FRIDAY, MARCH 10 

Tibetan March for Freedom beginning at 9 a.m. at Berkeley City Hall and ending at 12:30 p.m. at the Chinese Consulate, Laguna and Geary, SF. www.tanc.org 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Kevin Tellis, engineer, on “The Delta Levees.” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. 526-2925 

“9/11 Guilt: The Proof is in Your Hands” a documentary at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Unitarian Fellowship, 1924 Cedar St. Followed by discussion with the film makers. Cost is $5-$10, no one turned away. 527-7543. 

Piedmont Choirs’ 2006 Gala Celebration at 6 p.m. at the Oakland Rotunda. Tickets are $135. 547-4441.  

Womansong Circle Participa- 

tory singing for women at 6:45 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way. Donation $15-$20. 525-7082. 

Trinity Poets, a poetry writing group, meets at 11 a.m. at Trinity Church, 2362 Bancroft Way. southberkeleypoet@yahoo.com  

Berkeley Critical Mass Bike Ride meets at the Berkeley BART the second Friday of every month at 5:30 p.m.  

Berkeley Chess School classes for students in grades 1-8 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 1581 LeRoy Ave., room 17. 843-0150. 

Berkeley Chess Club at 8 p.m. at the East Bay Chess Club, 1940 Virginia St. Players at all levels are welcome. 845-1041. 

Kol Hadash Family Purim Potluck and Shabbat at 6 p.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave. RSVP with food choice to info@kolhadash.org 

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 

Mini-Farmers in Tilden A farm exploration program, from 10 to 11 a.m. for ages 4-6 years, accompanied by an adult. We will explore the Little Farm, care for animals, do crafts and farm chores. Wear boots and dress to get dirty! Fee is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

Stream Bioengineering Workshop Learn how to use natural materials and non-structural techniques to combat soil erosion and restore creeks, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Codornices Creek Restoration Site, 5th and Harrison. Cost is $25. To register call 452-0901.  

Free Worm Composting Workshop Find out how to compost kitchen scraps into free, nutritious fertilizer using red wiggler worms, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-2220, ext. 233. 

Mt. Wanda Wildflower Walk in the hills where John Muir took his daughters. Meet at 9 a.m. in the Park and Ride lot at the corner of Alhambra Ave. and Franklin Canyon Rd., Martinez. Wear walking shoes and bring water. 925-228-8860. 

Weed-Out at MLK Jr HS Track & Field from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., enter on Hopkins St. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Family of Clubs. 527-8652.  

“Does God Love War?” Does religion offer a way toward reconciliation? Or has it instead become part of the problem? Discussion with Pulitzer Prize-winner Chris Hedges and American-Muslim Hamza Yusuf at 6:15 p.m. at Martin Luther King Middle School, 1781 Rose St. 582-1979. www.zaytuna.org 

Burma Human Rights Day with a screening of “Our Cause,” speeches by former political prisoners and a Burmese dinner at 6 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship, 1924 Cedar St. Proceeds benefit Burmese American Democratic Alliance. 220-1323.  

Repainting Willard Community Peace Labyrinth from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave. between Derby and Stuart, Berkeley. Rain date March 18. Volunteers needed. 526-7377. 

Progressive Democrats of the East Bay with Stefanie L. Faucher from Death Penalty Focus, at 2 p.m. at Temescal Library, 5205 Telegraph, Oakland. All welcome. 524-4424.  

“Current Land Struggles in Brazil” with Andreia Ferreira of the Landless Worker’s Movement at 4 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $5-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Fashion Extravaganza with fashion show, vendors and designer displays to benefit Katrina victims at 5 p.m. at Black Repertory Theater, 3201 Adeline St. Tickets are $15-$20. 652-8030. 

Used Book Sale to benefit the scholarship fund from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The College Preparatory School, Buttner Auditorium, 6100 Broadway, Oakland. 528-7070. 

School Readiness Fun Fair Learn about quality child care and pre-school programs, register your children for kindergarten. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Beebe Memorial Cathedral, 3900 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. The event is free and everyone is invited to attend. 272-6686. 

East Bay “Birth” Day with information, resources, food and entertainment on pregnancy and birth, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the BRJCC, 1414 Walnut St. Performance of “Birth” at 3:30 p.m. Cost is $20-$40, sliding scale. Child care is available during performance. 540-7210. 

Heart Truth: What Women with Different Abilities Need to Know A workshop for women with mobility limitations at 2:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 326-8718. 

American Red Cross Free CPR and Preparedness classes at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and in Spanish at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Patten University, 2433 Coolidge Ave., Oakland. 1-888-686-3600.  

Alameda’s Altarena Playhouse 68th Anniversary at 6 p.m. at the Grandview Pavillion, Alameda, with dinner and music. For reservations call 523-1553.  

“Puttin’ on the Ritz” Benefit for California Shakespeare Theater at 6 p.m. at the Rotunda Building, 300 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Oakland. Tickets are $185. www.calshakes.org 

“Jewish Literature - Identity and Imagination” Discussion led by Dr. Naomi Seidman of the Graduate Theological Union at 2 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. Registration is recommended. 524-3043. 

Preschool Storytime for 3-5 year olds at 11 a.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720, ext. 17. 

Car Wash Benefit for Options Recovery Services of Berkeley, held every Sat. from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lutheran Church, 1744 University Ave. 666-9552. 

SUNDAY, MARCH 12 

Weather Whizzes Make your own tools to measure the wild weather and test them outside, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

Frog Chorus Learn about their life cycle and where they live and thrive, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

“Songs Against the War: Voices of Anti-warriors” with Barbara Dane and the San Francisco Mime Troupe Band, in honor of the Veterans and Friends of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade and Veterans for Peace at 1 p.m. at the Florence Schwimley Little Theater, Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way. Reception follows. Tickets are $35. 582-7699.  

Community Labyrinth Peace Walk to rededicate the Willard Community Peace Labyrinth at 3 p.m. at Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave. between Derby and Stuart. Guided by Margie Adam. Rain reschedules to March 19. 526-7377. 

Tap Jam A tribute and fundraiser for tappers and street jammers of New Orleans from 3 to 5 p.m. at Montclair Recreation Center, 6300 Moraga Ave., Oakland. Donations requested. 548-9840. 

