Events Listings

Community Calendar

Thursday September 18, 2008 - 09:29:00 AM

THURSDAY, SEPT. 18 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Association Annual Meeting with keynote speaker will be earthquake expert Katherine Stillwell on “The Hayward Fault: Living on the Edge.” The program will include a tribute to retiring council member Betty Olds, a longtime champion of Berkeley’s paths. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. 

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

Tilden Explorers An after-school nature adventure program for 5-7 year olds. We will search for spiders from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Urban Bicycle Safety Class Learn how to share the road with cars on busy streets of the East Bay, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Kaiser Oakland Meidcal Center. Sponsored by the East Bay Bicycle Coalition. Free. For information see www.ebbc.org/safety 

“Tracking Bay Area Birds with the San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory“ by Stephanie Ellis at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda, between Solano and Marin. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. 

“A Community Guide to Environmental Health” with author Jeff Conant at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave., near Dwight Way. 548-3402. www.ecologycenter.org 

Researching and Conserving Pumas from California to Patagonia. A program on the Bay Area Puma Project and the Patagonia Puma Project at 7 p.m. at the Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Knowland Park, Oakland. Cost is $12-$20, sliding scale. 632-9525. 

“A Jihad for Love” Film and conversation on issues of faith and sexuality at JCC of the EAst BAy, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

Berkeley Public Library Master Plan discussion at 6:30 p.m. at Claremont Branch, 2940 Benvenue at Ashby. Plan available on-line at www.berkeleypubliclibaray.org 981-6195. 

The LeConte Neighborhood Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the LeConte School, Russell St. entrance. Agenda items are welcome. Please contact karlreeh@aol.com 

Asian American Donor Program Marrow/Stem Cell Drive 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Upper Sproul Plaza and Campanile Esplanade, UC Campus. 800-593-6667. www.aadp.org 

Berkeley School Volunteers Orientation from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Come learn about volunteer opportunities. Bring photo ID and two references. 644-8833. 

Green Chamber of Commerce Business Mixer at 5:30 p.m. at Mechanics Bank, 801 San Pablo Ave. 558-2330. Cost is $10-$20. RSVP at www.greenchamberofcommerce.net 

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Three Beats for Nothing South Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Thurs. at 10 a.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ellis at Ashby. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

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 

Avatar Metaphysical Toastmasters Club meets at 6:45 p.m. at Spuds Pizza, 3290 Adeline at Alcatraz. Free, all are welcome. namaste@avatar.freetoasthost.info  

FRIDAY, SEPT. 19 

Volunteer in Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden Tasks may include weeding, bed preparation, sowing, transplanting, and harvesting. Meet at 10 a.m. at Bancroft Way, between Bonar and West. 647-0709. www.byaonline.org 

Iraq Moratorium Day and Vigil to Protest the War from 2 to 4 p.m. at the corners of University & Acton. Sponsored by Strawberry Creek Lodge Tenant’s Assoc & Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

Becoming a Certified Green Business in Alameda County Information session to learn about what the required steps are for certification, hear from businesses who have already been through the process and learn about funding opportunities, at 11 a.m. at Greenlining Institute, 1918 University Ave. RSVP to 559 -1406. www.greenbiz.ca.gov 

“Special Circumstances” A film about confronting the legacy of Pinochet and US intervention in Latin America, at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Conscientious Projector Film Series “The New Deal” at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita.  

“Walking Each Other Home” Film and discussion on race at 6 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Cost is $5-$10. www.walkingeachotherhome.com 

“1968: A Discussion On The Lessons and Vibrant Legacy Of The Year That Shook The World” with Robert Hillary King, Immanuel Wallerstein, Staughton Lynd, Andrej Grubacic, Paco Ignacio Taibo II, Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz at 7 p.m. at Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave. Cost is $10 at the door. www.juliamorgan.org 

“Flow” A documentary by Irena Salina on the world’s water crisis at showing at Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $8-$10. 464-5980. www.flowthefilm.com 

Cancer Prevention and Survival Cooking Course meets for four Fri. from 6 to 8 p.m. at Alta Bates Summit Cardiac Rehabilitation, 3030 Telegraph Ave. Free, but registration required. 869-6737.  

