THURSDAY, OCT. 30 

Berkeley Mayoral Candidates Debate Pacific Steel Issues and solutions to the plant’s pollution and health threats at 7 p.m. at the Building Education Center, 812 Page St. Sponsored by Global Community Monitor. www.gcmonitor.org 

BUSD Community Meeting on Selling Hillside School and Playground at 7 p.m. in the large conference room, 1720 Oregon St. For information contact Cynthia Cowgill at 549-3435, or cacowgill@aim.com 

“The 1868 Hayward Fault Earthquake” with Richard Schwartz at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, Cedar St. at Arch. Cost is $15. Sponsored by berkeley Architectural Heritage Assoc. 841-2242. www.berkeleyheritage.org  

Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan A town hall discussion with councilmembers Laurie Capitelli (District 5) and Betty Olds (District 6) at 6:30 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, Parlor Room, 941 The Alameda. 

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

Hallowe’en Stories and creepy songs from 6 to 7 p.m. at Richmond Public Library, Children’s Room, 325 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. 620-6557. 

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

Bayswater Book Club Dinner meeting at 6:30 p.m. to discuss “Obama Nomics” by John R. Talbott. RSVP to 433-2911. 

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, OCT. 31 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Sherry Smith, League of Women Voters “State and Local Ballot Measures in the Nov. 2008 Elections” 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 

Harvest Festival at James Kenney Community Center with carnival games, arts and crafts, a spooky maze and more from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at 1720 8th St., between Virginia and Delaware. 981-6551.  

Halloween Costume Contest and Magic Show at 5 p.m. at Ray’s Pumpkin Patch, 1245 Solano Ave., Albany. Free. 527-5358. 

“Not-Too-Spooky” Halloween for ages 6 and under from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Habitot, 2065 Kittredge St. Cost is $7-$8. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

“Farewell to the Thief” Celebrate the end of the Bush years with a concert at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St. Suggested donation $10. www.bfuu.org 

Compost Give-away at Berkeley Marina Free compost giveaway self serve after 11:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Berkeley Marina Maintenance Yard, 201 University Ave. 981-6660. 

Circle Dancing, simple folk dancing with instruction at 7:30 p.m. at Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St at University. Donation of $5 requested. 528-4253. www.circledancing.com 

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, NOV. 1 

Watershed Environmental Poetry Festival Creek Walk Meet at 10 a.m. just inside UC campus at Oxford and Center St. Poetry Festival follows at noon at Civic Center Park. 526-9105. www.poetryflash.org 

Berkeley Path Wanderers Albany Walk Explore history, preservation, and restoration on Albany Hill, University Village, and Cerrito and Codornices Creeks. Meet at 10 a.m. at Albany Peet’s on San Pablo. 848-9358. www.berkeleypaths.org 

Reptile Rendevous Learn about the reptiles that live in Tilden Park, and meet some up close, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center. 525-2233. 

Sick Plant Clinic Dr. Robert Raabe, plant pathologist, and Dr. Nick Mills, entomologist, will diagnose plant illnesses and recommend remedies. Bring a piece of the plant in a securely sealed container. A zipperlock bag is ideal. From 9 a.m. to noon at Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr. 643-2755. 

Close the Farm Help us close the Little Farm and tuck in the animals for the night, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Tilden Little Farm, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Wine and Carrot Reception for Peter Matsukawa and the photographs of his rabbits, at 5 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa, Ave., Kensington. 535-6155. 

Human Rights in Chile A discussion on efforts to nullify the self-pardon law at 4 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Lead-Safe Painting & Remodeling A free introductory class to learn about lead safe renovations for your older home, from 10 a.m. to noon at Dimond Branch Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave., Oakland. Presented by Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 567-8280. www.ACLPPP.org 

“Law School Admissions Workshop for People of Color” from 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Berkeley School of Law, Booth Auditorium. Open to all traditionally underrepresented groups such as people of color, people with disabilities, gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender people, and those from a disadvantaged socio-economic background. Please RSVP to coalitionfordiversity@gmail.com  

“The Joy of Writing” A workshop with Lynn Hammond from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. Cost is $30. Bring a bag lunch. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Free Internet Classes: Health and Medical Information from 10 to 11 El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton St., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

Math and Science Classes from the Lawrence Hall of Science for families with children in kindergarten through fifth grade from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Richmond Public Library, 325 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. Free. 620-6557. 

Berkeley Property Owners Association Monthly meeting with Ted Levenson on “The Current Financial Melt-down and what it means to you and your investments” 10 a.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave., Fireside Room. All welcome. bpoa@bpoa.org 

“The Current Situation in Afghanistan” at 7 p.m. at Revolution Books, 2425 Channing Way. 848-1196. 

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

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 

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. 

SUNDAY, NOV. 2 

East Bay Sanctuary Covenant Annual Fundraising Dinner with a silent auction and reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. Funds support EBSC’s mission to provide a safe-haven for indigenous refugees and immigrants, educate the public and foster leadership development and human rights advocacy. 540-5296. www.eastbaysanctuary.org 

Art Hike “Sketching Through the Fog” Bring paper, pen or pencil and discover winter flora and fauna in the fog from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Spinning a Yarn Storytelling Watch wool being spun and listen to a tale at 2 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

“Fall Harvest: Medicinal Roots, Barks, and Fruits of California” Learn identifying characteristics, medicinal uses, sustainable harvesting techniques, as well as various preparation methods from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tilden Regional Parks Botanical Garden Visitor Center, Wildcat Canyon Road and South Park Drive. Cost is $45. Partial work trade possible in cases of financial hardship. Inquire when registering. 428-1810. www.nativeplants.org 

EcoHouse Tour Learn about Berkeley’s first city-permitted wetland / greywater system, solar panels, on-demand water heater, water saving fixtures, natural and recycled building materials, water catchment strategies, ducks in the city, a living roof garden and more, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration required by Oct. 31. Cost is $10, sliding scale. 548-2220 ext. 242. 

Mask Making Techniques with Diego Rios at 4 p.m. at Eclectix Gallery, 10082 San Pablo Ave. www.eclectixgallery.com 

Berkeley Rep Family Series “Myths Come Alive” from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Nevo Education Center, 2071 Addison St. Free, but bring a book to donate to a school library. 647-2973. 

“Diwali: The Hindu Festival of Lights” with Asha Bajaj, at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

Dia de los Muertos with crafts and story-telling for children ages 0-6 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Habitot Children’s Museum, 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111. 

African Diaspora Film Society “The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow” at 2 p.m. at Parkway Theater, 1834 Park Blvd., Oakland. Cost is $5. 814-2400. 

Organic Gardening: The Magic of Sheet Mulching from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in North Oakland. Cost is $30-$50. 431-9016. 

Tibetan Buddhism with Santosh Philip on “Easy Ways to Release Tension” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

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

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. 

