It looks like the nine-story SNK Realty Group’s Arpeggio building, under construction on Center Street in downtown Berkeley, is on hold, at least for the moment. Passersby have noticed that construction has been halted for several weeks. The sales office on the site has closed, and the Planet’s calls to the sales number listed on the project’s website instead reached an independent Oakland real estate broker, who said that units would not be for sale until at least June. 

The San Francisco Business Times, in a proprietary article by Blanca Torres, confirmed today what has been rumored in Berkeley for months, that the project is in financial difficulties: 

“U.S. Bank took possession of the note in September after it bought the assets of Pacific National Bank, the original lender on the Arpeggio that was seized by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. In January, two mechanic’s liens were filed for the property including one for $43,601.35 from Idaho Pacific Lumber Co. Inc. and one for $39,765 from Paradigm Concrete & Construction Inc. The latter lien was waived Feb. 14.”

“…you know these are terrible times…developers can't borrow money to build buildings in the first place. We currently have a building, Arpeggio, that's been under water… it has a substantial amount of fees, but they don't know how the heck they're going to pay the fees…It's not like …these developers are walking away with tons of money.."

The street is still closed, though construction has stopped.

The Sequoia Apartments at the corner of Telegraph and Haste, the building which housed Mario's La Fiesta for more than 30 years, experienced a big, smoky fire two-alarm fire Tuesday afternoon, attracting fire crews from all stations in the city of Berkeley. 

Deputy Fire Chief Sabrina Imrie told the Planet that the first call came at 3:19 and the fire was out by 4:11. She said that in all five engines, two trucks and 32 firefighters were used to do the job. 

"It's better to get in and give it all you've got," she said. 

The fire started in a wooden plank door in a stairwell, producing lots of black smoke. Chief Imrie said that firefighters had to chase it up and down the stairs, making the job even more difficult. All residents of the multi-unit multi-story building who were at home were evacuated. 

By 4:30 another fire department spokesperson reported that the fire was completely out, but firefighters remained on-site to be sure all was well. 

Alltogether, six fire trucks and two ambulance units were observable on the scene at various times, along with numerous police and traffic enforcement staff.  

Telegraph and Haste were both closed to traffic a block out from the intersection in all directions. Emergency personnel and spectators lined the nearby sidewalks, as ladders were put up to the building roof from two directions. Water spilled down Haste Street.

Telegraph reopened by 5:00 pm, Haste by 5:30. A small number of residents, mostly appearing of college student age, were let back into the building by police at 5:15. The ornate lobby appeared untouched, and there was only a faint smell of smoke on the nearby streets.

There were no signs of damage to the exterior of the building. Street front businesses now in the building include the popular Cafe Intermezzo and Raleigh's pub. Both were closed and dark, but appeared undamaged. Partially eaten meals remained on the tables in Intermezzo. 

You would think a 52-year-old garage sale might have run out of things to sell. But the White Elephant Sale (WES) keeps restocking and plugging along, annually offering tens of thousands of objects, from odd to ordinary, in the cause of raising money (some sixteen million, so far) to benefit the programs of the Oakland Museum of California. 

The big White Elephant Sale—open to the entire public, and free—is on the weekend of March 5-6, from 10 am to 4 pm each day. It’s then that the WES waterfront warehouse in Oakland, run by the Oakland Museum Women’s Board, will be thronged with thousands of bargain and curiosity seekers. 

But if you want to go early, with smaller crowds, this week includes the last donation days. Through Saturday, February 26, 2011, if you go between 10 am and 2 pm and make a donation of goods worth at least $50 (in your estimation) per individual, you get a free pass to shop for that day. 

Be sure to check the website in advance and look over the list of items that are not acceptable as donations. It’s quite extensive, since the WES doesn’t want to end up with your used underwear or dysfunctional computer to dispose of at their expense. Remember, you’re making a donation of re-sellable items to a non-profit cause, not unloading pure junk. 

How does the White Elephant Sale work? I did a long account of it in the Planet most recently in 2009. 

I don’t mean to repeat every detail, but here’s a summary. 

The sale operates like a rummage or garage sale but on a mammoth and highly efficient scale. The warehouse encompasses nearly 100,000 square feet, and holds tens of thousands of items, all individually priced. Scores of white-coated volunteers (many from Berkeley) are on duty. 

All the items for sale are donations, so the type of merchandise is dependent on the donors. They may range from a fine china service, to garden tools, clothing, bicycles, books, coats, and original artwork. But if something you want isn’t there, it’s simply because nobody donated that item this year; this isn’t a department store. 

You can probably buy a blender, a bear (stuffed, ceramic, wooden), a bed frame, a basket, a backgammon set, a bud vase, a blanket, a butter knife… 

My experience is that the donations are often items that are no longer in fashion, but still useful, or at least entertaining. If you specialize in a certain sort of collecting, or have an open mind about what’s useable as opposed to simply what’s trendy, or just want to get some stuff cheap, the WES can be a productive hunting ground. 

I know people who do much of their annual clothing shopping at the WES, as well as others who carefully sort through certain sections for their own personal collections, or for items that they then resell on E-Bay. 

Most of the items for sale are indeed “used”, but the WES volunteers cull the contributions. They’re not going to sell you torn and dirty clothing, or a broken waffle iron, for instance. 

And most things are genuinely “priced to sell”, as they say. Paperback books for 50 cents and hardcover for a dollar or two, items of clothing for a few dollars, very credible original artworks for $10 or $25 or $100, and so on. 

The sale building is divided into seventeen departments including clothing (men / women); toys; furniture; music / camera; art; books; sports; electrical (from lampshades to appliances); and three divisions of household miscellaneous—boutique, bric-a-brac, and house wares. 

Each department is run by its own volunteer team and has its own organization, habits, and idiosyncrasies. For what it’s worth, in my view there are some departments that offer consistent great bargains (particularly Books and Bric-a-Brac and House wares) others where you can find many very good items at a “steal” while some selections are higher priced, and a few departments that have tended towards considerably higher pricing over the years. 

It is not unknown these days to see something in the furniture section with a four-figure price tag, and some of the prices there compare, in my view, to thrift store or even antique shop prices. 

A sorting department distributes incoming donations to the individual departments where items are priced and put out for display. 

This can make for some unusual finds and comparison shopping. Depending on who did the sorting, multiple versions of the same piece of glassware, for instance, might end up in Bric-a-Brac priced perhaps at $3, House wares for $5, and Boutique (higher end decorative items) for $8 or $10. 

Generally, though, donations seem to go where they sensibly “belong”. And the selection is vast. In Bric-A-Brac there’s not just a shelf of ceramic animal figurines. There’s a ceramic duck section, a ceramic rabbit section, a ceramic bear section, next to items in blue glass, items in green glass, items in red glass, across from a glass ashtry section next to Halloween decorations next to Easter decorations…you get the idea. 

On donation days, you get your purchases wrapped up by department, then pay at a central station. There’s a 10% premium for shopping on those days. On the big sale days you pay at each department, then store your items at a central “checkstand” before moving on. 

The WES warehouse is at 333 Lancaster Street in Oakland. To get there by car, take 880 south from Berkeley, and get off at the Fruitvale exit. At the bottom of the short off ramp make a sharp right turn (and slow down before then!) and head straight ahead three blocks on Derby Street. 

At the end, the Oakland Estuary will be in front of you, the Cal Crew Boathouse will be on your right, and the WES building—that enormous, block-long, gray structure fronting on Glascock Street—is on your left. 

Parking is on the street, and will be jammed on the day of the sale (it’s pretty packed on the donation days, too). And in this area there are plenty of industrial and craft businesses and many blocks without standard sidewalks and curb cuts. Look at signage carefully before parking, and don’t block someone’s driveway or gate. 

During the March Sale there’s also a free shuttle from the Fruitvale BART station. 

You cannot bring food, backpacks, big bags, or boxes into the building on any of the sale days. 

The WES website with more details is www.whiteelephantsale.org 

Last Tuesday (February 15) the Berkeley City Council discussed open government, Bradley Manning, the Affordable Housing Impact Fee, and PG&E's pipelines in Berkeley. 

Council voted unanimously to adopt the first reading of the Open Government Ordinance, with a second reading scheduled for March 8^th. Then they voted to approve a second part of the item, regarding the agenda committee and the presiding officer's ability to move public comment to different parts of the meeting. Many members of the public spoke out against the item, commenting that the agenda committee has too much power over what goes onto the agenda, and that moving the public comment around during a meeting can be a problem for the disabled community, who cannot always stay until late into the evening to make their comments. The vote was all ayes except for Worthington and Arreguin. 

Returning to the discussion about Bradley Manning, council voted unanimously to send a letter requesting his humane treatment while awaiting trial. Manning, who allegedly released documents and information to WikiLeaks about the Iraq War, has been in solitary confinement and subjected to very difficult conditions in a military prison while awaiting his trial. The letter will be sent to the new Brig Commander, Denise Barnes. 

In light of the recent discussion about the safety of PG&E's pipelines, Council voted unanimously to request that PG&E identify the size, condition, age, location, and last inspection dates of all natural gas lines in Berkeley, and that they install shut-off valves. 

The Affordable Housing Impact Fee, a fee that developers pay when building housing that goes to the City's Housing Trust Fund, will be discussed again later in a worksession. Council voted unanimously to have the City Manager prepare an ordinance with a range of options for setting the Impact Fee, and to discuss the issue more in a worksession. There was a staff recommendation to set the fee at $20,000 per unit, and a Housing Advisory Commission recommendation to set it at $28,000 per unit. 

Council also passed an ordinance extending the operation of the warm water pool until construction actually makes it impossible for it to continue operating. The warm water pool was going to close this June. 

A number of members of the public came to the meeting to support the Peace and Justice Commission's recommendation that Berkeley step up in the safe resettlement of Guantanamo detainees. The Council took no action on the item. 

Ceremonially, the Council honored Josefina Lopez, who created Corazon Del Pueblo, a place for showcasing Latino and Chicano art. She announced the upcoming celebration of El Dia Del Nino, day of the child, occurring on April 30^th at 4814 International Boulevard in Oakland.

A new study could show that the radio frequency radiation levels of some PG&E SmartMeters is significantly higher than previously thought, a spokesman for an environmental health coalition said. 

Sage Associates, environmental consultants, published the results of their study online on Friday. 

The study found FCC public safety limit violations could be possible within six inches of the meter, said Barry Smith, a spokesman for Environmental Health Coalition of West Marin. 

"PG&E is misleading the public with false assurances of safety. SmartMeter radiation will be a permanent part of the home, and people have no idea how high their chronic RF exposure might be," Smith said in a statement.

Shahram Farshchi, 56,the driver of a car which crashed on Sunday into at least four other cars on Solano Avenue in Berkeley and Albany was arrested by Berkeley police, according to a series of stories in the Albany Patch online newspaper. The driver told the paper that he believed he might have suffered a seizure, but this theory has not yet been confirmed by police or physicians. Three people were taken to the hospital with possible injuries, but all were released after treatment.

Well, I almost went to yesterday’s City Council hearing on the future of West Berkeley. For a retired serial entrepreneur like me, the glib discussion by the council majority and their complacent staff of the marvels of what we’re now supposed to call “spinout” businesses is galling. It makes it all sound so easy and natural, just take your campus research project, rent a cute little incubator space and voila! No figures sought or offered as to the probability of success of such ventures or their chances of producing long-term steady jobs for Berkeleyans (slim to none, I’d wager, based on experience). 

But I spoke at the last public hearing on West Berkeley about the folly of sacrificing a vital manufacturing area on the altar of high-tech speculation. It was possible to see the whole sad spectacle last night from the comforts of home, and as my co-watcher pointed out, everything’s been said on the topic already and nothing’s been heard. So I stayed home and watched online, and good thing, too, because my derisive shrieks at some of the more outrageous statements would have disrupted the council meeting. 

First up was a truly superb presentation by economist Linda Hausrath of her research showing an ongoing vigorous demand for industrial sites in the inner Bay Area. She showed convincingly that if such sites are converted to other uses, which is proposed for West Berkeley, industry will move to the fringes of the area, adding to sprawl and taking along jobs which inner city residents would gladly fill. 

The council looked bored, said nothing much. The only question was from Councilmember Gordon Wozniak, who seemed to have misheard or miscalculated a statistic on an early slide, so that he thought that the companies studied produced very few jobs as compared to the amount of space they used. He was off by a factor of ten, surprising in someone whose frequent posture is that of the most scientifically astute councilmember. I couldn’t help thinking of Doctor Science on the old Duck’s Breath Mystery Theatre (“I have a Master’s Degree—in Science!”) 

And it was downhill from there. A major feature of the proposed zoning changes is making it easy to convert warehouse space to research and development space. Amazingly, no one from either the Planning Department or the Economic Development Department had a convincing estimate of how much warehouse space is now available in West Berkeley, even though available warehouse space is a key component of the viability of manufacturing jobs. 

The discussion was a perfect illustration of how Berkeley (like, I fear, many other cities) cheerfully operates in a data-free zone. A new proposal was floated: to allow 80 acres of land to be made available for mixed use master permits covering a city block or more, but there was no agreement on what percentage of available land the number 80 represented—estimates ranged from five percent to 46%, a staggering gap. 

But this didn’t stop the council majority, the ones whose votes are controlled by the Mayor, from voting to give developers a blank check to convert as much space as they wanted to other uses. Max Anderson and Linda Maio made a timid proposal to enable 100,000 square feet to be converted and the results to be analyzed before the balance would be released for conversion, but it went down at the end of the evening in a classic 5-4 vote (Wengraf, Wozniak, Moore, Capitelli, Bates No, Anderson, Maio, Worthington, Arreguin Yes.) 

Oh, and what about the public hearing? Most of the many speakers, well over two-thirds or more, supported the compromise position advanced by the West Berkeley Artisans and Industrial Companies (WEBAIC), the people who are currently operating successful ongoing enterprises in the area. The council essentially paid no attention to what they said, with the exception, of course, of Worthington and Arreguin, and occasionally Anderson and Maio. 

Nothing was mentioned about the private channel that the three Hills councilmembers (Wozniak, Capitelli, Wengraf) have set up for themselves with the Peak Democracy company. On the Open Town Hall ™ poll which the organization has established online, that reliable Berkeley citizen Semi-Anonymous, the lineal descendant of Spiro T. Agnew’s Silent Majority, gave an overwhelmingly positive endorsement to the question “Should the City Council amend West Berkeley zoning to allow conversion of warehouse and/or wholesale spaces to other uses including research and development (R&D)?” Presumably the sponsoring councilmembers were aware of this result, though they didn’t disclose it at the beginning of the meeting as they might have, and it possibly influenced their votes. 

To an old liberal arts graduate like me, the pathetically unscientific data-free comments of council and staff sorted themselves out into three academic categories: 

The literary version comes from Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men: “Tell me about the rabbits, George.” Councilmembers (except Worthington and Arreguin) desperately asked for someone, anyone, to hype the supposed virtues of the staff proposal in the face of abundant contrary evidence cited by the public speakers, to no effect. 

They did get one ridiculous answer from a nouveau entrepreneur, a guy who was once an economic development bureaucrat appointed by Gavin Newsom in San Francisco, who opined that West Berkeley could be another Mission Bay. Max Anderson acerbically pointed out that Mission Bay was a huge and mostly empty former rail yard, while West Berkeley is a lively, well-settled and much smaller industrial area. 

Then there was the anthropology comment, the cargo cult analysis. From Wikipedia: 

“A cargo cult is a religious practice that has appeared in many traditional pre-industrial tribal societies in the wake of interaction with technologically advanced cultures. The cults focus on obtaining the material wealth (the "cargo") of the advanced culture through magic and religious rituals and practices.” Cargo cult thinking was observable most often in the discussion of “community benefits”— the quasi-religious belief that if high tech development comes it will surely be accompanied by goodies like “jobs programs”, “training” and other vague un-quantifiables. The more astute councilmembers asked, repeatedly, if what would be gained would outweigh what would be lost, or if there was any way to measure benefits provided, but they got no coherent response from proponents. 

Finally, there was the film school category, mocked by one speaker opposed to the plan changes: “If you build it, they will come.” The quote is from the 80s sports fantasy movie Field of Dreams.  

Mayor Bates, an old college jock, seems particularly enamored of the dream vision. He and his developer buddies seem to fervently believe that changing building standards to allow construction of 75-foot buildings with 15 feet between floors will bring many new jobs into Berkeley, even though exactly zero evidence has been presented to support that proposition, and Linda Hausrath’s exhaustive data contradicts it. 

Oh well, it all turned out okay in the movie, so maybe it’s possible here. Fittingly, the most vocal proponent of revising building standards in West Berkeley is the spokesperson for Wareham Development, now the proud owner of the old Fantasy Films building. 

This quick and dirty overview is in the nature of a film review—for a more detailed and accurate analysis of what the council’s up to, check back later this week. Or if you’re a real glutton for punishment, the whole thing is now online—if you don’t believe that it could have been as bad as I’ve reported, watch it yourself, if you have nothing better to do. 

Note, if you do watch it, one councilmember’s muttered mention of Egypt, in the context of the very real probability of West Berkeley stakeholders deciding to resort to a referendum if their legitimate fears about some of these proposals are ignored. If our city continues to be run for the benefit of wealthy corporations like Wareham, it could happen.

