Susan Brandt Hawley, attorney for Concerned Library Users, has informed the Planet that a tentative settlement has been reached between her clients and the City of Berkeley regarding one part of a lawsuit filed in September which challenged some aspects of the city’s plans to demolish and rebuild two of the city’s four branch libraries.

The proposed settlement affects plaintiffs’ contention that the City amended the municipal code to allow demolition of libraries with a use permit instead of a variance, without carrying out the environmental study required by the California Environmental Quality Act because the changed language would enable significant environmental impacts.  

Details of the settlement will not be revealed, Hawley said, until the Berkeley City Council has the opportunity to approve them in closed session before its December 13 meeting. 

Still unresolved is plaintiffs’ second major claim, that funds from Berkeley Measure FF, which authorized the issuance of up to $26 million in general obligation bonds to fund projects to improve branch libraries, cannot legally be used to fund a project which involves demolition as well as rehabilitation. CLU seeks a permanent injunction “enjoining the City from issuing bonds pursuant to Measure FF and from spending bond funds for any library projects that entail demolition and are thereby beyond Measure FF's prescribed scope to ‘renovate, expand, and make seismic and access improvements.’ “ 

Concerned Library Users is described in the pleadings as “an unincorporated association formed in the public interest in August 2010, after the City's approval of the library ordinance.” Members say they support adaptive reuse of the City's historic libraries rather than demolition and new construction. They support the use of Measure FF bond funds only for the uses authorized by Berkeley voters by the specific language of the ballot measure.

After drying out from last weekend’s rain and hail beset final home game at present day Memorial Stadium, here are some observations, recollections, and speculations on the end of the Cal football season, the temporary pause in 2011 while Memorial Stadium is renovated, and seasons to come in 2012 and after. 

One set of thoughts—which I’ll get to near the end of this commentary—has to do with how the City and community might better respond to football day visitors to Berkeley. 

But first, the football. Soon after the beginning of November, the Cal football team had the prospect of closing out a so-far disappointing season in a respectable manner. 

Although the starting quarterback had been lost to injury, the Bears were returning home for a three game stretch after a win over Washington State that temporarily lifted the “Curse of the Palouse”, familiar to all long-time Cal fans.  

The final opponents were formidable—#1 Oregon, Top-10 Stanford, and middling Washington—but all the games were in Memorial Stadium where the team has had a golden winning record over the past several seasons. 

A single win out of the three games would make Cal bowl eligible and give them a 6-6 season. Two wins—especially if one of them were over Stanford in the Big Game—would mean a 7-5 final record, include a victory over a Top-10 ranked team, and take a lot of the sting out of earlier disappointments.  

And a win over #1 Oregon in particular would upset the national rankings and give Cal at least an enduring asterisk in college football annals. 

And winning three out of three, to end the season? It would be an almost fairy tale ending, with Cal finishing a solid 8-4, retaining the Axe, defeating two Top-10 teams (Oregon and Stanford) and definitively headed to a post season bowl and the chance of a 9 win season. 

Instead, November became a particularly bitter month. The Bears played unexpectedly close to Oregon but lost. Then a lackluster effort against Stanford—beginning with two Cal fumbles in their first three plays on offense—cost them the Axe and the chance for a winning season record. The loss ended their lengthy run of 50,000-plus spectator crowds at home.  

And a last second loss to Washington last Saturday before a hail-battered, crowd of under 45,000 on Thanksgiving weekend, made it 0-3 down the stretch in what San Francisco Chronicle writer John Crumpacker called “one ugly little football season.” 

The game was not only the end of the season but the last game at Memorial Stadium before the interior of the structure is gutted and rebuilt in a somewhat different configuration.  

Memorial, which opened in 1923 with a win over Stanford, was sent out with a discouraging defeat.  

There is one point of comparison between the 1923 opening game and the 2010 closer: Cal played Washington with a back and forth punting game in the first half that yielded only three points—a literally last second field goal by Cal—between the two squads after thirty minutes of play.  

Andy Smith, Cal’s legendary coach of the late ‘teens and early 1920s might have recognized the style of play. He disdained offensive theatrics, preferring instead to punt for position until the opponent made a mistake or broke under pressure.  

Unlike Smith’s “Wonder Teams”, however—the teams that generated the enthusiasm and money to build mammoth Memorial Stadium—the Bears didn’t win this year. 

Their 2010 performance also left questions in coaching.  

Cal’s Jeff Tedford has had a notable run to date. He started at Cal in 2002, after the team had its worst season in history and had finished 1-10. His first team went 7-5. His second team, 2003, went to the first of seven bowl games and finished 8-6. In his fourth season, 2006, the Bears won a share of the Pac-10 title for the first time since the 1970s (but, alas, not a Rose Bowl appearance).  

He’s had eight winning seasons in a row and has a 72-42 overall record at Cal, one season finish (2004) in the national Top-10, and—always a major factor for Cal fans—a 7-2-1 Big Game record against Stanford. 

Only two other coaches in Cal history have had a better long-term record, Andy Smith from 1916 to 1925, and Lynn “Pappy” Waldorf from 1947 to 1956.  

Smith also had eight consecutive winning seasons—1918 to 1925—and turned the Golden Bears into a powerhouse never seen before or since. His overall record was 74-16-7, and his teams won five conference titles and went to the Rose Bowl twice.  

At their best, they were literally unstoppable. In 1920 they scored 510 points over the season and gave up only 14, and were national champions. That year they even caused St. Mary’s—often a stalwart Bay Area football power—to give up football after a 127-0 defeat.  

A quarter century later Waldorf coached for ten seasons, and was 3-7 in his last, before he retired. His best run was six consecutive winning seasons from 1947 to 1952 before two tied, and two losing, years. He took Cal to three Rose Bowls. 

Tedford is now indisputably in the same league with Smith and Waldorf, although both a national championship (the Grail of any college football coach) and a Rose Bowl appearance (Nirvana for all Cal fans) have eluded him. But whether he will be able to sustain his run and make himself a singular success among Cal coaches remains to be seen. 

Can the program and institution sustain highly successful football for more than seven or eight seasons at a time, without long stretches of frustration and mediocrity in-between? “No”, if we use the 20^th century as a guide. “Maybe” (I’m quite skeptical) in the 21^st. 

The Bears will play “home” games in San Francisco in 2011, and are scheduled to return to an upgraded Memorial, with a smaller seating capacity, for the 2012 season.  

Before that return the expansive but awkwardly named “Student Athlete High Performance Center”, well under way outside the west wall, will be completed and occupied by coaching and training quarters for several sports, including football. 

In recognition of the last game before renovation, there were low-key commemorative moments interspersed through the game, with some of the history of Memorial related over the public address system and on the video screen by the south scoreboard.  

After the game, as the majority of Cal fans scattered and Washington fans cheered their players in the end zone, Chancellor Robert Birgeneau and Athletic Director Sandy Barbour made brief remarks to those remaining. 

Birgeneau read a speech in which he referred obliquely to the long running Stadium tree-sit confrontation. “We encountered some unexpected opposition, some legal and some colorful as only Berkeley can produce.” 

“This has been a long time coming, but the day is finally here”, Barbour said. “As a campus we have been dreaming about this moment for more than 20 years.” 

After the short ceremony, the crowd dwindled to a few hundred who watched the Cal Band and an enthusiastic rump contingent of the Washington Band alternate vigorous numbers facing the west bleachers.  

The Cal Band had played the Lady Ga Ga hit, “Bad Romance”, earlier in the game; the Washington Band reciprocated after, while groups of musicians from both bands set down their instruments to dance. 

Seagulls settled into the stands to pick through the rubbish, and some Cal fans tried out a sample section of seats from the new Stadium. 

A heavy security presence—both uniformed officers and rent-a-guards in yellow windbreakers—was somewhat inexplicably maintained around the perimeter of the field, guards glowering up at the few remaining spectators. I had been told that fans would be invited to come down to the field for a last visit after the last game, but that was not to be. 

Finally, as the bands wound down, after an afternoon of chilly rain showers, brief sun, and hail, the westering sun came out and glowed gold on both the yellow metal seats of the east bleachers where a big blue “C” is painted on the student rooting section and tree-softened but still scarred Charter Hill which was partially carved away in the 1922-23 construction of the Stadium.  

A few diehard “Tightwad Hill” spectators stood high on the damp slope amidst the pines until well after the game ended, perhaps remembering the best moments of past games viewed for free. 

I have my own short checklist of Memorial Stadium moments. I’ll leave the football highlights to others and, instead, note some of the non-athletic events that deserve to be remembered in association with Memorial Stadium. 

First, it has hosted speeches by two United States Presidents, Harry Truman and John F. Kennedy. (Should we hope for an Obama address there, too, someday?). Kennedy’s speech in 1963 at Charter Day was given to the largest crowd he ever addressed in person. 

Memorial was the scene of the first successful helicopter flight in the Western United States in the 1944s, as well as neighborhood-controversial concerts by Paul McCartney in the 1990s.  

Numerous Cal Commencement exercises were held there in the middle decades of the 20^th century, after the graduating classes grew too large for the Greek Theatre. A stage would typically be set up facing south, with graduates arrayed on the field, and family and friends behind them in the south end zone stands. 

Possibly the most unusual Memorial Stadium events were a memorial service in 1926, when the ashes of Andy Smith were scattered over the field from an airplane, and a 1940s extravaganza organized by the armed forces in which the playing field was turned into a Pacific Island and successfully assaulted in a mock battle before enthusiastically patriotic crowds.  

With Memorial Stadium under re-construction—estimated price tag, $321 million—2011 will mean a number of firsts for the Golden Bears and their hometown. 

For the first time in more than a century—since the 1890s—a year will pass with no intercollegiate football games played in Berkeley (I count as football the small number of rugby seasons in that period). 

By the same token, Cal will spend its first season ever playing all of its games “away”—including San Francisco’s AT & T Park in that definition. 

For the community, there will be no “football Saturdays” when tens of thousands of fans will trek into town looking for scarce parking, and pre-and-post game drinking and dining.  

This will undoubtedly be a relief to those who regularly leave town on football Saturdays, kvetch about traffic, or buy earplugs to keep out the Stadium roar. 

However, these five or six Saturday a year events may collectively bring to Berkeley more visitors than come for any other event or reason. They fill up local hotels, pubs, eateries, and pay parking lots. 

The temporary loss of this seasonal largess has already caused some consternation among downtown businesses. A recent article on the Berkeleyside blog mentioned some ideas the Downtown Berkeley Association is considering, including setting up big screens to try to attract smaller game day crowds of local spectators who can’t get seats at, or don’t want to travel to, AT & T Park for the season. 

We will also see whether the perpetual City complaints about Cal athletic events costing the municipality money hold water. The City should canvass its parking ticket and traffic fine revenues from home game days this year, as well as extra enforcement costs and sales tax revenues (if that’s possible). 

Then compare them, this time next year, to revenues and costs on the “home” game days when Cal is playing in San Francisco. 

Beyond that, I have a few suggestions for the City and local business organizations to consider in what can be an introspective year before Cal home football games return in 2012. 

First, can’t the City of Berkeley provide just a tiny fig leaf of welcome to all those visitors? 

How are they presently greeted? The City installs temporary flashing signs on trailers along the major streets heading to campus, including College, Telegraph and University. 

Thus, for many, their first experience of Berkeley is a big blinking board. “Football Game Days. Traffic Fines Doubled.” 

Absurd. Couldn’t that be composed with a bit of sensitivity? Perhaps, “Welcome to Berkeley. Drive Safely. Park Legally. Thank You.”  

Second, merchant groups would do themselves a favor by providing some coherent welcome to town. 

Before the Oregon game I was downtown, having lunch. I watched numerous groups of green and mustard clad visitors emerge from the BART Station and look around, then wander, in some confusion trying to figure out the way to the stadium, or what restaurants offered their favorite type of food before heading off to the game. 

Many looked quite bewildered. Our downtown is relatively small, but it can still be disorienting for the first time, especially if, like many Pac-10 fans, you’re used to driving up to your stadium and parking in open acres immediately surrounding it. 

One thing the Downtown Berkeley Association should do for every home game in the future is staff a temporary visitor kiosk in the BART plaza distributing hellos, good cheer, and practical information, maps, coupons.  

Where to find a good pizza joint? A gourmet meal? A kid-friendly restaurant? Cheap eats? Some entertainment after the game? A public bathroom? How to head to the Stadium? Where to stay in town if they come again? What Berkeley sights might they want to come back and see?  

