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Teresa Mina was a San Francisco janitor, member of Service Employees Union Local 87, when she was fired because the company said she didn't have legal immigration documents.  Immigration and Customs Enforcement told her employer to fire 463 workers because they lack legal immigration status.  She told her story to David Bacon the day before she returned to Mexico.
David Bacon
Teresa Mina was a San Francisco janitor, member of Service Employees Union Local 87, when she was fired because the company said she didn't have legal immigration documents. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told her employer to fire 463 workers because they lack legal immigration status. She told her story to David Bacon the day before she returned to Mexico.
 

News

Berkeley Gets $1.8 Million for BART Plaza Improvements

By Bay City News
Wednesday July 28, 2010 - 11:09:00 PM

Berkeley has landed $1.8 million in funding from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to improve downtown's central BART plaza, according to the Berkeley mayor's office. 

The city completed plans for the renovations years ago, proposing a complete overhaul of the plaza which was promised to create a more pedestrian-friendly center which improved access to BART and AC Transit. 

The design for the downtown plaza includes cafe seating, new landscaping, lighting improvements, and new features to improve storm water management. The city will also be creating a plan to redesign the rotunda above the BART station entrance. 

 


Many AC Transit Employees Still Out

By Jeff Shuttleworth (BCN)
Wednesday July 28, 2010 - 11:07:00 PM

A high rate of employee absenteeism is continuing to plague AC Transit 10 days after it imposed a new contract on its employees, a bus agency spokesman said. 

Bus driver absenteeism has run about 15 to 20 percent per day and has forced AC Transit to cancel some routes, spokesman Clarence Johnson said. 

AC Transit's board voted on June 30 to impose a new contract after the collapse of three months of talks between the bus agency and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 192, which represents 1,750 employees, including 1,200 bus drivers. The new contract took effect July 18. 

Management at the bus agency, which serves parts of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, said the high rate of absenteeism began when the new contract was imposed and alleged it is due to a sickout by employees. 

But ATU Local 192 lead negotiator Claudia Hudson said today that the union was not on a sickout and asserted the drivers were doing the best they could under the new contract. 

"AC Transit is creating havoc" by having a new contract and a new schedule, she said, adding, "AC Transit is putting service on the street in a different way and it's not working." 

Hudson said workers also don't like the way management is treating them. 

"We are not cattle, dogs and horses," she said. "We are people." 

She said management has asked drivers to work long hours under the new contract. 

But Johnson said there's no difference in work schedules for drivers. 

He admitted that drivers are asked to work split shifts in which they take long breaks in the middle of their schedules, but he said that's not unusual in the transit world because transit agencies want to make sure they have enough drivers available during their busy morning and evening commute periods. 

He also said drivers are paid during their breaks, which last as long as five hours. 

He said the main difference under the new contract is that workers now have to make health insurance premium payments and co-pays. 

The goal of the change is to save $15.7 million in labor costs to help close a projected $56 million funding gap for the two year period ending in June 2011, Johnson said. 

On July 16, Alameda County Superior Court Judge Frank Roesch ordered AC Transit to enter into binding arbitration with ATU Local 192 to try to reach an agreement on a new contract. 

The two sides have agreed on an arbitrator, but no new talks have been scheduled so far. 

The two sides will return to Roesch's courtroom on Friday, when ATU Local 192 will ask him to issue an injunction that would overturn the new contract imposed by management. 

AC Transit officials said that if Roesch overturns the new contract, the agency might appeal to avoid resorting to layoffs and a drastic reduction in weekend service. 

"When it comes to service cuts, we have virtually reached our limit," Interim General Manager Mary King said in a statement. "The only thing left, the only way to really handle our financial shortfall, is to eliminate all weekend service." 

 

 

 

 

 


Flash: Two More Arson Fires Hit Berkeley

By Jeff Shuttleworth (BCN)
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 10:37:00 PM

Berkeley was hit by two more arsons overnight, a week after police arrested a man whom they believe could be responsible for a string of nine recent fires in the South Campus area of the city. 

Berkeley police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Kusmiss said officers responded to a report of a debris fire at 2915 Telegraph Avenue, near Russell Street, at about 11:07 p.m. Monday. 

She said a large, blue city of Berkeley recycling bin full of paper was on fire in front of the reported address and had been burned half-way to the ground. 

Kusmiss said the bin had been full of shredded paper but the Berkeley Fire Department was unable to determine the cause of the fire. No suspects or witnesses were located, and the fire was classified as suspicious, she said. 

Then at about 2 a.m. today, a taxi cab driver flagged down a patrol officer to report a garbage can on fire in the 2900 block of Telegraph Avenue, near Ashby Avenue, Kusmiss said. 

The officer found a city of Berkeley recycling bin in flames, and three people who were in the area were stopped and detained nearby at the intersection of Ashby Avenue and Wheeler Street, but they weren't arrested, she said.  

Kusmiss said the three people were cooperative and didn't smell of smoke, but police took their names and haven't ruled them out as suspects. 

Last Tuesday, police arrested 25-year-old Travis Churchill of Berkeley for allegedly setting a fire in a recycling bin in front of Sam's Market at 2312 Telegraph Ave. A passerby reported the fire at about 3:50 a.m. that day. 

Churchill was charged with one count of arson is being held in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail. 

Berkeley police said last week that detectives believe there was "a definitive link" between the Sam's Market arson and eight other recent suspicious fires in the area, but at this point Churchill has only been charged in connection with the Sam's Market fire. 

Kusmiss said today that there had not been any more suspicious fires or arsons since Churchill was arrested until the two overnight fires, which she said "came as a surprise." 

She said the two overnight fires share the same method of operating as the previous series of fires from July 16 to July 20. 

The new fires are out of the immediate geographic area of the previous series, but detectives haven't ruled out the possibility that there were other suspects in the original series or that there might be copycat suspects, Kusmiss said. 

No one has been injured in any of the fires, but Kusmiss said police are concerned because many of the fires have been next to vehicles and businesses. 

"A structure fire in the early morning hours when people are sleeping could potentially cause a tragic situation," she said. 

She said anyone who witnessed or was in the area of any of the fires and might have seen a suspicious individual or individuals should call the Berkeley Police Department's property crimes unit at (510) 981-5737 or its non-emergency line at (510) 981-5900. 

 

 


Tenants’ Convention Nominates Rent Board Candidates

By Steven Finacom
Monday July 26, 2010 - 07:45:00 PM
Flyer for Tenants’ Convention
Flyer for Tenants’ Convention
The ten individuals seeking the progressive slate nomination answered audience
              questions after making short prepared statements. From left to right, Furtado,
              Harr, Stephens, Webster, Sot-Vigil, Townley, Dodsworth, Blake, Levenson,
              Perezvelez.
Steven Finacom
The ten individuals seeking the progressive slate nomination answered audience questions after making short prepared statements. From left to right, Furtado, Harr, Stephens, Webster, Sot-Vigil, Townley, Dodsworth, Blake, Levenson, Perezvelez.

About one hundred Berkeley residents gathered at the South Berkeley Senior Center on Sunday afternoon as a Berkeley Tenants Convention to nominate “the next progressive Rent Board slate” for the November 2010 election. 

 

Out of ten individuals offering themselves for nomination, five Rent Stabilization Board incumbents and one newcomer—Asa Dodsworth—were ultimately selected by secret ballot as the six-member slate. 

 

Current Rent Board Chair Lisa Stephens led the vote tally followed by fellow incumbent Dave Blake. Incumbents Pam Webster and Kathy Harr tied for third, and Jesse Townley placed fifth. Four of those selected are previously elected members of the Board. Harr was appointed earlier this year, to fill a vacancy. 

 

“We have an excellent slate. The five people we’ve chosen are already working and can continue to work on important issues,” said Stephens after the results were announced. 

 

“The sixth person the convention chose is a homeboy”, she added. “ Asa Dodsworth grew up in Berkeley, he went to Berkeley High School, he understands the issues, and he’s a hard worker.” 

 

Others seeking the slate endorsement but not selected were Ipsheeta Furtado, Marcia Levenson, George Perezvelez, and Alejandro Soto-Vigil. 

 

Any Berkeley resident who attended, signed in, and stayed through the speeches and questions was entitled to a ballot. Ninety-eight ballots were cast and tallied. The voting followed an instant run-off system, in which the last place voter getter in any round was eliminated and the next place votes on the ballots for them were transferred to other candidates. 

 

All but Perezvelez pledged to back the final slate, rather than running independently if they were not selected. According to the rules of the convention—announced before the voting—his first place votes were not counted and his second place votes were immediately transferred to other candidates. 

 

There was little visible disagreement on core issues between the candidates as they spoke, although some chose to emphasize different topics and themes. 

 

They identified a range of issues facing renters in Berkeley, including: 

 

· the problem of “soft story” buildings vulnerable in an earthquake, and disclosures for tenants about seismic condition when they sign their leases; 

 

· difficulty for renters in accessing recycling and green technologies for their units; 

 

· education for tenants unaware of their rights under Berkeley’s rent stabilization and eviction for good cause ordinance 

 

Incumbent Dave Blake said the Rent Board needed to continue to “push the City government for more progressive housing policies and to advocate for tenants rights.”  

 

“I came to the Board as a landlord”, he said, “But I was a tenant for 30 years. We have it so good in Berkeley because we have this strong rent control, and people tend to get complacent about it.” 

 

He said that while city leaders talk about building affordable new housing units, the rents for those created are often above those paid by existing low-income tenants. “Whenever anyone brings up ‘affordable housing’, ask them what they’re doing about existing housing,” he suggested. 

 

Current Rent Board Chair Lisa Stephens said she came to Berkeley as a student in 1976, “and have been a tenant this entire time.” I’ve worked on every campaign where we had to do something about housing”, she said. “I would like you to return me to the Board so I can continue to do good work.” 

 

“The economic downtown just didn’t just affect people with property and money”, she added. “We can’t let the hard times translate into homeless people, poor people, the disabled, losing their rights…we have to be more diligent now because the pressure’s on.” 

 

She said a key priority for her was getting the City of Berkeley’s soft-story ordinance. Berkeley has a large number of “soft story” buildings, often apartment complexes, where the main structure sits over a garage and is vulnerable to collapse in a strong earthquake. The City has mandated their retrofit against earthquakes, but policy on the source of funding—particularly whether rents are increased to pay for the retrofits—has not yet been established.  

 

Pam Webster said she had been evicted twice, the second time while pregnant. “It was one of the most upsetting, disruptive experiences of my life,” she said. She has lived in Berkeley for 23 years. 

 

“We probably have the strongest ordinance protecting tenants in the country, and we also have a smart and dedicated staff”, she added. 

 

Kathy Harr, a relative newcomer to the Board, said she had worked for twelve years on tenant’s rights issues, initially in San Francisco. Last year she moved to Berkeley and bought a foreclosed duplex. “Now I am a small landlord”, she said. “I believe that housing is a human right.” 

 

Jesse Townley said he moved to Berkeley in 1989, and has volunteered for many years at 920 Gilman (the northwest Berkeley music venue) and KALX radio, and was an early member of the Green Party. He also ran for City Council some years ago. 

 

He also emphasized earthquake retrofitting of rental housing. “Earthquake safety is literally life and death—people being crushed under concrete. Our city straddles the next likely earthquake fault to go.”  

 

“I was born and raised in Berkeley, and I’ve watched my friends move to Oakland where it’s affordable”, Asa Dodsworth said. “Rent control is amazing, and I didn’t know that until I traveled outside Berkeley.” 

 

He stressed seismic retrofits, public information for tenants, and more opportunities to participate in environmental practices such as recycling for Berkeley’s renter population. 

 

A number of the candidates noted recycling as an issue, saying that on practical matters as small as getting a green container for household kitchen waste, or having sufficient recycling bins for apartment complexes, Berkeley lags in service, compared to what is done for single-family homeowners. 

 

Marcia Levenson said she had moved to Berkeley 24 years ago, earned a Master’s Degree from UC Berkeley, and is now partially disabled, and had served on the Community Health Commission. “We all live here, at least we’re trying to, thanks to the rent stabilization ordinance.” 

 

She identified priorities of an anti-harassment ordinance for tenants, strengthening habitability regulations and, like the other candidates, implementing the City’s soft story ordinance. 

 

Ipsheeta Furtado said she was a second-generation immigrant, and graduated from UC in 2008. “My ability to live in a safe space with the small savings I have is not only a gift, but a right,” she said. She encouraged the selection of a diverse slate. 

 

George Perezvelez, who is on the Police Review Commission and the Commission on Labor, described himself as “gay, Hispanic, and opinionated” and said he had moved to Berkeley with his partner nearly ten years ago. “Please make the slate diverse,” he said. “Do not gentrify the Rent Board.” 

 

Alejandro Soto Vigil arrived late at the meeting but had been nominated from the floor. He made a brief statement during the question and answer period, and answered questions. 

 

A screening committee including representatives from the Peace and Freedom Party, CalPIRG, the Cal Democrats, Berkeley Citizens Action, the Gray Panthers, and the Green Party of Alameda County had interviewed nine of the ten candidates in advance of the meeting. A table showing the Screening Committee recommendations was distributed to those attending.  

 

City Councilmember Kriss Worthington moderated most of the event, introducing speakers and making announcements. Council members Jesse Arreguin and Max Anderson were also present, along with four School Board candidates, other sitting members of the Rent Board who are not up for re-election, and other elected officials including EBMUD Board member Andy Katz. 


First Person: "This Law is Very Unjust!"

By Teresa Mina, as told to David Bacon, New America Media
Monday July 26, 2010 - 07:17:00 PM
Teresa Mina was a San Francisco janitor, member of Service Employees Union Local 87, when she was fired because the company said she didn't have legal immigration documents.  Immigration and Customs Enforcement told her employer to fire 463 workers because they lack legal immigration status.  She told her story to David Bacon the day before she returned to Mexico.
David Bacon
Teresa Mina was a San Francisco janitor, member of Service Employees Union Local 87, when she was fired because the company said she didn't have legal immigration documents. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told her employer to fire 463 workers because they lack legal immigration status. She told her story to David Bacon the day before she returned to Mexico.
David Bacon

I come from Tierra Blanca, a very poor town in Veracruz. After my children's father abandoned us, I decided to come to the U.S. There's just no money to survive. We couldn't continue to live that way.  

We all felt horrible when I decided to leave. My three kids, my mom, and two sisters are still living at home in Veracruz. The only one supporting them now is me. 

My kids' suffering isn't so much about money. I've been able to send enough to pay the bills. What they lack is love. They don't have a father; they just have me. My mother cares for them, but it's not the same. They always ask me to come back. They say maybe we'll be poor, but we'll be together.  

I haven't been able to go back to see them for six years, because I don't have any papers to come back to the U.S. afterwards. To cross now is very hard and expensive.  

My first two years in San Francisco I cleaned houses. The work was hard, and I was lonely. It's different here. Because I'm Latina and I don't know English, if I go into a store, they watch me from head to foot, like I'm a robber.  

After two years, I got a job as a janitor, making $17.85 per hour. Cleaning houses only paid $10. But then I was molested sexually. Another worker exposed himself to me and my friend. When we went to the company and filed a complaint, they took me off the job and kept me out of work a month. They didn't pay me all that time.That's when my problems started, because I called the union and asked them to help me. After that, the company called me a problematic person, because I wouldn't be quiet and I fought for my rights. Sometimes they wouldn't give me any work. 

When you work as a janitor you're mostly alone. You pick up trash, clean up the kitchen and vacuum. These are simple things, and they tire you out, but basically it's a good job. Lots of times we don't take any breaks, though. To finish everything, sometimes we don't even stop for lunch. 

No one ever said anything to me about immigration for four years. But then the company gave a letter to my coworkers, saying they wouldn't be able to continue working because they had no papers. About 40 people got them at first. Eventually I got a letter too. 

The person from human relations said immigration had demanded the papers for all the people working at the company. She said 300 people didn't have good papers. People whose papers were bad had a month to give the company other documents. If the immigration authorities said these were no good too, we'd be fired. She said the immigration might come looking for us where we lived.  

We had a meeting at the union about the letters. Some people in that meeting had papers, and came to support those of us who didn't. They said when they first came here they had to cross the border like we did, in order to find work.  

They complained that so many of us were being fired that the workload increased for people who were left. The union got weaker too. We're all paying $49 a month in union dues, and that adds up to a lot. We're paying that money so that the union will defend us if we get fired like this. In that meeting we said we wanted equal rights. No one should be fired unless the immigration arrests us. We don't want the company to enforce immigration law. The company isn't the law. 

The company gave me no work in December and January. I was desperate. I had no money. I had to move in with someone else, because I couldn't pay rent. I couldn't send money home to my children. 

I was so stressed I fell and broke my arm, and was out on disability. Then I went back to work, and when I went to get my check, the woman in the office wouldn't pay me until I showed them new immigration papers. She gave me three days to bring then, and said if I didn't I'd be fired. I asked her, "so you're the immigration?" 

I felt really bad. I spent so many years killing myself in that job, and I needed to keep it so I could send money home. But I couldn't keep fighting. I didn't want my problems to get even bigger - I could tell things would only get worse. 

I went back after three days, and told the company I didn't have any good papers. I asked for my pay for the hours I'd worked, and my vacation. I told them I had a flight back to Mexico and needed my check. They only paid me 60 hours, though they owed me 82. They knew I was leaving and couldn't fight them over it. The union did get me something. If I come back with papers within two years, I'll get my job back. 

This law is very unjust. We're doing jobs that are heavy and dirty. We work day and night to help our children have a better life, or just to eat. My work is the only support for my family. Now my children won't have what they need. 

Many people are frightened now. They don't want to complain or fight about anything because they're afraid they might get fired. They think if we keep fighting, the immigration will pick us up. They have families here. What will happen to their children? Nobody knows. They worry that what's happened to me might happen to them.  

I can't afford to live here for months without working. I came to this country to work for my children. But if this is what happens because I've been fighting and struggling, I'd rather leave, and go home and live with my children. In the end, they need me more.  

So I guess I'll go back to Tierra Blanca. I'll work in the fields or try selling food there. My family says the economic situation at home is very hard. I'm not bringing much money home. But I like to work, and I know I'll find a way. 

 

Teresa Mina was a San Francisco janitor, member of Service Employees Union Local 87, when she was fired because the company said she didn't have legal immigration documents. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told her employer to fire 463 workers because they lack legal immigration status. She told her story to David Bacon the day before she returned to Mexico.


BAHA Opposes Library Demolitions; Council Approves Zoning Waiver for Library

By Peter Warfield (Partisan Position)
Monday July 26, 2010 - 06:13:00 PM

Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association (BAHA) has taken a formal position opposing demolition of Berkeley Public Library’s (BPL’s) South Branch Library, in a letter sent to the Planning Department earlier this month. 

Meantime, the City Council on July 6 approved the library’s permanent exemption from having to obtain variances for existing buildings that are to be renovated or demolished and replaced, and the Zoning Adjustments Board (ZAB) July 22 voted to approve use permits for Claremont and North Branch libraries, subject to the City Council’s exemption taking effect August 9. The use permits would allow the library to move forward with its renovation plans for the two libraries. 

The library’s plans for Claremont Branch included a cut of 913 linear feet of shelving for books and materials, which is 23% of the library’s figure for existing shelving of 4,098 linear feet. However, in a modest victory for critics of the cuts, the library’s director, Donna Corbeil, said at the July 14 meeting of the Board of Library Trustees that the the shelving cuts would be reduced. An attachment to the agenda showed a net shelving reduction of 574 linear feet, still a substantial number. The cuts would affect shelving for everything except Teen Magazines, Children “Programming,” and Holds (material from other library branches or library systems), which are to be increased by 34, 90, and 96 feet, respectively. The collection and media categories would be cut for all categories of users: adults, teens, and children. 

In addition to formal opposition on South Branch, expressed in comment on an upcoming Environmental Impact Report, BAHA’s president, Daniella Thompson, writes in the online BAHA News dated July 21, 2010, “We are dismayed to learn that the Library Board of Trustees is planning to demolish two branch libraries: West Berkeley and South Berkeley.” She adds, “The Library Bond Measure FF, which passed in the November 2008 election, promised an altogether different outcome.” 

Thompson goes on to say that “The West Berkeley Branch Library (William K. Bartges, 1923) was designated a Structure of Merit in 2003, and any application for a demolition permit should require CEQA review and a public hearing before the Landmarks Preservation Commission.” 

South Branch, Thompson writes, “designed by John Hans Ostwald in 1960, is one of Berkeley’s Mid-Century Modern gems.” 

Measure FF said the following: “Shall the City of Berkeley issue general obligation bonds not exceeding $26,000,000 to renovate, expand, and make seismic and access improvements at four neighborhood branch libraries, but not the Central Library, with annual reporting by the Library Board to the City Council?” 

Measure FF made no mention of demolition. 

According to a Planning Department memo to the City Council, the City Attorney has since advised that Measure FF funds may not be used for demolition, but could be used to rebuild libraries if funding for demolitions came from another source. As noted in a previous Commentary, the Planning Department said that this advice had been given orally, not in writing.  

Numerous members of the public have spoken at public meetings and written letters opposing the library’s plans, particularly the demolitions. 

At the City Council’s July 6, 2010 meeting, Council Member Susan Wengraf asked Director of Library Services Donna Corbeil “why the recommendation has been made that the two branches be demolished rather than be restored.” Ms. Wengraf said, “it would be useful for [the public] to know.” 

Ms. Corbeil replied as follows, according to the city’s unofficial text file provided by Certified Realtime Reporter [Note: “sic” means we are quoting what was written, even though it may not appear to be quite right]: 

 

“I am Donna Corbeil, director of the library. I think to speak to them together doesn’t do either one of those projects together [sic]. But the South Berkeley branch, we had extensive discussions there about the library and the architect looked at many options of trying to make that a functional library, to have as much square footage as we possibly could, and as you know there are two libraries also there. And brought forward several different options to the community, including keeping a portion of the current building. We also met I think at least three times with a subcommittee of the landmarks preservation commission to discussion [sic] the projects and options under consideration and held community meetings. It became clear in order to maximize that space to have as much library as we could and to function as efficiently as possible that a one-story option was preferred and that we could make best use of that site for the tool library and the library both with an entirely new building versus trying to keep one small section of the original building. So a lot of thought went into that, and it took many, many months to get to that place where the library board discussed that opening, I think at more than one meeting before they made that recommendation.” Ms. Corbeil continued: “The West branch project is a little bit – is not quite to that stage yet. We have held community meetings discussing the options. Again, the community – at the community meetings we talked about repainting the oldest portion of the building. As you know, it was added on to later on, and unfortunately, a large portion of the original building was destroyed in that addition at that time. And that branch is unique in that it houses the Berkeley Reads program which is our adult literacy program. And so trying to again maximize our space for both the Berkeley Reads program and Berkeley desire [sic] is to have one library so it runs more efficiently. Not to go on about it. But I think the board felt that was the best option for that community, given the space, a well functioning library, and to accommodate the needs of the literacy program. So that project is still under discussion as well.” 

“S. Wengraf: Thank you very much.” 

 

Peter Warfield is Executive Director of Library Users Association. Email: Libraryusers2004@yahoo.com. 

Previous articles about Library plans by the same author have appeared in the Berkeley Daily Planet ’s issues of May 22, June 25, and July 6, 2010. 

 


Press Release: ArnieVille’s Next Incarnation

From: CUIDO, Communities United In Defense of Olmstead
Monday July 26, 2010 - 06:11:00 PM

It’s been a month. We slept under the streetlights, marched, and protested the California budget cuts to disability programs in every way we could think of. Along the way, we achieved the distinction of Longest Running Disability Protest in US History. 

And still nothing’s changed in Sacramento. The governor and legislators talk about the budget, while In–Home Supportive Services, Medi-Cal, Adult Day Health Care, mental health rehabilitation, and other vital programs serving seniors, people with disabilities, and poor people await their fate on the cutting room table. 

So we’ve decided to change tactics. The people who brought you ArnieVille—CUIDO,Communities United in Defense of Olmstead—won’t be washing tin plates and sweeping the cement anymore. We’ve folded our campsite on Adeline Street in Berkeley and found a backyard home for our eight– foot–high statue of Arnie, with his stogie and his bloody ax. 

In short, we’ve closed camp and are taking it on the road. Our next phase will draw on the energies of people around the state to turn up the heat on Arnold. 

But first we’re celebrating. We marched with the Disability Pride parade in San Jose on Saturday and today, Monday, we are joining festivities honoring the Americans with Disabilities Act’s twentieth anniversary in both San Francisco and Hayward. These events vividly embody our mandate to uphold Olmstead, the Supreme Court decision which held that segregating people with disabilities in nursing homes constitutes a form of discrimination. 

ArnieVille was never solely about protest. It was a place of community and coalition, a meeting place, a place of mutual appreciation. We sang, hugged, made art, broke bread, and affirmed our right to be a part of the human community. ArnieVille was both a protest of what is wrong and a celebration of what is right. Our camp closed on a joyful, hopeful note, and now we praise the activists and politicians who labored to pass the ADA. 

We’ll miss our outdoor living room, our daily town hall meetings, our teas and singing circles. It was satisfying to collaborate with our sister organization, the Disabled People Outside Project, and gratifying to witness the community’s overwhelming support. There’s still much to do, but we know that, on some level, we’re changing the world. 

“ArnieVille” is not a brand. Like the Hoovervilles of the 1930s, ArnieVille camps may spring up wherever poor and vulnerable people band together to oppose the state’s savage budget cuts. We hope protest tent cities sprout on every median strip in California, perpetuating the original ArnieVille’s passion for justice and respect for all beings. 

To remain in touch with CUIDO, call 707-795-2890, or write to ArnieVille@gmail.com.


UC Berkeley's Fall Schedule: A Primer for Locals

By Steven Finacom
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:48:00 PM

While it is certainly possible to live in Berkeley without experiencing any direct connection to the University, the ebb and flow of campus life does influence life in the town, if only through the number of commuters on city streets or the amount of cheering coming out of Memorial Stadium. 

Although it’s still full summer, it’s also less than a month to the beginning of the Fall semester when some thirty-four thousand students will return to—or newly arrive in—Berkeley. 

Here are the key dates of the season, academic and athletic. 

One of the interesting situations to keep in mind is that there are home football games at Memorial Stadium this year on both the long Labor Day weekend, and the Thanksgiving weekend. 

Fall Semester officially begins on Thursday, August 19. That weekend—Saturday August 21 and Sunday, August 22—is move-in at the University’s residence halls. Students sharing triple rooms can move in on Saturday, everyone else on Sunday. 


Since the vast majority of freshmen students these days stay in the residence halls during their first year, expect thousands of students, often accompanied by their anxious / proud families, in town on those days, looking for loading zones around the Southside Units and the Foothill housing on Northside, or arriving at the Clark Kerr campus, as well as filling local hotels and motels. 

During that weekend and the next several days, continuing students will return in a less organized but much larger flood of arrivals. 

Welcome Week activities, with various on-campus events, begin on Monday, August 23 and continue through Friday, August 27. There’s a schedule at http://welcome.berkeley.edu/ 

Classes start on Thursday, August 26. 

Home football games don’t start until the first weekend in September this year. On Saturday, September 5 4, Cal plays UC Davis at Memorial Stadium, a rare matchup with a sister UC campus other than UCLA. 

One imagines this game could draw crowds because of the close proximity of the Davis campus—just an hour or so by car, making it the nearest opponent Cal can play other than Stanford and San Jose State—and the traditional appeal of the Bay Area’s early Fall warm weather. 

This is also the last home season at Memorial before renovation of the Stadium fully begins and the team moves to AT&T Park in San Francisco for a season. 

Most game start times these days are subject to the tyranny of television. Broadcasters influence the schedule, so exact starting times may move during the season, and West Coast games are often pushed into the later hours. If past years are any guide, Memorial will see a number of late afternoon or even evening kick-off times. 

That weekend of Sept. 5 and 6 is also Labor Day weekend. It’s followed, on Saturday, September 11, by a home game against Colorado, the new member of the expanded “Pac-11”. 

October 8-10 is Homecoming and Parents weekend—coupled with the game against UCLA in Berkeley on the 9th—so expect a full crowd at the Stadium and on the streets of Berkeley, as well as attending academic and other events on campus on Friday the 8th and Saturday the 9th

The next home game is against Arizona State on Saturday, October 23. 

The campus commemorates the Veteran’s Day on Thursday, November 11, this year. Classes aren’t held that day and staff have the day off. 


The next home game is Cal verses Oregon on Saturday, November 13. The following week is Big Game week, with the traditional Bonfire Rally at the Greek Theater on Friday, November 19, and the game against Stanford in Berkeley this year on Saturday, November 20th

Like the UCLA game on the 9th, this is often a sellout, with a crowd exceeding seventy thousand at Memorial Stadium and, of course, filling the streets around campus. 

Thanksgiving follows on Thursday the 25 and, of course, that day and the 26th are campus holidays without staff or classes. 

Big Game is usually the last game of the season. This year, in a somewhat unusual arrangement, Washington comes to Memorial Stadium for a final home football contest of the season on Saturday November 27

While Washington’s football fortunes have fallen in recent years this is often one of the bigger matches on the Cal schedule and the Huskies attract both large local, and traveling, contingents of fans. It will also be the last home game at Memorial for at least two years. 

So it will be a curious Thanksgiving four-day weekend, presumably quiet but also punctuated by what could be a well-attended football game. 

Friday, December 10, is the last day of classes. Finals begin on Monday, December 13 and run through Friday, December 17. If the past is any guide, all that week students will be leaving Berkeley as fast as they finish their exams. 

Staff remain on the job, of course. Then Thursday and Friday, December 23 and 24 are campus work holidays this year (with Christmas falling on Saturday). 

The following week will be quiet, since students are gone and it’s a time many staff take vacation days to combine with the four paid holidays days of the season. 

Thursday and Friday December 30 and 31 are campus work holidays as well, so the campus and its environs should be pretty quiet from Wednesday the 22nd through the first week in January. Many departments shut down completely. Unlike last year, however, there are not mandatory employee furlough days this season. 

Regular work resumes on Monday, January 3, but the campus will still be academically quiescent. Spring semester classes don’t start until Tuesday, January 18, the day after the Martin Luther King, Jr. work holiday. 

If you want to look at the official campus schedule—including teaching days and holidays—as far ahead as 2013, check this link for the Academic Calendar. Here's the schedule that guides all academic event planning on the campus. 


Kenneth Harlan Simmons,Professor Emeritus of Architecture,June 28, 1933 – July 6, 2010

By Gloria Burkhalter
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 09:39:00 AM
Kenneth Harlan Simmons
Kenneth Harlan Simmons

Kenneth Harlan Simmons was born on June 28, 1933, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and died July 6, 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa. He received a degree in Biology from Harvard University and a degree in Architecture from the University of California. He became a faculty member at Berkeley’s School of Architecture in 1969. Professor Simmons played a lead role in helping the University to divest from South Africa. After retiring from U.C. Berkeley in 1994, he relocated to Johannesburg where he taught at the University of the Witwatersrand and pioneered numerous community projects.  

Professor Simmons also worked as an architect and planner, specializing in community development and urban planning. He was a partner with the firms Ishimaru, Oneill and Simmons, and Community Design Collaborative. Among some of the noted work for which he was the lead partner is the Dock of the Bay and the Black Repertory Community Center in Berkeley, and Robert Pitts Public Housing, San Francisco. 

As a leading Bay Area community activist, Professor Simmons served as Director of the New Oakland Committee; Coordinator for Housing and Community Development for the S.F. Equal Opportunity Council; and Project Director of the Urban America Hunts Point Multi-Service Center, Bronx, N.Y. From 1975 to 1997, he served on the EBMUD Board of Directors. 

For more information about Professor Simmons, see this site. 

On Saturday, August 21, 2010, a memorial service will be held at Merritt College, the Newton-Seale Conference Room, R-Building, 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA, 94619. The service will commence at 3:00 pm. 

 


Ronald Harold Stevenson III, August 3, 1951 – July 19, 2010

By Sonia Waters
Monday July 26, 2010 - 07:45:00 PM
Ronald Harold Stevenson III
Ronald Harold Stevenson III

Ronald Harold Stevenson III, a Berkeley community leader for over 30 years, died suddenly on the afternoon of July 19th as a result of a brain aneurysm. Mr. Stevenson is survived by his wife of 33 years Linda, and their three children Sonia (Waters), Tania Jean (TJ) and Ronald IV. 

Stevenson was known throughout the Bay Area as an activist who led several important efforts for social justice. In 1980 he served as a district representative for the United Auto Workers (UAW) at the Ford Motor plant in Mahwa, New Jersey. He led the effort to change the name of Grove Street (in Berkeley and later Oakland) to Martin Luther King Jr Way. He also led the effort to name the ASUC Student Union and Plaza at UC Berkeley after Dr. King. 

An early member of the Black Panther Party, he later became a devoted follower of Dr. King's philosophy of non-violent activism. At the age of 16 he worked in the free breakfast program established by the Black Panther Party in Oakland, CA. He later turned his efforts to working with young people and is best known for his work in establishing the Break-the-Cycle program. This ground breaking tutorial program brought trained hundreds of undergraduate tutors from UC Berkeley to work with disadvantaged children at schools in Berkeley, Oakland and Richmond, CA. In 2001 he received an award from KQED for his leadership of the program. 

Stevenson was born and raised in Berkeley. He graduated from Berkeley High School in 1969 and received his Bachelor's degree in African American Studies from UC Berkeley in 1990. 

Friends and colleagues remembered his life: 

"Ronnie...a loyal friend and colleague...bright, passionate,
inspirational..and a true testimony for all of us at Malcolm X School for
his undying committment and dedication to raising student achievement and
setting high academic standards for all children. I feel honored to have
known him.“--Cheryl Chin, principal, Malcolm X Elementary School, Berkeley, CA 

“Ronnie initiated one of the most popular courses in the African American Studies department, "The Political Philosophy of Martin Luther King, Jr.", and was an active supporter of the department both as a student and later as a university staff member. His enthusiasm and spirit will be greatly missed.” – Professor Charles P. Henry, Chair of the African American Studies Department, UC Berkeley 

“Ronnie Stevenson was a remarkable organizer and community leader. He had a unique ability to inspire others to pursue goals that seemed out of reach and unattainable. Whether the issue was fighting Apartheid in South Africa, changing the name of Grove Street to MLK Jr. Way, or creating an innovative tutorial program for disadvantaged youth, Ronnie never allowed himself to be deterred or de-railed. He was a true champion of justice and a visionary. – Pedro A. Noguera, Peter L. Agnew Professor of Education, New York University 

Berkeley Mayor Tom Bates added, “Ronnie’s passion for serving at-risk youth moved policy makers in cities and school districts throughout the Bay Area to think more creatively about how to meet their needs. His passing is a major loss and he will be missed.” 

“His work benefited many children throughout the Bay Area, and its impact will be felt for years to come,” said State Senator Loni Hancock. 

A memorial service will be held at the Alumni House at UC Berkeley on August 13th at 5pm to commemorate the life of Ronnie Stevenson.


Opinion

Editorials

Living Out Life Right Up to the End

By Becky O'Malley
Monday July 26, 2010 - 10:02:00 PM

Sorting through my desk this week as part of the annoying process of vacating the Planet office, I came across a little spiral bound book entitled Folio. It is a lovely privately printed book of personal and political essays sent to me last year by a frequent Planet correspondent, and I realized I hadn’t gotten anything from him for a month or so. With a feeling of apprehension, I did a Google search, which quickly confirmed my worst fears.

From nola.com, the website of the New Orleans Times Picayune: Marvin Chachere, teacher and jazz saxophonist, dies at 82. The obituary reported that Mr. Chachere had died on June 17 in a San Pablo nursing home, and went on to describe a long and varied life that had spanned several states and at least three continents, as well as listing a host of family members left behind. 

If you’re still wondering what you’d like to be when you grow up, as many of us are, even into our sixties and beyond, you’d do well to study Marvin Chachere’s last years. According to nola.com, he retired in 1979 from UC Extension, where he’d founded the Oxford-Berkeley exchange program, and went on to a couple of stints teaching in China.  

By the time we got to know him, he had a San Pablo address, possibly the nursing home where he was reported to have lived at the time of his death. We met him only once in person, when he came to a Planet open house, but unfortunately he had laryngitis that day so we never talked face to face. But he sent us and others a steady stream of incisive commentaries, mostly on topics that elegantly explicated a classic Northern California left-liberal point of view, sometimes in very sharp language.  

A search of the Planet archives yields more than 300 hits on his name on our site alone, everything from snappy short letters to long thoughtful essays. George Bush provided an ample target for Marvin, as for everyone, but he also had plenty to say on other matters. In the last two years he’d taken to describing himself as being “in my ninth decade”, and it was clear that he wanted to share with the world whatever wisdom he’d acquired over the years. 

A frequent meditation was on growing up in the South in a family with some African ancestry, “Negro” in the usage of the day. Barack Obama’s unexpected ascent to the presidency sparked several thoughtful riffs on the theme of what it means to be “mixed race”. Marvin’s jazz background was evident in these pieces—his style was to take a current topic and give it his own spin. His views on the significance of race were uniquely his, but everyone could learn something from them. 

What’s remarkable is that his great body of work, at least the part of it that we were pleased and honored to transmit, was produced after he’d already retired not once but twice, from careers distinguished in their own right. Anyone who thinks that retiring from paid employment means a free pass to vege-ing out in Florida should think again—retirement should be a golden opportunity, as it was for Marvin Chachere, to do something significant that you’ve never tried before.  

No, more than an opportunity: perhaps an obligation. Many’s the time in the past three years that I’ve felt like giving up, and then I thought of Marvin Chachere out there in San Pablo keeping on keeping on, and was ashamed to be a quitter at my relatively young age. 

