FRIDAY, SEPT. 15 

Gary Hart “The Courage of Our Convictions: A Manifesto for Democrats” at 12:30 p.m. at The African American Museum & Library at Oakland, 659 Fourteenth St. Free, but please RSVP to 637-0200.  

“Building Peace” A panel discussion with Blue Star Mom Laura Monroe, Brigadier General Ralph Marinaro, General Paul Monroe, Gold Star Mom Nadia McCaffrey and Peoples Lobby Executive Director Dwayne Hunn at 6 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St., at Bonita. $20 donation requested, students, low-income $5. 528-5403. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Benjamin Griffin, Editor, The Mark Twain Collection. Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $13.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. 526-2925.  

“Berkeley in the 60s” film showing, with Liberation News Service shorts from the 1960s, followed by a discussion about Berkeley's radical history at 7:30 p.m. at Long Haul Infoshop, 3124 Shattuck Ave. 540-0751. www.thelonghaul.org 

Friends of African Film “One Evening in July” by Raja Amari, Tunisia, and “Riches” by Ingrid Sinclair, Zimbabwe, at 7:30 p.m. at 464 Van Buren, at Euclid, Oakland. friendsofafricanfilm@yahoo.com 

Movies that Matter “The Whale Rider” at 6:30 p.m., followed by discussion of the spiritual aspects of the film. Call for location 451-3009. 

Alexander Technique for Pain Relief and prevention at noon at the Herrick Campus of Alta Bates Hospital, 2001 Dwight Way, Berkeley, Maffly Auditorium. Free. 644-3273. 

Women in Black Vigil, from noon to 1 p.m. at UC Berkeley, Bancroft at Telegraph. wibberkeley@yahoo.com 548-6310, 845-1143. 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 16 

Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day Meet at 9 a.m. behind the Seabreeze Market at the corner of University and Frontage Rd. to sign waivers, get trash/recycle bags, pencils, tally cards and a map of the areas we need to clean. 981-6720. 

The Natural History of Garbage Coastal Clean-up Day at Point Pinole from 9 a.m. to noon with Tara Reinertson, Naturalist. For information and meeting place call Tilden Nature Center, 525-2233. 

Creek to Bay Day in Oakland Volunteers needed at 9 a.m. at several creek sites to help remove litter and non-native invasive plants. Sites include Glen Echo Creek, Monta Vista Ave. at Piedmont Ave., Lake Merritt Boating Center, 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland Estuary at Arrowhead Marsh, at the end of Swan Rd off Doolittle Rd., Temescal Creek at the Claremont DMV. For other locations call 238-7611. 

Richmond Coastal Cleanup Day Meet at 9 a.m. at Shimada Friendship Park, at the end of Marina Bay Pkwy. Free BBQ at noon. Sponsored by the Watershed Project. 665-3689. 

String Band Contest and Crafts Fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Berkeley Farmers’ Market, Center St. at MLK, Jr. Way. 548-3333. 

Kid’s Garden Club for ages 7-12 to explore the world of gardening, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 636-1684. 

“Megafollies: A Brief History of Bay Area HyperDevelop- 

ment Stopped by Citizen Activism” With Prof Gray Brechin, UCB, at 7 p.m. at the Home of Truth Center, 1300 Grand Street, Alameda. Sponsored by the Alameda Public Affairs Forum. www.alamedaforum.org  

Geology Rocks A short nature hike to discover the layers of our planet, for ages 9-12, at 10 a.m., at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $5-$7. 525-2233. 

Berkeley History Center Walking Tour “The New Berkeley City College” led by Charles Wollenberg and Shirley Fogarino at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $8-$10. for infromation call 848-0181. www.cityofberkeley.info/histsoc/  

Oakland Heritage Alliance Walking Tour of Mills College Campus Meet at 2 p.m. in front of Mills Hall. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

Walking Tour of Old Oakland “New Era/New Politics” highlights African-American leaders who have made their mark on Oakland. Meet at 10 a.m. at the African American Museum and Library at 659 14th St. 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

Berkeley Progresssive Coalition Candidates Convention at 2 p.m. at Washington School Auditorium, Bancroft between MLK & McKinley. Vote for Mayor, City Council candidates and Berkeley Measures. 540-1975. 

Benefit for the Hillside Club with plein air paintings on sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at 2286 Cedar St. Cost is $10. All sales will benefit local artists and the Hillside Club, which is making renovations.  

“A Union Man: The Life and Work of Julius Margolin” Film showing with folk music concert afterwards at 8 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, Bonita at Cedar. Donation $5-$10.  

Vintage, Rare and Collectibles Book Sale, also record sets, comic books and a Silent Auction, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany, 526-3720. 

