THURSDAY, SEPT. 17 

Berkeley Public Library Branch Renovation Program Come share ideas, meet the architects, and learn about the projects’ scopes at 6:30 p.m. at South Branch, 1901 Russell St. at MLK, Jr. Way. www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org 

Home Energy Improvements Workshop Learn how you can save energy and money, improve indoor air quality and take advantage of incentives and rebates, at 7 p.m. at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal, 2024 Ashby Ave. For information call 981-7473. 

The LeConte Neighborhood Association meets at 7:30 p.m. at the LeConte School to discuss latest police report, problem properties, and yield signs on bicycle boulevards. KarlReeh@aol.com 

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

Golden Gate Audubon Society “Opics Overview for Birders” a hands-on clinic with Steve White of Scope City, SF at 7:30 p.m. at Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

“A Tribute to Justice: 10 Years of Struggles and Victories with Just Cause Oakland” from 6 p.m. to midnight at Historic Sweets Ballroom, 1933 Broadway, Oakland. Cost is $30-$80 sliding scale. 763-5877. www.justcauseoakland.org 

“Death Penalty v. Public Safety Jobs: Where is Your Money Going?” A community forum on the budget, public safety, and the death penalty at 6:30 p.m. at Westminster Hills Presbyterian Church, 27287 Patrick Ave., Hayward. Free. 415-293-6321. www.alamedadeathpenalty.org/index.shtml  

Writing for the Children’s and Young Adult Market with novelist Deborah Davis in north Berkeley. Call for location and information. 541-2199. www.deborahdavisauthor.com 

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

Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Red Cross Bus, at 1600 Franklin St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

“Cook Food” with author Lisa Jervis at 7 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. 548-3402. 

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. 

The Poetry Workshop, offered by the Berkeley Adult School, meets on Thurs. from 9 a.m. to noon in the library of the North Berkeley Senior Center. Writers of all skill levels are welcome. 

FRIDAY, SEPT. 18 

The 2009 West Coast Convergence for Climate Justice learn about climate change and climate politics, support local communities in their ongoing fights for climate justice. Fri. from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. and Sun. from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Mon. from 9 a.m. to noon at 3200 Barrett Ave, Richmond. Free. climateconvergence.org/west 

Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Ron Takaki from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Chevron Auditorium, International House, 2299 Piedmont Ave at Bancroft Way. Reception follows.  

Berkeley School Volunteers, New Volunteer Orientation from noon to 1 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Bring a photo ID and two references to the orientation. Returning volunteers do not need to attend. For further information 644-8833. 

Butterfly Walk in Tilden Regional Park with Sally Levinson. Meet at 3 p.m. outside the Nature Center for a walk through the Jewel Lake area. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them. sal.levenson@gmail.com 

Berkeley Juggling and Unicycle Festival with workshops for all skill levels through Sun. at Berkeley High School. berkeleyjuggling.org/festival 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with George Williams, San Francisco Planning Department, Retired, on “The Dramatic Evolving Skyline of San Francisco.” 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.  

“Kinshasa's Street Children” a film on the street children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, followed by discussion, at 6:30 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donation $5. www.friendsofthecongo.org 

“Under Our Skin” documentary film about Lyme disease, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. at Arch. Q&A after the film with Lyme disease specialist MDs. Donation $5. 540-6667. 

Demonstrate for Peace from 2 to 4 p.m. at Acton and University Aves. Sponsored by Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers and Strawberry Creek Lodge Tenants Association. 841-4143. 

Celebrate Jewish New Year Interactive learning at a Rosh Hashanah Seder, Fri. or Sat. at 6 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St. El Cerrito. Cost is $10. RSVP requested. 559-8140. 

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. 

Stand With Us Stand for Peace Stand with Israel vigil every Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. www.sfvoiceforisrael.org 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 19 

California Coastal Cleanup Day from 9 a.m. to noon. Meet behind the Sea Breeze Market at the foot of University at Frontage Rd. Wear old clothes, sturdy shoes, hat and suncreen. Bring water and gloves. www.cityofberkeley.info/marina For other locations see coast4u.org 

Cerrito Creek Coastal Cleanup and History/Nature Walk Learn about Cerrito Creek’s fascinating human and natural history while you remove trash before rains wash it to the Bay. Meet at 10 a.m. at north end of Cornell St., south edge of El Cerrito Plaza. 848-9358. www.fivecreeks.org 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Fall Walking Tour Dwight Way Station From 10 a.m. to noon discover a district of Victorian homes, small-scale commercial buildings, and nearly forgotten historic sites. Walk is level and accessible, along sidewalks. Cost is $10-$15, or $40-$50 for the series. Advance registration required. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com  

Berkeley’s New Deal History This walk, led by Harvey Smith, from 10 a.m. to noon, will review Berkeley’s 1930s stimulus programs that have left us a lasting utilitarian and beautiful infrastructure. Cost is $8-$10. For reservations and starting point, call 848-0181. 

Walking Tour of Chinatown Meet at 10 a.m. at the fountain of Pacific Renaissance Plaza, Ninth St., between Webster and Franklin. 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

Walking Tour of Oakland’s Historic Town Squares Meet at 11 a.m.at the corner of 9th and Jackson, next to Madison Square Park. Sponsored by the Oakland Heritage Alliance. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

“The Bungalow: Tradition and Transformation” A seminar with architect/contractor Barry Wagner, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Building Education Center, 812 Page St. Cost is $50. 525-7610. 

Crisis in Education Among Black Males Film screening of “Bring Your ‘A’ Game” and town hall discussion with Actor-Director Mario Van Peebles from 9 p.m. at 5 p.m. at Oakland Museum, James Moore Theatre, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. 

Fried Chicken Contest from 4 to 6 p.m. at A Taste of Africa, 3015 Shattuck. Cost is $5-$8. 647-9504. 

Asian Health Services 35h Annual Fundraiser on honor of the Family of Steve, Alan, and Larry Yee with guest Congresswoman Barbara Lee, from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Oakland Marriott City Center, 1001 Broadway, Oakland. Tickets are $125 and up. 986-6830, ext. 268. www.asianhealthservices.org 

California Writers Club, Berkeley Branch meets to discuss “Uniquely Qualified” with Andy Ross, formerly of Cody’s at 10:30 a.m. at Barnes & Nobel Booksellers Event Loft, Jack London Square, 98 Broadway, Oakland. 272-0120. www.cwc-berkeley.com 

Freedom From Tobacco Quit Smoking Class Sat., through Oct. 24, at the South berkeley Senior Center, 2939 Ellis St. Free. to register call 981-5330. QuitNow@ci.berkeley.ca.us 

Lead-Safe Painting & Remodeling Free intro class to learn about lead safe renovations for your older home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. Presented by Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 567-8280. www.ACLPPP.org 

Berkeley Juggling and Unicycle Festival Sat. and Sun. from 9 a.m. at Berkeley High School, All levels invited to attend. berkeleyjuggling.org 

Berkeley Juggling and Unicycle Variety Show at 7:30 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. School, 1781 Rose St. Cost is $10. berkeleyjuggling.org/festival 

Hamsterama! Check out our friendly non-biting onmivoresfrom 1 to 4 p.m. at Rabbit Ears, 377 Colusa Ave. Kensington. 525-6155. 

Shimmy Shimmy Kids Dance A ‘60s-style event for the whole family at 7 p.. at Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Ave., Alameda. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for age 2 and older, 2 and under, free. 865-5060. www.rhythmix.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. at 2 p.m. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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.  

Kol Hadash Humanistic Rosh Hashanah at 7:30 p.m. at Albnay Community Center. Registration required. See www.kolhadash.org 

SUNDAY, SEPT. 20 

Little Farm Fair A celebration with live music, crafts, and old-fashioned games including a pie-eating contest and sack races, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Little Farm in Tilden Park. Use of transit encouraged. 544-2233. 

14th Annual Garden Party at the Peralta Community Garden with locally grown foods, information on California native plants and habitat restoration, and music by local artists, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Ohlone Greenway at Peralta St. just north of Hopkins St. 