African/African Diaspora Film Society presents “Le Silence de la Foret” at 2 p.m. at Parkway Theater, 1834 Park Blvd. Tickets are $5. OurFilms@aol.com 

Iranian New Year Celebration at 2 p.m. at the Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. Sponsored by the Iranian Student Cultural Organization. Tickets are $5-$15 at the door. 

Oakland Voters Meet the Candidates, hosted by The MGO Democratic Club from 4 to 7 p.m. at 170 Roble Rd., Oakland. Tickets are $25. 834-9198. www.mgoclub.org  

Berkeley Progressive Coalition Help us plan a spring convention for November’s city election, at 2:45 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, Third flr. meeting room, Kittredge at Shattuck. 540-1975. 

“Confronting Anti-Semitism” Town Hall Forum at 7 p.m. at El Cerrito High School, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. 839-2900, ext. 217. 

Music for Babies at 9 a.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave. Donation of $4 suggested. To register call 658-7853.  

Creating a Family for LGBT Parents at 3 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave. To register call 658-7853.  

Tibetan Buddhism with Lee Nichol on “Dialog of Being” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 843-6812. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

MONDAY, MARCH 13 

Parenting Class in Spanish at 7 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave. To register call 658-7853. www.bananasinc.org  

Feng Shui for Health & Vitality at 7 p.m. at Unity of Berkeley, 2075 Eunice St. Cost is $27. 925-287-9594.  

Introduction to Meditation with Diane Eshin Rizzetto at 6:45 p.m. at Bay Zen Center, 315 Alcatraz Ave. Suggested donation $10. Registration required. 596-3087. www.bayzen.org 

“Timbrels and Torahs: A Celebration of Wisdom” with local filmmaker Miriam Chaya at 7 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043.  

Yoga and Meditation Every Sun. in March from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Elephant Pharmacy, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

Natural Solutions for Depression & Insomnia at 7:30 p.m. at Elephant Pharmacy, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

World Affairs Discussion Group for seniors at 10:15 a.m. at the Albany Senior Center. Cost is $2.50.  

Berkeley CopWatch organizational meeting at 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

TUESDAY, MARCH 14 

Empty Bowls Dinner Benefit for Alameda County Community Food Bank. Enjoy a bowl of soup and a handmade soup bowl to take home at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, or $30 for a family of four. For deatils and location call 653-3663, ext. 328. 

“The Invaded Estuary: Exotic Species in San Francisco Bay” with Andrew Cohen of the SF Estuary Institute at 5:30 p.m. at the Goldman School of Public Policy, Room 250, UC Campus. 642-2666. 

“A Forgotten Resistance: The Mosque of Paris” A documentary by Derri Berkani at 7:30 p.m. in the Homeroom, International House, 2299 Piedmont Ave. Dr. Annette Herskovits, who survived the holocaust as a child in France thanks to a clandestine rescue network, will present the film. 

“Guatemala: The Struggle to End Impunity” with Aisha Brown of NISGUA’s Guatemala Accompaniment Project at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St. Donation $5-$10, no one turned away. 415-924-3227. 

“Mental Training for the Endurance Athlete” with former professional triathlete Terri Schneider at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Design and Print T-Shirts Workshop with Alliance Graphics in conjunction with the Berkeley Youth Arts Festival from 3 to 5 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. Also on Wed. Registration required. 644-6893. www.berkeleyartcenter.org 

American Red Cross Blood Drive from noon to 6 p.m. at Tau Beta Pi, Leroy St., next to Soda Hall, UC Campus. To schedule an appointment call 1-800-GIVELIFE. www.BeADonor.com 

Berkeley School Volunteers Training workshop for volunteers interested in helping the public schools, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. 644-8833. 

Spring Decluttering Organize your mind, home, office and life at 7:30 p.m. at Elephant Pharmacy, 1607 Shattuck Ave. 549-9200. 

Tuesday Tilden Walkers Join a few slowpoke seniors at 9:30 a.m. in the parking lot near the Little Farm for an hour or two walk. 215-7672, 524-9992. 

Family Story Time at 7 p.m. at the Kensington Branch Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. Free, all ages welcome. 524-3043. 

Free Handbuilding Ceramics Class 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. John’s Senior Center, 2727 College Ave. Also, Mon. noon to 4 p.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center. Materials and firing charges not included. 525-5497. 

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. 548-3991. www.berkeleycameraclub.org 

Introduction to Buddhist Meditation at 7 p.m. at the Dzalandhara Buddhist Center in Berkeley. Cost is $7-$10. Call for directions. 559-8183. www.kadampas.org 

St. John’s Prime Timers meets at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. 845-6830. 

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll learn about the water cycle, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

Bird Walk on Mt. Wanda led by Park Ranger Cheryl Able. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Park and Ride lot at the corner of Alhabra Ave. and Franklin Canyon Rd., Martinez. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water and binoculars. Rain cancels. 925-228-8860. 

Great Decisions Foreign Policy Association Lecture “Energy” with Prof. Daniel Kammen, UCB, at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave. Cost is $40 for the eight lecture series. 526-2925. 

Sugar Bowl Casino Public Hearing on the Draft EIS for the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indian Casino at Richmond Parkway at 6 p.m. at the Richmond Memorial Auditorium, 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. This is a chance for all East Bay residents concerned about the impact of the casino to be heard. 271-0640, ext. 103.  

“Ommissions and Distortions in the 9/11 Commission Report” Films by David Ray Griffin at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation of $5. 

“Lead-Safe Painting & Remodeling” Free introductory class to learn about lead safe renovations for your older home, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Berkeley Tool Lending Library 1901 Russell St. Presented by Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 567-8280. www.ACLPPP.org 

“Top Ten Healing Foods” a lecture, cooking demonstration and meal from 2 to 5 p.m. at Bauman College, 901 Grayson St., Ste. 201. Cost is $15. Registration required. 540-7041. 

American Red Cross Blood Drive from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Mills College Student Union, 5000 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. To schedule an appointment call 1-800-GIVELIFE. www.BeADonor.com 

Parents and Providers Childcare discussion at 6:30 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave. To register call 658-7853. www.bananasinc.org  

Basic Balkan Singing Workshop led by Juliana Graffagna, Wed. evenings in March at 7:30 p.m. at KITKA/Children’s Advocates, 1201 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, at 12th, Oakland. Cost for the series is $60. Registration encouraged. 444-0323. 

Berkeley Communicators Toastmasters welcomes curious guests and new members at 7:15 a.m. at Au Coquelet Cafe, 2000 University Ave. 435-5863.  