His tenacity was remarkable—when I realized he hadn’t written anything for a little while, I was pretty sure he must be dead, because only Death Himself would be enough to stop Marvin Chachere’s flood of illuminating prose. I’ll miss him, and I’m sure our readers will too. 

Another tenacious survivor who persisted in sharing his accumulated wisdom left us last week. Daniel Schorr died with his boots on at the age of 93, lucky enough to be intellectually vigorous until the end. It’s now customary to refer to the men and women who fought in the armed services in World War II as the greatest generation, but others from that period whose principal public service was not in the military also had great impact. 

Dan Schorr was New York City College Class of ’39, the product of a culture and an era when the world had turned upside down, when the great depression forced thoughtful people to reconsider the economic underpinnings of the political system. His obituary in the New York Times said that “ in writing his memoir he had come to realize that ‘being poor, fat, Jewish, fatherless’ had made him feel like an outsider, and that he had ‘achieved identity’ through his journalism.” 

He certainly achieved identity. To many his most significant achievement was making Richard Nixon’s enemies list, and (as the legend has it) not finding out about it until he read the list on air. That’s a feat which rivals Tom Sawyer’s being present at his own funeral. But he never forgot where he came from, never forgot what it felt like to be an outsider. 

NPR this weekend was flooded with Dan Schorr reminiscences, since his retirement career was as resident wise man on public radio. . Several of the pieces chronicled his love of music and penchant for singing at every opportunity. On the Sunday Weekend Edition show, Liane Hansen recalled a conversation in which Dan Schorr sang, impeccably, what he called the only song he could still sing from memory after three-quarters of a century, fellow City College alumnus Yip Harburg’s iconic Brother Can You Spare a Dime

That’s the identity which Daniel Schorr shared with his listeners in the past two decades. He frequently reminded his listeners that simple, selfish answers to complex questions were usually wrong, that compassion was mandatory for a sane political system, and that you should never give up trying to get it right. Now that members of the older generation of realistic idealists like Daniel Schorr and Marvin Chachere are no longer with us, it’s incumbent on those of us who are still around to keep on trying, to keep on doing whatever it is that we do best to spread the word about what is to be done.  

Coincidentally, as I finished writing this, we received the obituary of Professor Ken Simmons, who followed a distinguished academic and political career in Berkeley with fifteen years working to get the new South Africa on the right path. Examples of how to live are everywhere, if you look around. 


Cartoons

Odd Bodkins: The turning point

Dan O'Neill
Monday July 26, 2010 - 09:54:00 PM
Dan O'Neill


Public Comment

Letters

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:05:00 PM

To Oakland City Attorney John Russo:; Bell, CA: a lesson for us all;The Truth about Immigrants;
Immoral War; Department of Confusion;
A Film Worth Seeing; Sudan; Information Request;
ACT Transit Drivers Union Needs a Course in PR 101; Election in District 7;Health Care;Notes on Writing; 

 

To Oakland City Attorney John Russo: 

Please spare SF Chron readers having to read your laughable attempts to smear John Burris. If you eradicated the institutional racism, bad police practices, and corruption in the OPD, you wouldn't have to take pot shots and cast aspersions on him. 

The police "misconduct" that cost Oakland tax payers $19 mil wasn't caused by John Burris. It was caused by you, the City Council, and the Mayor in your collective failure to ensure a PD with integrity. Speaking of integrity, John Burris adds more integrity to Oakland and to our country than you do and you must know that. 

I note you chalk up Burris' victories to "notoriously sympathetic BA juries" and to poor police record keeping. Come on! This isn't Simi(an) Valley where perhaps you'd be happier working. Those notoriously sympathetic to victims of police brutality BA juries are aware of excessive police force, framing citizens, and other unconstitutional actions police routinely engage in. 

Please take heed of Councilpersons Chan and Kaplan and actually do something to create peace instead of spending taxpayer time trying to undermine a widely admired and respected lawyer. 

Maris Arnold
 

Berkeley (We still think here.) 

*** 

 

Bell, CA: a lesson for us all 

There is a huge lesson in the recent developments in Bell, California. After the news got out on how much some people were earning, the townsfolk got the biggest earners fired and the council to take a 90 percent cut in pay. So, you can fight city hall after all, and you, the public, can prevail over the entrenched political machines. So, what's the trick? 

The Bell saga points to three steps in the process. First the news of something egregious needs to get out to the public. Openness and transparency is vital to our civic life, as are the people who dig through records and bring these things to the people 

Second, you need a critical mass. People who dislike what's happening go about to the community, stirring people out of their apathy, until a number of people, all with the same issue in hand, constitute a movement. 

Finally, there is the demand, not request or humble suggestion, that things change and change now. A large and vocal group confronts the power structure and says it ends right here, right now. The officials have the choice of backing down or beating a hasty retreat out the back door. 

Admittedly, it's easier in a small town, a bit harder at the state level and harder still in DC. However, it has been done before, and it can be done again. Get informed; get up and get involved. 

Meade Fischer 

*** 

The Truth about Immigrants 

Arizona's new immigration law goes into effect on Thursday. To hear some mfolks describe it, Republicans and Tea Partiers and Rush Limbaugh types, America is under attack by crazed rapacious and thieving hordes that are pouring across the southern border bent on occupying the country. These illegal immigrants - or "aliens" or "invaders" in the vernacular of those who complain incessantly about them - are described as consuming vast sums of welfare and health care funds, committing countless crimes, clogging the prisons and in other ways are ruining what would be an idyllic paradise. 

During an election year, Republicans latch on to and ramp up the
anti-immigration issue. The hysteria over undocumented workers is a "hot button"issue being used to stir up Tea Party Republicans around the country. 

Talking heads claim that undocumented immigrants are taking jobs away from Americans. Not true and eliminating immigrant workers would be a serious blow to the U.S. economy. 

Those who are coming to the United States illegally are, overwhelmingly coming to work and better themselves and their families. Don't believe fantasies and lies being peddled by self-serving, self-appointed patriots. 

Ron Lowe 

*** 

Immoral War 

 

The Afghan war is immoral and "unwinnable." It's devastating to the Afghani people (expecially to their mothers, children, and families) -- wrecking people's lives and their environment. The money we spend each day on war in Afghanistan and Iraq is money we need to invest in our communities here in the U.S. to eradicate poverty and injustice -- and to build green jobs for our unemployed youth. 

Suzanne Ludlum 

 

*** 

Department of Confusion 

You people need to do your damned job and start investigating this
spill more. The government and BP should not be allowed to cover this mess up the way they have. BP has waged an all out PR war in the hopes of cleaning up their reputation. Your job should be to counter this PR assault. It's not right and it simply shows that you people are have been bought out by big business. How much money are you getting from BP this year? 

Robert Shreve 

[Editor’s Note: bupkes.] 

 

A Film Worth Seeing 

 

I recommend Oliver Stone's documentary, "South of the Border." You know going in that it will be one-sided, but it is refreshing to see and hear Hugo Chávez, Lula da Silva (Brazil), Evo Moreles (Bolivia), the Kirchners (Argentina), Fernando Lugo (Paraguay), Rafael Correa (Ecuador), and Raúl Castro, speak unfiltered through the U.S. media. The film mostly focuses on Chávez. These leaders promote a Latin American union similar to the European Union largely free from U.S. control. Let's face it, the U.S. has carried the Monroe Doctrine to an absurd extreme, for too long treating Latin America as one big U.S. colony. 

 

Ralph E. Stone 

*** 

Sudan 

 

The U.S. participates only as an observer at the International Criminal Court (ICC). Susan Rice, U.S. Ambassador to the UN, in her first address to the Security Council, expressed U.S. support for the Court’s investigation in Sudan. The U.S. could engage with the Court by reactivating its signature to the Rome Statute by a letter to the UN Secretary General. UN chief Ban Ki-mon regretted the indictment of Sudanese president. African Union chair Tanzania said the indictment could further destabilize Sudan and called on the ICC to drop it. Sudan exports to China account for more than 20 percent of its total exports. Regarding the humanitarian crisis in Darfur: No one is above the law. The U.S. has vetoed UN resolutions condemning Israel. President Omar Bashir has visited Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, and Chad. In addition, one half-dozen other countries share a common border with Sudan. It is the tenth largest country in the world. It borders Ethiopia and Kenya which border Somalia. According to the CIA: "The Darfur conflict, the aftermath of two decades of civil war in the south, the lack of basic infrastructure in large areas, and a reliance by much of the population on subsistence agriculture ensure much of the population will remain at or below the poverty line for years despite rapid rises in average per capita income." The Arabs have been in North Africa since before Columbus discovered America. I spoke with the Sudanese Amassador to South Korea in the aftermath of Colin Powell condemning genocide in Darfur. He replied, look at my face, what color am I? He was a light-skinned descendent of Saladin, a Kurd. Saladin (1138-1193) was a Muslim leader, who recaptured Jerusalem from the Crusaders. 

Richard Thompson 

*** 

Information Request 

 

As a history professor with a special interest in the Vietnam era, I have a project that might be of interest to your readers. I am researching and writing a book on the 1960s as seen through the eyes of American children. For many Americans like myself who were born between 1956 and 1970 – and are now in our forties and fifties – the “sixties experience” was a fundamental part of our childhood and remains central in our lives today. I would like to hear stories from this generation about growing up in the United States during the 1960s in order to understand the meaning of “the sixties” from the perspective of children. How did you experience the Vietnam era’s powerful historical forces and popular culture between Kennedy’s inauguration in 1961 and Nixon’s resignation in 1974 in your life as a child? What did things such as the Vietnam War, civil rights movement, the Beatles, hippies, assassinations, moon landings or protest mean to you as a preadolescent? Ultimately, has your unique perspective on “the sixties” had any impact on you as an adult? 

Please contact me at jrhodes@semo.edu; or on Facebook at “Children of the Sixties” 

Joel P. Rhodes, Ph.D. 

 

ACT Transit Drivers Union needs a course in PR 101 

 

The wah-babies at AC Transit are at it again. Drivers basically wildcatted this week and 20% of the drivers didn't not show up. They said they were "sick." They already forced arbitration(and ACTransit ASKED them to just declare a strike.) To show everyone "who's Daddy" the drivers also colluded to "sick out" beginning Monday. Not the wisest move by a typically union-friendly Bay Area. At near-depression levels of unemployment. 

Hardest hit were the more profitable lines that take commuters to San Francisco. 2 buses never showed up on my route. 

As an extra insult the drivers: 

1) Miss routes at random, so riders are playing Russian Roulette with their schedules and lives. Imagine if you had to pick up your kid at daycare? 

2) Stranded riders in the City by playing hookey on the last bus out of San Francisco. 

3) Conversely, played hookey on the last bus going to San Francisco-putting already worried workers in a position of being late to work. 

4) AC Transit already raised fares, and raising fares to 2x-3x more won't solve the budget woes. Bus systems cannot balance budgets on fares and need tax subsidies no matter what. Taking it out on riders is bad public relations and just begs voters to tell the unions to go to hell-as if they were the only people on the planet who are faced with changing economic conditions. 

5) Even better, Leaders of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 192 said there is no "sick-out" stemming from their anger over the contract that was imposed on them on Sunday. So they are flatout lying too?? 

This episode just goes to show that the public union system is corrupt and spoiled beyond belief. With boutique benefits and pensions, public unions make better pay and retire better than most of their private sector equivalents. Strong arming the district and drivers to cry "uncle" with idiotic tactics like the sick out just make me beg for a strike. That way we can fire everyone and start from scratch with a sustainable salary and benefits system. 

Justin Lee  

*** 

 

Election in District 7 

The Zone 7 election between Worthington, Beiers and Rosales is a reflection of the fragmentation of the Queer community in the Bay Area. There should be a unified front for social justice and environmental change. A queer politician should be informed and inspired by one's own personal experiences in a homophobic nation, especially in the shadow of Prop 8. Kriss Worthington should stay on city council; he has earned his leadership position. George Beier makes a good neighborhood organizer, but doesn't have a voice for social issues. And Rosales should keep doing what ever it is she does. (I have no clue who she is, no offense intended.) 

As for the issue of Telegraph Avenue, nothing there is Worthington's fault. In a free enterprise society, it's not up to a city council member to keep businesses afloat, except in unusual circumstances. Cody's closed because it refused to have a 21st century business model, including a website to order books online. Other closures can also be attributed to failures to adapt to a changing economic environment. Some stores close because their whole premise was flimsy. Moolicious, for example, was an attempt at a fast-food joint which only sold bowls of cereal; it was a terrible concept. 

George Beiers says he wants to change People's Park. He's never in People's Park; he never volunteers there. He was on the People's Park Board. He had the opportunity, and he decided to quit. Asides from that, the UC has refused recent requests to fix the broken water fountain, and to reinforce the children's area as a family safe zone (no smoking signs, a children's fence). Last year, the UC Police repeatedly harassed park volunteers for doing basic tasks like gardening and maintaining the stage. If the UC will only improve the park if Beiers is city council person, that implies a back room deal. 

Lastly, public safety in Berkeley has become an issue because the UC and city police departments were too obsessed with political protesters, and ignored actual crime. Just as one example, city council member Anderson had to intervene in court to stop the police's fixation with Stephanie Tang of World Can't Wait. The police became “culture warriors” whose primary targets were animal rights activists, anti-war protesters and other progressives; meanwhile gang activity was left unwatched to grow. The cops don't care how many people get harmed by violent crime, as long as they can bust activists. 

Nathan Pitts 

*** 

Health Care 

By now all it has become plain that the health care reform bill is a very weak gesture towards the critically important task of seeing that all Americans do in fact receive health care. Liz Fowler was instrumental in weakening it and she is the very last person that should administrate it 

Glen Kohler 

*** 

 

Notes on Writing 

 

Berkeley has, without question, an astonishing number of famous writers -- Pulitzer Prize and other prestigious award winners. This, of course, is not surprising given the fact that our city boasts one of the greatest (if not THE greatest) University in the country. Not so well known, but nonetheless every bit as prolific and talented as the aforementioned writers is the U.C. Section Club Writers' Workshop, a group of about 25 women who gather once a month to read and critique each others' work in progress. 

This Workshop was founded in 1927 to provide educational opportunities and support to the University community. Through its peer editing process, the Workshop has nurtured scores or writers, many of whom have been published and won literary prizes. Most earned advanced degrees; a third of our members hold Ph.D.'s. We are artists, gardeners, musicians, animal lovers, photographers, dreamers and doers. And now we take great pride in a recently published book, "Roots and Tendrils", in which twenty seven contributors, under the expert guidance of Susan Austin, have compiled an anthology of fiction, poetry, memoirs and humorous sketches. 

Meeting monthly at a member's home, where a lavish potluck of sinful refreshments get us off to a rousing start, we tear ourselves away from that tempting buffet and commence the serious business of listening to five or six writers read aloud their material. The unspoken rule is that we do not tamper with anyone's choice of subject, but give only constructive criticism. We delight in toasting members who have published books. As our writing has progressed, out friendships have deepened and our respect for each other has grown. With "Roots and Tendrils," we offer our readers another form of literary potluck, an eclectic feast of our making. 

Dorothy Snodgrass


Will the U.S. Use the Military Option to Prevent Iran's Nuclear Ambitions?

By Ralph E. Stone
Monday July 26, 2010 - 07:16:00 PM

In my considered opinion, the United States will do everything in its power to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, possibly including military action. Few, if any, in the West and the Arab world, believes that Iran is not developing a nuclear weapon. And it is clear that civilian nuclear technology can easily be diverted secretly to weapons purposes. 

First, we start with our deep distrust of Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This distrust only deepened after the violent suppression of demonstrations by Mir-Hossein Mousavi supporters protesting alleged election fraud in last year's presidential election. 

Second, at one time, military action was considered unthinkable. Air strikes could take out some of Iran's nuclear facilities, but there was no way to eliminate all of them. Some of the nuclear labs are located in heavily populated areas; others are deep underground. And Iran's ability to strike back by unconventional means, especially through its Hezbollah terrorist network, is formidable. And another war in the Middle East is the last thing the U.S. needs or wants. 

Now, however, there is a growing realization that diplomacy and economic pressure are not going to force Iran to negotiate a nuclear deal. The U.S. believes it made a generous deal, which the Iranian negotiators accepted, whereby there would be an exchange of Iran's 1.2 tons of low-enriched uranium (3.5% pure) for higher-enriched (20%) uranium for medical research and use. The Iranian leaders rejected this proposal. This rejection put the military option is back on the table. 

The proposed Turkey-Brazil nuclear swap deal was viewed by the U.S. as unacceptable. When the idea of a uranium swap was begun, Iran had an estimated 1,200 kilograms of uranium, but that has since nearly doubled. In other words, even if Iran sent uranium abroad under the proposed Turkey-Brazil deal, it would still have enough to build one nuclear weapon. 

Third, vastly improved human-intelligence has made progress in providing more accurate targets. Israel has been brought into the planning process largely because the U.S. officials are afraid that the right-wing Netanyahu government might try to attack the Iranians on its own. 

Finally, Iran's Sunni neighbors seem to favor a U.S. military action. For example, United Arab Emirates Ambassador Yousef al-Otaiba said on July 6 that he favored a military strike against Iran despite the economic and military consequences to his country. This reflects an increasingly attitude in the region. And the Saudis, in particular, seems to agree. The danger is that if Iran develops a nuclear weapon, the Turks, the Egyptians, the Jordanians, and other countries in the region will go nuclear too. No one wants the most volatile region in the world to go nuclear. 

Even a pinpoint attack on Iran would be disastrous. It would unify the Iranian people against the latest in a long series of foreign interventions. It might alienate and possibly unify much of the world — including countries like Russia and China that we've worked hard to cultivate — against the U.S. There would also be a certain Iranian reaction in Iraq, in Afghanistan, by Lebanese Hezbollah against Israel and by the Hezbollah network against the U.S. and Saudi homelands. It could lead to a catastrophic regional war. 

Maybe, the U.S. is merely saber-rattling to get Iran back to the negotiation table. Unfortunately, Iran has very little credibility and any offer by Iran to talk would probably be viewed as really only an offer to stall. And maybe the saber-rattling is not a bluff. If the U.S. won't tolerate a nuclear Iran and Iran won't budge, maybe a military action is inevitable no matter the consequences. 

Hopefully, Iran's leaders will agree to the deal agreed to by Iran's negotiators, but rejected by Iran's leaders. A world with less, rather than more nuclear weapons, would be a better, safer world. I am hopeful, but not optimistic. 

 


Stone Soup Instead of Housing

By Sonja Fitz
Monday July 26, 2010 - 06:52:00 PM

The 2010 Federal Strategic Plan to End Homelessness, “Opening Doors”, has a lot of data about the interwoven socio-economic causes of homelessness and affected subpopulations, and sets lofty goals — Ending chronic homelessness and homelessness among veterans in five years, and homelessness for families, youth, and children in ten. Spiced with calm analysis and peppered with carefully crafted ‘Logic’ introductions to each objective, somehow it still tastes suspiciously like stone soup…warmed over nuggets of existing wisdom from service providers around the country floating in a pale federal broth. 

Homelessness affects families, youth, veterans, and single adults? Yep. 

Solutions include better interagency coordination, more resources for prevention, improved economic stability, and more access to housing and health care? Uh huh. 

And? 

Pardon my skepticism (as I shove aside the stack of 5, 10, and 15 year plans I’ve encountered since entering this field in 1986), but your soup is a bit watery. Where’s the beef? Or since I’m a vegetarian I’ll take the liberty of inventing a different catch-phrase, where’s the hot sauce? And I mean that quasi-literally: where’s the heat that underscores the core emergency behind the neatly packaged bundle of factors that create and sustain homelessness: lack of housing? 

Oh yes, here it is on page 36, under the second goal, two lines in the second strategy, “…low cost capital for new construction” and “fund the National Housing Trust Fund”. And again on page 39, under the third strategy (after ‘improving targeting and prioritizing’ and ‘creating protocols and incentives’ for people to move out of supported housing and into independent housing when ready): “expand the supply of permanent affordable housing”. Thank you, Captain Obvious! Good objectives, but nothing new, and nothing concrete about how to make it happen. Do you think people just haven’t been trying hard enough to build new housing? 

Okay, exhale. I understand the desire to be clear and comprehensive. Yes, there are a lot of interconnected issues. But what is the first and most important factor in the life of a homeless person? They have no home. Any plan purporting to seriously address the crisis of Home-Less-Ness needs to address the availability of homes as its first and most urgent priority. In other words, how many housing units are needed to house the population, and how many exist? What is the gap nationally, state by state, and region by region? What is the action plan to fill that gap — money, policy, developers, siting/zoning issues, timeline? Not enough affordable housing is the center-stage emergency that needs to be dealt with. 

And even if there were physically enough affordable housing to meet demand (which there isn’t — affordable housing construction has steadily declined since the 1970s even as the number of households continues to rise), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates that the 2010 Fair Market Rent has increased 40% since the 2000 census. I don’t know about you, but my income has certainly not kept up that pace. Further, what constitutes ‘affordable' housing is often laughably off the mark, targeting annual incomes of $30-40K rather than the $10-20K people on fixed incomes or minimum wage receive. 

By the government’s own precious new paradigm, Housing First or Rapid Housing, getting people into housing should be the first priority of homeless assistance, with services to help people improve their health and economic stability so they can stay housed provided to them once housed (a much ballyhooed approach that is nevertheless unproven — a recent report on Rapid Housing in NYC documented a 137% increase in recidivism, projected to reach 179% by the end of the year). Typical cart-before-the-horse politics — touting the Housing First model when the issue of ensuring an adequate supply of affordable housing doesn’t appear in the federal plan until page 36, and takes up the sum total of a paragraph of space with no concrete supply side goals? 

Listen, I am no Rush Limbagh. I do not wish failure on the President. I will be ecstatic if the plan achieves its goals and will be first in line to eat my own sorry, skeptical, nay-saying words wrapped up in a bow. But for now, you’ll pardon me if I pass on the soup — until you take the stones out of it and use them to build more housing. 

By Sonja Fitz, Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS), www.self-sufficiency.org. BOSS is a nonprofit organization in Alameda County, California that provides housing and services to help families and individuals overcome homelessness, while also fighting the root causes of poverty and homelessness. 


WEBAIC Concise Points for Wednesday, July 28th Planning Commission Meeting

From WEBAIC Steering Committee
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:54:00 PM

Master Use Permit proposals and the proposal to open protected Warehouse and Wholesale Trade space to R&D are Wednesday's key issues. The WEBAIC steering committee considers Points 1- 4 the most critical. 

 

1. NO to Opening Up All Protected Wholesale Trade & Warehouse space (2,000,000+sq ft) to R&D

Radically Skewed Ratio of Projected R&D Demand to Projected R&D Space Available (figures approximate): 

Available for R&D now: 1,000,000+ sq ft. 

Available with agreed-upon MUP proposal (+2,500,000+ sq ft): 3,500,000+ sq ft. 

Available with staff proposal to open protected space (+2,000,000+ sq ft): 5,500,000+ sq ft . 

Projected R&D start-up space demand by 2016 : 58,000 sq ft. 

Managing Change in West Berkeley: "Using Local Economic Data To Inform Master Use Permit Deliberations". Prepared by Masters Fellows Nina Meigs and Laura Wiles - UC Berkeley Dept. of City and Regional Planning. Square footage space demand derived by combining the UC Study's maximum employment projection of 175 jobs in new West Berkeley R&D start ups by 2016 with the West Berkeley Project DEIR's figures of 3 R&D employees per thousand sq ft = 58,000 sq ft demand. 

Destructive of existing jobs, companies, the environment, and social equity: Approximately 50 Companies with over 1000 good paying jobs (Berkeley Office of Economic Development), largely for people without a college education, depend upon this protected space. Forcing Wholesale Trade/Warehouse uses to compete for space with R&D uses paying on average 3X more for space assures that productive companies and jobs will be forced out. A study commissioned by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission detailed negative consequences to the Bay Area economy, environment, and equity from cities not maintaining these spaces for Wholesale Trade & Warehouse companies. 

Violation of West Berkeley Plan and Berkeley General Plan: The West Berkeley Plan places Wholesale Trade and Warehouse Uses in the Protected Category because they provide good jobs to people without a college education and because they contribute to the West Berkeley Plan's Core Goal- maintaining a mixed use economy providing revenue to the City, goods and services, and good jobs, particularly for people without a college education. 

 

2. NO Residences or Retail in the Industrial Zones (M, MM, and MULI):  

Poor Policy: Planning Staff' is proposing that MUP sites with MUR and CW residential and retail allowances be permitted to locate these residential uses on the industrial M, MM, and MULI portions of their MUP property. This would create unnecessary conflicts between residences and industrial uses, lead to the loss of industrial space, and create extreme land value differences in industrial zones that would induce further and ongoing loss of industrial space to residential uses. 

Proposal Violates WB Plan & WB Project DEIR: The West Berkeley Plan: " In Manufacturing, Mixed Manufacturing, and Mixed Use Light Industrial, residential
uses are not permitted. No new dwelling units may be constructed or created in any of these districts." Beyond Plan violations, the proposal is destructive of the productive economy & culture it seeks to foster. 

 

3. No to proposed 75 feet height and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of 3 on Master Use Permit (MUP) sites. There is NO demonstrated need for these huge increases in development standards (tripling of the existing built environment) that only facilitate residential and office towers on the precious 4% of Berkeley land devoted to industrial/artistic production. Verified production needs for height can be allowed by a specialized height permit for this. 

 

4. A "date by" limitation on aggregation of property for Master Use Permit eligibility is needed: 42% of M, MM, and MULI already meet the four-acre MUP eligibility threshold, plus the limitation on the number of MUPs is changeable, thus there needs to be an absolute limitation on how much of West Berkeley can qualify as an MUP 

 

5. No Full Parking Waivers on MUP Sites: Parking is at or near capacty in most of West Berkeley's industrial zones. Parking waivers should be tied one-to-one to required, verifiable use of alternative transportation modes by employees. 

 

6. ZC for Arts & Crafts and Contractors, not just Internet Retailers & Large Commercial Arts Uses: Arts & Crafts and Contractors should be able locate easily with a Zoning Certificate in the M Zones as other uses are. 

 

7. No Retail and Industrial Uses not now permitted in Mixed Use Residential Zone: Staff's Master Use Permit proposals to 1.) allow retail uses permitted on San Pablo, Ashby, & University to locate in the MUR, and 2.) to allow industrial uses currently prohibited in the MUR zones to locate there are destructive of the workability and livability of the MUR and destructive to the positive relationship between industry and residents that WEBAIC seeks to foster.


Propaganda vs. Propaganda

By R.G. Davis, Ph. D.
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:27:00 PM

Comments on the Oliver Stone film “South of the Border” accompanied by a Carmen Miranda tune, at Berkeley’s Elmwood Theatre, July 17, 2011, with economist and scriptwriter Mark Weisbrot (with Tariq Ali-in the film) fielding questions:  

The film originated when Oliver Stone decided to interview Hugo Chavez to counter the general distortions in the US media. While in Venezuela Stone apparently took off with the film crew to interview South American Presidents who are the new wave of elected social democrats, who did not come to power via a revolution as in Cuba. Chavez -Venezuela, Correa- Ecuador, Morales- Bolivia, Lugo-Paraguay, Lula-Brazil, Fernandez- Argentina, and a snippet of Raoul Castro the only one who came to power via a legitimate revolution.  

It looked like three cameras were used for interviews, one to shoot the whole camera shoot, two others for ugly up the neck shots. The film crew crisscrossed South America not as Che Guevara did on his motorcycle, since Stone didn’t go to the conservative nations, Chile, Peru, and Colombia, Uruguay or to interview Ortega in Nicaragua.  

What are we to make of this interview-run-on-film of elected officials opposed to the old US colonial policy now in the form of the IMF and World Bank? Stone shows them as human, Morales kicking soccer ball, Cristina Fernandez (de Kushner) reprimanding Stone for asking about her shoes, (Would you ask a male president about his shoes?) Chavez riding a bicycle that breaks. Such scenes humanize the figures, but they are also less useful—we need to know more about what they are doing, in order to counter the distortions made by right wing media.  

Fox News is mostly ridiculed with selected bloopers of their coverage of South American “dictators”, while one or two references to the NYTimes are had. I think it’s an easy target and politically distracting even for a propaganda film: The greater problem is the liberal press, those who pose as objective reporters, since our centrists voted for Obama whose military and Latin American policy is not much different from the Clintons and Bushites. Obama was in on the Honduran Coup, when elected President Zelaya was seized and deported, June 28, 2009.  

Somewhere towards the end of the film I mumbled “propaganda.” During the question period an older women (mostly older folks in the Berkeley audience) said to Weisbrot, “Why don’t they just take over the newspapers?” It was the first wise question, since Weisbrot had said the news media in all these countries was opposed to the elected officials. Thus we begin to understand the dilemma of a democratically elected socially progressive official having to deal with “free speech” press owned by major corporate millionaires who oppose all socially progressive parties. It could have been the thread that connected all the interviews, even the one with R. Castro—in that the Cuban press is controlled entirely by the government. Now, there is a subject for liberal leftists who also believe in free speech since the discussion would have included the delusion of the free-objective- media in the USA. 

What then do these elected progressives do in their countries? We know they revise the constitution, put in place laws that will limit the millionaire-billionaires from owning multiple news papers, radio, TV stations (whereas here, Clear Channel owns hundreds) but it is not enough, since funds flow from the US into those media outlets, as it did when the Sandinistas were in power.  

So this is a propaganda film from the social democratic (lib left) point of view to counter the US media right wing propaganda. A similar approach was used by Radio Free America: “Let’s do what talk radio does, only from a liberal perspective.” How could one do that? The irrationality and contradictory rage in talk radio is so bizarre that a liberal view could match it only by being contradictory, dumbed down, or sidewise hysterical.  

The response to propaganda unfortunately requires extra work, engaging at least four elements; it has to be intelligent, historically reflexive, dialectical and artistic in its representation—not a one-dimensional kids’ fight—“I’m telling the truth you’re lying.” Propaganda also functions as a palliative for left liberals, like a “shot of hope” that one agit prop theatre group advocated in their pandering to audience’s delusions. However, to create a complex response, liberal jargon based on a body of capitalist practices will only produce more jabber. To understand Chavismo one would have to explain Venezuela’s history, its connections to other nations, as well as the roots of opposition to the Bolivarian socialism, in class terms (oops) and reasons "El Chefe" has been elected so many times. It might also explain why the others were elected to offices once run by business moguls, generals or their “running dogs.” (Oops).  

Propaganda in the US is called advertisement so it doesn’t sound like Goebbels of old, rather just a good sell—of a product—that is perfect: Proctor and Gamble sold Ivory Soap about the time Carmen Miranda sang her song: “South of the Border, down US way,” (sing along).  


Thank You, Council, for Standing Up for Alameda!

By Eugenie P. Thomson, P.E.
Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:54:00 PM

I was among the many Alameda residents who attended the city council meeting last Tuesday, July 20, to urge the council to reject SunCal’s Optional Entitlement Application (OEA) and refuse to extend SunCal’s Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA). The ENA was to expire on July 20, and the recent application included a plan that was substantially similar to what 85 percent of Alameda residents voted against last February. It called for 5,000 residential units, as did the defeated proposal, and now includes an even larger commercial component, with a proposed 4.6 million square feet of commercial buildings.  

In my opinion, SunCal effectively terminated its ENA last year when it submitted petitions for Measure B. SunCal had negated the city’s right to negotiate a fair contract and put everything the company wanted into Measure .B. Furthermore, SunCal included other aspects in Measure B that it knew were not achievable via the ENA such as the biggest plan ever with caps on spending leaving taxpayers to make up the difference of hundreds of millions dollars in infrastructure funds. Why extend the ENA when in essence Suncal had already terminated it last year by doing Measure B?  

And recently, SunCal violated both the ENA and the letter of the law. Recent City investigative reports revealed that SunCal accepted emails containing and were identified as “attorney-privileged” information from Council Member Lena Tam, a breach of article 1.1 of the ENA, which states clearly that both parties shall negotiate diligently and in good faith. How could SunCal accept emails giving the company unfair advantage during negotiations? Appalling and disgusting are the words that come to mind – the same sentiments I felt after digesting the entirety of the massive techno-speak reports in Sun Cal’s Measure B. 

The bottom line, in my professional opinion SunCal’s proposed plans for Alameda Point would double traffic volumes over existing conditions and add another 30 minutes to the commute for residents leaving the island. This burgeoning congestion would destroy the quality of life in our neighborhoods. It is sheer fantasy to suppose that public transit and bicycles would mitigate the bottlenecking this plan would engender. The City’s Traffic Election Report, Chinatown settlement agreement and the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency reports all concur with my findings.  

It was heartening to see so many residents who understand these issues attend last Tuesday evening’s council meeting. I am proud to stand with you and demand what is right for Alameda. Clearly, adaptive reuse of the naval air station is a much better fit for our island community. My sincerest thanks to CC members Beverly Johnson, Frank Matarrese, Doug deHaan and Marie Gilmore for believing in Alameda. You have made us proud of our community and its leadership.  


Eugenie Thomson P.E. is a civil/traffic engineer with more than 30 years’ experience in government contracts and engineering at the Alameda Tubes and throughout the region and a recipient of numerous statewide engineering excellence awards.


Columns

Dispatches from the Edge: Korean Ship Sinking: A Rush to Judgment?

By Conn Hallinan
Monday July 26, 2010 - 10:02:00 PM

The narrative around the Mar. 26 sinking of the South Korean Navy Corvette Cheonan, and the death of 46 sailors, seems pretty straightforward: the ship was sunk by a North Korean (DPRK) torpedo. That was the conclusion by a South Korean (ROK) panel of 47 military and military-research experts and three international representatives. The only question left unanswered was the DPRK’s motive, with fallout from an internal power struggle holding the inside track. 

 

But two researchers from the University of Virginia and Johns Hopkins University are suggesting there may have been a rush to judgment, and that the evidence presented by the panel is deeply flawed. Seunghun Lee, a professor of physics at Virginia, and J.J. Suh, an associate professor of Korean Studies at Johns Hopkins, have analyzed the findings of the Joint Civil-Military Investigation Group (JIG) and found them wanting. (japanfocus.org/articles/3382) 

 

The JIG concluded that the Cheonan was ripped in two by an external explosion from a North Korean torpedo, which ROK naval units recovered. But according to Lee and Suh, those conclusions are “riddled with such serious flaws as to render the JIG’s conclusion unsustainable.” They even suggest that some of the X-ray data used to tie the torpedo to the explosion “may have been fabricated.” 

 

Americans who watch television saw a sobering re-creation of the event in which an exploding torpedo’s powerful bubble destroyed a similar sized ship. But according to the two authors, the South Korean Navy has not been able to “produce a bubble simulation consistent with the information presented in the JIG report.” The simulations run by the JIG instead show a bubble forming, striking the ship, deforming the hull, and making a small rupture, not tearing the ship in half. 

 

According to the authors, “If the bottom of the ship was hit by a bubble, it should show a spherical concave deformation resembling the shape of a bubble, as the JIG’s own simulation suggests, but it does not.” Instead, the damage seems more consistent with a “collision with a hard object.” 

 

What is also missing is any sign of what is called the “pre-bubble shock wave,” nor does internal damage and crew casualties appear to be consistent with those inflicted by a shock wave. 

 

Lee and Suh also take issue with the chemical and X-ray analysis of the residue on the hull that the JIG found to be consistent with the chemical signature of an explosion caused by the recovered torpedo. According to the authors, the “critical evidence” used by the JIG “to link the Cheonan sinking to the alleged explosion of the torpedo is scientifically groundless and perhaps fabricated.” 

 

The two researchers also question the torpedo itself, and particularly a blue ink marking on the weapon spelling out “Hangul “in Korean. The torpedo’s deeply corroded surface is consistent with an explosion that would burn off the weapon’s protective paint. The only problem is that ink boils at a much lower point than paint, 150 degrees Celsius and 350 degrees Celsius respectively. “This inconsistency—the high heat tolerant paint was burnt but the low heat tolerant ink was not—cannot be explained and casts serious doubt on the integrity of the torpedo as ‘critical evidence,’” write the two authors. 

 

“While we emphatically note that our findings do not prove that North Korea did not do it, we conclude that the JIG has failed to prove that it did,” the authors argue. “The seriousness of the inconsistencies in fact casts doubt not only on the validity of the JIG conclusions but also on the integrity of its investigation.” 

 

If North Korea didn’t sink the ship, who did? Maybe it was not a “who but a “what.” Some of the damage is consistent with a collision. Is there damage that might indicate an internal explosion? The DPRK certainly has a history of doing provocative things, but part of that reputation comes from the relentless demonization of Pyongyang. The North Koreans have always shown an affection for bombast, but they have been generally careful not to do something that would provoke a war. 

 

It may turn out that the North Koreans did sink the Cheonan, but the evidence is hardly the slam-dunk it has been represented as in the media. And doubts about the DPRK’s guilt may well explain China’s reluctance to join in the pile-on condemnations of Pyongyang, as well as for the careful wording of the recent United Nations resolution that condemned the incident but avoided assigning blame. 

 

What is clear is that in-house investigations are always open to suspicion. No matter what the Israeli’s handpicked panel to investigate the attack on a Turkish ship comes up with, it will have no credibility outside of Israel.  

 

Lee and Suh conclude that “given the inconsistencies “ of the JIG investigation, the South Korean government should “re-open the investigation and form a new, and more objective” investigation. “The dead sailors deserve such a report. So does the international community.” 

 

---30---  

 

 

 

 


The Public Eye: Is America on a Losing Track?