I’d even like to see greeters downtown singling out fans in the opponent’s colors and approaching them to say, “Welcome to Berkeley, Thank you for visiting.” 

The Telegraph Business Improvement District could follow suit with some welcome points along Telegraph and College Avenue. 

Let’s actually try and tell all those thousands of people who form a captive visitor audience each year something about Berkeley beyond the fact that we increase parking and traffic fines when they’re in town. 

Berkeley has two years to get ready. 

The Alameda County Coroner’s office has confirmed rumors that a young man fell to his death from the KPFA antenna tower at 4 a.m. on the morning of Thanksgiving day. The office identified him as Steven Tassell, 25, of Antioch.  

KPFA Chief Engineer Michael Yoshida told the Planet that the victim’s body was discovered by Steve Hawes from the station’s technical staff on Thursday morning. Tassell had fallen from the 300 foot antenna tower located on Grizzly Peak in the Oakland hills though the roof of the repair shop in the transmitter building below.  

Yoshida said that the coroner’s office personnel on the scene estimated that Tassell fell about 200 feet. Based on a text message the victim sent from a cell phone, time of death was estimated to be about 4:30 a.m.  

There has been speculation that some kind of sabotage effort might have been involved, but this has not been confirmed. Yoshida said that he thought that deliberate sabotage was unlikely to have been the reason the victim climbed the tower, because he had no tools or climbing equipment with him.  

KPFA has been on the air as usual since the accident since it did not affect the station’s transmission equipment. Pacifica executive director Arlene Engelhardt and KPFA’s acting general manager Ahmad Anderson could not be reached for comment. Oakland police officials had a mandatory day off on Monday. so they also had no comment. 

Once you take crazy off the table, you'll find it hard to understand the tree-sitter encamped in the branches of a 40- foot tall Redwood in near-freezing People's Park. 

He went up in the air before the November 2 city elections, protesting District 7 candidate George Beier's plans to "change" the park. 

But even though Beier lost to Kris Worthington, Matt stayed up, widening his protest. 

The wider protest echoed complaints by park regulars. The complaints allege the university has damaged the parks’ shrubs and trees and confiscated backpacks. Beginning construction of a new student dorm across from the park at Haste is seen as an attempt by the university to smother the park, and eventually occupy it. 

The university says it's only doing necessary plant maintenance. Confiscation of backpacks stems from park rules limiting possessions brought into the park. Seemingly abandoned packs are stored.  

So what keeps the tree- sitter perched? He's beginning his second month of what seems to be a personal commitment that has landed him in near-freezing tree branches in one of the coldest winters on record. 

Tree sitter Midnight Matt, 53, was 10 years old in 1967, the beginnings of park turmoil. But he feels the oppressive boot of the university as if he were manning the barricades back in the day. 

Few have rallied to his cause. Few are supporting. Except for the Planet, media is mute. 

People's Park's own history may be the sit’s true supporter. That history tells the story of protesters planting flowers, and later other plants, only to have the university remove them overnight. 

Yet, if you walk the outer boundaries of the park today, you will find abundant, even impressive, tress and shrubs, in the east and west sections. A majestic palm tree, symbol of peace and vacations, spreads its protective peduncles over the nearby park restrooms.  

But Midnight Matt sees the university poised for a takeover. If this seems far-fetched, consider that the park, 2.8 acres of moola, squats on one of the most valuable undeveloped tracts left in Berkeley. 

The park site and maintenance could easily be seen as a financial burden on U.C. with its incredibly shrinking budget. 

If the park property became dorms, for instance, the money might flow in, not out. 

In the current impasse, while the university woulda coulda shoulda develop the park site, they are constantly caught in a dilemma: grab the park, risking expensive police intervention, injuries to students and locals—bad publicity. 

Or let it be. 

You'd think let it be would be acceptable to protesters.  

Still Matt, living in a tree while not seeing the forest, continues to see the park's continued existence as threatened, the encroachments to trees and shrubs as harbingers. The new dorm in his bedroom, intimidates; when construction gets underway the noise will gall. 

And, as he freely admits, he likes to "stick it" to the university. 

Ted Friedman has lived a hop skip and a jump from People's Park for 30 years. 

Lately, the park has turned into his habit. This is his third piece on it.

Shopping in a local Berkeley toy story yesterday, I came across three options that are uniquely suited for this holiday season. (Note: I'm not making these up. Photographs are attached as evidence.) 

(1) For your friends in the Tea Party Movement: "The Angry Mob Playset." 

(2) For your friends who are still dancing to Michael Jackson's "Thriller." "The Glow-in-he-Dark, Flesh-eating Zombies Playset." 

(3) For your Democrat friends who feel the president is (a) failing to stand up to the GOP or (b) inexplicably pushing Bush-era financial and foreign-policy programs that you find hard to swallow: "The Barack Obama Acton Figure We Can Believe In." Note the caveat on the toy: "Warning: Choking Hazard. Small Parts." (There is even a "Do It Yourself" version for your GOP buddies who want to paint the Prez as a foreign-born Muslim.)

Whatever will become of KPFA? On the one hand, I feel a moral responsibility to form an opinion on the latest uproar, and yet I haven’t been able to bear to listen to the station much at all for many years now, so what do I know?

I know a number of seemingly intelligent and politically savvy people on each “side” of the on-going controversy, and when I’m talking to any of these people I’m inclined to “believe” what I’m being told at the moment. I know a lot more people with various shades of politics who roll their eyes when KPFA is mentioned and say “I can’t listen to it”, though various family and friends still tune into specific programs that they like and trust.

Many of these, in all categories, still adore Amy Goodman, whose main Bay Area outlet is KPFA, though she’s on NPR-type stations elsewhere. Many of them have been looking to the Planet for guidance about which faction is “right”. But it’s not an easy call. 

Let’s start the discussion with first principles. Radio, opinionated radio, has become the most powerful source of what used to be known as news, though these days everyone from KPFA to Rush Limbaugh mixes a dominant percentage of conclusions into their supposedly objective reporting. Most non-profit stations that carry the national NPR offerings try to seem more impartial, but they don’t feature Tea Party commentators on a regular basis. An important characteristic of radio today is that listeners are invited to share their information on-air, or more likely their misinformation. 

Radio is the most accessible and least expensive way for the motivated consumer of news to stay up to date. On-line news requires a fairly costly equipment purchase and regular internet fees, while a $4.99 radio from Walgreens can pick up several stations for free. 

Television doesn’t work for commuters, either in the car or on public transit. Most jobs won’t let you watch anything on a screen while you’re working, but radio can be just an inconspicuous button in your ear. 

Print newspapers are fading fast. As print papers fall by the wayside, not very many of their readers seem to be comfortable shifting online—they’re much more like to increase their radio listening in an effort to keep informed. Podcasts are touted, but the attraction of on-air radio is that it’s free, immediate and ever-changing, often surprising. 

The last time KPFA was in crisis we assigned a paid staff reporter to cover the brouhaha, even though we were pretty sure she had a dog in the race—and in fact she later went on to work for KPFA news. This time we don’t have the staff, so we’ve opted just to open our opinion section for everyone and anyone to air their views. 

Over the last 8 or so years we’ve published several hundred pieces which mentioned “KPFA”, the majority of them in the opinion section. And the more I read these offerings, the more confused I get. 

Random conclusions: the graph in today’s opinion section seems to prove that over the past ten years KPFA fundraising has been approximately level, up a bit, then down again. Contributions paid from local coffers to the national Pacifica foundation show a similar curve. Staff salaries, on the other hand, went up and stayed up. Clearly, that budget isn’t sustainable, but what’s a remedy that doesn’t throw the baby out with the bath water? 

Questions about appropriate and high-quality programming are frequently confounded with budgetary theories. I’ve known far too many poorly educated Professional Journalists to conclude automatically that their paid work is “better” on any of several dimensions than that of smart well-informed amateurs. 

Case in point: non-profit KUSP in Santa Cruz, where I often visit, has had for many years the services of ace environmental attorney and former county supervisor Gary Patton, who has delivered a succinct “Land Use Report” highlighting crucial environmental controversies in perpetually threatened Santa Cruz County each week. Recently station personnel, reportedly yielding to pressure from wanna-be developers included UC Santa Cruz, wanted to replace him with their own non-expert staff of semi-pro newsies who lack his experience and expertise. Public outcry has made them reconsider this ill-advised move. 

But all volunteers are not experts, and at a minimum they need good, well-coordinated management to make the best use of their services. And volunteers can be risky. 

KPFA already devotes far too much of its valuable air time to paranoid airheads who will work for free to promote their crackpot cause, whatever it might be. On rare occasions in the car I turn on KPFA at random when KQED and KALW are both boring. All too often what’s on is junk science, most of the time dreadful and even dangerous junk science. Many of these shows put one in mind of the recently revived aphorism variously attributed, most often to Daniel Patrick Moynihan: “You’re entitled to your own opinion, but not to your own facts.” 

A current example: we got this in a press release on Tuesday from SaveKPFA.org, the group challenging the Pacifica Foundation management: 

“Over 50 people will gather at the office of Pacifica Director, Arlene Englehardt, to protest the fact that AIDS-denialist and vitamin entrepreneur Gary Null has just been given the 12pm-1pm time slot at Pacifica's New York station WBAI. Null still believes that HIV does not cause AIDS--a sort of dead issue in the Bay Area, but alive and well at the Pacifica Foundation. Pacifica has plans to syndicate the Null show to all sister stations. Cash-strapped Pacifica is basically selling the time slot to Null and his multi-millionaire friend, Steve Brown. See: www.whoisstevebrown.info.”

But...a look at the SaveKPFA.org website reveals that among its most prominent local endorsers are Berkeley Mayor Tom Bates and the various Old Lefties in his cabal, who have recently disgraced themselves by their unsuccessful attempt to knock off independent progressive Berkeley Councilmembers Worthington and Arreguin. No particular reason to trust these folks or their motives, though many respectable Progs are also endorsers of SaveKPFA. 

Their opposite numbers, however, don’t inspire confidence either. The Planet learned through back channels that a hapless climber had fallen to his death from the KPFA antenna tower on Thanksgiving morning. Our caller hypothesized that it was a sabotage attempt, and that it was being hushed up by Pacifica Foundation executive director Arlene Englehardt. 

We called her, repeatedly. We left messages on both her landline and her cell. Nothing. We left messages for KPFA acting manager Ahmad Anderson. Nada. 

Finally we got in touch with the Alameda County coroner, who confirmed that someone had indeed died, and finally with an engineer on the KPFA technical staff who told us what he knew, enough to go with the story. For what it’s worth, he didn’t think sabotage was involved. And engineers are usually a trustworthy lot. 

But what’s up with someone in Englehardt’s position not returning calls from the press in this kind of touchy situation? Not only from the Planet but from BANG and others? How foolish is that? And as of Monday morning KPFA news hadn’t even gotten the name of the victim. 

It’s just as dumb as starting a layoff process which is bound to be unpleasant with axing the most visible staffers in the whole outfit, the voices of the Morning Show. Sure to make a lot of people mad, isn’t it? And also, evidently, doing away with the receptionists who used to answer the phone at both KPFA and Pacifica, so that in-bound callers get only voice mail. What if there’s breaking news? 

To an outsider, the bottom line seems to be that there are two simple contending fact patterns: (1) KPFA is spending some form of “too much” on professional staff, and it can’t go on this way, but (2) the solution is not to turn the whole operation over to mindless volunteers to ride their own hobby-horses. 

Would mediation work? Would it even be tried? As the man said, why can’t we all just get along? Stay tuned, if you can stand it.

Dan O'Neill

Joseph Young

It is High Time to Repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell; Don't Ask;
Silence of the Press: US media turns blind eye to RT crew arrest;
Black Friday; Black Friday; Nuclear Madness 

It is High Time to Repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell 

n civilan life it is an accepted fact today that anyone can change his/her sexual orientation at any time.. Let us then move on and do the same in military life. Let us put an end to the policy "Don't Ask, Don't Tell.. It is, in fact, a question of justice to let all people enter the armed forces out of his/her patriotic desire to serve our country. . If the Pentagon study has set the foundation for the repeal of DADT and highly recommends it,then congress should swiftly move ahead to repeal it. If more than 70% of the American people support the repeal, Congress should indeed listen to the majority voice of the Nation and act accordingly. 