Entrepreneurs Networking at 8 a.m. at A’Cuppa Tea, 3202 College Ave. at Alcatraz. Cost is $5. 562-9431.  

The Berkeley Lawn Bowling Club provides free instruction at 10:30 a.m. at 2270 Acton St. 841-2174.  

Walk Berkeley for Seniors meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Sea Breeze Market, just west of the I-80 overpass. Heavy rain cancels. 548-9840. 

Fresh Produce Stand at San Pablo Park from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in the Frances Albrier Community Center. Sponsored by the Ecology Center’s Farm Fresh Choice. 848-1704. www.ecologycenter.org 

Sing your Way Home A free sing-a-long at 4:30 p.m. every Wed. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720.  

Stitch ‘n Bitch Bring your knitting, crocheting and other handcrafts from 6 to 9 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave. 548-5198. 

THURSDAY, MARCH 16 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll learn about the water cycle, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 636-1684. 

“The Making of a Wildlife Refuge” with Leora Feeney who will describe the current efforts on the site of the former US Navy Air Station at the western end of Alameda. At 7:30 p.m. at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Sponsored by the Golden Gate Audubon Society. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

“Reflections Ten Years After the Vision Fire” at Point Reyes, with Jennifer Chapman of the National Park Service, at 12 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak Sts. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

“Women’s Rights, Warlords and the US Occupation of Afghanistan” with 27-year old Afghan Parliamentarian, Malalai Joya at 4 p.m. in Room 270, Dwinelle Hall, UC Campus. www. 

afghanwomensmission.org 

“China-Silenced” a KQED/ 

Frontline documentary on the Uighurs at 7:30 p.m. at International House, 2299 Piedmont Ave. Cost is $5. 642-9460. 

LeConte Neighborhood Association meets at 7:30 p.m. in the LeConte School cafeteria. Agenda items include recent crime patterns and the new Community Crime View web site, Black & White Liquor restrictions and Neighborhood Watch. KarlReeh@aol.com 

Living with Ones and Twos at 7 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave. Donation of $4 suggested. To register call 658-7853. www.bananasinc.org  

“Benevolence, Compassion, Joyousness and Equanimity” with Mudagamuwe Maithrimurthi, Visiting Lecturer of Buddhist Studies, at 5 p.m. in the IEAS Conference Room, 2223 Fulton St., 6th Floor Colloquium Sponsored by the Center for Buddhist Studies http://ieas.berkeley.edu/events/2006.03.16.html 

Berkeley Public Library’s Teen Services invite teen readers to come and discuss classic and contemporary science fiction and fantasy titles, at 4 p.m. at the Claremont Branch Library, 2940 Benvenue. 981-6133. 

“Spice it Nice: Culinary Secrets” at 5:30 p.m. at Parmaca Integrative Pharmacy, 1744 Solano Ave. 527-8929. 

Ask a Union Mechanic at 4:30 p.m. at Parker and Shattuck, until the strike is settled. They will offer advice on all makes of car. 

Historical & Current Times Book Group meets on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1249 Marin Ave. 548-4517. 

World of Plants Tours Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 p.m. at the UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $5. 643-2755.  

CITY MEETINGS 

Council Agenda Committee meets Mon. Mar. 13, at 2:30 p.m., at 2180 Milvia St. 981-6900. 

Youth Commission meets Mon., Mar. 13, at 6:30 p.m., at 1730 Oregon St. Philip Harper-Cotton, 981-6670. ò

Once again, cheapness costs lives. This time it has to do with the skyrocketing cost of copper in the 1960s. If you’re my age, which I’m not going to reveal, you may remember when copper shot way up around 1965. Metal futures were all the rage and wire makers were freaking big time. Nobody wanted to pay twice the price for wire, but buildings had to be built, added onto or rewired. 

So aluminum was the solution. It was known even at this time that aluminum was a poor conductor when compared to copper but it was assumed that the difference was negligible (at least that’s what the marketing department told the legal department) and that aluminum would do the job until copper came down in price. 

What the manufacturers, the electricians and the public didn’t know was that aluminum wiring (especially the first generation made between 1965 and 1972) was going to end up causing a lot of fires. The early wiring is considered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to be 55 times more likely to cause a fire than copper wiring. The later aluminum alloy is somewhat less dangerous but I can’t find any figures on just how much less scary it’s supposed to be. 

So what’s going on with aluminum wiring? Why does it cause more fires? It has to do with two effects, thermal expansion and oxidation and it looks like the oxidation is the more serious culprit.  

When wires have electricity running through them, they heat up somewhat. In fact, a basic principle in wiring is to size the wire as well as the switches, outlets and lamps so that they don’t overheat. A tiny amount of heat is OK, but toaster-hot or waffle-iron-hot is clearly not a good thing because these wires are running through the walls of your house and can start a fire if they get too hot.  

When wires are well connected to one another the power flows nicely through the system. When there’s something constricting the flow, the power tries to jump over the gap or heats up at the point of marginal contact and can actually start melting metal or plastic or throwing off sparks. 

This sort of resistance is the thing that makes the little wires in the toaster glow and look what that can do. Aluminum connections are more apt to have these things happen as a result of those two effects.  

Thermal expansion with aluminum wire is so great that it can push the contact screw outward as it heats up and then leaves a gap as it cools down. That gap can become one of the areas of poor contact that causes sparking and leads to a fire. It can also create a gap at a connection with another wire inside of a junction box, even when a tightly bound “wire nut” is holding them together. 

The other effect, oxidation, begins to occur as soon as the aluminum wiring is stripped for installation. Aluminum oxide is a really good insulator (unlike the corrosion that occurs on copper) and over time can cause the resistance at a connection to get high enough to make a nice little electric heater out of an outlet. 

One way to know that you have a problem is that you may actual smell burning plastic at an outlet or switch. If you see sparks, charring or hear sizzling, this is a very bad sign. If an outlet or switch feels warm to the touch you may be feeling the effects of aluminum wiring. If you’re experiencing any of the above or seeing lights dim when you operate small appliances, you may have aluminum wiring (although other electrical deficiencies can cause this as well). 

The only way to be sure that you have or don’t have aluminum wiring is to have someone (such as an electrician or building inspector) look and see. 

Aluminum is still used for very large “feeders” and seems to function well for these. They may be the main wires leading from your outside panel to an inside panel or the “dedicated” wiring to the stove or dryer. Wiring leading to outlets and switches should not use aluminum if at all possible and you may want to simply replace it with copper, cutting and abandoning the old wiring in the walls. 