UNA-USA 5K and 10K Run or Walk to raise funds to end hunger in war-affected areas, followed by peace festival with entertainment and family-friendly activities. Run registration at 8:30 a.m., festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina. 849-1752. www.unausaeastbay.org 

Butterfly Basics View displays of live specimens, then look for caterpillars and butterflies in the garden, from 2 to 4 p.m. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $12-$15. For reservations call 643-2755. botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu 

Walking Tour of The Civil War at Mountain View Cemetary Meet at 10 a.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave. Sponsored by the Oakland Heritage Alliance. Cost is $10-$15. 763-9218. www.oaklandheritage.org 

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

Red Cross Blood Drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1188 12th St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

Berkeley Juggling and Unicycle Festival with workshops for all skill levels at Martin Luther King Jr. School, 1781 Rose St. berkeleyjuggling.org/festival 

“The Issues are in the Tissues” Holistic insights on the effects of stress on the body from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. at BFUU, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. www.bfuu.org 

Single Payer Health Care Not War Planning meetings at 4:20 at People Park. for more information call 390-0830. peoplespark.org 

Berkeley Fullpower Self-Defense Workshops from 1 to 4:30 p.m. No one turned away for lack of funds. To register call 800-467-6997. 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. at 2 p.m. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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 “Educating the Heart” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000.  

MONDAY, SEPT. 21 

“Save the Bay” Learn about the biggest threats to San Francisco Bay and how you can help protect and restore this great natural treasure from David Lewis, the Executive Director of Save The Bay for more than a decade at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

Berkeley School Volunteers, New Volunteer Orientation from 3 to 4 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Bring a photo ID and two references to the orientation. Returning volunteers do not need to attend. For further information 644-8833. 

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. 

Drop-in Knitting Group for all ages. Basic instruction and materials supplied. From 3 to 5 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 526-3720, ext. 16. 

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

TUESDAY, SEPT. 22 

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 San Francisco Bay Trail, Richmond Marina. Bring water, field guides, binoculars or scopes. Call for meeting place and if you need to borrow binoculars. 544-2233. 

Over the Hills Gang Hikers 55 years and older explore Tilden Park with a vigorous climb of Wildcat Peak from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For details call 544-2233. 

“Never Cry Wolf Rescue Progrqam” Come meet and learn about real wolves and this program to rescue them, at 6:30 p.m. at the Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. 524-3043. 

“Neoliberal Economics and Cheap Labor from Latin America” with Rev. Philip Wheaton and response by Danny Sheehan at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Unitarian Fellowship, 1924 Cedar. 236-1226. 

Autumn Equinox Gathering at 6:15 p.m. at the Solar Calendar in Cesar Chavez Park, Berkeley Marina. Led by Rabbi David Cooper. For directions see www.solarcalendar.org 

“If She Can Do It, You Can Too: Inspirational Outdoor Role Models” with Miho Aida at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

“Giving Education Top Priority in Tough Times” with Dr. Bruce Harter, Superintendent of the West Contra Costa County United School District, and Pixie Hayward Schickele, President of the United Teachers of Richmond, at the El Cerrito Democratic Club, at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall, El Cerrito United Methodist Church, 6830 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and light refreshments will be available, as well as pizza for $4 per person. 527-5953. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from noon. to 6 p.m. at West Pauley Ballroom, MLK Student Union, UC campus. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

Red Cross Blood Services Volunteer Orientation from 6 to 8 p.m. at 6230 Claremont Ave., Oakland. Registration required. 594-5165. blackstoneA@usa.redcross.org 

Berkeley PC Users Group meets at 7 p.m. at t 1145 Walnut St. corner of Eunice. meldancing@comcast.ne 

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 

Homework Help at the Albany Library for students in grades 2 - 6, Tues. and Thurs. from 3:15 to 5:15 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave. Emphasis on math and writing skills. No registration is required. For more information, call 526-3720. 

Homework Help Program at the Richmond Public Library Tues. and Thurs. from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at 325 Civic Center Plaza. For more information or to enroll, call 620-6557. 

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. 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. 845-6830. 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 23 

Golden Gate Audubon Society Bird Walk at Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the large spherical cage near Nature Center at Perkins and Bellevue. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

Walking Tour of Old Oakland Explore the 9th and Washington St. district. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of Ratto’s, 821 Washington St. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234.  

“High Rises in Berkeley?” Hear Pros and Cons with Berkeley Councilmembers Kriss Worthington and Linda Maio. At Berkeley-East Bay Gray Panthers, at 1:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst, corner of MLK. 548-9696. 

Berkeley Public Library Branch Renovation Program Come share ideas, meet the architects, and learn about the projects’ scopes at 6:30 p.m. at North Branch,1170 The Alameda at Hopkins. www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org 

Sudden Oak Death Preventative Treatment Training Session Meet at 1 p.m. at Tolman Hall “portico” Hearst Ave. at Arch/Leconte, UC campus for a two hour field session, rain or shine. Pre-registration required. SODtreatment@nature.berkeley.edu 

Square Dancer Program begins at the Montclair Women’s Center, 1650 Mountain Blvd. No partner required. For details call 531-6843. 

“For All the People: Uncovering the Hidden History of Cooperation, Cooperative Movements, and Communalism in America” with author John Curl at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

“A Convenient Truth: Curitiba” at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. www.HumanistHall.org 

“Energy Healing” with Grandmaster Le-Tian at 7:30 p.m. at Tian Gong, 830 Bancroft Way. Donations accepted. For information on this and other programs call 883-1920.  

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. 

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

THURSDAY, SEPT. 24 

BRT Locally Preferred Alternative Community Meeting at 7 p.m. at the Willard School Cafeteria. Residents of Willard, LeConte, Bateman, Halcyon and Claremont-Elmwood neighborhoods encouraged to attend. 

Free Speech Open Mic and KPFA Election Forum at 7 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Ashby Village Community Meeting Information on a grassroots organization which provides resources to seniors to enable them to remain in their own homes, at 7 p.m. at West Berkeley Family Practice, 2031 Sixth St. 208-2860. www.ashbyvillage.org 

“Caring for the Dying” Film and discussion with Dr. Michelle Peticolas, filmmaker, student of Sufism and hospice at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalist Hall, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. SUggested donation $10. 841-4824. www.bfuu.org  

Berkeley Entrepreneurs Forum: 2009 Angel & Venture Capital Investment Overview at 6:30 p.m. in Andersen Auditorium, Haas School of Business, UC campus. Cost is $20-$30. 642-4255. http://entrepreneurship.berkeley.edu 

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction at 7:20 p.m. at 4th St. Yoga, 1809C Fourth St. Free. 524-8833. 

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. 

The Poetry Workshop, offered by the Berkeley Adult School, meets on Thurs. from 9 a.m. to noon in the library of the North Berkeley Senior Center. Writers of all skill levels are welcome. 

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 25 

“People’s Park Still Blooming” Book release party at 7:30 p.m. at The Book Zoo, 6395 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 

“The Science of a Meaningful Life: Forgiveness and Gratitude” a seminar with Frederic Luskin and Robert Emmons, sponsored by The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at International House, Chevron Auditorium, 2299 Piedmont Ave. 643-8965. www.academeca.com 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Hans R. Gallas, Gertrude Stein & Alice B. Toklas Collector on “Gertrude Stein and Oakland: Debunking the ‘There There’ Myth” 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 

Symposium for Independent Arts: A Day of Vision, Community & Action from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at The David Brower Center, 2150 Allston Way. 415-738-4975. 

“The Flu is Coming!” a talk by Harvey Kayman, M.D. and MPH, Public Health Medical Officer for the California Department of Public Health at Friday, September 25, 8:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Pt. Richmond. Free.  

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. 

Stand With Us Stand for Peace Stand with Israel vigil every Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. www.sfvoiceforisrael.org 

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

SATURDAY, SEPT. 26 

Richmond Shoreline Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline with live music, children’s activities and guided walks. 544-2233. 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Fall Walking Tour of West Berkeley Berkeley’s oldest district, once the independent town of Ocean View, abounds in historic relics and early Victorian architecture, retaining its charming village-like character. Walk is level and accessible, along sidewalks. From 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $10-$15, $40-$50 for the series. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com 

Help Ready Cerrito Creek for Rains Meet at 10 a.m. at Creekside Park, south end of Santa Clara Ave., El Cerrito. All ages welcome, snacks, tools, and gloves provided. 848-9358. www.fivecreeks.org  

Walking Tour of Old Oakland around Preservation Park to see Victorian architecture. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of Preservation Park at 13th St. and MLK, Jr. Way. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234. www.oaklandnet.com/walkingtours 

Festival of Gressroots Economics A bottom-up trade fair showing people working together, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St, Oakland. Free. www.jasecon.org 

Free Car Seat Checks From 10 a.m. to noon officers from the Berkeley Police Department will offer a car seat safety check on the 5th level of the Allston Way Garage, 2061 Allston Way between Milvia and Shattuck. Four out of five car seats are installed incorrectly. Parking will be validated by Habitot. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

Floral Design Class with Devon Gaster from 1 to 3 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. Cost is $25. www.expressionsgallery.org 

Murder Mystery Weekend at Playland-Not-At-The-Beach Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Costs is $10-$15. 932-8966. www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. at 2 p.m. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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, SEPT. 27 

LastSundaysFest with music and performances from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Telegraph Ave. between Dwight and Bancroft. 