Angela Hill laments the demise of the Olde Bezerkeley in the Trib.

George Lakoff reveals What Conservatives Really Want on the Truthout website.

Josh Kosman in the Chronicle outs the Vienna Philharmonic, coming soon to U.C. Berkeley's Zellerbach Auditorium, as being STILL a notorious bastion of racism and sexism--and I thought they'd reformed! 

"It's hard to believe that Berkeley didn't have its own wine festival until last year, but it's true — and (better late than never) the second annual Berkeley Wine Festival, a three-month extravaganza celebrating the wines of France, Italy, and California, starts this Friday at the Claremont Hotel, Club, & Spa."--Anneli Rufus in the Express. Only one problem: the Claremont is still in Oakland. Perhaps Berkeley seems classier to the organizers--who knew?

The Berkeley Chamber of Commerce, like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is entitled to its opinion. But we don't have to agree with it, and we don't. 

The Planet resigned from the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce after three successive reasonable-seeming CEOs were let go by an organization that seems to have more than promoting Berkeley business on its agenda. Nevertheless, we continue to get their emails.  

In today's email, the following solicitation makes us want to take our business elsewhere. Maybe it's time to organize a boycott of Berkeley Chamber members if they can't keep their fingers off of local politics.  

"Have you voted on "OPEN TOWN HALL" yet? 

Exercise you right to vote! [sic] 

Should the City Council amend West Berkeley zoning to allow conversion of warehouse and/or wholesale spaces to other uses including research and development (R&D)? 

The deadline for voting on this question is: 

NOON - TODAY - TUESDAY FEBRUARY 22. 

Some Council members have launched "Open Town Hall" to solicit the opinions of Berkeleyans @ www.opentownhall.com. 

Currently, the tally of those who have voted on this question is: 

Yes 207 

No 31 

Neutral 2 

Maybe 30 

This is an opportunity for you to express your opinion in addition to (or instead of) attending a City Council meeting. 

The Chamber of Commerce supports the zoning amendments to increase the opportunity of R&D in West Berkeley. If you agree, please lend your support to this effort! 

PLEAESE VOTE YOUR OPINION BY NOON TODAY 

www.berkeleychamber.com" 

Dan O'Neill

Joseph Young

Global Warming; Book Vans: Mental Illness; The Role of Aladdin? In response to your op-ed re: the Berkeley Public Library; In Response to the Letters about the Libraries 

Global Warming 

With regards to concerns about global warming, the book “Common Wealth” by Jeffrey Sachs (2008) claims that about 18 billion tons of current human carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are absorbed by natural sinks on land and in the ocean per year. This suggests that we can begin to limit potential climate problems by restricting our emissions to this level. With almost 7 billion people on the planet this works out to 2.6 tons of CO2 per person. 

This value can be used to set personal goals. For example, in the U.S. about 1/3 of our national energy use goes to residential and private vehicle use - or about 1730 pounds per person. For a family of three, splitting this target evenly between electricity use (assuming normal utility power - not solar power), gas use, and gasoline use leads to individual targets for annual use of 1300 kilowatt-hours, 150 therms of gas, and 87 gallons of gasoline. Trade-offs between the three categories are obviously allowed. You can also have an impact on your share of the other 2/3 portion of energy use (commercial, industrial, and and commercial vehicle use) by your choices on spending. Take vacations closer to home, buy art or go to concerts instead of buying the latest manufactured goods, reuse, and recycle, eat less meat, and so on. 

Yes, we need to restart the debate on global warming, but we also need to recognize that all of us will need to be involved in the solution. There is no reason not to start doing our share now. 

Robert Clear 

* * *  

Book Vans 

Regarding San Francisco resident Peter Warfield's negative comments about the Berkeley Public Library's book van, I would like to set the record straight on the library's plans to maintain service for the city 's library users while the branches are closed for renovation. The book van will give library users access to books they want and need during these renovations. The van is a flexible and cost effective solution for Berkeley's neighborhoods. Mr. Warfield, from his vantage point in San Francisco, says the library should be moving into temporary fixed locations for the duration of the closures. Such a plan would not meet the needs of the Library, the library's users or the community. A temporary site would be expensive, and impractical. ADA accessiblity would be difficult. We could not guarantee adequate bathrooms. The costs to remodel temporary sites could easily exceed original estimates. 

Book vans are proven and effective solutions to temporary library closures. They've been used in many communities, including San Francisco, where Mr. Warfield lives. . While the library branches are closed for remodeling, the Library's collection will be available online. Order a book, the book van will bring it to you. Log on at www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org. 

My neighbors and I welcome the book van to our neighborhood while the branch closest to me is closed. I appreciate the library's efforts to make sure its services continue for my neighborhood. I'm sure Mr. Warfield would be appreciative too if he lived in Berkeley. 

John Gage 

* * * 

Mental Illness 

Jack Bragen's articles on mental illness are informed and enlightening. His perspective as a writer with experience in being occasionally afflicted by an attack of a chronic mental illness is invaluable. I raised my children (none with mental illness, luckily) during the days when parenting, especially mothers, were blamed for everything from skin rashes to autism (remember Bruno Bettelheim?) in their children. Thank God those days are over. Bragen's pointing out that genetic predisposition plays an important role is a reassuring return to the folk wisdom of my grandparents, who used to say, without blame, sadly shaking their heads, "It's in the family, in the blood." 

I hope Bragen gives us more concrete examples of how a mentally ill person experiences the world during an episode, either from his own experiences or those of afflicted friends or acquaintances, and how his friends and family can best help. We could also learn something from his evaluation of present treatments and general comments on how, as a community, we help or hinder the lives of those who suffer these still-mysterious disorders, which, despite occasional headlines, are 99% more dangerous to the sick person than to the rest of us. Maybe a question and answer format, like: 

• Why do mental patients resist taking medication?
• What services does our community provide, and which ones are helpful?
• Is it true that recreational drugs may trigger attacks in the genetically predisposed?

* * * 

The Role of Aladdin? 

How does Gaddafi fit the role of Aladdin? Gaddafi himself was a poor little Arab boy born in a tent, the son of a nomadic camel trader who roamed the poverty-stricken desert throughout most of his childhood. Significantly enough, he did his early studies by the light of an old Arab oil lamp. In his early teens, he became active in political demonstrations in favour of Egypt's Nasser, procuring the necessary materials for his flags, banners and slogans by personally provisioning them from different merchants, and was often harassed by his enemies 

At the youthful age of only 27 in 1969, He led a successful revolution of the poor as a young army officer, ousted Libya's corrupt monarchy and became her new head of state. He also promptly ousted the foreign scientific magicians, who had helped discover Libya's lamp of oil far beneath the sands of her desert, and began rubbing that lamp vigorously to produce its black gold and force its powerful genie of foreign oil companies to pay him more than double their former prices, from one billion dollars in his first year of 1969 to over two billion in 1971 and approximately three billion in '73, amassing the largest gold reserves in the Arab world, and giving him a distinct place of leadership amongst its one hundred million Arabs, second only to that of Egypt! 

He used the Magic Genie of its power to accrue more wealth and power for both Libya and himself, although the Western magicians would certainly like to bury him alive if they could! But he himself seems to wear some uncanny ring of spiritual authority which causes him to lead a nearly charmed life in opposition to his enemies. To their disgruntled and frustrated chagrin, he keeps gleefully rubbing his new magic lamp and producing its black genie of oil which has now brought him so much wealth and power. 

Ted Rudow III, MA 

* * * 

In response to your op-ed re: the Berkeley Public Library 

I attended many many public meetings regarding the plans for the West and South Branches of the public library. Hundreds of neighbors from those two communities attended as well. The process was completely transparent. Anyone who thinks otherwise is seriously paranoid. The costs of the plans were discussed. Residents, neighbors, librarians all had their say. We discussed the costs of keeping the old buildings. Architects tried to plan for that choice. The decision among all was that new buildings in those locations are the best use of city money. In other words, the taxpayers' money. It is misleading to say otherwise. I don't know why your correspondent wants to mislead the people of Berkeley. What is her motivation? Perhaps her opposition to RFID's in the library? Could she be trying to use the leverage of Judith Epstein's lawsuit to persuade the Library to drop RFID's?? What the lawsuit will in fact do is delay construction of WEst and South, and perhaps mean that costs rise, legal fees will have to be paid, and the new libraries at West and South will never happen. 

The Library's plans for the West Branch on University Ave are innovative and look to the future, not the past. One may love some parts of the old buildings, but the new one speaks to tomorrow, not yesterday. It will be the first Zero Net Energy public library in the United States. That means annual savings on energy costs...much lower construction costs. The design also adopts historic practices. When West was built, architects had to rely on design to achieve light and moderate temperatures. This building will do so with zero carbon emissions. South and West will finally be ADA accessible and seismically safe for users, staff , the disabled. The union that represents library workers, SEIU, has come out in favor of the plans for new buildings. This is an opportunity for Berkeley , not the boondoggle described by your correspondent. 

Berkeley residents use their libraries at three times the rate of other California cities. Let's reward library users with the buildings they have told the city they want. New , improved library branches for all -- that is exactly what I expected when I voted for Measure FF! 

Linda Schacht 

* * * 

In Response to the Letters about the Libraries 

I would like to respond to the two letters about the libraries, above, one from John Gage and the other from his wife, Linda Schacht Gage. These letters, which were published earlier in the Planet preview, contain numerous errors, both of omission and commission. 

Ms. Schacht is the Capital Chair of the Berkeley Public Library Foundation and has been conducting a campaign of misinformation about the Concerned Library Users (CLU) Lawsuit, which challenges the planned misuse of Measure FF funds. Along with the foundation’s Executive Director, David Snyder, she has engaged in an aggressive campaign of inciting fear and spreading untruths about the library projects and lawsuit. This behavior reflects badly on the foundation as a whole. A charity should be beyond reproach. 

Ms. Schacht alleges that the lawsuit would delay the South and West Branch projects. This is untrue. They are not scheduled to start until 2012, after the Claremont and North Branch projects are completed, because the City plans to close only two branch libraries at a time. The bidding process for the Claremont and North Branches isn’t finished yet. No use permits have been granted for the South and West Branch projects; whatever the outcome of the lawsuit, it will be over long before these projects begin, since parties are required to agree to a timely schedule for court. 

In other publications, Ms. Schacht has alleged that Measure FF bond funds would be expended in the defense of the lawsuit. This is categorically false. The City Attorney’s office receives a generous budget from the taxpayers. No Measure FF funds have been used in connection with the lawsuit, nor can they be used for such a purpose. 

It’s also misleading to suggest that partial preservation projects would necessarily be more expensive than new construction. As part of the environmental review process, CLU submitted alternative designs by preservation architect Todd Jersey, who saved the Richmond Plunge. His South Branch design would cost significantly less than the City’s plan, and his West Branch design would cost no more than the City’s plan, while providing much more space for a growing community. His designs renovate only the most historic portions of these libraries, while adding new construction to each for a Children’s Room, a Teen Room, and extra space for computers, patrons, and staff. Mr. Jersey’s designs are ADA compliant and seismically safe, all as required by law. 

By comparison, I have less in the way of disagreement with the content of Mr. Gage’s letter. I do in fact support the use of Measure FF funds for the library van, although I find the tone of his letter unnecessarily mean-spirited. Peter Warfield lived in Berkeley for many years and made some fine points about how the library may have done a better job in making its purchase, and these might have been addressed, in addition to the issues raised by Berkeley resident, Steve Finacom. 

I find it interesting that Mr. Warfield’s residence continues to be a point of discussion, while David Snyder’s is not. Mr. Snyder does not reside in Berkeley. At one Board of Library Trustees meeting, he handed out unsigned leaflets with my address. When he came to the microphone, he didn’t even have the courage or integrity to divulge his own city of residence, but he read my address into the record. This is behavior not unlike that employed by anti-abortion groups and is not fitting for someone whose salary is paid by the charitable donations of others. 

I would like to encourage Ms. Schacht and her allies to engage in civil and factual discourse about the issues. This would show a genuine respect for the topic and the people of Berkeley. 

Judith Epstein

UC Berkeley has unceremoniously announced its intention to wire "properties owned, leased, or controlled by the campus" for video surveillance. The campus policies website (campuspol.chance.berkeley.edu/newpolicies.cfm) has been updated with the pdf file titled "Video Security Applications". As listed on the document, the responsible executive behind the surveillance plan is the [now former]vice-chancellor. Oddly though, he left his name off the form. The man who wants to scrutinize everybody, didn't want his name on a publicly scrutinized document. For the record his name is Nathan Bromstrom. If people want to take video footage of him (fair is fair), he lives on Canyon Road (thanks Google). 

The responsible office is of course the UCB police department. Although Mitch Celaya uses the word "responsible" in a funny way, because he didn't want to list his name on the document either. The blame is delegated to the Administrative Captain, and she chose to leave her name out too. Her name is Margo Bennett. Margo is also the name of the lead female character in The Shadow. With the new camera system, Margo and Mitch are going to find out what evil lurks in the hearts of men, I suppose. 

The cost of the system is not discussed in any way in the policy. The instillation has been approved, but there is no public documentation as of yet to the specifics of the system. The cameras are the most basic cost, then there is the added costs of the IP (internet protocol) addresses for the cameras. There will be camera control operators; tech support as well as people paid to sit and monitor the system (ie: watch the footage). Every piece of digital video will be stored for future reference, from a period of 21 days up to a whole year. Storing the accumulated visual/audio data from an entire campus for those periods will require a large and costly server system. All in all, the proposal is an extremely expensive endeavor; people should be concerned about this expenditure. They should also wonder where the money is coming from in the first place, as the university keeps claiming it's broke. 

Since the plan is for all UC owned properties, one should expect People's Park to be one of the first places the cameras appear. The cameras will capture every nugget of weed that gets smoked or traded. People rioted over a volleyball court: Cameras will create a far bigger stir. As the UC-PD continues to take large stances against civil liberties, the city of Berkeley should reconsider having shared patrols and operations. Or they could be dragged into quagmire. 

Privacy issues aside, the cameras represent the further privatization of the campus. They send a signal that the non-affiliated, general public is unwelcome from the campus. They are a symbol of intimidation particularly towards towards those who would wish to be on campus for political reasons. 

Today was the fifth day of KPFA’s annual major winter fund drive. In a previous article I wrote with great concern for the future—the financial viability--of the station and the Pacifica Network of which it is a part. My concern has not lessened as both the network and KPFA remain close to insolvency, and so the outcome of this present fund drive is particularly important, although a mini-fund drive in December was a great success bringing in 150% of projections. 

In the interim the governments of Tunisia and Egypt have fallen and massive non-violent uprisings are occurring throughout North Africa and the Arabian peninsula, all this widely covered daily on KPFA which recently became the only national network carrying Al Jazeera-English. In addition, the staff of the program Voices of Middle East and North Africa put together extended shows that aired in prime time with fantastic commentary from experts and activists rarely heard anywhere in U.S. media. At the same time Amy Goodman’s Senior Producer, SA Kouddous, an Egyptian-American, travelled to Egypt where he was on the scene daily reporting from Tahrir square as well. Through the good sense of Pacifica ED, Arlene Engelhardt, Goodman’s show, Democracy Now (KPFA’s most listened to program) is now running in the 7 a.m. drive time slot, complemented by a diverse and local Morning Mix show at 8-9 a.m. which has also brought to KPFA airwaves many new voices and perspectives. 

Meanwhile the organized effort by a group of paid staff and their supporters to weaken KPFA’s and Pacifica’s leadership has not abated and their inflammatory approach could diminish income from the just begun fund drive. Attacks on Pacifica’s ED, Arlene Englehardt, and efforts to undermine the changes she has made which have strong support among unpaid staff and listeners, continue. Some of those responsible for the incessant cacophony continue to post absurdly distorted visions of the Pacifica world on two web sites using the KPFA name (an illegal use of the name), continue their “informal” boycott of the morning mix programming and continue the baseless claim that Pacifica has been both taking “KPFA’s money” and is guilty of profligate spending. (For one thing, KPFA is not and never was an independent entity. It was the founding station of Pacifica Foundation and Pacifica is a collaborative network whose National Board is selected from the local station boards). 

The facts are terrifyingly clear that the network is in financial trouble with both reduced income and listenership. And all the stations need to redouble their efforts to re-expand their audiences with engaging and creative programming to gain new listener sources of revenue for this important font of independent journalism and left-populist political advocacy to thrive. I continue to believe that the Morning Mix at 8 a.m. deserves all the financial support that people can give, yet I ask all reading this letter to give generously to support the station at any time of the day or night and in any way you can or choose to do so. The easiest way is to go to (http://www.KPFA.org) and pay on line with a credit card. If that isn’t convenient please help out by calling in to a program you value at 1-800-439-5732. If you are local in the East Bay come down to the phone room and help answer pledge calls during your favorite programs. With your support new programming changes and coverage of vital struggles in the U.S. and around the world will continue. Without it, Ms. Engelhardt’s valuable efforts may be hamstrung. 

Behind the recent appointment of Israel’s new military chief of staff are several months of bitter infighting among Israeli generals and intelligence agencies over whether to attack Iran, and, in the event of such an attack, how to rope the U.S. into the war. 