Friends of the El Cerrito Library Book Sale Books on all subjects, books for children and large collections of books about quilting and cooking, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun. from noon to 5 p.m. in the El Cerrito Library parking lot and basement, 6510 Stockton Ave. El Cerrito. www.ccclib.org/libinfo/branch.html  

New Spirit Community Church 6th Anniversary Gala with auction, clowns and jugglers, buffet and a dance, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Church Divinity School of the Pacific, Parson’s Hall, 2450 LeConte Ave. Tickets are $36-$46. 704-7729. 

Vegetarian Cooking Class: Demystifying Tofu and Tempeh from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro. Cost is $45 plus $5 food/materials fee. Registration required. 531-COOK.  

Ceremony for Healing & Peace at 7 p.m. at Julia Morgan Center, Yoga Room, 2640 College Ave. Cost is $25. Sponsored by the Hayehwatha Institute. 415-435-2255 

Gourd Crafting Techniques and Open House from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Caning Shop, 926 Gilman at 8th St. 1-800-544-3373.  

Painting Pots, a workshop with Keeyla Meadows at 3 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

Piedmont Choir Placement Auditions New singers ages 6 to 10 welcome, no experience necessary. To schedule an appointment for Piedmont or Alameda call 547-4441.  

Chalk4Peace Global children’s art project from 10 am. to 2 p.m. at Cragmont Elementary School, Spruce and Marin. 526-5672.  

California Writers Club meets to discuss humor writing with Mary Hanna of the San Mateo County Times at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble, Jack London Square. 272-0120. 

Oakland Outdoor Cinema will screen “The Bourne Identity” at dusk on Ninth St., between Broadway and Washington. Limited seating, bring your own chair and blanket. 238-4734.  

Non-Anesthetic Teeth Cleaning for Pets from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RabbitEars, 303 Arlington Ave. Call for appointment 525-6155.  

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

Produce Stand at Spiral Gardens Food Security Project from 1 to 6 p.m. at the corner of Sacramento and Oregon St. 

Urban Releaf Tree Tour of Oakland and workshops in urban forestry that teach tree planting, maintenance, GIS/GPS systems, and community advocacy. 601-9062.  

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. Regional Parks Botanic Garden, Tilden Park. Call to confirm. 841-8732.  

Around the World Tour of Plants at 1:30 p.m., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. 643-2755.  

Spiritwalking: Aqua Chi(TM) at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley High Warm Pool. Also Wed. at 3:30 p.m. Cost is $5.50, $3.50 seniors & disabled. Bring your own towels. 526-0312. 

Yoga for Peace at 9:30 a.m. at Ohlone Park, MLK at Hearst. Bring a yoga mat, warm blanket, and peace sign.  

Adult Fast Pitch Softball at noon. For location call 204-9500.  

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, SEPT. 17 

How Berkeley? Parade up University Ave. at 11 a.m. followed by festival in Civic Center Park to 5 p.m. 644-2204, ext. 12. www.howberkeleycanyoube.com 

Sunday Morning Meditation Walk at 9 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Third Annual Fr. Bill O’Donnell BOCA Benefit with guest of honor and recognition of immigration rights attorney Mark Silverman from noon to 4 p.m. at Saint Mary Magdalen Church, 2005 Berryman St. 665-5821. berkeleyboca.org  

Incorporating Carnivorous Plants into the Garden with Stephen Davis, president of the Bay Area Carnivorous Plant Society and Judith Finn, horticulturist from 10 a.m. to noon at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $25-$35, registration required 643-2755. 

Family Day at the Magnes to see the exhibition “My America” at 11 a.m. at Magnes Museum, 2911 Russell St. Cost is $6-$8. 549-6950.  

Bike Tour of Oakland Explore Oakland and learn about the incredible history of Oakland and its visionaries and scoundrels. Meet at 10 a.m. at the 10th St. entrace of the Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. Participants must be over twelve years old and provide their own bikes, helmets and repair kits. Free. 238-3514. www.museumca.org 

Solo Sierrans Emeryville to Berkeley Waterfront Bike Ride An easy 4 mile round trip with no car traffic. Meet at 4 p.m. in front of the Watergate Clipper Club, 6 Captain Drive, Emeryville. RSVP requested 923-1094. 

Community Labyrinth Peace Walk at 3 p.m. at Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave. between Derby & Stuart. Everyone welcome. Wheelchair accessible. 526-7377. 

The Misty Redwood Run A 10 K fun run through the redwoods in Redwood Regional Park at 8:30 a.m. at Redwood Gate entrance, 7867 Redwood Rd., Oakland. Cost is $20-$25. Register online at www.theschedule.com/eventinfo.cfm?eventID+10675 

Spinning a Yarn Watch the spinning wheel turn, try your hand carding wool and learn how to use a drop spindle at 1:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

10-year Anniversary Party for the Westbrae Neighborhood Commons from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Peralta Community Garden, on Peralta between Hopkins St. and Gilman St.Food music, tile painting and more. Wheelchair accessible. 527-6443. 