Luke Cole Memorial Birdathon Meet at 9 a.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, then continue on the Garin Regional Park, ending at Coyote Hills Regional Park. The challenge is to identify 400 species and raise money for the Center on Race, Poverty and the Environment in Luke’s memory. Bring donation of $25, checks made out to Golden Gate Audubon, along with binoculars, field guides, lunch and liquids. RLewis0727@aol.com 

Wildcat Peak Survivors Join a hearty hike to Wildcat Peak to admire the tenacity of climate adapted plants and views from the peak. For meeting place call 544-2233. 

Beatrix Potter’s Life in Town and Country Sister-City kick-off with presentations and readings honoring Kensington’s relationship with Kensington UK, rom 2 to 5 p.m. at Rabbit Ears, 377 Colusa Ave. Kensington. 525-6155. 

St. Jerome Church Festival and Street Fair from noon to 5 p.m. at the corner of Carmel and Curry, El Cerrito. with entertainment, games, arts and crafts, food. 525-0876. 

Cycles of Change Benefit with food and entertainment to raise funds for recycled bicycle services, job training, and community repair shop, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 650 W. Ranger Ave., Alameda. 898-7830. www.apcollective.org 

Read Shakespeare Aloud led by Clifford Schwartz, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. Cost is $20, or $15 with pot-luck. contribution. 644-4930. expressionsgallery@msn.com           

Tour of the Berkeley City Club, the “little castle” designed by Julia Morgan from 1 to 4 p.m. at 2315 Durant Ave. 848-7800. 

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 

Kol Hadash Secular Yom Kippur Service at 7:30 p.m. at Albnay Community Center. Registration required. See www.kolhadash.org 

Yom Kippur “Return/Reflect/Remember” Discussion from noon to 3 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St. El Cerrito. Cost is $5. RSVP requested. 559-8140. 

Single Payer Health Care Not War Planning meetings at 4:20 at People Park. for more information call 390-0830. peoplespark.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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 Sylvia Gretchen on “Joy of Being” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

CITY MEETINGS 

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356. 

Design Review Committee meets Thurs.,Sept. 17 , at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7415.  

Fair Campaign Practices Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6950. 

Medical Cannabis Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at noon at City Hall, Cypress Room, 2180 Milvia. 981-7402. 

Transportation Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7061.  

Council Agenda Committee meets Mon., Sept. 21, at 2:30 p.m., at 2180 Milvia St. 981-6900. 

www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil/agenda-committee 

City Council meets Tues., Sept. 22, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil 

Civic Arts Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7533.  

Energy Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7439. 

Disaster and Fire Safety Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 7 p.m., at the Emergency Operations Center, 997 Cedar St. 981-5502.  

Planning Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7416.  

Police Review Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at the South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-4950. 

Mental Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 24, at 5 p.m. at 2640 MLK Jr. Way, at Derby. 981-5217. 

“For All the People: Uncovering the Hidden History of Cooperation, Cooperative Movements, and Communalism in America” with author John Curl at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

“A Convenient Truth: Curitiba” at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. www.HumanistHall.org 

“Energy Healing” with Grandmaster Le-Tian at 7:30 p.m. at Tian Gong, 830 Bancroft Way. Donations accepted. For information on this and other programs call 883-1920.  

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 

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

THURSDAY, SEPT. 24 

BRT Locally Preferred Alternative Community Meeting at 7 p.m. at the Willard School Cafeteria. Residents of Willard, LeConte, Bateman, Halcyon and Claremont-Elmwood neighborhoods encouraged to attend. 

Free Speech Open Mic and KPFA Election Forum at 7 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Ashby Village Community Meeting Information on a grassroots organization which provides resources to seniors to enable them to remain in their own homes, at 7 p.m. at West Berkeley Family Practice, 2031 Sixth St. 208-2860. www.ashbyvillage.org 

“Caring for the Dying” Film and discussion with Dr. Michelle Peticolas, filmmaker, student of Sufism and hospice at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalist Hall, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. SUggested donation $10. 841-4824. www.bfuu.org  

Berkeley Entrepreneurs Forum: 2009 Angel & Venture Capital Investment Overview at 6:30 p.m. in Andersen Auditorium, Haas School of Business, UC campus. Cost is $20-$30. 642-4255. http://entrepreneurship.berkeley.edu 

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction at 7:20 p.m. at 4th St. Yoga, 1809C Fourth St. Free. 524-8833. 

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. 

The Poetry Workshop, offered by the Berkeley Adult School, meets on Thurs. from 9 a.m. to noon in the library of the North Berkeley Senior Center. Writers of all skill levels are welcome. 

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 25 

“People’s Park Still Blooming” Book release party at 7:30 p.m. at The Book Zoo, 6395 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 

“The Science of a Meaningful Life: Forgiveness and Gratitude” a seminar with Frederic Luskin and Robert Emmons, sponsored by The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at International House, Chevron Auditorium, 2299 Piedmont Ave. 643-8965.  

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Hans R. Gallas, Gertrude Stein & Alice B. Toklas Collector on “Gertrude Stein and Oakland: Debunking the ‘There There’ Myth” 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.  

Symposium for Independent Arts: A Day of Vision, Community & Action from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at The David Brower Center, 2150 Allston Way. 415-738-4975. 

“The Flu is Coming!” a talk by Harvey Kayman, M.D. and MPH, Public Health Medical Officer for the California Department of Public Health at Friday, September 25, 8:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Pt. Richmond. Free.  

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. 

Stand With Us Stand for Peace Stand with Israel vigil every Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at Bancroft and Telegraph. www.sfvoiceforisrael.org 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 26 

Richmond Shoreline Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline with live music, children’s activities and guided walks. 544-2233. 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Fall Walking Tour of West Berkeley Berkeley’s oldest district, once the independent town of Ocean View, abounds in historic relics and early Victorian architecture, retaining its charming village-like character. Walk is level and accessible, along sidewalks. From 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $10-$15, $40-$50 for the series. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com 

Help Ready Cerrito Creek for Rains Meet at 10 a.m. at Creekside Park, south end of Santa Clara Ave., El Cerrito. All ages welcome, snacks, tools, and gloves provided. 848-9358. www.fivecreeks.org  

Walking Tour of Old Oakland around Preservation Park to see Victorian architecture. Meet at 10 a.m. in front of Preservation Park at 13th St. and MLK, Jr. Way. Tour lasts 90 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 238-3234.  

Festival of Gressroots Economics A bottom-up trade fair showing people working together, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St, Oakland. Free. www.jasecon.org 

Free Car Seat Checks From 10 a.m. to noon officers from the Berkeley Police Department will offer a car seat safety check on the 5th level of the Allston Way Garage, 2061 Allston Way between Milvia and Shattuck. Four out of five car seats are installed incorrectly. Parking will be validated by Habitot. 647-1111. www.habitot.org 

Floral Design Class with Devon Gaster from 1 to 3 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. Cost is $25. www.expressionsgallery.org 

Murder Mystery Weekend at Playland-Not-At-The-Beach Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Costs is $10-$15. 932-8966. www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden Sat. at 2 p.m. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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, SEPT. 27 

LastSundaysFest with music and performances from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Telegraph Ave. between Dwight and Bancroft. 

Luke Cole Memorial Birdathon Meet at 9 a.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, then continue on the Garin Regional Park, ending at Coyote Hills Regional Park. The challenge is to identify 400 species and raise money for the Center on Race, Poverty and the Environment in Luke’s memory. Bring donation of $25, checks made out to Golden Gate Audubon, along with binoculars, field guides, lunch and liquids. RLewis0727@aol.com 

Wildcat Peak Survivors Join a hearty hike to Wildcat Peak to admire the tenacity of climate adapted plants and views from the peak. For meeting place call 544-2233. 

Beatrix Potter’s Life in Town and Country Sister-City kick-off with presentations and readings honoring Kensington’s relationship with Kensington UK, rom 2 to 5 p.m. at Rabbit Ears, 377 Colusa Ave. Kensington. 525-6155. 

St. Jerome Church Festival and Street Fair from noon to 5 p.m. at the corner of Carmel and Curry, El Cerrito. with entertainment, games, arts and crafts, food. 525-0876. 

Cycles of Change Benefit with food and entertainment to raise funds for recycled bicycle services, job training, and community repair shop, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 650 W. Ranger Ave., Alameda. 898-7830.  

Read Shakespeare Aloud led by Clifford Schwartz, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. Cost is $20, or $15 with pot-luck. contribution. 644-4930.            