By Bob Burnett
Monday July 26, 2010 - 07:46:00 PM

Returning from an extended vacation in Europe, it’s been impossible for me to ignore the dark cloud of pessimism hanging over the United States. Americans are depressed about the economy, the BP/Gulf oil spill, and the war in Afghanistan. A majority of voters feel the US is on the wrong track. Is it? And has that perception made President Obama’s job impossible? 

 

On June 28th, CNN interviewed former President Bill Clinton who commented about the American mood: “The American people hire you [the President] to win for them… Until people feel better about their own lives, they’re not going to feel good about their president.” At the moment, many Americans feel like losers. 

 

It’s helpful to remember that Obama and his supporters came into this situation with open eyes. On November 5, 2008, the ONION headline was Black Man Given Nation’s Worst Job: the new president “will have to spend four to eight years cleaning up the messes other people left behind.” Barack Obama inherited a broken economy, crumbling US infrastructure, ill-conceived military campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq, and a Federal bureaucracy that had been gutted by Republicans – a condition that produced the BP/Gulf oil disaster. 

 

Nonetheless, Barack Obama has been in the job for eighteen months. While most Americans acknowledge that America’s problems originated in the Bush Administration, they look to Obama to fix them and to lift their spirits. 

 

Clearly, the economy is shattered. Noting persistent high unemployment, the number of mortgage foreclosures, and the unwillingness of banks to lend and businesses to spend, many observers feel the recession will stretch on for years. They anticipate the Obama Administration will be powerless to change this circumstance and that will affect Democratic prospects in the mid-term elections. 

 

The situation with the US economy parallels public perception of the BP/Gulf oil disaster. In April, Americans wanted Obama to provide a quick fix. When he appeared powerless to stem the flow of oil into the Gulf, his approval ratings fell. Now voters want a quick fix for the economy, but Obama can’t provide that. 

 

Both the BP/Gulf oil disaster and the recession were the results of systemic failures. The proximate cause of the BP/Gulf oil spill was a methane explosion on April 20th. Investigation has indicated the explosion was the fault of the platform operators (under BP supervision), facilitated by lax oversight by the US Department of Interior’s Minerals Management Service. 

 

The proximate cause of the global financial crisis and the ensuing recession was the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers on September 14, 2008. Investigation has revealed this bankruptcy, and the collapse of similar firms, was the product of wild Wall Street speculation (the housing bubble, sub-prime mortgages, and mortgage-backed securities) and lax oversight by the Federal Reserve and US Treasury Department. 

 

While most Americans understand what happened in each crisis, they have difficulty accepting the length of time it will take to fix these problems. It took ninety days before BP managed to stop the flow of oil from the broken well and it will take years to repair the environmental damage. It took six months before the stock market recovered from the 2008 financial panic and it will take years to climb out of the hole caused by the collapse of the era of easy money. 

 

In both crises there was an underlying cancer having deeper roots than might be suspected giving the primary failure. The BP/Gulf oil debacle was the consequence of America’s addiction to fossil fuel and our childlike faith in technology – the belief that if it’s possible to drill a deep well then it must be safe. The current recession has a simpler and far more disturbing genesis: the failure of American capitalism. 

 

While the Obama Administration appears to recognize America’s addiction to fossil fuel, as well as our naïve faith that technology will solve all our problems, it’s not clear they are prepared to brand contemporary capitalism as a failure. That’s not surprising; it’s similar to asking a public official to declare there is no Santa Claus. It flies in the face of a cherished myth. For many Americans it is unthinkable that the unfettered marketplace will not solve all our problems or that contemporary capitalism has brokenn its promise to provide a good life for all. 

 

But that’s what has happened. Over the past thirty years, the American economic system has been tilted in favor of the rich and, in the process, democracy morphed into plutocracy. As a consequence, the consumer economy -- which presupposes a reasonable distribution of wealth and income – had to be held together by smoke and mirrors; most American went deeply into debt so they could maintain their standard of living. Now the diabolical charade has ended, but it’s left a legacy of pessimism and distrust. The economy is fractured. 

 

Repair requires fundamental structural changes – such as breaking up the big banks – and a massive redistribution of income. But that’s not going to happen soon. Americans know they have cancer but they are nowhere near agreement on the course of treatment. 

 

In the meantime, the US will go down a losing track. And Barack Obama’s job, if not impossible, will be very, very difficult. 

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Blogbeat: What?! Those are the Leftists?!?

By Thomas Lord
Monday July 26, 2010 - 05:34:00 PM
Tom Bates strolling down the streets of Oakland with John George, Ron Dellums, and Cesar Chavez  as they campaign door to door.
Tom Bates strolling down the streets of Oakland with John George, Ron Dellums, and Cesar Chavez as they campaign door to door.
Mr. Gravy’s  1990 campaign slogan, “Let’s elect a real clown for a change.”   Sage advice.
Mr. Gravy’s 1990 campaign slogan, “Let’s elect a real clown for a change.” Sage advice.

Today’s items from the Wild Wild Web: Valuable histories of Berkeley politics, and wallflower Mayor Bates speaks out. 

How Did I Get Here? 

I’m new in town. I didn’t set foot in Berkeley until 1987 and didn’t move here until the early 1990s. Even then I spent some subsequent years not living here. When I talk with the old salts of Berkeley politics, from any particular “side” you care to name, I have to endure a certain amount of knowing chuckles at my ignorance about who’s who and what’s what. There are plenty of folks around with longer histories in Berkeley and plenty of stories to tell. 

If you listen to contemporary accounts from “the left”, Mayor Tom Bates of Berkeley is “The Man” with all the attendant evils: pro-developer, against poor people, working in secret collusion with UC , harming the electorate and enriching the cronies. Widespread agreement from many political perspectives has it that Mayor Ron Dellums of Oakland is the ineffectual and all too absent career politician about whom the word dotage is rarely used but often implied. It could all be true! Or false! I’ll leave those burning questions to my readers – plenty enough has been said about them already. 

Imagine my surprise – as someone new in town – at seeing for the first time an image from an old campaign poster: Tom Bates strolling down the streets of Oakland with John George, Ron Dellums, and Cesar Chavez as they campaign door to door. Bates was seeking his first term in the California State Assembly. Who’d a thunk it? 

Imagine my further surprise on discovering that Loni Hancock had not merely been Mayor of Berkeley but was widely referred to as “the radical Berkeley mayor, Loni Hancock” - infamous for many reasons including arranging, with then assemblyman Bates, a hero’s welcome for Huey Newton as he returned from self-imposed exile to face murder charges. (Newton was ultimately acquitted of the charges.) 

There are many sources of Berkeley history to be found on the net. I would be remiss to not mention the Berkeley Historical Society’s curated collection of links, found on the City’s own website. There you can find links to histories of famous things like People’s Park, the Free Speech Movement, and Peet’s Coffee. You’ll also find the fascinating link I most wanted to tell you about. 

David Mundstock was a prominent actor in 1970s Berkeley politics. He describes himself as a “fixture in the lead car” of the political roller coaster from 1970 to 1977. And he’s written the book on that period. Well, a book. And, well, mostly written. As he himself remarks, “I [...] never really finished it.” The formatting is crude but the wealth of material and carefully collected facts is fascinating stuff. I’ll give you a taste of his work, “Berkeley in the 70s”: 

“Being a media star didn’t solve Dellums’ personal problems. Council work paid very little while conflicting with his various jobs as a social worker and traveling consultant. Meanwhile, he was becoming increasingly politically isolated from the rest of his Council colleagues. Angry and frustrated, towards the end of 1969, he announced on Channel 9’s Newsroom that he was thinking about quitting politics altogether. This produced an outpouring of support for Dellums from the leadership and rank and file of the Berkeley Coalition, black community, campus, counter-culture, and anti-war movement, among many other groups. At meetings, people pleaded with Dellums to stay in politics. The community’s response to Ron caused him to completely change his mind. Dellums announced that he would challenge Jeffrey Cohelan in the Democratic Party’s June 1970 Congressional Primary.” 

Or, how about this gem from list of Loni Hancock’s unsuccessful motions before council in 1972: 

“* Contributing $1,000 of city funds to help rebuild the North Vietnam’s Bach Mai Hospital which had been destroyed by American bombers. [....] Before the roll call even finished, ‘Super Joel’ Tornabene, a counter-culture leader, grabbed a microphone and started yelling: ‘The City Council is inciting to riot!! The City Council is inciting to riot!!!’ This caused the crowd to charge the Council, overturning the tables and ending the meeting. The crowd then rampaged into downtown Berkeley breaking windows, finally ending up at the unguarded People’s Park fence, which it knocked over and destroyed by sheer force of numbers, nearly three years to the day after the hated fence was built.” 

Fascinating, no? And be sure not to miss Mundstock’s visual treat, a collection of Berkeley campaign art from the 1970s through 2008. 

You may ask yourself, how do I work this? 

Back to the present – by which I perversely mean recent blog posts – the blog Berkeleyside.com recently published an interview they conducted with Mayor Tom Bates. Comments to the blog largely panned the interview as consisting only of softball questions, of failing to corner Bates on the tough issues, and of giving him too much leave to self promote. I suppose the criticisms have some merit but hardball isn’t exactly Berkeleyside’s style. Their main focuses seem to be lifestyle and culture pieces, with just a smattering of hard news here and there. One hardly imagines them bursting through the doors of Chez Panisse, 60 Minutes style, saying “Ms. Waters, we have you on tape very clearly devouring with relish and entire bag of sour cream and onion flavored potato chips not more than 70 feet from a farmer’s market. How do you explain this to your fans?” 

Nevertheless, I thought the interview was an interesting read, especially alongside samplings of Mundstock’s history. So have a look

Here’s Bates: “When I came in, I tried to break up the notion of polarized sides that were divided around rent control and other issues. Instead, I thought we should try to deal with problems rather than ideologies. That’s worked pretty well. It’s polarized more in the last couple of years, with councilors [Kriss] Worthington and [Jesse] Arreguin sticking together, but generally we vote all sorts of different ways. It’s not like, ‘If Tom is for it, I’m against it.’” 

That’s all for this week but, with apologies to him, I’ll sign off Jon Carroll style just this once: 

 

You may ask yourself, where is that large automobile? You may tell yourself, this is not my beautiful house. You may tell yourself, this is not my beautiful lord@emf.net . (Do be in touch.)


Wild Neighbors: What, if Anything, is a Reptile?

By Joe Eaton
Monday July 26, 2010 - 06:24:00 PM

I don’t know how I got on the Center for North American Herpetology’s mailing list, but the traffic has been interesting so far. You get announcements from researchers with surplus boas to give away, notices of Florida sand skink post-doc opportunities, abstracts of new journal articles on euthanizing lizards, that kind of thing. Last week there was something a bit startling: a press release for a new book on the amphibians, turtles, and reptiles of Kansas.

Turtles and reptiles? Turtles have always been considered reptiles in good standing. If they weren’t reptiles, what would they be? What’s going on here? 

From further exploration of the CNAH site, it seems that Joseph Collins, a herpetologist at the University of Kansas, has decided to shake up the taxonomy of what used to be the Class Reptilia. Under his proposed revision, turtles are in a class of their own, the Chelonia. Crocodiles and alligators form another separate class, the Eusuchia. Reptilia in a strict sense is limited to lizards, snakes, amphisbaenids (odd legless creatures), and the lizardlike tuataras of New Zealand.  

Counterintuitive as this may be, it makes sense from a cladistic perspective. Cladistic taxonomy was developed by a German entomologist named Willi Hennig in the 1950s. The working vocabulary is not user-friendly, but it comes down to recognizing only named groups that have a common evolutionary origin and that include all the descendants of the ancestral form. 

Hominids are a good example of a valid clade: you’ve got a presumed ancestral ape, orangs, gorillas, chimps, bonobos, and us, 

along with Ardi, Lucy, and the Neanderthals. 

Reptiles used to be simpler to deal with. They all had scaly skin. They were all poikilothermic, with body temperatures governed by their external environment. (Remember the Gary Larson cartoon with the alligator in court: “Of course I did it in cold blood, you fool! I’m a reptile!”) They all laid amniotic eggs, or gave birth to live young. They did not have hair or feathers. They were where vertebrate evolution went after the amphibians. 

But there’s a problem. It’s well established that mammals evolved from a group of primitive reptiles, and that birds evolved from another reptilian lineage (although a few diehards still dispute the  

descent of birds from dinosaurs.) If you’re a cladist, there’s no way to define reptiles without including mammals and birds. Reptilia, Collins says, is “an unnatural grouping.” 

There’s a similar situation with fish, which ichthyologists have split up into several classes. The former class Pisces is long gone. Cladists like to point out that we are much more closely related to lungfish than we are to, say, trout. But us lay folk can still use the word “fish” to collectively denote lampreys, sharks, coelacanths and tuna if we want to. 

So far, Collins’ treatment of the reptiles, or former reptiles, is only a proposal that may or may not catch on. There’s no international group that makes the rules on animal nomenclature, as there is for plants. I can foresee some problems with its application, though. 

The turtle part is the easiest to swallow. Turtles have been evolving on their own for a long time. They’ve been separated out from the rest of the reptiles as anapsids, based on the absence of holes in their skulls (other than the standard eye sockets.) And, at least in terms of living species, there’s no ambiguity as to what is a turtle and what is not. Snakes, lizards, and tuataras also form a coherent lineage, although the fact that snakes evolved from lizard ancestors makes “lizards” another non-natural grouping. 

Alligators, though? The last I looked, crocodilians were considered to be a sister group of the archosaurs, the creatures that gave rise to dinosaurs and ultimately to birds. So there’s a closer connection between birds and alligators than between birds and turtles. Shouldn’t that be recognized somehow? And what do you do with all the extinct forms: the dinosaurs themselves, the pterosaurs, all the seagoing lineages? Are they left in taxonomic limbo? Do the dinosaurs get promoted into Aves, with the birds? Where do you redraw the lines? 

This must all be so much neater if you’re a creationist: God created turtlekind, end of story. Once you acknowledge that life has its own history, things tend to get messy. 

 


Senior Power: “Death hath so many doors to let out life”--Beaumont & Fletcher

By Helen Rippier Wheeler
Monday July 26, 2010 - 10:14:00 PM

An M.D. of my acquaintance assumes that an aged person who does not have money or family will end up in a nursing home. Some folks, including “professionals,” assume that hospice provides assisted suicide. It is currently possible to obtain physician-assisted suicide, albeit not easily, in three states. Think Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Popular literature conveys two hospice pictures— an at-home service and a building/program somewhere else. Think Art Buchwald. 

 

Writing from a Washington, D.C. area hospice during the year before he died, Buchwald reflected on life and death. “Too soon to say goodbye” is his 2006 Random House book, available in the Berkeley Public Library in large and regular print. Chapter titles include On standby for heaven, How I wound up in a hospice, Life at the hospice, Caregivers, The question of death, Mail call, Poster boy, Communication, Death in the afternoon, Awards for staying alive, and Sex and lies. 

 

Some services have always been available from visiting-nurse and home-care agencies, clergy, church-visitation committees, and other local sources. A hospice program coordinates their services. Not all communities have hospice agencies. Medicaid (California’s Med-I-Cal) and some insurance plans may pay part of the bill. Medicare coverage of hospice care for terminal illness in a Medicare-approved hospice program is described in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ 16-page booklet, “Medicare hospice benefits.” Information about the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, the National Association for Home Care and Hospice, and the Hospice Association of America and other organizations is also accessible by Internet.  

 

For patients receiving institutionalized medical care, the federal Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) requires that hospitals give registering patients information regarding their right to accept or decline any kind of medical treatment, including life support. A patient can elect to wear a band which directs staff not to resuscitate. “DNR” should appear in one’s chart. (Presumably one would be a patient in a secular hospital. None of this was manifest when I was a local hospital patient in 2005.) 

 

xxxx 

 

Palliative care (from Latin palliare, to cloak) is any form of medical care or treatment that concentrates on reducing the severity of disease symptoms. The goal is to prevent and relieve suffering and to improve quality of life for people facing serious, complex illness. The term generally refers to any care that alleviates symptoms, whether or not there is hope of a cure by other means. Palliative treatments may also be used to alleviate the side effects of curative treatments, such as nausea associated with chemotherapy

 

Although the concept of palliative care is not new, most physicians have traditionally concentrated on trying to cure patients, treatments for the alleviation of symptoms viewed as hazardous and inviting addiction and other unwanted side effects. 

 

There is sometimes confusion between the terms hospice and palliative care. Hospice services and palliative care programs share similar goals of providing symptom relief and pain management. Non-hospice palliative care is appropriate for anyone with a serious, complex illness. In the United States, a distinction is made between general palliative care and hospice care, which delivers palliative care to those at the end of life; the two aspects of care share a similar philosophy but differ in their payment systems and location of services. Elsewhere, for example the United Kingdom, this distinction is not operative: in addition to specialized hospices, non-hospice-based palliative care teams provide care to those with life-limiting illness at any stage of disease. 

 

The term "palliative care" is increasingly used with regard to diseases other than cancer such as chronic, progressive pulmonary disorders, renal disease, chronic heart failure, HIV/AIDS, and progressive neurological conditions such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Think Craig Ewert, Lou Gehrig, Stephen Hawking. In addition, the rapidly growing field of pediatric palliative care has clearly shown the need for services geared specifically for children with serious illness. 

 

xxxx 

 

“Death is not the worst evil, but rather when we wish to die and cannot,” declared Sophocles (c. 496 B.C.–406 B.C.) Joy Loverde, director of Silvercare Productions, is concerned about suicide. In her “Complete eldercare planner”, she looks past the elder patient, addresses the family and assumes everyone is ready, willing and able. “Take talks of suicide seriously. Studies reveal that most elderly people who attempt suicide fully intend to die. Failure to complete the act is usually a result of poor planning, not an attempt ‘to get attention.’ Elderly males are the highest risk group….” She provides “clues” to watch for. So much for the right-to-die.  

 

There can be a relationship between assisted suicide and hospice. The modern concept of hospice includes palliative care for the incurably ill given in such institutions as hospitals or nursing homes, but also care provided to those who want to die in their own homes. It began to emerge in the 17th century, but many of the foundational principles by which modern hospice services operate were pioneered in the 1950s by Dame Cicely Saunders. Although the movement has met with some resistance, hospice has rapidly expanded throughout the United Kingdom and the United States.  

 

xxxx 

 

Suicide tourism is associated with the pro-euthanasia movement which organizes trips for potential suicide candidates in the few places where euthanasia is tolerated, encouraging decriminalization of the practice in many parts of the world. It is important because it shows clearly that hospice, whether in one’s home or a separate facility, usually does not suffice for the patient with an incurable deteriorating illness and or extreme pain. This is well demonstrated in PBS remarkable “Frontline” series “Suicide Tourist” aired in March 2010.  

 

The American Medical Association has issued some related questions: 

 

1. Should euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide be legal? 

 

2. Is there a moral difference between passive and active euthanasia? 

 

3. Do “DNR” orders endanger patients? 

 

4. What is medical futility? 

 

5. What is an advance directive? 

 

6. Does Dr. Jack Kevorkian ethically serve the best interests of his patients? 

 

7. Is the health care power of attorney sufficient on its own? 

 

 

 

xxxx 

 

UPDATES FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: 

 

 

 

Regarding the “North” Berkeley Public Library (June 29, 2010 “BPL, Wherefore art thou?”), Sylvia Pastano points out that “There are no longer any medical reference books (as we boomers age!), no encyclopedia or dictionary in reference (what kind of reference collection is that?) … went to check something in the Bay Area Consumer Checkbooks and they had all been tossed. That information is not online. The Current Events bulletin board that I relied on to see what was happening in Berkeley has been gone for months. There is no longer a community feel there. The selection of interesting new books seems to be dwindling and the older books on the shelves are also getting pretty thin… There must be other North Branch patrons who are also upset about what is happening…” 

 

 

 

Since 1965, the Older Americans Act (OAA) has gained recognition as a unique and highly regarded statute that has stimulated the development of a comprehensive and coordinated service system. This system has contributed greatly to enhancing the lives of older individuals, family caregivers and persons with disabilities. In 2011, Congress will consider reauthorization and amendments to the OAA effective in FY 2012. In anticipation of this process, the Administration on Aging (AoA) is soliciting input concerning the reauthorization Information on reauthorization events, listening forums, and more can be found on the AoA Web site

 

!SINGLE PAYER, UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE IN CALIFORNIA! 

 

Helen Rippier Wheeler can be reached at pen136@dslextreme.com 

 

No email attachments; use “Senior Power” for subject. 

 

 

 

 


Arts & Events

Classical Music-San Francisco Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:13:00 PM

CALVARY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  

San Francisco Choral Society, July 31, 8 p.m. Works by Beethoven and Britten. $25-$31. www.cityboxoffice.com. 

San Francisco Choral Society, Aug. 1, 4 p.m. Works by Beethoven and Britten. $25-$31. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com. 

2515 Fillmore St., San Francisco. (415) 346-3832, www.calvarypresbyterian.org.

 

COWELL THEATER AT FORT MASON CENTER  

"L'Elisir d'Amore," Aug. 5 through Aug. 8, Aug. 5-7, 8 p.m.; Aug. 8, 2 p.m. Merola Opera Program presents Gaetano Donizetti's opera. $40-$60.  

Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 345-7575, www.fortmason.org.

 

GOLDEN GATE PARK  

Golgen Gate Park Band, Aug. 1, 1 p.m. A concert of overtures, suites, marches and showtunes featuring soloist Adam Frey. Free. (510) 530-0814. 

Fulton at 36th Avenue, Lincoln at 41st Avenue, San Francisco. < 

 

LEGION OF HONOR MUSEUM DOCENT TOUR PROGRAMS -- Tours of the permanent collections and special exhibitions are offered Tuesday through Sunday. Non-English language tours (Italian, French, Spanish and Russian) are available on different Saturdays of the month at 11:30 a.m. Free with regular museum admission. (415) 750-3638.  

ONGOING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM --  

"Doing and Viewing Art," For ages 7 to 12. Docent-led tours of current exhibitions are followed by studio workshops taught by professional artists/teachers. Students learn about art by seeing and making it. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to noon; call to confirm class. Free with museum admission. (415) 750-3658. 

ORGAN CONCERTS -- 4 p.m. A weekly concert of organ music on the Legion's restored 1924 Skinner organ. Saturday and Sunday in the Rodin Gallery. Free with museum admission. (415) 750-3624. 

$6-$10; free for children ages 12 and under; free for all visitors on Tuesdays. Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement Street, San Francisco. (415) 750-3600, (415) 750-3636, www.thinker.org.

 

MAGIC THEATRE  

"The Magic Flute," through Aug. 1, Jul. 24, 30, 31, 8 p.m.; Jul. 25, Aug. 1, 2:30 p.m. Bay Area Summer Opera Theater Institute presents Mozart's opera. $20-$35. (415) 522-7376. 

Building D, Fort Mason Center, Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 441-8822, www.magictheatre.org.

 

OLD FIRST CHURCH  

Ultra World X-tet, July 30, 8 p.m. Original works that fuse eastern and western traditions. $14-$17.  

John Ferguson, Aug. 6, 8 p.m. Artist performs works by Beethoven. $14-$17.  

Rudy Salvini Octet, Aug. 8, 4 p.m. Jazz and standards plus originals. $14-$17.  

1751 Sacramento Street, San Francisco. (415) 474-1608.< 

 

SEVENTH AVENUE PERFORMANCES  

"The Armed Woman -- Music of Early Women Composers," July 31, 7:30 p.m. Works by Isabella Leonarda, Trobairitz, Hildegard von Bingen, Maddelena Casulana and others. $15-$20. (415) 664-2543 X3, www.sfrv.org. 

1329 7th Ave., San Francisco. (415) 664-2543, www.sevenperforms.org.<


Classical Music-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:13:00 PM

BERKELEY ART MUSEUM AND PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE  

Gamelan Sekar Jaya, July 30, 7:30 p.m. The percussion ensemble and dancers performing $5.  

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

 

FIRST COVENANT CHURCH OF OAKLAND  

"Summer Sing-ins," through Aug. 10, Tuesdays, 7 p.m. Jul. 27: Haydn's "Lord Nelson Mass,'' conducted by Michael Morgan.  

Aug. 3: Mozart's "C Minor Mass'' and Bach's "Magnificat,'' conducted by Buddy James. $10 per evening, or $50 for a series pass  

4000 Redwood Road, Oakland. (510) 531-5244, www.oaklandfcc.org.

 

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ALAMEDA  

San Francisco Renaissance Voices presents: "Music in the Time of War.'' Aug. 1, 4 p.m. Works by Isabella Leonarda and other early female composers. $15-$20.  

2001 Santa Clara Ave., Alameda. (510) 522-1477, www.alamedachurch.com.

 

HOLY NAMES UNIVERSITY CHAPEL  

"Kodaly Institue Choral Performance," July 30, 7:30 p.m. Judit Hartyanyi conducts. Free.  

3500 Mountain Blvd., Oakland. < 

 

JOHN HINKEL PARK  

Mozart's "Don Giovanni,'' Aug. 7 through Aug. 8 and Aug. 14 through Aug. 8, 3 p.m. Open Opera present's Mozart's classic opera work. Free.  

2 Southampton Ave., John Hinkel Park, Berkeley. < 

 

PERFORMING ARTS THEATER, EL CERRITO HIGH SCHOOL  

"Legend of the Ring," July 31 through Aug. 8, Jul. 31 and Aug. 6, 8 p.m.; Aug. 6, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 8, 2 p.m. Works by Wagner. $25-$65. www.berkeleyopera.org. 

540 Ashbury Ave., El Cerrito. < 

 

ST. DAVID OF WALES CHURCH  

"First Friday Concert," Aug. 6, 11:15 a.m. Spanish baroque works for viola da gamba. Free.  

5641 Esmond Ave., Richmond. <


Readings-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:45:00 PM

BOOKS INC., ALAMEDA  

Howard Bryant, Aug. 4, 7:30 p.m. The author discusses "Last Hero.''  

Free. Readings at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 1344 Park St., Alameda. (510) 522-2226, www.booksinc.net.

 

BOOKS INC., BERKELEY  

Gary Shteyngart, Aug. 5, 7 p.m. The author talks about "Super Sad True Love Story.''  

Robert Fischer, Aug. 8, 6 p.m. The author talks about "Plane Jane.''  

1760 4th Street, Berkeley. (510) 525-7777, www.booksinc.net.

 

DIESEL, A BOOKSTORE  

Diane Kirsten Martin and Lisa Gluskin Stonestreet, Aug. 1, 3 p.m. Martin reads from "Conjugated Visits'' and Stonestreet reads from "Tulips, Water, Ash.''  

5433 College Avenue, Oakland. (510) 653-9965.< 

 

MOE'S BOOKS  

Laura Regan, July 31, 10:30 a.m. The author presents "Pierre the Penguin.''  

"Love Over 60" Aug. 5, 7:30 p.m. Readings from Ellery Akers, Ellen Bass, Chana Bloch, Gail Entrekin, Kathie Isaac-Luke and Ellaraine Lickie.  

10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. 2476 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2087, www.moesbooks.com.<


Professional Dance- Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:45:00 PM

BERKELEY ART MUSEUM AND PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE -- 

Gamelan Sekar Jaya, July 30, 7:30 p.m. The percussion ensemble and dancers performing $5.  

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

 

COUNTERPULSE --  

"'Hot Wings' and 'Tell Them That You Saw Me'," Aug. 5 through Aug. 8, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. New works by Laura Arrington and Jesse Hewit/Strong Behavior.  

1310 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 626-2060, www.counterpulse.org.

 

ODC DANCE COMMONS PERFORMANCE ART COMPLEX  

"Summer Sampler 2010," July 30 through July 31, Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. Program features "Waving Not Drowning'' by Brenda Way, "Stomp a Waltz'' by KT Nelson and "John Somebody'' by Brenda Way. $10-$20.  

351 Shotwell St. (between 17th and 18th streets), San Francisco. (415) 863-6606, www.odctheater.org.

 

PENA PACHAMAMA  

"Carnaval Del Sur," Saturdays, 8:30 p.m. Sukay, Eddy Navia and the Pachamama Dancers present a program of Latin music and dance. $13.50.  

"Cuban Nights," Fridays, 8:30 p.m. Fito Reinoso, Sukay and Eddy Navia present Latin dancing Buena Vista style. $13.50.  

"Flamenco Thursdays" with Carola Zertuche, Thursdays, 8:30 p.m. Music and dance with performers of traditional flamenco. $10.  

Georges Lammam Ensemble, Sundays, 8:30 p.m. Event features music and dancing from the Middle East. $10.  

For ages 21 and older. 1630 Powell St., San Francisco. (415) 646-0018, www.penapachamama.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO OLD MINT  

Joe Goode Performance Group, through Aug. 1, Wednesday-Sunday, 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 p.m. Program features "Traveling Light.'' $30-$37.  

88 5th St., San Francisco. www.themintproject.org.

 

STERN GROVE FESTIVAL The annual summer performing arts festival takes place in the outdoor amphitheater of Sigmund Stern Grove and features popular and classical music by Bay Area, national and international performers. 

"San Francisco Ballet," Aug. 8, 2 p.m. "Prism'' features choreography by Helgi Tomasson.  

Free. Sundays, 2 p.m. Sigmund Stern Grove, 19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 252-6252, www.sterngrove.org.<


Stage-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:44:00 PM

ALTARENA PLAYHOUSE  

CLOSING -- "Steel Magnolias," by Robert Harling, through Aug. 8, Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.; Jul. 29, Aug. 5, 8 p.m. Truvy's beauty salon in small-town Louisiana is the social nucleus for a close-knit circle of women. $19-$22.  

1409 High St., Alameda. (510) 523-1553, www.altarena.org.

 

BRUNS AMPHITHEATER  

"MacHomer," Aug. 3 through Aug. 7, Thursday, 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8 and 10:30 p.m. California Shakespeare Theater presents a Simpsonsinspired take on Shakespeare. 10:30 p.m. shows include pizza and beer with ticket price. $20.  

100 Gateway Blvd., Orinda. < 

 

CALIFORNIA SHAKESPEARE THEATER  

"Mrs. Warren's Profession," by George Bernard Shaw, through Aug. 10, Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Forthright Cambridge student Vivie Warren comes home to discover a shocking secret about her mother and the source of her family fortune.  

$112-$220 for series. Bruns Memorial Amphitheater, 100 Gateway Blvd., Orinda. (510) 548-9666, www.calshakes.org.

 

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, EAST BAY (HAYWARD CAMPUS)  

"Halie!," by Wendy E. Taylor, through Aug. 1, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m. The life and legacy of Mahalia Jackson is recreated onstage. $5-$15.  

25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward. www.csueastbay.edu.

 

CASA PERALTA Once the home of descendants of the 19th-century Spanish soldier and Alameda County landowner Don Luis Maria Peralta, the 1821 adobe was remodeled in 1926 as a grand Spanish villa, using some of the original bricks. The casa features a beautiful Moorish exterior design and hand painted tiles imported from Spain, some of which tell the story of Don Quixote. The interior is furnished in 1920s decor. The house will be decorated for the holidays during the month of December. Call ahead to confirm hours. 

"Earth vs. Altair, Queen of Outer Space! Episode II, the Deadly Ray," by Daniel Dickinson, through Aug. 22, Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. San Leandro Players Theatre Company presents the saga of Pilot Craig Domer. $10-$15. www.sanleandroplayers.org. 

Free but donations accepted. Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 384 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro. (510) 577-3474, (510) 577-3491, www.ci.sanleandro. ca.us/sllibrarycasaperalta.html.< 

 

DIABLO ACTORS ENSEMBLE THEATRE  

CLOSING -- "Laughter on the 23rd Floor," through Aug. 7, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. A team of writers vie for the approval of Max Prince, the star of '50s TV variety show. $10-$25.  

1345 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. (925) 482-5110, www.diabloactors.com.

 

JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

CLOSING -- "Chicago," July 30 through Aug. 1, Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Stage Door Conservatory's Teens on Stage Ensemble presents this musical  

2640 College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 845-8542, www.juliamorgan.org.

 

LAKESIDE PARK GARDEN CENTER  

"Posibilidad," Aug. 4 through Aug. 5, 7 p.m. San Francisco Mime Troupe presents a satire about the workplace. Free. (415) 285-1717, www.sfmt.org 666 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland. (510) 238-3208.< 

 

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"The Pirates of Penzance," through July 31, 8 p.m. Lamplighters Music Theatre presents a comedy by Gilbert and Sullivan. $17-$50. (925) 943-7469. 

1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 943-7469, www.lesherartscenter.com.

 

LIVE OAK THEATRE  

"Blithe Spirit," by Noel Coward, through Aug. 21, 8 p.m. A medium and his two wives vie for his attention. $12-$15.  

1301 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-5580.< 

 

THE MARSH BERKELEY  

CLOSING -- "East 14th -- True Tales of a Reluctant Player," through Aug. 1, Jun. 18, 20, 26-27, Jul. 2-3, 9, 11, 16, 18, 24-5, 31, Aug. 1; Friday, 9 p.m.; Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 7 p.m. Hear the true tale of a young man raised by his mother and ultra-strict stepfather as a middle class, straight-A, god-fearing church boy. $20-$50  

The Gaia Building, 2120 Allston Way, Berkeley. Info: (415) 826-5750, Tickets: (800) 838-3006, www.themarsh.org.

 

WILLOWS THEATRE COMPANY  

CLOSING -- "Avenue Q," through Aug. 1, Wednesday, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. This "adult Sesame Street'' romp features puppets and live actors in highenergy, naughty fun. $25-$30.  

Willows Theatre, Willows Shopping Center, 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. (925) 798-1300, www.willowstheatre.org.<


Galleries-San Francisco Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:09:00 PM

A440 GALLERY --  

"Experience Painting," through Aug. 30. Works by Peter Onstad.  

49 Geary St., San Francisco. www.AA40gallery.com.

 

ANDREA SCHWARTZ GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Leisure Quest," through July 30. Works by Patrick Dintino.  

"What?" Aug. 4 through Aug. 27. Works by Daniel Anhorn, Seamus Conley, Eric Michael Corrigan and others.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 1-5 p.m. 525 2nd St., San Francisco. (415) 495-2090, www.asgallery.com.

 

ARTHAUS  

"The Back Yard," through Sept. 30. Works by Chris Schiavo.  

Free. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 411 Brannan St., San Francisco. (415) 977-0223, www.arthaus-sf.com.< 

 

ARTZONE 461 --  

Keith Gaspari, Heidi McDowell, Brian Tepper, through Aug. 22. New works by the artists.  

461 Valencia Street, San Francisco. (415) 441-8680, www.artzone461.com.

 

BRAUNSTEIN-QUAY GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "New Work," through July 31. Works by Dennis Luedeman.  

OPENING -- "Introductions: Where They Are Now," Aug. 5 through Aug. 28.  

 

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 430 Clementina St., San Francisco. (415) 278-9850, www.bquayartgallery.com.

 

BRIAN GROSS FINE ART  

"Airborne," through Sept. 10. Works by Ed Moses.  

"Gesture," through Aug. 27. Group exhibition explores various uses of gesture in abstract painting.  

Free. Tuesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 49 Geary St., San Francisco. (415) 788-1050, www.briangrossfineart.com.

 

CALDWELL SNYDER GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Rusted Roses," through July 31. Works by Michael Kalish.  

Free. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 341 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 296-7896, www.caldwellsnyder.com.

 

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF INTEGRAL STUDIES, MINNA STREET GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "No Place But Now," through July 30. Transcontinental collaborative works created specifically for the Minna Gallery.  

Free. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 695 Minna St., San Francisco. (415) 575-6175, www.ciis.edu/lifelong.< 

 

CHINESE CULTURE CENTER GALLERY  

"Stella Zhang," through Sept. 5. Five large scale installation pieces in the artist's first major Bay Area solo exhibition.  

Free. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hilton Hotel, Third Floor, 750 Kearny St., San Francisco. (415) 986-1822.< 

 

CITY ART GALLERY  

OPENING -- "San Francisco," Aug. 4 through Aug. 28. 25 artists interpret the city in their own ways.  

Free. Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 9 p.m. 828 Valencia St., San Francisco. (415) 970-9900, www.cityartgallery.org.

 

CREATIVITY EXPLORED GALLERY  

"Spectrum," through Aug. 11. Exhibition features psychedelic-style art.  

Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 1-6 p.m. 3245 16th St., San Francisco. (415) 863-2108, www.creativelyexplored.org.

 

DOLBY CHADWICK GALLERY  

"Renaissance," through Aug. 28. Works by Bill Armstrong.  

"The Long Year, New Paintings," through Aug. 28. Works by Gary Edward Blum.  

Free. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 210 Post St., Suite 205, San Francisco. (415) 956-3560, www.dolbychadwickgallery.com.

 

DON SOKER CONTEMPORARY ART  

CLOSING -- "Sublimating," through July 31. Wall-mounted ceramic works by Shoichi Seino.  

100 Montogomery St., Suite 1430, San Francisco. (415) 291-0966.< 

 

FEMINA POTENS GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Speaking to Las Vegas in the Language of Las Vegas," through July 31. Exhibit focuses on the world of sex workers.  

Free unless otherwise noted. Thursday through Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. 2199 Market Street at Sanchez, San Francisco. (415) 217-9340, www.feminapotens.org.

 

GALLERY 645 AND MICHAEL THOMPSON FRAMING --  

CLOSING -- "Etchings," through Aug. 6. Works by Beth Weintraub.  

645 7th St., San Francisco. (415) 861-5717.< 

 

GALLERY PAULE ANGLIM  

Gary Lapow, through Aug. 14. Works by the artist.  

James Drake, through Aug. 14. New works by the artist.  

Free. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 14 Geary St., San Francisco. (415) 433-2710, www.gallerypauleanglim.com.