“There’s No Place Like Home: Exploring Animal Habitats” Take a discovery hike through the Natural Sciences Gallery and learn how animals meet their needs for food, shelter, water, and protection. From 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., at 10th St., Oakland. Free with Admission. 238-2200.  

The Albany Library will be open on Sundays from 1-5 p.m. starting on Sept. 17 thanks to the successful passage of Measure G. Celebrate with a ribbon-cutting at 1 p.m. followed by music and refreshments, at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720. 

Sycamore Japanese Church Bazaar from noon to 5 p.m. at 1111 Navellier St., El Cerrito. Japanese music, food, handcrafts and games for children. 525-0727. 

Mad Hatter Jam ‘n’ Tea Party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Kensington Farmers’ Market, 303 Arlington Ave. kensingtonfm@yahoo.com  

Queer Contra Dance with Mavis McGaugh calling to Band du Jour at 6 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Everyone welcome. Cost is $10 or pay what you can. 430-2833. 

Lake Merritt Neighbors Organized for Peace Peace walk around the lake every Sun. Meet at 3 p.m. at the colonnade at the NE end of the lake. 763-8712. lmno4p.org 

Ancient Tools for Successful Living Workshops in Meditation, the I-Ching, and Qi Gong begin at 5272 Foothill Blvd. Oakland. Cost is $8 per class. 536-5934. 

Kickabout at Codornices Park Soccer for all, skill and talent not required. For more information contact cambour@hotmail.com  

Balinese Dance Class with Tjokorda Istri Putra Padmini at 11 a.m. at Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo Ave. 237-6849. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Ken McKeon and Tom Morse on “Freedom from Knowledge” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 843-6812. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

MONDAY, SEPT. 18  

Lead Abatement Repairs Find out about funding for lead hazard repairs for rental properties with low-income tenants or vacant units in Oakland, Berkeley or Emeryville, from 4 to 6 p.m. at 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland. Sponsored by Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 567-8280. 

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group for people aged 60 and over meets at 9:45 a.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave. Donation $3. 524-9122. 

Zen Buddhist Meditation for Everyday Life An introduction at 6:45 p.m. at Bay Zen Center, 315 Alcatraz near College Ave. Suggested donation $10, no one turned away. Register in advance. 596-3087. www.bayzen.org 

Berkeley CopWatch organizational meeting at 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. Join us to work on current issues around police misconduct. Volunteers needed. For information call 548-0425. 

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19 

Berkeley Garden Club “Dry Gardening” with Richard Ward, owner of The Dry Garden Nursery in Berkeley, at 2 p.m. at Epworth Methodist Church, 1953 Hopkins St. 524-7296. 

“Making a Difference in Africa” with environmental justice activist Frank Muramuzi on big dams in Africa at 7 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Sponsored by the International Rivers Network, 848-1155. 

Strike at Half Dome with Bob Madgic, author of “Shattered Air: A True Account of Catastrophe and Courage on Yosemite’s Half Dome” at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

“Aging Artfully” with author Amy Gorman and music from Greg Young’s CD “Still Kicking” at 1:15 p.m. at the North berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. 981-5190. 

WriterCoach Connection seeks volunteers to help students improve their writing and critical thinking skills. Training session from noon to 3 p.m. and also 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. For information call 524-2319. www.writercoachconnection.org  

Torture Teach-in and Vigil every Tues. at 12:30 p.m. at the fountain on UC Campus, Bancroft at College. 

American Red Cross Blood Services is holding a volunteer orientation in Oakland from 6 to 8 p.m. Various East Bay opportunities available. Advanced sign-up is required. 594-5165.  

Workshop on Wills for Parents with Paula Liebovitz, attorney and tax specialist at 7 p.m. at Bananas, 5232 Claremont Ave., Oakland. Limited, on-site child care available. 658-7353. www.bananasinc.org 

Discussion Salon on How to Stay Young at 7 p.m. at JCC, 1414 Walnut.  

Handbuilding Ceramics Class from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. John’s Senior Center, 2727 College Ave. Also Mon. from noon to 4 p.m. and Wed. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ashby at Ellis Sts Free, except for materials and firing charges. For information call Diana Bohn, 525-5497. 