An alternative is to have a certified installer place “Copalum” connectors in every junction box of the house that uses aluminum. This is the only method that the Consumer Product Safety Commission sanctions other than replacement of wiring. 

It’s not cheap either but it’s probably a lot cheaper than replacement, especially if you live in a two-story house. It’s also a lot cheaper than the tragedy of a fire, whose expense may not be measurable in dollars. 

If you have aluminum wiring from after 1972, it’s a little safer because the wire alloy was changed and the devices (outlets, switches, etc.) were improved. I’d still be very concerned if it were my house. Aside from having kids, I’m just plain afraid of fire. 

While the data is sketchy, there are some nasty news reports. The Pittsburgh Channel reports that 165 people were killed at the Beverly Hills Supper Club in Kentucky in 1977 as a result of aluminum wiring. A fire in New Jersey in 2001 killed a family of five including 3 children. Aluminum wiring was blamed. 

These aren’t the only stories I’ve found but it’s so unpleasant that I think I’ll stop there. We may have to wait a few years to have better data, but the scientific research is very clear that fires start much more easily with aluminum branch wiring than with copper. 

Wiring is not the most expensive thing in your home to fix or upgrade and electrical fires are anything but rare so it’s worth taking action if you have aluminum. If your house was built prior to 1965 or after 1973 and wasn’t rewired or remodeled, you probably don’t have any. If you’re not sure, have someone check. 

If you have determined that you have aluminum wiring leading to your outlets and lights and you want to go the Copalum connector route, you can contact Tyco at (800) 522-6752. Only certified Copalum installers can put them in and if you want to know more, the CPSC can send you a copy of Repairing Aluminum Wiring by writing to them at CPSC, Washington, DC 20207. 

And may only your thoughts and your heart be warm tonight. 

FRIDAY, MARCH 10 

THEATER 

Aurora Theatre “The Master Builder” Wed. through Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. at 2081 Addison St., through March 12. Tickets are $38. 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org 

Central Works “Shadow Crossing” Thurs. - Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave., through March 26. Tickets are $9-$25. 558-1381.  

Impact Theatre, “Hamlet” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave., through March 18. Tickets are $10-$15. 464-4468.  

Traveling Jewish Theater “Family Alchemy” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through March 12. Tickets are $12-$35. 415-522-0786.  

UCB Dept. of Theater, “Seven Lears” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun at 2 p.m. at the Zellerbach Playhouse, UC Campus. TIckets are $8-$14. 642-9925.  

EXHIBITIONS 

“Three Figure Painters” works by Prabin Badhia, Steve Skaar, and Inna Jane Ray. Reception at 6 p.m. at Nexus Gallery, 2707 Eighth St. 655-7374. 

FILM 

The Wide Angle Cinema of Michael Brault “Orders” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

New Orleans Zine Reading A benefit and book release event for “Stories Care Forgot,” at 7 p.m. at Rock Paper Scissors Collective, 2278 Telegraph Ave. 238-9171. 

Anthony Hawley & Tanya Brolaski, poets at 8 p.m. at Pegasus Books, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Leo Kottke in a solo concert at 8 p.m. at Wheeler Auditorium, UC Campus. Tickets are $30. 642-9988.  

“Pacific Arts Trio” at 8 p.m. at Arlington Community Church, 52 Arlington, Kensington. Tickets are $15 at the door. 843-7745. 

“KITKA: Stories From Chernobyl,” A Celebration of Survival at 8 p.m. at Bishop O’Dowd High School, 9500 Stearns Ave., Oakland. Tickets are $10-$20. www.bishopodowd.org 

Rafael Manriquez in a musical tribute to women songwriters and poets from the Americas at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $13-$15. 849-2568.  

The Jazz Express Quintet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. Cost is $7. 841-JAZZ.  

Native Elements and Razorblade at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$12. 525-5054. 

Jill Knight, singer-songwriter, at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave. 548-5198.  

The Waybacks at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $17.50-$18.50. 548-1761.  

Bobbe Norris with the Larry Dunlap Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

DJ & Brook at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Steve Taylor, songwriter for Cowpokes for Peace, at 7 p.m. at A Cuppa Tea, 3202 College Ave. Oakland. 420-0196.  

Whiskey Sunday, Love Songs, Pink Black at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

Swoop Unit at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 

FILM 

The Wide Angle Cinema of Michael Brault “Drifting Upstream” at 6:30 p.m. and “Good Riddance” at 9:05 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Youth of Colored Ink, in coordination with Berkeley Art Center’s Youth Arts Festival, open mic at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. 644-6893.  

“Still Present Pasts” A collaborative exhibition on Korean Americans and the “Forgotten War” Artists’ talk at 1 p.m. at Pro Arts, 550 Second St., Oakland. 763-4361. 

Chris Hedges and Hamza Yusuf discuss “Does God Love War? The Fine Line Between Faith and Fanatacism” at 7 p.m. at Martin Luther King Middle School Auditorium, 1781 Rose St. 845-7852.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Recorder Performances at 11 a.m. at A Cheerfull Noyse, 1228 Solano Ave., Albany. 524-0411. 

Maria del Mar & Monica Salmaso at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $22-$40. 642-9988. www.calperfs.berkeley.edu 

Jewish Music Festival with Septeto Rodrigues and Irving Fields at 8 p.m. at the First Congregational Church Oakland. Tickets are $22-$26. 415-276-1511. 

Mexican Mariachi Fest featuring Juanita Ulloa, at 8:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $13-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org  

Gaucho, gypsy jazz, at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Babtunde Lea Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $7. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Waybacks at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $17.50-$18.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

David Rovics with Attila the Stockbrocker, Ryan Harvey and Folk This, in a benefit for the Common Ground Collective in New Orleans at 7:30 p.m. at AK Press, 674-A 23rd St., Oakland. 208-1700. 

Stephen Swiss & Peter Frankel, Latin jazz funk fusion, at 8 p.m. at Spuds Pizza, 3290 Adeline St. Cost is $7 per family. 558-0881. 

Chase Michaels at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12-$15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Sila & The Afrofunk Experience at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $11-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Bobbe Norris with the Larry Dunlap Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

Jared Karol and Cas Lucas at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Plan 9, Monster Squad, Static Thought, Cell Block 5 at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $3. 525-9926. 

