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Meal Ticket By Christina Waters Aum Sweet Aum Glass artist Josef Bear runs a sweet little space in Davenport called Eden Gallery. Like everything else in Davenport, Bear's vibes are creatively coastal with nary a negative karmic nuance. Good artisanal entrepreneur that he is, Bear has dreamed up a delicious event for this weekend, Saturday May 4 to be exact, which should provide not only primo schmoozing ops, but a chance to pick something distinctive for your Mother's Day belle. Here's the deal: From noon to 4pm at Eden Gallery (500 Highway 1, across the street from Whale City Cafe and up the highway from New Davenport Cash Store) you'll be able to check out "Pearls of Passion." Yes, it's almost what you're thinking. Pearls that have been coaxed from our own, locally farmed abalone will be on display--that means custom jewelry--and for sale. This free event doesn't simply get you up-close-and-personal with the lustrous pearls, but will also feature abalone (yes, abalone!) appetizers and tastings of wines from Bonny Doon Vineyards. Throw in the mellow sounds of live music provided by a choice group of local musicians and you have another in a (hopefully) never-ending set of only-in-Santa-Cruz experiences. While you're sipping and appetizing, check out the gallery's inventory of ceramics, glass and wood creations by a dozen local artists, including the fused-glass dinnerware made by Josef Bear himself. Don't miss it! Eden Gallery--831.429.5307. You know where Davenport is. Suite Tooth for Mother's Day Almost nothing pampers like an overnight in a great, luxury hotel. The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose has elegant ambience and plush comfort to spare--I've stayed there many times and can testify. If only for the rooftop pool, this is one of the great urban getaways. And now you can treat the special woman in your life to a sumptuous Mother's Day package at the Fairmont, on May 10, 11 or 12. "Suite Dreams" are made of: chocolate truffles in the guestroom, a one-hour massage for Mom, plus an overnight stay for two in a spectacular suite--all for $209 per night, plus tax. $10 from every Mother's Day "Suite Dreams" package will be donated to the Next Door Shelter for women and children. Mom will never forget it. Call 408.998.1900 for reservations. [ Santa Cruz | Metroactive Central | Archives ]