THURSDAY, FEB. 4 

An Evening with Tim Wise, anti-racism author and activist on “Colorblindness and its Consequences: How Ignoring Race Deepens the Racial Divide” at 7 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison St., Oakland. Cost is $15-$20, $5 youth 17 & under. 601-0182 ext. 302. www.speakoutnow.org 

“Why Is Haiti Poor? Politics, Disaster and the Predatory State” with Mark Danner at 6 p.m. in the Geballe Room, 220 Stephens Hall, UC campus. Free. 642-2088. 

Science Cafe Compare science notes with Jamie Paglia and Colin Ferguson of SyFy TV’s EUReKA, at 7 p.m. at The David Brower Center, Goldman Theater, 2150 Allston St. Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis. 486-7292.  

Walden Center and School Benefit with soul music, dancing, silent auction at 7 p.m. at Gaia Arts Center, 2120 Allston Way. Tickets are $50-$60. 841-7248. www.walden-school.net 

Senior Driving Safety Learn what you can do to maintain your driving skills as you age, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720. 

Job Seeker Information Session for Berkeley residents receiving unemployment insurance at 10 a.m. at North Cities One Stop Career Center, 1918 Bonita Ave. 982-7128.  

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

Free Drop-in Beginning Computer Class, Mon. at 6 p.m. and Thurs. at 10 a.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 3rd flr., 2090 Kittredge St. 981-6148. 

FRIDAY, FEB. 5 

“Behind the Wall” Emerging Strategies of Palestinian Nonviolent Resistance with Carol Sanders of Jewish Voice for Peace at 7 p.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Church Chapel. 499-0537. 

Richmond Youth for Haiti Basketball Series, through Sat. at 7 p.m. at the Richmond PAL Arena, 2200 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. Tickets are $10-$25. 621-1221. www.rpal.org 

Bay Area Funeral Society Presentation Learn how to avoid being taken advantage of by the funeral industry at 2 p.m. in the Community Room of Sacramento Senior Apts., 1501 Blake St. at Sacramento. 647-3624. 

Center for Elders Independence Information about helping seniors to stay in their own homes as long as possible at 3 p.m. in the Community Room of Sacramento Senior Apts., 1501 Blake St. at Sacramento. 318-7142. 

Circle Dancing, simple folk dancing with instruction at 8 p.m. at Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St. at University. Donation of $5 requested. 528-4253.  

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, FEB. 6 

Open Space Improvement Plan for Berkeley’s Downtown to discuss plaza options, landscaping, bike lanes, street trees and watersheds at 10:30 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Ave. 981-7487. www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/SOSIP/ 

West Branch Library Project update on the conceptual design at a special meeting of the Board of Library Trustees at noon at West Branch Library, 1125 University Ave. 981-6195.  

Birding on the Bay Join a naturalist for a walk along the shore to spot birds feeding on the newly created mud flats, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Middle Harbor Shoreline Park. 272-4802. 

Xeriscaping Learn how to garden with less water, fertilizer and maintenance, at 10 a.m. at Magic Gardens Nursery, 729 Heinz Ave. www.magicgardens.com 

Saint Mary’s College High School Crab Feed and Silent Auction Silent Auction 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7:30 p.m., music and dancing to 11 p.m. in the school gymnasium, 1294 Albina Ave. Tickets are $40. Advance paid reservations required. 832-2453.  

Global Montessori International School Open House from 10 a.m. to noon for Early Childhood program ages 2-6 and Elementary ages 6-12, at the corner of Durant Ave. and Ellsworth St. 845-6969. globalmontessori@sbcglobal.net  

Friends of the Albany Library Book Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Edith Stone Room of the Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave, Albany. To volunteer, or for more information, call 526-3720 ext. 5. 

“The Obama Presidency One Year Later: Marxist and Other Observations” at 2 p.m. at Niebyl-Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. 595-7417. www.marxistlibr.org 

Pinball Tournament 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.  

Valentine’s Week at Habitot Make heart-themed art Mon.-Thurs. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Fri. to 4:30 at 2065 Kittredge St. Cost is $8.50. 647-1111. 

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 at 10 a.m. for ages 12 and up. Wear flat soled shoes, no heels. 841-2174.  

SUNDAY, FEB. 7 

Family Art Workshop: Chinese New Year Make lanterns, dragon puppets and tiger hats from 1 to 3 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 Ninth St., Oakland. Cost is $3 for adults, $7 for children. 465-8770.  

Medicinal Plants of the Bay Area: A Bioregional Exporation from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. Cost is $25. To register call 428-1810. bluewindbmc@gmail.com 

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

“Keep Green with Untapped Water” from 10 a.m .to 1 p.m. at Building Education Center, 812 Page St. Cost is $45. 525-7610. 

