Events Listings

THURSDAY, OCT. 8 

“Inventing a Masterwork: Bernard Maybeck and the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Berkeley, 1909-1911” with Robert Judson Clark at 7:30 p.m. at First Church of Christ, Scientist, 2619 Dwight Way. Tickets are $15, available from Berkeley Architectural Heritage. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com 

Helios Community Open House A presentation on the new Biosciences Institute to be built in downtown Berkeley at 7 p.m. at Pat Brown’s Grill, in the Genetics and Plant Biology Building, UC campus. Take the stairs off Oxford St. near Berkeley Way. For information contact comrel@berkeley.edu 

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

Beginning Seed Saving An introduction to the whys and hows of garden seed saving at 6:30 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave., near Dwight Way. Cost is $10-$15. 548-2220, ext. 233.  

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. 

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. John’s Presbyterian Church, 2727 College Ave. 981-7473. 

East Bay Mac Users Group with Derrick Story, photographer, at 7 p.m. at Expression College for Digital Arts, 6601 Shellmound St., Emeryville. ebmug.org 

American Red Cross Alameda County Heroes Breakfast at 8 a.m. at the Hilton Oakland Airport Hotel, 1 Hegenberger Rd., Oakland. Tickets are $45. 415-427-8086. www.redcrossbayarea.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Samuel Merritt College, Bechtel Room, 400 Hawthorne St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

“Everything You’ve Been Told About Communism Is Wrong: Capitalism is a Failure, Revolution is the Answer” at 4 p.m. in the Lipman Room, 8th flr., Barrows Hall, UC campus. on the UC Berkeley campus. 848-1196. 

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, OCT. 9 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Dr. Bethany Cobb on “Astronomical Events: Their Vital Role in the Development of Life on Earth” 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 

“Education Inequity” with Dr. Pedro Noguera at 5 p.m. at MLK Student Union at Bancroft Way and Telegraph Ave., UC campus, followed by student spoken word performances on their educational experiences. http://publicservice.berkeley.edu 

Laney College Sixth Annual Business Conference on Green Entrepreneurial Opportunities with keynote speaker Scott Cooney, Author of “Build a Green Small Business: Profitable ways to become an Ecopreneur and a Green Entrepreneur” From 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Laney College, 900 Fallon Street, Oakland. Free. 464-3161. 

“People’s Park Still Blooming” Book release party at 6 p.m. at Cafe Med, 2475 Telegraph Ave., with slide show and park update. 

Womansong Circle An evening of participatory Spsinging for women at 7:15 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, Small Assembly Room, 2345 Channing at Dana. Suggested donation $15-$20. www.betsyrosemusic.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kaiser Permanente, Dining Conference Room, 1950 Franklin St., Oakland. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

Educators’ Appreciation Days, through Oct. 12, with discounts for teachers and libraians at Half Price Books, 2036 Shattuck Ave. 

A Jewish Holiday That’s Like Decorating a Christmas Tree? at 6:15 p.m. at Jewish Gateways, 409 Liberty St., El Cerrito. RSVP required. 559-8140. www.jewishgateways.org 

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, OCT. 10 

Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow and Indian Market from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at MLK Jr., Civic Center Park, with exhibition dancing at 10 a.m., grand entry at noon, Turtle Island Fountain Sculpture Ceremony at 2 p.m. 595-5520. info@ipdpowwow.org 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Fall Walking Tour Claremont Creekside From 10 a.m. to noon explore this neighborhood where the contours of the land are kept intact. Cost is $10-$15, or $40-$50 for the series. Advance registration required. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com  

“Revolt in Berkeley: Restoring Democracy to Education and Keepting Education for the Public” with Jack Gerson, Tanya Smith and others at 7 p.m. at the Lalmeda Free Library, Conference Rooms A and B, 1550 Oak St. at Lincoln, Alameda. www.alamedaforum.org 

Autumn Arachnids Learn about the mysteries of the spider and explore the area looking for orb weavers, jumping spiders, crab spiders and others, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 544-2233. 

Fall Fruit Tasting from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Berkeley Farmers’ Market, Center St. at Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. ecologycenter.org 

Harmony Walk to End Hunger A 3.5 mile walk beginning at 8 a.m. at Civic Center Plaza, Richmond. Sponsored by Greater Richmond Interfaith Program. For information call 233-7127, ext. 304. gripcommunity.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. 