Will Bernard & Motherbug at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

SUNDAY, MARCH 12 

FILM 

Irish Film Festival at 3 and 6 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Wide Angle Cinema of Michael Brault “Chronicle of a Summer” at 5:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Ken Foster offers a memoir and guidebook “The Dogs Who Found Me” at 4 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

Poetry Flash with Kate Braverman and Diane di Prima at 7:30 p.m. at Cody’s Books. Donation $2. 845-7852.  

Elaine Taylor will speak on the feminist aspects in the suspense novel “Final Betrayal” at 2 p.m. at Change Makers, 6536 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 655-2405.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

“Songs Against the War: Voices of Anti-warriors” with Barbara Dane and the San Francisco Mime Troupe Band, in honor of the Veterans and Friends of the Abraham Lincoln Brigade and Veterans for Peace at 1 p.m. at the Florence Schwimley Little Theater, Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way. Reception follows. Tickets are $35. 582-7699. www.alba-valb.org 

Organ Recital by Jonathan Dimmock at 6:10 p.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2300 Bancroft Way. Donations accepted. 845-0888.  

Sounds New Contemporary American classic music at 7:30 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. Donation $10-$15. 524-2912.  

Takács Quartet, chamber music, at 3 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Pre-concert talk at 2 p.m. Tickets are $42. 642-9988. www.calperfs.berkeley.edu 

Masters of Persian Classical Music at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $24-$48. 642-9988.  

Jewish Music Festival with Cantors Alberto Mizrahi and Jack Mendelson at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 2808 Summit St., Oakland. Tickets are $22-$26. 415-276-1511. 

Chamber Music, featuring Karla Donehew, violin, and Miles Graber, piano, at 4 p.m. at the Crowden Music Center Rose at Sacramento. Tickets are $12, children free. 559-2941. www.crowdenmusiccenter.org 

College of Alameda Jazz Band at 2 p.m. at Oakland Public Conservatory of Music, 1616 Franklin St., Oakland. Free, families welcome. 748-2213. 

All-request Beatles Sing-a-Long Fundraiser at 6 p.m. at Epic Arts, 1923 Ashby Ave. All proceeds will go to benefit The Future Leaders Institute. Donation $10, with $10 donation per song. 649-9878. www. 

thefutureleadersinstitute.org  

Carlos Oliveira and Brazilian Origins, featuring Harvey Wainapel, at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Steve Erquiga & Brian Pardo at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12-$15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $19.50-$20.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Vintage Tea Dance with Frederick Hodges at 2 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Gift Horse at 11 a.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Shook Ones, Legit at 5 p.m. at 924 Gilman St. Cost is $6. 525-9926. 

MONDAY, MARCH 13 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Lost and Found” Wearble art made from found or recycled materials, by NIAD students with disablities and Piedmont High students, opens at the NIAD Art Center, 551 23rd St., Richmond. www.niadart.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Mark Anthony Thomas will read from “The Poetic Repercussion: A Poetic & Musical Narrative” at 3 p.m. at MLK Student Union, #4504, UC Campus. 642-9000. 

“Painting on Location in Italy and Mexico” A slide lecture with Anthony Holdsworth at 6:30 p.m. at ACCI Gallery, 1652 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $8, includes reception. 843-2527. www.accigallery.org 

Poetry Express with Mary Milton at 7 p.m. at Priya Restaurant, 2072 San Pablo Ave. berkeleypoetryexpress@yahoo.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Adama Purim Party at 6:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$20. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Zilber-Muscarella Quartet & Invitational at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Parlor Tango at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

TUESDAY, MARCH 14 

FILM 

Vantage Points: New Documentaries by Women “States of UnBelonging” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“The Issue of Icons Once Again” with Prof. Constantine Scouteris, University of Athens, at 7:30 p.m. at Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute, 2311 Hearst Ave. 649-3450. 

Lola Vollen talks about “Surviving Justice: America’s Wrongly Convicted and Exonerated” at 7:30 p.m. at Cody’s Books. 845-7852. www.codysbooks.com  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Orpheus Supertones with Walt Koken, Claire Milliner, Pete Peterson, and Kellie Allen at 8 p.m. in Berkeley near College and Ashby. Donation to performers $10-$20 sliding scale. For reservations and directions, please send an email to Cleoma@aol.com 

Creole Belles with Andrew Carriere at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $9. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Singer’s Open Mic with Ellen Hoffman at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Debbie Poryes & Friends at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Jazzschool Tuesdays, a weekly showcase of up-and-coming ensembles from Berkeley Jazz- 

school at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15 

FILM 

Latino Film Festival “Habana, Havana” at 7 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $6. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Film 50: History of Cinema “East of Eden” at 3 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Edward Rutherford continues his history of Ireland in “The Rebels of Ireland” at 7:30 p.m. at Cody’s Books. 845-7852.  

Café Poetry hosted by Paradise at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Donation $2. 849-2568.  

Joshua Beckman and Matthew Rohrer, poets, at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Music for the Spirit with the Rimsky-Korsakov String Quartet at 12:15 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Oakland, 2619 Boradway. 444-3555. 

Dave Brubeck Quartet & Ramsey Lewis Trio at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $36-$72. 642-9988.  

“Beyond Words: An Interfaith Ritual for Peace” A dance performance that transcends the barriers of words and dogma at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Beth El, 1301 Oxford St. 540-7227. 

Calvin Keys Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. 841-JAZZ.  

Ned Boynton Trio at 8 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

Whiskey Brothers, old time and bluegrass, at 9 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. 843-2473.  

Balkan Folkdance at 8 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $7. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Blue Roots at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Girlyman at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $17.50-$18.50. 548-1761.  

THURSDAY, MARCH 16 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Lost and Found” Wearable art made from found or recycled materials, by NIAD and Piedmont High students. Reception at 5:30 p.m. at the NIAD Art Center, 551 23rd St., Richmond. www.niadart.org 

FILM 

Film and Video Makers at Cal at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Nahid Rachlin, Iranian-born writer, reads from her works at 5:30 p.m. at Mills Hall, Mills College, 5000 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Part of the Contemporary Writers Series. 430-2236. 

Nomad Spoken Word Night at 7 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Greg Mortenson describes “Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build Nations One School at a Time” at 7:30 p.m. at Cody’s Books. 845-7852.  

Word Beat Reading Series with Jamey Genna and Jeffrey Grossman at 7 p.m. at Mediterraneum Caffe, 2475 Telegraph Ave. 526-5985. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Jewish Music Festival with Paul Dresher, Daniel David Feinsmith, Sarah Cahill and John Schott at 7:30 p.m. at the Thrust Stage, Berkeley Rep. Tickets are $22-$26. 415-276-1511. 