Personal Theology Seminars with “Jesus, the Jewish Sage” with Rabbi Harry Manhoff at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302, ext. 306. 

MONDAY, FEB. 8 

Claremont Elmwood Neighborhood Association Membership Meeting at 7 p.m. at St John's Presbyterian Church, Fireside Room, 2727 College Ave. Topics include UC Police and neighborhood safety, funding for neighborhood projects, Tunnel Rd/Ashby Ave. Improvements, Safeway at College/ 

Claremont expansion update and proposed Sunshine Ordinance & Open Government. 

Free Drop-in Beginning Computer Class, Mon. at 6 p.m. and Thurs. at 10 a.m. at Berkeley Public Library, 3rd flr., 2090 Kittredge St. 981-6148. 

East Bay Track Club for ages 3-14 meets at 6 p.m. at the running track of Berkeley High School. For more information call Coach Walker at 776-7451. 

TUESDAY, FEB. 9 

“Sustainable Agriculture in the Peace Corps” Learn about serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in one of 70+ countries around the world, including programs in sustainable agriculture at 7:30 p.m. at Common Circle Education, 2130 Center St. 452-8444. www.peacecorps.gov 

War Tax Resistance Workshop Learn where your tax money goes and how to redirect your taxes, with a new video “Death & Taxes” from 1 to 3 p.m. at 2921 Adeline St. 842-6124. www.nowartax.org 

“Code Switching: How to Talk So Men Will Listen” with author Audrey Nelson at 7 p.m. at Lokey Graduate School of Business, Mills College, 5000 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland 

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

Job Seeker Information Session for Berkeley residents receiving unemployment insurance at 10 a.m. at North Cities One Stop Career Center, 1918 Bonita Ave. 982-7128. www.eastbayworks.com 

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

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. 

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.  

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, FEB. 10 

Update on Claremont Branch and South Branch Library Projects Architects will discuss the design plans at the Board of Library Trustees meetings at 6:30 p.m. at South Branch Library, 1901 Russell St. 981-6195. 

“Blended Nation: Portraits & Interviews of Mixed-Race America” An interactive discussion, slide show, question and answer session with the authors in collaboration with the Geek Out series and RACE Exhibit at 7:30pm at Lawrence Hall of Science, Centennial Drive. Tickets are $8-$10. 642-5132. http://lawrencehallofscience.org 

“Raw Video from Palestine” and “Dawn, After the Bombs” at 7:30 p.m. at Humanist Hall, 390 27th St., Oakland. Donation $5. www.Humanist Hall.org 

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 

“Stress, Human Body and Nutrition” at 6:15 p.m. at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, Markstein Services, 3100 Summit St., Oakland. Free, but registration requested. 869-8833. 

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. 

THURSDAY, FEB. 11 

Berkeley Path Wanderers: Winter Power Walk A vigorous walk to Kensington Circle, around some of the Kensington paths and return via Visalia. A fast-paced walk with some steep hills. No dogs please. Meet at 10 a.m. at Great Stoneface Park, Thousand Oaks & San Fernando, at picnic table. For information call 520-3876. www.berkeleypaths.org 

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

“Who Profits from the Israeli Occupation?” with Dalit Baum, PhD, teacher at Haifa University and Beit Berl College in Israel at 7 pm. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1924 Cedar St. Cost is $5-$20, no one turned away. bfuu.blogspot.com/  

Job Seeker Information Session for Berkeley residents receiving unemployment insurance at 10 a.m. at North Cities One Stop Career Center, 1918 Bonita Ave. 982-7128. www.eastbayworks.com 

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

Berkeley School Volunteers, New Volunteer Orientation from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 1835 Allston Way. Bring a photo ID and two references to the orientation. Returning volunteers do not need to attend. 644-8833. 

FRIDAY, FEB. 12 

Annual Great Backyard Bird Count All are welcome to count birds from Fri. through Mon. For counting guidelines and information contact the Golden Gate Audubon Society 843-9374. www.goldengateaudubon.org 

City Commons Club Noon Luncheon with Sue Reynolds on “Understanding Native American People” Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. for $15, speech at 12:30 p.m., at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant St. For information call 527-2173.  

Womensong Circle An evening of participatory singing for women, at 7:15 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Berkeley, small assembly room, 2345 Channing Way. Suggested donatono $15-$20. betsy@betsyrosemusic.org 

Circle Dancing, simple folk dancing with instruction at 8 p.m. at Finnish Brotherhood Hall, 1970 Chestnut St. at University. Donation of $5 requested. 528-4253.  