MONDAY, NOV. 3 

“What Does It Take to Make a Jar of Jam?” A slide talk with June Taylor at 7:30 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. at Arch. Free. 843-8724. www.hillsideclub.org  

“What Do Turkeys, Wild Boar and Bullfrogs Have in Common? Answer: They Did Not Ask to Come Here” A talk by naturalist Jim Hale at 7:30 p.m. at Montclair Presbyterian Church, Family Room, 5701 Thornhill Rd., Oakland. Donation $5, children in grades K-12 free. www.close-to-home.org 

“Racial Identity and the Census” with Michael Omi, Assoc. Prof. Ethnic Studies, UCB, at 12:15 p.m. at Room 150, University Hall, 2199 Addison St. Free for OLLI members, $5 others. 642-5254. 

“Facing Death ... with open eyes” A film and discussion with Dr. Michelle Peticolas at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

Biodiesel 101 Presentation Learn about biodiesel emissions, homebrewing, types of vehicles and commercial availability at 7:30 p.m. at Biofuel Oasis, 2465 4th St., at Dwight Way. 665-5509. biofueloasis.com/bbc/ 

“Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul” with Jo Anne Erickson, docent at SF Asian Art Museum will talk about the current exhibit at 12:30 p.m. at Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. Brown bag lunch. 526-3720. 

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

Clowning Class for Adults with Jeff Raz, Cirque du Soleil and Pickle Family Circus veteran. Learn classic routines, cool moves and silly tricks. Meets Mon. at 6:30 p.m. for six weeks, at Stagebridge Theatre, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Cost is $75. 444-4755. 

East Bay Track Club for girls and boys ages 3-15 meets Mon. at 6 p.m. at Berkeley High School track field. Free. 776-7451. 

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, NOV. 4 

“Reclaiming Indigenous History, Memory, Education & Language in El Salvador” A film and discussion at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Music for Monotones An opportunity for non-singers to improve their skills at 7 p.m. at JCC of the East Bay, 1414 Walnut St. Cost is $10-$15. 528-6725.  

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

Let’s Go Vote Day with activities for children ages 0-6 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Habitot Children’s Museum, 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111. 

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. 

Caribbean Rhythms Dance Class begins at 5:30 p.m. at Redwood Gardens, 2951 Derby St., and meets every Tues. eve. Donations accepted for Community Rhythms Scholarship Fund. 548-9840. 

Ceramics Class Learn hand building techniques to make decorative and functional items, Tues. at 9:30 a.m. at St. John's Senior Center, 2727 College Ave. Free, materials and firing charges only. 525-5497. 

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

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5 

Berkeley Path Wanderers A walk in the the Alvarado area of Wildcat Regional Park. Meet at 10 a.m. at the picnic area just past park office and just before the stone bridge. 528-3246. www.berkeleypaths.org 

Native Plant Nursery Workday Volunteer in Save the Bay’s native plant nursery from 1 to 3 p.m. in Oakland and learn about local, native plants. No experience necessary, all ages welcome. Gloves, tools and all instruction are provided. Space is limited, RSVP to bayevents@saveSFbay.org 

“Seeking Wisdom in Extremes: A year in Solitude on a Remote Island in Patagonia” with Robert Kull at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

American Red Cross Blood Services Volunteer Orientation from 10 a.m. to noon at 6230 Claremont Ave., Oakland. RSVP to 594-5165.  

Bonita Hollow Writers Salon meets at 7 p.m. at Bonita Hollow, 1631 Bonita Ave. 266-2069. 

“Awakening Joy: Buddhism as a Path of Happiness” A lecture by James Baraz at 7:30 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Optional pasta dinner at 6:30 p.m. for $6 for adults, children free. RSVP to 526-3805. 

“Encountering the Sacred Feminine” A talk by Lana Nasser at 7 p.m. at The Dream Institute, 1672 University Ave. 

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. 

Jump Start Entrepreneurs Network meets at 8 a.m. at Cuppa Tea, 3202 College Ave. at Alcactraz. Cost is $5-$6, includes breakfast. 899-8242. www.jumpstartten.com 

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, NOV. 6 

“Greening Your Historic Building” A talk by Billi Romain, City of Berkeley Sustainability Coordinator, and Thomas Dufurrena, Principal at Page & Turnbull on preservation and sustainable design at 7 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst. Sponsored by the City of Berkeley Landmarks Preservation Commission. RSVP to 981-7488. 

Berkeley Historical Society Walking Tour of South of Campus Churches from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $8-$10. For reservations and starting point call 848-0181. 

LiveTalk@CPS with Adair Lara, former SF Chronicle columnist, at 7 p.m. at College Prepatory School, Buttner Auditorium, 6100 Broadway. Tickets are $5-$15 at the door. www.college-prep.org/livetalk 

Human Rights Fellows Conference with reports on work with non-governmental organizations in 14 countries from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Toll Room, Alumni House, UC campus. 642-0965. 

Cheesemaking Learn how to make simple, healthy cheeses using organic goat and cow milks, at 7 p.m. at Women’s Cancer Resource Center, 5741 Telegraph Av., Oakland. Free, but registration required. 601-4040 ext. 111. www.wcrc.org 

“Tupperware: Building an Empire Bowl by Bowl” a film on the tupperware parties and the women who hosted them, at 1:30 p.m. at Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720. 

Away With All Gods Reading and discussion of the book by Bob Avakian at 6 p.m. at North Branch, Berkeley Public Library, 1170 the Alameda. 

Straight2Screen Writers’ Group monthly meeting at 7 p.m. at Kensington Circus Pub, 389 Colusa Ave., Kensington. straight2screen@yahoo.com 

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 

Toastmasters Berkeley Communicators meets at 7:30 a.m. at Au Coquelet, 2000 University Ave. Rob.Flammia@gmail.com 

Avatar Metaphysical Toastmasters Club at 6:45 p.m. at Spud’s Pizza , 3290 Adeline at Alcatraz. namaste@avatar.freetoasthost.info  

FRIDAY, NOV. 7 

Golden Gate Audubon Society Walk at Jewel Lake in Tilden. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the parking lot at the north end of Central Park Dr. for a one-mile, two-hour plus stroll through this lush riparian area. Berries are ripening and migrants are here. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. ggas@goldengateaudubon.org 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Howard Maccabee, MD on “Natural Global Warming and its Positive Consequences for Our Health” 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  

“Can Unarmed Civilians Break the Siege of Gaza?” with Paul Larudee of the Free Gaza Movement, Jewish Voice for Peace, Fr. Bill O'Donnell Social Justice Committee at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 1640 Addison St. Free, donations accepted. www.stjtwc.org 

New Deal Film Festival The Dust Bowl Years “Grapes of Wrath” with Peter Fonda at 1 p.m. at North Oakland Senior Center, 5714 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Oakland. Sponsored by the Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers. 548-9696. 

