Events Listings

THURSDAY, MAY 14 

Bike to Work or School Day Celebrate bicycling as a healthy, fun, and economical form of transportation. For more event details and locations of energizer stations, see bicycling.511.org 

“Richmond Riviera” Walk for Age 50+ Discover birds, parks, and WWII history along Richmond’s Bay shore on a level, paved, wheelchair-accessible walk. Meet at 9 a.m. at Shimada Friendship Park, S. end of Marina Bay Parkway, Richmond. Free, but numbers limited; register at Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., 524-9122. 

Book Bingo In celebration of Children’s Book Week, for ages 5 and up, at 3:30 p.m. at the Kensington library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043.  

East Bay Mac Users Group Meeting Learn about iLife 09- iMovie & iWeb at 7 p.m. at Expression College for Digital Arts, 6601 Shellmound Street, Emeryville. ebmug.org 

Guided Meditation with Patricia Ellesberg on “Mystery Made Manifest” works by Susan Duhan Felix at noon at the Badè Museum, in the Hollbrook Building at the Pacific School of Religion located at 1798 Scenic. 848-0528. 

“The Heart of Islam: Essentials of Islamic Religion and Spirituality” A four-week introductory course, open to the general public, Thurs. nights at 7 p.m. at Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California, 1433 Madison St., Oakland. Cost is $25 for all classes. To register call 832-7600. www.iccnc.org 

Circle of Concern Vigil meets on West Lawn of UC campus across from Addison and Oxford, at noon to oppose UC weapons labs contracts. 848-8055. 

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

Buddhist Class on Shikan Meditation at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, Cedar at Bonita. http://caltendai.org 

FRIDAY, MAY 15 

Tommie Smith on “The 1968 Olympics” including a film “Return to Mexico City” at 9:30 a.m. at the Little Theater, Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way. 812-0121, 776-7451. 

International Conscientious Objectors Day and Berkeley CO and War Resisters Day. Peace flag raising ceremony at 11 a.m. at Civic Center Building, 2180 Milvia St., followed by flag rasing at the west end of Civic Center Park, 2151 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Prof. Richard A. Muller “Physics for Future Presidents” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $15, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 527-2173. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Volunteer at Berkeley Youth Alternative Gardens Tasks may include weeding, bed preparation, sowing, transplanting, composting and harvesting, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden, Bancroft Way, between Bonar and West St. 647-0709.  

“Ecocities: An Environmentally Conscious Approach to Architecture” with Kirstin Miller on how ecocities can reverse sprawl development and create sustainable cities that promote walking, cycling and public transit, from noon to 1 p.m. at AIA East Bay Chapter Office, 1405 Clay St., Oakland. RSVP by email. events@aiaeb.org 

Why Be Jewish? at 6:15 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty Street, El Cerrito. Cost is $7. RSVP required. 559-8140 . www.jewishgateways.org 

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. 

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

SATURDAY, MAY 16 

Himalayan Fair A market bazaar of the great mountain cultures of the Himalayas with food, arts and crafts and traditional music Sat from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave. Suggested donation $5. www.himalayanfair.net  

Prader-Willi Syndrome Walk An awareness and fund raising event at 10:30 a.m. at the Berkeley Marina. For more information call 310-372-5053. www.pwcf.org 

Berkeley Garden Club Plant Sale with CA natives, succulents, perennials and other wonderful plants locally grown at bargain prices, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 547 Grizzly Peak Blvd., top of Euclid. 524-7296. 

24th Bay Area Storytelling Festival Sat. and Sun. from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Kennedy Grove Recreation Area, featuring Jay O’Callahan, Antionio Rocha, Gayle Ross, Judith Black and Doug Elliott. Cost is $40-$80. registration required. 869-4969. www.bayareastorytelling.org 

Sudden Oak Death Blitz Training meeting for people wanting to take part in the documentation of SOD affected trees, from 10 a.m. to noon at Regional Park Botanic Garden, Wildcat Canyon Rd at S. Park Drive, Tilden Park. Sampling will continue on Sat. afternoon and Sun. Bring GPS units if you have them. 847-5482. 