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, FEB. 13 

Toxic Triangle Hearings: Environmental Justice for Oakland, San Francisco, and Richmond From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Allen Temple Baptist Church, 8501 International Avenue, Oakland. For information contact Rev. Daniel Buford 544-8923. 

Fundraiser for Africa Matters with African Buffet, live Marimba music by Kuganza of Santa Cruz, silent auction of Zimbabwe crafts at 5:30 p.m. at Marrion Zimmer Auditorium, Oakland Zoo. Cost is $80. For information and reservations call 655-4528.  

Rabbits Are So Sweet Adoption Fair Make valentines for your pets, and meet the bunnies, from 2 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa, Kensington. 525-6155. 

Kenney Cottage Garden Fundraiser Yard Sale, Sat. and Sun. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1629 Fifth St. 

Peralta Hacienda Historical Park Family tour and embroidery exhibit at 2 p.m. at Antonia Peralta house, 2465 34th Ave., Oakland. Free. 532-9142. www.peraltahacienda.org 

East Bay Chapter of The Great War Society meets to discuss “The AEF & Music & My Uncles in WWI” at 10:30 a.m. at Albany Veterans Hall, 1325 Portland Ave., Albany. 527-7118. 

Game Day at the Albany Library with board and Wii games from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Albany Library, 1247 Marin Ave., Albany. 526-3720. 

Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Church of Latter Day Saints, Cultural Hall, 1501 Walnut St. To schedule an appointment go to www.helpsavealife.org 

Valentine’s at Playland-Not-At-The-Beach Sat. through Mon. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 10979 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. Cost is $10-$15. 932-8966.  

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.  

SUNDAY, FEB. 14 

Sunday Strolls: Sibley Volcanic Reserve from 10 a.m. to noon. Moderate 2.6 mile hike. Dogs welcome. 544-3187.  

Family Art Workshop: Art Hearts Stamp, print and glue unique Valentine cards from 1 to 3 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 Ninth St., Oakland. Cost is $3 for adults, $7 for children. 465-8770.  

Small Critter Adoption Day with information on caring for small animals, from 2 to 4 p.m. at RabbitEars, 377 Colusa, Kensington. 525-6155. 

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

“Feng Shui” A seminar with Nadine Oei from 10 a.m .to 1 p.m. at Building Education Center, 812 Page St. Cost is $45. 525-7610. 

Personal Theology Seminars with “Parables and Midrash—Are the they Same?” with Rabbi Harry Manhoff, at 10 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington. 525-0302. 

Kol Hadash Bagel Brunch with Prof. Eric Meikle from the National Center for Science Education at 10 a.m. at Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Ave. Cost is $7.50-$10. www.kolhadash.org 

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 

CITY MEETINGS 

Landmarks Preservation Commission meets Thurs., Feb. 4, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7429.  

Open Space Improvement Plan for Berkeley’s Downtown to discuss plaza options, landscaping, bike lanes, street trees and watersheds, Sat., Feb. 6, at 10:30 a.m. at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Ave. 981-7487.  

City Council meets Tues., Feb. 9, at 7 p.m in City Council Chambers. 981-6900.  

Homeless Commission meets Wed., Feb. 10, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-5431. 

Planning Commission meets Wed., Feb. 10, at 7 p.m., at the North Berkeley Senior Center. 981-7416. 

Waterfront Commission meets Wed., Feb. 10, at 7 p.m., at 201 University Ave. 981-6737.  

West Berkeley Project Area Committee meets at 7 p.m. at the James Kenney Rec. Center, 1720 Eighth St. 981-7418. 

Zoning Adjustments Board meets Thurs., Feb. 11 , at 7 p.m., in City Council Chambers. 981-7430. 

ONGOING 

Berkeley High Registration Incoming 9th graders from non BUSD schools must register by Feb. 12. For complete information on how to register, please go to http://bhs.berkeley.net and click on Prospective Families. Students currently enrolled in a district middle school do not have to enroll at Berkeley High School. 

Princess Project Donate your gently used prom dresses and accessories to benefit Bay Area high school girls, from Feb. 8 to Feb. 19 at Tootsies in Oakland, 5525 College Ave. For details see www.princessproject.org 

THURSDAY, FEB. 4 

FILM 

“Pizza In Auschwitz” and “Yessir, This Is Kosher” at 7:30 p.m at Jewish Community Center of the East Bay, 1414 Walnut St. Tickets are $6-$8. 848-0237. www.brownpapertickets.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Lisa Dalby on her new novel “Hidden Buddhas” at 7 p.m. at Books Inc, Fourth St. 525-7777. 