Native Plant Fair with plants, speakers, books and posters, Sat. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sun. from noon to 3 p.m. at Native Here Nursery, 101 Golf Course Dr., Tilden Regional Park. Sponsored by the California Native Plant Society. 222-2320. ebcnps.org 

Berkeley Garden Club Plant Sale with natives, annuals, perennials, garden items from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 131 Ashbury Ave., El Cerrito. www.berkeleygardenclub.org 

Point Richmond Fall Fest with music, arts, pumpkin patch, chili cook-off and more from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Washington Ave. and Park Place in downtown Point Richmond. www.pointrichmond.com/FallFest 

Rabbit Adoption Day from 1 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa Ave., Kensington. 525-6155. 

German International School, Bilingual K-5 Berkeley Open House from 10 a.m. to noon at UUCB Berkeley, One Lawson Rd., Kensington. www.gissv.org 

“99 Bottles of Beer: Global Brewing Tradition 2500 B.C. to Present” from noon to 6 p.m. at The Phoebe Hearst Museum of Anthopology, Gallery and Patio, 103 Kroeber Hall, UC campus. Tickets start at $20. To register see hearstmuseum.berkeley.edu/beer 

Techno Geek Art Challenge Create designs or cyborgs with fuses resistors and other gadjets, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 9th St., Oakland. Cost is $3-$7. 465-8770. www.mocha.org 

The East Bay Chapter of The Great War Society meets to discuss “Relatives in The Great War” by Robert Denison at 10:30 a.m. in the Albany Veterans Hall, 1325 Portland Ave., Albany. 527-7118. 

Berkeley Project Day 2009 Cal students volunteer with over 70 community partners. Meet at 8 a.m. at Memorial Glade on U.C. Berkeley campus. Register on line at www.berkeleyproject.org 396-9801.  

2009 Reel Rock Film Tour Climbing and adventure films at 8 p.m. at Albany Twin, 1115 Solano Ave. tickets are $12. www.reelrocktour.com 

Great Ghost Gathering at Playland-Not-At-The-Beach Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Cost is $10-$15. “Mystery and Mentalism” with Peter Kim, Sat. at 8 p.m. Cost is $20-$25. 932-8966. www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Herms District Scouts and Lions Club, American Red Cross Bus, 1325 Portland Ave., Albany. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

“Taking your Leadership to the Next Level” from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Ginn House in Preservation Park, 1233 Preservation Park Way, Oakland. RSVP to westcoast@moretolife.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, OCT. 11 

Native Plant Fair with plants, speakers, books and posters, from noon to 3 p.m. at Native Here Nursery, 101 Golf Course Dr., Tilden Regional Park. Sponsored by the California Native Plant Society. 222-2320. ebcnps.org 

Pumpkin Patch Pageant Learn about the squash family at 11 a.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. 544-2233. 

Little Farm Goat Hike Join a short hike and learn about the historic connections between humans and their ungulate friends at 2 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center, Tilden Park. For ages 6 and up544-2233. 

Crabby Chefs Seafood Festival Benefit for Cal Recreational Sports Fund from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Spenger’s Fresh Fish Grotto, 1919 Fourth St. 845-7771. 

Education Summit for all Bay Area educators and youth workers from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at MLK Student Union at Bancroft Way and Telegraph Ave, UC campus. Over 25 skills-building and education issues workshops and keynote by G Reyes. Free for all students, $25 for community members. http://publicservice.berkeley.edu  

Green Sunday “Meltdown” A two-part workshop on the economic crisis, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave., near 65th St., Oakland. Second part will be held on Nov. 8. 

Oaktoberfest in the Dimond with a traditional bier garten, Eco-Expo, and events for children, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Fruitvale and MacArthur. www.Oaktoberfest.org 

The Cooperative Grocery Cheese Celebration from 4 to 6 p.m. at 1450 67th St. at Hollis., Emerville. www.thecog.org 

Old Time Radio East Bay Collectors and listeners get together to enjoy shows together at 4 p.m. at a private home in Berkeley . For more information email DavidinBerkeley, [at] Yahoo.com 

All Italian Car and Motorcycle Show Benefit for the Alameda Special Olympics from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lincoln Middle School, 1250 Fernside Blvd., Alameda. Cost is $5. 