“Dare to Struggle, Dare to Win” A film about the strike at the Renault factory in France in May/June 1968 at 7 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Marxist Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. 595-7417. www.marxistlibr.org 

“Healing Ourselves, Making Connections” A weekend gathering for adoptees and foster care alums of African descent in downtown Oakland. For details email afaadinfo@gmail.com 

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, NOV. 8 

Wildlife Rescue Training and Recruitment To help strengthen a community’s response to wildlife casualties WildRescue is offering this training class designed for wildlife rehabilitators and their volunteers, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shorebird Park Nature Center, 160 University Ave, at the Marina. Registration required. Cost is $30-$40. 831-869-6241. http://wildrescue.org 

Quarry Lakes/Alameda Creek/Coyote Hills Bicycle Trip Meet at 8:20 on the east side of the Fremont BART Station in the parking lot. Trip lasts to 3 p.m. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. ggas@goldengateaudubon.org 

Greywater Workshop at 10 a.m. at Magic Gardens, 729 Heinz Ave. 644-2351. www.magicgardens.com 

“Autumn in Asia” A tour of the Asian Area of the garden at 10 a.m. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Registration required. Cost is $12-$15. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

“Mushrooms for Color” with dyer and artist Dorothy Beebee, learn how to identify mushrooms, extract dyes, and use them, from 1 to 4 p.m. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $40-$45. Registration required. 643-2755. http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

Orchid Society of California Show and sale. Sat and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lakeside Park Garden Center, Lake Merritt, 666 Bellevue, Oakland, just south of Children's Fairyland. Free. 

“The American Economy After the Elections: What Are the Causes of this Crisis and What Can We Expect from the New Administration?” A panel discussion at 7 p.m. at Alameda Free Library, Conference Room A, 1550 Oak St. at Lincoln, Alameda. Suggested donation $5. www.alamedapublicaffairsforum.org 

“The Elections: What Happened and What Now” A discussion with the Political Affairs Readers Group of the Communist Party at 10 a.m. at the Niebyl-Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. 595-7417. www.marxistlibr.org 

NAACP Berkeley Branch meets at 1 p.m. at 2108 Russell St. Officers will be elected. 845-7416. 

Math and Science Classes from the Lawrence Hall of Science for families with children in kindergarten through fifth grade from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Richmond Public Library, 325 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. Free. 620-6557. 

Berkeley Lab Job Fair from noon to 4 p.m. at Berkeley Lab Cafeteria, 1 Cyclotron Rd. Job openings fro drivers, electricians, facilities managers, admin staff and others. Bring several copies of your resume. 486-5627. 

Red Cross: Alameda County Heros Awards Gala at 6 p.m. at Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel. Tickets are $150. 595-4460. 

“Ancient Tools for Successful Living” Workshops from 11:30 a.m. on, at Ausar Auset Society, 2811 Adeline St., Oakland. For details call 536-5934. 

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

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, NOV. 9 

Honoring Veterans Day 2008 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave. Oakland. 228-3207. 

Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge Workday Help us prepare habitat for California Least Terns. Meet at 9 a.m. at the main refuge gate at the northwest corner of former Alameda Naval Air Station, Alameda. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. ggas@goldengateaudubon.org 

Little Farm Goat Hike Join a short hike with the Little Farm goats as we explore the historic connections between humans and our ungulate friends. For ages 6 and up, at 10:30 a.m. at Tielden Little Farm, Tilden Park 525-2233. 

Little Farm Open House Come grind some corn to feed the chickens, pet a bunny or groom a goat, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Little Farm at Tilden Park. 525-2233. 

Purr-casso Art and Craft Sale with decorative, wearable and functional art pieces celebrating our feline friends from noon to 4 p.m. at Hollis Street Project, 5900 Hollis St., Emeryville. Benefits the Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society. 845-7735, ext. 13. www.berkeleyhumane.org 

“The Middle East in the Post Olmert/Bush Era” with Yakov Katz of the Jerusalem Post, at 7 p.m. at Congregation Netivot Shalom, 1316 University Ave. Donation $10. 525-3582. 

“Odessey: My Journey from Childhood Faith to a Universalist, Eclectic Spirituality” with Martha Helming at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

“May-June 1968: An Occasion Lacking in Workers’ Autonomy” A discussion with personal accounts at 1 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Marxist Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave. 595-7417. www.marxistlibr.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 1188 12th St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.BeADonor.com 

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 Erika Rosenberg on “Relaxing the Mind” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

Kol Hadash Community Reception Sunday, November 9, 2PM - 4PM at the Albany Community Center, 1249 MarinAvenue. Suggestion donation $5. To register, or for more info, email: info@kolhadash.org or call 510-428-1492. 

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 

Planning Commission meets Wed., Nov. 5,, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7484. 

Community Environmental Advisory Commission meets Thurs., Nov. 6, at 7 p.m., at 2118 Milvia St. 981-7461.  

Housing Advisory Commission meets Thurs., Nov. 6, at 7 p.m., at the South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5400.  

Landmarks Preservation Commission meets Thurs., Nov. 6, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7419.  

Public Works Commission meets Thurs., Nov. 6, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6406.

THURSDAY, OCT. 30 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Nesta Rovina reads from her book “Tree Barking” at 7 p.m. at Barnes and Noble, 6050 El Cerrito Plaza, El Cerrito. 524-6813. 

R. J. Ruppenthal discusses “Fresh Food from Small Spaces: The Square-Inch Gardener’s Guide to Year-Round Growing, Fermenting, and Sprouting” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Acrisia, Beef Donut, and The Violet Hour at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $5. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Vanessa Lowe at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Khalil Shaheed Group at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Valerie Jay, folk/rock at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Eclair de Lune, gypsy jazz, at 7 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Forrest Day, Harry and the Hitmen at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

The Sacred Profanities at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Tierney Sutton at 8 and 10 at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

FRIDAY, OCT. 31 

THEATER 

Actors Ensemble of Berkeley “Doctor Faustus” Fri. and Sat at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave., at Berryman, through Nov. 22. Tickets are $10-$12. 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org 

Altarena Playhouse “Bat Boy: The Musical” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High St., Alameda, through Nov. 1. Tickets are $17-$20. 523-1553. www.altarena.org 

Central Works “Blessed Unrest” by Paul Hawken, Thurs, Fri, Sat at 8 p.m., Sun at 5 p.m. at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave. through Nov. 23. Tickets are $14-$25. 558-1381. centralworks.org 

Fusion Theater “The Piano Lesson” with Donal Lacy Thurs.-Sat. at Laney College Theaater, 900 Fallon St., Oakland, through Nov. 1. Tickets are $5-$10. 464-3543. 