Berkeley Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m., at the Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Share your digital images, slides and prints and learn what other photographers are doing. Monthly field trips. 548-3991. www.berkeleycameraclub.org 

St. John’s Prime Timers meets at 9:30 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. We offer ongoing classes in exercise and creative arts, and always welcome new members over 50. 845-6830. 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 20 

Walking Tour of Oakland Chinatown Meet at 10 a.m. at the courtyard fountain in the Pacific Renaissance Plaza at 388 Ninth St. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

“The Motherhood Manifesto” A documentary on the lack of support for families in the U.S. at 7:30 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Donation $5. Free for children. www.momsrising.org 

“Powerdown” a documentary on resource depletion and population pressures at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., between Broadway and Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $5. www.HumanistHall.net 

Spirited Child Series Learn how temperament affects children’s behavior and how to best live and work with inborn traits at 7 p.m. at Bananas. To register call 752-6150. If you need child care, at $5 per child, call 658-7353.  

Prostate Cancer Screening from 7:45 -11:15 a.m. and Thurs. from 1:45 to 5:15 p.m. at Markstein Cancer Center, Peralta Pavilion, 450 30th St., Oakland. Free, but appointments required. 869-8833. 

New to DVD: “An Inconvenient Truth” at 7 p.m. at JCC, 1414 Walnut St. Cost is $3-$5. 848-0237. 

Current Events Discussion Group meets on Wed. at 7 p.m. at the Niebyl Proctor Marxist Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. Oakland. 597-4972. 

“Believing the Bible in a Global Context” with Philip Kenkins at the GTU Convocation, at 3:30 p.m. at 1798 Scenic Ave. Reception to follow. 649-2440. 

The Berkeley Lawn Bowling Club provides free instruction every Wed. and Sat. 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. Everyone is welcome, wear comfortable shoes and a warm hat. 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 

Berkeley Peace Walk and Vigil 6:30 p.m. at the Berkeley BART Station, corner of Shattuck and Center. www.geocities.com/vigil4peace/vigil 

THURSDAY, SEPT. 21 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Berkeley After the “Big One” with local historian Richard Schwartz speaks on how the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake changed Berkeley, at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. 848-9358. www.berkeleypaths.org 

“Maquilopolis” City of Factories A documentary by Vicky Funari and Sergio de La Torre at 7:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, Oakland. Benefit for the Wellstone Democartic Club and Global Exchange. Tickets are $10, available from 415-255-7296. 

LeConte Neighborhood Assn. meets at 7:30 p.m. in the LeConte School Cafeteria, Russell St. entrance. The agenda includes a candidates’ forum for District 7 between George Beier and Kriss Worthington, and other items on the Nov. 7 ballot. 843-2602. karlreeh@aol.com 

Diversity Films presents “Homeless in Paradise” at 7 p.m. at Ellen Driscoll Theater, Frank Havens School, 325 Highland Ave., Piedmont. Free. www.diversityworks.org 

“Ready or Not: The Consequences of a Pandemic Flu” with Dr. Arthur Reingold, M.D. and disaster planning expert, at 7:30 p.m. at The College Preparatory School, 6100 Broadway, Oakland. Tickets are $12.50-$15. www.college-prep.org/livetalk 

Stress Reduction for Health and Peace of Mind an 8-week course at 7 p.m. in Berkeley. For information call 524-8833. MindfulnessforHealth.com.  

Community Peace Vigil on the United Nations International Day of Peace at 7 p.m. at Indian Statue Park in downtown Point Richmond. 236-0527. 

Poetry Workshop with Donna Davis from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. Offered by the Berkeley Adult School. 644-6130. 

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. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

CITY MEETINGS 

Creeks Task Force meets Mon. Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. the North Berkeley Senior Center. Erin Dando, 981-7410.  

Council Agenda Committee meets Mon. Sept. 18, at 2:30 p.m., at 2180 Milvia St. 981-6900. 

Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board meets Mon. Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers, Pam Wyche, 644-6128 ext. 113.  

City Council meets Tues., Sept. 19, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900.  

Berkeley Housing Authority meets Tues., Sept. 19, at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers. 981-6900.  

Citizens Humane Commission meets Wed., Sept. 20, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Katherine O’Connor, 981-6601.  

Downtown Area Plan Advisory Commission meets Wed., Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7487. 

Commission on Aging meets Wed., Sept. 20, at 1:30 p.m., at the South Berkeley Senior Center. William Rogers, 981-5344.  

Commission on Labor meets Wed., Sept. 20, at 6:45 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Delfina M. Geiken, 981-7550.  

Human Welfare and Community Action Commission meets Wed. Sept. 20, at 7 p.m., at the South Berkeley Senior Center. Kristen Lee, 981-5427. 

Library Board of Trustees meets Wed., Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. at South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6195.  

Berkeley Unified School District Board meets Wed. Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chambers. Mark Coplan 644-6320. 

Design Review Committee meets Thurs., Sept. 21, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Anne Burns, 981-7415.  