“Religious Syncretism in Peruvian Shamanism” with Doug Sharon, retired director of Museum of Anthropology, UCB, 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. 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 Tom Morse on “Alternatives to Dissatisfaction” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000.  

MONDAY, OCT. 12 

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

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. 

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. 

TUESDAY, OCT. 13 

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 Coach Drive, Sobrante Regional Park Preserve. Bring water, field guides, binoculars or scopes. Call for meeting place and if you need to borrow binoculars. 544-2233. 

Taste of Temescal A culinary crawl along Telegraph between 40th and 51st St, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $25 and benefits the Women’s Cancer Resource Center. www.brownpapertickets.com 

California Colloquium on Water “Resolving the Delta Crisis” with Jared Huffman, CA State Assemblyman, District 6, at 5:30 p.m. at Goldman School of Public Policy, Rm, 250, UC campus. waterarc@library.berkeley.edu 

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

Susan Mernit “Inspired by change” A Woman’s Voice lecture on thriving on change and surviving failure at 7:30 p.m. at Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Cost is $5-$10. 644 2967. www.hillsideclub.org 

“Opposition and Defiance in Toddlers and Preschoolers” A presentation at 7 p.m. at College Avenue Presbyterian Church, 5951 College Ave in Oakland. Pre-crawling babies welcome. Free to Twins by the Bay members. $45 for non-members. Registration is required at www.twinsbythebay.org 

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. Share your digital images, slides and prints and learn what other photographers are doing. Monthly field trips. 548-3991. www.berkeleycameraclub.org 

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. 

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

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 14 

South Branch Library Meet the Architects at 7 p.m. at Young Adult Project Youth Services Center, 1730 Oregon St. berkeleypubliclibrary.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.  

Personal Emergency Preparedness Workshop for People with Disabilities From 3 to 5 p.m. at North Berkeley Senior Center at 1901 Hearst Ave. Sponsored by Easy Does It Emergency Services in collaboration with Collaborating Agencies Responding to Disasters. RSVP to 704-2179. gina@easydoesitservices.org 

A Tribute to Robert Scalapino: “The Political Landscape of Asia” with Sung Joo Han, George T. Yu, Chongsik Lee, Hong Yung Lee, Wen-hsin Yeh at 4 p.m. at IEAS Conference Room, 2223 Fulton St., 6th flr. 

“Ask Not” A documentary on the effect of the US military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy at 7 p.m. at Wildwood School, 301 Wildwood Ave., Piedmont. Free. Sponsored by Piedmont Diversity Film Series. diversityfilmseries.org 

“Climate Engineers: War, Profit, Full Spectrum Dominance” a documentary by Geoff Brady of WBAI at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Potluck at 6 p.m., discussion follows film. Donation $5. www.Humanist Hall.org 

“Cycling Solo Across America: A Fundraising Ride” with Shawne Camp who cycled from San Francisco to Washington D.C. to raise funds for the American Lung Assoc., at 7 p.m. at REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave. 527-4140. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the American Red Cross bus, 921 Kains Ave., Albany. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

“Jewish Dying, Death, and Mourning Rituals” at 7 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. www.gracenorthchurch.org 

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, OCT. 15 

Proposed Changes to Berkeley Election Reform Act Discussion on raising the $250 contribution limit and creating additional disclosure requirements, at the Fair Campaign Practices Commission meeting at 7 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Comments can also be mailed to Kristy van Herick, FCPC Secretary, 2180 Milvia St., 4th Flr., Berkeley 94704. kvanherick@ci.berkeley.ca.us 

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. 

“Peace of Mind in Earthquake Country” with earhtquake engineers Peter Yanev and Andrew Thompson at 7:30 p.m. at Builders Booksource on Fourth St. 845-7051. 

SEEDS Community Resolution Center will celebrate National Conflict Resolution Day, honoring Judge Gail Bereola with workshops on Restorative Justice and Conflict Resolution skills. Begins at 7:30 a.m. at Niles Hall in Preservation Park, 1233 Preservation Parkway, Oakland. 548-2377. www.seedscrc.org 

“The New New Deal: How Regional Activism Will Reshape the American Labor Movement,” with author Amy Dean, at 12:30 p.m. at the UC Berkeley Labor Center, IRLE Building, 2521 Channing Way. 642-9187. 

