems to leave something to be desired).

Betsey Johnson, anyone?

So all of the funky fashionistas will be thrilled to learn that a Betsey Johnson store just opened at Valley Fair. Located near Sephora and Jessica McClintock, the store features bags, pouches, and a palate-pleasing array of 50s style dresses. The median price for the dresses seemed to be about $350, and the earrings I spied on their counter spinning rack were about $50. I was so tempted to purchase, and yet so without an occasion to wear a $400 dress. It's worth the trip if only to engage in some window shopping, because your eyes will be dazzled.

About the Bay

Shopping in Hip Hop Style
Mr I Got It finally opened! As part of their grand opening celebration, the store's offering a free white tee with the purchase of any other piece of clothing. Their wears include an array of classic Hip Hop brands such as Apple Bottoms as well as a modest selection of shoes. Mr. I Got It is located on the corner of Capitol and Vistapark.

BART's Pilot Program
So I've been using BART's EZ Rider card since June 9th, and I've found it to be somewhat inconsistent. During my trip from Fremont to the Oakland Coliseum and vice versa, the card never auto-loaded. (It's designed to fully load when you first use it, and then each "scan" removes the proper fare while opening the gates for you). Thankfully, when I rode from Fremont to MacArthur for work the next week, it did work. (Good times!) The last time I rode the latter circuit, it stuttered at the East Parking lot entrance of Fremont and wouldn't let me back in at MacArthur. Very strange. A policeman onhand informed me that the gates weren't scanning the card properly. I'm keeping my hopes up, though--I may try it out in SF this weekend and see how it goes.

Campbell
This Saturday marks Campbell's first annual Big Bands and BBQ event. There will be two stages with live entertainment, including Lavay Smith and her Red Hot Skiller Lickers at 3:45, as well as a variety of edible treats and booths to check out. You'll probably see me there:)