Marianne Hirsch and Leo Spitzer on their new book “Ghosts of Home: The Afterlife of Czernowitz in Jewish Memory” at 6 p.m. at University Press Books, 2430 Bancroft Way. 548-0585. www.universitypressbooks.com 

Ethan Watters on “Crazy Like Us: The Globalization of the American Psyche” at 7:30 p.m . at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar St. Tickets are $12-$15. www.brownpapertickets.com 

Poetry Flash with Mary Jo Bang and Lyn Hejinian at 7:30 p.m. at Moe’s Books, 2476 Telegraph. 849-2087. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Dave Stein with Front Street, Grateful Dead night at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is tba. 525-5054.  

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

8X8X8, Paufve Dance at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. 

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

FRIDAY, FEB. 5 

EXHIBITIONS 

“A Thousand Ways to Kiss the Ground” Work by Bay Area artists Mari Andrews and Sheila Ghidini. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Chandra Cerrito Contemporary, 480 23rd St., Oakland. 415-577-7537. www.chandracerrito.com 

“The World Turned Inside Out” Photographs by Noele Lusano and James Minton. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Oakopolis, 447 25th St., Oakland. oakopolis@gmail.com 

“Nowhere/Anywhere” a solo exhibition of new work by Steuart Pittman. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Blankspace, 6608 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. 547-6608. www.blankspacegallery.com 

“Fun-A-Day In the Bay” group exhibition of artwork produced each day over the course of a month. Reception at 6 p.m. at Rock Paper Scissors Collective, 2278 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. rpscollective.com 

“Dave Meeker: Plugged In, 1978-2009” Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Mercury 20 Gallery, 25 grand Ave. at Broadway. 701-4620. www.mercurytwenty.com 

THEATER 

Active Arts Theatre for Young Audiences “Ramona Quimby” Sat. and Sun. at 2 pm. at Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, 2640 College Ave., through Feb. 7. Tickets are $14-$18. 296-4433. activeartstheatre.org 

Actors Ensemble of Berkeley “Antigone” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave. at Berryman, through Feb. 20. Tickets are $12-$15. 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org 

Aurora Theatre “The First Grade” at 2081 Addison St., through Feb. 28. Tickets are $15-$55. 843-4822. auroratheatre.org 

Berkeley Rep “Coming Home” at 2025 Addison St., through Feb. 28. Tickets are $33-$71. 647-2949. berkeleyrep.org 

Contra Cost Civic Theater “Over the Tavern” a family comedy by Tom Dudzick, Fri. and Sat. at 8 .m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at 951 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito, through Feb. 28. Tickets are $11-$18. 524-9012. www.ccct.org 

Masquers Playhouse “Kitchen Witches” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, and runs through Feb. 27. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Stagebridge “Sylvia’s Advice on How to Age Gracefully on the Planet Denial” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. at Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Feb. 21. Tickets are $15-$25. www.stagebridge.org 

TheatreFirst “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2 p.m. at Marion E. Greene Black Box Theater, 531 19th St., through Feb. 14. www.brownpapertickets.com 

FILM 

“Rebecca” by Alfred Hitchcock at 8 p.m. at Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. Tickets are $5. 800-745-3000. 

“The Invisible Forest” by Antero Alli at 8 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St. Tickets are $6-$10. 464-4640. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Marc Elihu Hofstadter and Stephen Kessler read their poetry at 7:30 p.m. at Mrs. Dalloway’s, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Music that Woke the World with Betsy Rose, Heng Sure, Melanie DeMore and Alan Senauke at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $12-$14. 849-2568.  

Happy Hour Quintet at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15-$18. 845-5373.  

Tito y su Son de Cuba at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cuban salsa dance lesson at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Marley’s Ghost at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

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

Ash Reiter, Quinn Deveaux and the Blue Beat Review at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082.  

Guns for San Sebastian at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790.  

SATURDAY, FEB. 6 

CHILDREN  

Music Concert with Andy Z at 11 a.m. at Studio Grow, 1235 10th St. Cost is $9. 526-9888. 

Saturday Stories with author Ginger Wadsworth of “Up, Up and Away” and illustrator Dona Turne of “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” then enjoy spider-related crafts at 1 p.m. at Museum of Children’s Art, 538 Ninth St., Oakland. 465-8770. www.mocha.org 

Susan Gal reads from her book “Night Lights” at 11 a.m. at Mrs. Dalloway’s, 2904 College Ave. 704-8222. 