Traditional Farming with Native Farmers from New Mexico A presentation and discussion on farming self-sufficiency at 6:30 p.m. at the Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $5$50 sliding scale. 548-2220, ext. 233. 

“Demolition of Berkeley’s Bevatron and its Radioactive Waste” A report by LA Wood and others at 7 p.m. at BFUU, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Donations welcome. 

UC Press Hurt Book Sale New and slightly scuffed books from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2120 Berkeley Way. www.ucpress.edu 

“Gandhi & the Unspeakable: Why He Died & Why it Matters” with Jim Douglass at 7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 114 Montecito Ave., Oakland. Cost is $10-$20. 268-8765. pacebene.org 

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, OCT. 16 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Nancy Scheper-Hughes PhD on “The Shockng Story of Illegal Human Organ Trafficking” 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 

Say No to War! Bring Our Troops Home Now Rally from 2 to 3 p.m. at the corner of Action and University 

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 

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, OCT. 17 

Proposed Bus Rapid Transit in Berkeley Public Workshop from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge Street Community Meeting Room, 3rd Floor. 

Telling Tales: A Fall Storytelling Festival with Awele Makeba, Joel ben Izzy and Megumi, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Berkwood Hedge School, 1809 Bancroft Way. Tickets are $4 children, $8 adults. www.berkwood.org/storytelling 

War is Just a Racket Day Readings and Sing-Along from noon to 3 p.m. at the Downtown Bekeley BART Plaza. www.october17.org 

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Fall Walking Tour Berkeley Villa Tract From 10 a.m. to noon along Codornices Creek to explore the area subdivided in the 1880s. Walk is moderate, requiring some climbing. Not wheelchair accessible. Cost is $10-$15. Advance registration required. 841-2242. berkeleyheritage.com  

Berkeley Historical Society Walk “The Obscure History of South Telegraph” A block-by-block stroll down one of Berkeley's oldest streets and into the adjacent neighborhoods, led by Steve Finacom, from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost is $8-$10. For reservations and starting point, call 848-0181.  

Berkeley Path Wanderers Panoramic Hill Walk An insider’s look at this neighborhood of steep steps and hills, overlooking the city. Meet at 10 a.m. at the foot of Panoramic Place at the south end of the footbal stadium Parking is difficult. 520-3876. www.berkeleypaths.org 

Hike for Toddlers and Friends to explore the meadows, ponds and trails of Tilden. Meet at 2:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Center. 544-2233. 

Creative Personal Statement Writing Workshop for teens writing their college application essays, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Claremont Branch of the Berkeley Public Library, 2940 Benvenue. A free event sponsored by ecBerkeley.org. 266-2069. 

Wheels for Meals Ride Benefit ride through Livermore Valley for Alameda County Meals on Wheels. Ride lengths are 15, 35, or 65 miles. For information see www.wheelsformealsride.com 

Lakeshore Neighborhood Plant Exchange Come trade your excess with others, from noon to 4 p.m. at 3811 Lakeshore Ave., Oakland. All types and sizes of plants are welcome. For information see www.plantexchange.wordpress.com 

Greening El Cerrito Day with tree planting in the morning followed by a showcase with educational displays, children’s activities and music from noon to 2 p.m. at City Hall Plaza, 10890 San Pablo Ave.  

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

Live Owl Program from 1 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa Ave., Kensington. 525-6155. 

“Exploring De Staebler Through Movement” A movement workshop with Muriel Maffre in conjunction with the exhibition “Steven De Staebler: The Sculptor’s Way” at 11 a.m. at The Richmond Art Center, 2540 Bartlett Ave., Richmond. Free. 620-6772. www.therac.org 

El Cerrito Democratic Club Annual Dinner at 6 p.m. on Sat the Arlington Community Church, 52 Arlington Ave., Kensington, with Jenn Pae of PowerPac, on “Is the Honeymoon Over? A Young Obama Delegate Looks Back—and Ahead.” Cost is $30-$35 for adults, $10-$15 for children. 526-4874. www.ecdclub.org 

Home Movie Day from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Pacific Film Archive. Film inspection and check in at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $5.50-$9.50. 642-0808. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

“Fascinating Objects in our Solar System” with Prof. Imke de Pater, UC Dept. of Astronomy at 11 a.m. in the Genetics and Plant Biology Building, Room 100, UC campus. Free, no science background required. 