Barbara Leconte  

* * * 

Don't Ask 

Congress needs to repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell now. In years ahead most people will look back on this policy and wonder what all the fuss was about in the same way most people look back on racial segregation in the military. Recent polls show the majority of active service members and 70% of the general public support repeal. There is no longer any excuse for this shameful discrimination. America is supposed to be a civilized, first world country. Let's put our words into action and offer all Americans the opportunity to serve their country without the need to hide our basic identity. Now. 

Robert Kelly-Thomas  

* * * 

Silence of the Press: US media turns blind eye to RT crew arrest 

What does the New York Times have to say about this?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XwES7DwiYY&feature=player_embedded


Jonah Minkoff-Zern
J.D Candidate, 2011
Golden Gate Law School 

* * * 

Black Friday 

If I hear "Black Friday" mentioned one more time, I swear to the Almighty that I will regurgitate -- or to put it more bluntly, throw up! I am really curious to know which high-powered advertising agency came up with that unlikely and totally inappropriate metaphor. In my opinion, they should all be lined up before a firing squad! 

Granted that retailers are anxious to boost their sales in this slow buying season, why in heaven's name use the word "Black", which for most of us has a somber, funereal ring to it? I must confess that I'm utterly repelled by television images of shoppers camping out all night in freezing weather, waiting for stores to open at 4 a.m. Pity the poor sales people starting their day at that unholy hour! Then, once the doors opened, there was a rush of people, much like Cox's Army, storming the stores and filing their carts with expensive merchandise they probably don't need and certainly can't afford.< 

No, my friends, this was not "Black Friday." Let's call it for what it was -- "Greedy Friday!"

Dorothy Snodgrass 

* * * 

Black Friday 

And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see.And I beheld, and to a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny; and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine (Revelation 6:5-6 KJV.).

This black horse’s rider with the pair of balances in his hand symbolizes the rich capitalists who have a major impact on world conditions through their manipulation of national economies. Only one other verse in the Bible pictures a man with balances or scales: The merchant uses dishonest scales; he loves to defraud (Hosea 12:7 NIV).

Another prophet, Amos, also said the merchants the wealthy capitalists of his day who were robbing the poor instead of helping them set forth wheat, making the ephah [unit of measure] small, and the shekel [price] great and falsifying the balances by deceit. 

Ted Rudow III,MA 

* * *  

Nuclear Madness 

One "lone wolf" Republican senator is holding the planet and its 6
billion people hostage.
One senator, "point man" for the Republicans, is putting the country andits national security at risk.
One Republican from Arizona, Jon Kyle, is blocking the NEW START pact,
nuclear reduction treaty, from being ratified in the Senate.
One Republican senator is keeping the world on edge, from being a safer
place, because Russian nukes are no longer being verified.
One Republican senator, by blocking the NEW START treaty, is allowing
"loose nukes" in Russia to remain untethered.
This is a crazy upside-down world where one rogue politician can put
billions at risk because of, "Lord only knows why."

Ron Lowe  

* * * 

I 

As a librarian recently retired from the Berkeley Public Library, I want to respond to Peter Warfield's recent commentary in the Planet on the lawsuit against the Library’s plans to replace South and West branches with new buildings rather than renovating and expanding the existing structures. 

Warfield attributes the lawsuit to a group called Concerned Library Users (CLU), which is actually just another manifestation of the Library Users Association, Warfield's pocket organization that has opposed the introduction of new circulation technology and construction of new library buildings first in San Francisco and now Berkeley. As a San Francisco resident, however, Warfield has no standing to litigate his claim that demolition and replacement of South and West branches is not a legitimate use of funds from Measure FF. 

The CLU lawsuit contends that Measure FF provided only for renovation and expansion, not replacement of library branches. The technical and legal merits of this will be settled in court. What I do know is that the architects and engineers hired to evaluate both branches, working with interested community participants, found that constructing new structures would be far more cost-effective than renovating and expanding the existing buildings. 

This wasn’t an arbitrary decision by library management or the Board of Library Trustees (BOLT), but the result of a year-long public process that considered both alternatives. Since I live two blocks from South Branch (and occasionally work there as a substitute librarian), I participated in the public workshops pertaining to South Branch. Most participants were concerned with the basic issue of how a limited budget could be used to achieve the most safe and efficient building to deliver library services. 

Warfield and a couple of his allies attended the first workshop and denounced the library for even considering a major addition to the existing South Branch, let alone replacing it. The rest of us stuck around and learned about the problems with the existing 1961-vintage building: • South Branch is built of concrete cinder blocks that do not contain rebar; it is unsafe in the event of a major earthquake. • South Branch is built on a concrete slab that doesn't allow underfloor wiring and that floods on one side of the building every time there’s a major rainstorm. • South Branch’s roof is not connected to the building structure. 

Despite these problems with the existing structure, the architects from Field-Paoli did preliminary designs to retrofit South and add a second story. What they and participants in the public workshops found was that working with the existing structure did not lead to nearly as high-quality and cost-effective a result as designing a completely new South Branch library. When this became apparent, the Library Board voted to build a new South Branch. 

Unlike South Branch, West Branch had been designated a "Structure of Merit" by the City. The designation, however, concerned an original building that had subsequently undergone extensive changes in the 1970s. The West Branch community found that preserving what remained of the original structure just wasn’t worth it when compared to the value of building a new, expanded library on the site. 

The Board of Library Trustees is to be commended for recognizing that the relatively low-income populations of South and West Berkeley are not adequately served by the existing branches. After considering alternatives, they found that new structures provided the best and most cost-effective way of delivering the exemplary library services that every Berkeley resident deserves. Warfield and his allies misguidedly believe that saving existing inefficient, unsafe buildings should always take precedence over library services needed by the public. 

It isn’t like the library management prefers to destroy old buildings: it enthusiastically renovated and expanded the Central Library and is planning to renovate and modestly expand the North and Claremont branches. (Note, however, that Warfield and his friends do not even accept those renovations and have appealed them to the City Council!) What the Library, and the Library Board, and the communities of both branches do prefer are safe, accessible, efficient, affordable, attractive branch libraries that can effectively serve their communities well into the twenty-first century. 

Most Berkeleyans respect that goal and want the BOLT and the Berkeley City Council to fight the CLU lawsuit, prevail over it, and build the new library branches.

There is currently an ongoing crisis at KPFA. The KPFA union on their website, KPFAworker.org, portrays the crisis as one of union busting political purges by top heavy bureaucratic Pacifica. However, the real problem is the KPFA finances over the past ten years. 

• [KPFAworker says] PUT RADIO FIRST. Pacifica’s budgets should cut bureaucratic overhead, not programs KPFA’s listeners count on. 

[A Response] Pacifica Central Services pays for Democracy Now! and other national programming. KPFA pays Pacifica Central Services a fixed percentage of the KPFA Listener Support. Two years ago Pacifica laid off most of its staff when the Listener Support across the network started to decline. (See attached Graph). 

• [KPFAworker says] LOCAL CONTROL. Stop sidelining KPFA’s elected Local Station Board and local management in the budget drafting process. 

[A Response] KPFA is not a stand-alone nonprofit and its Local Station Board is a standing committee of the Pacifica Foundation. The Pacifica Foundation is the nonprofit entity which holds the licenses of all five stations including KPFA and is responsible for all the stations to be in compliance with nonprofit law which requires the nonprofit organization to be in control of its assets. The "Sustainable Budget" that was passed by the KPFA Local Station Board in October 2010 was like a Band-Aid for a bullet wound. The Pacifica National Board did not approve KPFA's "Sustainable Budget" because the only sustainable budget is one where the expenses are in line with real income. (See attached Graph). 

• [KPFAworker says] NO POLITICAL PURGES. Three Pacifica board members drew up a name-by-name list of workers to fire that targeted those who didn’t endorse their election slate – they have no business interfering in KPFA’s union contract. 

[A Response] A story has been circulated repeatedly that a 'mis-directed email' disclosed a 'hit list' drawn up by three of the KPFA Pacifica National Board members to purge their political opponents.  

There was NO 'mis-directed email' and there was NO 'hit list'.  

It is understandable but unfortunate that so many people believe this fabricated story, but it is more troubling that some are willing to put the station at further financial risk by spreading disinformation to inflame and divide the KPFA community. 

Layoffs are always difficult. The only fair and equitable way to carry out the layoffs was to follow the union contract and base it on seniority within skill sets. In the end two workers were laid off. 

• [KPFAworker says] PRESERVE LOCAL PROGRAMMING. Stop all attempts to replace community-driven programs with syndicated content. 

[A Response] The current syndicated program is only an interim measure. The Pacifica Executive Director has said that the Morning Show will be returned as a locally produced show. 

How You Can Help  

You can help KPFA get through these hard times by doubling your contribution this year, and asking everyone you know to do the same. 

You can help by not getting caught up in the disinformation campaign that claims that the layoffs are union busting political purges. 

Pacifica's Executive Director Arlene Englehardt is responsible for the whole Network and this includes wresting KPFA from its previous uncontrolled spending and bad management. 

We should thank the Executive Director Arlene Engelhardt and the Chief Financial Officer Lavarn Williams for tirelessly working to put KPFA and Pacifica back on a solid financial footing, and being so steadfast in face of unsubstantiated and baseless charges. 

We need to bridge the divide and all work together to not only strengthen the station so that it can continue as a healthy, vibrant fertile ground for information, inquiry, and engagement but also empower those who are in a position to provide the over 100 affiliated community stations across the country with the progressive programming that we so depend upon to be the informed citizens that are the hope of a decent society -- programs such as Democracy Now!, Free Speech Radio News, Letters To Washington, Flashpoints, Uprising, and many others that are produced at the various Pacifica stations. 

[We should all hear out both sides of this controversy. To hear another side, visit www.supportkpfa.org .]

Oakland’s Blight Ordinance was enacted during the administration of Mayor Elihu Harris. Most community activists supported it at the time, hoping some of the most glaring and intractable instances of blight could be corrected: vacant lots or front yards with dead cars and refrigerators, illegal dumping, empty and deteriorating buildings. But, as the cliché goes, be careful what you wish for. Your prized landscaping, important to you for screening, aesthetics, and habitat has also come to be, in unexpected ways, defined as blight. Because of the extraordinary powers of the City to collect heavy fines and fees on seemingly open-ended blight investigations and massive City deficits, the ordinance has been redefined.  

But most Oakland residents no doubt still assume the ordinance, enforced by the Community and Economic Development Agency’s (CEDA) Building Services Dept., is targeting major offenders. Most would also be unaware that a repeat offense within an arbitrary two year period results in a fine of over $1300. (Even a repeat violation for blocking street sweeping remains a bargain at $63. every time.) Standards are imposed so loosely that two different inspectors can have two radically different takes on the same problem. Until November we were in that privileged group. A California bungalow Alfred Crofts and I rented out for 10 years on a busy corridor fell under the plant blight purview. We had naively assumed the blight ordinance targeted, as its language stated: “...overgrown or dead or decayed trees, weeds or other vegetation, rank growth, dead organic matter, rubbish, junk, ...” The Portuguese family that lived there for decades had a garden and many specimen plants. We added plants of our own, to buffer the street and traffic noise, to act as a barrier against break-ins, screen for privacy, and make the place more attractive. We assumed the house and garden were an amenity and didn’t even complain that the existing street tree planted directly over the sewer line caused $13,000 in damages. We also pay steep business taxes and license fees on the rental. In May, a neighbor, objected to the plantings and contacted a City employee who forwarded an e-mail to a CEDA employee handling blight complaints. (We have not received a great deal of cooperation with our Public Records Act request. That scenario is what we told by a CEDA inspections supervisor--a CEDA employee is the named complainant.) The notice we received stated our “property exhibits the following violation(s): Overgrown vegetation, overgrowth obstructing public right of way.” We trimmed the offending blooms at the sidewalk, the inspector was courteous and thanked us for the prompt work. That, we thought, was that. We were not told that we had just been charged with a “first strike” with the “second strike” meaning huge penalties. Last month, we got a certified letter, citing us for the same violation(s), with again no further writtten explanation. Then a bill demanding $1249. in fees, due in less than a month. Another bill just arrived demanding $30 more just for “preparing prospective liens or preparing prospective releases.” Threatened in the letters is foreclosure and sale of the property. Appeals are possible, but the appeal(s) will cost an additional $113 each if lost. The second inspector on the case criticized the entire garden: plants touching balustrades, plants in front of windows or doors obstructing “light and ventilation.” Sidewalks had to be totally clear “edge to edge,” curb to edge of sidewalk on “our side” and straight up 6 feet, 8 inches. No branches touching roof. No plants growing between cracks in concrete. No unraked leaves. The steep fines were a good motivator to research the ordinance and other relevant standards, if for no other reason than to make sure we would avoid such penalties in the future. This is where we learned how much ambiguity and subjectivity were involved. After much time and energy spent on research and the frustrating public records search, this is what we know and what every home and apartment owner/renter with a garden in Oakland should watch out for:  