The Black Brothers at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

Cathy Felter Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ.  

With River, Philip Rodriguez at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave. 548-5198.  

Glen Washington, reggae, at 9:30 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $20-$22. 548-1159.  

Jonathan Alford Duo at 8 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

FRIDAY, MARCH 17 

THEATER 

Central Works “Shadow Crossing” Thurs. - Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave., through March 26. Tickets are $9-$25. 558-1381.  

Impact Theatre, “Hamlet” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave., through March 18. Tickets are $10-$15. 464-4468.  

FILM 

Asian American Film Festival “Letter from an Unknown Woman” at 7 p.m. and “Linda Linda Linda” at 9 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Tony Kushner in Conversation with Michael Krasney on Arthur Miller at 6:30 p.m. at Berkeley Repertory Theater, 2025 Addison St. 845-7852.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Berkeley High School Jazz Ensemble and Combos Spring Jazz Concert at 7 p.m. at Florence Schwimley Little Theater, Berkeley High School. Tickets are $10, BHS students, teachers and staff free. 527-8245. 

Frederica Von Stade, mezzo soprano, with jazz pianist Taylor Eigsti at 8 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. Tickets are $125. Benefit for the Jazzschool. 845-5373. 

Saoco, dance band mixture of reggae and ricos ritmos cubanos at 9:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $10. 849-2568.  

Blind Duck, traditonal Irish music at 7:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $4. 843-2473.  

Hal Stein Quartet CD Release Party at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island. Cost is $7. 841-JAZZ.  

Stomp the Stumps Benefit for Bay Area Coalition for Headwaters with Gary Gates Band, Funky Nixons, Day Late Fool’s Band at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $13. 525-5054.  

Blame Sally at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Darryl Henriques at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

George Cotsirilos Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

Mariospeedwagon and Lemon Juju at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. 

Instant Asshole, Skinned Alive, Dog Assassin at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St. Cost is $6. 525-9926. 

Glen Washington, reggae, at 9:30 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low. Cost is $20-$22. 548-1159.  

Loretta Lynch, Oaktown country, Bob Wiseman & Leah Abramson at 8:30 p.m. at Epic Arts, 1923 Ashby Ave. Cost is $5-$10. 644-2204.  

The San Pablo Project at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277.

If you thought America’s victory over Germany in World War II was only a political/militaristic one, check out Before The Fall, opening today (Friday) at Landmark’s Act 1&2 theater in downtown Berkeley. Apparenty we won the culture war, too. The film may be German, made with German actors speaking the German language, but it is a purely American film, from the opening shots down to the score’s final notes.  

The movie is set in one of Hitler’s napolas, the elite schools created to cultivate future leaders of the Third Reich. Friedrich is a boy from humble origins whose boxing talents grant him entry to the school. He is Aryan in appearance, strong, blonde and handsome, and his German schoolmasters delight in this perfect specimen joining their ranks. 

In a couple of nicely understated scenes, it is made clear though that the boy is something of a genetic fluke, for his parents have dark hair and dark eyes. It is not clearly stated that they are Jewish, and in fact it doesn’t matter whether they are or not; it only matters that they are distinctly not Aryan, making the point that the boy’s ascension to Nazi paragon is simply a matter of chance. 

This sense of opportunities that come and go quickly and arbitrarily informs one of the film’s central motifs: Doors open and slam shut abruptly throughout the film. Early on, Friedrich’s father slams a door in his face as he refuses his son permission to enroll in the napola. A similar moment concludes the film, bookending the story with mirror images of opportunity and denial. And tellingly, it is not Friedrich himself who opens and closes these doors; it is always another who ushers him through or shuts him out. 

Such straight-from-the-textbook symbols permeate the film. None of them are subtle or unique but all are used simply and efficiently to convey the film’s intended messages: freshly fallen snow to connote youth and purity; a red, sweltering cellar to demonstrate a descent into the inferno of violence and disloyalty; cold, icy waters signifying Nazi cruelty and detachment. 

Before The Fall is a coming-of-age film, distinguished primarily because of its dramatic setting and strong acting. Otherwise, it’s really the same old formula, with all its attendant devices: domineering fathers; quietly suffering mothers; and a young son determined to see the world, finding solace and growth in newfound frienships as his naiveté is shattered en route to the realization that maybe, just maybe, mean old dad was right after all. What is impressive about the film is how affecting it is despite its by-the-book structure. It is a testament to the skill and talent of the director and his cast that we still care, even when we know exactly what is coming.  

The film is essentially a collection of artfully rendered cliches, full of stock characters and stock devices. Which is not to say that it isn’t effective, entertaining and fully engrossing. It is all of these. Yet there is a certain dissatisfaction that comes from viewing a German film dressed up as a Hollywood production dressed up as an indie.  

It is in the craft of the film that we most plainly see its American roots. Director Dennis Gansel has apparently steeped himself in American mainstream movies. He employs well-framed compositions and lovely photography—photography that is, however, somewhat shallow. It’s lovely in the way that a Thomas Kinkade painting is lovely: Sure there’s light and fog and a well-sculpted garden, but what the hell does it say? Nothing, of course, but it looks good with the new drapes.  

Before The Fall is full of this sort of imagery; the shots are well-crafted and often beautiful, and though you really can’t find fault with them, you know there’s really nothing unique about them. There is no bold, new vision here. It is art for the masses; accessible and competent, but rote.  

The music too is straight out of the Hollywood textbook: that plaintive, poignant sound of a delicate piano with its tinkling, poignant notes followed by somber, sometimes soaring, strings. This is the soundtrack to virtually every Hollywood film made in the past 15 years, and if you haven’t noticed it yet it will drive you crazy once you do. Again, it’s hard to find fault with it; it is neither jarring nor innocuous. It is Kinkade put to music: pleasing enough, but ultimately meaningless.  

Too often, the film slips into ready-made Hollywood sentiment. For instance, there is a scene where the two boys talk and start to express their disappointment with one another. Words give way to violence as they start to punch each other and eventually wrestle each other to the floor, where the emotionally laden punches give way to tears and an embrace on the cold tile floor. You can see it coming, and you can predict easily enough how it ends: The camera pulls slowly back, framing the boys between shower stalls while the music swells, all to convey to you, as if you didn’t know already, that this is a Poignant Moment. Spielberg couldn’t have hit us over the head any harder.  