 

GEORGE KREVSKY GALLERY  

"Summer Reading," through Oct. 2. Works by Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Helen Berggruen, Ken Kalman, Rockewell Kent, Clifford Odets, Man Ray, Raymond Saunders, Ben Shahn and others.  

Free. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 77 Geary St., San Francisco. (415) 397-9748, www.georgekrevkygallery.com.

 

GREGORY LIND GALLERY  

"Cooler Heads Prevail," through Aug. 21. Works by Thomas Campbell, Jim Gaylord, Chris Gentile, Jake Longstreth and others.  

49 Geary Street, Fifth Floor, San Francisco. www.gregorylindgallery.com.

 

HAINES GALLERY  

"Wildfires," through Aug. 21. Works by Youngsuk Suh.  

49 Geary St., Suite 540, San Francisco. www.hainesgallery.com.

 

HOSFELT GALLERY  

"Seascapes and Surf Works," through Aug. 14. Works by Russell Crotty.  

430 Clementina St., San Francisco. (415) 495-5454, www.hosfeltgallery.com.

 

INCLUSIONS GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Original Collage," through July 30. Works by Kim Smith.  

627 Cortland Ave., San Francisco. (415) 817-1493.< 

 

JENKINS JOHNSON GALLERY  

"Summertime," through Sept. 3. Works by Nicolas Africano, Ben Aronson, Katherine Chang Liu and many others.  

Free. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 464 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 677-0770, www.jenkinsjohnsongallery.com.

 

JOHN BERGGRUEN GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Pre-existing Conditions," through July 31. Works by Alexander Gorlizki.  

228 Grant Ave., San Francisco. (415) 781-4629, www.berggruen.com.

 

LOST ART SALON  

OPENING -- "Adine Stix: A Retrospective," Aug. 6 through Oct. 31. An extensive survey of paintings from the 1960s.  

245 S. Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 861-1530, www.lostartsalon.com.

 

LUGGAGE STORE  

CLOSING -- "Rehistoricizing Abstract Expressionism," through July 31. Works by Carlos Villa.  

Free. Call for times 1007 Market St., San Francisco. (415) 255-5971, www.luggagestoregallery.org.

 

MARKET STREET GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Arkeeteckt, Vybrant, Image," through July 30. Works by Getbizi.  

Free. 1544 Market St., San Francisco. (415) 290-1441, www.marketstreetgallery.com.

 

MARX & ZAVATTERO --  

"Tilt," through Aug. 21. Works by Timothy Nolan.  

Tuesday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 77 Geary Street at Grant Avenue, 2nd Floor, San Francisco. (415) 627-9111, www.marxzav.com/index.php.< 

 

MICAELA GALLERY  

"Cold and Hot 2010," through Aug. 28. Works by Peter Bremers, Kathleen Elliot, Michael Janis, Michelle Knox, Weston Lambert and others.  

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 333 Hayes St., San Francisco. (415) 551-8118, www.micaela.com.

 

MODERNISM  

"Asymmetrical Chromachords," through Aug. 28. Works by James Hayward.  

"Paradise Lost," through Aug. 28. Works by Michael Dweck.  

"Photographs," through Aug. 28. Works by Michael Dweck.  

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 685 Market St., San Francisco. (415) 541-0461, www.modernisminc.com.

 

MODERNISM WEST  

CLOSING -- "Alexandra's Heteronyms," through July 31. Works by Alex Nichols.  

Free. Evenings, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (call to confirm). 2534 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 648-7600, www.modernismwest.com.

 

PAUL THIEBAUD GALLERY  

"Cigar Box Paintings," through Aug. 21. Works by Ed Musante.  

"Recent Paintings," through Aug. 21. Works by Eileen David.  

Free. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 718 Columbus Ave., San Francisco. (415) 434-3055, www.paulthiebaudgallery.com.

 

ROBERT KOCH GALLERY  

"Photographs," through Aug. 21. Works by Miroslav Tichy.  

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 49 Geary St., Fifth Floor, San Francisco. (415) 421-0122, www.kochgallery.com.

 

ROBERT TAT GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Classic Photographs," through July 31. Photographs by Horst P. Horst and George Hoyningen-Huene.  

49 Geary St., Suite 211, San Francisco. (415) 781-1122, www.roberttat.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO WOMEN ARTISTS GALLERY  

"Reflections," through Aug. 7. Juried exhibition features sculpture, jewelery, paintings and photography.  

Free. Wednesday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. 3489 Sacramento St., San Francisco. (415) 440-7392, www.sfwomenartists.org.

 

SANDRA LEE GALLERY  

OPENING -- "Recent Works," Aug. 2 through Aug. 28. Works by Jeffrey Palladini.  

251 Post St., Suite 310, San Francisco. (415) 291-8000, www.sandraleegallery.com.

 

SHOOTING GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "ILL Romantic," through Aug. 7. Works by Casey Gray.  

839 Larkin Street, San Francisco. (415) 931-8035.< 

 

STEPHEN WIRTZ GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Photographs," through July 31. Works by Michael Kenna.  

Free. Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 49 Geary St., Third Floor, San Francisco. (415) 433-6879, www.wirtzgallery.com.

 

SUITE FIVE SALON  

CLOSING -- Cynthia Milionis, through July 31. Featuring new works by the artist.  

305 Grant Ave., Suite 5, San Francisco. (415) 362-5005, www.suitefivesalon.com/blog.< 

 

TOOMEY TOURELL GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Recap," through Aug. 7. Works by Clinton Fein.  

Free. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 49 Geary St., San Francisco. (415) 989-6444, www.toomeytourell. com.< 

 

TRIANGLE GALLERY  

"49th Anniversary Show -- The Past," July 31 through Sept. 11. Works by gallery artists.  

47 Kearny St., San Francisco. (415) 392-1686, www.triangle-sf.com.< 

 

VELVET DA VINCI  

CLOSING -- "Dichotomies in Objects," through July 31. Featuring contemporary South African studio jewelry from the Stellenbosch Area.  

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m. 2015 Polk St., San Francisco. (415) 441-0109, www.velvetdavinci.com.<


Museums-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:51:00 PM

AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM AND LIBRARY AT OAKLAND The Oakland Public Library's museum is designed to discover, preserve, interpret and share the cultural and historical experiences of African Americans in California and the West. In addition, a three-panel mural is on permanent display. 

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-5:30 p.m. 659 14th St., Oakland. (510) 637-0200, www.oaklandlibrary.org.

 

ALAMEDA MUSEUM The museum offers permanent displays of Alameda history, the only rotating gallery showcasing local Alameda artists and student artwork, as well as souvenirs, books and videos about the rich history of the Island City. 

CLOSING -- "Cross Currents," through July 30. Works by 38 California artists in various media.  

Free. Wednesday-Friday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 2324 Alameda Ave., Alameda. (510) 521-1233, www.alamedamuseum.org.

 

BADE MUSEUM AT THE PACIFIC SCHOOL OF RELIGION The museum's collections include the Tell en-Nasbeh Collection, consisting of artifacts excavated from Tell en-Nasbeh in Palestine in 1926 and 1935 by William Badh, and the Howell Bible Collection, featuring approximately 300 rare books (primarily Bibles) dating from the 15th through the 18th centuries. 

"Tell en-Nasbeh," This exhibit is the "heart and soul" of the Bade Museum. It displays a wealth of finds from the excavations at Tell en-Nasbeh, Palestine whose objects span from the Early Bronze Age (3100-2200 BC) through the Iron Age (1200-586 BC) and into the Roman and Hellenistic periods. Highlights of the exhibit include "Tools of the Trade" featuring real archaeological tools used by Badh and his team, an oil lamp typology, a Second Temple period (586 BC-70 AD) limestone ossuary, and a selection of painted Greek pottery.  

"William Frederic Bade: Theologian, Naturalist, and Archaeologist," This exhibit highlights one of PSR's premier educators and innovative scholars. The collection of material on display was chosen with the hopes of representing the truly dynamic and multifaceted character of William F. Badh. He was a family man, a dedicated teacher, a loving friend, and an innovative and passionate archaeologist.  

Free. Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Holbrook Hall, Pacific School of Religion, 1798 Scenic Ave., Berkeley. (510) 848-0528, www.bade.psr.edu/bade.< 

 

BERKELEY ART MUSEUM AND PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE  

"Thom Faulders: BAMscape," through Nov. 30. This commissioned work, a hybrid of sculpture, furniture, and stage, is the new centerpiece of Gallery B, BAM's expansive central atrium. It is part of a new vision of the gallery as a space for interaction, performance, and improvised experiences.  

"Perpetual and furious refrain / MATRIX 232," through Sept. 12. Exhibition features works by Brent Green.  

"Marisa Olson: Double Bind," through Aug. 31. With a pair of provocative YouTube videos, Olson unravels the promise and pitfalls of online participatory culture.  

"Himalayan Pilgrimage," through Dec. 19. Exhibition features sculpture and painting dating from the ninth to the eighteenth centuries and drawn from a private collection on long-term loan to the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive.  

"Hauntology," through Dec. 5. Drawn primarily from the museum's recent acquisitions of contemporary art, this exhibition explores a wide range of art through the lens of the concept of "hauntology,'' a term coined by the French philosopher Jacques Derrida in 1993 to refer to the study of social, psychological, and cultural conditions in the post-Communist period.  

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM  

AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM -- The museum's permanent exhibition of internationally renowned automobiles dated from 1897 to the 1980s. The cars are displayed as works of art with room to walk completely around each car to admire the workmanship. On long-term loan from the Smithsonian Institution is a Long Steam Tricycle; an 1893-94 Duryea, the first Duryea built by the Duryea brothers; and a 1948 Tucker, number 39 of the 51 Tuckers built, which is a Model 48 "Torpedo'' four-door sedan.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"International Automotive Treasures," An ever-changing exhibit featuring over 90 automobiles.  

"A Journey on Common Ground," An exhibit of moving photographs, video and art objects from around the world exploring the causes of disability and the efforts of the Wheelchair Foundation to provide a wheelchair for every person in need who cannot afford one.  

ONGOING EVENT --  

Free Public Tours, Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Docent-led guided tours of the museum's exhibitions. 

$5-$8; free for children ages 6 and under. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. (925) 736-2280, (925) 736-2277, www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

HISTORY WALKABOUTS -- A series of walking tours that explore the history, lore and architecture of California with veteran tour guide Gary Holloway. Walks are given on specific weekends. There is a different meeting place for each weekend and walks take place rain or shine so dress for the weather. Reservations and prepayment required. Meeting place will be given with confirmation of tour reservation. Call for details.  

678 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 357-1848, www.californiahistoricalsociety.org.

 

CHABOT SPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER State-of-the-art facility unifying science education activities around astronomy. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, indoor stargazing, outdoor telescope viewing and films. 

"Beyond Blastoff: Surviving in Space," An interactive exhibit that allows you to immerse yourself into the life of an astronaut to experience the mixture of exhilaration, adventure and confinement that is living and working in space.  

"Chabot Observatories: A View to the Stars," Explore the history of the Chabot observatories and how its historic telescopes are used today. Daytime visitors can virtually operate a telescope, experiment with mirrors and lenses to understand how telescopes create images of distant objects and travel through more than a century of Chabot's history via multimedia kiosks, historical images and artifact displays.  

EVENTS --  

"Live Daytime Planetarium Show," Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Ride through real-time constellations, stars and planets with Chabot's full-dome digital projection system. 

"Galaxy Explorers Hands-On Fun," Saturday, noon-4 p.m. The Galaxy Explorers lead a variety of fun, hands-on activities, such as examining real spacesuits, creating galaxy flipbooks, learning about telescopes, minerals and skulls and making your own comet. Free with general admission. 

"Daytime Telescope Viewing," Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. View the sun, the moon and the planets through the telescopes during the day. Free with general admission. 

Center Admission: $14.95; $10.95 children 3-12; free children under 3; $3 discount for seniors and students. Telescope viewing only: free. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Also open on Tuesdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. after June 29. 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 336-7300, www.chabotspace.org.

 

HABITOT CHILDREN'S MUSEUM A museum especially for children ages 7 and under. Highlights include "WaterWorks,'' an area with some unusual water toys, an Infant Tree for babies, a garden especially for toddlers, a child-scale grocery store and cafe, and a costume shop and stage for junior thespians. The museum also features a toy lending library.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Waterworks." A water play gallery with rivers, a pumping station and a water table, designed to teach about water.  

"Little Town Grocery and Cafe." Designed to create the ambience of shopping in a grocery store and eating in a restaurant.  

"Infant-Toddler Garden." A picket fence gated indoor area, which includes a carrot patch with wooden carrots to be harvested, a pretend pond and a butterfly mobile to introduce youngsters to the concept of food, gardening and agriculture.  

"Dramatic Arts Stage." Settings, backdrops and costumes coincide with seasonal events and holidays. Children can exercise their dramatic flair here.  

"Wiggle Wall." The floor-to-ceiling "underground'' tunnels give children a worm's eye view of the world. The tunnels are laced with net covered openings and giant optic lenses. 

"Architects at Play," This hands-on, construction-based miniexhibit provides children with the opportunity to create free-form structures, from skyscrapers to bridges, using KEVA planks.  

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$6-$7. Wednesday and Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Closed Sunday-Tuesday. 2065 Kittredge St., Berkeley. (510) 647-1111, www.habitot.org.

 

JUDAH L. MAGNES MUSEUM The museum's permanent collection includes objects of Jewish importance including ceremonial art, film and video, folk art and fine art, paintings, sculptures and prints by contemporary and historical artists. 

"Projections," Multimedia works from the museum's extensive collections of archival, documentary and experimental films. Located at 2911 Russell Street.  

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$4-$6; free for children under age 12. Sunday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. CLOSED APRIL 3-4 AND 9-10; MAY 23-24 AND 28; JULY 4; SEPT. 3, 13 AND 27; OCT. 4; NOV. 22; DEC. 24-25 AND 31. 2911 Russell St., Berkeley. (510) 549-6950, www.magnes.org.

 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"NanoZone," Discover the science of the super-small: nanotechnology. Through hands-on activities and games, explore this microworld and the scientific discoveries made in this area.  

"Forces That Shape the Bay," A science park that shows and explains why the San Francisco Bay is the way it is, with information on water, erosion, plate tectonics and mountain building. You can ride earthquake simulators, set erosion in motion and look far out into the bay with a powerful telescope from 1,100 feet above sea level. The center of the exhibit is a waterfall that demonstrates how water flows from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Bay. Visitors can control where the water goes. There are also hands-on erosion tables, and a 40-foot-long, 6-foothigh, rock compression wall.  

"Real Astronomy Experience," A new exhibit-in-development allowing visitors to use the tools that real astronomers use. Aim a telescope at a virtual sky and operate a remote-controlled telescope to measure a planet.  

"Biology Lab," In the renovated Biology Lab visitors may hold and observe gentle animals. Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

"The Idea Lab," Experiment with some of the basics of math, science and technology through hands-on activities and demonstrations of magnets, spinning and flying, puzzles and nanotechnology.  

"Math Around the World," Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

"Math Rules," Use simple and colorful objects to complete interesting challenges in math through predicting, sorting, comparing, weighing and counting.  

 

"Animal Discovery Room,,' 1:30-4 p.m. Visitors of all ages can hold and touch gentle animals, learn about their behavior and habitats and play with self-guided activities and specimen models.  

"Forces That Shape the Bay," This science park shows and explains why the San Francisco Bay is the way it is, with information on water, erosion, plate tectonics and mountain building.  

"Ingenuity in Action," Summer 2010. Enjoy the best of the Ingenuity Lab. Engage your creative brain and use a variety of materials to design, build and test your own innovations.  

"Kapla," Play with simple, versatile building blocks that can be used to build very large, high and stable structures.  

"KidsLab," This multisensory play area includes larger-than-life blocks, a crawl-through kaleidoscope, the Gravity wall, a puppet theater and a reading area.  

"NanoZone," Discover the science of nanotechnology through handson activities and games.  

"Planetarium," Explore the skies in this interactive planetarium.  

"Science on a Sphere," Catch an out-of-this-world experience with an animated globe. See hurricanes form, tsunamis sweep across the oceans and city lights glow around the planet.  

EVENTS --  

"Scream Machines -- The Science of Roller Coasters, through Jan. 2. This head-spinning, stomach-churning exhibition for thrill-seekers features interactive exhibits, artifacts and images to explore.  

"Summer Fun Days," through Aug. 18. Become a raptor expert, learn the science of the trapeze, engineer the perfect boat or test the ice cream that you yourself make.  

$6-$12; free children ages 2 and under. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. University of California, Centennial Drive, Berkeley. (510) 642-5132, www.lawrencehallofscience.org.

 

LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM This is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in America, taking in 6,000 injured and orphaned animals yearly and returning 40 percent of them to the wild. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs using non-releasable wild animals to teach children and adults respect for the balance of nature. The museum includes a state-of-the art wildlife hospital which features a permanent exhibit, titled "Living with Nature,'' which houses 75 non-releasable wild animals in learning environments; a 5,000-square-foot Wildlife Hospital complete with treatment rooms, intensive care, quarantine and laboratory facilities; a 1-acre Nature Garden featuring the region's native landscaping and wildlife; and an "Especially For Children'' exhibit.  

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital. 

EXHIBITS --  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

 

MEYERS HOUSE AND GARDEN MUSEUM The Meyers House, erected in 1897, is an example of Colonial Revival, an architectural style popular around the turn of the century. Designed by Henry H. Meyers,the house was built by his father, Jacob Meyers, at a cost of $4000.00. 

EXHIBITS --  

$3. Fourth Saturday of every month. 2021 Alameda Ave., Alameda. (510) 521-1247, www.alamedamuseum.org/meyers.html.< 

 

MUSEUM OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY SCIENCE VILLAGE A science museum with an African-American focus promoting science education and awareness for the underrepresented. The science village chronicles the technical achievements of people of African descent from ancient ties to present. There are computer classes at the Internet Cafi, science education activities and seminars. There is also a resource library with a collection of books, periodicals and videotapes. 

$4-$6. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, noon-6 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. 630 20th St., Oakland. (510) 893-6426, www.ncalifblackengineers.org.

 

MUSEUM OF CHILDREN'S ART A museum of art for and by children, with activities for children to participate in making their own art.  

ART CAMPS -- Hands-on activities and engaging curriculum for children of different ages, led by professional artists and staff. $60 per day.  

CLASSES -- A Sunday series of classes for children ages 8 to 12, led by Mocha artists. Sundays, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

OPEN STUDIOS -- Drop-in art play activities with new themes each week.  

"Big Studio." Guided art projects for children age 6 and older with a Mocha artist. Tuesday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. $5.  

"Little Studio." A hands-on experience that lets young artists age 18 months to 5 years see, touch and manipulate a variety of media. Children can get messy. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $5.  

"Family Weekend Studios." Drop-in art activities for the whole family. All ages welcome. Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. $5 per child.  

FAMILY EXTRAVAGANZAS -- Special weekend workshops for the entire family.  

"Sunday Workshops with Illustrators," Sundays, 1 p.m. See the artwork and meet the artists who create children's book illustrations. Free. 

EVENTS --  

"Saturday Stories," 1 p.m. For children ages 2-5. Free. 

Free gallery admission. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 538 Ninth St., Oakland. (510) 465-8770, www.mocha.org.

 

MUSEUM OF THE SAN RAMON VALLEY The museum features local artifacts, pictures, flags and drawings commemorating the valley's history. It also houses a historical narrative frieze. In addition to a permanent exhibit on the valley's history, the museum sponsors revolving exhibits and several guided tours. The restored railroad depot that houses the museum was built on the San Ramon Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad 108 years ago. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

Free. August: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Depot, West Prospect and Railroad avenues, Danville. (925) 837-3750, www.museumsrv.org.

 

MUSEUM ON MAIN STREET Located in a former town hall building, this museum is a piece of local history. It has a photo and document archive, collection of artifacts, local history publications for purchase, and a history library. It is supported by the Amador-Livermore Valley Historical Society. 

EXHIBITS --  

"The Horse, Of Course," through Aug. 15. Exhibit examines how the horse has played an important role in the life of the Amador-Livermore Valley.  

$2. Wednesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; CLOSED DEC. 23-JAN. 8. 603 Main St., Pleasanton. (925) 462-2766, www.museumonmain.org.

 

OAKLAND MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Art a la Carte," Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m. Art docents offer a variety of specialized tours focusing on one aspect of the museum's permanent collection. Free with museum admission.  

"Online Museum," Thursdays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Explore the museum's collection on videodisks in the History Department Library.  

Docent Gallery Tours, Saturday and Sunday, 1:30 p.m. 

"Explore our New Gallery," through Dec. 2. The new Gallery of California Art showcases more than 800 works from OMCA's collection-one of the largest and most comprehensive holdings of California art in the world.  

"Gallery of California History," through Dec. 2. This new gallery is based on the theme of Coming to California.  

CLOSING -- "Mini Okubo: Citizen 13660," through Aug. 1. Curated by Senior Curator of Art Karen Tsujimoto, this small exhibition of Okubo's poignant works on paper from the Museum's collection charts Okubo's odyssey.  

OPENING -- "Pixar: 25 Years of Animation," July 31 through Jan. 9. Exhibition presents an unprecedented look at the Emeryville-based animation company.  

$5-$8; free for children ages 5 and under; free to all on the second Sunday of the month. Special events are free with museum admission unless noted otherwise. Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; first Friday of the month, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 1000 Oak St., Oakland. (510) 238-2200, www.museumca.org.

 

PACIFIC PINBALL MUSEUM  

CLOSING -- "Pinball Style: Drama and Design," through Aug. 1. Exhibition comments on pinball art from the 1940s through the 2000s.  

1510 Webster St., Alameda. www.pacificpinball.org.

 

PARDEE HOME MUSEUM The historic Pardee Mansion, a three-story Italianate villa built in 1868, was home to three generations of the Pardee family who were instrumental in the civic and cultural development of California and Oakland. The home includes the house, grounds, water tower and barn. Reservations recommended. 

EVENTS --  

$5; free children ages 12 and under. House Tours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays by appointment. 672 11th St., Oakland. (510) 444-2187, www.pardeehome.org.

 

SAN LEANDRO HISTORY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY The museum showcases local and regional history and serves as a centerpiece for community cultural activity. There are exhibits on Ohlone settlements, farms of early settlers, and contributions of Portuguese and other immigrants. There will also be exhibits of the city's agricultural past and the industrial development of the 19th century.  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"Yema/Po Archeological Site at Lake Chabot," An exhibit highlighting artifacts uncovered from a work camp of Chinese laborers, featuring photomurals, cutouts and historical photographs. 

Free. Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 320 West Estudillo Ave., San Leandro. (510) 577-3990, www.ci.sanleandro. ca.us/sllibrarymuseum.html.< 

 

SHADELANDS RANCH HISTORICAL MUSEUM Built by Walnut Creek pioneer Hiram Penniman, this 1903 redwood-framed house is a showcase for numerous historical artifacts, many of which belonged to the Pennimans. It also houses a rich archive of Contra Costa and Walnut Creek history in its collections of old newspapers, photographs and government records. 

EXHIBITS --  

$1-$3; free-children under age 6. Wednesday and Sunday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Closed in January. 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 935-7871, www.ci.walnut-creek.ca.us.< 

 

SMITH MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY AT CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, HAYWARD The museum houses significant collections of archaeological and ethnographic specimens from Africa, Asia and North America and small collections from Central and South America. The museum offers opportunities and materials for student research and internships in archaeology and ethnology. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

Free. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Meiklejohn Hall, Fourth Floor, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward. (510) 885-3104, (510) 885-7414, www.isis.csuhayward.edu/cesmith/acesmith.html.< 

 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY HEARST MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY 

"Native California Cultures," This is an exhibit of some 500 artifacts from the museum's California collections, the largest and most comprehensive collections in the world devoted to California Indian cultures. The exhibit includes a section about Ishi, the famous Indian who lived and worked with the museum, Yana tribal baskets and a 17-foot Yurok canoe carved from a single redwood.  

"Recent Acquisitions," The collection includes Yoruba masks and carvings from Africa, early-20th-century Taiwanese hand puppets, textiles from the Americas and 19th- and 20th-century Tibetan artifacts.  

"From the Maker's Hand: Selections from the Permanent Collection," This exhibit explores human ingenuity in the living and historical cultures of China, Africa, Egypt, Peru, North America and the Meditteranean. 

$1-$4; free for children ages 12 and under; free to all on Thursdays. Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m. 103 Kroeber Hall, Bancroft Way and College Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 643-7648, www.hearstmuseum.berkeley.edu.

 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY MUSEUM OF PALEONTOLOGY  

"Tyrannosaurus Rex," A 20-foot-tall, 40-foot-long replica of the fearsome dinosaur. The replica is made from casts of bones of the most complete T. Rex skeleton yet excavated. When unearthed in Montana, the bones were all lying in place with only a small piece of the tailbone missing.  

"Pteranodon," A suspended skeleton of a flying reptile with a wingspan of 22 to 23 feet. The Pteranodon lived at the same time as the dinosaurs.  

"California Fossils Exhibit," An exhibit of some of the fossils that have been excavated in California. 

Free. During semester sessions, hours generally are: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-10 p.m. Hours vary during summer and holidays. Lobby, 1101 Valley Life Sciences Building, #4780, University of California, Berkeley. (510) 642-1821, www.ucmp.berkeley.edu.

 

USS HORNET MUSEUM Come aboard this World War II aircraft carrier that has been converted into a floating museum. The Hornet, launched in 1943, is 899 feet long and 27 stories high. During World War II she was never hit by an enemy strike or plane and holds the Navy record for number of enemy planes shot down in a week. In 1969 the Hornet recovered the Apollo 11 space capsule containing the first men to walk on the moon, and later recovered Apollo 12. In 1991 the Hornet was designated a National Historic Landmark and is now docked at the same pier she sailed from in 1944. Today, visitors can tour the massive ship, view World War II-era warplanes and experience a simulated aircraft launch from the carrier's deck. Exhibits are being added on an ongoing basis. Allow two to three hours for a visit. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb steep stairs or ladders. Dress in layers as the ship can be cold. Arrive no later than 2 p.m. to sign up for the engine room and other docent-led tours. Children under age 12 are not allowed in the Engine Room or the Combat Information Center.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Limited Access Day," Due to ship maintenance, tours of the navigation bridge and the engine room are not available. Tuesdays.  

"Flight Deck Fun," A former Landing Signal Officer will show children how to bring in a fighter plane for a landing on the deck then let them try the signals themselves. Times vary. Free with regular Museum admission.  

"Flashlight Tour," Receive a special tour of areas aboard the ship that have not yet been opened to the public or that have limited access during the day. 

"Family Day," Discounted admission for families of four with a further discount for additional family members. Access to some of the areas may be limited due to ship maintenance. Every Tuesday. $20 for family of four; $5 for each additional family member. 

"Living Ship Day," Experience an aircraft carrier in action, with simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed in launch position. Some former crewmembers will be on hand. 

"Bay Area Tailhook Ready Room Special Speaker," Aug. 5, 11:30 a.m. Join U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Ted N. Branch, Commander of Strike Group One for a talk aboard the USS Hornet. $25-$30. 

$6-$14; free children age 4 and under with a paying adult. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Pier 3 (enter on Atlantic Avenue), Alameda Point, Alameda. (510) 521-8448, www.uss-hornet.org.<


Museums-San Francisco Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:50:00 PM

ASIAN ART MUSEUM OF SAN FRANCISCO The Asian Art Museum-Chon-Moon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture recently unveiled its new building in San Francisco's Civic Center. The building, the former San Francisco Public Library, has been completely retrofitted and rebuilt to house San Francisco's significant collection of Asian treasures. The museum offers complimentary audio tours of the museum's collection galleries.  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"In a New Light," There are some 2,500 works displayed in the museum's new galleries. They cover all the major cultures of Asia and include Indian stone sculptures, intricately carved Chinese jades, Korean paintings, Tibetan thanksgas, Cambodian Buddhas, Islamic manuscripts and Japanese basketry and kimonos.  

ONGOING FAMILY PROGRAMS --  

Storytelling, Sundays and the first Saturday of every month, 1 p.m. This event is for children of all ages to enjoy a re-telling of Asian myths and folktales in the galleries. Meet at the Information Desk on the Ground Floor. Free with general admission.  

"Target Tuesday Family Program," first Tuesday of every month. Free with general admission.  

"Family Art Encounter," first Saturday of every month, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Drop in to make art related to the museum's collection. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Education Studios. Free with admission.  

DOCENT-LED ART TOURS -- The museum's docents offer two types of tours: a general introduction to the museum's collection and a highlight tour of specific areas of the collection. Free with museum admission.  

ARCHITECTURAL GUIDES -- Tuesday through Sunday at noon and 2:30 p.m., Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Learn about the former Main Library's transformation into the Asian Art Museum on this 40-minute tour. Free with museum admission.  

RESOURCE CENTER -- Tuesday through Sunday, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Watch a video, or learn more about Asian art with slide packets, activity kits and books. Free with museum admission. 

SPECIAL EVENTS -- Free with general admission unless otherwise noted.  

"Shanghai," through Sept. 5. Exhibition features more than 130 artworks including oil paintings, Shanghai Deco furniture, revolutionary posters, works of fashion and more.  

"Japan's Early Ambassadors to San Francisco, 1860-1927," through Nov. 21. Timed to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the ship Kanrin Maru and the first Japanese embassy to the United States, this thematic exhibit focuses on some of the first Japanese diplomats and cultural emissaries in San Francisco, and how they responded to the experience of being in America.  

$7-$12; free children under age 12; $5 Thursday after 5 p.m.; free to all first Sunday of each month. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 200 Larkin St., San Francisco. (415) 581-3500, www.asianart.org.

 

BEAT MUSEUM Formerly located on the California coast in Monterey, the Beat Museum now sits in historic North Beach. The Museum uses letters, magazines, pictures, first editions and more to explore the lives of leading beat figures such as Jack Kerouac, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady and many others. A gift shop and bookstore are open to the public free of charge. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"North Beach Walking Tour,", A 90-minute walking tour of North Beach with Beat Museum curator Jerry Cimimo. See the bars, coffeehouses, homes, and other Beat-related highlights of North Beach. Call for info. $15. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$4-$5. Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. CLOSED MONDAY. 540 Broadway, San Francisco. (800) KER-OUAC, www.kerouac.com.

 

CABLE CAR MUSEUM The museum is located in the historic Cable Car Barn and Powerhouse. Visitors can see the actual cable winding machinery, grips, track, cable and brakes, as well as three historic cable cars, photo displays and mechanical artifacts. The best way to get to this museum is by cable car; street parking is practically non-existent. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

Free. April 1-Sept. 30: daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 1-March 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1201 Mason St., San Francisco. (415) 474-1887, www.cablecarmuseum.org.

 

CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES  

"Nightlife," Thursdays, 6 p.m. Every Thursday night, the Academy transforms into a lively venue filled with provocative science, music, mingling and cocktails, as visitors get a chance to explore the museum.  

"Where the Land Meets the Sea," Exhibition features sculpture by Maya Lin.  

BENJAMIN DEAN LECTURE SERIES --  

"Extreme Mammals," through Sept. 12. Exhibition features a far-reaching survey of members of the mammal family.  

$14.95-$24.95. Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. (415) 379-8000, www.calacademy.org.

 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

HISTORY WALKABOUTS -- A series of monthly walking tours that explore the history, lore and architecture of California with veteran tour guide Gary Holloway. Walks take place rain or shine so dress for the weather. Reservations and prepayment required. Meeting place will be given with confirmation of tour reservation. Tour price includes admission to the Museum.  

"Happy Valley," Aug. 6 and Aug. 7, Saturday, 11 a.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. Explore this lost neighborhood located south of Market, which was destroyed in the great fire that followed the 1906 earthquake. Find the original street pattern, and pass by the Palace Hotel, Yerba Buena Center and St. Patrick's Catholic Church. $25-$40. 

MUSEUM -- The museum's permanent collection is made up of the Fine Arts Collection, consisting of 5,000 works of art that represent the history of California from pre-Gold Rush days to the early decade of the 20th century; and The Photography Collection, containing nearly a halfmillion images in an array of photographic formats documenting the history of California in both the 19th and 20th centuries. The Library and Research Collection contain material relating to the history of California and the West from early exploration time to the present including texts, maps, and manuscripts.  

"Landscape and Vision: Early California Painters from the Collections of the California Historical Society," open-ended. An exhibit of oil paintings including a large number of early landscapes of California, from the museum's collection.  

"Think California," through Feb. 5. Exhibition features artworks, artifacts and ephemera exploring California's colorful history.  

$1-$3; free children under age 5. Wednesday-Saturday, noon-4:30 p.m. 678 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 357-1848 X229, www.californiahistoricalsociety.org.

 

CARTOON ART MUSEUM  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"An Exploration of Cartoon Art," This exhibit explores the history of cartoon art including works from the most renowned and creative cartoonists of the last century. The exhibit traces the evolution of cartooning through its many forms including animation, comic strips, comic books, editorial cartoons and underground cartoons.  

CARTOONING CLASSES FOR KIDS -- Saturday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For children ages 6 to 14. Call for schedule. Free with admission. 

"60 Years of Beetle Bailey," through Sept. 19. Exhibition showcases the comics of Mort Walker.  

$2-$6; free children ages 5 and under; the first Tuesday of the month is paywhat-you-wish day. Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 655 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 227-8666, www.cartoonart.org.

 

CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA The CHSA Museum and Learning Center features a permanent exhibition, "The Chinese of America: Toward a More Perfect Union'' in its Main Gallery, and works by Chinese-American visual artists in its Rotating Galleries.  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"Leaders of the Band," An exhibition of the history and development of the Cathay Club Marching Band, the first Chinese American band formed in 1911. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$1-$3; free children ages 5 and under; free for all visitors first Thursday of every month. Tuesday-Friday, noon-5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, noon-4 p.m. 965 Clay St., San Francisco. (415) 391-1188, www.chsa.org.

 

CONTEMPORARY JEWISH MUSEUM The museum, formerly known as the Jewish Museum San Francisco, has a new addition designed by Daniel Libeskind and is dedicated to exploring the richness and diversity of Jewish thought and culture.  

GALLERY TOURS -- Sunday and Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. Free. 

"Jews on Vinyl," through Aug. 22. Exhibition showcases the history of Jewish recorded music from the 1940s to the 1980s.  

"As It Is Written: Project 304,805," through Oct. 3. Exhibition centers around a soferet (a professionally trained female scribe) who writes out the entire text of the Torah, at the Museum, over the course of a full year. She will be one of the few known women to complete an entire Torah scroll, an accomplishment traditionally exclusive to men.  

"Reinventing Ritual: Contemporary Art and Design for Jewish Life," through Oct. 3. The first major international exhibition to examine the reinvention of Jewish ritual in art and design.  

"Maira Kalman: Various Illuminations (of a Crazy World)," through Oct. 26. The first major museum survey of the award-winning illustrator, author and designer.  

$4-$5; free for children under age 12; free third Monday of every month. Sunday -Thursday, noon-6 p.m. DEC. 25, NOON TO 4 P.M.; CLOSED JAN. 1. 736 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 655-7800, www.thecjm.org.

 

DE YOUNG MUSEUM The art museum has now reopened in a new facility designed by Swiss architecture firm Herzog and de Meuron and Fong and Chan Architects in San Francisco. It features significant collections of American art from the 17th through the 20th centuries; modern and contemporary art; art from Central and South America, the Pacific and Africa; and an important and diverse collection of textiles. 

ARTIST STUDIO PROGRAM -- Wednesday-Sunday, 1-5 p.m. A monthly interactive program during which the public can meet and work with a featured artist. Demonstrations take place in the Kimball Education Gallery, which does not require paid admission. (415) 750-7634. 

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES --  

"Children's Workshops: Doing and Viewing Art and Big Kids-Little Kids," Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon and 1:30-3 p.m. Family tour and art activity for ages 4-12. 

LECTURES AND SYMPOSIA --  

LECTURES BY DOCENTS -- These lectures are free and are held in the Koret Auditorium unless otherwise noted.  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Poetry Series," 7-8:30 p.m. $8-$12. (415) 750-7634. 

"Friday Nights at the de Young: Cultural Encounters," 5-8:45 p.m. The de Young stays open until 8:45 p.m. each Friday night and hosts special events including live music, dance, film, lectures and artist demonstrations.  

Aug. 22: "Cultural Encounters presents Hot Brazilian Nights.''  

Event features music by Forro for All and art-making for the entire family.  

Aug. 29: "Cultural Encounters.''  

Event features live music by the Scott Amendola Trio. Free with admission. 

"Photo/Synthesis," through Oct. 3. Exhibition highlights the dynamic trend in the field of contemporary photography, collages, assemblages, and other multi-part or composite photo-based projects.  

"Birth of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musee d'Orsay," through Sept. 6. Exhibition puts forth nearly 100 works by the famous masters who called France their home during the mid-19th century and from whose midst arose one of the most original and recognizable of all artistic styles, Impressionism.  

"Pat Steir: After Hokusai, after Hiroshige," through Jan. 30. Exhibition shows the continued influence of the Japanese print on Western artists into the late twentieth century.  

OPENING -- "To Dye For: A World Saturated in Color," July 31 through Jan. 9. Exhibition features over 50 textiles and costumes from the Fine Arts Museums' comprehensive collection of textiles from Africa, Asia and the Americas.  

$6-$10; free for children ages 12 and under; free for all visitors the first Tuesday of every month. Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.; Friday, 9:30 a.m.-8:45 p.m. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco. (415) 863-3330, www.deyoungmuseum.org.

