Events

Never let it be said that our Bay Area lacks exciting and mostly free activities during the long summer months. Far from it, as you'll see from the sampling of just a few events available in June and July. 

On June 14, at 7 p.m., the United States Air Force Band of the Golden West will present a free concert at Chabot College Performing Arts Center, 25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward. 

For theatre lovers, local playwright Judith Offer is presenting "Scenes From The Life of Julia Morgan" on three Wednesday afternoons (June 16, 23 and 30) at 2 p.m. at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Avenue, now celebrating its 80th Anniversary. This hour-long reading, well researched by the author, has a number of parts and volunteer actors will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. The play is preceded by an optional lunch on the Terrace. Reservations can be made at (510) 848-7800. 

The Oakland East Bay Symphony, under the direction of Michael Morgan, performs a special Independence Day Celebration, with fireworks, on Saturday, July 3, 7 p.m. at the Craneway Pavilion located on the Richmond Waterfront with its breathtaking views of the the San Francisco, Berkeley and Oakland skylines. For tickets, call (510) 444-0801. 

Ever wanted to visit Alcatraz Island? If so, the Emeryville Senior Center has scheduled a trip to the "Rock" on Wednesday, July 28, leaving the Center, 4321 Salem Street, at 9 a.m. The cost is $30.00. For reservations, call 

(510) 596-3730. 

For a wonderful outdoor experience, you might want to join the Emeryville Senior Center for one or all three free concerts at Stern Grove, 2 p.m. (June 27, Hawaiian Art; July 11, San Francisco Symphony; August 1 (San Francisco Ballet). The cost for transportation is a mere $5.00. Call the Center for reservations (510) 596-3730. 

Dan Hoyle, Bay Area writer/performer will reprise his acclaimed solo work, "Tings Dey Happen" on July l at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre's Thrust Stage, 2025 Addison Street. (510) 647-2949. 

For a truly delightful evening and unique dining experience, we suggest you drop in at Cafe Leila, 1724 San Pablo Avenue at Francisco in Berkeley. This charming restaurant serves excellent food and, on weekends, presents live music. It has lovely garden dining and, best of all, a large parking lot. This past Friday evening, Tom Romningen, an 11- year old flutist extraordinaire, played with a jazz combo before a sold out audience and brought down the house. Talk about talent -- this adorable kid has it! For reservations call (510) 525-7544. 

Still think there's nothing to do in the Bay Area in the Summer? Come on, there's clearly plenty out there, as evidenced above.