The Differing Right of Way Requirements  

The inspector in May wants 36” clearance on the sidewalk. Lee White, a CEDA employee handling “engineering design and right of away management, ” told us he prefers 48” but said ADA requirements, Title 24, California and City of Oakland building codes, etc. all had varying and overlapping requirements. “Point constrictions” can narrow right of way. The inspector on the site visit thought “42” or two people walking abreast” was “reasonable.” The latest inspector and his supervisor are applying the most rigorous interpretation (“property to face of curb”) of Oakland Municipal Code 12.04.070-” Grass and other obstructions. Every owner of real property in the city shall keep the entire sidewalk in front of such property, from curb to lot line, free and clear of all grass, weeds, rubbish, or other obstructions or materials which from any cause whatever shall have accumulated or may accumulate upon such sidewalk above the established grade of same.” Grass or leaves maybe, but does this include landscaping? The space between table and chairs and curb plantings at the Nomad Cafe on Shattuck are on average 21.” The fortnight lilies planted curbside at the Jane Brunner- sponsored new entrance to Bushrod Park overhang the sidewalk and constrict it to about 30.” Lines of customers and the ironing board “tables” outside Bake Sale Betty’s, on a busy day, may block passage. All blight? Using our newly sensitized eyes to “blight,”our recent dog walk near Frog Park in Rockridge was ruined when we saw blight from landscaping nearly everywhere!  

Contradiction Between Public/Private Responsibility  

The backlog for repairs to sidewalks broken by City street trees is decades-long. Those repairs that are made are concentrated on major corridors: the sidewalks on 51st, Telegraph to Broadway, are in their third incarnation. The sidewalk in front of our residence crumbled decades ago from the City’s street tree, as did the asphalt patch placed there as a “temporary” fix. Many passersby just walk by in the street, avoiding the sidewalk altogether. Reminded of our own near total lack of right of way, and one not caused by landscaping, Council aide Zack Wald sighed and said “someone was going to fall and collect tens of thousands of dollars from the City.”  

Complaint-Driven  

Calls to council offices revealed unhappiness with the ordinance, where one neighbor can impose community standards. One aide volunteered someone had maliciously reported numerous “violators.” The aide said the outcry wouldn’t be so strong if the fees weren’t so outrageous. Feedback from neighbors and community activists reveal a pattern of grudge complaints and inspectors conducting fishing expeditions with no end in sight and costly re-inspections. A realtor of our acquaintance routinely called in blight complaints about properties near houses he was about to list. An activist suggested blight complaints in the Hills over excessive vegetation may be more about obstructed views than blight. One also assumes a large percentage of complaints emanate from the Hills and more prosperous areas--a “code of silence” (fear of retaliation?) has existed in the flats where, paradoxically, more true blight exists. The excessively steep fees and fines, along with the vague and elastic interpretation available to inspectors, may encourage payoffs and noncompliance. One-person standards may trump community standards.  

“Two Oaklands”: Green Concrete or Green :  

The explicit message from CEDA is a reaffirmation of the safer course of concrete and cyclone fences, or as the Blight Ordinance brochure puts it: “Keep your yards neat and tidy...” On the other hand, landscaping is often calculated as 10 per cent of a home’s value, and neighborhoods like Rockridge are defined by lush plantings and trees--the “community standard”, maintained and underwritten often at considerable cost by the property owner but benefitting all. Narrow side yards and shallow front yards call out for screen plantings. Habitat supports vulnerable bees and birds, and trees soak up carbon. Deciduous trees shade in summer and let sunlight though when bare, saving energy. Councilmembers have embraced street trees and greening Oakland, but the rhetoric hasn’t kept pace with the City’s insatiable need for fees and fines, and a permanent, mostly faceless bureaucracy that makes and enforces its own rules. Why should the City mothers and fathers wonder why the voters have started voting down tax hikes in the secret sanctuary of the voting booth and buy cars and big appliances outside the City limits, perhaps feeling they’ve already paid the City enough “fees.”  

Prop 26:  

Voters recently passed this proposition, which redefines many regulatory fees as taxes, requiring a 2/3 vote of the legislature and voters. The blight ordinance is moneymaking, and employees handling complaints are on staff and salary, not private contractors hired on a case-by-case arrangement. We understand the City Attorney’s office is studying the proposition’s implications for Oakland--a call to that office by us on this issue was not returned. But--put this down and rush outside to rake: Oakland handles 22,000 blight complaints a year. Your number may be up next.

There seems to be a growing consensus about education reform in this country, at least a consensus about how we have a serious problem. Unfortunately, education is a complex affair, made up of many components. Many of the diverse small problems that make up the large one require leadership skills, buy-in from a diverse group of stakeholders and revised curriculums. There is, however, one area that isn't complex and would go a long way toward true reform, even though it would be hard to implement.

Tenure is a relic from long ago, perhaps a good idea 100 years ago, but a disaster now. Eliminate tenure and start improving education immediately. 

What is gained with tenure. Excellent teachers aren't going to lose their jobs, and hiring new teachers to replace higher paid older teachers wouldn't even be an issue if teachers were paid for how well they teach, not for how many years they sat in a chair in front of a class. 

In California we decided that we wouldn't even give our elected representatives a chance at tenure when we passed term limits. Do we really believe a group of people who sit around in eternal political gridlock are more deserving to be replace for poor performance than the people who make the difference between our children growing up to be successes or failures? And that is the issue, our children's futures. 

Does anyone really believe that teachers are interchangeable, like those fast food workers that one day wait the counter, the next day work the fries? Do teachers who pass out work sheets deserve the same pay as someone who is actively teaching and continually checking for understanding? What about the teachers who opt for fun activities and cultural enrichment rather than teaching students to read and compute? 

I have substituted in a number of classes over the years, and I can see a difference. In some classes, the teacher has provided a rich set of learning activities for the students, and the class understands the expectations. In classes like that, I've worked for my pay. I've babysat in other classes, with 1 hour, 45 minute blocks, where the assignment was a one page worksheet, something I could do in 20 minutes, the better students in 30 and the slackers in well under an hour. The rest of the interminably long block is spent chatting, texting, playing games on their phones or actually napping. These kids are bored, and it's no wonder many drop out, opting for a minimum wage job that at least give them a small monetary feedback. 

The teachers who will yell the loudest about this suggestion aren't the ones who would be retained and earn a higher wage. Rather it will be the people who, without tenure to protect them, would be out on the street, looking for another job. 

Eliminate poorly performing teachers, pay the good ones more money, hire support staff to do the non teaching, routine paper and phone work, and we will start turning out graduates ready to take on the demanding work of the 21st century. The alternative is stagnation. 

--Meade Fischer  

Meade, 

I appreciate many things you write and discuss, but I am sorry to see that you have joined the no-tenure crowd. You and I have been in education a long time, I as teacher and principal and you as a substitute teacher. When I retired my staff was mostly a cohesive and cooperative group, which had chosen a certain path to increase effectiveness in the classroom by continuing to look at successful strategies. 

For many years the workshops on reading by the California Reading and Literature Project had supported a major change in my school. Curriculum-oriented assessments (No, not the annual testing battery) gave teachers immediate feedback on each student's progress. Common planning time was often used by teachers to focus on particular results from those assessments. During my last year at the school, teachers worked with facilitators on LUCI math with good results. And, they had requested and were ready to embark on a year-long training and implementation of Step-Up-To-Writing. In other words, teachers actively participated and modeled for each other successful strategies. Unfortunately, when I left, the district had other plans and basically destroyed the collaborative efforts at the school and within a year or two many staff members had disappeared and moved to other schools or positions. 

No, it is not the tenured teachers that were the problem, not even the non-effective ones. There are too many administrators and legislators who think they know best. My experience says with leadership and commonly accepted and ongoing professional development, teachers DO know and choose the best. 

So, no I do not agree with you that removing tenure will immediately improve education, 

-- Mathilde Rand

Editor's Note: The latest issue of the Pepper Spray Times is now available. 

You can view it absolutely free of charge by clicking here . You can print it out to give to your friends. 

Grace Underpressure has been producing it for many years now, even before the Berkeley Daily Planet started distributing it, most of the time without being paid, and now we'd like you to show your appreciation by using the button below to send her money.  

This is a Very Good Deal. Go for it! 

December 1st was World AIDS Day, which brought back memories of the death of our only child Michael, who died of AIDS in November 1984, the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Michael was 19 and a senior at U.C. Santa Cruz. He would be 45 today. We received a call on Saturday morning from a physician at a Santa Cruz hospital, who said that Michael had been admitted to the hospital with a serious illness. The physician indicated that if we wanted to see our son alive, we had better rush down to Santa Cruz. 

He was indeed diagnosed with pneumocystis, a common AIDS-related illness. We remember the medical staffs' contagion hysteria: gowned and masked up. One of the nurses insisted that we get someone to give him last rites. We declined. Basically, the medical staff had written Michael off. And indeed, back in 1984, AIDS was a death sentence.  

Today, AIDS is a treatable, chronic illness with promising ongoing AIDS research. For example, last month, The New England Journal of Medicine published research showing that a daily dose of an oral antiretroviral drug taken by HIV-negative gay and bisexual men and transgender women reduced the risk of acquiring HIV infection by 43.8 percent. The data showed even higher levels of protection from infection, up to 73 percent, among those participants who adhered most closely to the daily drug regimen. 

Losing Michael was the hardest thing that we have had to face. Yet, his death did have a positive effect. We have grown closer. We have come to terms with our mortality, now realizing how fragile life is. Don't wait, do and say it now. We also saw Michael mature and saw his courage. Most importantly, we were there to provide love and support. We are grateful that we had a chance to talk before he died. We could have spent our whole lives having never said the things that were said to each other in the last few weeks before he died. 

From our own experience, we know that parents of a child suffering from a life-threatening illness face special problems. The death of a child is a devastating experience. It severely taxes a parent's adaptive capacities. A child's death is unexpected in our society because children are supposed to outlive their parents. When a parent dies you have lost your past. When your child dies you have lost your future. 

The plight of AIDS sufferers has improved greatly since 1984 as have lesbian, gay, bisexual , and transgender (LGBT) rights in general, but there is still much to be done. We do find some comfort in the successful federal district court challenge to Proposition 8 and hopefully, the demise of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy in the military.

There are lots of dangerous places in this world: Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Bolivia, Iran, Palestine, Yemen, and Somalia to name a few. But there is only one that could destabilize a goodly part of the globe and end up killing tens of millions of people. And yet for reasons of state that is the one place the Obama administration will not talk about: Kashmir. 

And yet this is a region that has sparked three wars between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan, is in the midst of serious political upheaval, and is central to reducing tensions in Central and South Asia. 

None of these facts come as a surprise to Obama. While running for office in 2008 he explicitly called for a solution to Kashmir. “It won’t be easy, but it is important,” he told Joe Klein of Time magazine. 

Given that India and Pakistan came within a hair’s breath of a full-scale nuclear confrontation during the 1999 Kargil incident, the importance seems obvious. 

According to a recent study in Scientific American—“Local Nuclear Wars and Global Suffering”—such an exchange would kill and maim untold millions, flood the surrounding region with nuclear fallout, and create a “nuclear winter” for part of the globe. 

Kashmir also fuels extremists in the region—both Hindu and Islamic—which in turn destabilizes Pakistan and Afghanistan. The conflict has killed between 50,000 and 80,000 people, “disappeared” several thousand others, seen thousands imprisoned and tortured, and subjected millions of Kashmiris to an onerous regime of occupation, with laws drawn straight from Britain’s colonial past. 

Why then would President Obama remain silent on the subject, particularly since the outlines of a solution have been in place since 2007? 

Commenting on Obama’s recent trip to Asia, Robert Kaplan, author of “Monsoon: The Indian Ocean and the Future of American Power,” says “In geopolitical terms, the President’s visit” was about “one challenge: the rise of China on land and sea.” 