Fair Campaign Practices Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 21, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6950

FRIDAY, SEPT. 15 

THEATER 

Altarena Playhouse “The Foreigner” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at 1409 High St, Alameda, through Oct. 1. Cost is $12-$15. 523-1553. www.altarena.org 

Aurora Theatre “Salome” at 8 p.m. at 2081 Addison St. and runs Wed. - Sun. through Oct. 1. Tickets are $38. 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org 

Berkeley High “I Love You, Your’re Perfect, Now Change” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., through Sept. 16 at the Schwimley Little Theater, 1930 Allston Way. Tickets are $6-$20. 

California Shakespeare Theater “As You Like It” at the Bruns Amphitheater, 100 Gateway Blvd., Orinda. Tues.-Thurs., 7:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 4 p.m. through Oct. 15. Tickets are $15 and up. 548-9666. www.calshakes.org 

Encore Theatre Company and Shotgun Players “The Typographer’s Dream” at 8 p.m. at The Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Sept. 17. Tickets are $15-$30. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

Masquers Playhouse “Diary of a Scoundrel” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m. and Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond across from the Hotel Mac. Through Sept. 30. Tickets are $15. 232-4031. 

EXHIBITIONS 

“The Face of Poetry” Photographs by Margaretta Mitchell on dispaly at the Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St., through Oct. 30. 981-6100. 

“Looking for Hope” Photograhs by Matt O’Brien with text by students in the Oakland Public Schools opens at the Peralta Hacienda Historical Park Museum Gallery, 2465 34th Ave. Artist talk at 6 p.m. Gallery open Thurs.-Fri. 4 to 6 p.m. and Sun. noon to 4 p.m. 532-9142. www.peraltahacienda.org 

“Textures of Space” new paintings by Michael Shemchuck and Mel Davis. Reception at 6 p.m. at Cecile Moochnek Gallery, 1809-D Fourth St. Exhibition runs through Oct. 29. 549-1018.  

“Educate to Liberate: A Retrospective of the Black Panther Community News Service” Exhibition in honor of the 4)th Anniversary of the founding of the Black Panther Party, on diplay in the Oakland History Room at the Oakland Main Library, 125 14th St. 238-3222. www.oaklandlibrary.org 

Trent Burkett “New Work in Salt and Wood” Opening reception at 5 p.m. at Trax Ceramics Gallery, 1812 Fifth St. Exhibition runs to Oct. 15. 540-8729. www.traxgallery.com 

“Horses in the Trees” works by Mark P. Fisher at Alta Galleria, 2980 College Ave. #4. Exhibition runs to Oct. 7. 421-1255. 

FILM 

Arab Film Festival with 45 films from 12 countries, through Sun. at the California Theater, 2113 Kittredge St.TIckets are $8-$10, festival pass $60-$100. 415-564-1100. www.aff.org 

Friends of African Film “One Evening in July” by Raja Amari, Tunisia, and “Riches” by Ingrid Sinclair, Zimbabwe, at 7:30 p.m. at 464 Van Buren, at Euclid. friendsofafricanfilm 

@yahoo.com 

Global Lens Film Festival “Stolen Life” at 7 p.m., “Thirst” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.globalfilm.org 

Ali Kazimi: A Commitment to Justice “Runaway Grooms” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Susan Page discusses “Why Talking is Not Enough: Eight Loving Actions That Will Transform Your Marriage” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Los Utrera in a celebration of Mexican Independence at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $13-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Suzhou Kun Opera Theater of Jiangsu “The Peony Pavilion” Fri,. and Sat. at 7 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $30-$86. 642-9988. www.calperfs.berkeley.edu 

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention with new Lost City Ramblers, Stairwell Sisters at 8 p.m. at Berkeley Rep’s Thrust Stage. Cost is $25.50-$26.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Pigeon John, hip hop at noon at Lower Sproul Plaza, UC Campus. 

Upsurge Jazz & Poetry Sextet, in a benefit for library literacy programs, at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Aphrodesia and guests from Ghana, Kusun Ensemble, at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Dance workshop at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $11-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Tesse Loehwing, jazz, at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Ned Boynton Quintet at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

Jaia Suri and Fernando Tarango at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Sorrow Town Choir, Trailer Park Rangers, Lansdale Station at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082.  

Risky Business, Wake Up Call at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

Shotgun Wedding Quintet, Dynamic at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $7. 548-1159.  

Human No Longer at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Larry Harlow and the Latin Legends at 8 and 10 p.m., through Sun. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $20-$24. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 16 

CHILDREN  

Madeline Dunphy introduces children to the planet’s major ecosystems and the interdependence of wildlife in her books, at 11 a.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St.  

EXHIBITIONS 

“Chroma” works by artists of the Chroma Collective. Reception at 2 p.m. at the Giorgi Gallery, 2911 Claremont Ave. Exhibition runs to Oct. 1. 848-1228. 