The replacement of Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi with Maj. Gen. Benny Gantz is the outcome of a seesaw battle between a wing of the Israeli army, allied with the intelligence services, that have cautioned against a war with Iran, pitted against Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Ehud Barak, and a coterie of more aggressive generals. The feud has become so intense that veteran military analyst Ron Ben-Yishai says, “The state of Israel is sinking into anarchy.” 

According to the Asia Time’s Victor Kotsev, Ashkenazi, backed by Israel’s intelligence chiefs, and possibly with quiet support from Washington, maneuvered to block Barak’s choice for a new chief of staff by torpedoing the candidacy of Maj. Gen. Yoav Galant, and then blocking the Defense Minister’s attempt to appoint the hawkish Maj. Gen. Yair Naveh as acting chief of staff. 

The civil war, according to Kotsev, reflects “a split in Israeli political and military circles on whether to attack Iran. According to [veteran Israeli journalist Aluf] Benn, the outgoing chiefs of the army and the intelligence …are firmly opposed to a unilateral military intervention, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Barak have stacked their political fortunes on a strike.” 

The falling out between Ashkenazi and Barak began last year when the latter opposed the defense minister’s proposal to attack Iran, remarking, “Initiating such a war will only bring disaster on Israel.” Barak responded by shortening Ashkenazi’s tenure and replacing him with Galant, the controversial general who lead operation “Cast Lead,” the brutal assault on Gaza in December 2008-January 2009 that killed more than 1,400 Palestinians. 

According to the Israeli Daily Haaretz, Galant was seen as “more aggressive on Iran and will not block Netanyahu and Barak, who are eager to go into battle against Iran.” 

But Galant had to withdraw when it was revealed that he had appropriated public land that surrounded his villa in northern Israel, and Barak blamed Ashkenazi—almost certainly correctly—for leaking the scandal. Barak had already alienated the military by trying to shift the blame for last year’s disastrous interception of the Turkish ship Mavi Marmara onto the army and intelligence agencies.  

The whole brouhaha has weakened Barak, who lost whatever base he had when he recently pulled out of the Labor Party to start up a more centrist organization. “Barak suffered one of the toughest routs of his life, second only to his loss of the Prime Minister’s post in the 2001 elections,” says Israeli journalist Amir Oren. 

Israeli analyst Benn suggests that Washington might have had a hand in the affair by encouraging resistance to Barak within the Israeli military. Gantz is seen as a general with close ties to his American counterparts, and word has it that the Pentagon was chilly toward Barak during his recent visit to Washington. With Barak badly wounded by the fight, there are a number of players on the sidelines, including rightwing Likudites Moshe Ya’alon and Dan Meridor, who are hankering after his job.  

This fight is hardly a split between doves and hawks. According to columnist J.J. Goldberg of the Jewish weekly Forward, while the new Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, has “spoken scathingly” of the “short-sighted strategic vision of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak,” he is hardly part of some peace faction. Rather the division seems to be between aggressive right-wingers supported by the settler movement and opposed to any agreement with the Arabs, and a more “cautious faction” that includes Ashkenazi. 

Ashkenazi favors “covert action”—military-speak for targeted assassinations—and returning the Golan Heights to Syria as a strategy to divide Damascus and Teheran, “a view shared unanimously by the heads of Israel’s intelligence agencies” says Goldberg. 

But the now-retired chief of staff is hardly some kind of peacenik. In his farewell address, Ashkenazi talked of “tectonic changes” in the Middle East and gave a generally gloomy view of an Israel surrounded by growing Islamic fundamentalism in Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq and possibly Egypt. His opposition to attacking Iran has less to do with the political fallout than the fear that Israel would do so “unilaterally.” 

It is not clear where Gantz or the newly appointed intelligence heads stand on the matter of Iran, but Reuters reports that “the new crop of generals and spymasters could prove more cooperative to war orders” from the civilian administration. 

There are powerful forces arguing for attacking Iran, many of them among the newly resurgent American neo-conservatives. U.S House Resolution 1533, introduced last year by 46 Republicans, supports Israel using “any means necessary” against Iran. While H-1533 languished in the Foreign Affairs Committee when Democrats controlled the House, the resolution is certain to re-emerge with Republicans in charge. 

The charge to war, according to Gareth Porter of IPS, is led by neo-cons like Reuel Marc Gerecht, the former director of the New American Century, a think tank that can claim much of the credit for getting the Bush Administration to invade Iraq. “What is important to understand about this campaign,” says Porter, “is that the aim of Gerecht and the right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu is to support an attack by Israel so that the United States can be drawn into a direct, full-scale war with Iran.” 

The neo-cons want more than surgical strikes aimed at Iran’s nuclear industry, they want a real war—“No cruise missiles at midnight to minimize the body count” says Gerecht—and regime change. As David Wurmster, former vice-president Dick Cheney’s key advisor on the Middle East, put it, “If we start shooting, we must be prepared to fire the last shot. Don’t shoot a bear if you are not going to kill it.” 

The campaign is aimed at creating domestic pressure on the Obama administration to back Israel once it attacks. Israel has a powerful air force and navy, but unless it used some of its nuclear arsenal—an act that is hard to contemplate but by no means out of the question—it can’t do the job on its own. 

Would most Americans back such an attack? Polls show that a majority of Americans don’t want a war with Iran, but that they also strongly support Israel. If the Iranians can be demonized enough—the current regime’s crackdown on dissent is already doing a pretty good job in that regard—might those numbers shift? Gerecht thinks they will: “If the Israelis bomb now, American public opinion will probably be with them, perhaps decisively so.” 

In the meantime, the Netanyahu administration is doing its best to whip up anti-Iranian sentiment. Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman called the recent transit of two Iranian warships through the Suez Canal a “provocation,” even though the canal is an international waterway and recently saw several Israeli warships pass through it on their way into the Persian Gulf. “Unfortunately, the international community is not showing readiness to deal with the recurring Iranian provocations,” Lieberman said. “The international community must understand that Israel cannot ignore these provocations forever.” 

Bombast? Certainly the Israeli Foreign Minister is renowned for that, but in this case he has strong support in the Tel Aviv government, among the powerful settler movement, and with at least some of the military. As the Israeli daily Haaretz notes, “2010 went by without a war with Iran. In the winter no one goes to war because the clouds limit air force operations. But in 2011, a conflict is brewing.” 

It is a conflict that could escalate from a regional calamity to an international disaster if the U.S. joins in. 

- 

As the world watched, millions of Egyptians engaged in an eighteen-day democratic revolution. For those of us fortunate enough to live in the United States, there are five lessons to be learned from the insurrection in Egypt. 

Democracy remains the world’s most precious commodity. The Egyptian revolution was a spontaneous uprising of millions of ordinary people yearning for democracy; a movement no doubt inspired by US history. We should take pride in the fact that America has become a beacon of light to billions throughout the world who yearn for freedoms that many of us take for granted. 

Nonetheless, we should remember that democracy is hard work. Winton Churchill famously observed, “No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” The struggles of the Egyptian people remind us how precious US democracy is, how fortunate we are to live in America, and the reality that an effective civil society requires our active involvement. 

It helps to have a job. While the Egyptian revolution involved specific political complaints, such as the lifting of martial law, there was a significant economic component. The Egyptians who took to the streets yearned for opportunity as well as freedom; they wanted a better life for themselves and their families. Under dictator Mubharak, many Egyptians, particularly young people felt they were trapped in a dead-end existence. Unemployment was high (more than 10 percent) and most educated young Egyptians who could not find meaningful work. 

The insurrection should remind Americans that a vital democracy also provides economic opportunity. In addition to the right of free speech and assembly, and the other civil rights that we hold dear, there are important economic rights the US needs to pay more attention to: the right to hold a decent job paying a living wage, to work in a safe environment, and to organize and join unions; as well as the right to adequate education, housing, and healthcare. 

The new technology has reshaped the face of protest. A lot of attention has been paid to the key role of Facebook in the Egyptian revolution, but in general the eighteen-day protest demonstrated that, over the past thirty years, developments in information technology -- the Internet, satellite TV, and mobile phones – have made the world a global community and thereby facilitated democratic protest. 

At an early stage of the Egyptian revolution, the Mubharak government tried to snuff dissent by turning off the Internet, restricting cell phone traffic, and beating up foreign journalists. The fact that this didn’t work is a testimony to the bravery of the protestors and reporters, and the robustness of the new media. (By the way, shutting down the Internet turned off Facebook but had the side affect of blocking most forms of Egyptian commerce.) 

The free-flow of communication is a precursor to democracy. The new technology not only makes global communication easier, but also protest. 

Nonviolence works. Except for the actions of Mubharak’s thugs, the Egyptian democratic revolution was nonviolent. It was another reminder that nonviolence is the most effect method for producing lasting social change. 

During the sixties, Martin Luther King Jr. was a powerful advocate of nonviolence and his leadership caused the Civil Rights movement to both accomplish its short-term objectives and produce lasting change in American society. Just before his untimely death, Dr. King shifted his focus from the problem of racial injustice to economic injustice; he was convinced the US democracy would not flourish if workers did not have good jobs and benefits. Sadly, the problem of economic injustice remains and should become the focus of a new nonviolent American social movement. 

These weren’t the people we were warned us about. Mohamed Atta, a key leader of the 9/11 attacks was an Egyptian citizen, as was the Al Qaeda second-in-command, Ayman al-Zawahiri. As a consequence, some commentators lumped Egyptians with “Arabs” and “Muslims” and branded them as terrorists. We were told that they hated Americans, hated our freedoms. 

There may have been terrorists participating in the Egyptian revolution but, in general, the protestors didn’t look like the folks we have been warned about. The protestors seemed a remarkably diverse group: old and young, men and women, religious and secular, urban and rural. For the most part, they looked remarkably like Americans taking to the streets in the defense of their liberties. 

We didn’t hear a lot of “we hate America” rhetoric from the protestors. To the contrary, the general impression Americans got was that Egyptians would like to be more like us, they would like to have the democracy that we so often take for granted. 

The Egyptian revolution was incredibly heartening. Hopefully, it will remind Americans that we live in a country that serves as a beacon of hope to the rest of the world. And, that we need to take steps to clean up our own act, to ensure that democracy remains a reality for everyone in the United States. 

Demonstrations led to the downfall of President Hosni Mubarak in Egypt and President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali in Tunisia. There are protests in Bahrain, Yemen. Jordan, Algeria and new demonstrations in Iran, a nd minor incidents have occurred in Mauritania, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Sudan, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, Morocco. Repressive regimes around the world must be very nervous. Is Colonel Muammar Qaddafi's Libya next?  

On February 16, 2011, Libyan police clashed with thousands of anti-government protestors in the coastal city of Benghazi, calling the demonstration "a day of rage." These protestors joined a smaller demonstration in support of arrested human rights activist and lawyer Fathi Tarbel, who represents the families of over 1,000 prisoners massacred at Tripoli's Abu Salim prison in 1996. (Tarbel was subsequently released.) Benghazi is a hot bed of anti-government sentiment. There were also demonstrations in Baida, Misurata, and Zentan, as well as pro-Gaddafi demonstrations in Benghazi, Tripoli and elsewhere. Reportedly, as many as 200 anti-government protestors have been killed so far. Regime opponents have called for a nationwide strike. 

Qaddafi tried to allay unrest by proposing the doubling of government employees' salaries and releasing 110 Islamic militants who oppose him. In addition, Gaddafi had lately met groups of students, journalists, lawyers and others to hear their complaints. Obviously, this was not enough for protestors. 

The Libyan grievances are similar to those in Tunisia and Egypt: high youth unemployment, and the harsh suppression of all political activity under an autocratic rule which has lasted decades in this oil rich country of 6.5 million. Libyans want the ouster of Qaddafi, a constitution, and political and economic reforms.  

Libya had emerged from isolation in 2003 when Qaddafi announced that Libya would relinquish its nuclear, chemical, and biological programs and opened its sites to international inspection. In addition, Qaddafi renounced terrorism and promised to compensate victims of the 1986 La Belle disco bombing, that killed two and injured at least 120, including more than 40 Americans, and the 1988 bombing of a Pan Am airliner over Lockerbie, Scotland. The optimism that swept the country at the time of Qaddafi's announcement slowly gave way to economic realities of rebuilding Libya's moribund economy. 

In 2006, the United States removed Libya from its list of countries sponsoring terrorism. 

Let's look back on the beginning of Qaddafi's reign. On September 1, 1969, an obscure group of military officers seized power while King Idris was seeking medical treatment in Turkey. There was very little opposition to the coup and few deaths. About a week after the coup, the 27-year old Qaddafi emerged as the head of the Revolutionary Command Council and as the country's new leader. Riding on an anti-imperialist anger, Qaddafi closed all British and American military bases, expanded the Libyan armed forces, exiled or arrested senior officers with connections to the monarchy, and closed all newspapers and churches, banned political parties, and jailed political opponents. In the mosques, Sanusi clerics were replaced by more compliant religious leaders. Banks were nationalized and foreign oil companies were threatened with nationalization.  

All assets in Libya belonging to Italians and non-resident Jews were expropriated. Close to 30,000 Italian settlers were deported. Why this animosity towards Italians? Probably, as revenge for three decades of brutal Italian colonial rule, which ended during WW II. 

Then President Ronald Reagan called Qaddafi, "The most dangerous man in the world." 

Will Qaddafi's Libya become another Egypt? Will people power be enough? Unlikely. In Egypt, the military remained relatively neutral during the demonstrations leading up to Mubarak's ouster, did not fire their weapons, and probably precipitated Mubarak's departure, whereas Libya's military -- where many of its leaders date back to the 1969 coup --appears solidly behind Qaddafi and, unlike in Egypt, will probably be willing to use bullets to prevent the toppling of the Qaddafi's government. If Gaddafi is ousted, it will be only after a bloody fight.  

Persons with mental illness may suffer an episode of acute symptoms even if taking medications as prescribed. An acute episode or in some cases, a longer period of severe mental illness affects the afflicted person, but also puts a strain on family members. 

For this week’s column, I drew upon my personal experience, interviewed one family member of a mentally ill person, and heard another person speak. I have removed all identifying information. 

Whether parent, sibling or spouse, they must care for the afflicted person while still dealing with the world at large. When family members also become caregivers, it is often a test of their constitution. Caring for a spouse with acute symptoms can be lonely. It can be heart-rending to know that your life partner is temporarily “away”: despite he or she being physically present. When the caregiver is also mentally ill, the stress level can become extreme. One is trying to care for the ill family member, while keeping oneself intact. 

It can be a thankless job. If that person is irrational, he or she may blame the caregiver for the things perceived as wrong. The one receiving care may resent the caregiver for pushing medication and other treatment. The caregiver may be thinking of how life would be better if not bogged down with taking care of an ungrateful family member. A parent of a mentally ill daughter or son may have to provide financial support for offspring who haven’t yet moved out. The financial drain is less if the parent can convince their child to apply for SSI, or SSDI. While usually just SSI doesn’t provide enough to live on, the amount it does pay allows for partial independence. Getting the adult child to apply for these benefits can be challenging if the child doesn’t want to acknowledge having a psychiatric condition. 

Parents can be proud of their offspring’s achievements while still wanting more for them. Sometimes, offspring with a mental illness find it difficult to reach out socially. This can make he or she more dependent emotionally on parents. Parents would generally like to see their offspring succeed at some type of career related vocation, even if it is not a job that provides financial self-support. They would like to see offspring find friends and attend social events. Most persons with mental illness will eventually get there; it just takes a little longer. Sometimes, finding the right balance of medication can make the difference. 

Acknowledging that one has a mental illness is never easy. But once done, it opens the door to further progress. 

It is possible for an amateur caregiver to get in way over his or her head. In 1995, I tried to help a friend (not a relative) who turned out to be assaultive and who ended up being violent and very dangerous. He trashed my apartment and threw a heavy steel chair out a second floor window, not knowing who or what could be below. He also cleaned out my bank account, and this led to my being unable to pay rent. When someone is too far out of control, a non equipped individual should defer to professional people for that person’s care. 

I once met a middle-aged man who spoke about caring for his schizophrenic son. He was in tears at one point because he needed to maintain his steady job with benefits rather than pursue a less certain, more ambitious route. The steady job’s pay and medical benefits made him able to get medical treatment for, and support his son. It seems that in many instances, caring for a mentally ill loved-one cause family to sacrifice other things in life. It is daunting to think that the person you are caring for may need this type of help of the rest of his or her life. More than likely, that person will experience some level of recovery, and won’t need indefinite care. 

Ultimately, if the mentally ill person doesn’t get well, he or she might need to participate in some sort of program. This could be a day treatment in which there are activities and talk therapy. One may resent participating in programs that are intended for persons with mental illness. But despite the resentment, if one participates, one often benefits. The caregiver should not try to go it alone. It is important to get help from the mental health treatment system, from other family members, and possibly from friends. Trying to do such a thing alone will only undermine the one who is providing the care. 