 

EXPLORATORIUM A hands-on museum of science, art and human perception.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Tactile Dome," ongoing installation. The dome is composed of many chambers, which are pitch black inside and full of different tactile sensations. The only way to find one's way through is by using the sense of touch. Reservations required. $12 includes museum admission.  

"Distorted Room," Watch your friends inside the room grow to twice their size by walking left to right or shrink to half their size by walking in the opposite direction. A series of geometric tricks and optical illusions in the room makes the brain think that people shrink and grow before one's eyes.  

"Play Lab," An area for children ages 4 and under, designed to help them develop their motor skills and exercise their imaginations and social skills.  

"Listen: Making Sense of Sound," This "ears-on'' exhibit helps visitors focus on subtle and profound aspects of hearing, experiment with new ways of listen deeply and carefully, and think about how others hear the world. 

"Geometry Playground," through Sept. 6. Explore giant 3d shapes, curved mirrors and more.  

"Geometric Threads," through Aug. 22. Experience geometry as found in traditional handicrafts and contemporar design as artisans demonstrate the mathematics in crafts across the globe.  

$9-$14; free children ages 4 and under. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; CLOSED DEC. 25. 3601 Lyon St., San Francisco. (415) EXP-LORE, (415) 563-7337, (415) 561-0360, www.exploratorium.edu.

 

GLBT HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM The museum is a project of the GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender) Historical Society. 

EVENTS --  

EXHIBITS --  

$2-$4. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. 657 Mission St., Suite 300, San Francisco. (415) 777-5455, www.glbthistory.org.

 

INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM OF WOMEN  

EVENTS --  

101 Howard Street, Suite 480, San Francisco. (415) 543-4669, www.imow.org/home/index.< 

 

LEGION OF HONOR MUSEUM DOCENT TOUR PROGRAMS -- Tours of the permanent collections and special exhibitions are offered Tuesday through Sunday. Non-English language tours (Italian, French, Spanish and Russian) are available on different Saturdays of the month at 11:30 a.m. Free with regular museum admission. (415) 750-3638.  

ONGOING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM --  

"Doing and Viewing Art," For ages 7 to 12. Docent-led tours of current exhibitions are followed by studio workshops taught by professional artists/teachers. Students learn about art by seeing and making it. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to noon; call to confirm class. Free with museum admission. (415) 750-3658. 

ORGAN CONCERTS -- 4 p.m. A weekly concert of organ music on the Legion's restored 1924 Skinner organ. Saturday and Sunday in the Rodin Gallery. Free with museum admission. (415) 750-3624. 

SPECIAL EVENTS -- In the Gould Theater unless otherwise noted. $4 after museum admission unless otherwise noted. (415) 682-2481. 

"Sunday Jazz Brunch," 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $21-$53. 

"Very Postmortem: Mummies and Medicine," Oct. 31. Exhibition explores the modern scientific examination of mummies providing new insights into the conditions under which the Egyptians lived, bringing us closer to understanding who they were.  

"Impressionist Paris: City of Light," through Sept. 26. Exhibition explores various aspects of life in and around the city in which artists came of age. Visitors to the exhibition are transported to Impressionist Paris as represented in over 150 prints, drawings, photographs, paintings, and illustrated books from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and several distinguished private collections.  

$6-$10; free for children ages 12 and under; free for all visitors on Tuesdays. Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Lincoln Park, 34th Avenue and Clement Street, San Francisco. (415) 750-3600, (415) 750-3636, www.thinker.org.

 

MARKET STREET RAILWAY MUSEUM The museum will permanently display a variety of artifacts telling the story of San Francisco's transportation history, including dash signs, fare boxes, a famed Wiley "birdcage'' traffic signal and more. 

Free. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 77 Steuart St., San Francisco. (415) 956-0472, www.streetcar.org.

 

MEXICAN MUSEUM  

THE MEXICAN MUSEUM GALLERIES AT FORT MASON CENTER ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED --  

The Mexican Museum holds a unique collection of 12,000 objects representing thousands of years of Mexican history and culture within the Americas. The permanent collection, the Museum's most important asset and resource, includes five collecting areas: Pre-Conquest, Colonial, Popular, Modern and Contemporary Mexican and Latino, and Chicano Art. The Museum also has a collection of rare books and a growing collection of Latin American art. 

Fort Mason Center, Building D, Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 202-9700, www.mexicanmuseum.org.

 

MUSEO ITALOAMERICANO The museum, dedicated to the exhibition of art works by Italian and Italian-American artists, has a small permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs and works on paper by such renowned artists as Beniamino Buffano, Sandro Chia, Giorgio de Chirico and Arnaldo Pomodoro.  

DOCENT TOURS -- Wednesdays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 

$2-$3; free children under age 12; free to all first Wednesday of the month. Wednesday-Sunday, noon -4 p.m.; first Wednesday of the month, noon-7 p.m. Fort Mason Center, Building C, Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 673-2200, www.museoitaloamericano.org.

 

MUSEUM OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AT SAN FRANCISCO STATE UNIVERSITY  

EXHIBITS --  

Free. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Humanities Building, Room 510, SFSU, Font Boulevard and Tapia Drive, San Francisco. (415) 405-0599, www.sfsu.edu/~museumst/.< 

 

MUSEUM OF CRAFT AND FOLK ART The museum, now open at a new downtown location, features craft and folk art from various cultures, both past and present, and includes styles ranging from utilitarian objects to contemporary art. 

"Clare Rojas: We They, We They," through Aug. 22. Where neo-folk meets contemporary art, artists operate as "authors'' of the collective voice. The new exhibition showcases the first solo exhibition of the Bay Area artist who identifies and inserts herself in the folk art continuum. MOCFA is proud to present new work that has yet to be seen by the public.  

$4-$5; free for youths under age 18. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 51 Yerba Buena Lane, Mission Street between Third and Fourth streets, San Francisco. (415) 227-4888, www.mocfa.org.

 

MUSEUM OF PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN  

EXHIBITS --  

Free. Wednesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Veterans Building, 401 Van Ness Avenue at McAllister, 4th Floor, San Francisco. (415) 255-4800, www.mpdsf.org.

 

MUSEUM OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORA A new museum exploring and celebrating the influence of the African Diaspora on global art and culture through interactive, permanent and changing exhibits and special programs. The museum occupies the first three floors of the new St. Regis Hotel at Third and Mission streets.  

PERMANENT EXHIBITS --  

"Celebrations: Rituals and Ceremonies," "Music of the Diaspora,'' "Culinary Traditions,'' 'Adornment,'' "Slavery Passages,'' and "The Freedom Theater.'' 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Urban Kidz Film Series," Noon-3 p.m. An offshoot of the San Francisco Black Film Festival, featuring a striking assemblage of short and feature films designed to spark the imaginations of the 5-to-12-year-old set. $10 adults; children free. (415) 771-9271. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$5-$8; free children age 12 and under. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; CLOSED MARCH 13 THROUGH MARCH 21. 685 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 358-7200, www.moadsf.org.

 

NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM LIBRARY (THE J. PORTER SHAW MARITIME LIBRARY) Closed on federal holidays. The library, part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, focuses on sail and steam ships on the West Coast and the Pacific Basin from 1520 to the present. The museum library holdings include a premiere collection of maritime history: books, magazines, oral histories, ships' plans and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park's 250,000 photographs. 

Free. By appointment only, Monday-Friday, 1-4 p.m., and the third Saturday of each month 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fort Mason Center, Building E, Third Floor, Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. (415) 560-7080, (415) 560-7030, www.nps.gov/safr.< 

 

PACIFIC HERITAGE MUSEUM The museum presents rotating exhibits highlighting historical, artistic, cultural and economic achievements from both sides of the Pacific Rim. The museum features a permanent display documenting the history and significance of the Branch Mint and Subtreasury buildings. 

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 608 Commercial St., San Francisco. (415) 399-1124.< 

 

RANDALL MUSEUM  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Earthquake Exhibit," Learn about plate tectonics. Make a small quake by jumping on the floor to make a "floor quake'' that registers on the seismometer in the lobby. See the basement seismometer that registers quakes around the world. Walk through a full-size earthquake refugee shack that was used to house San Franciscans after the 1906 earthquake that destroyed so many homes.  

"Creativity and Discovery Hand in Hand," A photography exhibit that gives visitors a look into the wide variety of programs the Museum offers in the way of classes, workshops, school field trips, and special interest clubs.  

"Toddler Treehouse," Toddlers may comfortably climb the carpeted "treehouse'' and make a myriad of discoveries, from the roots to the limbs.  

"Live Animal Exhibit," Visit with more than 100 creatures including small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, raptors and small birds, insects, spiders and tide pool creatures.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Saturdays Are Special at the Museum," Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A series of drop-in ceramics and art and science workshops. All ages are welcome, though an adult must accompany children under age 8. $3 per child, $5 per parent-child combination.  

"Bufano Sculpture Tours," first and third Saturdays of the month, 10:15 a.m. A tour of the giant animal sculptures of Beniamino Bufano. The sculptures were carved out of stone in the 1930s and include a giant cat and a mother bear nursing her cubs.  

"Animal Room," Visit some of the animals that live at the museum, including reptiles, raptors, tide pool creatures and small mammals.  

"Meet the Animals" Saturdays, 11:15 a.m. to noon. See the Randall's animals close-up and in person.  

"Animal Feeding," Saturdays, noon. Watch the animals take their meals.  

"Golden Gate Model Railroad Exhibit," Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

DROP-IN ART AND SCIENCE WORKSHOPS -- 1-4 p.m. $3-$5.  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Drop-in Family Ceramics Workshop," Saturday, 10:15-11:15 a.m. $5. 

"Drop-in Family Ceramics Workshop," Saturday, 1:15-2:15 p.m. 

"Animal Feeding," Saturday, noon. 

"Meet the Animals," 11:15 a.m.-noon. 

"Golden Gate Model Railroad Exhibit," Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 

"Film Series for Teenagers," Fridays, 7 p.m. 

"Third Friday Birders," 8 a.m. The hike through Corona Heights Park allows participants to enjoy the early morning views and learn more about the feathered inhabitants of the area. Children aged 10 and older if accompanied by adult. 

"Meet the Animals," Saturdays, 11:15 a.m. Learn about the animals that live at the Randall Museum. 

Free. All ages welcome; an adult must accompany children under age 8. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS. 199 Museum Way, San Francisco. (415) 554-9600, www.randallmuseum.org.

 

SAN FRANCISCO CABLE CAR MUSEUM The museum is located in the historic Cable Car Barn and Powerhouse. Visitors can see the actual cable winding machinery, grips, track, cable and brakes, as well as three historic cable cars, photo displays and mechanical artifacts. The best way to get to this museum is by cable car; street parking is practically non-existent. 

Free. October 1-March 31: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; April 1-September 3-: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Closed on New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving and Christmas. 1201 Mason St., San Francisco. (415) 474-1887, www.cablecarmuseum.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO MARITIME NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK One of only a few "floating'' national parks, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park includes four national landmark ships, a maritime museum, a maritime library and a World-War-II submarine named the USS Pampanito.  

HYDE STREET PIER -- Demonstrations, ship tours, programs, music and special events offered throughout the day. Check ticket booth for schedule. At the foot of Hyde Street, Hyde and Jefferson streets.  

Entering the Pier is free but there is a fee to board the ships.  

HISTORIC SHIPS AT THE HYDE STREET PIER -- The historic ships at the Pier are the 1886 square-rigger "Balclutha,'' the 1890 steam ferryboat "Eureka,'' the 1895 schooner "C.A. Thayer'' (not available at this time due to restoration), the 1891 scow schooner "Alma,'' the 1907 steam tug "Hercules,'' and the 1914 "Eppleton Hall,'' a paddlewheel tug.  

"Balclutha." This historic ship, a three-mast square-rigger, has undergone extensive repairs and preservation work. She now contains more original materials and fittings than any other historic merchant square-rigger in the United States. The Balclutha is a designated National Historic Landmark. At Hyde Street Pier.  

"Eureka." Explore this 1890 ferryboat with a 40-foot walking-beam engine. The boat once carried passengers and autos across the San Francisco Bay. At Hyde Street Pier. Daily, call for times of boat tour.  

"C.A. Thayer." A three-mast schooner used in the lumber and cod fishing trades. At Hyde Street Pier.  

"Alma." Between 1850 and the early 1900s, the best highways around the San Francisco Bay area were the waterways and the delivery trucks and tractortrailer rigs of the time were the flat-bottomed scow schooners. Able to navigate the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta region's shallow creeks, sloughs and channels, the scows' sturdy hulls could rest safely and securely on the bottom providing a flat, stable platform for loading and unloading. Made of inexpensive Douglas fir, scow's designs were so simple they could be built by eye or without plans.  

"Hercules." Tugs in the early part of the 20th century towed barges, sailing ships and log rafts between Pacific ports. Because prevailing north/west winds generally made travel up the coast by sail both difficult and circuitous, tugs often towed large sailing vessels to points north of San Francisco. In 1916 Hercules towed the C.A. Thayer to Port Townsend, Wash., taking six days to make the trip. At the end of the sail era, the Hercules was acquired by the Western Pacific Railroad Company and shuttled railroad car barges back and forth across San Francisco Bay until 1962.  

"Eppleton Hall." Built in England, the steam side-wheeler plied the Wear and Tyne rivers of Northeast England. Designed to tow ocean-going colliers (coal-carrying sail vessels) the tugs saved transit time getting the sail vessels upriver to load. The side-wheelers were also used to tow newly built ships out to sea. From 1969 to 1979, the Eppleton Hall served as a private yacht. She was modified for an epic steam via the Panama Canal to San Francisco, passing through the Golden Gate in March of 1970.  

HISTORIC SHIP AT FISHERMAN'S WHARF --  

"USS Pampanito." This World-War-II-era submarine is berthed at Fisherman's Wharf. The submarine celebrated her 50th anniversary in November of 1993 and is perhaps best known for her participation in a "wolf pack'' attack on a convoy of enemy ships during World War II. The entrance fee includes a taped audio tour that describes what life on this submarine was like. At Pier 45, near foot of Taylor Street. Monday through Thursday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. $9 general; $5 seniors, $4 active duty military, $4 youth ages 6 to 12; free children under age 6. (415) 775-1943.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Historic Ship Volunteer Work Party," Saturday, 9 a.m. Become part of an effort to preserve four of the park's nautical treasures. Work on a different ship each Saturday. Bring work clothes, work shoes and lunch. Call for meeting place. (415) 332-8409.  

Unless noted otherwise, events take place on the Hyde Street Pier, located at the foot of Hyde Street on Jefferson Street. 

EXHIBITS -- Current Exhibits at the Visitor Center:  

"What's Your Pleasure? Recreational Boats of California's Past," openended. This exhibit includes 1940s Sacramento Hydroplanes, a Russian River launch from the 19th century, classic wooden motor launches and motor boats, and other smaller crafts.  

"Hydroplanes and Racing Boats," open-ended. A small exhibit showcasing 1930s racing engines and hydroplane boats.  

"Frisco Bound," an exhibition about immigration to San Francisco, clipper ships, and the Gold Rush era.  

"Hyde Street Ship Models," an exhibit of models of the historic ships at the Hyde Street Pier.  

"Discovery Room," a preview of the Maritime Library where visitors can look up documents and photographs.  

(415) 447-5000. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Adventures at Sea: Life Aboard a 19th century Sailing Ship," Daily, 2:15 p.m.-3 p.m. Take a guided tour of the sailing ship Balclutha and learn about the hardships and awards of the sailors show fought for survival during the treacherous Cape Horn passage. Vessel admission. 

VISITOR CENTER -- Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.  

Entering the Pier is free but there is a fee to board the ships. The fee allows access to all ships and is good for seven days. $5; free children under age 16. May 28-Sept. 30: daily, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Oct. 1-May 27: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Foot of Hyde Street, San Francisco. (415) 561-7100, www.nps.gov.

 

SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF CRAFT AND DESIGN A museum celebrating and promoting the art of contemporary craft and design. The museum showcases diverse exhibitions from regional, national and international artists, working in mediums such as wood, clay, fiber, metal and glass. 

EVENTS --  

"FourSite: 4 Artists, 4 Materials, 4 Sites," through Sept. 18. Artists Tanya Aguiniga, Paul Hayes, Tom Hill and Christine Lee transform the museum space with four distinct, large-scale installations of fiber, paper, metal and wood.  

$2-$4; free youths under age 18. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 550 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 773-0303, www.sfmcd.org.

 

SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Matisse and Beyond: The Painting and Sculpture Collection," This newly reconceived exhibition of SFMOMA's modern art collection features paintings, sculptures and works on paper from the first 60 years of the 20th century. Featured artists include: Joseph Cornell, Ellsworth Kelly, Yves Klein, Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo, Piet Mondrian, Pablo Picasso, Diego Rivera, Andy Warhol and Paul Klee.  

"Between Art and Life: The Contemporary Painting and Sculpture Collection," This new presentation of the SFMOMA collection features works from the past five decades by Louise Bourgeois, Robert Gober, Eva Hesse, Anish Kapoor, Sherrie Levine, Brice Marden, Gordon Matta-Clark, Barry McGee, Bruce Nauman, Robert Rauschenberg and Kara Walker.  

"The Art of Design: Selections from the Permanent Collection of Architecture and Design," The exhibit will feature 100 selections from their architecture, graphic design and industrial design collections on a rotating basis. It features classic works plus new designs by up-andcoming artists.  

"Picturing Modernity: Photographs from the Permanent Collection," Photography is possibly the quintessential modern art medium because its 160-year history corresponds almost exactly with Modernism's duration as a cultural movement. This exhibit looks at the photograph's unique pictorial ability and its ever-growing pervasiveness in modern culture, putting the medium in dialogue with paintings and other kinds of art.  

KORET VISITOR EDUCATION CENTER -- This facility includes multimedia display technology, "Pick Up and Go'' guides for adults and children, art videos, and a community art gallery created by participants in school, teen and family programs. Thursday, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Tony Labat's I Want You," The latest installment in the newly launched program series "Live Art at SFMOMA.'' The artist invites denizens of the Bay Area to make their own demands of the public which riffs on the iconic "I Want You'' army recruitment campaigns of World Wars I and II, he asks you what you would do if you had only one minute to seize the voice of authority, to be the finger-pointing Uncle Sam. 

CLOSING -- "Paul Klee: Three Exhibitions from the Djerassi Collection," through Aug. 1. Carl Djerassi's generous promise to give SFMOMA a substantial group of intimate works - mostly drawings, prints, and watercolors - by Paul Klee allowed the museum to begin in 1984 what would become an ongoing series of exhibitions devoted to this beloved artist.  

"Calder to Warhol," through Sept. 19. Exhibition showcases the quality of the Fisher Collection, much of which has never been seen by the public.  

Jesse Hazelip, through Nov. 13. Artists Gallery showcases the work of the Oakland-based artist.  

$7-$12.50; half price on Thursdays after 6 p.m.; free for all visitors on the first Tuesday of every month. Monday, Tuesday and Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5:45 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-8:45 p.m. 151 Third St., San Francisco. (415) 357-4000, www.sfmoma.org.

 

SAN FRANCISCO PERFORMING ARTS LIBRARY AND MUSEUM  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Dance in California: 150 Years of Innovation," This permanent exhibit traces the history and artistic range of modern dance in California, with photographs and documents highlighting the achievements of Lola Montez, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, Martha Graham, the Christensen brothers, the Peters Wright School, the company of Lester Horton, Anna Halprin and Lucas Hoving.  

"Maestro! Photographic Portraits by Tom Zimberoff," This permanent exhibit is a comprehensive study of a generation of national and international conductors. In Gallery 5.  

"San Francisco 1900: On Stage," In Gallery 4.  

"San Francisco in Song," In Gallery 3. 

Free. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 1-5 p.m. San Francisco War Memorial Veteran's Building, 401 Van Ness Ave., Fourth Floor, San Francisco. (415) 255-4800, www.sfpalm.org.

 

SEYMOUR PIONEER MUSEUM The museum, owned by The Society of California Pioneers, houses a permanent research library, art gallery and history museum. Exhibits include a photography collection documenting California history. 

$1-$3. Wednesday-Friday and the first Saturday of the month, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Society of California Pioneers, 300 Fourth St., San Francisco. (415) 957-1859, www.californiapioneers.org.

 

TREGANZA ANTHROPOLOGY MUSEUM AT SAN FRANCISCO STATE UNIVERSITY The museum, founded in 1968, houses collections of archaeological and ethnographic specimens from Africa, Oceania, Asia, and North America as well as small collections from Central and South America. There are also collections of photographs, tapes and phonograph records from Africa and Europe. In addition, there is an archive of field notes and other materials associated with the collections. The museum also houses the Hohenthal Gallery that is used for traveling exhibits as well as exhibits mounted by students and faculty. 

Free. Museum office: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Hohenthal Gallery, SCI 388: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Science Building, SFSU, 1600 Holloway Ave., San Francisco. (415) 338-2467, www.sfsu.edu/~treganza/.< 

 

ZEUM Zeum is a technology and arts museum for children and families featuring exhibits and workshops that cover a variety of fascinating subjects. 

EVENTS --  

$6-$8. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. 221 Fourth St., San Francisco. (415) 820-3220, www.zeum.org.<


Popmusic-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:49:00 PM

924 GILMAN ST. -- All ages welcome. 

Violation, Decent Criminal, IV, Detach Dolls, Automatic Machine, Spirits in the Basement, July 30, 7:30 p.m.  

$5 unless otherwise noted. Shows start Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 924 Gilman St., Berkeley. (510) 525-9926, www.924gilman.org.

 

ALBATROSS PUB  

Whiskey Brothers, First and third Wednesdays, 9 p.m. Free.  

Larry Stefl Jazz Quartet, Aug. 7, 9:30 p.m. $3.  

Free unless otherwise noted. Shows begin Wednesday, 9 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 1822 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 843-2473, www.albatrosspub.com.

 

ARMANDO'S  

Jeff Magidson Blues Band, July 30, 8 p.m. $10.  

Wendy Dewitt and Friends, 8 p.m. $10.  

"Open Mic," Aug. 2, 7 p.m. $3.  

KT and the Wicked Gents, Aug. 5, 8 p.m. $8.  

Curios, Aug. 6, 8 p.m. $10.  

Elite Jazz Band, Aug. 7, 8 p.m. $10.  

Ram Obiedo and Mambo Caribe, Aug. 8, 3 p.m. $10.  

707 Marina Vista Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-6985, www.armandosmartinez.com.

 

ASHKENAZ  

Forro Brazuca and DJ Carioca, July 30, 9:30 p.m. $10-$12.  

Caribbean Allstars, Bluss Culture with Nez B., July 31, 9:30 p.m. $10-$13.  

Baraka Moon, Aug. 1, 8 p.m. $10-$12.  

Lil Pookie and the Zydeco Sensations, Aug. 3, 8:30 p.m. $10.  

Balkan Folkdance, Aug. 4, 8 p.m. $7.  

Sun Hop Fat, Cash Pony, Aug. 5, 9:30 p.m.  

Great American Taxi, The Congress, Aug. 6, 9:30 p.m. $15.  

Tito y Su Son de Cuba, Aug. 7, 9:30 p.m. $10-$13.  

Riffat Sultana and Party, Aug. 8, 8 p.m. $10-$12.  

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.

 

BECKETT'S IRISH PUB  

The P-PL, July 30.  

The Mundaze, July 31.  

Free. Shows at 10 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2271 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 647-1790, www.beckettsirishpub.com.

 

BLAKE'S ON TELEGRAPH  

Swoon, Studmuffin, Natalie Amaya, C Lewis and the Might, Rachel Hanna, July 30, 9 p.m. $10.  

Add Moss, Thirstbusters, Build Us Airplanes, July 31, 8:30 p.m. $10.  

Smoov-E and the Biscuits Experience Live, Aug. 4, 9 p.m. $8-$10.  

Moksha, Jennifer Hartswick, Aug. 5 through Aug. 7, 9 p.m. $15-$20.  

 

For ages 18 and older. Music begins at 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2367 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. (510) 848-0886, www.blakesontelegraph.com.

 

ERA ART BAR AND LOUNGE  

Carne Cruda, Aug. 6, 7 p.m. $5.  

19 Grand Ave., Oakland. (510) 832-4400, www.oaklandera.com.

 

FOX THEATER  

Wolf Parade, Moools, Zola Jesus, July 30, 8 p.m. $27.50.  

Black Star, Zion-I, DJ Mr. E, July 31, 8 p.m. $41.50.  

Joanna Newsom, Robin Pecknold, Aug. 2, 8 p.m. $32.  

Silversun Pickups, Against Me, Henry Clay People, Aug. 3, 7:30 p.m. $35.  

Crystal Castles, Rusko, Sinden, Proxy, Aug. 6, 7 p.m. $29.50-$35.  

1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 452-0438.< 

 

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

"Freight Open Mic," Tuesdays. $4.50-$5.50.  

Jim Bruno, Bonnie Hayes and Carol Denney, July 30. $18.50-$19.50.  

Darryl Henriques, July 31. $18.50-$19.50.  

Dar Williams, Aug. 1. $24.50-$25.50.  

Erica Luckett and Lisa Ferraro, Aug. 5. $20.50-$21.50.  

Anais Mitchell, Aug. 6. $18.50-$19.50.  

49 Special, Aug. 7. $18.50-$19.50.  

Renold and Caution Shonhai, Erica Azim, Aug. 8. $18.50-$19.50.  

Music starts at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2020 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 548-1761, www.freightandsalvage.org.

 

GREEK THEATRE  

Phish, Aug. 5 through Aug. 7, Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 p.m. $50.  

Hearst Avenue and Gayley Road, Berkeley. (510) 548-3010, www.apeconcerts.com.

 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

Rafael Ramirez Trio, Aug. 3, Noon. Free.  

Pulama, Aug. 6.  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.

 

JAZZSCHOOL  

"Advanced High School Jazz Intensive Concert," July 30, 8 p.m. $10.  

Polyhymnia, July 31, 8 p.m. $10.  

Ian Faquini, Aug. 1, 4:30 p.m. $10.  

Bill Bell, Aug. 3, 7 p.m.  

Zach Partridge, Aug. 5.  

Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2087 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 845-5373, www.jazzschool.com.

 

JUPITER  

"Americana Unplugged," Sundays, 5 p.m. A weekly bluegrass and Americana series.  

"Jazzschool Tuesdays," Tuesdays, 8 p.m. Featuring the ensembles from the Berkeley Jazzschool. www.jazzschool.com. 

Kat 010, Zoe Ellis, July 30, 8 p.m.  

Citizens Quartet, July 31, 8 p.m.  

8 p.m. 2181 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 843-8277, www.jupiterbeer.com.

 

KIMBALL'S CARNIVAL  

"Monday Blues Legends Night," 8 p.m.-midnight. Enjoy live blues music every Monday night. Presented by the Bay Area Blues Society and Lothario Lotho Company. $5 donation. (510) 836-2227, www.bayareabluessociety.net. 

522 2nd St., Jack London Square, Oakland. < 

 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

Grupo Falso Baiano and Samba de Raiz, July 30, 9 p.m. $12-$14.  

"Celebrate Peruvian Independence Day," July 31, 8:30 p.m. Featuring music from Vladimir Vukanovich, Pedro Rosales and Rosa Los Santos. $15.  

Domingos de Rumba, Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, 3:3 p.m. Free.  

Ray Cepeda, Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m. $10-$12.  

"International Body Music Festival," Aug. 7, 8 p.m. $20-$25.  

free. 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2568, www.lapena.org.

 

OAKLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY, GOLDEN GATE BRANCH  

Herb Gibson and Combo, Aug. 1, 3 p.m.  

Faye Carroll and Kito, Aug. 8.  

Free. Tuesday, 12:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Friday, noon to 5:30 p.m. 5606 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. (510) 597-5023, www.oaklandlibrary.org.

 

PIEDMONT PIANO CO.  

Tom McDermott and Frank French, July 31, 4 p.m.  

1728 San Pablo Ave., Oakland. (510) 547-8188, www.piedmontpiano.com.

 

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW  

"It's the Joint," Thursdays, 9:30 p.m. Featuring DJs Headnodic, Raashan Ahmad and Friends. $5.  

"King of Kings," Doors 10 p.m. $6-$8.  

"Live Salsa," Wednesdays. An evening of dancing to the music of a live salsa band. Salsa dance lesson from 8:30-9:30 p.m. $5-$10.  

"Thirsty Thursdays," Thursday, 9 p.m. Featuring DJ Vickity Slick and Franky Fresh. Free.  

Chop Tops, July 30, 9 p.m. $8-$10.  

DJ Fuze, July 31, 9 p.m. $10.  

Orquestra Candela, Aug. 4, 8:30 p.m. $8.  

New Fangled Wasteland, Aug. 5, 9 p.m. $8-$12.  

Kraddy, Lazer Sword, J Tonal, Majitope, Aug. 6, 9 p.m. $10-$15.  

Sotaque Baiano, DJ Reuben Kroy, Eder, Abel Damaceno, Aug. 7, 9 p.m. $10.  

For ages 21 and older. 2284 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-1159, www.shattuckdownlow.com.

 

STARRY PLOUGH PUB  

The Starry Irish Music Session led by Shay Black, Sundays, 8 p.m. Sliding scale.  

"Across the Western Ocean: An Evening of Lively Irish and American Traditional Music," July 31, 9 p.m. Featuring Culann's Hounds, Black Crown Stringband and Little Black Train. $10.  

For ages 21 and over unless otherwise noted. Sunday and Wednesday, 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 3101 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-2082, www.starryploughpub.com.

 

UPTOWN NIGHTCLUB  

Make Me, Dreamdate, Schande, July 30, 9 p.m. Free.  

Spiro Agnew, Be Your Own Coach, Exhausted Pipes, La Verita, Aug. 4, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

The Frail, Stripmall Architecture, Buddy Akai, Ted Nessith, Aug. 6, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

Hunx and his Punx, Tropical Sleep, Wrong Words, Aug. 7, 9 p.m. $8.  

 

1928 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 451-8100, www.uptownnightclub.com.

 

YOSHI'S  

John Pizzarelli, July 30 through Aug. 1, Friday and Saturday, 8 and 10 p.m.; Sunday, 2 and 7 p.m. $18-$24.  

Polyhymnia, Aug. 2, 8 p.m. $12.  

Lydia Pense and Cold Blood, Aug. 3, 8 p.m. $20.  

"Global Guitars," Aug. 4, 8 p.m. Featuring The V-Note Ensemble, Jackeline Rago, Le Jazz Hot Quartet of the Hot Club of SF led by Paul Mehling, Terrence Brewer, Calvin Keys and Wayne De La Cruz. $20.  

Martin Luther, Aug. 5, 8 and 10 p.m. $12-$16.  

Gerald Albright, Aug. 6 through Aug. 8, Friday and Saturday, 8 and 10 p.m.; Sunday, 2 and 7 p.m. $18-$28.  

Shows are Monday through Saturday, 8 and 10 p.m.; Sunday, 2 and 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted. 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland. (510) 238-9200, www.yoshis.com.<


Stage-San Francisco Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:43:00 PM

ACTORS THEATRE OF SAN FRANCISCO  

"Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," through Sept. 4, Wednesday-Saturday, 8 p.m. A wealthy Southern family deals with a shocking revelation. $26-$38.  

855 Bush St., San Francisco. (415) 345-1287, (866) 468-3399, www.actorstheatresf.org or www.ticketweb.com.

 

BEACH BLANKET BABYLON This long-running musical follows Snow White as she sings and dances her way around the world in search of her prince. Along the way she encounters many of the personalities in today's headlines, including Nancy Pelosi, Condoleezza Rice, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Harry Potter, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey, Britney Spears, Dianne Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Hillary Clinton, George and Laura Bush, Michael Jackson, Martha Stewart, Tom Cruise, Angelina, characters from Brokeback Mountain and Paris Hilton. Persons under 21 are not admitted to evening performances, but are welcome to Sunday matinees. 

"Steve Silver's Beach Blanket Babylon," Wednesday and Thursday, 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.  

$25-$78. Club Fugazi, 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd. (formerly Green Street), San Francisco. (415) 421-4222, www.beachblanketbabylon.com.

 

CLIMATE THEATRE  

"The Clown Cabaret at the Climate," First Monday of the month, 7 and 9 p.m. Hailed as San Francisco's hottest ticket in clowning, this show blends rising stars with seasoned professionals on the Climate Theater's intimate stage. $10-$15.  

285 Ninth St., Second Floor, San Francisco. www.climatetheater.com.

 

EUREKA THEATRE  

CLOSING -- "Piaf: Love Conquers All," through Aug. 7, Tuesday-Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 3 and 8 p.m. Naomi Emmerson stars in this musical tribute. $25-$36.  

215 Jackson St., San Francisco. (415) 255-8207, (415) 978-2787, www.42ndstmoon.org/42newweb/finding/eureka.htm or www.ticketweb.com/.< 

 

EXIT THEATRE  

"Obscura -- A Magic Show," through Aug. 14, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Featuring illusionist Christian Cagigal. $15-$25.  

CLOSING -- "San Francisco Olympians Festival," through July 31, 8 p.m. No Nude Men Productions presents staged readings of 12 new full-length plays by 14 local writers, each focusing on one of the 12 Olympian gods of ancient Greece. Plays include "Dionysus'' by Nathan Tucker (Jul. 8), "Apollo'' by Garret Groenveld (Jul. 9), "Poseidon'' by Bryce Allemann, Danca Constance and Kathy Hicks (Jul. 10), "Hermes'' by Ben Fisher (Jul. 15), "Artemis'' by M.R. Fall (Jul. 16), "Zeus'' by Helen Noakes (Jul. 17), "Demeter'' by Claire Ann Rice (Jul. 22), "Aphrodite'' by Nirmala Nataraj (Jul. 23), "Ares'' by Sean Kelly (Jul. 24), "Athena'' by Ashley Cowan (Jul. 29), "Hera'' by Stuart Bousel (Jul. 30) and "Hephaestus'' by Evelyn Jean Pine (Jul. 31). $10.  

"A Most Notorious Woman," by Maggie Cronin, through Aug. 14. One-woman show features Christina Augello as the Irish pirate queen Grace O'Malley. $15-$25.  

OPENING -- "Agnes the Barbarian," by Jason Harding, July 30 through Aug. 14, Thursday-Sunday, 8 p.m. Thunderbird Theatre Company presents an original play that is part homage, part lampoon of the sword and sorcery genre. $20-$25.  

156 Eddy St., San Francisco. (415) 673-3847, www.theexit.org.

 

THE MARSH  

"The Mock Cafe," Stand-up comedy performances. Saturday, 10 p.m. $7.  

"The Monday Night Marsh," An ongoing series of works-in-progress. Monday, 8 p.m. $7.  

EXTENDED -- "The Real Americans," by Dan Hoyle, through Sept. 25, Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m. Hoyle connects liberal city life with small-town America. $18-$50.  

1062 Valencia St., San Francisco. (415) 826-5750, www.themarsh.org.

 

NEW CONSERVATORY THEATRE CENTER  

CLOSING -- "Cowardly Things," through July 31, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Cindy Goldfield and Scrumbly Koldewyn explore and evaluate the work of Noel Coward. $20-$28.  

25 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 861-8972, www.nctcsf.org.

 

OFF-MARKET THEATER  

"City Solo," Aug. 1 through Aug. 22, Sunday, 7 p.m. Aug. 1 show features Mary Samson's "Bedside Drawer,'' Thao P. Nguyen "Fortunate Daughter,'' Howard Petrick's "Rambo: The Missing Years'' and Zahra Noorbahksh's "All Atheists Are Muslim.'' $15-$20.  

965 Mission St., San Francisco. < 

 

OUR LITTLE THEATER  

"What Mama Said About Down There," through Aug. 28, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. An "educational show'' for ages 18 and up. $15.  

287 Ellis St., San Francisco. (415) 928-4060.< 

 

PHOENIX THEATRE  

CLOSING -- "How the Other Half Loves," by Alan Ayckbourn, through July 31, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Three maried couples are tangled up in love, laughter, meals and mayhem. $35.  

OPENING -- "This World is Good," by J.C. Lee, Aug. 5 through Aug. 28, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Sleepwalkers Theatre presents part one of their three-part apocalypse series. $18-$24.  

414 Mason St., Sixth Floor, San Francisco. (800) 838-3006, www.offbroadwaywest.org.

 

RRAZZ ROOM AT HOTEL NIKKO  

"Bewitched, Bothered and Bipolar," July 30, 10:15 p.m. Carly Ozard stars in an encore presentation of her cabaret show, featuring guitar and vocals by Brendan Getzell and Jennifer Martinelli.  

Marilu Henner, Aug. 6 through Aug. 8, 7 p.m. Henner performs a one-woman show. $40.  

222 Mason St., San Francisco. (415) 394-1111, www.therrazzroom.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO COMEDY COLLEGE CLUBHOUSE (800) 838-3006, www.clubhousecomedy.com.  

"Naked Comedy," A comedy showcase featuring some of the best comedians in San Francisco. BYOB for 21 and over. Saturdays, 9 p.m. $10. 

"Hump Day Comedy," Host Rich Stimbra and a variety of stand-up comics will get you over the Wednesday work hump. BYOB for 21 and over. Wednesday, 8 p.m. $5. 

414 Mason St., Suite 705, San Francisco. (415) 921-2051, www.sfcomedycollege.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY, NORTH BEACH BRANCH Program is held and DiMaggio Clubhouse. 

The Sit-Down Readers' Theatre Presents: "Ah, Wilderness!'' Aug. 7, 2 p.m. Join us for a reading of Eugene O'Neill's comedy which first premiered in 1933. Choose a part to read, if you like.  

Free. Monday, noon to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. DiMaggio Clubhouse, 661 Lombard Street, San Francisco. (415) 355-5626, www.sfpl.org.