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

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Meg Burke on “Exploring the Exciting and Unique New Home of the California Academy of Sciences” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Scottish Dance Party All dances taught, no experience or partner necessary, at 8 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. 653-7507. 

“Buddhism: Downloadable Dharma” with Clark Strand at 7 p.m., Center for Buddhist Education at the Jodo Shinshu Center, 2140 Durant Ave., at Fulton. Free or by donation. 809-1460. www.cbe-bca.org  

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Three Beats for Nothing Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Fri. at 10 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, Hearst at MLK. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 20 

California Coastal Clean-up Day from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Berkeley: Behind the Seabreeze Market at the corner of University and Frontage Rd. 981-6720; Emeryville at Emeryville Fire House at 2333 Powell St. 596-3728; Albany at the foot of Buchanan behind the Golden Gate Fields race track, by the big bench; Richmond at Shimada Friendship Park, Marina Bay Pkwy off 580. 374-3231. Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. 525-2233. For other sites see www.coastforyou.org 

West Berkeley Senior Center BBQ, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1900 6th St. at Hearst. Cost is $10.50-$15. 981-5180. 

Walking Tour of the Dimond District A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Boy Scout hut in Dimond Park. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

Alternative Energy Options including solar power and solar tubes for homeowners from 9 to 11 a.m. at Truitt & White conference room, 1817 2nd St. Free, but registration required. truittandwhite.com 

Tri-City Safety Day Meet public safety agency representatives from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at El Cerrito Plaza, San Pablo and Fairmount Ave., El Cerrito. 

Vegetarian Cooking Class Demystifying Tofu and Tempeh Learn to make Tofu Benedict, Sweet and Sour Tempeh, Noodle Kugel, Chocolate Mousse and more from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro. Cost is $50, plus $5 food and material fee. Advance registration required. 531-COOK. www.compassionatecooks.com 

Shawl-Anderson Dance Center 50th Anniversary Gala from 5 to 10 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. Tickets are $75-$125. 654-5921. www.shawl-anderson.org 

Friends of the El Cerrito Library Books Sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun. from noon to 4 p.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

Adopt A Special Kid Information workshop, in English and Spanish at 10 a.m. at 8201 Edgewater Dr. Suite 103. 553-1748 ext 12. www.aask.org 

Shu Ren International School Open House, a new Chinese (Mandarin) immersion school in Berkeley, Tour at 4 p.m. at 1333 University Ave. Please RSVP to Ping.Xie@ShuRenInternationalSchool.com 

Taste of Bay Street with music, food samples and Apple Fest from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Bay Street, Emeryville. 655-4002. www.baystreetemeryville.com 

California Writers Club meets to discuss “Are You Good Enough To Be Published?” with Alan Rinzler at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble, Jack London Square. 272-0120. www.berkeleywritersclub.org 

Jewish Literature and Discussion Series meets to discuss “A Simple Story” by S.Y. Agnon at 2 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043. 

Deva Primal and Miten Voice Workshop from 4 to 7 p.m. at Rudramandir at 830 Bancroft Way. Cost is $60. 486-8700. www.rudramandir.com 

Meditation Class at noon at 7th Heaven Yoga Studio, 2820 7th St. Free. 665-4300. 

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. www.nativeplants.org 

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

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

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. 21 

Run for Peace 5/10K walk/run at 9 a.m. at Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina. Sponsored by UNA-USA East Bay. to register see www.run4peace.org 

Take a Stand, Sit for Change Ait-A-Thon from noon to 5 p.m. at MLK Civic Center Park, MLK at Center St. Admission by donation/pledges, no one turned away. 549-3733. urbanpeace.org 

Berkeley Community Gardens Garden Party from 2 to 6 p.m. at Peralta Community Garden, Ohlone Greenway at Peralta near Hopkins. Learn about native plants and habitat restoration, and Eco-house and the Ohlone Greenway Project.  