After a few months delay, we rejoin my ongoing and probably fruitless quest to get a mortgage modification under HAMP, the Home Affordable Modification Program, rolled out with much fanfare by President Obama, wherein he promised it would help four million homeowners to reduce their mortgage payments so they could stay in their houses instead of losing them to foreclosure. Number of at-risk homeowners who have received permanent modifications so far? 549,620. Number of homeowners kicked out of the program? 729,109. Number of permanent modifications cancelled? 44,972. Therefore, actual number of permanent modifications? 504,648. Number of at-risk homeowners jerked around by their mortgage servicers, the Treasury Department, and the White House? 100%. And note, these modifications aren’t actually permanent-the way the name implies- they only last for five years. Meanwhile, there were 3.9 million foreclosures filed in 2010- that is one for every 45 households. 

You can find the previous installments of this saga here. 

I know you’ve all been waiting with baited breath since my last report in August(?). At that time, I had apparently fulfilled the last of their ridiculous paperwork requests, and had been told it would take thirty days to get a decision. And sure enough, I got a form letter with a box checked. I don’t remember the exact wording but the gist of it was, “Even if we reduce your payment we don’t think you can afford it.” A phone call confirmed that this was their view- that although I have been paying $2600 every month, on time, and still am, somehow I cannot afford to pay $1200 a month instead. Shorter version? “We jerked you around for close to a year when we never had any intention of modifying your mortgage because we’re really, really hoping you’ll default, which will allow us to tack on all sorts of fees and stuff, so we’ll actually make a lot more money if you default, and besides, it’s not like there’s any penalty for not complying with the HAMP regulations, and we’d only get like a thousand bucks for modifying the mortgage, which is chump change, so either we foreclose and make lots of money, or you start borrowing money from your friends and relatives to keep paying the mortgage, so we still make money, and either way it will cover up the humongous fraud which we, as an industry, have perpetrated on the American people.” Okay, that wasn’t that short. Really short version: “F**k you.” 

But while I (and many others) were going through our own personal hells, some interesting things happened. People were starting to fight back. Foreclosure defense lawyers started challenging obviously forged paperwork- and soon even the mainstream media starting covering “robo-signing.” Banks suddenly instituted temporary foreclosure moratoriums in order to “make sure there were no paperwork errors.” All fifty state attorneys general got together to investigate foreclosure fraud. Investigative journalists (the few that are left) began looking not only into foreclosure fraud, but into related areas such as MERS (Mortgage Electronic Registration System) and the bundling of mortgages into securities- where even more fraud was found. Class action suits were filed in various states. Cities and counties began to realize that MERS had cheated them collectively out of millions of dollars in recording fees. Title insurance companies started refusing to insure title on foreclosed houses that were sold, realizing they would be unable to pay all the claims that would result if word got out that MERS had basically clouded the chain of title on all of the properties sold since the inception of MERS. The investors in the mortgage-backed securities began to discover that not only had they not really bought AAA- rated securities, but that they had in fact bought empty boxes, since no one had bothered to actually transfer the mortgages into the trusts in the ninety day window during which they were required to do so. They began to demand that the banks pay them back. 

The banks fought back, of course. They assured everyone the robo-signing and forged documents were just a technicality and they’d have it all fixed in a month. The government, which the banks bought a long time ago, also assured us it was just a minor paperwork problem, “No systemic fraud to see here- move along, move along.” A stealth bill by the name of H.R. 3808, which would have allowed electronic notarization across state lines, essentially legalizing the retroactive document forgery that is already going on, passed the Senate and the House on a voice vote (so no one knows who voted for it) and wound up on Obama’s desk. Luckily, people were paying attention, and a huge email and phone call campaign caused him to veto it. But unless the whole mess unravels completely, no doubt another stealth bill retroactively legalizing the entire fraud that’s been perpetrated on the American public will pass and Obama, ever the puppet of the kleptocracy, will sign it. How is it that thousands of bankers went to jail during the savings and loan crisis and to this day we have not seen a single bankster doing the perp walk? Do you know that we spent five times as much money ($40 million) investigating the relationship between Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky than we did investigating the crash that brought down the global economy ($8 million)? 

I finally gave up and filed for bankruptcy in early December. Of course, because I have no money, I had to file Chapter 7. If I had more income, I could have filed Chapter 13, which would have wiped out my $150,000 of HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) debt- Chapter 7 leaves that (and the first mortgage) intact. The bankruptcy will discharge $26,000 worth of credit card debt, nearly all of which was for the $17,000 a year I had been paying for health insurance (Blue Cross forces you to put the premiums on a credit card if you want to pay monthly). Now I finally have employer- provided health insurance, which, although considerably cheaper, still has a really large deductible to be paid out of pocket before it kicks in. But health insurance is a whole different column. 

I feel no shame about the bankruptcy- it was my only option in a game which is completely rigged. All that stuff we were told about working hard, playing by the rules, paying your debts- it’s bullshit, it’s been bullshit for the last 30 years, and it’s probably always been bullshit. The oligarchs don’t play by the rules- they never have, unless forced to do so. 

As for my house, I just keep trying to scrape up the money to pay the damn mortgages, and pray for a freaking miracle. 

Jane Powell writes for the Planet when she feels like it and can be reached at hsedressng@aol.com. If you still have money, perhaps you’d like to order one of her books, available at www.janepowell.org.

In high school, I was placed on something called the Regents Diploma track. Almost everyone there was headed for college or the military. It was rumored that the Daughters of the American Revolution chapter provided college scholarships for members’ daughters. My mother trekked up to a Poughkeepsie, New York cemetery to document family history that would help to establish her, and thus, my, DAR eligibility. 

Her several greats-grandfather, Samuel Dodge (1730-1807), had been a member of the Legislature and served in the Revolution as Lt. Colonel in the Dutchess County, New York Regiment. He went missing in 1777, imprisoned by the Brits at Fort Montgomery, and mustered out in 1782. P.S. The “catch” to getting the DAR college scholarship -- a length-of-time-a-member qualification. 

A few years ago I discovered all those accumulated and inherited documents. I am a Dodge family descendant, part of the Block Island, Tristram Dodge branch. I was able to construct a family tree as well as to flesh out its many leaves using, mainly, the Internet and online tools. 

The first known Dodge in America was Tristram Dodge Senior, a fisherman born in England circa 1607. He came to Massachusetts with his four sons and joined the original settlers of Block Island in 1661. It is not known why Tristram and wife Ann emigrated to Massachusetts, but there is speculation that their migration was not voluntary. He was a Baptist and may have joined the Scottish Presbyterian army to fight against Oliver Cromwell, ending up serving seven years’ servitude in Massachusetts. Ultimately, they joined other Dodges on Block Island in 1667, and they all became Freemen in 1670. 

Circa 1721, Thomas Dodge built a house at Cow Neck on the north shore of Long Island. “My” Samuel Dodge was born there.The brown-shingled Thomas Dodge House is probably the oldest extant house in the Port Washington area. Seven generations of the Dodge family lived in the house located at today’s 58 Harbor Road, Port Washington, New York. It is listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places and is open by appointment. 

Coal dealer Alexander Forbes Dodge was born in New York City, as Manhattan Island was known, in 1796. His daughter, my great grandmother Mary Dodge, was born in 1839 and grew up cozily with her family and two older sisters, Elizabeth and Charlotte, at 36 Orchard Street, in the Tenth Ward of lower Manhattan, two blocks away from today’s 97 Orchard, the not-to-be-missed Lower East Side Tenement Museum. 

Their mother taught at Houston Street Industrial School. New York’s “Industrial schools” were staffed by volunteers and administered by the State Board of Charities to serve orphans and abandoned children. The 1850 Census records a servant in their home: fifteen year old Margaret Langley, born in Ireland. By 1862 they had moved uptown, and Alexander’s business address was 81 Wall. His Civil War service in the New York Militia provided his widow with a pension of $8.00 a month commencing in 1878. 

In 1850, married women could not own property, sue, or keep money they were able to earn, although they might be required to pay taxes. Colleges and professions did not admit them. A respectable unmarried or widow woman in need of a paying occupation might consider work as a seamstress or tutoring, or she might become someone’s char. My widowed great grandmother, Mary Dodge Wardell, taught piano in the back parlor. My spinster great Aunt Aggie was an unpaid servant in her younger brother’s home. 

A year ago I was contacted by an eBay vendor who had discovered me via the Internet. She listed “an interesting piece of ephemera, a birthday booklet Thy Birthday by [my great aunt] Charlotte Dodge Brombacher, printed in Munich, 5 pages inside, each with two stanzas of poetry and illustrations. Wirths Brothers New-York London Munich Printed in Munich." The World Catalog lists five sentimental ditties by Charlotte, published in the 1880’s andin university library collections. 

Recently I received an email from a cousin in England of whom I was totally unaware! And I have just learned of the Hispanic Dodge site. http://www.hispanicdodgeancestry.com/Home.html provides the fascinating background of Juana de la Trinidad Sandoval and Henry Lafayette Dodge. 

I started my family tree with a Poughkeepsie tombstone and nine generations of Dodges. I learned a lot, querying by online searches and emails historical societies and online archives, hospital records, librarians, government records, genealogy publications, and cemeteries, and census tracts. 

xxxx 

Senior citizens, memoir writers and family historians are interested in genealogy. The Berkeley Public Library’s BIN (Berkeley Information Network) responds to a ‘genealogy’ key word query with societies, libraries, and resources, including the library’s own Berkeley History Room, the California Genealogical Society and Library, East Bay Genealogical Society, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Oakland Family History Center, Chinese Culture Center and San Francisco Bay Area Jewish Genealogical Society. 

On Tuesday, March 22, from 6 to 7:30 PM at Central, 2090 Kittredge St., Berkeley, CA 94704, the Berkeley Public Library plans to conduct a public training on using Ancestry.com. Be sure to confirm date and time (510) 981-6100. 

Ancestry.com is described by an instructor as a basic basic. “…a great (nay, the gold standard) genealogy database. One may purchase it for home use, or use it in the library for free…. at least basic internet knowledge is a must to use this great tool… we also offer a Basic internet skills class here at the Central Library every Monday (from 6-6:50PM) & Thursday (10AM-11AM).” 

Your public library is a good starting point for learning about one’s ancestors and constructing a family tree. Next, get a pc! Email and Internet access are essential. Libraries have Genealogy Online for Dummies, by Matthew L. Helm and April Leigh Helm. It offers advice on researching family history on the Web, including search strategies, data sharing, government records, genealogical software, and publishing the results on the Web. 

As you progress, “bookmark” useful websites on your pc. For example, cemeteries, libraries’ online catalogs, historical societies. Here are seven of my genealogy-related bookmarked web sites: 

• Brooklyn Daily Eagle newspaper -- useful for 19^th and 20^th Centuries Long Island information. Its contents are on microfilm from October 1841 to January 1955 and October 1960 to June 1963, available at the Brooklyn Public Library. Much of it is accessible (readable) online! For information, go to http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/. Click on BrooklynDaily Eagle 1841 to 1902 Online.
• Cemetery Records Online
• Ellis Island http://www.ellisisland.org/
• GreenWoodCemetery(1838- ) www.green-wood.com
• Schlesinger http://www.radcliffe.edu/schlesinger_library.aspx
• Social Security Death Index
• World Catalog

Five states have made recent advances in aid-in-dying. Montana, Oregon and Washington have legalized this choice at the voting booth or in the court. Right-to-know laws are an effective vehicle to empower patients in states where a referendum or lawsuit is just not feasible. For example, the Right-to-Know Act in California and the Palliative Care Information Act in New York State. Each passed. Doctors in these states can no longer withhold information about hospice, palliative sedation, suspension of invasive care, and other means of assuring a comfortable death. “Unwanted care” is a new area of health care policy and practice. Note: I’m not referring to a same-titled manga and anime. 

Restoration of the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services rule – briefly put forth by the Obama Administration at the end of 2010, is needed. It was mischaracterized as “death panels” by anti-choice zealots. For more information, contact Compassions & Choices (POB 101810, Denver CO 80250 if you’re not yet online). 

EVENTS: 

Wednesday, February 23, noon, free admission, Hertz Hall, UCB, JAZZ X TWO The Advanced Creative Jazz Sextet, Myra Melford, director; UC Jazz All-Star Ensemble, Ted Moore, director 

FEEDBACK: 

Responding to Senior Power columns, Berkeley resident S.R. described recent experiences visiting the Elmwood Nursing Rehabilitation (Internet), which is listed by Medicare as Elmwood Care Center and as Elmwood Sanitorium-- a for-profit corporation with an overall rating of one star of a possible five. S.R.’s attempts to visit a patient-friend, were unsuccessful. The friend’s existence was acknowledged by staff, but he had seemingly been lost! S.R. noted “placidly indifferent” staff, a lack of posted ombudsman notice(s), corridors lined with people sitting in wheelchairs, and lack of security, i.e. there was no controlled entrance-check point: it was possible to enter the building and wander about freely. 

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

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," ongoing. 8 p.m. Wed. - Thurs.; 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Fri. - Sat.; 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sun.  

$25-$134. Club Fugazi, 678 Beach Blanket Babylon Blvd. (formerly Green Street), San Francisco. (415) 421-4222, www.beachblanketbabylon.com.< 

CHANCELLOR HOTEL UNION SQUARE  

"Eccentrics of San Francisco's Barbary Coast," ongoing. 8 p.m. Fri. -Sat. Audiences gather for a 90-minute show abounding with local anecdotes and lore presented by captivating and consummate conjurers and taletellers. $30.  

433 Powell St., San Francisco. (877) 784-6835, www.chancellorhotel.com.< 

CLIMATE THEATRE  

"The Clown Cabaret at the Climate," ongoing. 7 and 9 p.m. First Monday of the month. 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.< 

THE MARSH  

"The Mock Cafe," ongoing. 10 p.m. Saturdays. Stand-up comedy performances. $7.  

"The Monday Night Marsh," ongoing. 8 p.m. Mondays. An ongoing series of works-in-progress. $7.  

1062 Valencia St., San Francisco. (415) 826-5750, www.themarsh.org.<

ZELLERBACH HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Merce Cunningham Dance Company, March 3 through March 5, 8 p.m. "The Legacy Tour.'' $22-$48.  

UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 642-9988.< 

COUNTERPULSE  

"2nd Sundays," ongoing. 2-4 p.m. Sun. Sept. 12: Philein Wang, ZiRu Tiger Productions, Tammy Cheney, Lenora Lee. Free.  

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

DANCE MISSION THEATER  

"ODC Next Wave Choreographer's Showcase," Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. $10-$20. 

3316 24th St., San Francisco. (415) 826-4441, www.dancemission.com.< 

ODC THEATER  

"Smith/Wymore Disappearing Acts: Apparatus," Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 8 p.m.  

$15-$18. www.smithwymore.org. 

3153 17th St., San Francisco. (415) 863-9834, www.odctheater.org.< 

PENA PACHAMAMA  

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

Brisas de Espana Ballet Flamenco, ongoing. 6:15 and 7:15 p.m. Sun.  

$10-$15. 

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

PIER 29 SPIEGELTENT  

"Teatro Zinzanni," through March 6, 6 p.m. Wed.-Sat.; 5 p.m. Sun. Teatro Zinzanni presents a new production, "License To Kiss II, A Sweet Conspiracy,'' offering a blend of European cabaret, circus arts, music, comedy and more. $117-$145.  

Embarcadero at Battery Street, San Francisco. (415) 438-2668, www.zinzanni.org.< 

WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE  

San Francisco Ballet, through March 9, 8 p.m. Feb. 24; 2 and 8 p.m. Feb. 26; 8 p.m. March 1; 8 p.m. March 4; 2 p.m March 6; 7:30 p.m. March 9. "Program 3'' includes "Classical Symphony,'' featuring music by Prokofiev and choreography by Yuri Possokhov; "Nanna's Lied,'' featuring music by Kurt Weill and Friedrich Hollaender and choreography by Helgi Tomasson; and "Artifact Suite,'' with music by Bach and Eva Crossman-Hecht and choreography by William Forsythe. $20-$260. www.sfballet.org. 

San Francisco Ballet, Feb. 25 through March 8, 8 p.m. Feb. 25; 2 p.m. Feb. 27; 7:30 p.m. March 2; 8 p.m. March 3; 2 p.m. March 5; 8 p.m. March 5; 8 p.m. March 8. "Program 4'' includes "Theme and Variations,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by George Balanchine; "Trio,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Helgi Tomasson; and "Winter Dreams,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Sir Kenneth MacMillan. $20-$260.  

301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 865-2000.<

BOOKS INC., ALAMEDA  

Stephen D. Gutierrez and Benjamin Bac Sierra, Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m. "Live From Fresno y Los'' and "Barrio Bushido.''  

Deanne Fitzmaurice and Joan Ryan, Feb. 27, 3 p.m. "Freak Season: Behind The Scenes With SF Giants Pitcher Tim Linecum from Spring Training to The World Series.''  

Michael Lukas, March 2, 7:30 p.m. "The Oracle of Stamboul.''  

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

DIESEL, A BOOKSTORE  

Elena Mauli Shapiro, March 3, 7 p.m. "13, rue Therese.''  

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

MRS. DALLOWAY'S  

Summer Wood, Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m. "Wrecker.''  

Shirin Bridges, Feb. 26, 3 p.m. "The Thinking Girls Treasury of Real Princesses.''  