 

SHELTON THEATER  

"Shopping! The Musical," by Morris Bobrow, A quick-paced musical about those obsessed with buying things. Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m. $27-$29. www.shoppingthemusical.com. 

Big City Improv, Friday, 10 p.m. $20. (510) 595-5597, www.bigcityimprov.com. 

533 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 433-1227, www.sheltontheater.com or www.sheltontheater.com.

 

STAGE WERX THEATRE  

"Nymph O' Mania," by Morgan Ludlow, through Aug. 15, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. Willy West Productions presents a modern twist on "A Midsummer Night's Dream.'' $12-$24.  

533 Sutter Street, San Francisco. < 

 

THICK HOUSE  

CLOSING -- "Bay Area Playwrights Festival," through Aug. 1. Plays include Erin Marie Bregman's "Tva Kamila,'' Sheila Callaghan's "Port Out, Starboard Home,'' Jeanne Drennan's "Atlas of Longing,'' Elizabeth Gjelten's "Hunter's Point,'' Yussef El Guindi's "Three Wolves and a Lamb,'' Cory Hinkle's "The Killing of Michael X, A New Film by Celia Wallace,'' JC Lee's "Pookie Goes Grenading'' and Steven M. Salzman's "The Expiration Date.''  

1695 18th St., San Francisco. www.thickhouse.org.

 

VICTORIA THEATRE  

OPENING -- "Sex Tapes for Seniors," by Mario Cossa, Aug. 5 through Aug. 22, Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. A group of retirees produces educational sex videos for seniors despite protests from their families and the community.  

2961 16th St., San Francisco. www.victoriatheatre.org.<


Galleries-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:09:00 PM

"BAY AREA HEART GALLERY," -- Exhibit consists of photographs of children, youth and families, accompanied by their compelling stories. The joint exhibit opens in the Alameda County Administration Building, 1221 Oak Street, Oakland and at the Eden Area Multi-Service Center, 24100 Amador Way, Hayward. 

Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.< 

 

ALBANY ARTS GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Silk Painting," through July 31. Works by Natasha Foucault.  

1251 Solano Ave., Albany. (510) 526-9558.< 

 

ALPHONSE BERBER GALLERY  

CLOSING -- Kamau Patton, through Aug. 7. Works by the artist.  

2546 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

 

BEDFORD GALLERY  

"Unbound: A National Exhibition of Book Art," through Sept. 19. Works by Ed Ruscha, Andy Warhol, Sas Colby, Lisa Kokin, Francesca Patine, Maria Porges, Nancy Selvin, Richard Shaw and others.  

$3 general; $2 youth ages 12 through 17; free children ages 12 and under; free Tuesdays. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 295-1417, www.bedfordgallery.org.

 

COMPOUND GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Compounding," through Aug. 8. Annual group exhibition and open studios.  

1167 65th St., Oakland. (510) 817-4042.< 

 

CRAFT AND CULTURAL ARTS GALLERY  

"Celebration of Life," through Aug. 27. Works by Michael Grbich.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. State of California Office Building, 1515 Clay St., Oakland. (510) 622-8190, www.oaklandculturalarts.org.

 

EXPRESSIONS GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Labor and Art," through Aug. 6. Group art show features paintings, photography, sculpture, mixed media, digital art, monotypes and more.  

Free. Wednesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-3 p.m. 2035 Ashby Ave., Berkeley. (510) 644-4930, www.expressionsgallery.org/.< 

 

GALLERY 555 --  

CLOSING -- Nemo Gould, through July 30. Presented by the Oakland Museum of California.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; third Thursdays, 7 a.m-8 p.m. Oakland City Center, 555 12th St., Oakland. < 

 

HALL OF PIONEERS GALLERY  

"Oakland Chinatown Pioneers," Twelve showcases, each focusing on historic leaders and personalities of the community.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Chinese Garden Building, 275 Seventh St., Oakland. (510) 530-4590.< 

 

HEARST ART GALLERY AT SAINT MARY'S COLLEGE OF CALIFORNIA  

"Superbly Independent," through Sept. 19. Works by Annie Harmon, Mary DeNeale Morgan and Marion Kavanagh Wachtel.  

$3. Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1928 Saint Mary's Road, Moraga. (925) 631-4379, www.gallery.stmarys-ca.edu.< 

 

K GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "The Locals II," through July 31. Works by Jon Kerpel, Ginny Parsons, K.C. Rosenberg, Peter Tonningsen and Danielle Wallis.  

Free. Thursday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. 2515 Blanding Ave., Alameda. (510) 865-5062, www.rhythmix.org.

 

LAFAYETTE GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Summer Daze," through Aug. 7. Works by Nancy Hartley and Jill Landau.  

50 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette. www.lafayettegallery.net.

 

MERCURY 20 GALLERY --  

OPENING -- "Cycles of the City," Aug. 5 through Aug. 28. Works by Jill McLennan.  

25 Grand Ave., Oakland. (510) 701-4620, www.mercurytwenty.com.

 

PHOTOLAB  

CLOSING -- "Between Borders," through July 31. Works by Patricia Monaco.  

2235 5th St., Berkeley. (510) 644-1400, www.photolabratory.com.

 

ROWAN MORRISON GALLERY  

OPENING -- "Everything is Everything: New Work by Michael Louis Young," July 31 through Aug. 28. Works by Michael Louis Young.  

330 40th St., Oakland. (510) 384-5344, www.rowanmorrison.com.

 

ROYAL NONESUCH GALLERY  

CLOSING -- "Alula Editions," through July 30. Works by Jason Jagel.  

4231 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (415) 690-3041, www.royalnonesuchgallery.com.

 

SUN GALLERY  

"High Art," through Sept. 25. Works by local high school students and high school homeschoolers.  

OPENING -- "Not So Still Life," Aug. 4 through Aug. 28. Works by Richard Bolingbroke.  

1015 E. St., Hayward. (510) 581-4050, www.sungallery.org.

 

TRAYWICK CONTEMPORARY  

"2-D/3-D," through Sept. 18. Works by Mari Andrews, Jessica Martin, David McDonald, Aurora Robson and Lucrecia Troncoso.  

895 Colusa Ave., Berkeley. (510) 527-1214.<


Theatre Review: Pretty Good STEEL MAGNOLIAS at Alameda’s Altarena

By John A. McMullen II
Monday July 26, 2010 - 05:32:00 PM
Catherine Bucher, Analisa Svehaug (with curlers) and Jacqui Herrera (as stylist) are half the ensemble cast of STEEL MAGNOLIAS.
patricktracyphotography.com
Catherine Bucher, Analisa Svehaug (with curlers) and Jacqui Herrera (as stylist) are half the ensemble cast of STEEL MAGNOLIAS.

There is a pretty good community theatre production of Steel Magnolias playing at the Altarena Playhouse in Alameda.  

Darrell Burson’s set is ultra-realistic and colorful with all the actual equipment, appointments, and kitschy décor of a Louisiana small-town beauty parlor, right down to the magazines from the 1980s when the play is set. Since the set extends practically into the audience’s laps, that nearly cinematic attention to detail is necessary and excellently executed. The two actresses who act as hairdressers (Jacqui Herrera as Truvy and Hannah Ward as Annelle) must be highly complimented on the extreme professionalism with which they do hair. We relax into their combing and spraying and curling, and it makes us believe we are in a beauty shop.  

Costuming is done masterfully and tastefully by Janice Stephenson, using the bright colors and floral designs that Southern women prefer. It’s appropriate to the region and their economic station, and the attention to detail in matching ensembles catches the eye and adds to character. 

All the actresses are talented and well-suited to their roles by type and temperament, and this credible casting is to the credit of director Richard Robert Bunker who teaches at the local high school. 

The audience loves the sappy, funny and heart-breaking story with the multitude of laugh lines that range from dry wit to cornpone. For those of you who haven’t seen a previous production or that awful movie version, it’s about six women in a beauty parlor over the seasons through a couple of years. The characters are the mayor’s widow (Catherine Bucher), the local curmudgeon (Monica McKey), the beautician (Jacqui Herrera) and her troubled new hire (Hannah Ward), the local head of social services (Trish Tillman) and her daughter who is the darling and favorite of all the beauty parlor denizens and a pediatric nurse (Analisa Svehaug). The play begins on the morning their darling is getting married. Much of the humor resides in the women “dis”-cussing men, sex, marriage, and good-naturedly insulting one another while decrying their plight as Southern Women.  

The problem is that it is “pretty good,” when—with this talented cast—it could be really good. And I think that it is a directorial problem.  

Too often, the actresses act in their own bubble rather than interacting. Getting them to really talk to one another is one of the main and too-often-ignored duties of the director. Realistic interaction is the key to any good play. 

The actresses by and large tend to underscore the laugh lines as if announcing, “Here comes another funny one,” and the audience obliges. It’s easy to get laughs since there are many funny lines. Unless it’s the broad frantic farce of, say, The Producers or Lend Me a Tenor, comedy of this sort is best played as realistic drama wherein you show your wit. Truly witty people get the best laughs by saying their witty things as throw-away understatements. There is no doubt that comedy is difficult and slippery. Quite often this cast gets it right, and come through with a zinger, but they always seem to be working for the laughs. Rather than letting it come out of the truth and pain and understatement, they seem to be pushing to get an audience reaction. 

The show runs about a half hour too long. It’s a two act show--55min/50min with intermission of 25 min since they only have one small bathroom per gender—which means out by 10:15, and we didn’t get out till 10:40. This takes the juice out of the action and emotional punch of the story, just as playing Yankee Doodle andante rather than its usual merry allegro would not inspire you to march along. 

Just as a conductor sets the tempo for the orchestra, it is the director’s job to set tempos and rhythms which must change through the play. Admittedly, the conductor is up there on the podium waving the stick. The invisible director must find ways to get the actresses to find the right pace. There are methods such as directing the actress to react on a particular word that the other actor is saying which makes her jump right in to respond as one does in real life. Another way is to specify the pauses and expect everything else to romp along apace. Otherwise, the production—and this one is an example— is indulgent and slow, often due to the actors’ natural and understandable instinct to milk their lines and “take the stage” rather than direct their energy to the person they are talking to. 

The actresses fall into the trap of “playing the accent” rather than expressing themselves with it: their delivery is often slowed to a pace more suited to the lassitude of Dogpatch than the coffee-laced energy of a beauty shop on the Saturday morning of the wedding of the local darling. Women in the South talk fast, interrupt and talk over one another, and hide their feelings behind a funny barb or self-deprecation. I know—I was married to a woman from Louisiana.  

Only Analisa Svehaug (Shelby) delivers with the natural quickened pace that makes us pay attention and fills us with energy—she was the stand-out in their last production of Sylvia—but even her accent comes and goes.  

The accents as coached by Julie Ponsford Holland are from all over the South rather than specific to Chinquapin, Louisiana, or any other shared place which seems important to portray small town folk who lived all there life in the same place.  

There are two major Southern dialects: Appalachian (think Dolly Parton) and Coastal (think Scarlett O’Hara). They have a lot to do with whether the R is pronounced. In this production, R’s came and went. 

Tending to this learning curve with a repeated regimen of group lessons and tapes to practice with is the proper domain of the director and dialect coach. Acting with an accent is a serious undertaking: a good dialect can make us believe and take us to a different place while a bad one can make us want to leave or want to be in a different place. Hannah Ward (Annelle) in this production has the most consistent and thereby believable accent, choosing the Appalachian dialect assumedly to distinguish herself as an outsider. 

Contributing to the excessive running time are the 5 minute long scene changes—the longest scene changes I have ever witnessed. At one point, the audience, to keep up their spirits, started to sing along to a Christmas song that was playing in the extended blackout. When will directors learn that the scene changes are part of the show? Having a couple of teenagers in sweatshirts redecorate the set in the darkness spoils it; a little imagination in costuming stagehands as acceptable characters or having the actresses change the set in a motivated manner would save the day.  

I encourage community theatres everywhere to seek out and pay a little more for better—and trained—directors in order to get better productions. There is no shortage of them in the Bay Area. Actors would flock to the theatres for the experience of working with a talented director whose tutelage would make their performance shine and build an ensemble. The talent is there, but it needs to be molded to the needs of the production with a strong vision. Most of the criticism I hear from community theatre actors in general is that they receive little direction, or the wrong-headed kind. And a talented actor is not necessarily a good director, just as an excellent painter may not sculpt well; they are different disciplines. 

Let me add that there is a conundrum in reviewing community theatre. These good folks are giving up their time—between rehearsals, learning your lines, and performing it’s about 200 hours and lots of piled-up laundry to be in a play —and they do it for no pay other than applause, artistry, and self-satisfaction. Some have a little training but natural talent. All too often, the director doesn’t have training and doesn’t know what’s wrong or how to fix it, and, though directors are paid, their remuneration comes out to about $2.00/hr. So here I sit at my keyboard, listing in detail everything that is wrong with a performance that the audience laughed at and was moved by and that played to a 90% full house.  

But how are things going to get better if no one criticizes with specificity? The average theatre-goer can tell when something is amiss, but is at a loss to express it. That’s where I come in, I guess. Some critics are reluctant to do this since they worry about hurting this community-building artistry. However, since twice the price of a movie is charged for admission, and since the performers hold themselves to be artists, I must assume that they are fair game.  

STEEL MAGNOLIAS plays Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, and Sunday Matinees at 2 pm, through August 8 at Altarena Playhouse, 1409 High Street (take High St. Exit off 880), Alameda. CA 

Tickets/info: (510) 523-1553 or www.altarena.org 

Written by Robert Harling, directed by Richard Robert Bunker, sets and painting by Darrell Burson, costuming by Janice Stephenson, lighting by Anne Kendall, sound design by Ryan Scott, with dialect coaching by Julie Ponsford Holland. Stage management by Kelly Reynolds. Frederick L. Chacon, artistic director. 

With: Jacqui Herrera (Truvy), Hannah Ward (Annelle), Catherine Bucher (Clairee), Analisa Svehaug (Shelby), Trish Tillman (M’Lynn) and Monica McKey, (Ouiser).


Exhibits-San Francisco Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:12:00 PM

"SUN SPHERES," -- "Sun Spheres'' is a trio of mosaic sculptures by artist Laurel True at the intersection of Ocean and Granada Avenues in the OMI District of San Francisco. 

(415) 252-2551, www.sfartscommission.org/pubart.< 

 

AIA SAN FRANCISCO  

OPENING -- "Water for a Sustainable City," Aug. 5 through Oct. 29. Exhibit explores the development of San Francisco's water system through the lens of architecture and design.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 130 Sutter St., # 600, San Francisco. (415) 362-7397, www.aiasf.org.

 

CALIFORNIA COLLEGE OF THE ARTS WATTIS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS  

CLOSING -- "We Have As Much Time As it Takes," through July 31. Works by Nina Beier and Marie Lund, David Horvitz, Jason Mena, Sandra Nakamura, Roman Ondak, Red76, Zachary Royer Scholz, Tercerunquinto, Lawrence Weiner and Christine Wong Yap.  

Free. Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1111 Eighth St., San Francisco. (415) 551-9210, www.wattis.org.

 

CONSERVATORY OF FLOWERS The Victorian landmark has 1,500 species including rare and beautiful tropical plants from 50 countries. Exhibits include Highland Tropics, the Aquatic Plants, Lowland Tropics, Potted Plants and the new Special Exhibits gallery. Opened in 1879, the wood and glass greenhouse is the oldest existing conservatory in the Western Hemisphere. 

"Chomp 2! Return of the Carnivorous Plants," through Oct. 31. Special exhibition of carnivorous plants features living plants and activities for families.  

$5 general; $3 seniors, students and youth ages 12-17; $1.50 children ages 5-11; free for ages 4 and under; free first Tuesdays. Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. John F. Kennedy Drive, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. (415) 666-7001, www.conservatoryofflowers.org.

 

EVENING GALLERY WALKS These monthly evening gallery walks or "crawls'' are a way to learn about art for the casual viewer without the intimidation of visiting a gallery with no one else around. Generally the galleries are filled on the "walk'' evenings with people drinking wine and talking. Gallery owners are happy to answer questions about the art on view. The important thing to remember is that it is free to gaze and drink. 

"First Thursday," 5:30-8 p.m. Generally some 20 galleries participate in this monthly evening of open galleries. Many are located around Union Square. Some of the galleries that participate on a regular basis are Pasquale Iannetti Gallery, Caldwell Snyder Gallery, and Hackett-Freedman Gallery, all on Sutter Street; Meyerovich Gallery and Dolby Chadwick Gallery on Post Street; and Rena Bransten Gallery and Stephen Wirtz Gallery on Geary Street. Sponsored by the San Francisco Art Dealers Association. First Thursday of the month. Free.  

San Francisco. < 

 

FLAX ART AND DESIGN  

CLOSING -- "STILLmatic: Documenting the StreetSmARTS Urban Murals," through July 31. Exhibition addresses graffiti vandalism in San Francisco.  

1699 Market St., San Francisco. (415) 552-2355, www.flaxart.com.

 

HOTEL DES ARTS The boutique 51-room art hotel in Union Square features an art gallery by Start SOMA. 

"Painted Rooms," An exhibit of painted rooms in the hotel by emerging artists.  

Free. Daily, 8 a.m.-11 p.m. 447 Bush St., San Francisco. (415) 956-4322, www.sfhoteldesarts.com.

 

JAZZ HERITAGE CENTER  

"The Art of Michael Rios," through Aug. 22. Features a Rios retrospective and a tribute to Miles Davis and Carlos Santana.  

1320 Fillmore Street, San Francisco. < 

 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF SAN FRANCISCO  

"The Digital Liberation of G-d," A permanent interactive media installation created by New York-based artist Helene Aylon, which examines the influences of patriarchal attitudes upon Jewish traditions and sacred texts.  

Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3200 California St., San Francisco. (415) 292-1200, Box Office: (415) 292-1233, www.jccsf.org.

 

JEWISH COMMUNITY LIBRARY  

CLOSING -- "The Jew and the Mask," through July 31. More than 25 Bay Area artists provide a contemporary perspective on Jewish identity.  

1835 Ellis Street, San Francisco. (415) 567-3327.< 

 

MILTON MARKS CONFERENCE CENTER  

"Local Color," through Oct. 10. Works by 27 artists from the Peninsula Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art.  

455 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco. < 

 

RAYKO PHOTO CENTER  

"(Por)trait Revealed," through Sept. 10. Works by Hiroyo Kaneko, Mark Menjivar, Fritz Liedtke and others.  

Free. Tuesday-Thursday, noon-10 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. 428 Third St., San Francisco. (415) 495-3773, www.raykophoto.com.

 

SAN FRANCISCO ART INSTITUTE  

"Pure Consciousness at 19 Kindergartens," through Sept. 18. Works by On Kawara.  

Free unless noted otherwise. Lecture Hall, 800 Chestnut St., San Francisco. (415) 771-7020, www.sfai.edu/.< 

 

SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY, BAYVIEW-ANNA E. WADEN BRANCH  

"Bayview's Historical Footprints," A permanent photographic exhibition celebrating the diverse history of Bayview Hunters Point featuring multimedia oral histories from community elders.  

Free. Monday, Tuesday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wednesday, 1 p.m.-8 p.m.; Thursday, 1 p.m.-7 p.m.; Friday, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. 5075 Third St., San Francisco. (415) 355-5757, www.sfpl.org.

 

SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY, MAIN BRANCH  

"Digging Deep: Underneath San Francisco Public Library," Exhibition collects archaeological remains from the Gold Rush-era cemetery and the ruins of old City Hall destroyed in the 1906 earthquake.  

"Hand Bookbinders of California 38th Anniversary Exhibition," through Aug. 15. Exhibition features work of professional bookbinders, as well as amateurs and students of the art and craft of hand bookbinding.  

CLOSING -- "Empire of Thirst," through Aug. 1. Photographs by Robert Dawson.  

Free. Monday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, noon-6 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 100 Larkin St., San Francisco. (415) 557-4400, www.sfpl.org.

 

SF CAMERAWORK  

"Theater of War: Pretend Villages of Iraq and Afghanistan," through Aug. 7. Works by Christopher Sims.  

CLOSING -- "Soldiers' Stories from Iraq and Afghanistan," through Aug. 7. Works by Jennifer Karady.  

$2-$5. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. 657 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 863-1001, www.sfcamerawork.org.

 

SOMARTS CULTURAL CENTER  

CLOSING -- "Totally Unrealistic: The Art of Abstraction," through July 30. Works by Cecil C. Childress, Ralph Joachim, and Marilyn Kuksht.  

Free unless otherwise noted. Tuesday-Saturday, 1-7 p.m. 934 Brannan St., San Francisco. (415) 552-2131, www.somarts.org.

 

YERBA BUENA CENTER FOR THE ARTS The center's visual arts exhibitions feature contemporary art and popular culture by local, national and international artists. There are four rounds of exhibitions in the galleries each year. 

"The Bowls Project: Secrets of the Apocalyptic Intimate," through Aug. 22. An interactive sound sculpture/immersive performance installation by Jewlia Eisenberg and Charming Hostess.  

"PlayCRAFT: A Game of Your Design," through Oct. 3. Create your own design object as you explore the "TechnoCRAFT'' exhibition.  

"Something from Nothing: Films on Design and Architecture," through Sept. 5. Jul. 25, 2 p.m.: "Wow and Flutter.''  

"TechnoCRAFT: Hackers, Modders, Fabbers, Tweakers and Design in the Age of Individuality," through Oct. 3. Exhibit explores disappearing boundary between designer and consumer.  

$3-$6; free the first Tuesday of every month. Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, noon-8 p.m. 701 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 978-2787, www.ybca.org.<


Highlights-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:07:00 PM

FOX THEATER  

Wolf Parade, Moools, Zola Jesus, July 30, 8 p.m. $27.50.  

1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 452-0438.< 

 

GREEK THEATRE  

Phish, Aug. 5 through Aug. 7, Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 7 p.m. $50.  

Hearst Avenue and Gayley Road, Berkeley. (510) 548-3010, www.apeconcerts.com.

 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

Urban Wine Experience, July 31, Noon - 3p.m. East Bay Vintners Alliance presents a tasting with over 50 wines from all 15 members of the Alliance.  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.

 

MOE'S BOOKS  

Laura Regan, July 31, 10:30 a.m. The author presents "Pierre the Penguin.''  

10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. 2476 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2087, www.moesbooks.com.

 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

Steve Harvey, July 31, 7:30 p.m. $57.50-$75.50.  

2025 Broadway, Oakland. (510) 465-6400, (415) 421-8497, www.paramounttheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.<


Exhibits-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:11:00 PM

CARMEN FLORES RECREATION CENTER  

"El Corazon de la Communidad: The Heart of the Community", Painted by Joaquin Alejandro Newman, this mural installation consists of four 11-foot panels that mix ancient Meso-American and contemporary imagery to pay homage to local activists Carmen Flores and Josie de la Cruz.  

Free unless otherwise noted. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 1637 Fruitvale Ave., Oakland. (510) 535-5631.< 

 

DAVID BROWER CENTER  

"Water, Rivers and People/ Agua, Rios y Pueblos," through Aug. 31. Exhibition depicts those who are fighting to defend rivers and the people who depend on them.  

2150 Allston Way, Berkeley. < 

 

FLOAT  

CLOSING -- "Surrender," through July 31. Digital paintings by Android Jones and light sculptures by Michael Clarke.  

Free. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; by appointment. 1091 Calcot Place, Unit 116, Oakland. (510) 535-1702, www.thefloatcenter.com.

 

FRANK BETTE CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

OPENING -- "2010 Alameda Plein Air Painout Exhibit," Aug. 6 through Aug. 28. Plein air artists display their work.  

Free. Wednesday and Friday-Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. 1601 Paru St., Alameda. (510) 523-6957, www.frankbettecenter.org.

 

JOHANSSON PROJECTS  

OPENING -- "Between Currencies," July 30 through Sept. 11. Works by Erik Parra.  

OPENING -- "Some Math," July 30 through Sept. 11. Works by Jana Flynn and Jill Gallenstein.  

Free. Thursday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m. 2300 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 444-9140, www.johanssonprojects.com.

 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"NanoZone," Discover the science of the super-small: nanotechnology. Through hands-on activities and games, explore this microworld and the scientific discoveries made in this area.  

"Forces That Shape the Bay," A science park that shows and explains why the San Francisco Bay is the way it is, with information on water, erosion, plate tectonics and mountain building. You can ride earthquake simulators, set erosion in motion and look far out into the bay with a powerful telescope from 1,100 feet above sea level. The center of the exhibit is a waterfall that demonstrates how water flows from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Bay. Visitors can control where the water goes. There are also hands-on erosion tables, and a 40-foot-long, 6-foothigh, rock compression wall.  

"Real Astronomy Experience," A new exhibit-in-development allowing visitors to use the tools that real astronomers use. Aim a telescope at a virtual sky and operate a remote-controlled telescope to measure a planet.  

"Biology Lab," In the renovated Biology Lab visitors may hold and observe gentle animals. Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

"The Idea Lab," Experiment with some of the basics of math, science and technology through hands-on activities and demonstrations of magnets, spinning and flying, puzzles and nanotechnology.  

"Math Around the World," Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

"Math Rules," Use simple and colorful objects to complete interesting challenges in math through predicting, sorting, comparing, weighing and counting.  

"Kapla," The hands-on exhibit features thousands of versatile building blocks that can be used to build very large, high and stable structures and models of bridges, buildings, animals or anything else your mind can conceive.  

$6-$12; free children ages 2 and under. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. University of California, Centennial Drive, Berkeley. (510) 642-5132, www.lawrencehallofscience.org.

 

LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM This is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in America, taking in 6,000 injured and orphaned animals yearly and returning 40 percent of them to the wild. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs using non-releasable wild animals to teach children and adults respect for the balance of nature. The museum includes a state-of-the art wildlife hospital which features a permanent exhibit, titled "Living with Nature,'' which houses 75 non-releasable wild animals in learning environments; a 5,000-square-foot Wildlife Hospital complete with treatment rooms, intensive care, quarantine and laboratory facilities; a 1-acre Nature Garden featuring the region's native landscaping and wildlife; and an "Especially For Children'' exhibit.  

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital. 

EXHIBITS --  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

 

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ART AND DISABILITIES  

"Word Play," through Aug. 20. NIAD artists manipulate and repeat letters to create their own language, transform words into hybrid forms, utilize captions to tell a story, or their autograph can become a focal point of their work.  

551 23rd St., Richmond. (510) 620-0290, www.niadart.org.

 

OAKLAND ASIAN CULTURAL CENTER  

"Oakland's 19th-Century San Pablo Avenue Chinatown," A permanent exhibit of new findings about the rediscovered Chinatown on San Pablo Avenue. The exhibit aims to inform visitors about the upcoming archaeological work planned to explore the lives of early Chinese pioneers in the 1860s.  

Free. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Pacific Renaissance Plaza, 388 Ninth St., Suite 290, Oakland. (510) 637-0455, www.oacc.cc.

 

OAKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT  

"Going Away, Coming Home," A 160-foot public art installation by Mills College art professor Hung Liu. Liu hand painted 80 red-crowned cranes onto 65 panels of glass that were then fired, tempered and paired with background panes that depict views of a satellite photograph, ranging from the western United States to the Asia Pacific Area. Terminal 2.  

Free. Daily, 24 hours, unless otherwise noted. Oakland International Airport, 1 Airport Drive, Oakland. (510) 563-3300, www.flyoakland.com.

 

OAKLAND MARRIOTT CITY CENTER  

CLOSING -- "Spirits Known and Unknown," through July 31. Photographs of Kamau Amen-Ra.  

1001 Broadway, Oakland. (510) 451-4000.< 

 

ORINDA LIBRARY  

OPENING -- "Its Own Nothingness," Aug. 1 through Aug. 31. Works by Wenda Pyman.  

24 Orinda Way, Orinda. (925) 254-2184.< 

 

RICHMOND ART CENTER  

"Innovations in Contemporary Crafts," through Aug. 21. Juried exhibition features works by 30 San Francisco Bay Area artists.  

Free. Tuesday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 2540 Barrett Ave., Richmond. (510) 620-6772, www.therichmondartcenter.org.

 

SCULPTURE COURT AT OAKLAND CITY CENTER  

CLOSING -- Shawn E. HibmaCronan, through July 30. Presented by the Oakland Museum of California.  

Free. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; third Thursdays, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oakland City Center, 1111 Broadway, Oakland. < 

 

WOMEN'S CANCER RESOURCE CENTER  

"Benny's Garden," through Sept. 3. Works by Benny Alba, Jen Downey, Anna Edwards, Jeremy Qwan and L. Hickox Robinson.  

5471 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. <


General-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:07:00 PM

ASHKENAZ  

"I Like My Bike Night," First Friday of the month, 9 p.m. This monthly series brings bicycle innovators, enthusiasts, artists and organizations together under one roof, as well as encourages regular Ashkenaz show-goers to leave their cars in the driveway and arrive at the venue by bicycle instead. $8-$25.  

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.

 

AUCTIONS BY THE BAY  

"ArtiFacts: A Lecture Series for Collectors," The first Sunday of every month at 3 p.m. Guest curators, scholars and conservation experts from throughout the Bay Area discuss the art of collecting. First Sunday of every month, 3 p.m. $7; includes a preview of the monthly estate auction which takes place the following day at 10am.  

Auctions by the Bay Theater-Auction House, 2700 Saratoga St., Alameda. (510) 835-6187, www.auctionsbythebay.com.

 

BAY AREA FREE BOOK EXCHANGE  

"Free Books," Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Donate your unwanted books and receive new titles for free.  

10520 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. (510) 526-1941, www.bayareafreebookexchange.com.

 

CALIFORNIA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY AND LIBRARY  

"California Genealogical Society and Library Free First Saturday," 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Event takes place on the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Trace and compile your family history at this month's open house event. Free. www.calgensoc.org. 

2201 Broadway, Suite LL2, Oakland. (510) 663-1358.< 

 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

HISTORY WALKABOUTS -- A series of walking tours that explore the history, lore and architecture of California with veteran tour guide Gary Holloway. Walks are given on specific weekends. There is a different meeting place for each weekend and walks take place rain or shine so dress for the weather. Reservations and prepayment required. Meeting place will be given with confirmation of tour reservation. Call for details.  

678 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 357-1848, www.californiahistoricalsociety.org.

 

CHABOT SPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER State-of-the-art facility unifying science education activities around astronomy. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, indoor stargazing, outdoor telescope viewing and films. 

 

Center Admission: $14.95; $10.95 children 3-12; free children under 3; $3 discount for seniors and students. Telescope viewing only: free. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Also open on Tuesdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. after June 29. 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 336-7300, www.chabotspace.org.

 

DUNSMUIR HOUSE AND GARDENS HISTORIC ESTATE Nestled in the Oakland hills, the 50-acre Dunsmuir House and Gardens estate includes the 37-room Neoclassical Revival Dunsmuir Mansion, built by coal and lumber baron Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride. Restored outbuildings set amid landscaped gardens surround the mansion.  

ESTATE GROUNDS -- Self-Guided Grounds Tours are available yearround. The 50 acres of gardens and grounds at the mansion are open to the public for walking Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Booklets and maps of the grounds are available at the Dinkelspiel House. Free.  

GUIDED TOURS -- Docent-led tours are available on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. (except for July) and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors and juniors (11-16), children 11 and under free. 

Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. (510) 615-5555, www.dunsmuir.org.

 

EAST BAY SPCA  

"Fanciful Bunny," Aug. 7, Adoptions, 11 a.m.; art reception, 4-5 p.m. Buy a work of art and adopt a bunny.  

Wednesday-Thursday, 1 p.m.-8 p.m.; Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 4651 Gleason Drive, Dublin. < 

 

EASTWIND BOOKS  

"Asian American Photographers Panel," Aug. 5, 7 p.m. Featuring Charles Wong, Irene Poon, Lora Jo Foo and Liz Del Sol.  

2066 University Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-2350.< 

 

ECOLOGY CENTER  

"Sustainable Reconstruction of Haiti Benefit," Aug. 6, 7-9 p.m. Berkeley architect Martin Hammer shows slides and discusses his recent experiences advocating for and helping to implement the sustainable reconstruction of Haiti. $5-$50 at the door.  

2530 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-2220.< 

 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

"A Spirited Life in the Secular World," July 30 through July 31, Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. Benefit for Network for Grateful Living features Brother David Steindl-Ras and Sam Keen exploring questions of getting beyond the veneer of gratitude in popular culture and living a spirited life. $10-$100.  

2345 Channing Way, Berkeley. (510) 848-3696, www.fccb.org.

 

FRANK OGAWA PLAZA  

"Oakland Artisan Marketplace," Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The City of Oakland and Cultural Arts & Marketing Department presents a weekly market featuring fine arts and crafts of local artists. Free. (510) 238-4948, www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org. 

14th Street and Broadway, Oakland. < 

 

JACK LONDON AQUATIC CENTER  

"Oakland Artisan Marketplace,"' Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The City of Oakland and Cultural Arts & Marketing Department presents a weekly market featuring fine arts and crafts of local artists. Free. (510) 238-4948, www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org. 

115 Embarcadero, Oakland. < 

 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

"Dancing Under the Stars," July 23 and July 30, 8:30-10 p.m. The Linden Street Dance Studio provides FREE dance lessons to all. Each week will feature a different type of dance followed by a dance party to practice what was learned.  

"Oakland Underground Film Salon," July 30, 7-11 p.m. The producers of the Oakland Underground Film Festival present speakers, artists, films and fun.  

Urban Wine Experience, July 31, Noon - 3p.m. East Bay Vintners Alliance presents a tasting with over 50 wines from all 15 members of the Alliance.  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.

 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Celebrate Peruvian Independence Day," July 31, 8:30 p.m. Featuring music from Vladimir Vukanovich, Pedro Rosales and Rosa Los Santos. $15.  

"Domingos de Rumba," Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, 3:30 p.m. Community participatory event features drums, dancing and the songs of rumba.  

"East Bay Science Cafi," Aug. 4, 7-9 p.m. Traci Grzymala, a graduate student in the Will Lab at UC Berkeley in the Environmental Science, Policy and Management department leads a talk on unique beetle predators. free.  

Bill Santiago, Aug. 6, 8 p.m. Alicia Dattner costars in this comedy workshop/performance. $10-$12.  

free. 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2568, www.lapena.org.

 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"NanoZone," Discover the science of the super-small: nanotechnology. Through hands-on activities and games, explore this microworld and the scientific discoveries made in this area.  

"Forces That Shape the Bay," A science park that shows and explains why the San Francisco Bay is the way it is, with information on water, erosion, plate tectonics and mountain building. You can ride earthquake simulators, set erosion in motion and look far out into the bay with a powerful telescope from 1,100 feet above sea level. The center of the exhibit is a waterfall that demonstrates how water flows from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Bay. Visitors can control where the water goes. There are also hands-on erosion tables, and a 40-foot-long, 6-foothigh, rock compression wall.  

"Real Astronomy Experience," A new exhibit-in-development allowing visitors to use the tools that real astronomers use. Aim a telescope at a virtual sky and operate a remote-controlled telescope to measure a planet.  

"Biology Lab," In the renovated Biology Lab visitors may hold and observe gentle animals. Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

"The Idea Lab," Experiment with some of the basics of math, science and technology through hands-on activities and demonstrations of magnets, spinning and flying, puzzles and nanotechnology.  

"Math Around the World," Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

"Math Rules," Use simple and colorful objects to complete interesting challenges in math through predicting, sorting, comparing, weighing and counting.  

 

HOLT PLANETARIUM Shows on Saturdays and Sundays. Programs recommended for ages 6 and up unless otherwise noted. $2.50-$3 in addition to general admission.  

$6-$12; free children ages 2 and under. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. University of California, Centennial Drive, Berkeley. (510) 642-5132, www.lawrencehallofscience.org.

 

THE PASTA SHOP  

"Hog Heaven III," July 31, 1-4 p.m.; demos from 1:30-3 p.m. Event features artisan and sustainable pork with demos, tastings, book signings and patio grilling.  

1786 4th St., Berkeley. (510) 250-6004, www.pastashop.net.

 

RODA THEATRE  

"San Francisco Jewish Film Festival," July 31 through Aug. 7. For complete lineup, list of discussion programs, guests and more, see website. (415) 256-8499, www.sfjff.org. 

Berkeley Repertory Theatre, 2015 Addison St., Berkeley. www.berkeleyrep.org.

 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE Exploring cinema from the Bay Area and cultures around the world, the Pacific Film Archive offers daily film screenings, including rare and rediscovered prints of movie classics; new and historic works by world famous directors; restored silent films with live musical accompaniment; retrospectives; and new and experimental works. Check Web site for a full schedule of films.  

"First Impressions: Free First Thursdays," first Thursday of every month. Special tours and movie presentations. Admission is free. 

Single feature: $5-$8; Double feature: $9-$12 general. PFA Theater, 2575 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (510) 642-5249, www.bampfa.berkeley.edu.

 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY, MORRISON LIBRARY  

"Lunch Poems," First Thursday of the month, 12:10-12:50 p.m.  

 

2600 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (510) 642-3671.<


Kids-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:05:00 PM

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM Ardenwood farm is a working farm that dates back to the time of the Patterson Ranch, a 19th-century estate with a mansion and Victorian Gardens. Today, the farm still practices farming techniques from the 1870s. Unless otherwise noted, programs are free with regular admission.  

ONGOING PROGRAMS --  

"Blacksmithing," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch a blacksmith turn iron into useful tools.  

"Horse-Drawn Train," Thursday, Friday and Sunday. A 20-minute ride departs from Ardenwood Station and Deer Park.  

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Help slop the hogs, check the henhouse for eggs and bring hay to the livestock.  