Teens Touch the Earth Earn community service credit while working with others who care about the environment, for ages 13-19 from 9 a.m. to noon at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. Registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

“Recycle, Restyle, Remake Your Clothes” A class on how to economize and stretch your wardrobe by remaking items that are already in your closet. Learn how old sweaters can be transformed into hats and arm warmers, sleeves can be shortened or removed, dresses can be turned into skirts. Bring those pieces still hanging in your closet that haven’t been worn in ages and restyle them into something new. From 4 to 7 p.m. at Waterside Workshops, 84 Bolivar Drive, at Berkeley’s Aquatic Park. Cost is $25. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

TransForm’s 12th Annual Summit The Summit will focus on the critical role of transportation and land use in the health of our economy, pocketbooks, and planet, and highlight solutions, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Laney College, 900 Fallon St. at 10th, Oakland. Cost is $20. To register call 740-3150. transformca.org 

Berkeley Buddhist Temple Satsuki Bazaar and Arts Festival with Japanese foods, crafts, children's games, silent auction and performances by Anthony Brown, storyteller, Brenda Wong-Aoki, Destiny Arts Center’s youth hip-hop group, Sat. from 4 to 9 p.m. and Sun. from noon to 7 p.m. at 2121 Channing Way. Free. 841-1356. www. 

berkeleysangha.org/ev/bazaar 

Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Work-day Enter the park from Swan Way and follow the road to the end parking lot. Meet at 10 a.m. near the wooden observation platform adjacent to Arrowhead Marsh. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Fundraiser for New Oakland Farmers’ Market with art gallery, workshops, live music and dancing from from 5 p.m. at Oakland Noodle Factory, 1255 26th St., Oakland. Donations $5-$15, or work-trade. www.phatbeetsproduce.org 

On Hidden Pond Discover the life in this secret pond with naturalist Meg Platt from 2 to 3 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Bicycle Safety Day Cyclists of all ages and levels can drop in anytime to test their skills in a variety of obstacle courses, learn about basic bike maintenance, discover local bike resources, and talk with a police officer about the rules of the road, from noon to 4 p.m. at the DMV Parking Lot, 6400 Manila Ave, El Cerrito, behind the El Cerrito City Hall. There will be a BMX Stunt Team performing at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.  

Walking Tour of Oakland City Center Meet at 10 a.m. in front Oakland City Hall at Frank Ogawa Plaza. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

Children’s Community Center Silent Auction at 7 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. Tickets are $20-$40, sliding scale, at the door. www.cccpreschool.org 

California Writers Club with Janis Cooke Newman on “A Many-Sided Talent” (Talking About Writing) at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble Booksellers Event Loft, Jack London Square, 98 Broadway, Oakland. 272-0120. www.berkeleywritersclub.org 

Friends of the Albany Library Book Sale Sat and Sun. from 10 a.m .to 4 p.m. at the Albany Library and Community Center, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. To volunteer to help at the sale, call the Library at 526-3720 ext. 5. 

Homebuyer Seminar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Alameda High School Cafeteria, 2200 Central Ave., Alameda. Free, but reservations required. 888-572-1222, ext.110.www.myhomegateway.com 

“Innerscape” A Day of Art, Play and Transformation For adults from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at John F. Kennedy University, Berkeley Campus, 2956 San Pablo Ave., 2nd flr. Cost is $10, no one turned away for lack of funds. www.artplay.us/innerscape 

Free Sailboat Rides from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cal Sailing Club, Berkeley Marina. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and bring a change of clothes in case you get wet. Children 5 and over welcome with parent or guardian. www.cal-sailing.org 

Studio One Art Center’s Community Day with movement and art projects in various media for children ages 4 though teens from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at 36545th street off Broadway, North Oakland. Suggested donation $5. 597-5027. 

Otis School “Spring Fling” Fundraising Event with auction, Italian food and wine, at 6:30 p.m. at JC Cellars, 55 4th St., Oakland. Tickets are $20-$25. 465-5900. 

Small Critter Adoption Day Check out pet rats, hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits, from 1 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave, Kensington. 525-6155. 