THEATER 

Playback Theatre Personal stories shared by audience members will be instantly transformed by the ensemble into improvised theater pieces at 8 p.m. at Laney College Theatre, 900 Fallon St., Oakland. Tickets are $12-$15. BrownPaperTickets.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Process and Place: The Transformative Potential of Artist Residencies” Group show of work by six artists who attended a residency program in New Zealand. Opening reception at 5 p.m at Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St. www.berkeleyartcenter.org 

“A Community Gathered” Reception at 3 p.m. at Skyline UCC Friendship Room, 12540 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. Donations benefit local youth art programs. 531-8212. www.skylineucc.org 

The Walter! Paintings and The Puffle Photographs Works by Marc Wise and Joe Wenderoth. Reception at 3 p.m. at Cricket Engine Collective, 499 Embarcadero Post 2, Oakland. www.cricketengine.org 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

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

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Haitian Earthquake Relief Benefit with Mystic Man & Lakay, Rara Fusion at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Afro-Haitian dance lesson at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Dallas Black Dance Theater Sat. at 7:30 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. at Berkeley Black Repertory Theater, 3201 Adeline St. Tickets are $30. 652-2120. 

The Euphora Consort “Ávila: Musicians and Mystics from Sixteenth Century Spain” at 8 p.m. at Trinity Chapel, 2320 Dana St. Tickets are $8-$12. 549-3864.  

Antioquia at 9 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $7. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

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

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

House Jacks at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761.  

Mike Glendinning Grunge at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Jesse Cahn with Barbara Dane at 8 p.m. at Art House Gallery, 2905 Shattuck Ave. Cost is $10. 472-3170. 

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

The Stone Foxes, Luke Franks at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

SUNDAY, FEB. 7 

CHILDREN 

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

EXHIBITIONS 

“Vintage Sixties” Photographs by William Haigwood. Opening reception at 1 p.m. at Art House Gallery, 2905 Shattuck Ave. 482-3336. 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Joanna Macy and Anita Barrows read from their new translation, “A Year with Rilke” at 2 p.m. at Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar St.Cost is $20. For reservations email jtruelson@APR.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Music for Palestinian Justice with Ramzy at 7:30 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $10-$5. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Compositions by Herb Bielawa, celebrating his 80th birthday, at 7:30 p.m. at Unitrarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, One Lawson Rd., Kensington. Suggested donation $15-$20. www.uucb.org 

Berkeley Symphony “Under Construction” Concert at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Presbyterian, 2727 College Ave. Tickets are $10-$20. 841-2800. www.berkeleysymphony.org 

Dallas Black Dance Theater at 3 p.m. at Berkeley Black Repertory Theater, 3201 Adeline St. Tickets are $30. 652-2120. 

Steven Strauss Yuke Master at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Beyond the Pale, Post-modern klezmer, at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761.  

MONDAY, FEB. 8 

EXHIBITIONS 

“Fragmentos de Perú” Contemporary art by Claudio Talavera-Ballon on display at Berkeley Public Library, 2090 Kittredge St., through March 7. 981-6100. 

“A Paper + Cloth Dream Exhibition” opens at the CCA Oakland campus, 5212 Broadway, Oliver Art Center, and runs to Feb. 19. www.cca.edu 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Aurora Theatre Global Age Project Staged reading of “The Serving Class” at 7:30 p.m. at at 2081 Addison St. 843-4822. auroratheatre.org 

Subterranean Shakespeare “Titus Andronicus” staged reading at 7:30 p.m. at Berkeley Unitarian Fellowship, 1924 Cedar at Bonita. Tickets are $8. 276-3871. 

Bloch Lecture Series with Pedro Memelsdorff on “The Music of Theory: Theorist-composers in late medieval Italy” at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Free. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Gerald Henig “Abraham Lincoln at 200, Fact Rather than Fiction” at 7 p.m. at Kensington Library, 61 Arlinton Ave., Kensington. 524-3043. 

Poetry Express with Barbara Gordon at 7 p.m. at Priya Restaurant, 2072 San Pablo Ave. 644-3977. 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Bob Ostertag “Say No More Some More” sampling project at 8 p.m. at Littlefield Concert Hall, Mills College, 5000 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Tickets are $10-$15. 430-2296. musicnow.mills.edu 

Albany High School Jazz Band at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage Coffee House. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Veretski Pass Trio “The  Klezmer Shul” at 8 p.m. at Temple Israel, 3183 Mecartney Rd., Alameda. Tickets are $15-$18. info@templeisraelalameda.org  

TUESDAY, FEB. 9 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Amy Reed reads from her novel “Beautiful” at 7:30 p.m. at Pegasus Books Downtown, 2349 Shattuck Ave. 649-1320. 