The film shows remarkable restraint in one instance: There is no love interest. At one point the boys focus their attention on a lovely young girl who works at the school, and it looks as though the film is about to step off the cliff into pure Hollywood inanity. But fortunately, nothing comes of it. In fact, the girl is introduced, given a name even, and then is gone, only appearing once more, as the object of the boys’ giggling voyeurism. It leaves the distinct impression that the film had in fact featured a romantic subplot, perhaps a love triangle, but that it was left on the cutting room floor, leaving just a few awkward scenes behind as evidence.  

Gansel and his crew have taken a familiar set of ingredients and created a clean, polished product by sheer skill and craftsmanship. It is well-directed, well-written and completely engaging. But it’s a safe movie, one that plays by all the well-worn rules. Gansel has made an all-American, paint-by-numbers Hollywood tear-jerker, and there’s nothing wrong with that, if that’s all you want to make. But paint-by-numbers won’t get you the artistry and agony of a Van Gogh, nor the bold, striking colors of a Matisse.  

But if you’re good—well, it just might get you a Kinkade.  

BEFORE THE FALL 

Director: Dennis Gansel 

Cast: Max Reimelt, Tom Schilling, Justus von Dohnanyi 

Rated R, 110 minutes 

In German with English subtitles 

Playing: Act 1&2›

The 21st annual Berkeley Jewish Music Festival got off to a sizzling start last Saturday with a soul-stirring concert by the New Orleans Klezmer All Stars at Oakland’s First Congregational Church.  

The group combines the celebratory sounds of klezmer with the distinctive styles of their native city and musical genres from as far away as Morocco. Along with electrifying music that got the packed house dancing, the concert included heartfelt appeals for support of ongoing Hurricane Katrina relief and to close the concert, a marriage proposal from drummer David Sobel to his sweetheart at the foot of the stage. 

If that sounds like a show that can’t be topped, you haven’t yet looked at the festival’s amazing schedule of concerts. 

This Berkeley event is admired throughout the world, but its stature hasn’t stopped the festival from booking an adventurous lineup each year. 

This year’s program features “Bagels and Bongos: A Tribute to Irving Fields,” with top New York percussionist Roberto Rodriguez and his Septeto Rodriguez presenting their innovative mix of Cuban and Jewish traditions at Oakland’s First Congregational Church Saturday at 8 p.m.  

Whether you want to dance to the sounds of klezmer or the Cuban styles of son and danzon, or just love great music, this is well worth exploring. Concert dedicatee Irving Fields is, at age 90, one of the last of the Tin Pan Alley generation of songwriters, and is the creator of the 1959 classic album Bagels and Bongos, one of the first attempts at Jewish-Latin fusion. A special guest will be leading New York jazz pianist Anthony Coleman. 

Sunday night’s concert at Temple Sinai in Oakland celebrates the Jewish cantorial tradition with two of the world’s most renowned performers of Jewish liturgical music: Chicago’s Alberto Mizrahi, a featured performer in PBS’s “Three Cantors” special, and New York’s Jack Mendelson, subject of the recent hit documentary film “A Cantor’s Tale.” 

Again giving a twist to tradition, the program will feature Coleman accompanying Mendelson and a trio of leading performers of Middle Eastern Jewish music joining the Greek-born Mizrahi.  

The festival has always introduced new artists to the Bay Area and even to the United States, and this continues with first American performance by Yahudice at Berkeley Repertory Theater, 2025 Addison St, at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 19. 

Led by vocalist Hadass Pal Yarden, this virtuoso group of Turkish classical musicians will perform the music of Turkey’s Sephardic Jews. 

Festival Director Ellie Shapiro discovered the group on a trip to Turkey, and explains, “Hadass is the leading authority on this music, and she’s put out an album that’s become an underground hit in the U.S. This is a genre that’s dying out, and she’s made it her life’s work to perpetuate it. That’s part of our work too, to make sure this culture continues to live and to thrive.”  

There’s also no shortage of local artists. The March 16 program, “Jewish Fringes,” features music by four East Bay composers exploring Jewish themes. Presented at the Berkeley Rep at 7:30 p.m., the program features world premiere works commissioned for this concert by renowned composers Paul Dresher, Daniel David Feinsmith, Amy X Neuberg and John Schott. 

Dresher’s work will feature his self-designed instrument the Quadrachord, a hybrid electronic string instrument more than 13 feet long. Other performers include pianist Sarah Cahill, a female vocal sextet singing Neuberg’s music, and Schott leading his own jazz trio, Dream Kitchen.  

The festival’s family focus will be celebrated with the return of Community Music Day on March 26 at the Berkeley Richmond Jewish Community Center. 

Hosted by Berkeley’s own Josh Kornbluth, the all-day event features an instrument petting zoo, a children’s concert, a dozen music workshops, concerts all afternoon, and a klezmer/Roma dance party to finish off the celebration. 

Shapiro said, “It’s not just about sitting and watching a concert, it’s meant to get people actively engaged in participating and creating.”  

Two programs spotlight the Yiddish song tradition. On March 23 at 2 p.m., the Berkeley JCC will present Bayle Schaechter-Gottesman. 

The singer, performer, and poet, Shapiro says, “is the reigning Yiddish poet laureate of the US, who won an NEA award as a National Treasure last year. 

She creates contemporary poetry and songs in Yiddish with a very original sensibility, and younger performers in the Yiddish song revival all sing her songs. She and her son will also be doing a workshop on Community Music Day on Yiddish children’s folklore.” 

Across the bay on March 25 at 8 p.m., the San Francisco Jewish Community Center will host “Three Yiddish Divas,” with singers Joanne Borts, Theresa Tova, and Adrienne Cooper. 

All three are fiery and versatile performers who will explore Yiddish jazz, cabaret and theater songs. Listeners will find a link to the golden age of Yiddish song, and discover the artists who influenced the great Broadway songwriters. 

The 21st Annual Berkeley Jewish Music Festival includes numerous events in various locations. For more information see www.jewishmusicfestival.org. (415) 276-1511. 

Photograph of Roberto Rodriguez.

End the senseless torture and mutilation of trees and shrubs! Yes, they mean it and no, they don’t lack a sense of humor. They’re serious, not solemn. Their website features a gallery of pruning atrocities, and some are hilarious. 