Cartoon Weekend at Playland Watch hundreds of cartoons, meet a famous animator, enter our drawing contest and children in costume get in half off. Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Cost is $10-$15. 232-4264 ext. 25. www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org 

Beginning Internet Class “Health and Medical Information” at 10 a.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. Free, but call to sign up 526-7512. 

Ancient Tools for Successful Living One-day intensive workshops on Meditation Script Writing and Herukhuti (Ogun) Lunar Cycle at Ausar Auset Society, 2811 Adeline St., Oakland. Cost is $12.50-$25. RSVP to 536-5934, 253-8120. aas.westcoast@gmail.com 

Preschool Storytime, including crafts and finger plays at 11 a.m. at The Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

Shabbat Celebration for Young Children at 10:30 a.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St., El Cerrito. Free for first-times, RSVP required. 559-8140. www.jewishgateways.org 

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.  

Lawn Bowling on the green at the corner of Acton St. and Bancroft Way every Wed. and Sat. at 10 a.m. for ages 12 and up. Wear flat soled shoes, no heels. Free lessons. 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, MAY 17 

Himalayan Fair A market bazaar of the great mountain cultures of the Himalayas with food, arts and crafts and traditional music from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Live Oak Park, 1301 Shattuck Ave. Suggested donation $5. www.himalayanfair.net  

Heritage Rose Show Celebration of Old Roses with a large display of roses, plus rosey items for sale including plants, jewelry, crafts, books, stationery and food, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at El Cerrito Community Center, 7007 Moeser Lane, El Cerrito. Free.  

Green Albany Day Community event with climate action planning workshops, environmental workshops & information booths from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Albany Memorial Park, Veteran’s Building, 325 Portland Ave. www.albanyca.org/greenalbany 

Little Farm Goat Hike Join a short hike with the goats as we explore the historic connections between humans and our ungulate friends at 11 a.m. at the Little Farm, Tilden Park. For ages 6 and up. Children, please bring your adults along. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Mend Those Fences Learn how to do traditional carpentry with hand-tools and our muscles to put up new fencing from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. For ages 9 and up. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

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

Learn How to Repair Your Clothes A introductory class on simple hand and machine sewing techniques for patching jeans, replacing zippers, hems, buttons, and more from noon to 2 p.m. at Waterside Workshops, 84 Bolivar Drive, at Berkeley's Aquatic Park. Cost is $20, sliding scale. 644-2577.  

The Institute of Urban Homesteading Open House Tour of garden, bees, rabbits and greywater features, and a bake and brew sale with homemade beer and soda and strawberry and raspberry shortcakes, from noon to 5 p.m. Please email for location. iuh@sparkybeegirl.com 

Family Explorations Day: Shadow Puppets from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts. Cost is $5-$8. www.museumca.org/tickets 

Oakland on Two Wheels A bike tour exploration of Oakland with docents from the Oakland Museum of California. Meet at 10 a.m. at the museum’s 10th St. entrance. www.museumca.org/tickets 

Bunny Maintenance 101 Everything you need to know about basic care of your bunny. Class includes a take-home first aid kit for bunnies. From 2 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEARS, 377 Colusa Ave, Kensington. 525-6155. 

Egyptology Lecture “Stairsteps to the Gods—Building the Great Pyramid at Giza” with Craig Smith, architectural engineer at 2:30 p.m. at Barrows Hall, Room 20, Barrow Lane and Bancroft Way, UC campus. 415-664-4767. 

“Bums Paradise” Screening of the film with dinner and raffle at 7:30 p.m. at Longhaul Infoshop, 3124 Shattuck Ave. at Woolsey. Cost is $10 at the door. 984-2316. 

East Bay Atheists with Dr. Eric Maisel on his new book, “The Atheist’s Way” at 1:30 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 3rd flr meeting room. eastbayatheists.org 

Personal Theology Seminars with Tomyé Neal-Madison on “Reality on this side of my Journey” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

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 

Tibetan Buddhism with Barr Rosenberg on “From Knowledge to Wisdom” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

MONDAY, MAY 18 

AC Transit Service Reduction Community Workshop The bus district seeks community input as it begins planning for service reductions, made necessary by looming deficit due to significant cut in state funding and other economic factors. Bus riders and the community are encouraged to attend 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Maple Hall Community Center, 13831 San Pablo Avenue, San Pablo. www.actransit.org 

Kensington Book Club meets to discuss “Disgrace” by j.m. Coetzee at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043. 

