The Los Altos History Museum’s annual “Catch the Spirit” event will be an online affair this year, set for 1 p.m. Nov. 18.
Local author David Mariani will share stories from his book “Poverty of Affluence,” which traces the history of Santa Clara Valley.
“Poverty of Affluence” follows the immigrant journey of the Mariani family, which settled in Santa Clara Valley and built an internationally successful fruit-growing enterprise and became the first to develop fresh, ready-to-eat dried fruit in clear packaging. The author weaves stories of the transformation of the Santa Clara Valley from fruit basket of the world to leading edge of technology.
“It’s a story peopled not only by my family, but by the major influencers such as David Packard, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Wozniak, Andy Grove, Gene Amdahl, with whom we crossed paths,” writes Mariani. “Specifically, it is the story of the origins and fulfillment of the entrepreneurial spirit that defined Silicon Valley and continues to nurture its growth.”
Following Mariani’s talk, choral group Schola Cantorum Silicon Valley will team up with Lyric Theater of San Jose for virtual caroling at 2 p.m.
Schola Cantorum, a 75-member choir under the direction of Buddy James, continues to make music during the pandemic by performing with other choirs virtually. Members are currently rehearsing for “Schola Around the World.”
“We feel it is so important for nonprofits to support each other during these difficult times until we can all gather again in person,” said Schola Cantorum Executive Director Dan Morris.
Lyric Theatre has performed operetta and musicals in San Jose since 1972, and now streams fully staged productions of classic light operas at no charge.
“Catch the Spirit” attendees will receive a free “goody bag” to be picked up at the museum by Nov. 29 during store hours (1-3 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays).
Mariani will be on hand to sign copies of his book at the museum 1-2 p.m. Nov 21. His books are available for purchase in the museum’s gift shop as well as its online store.
Proceeds from the museum’s gift shop, which organized “Catch the Spirit,” support programming at the museum through its all-volunteer efforts. Special seasonal items will be on sale at 50% off.
Admission to the event is free, but registration is required.
To register and for more information, visit losaltoshistory.org/CatchTheSpirit2020.