“Climate Change and Peace” with Daniel M. Kammen, UC Prof., Energy and Resources Group, at 3 p.m. at International House, 2299 Piedmont Ave. Sponsored by United Nations Association East Bay. 849-1752. www.unausaeastbay.org 

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

East Bay Atheists Annual Picnic from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Big Leaf Picnic Area, Tilden Park. 222-7580. eastbayatheists.org 

Lawrence Hall of Science Community Day with ice cream making, bubbleology, and the science show “Flames, Flares, and Explosions” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at LHS, Centennial Dr. 642-5132. www.lawrencehallofscience.org 

“Local Medicinal Herbs and Your Health” Learn the benefits of herbs and their use in western herbal medicine from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., enter via garden entrance on Peralta. Cost is $15, plus $5 materials fee. To register call 548-2220 ext. 242. 

Bike Tour of Oakland Meet at 10 a.m. at the 10th St. entrance of the Oakland Museum of California. Bring your bike, helmet and repair kit. Reservations required. 238-3514. 

Dynamite History Walk Discover the park preserved by dynamite on an easy-paced 3-mile walk, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. For meeting place call 525-2233. 

Walking Tour of Hidden Haddon Hill A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance of a neighborhood of Mediterranean-style homes. Meet at 10 a.m. at the triangle at Kenwyn Rd. and McKinley Ave. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

Friends of the El Cerrito Library Books Sale from noon to 4 p.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

Jewish Coalition for Literacy Training for volunteer tutors arom 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 300 Grand, Oakland. Register at www.jclread.org 

Personal Theology Seminar with Ruth Gendler on “An Invitation to Beauty” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Gallery of Thingamajigs Explore sounds produced by unusual instruments created from found materials, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10 and Oak, Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

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 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Sun. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Tom Mead on “Bringing Balance and Creativity to the Workplace” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

Sew Your Own Open Studio Come learn to use our industrial and domestic machines, or work on your own projects, from 4 to 8 p.m. at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Also on Fri. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

MONDAY, SEPT. 22 

How Will They Represent You? with the candidates for Berkeley City Council District 5: Sophie Hahn and Laurie Capitelli, and District 6: Phoebe Sorgen and Susan Wengraf, at 7:30 p.m. at Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave. 486-8010. 

Autumnal Equinox Gathering at 6:15 p.m. at The Solar Calendar, Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina. Dress warmly. www.solarcalendar.org 

“Buildings That Think Green: The Next Generation of Smart Energy Technologies” with Arun Majumdar, LBNL, at 5:30 p.m. at Berkeley Rep, Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison St. 486-7292. 

Kensington Library Book Club meets to discuss “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston at 7 p.m. at 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

World Affairs/Politics Discussion Group, for people 60 years and over, meets at 9:45 a.m. at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave, Albany. Cost is $3.  

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. 

Dragonboating Year round classes at the Berkeley Marina, Dock M. Meets Mon, Wed., Thurs. at 6 p.m. Sat. at 10:30 a.m. For details see www.dragonmax.org 

Free Boatbuilding Classes for Youth Mon.-Wed. from 3 to 7 p.m. at Berkeley Boathouse, 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Classes cover woodworking, boatbuilding, and boat repair. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

TUESDAY, SEPT. 23 

New Deal Film Festival “WPA Theater Mark Blitzstien’s : The Cradle will Rock!” at 1 p.m. at North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. Sponsored by the Berkeley Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

“Engage Her” A documentary by Victoria Ponce exploring why more than 30 million minority women in the U.S. do not vote, at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Cost is $15. 388-8932. www.hillsideclub.org 

“What We Say Goes: Pakistan, Iran & U.S. Foreign Policy” with David Barsamian at 7 p.m. at Laney College Theater, 900 Fallon St., Oakland. Suggested donation $8-$25. 251-1332 ext. 105. www.radioproject.org 

Exploring Patagonia’s Northern Lake District, and opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and more at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Political Theater for Everyone! A class in experimental political/street theater technique at 6 p.m. at Rock-Paper-Scissors Collective, Telegraph at 23rd St., Oakland. http://rpscollective.com/new.php 

Berkeley School Volunteers Orientation from noon to 1 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Come learn about volunteer opportunities. Bring photo ID and two references. 644-8833. 