Alameda County EMS documentary “Level Zero” benefit for the families fo the four fallen Oakland police officers. Reception at 6:30 p.m., music at 7 p.m., screening at 9:15 p.m. at Alameda Theatre, 2317 Central Ave., Alameda. Tickets are $30. www.alamedatheatres.com 

Dog Training Workshop: Slow Down! Getting your dog to walk on leash without pulling, at 7:30 p.m. at Finnish Hall, 1970 Chestnut St. Cost is $35. To register call 849-9323.  

Community Yoga Class 10 a.m. at James Kenney Parks and Rec. Center at Virginia and 8th. Seniors and beginners welcome. Cost is $6. 207-4501. 

Three Beats for Nothing South Mostly ancient part music for fun and practice meets every Mon. at 3 p.m. at the South Berkeley Senior Center, Ellis at Ashby. 655-8863. asiecker@sbcglobal 

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 from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. at Berkeley Boathouse, 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Classes cover woodworking, boatbuilding, and boat repair. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

TUESDAY, MAY 19 

Special Berkeley City Council Meeting on the Future Plans for Downtown at 5 p.m. in City Council Chambers. 981-6900.  

AC Transit Service Reduction Community Workshop Bus district seeks community input as it begins planning for service reductions, made necessary by looming deficit due to significant cut in state funding and other economic factors. Bus riders and the community are encouraged to attend 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., AC Transit General Offices, 1600 Franklin St., Oakland. www.actransit.org 

Tuesdays for the Birds Tranquil bird walks in local parklands, led by Bethany Facendini, from 7 to 9:30 a.m. Today we will visit the Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. Bring water, field guides, binoculars or scopes. Call for meeting place and if you need to borrow binoculars. 544-3265.  

Over-the-Hills Gang for hikers age 55 and older interested in nature, history, fitness and fun. Today we will explore Sobrante Ridge Regional Preserve from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 525-2233. 

Tilden Mini-Rangers Hiking, conservation and nature-based activities for ages 8-12. Dress to ramble and get dirty. Bring a snack. From 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8, registration required. 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Berkeley Garden Club with Jack Laws, naturalist and illustrator on “Celebrating the Sierra Nevada as an Artist, Naturalist and Steward” at 2 p.m. at United Methodist Church,1953 Hopkins St. 524-7296. 

Tips for Thru-hiking the John Muir Trail at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Auditions for Young People’s Symphony Orchestra for ages 13-21 from 4 to 9 p.m. Rehearsals Mon. at 6 p.m. at Crowden School in Berkeley. For audition application and appointment see www.ypsomusic.net 

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

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

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., Sat. and Sun. from 2 to 6 p.m. at at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.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. 

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. 

Bridge for beginners from 12:30 to 2:15 p.m., all others 12:30 to 4 p.m. Sing-A-Long at 2:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5190. 

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 

“Collateral Damage: America’s War Against Iraqi Civilians” with journalists Chris Hedges and Laila Al-Arian at 7 p.m. at Martin Luther King, Jr., Middle School, 1781 Rose St. Tickets $15; $10 students/low income. Benefit for Middle East Children’s Alliance, no one turned away for lack of funds. 548-0542. www.mecaforpeace.org 

Walking Tour of Old Oakland Uptown to the Lake to discover Art Deco landmarks. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of the Paramount Theater at 2025 Broadway. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. 

“The Century of the Self—Episode Three: There is a Policeman Inside All Our Heads: He Must Be Destroyed” by Adam Curtis at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., uptown Oakland, between Telegraph and Broadway. Donation $5. www.HumanistHall.org 

“Starting A Vegan/Living Food Buying Club” Vegan potluck dinner and discussion at 6:30 p.m. at 2105 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., between Center & Addison. Sponsored by the Oakland Raw Food MeetUp. http://www.meetup.com/The-Oakland-Raw-Food-Meetup-Group 

“Housework getting you down? Maybe you have too much house!” Discussion on “Tiny Homes and Mobile Living” by Katherine McKay at 6:30 p.m. at the Claremont Library, 2940 Benvenue Ave.  