Indeed, this past year has seen Washington hurl one missive after another at Beijing. The U.S. strongly backed Japan in its recent dust up with Chinese fishing vessels in the East China Sea. Washington also intervened between China and several Southeast Asian nations over tensions around the Spratly and Paracel islands. The U.S. and South Korea recently carried out naval maneuvers close to China’s shores, Washington announced new arms sales to Taiwan, and during the recent G20 meetings in Seoul, Obama tried to pin the blame for a global currency crisis on Beijing. 

While Washington denies it has any plans to “surround” China with U.S. allies, that seems to be exactly what it is doing when it courts Indonesia, tightens its alliance with Japan, and sets up new military bases in Australia. But the jewel in this anti-Chinese crown is India, and Washington will do whatever it takes to bring New Delhi on board. 

The Obama administration has already endorsed the Bush administration’s 1-2-3 Agreement that allows India to violate the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. Not only does the Agreement undermine one of world’s most important nuclear treaties, but, in a letter to the International Atomic Agency and the 45-member Nuclear Suppliers Group, Pakistan warned that the Agreement “threatens to increase the chances of a nuclear arms race in the sub-continent.” 

While in India, Obama announced it would end most “dual use” technology restrictions, allowing India to buy material that could end up enhancing its military. The U.S. also agreed to sell $5.8 billion in military transport planes to New Delhi. 

But of all these, the decision to avoid Kashmir may be the most dangerous and destabilizing. 

Tensions over Kashmir go back to 1947, when India and Pakistan first came into being. At the time, largely Muslim Kashmir was ruled by a Hindu prince, who decided to go with India even though, under the British formula for dividing the two countries, Kashmir should have become part of Pakistan. When Pakistan responded by infiltrating soldiers into Kashmir, it touched off a war that, to one degree or other, has gone on for 63 years. 

Today Kashmir is divided between the Northern Areas and Azad Kashmir held by Pakistan, and the Indian-controlled Kashmir and largely Hindu Jammu. A Line of Control divides the two areas. 

In 1989 Kashmiris staged a revolt, and Pakistan began infiltrating paramilitaries across the Line to attack Indian forces in Kashmir. That war dragged on until 2007, when Pakistan and India began secret backchannel negotiations toward achieving a settlement. The talks, however, were scuttled when military dictator-turned-president Pervez Musharraf lost power, and militant jihadis attacked Mumbai in 2009, killing 165 people. India charged that Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the Inter-Service Directorate was behind the attack. 

As difficult as the situation in Kashmir seems, according to journalist and writer Steve Coll, it is solvable and a failure to deal with it is dangerous. “The conflict has again and again spilled outside of Kashmir.” 

Coll is a former reporter and editor at the Washington Post, author of numerous books on the Middle East and Central Asia, and president of the New American Foundation. 

U.S. policy has been to keep Kashmir and Afghanistan as separate problems, but, Coll argues, “that policy is no longer consistent with the facts.” Muzamil Jaleel of the daily Indian Express agrees that the two countries “are linked so much now that India and Pakistan are fueling ethnic tension in Afghanistan.” 

The current unrest in Kashmir, which has claimed more than 100 lives, is very different from the previous war. It is largely a non-violent movement composed almost exclusively of local Kashmiris rather than fighters infiltrated from Pakistan. It also has a strong contingent of young people, whose tech-savvy skills have put Kashmir’s resistance on the Internet. A decade ago Indian troops could wall off Kashmir. Today, the whole world is watching. 

Coll contends the framework for a settlement is fairly straightforward. 

First, India would have to rein in its 500,000 troops and paramilitaries. At the same time, the draconian Special Powers Act—originally designed to crush opposition to British rule in Ireland and currently used by the Israelis in the Occupied Territories—would have to be shelved. The laws give virtual immunity to widespread human rights violations by the Indian authorities and allow imprisonment without charges. 

Second, the Line of Control would become an international border, but a porous one that allows free passage for Kashmiris. 

Third, the residents of Kashmir and Jammu would be given a certain amount of local autonomy. 

In the long run, the people of Kashmir ought to be able to hold a referendum about their future. The UN originally proposed such an undertaking, but first Pakistan and then India scotched it, fearful that residents might vote to join one or the other country. In fact, most residents would likely vote for independence. 

An autonomous or even independent Kashmir is not only in the interests of the 10 million or so people that inhabit one of the most beautiful—and tragic—areas of the world, it would help defuse terrorism in Pakistan and India. To sacrifice that for what can only be a temporary alliance against an emerging China is profoundly short sighted. 

Washington’s silence is no longer a viable option. “We are not asking the Americans to take a position against India and for Kashmir. We are just saying that there is a general recognition that India and Pakistan need to be pushed in terms of a dialogue,” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the spiritual leader of Kashmir’s separatists, told the Financial Times. 

Others warn that Indian repression of the current non-violent movement might drive it to take up arms. “The status quo is not digestible for Kashmiris,” Sheikh Showkat Hussan, a Kashmir law professor, told the Financial Times. 

Today, Kashmir is a vale of tears, a place capable of sparking off a nuclear war that would affect everyone on the globe. It need not be so. 

More of Conn Hallinan's work can be found at dispatchesfromtheedgeblog.wordpress.com 

Since the midterm elections, there’s been speculation that the Democrats’ shellacking, coupled with the rightward shift of the Republican Party, would force President Obama to “move to the middle.” That’s a terrible idea! There’s no longer a halfway point between Democrats and Republicans and any further Obama movement to the right would label him a wimp. 

Discussion about the mythical political middle ground confuses political affiliation, ideology, and “personality.” Pundits jumble being in the “middle” with being a political “moderate” or “independent.” In the 2008 election polls, 39 percent of respondents declared themselves Democrats, 32 percent said they were Republicans, and 29 percent opted for the Independent label. However, classifying yourself as Independent isn’t the same as standing in the political middle. Independent is a designation that reflects the fact that many voters don’t like either the Republican or the Democratic Parties. 

The mythical middle is often seen as a point halfway between ideological extremes, with Republican conservatives on the right and Democratic liberals on the left. That’s the theory, but for there to be an effective middle ground someone has to define it and both Republicans and Democrats need to occupy it. We last saw this at the beginning of the 111th Congress when three Republican Senators joined with all Democrats to pass the Economic stimulus bill. Since that time, Republicans have shown no inclination to compromise with Dems; rather than move to middle ground they’ve moved dogmatically to the right. Washington Post columnists David Broder recently observed, “statistically speaking, the center has already disappeared… there is no overlap between the most liberal Republican in the House and the most conservative Democrat when it comes to roll-call votes.” 

The reason there is no overlap is because on the important issues there is no middle ground. Jobs: Republicans don’t believe that government can create jobs; they believe the solution lies in the “free market” stimulated by lower taxes and fewer regulations. Healthcare: Republicans want to repeal the reform passed by the last Congress. Global Climate Change: Republicans don’t believe it stems from human activity; they won’t support passage of the Cap and Trade legislation almost enacted in the last Congress. Immigration: Republicans don’t believe providing in a path to earned citizenship; they want millions of people in the US without proper papers to be shipped back to their country of origin. Abortion: Republicans want to outlaw it and ensure public monies are not used for the procedure. And on and on. Republicans and Democrats are miles apart. 

The final reason there is no middle ground is that the two Parties have vastly different personalities. When George Bush ran for President against John Kerry, a pundit quipped that Americans were forced to choose between Attila the Hun and Neville Chamberlain. In recent years, the generic Republican personality has been strong and that of the Democrats weak. 

When I was growing up, I often saw an advertisement for the Charles Atlas treatment: “Hey Skinny, yer ribs are showing!” The ad tells the tale of three characters at the beach: an attractive girl, a painfully skinny guy, and a hulking bully. The bully taunts Skinny, kicks sand in his face, and gets his girl. But Mr. Skinny doesn’t give up; he uses the Atlas treatment, builds up his muscles, returns to the beach, punches out the bully, and wins back his girl. 

The Charles Atlas ad explains the current status of American politics where Democrats take the role of skinny guy, Republicans the burly bully, and average voters the attractive girl in the bikini. After 2008, voters hung out at the beach with skinny Democrats, but in 2010 were taken by tough-acting conservative Republicans. “Real men” prevailed. 

In the mid-term elections manhood was a not-so-subtle theme: during the Nevada Senatorial debate, Republican Sharon Angle told Democrat Harry Reid to “man up.” An oft-repeated joke was: “How do you tell the difference between Sarah Palin and Barack Obama?” Answer: “She’s the one with the balls.” Voters decided that Republicans were real men and Democrats were not. 

The Charles Atlas ad poses an important existential and political question: “Why does the girl go off with the bully?” The answer is: “Because girls prefer strong men to wimps. Even if the strong men are abusive.” In times of crisis, voters prefer politicians who appear strong – even if they ruin the economy. 

Given this political reality, the answer to the Democrat’s identity crisis isn’t “moving to the middle.” That would make President Obama, and Dems in general, look more like wimps. 

You don’t need to a brute to be real man. But sometimes you need to defend yourself and your loved ones. Obama needs to stand up to bullying Republicans. 

Bob Burnett is a Berkeley writer. He can be reached at bobburnett@comcast.net

Last week’s column on hybrid birds requires a correction. I wrote that some years ago an American avocet mated with a black-necked stilt at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, producing a hybrid offspring which was nicknamed “avostilt.” Wrong. According to the Aquarium’s Ken Peterson, the event did not happen there. “Our birds rarely breed, and when they do they breed true,” writes Peterson. 

Back to Google. The misalliance, as it turns out, actually took place at the San Francisco Zoo, in 1971. A couple of avostilts—or, as some prefer, stavocets—have subsequently been documented in the wild. 

That raises a question of nomenclature: what do you call the result of such an interspecies encounter? Some terms are well-established: mule and hinny, of course; coydog, for coyote-domestic dog crosses; liger and tiglon, for captive-bred lion-tiger mixtures. 

Within the last couple of years, a hunter somewhere in the Arctic shot a peculiar bear which showed characteristics of both grizzly and polar bear ancestry. No real surprise, since the two species (grizzlies are actually a subset of brown bears) are close genetically, and since the shrinking of the polar ice has been forcing polar bears to forage onshore where encounters with grizzlies are more likely. The creature was almost immediately dubbed the grolar bear, which seems inevitable once you realize the alternative is pizzly. That’s not something you’d want to call a bear, at least to its face. 

Some recurrent bird hybrids have standard names, in part because they were originally considered to be valid species. Wurdemann’s heron, sometimes seen in the Florida Keys, is a cross between the blue and white morphs of the great blue heron. Two eastern wood-warblers, the blue-winged and golden-winged, consistently produce two distinct hybrid types known as Lawrence’s and Brewster’s warblers. (Blue-wings seem to be genetically swamping golden-wings in the Northeast.) Sutton’s warbler is the offspring of a yellow-throated warbler and a northern parula. On the other hand, there’s no accepted name for the not-uncommon hybrid between our own Townsend’s and hermit warblers. 

It’s been speculated for a long time that some of the mystery birds described and painted by Audubon were hybrids—particularly his 

“carbonated warbler,” although his subjects may have been young male Cape Mays. Audubon also illustrated what he called the Brewer’s duck, a mallard-gadwall cross. 

Apart from the correction, my other reason for revisiting hybrid birds is to report that the Barrow’s goldeneye/hooded merganser (goldanser? or does that sound too much like “pole dancer?” ) has returned to Lake Merritt. It’s a striking bird, with elements of the adult male plumage of both species. What has fascinated me about this bird is that its bill seems intermediate in shape between goldeneye (broad) and merganser (narrow) standards. Mergansers are specialized fish-eaters whose bills have serrated margins to hold their prey. The Lake Merritt hybrid is a mussel-grubber like its goldeneye parent. 

Since it’s a wild migrant, we have no way of knowing if the goldanser has ever produced offspring of its own. Some avian hybrids—the cross between western and glaucous-winged gulls, for one—are fertile, unlike the mule. But I suspect most hybrid birds are one-offs, evolutionary dead ends. In vertebrates, hybridization rarely leads to the formation of a new species 

(barring a few special cases among lizards involving all-female parthenogenic species of hybrid origin.) That phenomenon has been reported for a couple of butterfly species, though, and appears to be a significant driver of speciation among flowering plants. 