Tour of the Berkeley City Club, the “little castle” designed by Julia Morgan from 1 to 4 p.m. at 2315 Durant Ave. 848-7800. 

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 

Kol Hadash Secular Yom Kippur Service at 7:30 p.m. at Albnay Community Center. Registration required. See www.kolhadash.org 

Yom Kippur “Return/Reflect/Remember” Discussion from noon to 3 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St. El Cerrito. Cost is $5. RSVP requested. 559-8140. 

Single Payer Health Care Not War Planning meetings at 4:20 at People Park. for more information call 390-0830. peoplespark.org 

Free Garden Tours at Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park Sat. and Sun. at 11 a.m. and 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 Sylvia Gretchen on “Joy of Being” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

CITY MEETINGS 

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356. 

Design Review Committee meets Thurs.,Sept. 17 , at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7415.  

Fair Campaign Practices Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-6950. 

Medical Cannabis Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at noon at City Hall, Cypress Room, 2180 Milvia. 981-7402. 

Transportation Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 17, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7061.  

Council Agenda Committee meets Mon., Sept. 21, at 2:30 p.m., at 2180 Milvia St. 981-6900. 

www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil/agenda-committee 

City Council meets Tues., Sept. 22, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil 

Civic Arts Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7533.  

Energy Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 6:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7439. 

Disaster and Fire Safety Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 7 p.m., at the Emergency Operations Center, 997 Cedar St. 981-5502.  

Planning Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7416.  

Police Review Commission meets Wed., Sept. 23, at the South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-4950. 

Mental Health Commission meets Thurs., Sept. 24, at 5 p.m. at 2640 MLK Jr. Way, at Derby. 981-5217. 

THURSDAY, SEPT. 17 

EXHIBITIONS 

“I’m A People Person” Images of seniors. Reception at 6 p.m. at Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts Annex, 1428 Alice St., off 14th St., Oakland. Exhibit runs through Oct. 22. 

“Metamorphosis” Paintings by Laila Espinoza at Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave. Exhibition runs to Oct. 4. 524-2943. 

“Somewhere in Between” New works by Laura Borchet. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Eclectix Gallery, 10082 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Also “The Tattoon Show” tattoo and cartoon art. Exhibitions run to Oct. 4. www.eclectix.com 

“Isaura: A Life in Focus” Photographs on the Afro-Brazilian dancer, at Berkeley Pubic Library, 2090 Kittredge St. Exhibit runs to Sept. 30. 981-6240. 

“Up Against the Wall: Berkeley Posters from the 1960s” at the Berkeley Historical Society, Veterans Memorial Building, 1931 Center St. Exhibit runs to Sept. 26. 848-0181. 

“10,000 Steps” An exhibition of stewardship in and around Oakland’s historic downtown parks. Artists reception at 6 p.m. at Pro Arts, 150 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Oakland. Entrance on Kahn’s Alley. www.proartsgallery.org 

Robert Rickard, metal wall art, at Christensen Heller Gallery, 5829 College Ave., Oakland, through Nov. 1. 655-5952. www.christensenheller.com 

THEATER 

PEN Oakland Writers Theatre “A Night of Short Plays” at Thurs. and Fri. at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave. at Berryman. Tickets are $7-$10 at the door. 681-5652. 

FILM 

Berkeley Filmmakers Screening Series “Have you Heard From Johannesburg?” Six documentaries on the anti-apartheid movement, at 7 p.m. at Zaentz Media Center, 2600 Tenth St. Free, but reservations advised. reservations@berkeleyfilmscreening.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Rebecca Solnit “A Paradise Built in Hell: The Extraordinary Communities That Arise in Disaster” at 7:30 p.m. at The Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Tickets are $12-$15. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/77388 

Rachael Brownell reads from her memoir, “Mommy Doesn’t Drink Here Anymore” at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

Patrick Radden Keefe reads from “The Snakehead: An Epic Tale of the Chinatown Underworld and the American Dream” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Laura Love & Harpers Ferry at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Sylvia Cuenca’s Organ Trio, featuring Jared Gold at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Reggae Showcase at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is TBA. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

7 Orange ABC, Sun Hop Fat at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $7. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Rico Pabon hip hop jam session at 8:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $5. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 18 

THEATER 

Alameda Civic Light Opera “Hair” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Kofman Theater, 2200 Central Ave., Alameda, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $30-$34. 864-2256. www.aclo.com 

Altarena Playhouse “The Nerd” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High St., Alameda, through Oct. 25. Tickets are $17-$20. 523-1553. www.altarena.org 

Aurora Theatre “Awake and Sing!” through Sept. 27, at 2081 Addison St. Tickets are $15-$55. 843-4822 or visit auroratheatre.org.  

Berkeley Rep “American Idiot” at 2025 Addison St., through Nov. 1. Tickets are $32-$86. www.berkeleyrep.org 

Central Works “Machiavelli’s The Prince” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave., through Sept. 19. Tickets are $14-$25. www.centralworks.org 

Contra Costa Civic Theatre “Harvey” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. through Oct. 11 at 951 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito. Tickets are $18, $11 for 16 and under. 524-9132. www.cct.org 

Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre “Rivets” A musical based on Rosie the Riveter and Richmond’s Kaiser Shipyards, Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. on board the SS Red Oak Victory, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $15-$20. Rosies, WW2 Veterans and uniformed soldiers, free. 925-676-5705. galateanplayers.com 

Impact Theatre “See How We Are” A contemporary adaptation of “Antigone.” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave., through Oct. 17. Tickets are $12-$20. impacttheatre.com 

Masquers Playhouse “Loot” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, and runs through Sept. 26. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

PEN Oakland Writers Theatre “A Night of Short Plays” at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave. at Berryman. Tickets are $7-$10 at the door. 681-5652. 

Shotgun Players “This World In A Woman’s Hands” The story of the WWII Victory warships and the African-American women who built them, with live acoustic bass by Marcus Shelby. Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at The Ashby Stage. 1901 Ashby Ave., through Oct. 18. Tickets are $18-$25. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Rumbache, salsa, at noon at the Kaiser Center Roof Garden, on top of the parking garage, 300 Lakeside Drive, Oakland. Free. www.KaiserCenterRoofGarden.com 

Dancing Under the Stars Disco with GTS Band at 8:30 p.m. at Jack London Square. Dance exhibition and lessons at 7:30 p.m. www.lindendance.com 

Los Cojolites from Veracruz, Mexico, at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $3-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

SoVoSo at 8 p.m. at UTunes Coffee House, First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., Oakland. Cost is $14-$18, $5 for children 6-15. www.utunescoffeehouse.org 

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

Sandy Cressman Quartet “Sombra y Luz” at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Moonalice at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $12-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Cheryl Wheeler with Kenny White at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $22.50-$23.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Mukti in Concert, featuring guest artists David Balakrishnan and Ben Leinbach, at 8 p.m. at Rudramandir, 830 Bancroft Way at 6th St. Tickets are $12-$15. 486-8700. www.muktimusic.net 

Full on Flyhead, Blackstone Heist, Armada at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

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

Oggi Beat at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Don Villa’s Birthday Bash at 8 p..m. at Art House Gallery and Cultural Center, 2905 Shattuck. Donation $5-$7. 472-3170. 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 19 

CHILDREN  

Active Arts Theatre “Strega Nona” Sat. and Sun. at various times at Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave, through Oct. 4. Tickets are $14-$18. 296-4433. activeartstheatre.org 

Babes in Toyland Puppet Show at 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. at at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. 296-4433.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Susan Dunlap reads from her mystery novel “Civil Twilight” at 6:30 p.m. at Nefeli Caffé, 1854 Euclid Ave. 841-6374. 

Patricia Edith reads her poetry from “8 Student Nurses & Other Dead Girls” in conjunction with the exhibition “In Memorium” at 7:30 p.m. at Frank Bette Center for the Arts, 1601 Paru St., Alameda. 523-6957. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

London Players, piano, clarinet, cello and voice at 7 p.m. at Crowden School, 1475 Rose St. TIckets are $10. 409-2416. 

Betsy Rose, Eve Decker, and Andrea Pritchett, music of peace and social justice, at 8 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. Tickets are $5-$20. 548-2153. 

Stairwell Sisters and Voco at 1 and 4 p.m. outdoors at Wisteria Ways, 383 61st St., Oakland. Bring something to sit on. Donations $15-$20. Reservations strongly recommended. info@WisteriaWays.org 

Rhythm & Muse spoken word/music open mic with Boundless Gratitude, at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St., between Eunice and Rose. 644-6893.  