“Paws to Read” Help your child practice reading with a friendly dog at 2:45 and at 3:20 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. Dogs and handlers are from Therapy Pets volunteering for Paws to Read. Children in grades 1-5 may sign up for 25 minute sessions with tested therapy pets. To reserve a session call 526-3720, ext. 5.  

Free screening of “Bastards of the Party“ as part of the Radical Film Nite with free popcorn and post-film discussion, at 8 p.m. at the Long Haul Infoshop, 3124 Shattuck Ave. 540-0751. www.thelonghaul.org 

Confused by Computers? Novice computer users can get one-on-one assistance from noon to 1:45 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. Sign up for an appointment at the reference desk or call 526-3720 ext. 5. 

“Changing Your Life in a Changing Economy” with presentations by real estate and financial planning advisors at 2:30 p.m. at Salem Lutheran Home, 2361 East 29th St., Oakland. Free. 434-2871. 

“Benefits of Meditation and Spiritual Lifestyle” with authorized speaker for Sant Baljit Singh at 7:30 p.m. at Fireside Room, upstairs, Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1606 Bonita Ave. 290-3013. 

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 

Pain Relief Empowerment at 7:15 p.m. at Tian Gong International Foundation, 830 Bancroft Way, Lotus Room 114. 883-1920. tgif@tiangong.org 

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

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

THURSDAY, MAY 21 

Traffic Improvements on Upper Ashby Transportation Commission meeting to discuss the allocation of the $2 million for the Claremont Elmwood neighborhood from the settlement with CalTrans at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. 981-7061.  

The LeConte Neighborhood Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the LeConte School, Russell St. entrance to discuss Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan, Protection for our Traffic Circles, a Police update & Board Elections. karlreeh@aol.com  

“The Owl and the Woodpecker: Encounters With North America’s Most Iconic Birds” with Paul Bannick at 7:30 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda, between Solano and Marin. Sponsored by Golden Gate Audubon Society. 843-2222. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll explore the world of insects, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

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

The Institute of Urban Homesteading Bee Clinic from 7 tp 9 p.m. for people already keeping bees to talk about their bees and get answers to current questions and concerns in organic and top bar beekeeping. Cost is $10. RSVP to iuh@sparkybeegirl.com 

“Children of the Amazon” a documentary which follows Brazilian filmmaker Denise Zmekhol as she travels a modern highway deep into the Amazon in search of the indigenous Surui and Negarote children she photographed fifteen years ago at 7 p.m. at Zaentz Media Center, 2600 Tenth St. Free, but reservations required. reservations@berkeleyfilmscreening.com 

Auditions for Young People’s Symphony Orchestra for ages 13-21 from 4 to 9 p.m. Rehearsals Mon. at 6 p.m. at Crowden School in Berkeley. For audition application and appointment see www.ypsomusic.net 

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

Circle of Concern Vigil meets on West Lawn of UC campus across from Addison and Oxford, Thurs. at noon and Sun. at 1 p.m. to oppose UC weapons labs contracts. 848-8055. 

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

Buddhist Class on Shikan Meditation at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, Cedar at Bonita. http://caltendai.org 

FRIDAY, MAY 22 

Tilden Tots Join a nature adventure program for 3 and 4 year olds, each accompanied by an adult (grandparents welcome)! We’ll explore the world of insects, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. Cost is $6-$8. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Abe Smith, Internet security consultant on “What Everyone Should Know About Computer Security and How It Affects Your Life” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $15, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information and reservations call 527-2173. www.citycommonsclub.org 

Conscientious Projector Film Series “Taxi to the Dark Side” Documentary on Afghanistan by Alex Gibney at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donation appreciated. 841-4824. 

A Benefit for Rock Paper Scissors Collective Dinner and film screening of ”Maquilapolis” and artist talk with Julie Plasencia and director Sergio de la Torre from 6 to 9 p.m. at 2278 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. Tickets are $60-$100 sliding scale and partially tax-deductible. After 8:30pm tickets are $10-$20 for film only. www.rpscollective.com 

Demonstrate for Peace Bring your signs and determination from 2 to 4 p.m. at Acton and University aves. Sponsored by Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers, and Strawberry Creek Lodge Tenants Association. 