 

 

 

 

 

”Buddhism: “Tendai: Its Usefulness and Relevancy Today” with VK Leary Keisho at 7 p.m., Center for Buddhist Education at the Jodo Shinshu Center, 2140 Durant Ave. Free or by donation. 809-1460. www.cbe-bca.org  

“Revolutionary Communism at a Crossroads: Residue of the Past or Vanguard of the Future?” Discussion at 7 p.m. at Revolution Books, 2425 Channing Way. 848-1196. 

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. 

End the Occupation Vigil every Tues. at noon at Oakland Federal Bldg., 1301 Clay St. www.epicalc.org 

Street Level Cycles Community Bike Program Come use our tools as well as receive help with performing repairs free of charge. Youth classes available. Tues., Thurs., and Sat. from 2 to 6 p.m. at at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

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

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. 

Sing-A-Long Group from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., Albany. 524-9122. 

Yarn Wranglers Come knit and crochet at 6:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24 

Be Ballot-Wise in November! with facts from Berkeley City Councilmember Kriss Worthington and other community activists at 1:30 p.m. at North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst, corner of MLK. Sponsored by the Berkeley Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

“The Wrecking Crew: How Conservatives Ruin It All” with author Thomas Frank at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way. Cost is $12. 848-6767, ext. 609. 

Golden Gate Birding Walk at Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park with Hilary Powers and Ruth Tobey. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the large spherical cage near Nature Center at Perkins and Bellevue. 549-2839. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Appreciating Diversity Film Series “Unnatural Causes: In Sickness and in Wealth” Film showing followed by discussion at 7 p.m. at Ellen Driscoll Theater, Frank Havens School, 325 Highland Ave., Piedmont. 835-9227. diversityfilmseries.org 

Chilean Filmmaker Carlos Flores will give a workshop and show film clips from the work of young Chilean filmmkakers today at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $8-$10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

“Chicago 10” Brett Morgan explores the buildup to- and unravelling of- the Chicago conspiracy trial after the 1968 Democratic Convention, at 6 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10 and Oak, Oakland. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. 

“The Story of Stuff” A short film by Annie Leonard on the underside of our production and consumption patterns, at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation $5. www.Humanist Hall.org 

Spanish Conversation Classes Wed. and Thurs. at 9:30 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst St. 981-5190. 

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. 

Theraputic Recreation at the Berkeley Warm Pool, Wed. at 3:30 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley Warm Pool, 2245 Milvia St. Cost is $4-$5. Bring a towel. 632-9369. 

Berkeley Peace Walk and Vigil at the Berkeley BART Station, corner of Shattuck and Center. Sing for Peace at 6:30 p.m. followed by Peace Walk at 7 p.m. www.geocities.com/vigil4peace/vigil 

Teen Chess Club from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the North Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda at Hopkins. 981-6133. 

Morning Meditation Every Mon., Wed., and Fri. at 7:45 a.m. at Rudramandir, 830 Bancroft Way at 6th. 486-8700. 

Berkeley CopWatch Drop-in office hours from 6 to 8 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. 548-0425. 

Stitch ‘n Bitch at 6:30 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

THURSDAY, SEPT. 25 

“The Age of Warrior” with Robert Fisk on his new book of essays about the Middle East at 7 p.m. at Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Benefits the Middle East Children’s Alliance. Tickets are $20. 548-0542. www.mecaforpeace.org. 