Footnote on butterflies: lepidopterists don’t have that many natural butterfly hybrids to work with. In the past, they compensated by naming every recognizable variation within a species, usually for other lepidopterists. Thus in older books like John Adams Comstock’s Butterflies of California you’ll find coinages like “Gunder’s aberrant lady.” Well, who are we to judge? 

“Boomer” may refer to a place in North Carolina, an adult male kangaroo , several sports personalities, and numerous fictional creations. A baby boomer is someone born during the period of increased birth rates and economic prosperity in many nations following World War II. 

Landon Jones, who coined the term baby boomer in his book, Great Expectations: America and the Baby Boom Generation, defined the span of the baby-boom generation as extending from 1946 to 1964, when annual births declined below 4,000,000. The United States Census Bureau likewise considers a baby boomer someone born during the demographic 1946-1964 birth boom.  

"Other generations see baby boomers as self-absorbed, but hardworking and generous," reports Sharon Jayson. (Asbury Park Press, via Nov. 24, 2010 USA Today.) Characteristics of the generation vary by region, depending on social and economic conditions. The baby boomer term is sometimes also used in a cultural context, generally marked by an increased use and familiarity with communications, media and digital technologies. In most parts of the world its upbringing was marked by an increase in a neoliberal approach to politics and economics. 

Generation next, net generation, or echo boomers describes the demographic cohort following generation X. Generation Y is also known as the millennial generation. As there are no precise dates for the millennial generation, commentators have used birth dates ranging from the mid-1970s to the early 2000s. Members of this generation are called echo boomers, due to the significant increase in birth rates between 1982 and 1995, and because most of them are children of baby boomers.  

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Baby boomers have been in the spotlight for a long time, but now, as the oldest wave of boomers approaches 65, attention once again focuses on the first me generation. Baby boomers are reaching their peak earning years. Many have become empty nesters. The oldest have begun to position themselves for retirement. 26% of the U.S. population, they cluster in scenic places where they have often vacationed – such as coastal Washington and Oregon. 

Forbes labeled baby boomers “the greediest generation.” But when big-spending boomers turned 55, marketeers were less interested in their opinion of new products. Their counsel had been valued by major marketing research firms that crunch consumer preference data. After that 55th birthday, the e-mails asking them to respond to surveys stopped.  

Advertising Age (Nov. 11, 2010) contends that boomers who are their parents’ caregivers use social media the most. A common thread running through all definitions is a blending of web-based technologies and social interaction for creation of value. A key component of successful social media marketing is social authority. It is developed when an individual or organization establishes itself as expert in their given field or area, thereby becoming an influencer . Social media become effective through this process of building social authority—brands, consortiums, consultants, logos, opinions, reviews, specialists, etc. 

In the United States, first-wave baby boomers will become eligible for full Social Security and Medicare benefits next year, initiating a two-decade cost spiral in which government benefit spending is projected to double as a share of G.D.P. (gross domestic product). USA Today refers to a senior boom beginning amid economic bust . 

The U.S. debt reduction commission's initial proposal gives those free-spending baby boomers a virtual pass on financial sacrifice. The co-chairs of the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform have largely given baby boomers—the generation that created the current fiscal mess—a pass on fixing the problem. "The more you protect the Baby Boomers, the more the relative hit has to fall on younger generations," responds Maya MacGuineas, fiscal policy program director at the centrist New America Foundation in Washington. Boomers may end up shouldering more of the burden to pass a sustainable government to future generations.  

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By 2005, all middle-aged people were baby boomers. They appear to be driving a dramatic rise in suicide rates among middle-aged people. (Public Health Reports) The suicide rate for the U.S. population overall has been declining for decades, and persons aged 40-59, in particular, have long had a moderate suicide rate. The baby boomers have broken that pattern. By 2000, most people aged 40 to 59 were baby boomers, and the suicide rate started climbing steadily for these middle-age ranges. From 1999 to 2005 there were significant increases of more than 2 percent per year for men, and more than 3 percent per year for women. The post-1999 increase has been particularly dramatic for those who are unmarried and those without a college degree.  

According to a new poll, baby boomers are the unhappiest age group when it comes to their sex life, although they think they've learned just about all there is to know on the subject.  

FTD is a term used to describe several little-known disorders that progressively damage the parts of the brain in charge of personality, decision-making and language. Also known as frontotemporal lobar degeneration or Pick's disease, FTD is often confused with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's destroys memory; FTD changes behavior. An easygoing person becomes aggressive; a fun-loving and outgoing person is suddenly passive and withdrawn. But the most alarming difference between FTD and Alzheimer's is the age at which it strikes. Alzheimer's is primarily a disease of the aged. FTD tends to occur between ages 40 and 65 — hence the nickname “baby boomer dementia.” 

Local & International News: 

Councilmember Jesse Arreguin shared with me a November 17^th Berkeley Police Community Crime Alert regarding the “recent rash of robberies in Area 1.” There are at least four senior housing projects and three centers serving senior citizens within this general locale. Be alert. Do not hesitate to report suspicious persons and crimes to the Police (510) 981-5900. Cell phones: use 981-5911 for Berkeley Police. Land lines (“regular” phones:) report emergencies at 911. If you live in an apartment house, do not open the building’s front door or your apartment door to strangers! If you are a senior citizen who suspects that someone may have entered your premises and you have been burglarized, do not hesitate to report this to the Police at once.  

I am haunted by a query I overheard this Thanksgiving Day week – a list of places where a free meal might be available. Several are listed in the “BIN” (Berkeley Information Network, a project of the Berkeley Public Library.) Here are a few (Consult the BIN for details): 

All Souls Episcopal Parish. 2200 Cedar St. 

Berkeley Women’s Resource Center. 2140 Dwight Way 

Beth El Temple. 1301 Oxford St. 

College Avenue Presbyterian Church. 5951 College Ave. 

Trinity United Methodist Church. 2362 Bancroft Way. 

First Presbyterian Church. 2407 Dana. 

Food Not Bombs. 3124 Shattuck. 

McGee Av. Baptist Church. 1640 Stuart St. 

Newman Hall Loaves and Fishes. 2700 Dwight Way. 

South Berkeley Community Church. 1802 Fairview 

St Mark’s Episcopal Church. 2300 Bancroft Way 

St Mary Magdalen Church. 2005 Berryman St. 

St. Paul AME Church. 2024 Ashby Av. 

University Lutheran Chapel. 2425 College AV. 

Effective January 2011, Emeryville Senior Center will require participants to pay an annual membership fee of $10.00, recommended by the Emeryville Commission on Aging and approved by the City Council, with additional fees for trips, Friday Club and some special events. Scholarships provided by the Emeryville Senior Center Advisory Council are available to seniors who require financial assistance (individual income under $851.00, couple under $1141.00.) Questions? Call Recreation Supervisor Brad Helfenberger at (510) 596-3779. Here’s hoping that no other senior centers utilize Emeryville’s measure to justify similar practice! Surely Berkeley’s Commission on Aging and City Council would not endorse comparable action… 

The North Berkeley Senior Center Advisory Council’s October 2010 Minutes refer to $15.00 scholarships towards the $30.00 tuition charged by the Berkeley Adult School for “as many classes as people want to take.” Details were difficult to come by. The Advisory Council president emphasized that they are “for low income” persons, and he urged anyone interested or with questions to contact deputy Center director Faye Combs. The Center’s phone # is (510) 981-5190; Combs’ # is 981-5202. 

Senior centers rely on senior volunteers, especially to teach and lead classes and to be a welcoming accessible presence at the front desk, where the greetings and informational function is so important. The North Berkeley Senior Center volunteer’s desk has been encased within an (expensive) office-type barricade that isolates her/him from the public. It would seem that these funds would have been better expended in numerous other ways. 

88% of Americans say Social Security is more important than ever as a result of today's economic crisis. Nearly half of current Social Security beneficiaries polled said that they would not be able to afford the basics (food, clothing and shelter) without Social Security. Social Security does not contribute to the deficit. 

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued new rules for Medicare- and Medicaid-participating hospitals that protect patients’ right to choose their own visitors during a hospital stay. New requirements empower patients to designate their own visitors, including a same-sex domestic partner.  

CMS has also proposed a rule for the 2012 plan year that includes changes to Part C, which covers Medicare private insurance plans also known as Medicare Advantage plans, and Part D, which covers the Medicare prescription drug benefit. The rule covers a broad spectrum of policies for both Part C and Part D, including codifying provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), such as the prescription drug coverage gap (doughnut hole) phase-out.  

Women are 70 percent of the 1.3 billion people living in poverty worldwide. The U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) was signed by President Jimmy Carter in 1979. 185 countries have ratified CEDAW. The United States is the only industrialized country that has yet to ratify. The other countries that have refused to ratify CEDAW are Iran, Nauru, Palau, Somalia, Sudan, and Tonga.  

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

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

# # #

You have probably heard the statistic that mental illness affects one in five adults in the U.S. Most people who are affected by mental illness are in hiding about it for fear of public shame and because a disclosure about it could cause them to lose their jobs.
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, also known as NAMI, is an organization of the family members of persons with mental illness. At one time, the slogan of NAMI was; “Open your mind—mental illnesses are brain disorders.”
 

When someone is sick with cancer, family, friends and co-workers are usually supportive and will rally to that person’s aid. People who suffer from cancer and other illnesses are sometimes described as heroic. Obituaries will say something like: “Jon Doe passed away with family by his side, after a long and brave battle with cancer.”
 

However, mental illness is often treated as a dishonorable and shameful thing. People will never put, “a period of mental illness” in the “reason for leaving” box on a job application. Such a statement would guarantee never getting a call from a prospective employer.
Having a bipolar aunt is often treated as a family secret. Up until recently, the presence of a mental illness in a family was often a subject of non-discussion. When a son has depression and can’t work, the father might say; “Why can’t you just get over it and get a job?” Or he might even say; “Just snap out of it.”
 

In a family, a mental illness is often not recognized as an adequate reason for not having a job. People in such a family who are successful will often have an attitude of superiority. They don’t seem to realize that the mentally disabled sibling or offspring must overcome a real and actual disability that they didn’t have to deal with in their quest to succeed.
 

According to the medical establishment in the U.S. (an entity that people don’t ordinarily question) mental illnesses are physical diseases, just like cancer, diabetes, and pneumonia, only affecting that organ between our ears, and generally not causing death. (In the case of suicides, the mental illness did cause the person’s death.)
 

Then, why the double standard? The cancer patient is “brave” while the psychiatric patient is “shamed.”
 

This is the flagship of a new column in The Planet. One of its primary purposes is to promote a no-shame, no-blame public perception of people with mental illness. This column isn’t written by a doctor, caregiver, or “expert,” on mental illness, but instead by a man who has suffered from Schizophrenia, Paranoid-type, since 1982.
 

I invite people with mental illness, their family members, and caregivers to write in with your stories. Your name and identifying information will not be published.
 

I am not a physician and I can not dispense medical advice in this column or outside of it. I can be reached at: bragenkjack@yahoo.com.

ALTARENA PLAYHOUSE  

"Brian Copeland's Not A Genuine Black Man," Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Local awardwinning playwright and performer returns to perform his one man show about growing up in San Leandro. $50.  

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

AURORA THEATRE COMPANY  

"Palomino," by David Cale, through Dec. 5, 7 p.m. Tue.; 8 p.m. Wed.-Sat.; 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. Writer and actor David Cale plays seven different characters in this one person play about a Central Park carriage driver who dreams of writing a great novel. $10-$55.  

Aurora Theatre, 2081 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 843-4822, www.auroratheatre.org.< 

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Valley Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker," Dec. 11 through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19. This long-running production of the classic tale of "The Nutcracker'' also adds Taeko drummers and a large Chinese Dragon. $18-$33. (925) 243-0925, www.valleydancetheater.com. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

EAST BAY IMPROV  

"Tired of the Same Old Song and Dance?" ongoing. 8 p.m. East Bay Improv actors perform spontaneous, impulsive and hilarious comedy on the first Saturday of every month. $8.  

Pinole Community Playhouse, 601 Tennent Ave., Pinole. (510) 964-0571, www.eastbayimprov.com.< 

FREMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA  

"The Nutcracker," Dec. 4 through Dec. 5, 2 and 7 p.m. Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. The beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage. $20-$48.  