“Gods and Aeroplanes” mixed media by Sally Rodriguez. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Float Art Gallery, 1091 Calcot Place, Unit # 116, in the front of the historic cotton mill studios, Oakland. 535-1702. www.thefloatcenter.com 

FILM 

Arab Film Festival with 45 films from 12 countries, through Sun. at the California Theater, 2113 Kittredge St. Tickets are $8-$10, festival pass $60-$100. 415-564-1100.  

Global Lens Film Festival “Almost Brothers” at 2 p.m., “The Night of Truth” at 7 p.m., “Stolen Life” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland.  

Ali Kazimi: A Commitment to Justice “Continuous Journey” at 6:30 p.m. and “Narmada: A Valley Rises” at 8:45 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“A Fictional History of the United States with Huge Chunks Missing” with Daniel Alarcón, Adam Mansbach and T Cooper at 2 p.m. at Oakland Public Library, 125 14th St. 238-3134.  

Tom Hartman introduces “Screwed: The Undeclared War Against the Middle Class” at 6 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

“Aging Artfully” reading with Amy Gorman at 2 p.m. at Rockridge Library, 5366 College Ave. 527-4977. 

“Edge of Desire: Recent Art in India” Panel discussion at 3 p.m. at Berkeley Art Museum, 2626 Bancroft Way. Cost is $5-$8. 642-0808. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Benefit Concert to Restore the 1909 Steinway at the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall, with rock and folk favorites at 6 p.m. at 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donation $5. 841-4824. 

Zorina London, Huntley Brown and Heavenly Melody Choir at 7:30 p.m. at Black Repertory Theater, 3201 Adeline St. Tickets are $15. 562-2120. 

Araucaria, traditional Chilean music and dance, at 8:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$12. 849-2568.  

Robin Gregory and her Trio at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ.  

Berkeley Old Time Music Convention Square Dance with Squirrelly String Band, Uncle Wiggley, Adam Rose Band, at 7 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $5-$15. 525-5054.  

John Richardson Band with Hudson Bunce and John Shinnick at 9 p.m. at the Circus Pub, 389 Colusa Ave, Kensington. 

Ellen Honert and TC at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344.  

Slapshaw’s Latin Tryout at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

Neydavood Ensemble, classical Persian music, at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $19.50-$20.50. 548-1761.  

The Sick, Insolence, Re Ignition at 9 p.m. at Blakes on Telegraph. Cost is $8-$10. 848-0886.  

Ben Goldberg Quartet at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. 

Josh Workman Trio at 9 p.m. at Downtown. 649-3810.  

George Cotsirilos Jazz Group at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

John Howland Trio, Peter Maybarduk, Steve Taylor at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082.  

Shinoubu, The Queers, Groovie Ghoulies at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St. Cost is $6. 525-9926. 

SUNDAY, SEPT. 17 

EXHIBITIONS 

New Works by Kazuyo Sato-Leue, abstract expressionist. Reception at 2 p.m. at Westside Barkery Cafe, 250 Ninth St., and runs through Dec. 31. www.studiokazuyo.com 

“Edge of Desire: Recent Art in India” Guided tour at 2 p.m. at Berkeley Art Museum, 2626 Bancroft Way. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. 

FILM 

Arab Film Festival with 45 films from 12 countries, at the California Theater, 2113 Kittredge St. Tickets are $8-$10, festival pass $60-$100. 415-564-1100. www.aff.org 

Global Lens Film Festival “Cinema, Aspirins and Vultures” at 2 p.m., “Global Shorts” at 7 p.m., “Stolen Life” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.globalfilm.org 

The Unsilent Film: “The Sentimaental Bloke” at 5 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

Creative Aging Film Fest at 7 p.m. at JCC, 1414 Walnut St. Cost is $10. 848-0237. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Folk and Fine Arts Flux in India Today” Gallery talk with Joanna Williams at 3 p.m. at at Berkeley Art Museum, 2626 Bancroft Way. Cost is $5-$8. 642-0808 

“Building a Jewish Collection” with Alla Efimova, Karen Levitov and George Krevsky at 2 p.m. at Magnes Museum, 2911 Russell St. Cost is $10-$12. 549-6950.  

S. Beth Atkin talks about “Gunstories: Life-Changing Experiences with Guns” at 4 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

Robin Morgan and Helen Zia discuss “Fighting Words” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Novello Quartet performs works of Haydn and Mozart at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. Cost is $9-$10. 644-6893.  

Jazz at the Chimes with Stephanie Bruce “Peace: An Invocation” at 2 p.m. at 4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. Cost is $10, includes reception. 288-3207.  