Berkeley Public Library Master Plan discussion at 6:30 p.m. at West Branch, 1125 Univesrsity. Plan available on-line at www.berkeleypubliclibaray.org 981-6195. 

Conscientious Projector Film Series “What a Way to Go: Living at the End of Empire” at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita.  

“Pursuit of Equality” A documentary and discussion about marriage equality at 7:15 p.m. at Rialto Cinemas Elmwood, 2966 College Ave. at Ashby. Cost is $20. Benefit for No On 8 / NCLR Social Justice Fund. 433-9730. 

Berkeley Community Gardening Collaborative Potluck with speakers and garden tour at 6 p.m. at Arts Magnet School, 1645 Milvia St. Enter playground off Virginia St. 883-9096. 

Easy Does It Board of Directors’ Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at EDI office, 1636 University Ave. 845-5513. www.easydoesitservices.org 

Baby & Toddler Storytime at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043.  

Three Beats for Nothing South Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Thurs. at 10 a.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ellis at Ashby. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

Fitness Class for 55+ at 9:15 a.m. at Jewish Community Center, 1414 Walnut St. 848-0237. 

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 

FRIDAY, SEPT. 26 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Lisa Margonelli on “Oil on the Brain: Petroleum’s Long, Strange Trip to Your Tank” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $14.50, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 524-7468. www.citycommonsclub.org 

“Pakistan, Afghanistan and American Power” with Tariq Ali at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way. Cost is $12-$15. 848-3696. www.kpfa.org 

mio: made in oakland The launch of Unity Council’s social venture enterprise to bring sustainable sewing manufacturing to Oakland. Workshop from 3 to 5 p.m at 3301 East 12th St., suite 201. Launch party at 5:30 p.m. at 3411 East 12th St., Suite 90. 384-3146. 

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Berkeley Women in Black weekly vigil from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. Our focus is human rights in Palestine. 548-6310. 

Three Beats for Nothing Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Fri. at 10 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, Hearst at MLK. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 27 

Berkeley Historical Society Walking Tour of Nut Hill in the heart of “Bernard Maybeck country” of North Berkeley, from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $8-$10. For reservations and starting point call 848-0181. 

Walking Tour of Oakland’s Walkway & Streetcar heritage A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance trhough Trestle Glen to Grand Lake. Reservations required. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

Spiders in September Discover orb weavers, jumping spiders, wolf spiders and more form 10:30 a.m. to noon at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

“Witness Against War: the Iraqi Refugee Crisis” with Kathy Kelly, founder of Voices for Creative Non-violence and Voices in the Wilderness at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Friends Church, Sacramento and Cedar Sts. Donation $5-$35, no one turned away. 

Northern California Family Center Foster Parent Orientation for individuals who are interested in becoming a foster parent from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St. 925-370-1990. 

Make a Box Sculpture with Emily Kuenstler from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. All ages welcome. Cost is $45. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Introduction to Golf from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Tilden Golf Course. Golf balls and loaner clubs are provided. Cost is $50-$56. Participants will also receive a free $20 range card for use at the driving range and $20 off a future class at the golf course. Registration required 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Walk the Line & Connect to the Home Front Walk the line of history and the keel of a victory ship, and learn about the men and women who contributed to victory on the home front during World War II, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by optional 45 min. Bay Trail stroll. Meet park ranger at memorial by main parking lot at Rosie the Riveter Memorial, Marina Bay Park, Melville and Regatta, Richmond. 232-5050. www.nps.gov/rori/ 

All Hands on Deck: Building the Ships that Kept Democracy Afloat Learn about the 747 ships built at the Kaiser shipyards and the people that built them, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Historic Shipyard No. 3, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond. Park outside SS Red Oak Victory gate. 232-5050. Directions to shipyard 237-2933. www.ssredoakvictory.com/contact.htm 

Mooncake Festival at Habitot Children’s Museum with activities celebrating the Asian harvest festival from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

Sushi for the More Adventurous from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center. Parent participation required for 8-10 year-olds. Cost is $25-$49. Registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Benefit for Girls Inc. of Alameda County from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. Tickets are $75-$125. 357-5515, ext. 219. www.WomenofTaste.org 

Meditation Class at noon at 7th Heaven Yoga Studio, 2820 7th St. Free. 665-4300. 