Jackson Theater, Smith Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 794-1659, www.fremontsymphony.org.< 

JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Cinderella," by Rodgers and Hammerstein, through Dec. 5. Featuring Grammynominated Broadway star, Frenchie Davis; directed by Elizabeth McKoy. See website for full performance listing. $15-$33. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org. 

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

LANEY COLLEGE THEATER  

"Burning Libraries: Stories From The New Ellis Island," Dec. 3 through Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 3 and 7 p.m. Sun. A new play telling more than 30 real life stories of ordinary people from minority and immigrant communities in and around Oakland. $15-$25.  

900 Fallon St., Oakland. (510) 595-5500 X25.< 

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"White Christmas," by Irving Berlin, through Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Nov. 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 27, 28, Dec. 4. The Diablo Theatre Company presents the holiday classic, featuring songs such as "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm.'' $20-$42. www.diablotheatrecompany.org. 

"Contra Costa Ballet presents Story of the Nutcracker," through Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Thu.; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri.; 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. The beloved holiday classic is brought to life live on stage. $22-$32.  

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

MASQUERS PLAYHOUSE  

"The 25th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee," through Dec. 18, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Nov. 14, 21, Dec. 5, 12. The Tony Award-winning story about overachievers' angst comes to life, with music and lyrics by William Finn, book by Rachel Sheinkin. $20.  

105 Park Place, Point Richmond. (510) 232-4031, www.masquers.org.< 

TOWN HALL THEATRE  

"Scrooge: The Musical," Dec. 4 through Dec. 19, 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Dec. 12, 19; 7 p.m. Dec. 5, 12, 19; 3 p.m. Dec. 11, 18. Based on the 1970 movie starring Albert Finney. $12-$29.50.  

3535 School St., Lafayette. (925) 283-1557, www.thtc.org.<

"CIRQUE DU SOLEIL'S OVO," -- through Jan. 24. A lively rush into a world of insects and acrobatics. Written and directed by Deborah Colker. See website for times, dates and complete details. Performances take place under the "Grand Chapiteau'' at AT&T Park. 

$38-$250.www.cirquedusoleil.com.< 

AFRICAN AMERICAN ART AND CULTURE COMPLEX  

"African-American Shakespeare Company presents Cinderella," Dec. 3 through Dec. 19, 8 p.m. Dec. 3, 10, 17, 18; 3 and 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 11; 3 p.m. Dec. 5, 12, 19. An enchanting new production of the timeless tale of Cinderella. $10-$50. (800) 838-3006, www.african-americanshakes.org. 

762 Fulton St., San Francisco. www.aaacc.org.< 

AMERICAN CONSERVATORY THEATER  

"A Christmas Carol," through Dec. 24, 7 p.m. Dec. 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 15, 16, 18, 20-23; 5:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 4, 8, 9, 11, 21-24; 1 p.m. Dec. 12, 19. Scrooge is back, and he's meaner than ever! Adapted by Carey Perloff and Paul Walsh. $15-$102.  

Geary Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. (415) 749-2228, www.actsf. org.< 

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.< 

BRAVA THEATER CENTER  

"The Revolutionary Nutcracker Sweetie," Dec. 11 and Dec. 12, 2 and 6 p.m. Sat.; 1 and 5 p.m. Sun. A unique take on the classic holiday production. $15-$17. www.dancemission.com. 

2781 24th St., San Francisco. (415) 647-2822, www.brava.org.< 

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.< 

COUNTERPULSE  

"The Golden Girls' Christmas Episodes," through Dec. 23, 7 and 9 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; no show Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. An uproarious stage production featuring a cast in drag recreating the beloved TV show. Special guests include Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Go's. $25.  

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

COW PALACE  

"The 32nd Annual Great Dickens Christmas Fair," through Dec. 19, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.-Sun. This annual Bay Area favorite sends visitors back to Victorian London and into the living pages of some of Dickens' greatest books with costumed actors, music halls, shops and pubs designed to recreate the feel and look of 19th century England. People can buy gifts and goodies from "street vendors'' and shops, enjoy a traditional tea and British pub meal, or have a pint at "Mad Sal's Dockside Alehouse.'' $12-$25; $60 for season pass. (800) 510-1558, www.dickensfair.com. 

Geneva Avenue and Santos Street, San Francisco. (415) 404-4111, www.cowpalace.com.< 

EUREKA THEATRE  

"Babes In Arms," through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Wed.; 8 p.m. Thu.-Fri.; 6 p.m. Sat.; 3 p.m. Sun. A holiday show by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. $24-$44.  

215 Jackson St., San Francisco. (415) 255-8207, (415) 978-2787, www.42ndstmoon.org or www.ticketweb.com.< 

KIMO'S BAR  

"Fauxgirls," ongoing. 10 p.m. Every third Saturday. Drag cabaret revue features San Francisco's finest female impersonators. Free. (415) 695-1239, www.fauxgirls.com. 

1351 Polk St., San Francisco. (415) 885-4535, www.kimosbarsf.com.< 

MAGIC THEATRE  

"Or," by Liz Duffy Adams, through Dec. 5, 7 p.m. Tue.; 8 p.m. Wed.-Sat.; 2:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. A comedic play about a spy trying to get into showbiz. $30-$60.  

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

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.  

"It's All The Rage," by Marilyn Pittman, through Dec. 5, 8:30 p.m. Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. A new solo show that deals with the murder-suicide of Pittman's parents, looking at their history, and dealing with the tragedy in a way that is heartbreakingly sad, but manages to be funny as well. $20-$50.  

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

ORPHEUM THEATRE  

"Shrek The Musical," through Jan. 2, 8 p.m. Tue.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Wed., Sat.-Sun.; additional performances at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 26; 2 p.m. Dec. 23, 30; 2 p.m. Nov. 26, Dec. 24. No performances on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's Eve. The story of the swamp-dwelling ogre and his adventures with his friends the wise-cracking donkey and the princess. $30-$99.  

1192 Market St., San Francisco. (415) 512-7770, www.shnsf.com.< 

PHOENIX THEATRE  

"The Tender King," by Ian Walker, through Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. A gripping portrayal of presidential decisions surrounding the end of World War II, focusing on Harry Truman's time at the Potsdam Conference. $20-$25. www.secondwind.8m.com. 

414 Mason St., Sixth Floor, San Francisco. (800) 838-3006, www.offbroadwaywest.org.< 

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.< 

PIER 39 A pier filled with shops, restaurants, theaters and entertainment of all sorts from sea lions to street performers.  

"SAN FRANCISCO CAROUSEL" -- The Pier's two-tiered, San Francisco-themed carousel with hand-crafted ponies that rock and move up and down and tubs that spin. In addition, carousel has hand-painted pictures of San Francisco scenes like the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown and Coit Tower. $3 per ride. "FREQUENT FLYERS'' -- A bungee trampoline where people can safely jump and flip over 20 feet in the air thanks to the help of bungee cords and a harness. Jumpers must weigh at least 30 pounds and not more than 230 pounds. $10 per session. (415) 981-6300.  

"RIPTIDE ARCADE" -- A 6,000-square-foot, surfer-themed arcade offering the Bay area's only 10-gun, Old West-style shooting gallery and 100 cuttingedge video games, virtual reality units and popular novelty games. Included are the "Dance Dance Revolution'' game, driving and roller coaster simulators, the "Global VR Vortex'' virtual reality machine, "Star Wars Trilogy,'' "Jurassic Park,'' "Rush 2049,'' and classics such as "Pac Man'' and "Galaga.'' Games are operated by 25-cent tokens and range in price from 25 cents to $1.50. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; through Feb. 26: Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (415) 981-6300.  

"TURBO RIDE" -- Three simulated rides where the hydraulic seats move in synchronization with events on a giant screen are available at the Turbo Ride complex. The 12-minute-long rides in 3-D and 4-D are: "Dino Island II''; "Haunted Mine Ride,'' and "Extreme Log Ride.'' $12 general for one ride; $8 seniors and children ages 3 to 12 for one ride; $15 general for two rides; $11 seniors and children ages 3 to 12 for two rides; $18 general for multi-rides; $14 seniors and children ages 3 to 12 for multi-rides. (415) 392-8872.  

STUDIO 39 MAGIC CARPET RIDES -- A comedy action adventure utilizing special effects to created a personalized movie with visitors as the "stars'' flying above San Francisco. The Magic Carpet Ride is free. No reservations required. Ride is approximately five minutes. Personalized videos will be available for $30 for one: $10 for each additional tape. (415) 397-3939. SEA LIONS -- California sea lions, nicknamed "Sea Lebrities,'' "hauled out'' on Pier 39's K-Dock shortly after the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake and by January of 1990 had taken over the docks. Due to a plentiful supply of herring and a protected environment, the population has grown and now reaches as many as 900 during the winter months. Weather permitting, free educational talks are provided by Marine Mammal Center volunteers on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Free. (415) 705-5500. 

"Tony n' Tina's Wedding," ongoing. The original interactive comedy hit where audience members play the roles of "invited guests'' at a fun-filled wedding ceremony. The popular dinner comedy performs at Swiss Louis Italian Restaurant. Thursday-Saturday, 7 p.m.; Matinees: Thursday and Saturday, noon. $88.50-$115.50. (888) 775-6777, www.pier39shows.com. 

Free. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; certain attractions and shops have differing hours. The Embarcadero and Beach Street, San Francisco. (415) 623-5300, (800) SEADIVE, www.pier39.com.< 

ROXIE FILM CENTER  

"A John Waters Xmas," Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. Legendary cult filmmaker John Waters brings his special, one man holiday show to the Roxie, featuring his trademark monologues, and naughty holiday tales. Proceeds go to benefit the non-profit Roxie, and tickets include a chance to meet Waters, along with the chance of winning raffle prizes. $250. www.roxie.com. 

3117 16th Street, San Francisco. (415) 431-3611.< 

SAN FRANCISCO BALLET  

"Nutcracker," Dec. 9 through Dec. 27, 7 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 26; 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 24; 2 p.m. Dec. 27. The one-of-a-kind production that takes families on a journey full of wonder, spectacle and holiday joy. $25-$115.  

Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 865-2000, www.sfballet.org.< 

SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY  

"Deck The Hall Concert and Holiday Party," Dec. 5, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The 30th annual event celebrates the holiday season with a magical stage show spanning holidays around the world, designed for children ages three to ten. $36-$50.  

$25-$130. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 864-6000, www.sfsymphony.org.< 

SF PLAYHOUSE  

"Coraline," through Jan. 15, 7 p.m. Tue.-Wed.; 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 3 p.m. Sat. Neil Gaiman's children's book is brought to life on the stage with music by Stephen Merritt of the Magnetic Fields. $30-$50.  

533 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 677-9596, www.sfplayhouse.org.< 

SHELTON THEATER  

"Shopping! The Musical," by Morris Bobrow, ongoing. A quick-paced musical about those obsessed with buying things. Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m. $27-$29. (800) 838-3006, www.shoppingthemusical.com. 

Big City Improv, ongoing. 10 p.m. Fridays.  

$20. (510) 595-5597, www.bigcityimprov.com. 

533 Sutter St., San Francisco. (415) 433-1227, www.sheltontheater.com or www.sheltontheater.com.< 

STAGE WERX THEATRE  

"Ruth and The Sea," through Dec. 18, 8 p.m. Thu.-Sat. A new show turning the American Christmas story on its ear. $18-$24.  

533 Sutter Street, San Francisco. < 

THE STUD  

"Trannyshack," ongoing. A drag cabaret show that incorporates popular music, dance, props and outrageous humor into a stage show. Hosted by Heklina. Tuesday, midnight. $7. (415) 252-7883, www.heklina.com/. 

399 Ninth St., San Francisco. < 

THRILLPEDDLERS HYPNODROME  

"Pearls Over Shanghai," ongoing. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. See San Francisco's longest running Cockettes musical, running through Dec. 19. $30-$35.  

575 10th Street, San Francisco. www.thrillpeddlers.com/.< 

YERBA BUENA CENTER FOR THE ARTS THEATER  

"ODC/Dance: The Velveteen Rabbit," through Dec. 12. The beloved holiday production returns for its 24th season. Directed by KT Nelson. Times vary throughout run; see website for full details. $15-$45. www.ybca.org. 

700 Howard St., San Francisco. (415) 978-2787, www.ybca.org.< 

ZEUM Zeum is a technology and arts museum for children and families featuring exhibits and workshops that cover a variety of fascinating subjects. 