Flute Masterclass with Isabelle Chapuis at 11 a.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $25 at the door. 549-3864. 

“Spiritual Awakening, a New Economy, and the End of Empire” with David Korten at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Tickets are $25-$35. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at American Red Cross bus at 2001 Allston Way. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

Alameda Public Affairs Forum Good Citizenship Award for Community Service Honoring Jean and Jim Sweeney at 7 p.m. at Alameda Free Library, Conference Rooms A&B, 1550 Oak St. at Lincoln, Alameda. Suggested donation $5. www.alamedaforum.org 

California Writers Club “Could Your Novel be an e-Book?” with Kemble Scott at 10 a.m. at Barnes and Noble, Jack London Square, Oakland. www.cwc-berkeley.com 

Vampires & Werewolves Weekend at Playland-Not-At-The-Beach Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Cost 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, OCT. 18 

“Berkeley in Conflict: Eyewitness Images” featuring never exhibited works by photographers John Jekabson, Dan Beaver, and Lydia Gans. Reception at 3 p.m. at the Berkeley History Center, 1931 Center St. 848-0181.  

John Muir Legends Honoring John Muir School alumni Marian Alltman, Anne Donaker and Pam Ormsby at 11:30 a.m., luncheon at 12:30 p.m. at John Muir Elementary School, 2955 Claremont Ave. Tickets are $40. RSVP to 653-6761. lockesj@comcast.net 

Grass Roots House Open House with presentations, historical material, food and music from 3 to 6 p.m. at 2022 Blake St. Suggested donation $5-$25, no one turned away. 

ACLU Berkeley/North East Bay Annual Meeting “Schools for All Campaign” with Diana Tate Vermeire at 2 p.m. at the Albany Senior Center, 846 Masonic Ave., Near Solano. www.acluberkeley.org 

Kensington Library Fall Book Sale from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot behind the Library, 61 Arlington Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

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

Benefit for Prisoners Revolutionary Literature Fund with international food, music, poetry and readings of letters from prisoners, from 3 to 7 p.m. at La Placita, 2375 Fruitvale Ave., Oakland. Cost is $10-$15.  

“The Kingdom of God as Alternate Universe” with Sarah Lewis 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. 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 Ken McKeon on “The Time of Our Lives” at 6 p.m. at the Tibetan Nyingma Institute, 1815 Highland Pl. 809-1000. www.nyingmainstitute.com 

CITY MEETINGS 

Community Health Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 8, at 6:45 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5356.  

Mental Health Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 8, at 5 p.m. at 2640 MLK Jr. Way, at Derby. 981-5217.  

Zoning Adjustments Board meets Thurs., Oct. 8, at 7 p.m., in City Council Chambers. 981-7430. 

City Council meets Tues., Oct. 13, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900. www.ci. 

berkeley.ca.us/citycouncil 

South Branch Library Meet the Architects Wed., Oct. 14, at 7 p.m. at Young Adult Project Youth Services Center, 1730 Oregon St. berkeleypubliclibrary.org 

Proposed Changes to Berkeley Election Reform Act Discussion on raising the $250 contribution limit and creating additional disclosure requirements, at the Fair Campaign Practices Commission meeting, Thurs., Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center. Comments can also be mailed to Kristy van Herick, FCPC Secretary, 2180 Milvia St., 4th Flr., Berkeley 94704. kvanherick@ci.berkeley.ca.us 

Homeless Commission meets Wed., Oct. 14, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5431. 

Planning Commission meets Wed., Oct. 14, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7416. 

Police Review Commission meets Wed., Oct. 14, at the South Berkeley Senior Center. 981-4950. 

Design Review Committee meets Thurs., Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7415.  

Medical Cannabis Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 15, at 1:30 p.m. at City Hall, Cypress Room, 2180 Milvia. 981-7402. 

Transportation Commission meets Thurs., Oct. 15, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7061.  

Proposed Bus Rapid Transit in Berkeley Public Workshop Sat., Oct. 17, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge Street Community Meeting Room, 3rd Floor.