Oakland Opera Theater “Histoire du Soldat” and “Renard” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Oakland Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland, through Nov. 2. Tickets are $25-$32. 763-1146. www.oaklandopera.org 

Ragged Wing Ensemble “The History of the Devil” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m. at Central Stage, 5221 Central Ave., Richmond, Through Nov. 1. Tickets are $10-$30. www.raggedwing.org 

FILM 

Silent Movie Classic “Phantom of the Opera” starring Lon Cheney with live organ accompaniment by Jim Riggs at 8 p.m. at Paramount Theater, 2025 Broadway. Tickets are $5. 625-8497. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Al Young, poet, with the Susan Muscarella Trio at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $20. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

“Farewell to the Thief” Celebrate the end of the Bush years with a concert by Jon Fromer, Francisco Herrera, George Mann and others at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St. Suggested donation $10. www.bfuu.org 

Bay Area Classical Harmonies “Dance with the Spirits” at 7:30 p.m. at Pro Arts Gallery, 550 Second St., Oakland. $12-$18. 868-0695. www.bayareabach.org 

Jesus Diaz y su QBA at 9:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Medicine Ball Band at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Workingman’s Ed, classic rock, at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Alabama Waterfall & The Cowlicks at 8 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

Reilly & Maloney, contemporary folk, at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Santero Deuce Eclipse, Dos For, Mr. E at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $10. 548-1159.  

Jeff Rolka, Tobela at 7:30 p.m. at Nomad Cafe, 6500 Shattuck Ave. 595-5344. www.nomadcafe.net 

Murder Ballads Bash at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Guns of Sebastian at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Jerry Kennedy, acoustic soul, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

SATURDAY, NOV. 1 

CHILDREN  

Los Amiguitos de La Peña with Octopretzel at 10:30 a.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Owen Baker Flynn “Act in a Box” with juggling, fire-eating Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259. www.fairyland.org 

THEATER 

The Strangefellowes Collective “Dog-Ear” A play about readers, rebel, and writing your own ending, Sat. at 8 p.m. and Sun. at 7 p.m. at the Willard Metal Shop Theater, 2425 Stuart St. Free. http://strangefellowes.com 

Stone Soup Improv Comedy at 8 p.m. at Temescal Arts Center, 511 48th St. at Telegraph, Oakland. Cost is $6-$9. www.stonesoupimprov.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Peter Matsukawa and his Muses” Photographs of rabbits. Wine and carrot reception at 5 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa, Ave. Kensington. 535-6155. 

“Balancing Persepctives: East Asian Influences in Contemporary Art” Opening reception and Asian-themed costume party at 6 p.m. at JFK University Arts & Consciousness Gallery, 2956 San Pablo Ave., 2nd Floor. Enter at Ashby Ave. Exhibition runs through Nov. 22. 649-0499. www.jfku.edu/asian  

“Unexplored Territory: A Day of the Dead Celebration” Opening reception at 7 p.m. at 4th Street Studio, 1717D 4th St. www.fourthstreetsrudio.com 

“October 9, 1969” by Scott Reilly. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at The Compound Gallery, 6604 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 655-9019. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Watershed Environmental Poetry Festival with Robert Hass, Al Young, Jane Hirshfield, Brenda Hillman and many others, from noon to 4 p.m. at Civic Center Park. 526-9105. www.poetryflash.org 

Bay Area Poets Coalition open reading from 3 to 5 pm. at Strawberry Creek Lodge, 1320 Addison St. Park on the street. 527-9905. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Young People’s Symphony Orchestra performs Berlioz, Gershwin and Beethoven at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way. Tickets are $12-$15. 849-9776. www.ypsomusic.net 

Amy Brodo, cellist, and LaDene Otsuki, pianist, perform music of Britten, Ginastera and Franck at 8 p.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $8-$12. 549-3864. www. 

trinitychamberconcerts.com 

“Love Song Waltzes & Wild Dances” Piano, flute, and vocal octet at 8 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, One Lawson Road, Kensington. Tickets are $15-$20, includes a dessert reception. 525-0302. 

The Distaff Singers ”A Parody Home Companion” at 2 p.m. at Oakland Mormon Temple Auditorium. Tickets are $12-$15. 547-8083. www.distaffsingers.org  

Clifron Burton’s “Upsidedown & Backwards” at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Dia de los Muertos Celebration with Renee Asteria & 7th Street Sound at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $8-$10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

The Gateswingers, traditional jazz, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Sotaque Baiano, Brazilian, at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $5-$10. 548-1159.  

Wake the Dead at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $22.50-$23.50. 548-1761.  

Tribute to Chabuca Granda at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $13-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Tammy Hall at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. 

Annie Sampson at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

Jonathan Douglas, Kevin Burdick, Kat Downs at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082.  

Blacklisted, Ceremony, Have Heart, Let Down at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St. Cost is $10. 525-9926. 

Bettye Lavette at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $26. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SUNDAY, NOV. 2 

THEATER 

The Strangefellowes Collective “Dog-Ear” A play about readers, rebel, and writing your own ending, at 7 p.m. at the Willard Metal Shop Theater, 2425 Stuart St. Free. http://strangefellowes.com 

The Cooking Show con Karimi y Comrades at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10. $5 with donation of canned goods. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

“Citizen Josh: the quixotic adventures of an unlikely Berkeley activist” with Josh Kornbluth in a benefit for Darfuri children at 7 p.m. at Congregation Netivot Shalom, 1316 University Ave. Tickets are $36. www.netivotshalom.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Charles and Louise Keeler: A Collaboration of Literature and Art, Inspired by Love” Opening reception from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Berkeley History Center, 1931 Center St. 848-0181. 

“Loss” Group show. Reception at 2 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. 644-6893. 

FILM 

African Diaspora Film Society “The Rise and Fall of Jim Crow” at 2 p.m. at Parkway Theater, 1834 Park Blvd., Oakland. Cost is $5. 814-2400. 

Talk Cinema Berkeley Preview of new independent films with discussion afterwards at 10 a.m. at Albany Twin Theater, 1115 Solano Ave., Albany. Cost is $20. http://talkcinema.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Full Circle” Artist talk with JoeSam in conversation with René de Guzman, Senior Curator of Art, Oakland Museum of CA at 4 p.m. at Joyce Gordon Gallery, 406 14th St., Oakland. 465-8928. 

Poetry Flash with Jan Beatty and Molly Fisk at 3 p.m. at Diesel, 5433 College Ave., Oakland. 653-9965. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Holdstock & McLeod at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Jolly GIbsons at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Don Neely’s Society Jazz Orchestra at 5 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $20. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quartet at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com  

Dia de los Muertos with Boom Boom Kid, Eskapo, Venganza at 5 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $8. 525-9926. 

MONDAY, NOV. 3 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Dear Delhi and Rajasthan” Black and white photographs by Ilona Sturm opens at the Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St. and runs through Jan. 4. 981-6100. 

“Tapestries” fiber art of Boisali Biswas at Christensen Heller Gallery, 5829 College Ave., Oakland, through Jan. 15. 655-5952. www.christensenheller.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul” with Jo Anne Erickson, docent at SF Asian Art Museum will talk about the current exhibit at 12:30 p.m. at Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. Brown bag lunch. 526-3720. 

Bill Kelter and Wayne Shellabarger on “Veeps: Profiles in Insignificance” at 7:30 p.m. at Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph Ave. 849-2087. 

“How to Type Fast and Influence People” with artist, composer and performer R. Luke DuBois at 7:30 p.m. at 160 Kroeber Hall, UC campus. Sponsored by Berkeley Center for New Media. 642-0635. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Dafnis Prieto Quartet at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $10-$16. 238-9200.  