Araucaria, celebrate Chile’s Independence Day with traditional music at 8:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Yancie Taylor Jazztet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Motordude Zydeco at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Pocket Trio at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Lost Cats at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

House Jacks, at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Dahveed Behroozi Trio, American songbook standards, at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Zarate Pollace Project at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

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

Borden Prince, Acacia Collective at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

SUNDAY, SEPT. 20 

CHILDREN 

Four Shillings Short at Ashkenaz at 3 p.m. Cost is $4-$6. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“This Long Road” Work by Derek Weisberg, Crystal Morey, and Ben Belknap. Afternoon Tea at 3 p.m. at The Compound Gallery, 6604 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 655-9019. thecompoundgallery.com 

“It’s Gonna Be Awesome” New work by Narangkar Glover. Tea at 3 p.m. at Blankspace, 6608 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 547-6608. www.blankspacegallery.com 

FILM 

Festival of Grassroots Alternatives “Other Worlds Are Possible” Short films from around the world at 6 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$12 sliding scale. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Katie Ann McCarty “The American Dream” organ recital at 4 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. Tickets are $10-$20. 684-7563. www.brownpapertickets.com 

“Traveler Unknown” with Dan Damon, piano, Kurt Ribak, bass, Lincoln Adler, saxophone, and Randy Odell, drums at 7 p.m. at United Methodist Church, 201 Martina St., Pt. Richmond. 236-0527. 

Jazz on the Vine featuring Pete Escovedo from noon to 5 p.m. at the Craneway Pavilion, 1414 Harbour Way South, Marina Bay District, Richmond. Tickets are $25-$40. 868-0619. www.richmondmainstreet.org  

Folkin Blues Festival with Mark O’Harps and others at 5 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation $7-$10. www.humanisthall.net 

E.W. Wainwright Group at 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Americana Unplugged: Pete Madsen & Craig Ventresco at 5 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Mark Levine & the Latin Tinge at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15-$18. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Robbie Fulks at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

La Tigresa and the Tongues of Flame Jazz and spoken word at 8 p.m. at Art House Gallery, 2905 Shattuck Ave. Suggested donation $5-$10. 472-3170. 

MONDAY, SEPT. 21 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Through the looking glass” Artists Bruce Tamberelli, Darwin Price and Yvette M. Buigues interpret wonderland, though Oct. 31 at Float Gallery, 1091 Calcot Place, Unit 116, Oakland. thefloatcenter.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Aurora Script Club examines Odets and Shepard at 7:30pm at Aurora Theatre, 2081 Addison St. 843-4822.  

Joe Fischer on “Chldren’s Art, Childrens Words” a Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph Ave.649-0477. 

TUESDAY, SEPT. 22 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

“Books Outside the Library” Readings and cross-genre performance at 8 p.m. on the front steps of the Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St. 981-6241. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Gator Beat at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cajun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

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

Peggy Seeger at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 23 

EXHIBITIONS 

Oil Paintings by Kaziah Hancock on display from noon to 4 p.m. through Sept. 27 at the Subterranean Art House, 2179 Bancroft. www.kaziahthegoatwoman.com 

FILM 

Cine Cubano Film Fest “Guantanamera” at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $17-$10 sliding scale. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

John Curl reads from “For All the People” on cooperative movements for social change, at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

Michael Sandel discusses “Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do?” at 7:30 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Tickets are $6-$12 in advance. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Fond Farewell Series Poetry Reading with Laura Glen Louis and requiem choral performance by Cantus Magnus at 7 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. www.gracenorthchurch.org 

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

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Wednesday Noon Concert Shakespeare’s Sonnets and Song with Susan Gundunas, soprano, at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Free. 642-4864.  

Frank Jaffe, flamenco, at 7 p.m. at Le Bateau Ivre Resturant, 2629 Telegraph Ave. 

Dr. K’s Home Grown Roots Revue at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $15.50-$16.50. 548-1761.  

Kelly Park Trio and special guests at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ.  

Indian Ocean at 8:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $18-$20. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Planet Loop at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Celu’s Silver Kittens at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

THURSDAY, SEPT. 24 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Robert Scheer and Peter Richardson in conversation about “A Bomb in Every Issue: How the Short, Unruly Life of Ramparts MagazineChanged America” at 7:30 p.m. at FCCB, in the sanctuary at 2345 Channing Way at Dana. Enter from courtyard. Tickets are $6-$15. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Carolina De Robertis reads from her novel “The Invisible Mountain” at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Greek National Opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. at Oakland Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland. Tickets are $25-$35.Free for children 12 and under. www.bayareaBACH.org 

Music in the Redwood Grove at 5:30 p.m. at UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive. Cost is $12-$15. For reservations call 643-2755.  

Luminaries, Souleye, DC at 8 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $13-$10. 525-5054.  

Ellis Paul & Antje Duvekot at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Modesto Brisenio Septet, featuring Bob Kenmotsu at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $12. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Guitar vs Gravity, Spidermeow at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $6. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Tian Gong Celestial Music at 7:30 p.m. at D. King Gallery, 2284 Fulton St. Cost is $20. 883-1920.  

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

FRIDAY, SEPT. 25 

THEATER 

Alameda Civic Light Opera “Hair” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Kofman Theater, 2200 Central Ave., Alameda, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $30-$34. 864-2256. www.aclo.com 

Altarena Playhouse “The Nerd” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High St., Alameda, through Oct. 25. Tickets are $17-$20. 523-1553. www.altarena.org 

Aurora Theatre “Awake and Sing!” through Sept. 27, at 2081 Addison St. Tickets are $15-$55. 843-4822 or visit auroratheatre.org.  

Belleherst Productions “See Me! Hear Me!” Fri. at 8 p.m. and Sun. at 7 p.m. at The Berkeley City Club. Discussion follows. Tickets are $7.50-$10. www.belleherst.com 

Berkeley Rep “American Idiot” at 2025 Addison St., through Nov. 1. Tickets are $32-$86. www.berkeleyrep.org 

Contra Costa Civic Theatre “Harvey” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. through Oct. 11 at 951 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito. Tickets are $18, $11 for 16 and under. 524-9132. www.cct.org 

Galatean Players Ensemble Theatre “Rivets” A musical based on Rosie the Riveter and Richmond’s Kaiser Shipyards, Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. on board the SS Red Oak Victory, 1337 Canal Blvd., Berth 6A, Richmond, through Sept. 27. Tickets are $15-$20. Rosies, WW2 Veterans and uniformed soldiers, free. 925-676-5705. galateanplayers.com 

Impact Theatre “See How We Are” A contemporary adaptation of “Antigone.” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m. at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave., through Oct. 17. Tickets are $12-$20. impacttheatre.com 

Masquers Playhouse “Loot” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, and runs through Sept. 26. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Shotgun Players “This World In A Woman’s Hands” The story of the WWII Victory warships and the African-American women who built them, with live acoustic bass by Marcus Shelby. Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 5 p.m. at The Ashby Stage. 1901 Ashby Ave., through Oct. 18. Tickets are $18-$25. 841-6500. www.shotgunplayers.org 

“The Apple of Nobody’s Eye” On teaching in inner-city schools at 7 p.m., and Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at Montclair Presbyterian Church, 5701 Thornhill Drive, Oakland. Tickets are $10. www.mpcfamily.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Bobbin Lace: The Taming of Multitudes of Threads” Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Lacis Museum of Lace and Textiles, 2982 Adeline St. Exhibition runs to Feb. 1. LacisMuseum.org 

FILM 

Berkeley Video and Film Festival Fri. and Sat. at the Landmark Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave. www.berkeleyvideofilmfest.org 

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at 6:30 p.m. at Charles Chocolates, 6529 Hollis St., Emeryville. 652-4412, ext. 311.  

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Friday Night Poetry at 7 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. www.expressionsgallery.org 

West Marin Review, readings by contributors, at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloways, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Point Richmond Summer Concert with Lava, latin, at 5:30 p.m. and Birdlegg and the Tight Fit Blues Band, at 6:45 p.m. at Park Place at Washington Ave. in downtown Point Richmond. www.pointrichmond.com 

Dancing Under the Stars Salsa with Salsa Caliente at 8:30 p.m. at Jack London Square. Dance exhibition and lessons at 7:30 p.m. www.lindendance.com 

Greek National Opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” Thurs.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. at Oakland Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland. Tickets are $25-$35.Free for children 12 and under. www.bayareaBACH.org 

University Symphony Orchestra with Michelle Choo, violin, at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Tickets are $5-$15. tickets.berkeley.edu 

“Con Serrat en el Corazón” Homage to singer and composer Joan Manuel Serrat at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $16. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Joel Dorham Latin Jazz Octet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Kugelplex at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $12-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

GO Ensemble , world jazz, at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $24.50-$25.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Lucas Ohio at 8 p.m. at Art House Gallery, 2905 Shattuck Ave. Donation $5-$10. 

