Teddy Bear Drive

COUNTYWIDE—Now through Dec. 31, the sheriff’s office is collecting new stuffed animals for needy children during the holidays, or to give to kids after a traumatic event. Donations accepted; checks should be made out to “Sheriff’s Advisory Council,” with “teddy bears” in the memo line, and mailed to one of the stations. Drop-offs to the Carmel Valley station require a call first to 647-7702. 8am-4pm, Monday-Friday, Coastal Station, 1200 Aguajito Rd., Room 002, Monterey, 647-7702. 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday, Central Station, 1414 Natividad Rd., Salinas. 755-3766.

Exchange Students

COUNTYWIDE—Forte International seeks volunteers to host English-speaking foreign exchange students 15 to 18 for a five-month semester. 877-520-2522.

12|14 Thursday

PG Money Talks

PACIFIC GROVE—PG’s ad hoc budget and finance subcommittee meets. 3:30pm. Community Center, Lebeck Room, 515 Junipero Ave., Pacific Grove. Free. 648-3106.

Think Green

MONTEREY—At tonight’s Green Party meeting, hear Mehdi Shahbazi’s tale of fighting big oil, losing his condo, and sleeping in his van, all in the name of free speech. 7-9pm. Monterey Senior Center, 280 Dickman Ave., Monterey. Free. 645-9914.

12|15 Friday

Pints for Peace

MONTEREY—Talk about steps toward peace at happy hour. 5-7pm. Monterey Peace and Justice Center, Mariposa Hall, 801 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey. Free. 373-1061.

12|19 Tuesday

Carmel Valley Ranch

SALINAS—County Supervisors hold a hearing on the controversial subdivision plan for Carmel Valley Ranch. Check online for time. http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/cttb/agenda.htm. Supervisors Chambers, 168 West Alisal St., 1st Floor, Salinas. Free. 755-5066

Marina City Council

MARINA—City Council meets. 6:30pm. Council Chambers, 211 Hillcrest Ave., Marina. Free. 884-1278.

12|20 Wednesday

Pacific Grove Council

PACIFIC GROVE—City Council meets.

6-11pm. Council Chambers, 300 Forest Ave., First Floor, Pacific Grove. Free. 648-3106.