Zorina London, Huntley Brown and Heavenly Melody Choir at 4:30 p.m. at Black Repertory Theater, 3201 Adeline St. Tickets are $15. 562-2120. 

Bearfoot Bluegrass, at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $17.50-$18.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Nuccia Focile, soprano at 3 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $48. 642-9988. www.calperfs.berkeley.edu 

Americana Unplugged: Old-Time Cabaret from 3 to 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 655-5715. 

Peter Apfelbaum, The New York Hieroglyphics and Abdoulaye Diabate at 8 and 10 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $18-$20. 849-2568.  

Ricardo Peixoto & Marcos Silva Duo, Brazilian classics, at 4:30 at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15-$18. 845-5373.  

Jason Armstrong & Joe Kenny at 11 a.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Lethal Agression, Security Threat, Ill Content at 5 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $6. 525-9926. 

MONDAY, SEPT. 18 

FILM 

Global Lens Film Festival “Stolen Life” at 7 p.m. at “In the Battlefields” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.globalfilm.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Sunnylyn Thibodeaux and Julien Poirier at 7:30 p.m. at Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph Ave. 849-2087. 

Brian Copeland presents the book version of the one-man show he took to Broadway “Not a Genuine Black Man” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

Anthony Horowitz, children’s fiction author, at 4 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St. 559-9500. 

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

Mary Gaitskill reads from her new novel “Veronica” set in Paris and Manhattan in the 1980s at 7 p.m. at Cody’s on Fourth St.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Khalil Shaheed, all ages jam, at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $7. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Trovatore, traditional Italian music, at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Aaron Goldberg Trio at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$14. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com  

TUESDAY, SEPT. 19 

FILM 

Global Lens Film Festival “Thirst” at 7 p.m. at “Stolen Life” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.globalfilm.org 

Alternative Visions “Landscape Suicide” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Aging Artfully” with Amy Gorman at 1:15 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. 981-5190. 

Michael Zielenziger speaks on “Shutting Out the Sun: How Japan Created Its Own Lost Generation” at 5 p.m. in the Women’s Faculty Club Lounge, UC Campus. 642-2809. 

Jeffrey Meyers on “Modigliani: A Life” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

Kelly Link describes “Magic for Beginners” at 7 p.m. at Cody’s Books on Fourth St.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Bruce and Lloyd’s Tri Tip Trio at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $9. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Ellen Hoffman and Singers’ Open Mic at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $5. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Kelly Joe Phelps at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $19.50-$20.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

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

Eldar, jazz pianist, at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $16. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

Jazzschool Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 848-8277. 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 20 

EXHIBITIONS 

East Bay Women Artists “On the Move” Paintings by Nancy Pollack, Paula Powers and Rita Sklar. Reception at 4 p.m. at the LunchStop Cafe, Joseph P. Bort Metro Center, 101 Eighth St., Oakland. Hours 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays to Nov. 30.  

FILM 

Palermo Hollywood: A Tale from Buenos Aires at 7 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $6. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Global Lens Film Festival “Max and Mona” at 7 p.m. at “The Night of Truth” at 9:30 p.m. at Grand Lake Theater, 3200 Grand Ave., Oakland. www.globalfilm.org 

Pirates and Piracy “Anne of the Indies” at 7:30 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Cost is $4-$8. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

T Cooper and Adam Mansbach read from their new anthology, “A Fictional History of the United States with Huge Chunks Missing” at 7 p.m. at Diesel Bookstore, 5433 College Ave. 

“Strange Travel Suggestions” tales by Jeff Greenwald at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Philip Jenkins discusses “The New Faces of Christianity: Believing the Bible in the Global South” at 7:30 p.m. at Black Oak Books. 486-0698. www.blackoakbooks.com 

Berkeley Poetry Slam with host Charles Ellik and Three Blind Mice, at 8:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $5-$7. 841-2082 www.starryploughpub.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Wednesday Noon Concert, with vocal music by African-American composers at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Free. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Whiskey Brothers Old Time and Bluegrass at 9 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

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

For most Americans, the impact of Washington politics and policy does not intrude much on everyday life. Unless you happen to be a member of a particularly demonized minority, or have a loved one on the front lines in Iraq or Afghanistan, it can be all too easy to go through life blithely unaware of the consequences of public policy and legislated morality.  

The tenth annual Arab Film Festival, which comes to Berkeley’s California Theater this weekend, presents portraits of people who do not have that luxury, people who live with the unavoidable consequences of conflicts, both political and moral, that leave a indelible mark on their everyday lives.  

Kiss Me Not on the Eyes (Sunday 4:15 p.m.) is the story of Dunia, a young student and bellydancer who walks a fine line in modern-day Cairo between the traditional notions of womanhood and her desire for love, beauty, sensuality and freedom. It is an engaging examination of the intersection between the personal and the political, putting a human face on the conflict between the individual and the mores of the society in which she lives.  