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

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

Oggi Beat at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

SATURDAY, SEPT. 26 

CHILDREN  

Active Arts Theatre “Strega Nona” Sat. and Sun. at various times at Julia Morgan Theater, 2640 College Ave, through Oct. 4. Tickets are $14-$18. 296-4433. activeartstheatre.org 

Babes in Toyland Puppet Show at 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. at at Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. 296-4433. activeartsttheatre.org 

FILM 

Berkeley Video and Film Festival from noon at Landmark Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave. Tickets are $10-$13. www.berkeleyvideofilmfest.org 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Through the looking glass” Artists Bruce Tamberelli, Darwin Price and Yvette M. Buigues interpret wonderland. Reception with a Mad Tea Party at 6 p.m. at Float Gallery, 1091 Calcot Place, Unit 116, Oakland. thefloatcenter.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Watershed Environmental Poetry Festival with Robert Hass, David Mas Masumoto, Arthur Sze, Carol Moldaw and many others, from noon to 4 p.m. at Civic Center Park. Traditonal Strawberry Creek Walk at 10 a.m. just inside the UC campus at Oxford and Center Sts. 526-9105.  

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Diana Rowan “Tales from the Harp” at 8 p.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $8-$12, no one turned away. 549-3864. 

University Symphony Orchestra with Michelle Choo, violin, at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Tickets are $5-$15. tickets.berkeley.edu 

Greek National Opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. at Oakland Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland. Tickets are $25-$35.Free for children 12 and under. www.bayareaBACH.org 

Golden Gate Boys Choir 20th Anniversary Fundraiser and CD release, from 9 to 11 a.m. at C’era Una Volta, 1332 Park St., Alameda $12 admission, includes continental breakfast plus performance. Children 6 and under free admission . For reservations call 887-4311. ggbc.org 

Sister I-Live, Sidewinders, Zulu Spear and others in a dance-Thon from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. at 8 p.m. at Shattuck Down Low, 2284 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $20. 548-1159. www.shattuckdownlow.com 

Gabriela Lena Frank, Latin American classical music, at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $10-$12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Robin Gregory & Her Quartet at 8 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $14. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $24.50-$25.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

The Best Kept Secret at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $10-$20. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

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

Straggler, The Butlers, The Drowsy Holler at 9:30 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $10. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Strange Angel Blues Band at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Pocket Trio at 8 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

SUNDAY, SEPT. 27 

CHILDREN 

Charity Kahn & the Jamband at Ashkenaz at 3 p.m. Cost is $4-$6. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“In My View” Photographs by David Belove. Reception at 2 p.m. at the Jazzschool. 845-5373. 

THEATER 

Belleherst Productions “See Me! Hear Me!”at 7 p.m. at The Berkeley City Club. Discussion follows. Tickets are $7.50-$10. www.belleherst.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Egyptology Lecture: Ancient Nubia: A New View from the Fourth Cataract” Presented by Dr. Brenda Baker, Arizona State University at 2:30 p.m. in Barrows Hall, Room 20, Barrow Lane and Bancroft Way, UC campus. 415-664-4767. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

LastSundaysFest with music and performances from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on telegraph Ave., between Dwight and Bancroft. 

Chamber Music Sundaes A program of string chamber music at 3 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. Tickets at the door are $20-$25. 415-753-2792. www.chambermusicsundaes.org 

Nanette McGuinness and Megan McQuillan at 3 p.m. at the Christian Science Student Organization, 2601 Durant, donation at the door. 

Greek National Opera “Le Nozze di Figaro” at 3 p.m. at Oakland Metro Operahouse, 630 3rd St., Oakland. Tickets are $25-$35.Free for children 12 and under. www.bayareaBACH.org 

San Francisco Cabaret Opera “Solidarity” at 7 p.m., gala reception at 6 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave. Tickets are $15-$20. 415-289-6877. www.goathall.org  

The ReSisters, satire and solidarity with Pat Wynne, Liliana Herrera and Hali Hammer at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $10-$15. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Erik Jekabson & “Bay Area Composers’ Big Band” at 7 p.m. at Anna’s Jazz Island, 2120 Allston Way. Cost is $10. 841-JAZZ. www.AnnasJazzIsland.com 

Americana Unplugged: Corbin Pagter & Friends at 5 p.m. at Jupiter. 843-8277. 

Teslim, Greek, Sephardic and Turkish traditionals, at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Bill Tapia and his Hawaiian Jazz Quartet at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage, 2020 Addison. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

The basement theater at La Val’s on the north side of campus is stark white, chairs painted white stand or hang at most of the corners, and a big white table is planted on its side, facing out, at another. Two white uniformed young men lie dead against the upended tabletop, while a disconsolate young woman in white sits nearby.  

An armed figure in gas mask—also in white, everything white—emerges to the muddy sound of heavy bombardment, hands the woman a paper, which makes her gasp ... 

See How We Are, Jon Tracy’s adaptation—or play off of—Antigone, opens this way in Impact Theatre’s premiere, which Tracy also directed, designed and lit. After many flashbacks, twists and turns, it also ends here, too, with the beginning of Sophocles’ tragedy.  

See How We Are provides the backstory of the young people in a modern, even futuristic (it has the feel at times of old science fiction films, a double anachronism) Antigone: the three children of a modern Oedipus, a never-seen patrician politico named Banks; the daughter (not son) of another politico named Sullivan (the Creon substitute, audible occasionally in broadcasts to the Theban public), girlfriend to Ari, aka Antigone; and the working class boyfriend of debutantish Izzy (Ismene), for whom there’s no original in tragedy. (Tiresias is rendered as Theresa, a fortuneteller Izzy remembers her father bringing home to dinner.) 

The action turns around—and around—a series of scenes, depicting the uneasy fraternal partnership of managerial James (Ryan Trasker) and impulsive Paul (Seth Tygesen), pairing up to rule the city after their father’s demise; a dinner party at Izzy’s (around the table, right side up) that begins with awkward offerings of bouquets (all spray-painted white) to the hostess and her introduction of her new boyfriend Jud (Rob Dario) to Ari (Kendra Lee Oberhauser) and their brothers—and ends in mayhem, with Ari’s girlfriend Hayl (Jacqueline Hawks) storming through the door, belligerent and suicidal; with Jud picking up Izzy, who he recognizes from the media, in the punk club he books acts for; and the civil war between the brothers, with their bloody reunion in no-man’s-land, somehow playful in a locker-room kind of way. 

The characters’ tart, caustic lines provoked a good deal of the audience’s audible response. Its gaminess has the air of a cocktail party that’s gone on too long, or soap opera played for laughs—or maybe the underbelly of situation comedy.  

Modern adaptations of Greek Tragedy have gone in this direction for a long time: Byron penned a burlesque of the opening of Medea; German Romantic theater took tragedy to the edge of psychological drama, the trend fulfilled later by Cocteau and Anouilh making Antigone into domestic drama—in the second production of Cocteau’s, the characters wore special costumes and fencing masks to resemble “a family of insects.” 

Tracy’s adaptation maybe resonates more with Eugene O’Neill’s post-Civil War version of The Oresteia, Mourning Becomes Electra—another mythic Grecian family, another Freudian complex, this time on the distaff side. 

See How We Are plays with melodrama, something always at least borderline funny, stopping when tragedy is invoked, when the characters are ready to step out of their brawling domestic scene into the civic (and ethical) space of the tragic. What’s been performed is more like a burlesque of that Freudian project, the Family Romance, with a kind of implicit social critique—which seems typical of Tracy’s productions, the latest being his adaptation of Orwell for Shotgun’s The Farm, which just closed at Hinkel Park. 

Like The Farm, there’s stylistic integrity to the production; the performance touching on stylization without committing itself to its rigors. Tracy’s written and directed other plays in different forms, all showing his manner. He has an interest in character, confrontation and dialogue, whatever the specific form. The upshot of a few, like this one, spills back into parody. 

It’s one of the most interesting things Impact has staged—and Melissa Hillman and Cheshire Isaacs, ever-aware of their audience, are always on the look-out for something innovative, attention-grabbing. See How We Are is played energetically, contrasting with the poise of some formal invention. Sometimes it feels like a sketch acted out on the set of an unfinished spectacle, a kind of pantomime of what the audience isn’t seeing. That may be one of Tracy’s intended effects, a social comedy of unfulfilled promises. If so, the humor’s only partly realized. But he deserves credit for the intention, and for the theatricality of the means he plainly intends to work in. 