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

TUESDAY, NOV. 4 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Motordude Zydeco at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $11, with $2 discount for voting sticker or receipt. 525-5054.  

Barbara Linn & John Schott, jazz, at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Kenneth Baker discusses his new book “The Lightening Field” at 6:30 p.m. at University Press Books, 2430 Bancroft Way. 548-0585.  

Kayhan Irani on “Telling Stories to Change the World” at 7 p.m. at Revolution Books, 2425 Channing Way. 848-1196. 

Gregg Shapiro will read from his new poetry collection, “Protection” at 3 p.m. at the Cal Student Store, UC Berkeley campus. 642-9000, ext. 654. 

Berkeley Poetry Slam with host Charles Ellik at 8 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Music for the Spirit with Ron McKean on harpsichord at 12:15 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Oakland, 2619 Broadway. 444-3555. 

Jeremiah Clarke: Trumpet and Marches at 12:30 p.m. at St. Alban's Episcopal Church, 1501 Washington Ave., Albany. Free, donations accepted. 525-1716. 

Rosalie Sorrels at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Vive Le Jazz! at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Zoyres at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Balkan dance lesson at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Kami Nixon, Americana, at 7 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

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

Avance at 9:30 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Salsa dance lessons at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $5-$10. 548-1159.  

Rosalie Sorrels at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

THURSDAY, NOV. 6 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Bay Area Landscape” Works by Vladimir Berberov, Francesca Giorgi, Michael Grove, Britt Marie Pazdirek, David Platford, opens at the Giorgi Gallery, 2911 Claremont Ave. 848-1228. giorgigallery.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Composer Colloquium with Merce Cunningham Dance Company musicians and composers at 4 p.m. at 125 Morrison Hall, Bancroft at College. Free. 642-9988. 

Artist Talk with Merce Cunningham at 7 p.m. at Wheeler Auditorium, UC campus. Free. 642-9988. 

Raj Patel describes “Stuffed and Starved: The Hidden Battle for the World Food System” at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

Mark DeWitt discusses “Cajun and Zydeco Dance Music in Northern California” at 6 p.m. at University Press Books, 2430 Bancroft Way. 548-0585. www.universitypressbooks.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Chris Caswell at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Kelly Park & Friends at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Daughters of Zion International Reggae Tour at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $13-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

The Sonando Project, Latin funk, at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $5-$7. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Broadcast Live, hip hop, indie rock, and spoken word at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $tba. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Courtney Nicole Trio at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Jacob Fiss-Hobart Ensemble at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo Ave., at Dwight. 548-5198.  

FRIDAY, NOV. 7 

THEATER 

Aurora Theatre “The Devil’s Disciple” Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. at 2081 Addison St. through Dec. 7. Tickets are $40-$42. 843-4822. www.auroratheatre.org 

Actors Ensemble of Berkeley “Doctor Faustus” Fri. and Sat at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave., at Berryman, through Nov. 22. Tickets are $10-$12. 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org 

Berkeley Rep “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” at 8 p.m. at the Roda Theater, 2015 Addison St, through Dec. 14. Tickets are $13.50-$71. 647-2949. berkeleyrep.org 

Central Works “Blessed Unrest” by Paul Hawken, Thurs, Fri, Sat at 8 p.m., Sun at 5 p.m. at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave. through Nov. 23. Tickets are $14-$25. 558-1381. centralworks.org 

Masquers Playhouse “Do I Hear a Waltz?” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Pt. Richmond, through Dec. 20. Tickets are $20. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Youth Musical Theater Company “Fiddler on the Roof” Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave. Tickets are $8-$20. 800-838-3006. 

FILM 

Movie Classic “North by Northwest” at 8 p.m. at Paramount Theater, 2025 Broadway. Tickets are $5. 625-8497. 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Veteran’s Voices” Art by Bay Area veterans. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at K Gallery, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda. Runs to Nov. 30. 865-5060. www.rhythmix.org 

“Rabblerousers: the Art of Reuse” Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Oakopolis, 447 25th St., Oakland. 663-6920. 

“Portals” A paired show of painting and installation by Robin Kuypers-Witte and Lisa Rasmussen. Opening reception at 6:30 p.m. at The Warehouse, 416 26th S.t, Oakland. http://reddoorgalleryandcollective.blogspot.com 

“Nature Speaks: Art from the Heart of Nature” Photography by Marianne Hale. Reception at 5 p.m. at Awaken Café, 414 14th St., Oakland. 836-2058. 

“Double Exposure” Works by Kevin Chen, Eleanor Harwood, Nicole Neditch, Narangkar Glover, Pete Glover, Carrie Lederer, Michelle Mansour, Jen Elia, Daniel Healey, and Margaret Tedesco. Reception at 7 p.m. at Blankspace, 6608 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 547-6608. www.blankspacegallery.com 

“Rejoyce!” Group show of works by painters, photographers, and sculptors. Opening reception at 5:30 p.m. at Joyce Gordon Gallery, 406 14th St., Oakland. 465-8928. 

“Suenos Mensajeros/Dream Messengers” Works by Luz Marina Ruiz. Reception at 6 p.m. at NoneSuch Space, 2865 Broadway at 29th St., 2nd flr., Oakland. 625-1600. 

“October 9, 1969” by Scott Reilly. Reception at 7 p.m. at The Compound Gallery, 6604 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 655-9019. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Gallery Talk with Peter and Maureen Langenbach on “Evolution of a Sacred Space: Dias de los Muertos 2008” at 4 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak Sts. Cost is $5-$8, free for teachers. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

The Blind Boys of Alabama in a fundraiser for Ever Widening Circle and World Institute on Disability at 7 p.m. in the Main Ballroom, Oakland Marriott City Center, 1001 Broadway, Oakland. Tickets are $75. 800-838-3006. 

Nina Haft & Company “One Becomes Two” A dance installation, Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m. at Shawl-Anderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave. Tickets are $12-$15. www.shawl-anderson.org 

Big Moves Bay Area “Dance At Large” featuring the Phat Fly Girls at 8 p.m. at Laney College Theater, 900 Fallon St., Oakland. Tickets are $8-$12. www.bigmoves.org 

Candido Oye Oba and Friends at 5 p.m. at Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak Sts. Cost is $5-$8. 238-2200. www.museumca.org 

Merce Cunningham Dance Company at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $26-$48. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

Starry Plough 35th Anniversary Kickoff with The Buffalo Roam Reunion Show at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Happy Hour Jazz ensemble at 8 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Cost is $10-$15. 845-1350.  

Peter Anastos & Iter at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Hurricane Sam & The Hotshots at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Bay Area African Drum & Dance Festival with Ousseynou Kouyate at 9 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $10-$112. 548-1159.  

Locura and Dgiin, Latin, flamenco, reggae at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is tba. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

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

Femi at 9 p.m. at Maxwell’s, 341 13th St., Oakland. Cost is $15. 839-6169. 