"Victorian Flower Arranging," Thursday, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Watch as Ardenwood docents create floral works of art for display in the Patterson House.  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Potato Harvesting," Learn the spectacular history of this New World native as you dig with your spade and help find the spuds. 

"Horse-Drawn Train Rides," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Meet Jigs or Tucker the Belgian Draft horses that pull Ardenwood's train. Check the daily schedule and meet the train at Ardenwood Station or Deer Park. 

"Country Kitchen Cookin'," Sundays, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy the flavor of the past with treats cooked on Ardenwood's wood burning stove. Sample food grown on the farm and discover the history of your favorite oldtime snacks. 

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3 p.m. Feed the pigs, check for eggs and bring hay to the livestock. 

"Toddler Time," Tuesdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Bring the tiny tots out for an exciting morning at the farm. Meet and learn all about a new animal friend through stories, chores and fun.  

"Barnyard Buddies," July 3 and July 31, 11 a.m. Get close to your favorite barnyard pals. 

"Women's Work," July 31, 1-2:30 p.m. Explore jobs Victorian women had to do. 

"Happy Ice Cream Sandwich Day," Aug. 1, Noon-1:30 p.m. Make farm fresh ice cream to put between wafers. 

"Bunny Love," Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, 2-3 p.m. Pet the farm rabbits and learn about them. 

"Victorian Table-Top Games," Aug. 7, 2:30-3 p.m. Challenge your family and friends to pick-up sticks, tops or jacks. 

"Luscious Lettuce Leaf Burritos," Aug. 7, Noon-1 p.m. Explore what's growing in the Kitchen Garden. 

"Rocking Rootbeer Floats," Aug. 7, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Help make ice cream. 

"Wonders of Worms," Aug. 8, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Dig up earthworms and observe their behavior. 

"Scrumptious Berry Pancakes," Aug. 8, Noon-1 p.m. Take a trek around the farm to gather ingredients. 

$1-$5; free children under age 4. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. (510) 796-0199, (510) 796-0663, www.ebparks.org.

 

BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE Originally the home of several Native American tribes, white men began coal mining in the area in the 1860s. The preserve today features old mines and displays of the history of the area. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Somersville Shadows," July 31, 9:30-11 a.m. View the remains of a oncethriving mining town. 

Free unless otherwise noted; $5 seasonal parking fee on weekends. Daily, 8 a.m. to dusk Somersville Road, about five miles south of state Highway 4, Antioch. Information: (925) 757-2620, Tickets: (925) 555-1212, www.ebparks.org.

 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM  

AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM -- The museum's permanent exhibition of internationally renowned automobiles dated from 1897 to the 1980s. The cars are displayed as works of art with room to walk completely around each car to admire the workmanship. On long-term loan from the Smithsonian Institution is a Long Steam Tricycle; an 1893-94 Duryea, the first Duryea built by the Duryea brothers; and a 1948 Tucker, number 39 of the 51 Tuckers built, which is a Model 48 "Torpedo'' four-door sedan.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"International Automotive Treasures," An ever-changing exhibit featuring over 90 automobiles.  

"A Journey on Common Ground," An exhibit of moving photographs, video and art objects from around the world exploring the causes of disability and the efforts of the Wheelchair Foundation to provide a wheelchair for every person in need who cannot afford one.  

ONGOING EVENT --  

Free Public Tours, Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Docent-led guided tours of the museum's exhibitions. 

$5-$8; free for children ages 6 and under. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. (925) 736-2280, (925) 736-2277, www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

 

CHABOT SPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER State-of-the-art facility unifying science education activities around astronomy. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, indoor stargazing, outdoor telescope viewing and films. 

Center Admission: $14.95; $10.95 children 3-12; free children under 3; $3 discount for seniors and students. Telescope viewing only: free. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Also open on Tuesdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. after June 29. 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 336-7300, www.chabotspace.org.

 

CHILDREN'S FAIRYLAND A fairy tale theme park featuring more than 30 colorful fantasy sets. Designed especially for children ages 10 and under, there are gentle rides, a train, the "Peter Rabbit Village,'' puppet shows, story-telling and lots of slides and animals. Admission price includes unlimited rides, special shows, guest entertainers and puppet shows.  

OLD WEST JUNCTION -- Children's Fairyland's newest attraction is a Wild West-themed town sized just for children, with a livery stable, bank, jail and a water tower slide.  

PUPPET SHOWS -- Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. All shows are at the Open Storybook Theatre. Free with regular Fairyland admission.  

ARTS AND CRAFTS CENTER -- Activities on Saturday and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.  

ANIMAL OF THE DAY -- Saturday and Sunday, 1-1:20 p.m. at the Humpty Dumpty Wall. Learn about one of Fairyland's animal friends. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Animal of the Day!" Saturdays and Sundays, 1-1:20 p.m. Come up close and learn about Fairyland's creatures. 

"Arts and Crafts," Noon-3 p.m. Event features arts and crafts projects for children and their families. $6. 

"Puppet Show: The Petrified Princess," July 31 through Aug. 1 and Aug. 7 through Aug. 1, 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. Baron Bullyrag wishes to marry the lovely princess. The baron owns most of the lands and the poor, indebted princess is being forced into marriage. When she refuses, he turns her to stone. The knight Puff Louse has twenty four hours to find the ingredients to reverse the curse.  

"The Golden Reed," July 31 through Aug. 1, 12:30 and 3 p.m. In this tale from China, a dragon is kidnapping the children, and a young boy sets out to rescue them.  

Mother Goose, July 31 through Aug. 1, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Mother Goose, with her friends Grieselda the Goose and Humpty Dumpty, entertains both adults and children with her music and tales.  

Blake Maxam, Aug. 7 through Aug. 8, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. "The Wizard of Ahhhhs'' astounds and amazes children of all ages with his magic show.  

$6; free for children under age 1; $2 for a Magic Key. No adult admitted without a child and no child admitted without an adult. Summer (June through Labor Day): Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fall and Spring: Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Winter: Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CLOSED DEC. 25-JAN. 4. 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. (510) 452-2259, www.fairyland.org.

 

COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL PARK The park is located on the shoreline of Fremont Bay and features rich wetland areas as well as Ohlone Indian shellmound sites. Hiking in the park allows scenic views of San Francisco Bay and southern Alameda County. The 12-mile Alameda Creek Trail runs from the Bay east to the mouth of Niles Canyon and features an equestrian trail as well as a bicycle trail; hikers are welcome on both. The park conducts naturalist programs and has a visitor center with a nature store and Ohlone, natural history and wildlife exhibits.  

SPECIAL EVENTS -- Free unless otherwise noted.  

"Bow Drill and Hand Drill Fire Making," July 31, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Learn the secrets of making fire. 

"Skills of the Past: Paleolithic Tools," July 31, 1-4:30 p.m. Explore the world of human technological prehistory through stone tools. 

"Ohlone Village Site House Repairs," Aug. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Glimpse 2,000 years of history as you help repair the frameworks of three structures built at a Tuibun Ohlone village site. 

"Nature Tales," Aug. 7, 1-2 p.m. Hike and hear stories inspired by nature. 

"Trash into Treasure," Aug. 7, 1-3 p.m. Discover how to turn trash into arts and crafts. 

"Teaching Local Indian Cultures," Aug. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn about Indian cultures at an interactive workshop. 

Free unless otherwise noted; A parking fee may be charged. Registration required for events. April through October: daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; October through April, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., unless otherwise posted. 8000 Patterson Pass Road, Fremont. (510) 636-1684, (510) 795-9385, www.ebparks.org.

 

CRAB COVE VISITOR CENTER At Crab Cove, you can see live underwater creatures and go into the San Francisco Bay from land. You can also travel back in time to Alameda's part. The goal is to increase understanding of the environmental importance of San Francisco Bay and the ocean ecosystem. Crab Cove's Indoor Aquarium and Exhibit Lab is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the East Bay. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Sea Siblings," Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Explore the natural world and take part in a theme related craft. Designed for the 3-5 year old learner. Registration is required. $4. (888) 327-2757. 

"Sea Squirts," 10-11:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Discover the wonders of nature with your little one. Registration is required. $6-$8. 

"Catch of the Day," Sundays, 2-3 p.m. Drop by to find out more about the Bay and its wildlife through guided exploration and hands-on fun. 

"Flying Fish," Aug. 7, 1-2 p.m. Make a fish kite. 

Free unless otherwise noted; parking fee may be charged. 1252 McKay Ave., Alameda. (510) 521-6887, www.ebparks.org.

 

DUNSMUIR HOUSE AND GARDENS HISTORIC ESTATE Nestled in the Oakland hills, the 50-acre Dunsmuir House and Gardens estate includes the 37-room Neoclassical Revival Dunsmuir Mansion, built by coal and lumber baron Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride. Restored outbuildings set amid landscaped gardens surround the mansion.  

ESTATE GROUNDS -- Self-Guided Grounds Tours are available yearround. The 50 acres of gardens and grounds at the mansion are open to the public for walking Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Booklets and maps of the grounds are available at the Dinkelspiel House. Free.  

GUIDED TOURS -- Docent-led tours are available on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. (except for July) and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors and juniors (11-16), children 11 and under free. 

Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. (510) 615-5555, www.dunsmuir.org.

 

FOREST HOME FARMS The 16-acre former farm of the Boone family is now a municipal historic park in San Ramon. It is located at the base of the East Bay Hills and is divided into two parts by Oak Creek. The Boone House is a 22-room Dutch colonial that has been remodeled several times since it was built in 1900. Also on the property are a barn built in the period from 1850 to 1860; the Victorian-style David Glass House, dating from the late 1860s to early 1870s; a storage structure for farm equipment and automobiles; and a walnut processing plant. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Public tours available by appointment. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. (925) 973-3281, www.ci.sanramon. ca.us/parks/boone.htm.< 

 

HABITOT CHILDREN'S MUSEUM A museum especially for children ages 7 and under. Highlights include "WaterWorks,'' an area with some unusual water toys, an Infant Tree for babies, a garden especially for toddlers, a child-scale grocery store and cafe, and a costume shop and stage for junior thespians. The museum also features a toy lending library.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"Waterworks." A water play gallery with rivers, a pumping station and a water table, designed to teach about water.  

"Little Town Grocery and Cafe." Designed to create the ambience of shopping in a grocery store and eating in a restaurant.  

"Infant-Toddler Garden." A picket fence gated indoor area, which includes a carrot patch with wooden carrots to be harvested, a pretend pond and a butterfly mobile to introduce youngsters to the concept of food, gardening and agriculture.  

"Dramatic Arts Stage." Settings, backdrops and costumes coincide with seasonal events and holidays. Children can exercise their dramatic flair here.  

"Wiggle Wall." The floor-to-ceiling "underground'' tunnels give children a worm's eye view of the world. The tunnels are laced with net covered openings and giant optic lenses. 

SPECIAL EXHIBITS --  

$6-$7. Wednesday and Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Closed Sunday-Tuesday. 2065 Kittredge St., Berkeley. (510) 647-1111, www.habitot.org.

 

HALL OF HEALTH A community health-education museum and science center promoting wellness and individual responsibility for health. There are hands-on exhibits that teach about the workings of the human body, the value of a healthy diet and exercise, and the destructive effects of smoking and drug abuse. "Kids on the Block'' puppet shows, which use puppets from diverse cultures to teach about and promote acceptance of conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, leukemia, blindness, arthritis and spina bifida, are available by request for community events and groups visiting the Hall on Saturdays.  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"This Is Your Heart!" An interactive exhibit on heart health.  

"Good Nutrition," This exhibit includes models for making balanced meals and an Exercycle for calculating how calories are burned.  

"Draw Your Own Insides," Human-shaped chalkboards and models with removable organs allow visitors to explore the inside of their bodies.  

"Your Cellular Self and Cancer Prevention," An exhibit on understanding how cells become cancerous and how to detect and prevent cancer. 

Suggested $3 donation; free for children under age 3. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2230 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 549-1564, www.hallofhealth.org.

 

HAYWARD SHORELINE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Perched on stilts above a salt marsh, the Center offers an introduction to the San Francisco Bay-Estuary. It features exhibits, programs and activities designed to inspire a sense of appreciation, respect and stewardship for the Bay, its inhabitants and the services they provide. The Habitat Room offers a preview of what may be seen outside. The 80-gallon Bay Tank contains some of the fish that live in the Bay's open waters, and the Channel Tank represents habitats formed by the maze of sloughs and creeks that snake through the marsh. The main room of the Center features rotating exhibits about area history, plants and wildlife. Part of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District.  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"Exploring Nature," An exhibit of Shawn Gould's illustrations featuring images of the natural world. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join an expert birder to go "behind the gates'' to areas of the marsh that are not open to the public. 

"Weekend Weed Warriors," 1-4 p.m. Help the shoreline to eliminate the non-native plants that threaten its diversity. Ages 12 and older. Registration required. 

"Nature Detectives," 11 a.m.-noon. An introduction and exploration of the world of Black-Crowned Night-Herons. Ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Registration required. 

Free. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. (510) 670-7270, www.hard.dst.ca.us/hayshore.html.< 

 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE EAST BAY  

"Shabbat Celebration for Young Children," Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join other families with young children to sharethis weekly Jewish holiday of joy and renewal.  

1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. (510) 848-0237, www.jcceastbay.org/.< 

 

JUNIOR CENTER OF ART AND SCIENCE A center dedicated to encouraging children's active wonder and creative response through artistic and scientific exploration of their natural urban environment. The center's classes, workshops, exhibits and events integrate art and science.  

EXHIBITS -- Three educational exhibits are mounted in the "Children's Gallery'' each year. A docent-led tour, demonstrations, hands-on activities and art projects are available to school groups throughout the year.  

"Jake's Discovery Garden," Jake's Discovery Garden is a new interactive studio exhibit designed for preschool-aged children and their adult caregivers that teaches young visitors about the natural environments found in their backyards, playgrounds and neighborhoods. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

Free; programs and special exhibits have a fee. September through May: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June through August: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 558 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. (510) 839-5777, www.juniorcenter.org.

 

LAKE CHABOT REGIONAL PARK The 315-acre lake offers year-round recreation. Services include canoe and boat rental, horseshoe pits, hiking, bicycling, picnicking and seasonal tours aboard the Chabot Queen. For boat rentals, call (510) 247-2526. 

Free unless noted otherwise; $5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs. Daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. 17930 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE  

ONGOING EXHIBITS --  

"NanoZone," Discover the science of the super-small: nanotechnology. Through hands-on activities and games, explore this microworld and the scientific discoveries made in this area.  

"Forces That Shape the Bay," A science park that shows and explains why the San Francisco Bay is the way it is, with information on water, erosion, plate tectonics and mountain building. You can ride earthquake simulators, set erosion in motion and look far out into the bay with a powerful telescope from 1,100 feet above sea level. The center of the exhibit is a waterfall that demonstrates how water flows from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Bay. Visitors can control where the water goes. There are also hands-on erosion tables, and a 40-foot-long, 6-foothigh, rock compression wall.  

"Real Astronomy Experience," A new exhibit-in-development allowing visitors to use the tools that real astronomers use. Aim a telescope at a virtual sky and operate a remote-controlled telescope to measure a planet.  

"Biology Lab," In the renovated Biology Lab visitors may hold and observe gentle animals. Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

"The Idea Lab," Experiment with some of the basics of math, science and technology through hands-on activities and demonstrations of magnets, spinning and flying, puzzles and nanotechnology.  

"Math Around the World," Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

"Math Rules," Use simple and colorful objects to complete interesting challenges in math through predicting, sorting, comparing, weighing and counting.  

 

HOLT PLANETARIUM Shows on Saturdays and Sundays. Programs recommended for ages 6 and up unless otherwise noted. $2.50-$3 in addition to general admission.  

$6-$12; free children ages 2 and under. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. University of California, Centennial Drive, Berkeley. (510) 642-5132, www.lawrencehallofscience.org.

 

LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM This is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in America, taking in 6,000 injured and orphaned animals yearly and returning 40 percent of them to the wild. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs using non-releasable wild animals to teach children and adults respect for the balance of nature. The museum includes a state-of-the art wildlife hospital which features a permanent exhibit, titled "Living with Nature,'' which houses 75 non-releasable wild animals in learning environments; a 5,000-square-foot Wildlife Hospital complete with treatment rooms, intensive care, quarantine and laboratory facilities; a 1-acre Nature Garden featuring the region's native landscaping and wildlife; and an "Especially For Children'' exhibit.  

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

 

MUSEUM OF CHILDREN'S ART A museum of art for and by children, with activities for children to participate in making their own art.  

ART CAMPS -- Hands-on activities and engaging curriculum for children of different ages, led by professional artists and staff. $60 per day.  

CLASSES -- A Sunday series of classes for children ages 8 to 12, led by Mocha artists. Sundays, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

OPEN STUDIOS -- Drop-in art play activities with new themes each week.  

"Big Studio." Guided art projects for children age 6 and older with a Mocha artist. Tuesday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. $5.  

"Little Studio." A hands-on experience that lets young artists age 18 months to 5 years see, touch and manipulate a variety of media. Children can get messy. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $5.  

"Family Weekend Studios." Drop-in art activities for the whole family. All ages welcome. Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. $5 per child.  

FAMILY EXTRAVAGANZAS -- Special weekend workshops for the entire family.  

"Sunday Workshops with Illustrators," Sundays, 1 p.m. See the artwork and meet the artists who create children's book illustrations. Free. 

EVENTS --  

"Saturday Stories," 1 p.m. For children ages 2-5. Free. 

SPECIAL EVENT --  

"Saturday Stories," 1 p.m. For ages 2-5. Free. 

Free gallery admission. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m. 538 Ninth St., Oakland. (510) 465-8770, www.mocha.org.

 

OHLONE COLLEGE  

"Ohlone for Kids and Teens," through Aug. 12. Learn about biology, try lego robotics, journey into outer space and more. www.ohloneforkids.com. 

43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 659-6285, www.ohlone.edu.

 

POINT PINOLE REGIONAL SHORELINE The 2,315-acre parkland bordering Pinole, Richmond and San Pablo offers views of Mount Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline and San Pablo Bay. There are trails through meadows and woods, and along the bluffs and beaches of San Pablo Bay. Visitors can hike, ride bikes or take the park's shuttle bus to reach the 1,250-foot fishing pier at Point Pinole. 

$5 per vehicle; $4 per trailered vehicle; $2 per dog (guide/service dogs free). Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Giant Highway, Richmond. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE East Bay residents have several volcanoes in their backyard. This park contains Round Top, one of the highest peaks in the Oakland Hills. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6800 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

SAN RAMON LIBRARY  

"19th Annual International Storytelling Festival," through Aug. 2, 7 p.m. Jul. 26: Linda Gorham.  

Aug. 2: Bharata Natyam Free.  

100 Montgomery St, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850.< 

 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA The 296-acre park includes an 80-acre lake and a four-flume waterslide, with picnic grounds and a swimming beach. Water slide fees and hours: (925) 829-6230. 

$6 per vehicle; $2 per dog except guide and service dogs. May 1 through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; shortened hours for fall and winter. Stanley Boulevard, one mile from downtown, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

SULPHUR CREEK NATURE CENTER A wildlife rehabilitation and education facility where injured and orphaned local wild creatures are rehabilitated and released when possible. There is also a lending library of animals such as guinea pigs, rats, mice and more. The lending fee is $8 per week.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Toddler Time," Learn about animals by listening to stories and exploring. Themes vary by month. Call for schedule. $7 per family.  

"Day on the Green Animal Presentations," Meet an assortment of wild and domestic animals. Wildlife volunteers will present a different animal each day from possums to snakes, tortoises to hawks. Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. 

CHILDREN'S EVENTS --  

Free. Park: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Discovery Center: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Animal Lending Library: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1801 D St., Hayward. (510) 881-6747, www.haywardrec.org/sulphur_creek.html.< 

 

TILDEN REGIONAL PARK This park is large and contains hiking trails, a golf course, a miniature scaled train to ride, The Brazilian Building and picnic areas. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Getting' Nutty With Squirrels," Aug. 1, 10-11 a.m. Discover this creature's habits and habitat. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard, Berkeley. (510) 525-2233, www.ebparks.org.

 

USS HORNET MUSEUM Come aboard this World War II aircraft carrier that has been converted into a floating museum. The Hornet, launched in 1943, is 899 feet long and 27 stories high. During World War II she was never hit by an enemy strike or plane and holds the Navy record for number of enemy planes shot down in a week. In 1969 the Hornet recovered the Apollo 11 space capsule containing the first men to walk on the moon, and later recovered Apollo 12. In 1991 the Hornet was designated a National Historic Landmark and is now docked at the same pier she sailed from in 1944. Today, visitors can tour the massive ship, view World War II-era warplanes and experience a simulated aircraft launch from the carrier's deck. Exhibits are being added on an ongoing basis. Allow two to three hours for a visit. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb steep stairs or ladders. Dress in layers as the ship can be cold. Arrive no later than 2 p.m. to sign up for the engine room and other docent-led tours. Children under age 12 are not allowed in the Engine Room or the Combat Information Center.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Limited Access Day," Due to ship maintenance, tours of the navigation bridge and the engine room are not available. Tuesdays.  

"Flight Deck Fun," A former Landing Signal Officer will show children how to bring in a fighter plane for a landing on the deck then let them try the signals themselves. Times vary. Free with regular Museum admission.  

"Protestant Divine Services," Hornet chaplain John Berger conducts church services aboard The Hornet in the Wardroom Lounge. Everyone is welcome and refreshments are served immediately following the service. Sundays, 11 a.m. 

SPECIAL EVENTS -- Closed on New Year's Day. 

"Family Day," Discounted admission for families of four with a further discount for additional family members. Access to some of the areas may be limited due to ship maintenance. Every Tuesday. $20 for family of four; $5 for each additional family member. 

"Flashlight Tour," Receive a special tour of areas aboard the ship that have not yet been opened to the public or that have limited access during the day. 

"Living Ship Day," Experience an aircraft carrier in action, with simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed in launch position. Some former crewmembers will be on hand. 

"Bay Area Tailhook Ready Room Special Speaker," Aug. 5, 11:30 a.m. Join U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Ted N. Branch, Commander of Strike Group One for a talk aboard the USS Hornet. $25-$30. 

$6-$14; free children age 4 and under with a paying adult. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Pier 3 (enter on Atlantic Avenue), Alameda Point, Alameda. (510) 521-8448, www.uss-hornet.org.<


Outdoors-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:49:00 PM

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM Ardenwood farm is a working farm that dates back to the time of the Patterson Ranch, a 19th-century estate with a mansion and Victorian Gardens. Today, the farm still practices farming techniques from the 1870s. Unless otherwise noted, programs are free with regular admission.  

ONGOING PROGRAMS --  

"Blacksmithing," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch a blacksmith turn iron into useful tools.  

"Horse-Drawn Train," Thursday, Friday and Sunday. A 20-minute ride departs from Ardenwood Station and Deer Park.  

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Help slop the hogs, check the henhouse for eggs and bring hay to the livestock.  

"Victorian Flower Arranging," Thursday, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Watch as Ardenwood docents create floral works of art for display in the Patterson House.  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Horse-Drawn Train Rides," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Meet Jigs or Tucker the Belgian Draft horses that pull Ardenwood's train. Check the daily schedule and meet the train at Ardenwood Station or Deer Park. 

"Country Kitchen Cookin'," Sundays, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy the flavor of the past with treats cooked on Ardenwood's wood burning stove. Sample food grown on the farm and discover the history of your favorite oldtime snacks. 

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3 p.m. Feed the pigs, check for eggs and bring hay to the livestock. 

"Toddler Time," Tuesdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Bring the tiny tots out for an exciting morning at the farm. Meet and learn all about a new animal friend through stories, chores and fun.  

"Potato Harvesting," Learn the spectacular history of this New World native as you dig with your spade and help find the spuds. 

"Barnyard Buddies," July 3 and July 31, 11 a.m. Get close to your favorite barnyard pals. 

"Women's Work," July 31, 1-2:30 p.m. Explore jobs Victorian women had to do. 

"Happy Ice Cream Sandwich Day," Aug. 1, Noon-1:30 p.m. Make farm fresh ice cream to put between wafers. 

"Bunny Love," Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, 2-3 p.m. Pet the farm rabbits and learn about them. 

"Victorian Table-Top Games," Aug. 7, 2:30-3 p.m. Challenge your family and friends to pick-up sticks, tops or jacks. 

"Luscious Lettuce Leaf Burritos," Aug. 7, Noon-1 p.m. Explore what's growing in the Kitchen Garden. 

"Rocking Rootbeer Floats," Aug. 7, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Help make ice cream. 

"Wonders of Worms," Aug. 8, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Dig up earthworms and observe their behavior. 

"Scrumptious Berry Pancakes," Aug. 8, Noon-1 p.m. Take a trek around the farm to gather ingredients. 

$1-$5; free children under age 4. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. (510) 796-0199, (510) 796-0663, www.ebparks.org.

 

BAY AREA RAIL TRAILS A network of trails converted from unused railway corridors and developed by the Rails to Trails Conservancy.  

BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE RAILROAD BED TRAIL -- This easy one mile long rail trail on Mount Diablo leads to many historic sites within the preserve. Suitable for walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Accessible year round but may be muddy during the rainy season. Enter from the Park Entrance Station parking lot on the East side of Somersville Road, Antioch.  

IRON HORSE REGIONAL TRAIL -- The paved trail has grown into a 23 mile path between Concord and San Ramon with a link into Dublin. The trail runs from the north end of Monument Boulevard at Mohr Lane, east to Interstate 680, in Concord through Walnut Creek to just south of Village Green Park in San Ramon. It will eventually extend from Suisun Bay to Pleasanton and has been nominated as a Community Millennium Trail under the U.S. Millennium Trails program. A smooth shaded trail suitable for walkers, cyclists, skaters and strollers. It is also wheelchair accessible. Difficulty: easy to moderate in small chunks; hard if taken as a whole.  

LAFAYETTE/MORAGA REGIONAL TRAIL -- A 7.65 mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail line. This 20-year old trail goes along Las Trampas Creek and parallels St. Mary's Road. Suitable for walkers, equestrians, and cyclists. Runs from Olympic Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road in Lafayette to Moraga. The trail can be used year round.  

OHLONE GREENWAY -- A 3.75-mile paved trail converted from the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railway. Suitable for walkers, strollers and skaters. It is also wheelchair accessible. The trail runs under elevated BART tracks from Conlon and Key Streets in El Cerrito to Virginia and Acton Streets in Berkeley.  

SHEPHERD CANYON TRAIL -- An easy 3-mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail Line. The tree-lined trail is gently sloping and generally follows Shepherd Canyon Road. Suitable for walkers and cyclists. It is also wheelchair accessible. Begins in Montclair Village behind McCaulou's Department Store on Medau Place and ends at Paso Robles Drive, Oakland. Useable year round. 

Free. (415) 397-2220, www.traillink.com.

 

BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL The Bay Area Ridge Trail, when completed, will be a 400-mile regional trail system that will form a loop around the entire San Francisco Bay region, linking 75 public parks and open spaces to thousands of people and hundreds of communities. Hikes on portions of the trail are available through the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. Call for meeting sites.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

ALAMEDA COUNTY -- "Lake Chabot Bike Rides." These rides are for strong beginners and intermediates to build skill, strength and endurance at a non hammerhead pace. No one will be dropped. Reservations required. Distance: 14 miles. Elevation gain: 1,000 feet. Difficulty: beginner to intermediate. Pace: moderate. Meeting place: Lake Chabot Road at the main entrance to the park. Thursday, 6:15 a.m. (510) 468-3582.  

ALAMEDA-CONTRA COSTA COUNTY -- "Tilden and Wildcat Bike Rides." A vigorous ride through Tilden and Wildcat Canyon regional parks. Reservations required. Distance: 15 miles. Elevation gain: 2,000 feet. Difficulty: intermediate. Pace: fast. Meeting place: in front of the North Berkeley BART Station. Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. (510) 849-9650. 

Free. (415) 561-2595, www.ridgetrail.org.

 

BICYCLE TRAILS COUNCIL OF THE EAST BAY The Council sponsors trail work days, Youth Bike Adventure Rides, and Group Rides as well as Mountain Bike Basics classes which cover training and handling skills.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Weekly Wednesday Ride at Lake Chabot," Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. A 13- to 20-mile ride exploring the trails around Lake Chabot, with 1,500 to 2,000 feet of climbing. Meet at 6:15 p.m. in the parking lot across from the public safety offices at Lake Chabot in Castro Valley. Reservations requested. (510) 727-0613.  

"Weekly Wednesday 'Outer' East Bay Ride," Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. Ride some of the outer East Bay parks each week, such as Wild Cat Canyon, Briones, Mount Diablo, Tilden and Joaquin Miller-Redwood. Meeting place and ride location vary. Reservations required. (510) 888-9757. 

Free. (510) 466-5123, www.btceb.org.

 

BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE Originally the home of several Native American tribes, white men began coal mining in the area in the 1860s. The preserve today features old mines and displays of the history of the area. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Somersville Shadows," July 31, 9:30-11 a.m. View the remains of a oncethriving mining town. 

Free unless otherwise noted; $5 seasonal parking fee on weekends. Daily, 8 a.m. to dusk Somersville Road, about five miles south of state Highway 4, Antioch. Information: (925) 757-2620, Tickets: (925) 555-1212, www.ebparks.org.

 

BOTANIC GARDEN  

EVENTS --  

Intersection of Wildcat Canyon Road and South Park Drive, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. www.ebparks.org.

 

COYOTE HILLS REGIONAL PARK The park is located on the shoreline of Fremont Bay and features rich wetland areas as well as Ohlone Indian shellmound sites. Hiking in the park allows scenic views of San Francisco Bay and southern Alameda County. The 12-mile Alameda Creek Trail runs from the Bay east to the mouth of Niles Canyon and features an equestrian trail as well as a bicycle trail; hikers are welcome on both. The park conducts naturalist programs and has a visitor center with a nature store and Ohlone, natural history and wildlife exhibits.  

SPECIAL EVENTS -- Free unless otherwise noted.  

"Bow Drill and Hand Drill Fire Making," July 31, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Learn the secrets of making fire. 

"Skills of the Past: Paleolithic Tools," July 31, 1-4:30 p.m. Explore the world of human technological prehistory through stone tools. 

"Ohlone Village Site House Repairs," Aug. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Glimpse 2,000 years of history as you help repair the frameworks of three structures built at a Tuibun Ohlone village site. 

"Nature Tales," Aug. 7, 1-2 p.m. Hike and hear stories inspired by nature. 

"Trash into Treasure," Aug. 7, 1-3 p.m. Discover how to turn trash into arts and crafts. 

"Teaching Local Indian Cultures," Aug. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Learn about Indian cultures at an interactive workshop. 

Free unless otherwise noted; A parking fee may be charged. Registration required for events. April through October: daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; October through April, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., unless otherwise posted. 8000 Patterson Pass Road, Fremont. (510) 636-1684, (510) 795-9385, www.ebparks.org.

 

CRAB COVE VISITOR CENTER At Crab Cove, you can see live underwater creatures and go into the San Francisco Bay from land. You can also travel back in time to Alameda's part. The goal is to increase understanding of the environmental importance of San Francisco Bay and the ocean ecosystem. Crab Cove's Indoor Aquarium and Exhibit Lab is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the East Bay. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Sea Squirts," 10-11:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Discover the wonders of nature with your little one. Registration is required. $6-$8. 

"Catch of the Day," Sundays, 2-3 p.m. Drop by to find out more about the Bay and its wildlife through guided exploration and hands-on fun. 

"Sea Siblings," Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Explore the natural world and take part in a theme related craft. Designed for the 3-5 year old learner. Registration is required. $4. (888) 327-2757. 

"Flying Fish," Aug. 7, 1-2 p.m. Make a fish kite. 

Free unless otherwise noted; parking fee may be charged. 1252 McKay Ave., Alameda. (510) 521-6887, www.ebparks.org.

 

DUNSMUIR HOUSE AND GARDENS HISTORIC ESTATE Nestled in the Oakland hills, the 50-acre Dunsmuir House and Gardens estate includes the 37-room Neoclassical Revival Dunsmuir Mansion, built by coal and lumber baron Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride. Restored outbuildings set amid landscaped gardens surround the mansion.  

ESTATE GROUNDS -- Self-Guided Grounds Tours are available yearround. The 50 acres of gardens and grounds at the mansion are open to the public for walking Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Booklets and maps of the grounds are available at the Dinkelspiel House. Free.  

GUIDED TOURS -- Docent-led tours are available on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. (except for July) and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors and juniors (11-16), children 11 and under free. 

Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. (510) 615-5555, www.dunsmuir.org.

 

FIFTY-PLUS ADVENTURE WALKS AND RUNS The walks and runs are 3-mile round-trips, lasting about one hour on the trail. All levels of ability are welcome. The walks are brisk, however, and may include some uphill terrain. Events are held rain or shine and on all holidays except Christmas and the Fifty-Plus Annual Fitness Weekend. Call for dates, times and details. 

Free. (650) 323-6160, www.50plus.org.

 

FOREST HOME FARMS The 16-acre former farm of the Boone family is now a municipal historic park in San Ramon. It is located at the base of the East Bay Hills and is divided into two parts by Oak Creek. The Boone House is a 22-room Dutch colonial that has been remodeled several times since it was built in 1900. Also on the property are a barn built in the period from 1850 to 1860; the Victorian-style David Glass House, dating from the late 1860s to early 1870s; a storage structure for farm equipment and automobiles; and a walnut processing plant. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Public tours available by appointment. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. (925) 973-3281, www.ci.sanramon. ca.us/parks/boone.htm.< 

 

GARIN AND DRY CREEK PIONEER REGIONAL PARKS Independent nature study is encouraged here, and guided interpretive programs are available through the Coyote Hills Regional Park Visitor Center in Fremont. The Garin Barn Visitor Center is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In late summer, the Garin Apple Festival celebrates Garin's apple orchards. The parks also allow picnicking, hiking, horseback riding and fishing. 

Free; $5 parking fee per vehicle; $2 per dog. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 1320 Garin Ave., Hayward. (510) 562-PARK, (510) 795-9385, www.ebparks.org/parks/garin.htm.< 

 

GREENBELT ALLIANCE OUTINGS A series of hikes, bike rides and events sponsored by Greenbelt Alliance, the Bay Area's non-profit land conservation and urban planning organization. Call for meeting places. Reservations required for all trips.  

ALAMEDA COUNTY --  

"Self-Guided Urban Outing: Berkeley," This interactive smart growth walking tour of central Berkeley examines some of the exciting projects that help alleviate the housing shortage in the city as well as amenities important to making a livable community. The walk, which includes the GAIA Cultural Center, Allston Oak Court, The Berkeley Bike Station, University Terrace and Strawberry Creek Park, takes between an hour-and-ahalf to two hours at a leisurely pace. Download the itinerary which gives specific directions by entering www.greeenbelt.org and clicking on "get involved'' and then "urban outings.'' Drop down and click on Berkeley. Free. 

Free unless otherwise noted. (415) 255-3233, www.greenbelt.org.

 

HAYWARD REGIONAL SHORELINE With 1,682 acres of salt, fresh and brackish water marshes, seasonal wetlands and the approximately three-mile San Lorenzo Trail, the Hayward Shoreline restoration project is one of the largest of its kind on the West Coast, comprising 400 acres of marshland. Part of the East Bay Regional Park District. 

EVENTS --  

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 3010 W. Winton Ave., Hayward. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org/parks/hayward.htm.< 

 

HAYWARD SHORELINE INTERPRETIVE CENTER Perched on stilts above a salt marsh, the Center offers an introduction to the San Francisco Bay-Estuary. It features exhibits, programs and activities designed to inspire a sense of appreciation, respect and stewardship for the Bay, its inhabitants and the services they provide. The Habitat Room offers a preview of what may be seen outside. The 80-gallon Bay Tank contains some of the fish that live in the Bay's open waters, and the Channel Tank represents habitats formed by the maze of sloughs and creeks that snake through the marsh. The main room of the Center features rotating exhibits about area history, plants and wildlife. Part of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District.  

ONGOING EXHIBIT --  

"Exploring Nature," An exhibit of Shawn Gould's illustrations featuring images of the natural world. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join an expert birder to go "behind the gates'' to areas of the marsh that are not open to the public. 

"Weekend Weed Warriors," 1-4 p.m. Help the shoreline to eliminate the non-native plants that threaten its diversity. Ages 12 and older. Registration required. 

"Nature Detectives," 11 a.m.-noon. An introduction and exploration of the world of Black-Crowned Night-Herons. Ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Registration required. 

"Leopard Shark Feeding Frenzy," July 31, 3 p.m. Assist the staff in feeding.  

"Who's Bones Are These?" Aug. 1, Noon-1:30 p.m. Examine an extensive animal bone collection.  

Free. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. (510) 670-7270, www.hard.dst.ca.us/hayshore.html.< 

 

JOHN MUIR NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE The site preserves the 1882 Muir House, a 17-room Victorian mansion where naturalist John Muir lived from 1890 to his death in 1914. It was here that Muir wrote about preserving America's wilderness and helped create the national parks idea for the United States. The house is situated on a hill overlooking the City of Martinez and surrounded by nine acres of vineyards and orchards. Take a self-guided tour of this well-known Scottish naturalist's home. Also part of the site is the historic Martinez Adobe and Mount Wanda.  

ONGOING EVENT --  

Public Tours of the John Muir House, Begin with an eight-minute park film and then take the tour. The film runs every 15 minutes throughout the day. Wednesday through Friday, 2 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.  

MOUNT WANDA -- The mountain consists of 325 acres of grass and oak woodland historically owned by the Muir family. It offers a nature trail and several fire trails for hiking. Open daily, sunrise to sunset. 