SEE HOW WE ARE 

Presented by Impact Theatre at 8 p.m. Thursday–Saturday through Oct. 17 at La Val’s Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Ave. $12-$20. www.impacttheatre.com.

Wrapped around three inside walls of the Ashby Stage, once a church fashioned out of a quonset hut, scaffolding becomes a set, stretching beyond the stage, giving the audience a sense of witnessing a spectacle in a shipyard, an industrial pageant—just the tone for Marcus Gardley’s This World in a Woman’s Hands, commisioned and produced by Shotgun Players, a kind of lyrical epic of the women of all colors, from all over the country, who built the Liberty and Victory ships launched from Richmond during the Second World War, Rosie the Riveters of legend.  

Like Gardley’s play set in South Berkeley, Love Is a Dream House in Lorin, something of a watershed for Shotgun a few years ago, This World has the panoramic feel of the Popular Front and WPA murals, inspired by artists like Leger and Diego Rivera, a chromatic, celebratory glance at the changes of a whole period of history, depicted in vignettes that manage to give a sense both of intimacy and the heroic, all at once. 

Both plays were put together by the same team—Gardley, director Aaron Davidman and musical director Molly Holm—and share many similar features. But This World focuses more on a single character (in Dream House, Lorin itself, itself, the neighborhood, was the principal character), though one of an ensemble, and floats like its ships on currents of music and song that are not so incidental, supplied by the voices of the nine women onstage, backed by the solo bass of Marcus Shelby.  

Molly Holm, who wrote some of the music—other tunes include Spirituals and a prison work song contributed by Linda Tillery—used “circle-singing,” an improvisational group method she picked up from her eight years with Bobby McFerrin and Voicestra, for working with the ensembles of both Dream House and This World. This World is suffused with music, replacing the noise of the shipyard: the melisma of women chanting, singing wordlessly, into and out of which dialogue and action melt and arise. 

The story follows the arrival of Gloria B. Cutting from Louisiana at the shipyards, husband overseas fighting and little girl placed with a neighbor, dreaming of becoming a welder. Margot Hall plays Gloria, modulating chords of humor and genuine pathos, showing the heart Gloria says is all she’s made of.  

Gloria’s determined to work, to send for her daughter, and becomes the loner of the yard, considered stand-offish, even a snitch. The others (Laura Evans, Rebecca Frank, dena Martinez, Gwen Loeb, Liz T. Rogers-Beckley, Dawn L. Troupe, Beth Wilmurt, Kathryn Zdan) express their own characters and the collective one of the workers very well, with two unusual performances by Dena Martinez—as hot-blooded “goddess of love” union organizer Maria, who reads letters to the alphabetically challenged, improvising romantic passages from Garcia Lorca to tickle her affection-starved workmates—and Kathryn Zdan, playing at one point the brash young boyfriend of a married coworker with panache.  

Gloria is galvanized into solidarity with her fellows after being snubbed in a nightclub where her coworker Cleo (Rebecca Frank) is singing—and they’re rocked by the monstrous explosion at Port Chicago, leading to the “mutiny” of black workers over hazardous conditions and harsh judicial reprisals. 

The second part of the play flashes forward to killings in the Richmond of today, Gloria the last of her crew still in situ, visited by her grown daughter (who “drove all the way from Danville"), intent on putting her in a home in Berkeley. She visits the local non-violent tent city protest with herapple fritters, a familiar face, though one woman remarks that Gloria talks as though she’s Malcolm X and Julia Child, rolled up in one. 

In fact, her daughter (played by Dawn L. Troupe) questions Gloria’s version of events. This time shift, and questioning of the veracity of the character who’s focal point in the panoramic action is one of the most interesting facets of This World—and one that could use a little dramatic counterbalance. 

(The WPA Federal Theater Project helped bring in radio techniques to live theater, which became a complement to the historic panorama of the murals. So it’s only fitting that the first half of This World should features a male voice only by an unseen “broadcaster” (Chris Kuckenbaker, voice over), the second half switch to the present signaled by a female reporter on the scene for KTVU—standing in front of bright graffiti now affixed to the steel plate that had signified the ship: Lisa Clark’s excellent set, added to by Richard olmstead’s lighting and Chris Paulina’s sound design, plus Valera Cobble’s costumes—and Baruch Porras-Hernandez’s choreography..) 

Maybe the enduring image of a play filled with images isn’t so much the techno-industrial work milieu, its work objects and activities, but one from a folk tale, a kind of living parable Gloria’s shown by a coworker whose ancestor came west: the Wisdom Tree, represented by the ensemble. Gloria shows it to her daughter, surrounded by cement in a shopping center parking lot. Gloria’s daughter finds herself alone before the tree, its branches many arms unfolding with apples of knowledge to be shared. 

THIS WORLD IN A  

WOMAN’S HANDS 

Presented by Shotgun Players at 8 p.m. Thursday–Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 5 p.m. at the Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave. $18-$25. 841-6500.

Bay Area alumni of Antioch College and those concerned with Antioch’s future will celebrate this Saturday evening at the Brower Center in downtown Berkeley last week’s signing of documents separating the College from Antioch University, creating a newly independent college on the original campus in Yellow Springs, Ohio, which was closed in June 2008. 

There are about 17,000 Antioch alumni nationally, roughly 2000 in the Bay Area—more than a thousand of those in the East Bay. 

“The alumni have actually managed to take the campus back, in these bad financial times,” said one Berkeley Antiochian, Dr. Karen Folger Jacobs, in response to the news. Jacobs mentioned another Antioch alum, her old roommate, state senator (and former Berkeley mayor) Loni Hancock. 

“It’s like a messy divorce,” said alumna Barrie Grennell of the alumni celebration committee. “There’s lots of property—and the endowments. Everybody will have to be asked what they intend to do. Accreditation, everything has to be redone. It’s a daunting task—but we’re up for it. And the Alumni Association is the key.”  

Grennell explained that Antioch College, founded in 1853, had been closed down for financial reasons several times in its history. The present situation came about as a result of the creation in the 1970s of outlying campuses—“ike extension campuses, that UC Berkeley and many other schools have created”—to help fund the historic core campus. About the same time, Antioch College became Antioch University. 

“As many as 30 extensions were developed,” Grennell said, “though in the past few years, it’s down to five. It was less expensive, obviously, to have adult schools with adult learners not living on campus. But bit by bit, the mother campus wasn’t sustained in the way it needed to be. A lot of alumni were distrustful of the farflung university campuses, and donations dwindled. In June, 2007, the University announced it would close the Yellow Springs campus. At the reunion just after, about 250 alum’s were expected—and over 600 showed up, some who drove across country.” 

Some of the alumni camped out in tents. A Tent Revival Meeting was held, raising almost a half million dollars to try to save the campus.  

A year later, the campus was closed, but the alumni and the University Board of Trustees had come to an agreement to set up a task force to restore an independent Antioch College. On Friday, Sept. 4, the papers were signed. “Ten or 20 pounds of keys for all the buildings had to be delivered!” Grennell noted.  

The alumni hope to restore the unusual combination of work, academic and college community programs that made Antioch unique. “‘Classroom, Co-Op and Community,’” Grennell said, “that’s what defined and will continue to define Antioch College. The community involvement means faculty and students participating in governing and tenure decisions. The co-op work programs were adopted by other schools, but usually as internships. We had to hold real jobs. Almost everyone mentions the co-op plan when alumni are asked what made them want to go to Antioch.” 

One Antiochian who’s stated the co-op plan led to his enrollment is longtime Bay Area independent filmmaker John Korty, class of 1959. Korty’s latest film, Miracle in a Box! about “the bequest of a grand piano, a student competition to win it, and the artisans of an unusual workshop who make it sing again,” will be shown at 5 p.m. at the celebration. 

“John Korty is emblematic of Antioch,” said Jacobs, longtime Berkeley writer and filmmaker. He’s representative of both Antioch and of Northern California filmmakers. A terrific filmmaker, very different in his style, personality and the films he does, from L.A. I knew him slightly at Antioch. He hasn’t lost his pleasantness, his approachability.”  

Korty, perhaps best-known for the television film, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman (1974 Emmy for Outstanding Direction in a Dramatic Series and a Directors Guild Award), Who Are the Debolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids? (1977 Academy Award, Best Documentary—and another Emmy and a Humanitas Prize) and animated films that have been shown on Sesame Street and, as features, in movie theaters, has been hailed by Francis Ford Coppola and George Lucas, among others, as a pioneering Bay Area independent filmmaker, with studios in Stinson Beach (from 1964), San Francisco and, now, Point Reyes Station. 