The film evinces much of what originally made motion pictures such a potent art form early in the last century: In the words of Sunset Boulevard’s Norma Desmond, “They had faces!” The first few minutes of the film—before the characters have been established, before the plot has been articulated—the beautiful and expressive face of Hanane Turk, as Dunia, hooks the viewer with its intelligence, sensitivity, sensuality and charm. Before she has danced a step, before she has revealed a single thought or emotion, her eyes communicate all we need to know to take an interest in her plight.  

Occupation 101: Voices of the Silenced Majority (Friday, 7 p.m.) takes a different approach to that intersection, exploring the Israel-Palestine conflict from a distinctly Palestinian perspective, one not often explored in American mainstream media.  

The film is something of a polemic along the lines of the rash of left-leaning documentaries to hit American theaters over the past few years in the wake of Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11. It does not present a quiet, measured documentation of a debated topic, but rather a case for one side. It is a film that is more likely to reinforce the viewer’s opinions rather than alter them. 

Which is not to say the film doesn’t back up its case; the filmmakers have plenty of facts, statistics, anecdotes and analysis, and they make their arguments forcefully. But the overwrought tone of the film, with its dramatic cuts, gratuitous reverb effects and ubiquitous, ominous music, unfortunately undermines much of the film’s power.  

The same themes and perspectives are portrayed more artfully in another of the festival’s documentaries, Goal Dreams.  

Goal Dreams (Friday, 9 p.m.) follows the Palestinian national soccer team as they prepare for a qualifying match for the 2006 World Cup. In just one month they will play a decisive match against Uzbekistan; if they win, they will continue to fight another day, but if they lose or draw they will be eliminated. Along the way, the team faces myriad obstacles, setting up a series of metaphors by which to examine the theme of Palestinian identity. 

For instance, the coaches have difficulty selecting players because Palestine has no professional league from which to draw. They don’t even have a home field, but must instead travel to Egypt for a suitable facility. And the best Palestinian players are scattered across the globe, setting up barriers of playing style as well as language—a problem only exacerbated by the fact that the coach is Austrian.  

And this leads to the team’s most debilitating obstacle: Once the players have been selected it proves nearly impossible to assemble them, for half of the players come from the West Bank and Gaza and cannot make it to Egypt unless the Israeli military opens the border. Five times the players travel to the border and wait for hours, only to learn they will not be allowed to pass through after all. By the time they arrive the team has only about two weeks to prepare and train.  

When the team appeals to FIFA, the sport’s international governing body, asking that the match be postponed until they’ve had time to prepare, FIFA denies the request, preferring not to get involved in “political matters.” 

But this is a region where political matters are difficult to ignore. The film doesn’t dwell on the politics or the history of the situation, but merely provides a portrait of a unique group of men forced to struggle with its everyday consequences.  

The Austrian coach puts it best when he says that he came to Palestine simply to coach soccer and did not want to get involved with the political situation. “But once you are here,” he says, “you are automatically involved.”

Students of the Berkeley High School Drama Department have been invited to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland next summer and are staging a set of fundraiser performances this weekend to help get there. 

The benefit performances of the recent Broadway musical I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, will be staged at 8 p.m. tonight (Friday) and Saturday at the Schwimley Little Theater on campus. 

Tickets are $6 for students and seniors Friday, and on Saturday (a gala with food provided) $10 and $20. Information and reservations are available through Jordan Winer, head of the Drama Department, 332-1931.  

The students applied to the American High School Theatre Festival, part of the larger Edinburgh Fringe, last year, sending videos and photographs of productions. They received an invitation in April to participate and decided to produce Mary Zimmerman’s adaptation of The Arabian Nights. 

To defray expenses—about $4,500 per person—for the 24 students and three adults scheduled to go next August, the program has been putting on what Winer referred to as a “fundraising ballet,” with raffles of season tickets donated by local theater companies and the students rehearsing during their summer vacation to put on the musical comedy as a benefit. 

“Depending on family income, some parents are able to come up with all the expenses, some with half, some much less or none at all,” Winer said. “We’re allowed one free chaperone per 15 kids; I’m trying to recruit more adults. But there’s been great participation by the community, especially the local theater companies—Berkeley Rep, Shotgun Players, CalShakes, A.C.T.—in donating season tickets to raffle. And people preparing food for the Saturday night gala. We hope everybody can feed off the excitement.” 

Mark Coplan, Berkeley school district spokesperson, said the drama program deserved a spot in the prestigious international arts festival. 

“The difference between going to A.C.T. and seeing a show at Berkeley High is that these kids are the kids the people in A.C.T. were in high school,” he said. They’ve directed their own productions. They can do it all!”