Opa Cupa at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Insect, The Holy Kiss, Swann Danger at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $5. 525-9926. 

3rd Date at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Jerry Kennedy, acoustic soul, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Will Squared at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

D’Wayne Wiggins at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $25. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SATURDAY, NOV. 8 

CHILDREN  

Los Amiguitos de La Peña with Alphabet Rockers at 10:30 a.m. at La Peña. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for children. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Maggie the Clown Sat. and Sun. at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. Cost is $6. 452-2259. www.fairyland.org 

Storytelling & Puppet Theater from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Habitot Children's Museum, 2065 Kittredge St. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Plein Air Watercolors” by Anne Poley, Annetta Fox, and Linda Oppen. Reception for the artists at 2 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Open Tues.-Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Dec. 28. 525-2233. 

“Dear Delhi and Rajasthan” Black and white photographs by Ilona Sturm. Reception at 2 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St. Exhibit runs through Jan. 4. 981-6100. 

“Walls” Paintings by Joel Isaacson on contemporary social and political concerns, at Flora Lamson Hewlett Library, 2400 Ridge Rd. Exhibition runs to Jan. 30. 649-2500. www.gtu.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“East Asian Influences in Conptemporary Art” A symposium with with Jacqueline Baas, curator and former director of the University Art Museum, William T. Wiley, artist, Fred Martin, artist, writer and Dean Emeritus of the San Francisco Art Institute, Mark Levy, professor and author, and others, from 1 to 5 p.m. at JFK University Arts & Consciousness Gallery, 2956 San Pablo Ave., 2nd Floor. Enter at Ashby Ave. 649-0499. www.jfku.edu/asian  

Works in Progress Women’s Open Mic, hosted by Linda Zeiser, features Jan Steckel. Potluck at 6:30 p.m. at The Home of Truth, 1300 Grand St., Alameda. Cost is $7-$10. 238-7344.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Big Moves Bay Area “Dance At Large” featuring the Phat Fly Girls at 8 p.m. at Laney College Theater, 900 Fallon St., Oakland. Tickets are $8-$12. www.bigmoves.org 

Nina Haft & Company “One Becomes Two” A dance installation at 8 p.m. at Shawl-Anderson Dance Center, 2704 Alcatraz Ave. Tickets are $12-$15. www.shawl-anderson.org 

Merce Cunningham Dance Company at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $26-$48. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net 

The Berkeley Baroque Band “Ground Round” at 8 p.m. at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 1501 Washington Ave., Albany. Suggested donation $15.  

Starry Plough 35th Anniversary with The Unreal Band, The Naked Barbies, Pat Nevin’s Ragged Glory and many others from 3 p.m. on at The Starry Plough. Free. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

University Chorus & Chamber Chorus “Zigeunerlieder: Gypsy Music” at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC Campus. Tickets are $5-$15. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Alex Calatayud’s Brasil! at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Oscar Reynolds & Karumanta at 8 p.m. at Wisteria Ways, Rockridge, Oakland. Not wheelchair accesiible. Cost is $15-$20. Reservations required. info@WisteriaWays.org 

Tito y su son de Cuba at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cuban dance lesson at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Eric & Suzy Thompson, Disciples of Markos with Hank Bradley and Cathy Whitesides at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Frank Jackson Trio at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $20. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Dave Ridnell & Friends, Brazilian jazz, at 7:30 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

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

Charlie Wilson’s War at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Dave Matthews Blues Band at 8:30 p.m. at Royal Oak Pub, 135 Park Place, Pt. Richmond. 232-5678. 

Corrupted, Asunder, Amber Asylum at 8 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $10. 525-9926. 

D’Wayne Wiggins at 8 and 10 p.m. at Yoshi’s at Jack London Square. Cost is $25. 238-9200. www.yoshis.com 

SUNDAY, NOV. 9 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Merce Cunningham Dance Company “Craneway Event” a site-specific performance at the landmarked Ford assembly plant in Richmond, at 1 and 3 p.m. Tickets are $40. 642-9988. www.calperformances.net  

Chalice Consort “Manchicourt's Requiem” at 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 114 Montecito Ave, Oakland. Tickets are $10-$20. www.chaliceconsort.org 

Inti-Illimani at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $35-$40. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Austin Lounge Lizards at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Com Voce at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

The Everlovin’, Americana, at 3 p.m. at 33 Revolutions, 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. 898-1836. 

Bandworks at 1 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $5. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Tyler Johnston and Jazzschool alums at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $12. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Austin Lounge Lizards at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Fireworks, The Time Next Year, First to Leave at 5 p.m. at 924 Gilman St., an all-ages, member-run, no alcohol, no drugs, no violence club. Cost is $7. 525-9926. 

This is the first time in its 38 years that the Berkeley Art Museum has devoted almost its entire space to a single exhibition. This wide-ranging show of almost 150 works comprises paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos and installations by 96 artists exploring the history of art in China from its Social Realist propaganda paintings of the ’70s through its explosive changes in Chinese cuLture. 

Some of the installations are very large indeed. In low Gallery B there is Wanda Du’s 33-by-33-foot “Stratégies en chambre” (1998), consisting of tons of old newspapers in all languages thrown on the floor and there are are plastic portraits of Bill Clinton and Boris Yeltsin in silent conversation; plastic toys are scattered about, a boy terrorist aims a plastic gun at the statesmen and plastic airplanes and bombs are overhead. 

Zhou Xiaohu’s “Parade” (2003) is about 30 feet long and comprises 3,300 clay figures—soldiers, tanks, in military formation marching in front of the Gate of Heavenly Peace (Tianamen Square).  

The first installation the visitor encounters is Yue Minjun’s “2000 AD” (2000) of 25 identical polyester men, with silly grins. The same artist appropriated Delacroix’s famous painting in his “La Liberté guideant le peuple.” Regimentation is signal to the exhibited works as is an egalitarian uniformity of multitudes.  

There is a photograph made by Shuan Hui in 1997 of some 200 artillery soldiers and officers who all look exactly alike, similar to Hai Bo’s photographs of women, whose poses, dresses, hair styles are all the same. There is a color photo by Yang Zhenzhong, showing a hen and rooster with not less than 26 identical chicks. He calls it “Lucky Family” (1999), surely comment to the one-child-per-family law in the Peoples’ Republic.  

Liu Jianhua’s “Obsessive Memories” (2003) is an installation of 25 porcelain women, in erotic poses, lacking heads or arms, but exposing their charms—women as sex objects, as china dolls. On the main floor there is a group of 132 look-alike Neolithic pots, arranged in marching order; several of them do stand out, because Ai Weiwei, has whitewashed them. (I hope that this water-based pigment can be removed from the ancient vases). The poster of the show, as displayed on the building is by Geng Jianyi and presents four cloned faces—all smiling. 