Korty, who went to high school in Missouri, had been offered scholarships to college, one to Oberlin, but decided he wanted to go to Antioch instead, having heard of the co-op program. “I wanted a good college education, but wanted to get out in the world, too.” Alternating academic and work periods, he opted for his own plan—“it was either your own plan or they’d get you a job”—and figured out an apprenticeship with the interracial National Conference of Christians and Jews, whose St. Louis office he’d worked for in high school.  

“Knowing I wanted to get into media,” Korty became an editor for the TV station at Washington University on a co-op program at 19, directing on-the-air public affairs programming wednesday nights “because everybody wanted to go home.” While a student, Korty started up a company with four other young men, “hitchhiking to Columbus and Dayton ad agencies with our 16 millimeter films. We got our motto from Voltaire: ‘Audacity, audacity, audacity!” 

Going from animated 10-second ads for a car dealership to a foundation-funded short animated film about New Math, Korty found he liked working with artists. “One said, Why not cut out paper instead of drawing everything like Dsney? All the Seasame Street stuff, and our animated feature, Twice Upon a Time ( 1984), were cut-outs.” 

Korty’s first documentary came after his college deferment ended. “I’d registered as a conscientious objector; for alternative service, I got assigned to the American Friends Services Committee. I’d gone to Quaker meetings at college. My decisions haven’t been based so much on theories and words as on people.” The Language of Faces was a black-and-white film he shot at a Quaker peace vigil at the Pentagon, cost: $3,000. “Eleven different festival prizes put me on the map.” 

Korty came to the Bay Area in 1963. “One of the three or four people I knew was Ernest Callenbach, editor at UC Press. Id take my sleeping bag and sleep on his floor.”  

His award-winning documentary, Who Are the Debolts? was filmed mostly in Piedmont. 

Miracle in a Box! follows the restoration of a Steinway piano—“My son Jonathan suggested we follow one piano”—by Callahan Piano Service in Oakland, an unusual company of “a wonderfully eccentric group of people, incredibly dedicated to what they do, who have a wonderful time doing it. They not only fix pianos, but give aparty for the rebirth of each instrument. That gave us the structure for our film: 90 percent work, 19 percent celebration. The company has no standard work hours. The people know what’s expected of them, and make their own schedules. That’s wonderful; people operating with a lot of choice, a lot of feeling.” 

The restoration of the piano as the prize for a student competition became part of the film budget. “We had to rearrange the chronology. Originally, the competition came first, but there’d be no tension.if we announced the winner up front. My deitor Jim Oliver came up with the solution: ‘We’ve got all the music; let’s use it’—weaving in and out ...” 

Korty has shown it privately at the Brower Center to “incredibly enthusiastic resonses. Audiences jump to their feet. I want to have it shown through business channels, those that get people talking about things. The response so far has often been, ‘I wish I could get a job there!’” 

Korty said the film illustrated in many ways why he went to Antioch—and what he got from his time there. 

Doors will open for the celebration at the Brower Center at 4:30; Miracle in a Box! shows at 5, followed by a discussion. At 6:30, there’ll be acollege update with discussion, then from 8, “eat, socialize, dance up a storm—in the neighborhood.” David Brower Center, 2150 Allston Way (between Shattuck and Oxford); $20 per person, “no friend of Antioch turned away!” RSVP to: Barrie Grennell, sercle@sbcglobal.net or (415) 652-1038. 

SunshineBecker, a 14-year veteran of SoVoSo, talked about the group and its new lineup for Friday’s show. 

“SoVoSo started as a spin-off of Bobby McFerrin’s Voicestra a cappella ensemble. In ’91 or ’92, Bobby wanted to go off in other directions. So members of Voicestra started up with a new name. A year later, a couple of members left, they called auditions, and I joined. In the time since, the group has grown, become an a cappella tour band. It’s been a Harmony Sweeps champion in the Bay Area; we’re the only yearly a cappella headliner at Yoshi’s. We have five albums now.” 

The difference between SoVoSo and Voicestra? “Voicestra goes out onstage without a set list. When we go out, we do a lot of improv, but we have arrangements, tunes to attack, as it were, audience favorites. We have songs that have been written for the group. But the commonality lies within; both are not just about singing songs about the moon or about two people in love—beautiful things, but not about the description! We’re singing about the vibes, instead. What’s positive, lifegiving. Nothing preachy. We go out to do a show, aiming to enlighten, to show we all have a voice. The voices are a full band, with the sound of the instruments, but not just imitative. Anybody can do this; we made it a career.” 

With a repertoire of styles that spans jazz, rhythm ’n’ blues, Latin, funk and original compositions, “we’re all over the place; especially in the music business, everything’s labeled. If it’s not in the bin or online.... We ask our audiences to come out on the net with us!” 

This show will see a new face in SoVoSo, though one familiar to many listeners. “Vernon Bush will be in our new lineup Friday. He was with the Glide Memorial Choir for many years. an outstanding soloist and an inspirational guy. The group did a show at Esalen in Big Sur over the Fourth of July weekend--while I was having a baby!—and Vernon debuted with us then. We have more personnel changes now, more of a come-and-go policy, pulling whatever voice goes with the music we’ll do, to fit with our different shows.” 

The four core members of SoVoSo include founding member David Worm (a current Voicestra member), Bryan Dyer, Zoe Ellis and Becker. Becker also mentioned their upcoming 8th Annual SoVoSo Holiday Seasoning Family Gathering at Yoshi’s, Monday December 14 at 8 and 10 p.m., which will feature special guests, including past SoVoSo (and Voicestra) members, like Berkeley’s Nicholas Bearde. 

Becker said the group was looking forward to “kicking off Utunes’ second year, with new and old material and a little improvisation thrown in, a very diverse lineup.” In addition, it’ll be a celebration of David Worm’s daughter, Ella, on her birthday. “It’s her third! We’ve had her singing in group rehearsals. She’s just a doll!” 

SoVoSo—“from the Soul to the Voice to the Song”—the East Bay’s eclectic a cappella vocal ensemble, will perform Friday at 8 p.m. at UTunes Coffee House at the First Unitarian Church, 685-14th St. in Oakland. $14 advance, $16 at the door. www.utunescoffeehouse.org; 292-6574. 

www.sovoso.com

If you’ve been lamenting the crummy prizes in your crackerjack boxes lately, I’m sending you immediately to see Bedri Baykam’s show at Alphonse Berber Gallery on Bancroft Avenue in Berkeley. Here you’ll see the very latest cool gimmick in art. And imagine! It’s not even Made-in-the-USA! Artists have complained since the dawn of Modernism that “everyone’s looking for a gimmick.” Baykam has rediscovered the hook and charm of the original crackerjack-box mini 4-D images that, in the 1940s (a much less visually overstimulated age) fascinated the recipient of the delightful prize inside. 

Through the use of lenticular technology (textured, see-through plastic, surface-plane layers) that makes images appear 3-D and mobile, the artist deploys his penchant for collage, impressive appreciation of art historical knowledge and compositional savvy to great advantage. When you walk a path parallel to one of these large-scale painting-like objects, you perceive each word and image from a variety of positions, since the multiple layers create illusions of motion and shape-shifting. As you amble to and fro, you are intrigued by the apparent unfurling of textual quotations. As if by magic, phrases grow and shrink while recognizable characters from familiar artworks of the past reveal their multiple “sides.” This newly refined, enlarged, and still powerful crowd-pleasing technology renews our faith that visual arts other than time-based media (film or video) can prolong our attention and deepen our encounters with individual works. 

Baykam’s most recent works refresh the meaning of traditional concepts of “depth” in art. And their impact derives not only from neotech wizardry but also from their size, which provides viewers a chance to enjoy the illusive planes and movements on a scale as grand as European history paintings of the 18th century.  

If you had followed Baykam’s trajectory from his native Turkey to Paris‚ Sorbonne to the Bay Area’s CCA, his latest moves would not surprise you. Since childhood he has demonstrated a proclivity for both technical precociousness and exploration. Studies from the CCA years reveal early developments that align him with the international Neo-Expressionist reaction to the constraints of Minimalism.  

Baykam’s current experiments embed him once again in a rich vein of technical and formal innovations of a kind that can broaden the horizons of content as well. He’s begun to develop a model that delivers real advances in the field. I hope that before others exploit these ideas Baykam himself will further explore the opportunities that selective re-purposing of cultural symbols offers, focus on more nuanced appropriation, and use his considerable sensitivities to color to even better advantage. Welcome back to the Bay Area, Bedri! Don’t stay away so long next time!  

Celeste Connor is an art historian, critic, theorist, visual artist and professor of visual studies at the California College of the Arts.