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. www.nativeplants.org 

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

Oakland Artisans Marketplace Sat. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Jack London Square. 238-4948. 

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. 28 

“How Berkeley Can You Be?” and Art Car Parade at 11 a.m. at California and University, followed by festival in Civic Center Park. www.howberkeleycanyoube.com 

Taste of El Cerrito with food samples, silent auction and music from 5 to 9 p.m. at El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane at Ashbury Ave. Cost is $10-$20. www.tasteofelcerrito.com 

Little Farm Open House Come grind some corn to feed the chickens, pet a bunny or groom a goat, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Little Farm at Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Berkeley Partners for Parks Afternoon Fundraiser with food, drinks and music from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at Halcyon Commons, on Halcyon Ct between Webster and Prince. Suggested donation $30. 

Walking Tour of Richmond Blvd A walking tour sponsored by Oakland Heritage Alliance along Glen Echo Creek, a residential neighborhood built between 1895 and the 1920s. Meet at 10 a.m. at Pergola, Croxton Ave. and Richmond Blvd. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

The Art of Solar Cooking Learn the use, design, and practical applications of solar cookers nad solar water pasteurization, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $15 sliding scale, plus optional $5 materials fee. 548-2220, ext. 233. 

Medicine Take-Back Day Bring unwanted medication, in orginal containers with personal information marked out, for safe disposal between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jack London Square, 450 Water St. at Broadway. Sponsored by San Francisco Estuary Project and Teleosis Institute. 622-2452. 

Free Hands-on Bicycle Clinic Learn how to repair a flat, from 10 to 11 a.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. Bring your bike and tools. 527-4140. 

UC Botanical Garden Fall Plant Sale from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 200 Centennial Drive. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

“Iran (Is Not the Problem) Film and discussion with producer Aaron Newman at 6:30 p.m. at Revolution Books, 2425 Channing Way. 848-1196. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Call to confirm. 841-8732. www.nativeplants.org 

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 

Berkeley Chess Club meets every Sun. at 7 p.m. at the Hillside School, 1581 Le Roy Ave. 843-0150. 

Personal Theology Seminar with Rebecca Parker on “Saving Paradise: How Christianity Traded Love of this World for Crucifixion and Empire” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Sylvia Gretchen on “Light of the Buddha and the Modern World” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

Jewish High Holidays Pot-luck and Discussion at 6:15 on Sat. and Sun. at JGate, near the El Cerrito Bart Station. RSVP to rabbibridget@jewishgateways.org 

Sew Your Own Open Studio Come learn to use our industrial and domestic machines, or work on your own projects, from 4 to 8 p.m. at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Also on Fri. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

CITY MEETINGS 

Design Review Committee meets Thurs., Sept. 18, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7415.  

Fair Campaign Practices Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 18, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6950.  

Transportation Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 18, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7010. 

Parks and Recreation Commission meets Mon., Sept. 22, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5158.  

Zero Waste Commission meets Mon., Sept. 22, at 7 p.m., at 1201 Second St. 981-6368.  

City Council meets Tues., Sept. 23, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil 

Civic Arts Commission meets Wed., Sept. 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7533.  

Disaster and Fire Safety Commission meets Wed., Sept. 24, at 7 p.m., at the Emergency Operations Center, 997 Cedar St. 981-5502.  

Energy Commission meets Wed., Sept. 24, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5434.  

Planning Commission meets Wed., Sept. 24, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7484.  

Police Review Commission meets Wed., Sept. 24, at the South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-4950.  

Mental Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m. at 26