Suruchi Mohan reads from her debut novel “Divine Music” set in 1970s India, at 7 p.m. at El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito. 526-7512. 

“Physical Cinema” with Shari Frilot at 7 p.m. at 160 Kroeber Hall, UC campus. Sponsored by Center for New Media/Art Techonology & Culture. 495-3505. http://atc.berkeley.edu 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

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

International Guitar Night with Lulo Reinhardt, Itamar Erez, Stephen Benett, Brian Gore at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Trombonga, trombone quartet at 7 p.m. at Caffe Trieste, 2500 San Pablo at Dwight. 548-5198. 

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 10 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Garry Wills reads from “Bomb Power: The Modern Presidency and the National Security State” at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, Channing at Dana. Tickets are $15-$20. www.brownpapertickets.com 

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

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Wednesday Noon Concert, with Percy Liang, piano, at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Free. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Americana’s Next Chapter with Cyndi Harvell, Dan Booth, Jenna Bean Veatch, Rhys Conger, Kathy Kallick at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Veretski Pass Trio “The  Klezmer Shul” at 8 p.m. at Congregation Netivot Shalom, 1316 University Ave. Suggested donation $15 at the door. 415-789-7679. www.klezcalifornia.org 

Balkan Folkdance at 8 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Dance lesson at 7 p.m. Cost is $7. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

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

THURSDAY, FEB. 11 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Jonah Raskin on “Field Days: A Year of Farming, Eating, and Drinking Wine in California” at 5:30 p.m. at University Press Books, 2430 Bancroft Way. 548-0585. www.universitypressbooks.com 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Opera in the Library with highlights from Berkeley Opera’s production of “Don Giovanni” at 12:15 p.m. at the Berkeley Public Library, 5th flr., 2090 Kittredge St. 981-6241. 

Berkeley Symphony “Welcoming Old Friends & New” at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC campus. Pre-concert talk with Joana Carneiro and Paul Dresher at 7:10 p.m. Tickets are $20-$60. 841-2800. www.berkeleysymphony.org 

Lloyd Brown & Riddimworks Band, Amha Baraka, Reggae from England, at 9:30 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Cost is $12-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Real Vocal String Quartet at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Possum Family Singers at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Blitz the Ambassador at 8 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $6-$8. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Megan Sankard and Jeff Campbell at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

FRIDAY, FEB. 12 

THEATER 

Actors Ensemble of Berkeley “Antigone” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m. at Live Oak Theater, 1301 Shattuck Ave. at Berryman, through Feb. 20. Tickets are $12-$15. 649-5999. www.aeofberkeley.org 

Aurora Theatre “The First Grade” at 2081 Addison St., through Feb. 28. Tickets are $15-$55. 843-4822. auroratheatre.org 

Berkeley Rep “Coming Home” at 2025 Addison St., through Feb. 28. Tickets are $33-$71. 647-2949. berkeleyrep.org 

Contra Cost Civic Theater “Over the Tavern” a family comedy by Tom Dudzick, Fri. and Sat. at 8 .m., Sun. at 2 p.m. at 951 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito, through Feb. 28. Tickets are $11-$18. 524-9012. www.ccct.org 

Masquers Playhouse “Kitchen Witches” Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 2:30 p.m. at 105 Park Place, Point Richmond, and runs through Feb. 27. Tickets are $18. 232-4031. www.masquers.org 

Stagebridge “Sylvia’s Advice on How to Age Gracefully on the Planet Denial” Thurs.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. at Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Ave., through Feb. 21. Tickets are $15-$25. www.stagebridge.org 

TheatreFirst “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead” Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 p.m. and Sun. at 2 p.m. at Marion E. Greene Black Box Theater, 531 19th St., through Feb. 14. www.brownpapertickets.com 

EXHIBITIONS 

“For Colored Girls Only” A celebration of women. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Joyce Gordon Gallery, 406 14th St., Oakland. 465-8928. www.joycegordongallery.com 

“False Doors” works by Colleen Flaherty, Tena Kaplan and Clint Imboden. Opening reception at 7 p.m. at Autobody Fine Art, 1517 Park St., Alameda. 865-2608. 

“Swagger: A Celebration of the Body” Opening reception at 6 p.m. at ACCI Gallery, 1652 Shattuck Ave. 843-2527. www.accigallery.com 

READINGS AND LECTURES 

Novella Carpenter reads from “Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer” at 7 p.m. at Neibyl Proctor Library, 6501 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. Suggested donation $10. Benefits Li’l Bobby Hutton Literacy Campaign. 652-7170. 