They might be accused of having a prejudice against topiary, but when you see their examples of silly pruning you have to laugh and agree that topiary (like “cloud” pruning, or the mow-n-blow powershears special) can be excuses for some really silly green things in the landscape.  

They’re Plant Amnesty. They’re based in Seattle, and as far as I know their attempt to colonize the Bay Area with a separate chapter has been futile, but they do have members here: I’m one. 

What I fell for is their determination to spread the word about what seems to be a little-known problem threatening the urban “forest”—criminally bad pruning—with verve and good works. If you have a tree, you need to hear from them before you lay a hand on it—or let anyone else do so.  

It’s not just the looks of your tree that’s at stake. Bad pruning, including topping, stubbing, and just plain overdoing, can cost you serious money and worse. 

If the sentence “When done properly, branches are cut back to a lateral branch at least one-third the diameter of the limb being removed and large enough to outgrow lateral branches directly below,” sounds confusing, stop right there. You’re no more ready to use that saw than you are to do amateur brain surgery. 

You’re also in danger of paying to let someone who doesn’t know any more than you do to vandalize your trees and set you up for a lawsuit, as well as lowering your property’s value. How’s that for concrete results?  

Here’s my advice, free: If a tree service even advertises topping, don’t hire them. If your landscapers can’t explain why topping’s wrong, don’t let them mess with your tree. And if you have a neighbor who lets anyone top a tree or cut branches to stubs, contact Plant Amnesty for aid in warning them. They’re threatening everyone in reach to the tree.  

Topped trees often die slow deaths, as their formidable power to ward off rot—trees don’t heal the way animals do—can’t catch up with infections from such massive wounds. 

Badly pruned trees do, too, and when they don’t, they grow branches that aren’t as strongly attached as the originals, and tend to fall off to the detriment of the tree and whoever or whatever’s underneath it. 

Whoever hired the bad pruner can be sued for damages, and so can future owners, like one Florida landlord whose insurance carrier paid $500,000.00 to a 12-year-old for the landlord’s share of responsibility—less than half—for the tree-climbing accident that paralyzed the boy.  

Topping trees in actually illegal in some places, including San Francisco. If you have a neighbor who allows topping or ugly pruning, contact Plant Amnesty for useful materials to persuade otherwise.  

›

If you missed the Jazzschool’s 2004 benefit concert featuring the Heath Brothers, you missed a major jazz event. The music went from great to unforgettable when 81-year-old bassist Percy Heath, who died last April 28, sat down to pluck out unaccompanied piccolo bass solos on Charlie Parker’s “Yardbird Suite,” Fats Navarro’s “Nostalgia” and the Johnny Green/Edward Heyman standard “Out of Nowhere.” It was like hearing cello virtuoso Mstislav Rostropovich performing with the lyricism, grace and inspiration of an improvising jazz musician.  

This year’s Jazzschool benefit, March 17, promises to be just as intriguing with the imaginative pairing of opera diva Frederica von Stade with jazz piano sensation Taylor Eigsti. 

At 21, Eigsti is already a veteran jazz performer. He grew up in Menlo Park and began taking lessons at four. By the age of eight he was opening for David Benoit. At 13, he was performing with Dave Brubeck and not long after was opening for Al Jarreau and Diana Krall. His first recording was in 1999. At 15, he was teaching at the Stanford Jazz Workshop. After his freshman year as a jazz studies major at the University of Southern California, he dropped out to go pro. No longer a prodigy, but with the same incredible chops, he comes to the jazz scene as an adult with the equivalent of two decades of dues-paying behind him. 

His work with Dave Brubeck led to frequent shows with the Brubeck Brothers Band. When Michael Morgan and the East Bay Symphony performed Chris Brubeck’s “River of Song” for orchestra and voice, Taylor was an obvious choice for pianist. He had previously met the vocalist for that piece, Frederica von Stade, at a Music in the Schools benefit. Since then, they have worked together on other occasions performing from both the jazz and classical repertoire. 

Observing the history of pairing long hair performers with pop material is a little like looking at a stretch of highway littered with car wrecks. Often when opera singers wrap their vocal chords around standards, they act like they are jumping into the Concorde for a quick hop from San Francisco to Oakland. They forget Noel Coward’s dictum: “Strange how potent cheap music is.” 

These tunes stop working their emotional magic if you overpower them with too much that is conventionally or inappropriately beautiful. It can be like drinking from Wedgwood at a Japanese tea ceremony.  

Mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade is skilled at avoiding these errors in decorum. She has the ability to shift musical gears so that she can apply one kind of superb treatment to Mozart’s “Parto, parto” aria from La Clemenza de Tito, another to Magnolia singing “Make Believe” in Kern/Hammerstein’s Showboat, and yet another to Irving Berlin’s “Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better” from Annie Get Your Gun. 

In fact, she began as a singer of standards and Broadway material who, although she loved opera from childhood, did not consider it as a career until she was in her early twenties. Her talents as both singer and dramatic actress led to her debut at the Metropolitan just a few years later when she was 25.  

Known to her fans as “Flicka,” she has excelled in the classic operas of Mozart and Rossini, especially in trouser roles, revived interest in works by Rameau and Monteverdi, and championed new, experimental operas like Jake Heggie’s Dead Man Walking. She has also appeared in and made albums of operettas and musicals including The Sound of Music, The Merry Widow and A Little Night Music. 

What makes her art so compelling is not just her gorgeous voice with its range, power and control, but her dramatic ability. She is a consummate actress who infuses every role, every song, with a persona in whom we can believe. This is what allows her to do, in her own way, what jazz vocalists do when they invest songs with their personalities. 

These are two exciting performers with Bay Area connections and international reputations who have the potential to inspire each other beyond even their usual level of excellence. 

Although the ticket price may seem steep at $125, it is actually a bargain when you consider the intimate nature of the event, the complimentary food and beverages provided by some of the most esteemed names in Bay Area gourmandaise, the chance for some fascinating conversation with the performers, and the promise of brilliant music from the artists. 

In coming up with a program to benefit itself, the Jazzschool has again found a way to give back more to its benefactors than it receives.  

The fourth annual benefit for Berkeley’s Jazzschool will take place on Friday, March 17 at the First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way, Berkeley. The music starts at 8 p.m. followed by dessert, wine and a chance to meet the artists at 9:30 p.m. Admission is $125 per person, tax-deductible, and all of the proceeds go to benefit the Jazzschool. For more information call 845-5373 or see www.jazzschool.com. o