Cara Black, March 3, 7:30 p.m. "Murder in Passy.''  

Ashley Wolff, March 5, 11 a.m. "Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe.''  

2904 College Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 704-8222, www.mrsdalloways.com.<

AUDIUM  

"Audium 9," ongoing. 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. An exploration of the spatial dimension of music in a unique environment of 176 speakers. $15.  

$15. 8:30 p.m. 1616 Bush St., San Francisco. (415) 771-1616, www.audium.com.< 

DAVIES SYMPHONY HALL  

San Francisco Symphony, through Feb. 26, 8 p.m. Wed.; 2 p.m. Thu.; 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Works by Mozart and Feldman. Conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas. $35-$140.  

The Israel Philharmonic, Feb. 27 through Feb. 28, 7 p.m. Sun., 8 p.m. Mon. Works by Haydn and Mahler. Conducted by Zubin Mehta. $15-$200.  

San Francisco Symphony, March 3 through March 6, 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. Works by Hindemith, Stenhammar, Runeberg, Nielsen, Grieg, Sibelius and Brahms. Conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas. $15-$140. www.sfsymphony.org. 

201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 864-6000, www.sfsymphony.org.< 

GREEN ROOM OF THE SAN FRANCISCO WAR MEMORIAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER  

Paris Guitar Duo, Feb. 26, 8 p.m. Works by Cesar Franck, Haydn and more. $34. (415) 242-4500, www.omniconcerts.com. 

War Memorial Veterans Building, 401 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. < 

HERBST THEATRE  

Ensemble Parallele, Feb. 26 through Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. A performance of Philip Glass' "Orphee.'' $25-$85. (415) 392-4400, www.ensembleparallele.com. 

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, March 4, 8 p.m. Works by Rebel, Handel, Gluck, Stookey and Rameau. Musical direction by Nicholas McGegan. $30-$90. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com. 

401 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com.< 

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," ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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.legionofhonor.org.< 

OLD FIRST CHURCH  

Aletheia Duo, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. Works by Sung, Tharp, Andres, Wood Rollo, Taylor, Farr and more. Flute by Jonathan Keeble, harp by Ann Yeung. $14-$17; childen under 12 free.  

Thomas Pandolfi, Feb. 27, 4 p.m. Works by Gershwin, Pandolfi and Wild, performed on the piano. $14-$17; childen under 12 free.  

Pacific Guitar Ensemble, March 4, 8 p.m. $14-$17. 

$14-$17; children 12 and under free. 1751 Sacramento Street, San Francisco. (415) 474-1608, www.oldfirstconcerts.org.< 

SAN FRANCISCO CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC  

Composition Department Recital, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. New works by student composers will be presented. Free.  

David Conte, Feb. 27, 2 p.m. Part of the faculty artist series. $15-$20.  

$15 to $20 unless otherwise noted. Hellman Hall, 50 Oak St., San Francisco. (415) 864-7326, www.sfcm.edu.< 

ST. FRANCIS LUTHERAN CHURCH  

Sacred & Profane, Feb. 26, 8 p.m. A concert titled "Music of The Renaissance: Italy and England.'' $15-$22.  

152 Church St., San Francisco. (415) 621-2635.< 

ST. MARK'S LUTHERAN CHURCH  

California Bach Society, March 4, 8 p.m. Works by Buxtehude and more. Conducted by Paul Flight. $10-$30. (415) 262-0272, www.calbach.org. 

1111 O'Farrell St., San Francisco. (415) 928-7770, www.stmarks-sf.org.< 

ST. MARY'S CATHEDRAL  

Katya Kolesnikova, Feb. 27, 3:30 p.m. A recital for the organ.  

Duke University Chorale, March 6, 3:30 p.m.  

$5 suggested donation. 1111 Gough St., San Francisco. (415) 567-2020, www.stmarycathedralsf.org.< 

TEMPLE EMANU-EL  

Eugene Chan and John Churchwell, March 6, 5:30 p.m. Works by Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov and Medtner. $10-$25. (415) 864-3330. 

2 Lake St., San Francisco. < 

WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE  

San Francisco Ballet, through March 9, 8 p.m. Feb. 24; 2 and 8 p.m. Feb. 26; 8 p.m. March 1; 8 p.m. March 4; 2 p.m March 6; 7:30 p.m. March 9. "Program 3'' includes "Classical Symphony,'' featuring music by Prokofiev and choreography by Yuri Possokhov; "Nanna's Lied,'' featuring music by Kurt Weill and Friedrich Hollaender and choreography by Helgi Tomasson; and "Artifact Suite,'' with music by Bach and Eva Crossman-Hecht and choreography by William Forsythe. $20-$260. www.sfballet.org. 

San Francisco Ballet, Feb. 25 through March 8, 8 p.m. Feb. 25; 2 p.m. Feb. 27; 7:30 p.m. March 2; 8 p.m. March 3; 2 p.m. March 5; 8 p.m. March 5; 8 p.m. March 8. "Program 4'' includes "Theme and Variations,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by George Balanchine; "Trio,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Helgi Tomasson; and "Winter Dreams,'' featuring music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Sir Kenneth MacMillan. $20-$260.  

301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 865-2000.<

CHABOT COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER  

Wind Band Festival, Feb. 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 15 high school bands will perform at this daylong festival. Free.  

Wind Symphony Concert, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. Frank Ticheli conducts three of his new compositions. $10-$15.  

Chabot College, 25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward. www.chabotcollege.edu/PAC/.< 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

Akademie fur Alte Musik Berlin, March 4, 8 p.m. Works by Telemann, Bach, and Handel. $52.  

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, March 5 through March 6, 8 p.m. Sat.; 7:30 p.m. Sun. Works by Rebel, Handel, Gluck, Stookey and Rameau. Musical direction by Nicholas McGegan. $30-$90. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com. 

2345 Channing Way, Berkeley. (510) 848-3696, www.fccb.org.< 

GRACE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  

Barbara Vail and Dale Tsang-Hall, Feb. 25, 10:30 a.m. Works by Schubert, Gershwin, Hurlstone and Albeniz for the piano. Free.  

2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. < 

HERTZ HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Scharoun Ensemble Berlin, March 6, 3 p.m. Works by Schubert and Ken Ueno. $52. www.calperformances.org. 

Bancroft Way and College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 642-4864, www.music.berkeley.edu.< 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

Oakland East Bay Symphony, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. Works by Billy Childs, Gustav Holst and Edvard Grieg. Conducted by Bryan Nies. $20-$65. www.oebs.org. 

2025 Broadway, Oakland. (510) 465-6400, (415) 421-8497, www.paramounttheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.< 

ST. JOHN'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  

Trio Navarro, Feb. 27, 3 p.m. Works by Schubert, Ravel and Brahms. $20-$25. (415) 753-2792, www.chambermusicsundaes.org. 

2727 College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 845-6830, www.stjohnsberkeley.org.< 

ST. MARK'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH  

California Bach Society, March 6, 4 p.m. Works by Buxtehude and more. Conducted by Paul Flight. $10-$30.  

2300 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (415) 262-0272.< 

ZELLERBACH HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Vienna Philharmonic, Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 3 p.m. Sun. Works by Schubert, Wagner, Bartok, Brahms and Mahler. Conducted by Semyon Bychkov. $65-$225. www.calperformances.org. 

UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 642-9988.<

924 GILMAN ST. All ages welcome. 

La Chaparralta, Factory Minds, Los Arambula, Starving Millionaires, Rule 5, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. $10. 

Embers, Brainoil, SMD, Alaric, Neurotoxicity, Lie Still, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. $10. 

Blown To Bits, Pyroklast, Abrupt, Slandyr, Can-Cannibals, March 4, 7 p.m. $8. 

Pressure Point, Resilience, Trouble Maker, Sad Boy Sinister, Decent Criminal, March 5, 7 p.m. $8. 

$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, ongoing. 9 p.m. First and third Wed.  

Free.  

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  

The Jim Butler Quartet, Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m. $10. 

The Curies, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. $10. 

The California Honeydrops, Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. $12. 

707 Marina Vista Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-6985, www.armandosmartinez.com.< 

ASHKENAZ  

The Uptones, Dan P. & The Bricks, The Danger Babes, Feb. 25, 8:30 p.m. $12-$15. 

Mystic Man, Lakay, Roszone, Kymarie, DJ Jah Yzer, Feb. 26, 9:30 p.m. $10-$13. 

Clowns Not Bombs Secret Circus Kids' Show, Feb. 27, 3-4:30 p.m. $4-$6. 

Funk Like Buddha, Ama Evolution, Unity, Somos One, Ras Ceylon, Ahsabi Monique, Feb. 27, 8 p.m.  

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.< 

BECKETT'S IRISH PUB  

Dgiin, Feb. 25, 10 p.m.  

Free.  

Shiono and Friends, Feb. 26, 10 p.m.  

Free.  

Free. Shows at 10 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2271 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 647-1790, www.beckettsirishpub.com.< 

FOX THEATER  

Ragga Muffins Festival, Feb. 26, 5:30 p.m. $35-$39.50 

Trey Anastasio Band, March 5, 7:30 p.m. $39.50. 

1807 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 452-0438, www.thefoxoakland.com.< 

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

"Freight Open Mic," ongoing. Tuesdays. $4.50-$5.50. 

Solas, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. $26.50-$28.50. 

Junius Courtney Big Band, Feb. 26, 8 p.m. $18.50-$20.50. 

Tom Rush, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. $30.50-$32.50. 

Roland White & The Bluegrass All-Stars, March 2, 8 p.m. $20.50-$22.50. 

Beth Custer Ensemble, Conspiracy of Venus, March 3, 8 p.m. $22.50-$24.50. 

John Reischman & The Jaybirds, March 4, 8 p.m. $20.50-$22.50. 

Yemen Blues, March 5, 8 p.m. $25.50-$30.50. 

Ger Mandolin Orchestra, March 6, 2 p.m. $20.50-$25.50. 

Music starts at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2020 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 548-1761, www.freightandsalvage.org.< 

JUPITER  

"Americana Unplugged," ongoing. 5 p.m. Sundays. A weekly bluegrass and Americana series.  

"Jazzschool Tuesdays," ongoing. 8 p.m. Tuesdays. Featuring the ensembles from the Berkeley Jazzschool. www.jazzschool.com. 

8 p.m. 2181 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 843-8277, www.jupiterbeer.com.< 

KIMBALL'S CARNIVAL  

"Monday Blues Legends Night," ongoing. 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. < 

THE NEW PARISH  

Jaguar Wright, Lady Alma, Big Brooklyn Red, The Bayonics, Feb. 25, 10 p.m. $15-$20. 

"People Party," Feb. 26, 10 p.m. $5. 

Heavenly States, Victory and Associates, Feb. 27, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

Malevolent Creation, Full Blown Chaos, The Absense, Havok, Beyond Terror Beyond Grace, March 3, 8:30 p.m. $10-$13. 

The Real Nasty, Diegos Umbrella, Rough Waters, March 5, 10 p.m. $8-$12. 

579 18th St., Oakland. (510) 444-7474, www.thenewparish.com.< 

ROUND TABLE PIZZA  

East Bay Banjo Club, ongoing. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays.  

Free.  

1938 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. (925) 930-9004.< 

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW For ages 21 and older. 

"King of King's," ongoing. 9 p.m. Sun. $10. 

"Live Salsa," ongoing. Wednesdays. An evening of dancing to the music of a live salsa band. Salsa dance lessons from 8-9:30 p.m. $5-$10.  

"Thirsty Thursdays," ongoing. 9 p.m. Thursdays. Featuring DJ Vickity Slick and Franky Fresh. Free.  

Egyptian Lover, Feb. 25, 9 p.m. $15. 

La Nueva Universal, March 2, 8 p.m. $10. 

2284 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-1159, www.shattuckdownlow.com.< 

STARRY PLOUGH PUB  

The Starry Irish Music Session led by Shay Black, ongoing. Sundays, 8 p.m. Sliding scale.  

China Cats, Howdy!, Feb. 25, 9 p.m. $10. 

The Graham Patzner Band, Foxtails Brigade, Feb. 26, 9 p.m.  

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  

Marti Brom, Quarter Mile Combo, The Bstars, Feb. 25, 9 p.m. $12. 

Cheapskate, The Badmen, Lecherous Gaze, The Displayed Labors, Sideshow, Feb. 26, 9 p.m. $5. 

The Guverment, Curse of Panties, Another Tangent, March 2, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

The Ferocious Few, Hosannas, Cleveland Browns, The Love Dimension, Aerin Monroe, March 4, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

The Chop Tops, The Revtones, Stigma 13, March 5, 9 p.m. $10. 

1928 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 451-8100, www.uptownnightclub.com.< 

YOSHI'S  

PSP: Simon Phillips, Philippe Saisse, Pino Palladino, through Feb. 25, 8 and 10 p.m. $16-$24. 

Kevin Eubanks, Feb. 26 through Feb. 27, 8 and 10 p.m. Sat.; 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$24. 

Skyline High Jazz Band, Feb. 28, 7 and 9 p.m. $10. 

Steve Smith & Vital Information, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. $20. 

Anna Maria Flechero, March 1, 8 p.m. $14. 

Juan Escovedo, Roger Glenn, Ray Obiedo, John Santos, March 2, 8 and 10 p.m. $10-$18. 

Elvin Bishop, March 3, 8 and 10 p.m. $20-$26. 

Al Di Meola, Mingo Lewis, March 4 through March 6, 8 and 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 7 and 9 p.m. Sun. $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.<

"Time for you to leave ... " 

"But I've just arrived ... " 

This exchange between K. the land surveyor and one of the many village characters he meets on his endless way to The Castle is almost the hook to Central Works' production of A Man's Home ... An Ode to Kafka's Castle, as written and directed by Aaron Henne--a constant vaudeville sideshow, deflecting K.--who's been summoned, after all--from his quest into side issues, other personalities than that of Kron, the apparent overlord. 

But are they side issues, red herrings? Or the heart of the matter, after all? As these characters often insist, there's no difference--at all--between the village and The Castle.  

Henne's play, and this production developed through the Central Works collaborative process, give a voice to Kafka's strange humor, something often left out in translations, acted-out representations of his enigmatic works. Max Brod, Kafka's confidante and literary executor, wrote of the hilarious sessions when the author would read his work to a roomful of laughing friends in Prague. Among stage and screen adaptations, I can only think of Steven Berkoff's version of The Trial at the National in London during the 90s (Berkoff staged Metamorphosis in New York, too, with Baryshnikov as "the bug") and Orson Welles' film of The Trial that have been successful at translating that humor off the page. 

The actors--Theo Black, Sylvia Kratins, Marissa Keltie and Joe Jordan--take on their kaleidoscopic roles (excepting Black as K) with stylized gestures and staging, able to both narrate and act out the action and comment on atmosphere and thought, as well. It's a motile storybook, but for adults, and with no moral--and they're not just illustrating the words; they embody them. 

It's sometimes like a verbal ping-pong game: 

"I have a position ..." 

"Yes; you are standing ..." 

or: 

"I beg your pardon?" 

"Yes; beg ... " 

Hard to keep this gamey thing up onstage in ensemble, but the stylization of the A Man's Home cast grows less arch with each suggestive gesture, each bemused expression. Joe Jordan is particularly good at this shape-shifting repartee, playing an innkeeper's wife, the village mayor, a quick glimpse of Kron himself ... encountered over and over by K. in different guises as he shuttles around a labyrinth, which may--as Borges quoted Chesterton--be the most frightening maze of all, one without a center. 

The humor culminates, deliberately giving itself away, in self-mocking lines that carry a moral undertow: 

"The trick is, not to let a duty become a passion." 

There's a note inside the program, in lieu of director's comments, from St. Teresa of Avila, which concludes: "We trouble little about tending to the soul's beauty. All our attention is instead focused on the rough matrix of the diamond, the outer walls of the castle ..." 

The design--Gary Graves' lighting, Tammy Berlin's costuming, Jan Zvaifler's props--and the set credited to all three--as well as Gregory Scharpen's sound is Central Works at its best--spare yet ubiquitous, utilizing every inch of the City Club to advantage, from a floor strewn with crumpled scraps of scribbled text to floral motifs in the niches on the walls of the old salon. 

It's an unusual show--and an unusual production for Central Works, which make it that much more important--and a pleasure--to see. 

Thursdays through Saturdays at 8, Sundays at 5 through March 13 (5 p.m. performances Saturdays, March 5 and 12), Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant. $24 online, $25-$14 sliding scale at door. 558-1381; centralworks.org 

There are two words that cause confusion because they have but one letter difference: tortuous and torturous. The former means full of twists, turns, or bends, perhaps like a labyrinth; the latter, painfully difficult or slow. For Aaron Henne’s A Man’s Home—Central Works’ first offering of their season— both words apply. 

Ironically, the acting and the precision of the choreography and staging are a tour de force, and the ensemble of Theo Black, Joe Jordan, Marissa Keltie and Sylvia Kratins, and auteur Henne’ s staging are to be lauded for the plan and performance. The emotion and subtext the actors infuse into the absurdist dialogue is intriguing. As performance art, this is excellent. It is just that at 45 minutes it would be art, but at 90 minutes it turns into an endless, intermission-less enigma. If you are a Kafka scholar, perhaps you will be amused, but allusions to the specifics in Kafka—in this case “The Castle”—are esoteric at best and often tediously puzzling. 