JOHN MUIR HOUSE, Tours of this well-known Scottish naturalist's home are available. The house, built in 1882, is a 14-room Victorian home situated on a hill overlooking the city of Martinez and surrounded by nine acres of vineyards and orchards. It was here that Muir wrote about preserving America's wilderness and helped create the national parks idea for the United States. The park also includes the historic Vicente Martinez Adobe, built in 1849. An eight-minute film about Muir and the site is shown every 15 minutes throughout the day at the Visitor Center. Self guided tours of the Muir home, the surrounding orchards, and the Martinez Adobe: Wednesday-Sunday, 1 a.m.-5 p.m. Public tours or the first floor of the Muir home: Wednesday-Friday, 2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations not required except for large groups.  

$3 general; free children ages 16 and under. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-8860, www.nps.gov/jomu.< 

 

KENNEDY GROVE REGIONAL RECREATION AREA The 95-acre park contains picnic areas, horseshoe pits and volleyball courts among its grove of aromatic eucalyptus trees.  

$5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs Through September: daily, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. San Pablo Dam Road, El Sobrante. (510) 223-7840, www.ebparks.org.

 

LAKE CHABOT REGIONAL PARK The 315-acre lake offers year-round recreation. Services include canoe and boat rental, horseshoe pits, hiking, bicycling, picnicking and seasonal tours aboard the Chabot Queen. For boat rentals, call (510) 247-2526. 

Free unless noted otherwise; $5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs. Daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. 17930 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM This is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in America, taking in 6,000 injured and orphaned animals yearly and returning 40 percent of them to the wild. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs using non-releasable wild animals to teach children and adults respect for the balance of nature. The museum includes a state-of-the art wildlife hospital which features a permanent exhibit, titled "Living with Nature,'' which houses 75 non-releasable wild animals in learning environments; a 5,000-square-foot Wildlife Hospital complete with treatment rooms, intensive care, quarantine and laboratory facilities; a 1-acre Nature Garden featuring the region's native landscaping and wildlife; and an "Especially For Children'' exhibit.  

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital. 

EXHIBITS --  

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

 

LIVERMORE AREA RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT  

4444 East Ave., Livermore. (925) 373-5700, www.larpd.dst.ca.us/.< 

 

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. SHORELINE This 1,200-acre park situated near Oakland International Airport offers picnic areas with barbecues and a boat launch ramp. Swimming is not allowed. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Grove, a group of trees surrounding a grassy glade, is at the intersection of Doolittle Drive and Swan Way. The area also includes the 50-acre Arrowhead Marsh (part of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network) and a Roger Berry sculpture titled "Duplex Cone,'' which traces the summer and winter solstice paths of the sun through the sky. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted Doolittle Drive and Swan Way, Oakland. (510) 562-PARK, Picnic reservations: (510) 636-1684, www.ebayparks.org.

 

MILLER-KNOX REGIONAL SHORELINE A 295-acre shoreline picnic area with a secluded cove and swimming beach, and a hilltop offering panoramic views of the north Bay Area. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted. 900 Dornan Dr., Richmond. (510) 562-PARK, Picnic Reservations: (510) 636-1684, www.ebparks.org.

 

MOUNT DIABLO STATE PARK The 3,849-foot summit of Mount Diablo offers great views of the Bay Area and an extensive trail system. Visitors to the park can hike, bike, ride on horseback and camp. Notable park attractions include: The Fire Interpretive Trail, Rock City, Boy Scout Rocks and Sentinel Rock, Fossil Ridge, Deer Flat, Mitchell Canyon Staging Area, Diablo Valley Overlook, the Summit Visitor Center (open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the Art Gallery, the Observation Deck and the Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center. 

Free. $6 per vehicle park-entrance fee; $5 for seniors. Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset. Mount Diablo Scenic Boulevard, from the Diablo Road exit off Interstate Highway 680, Danville. (925) 837-2525, www.mdia.org or www.parks.ca.gov.

 

PLEASANTON RIDGE REGIONAL PARK This 3,163-acre parkland is on the oak-covered ridge overlooking Pleasanton and the Livermore Valley from the west. A multi-purpose trail system accommodates hikers, equestrians and bicyclists. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Foothill Road, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

POINT PINOLE REGIONAL SHORELINE The 2,315-acre parkland bordering Pinole, Richmond and San Pablo offers views of Mount Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline and San Pablo Bay. There are trails through meadows and woods, and along the bluffs and beaches of San Pablo Bay. Visitors can hike, ride bikes or take the park's shuttle bus to reach the 1,250-foot fishing pier at Point Pinole. 

$5 per vehicle; $4 per trailered vehicle; $2 per dog (guide/service dogs free). Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Giant Highway, Richmond. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

QUARRY LAKES REGIONAL RECREATION AREA The park includes three lakes sculpted from former quarry ponds. The largest, Horseshoe Lake, offers boating and fishing, with a swim beach that will open in the spring. Rainbow Lake is for fishing only, and the third lake, Lago Los Osos, is set aside for wildlife habitat. In addition, there are hiking and bicycling trails that connect to the Alameda Creek Regional Trail. The park includes three lakes sculpted from former quarry ponds. The largest, Horseshoe Lake, offers boating and fishing, with a swim beach that will open in the spring. Rainbow Lake is for fishing only, and the third lake, Lago Los Osos, is set aside for wildlife habitat. In addition there are hiking and bicycling trails that connect to the Alameda Creek Regional Trail. 

$5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs; boat launch fees; Park District fishing access permit fee of $3. Through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sept. 6 through Sept. 30, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 2100 Isherwood Way,, between Paseo Padre Parkway and Osprey Drive,, Fremont. (510) 795-4883, Picnic reservations:: (510) 562-2267, www.ebparks.org.

 

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE East Bay residents have several volcanoes in their backyard. This park contains Round Top, one of the highest peaks in the Oakland Hills. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6800 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

RUTH BANCROFT GARDEN One of America's finest private gardens, the Ruth Bancroft Garden displays 2,000 specimens from around the world that thrive in an arid climate. Included are African and Mexican succulents, New World cacti, Australian and Chilean trees, and shrubs from California. 

DOCENT TOUR SCHEDULE -- Saturdays, 10 a.m. Docent-led tours last approximately an hour and a half. Plant sales follow the tour. By reservation only. $7; free children under age 12.  

SELF-GUIDED TOURS -- Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-noon; Friday, 9:30 a.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. Self-guided tours last two hours. No reservations required for weekday tours; reservations required for Friday and Saturday tours. Plant sales follow the tours. $7; free children under age 12.  

Gardens open only for tours and special events listed on the garden's telephone information line. 1500 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 210-9663, www.ruthbancroftgarden.org.

 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA The 296-acre park includes an 80-acre lake and a four-flume waterslide, with picnic grounds and a swimming beach. Water slide fees and hours: (925) 829-6230. 

$6 per vehicle; $2 per dog except guide and service dogs. May 1 through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; shortened hours for fall and winter. Stanley Boulevard, one mile from downtown, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

SULPHUR CREEK NATURE CENTER A wildlife rehabilitation and education facility where injured and orphaned local wild creatures are rehabilitated and released when possible. There is also a lending library of animals such as guinea pigs, rats, mice and more. The lending fee is $8 per week.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Toddler Time," Learn about animals by listening to stories and exploring. Themes vary by month. Call for schedule. $7 per family.  

"Day on the Green Animal Presentations," Meet an assortment of wild and domestic animals. Wildlife volunteers will present a different animal each day from possums to snakes, tortoises to hawks. Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. 

CHILDREN'S EVENTS --  

Free. Park: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Discovery Center: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Animal Lending Library: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1801 D St., Hayward. (510) 881-6747, www.haywardrec.org/sulphur_creek.html.< 

 

SUNOL REGIONAL WILDERNESS This park is full of scenic and natural wonders. You can hike the Ohlone Wilderness trail or Little Yosemite. There are bedrock mortars that were used by Native Americans, who were Sunol's first inhabitants. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Sunol Sunday Hike," Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. A natural history walk in Sunol Regional Wilderness. 

"Sunol Sunday Hike," Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. A natural history walk in the wilderness. 

Free unless otherwise noted; $5 parking; $2 dog fee. Geary Road off Calaveras Road, six miles south of Interstate Highway 680, Sunol. (510) 652-PARK, www.ebparks.org.

 

TILDEN REGIONAL PARK This park is large and contains hiking trails, a golf course, a miniature scaled train to ride, The Brazilian Building and picnic areas. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

"Getting' Nutty With Squirrels," Aug. 1, 10-11 a.m. Discover this creature's habits and habitat. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard, Berkeley. (510) 525-2233, www.ebparks.org.<


Dance-East Bay Through August 8

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 01:12:00 PM

ASHKENAZ  

Balkan Folkdance, Aug. 4, 8 p.m. $7.  

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.

 

ELKS LODGE, ALAMEDA  

"All You Can Dance Sunday Socials," Sunday, 4-6 p.m. Marilyn Bowe and Robert Henneg presents monthly socials with ballroom, swing, Latin and rock & roll themes. www.dancewithme.info. 

2255 Santa Clara Ave., Alameda. (510) 864-2256.< 

 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

"Dancing Under the Stars," July 23 and July 30, 8:30-10 p.m. The Linden Street Dance Studio provides FREE dance lessons to all. Each week will feature a different type of dance followed by a dance party to practice what was learned.  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.

 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Ballroom Dancing," through Aug. 16, Jul. 26, Aug. 9 and 16. Free ballroom dances classes are held during the afternoons.  

"Domingos de Rumba," Aug. 1 and Aug. 15, 3:30 p.m. Community participatory event features drums, dancing and the songs of rumba.  

free. 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2568, www.lapena.org.

 

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW  

"Live Salsa," Wednesdays. An evening of dancing to the music of a live salsa band. Salsa dance lesson from 8:30-9:30 p.m. $5-$10.  

For ages 21 and older. 2284 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-1159, www.shattuckdownlow.com.

 

SOLAD DANCE CENTER  

"Persian Dance," Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 and 10 p.m. Rosa Rojas offers traditional dance classes. $10.  

Citrus Marketplace, 2260 Oak Grove Rd., Walnut Creek. (925) 938-3300.< 

 

STARRY PLOUGH PUB  

"Ceili and Dance," Traditional Irish music and dance. The evening begins with a dance lesson at 7 p.m. followed by music at 9 p.m. Mondays, 7 p.m. Free.  

For ages 21 and over unless otherwise noted. Sunday and Wednesday, 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 3101 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-2082, www.starryploughpub.com.<


Tours And Activities-East Bay Through August 31

Tuesday July 27, 2010 - 12:41:00 PM

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM Ardenwood farm is a working farm that dates back to the time of the Patterson Ranch, a 19th-century estate with a mansion and Victorian Gardens. Today, the farm still practices farming techniques from the 1870s. Unless otherwise noted, programs are free with regular admission.  

ONGOING PROGRAMS --  

"Blacksmithing," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch a blacksmith turn iron into useful tools.  

"Horse-Drawn Train," Thursday, Friday and Sunday. A 20-minute ride departs from Ardenwood Station and Deer Park.  

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Help slop the hogs, check the henhouse for eggs and bring hay to the livestock.  

"Victorian Flower Arranging," Thursday, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Watch as Ardenwood docents create floral works of art for display in the Patterson House.  

$1-$5; free children under age 4. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. (510) 796-0199, (510) 796-0663, www.ebparks.org.

 

BAY AREA RAIL TRAILS A network of trails converted from unused railway corridors and developed by the Rails to Trails Conservancy.  

BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE RAILROAD BED TRAIL -- This easy one mile long rail trail on Mount Diablo leads to many historic sites within the preserve. Suitable for walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Accessible year round but may be muddy during the rainy season. Enter from the Park Entrance Station parking lot on the East side of Somersville Road, Antioch.  

IRON HORSE REGIONAL TRAIL -- The paved trail has grown into a 23 mile path between Concord and San Ramon with a link into Dublin. The trail runs from the north end of Monument Boulevard at Mohr Lane, east to Interstate 680, in Concord through Walnut Creek to just south of Village Green Park in San Ramon. It will eventually extend from Suisun Bay to Pleasanton and has been nominated as a Community Millennium Trail under the U.S. Millennium Trails program. A smooth shaded trail suitable for walkers, cyclists, skaters and strollers. It is also wheelchair accessible. Difficulty: easy to moderate in small chunks; hard if taken as a whole.  

LAFAYETTE/MORAGA REGIONAL TRAIL -- A 7.65 mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail line. This 20-year old trail goes along Las Trampas Creek and parallels St. Mary's Road. Suitable for walkers, equestrians, and cyclists. Runs from Olympic Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road in Lafayette to Moraga. The trail can be used year round.  

OHLONE GREENWAY -- A 3.75-mile paved trail converted from the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railway. Suitable for walkers, strollers and skaters. It is also wheelchair accessible. The trail runs under elevated BART tracks from Conlon and Key Streets in El Cerrito to Virginia and Acton Streets in Berkeley.  

SHEPHERD CANYON TRAIL -- An easy 3-mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail Line. The tree-lined trail is gently sloping and generally follows Shepherd Canyon Road. Suitable for walkers and cyclists. It is also wheelchair accessible. Begins in Montclair Village behind McCaulou's Department Store on Medau Place and ends at Paso Robles Drive, Oakland. Useable year round. 

Free. (415) 397-2220, www.traillink.com.

 

BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL The Bay Area Ridge Trail, when completed, will be a 400-mile regional trail system that will form a loop around the entire San Francisco Bay region, linking 75 public parks and open spaces to thousands of people and hundreds of communities. Hikes on portions of the trail are available through the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. Call for meeting sites.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

ALAMEDA COUNTY -- "Lake Chabot Bike Rides." These rides are for strong beginners and intermediates to build skill, strength and endurance at a non hammerhead pace. No one will be dropped. Reservations required. Distance: 14 miles. Elevation gain: 1,000 feet. Difficulty: beginner to intermediate. Pace: moderate. Meeting place: Lake Chabot Road at the main entrance to the park. Thursday, 6:15 a.m. (510) 468-3582.  

ALAMEDA-CONTRA COSTA COUNTY -- "Tilden and Wildcat Bike Rides." A vigorous ride through Tilden and Wildcat Canyon regional parks. Reservations required. Distance: 15 miles. Elevation gain: 2,000 feet. Difficulty: intermediate. Pace: fast. Meeting place: in front of the North Berkeley BART Station. Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. (510) 849-9650. 

Free. (415) 561-2595, www.ridgetrail.org.

 

BERKELEY CITY CLUB TOURS Guided tours through Berkeley's City Club, a landmark building designed by architect Julia Morgan, designer of Hearst Castle. 

Free. The last Sunday of the month on the hour between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 2315 Durant Ave., Berkeley. (510) 848-7800, www.berkeleycityclub.com.

 

BLACK PANTHER LEGACY TOUR A bus tour of 18 sites significant in the history of the Black Panther Party, conducted by the Huey P. Newton Foundation. By reservation only. 

$25. West Oakland Branch Library, 1801 Adeline St., Oakland. (510) 884-4860, www.blackpanthertours.com.

 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

HISTORY WALKABOUTS -- A series of walking tours that explore the history, lore and architecture of California with veteran tour guide Gary Holloway. Walks are given on specific weekends. There is a different meeting place for each weekend and walks take place rain or shine so dress for the weather. Reservations and prepayment required. Meeting place will be given with confirmation of tour reservation. Call for details.  

678 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 357-1848, www.californiahistoricalsociety.org.

 

CAMRON-STANFORD HOUSE The Camron-Stanford House, an 1876 Italianate-style home that was at one time the Oakland Public Museum, has been restored and furnished with appropriate period furnishings by the Camron-Stanford House Preservation Association. It is the last Victorian house on Lake Merritt's shore. Call ahead to confirm tours and hours. 

$3-$5; free children ages 11 and under when accompanied by a paying adult; free the first Sunday of the month. Third Wednesday of the month, 1-5 p.m. 1418 Lakeside Drive at 14th Street, Oakland. (510) 444-1876, www.cshouse.org.

 

CASA PERALTA Once the home of descendants of the 19th-century Spanish soldier and Alameda County landowner Don Luis Maria Peralta, the 1821 adobe was remodeled in 1926 as a grand Spanish villa, using some of the original bricks. The casa features a beautiful Moorish exterior design and hand painted tiles imported from Spain, some of which tell the story of Don Quixote. The interior is furnished in 1920s decor. The house will be decorated for the holidays during the month of December. Call ahead to confirm hours. 

Free but donations accepted. Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 384 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro. (510) 577-3474, (510) 577-3491, www.ci.sanleandro. ca.us/sllibrarycasaperalta.html.< 

 

CHABOT SPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER State-of-the-art facility unifying science education activities around astronomy. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, indoor stargazing, outdoor telescope viewing and films. 

Center Admission: $14.95; $10.95 children 3-12; free children under 3; $3 discount for seniors and students. Telescope viewing only: free. Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Also open on Tuesdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. after June 29. 10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 336-7300, www.chabotspace.org.

 

DEAN LESHER REGIONAL CENTER FOR THE ARTS TOUR A behind-the-scenes tour of this multi-million dollar arts facility. Tours last for one hour and include walks on both the Hofmann and Lesher stages, a look at the Hofmann fly-loft, the dressing rooms, the Green Room and an amble down the Center's opulent spiral staircase. Reservations required. Call for tour dates and times. 

$5 per person. 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 295-1400, www.dlrca.org.

 

DUNSMUIR HOUSE AND GARDENS HISTORIC ESTATE Nestled in the Oakland hills, the 50-acre Dunsmuir House and Gardens estate includes the 37-room Neoclassical Revival Dunsmuir Mansion, built by coal and lumber baron Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride. Restored outbuildings set amid landscaped gardens surround the mansion.  

ESTATE GROUNDS -- Self-Guided Grounds Tours are available yearround. The 50 acres of gardens and grounds at the mansion are open to the public for walking Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Booklets and maps of the grounds are available at the Dinkelspiel House. Free.  

GUIDED TOURS -- Docent-led tours are available on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. (except for July) and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors and juniors (11-16), children 11 and under free. 

Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. (510) 615-5555, www.dunsmuir.org.

 

EAST BAY FARMERS MARKETS  

BERKELEY CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- A chance to buy local organic produce, baked goods and flowers. The three markets operate rain or shine.  

Tuesday Market: April-October: Tuesdays, 2-7 p.m.; November-March: Tuesdays, 2-6 p.m. At Derby Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.  

Thursday Organic Market: Thursdays, 3-7 p.m. At Shattuck Avenue and Cedar Street.  

Saturday Market: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. At Center Street at Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Shattuck Avenue & Rose Street, Berkeley. (510) 548-3333. 

OAKLAND CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- A chance to buy local organic produce and baked goods.  

East Oakland Market: May-November: Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At 73rd Avenue and International Boulevard. (510) 638-1742.  

East Oakland Senior Center Market: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. At 9255 Edes Avenue. (510) 562-8989.  

Sunday Fruitvale Market: Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. At 34th Avenue and 12th Street. (510) 535-6929.  

Thursday Fruitvale Market: June-November: Thursday, 2-7 p.m. At 34th Avenue and 12th Street. (510) 535-6929.  

Grand Lake Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. At Splash Pad Park, Grand Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard. (800) 897-FARM.  

Jack London Square Market: May-October: Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Broadway and Embarcadero. (800) 949-FARM or www.jacklondonsquare.com.  

Kaiser Market: Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Howe Street between MacArthur Boulevard and 40th Street. (800) 949-FARM.  

Mandela Market: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. At Fifth Street and Mandela Parkway. (510) 776-4178.  

Millsmont Market: May-October: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At MacArthur Boulevard at Seminary Avenue. (510) 238-9306.  

Montclair Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At La Salle and Moraga avenues. (510) 745-7100.  

Old Oakland Market: Fridays, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. At Ninth Street and Broadway. (510) 745-7100.  

Temescal Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At DMV Parking Lot, 5300 Claremont Ave. (510) 745-7100. Oakland.  

"Oakland Claremont Ave Sunday CFM," Sunday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 5300 Claremont Ave. (DMV parking lot), Oakland. (510) 745-7100. 

ALAMEDA CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- A chance to buy local organic produce, baked goods and flowers. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Taylor Avenue and Webster Street, Alameda. (800) 949-FARM. 

RICHMOND CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more. Fridays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Civic Center Plaza Drive and McDonald Avenue, Richmond. (510) 758-2336. 

"Kensington CFM," Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  

303 Arlington Ave., Kensington. (510) 525-6155. 

EL CERRITO CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Tuesday Market: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  

Saturday Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. El Cerrito Plaza, San Pablo and Fairmont Avenues., El Cerrito. (925) 279-1760. 

Free. www.cafarmersmarkets.com.

 

EUGENE O'NEILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE Closed on New Year's Day. Visit Eugene O'Neill's famous Tao House and its tranquil grounds. Phone reservations required for a ranger-led, twoand-a-half-hour tour. Tours are given Wednesday through Sunday at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Please note: The National Park Service provides a free shuttle van for transportation to Tao House. Access via private vehicle is not available. 

Free but reservations required. Wednesday-Sunday. 1000 Kuss Road, Danville. (925) 838-0249, www.nps.gov/euon.< 

 

FIFTY-PLUS ADVENTURE WALKS AND RUNS The walks and runs are 3-mile round-trips, lasting about one hour on the trail. All levels of ability are welcome. The walks are brisk, however, and may include some uphill terrain. Events are held rain or shine and on all holidays except Christmas and the Fifty-Plus Annual Fitness Weekend. Call for dates, times and details. 

Free. (650) 323-6160, www.50plus.org.

 

FOREST HOME FARMS The 16-acre former farm of the Boone family is now a municipal historic park in San Ramon. It is located at the base of the East Bay Hills and is divided into two parts by Oak Creek. The Boone House is a 22-room Dutch colonial that has been remodeled several times since it was built in 1900. Also on the property are a barn built in the period from 1850 to 1860; the Victorian-style David Glass House, dating from the late 1860s to early 1870s; a storage structure for farm equipment and automobiles; and a walnut processing plant. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Public tours available by appointment. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. (925) 973-3281, www.ci.sanramon. ca.us/parks/boone.htm.< 

 

GOLDEN GATE LIVE STEAMERS Small locomotives, meticulously scaled to size, run along a half mile of track in Tilden Regional Park. The small trains are owned and maintained by a non-profit group of railroad buffs that offer rides. Come out for the monthly family run and barbeque at the track, offered on the fourth Sunday of the month.  

Free. Trains run Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Rides: Sunday, noon-3 p.m., weather permitting. Grizzly Peak Boulevard and Lomas Cantadas Drive at the south end of Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. (510) 486-0623, www.ggls.org.

 

GOLDEN STATE MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM -- The museum, which is handicapped accessible, features extensive displays of operating model railroads constructed and operated by the East Bay Model Engineers Society. Covering some 10,000 square feet, steam and modern diesel-powered freight and passenger trains operate in O, HO and N scales on separate layouts as well as narrow gauge and trolley lines. Of special interest is the Tehachapi Pass and Loop on the N-scale layout showing how the multiple engine trains traverse the gorges and tunnels, passing over themselves to gain altitude to cross Tehachapi Summit just east of Bakersfield. The layouts include such famous railroad landmarks as Niles Canyon, Donner Pass and the Oakland Mole where transcontinental passengers were ferried across San Francisco Bay from their arriving trains. VIEW THE LAYOUTS ONLY ON WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS; WATCH TRAINS RUN ON THE LAYOUTS ON SUNDAYS. 

$2-$4 Sunday, $9 family ticket; free on Wednesday and Saturday. April-November: Saturday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. December: layouts are operational on weekends. Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline, 900-A Dornan Dr., Point Richmond. (510) 234-4884, www.gsmrm.org.

GONDOLA SERVIZIO -- "Gondola Servizio." Weather permitting. Take a ride around Lake Merritt in a real Venetian gondola rowed by a Venetian-style gondolier. The boats of Gondola Servizio were built by hand in Venice. Each gondola seats up to six people and reservations are required.  

Marco Polo: Bring a picnic lunch and/or a beverage to enjoy on this 30 minute private gondola tour. $45 per couple, $10 for each additional person.  

Casanova: A 55-minute private gondola tour. Bring a picnic and/or champagne or another beverage to enjoy. Glasses are supplied along with blankets. $75 per couple, $10 for each additional person.  

Promessi Sposi: This is perfect for special occasions like an engagement photo or wedding outing. Also used for photo and film shoots or any other occasion. $225 per hour for the first couple; $10 per additional person. 

September-May: Wednesday-Sunday, 5 p.m.-midnight; June-August: Daily, by appointment. Lake Merritt Sailboat House, 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. (866) 737-8494, (866) 737-8494, www.gondolaservizio.com.

 

GREENBELT ALLIANCE OUTINGS A series of hikes, bike rides and events sponsored by Greenbelt Alliance, the Bay Area's non-profit land conservation and urban planning organization. Call for meeting places. Reservations required for all trips.  

ALAMEDA COUNTY --  

"Self-Guided Urban Outing: Berkeley," This interactive smart growth walking tour of central Berkeley examines some of the exciting projects that help alleviate the housing shortage in the city as well as amenities important to making a livable community. The walk, which includes the GAIA Cultural Center, Allston Oak Court, The Berkeley Bike Station, University Terrace and Strawberry Creek Park, takes between an hour-and-ahalf to two hours at a leisurely pace. Download the itinerary which gives specific directions by entering www.greeenbelt.org and clicking on "get involved'' and then "urban outings.'' Drop down and click on Berkeley. Free. 

Free unless otherwise noted. (415) 255-3233, www.greenbelt.org.

 

JOHN MUIR NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE The site preserves the 1882 Muir House, a 17-room Victorian mansion where naturalist John Muir lived from 1890 to his death in 1914. It was here that Muir wrote about preserving America's wilderness and helped create the national parks idea for the United States. The house is situated on a hill overlooking the City of Martinez and surrounded by nine acres of vineyards and orchards. Take a self-guided tour of this well-known Scottish naturalist's home. Also part of the site is the historic Martinez Adobe and Mount Wanda.  

ONGOING EVENT --  

Public Tours of the John Muir House, Begin with an eight-minute park film and then take the tour. The film runs every 15 minutes throughout the day. Wednesday through Friday, 2 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.  

MOUNT WANDA -- The mountain consists of 325 acres of grass and oak woodland historically owned by the Muir family. It offers a nature trail and several fire trails for hiking. Open daily, sunrise to sunset. 

JOHN MUIR HOUSE, Tours of this well-known Scottish naturalist's home are available. The house, built in 1882, is a 14-room Victorian home situated on a hill overlooking the city of Martinez and surrounded by nine acres of vineyards and orchards. It was here that Muir wrote about preserving America's wilderness and helped create the national parks idea for the United States. The park also includes the historic Vicente Martinez Adobe, built in 1849. An eight-minute film about Muir and the site is shown every 15 minutes throughout the day at the Visitor Center. Self guided tours of the Muir home, the surrounding orchards, and the Martinez Adobe: Wednesday-Sunday, 1 a.m.-5 p.m. Public tours or the first floor of the Muir home: Wednesday-Friday, 2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations not required except for large groups.  

$3 general; free children ages 16 and under. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-8860, www.nps.gov/jomu.< 

 

LAWRENCE BERKELEY NATIONAL LABORATORY Scientists and engineers guide visitors through the research areas of the laboratory, demonstrating emerging technology and discussing the research's current and potential applications. A Berkeley lab tour usually lasts two and a half hours and includes visits to several research areas. Popular tour sites include the Advanced Light Source, The National Center for Electron Microscopy, the 88-Inch Cyclotron, The Advanced Lighting Laboratory and The Human Genome Laboratory. Reservations required at least two weeks in advance of tour. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Photography is permitted. Due to heightened security after Sept. 11, 2001, tour participants will be asked for photo identification and citizenship information. Tours are periodically available by special request. Contact the Community Relations Office, (510) 486-7292, for additional information. To add your name to a list of potential public tour participants, email community@lbl.gov. 

Free. 10 a.m. University of California, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley. (510) 486-7292, www.lbl.gov.

 

LAWRENCE LIVERMORE NATIONAL LABORATORY The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory offer two different tours of its facilities.  

Livermore Main Site Tours are scheduled on most Tuesdays, 8:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Highlights of the three hour tour are visits to the National Ignition Facility, National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center, and Center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry. All tours begin at the Lab's Discovery Center, located at the intersection of Greeneville Road and Eastgate Drive in Livermore. Visitors must be U.S. citizens and 18 years or older. Twoweek advance reservations required. Tours are available for non-U.S. citizens with 60 to 90 days advance reservation.  

Site 300 is the Laboratory's 7,000 acre non-nuclear explosive test facility in the Altamont Hills southwest of Tracy. Tours may include Western vantage points for observation of the site, an external view of the Contained Firing Facility, and environmental remediation facilities and wetlands. Tours are conducted on an as-requested basis. Visitors must be U.S. citizens and 18 years or older. Two-week advance reservations required. Tours are available for non-U.S. citizens with 60 to 90 days advance reservation. 

NATIONAL LABORATORY DISCOVERY CENTER -- Tuesdays-Fridays, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Center is a window into the Laboratory where visitors can experience a broad-based display of the scientific technology developed at the Laboratory as well as highlights of the Lab's research and history in such areas as defense, homeland security, the environment, cancer and new energy sources.  

There is no citizenship limitation or age limit for visiting the Discovery Center. Call ahead to confirm the Center is open. Located off Greenville Road on Eastgate Drive, just outside the Laboratory's East Gate. Free. (925) 423-3272. 

Free. 7000 East Ave., Livermore. (925) 424-4175, www.llnl.gov.

 

LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM This is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center in America, taking in 6,000 injured and orphaned animals yearly and returning 40 percent of them to the wild. The museum offers a wide range of educational programs using non-releasable wild animals to teach children and adults respect for the balance of nature. The museum includes a state-of-the art wildlife hospital which features a permanent exhibit, titled "Living with Nature,'' which houses 75 non-releasable wild animals in learning environments; a 5,000-square-foot Wildlife Hospital complete with treatment rooms, intensive care, quarantine and laboratory facilities; a 1-acre Nature Garden featuring the region's native landscaping and wildlife; and an "Especially For Children'' exhibit.  

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital. 

SPECIAL EVENTS --  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

 

MOUNT DIABLO SUMMIT MUSEUM The museum is located in a historic stone building atop Mt. Diablo's highest peak and features ongoing exhibits that chronicle the history of the mountain. An instructional video examines the geological forces that created the mountain and panel displays describe the Native American history of the region. A diorama provides an overview of the mountain's ecosystems. Telescopes are mounted on the Observation Deck so visitors can enjoy one of the finest views in the world. 

Museum: free; Park entrance fee: $5-$6 per vehicle. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Park hours: daily, 8 a.m.-sunset. Oak Grove Road or North Gate Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 837-6119, (925) 837-6119, www.mdia.org/museum.htm.< 

 

MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY WALKING TOURS Take a three-hour, docent-led walking tour of this cemetery, designed by renowned architect Fredrich Law Olmsted, where many historical figures, both local and national, are buried. 

Free. Second Saturday of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 5000 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. (510) 658-2588, www.mountainviewcemetery.org.

 

NIMITZ WALK A level, paved walk originally constructed when the army was considering putting a missile site in the hills above Berkeley. Near Inspiration Point; from San Pablo Dam Road turn west onto Wildcat Canyon Road in Orinda. The entrance to the walk, and a parking lot, is at the top of the ridge. This is an easy hike for people of all ages and especially ideal for the very old, the very young, and the disabled. Bicycles and roller blades are allowed. 

Free. Daily, sunrise-sunset. Tilden Park, near Inspiration Point, Berkeley Hills. (510) 525-2233, www.ebparks.org.

 

OAKLAND ARTISAN MARKETPLACE www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org/. A weekly market featuring the fine arts and crafts created by local artists. Included will be handmade jewelry, sculptures, ceramics, paintings and drawings, photography, dolls, floral arrangements, clothing, soaps, and greeting cards. The three weekly markets are at different sites in Oakland. 

Free. (510) 238-4948.< 

 

OAKLAND CASTING CLUB MEETINGS The Oakland Casting Club and Department of Parks and Recreation present free fly-casting clinics in this monthly meeting. Experts of the club will be on hand to offer tips and training techniques for youths and adults. Everything from basic casting to advanced techniques will be taught. Beginners or experienced anglers welcome. No registration or appointment necessary, but please e-mail ahead (and include relative skill level) to give notice of your participation, if possible.  

Meetings are held at McCrea Park, located at Carson Street and Aliso Avenue (just off Hwy. 13), Oakland. 

Third Saturday of the month March-July. Oakland. www.oaklandcastingclub.org.

 

OLD MISSION SAN JOSE Take a self-guided tour of the Mission, a replica of the original mission church that was one of a chain of California missions begun by Father Junipero Serra in 1769. Mission San Jose was founded in 1797. The mission chain stretches from San Diego to San Rafael. The tour includes the church, grounds, an adobe building and historic memorabilia. 

$2-$3. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Closed New Years, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. 43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 657-1797, www.missionsanjose.org.

 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE TOUR The historic Paramount Theatre is a restored art deco masterpiece from the movie palace era. The two-hour tour covers areas not usually accessible to the public. Cameras are allowed. Children must be at least 10 years old and accompanied by adult chaperones. 

$5. First and third Saturday of the month, 10 a.m. Meet at the 21st Street Box Office Entrance, 2025 Broadway, Oakland. (510) 465-6400, (510) 893-2300, www.paramounttheatre.com.

 

PARDEE HOME MUSEUM The historic Pardee Mansion, a three-story Italianate villa built in 1868, was home to three generations of the Pardee family who were instrumental in the civic and cultural development of California and Oakland. The home includes the house, grounds, water tower and barn. Reservations recommended. 

EVENTS --  

$5; free children ages 12 and under. House Tours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays by appointment. 672 11th St., Oakland. (510) 444-2187, www.pardeehome.org.

 

RUTH BANCROFT GARDEN One of America's finest private gardens, the Ruth Bancroft Garden displays 2,000 specimens from around the world that thrive in an arid climate. Included are African and Mexican succulents, New World cacti, Australian and Chilean trees, and shrubs from California. 

DOCENT TOUR SCHEDULE -- Saturdays, 10 a.m. Docent-led tours last approximately an hour and a half. Plant sales follow the tour. By reservation only. $7; free children under age 12.  

SELF-GUIDED TOURS -- Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-noon; Friday, 9:30 a.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. Self-guided tours last two hours. No reservations required for weekday tours; reservations required for Friday and Saturday tours. Plant sales follow the tours. $7; free children under age 12.  

Gardens open only for tours and special events listed on the garden's telephone information line. 1500 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 210-9663, www.ruthbancroftgarden.org.

 

SHADELANDS RANCH HISTORICAL MUSEUM Built by Walnut Creek pioneer Hiram Penniman, this 1903 redwoodframed house is a showcase for numerous historical artifacts, many of which belonged to the Pennimans. It also houses a rich archive of Contra Costa and Walnut Creek history in its collections of old newspapers, photographs and government records. 

$1-$3; free-children under age 6. Wednesday and Sunday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Closed in January. 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 935-7871, www.ci.walnut-creek.ca.us.< 

 

SULPHUR CREEK NATURE CENTER A wildlife rehabilitation and education facility where injured and orphaned local wild creatures are rehabilitated and released when possible. There is also a lending library of animals such as guinea pigs, rats, mice and more. The lending fee is $8 per week.  

ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Toddler Time," Learn about animals by listening to stories and exploring. Themes vary by month. Call for schedule. $7 per family.  

"Day on the Green Animal Presentations," Meet an assortment of wild and domestic animals. Wildlife volunteers will present a different animal each day from possums to snakes, tortoises to hawks. Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m. 

CHILDREN'S EVENTS --  

Free. Park: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Discovery Center: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Animal Lending Library: Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 1801 D St., Hayward. (510) 881-6747, www.haywardrec.org/sulphur_creek.html.<


Don't Miss This: Music at Crowden

By Dorothy Snodgrass
Monday July 26, 2010 - 06:53:00 PM

A long time Berkeley resident, I venture to say that over the years I must have driven past the Crowden Music Center dozens of times. I've always been attracted to this handsome building at Rose and Sacramento Streets, but until this past Saturday had never entered its hallowed halls. Then came an invitation to attend a Chamber Music Workshop Recital at which my friend, Debbie Carton, and a bevy of youthful, extraordinarily talented young musicians presented a marvelous program of traditional and modern composers, from Handel and Brahms to a Jazz/Improvisation Ensemble arranged by Jeremy Cohen. 

Founded by violinist Anne Crowden in 1983, the academic program at the Center is designed to help students achieve intellectual and emotional maturity through the development of analytical and critical thinking. It includes technique classes, chamber music coaching, music history and theory. Students may enter the fourth and fifth grades as beginners. The primary goal is to give children a first-class education in balance with their musical needs. Through coaching, rehearsal and performance, students form an enduring bond with their peers within this very special community. The first of its kind in the nation, Crowden School remains a place unlike any other. Contributing to its success are staff members Heidi Mattson, Admissions Coordinator, Jamie Jim, Program Associate and Lisa Grodin, Chamber Music Workshop Coordinator. 

A very special program offered at the Center this coming week, July 29 - August 1, is the Summer Suzuki Workshop. Renowned guest faculty from Suzuki programs throughout the nation come together at Crowden to share their experience with young musicians in this intensive and fun immersion experience. Daily activities include master classes, repertoire, technique and enrichment classes, which are intended for students already studying violin, viola, or cello with a Suzuki teacher. 

In describing the importance of the Crowden Music Center, John Adams, world-famous Berkeley composer, states: 

"To say that the Crowden School is a treasure may sound like an exaggeration, but in fact that extraordinary school has no peer in American musical education."