The Walter! Paintings and The Puffle Photographs Readings by the artists Marc Wise and Joe Wenderoth at 7 p.m. at Cricket engine Collective, 499 Embarcadero Post 2, Oakland. www.cricketengine.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

“Whipped: QTPOC Recipes for Love, Sex & Disaster” by Mangoes with Chili at 9 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $8-$12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

The Chamber Unit “This Is for Sun Ra” with Eddie Gale at 8:30 and 10 p.m. at Flux 53 Theater, 5306 Foothil Blvd., at Fairfax, Oakland. Tickets are $10-$15. 842-8841. www.flux53.com 

University Symphony Orchestra at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Tickets are $5-$15. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Palm Wine Boys at Utunes Coffeehouse, at 8 p.m. at First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., Oakland. Tickets are $14-$18. www.utunescoffeehouse.org 

Todd Sickafoose at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15-$18. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Steve Lucky & the Rumba Bums, with Miss Carmen Getit at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. East Coast swing dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $10-$13. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

Stairwell Sisters, Red Molly at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $18.50-$19.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Roger Brown Blues Jam at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Monty Montgomery at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

LT3 at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Country Joe’s Open Mic With Halli Hammer at 7 p.m. at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists Hall, 1924 Cedar St. at Bonita. Suggested donation $5-$10.  

SATURDAY, FEB. 13 

CHILDREN  

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

EXHIBITIONS 

“The Modernists” Group art show. Opening reception at 6 p.m. at Expressions Gallery, 2035 Ashby Ave. 644-4930. www.expressionsgallery.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra “An Elegant Romance” at 8 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. Tickets are $25-$90. www.philharmonia.org 

University Symphony Orchestra at 8 p.m. at Hertz Hall, UC campus. Tickets are $5-$15. 642-4864. http://music.berkeley.edu 

Masters of Persian Music at 8 p.m. at Zellerbach Hall, UC campus. Pre-concert talk by Francesco Spagnolo at 7 p.m.. Tickets are $26-$60. 642-9988. 

“Love Songs and Chocolate” Romantic songs from classical to jazz at 7:30 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, One Lawson Rd., Kensington. Tickes are $20 and include dessert buffet. 525-0302. 

Miriam Abramowitsch and Friends Chamber music at 7:30 p.m. at Crowden School, 1475 Rose St. Tickets are $10-$15.409-2416.  

The Chamber Unit “This Is for Sun Ra” with Eddie Gale at 8:30 and 10 p.m. at Flux 53 Theater, 5306 Foothil Blvd., at Fairfax, Oakland. Tickets are $10-$15. 842-8841. www.flux53.com 

“Whipped: QTPOC Recipes for Love, Sex & Disaster” by Mangoes with Chili at 9 p.m. at La Peña Cultural Center. Cost is $8-$12. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

Foggy Gulch Band, old time and bluegrass, at 9:30 p.m. at Albatross, 1822 San Pablo Ave. Cost is $3. 843-2473. www.albatrosspub.com 

Gypsy Stringz at 9 p.m. at Ashkenaz. Dance lesson at 8 p.m. Cost is $12-$15. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com  

Sage Jazz Trio at 7 p.m. at Chester’s Bay View Cafe, 1508 Walnut St. 849-9995. 

Loudon Wainwright at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $24.50-$25.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

Destani Wolf “Love and the Blues” at 8 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $15. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Michael Shinio and Friends at 10 p.m. at Beckett’s Irish Pub, 2271 Shattuck Ave. 647-1790. www.beckettsirishpub.com 

Mortified at 9 p.m. at The Starry Plough. Cost is $8. 841-2082. www.starryploughpub.com 

Valentine’s Peace and Love Party with 60s tribute bands at 8 p.m. at Art house Gallery, 2905 Shattuck Ave. Donation $13. 472-3170. 

SUNDAY, FEB. 14 

CHILDREN 

Young Performers Flamenco Showcase at Ashkenaz at 3 p.m. Cost is $4-$6. 525-5054. www.ashkenaz.com 

FILM 

“Every War Has Two Losers – A Poet’s Meditation on Peace” with filmmaker Hayden Reiss at 7 p.m. at the Hillside Club, 2286 Ceda St. Tickets are $10-$12. www.kpfa.org 

MUSIC AND DANCE 

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra “An Elegant Romance” at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2345 Channing Way. Tickets are $25-$90. www.philharmonia.org 

“Love Fest” Alternative Valentine’s Day with Aya de Leon, Yosimar Reyes, Amani at 8 p.m. at La Peña. Cost is $10-$12-$14. 849-2568. www.lapena.org 

NorCal Theatre Organ Society Pops Concert by Donna Parker on Historical Wurlitzer at 2:30 p.m. at Berkeley Community Theatre, 1930 Allston Way. Cost is $15 at door. First-Timers for free. 415-861-7082. www.norcaltos.org 

“Love Songs and Chocolate” Romantic songs from classical to jazz at 1 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, One Lawson Rd., Kensington. Tickes are $20 and include dessert buffet. 525-0302. 