The pre-show music was a nerve-wracking old scratchy recording of polka-like ethnic music with a screechy vocalist that presaged the experience. Otherwise, the sound design and effects of Gregory Scharpen are wondrous, particularly in their meticulous timing with the actions. 

The actors are in muted white-face make-up which supports their well-timed and expressive miming. The room is white, the floor is lacquered white, and the set consists of piles of the crumpled paper litter of Kafka’s rejected writings. Tammy Berlin’s costumes reflect the period but the palette is browns and muted plaids; the only color is the red in the sleeve garters of K. Gary Graves’ lighting is likewise colorless, but done masterfully, isolating characters and scenes and changing moods. 

My emotional response was a mental picture of Munch’s Skrik with a caption of “Let me out of here!”; it makes one feel as if one is trapped like Kafka in the circuitous bureaucracy he railed against in his writings. There is no exit from the room at the Julia Morgan, so be prepared. If you do not know the story, I strongly suggest that you Google “The Castle, Kafka, Wikipedia” and get some background so that you might eke out some connections to keep you from feeling like you are imprisoned for an unnamed crime.  

Still, Central Works is a Berkeley treasure, and their experimentation deserves applause. 

A MAN'S HOME... an ode to Kafka's Castle  

Written and directed by Aaron Henne (A Central Works Method Play) 

Plays through Mar 13 

at the Berkeley City Club (which is also known as Julia Morgan’s “Little Castle”) 2315 Durant near Dana 

http://www.centralworks.org/season1011/manshome.php

Josh Kornbluth has become a near-icon in the Bay Area with his drollery and reminiscences of growing up Pinko, and observations of the culture. As a non-observant, cultural Jew reared with professions of atheism, his perspective of a displaced outsider give him special standing. 

His revival of his ANDY WARHOL: GOOD FOR THE JEWS? plays through this Sunday Feb 27 at Shotgun Players and produced by Jonathan Reinis. Kornbluth’s springboard topic is the 10 Jewish Geniuses painted by Andy Warhol. While he does good service to each of the personalities Warhol painted (Freud, Einstein, Gershwin— and I’m not giving the rest away here), he ultimately he winds it around to the personal. His difficult relationship with his genius, rebellious father and his well-off grandparents, his child’s yearning for a puppy, and the deep emotions of a life well-remembered all wrapped in a kreplach of funny are the stuff of his monologues. With his owlish glasses and this Ronald McDonald side-fringe on his balding head, in a brilliant yellow print shirt, with dramatic side-lighting and looked down upon by stalwarts of his erstwhile tribe, Kornbluth’s story-telling is a delight in his Woody Allen-like way. 

It’s 90 uninterrupted and worthwhile minutes of a story well-told. 

My colleague Ken Bullock wrote a pithy review of it in a previous incarnation a couple of seasons ago which still holds true, and I direct you to his words:  

A call from a theater friend took me to Pinole a couple of weekends ago to catch the Pinole Community Players production, in the Community Playhouse downtown on Tennant Avenue, of The Full Monty. 

I'd heard about entertaining shows in Pinole--not to mention other venues all over the East Bay--and, firmly convinced from long experience that community theater was on a rising wave of quality around the edges of the Bay, I was looking forward to it. 

The musical version, book by Terrance McNally and music by David Yazbek, follows the 1997 British film pretty closely, substituting out-of-work steelworkers on the dole in Buffalo for their counterparts in Sheffield. There's no particular substitute for Yorkshire slang or the Music Hall moxie of the original--and Tom Jones covering Randy Newman can't be replaced by the disco-ish "Let It Go" when the drapes start hitting the boards--but otherwise the story of working stiffs stripping for self-esteem and a few bucks towards child support transposes Stateside easily enough. 

Having seen perfectly good community theater productions of The Full Monty before, I was struck by the performative zeal and storytelling clarity of the Pinole show. Like all good community theater, it integrated talent of different levels of experience into a single focus. 

Unusual, too, was the variety of the cast, something more and more frequent in local community shows, but even more pronounced in this one. In the past, community theater shows usually featured local talent that had trod the same boards together, whether on the same stage or others in the neighborhood. The cast of 20 strong features a few regulars from previous Players shows--Anthony Lucido, fine in the lead as boyish, driven Jerry, the obvious example--and a few others who've made the rounds of community theater in Contra Costa County and nearby. But most had never been in a show together--and for some, it was their first full-blown stage musical. That wasn't the case for eleven year old Nathaniel Correll, excellent as Jerry's kid Nathan--but Nathaniel's new to the Bay Area--as are several in the show--though he's worked with director Meredith Meeks (herself a first-timer in Pinole) at Town Hall in Lafayette. William Hester, playing Horse among the Full Montyers, has danced for the Art & Soul Fest in Oakland and at halftime for the Raiders--but Pinole proved his theater debut. 

Nancy Shneiderman, who's been in film, TV, and some theatricals, played the volunteer strippers' old trouper and joint-dragging pianist, Jeanette, a stand-out role, especially in a show where everybody else but the leads plays other parts and in the ensemble. She commented on the production: "An extremely respectful process ... I came in to audition absolutely cold, knew no-one--and most of the people didn't know each other. The cast bonded quickly. It was like going on a blind date with someone you're going to hang out with for three months! 

"Meredith has a gift for getting the archetype, works in flashes--and worked intensively with the ensemble. The direction had a sense of undergirding, overarching vision. She had a flash of something the day before we went up, and put it in there. Patti Clark, the producer, is somebody who knows how to throw a party--I'll put it that way. They ran a tight ship, very low-key--teaching with your mouth shut, if you know what I mean." 

More a part of the action directly was musical director/pianist Dean Starnes, conducting the strong sextet--and singers onstage--from the keyboard in the pit (wedged right among the cabaret-style audience seating)--flamboyant, fun to watch, yet still all business, a stand-out among the generally fine musical directors of Bay Area community musical theater. And choreographer Aimee Krasovich danced both elegantly and hard with her ensemble. 

The production staff revealed much talent--and the cast threw themselves into it. There's good entertainment out there, in community playhouses all around you.

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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. 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."Aquatics class," ongoing. 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Wed., and Fri. The BCC pool is open to the public for classes that teach how movement in the water can help improve strength, balance, coordination and endurance. $8-$10. 

"Berkeley Chamber Performance," March 22, 8 p.m. The Cavani String Quartet performs works by Beethoven, Bartok, and Ravel. $25. 

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 ongoing. 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.< 

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP ongoing. An interactive place where children, and adults, can learn how a stuffed animal is made, then choose an animal pattern from the offering of bears, elephants, dogs and rabbits; stuff the chosen animal; dress it; and create a birth certificate. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

$10-$25; clothing and accessories extra. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Broadway Plaza, 1248 Broadway, Walnut Creek. (925) 946-4697, www.buildabear.com.< 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

HISTORY WALKABOUTS -- ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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. 

ASK JEEVES PLANETARIUM -- ongoing. The planetarium features one of the most advanced star projectors in the world. A daily planetarium show is included with general admission. Call for current show schedule.  

"Secret of the Rocket," ongoing. Gasp in amazement at the huge planet Jupiter and find out what Saturn's rings are made of as two young adventurers turn a cardboard box into a rocket in this planetarium show that is perfect for children ages 5 to 10. 

"Dawn of the Space Age," ongoing. Starting with the launch of Sputnik, this show covers important Russian space history as well as the American Gemini, Apollo and Shuttle programs. Be transported to the International Space Station, the X-prize winning private space ship and on to future Mars exploration. 

"Two Small Pieces of glass," ongoing. Celebrating the International Year of Astronomy, this show examines the history of the telescope, beginning 400 years ago, with Galileo's discoveries. 

"Tales Of The Maya Skies," ongoing. A full-dome planetarium show that explores the cosmology of the ancient Maya, along with their culture and their contributions to astronomy. 

"Astronaut," ongoing. What does it take to be part of the exploration of space? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of an astronaut. Explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. Narrated by Ewan McGregor. 25 min. 

CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER -- ongoing. "Escape from the Red Planet,'' a cooperative venture for families and groups of up to 14 people, age 8 and up. The scenario on this one hour mission: You are the crew of a shuttle to Mars that has been severely damaged in a crash landing. Your replacement crew is gone, the worst dust storm ever recorded on Mars approaches, and air, food, and water are extremely low. The mission: get the shuttle working again and into orbit before the dust storm hits. Reservations required. Children age 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult; not appropriate for children under age 8. $12-$15; Does not include general admission to the Center. Reservations: (510) 336-7421."Beyond Blastoff," ongoing. Get a glimpse into the life of an astronaut and experience the mixture of exhilaration, adventure, and confinement that is living and working in space. 

"Tales of the Maya Skies," ongoing. A companion exhibit for the planetarium show which features the scientific achievements and cosmology of the Maya. All content is bilingual in English and Spanish. 

"Chabot Observatories: A View to the Stars," ongoing. This new permanent exhibit honors the 123-year history of Chabot and its telescopes. The observatory is one of the oldest public observatories in the United States. The exhibit covers the three different sites of the observatory over its history as well as how its historic telescopes continue to be operated today. Included are informative graphic panels, multimedia kiosks, interactive computer programs, hands-on stations, and historic artifacts. 

"One giant leap: a moon odyssey," ongoing. For all astronaut wannabees -take a simulated Moon-walk, try on a space helmet, climb into a Mercury capsule and land a lunar module in this hands-on exhibit that explores the legends and science fiction about the Moon. 

"Destination Universe," ongoing. Take a journey from our Sun to the farthest reaches of the cosmos. 

"Bill Nye's climate lab," ongoing. Features Emmy-award-winning Bill Nye the Climate Guy as commander of the Clean Energy Space Station, and invites visitors on an urgent mission to thwart climate change. 

TIEN MEGADOME SCIENCE THEATER -- ongoing. A 70-foot dome-screen auditorium. Show times subject to change. Call for current show schedule. Price with paid general admission is $6-$7. Theater only: $7-$8. (510) 336-7373, www.ticketweb.com. 

"To be an astronaut," ongoing. Venture inside the gates of NASA to experience the rigors of astronaut training. 

"SolarMax," ongoing. Featuring live images of the Sun and footage from around the world of solar observatories of the past, present, and future, this show tells of humankind's struggle to understand the Sun. 

"Mysteries of Egypt," ongoing. Experience the magic and majesty of Egypt as never before. Soar over the great pyramids of Giza, cross the Valley of the Kings, and descend into the shadowy chambers of the sacred tomb of King Tutankhamen. Suitable for families. 

"Dinosaurs Alive," ongoing. A global adventure of science and discovery, featuring the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the monsters of the Cretaceous, "reincarnated" life-sized for the giant screen. Audiences will journey with some of the world's preeminent paleontologists as they uncover evidence that the descendents of dinosaurs still walk (or fly) among us. From the exotic, trackless expanses and sand dunes of Mongolia's Gobi Desert to the dramatic sandstone buttes of New Mexico, the film will follow American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) paleontologists as they explore some of the greatest dinosaur finds in history. 

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.< 

CLOSE TO HOME: EXPLORING NATURE S TREASURES IN THE EAST BAY -- A yearlong program of monthly talks and Saturday outings about the natural history of the East Bay. In this hands-on program learn about the plants, wildlife and watershed of the East Bay s incredibly rich and dynamic bioregion. The 11 Saturday outings will take place in either Alameda or Contra Costa counties. The 10 talks at the Montclair Presbyterian Church will be on the Monday prior to the Saturday outing. A notebook of relevant readings and resources for each outing is available to all participants for an additional $30 per person. The program is co-sponsored by the Oakland Museum of California, BayNature Magazine and Earthlight Magazine. Fee for the year covers all outings, talks, site fees, orientation and a party."A Path Through Nature," March 7, 7:30 p.m. A talk led by co-founder of Close to Home, Cindy Spring. $7 donation. 

"Mission Peak," March 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Wildlife expert Joe DiDonanto will lead a group up Mission Peak to scan for eagles and falcons. 

$375 per person for yearlong participation; $30 additional for binder with written materials. Montclair Presbyterian Church, 5701 Thornhill Drive, Oakland. (510) 655-6658, (510) 601-5715, www.close-to-home.org.< 

DEAN LESHER REGIONAL CENTER FOR THE ARTS TOUR ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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  

ALAMEDA COUNTY --  

PLEASANTON SATURDAY CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (800) 949-FARM. West Angela and Main Streets, Pleasanton.  

SAN LEANDRO BAYFAIR MALL CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET, ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bayfair Mall, Fairmont Drive and 14th Street, San Leandro. (800) 806-FARM. 

"Oakland Claremont Ave Sunday CFM," ongoing. Sunday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 5300 Claremont Ave. (DMV parking lot), Oakland. (510) 745-7100. 

BERKELEY CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. 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. 

ALAMEDA CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- ongoing. 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. 

Fremont Centerville Certified Farmers Market, ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bonde Way and Fremont Boulevard, Fremont. (510) 796-0102. 

FREMONT CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy local organic produce, baked goods and flowers.  

Irvington Market: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At Bay Street and Fremont Boulevard.  

Kaiser Market: Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At 39400 Paseo Padre Parkway.  

Nummi Market: May-November: Fridays, 2-6 p.m. At Grimmer and Fremont boulevards. (510) 796-0102. Fremont Boulevard and Bay Street, Fremont. (800) 897-FARM. 

HAYWARD CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy local organic produce and baked goods.  

Hayward: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At Main and B streets.  

Hayward Kaiser: Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Hesperian Boulevard and W. Tenneyson Road. Main and B Streets, Hayward. (800) 897-FARM. 

UNION CITY CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Kaiser Market: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At 3553 Whipple Road. (800) 949-FARM.  

Old Alvarado Market: May-November: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. At Ceasar Chavez Park, Watkins and Smith streets. (800) 949-FARM. Union City.  

OAKLAND CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. 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.  

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY --  

"Kensington CFM," ongoing. Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  

303 Arlington Ave., Kensington. (510) 525-6155. 

"Walnut Creek Kaiser CFM," ongoing. Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  

1425 S. Main St., Walnut Creek.  

EL CERRITO CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- ongoing. 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. 

WALNUT CREEK CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Sunday Market: Sundays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. At North Broadway and Lincoln Avenue. 925-431-8351.  

Rossmoor Market: May-October: Fridays, 9 a.m.-noon. At Golden Rain Valley Road and Tice Valley Boulevard. 800-806-FARM. Broadway and Lincoln Avenue, Walnut Creek.  

CONCORD TUESDAY AND THURSDAY FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Tuesday Market: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.  

Thursday Market: May-October. Thursdays, 4-8 p.m. Todo Santos Park, Willow Pass Road at Grant Street, Concord. (800) 949-FARM. 

RICHMOND CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- ongoing. 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. 

MARTINEZ CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKETS -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Thursday Market: May-November. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Court and Main Streets. (800) 949-FARM.  

Sunday Market: May-September. Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At Main and Castro Streets. (925) 431-8361.  

Kaiser Market: Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. At 200 Muir Road. (800) 949-FARM. Martinez.  

Free. www.cafarmersmarkets.com.< 

EUGENE O'NEILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE ongoing. 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.< 

FENTONS CREAMERY Fenton's Creamery, founded in 1894, offers "backstage" tours that show how ice cream is made, how flavors are created, and all that goes into their famous sundaes. The history of Fenton's is also covered. Tours last 20-30 minutes (including samples). Children must be 6 years and accompanied by an adult. 

"Arctic Tour," ongoing. 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. daily, except Sundays. This backstage 20-30 minute tour shows how Fenton's handmade ice cream is made and flavored. As well, the tour will give some history about this venerable ice cream parlor, a 100-year-old staple for families with a desire for ice cream sundaes and sodas. Tour participants can taste ice cream at its various stages, step into the minus 25 degree blast freezers, and receive a soda jerk's hat. Minimum of eight people for a tour, maximum of 12-- larger groups are welcome, but will be split into multiple tours. No children under age 5. Reservations required.  

For those who wish to have ice cream after the tour, the following prices apply:  

Arctic tour plus kid's dish of ice cream, $6.95 plus tax and tip.  

Arctic tour plus kid's sundae, $7.50 plus tax and tip.  

Arctic tour plus kid's lunch and kid's sundae, $11.95 plus tax and tip.  

Arctic tour plus kid's lunch and sundae bar, $15.95 plus tax and tip. $3.95. (510) 658-8500. 

4226 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. (510) 658-7000, www.fentonscreamery.com.< 

FIFTY-PLUS ADVENTURE WALKS AND RUNS ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 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 ongoing. "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. $40 per couple, $10 for each additional person.  

Casanova: A 50-minute private gondola tour,$65 per couple, $10 for each additional person.  

Promessi Sposi: For photo or film shoots. Perfect for engagement photos, family portraits, or any other occasion. $225 per hour for the first couple; $10 per additional person.  

Group Tours: $150 per hour for groups of 13 people or more. Multiple mini tours are given within the hour to accommodate a group of any size. Call for more details. 

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," ongoing. 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. 