Many of these pieces are sardonic observations about the centralized state power, going back to Mao, which still prevails in the Peoples’ Republic. This principle can be traced back to the third-century B.C. philosopher Han Fei, an Asian predecessor of Machiavelli. The most evocative work in the show is Shi Jinsong’s “Office Equipment-Prototype No 1,” a pristine stainless steel desk, computer, chair—all fearsome instruments of torture, a memorable metaphor on oppressive authoritarianism—high tech going to harrowing extreme. 

But there is also the Confucian tradition of morality, virtue and harmony. An example of this philosophy can be seen in Gu Wenda’s “Myths of Lost Dynasties” (1999), which is a giant calligraph suggesting an imaginary landscape. Also Feng Mengbo’s horizontal landscape which suggest time-honored Chinese landscape painting, but, instead of ink and brush, Feng used acrylic and Veeljet, and in place of a scroll, the artist’s painting is almost 30-feet wide.  

Liu Wei’s beautiful “It Looks like a Landscape” (2004) is not a brush painting but a digital print of naked human haunches and thighs, arranged to resemble a Chinese painting of mountains. Finally, Li Songsong’s “Wonderful Life” (2004) is an exquisite picture, done with thick mostly white pigment on canvas of a group of young people listening to a violinist under a Ming Dynasty arch with barely visible mountains as a background—A truly successful fusion of Asian and western traditions.  

Mahjong: Contemporary Chinese Art from the Sigg Collection 

Berkeley Art Museum 

2621 Durant Ave. 

Wed.–Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 

through Jan. 4, 2009 

When Stravinsky and opera, or Stravinsky and theater, are mentioned in the same breath, the first things coming to mind would probably be Rake’s Progress or the theatricality of the ballets as produced by Diaghilev. Or maybe the Oedipus Rex he did with Cocteau.  

Oakland Opera Theater is staging two somewhat lesser-known Stravinsky works at their Oakland Metro Operahouse, a couple blocks north of Broadway at 630-3rd St. off Jack London Square: L’histoire du soldat (A Soldier’s Story) and Renard, pieces where the music shares, in different ways, the stage with actors, a narrator or singers—and most certainly, acrobatic dancers. 

L’histoire du soldat, the later piece (1918), plays first, and by far longer. A story by the sadly forgotten Swiss writer Ramuz (Stravinsky sat out the War in Switzerland) about the fantastic fate of a soldier off the battelefields of World War One, this production uses a text and staging updated to the Iraq War, in couplets, by British playwright Rebecca Lenkiewicz. It’s meant to be narrated and acted out, sometimes like a pantomime to narration, which mix was originally expressed “lue, jouee et dansee,” read, played and danced. There’s no singing, a casual fact that confused some of the audience opening night, coming to the opera and forced to wait till after intermission for the first trill of the evening. 

It’s a wry account, in between tall tale and morality play, of a soldier on his way home (an excellent Ben Jones, later singing in Renard), who trades his fiddle to the devil (a slick, cunning Matthias Bossi as Nick), who comes sliding out, back to audience, at his Baghdadi bazaar stand, piled with pewter cups, skulls and bones, which veiled dancers examine and caper with. In return he gets a book, which reveals the future—the economic future. War and buying and selling; so far a familiar scenario, with a little folk supernatural thrown in. Beats what’s playing around the block onscreen in the multiplex.  

Nick entices Joe the soldier to a three-day spree at his well-stocked house. When Joe emerges and makes it home, he finds himself unrecognized, shunned; it’s been three years, not three days. His girl’s married another and become a mother, thinking he was dead. And his own mother’s gone crazy with grief, a madwoman. 

Joe tries out Nick’s book, becoming an inspirational speaker on personal wealth, but can’t cut it. He wanders back to the theater of war, into a bar in the Green Zone, where he hears a brigadier general (David Hunt, the anxious Rooster of Renard) offer the hand of his daughter to anyone who can awaken her from a strange malaise. Joe does it with his fiddle, won back from Nick, followed by an extraordinary long dance, sometimes a wry pas de deux, in a pastiche of different styles, featuring deft Abrigal Munn as “Princess,” brilliantly choreographed by Shannon Gaines. Joe fends off Nick with his fiddle. They’re happy, but is being stuck in the Green Zone really OK? 

RENARD’s an earlier (1916) piece, opening with a short, smart addition of melismatics to chamber orchestra by sparkling soprano Kimarie Torre, Stravinsky’s brief “Printemps,” grafted on as matins for the barnyard, as the Rooster juggles blades, posing like a samurai in a kabuki mie, poised over the henhouse, a sliding coop. This’s asimpler tale from Russian folklorist Afanasyev, played out with every sideshow gimmick by a great team of chickens, vixens, an acrobatic cat and goat, and an amazing ribbon-dancing aerialist Fox, Breanna Noack, while a fine ensemble of male vocalists (tenors Jones and Darron Flagg, baritone Igor Vieira, bass Richard Mix) wax lyrically with the valiant chamber orchestra. Throttled, gnawed, chased across a slack rope, the Rooster finally triumphs over the Fox with the help of his friends, the pistol-packing, knife-wielding Cat and Goat. (Erin Schrader and Jodi Power). Artistic director Tom Dean’s stage direction and Gaines’ choreography carry the day, the talented performers—many of those onstage with circus background—showing charm and skill, all giving the evening that rare taste, rare in the theater itself, of theatricality, of trouping. 

There’re difficulties. The accoustics of the newer venue, in so many ways an improvement over its predecessor on Broadway, sometimes made a stalwart Kirya Traber (from BULRUSHER)—and even Jones—inaudible when the band played. There was a feeling of a lag, somehow, throughout L’HISTOIRE, with the music, which alternates with, occasionally overlapping, the action sometimes seeming like incidental music rather than a shifting, contrapuntal agent which sets the acted scenes off, even driving them.  

Maybe RENARD, the real opera—though short, sweet and to the droll point—should’ve gone first, to relax the audience for the leaner, less pyrotechnic and more complex mix of music and staging of L’HISTOIRE. As was noted in the program, these are both from an intermezzo in Stravinsky’s career, RENARD looking back and L’HISTOIRE forward, to the composer’s famed Neo-Classical period. 

Oakland Opera Theater 

Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland  

Thurs.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.  

through Nov. 2  

736-1146, oaklandopera.org 

On the eve of an international trade conference, its convener, Simon Primo (Marvin Greene), finds himself unusually alone in his palatial mansion outside Geneva, his depleted domestic staff seeming to melt away as a big storm’s brewing. Alone, that is, except for a mysterious visitor, who interrupts Primo’s fractious telephoning and heart pill-popping: a woman in an elegant serape who introduces herself as Maria de Arroyo (Catherine Castellanos), but more insistently as his friend, asking to speak to him about the trade agreement to be signed the next day—and demanding he rescind the global accord he regards as the crowning work of his career. 

Alternately prepossessing and feverish, faint, De Arroyo insists on telling Primo the Inuit story of the Skeleton Woman. Then the visitor turns into a guide, taking her reluctant listener on a tour of past and present scenes, from the primeval beauty, then desolation, of Tierra Del Fuego just before and just after the European arrival, to the anti-WTO Riots in Seattle—to inner space, where in every human body “there are as many molecular reactions every day as there are stars in the sky.” 