Mardi Gras Zydeco with Andre Thierry & the Zydeco Magic from 3 to 7 p.m. at St. Marks Catholic Church Gym, 159 Harbour Way, Richmond. Come in costume. Tickets are $15, children under 12 free. 236-9632. 

Cindy Kallet & Grey Larsen at 8 p.m. at Wisteria Ways, 383 61st St., Oakland. Donations $15-$20. Reservations strongly recommended. info@WisteriaWays.org 

Jeff Marrs and the Red Planet Lovers at 4:30 p.m. at the Jazzschool. Cost is $18. 845-5373. www.jazzschool.com 

Nashville Bluegrass Band at 8 p.m. at Freight and Salvage. Cost is $20.50-$21.50. 548-1761. www.freightandsalvage.org 

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

When Don Reed hits the stage at the Marsh’s newly opened Berkeley venue, he traverses it in slow motion—running, dancing, winking and giving thumbs up to the audience—before he grabs the white hat hanging from a street sign that bears the name of his show: East 14th. 

He doesn’t resemble the self-image of its subtitle, “True Tales of a Reluctant Player.” But, popping his fingers, getting a beat going, he launches into his story of growing up in the 1970s around different ends of what’s now International Boulevard in Oakland, and how he migrated from his stepfather’s strict Jehovah Witness guidance, knocking on doors at 7 a.m. (to the derision of his schoolmates), to his natural—way natural—father’s abode farther south in the ghetto, a party house presided over by the humorous man with a huge afro and white cape who Reed says he didn’t recognize as a career pimp for quite a while. “I thought he was just into hats!” 

In between these “bipolar” but proximate worlds, Reed captures his fellow students, the ladies of the evening, neighborhood characters—and himself, “Blinky”—syncopating the quick-change mimicry he manages with fluid ease with his long-lost ocular tic, a shyly inquisitive witness, though not for Jehovah. 

Don Reed is a professional entertainer with an impressive resume. He knows how to catch and hold an audience’s attention, how to build a rhythm and bring everybody into it. By halfway through his show last rainy Friday, Reed had the audience laughing steadily, including those who’d just been smiling a few minutes before.  

Whether it’s teenaged Reed doing up his hair with butter, the only thing in the house, then skating to a meltdown and the attendant flies around Lake Merritt, or his ultra-gay brother beating up any attacker, because he used everythong in his arsenal without scruple, Reed teases out every odd situation as a chapter in his own tale, sidestepping stereotypes without downplaying the evil undertow of the street, or the unapologetic self-awareness of some of its direst hustlers who try to nudge Reed into a better scene. 

It’s not your usual coming-of-age story, much less your usual ghetto coming-of-age story. But it drew laughter and cries of recognition, not necessarily dependent on where any responsive spectator grew up. The eccentricities of Reed’s tale touch on quite a few truisms, and that’s what keeps it flying—the interest in something unexpected, yet discovering the familiar even there.  

It’s really an articulated stream of bits and routines, Reed narrating and playing tout le monde. The way he articulates the quick scenes, casting back sometimes for a sly reference or repetition, lifts the show above mere tour-de-force or open-ended stand-up. 

While not exactly theater, Reed’s polished riffing has become an autobiographical cabaret, a gallery of the faces, voices, walks that surrounded him—and as he points out in conclusion, if “it takes a whole village to raise a child, it takes the ghetto to make a man.” He then dances out his characters one more time, not so much for a curtain call, but to tell the audience, amusingly enough, “What I guess Donny learned from me,” through their mouths and mannerisms. 

Like Rabelais’ motto over the gate of the Abbey of Theleme, the slogan for Don Reed’s solo undertaking might be his father’s recurring jibe, “Can you dig it? It can be dug—by me.”  

Making his last bow, Reed referred the audience to information in the lobby and the website for missey.org, which helps young women get off the streets, a message Reed’s pimp father made sure got delivered to his son--who got out, but forgot nothing. 

East 14th: True Tales of a  

Reluctant Player 

A solo show by Don Reed at 9 p.m. Fridays and at 8 p.m. Saturdays through Feb. 13 at the New Marsh—Berkeley, 2120 Allston Way. $20–$35 sliding scale. Reserved seats, $50. (800) 838-3006. themarsh.org.