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY --  

"Waterfalls and Wildflowers," March 13, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy early season wildflowers and late season waterfalls on this nature trek up Mt. Diablo's rugged north side. This is a challenging hike of six miles on some rugged trails. 

"Beautiful Black Diamond," March 26, 10 a.m. Explore beautiful green hills and canyons, see white shooting stars, and explore an old mining tunnel at a deserted coal mining area. This is a 12-mile, strenuous but moderately paced hike. 

"Bay Trail Loop," March 27, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. This walk on San Pablo Bay between Wildcat and San Pablo Creeks will preview a new three mile loop of San Francisco Bay Trail around former West County landfill. 

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. Public Tours of the John Muir House, ongoing. 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, ongoing. 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. "Mt. Wanda Wildflower Walk," March 12 and March 26, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Join a National Park Service ranger for an early morning wildflower walk. More than 82 species of native plants have been found on Mt. Wanda. Free. 

$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 ongoing. 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. For reservations call (925) 424-4175, or register online. 

Free. 10 a.m. University of California, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley. (925) 424-4175, www.lbl.gov.< 

LAWRENCE LIVERMORE NATIONAL LABORATORY ongoing. 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 -- ongoing. 1-4 p.m. Tues. - Fri.; 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturdays. 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.$5-$7; free children under age 2. June 16-Sept. 15: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; Sept. 16-June 15: noon.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

MOUNT DIABLO SUMMIT MUSEUM ongoing. 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. 

Special Events,  

"6th Annual Tower Chapel Tulip Exhibition," March 25 through March 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Walk amidst spectacular floral arrangements created by Bay Area florists, garden clubs, and local college floral design classes. Free. 

Free. Second and fourth Saturdays of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 5000 Piedmont Ave., Oakland. (510) 658-2588, www.mountainviewcemetery.org.< 

NILES DEPOT MUSEUM ongoing. The Niles Depot, built in 1904 to replace a depot that had occupied the site since 1869, served as a passenger station until the 1950s and as a freight station until the 1960s. It was moved to its current location in 1982 and houses a small railroad library plus railroad artifacts. The Tri-City Society of Model Engineers operates HO and N scale model railroad layouts at the depot. The model trains run when the museum is open. 

Free but donations requested. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sundays 36997 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 797-4449, www.nilesdepot.org.< 

NIMITZ WALK ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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. Group tours may be arranged between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tues.-Sun.  

Private Tours and Teas: Take a private tour followed by tea in the Pardee family dining room (available for 4-12 persons).  

Tour with light tea: $12 per person  

Tour with high tea: $25 per person.  

High tea without tour: $20 per person. 

$5-$25; free children ages 12 and under. House Tours: 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday and second Saturday of each month; 2 p.m. the second Sunday or each month. 672 11th St., Oakland. (510) 444-2187, www.pardeehome.org.< 

PIXIELAND AMUSEMENT PARK ongoing. This amusement park for children features pixie-sized rides such as a dragon roller coaster, swirling tea cups, a carousel, red baron airplanes, an antique car ride and a miniature train among other attractions sure to please the little ones. Classic carnival-style food and souvenirs round out the experience. Admission to the park is free; ride tickets are $1.25 each or 10 tickets for $10; Day wrist band for unlimited rides, $25. Specials and season passes are also available. 

Dec. 1-12 2010: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Closed Dec. 13-Jan. 8. 2740 E. Olivera Road, Concord. (925) 689-8841, www.pixieland.com.< 

PREWETT FAMILY WATERPARK ongoing. There are pools and water slides for all ages, from the Tad Pool for toddlers to Boulder cove for older swimmers. In addition to fun pools and slides there are fitness pools for lessons and exercise, lawns for relaxing, locker rooms, community room and kitchen. Lap lanes are open year round. Food and beverages are not permitted in the park. Picnic tables are available outside the park. 

$4-$11. Sunday through Friday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Aug.23-27, 30-31. 4701 Lone Tree Way, Antioch. (925) 776-3070, www.ci.antioch.ca.us/CitySvcs/Prewett.< 

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 - ongoing. 10 a.m. Saturdays. 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 -- ongoing. 9:30 a.m.-noon Mon. - Thurs.; 9:30 a.m. Fri.; 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sat.; 5 p.m. Sunday. 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 ongoing. 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. "Toddler Time," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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 -- ongoing.  

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.< 

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

"Flight Deck Fun," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.Closed on New Year's Day. 

"Family Day," ongoing. 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. 

"History Mystery After Hours Tour," ongoing. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Explore the USS Hornet after hours and learn the history of this ship while it is illuminated in red lights used for "night ops." Also, hear stories about the ships' legendary haunts. Reservations required. (510) 521-8448 X282. 

"Flashlight Tour," ongoing. 8:30 a.m. 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. $30-$35 per person. 

"Living Ship Day: Women's History Month," March 19. Experience an aircraft carrier in action. Witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Participate in mission briefings, meet former crew, and sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet. 

$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.< 

WATERWORLD CALIFORNA ongoing.  

$19.95-$31.95 General Admission; Season pass: $39.99-$59.99. Park closes in October and reopens in May. 1950 Waterworld Parkway,, Concord. (925) 609-1364, www.waterworldcalifornia.com.< 

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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. "In a New Light," ongoing. 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.Ongoing. Free with general admission unless otherwise noted.  

$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."North Beach Walking Tour,", ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

$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.Ongoing.  

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," ongoing. 6 p.m. Thursdays. 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," ongoing. Exhibition features sculpture by Maya Lin.  

BENJAMIN DEAN LECTURE SERIES -- Ongoing.  

$14.95-$24.95. Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. (415) 379-8000, www.calacademy.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. "Leaders of the Band," ongoing. An exhibition of the history and development of the Cathay Club Marching Band, the first Chinese American band formed in 1911.Ongoing.  

$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.< 

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. 

"Van Gough, Gauguin, Cezanne and Beyond: Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musee d'Orsay," ongoing. Exhibit open through Jan. 18, 2011.  

LECTURES AND SYMPOSIA -- Ongoing.  

"Olmec: Colossal Masterworks of Ancient Mexico," Feb. 26, 1 p.m. An art lecture with Jim Kohn. Free.  

$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.< 

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

EXHIBITS Ongoing.  

$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 Ongoing.  

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," ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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.legionofhonor.org.< 

MARKET STREET RAILWAY MUSEUM ongoing. 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 ongoing.  

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 ongoing. 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 Ongoing.  

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 PERFORMANCE AND DESIGN Ongoing.  

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.''Ongoing.  

"Urban Kidz Film Series," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

$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) ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 "Earthquake Exhibit," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Toddlers may comfortably climb the carpeted "treehouse'' and make a myriad of discoveries, from the roots to the limbs.  

"Live Animal Exhibit," ongoing. Visit with more than 100 creatures including small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, raptors and small birds, insects, spiders and tide pool creatures. "Saturdays Are Special at the Museum," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 1-4 p.m.  

$3-$5. "Drop-in Family Ceramics Workshop," ongoing. Saturday, 1:15-2:15 p.m. 

"Third Friday Birders," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Saturdays, 11:15 a.m. Learn about the animals that live at the Randall Museum. 

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

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

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

"Animal Feeding," ongoing. Saturday, noon. 

"Meet the Animals," ongoing. 11:15 a.m.-noon. 

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 ongoing. 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: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily; 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. "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.Ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

"Crafts for Kids," ongoing. Every third Saturday of the month; 3-4 p.m. Learn a little about sea life and make a maritime craft. $5 vessel admission; free for children under 15. 

"Adventures at Sea: Life Aboard a 19th century Sailing Ship," ongoing. 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. 

"Historic Waterfront Walking Tour," ongoing. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Park Rangerled, hour long tour of San Francisco's northern waterfront. Tour takes place on various days throughout December; see website for full details. Free. 

"Chantey Sing," ongoing. 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Monthly sing-a-long aboard a historic ship. Bring a mug for hot apple cider served from the ship's galley. Free; reservations required. Reservation line: (415) 561-7171. 

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.Ongoing. TEMPORARILY CLOSED.  

$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 PERFORMING ARTS LIBRARY AND MUSEUM ongoing. "Dance in California: 150 Years of Innovation," ongoing. 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," ongoing. This permanent exhibit is a comprehensive study of a generation of national and international conductors. In Gallery 5.  

"San Francisco 1900: On Stage," ongoing. In Gallery 4.  

"San Francisco in Song," ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

$8-$10. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. 221 Fourth St., San Francisco. (415) 820-3220, www.zeum.org.<

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. "Country Kitchen Cookin'," ongoing. 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. 

"Potato Harvesting," ongoing. Learn the spectacular history of this New World native as you dig with your spade and help find the spuds. 

"Toddler Time," ongoing. 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.  

"Animal Feeding," ongoing. Thursday-Sunday, 3 p.m. Feed the pigs, check for eggs and bring hay to the livestock. 

"Horse-Drawn Train Rides," ongoing. 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. 

$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 ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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.< 

BICYCLE TRAILS COUNCIL OF THE EAST BAY ongoing. 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. "Weekly Wednesday Ride at Lake Chabot," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.< 

BOTANIC GARDEN Ongoing.  

Intersection of Wildcat Canyon Road and South Park Drive, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. 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."Catch of the Day," ongoing. 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 Squirts," ongoing. 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. 

"Sea Siblings," ongoing. 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. 

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 ongoing. 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 -- Ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

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. "Exploring Nature," ongoing. An exhibit of Shawn Gould's illustrations featuring images of the natural world.Ongoing.  

"Nature Detectives," ongoing. 11 a.m.-noon. An introduction and exploration of the world of Black-Crowned Night-Herons. Ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Registration required. 

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 1-4 p.m. Help the shoreline to eliminate the non-native plants that threaten its diversity. Ages 12 and older. 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.< 

KENNEDY GROVE REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

SPECIAL EVENTS Ongoing.  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. June 16-Sept. 15: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; Sept. 16-June 15: noon.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

LIVERMORE AREA RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT ongoing.  

4444 East Ave., Livermore. (925) 373-5700, www.larpd.dst.ca.us/.< 

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. SHORELINE ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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.< 

PREWETT FAMILY WATERPARK ongoing. There are pools and water slides for all ages, from the Tad Pool for toddlers to Boulder cove for older swimmers. In addition to fun pools and slides there are fitness pools for lessons and exercise, lawns for relaxing, locker rooms, community room and kitchen. Lap lanes are open year round. Food and beverages are not permitted in the park. Picnic tables are available outside the park. 

$4-$11. Sunday through Friday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Aug.23-27, 30-31. 4701 Lone Tree Way, Antioch. (925) 776-3070, www.ci.antioch.ca.us/CitySvcs/Prewett.< 

QUARRY LAKES REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. 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.< 

REI CONCORD A series of lectures on hikes and outdoor equipment. 

"Climbing the Indoor Wall," ongoing. Saturdays, noon-4 p.m.; Wednesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. $5.  

"Free Bicycle Classes," ongoing. 2:30-3 p.m. Sundays. Learn how to remove a wheel, fix a flat and more.  

Events are free and begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 1975 Diamond Blvd., Concord. (925) 825-9400.< 

REI FREMONT A series of lectures on hikes and outdoor equipment. 

"Climb the Indoor Pinnacle," ongoing. 1-6 p.m. Saturdays. $5. 

Events are free and begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 43962 Fremont Blvd., Fremont. (510) 651-0305.< 

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE ongoing. 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.< 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. 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.< 

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."Sunol Sunday Hike," ongoing. Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. A natural history walk in the wilderness. 

"Sunol Sunday Hike," ongoing. Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. A natural history walk in Sunol Regional 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.<

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"Northern California Doll & Teddy Bear Show," March 5, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. More than 130 tables featuring lovable dolls and teddy bears of all sizes. $2-$5. (925) 947-1572, www.hermanshows.com. 

4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 426-7600, www.alamedacountyfair.com.< 

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. "Potato Harvesting," ongoing. Learn the spectacular history of this New World native as you dig with your spade and help find the spuds. 

"Horse-Drawn Train Rides," ongoing. 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'," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Thursday-Sunday, 3 p.m. Feed the pigs, check for eggs and bring hay to the livestock. 

"Toddler Time," ongoing. 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.  

$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.< 

ASHKENAZ  

Clowns Not Bombs Secret Circus Kids' Show, Feb. 27, 3-4:30 p.m. $4-$6. 

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.< 

BAY POINT LIBRARY  

"Monthly Craft Night," ongoing. 4-5 p.m. Last Friday of every month. Each month features a different themed craft.  

Riverview Middle School, 205 Pacifica Ave., Pittsburg. (925) 458-9597.< 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM ongoing.  

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

"A Journey on Common Ground," ongoing. 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. 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.< 

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP ongoing. An interactive place where children, and adults, can learn how a stuffed animal is made, then choose an animal pattern from the offering of bears, elephants, dogs and rabbits; stuff the chosen animal; dress it; and create a birth certificate. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

$10-$25; clothing and accessories extra. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Broadway Plaza, 1248 Broadway, Walnut Creek. (925) 946-4697, www.buildabear.com.< 

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.Ongoing.  

"Chabot Observatories: A View to the Stars," ongoing. This new permanent exhibit honors the 123-year history of Chabot and its telescopes. The observatory is one of the oldest public observatories in the United States. The exhibit covers the three different sites of the observatory over its history as well as how its historic telescopes continue to be operated today. Included are informative graphic panels, multimedia kiosks, interactive computer programs, hands-on stations, and historic artifacts. 

"Beyond Blastoff," ongoing. Get a glimpse into the life of an astronaut and experience the mixture of exhilaration, adventure, and confinement that is living and working in space. 

"Bill Nye's climate lab," ongoing. Features Emmy-award-winning Bill Nye the Climate Guy as commander of the Clean Energy Space Station, and invites visitors on an urgent mission to thwart climate change. 

"Destination Universe," ongoing. Take a journey from our Sun to the farthest reaches of the cosmos. 

"One giant leap: a moon odyssey," ongoing. For all astronaut wannabees -take a simulated Moon-walk, try on a space helmet, climb into a Mercury capsule and land a lunar module in this hands-on exhibit that explores the legends and science fiction about the Moon. 

"Tales of the Maya Skies," ongoing. A companion exhibit for the planetarium show which features the scientific achievements and cosmology of the Maya. All content is bilingual in English and Spanish. 

TIEN MEGADOME SCIENCE THEATER -- Ongoing. A 70-foot dome-screen auditorium. Show times subject to change. Call for current show schedule. Price with paid general admission is $6-$7. Theater only: $7-$8. (510) 336-7373, www.ticketweb.com. 

"To be an astronaut," ongoing. Venture inside the gates of NASA to experience the rigors of astronaut training. 

"Dinosaurs Alive," ongoing. A global adventure of science and discovery, featuring the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the monsters of the Cretaceous, "reincarnated" life-sized for the giant screen. Audiences will journey with some of the world's preeminent paleontologists as they uncover evidence that the descendents of dinosaurs still walk (or fly) among us. From the exotic, trackless expanses and sand dunes of Mongolia's Gobi Desert to the dramatic sandstone buttes of New Mexico, the film will follow American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) paleontologists as they explore some of the greatest dinosaur finds in history. 

"SolarMax," ongoing. Featuring live images of the Sun and footage from around the world of solar observatories of the past, present, and future, this show tells of humankind's struggle to understand the Sun. 

"Mysteries of Egypt," ongoing. Experience the magic and majesty of Egypt as never before. Soar over the great pyramids of Giza, cross the Valley of the Kings, and descend into the shadowy chambers of the sacred tomb of King Tutankhamen. Suitable for families. 

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."Animal of the Day!" ongoing. Saturdays and Sundays, 1-1:20 p.m. Come up close and learn about Fairyland's creatures. 

"Arts and Crafts," ongoing. Noon-3 p.m. Event features arts and crafts projects for children and their families. $6. 

$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.< 

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."Catch of the Day," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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. 

Free unless otherwise noted; parking fee may be charged. 1252 McKay Ave., Alameda. (510) 521-6887, www.ebparks.org.< 

FOREST HOME FARMS ongoing. 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. "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.Ongoing.  

$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 ongoing. 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. "This Is Your Heart!" ongoing. An interactive exhibit on heart health.  

"Good Nutrition," ongoing. This exhibit includes models for making balanced meals and an Exercycle for calculating how calories are burned.  

"Draw Your Own Insides," ongoing. Human-shaped chalkboards and models with removable organs allow visitors to explore the inside of their bodies.  

"Your Cellular Self and Cancer Prevention," ongoing. 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. "Exploring Nature," ongoing. An exhibit of Shawn Gould's illustrations featuring images of the natural world.Ongoing.  

"Nature Detectives," ongoing. 11 a.m.-noon. An introduction and exploration of the world of Black-Crowned Night-Herons. Ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Registration required. 

"Weekend Weed Warriors," ongoing. 1-4 p.m. Help the shoreline to eliminate the non-native plants that threaten its diversity. Ages 12 and older. Registration required. 

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," ongoing. 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. 

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," ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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. 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," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

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

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

HOLT PLANETARIUM Ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. June 16-Sept. 15: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; Sept. 16-June 15: noon.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 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.Ongoing.  