Blessed Unrest, Central Works’ new play at the Berkeley City Club was adapted by Gary Graves from the work of environmentalist Paul Hawken. Graves directed and designed the lighting as well, making the play a pas de deux for its two well-cast actors, employing every inch of the intimate chamber theater as this conversation expands to be, quite literally, talking about the whole world. 

This is very much in Central Works’ tradition, just as the play itself was developed by the ensemble and production team, working together. It’s marked by Castellanos’ characterization of De Arroyo, a sense of determination underpinned by a vulnerable tenderness, Greene’s deadpan portrayal of the mannerisms of a challenged entrepreneur of economic diplomacy and Graves’ wit and skill as an adaptor, bringing more than Hawken’s material to the stage. 

Blessed Unrest is a parable, a kind of combo Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life for the environmental and anti-globalization movement. In this case, it’s not so much a glimpse of his own mortality that converts the (business) man, but the mortal danger his guide and guardian spirit, Maria de Arroyo as a kind of Gaia figure, is in. 

Among the many projections (Terry Lamb’s, with Gregory Scharpen’s sound design) are supertitles attributing the many quotes to everyone from Walt Whitman, John Muir and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Gandhi, U. Utah Phillips—and Paul Haw-ken. Even Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz gets a credit.  

The p.o.v. tends toward a reading of Emerson and Thoreau, though not Nietzche. It’s a little ironic that a movement which often questions the anthropomorphisms of Humanism should be represented by such a personification. It would be interesting to see something onstage that dealt with these same themes, but based on different homegrown voices, those often lumped together uncritically as prophets of environmentalism—like Whitman’s dark heir Robinson Jeffers, or Melville, who was critical, even satiric, of Emersonian thought, believing it to be a spiritualized form of the American cult of progress.  

Blessed Unrest 

Central Works at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave.Thurs.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun.  

5 p.m. through Nov. 23. 

Tickets $25-14 sliding scale at door, $20 online (pay what you can Oct. 30, Nov. 6)  

558-1381, brownpapertickets.com 

“Once upon a time in Berkeley, two incredibly stubborn men decided to go into business together.” So begins Cometbus #51, The Loneliness of the Electric Menorah, opening like a fractured—or fractious—fairy tale with a title in hipster kabbalah tacked on. 

What follows, spinning out for almost 100 pages, is an ambling narrative that proves to be a combined oral history (as related by its raconteurish collector and author) of, and bittersweet love letter to, Telegraph Avenue—at a moment, a very long moment, when hardly anybody else has a good word to say about it, at least in public. 

The lens—or should I say perspective?—for this curious piece, at once ambitious and modest, takes as its focal point the break-up of the doomed partnership touted above, between Moe Moskowitz and Bill Cartwright for the founding of Rambam bookstore in 1963, and telescopes out from there, in time and (mostly) down the line of sight of The Ave. between Dwight and Bancroft, showing the evolution of this fabled and decried neighborhood through the generation of newer and often innovative enterprises—bookstores, poster shops, underground comix publishers, used record emporia and pizza “parlors” (more like dens) alike—that descended from the chaotic primal scene, the Big Bang of break-up on Telegraph. 

Cometbus goes back to that crucial moment via the reminiscences of its principals, verses 2 and 3 of chapter “Rambam,” the Genesis of this Telegraphic screed:  

“Morris ‘Moe’ Moskowitz later de-scribed it as ‘one of my briefer, poorer partnerships.’” 

Bill Cartwright said, “I’d just as soon not talk about it.” 

(Somehow, mixing Scriptural and Darwinian similes seems just right—perfectly outlandish, that is—for the tribal procession named and enumerated that trooped in and out of Moe’s doors, up and down the sidewalk, through changing times and finally into the prose of Cometbus.) 

The successive foundation of Moe’s Books (and Cody’s), of Shakespeare and Co., the (Re)Print Mint, Shamballah, Lhasa Karnak Herb Co., Black Oak Books, Berrigan and Brown’s jazz records (to name a couple of off-Ave. spinoffs), Rasputin’s Records, Leopold’s, Amoeba, Blondie’s Pizza ... and the tag teams of proprietorship, from founder to employee (or the miniature Pandemonia created when rebel angels were expelled and took up their stock-in-trade a few doors or blocks away), is told of with a reasonable alacrity, which touches on (rather than dwells in) acrimony, coming across with a few funny impressions, expressions and obsessive digressions—nothing unusual, as it comes itself from the impressionistic, expressionistic and completely digressive streetlife that is the water these fishes sport in. 

Perhaps the biggest obsessive digression is a kind of shaggy dog story in homage to the SLA, a shaggy tale indeed for those who recall that gang’s trumped-up start as the subject of surveillence of prisoners in the state pen and the women who wrote to them.  

The wryest impression, at least for booksellers and bibliophiles, past and present, is the sanguine description of the various figures of this history, black and white and red all over, like the old Hearst papers, physiognomies rendered either glowingly or gloomily. (One lifelong veteran of the scene intoned, “It makes Fred Cody seem like he was just some capitalist!”) 

These takes will be argued over well into tomorrow, I’m sure, grist for the mill of Telegraph gossip. But that’s where the author went to refine his his own thoughts. If it came out as a course meal, maybe that’s what our daily bread is made of.  

More apropos to its point of view, sometimes the telling of the tale seems to jump off the tracks and into personal outburst or sour grapes. But the author’s trying to speak both for himself and his generation. When one shop proprietor puts him off by snapping that he doesn’t care about the past, the previously whimsical folklorist buckles. “Maybe even a refreshing sentiment from someone of a generation so consumed in nostalgia and their own legend ... [with] a future, a stage, real estate. For the rest of us, the only thing we’ll ever own—especially on the Ave.—is our stories ... it [has] been a lifetime of dealing with these smug, self-centered hippie entrepreneurs ... I thought, ‘There was a reason for punk, and you are it.’”  

He goes on: “The bookstores whose story I was trying to tell had never been welcoming when I tried to tell mine—Cody’s had refused to even consign Cometbus for the first sixteen years, Shakespeare & Co. the first eighteen, and Moe’s the first twenty-five.” 

Cometbus is named after its eponymous founder Aaron, nee Elliott—or isit the other way around? Drummer, lyricist, “punk anthropolgist,” Aaron was born not long after New Year’s ‘68, and started his ‘zine at 13. “I publish because I don’t know anything else. I grew up with it,” he said at 27, and: “As you get older, you realize punk is folklore and oral tradition and myths. I went from that to writing about people’s lives, but I still see the zine as a part of a looseknit community.” 

His genial note to The Planet with a review copy: “Perhaps you’ll find it newsworthy ... Thanks—from one local paper to another.” 

This engaging issue’s decorated with stencil art by Caroline Paquita and retails for $3.  

The round-about sketch of The Ave’s equally elliptical history returns to Moe for the final word: 

“I like this street,” he said, “Even though it makes me sad.”