Photo Courtesy Of Doctor Noize Los Altos native Cory Cullinan, who performs as Doctor Noize, has crafted a career that indulges his love of music and his desire to inspire children in a zany way.

Although Cory Cullinan’s idyllic Los Altos childhood was interrupted by tragic events, the 42-year-old came out smiling.

Now known as Doctor Noize, the former Pinewood School music teacher and soccer coach indulges his passion – teaching children how to appreciate music in a zany way.

The bears that emerge from hibernation in spring don’t have to be grouchy and gruff. Many of the children’s book heroes that have charmed us for years are bears of the most innocent, lovable sort.

Two lovable bears full of charm and character that have stood the test of time marked my childhood – A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh in his Hundred Acre Woods and Don Freeman’s Corduroy with his lost button.

Photo Courtesy Of Filoli Children delight in bubbles at Filoli’s annual Spring Fling.

Filoli’s annual Spring Fling is scheduled 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. March 31 on the grounds of the National Trust for Historic Preservation property, 86 Cañada Road in Woodside.

During the event, guests are invited to visit the historical house and 16 acres of gardens in bloom. The Bubblesmith, who creates giant bubbles, will perform. The Fortis Agility Sports Training Group will entertain with trained dogs navigating challenging obstacles. Guide Dogs for the Blind puppies will be available for petting, as well as a miniature horse and alpacas for viewing.

I received three emails last week from parents whose children I had worked with several years ago on their college admissions process. My former students are now college juniors, and their parents informed me of their progress and shared how their children were thriving.

I took a moment to reflect on my work with these particular students. They all had somewhat average grades and test scores, but their exceptional interpersonal skills and well-developed sense of self set each of them apart. They were fun, engaged and active, and they had each made an effort to identify their personal interests in light of their talents, strengths and challenges.

Courtesy of LAYT Los Altos Youth Theatre’s production of “Alice” boasts two casts. Featured in one cast is Elise Smith as Alice and Timmy Smith as White Rabbit

Los Altos Youth Theatre’s production of “Alice” is scheduled to close Saturday at Bus Barn Theater, 97 Hillview Ave.

The play, adapted by T.M. Camp, is based on the classic story “Alice in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll. The title character, Alice, follows the White Rabbit underground, has tea with the Mad Hatter and plays croquet with the King and Queen of Hearts.

Photo Courtesy Of Waldorf School Of The Peninsula Students from Waldorf School of the Peninsula perform at last year’s benefit concert. This year’s event is scheduled Friday.

The Los Altos-based Waldorf School of the Peninsula has scheduled its second High School Benefit Concert 7 p.m. Friday at First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto.

Concert selections range from classical and traditional to modern, and include solo, group and whole-class performances of chamber music, recorder ensemble, African drumming and dance, eurythmy – a dance form unique to Waldorf education – creative music and chorus.