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

OAKLAND-ALAMEDA COUNTY COLISEUM  

"Monster Jam," Feb. 26, 3 p.m. "Party In The Pits;'' 7 p.m. Monster Jam begins. More than a dozen of the world's biggest and baddest monster trucks come to the Bay Area for an awesome show of horsepower. Trucks scheduled to appear include Grave Digger, Time Flys, Ironman and Tropical Thunder. $7.50-$125. (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. 

7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. www.coliseum.com.< 

OAKLEY PUBLIC LIBRARY  

"Tommy's Train Troubles Puppet Show," Feb. 26, 2 p.m. A special trainthemed puppet show. Free.  

Free. 1050 Neroly Road, Oakley. (925) 625-2400, www.ccclib.org/programs/oak.html.< 

PIXIELAND AMUSEMENT PARK ongoing. This amusement park for children features pixie-sized rides such as a dragon roller coaster, swirling tea cups, a carousel, red baron airplanes, an antique car ride and a miniature train among other attractions sure to please the little ones. Classic carnival-style food and souvenirs round out the experience. Admission to the park is free; ride tickets are $1.25 each or 10 tickets for $10; Day wrist band for unlimited rides, $25. Specials and season passes are also available. 

Dec. 1-12 2010: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Closed Dec. 13-Jan. 8. 2740 E. Olivera Road, Concord. (925) 689-8841, www.pixieland.com.< 

POINT PINOLE REGIONAL SHORELINE ongoing. 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.< 

PREWETT FAMILY WATERPARK ongoing. There are pools and water slides for all ages, from the Tad Pool for toddlers to Boulder cove for older swimmers. In addition to fun pools and slides there are fitness pools for lessons and exercise, lawns for relaxing, locker rooms, community room and kitchen. Lap lanes are open year round. Food and beverages are not permitted in the park. Picnic tables are available outside the park. 

$4-$11. Sunday through Friday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Aug.23-27, 30-31. 4701 Lone Tree Way, Antioch. (925) 776-3070, www.ci.antioch.ca.us/CitySvcs/Prewett.< 

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE ongoing. 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.< 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. 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.< 

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

"Flight Deck Fun," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.Ongoing. Closed on New Year's Day. 

"Family Day," ongoing. 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. 

"History Mystery After Hours Tour," ongoing. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Explore the USS Hornet after hours and learn the history of this ship while it is illuminated in red lights used for "night ops." Also, hear stories about the ships' legendary haunts. Reservations required. (510) 521-8448 X282. 

"Flashlight Tour," ongoing. 8:30 a.m. 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. $30-$35 per person. 

$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.< 

WATERWORLD CALIFORNA ongoing. ` 

$19.95-$31.95 General Admission; Season pass: $39.99-$59.99. Park closes in October and reopens in May. 1950 Waterworld Parkway,, Concord. (925) 609-1364, www.waterworldcalifornia.com.<

AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM AND LIBRARY AT OAKLAND ongoing. 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 ongoing. 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. 

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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.  

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM ongoing.  

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

"A Journey on Common Ground," ongoing. 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. 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. 

"Beyond Blastoff: Surviving in Space," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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. Ongoing.  

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

"Daytime Telescope Viewing," ongoing. 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. 

"Galaxy Explorers Hands-On Fun," ongoing. 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. 

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

$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 ongoing. 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. "This Is Your Heart!" ongoing. An interactive exhibit on heart health.  

"Good Nutrition," ongoing. This exhibit includes models for making balanced meals and an Exercycle for calculating how calories are burned.  

"Draw Your Own Insides," ongoing. Human-shaped chalkboards and models with removable organs allow visitors to explore the inside of their bodies.  

"Your Cellular Self and Cancer Prevention," ongoing. 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 AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM The museum is located in a former post office and displays memorabilia of early Hayward and southern Alameda County. Some of the features include a restored 1923 Seagrave fire engine and a hand pumper from the Hayward Fire Department, founded in 1865; a Hayward Police Department exhibit; information on city founder William Hayward; and pictures of the old Hayward Hotel. The museum also alternates three exhibits per year, including a Christmas Toys exhibit and a 1950s lifestyle exhibit.Ongoing.  

50 cents-$1. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 22701 Main St., Hayward. (510) 581-0223, www.haywardareahistory.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," ongoing. Multimedia works from the museum's extensive collections of archival, documentary and experimental films. Located at 2911 Russell Street. Ongoing.  

$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 "NanoZone," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

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

"Animal Discovery Room,,' ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Play with simple, versatile building blocks that can be used to build very large, high and stable structures.  

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

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

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

"Science on a Sphere," ongoing. 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. Ongoing.  

$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.Ongoing.  

SPECIAL EVENTS Ongoing.  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. June 16-Sept. 15: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; Sept. 16-June 15: noon.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 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.Ongoing.  

$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 ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

"Saturday Stories," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

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.Ongoing.  

$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 "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.  

$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.< 

PARDEE HOME MUSEUM ongoing. 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. Group tours may be arranged between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tues.-Sun.  

Private Tours and Teas: Take a private tour followed by tea in the Pardee family dining room (available for 4-12 persons).  

Tour with light tea: $12 per person  

Tour with high tea: $25 per person.  

High tea without tour: $20 per person. 

$5-$25; free children ages 12 and under. House Tours: 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday and second Saturday of each month; 2 p.m. the second Sunday or each month. 672 11th St., Oakland. (510) 444-2187, www.pardeehome.org.< 

SAN LEANDRO HISTORY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY ongoing. 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. "Yema/Po Archeological Site at Lake Chabot," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

$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.Ongoing.  

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 ongoing. "Native California Cultures," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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 ongoing. "Tyrannosaurus Rex," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.<

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"The Fly Fishing Show," Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.; 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sun. A show devoted to all things fly fishing, including new products, demos, art and more. $15; children 12 and under $2; children under 5 free. (814) 443-3638, www.flyfishingshow.com. 

"Northern California Doll & Teddy Bear Show," March 5, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. More than 130 tables featuring lovable dolls and teddy bears of all sizes. $2-$5. (925) 947-1572, www.hermanshows.com. 

4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 426-7600, www.alamedacountyfair.com.< 

ASHKENAZ  

"I Like My Bike Night," ongoing. 9 p.m. First Fridays of the month. 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," ongoing. 3 p.m. First Sundays of the month 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," ongoing. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. - Sun. 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," ongoing. 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 MAGIC THEATER  

"Dinner Theater Magic Show," ongoing. 7:30 p.m. Fri - Sat. Enter the joyous and bewildering world of illusion while chowing down on a home cooked meal. Each weekend features different professional magicians. Recommended for ages 13 and older. $54-$64 includes meal.  

729 Castro St., Martinez. (925) 374-0056, www.calmagic.com.< 

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.Ongoing.  

"Chabot Observatories: A View to the Stars," ongoing. This new permanent exhibit honors the 123-year history of Chabot and its telescopes. The observatory is one of the oldest public observatories in the United States. The exhibit covers the three different sites of the observatory over its history as well as how its historic telescopes continue to be operated today. Included are informative graphic panels, multimedia kiosks, interactive computer programs, hands-on stations, and historic artifacts. 

"Tales of the Maya Skies," ongoing. A companion exhibit for the planetarium show which features the scientific achievements and cosmology of the Maya. All content is bilingual in English and Spanish. 

"Beyond Blastoff," ongoing. Get a glimpse into the life of an astronaut and experience the mixture of exhilaration, adventure, and confinement that is living and working in space. 

"Bill Nye's climate lab," ongoing. Features Emmy-award-winning Bill Nye the Climate Guy as commander of the Clean Energy Space Station, and invites visitors on an urgent mission to thwart climate change. 

"Destination Universe," ongoing. Take a journey from our Sun to the farthest reaches of the cosmos. 

"One giant leap: a moon odyssey," ongoing. For all astronaut wannabees -take a simulated Moon-walk, try on a space helmet, climb into a Mercury capsule and land a lunar module in this hands-on exhibit that explores the legends and science fiction about the Moon. 

TIEN MEGADOME SCIENCE THEATER -- Ongoing. A 70-foot dome-screen auditorium. Show times subject to change. Call for current show schedule. Price with paid general admission is $6-$7. Theater only: $7-$8. (510) 336-7373, www.ticketweb.com. 

"To be an astronaut," ongoing. Venture inside the gates of NASA to experience the rigors of astronaut training. 

"SolarMax," ongoing. Featuring live images of the Sun and footage from around the world of solar observatories of the past, present, and future, this show tells of humankind's struggle to understand the Sun. 

"Mysteries of Egypt," ongoing. Experience the magic and majesty of Egypt as never before. Soar over the great pyramids of Giza, cross the Valley of the Kings, and descend into the shadowy chambers of the sacred tomb of King Tutankhamen. Suitable for families. 

"Dinosaurs Alive," ongoing. A global adventure of science and discovery, featuring the earliest dinosaurs of the Triassic Period to the monsters of the Cretaceous, "reincarnated" life-sized for the giant screen. Audiences will journey with some of the world's preeminent paleontologists as they uncover evidence that the descendents of dinosaurs still walk (or fly) among us. From the exotic, trackless expanses and sand dunes of Mongolia's Gobi Desert to the dramatic sandstone buttes of New Mexico, the film will follow American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) paleontologists as they explore some of the greatest dinosaur finds in history. 

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.< 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Celebrating 100 Years of International Women's Day," March 6, 7 p.m. A celebration featuring La Pena's Community Chorus and Bay Area Choir. $17-$20.  

Free unless otherwise noted. 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2568, www.lapena.org.< 

LAS POSITAS COLLEGE  

"Cuban Week Celebration," through Feb. 25, For complete schedule see website. A celebration of the Cuban people and their history, art, music, dance and more. Free. www.laspositascollege.edu. 

3033 Collier Canyon Road, Livermore. www.laspositascollege.edu/.< 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE "NanoZone," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

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

HOLT PLANETARIUM Ongoing. 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.< 

NEWARK PAVILION  

"The Mineral & Gem Society of Castro Valley Presents Annual 3-Day Show and Sale," Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. More than 35 dealers featuring jewelry, gemstones, beads, fossils and more. $6. www.mgscv.org. 

6430 Thornton Ave., Newark. < 

OAKLAND-ALAMEDA COUNTY COLISEUM  

"Monster Jam," Feb. 26, 3 p.m. "Party In The Pits;'' 7 p.m. Monster Jam begins. More than a dozen of the world's biggest and baddest monster trucks come to the Bay Area for an awesome show of horsepower. Trucks scheduled to appear include Grave Digger, Time Flys, Ironman and Tropical Thunder. $7.50-$125. (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. 

7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. www.coliseum.com.< 

OAKLEY PUBLIC LIBRARY  

"Tommy's Train Troubles Puppet Show," Feb. 26, 2 p.m. A special trainthemed puppet show. Free.  

Free. 1050 Neroly Road, Oakley. (925) 625-2400, www.ccclib.org/programs/oak.html.< 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE ongoing. 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," ongoing. 12:10-12:50 p.m. First Thursdays of each month  

2600 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (510) 642-3671.< 

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

"Flight Deck Fun," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.Ongoing. Closed on New Year's Day. 

"Family Day," ongoing. 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. 

"History Mystery After Hours Tour," ongoing. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Explore the USS Hornet after hours and learn the history of this ship while it is illuminated in red lights used for "night ops." Also, hear stories about the ships' legendary haunts. Reservations required. (510) 521-8448 X282. 

"Flashlight Tour," ongoing. 8:30 a.m. 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. $30-$35 per person. 

$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.<

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"The Fly Fishing Show," Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.; 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat.; 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sun. A show devoted to all things fly fishing, including new products, demos, art and more. $15; children 12 and under $2; children under 5 free. (814) 443-3638, www.flyfishingshow.com. 

"Northern California Doll & Teddy Bear Show," March 5, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. More than 130 tables featuring lovable dolls and teddy bears of all sizes. $2-$5. (925) 947-1572, www.hermanshows.com. 

4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 426-7600, www.alamedacountyfair.com.< 

ARMANDO'S  

The California Honeydrops, Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. $12. 

707 Marina Vista Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-6985, www.armandosmartinez.com.< 

ASHKENAZ  

The Uptones, Dan P. & The Bricks, The Danger Babes, Feb. 25, 8:30 p.m. $12-$15. 

1317 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 525-5054, www.ashkenaz.com.< 

BOOKS INC., ALAMEDA  

Deanne Fitzmaurice and Joan Ryan, Feb. 27, 3 p.m. "Freak Season: Behind The Scenes With SF Giants Pitcher Tim Linecum from Spring Training to The World Series.''  

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

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

Akademie fur Alte Musik Berlin, March 4, 8 p.m. Works by Telemann, Bach, and Handel. $52.  

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, March 5 through March 6, 8 p.m. Sat.; 7:30 p.m. Sun. Works by Rebel, Handel, Gluck, Stookey and Rameau. Musical direction by Nicholas McGegan. $30-$90. (415) 392-4400, www.cityboxoffice.com. 

2345 Channing Way, Berkeley. (510) 848-3696, www.fccb.org.< 

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

Tom Rush, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. $30.50-$32.50. 

Music starts at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2020 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 548-1761, www.freightandsalvage.org.< 

HERTZ HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Scharoun Ensemble Berlin, March 6, 3 p.m. Works by Schubert and Ken Ueno. $52. www.calperformances.org. 

Bancroft Way and College Ave., Berkeley. (510) 642-4864, www.music.berkeley.edu.< 

THE NEW PARISH  

Malevolent Creation, Full Blown Chaos, The Absense, Havok, Beyond Terror Beyond Grace, March 3, 8:30 p.m. $10-$13. 

579 18th St., Oakland. (510) 444-7474, www.thenewparish.com.< 

OAKLAND-ALAMEDA COUNTY COLISEUM  

"Monster Jam," Feb. 26, 3 p.m. "Party In The Pits;'' 7 p.m. Monster Jam begins. More than a dozen of the world's biggest and baddest monster trucks come to the Bay Area for an awesome show of horsepower. Trucks scheduled to appear include Grave Digger, Time Flys, Ironman and Tropical Thunder. $7.50-$125. (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. 

7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. www.coliseum.com.< 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

Oakland East Bay Symphony, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. Works by Billy Childs, Gustav Holst and Edvard Grieg. Conducted by Bryan Nies. $20-$65. www.oebs.org. 

2025 Broadway, Oakland. (510) 465-6400, (415) 421-8497, www.paramounttheatre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.< 

UPTOWN NIGHTCLUB  

Marti Brom, Quarter Mile Combo, The Bstars, Feb. 25, 9 p.m. $12. 

The Chop Tops, The Revtones, Stigma 13, March 5, 9 p.m. $10. 

1928 Telegraph Ave., Oakland. (510) 451-8100, www.uptownnightclub.com.< 

YOSHI'S  

Kevin Eubanks, Feb. 26 through Feb. 27, 8 and 10 p.m. Sat.; 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$24. 

Juan Escovedo, Roger Glenn, Ray Obiedo, John Santos, March 2, 8 and 10 p.m. $10-$18. 

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.< 

ZELLERBACH HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Vienna Philharmonic, Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 3 p.m. Sun. Works by Schubert, Wagner, Bartok, Brahms and Mahler. Conducted by Semyon Bychkov. $65-$225. www.calperformances.org. 

Merce Cunningham Dance Company, March 3 through March 5, 8 p.m. "The Legacy Tour.'' $22-$48.  

UC Berkeley campus, Bancroft Way and Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 642-9988.<

CARMEN FLORES RECREATION CENTER  

"El Corazon de la Communidad: The Heart of the Community", ongoing. 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.< 

LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE "NanoZone," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Play some of the world's most popular math games, such as Hex, Kalah, Game Sticks and Shongo Networks.  

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

"Kapla," ongoing. 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.Ongoing.  

SPECIAL EVENTS Ongoing.  

$5-$7; free children under age 2. June 16-Sept. 15: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Sun.; Sept. 16-June 15: noon.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. (925) 935-1978, www.wildlife-museum.org.< 

OAKLAND ASIAN CULTURAL CENTER  

"Oakland's 19th-Century San Pablo Avenue Chinatown," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.<

"SUN SPHERES," -- ongoing. "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.< 

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," ongoing. 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. < 

HOTEL DES ARTS The boutique 51-room art hotel in Union Square features an art gallery by Start SOMA. 

"Painted Rooms," ongoing. 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.< 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF SAN FRANCISCO  

"The Digital Liberation of G-d," ongoing. 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.< 

SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY, BAYVIEW-ANNA E. WADEN BRANCH  

"Bayview's Historical Footprints," ongoing. 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," ongoing. Exhibition collects archaeological remains from the Gold Rush-era cemetery and the ruins of old City Hall destroyed in the 1906 earthquake.  

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.<

ELKS LODGE, ALAMEDA  

"All You Can Dance Sunday Socials," ongoing. 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.< 

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW For ages 21 and older. 

"King of King's," ongoing. 9 p.m. Sun. $10. 

"Live Salsa," ongoing. Wednesdays. An evening of dancing to the music of a live salsa band. Salsa dance lessons from 8-9:30 p.m. $5-$10.  

2284 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 548-1159, www.shattuckdownlow.com.< 

SOLAD DANCE CENTER  

"Persian Dance," ongoing. 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," ongoing. 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.<