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. 

Mayan Culture Lecture “As Seen Through the Third Eye” with Master Tian Ying at 7 p.m. at 830 Bancroft Way, Lotus Room 114. Donations accepted. 883-1920. tgif@tiangong.org 

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 

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

SATURDAY, MAY 23 

Youth Arts Fair with displays of youth artwork, entertainment provided by local singers, dancers, musicians and poets, and information booths about youth-oriented organizations, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park. Sponsored by the Berkeley Youth Commission. 

El Cerrito Citywide Garage Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shoppers can pick up the list of participating garage sales after noon on May 21 at the El Cerrito Recycling Center, the El Cerrito Community Center, or download the list from www.el-cerrito.org 

Walking Tour of Historic Oakland Churches and Temples Meet at 10 a.m. at the front of the First Presbyterian Church at 2619 Broadway. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

“Slugs and More Slugs: How Do They Do It?” with Dr. John Pearse at 12:30 p.m. at the Oakland Museum of California, 10th and Oak sts. Cost is $5-$8. www.museumca.org/tickets 

Brooks Island Voyage Paddle the rising tide across Richmond Harbor to Brooks Island to explore the island’s natural and cultural history. For experienced boaters who can provide their own kayak and safety gear. For ages 14+ with parents. Cost is $20-$22. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

Vegetarian Cooking Class: Burgers and Backyard Bites from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro. Cost is $55, plus $5 food and material fee. Advance registration required. 531-COOK. www.compassionatecooks.com 

Beginning Internet Class “Online Travel Sites” at 10 a.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. Free, but call to sign up 526-7512. 

Preschool Storytime, including crafts and finger plays at 11 a.m. at The Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720 ext. 16. 

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 

Lawn Bowling on the green at the corner of Acton St. and Bancroft Way every Wed. and Sat. at 10 a.m. for ages 12 and up. Wear flat soled shoes, no heels. Free lessons. 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, MAY 24 

“Effects of Community Violence on Our Youth” A violence prevention workshop for the community. The workshop will address the root causes of violence, the dramatic effect of violence on children, violence prevention, and the available local mental health and family support resources in our community, from noon to 4 p.m. at St. Columba Catholic Church, Parish Hall, 6401 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. For more information email blovette@mail.cho.org  

Little Farm Goat Hike Join a short hike with the goats as we explore the historic connections between humans and our ungulate friends at 11 a.m. at the Little Farm, Tilden Park. For ages 6 and up. Children , please bring your adults along. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Backcountry Gourmet Learn the fundamentals of making your own backpacking food and trail snacks, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area, Tilden Park. Cost is $10-$12. Registration required. 1-888-327-2757. 

Making Herbal Medicine A five-session class from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sat. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $160-$175. 548-2220, ext. 239. 

Grande Vista’s Historical Gardens A four-mile hike to explore the remains of this old sanitaium in th ehill, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. in Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Alvarado Staging Area. 544-3265. tnarea@ebparks.org 

Tour of the Berkeley City Club, designed by Julia Morgan, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 2315 Durant Ave. Sponsored by the Landmark Heritage Foundation. 848-7800. 

“Women Healing Women in India” with Rev. Lowell Brook at 6:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship Unitarian Universalist Hall, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donations accepted, no one turned away for lack of funds. 841-4824. www.bfuu.org 

Personal Theology Seminars with David Richarson on “Advanced Mandalas and Maps of the Spiritual World” at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

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 

Tibetan Buddhism with Robin Caton on “Meditation and Creativity” 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 2 to 6 p.m. at 84 Bolivar Dr., Aquatic Park. Also on Thurs. from 2 to 6 p.m. Cost is $5 per hour. 644-2577. www.watersideworkshops.org 

CITY MEETINGS 

Commission on Early Childhood Education meets Thurs. May 14, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5428.  

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., May 14, at 6:45 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356.  

Medical Cannabis Commission meets Thurs., May 14, at 1:30 p.m. at City Hall, Cypress R