"Mark Foehringer Dance Project presents Nutcracker at Zeum," through Dec. 19, 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sun. A unique version of the holiday classic "Nutcracker.'' $25.  

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

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Valley Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker," Dec. 11 through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19. This long-running production of the classic tale of "The Nutcracker'' also adds Taeko drummers and a large Chinese Dragon. $18-$33. (925) 243-0925, www.valleydancetheater.com. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

FREMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA  

"The Nutcracker," Dec. 4 through Dec. 5, 2 and 7 p.m. Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. The beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage. $20-$48.  

Jackson Theater, Smith Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 794-1659, www.fremontsymphony.org.< 

JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Cinderella," by Rodgers and Hammerstein, through Dec. 5. Featuring Grammynominated Broadway star, Frenchie Davis; directed by Elizabeth McKoy. See website for full performance listing. $15-$33. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org. 

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

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Odissi Vilas," Dec. 4, 8 p.m. A performance of Odissi, an ancient dance from India. $13-$15.  

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

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Contra Costa Ballet presents Story of the Nutcracker," through Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Thu.; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri.; 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. The beloved holiday classic is brought to life live on stage. $22-$32.  

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

OHLONE COLLEGE  

"Winter Dance Showcase," through Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Ohlone students showcase the variety of dance styles taught at the college. $10-$12.  

43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 659-6285, www.ohlone.edu.< 

"CIRQUE DU SOLEIL'S OVO," -- through Jan. 24. A lively rush into a world of insects and acrobatics. Written and directed by Deborah Colker. See website for times, dates and complete details. Performances take place under the "Grand Chapiteau'' at AT&T Park. 

$38-$250.www.cirquedusoleil.com.< 

BRAVA THEATER CENTER  

"The Revolutionary Nutcracker Sweetie," Dec. 11 and Dec. 12, 2 and 6 p.m. Sat.; 1 and 5 p.m. Sun. A unique take on the classic holiday production. $15-$17. www.dancemission.com. 

2781 24th St., San Francisco. (415) 647-2822, www.brava.org.< 

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.< 

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.< 

SAN FRANCISCO BALLET  

"Nutcracker," Dec. 9 through Dec. 27, 7 p.m. Dec. 9; 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 26; 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dec. 24; 2 p.m. Dec. 27. The one-of-a-kind production that takes families on a journey full of wonder, spectacle and holiday joy. $25-$115.  

Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 865-2000, www.sfballet.org.< 

THEATER ARTAUD  

"Liss Fain Dance presents the False and True Are One," Dec. 3 and Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Choreographed by Liss Fain, featuring actress Jeri Lynn Cohen. $12.50-$25.  

450 Florida St., San Francisco. (415) 621-7797, www.theaterartaud.org.< 

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO  

"USF's Fall Dance Show: Kinetic Reality," through Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Performance takes place at the Studio Theater on the USF Lone Mountain Campus, 2800 Turk Blvd, San Francisco. $5-$10.  

www.ucsf.edu 513 Parnassus Ave., San Francisco. (415) 476-9000.< 

YERBA BUENA CENTER FOR THE ARTS THEATER  

"ODC/Dance: The Velveteen Rabbit," through Dec. 12. The beloved holiday production returns for its 24th season. Directed by KT Nelson. Times vary throughout run; see website for full details. $15-$45. www.ybca.org. 

700 Howard St., San Francisco. (415) 978-2787, www.ybca.org.< 

ZEUM Zeum is a technology and arts museum for children and families featuring exhibits and workshops that cover a variety of fascinating subjects. 

"Mark Foehringer Dance Project presents Nutcracker at Zeum," through Dec. 19, 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sun. A unique version of the holiday classic "Nutcracker.'' $25.  

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

BOOKS INC., BERKELEY  

Kate Morton, Dec. 6, 7 p.m. "Distant Hours.''  

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

BORDERS BOOKS  

Leslie Baker, Dec. 4, 1 p.m. "Healing Feelings: A Healing Story for Children Coping with a Grownup's Mental Illness.''  

4575 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton. < 

ISLAMIC CULTURAL CENTER OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA  

Kecia Ali, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. "Marriage and Slavery in Early Islam.'' $5-$10.  

1433 Madison St., Oakland. < 

MOE'S BOOKS  

Benjamin Griffin, Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m. "The Autobiography of Mark Twain Volume 1.''  

"The Art of Animating HOWL: A Slide Lecture by Eric Drooker," Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m.  

10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. Readings take place at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2476 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. (510) 849-2087, www.moesbooks.com.< 

MRS. DALLOWAY'S  

Thomas Lynch, Dec. 5, 4 p.m. "A Christmas Memory.''  

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

PEGASUS BOOKS DOWNTOWN  

Marjorie Darraugh, Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m. "Articles of Faith: The Letters of Flannery O'Connor to 'A."  

2349 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 528-3254.< 

UNIVERSITY PRESS BOOKS  

Aihwa Ong, Nancy N. Chen, Charis Thompson, Kathleen Erwin, Vincanne Adams, Dec. 9, 5:30-7 p.m. "Asian Biotech: Ethics and Communities of Fate.''  

2430 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. (510) 548-0585, www.universitypressbooks.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.< 

HERBST THEATRE  

"Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra presents Handel's Messiah," Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m.  

$35-$95 www.philharmonia.org. 

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

LAKESIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  

"Handel's Sing-Along Messiah," Dec. 5, 3 p.m. Join members of the San Francisco City Chorus in singing this seasonal and inspiring choral work. $10. (415) 968-9523, www.sfcitychorus.org. 

201 Eucalyptus Drive, San Francisco. (415) 564-8833.< 

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  

Ragazzi Boys Chorus, Dec. 5, 4 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  

Elza van den Heever, Dec. 5, 2 p.m. Performance will include works by Handel, Schumann, Faure and more. $35.  

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

SAN FRANCISCO OPERA  

"Aida" by Giuseppe Verdi, through Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Nov. 23, Nov. 26, Nov. 29; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2; 2 p.m. Dec. 5. A bitter love triangle plays itself out against a backdrop of war and cultural oppression in this compelling tale of conflicting loyalties and forbidden passion. Sung in Italian with English supertitles. $25-$320.  

$25 to $245 unless otherwise noted. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 864-3330, www.sfopera.com.< 

SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY  

"Project San Francisco: John Adams," through Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Works include "El Nino'' by John Adams. $35-$140.  

"Chamber Music at the Legion of Honor," Dec. 5, 2 p.m. Works by Beethoven, Debussy and Dvorak. Concert takes place at the Florence Gould Theater at the Palace of the Legion of Honor, San Francisco. $45-$49.  

"Deck The Hall Concert and Holiday Party," Dec. 5, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The 30th annual event celebrates the holiday season with a magical stage show spanning holidays around the world, designed for children ages three to ten. $36-$50.  

Liza Minnelli and her Quartet, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Liza Minnelli will sing standards, seasonal favorites and songs from her new record. $15-$100.  

"Project San Francisco: MTT conducts John Adams," Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Wed., Fri.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Thu. $15-$140. 

"Peter and The Wolf," Dec. 11, 1 and 4 p.m. $15-$57. 

$25-$130. Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco. (415) 864-6000, www.sfsymphony.org.<

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Pacific Chamber Symphony presents Handel's Messiah," Dec. 3, 8 p.m.  

$7-$39. www.pacificchambersymphony.org. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

CAL PERFORMANCES All performances in Zellerbach Hall unless otherwise noted. 

Christian Tetzlaff, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. The violin virtuoso performs. $46-$100.  

Takacs Quartet, Dec. 5, 3 p.m. Concert takes place in Hertz Hall. $56.  

Zellerbach Hall, University of California, Berkeley, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 642-9988, www.calperformances.net.< 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

"Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra presents Handel's Messiah," Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. $35-$95. 

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

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

"Berkeley West Edge Opera presents Songs From The Edge," Dec. 5, 2 p.m. Performers include soprano Nicolle Foland and Emma McNairy. $14-$18. www.berkeleyopera.org. 

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  

"University Symphony Orchestra," Dec. 10 and Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Works by Stravinsky. $5-$15.  

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

MUSIC SOURCES  

"Dueling Harpsichords," Dec. 5, 5 p.m. Works by Vivaldi, Bach and others.  

1000 The Alameda at Marin, Berkeley. (510) 528-1685, www.musicsources.org/.< 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

"Oakland East Bay Symphony: Let Us Break Bread Together," Dec. 12, 4 p.m. With special guest Joan Baez. $12-$45.  

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

ST. JOHN'S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  

Alexander String Quartet, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11, 10 a.m. $35. 

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

924 GILMAN ST. All ages welcome. 

Sabertooth Zombie, Sojourner, Wreck, Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. $8. 

Shellfiche & Miss Gawker, Dec. 5, 5 p.m. $5-$10. 

Black Fag, Plan 9, Bro-Loaf, Dec. 11, 7 p.m. $10. 

$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 Wednesdays.  

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 Rory Synder Composers Group, Dec. 3, 8-11 p.m. $10. 

The Whiskey Brothers, Dec. 4, 8-11 p.m. $10. 

"2nd Annual Martinez Music Mafia Holiday Pagaent and Toy Drive," Dec. 5, 3-6 p.m. $10. 

"Open Mic," Dec. 6, 7 p.m. $3. 

West Coast Songwriters Association Competition, Dec. 8, 7 p.m. $5. 

The Sheilani Alix Quintet, Dec. 10, 8 p.m. $10. 

The Red Hot Chachkas, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $10. 

The Hopeful Romantics, Dec. 12, 3 p.m. $10. 

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

ASHKENAZ  

"Los Boleros: Cuban Dance Night," Dec. 3, 9 p.m. $10-$12. 

Ras Kidus & The Roots Connection Band, Dec. 4, 9 p.m. $10-$15. 

"Flemenco Family Holiday Show with Roberto Granados," Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. $10. 

Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, Dec. 7, 8:30 p.m. Caujun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. $12.  

Tomorrow's Bad Seeds, Josh Fischel, Dec. 8, 9 p.m. $10. 

Mama Crow, The Supa Naturalz, Dec. 9, 8:30 p.m. $10. 

Lutan Fyah, Dec. 10, 9:30 p.m. $16-$20. 

Trio Garufa, DJ Polo Tanir, Dec. 11, 9:30 p.m. Argentine Tango lesson at 8 p.m.  

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

BECKETT'S IRISH PUB  

Guns For San Sebastian, Dec. 3.  

Fun With Finnoula, Dec. 8.  

Calafia, Dec. 9.  

The GG Tenaka Electric Band, Dec. 10.  

Shiono, Dec. 11.  

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

BLAKE'S ON TELEGRAPH  

The System Relief, Reverse Gravity, Bigelow's Treehouse, Dec. 4, 9 p.m.  

St. John, Ross FM, John Beaver, Dec. 11, 9 p.m. $8-$12. 

Thomas Ian Nichols, Dec. 12, 7 p.m.  

For ages 18 and older unless otherwise noted. Music begins at 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2367 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. (510) 848-0886, www.blakesontelegraph.com.< 

CHOUINARD VINEYARDS AND WINERY The winery features an exhibit of stone craft and baskets honoring the rich culture of the Ohlone Indians. Palomares Canyon was a summer home to the Ohlone Indians. The exhibit also includes historical photos and artifacts that document more recent colorful inhabitants to the canyon."Music at Chouinard," ongoing. 4:30-8:30 p.m. on select Sundays June-August. The rest of the year features live music in the tasting room on the second Sunday of each month. Enjoy the best of Bay Area artists at Chouinard. Bring your own gourmet picnic (no outside alcoholic beverages). Wines are available for tasting and sales.  

$40 per car. 

"Holidays in the Vineyards," Dec. 4 through Dec. 5, noon-5 p.m. An oldfashioned country celebration with the delights of music, food, gifts and beautiful crafts. Free. 

Free. Tasting Room: Saturdays-Sundays, noon-5 p.m. 33853 Palomares Road, Castro Valley. (510) 582-9900, www.chouinard.com.< 

FOX THEATER  

John Butler Trio, The Beautiful Girls, Mat McHugh, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $29.50. 

Bassnectar, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $29.50. 

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

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

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

West Coast Songwriters Competition, ongoing. 7:30 p.m. $6.50-$7.50. 

Barbara Higbie, Peppino D'Agostino, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $22.50-$23.50. 

"International Body Music Festival Concert," Dec. 4, 8 p.m. $22.50-$23.50. 

Cris Williamson, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. $24.50-$25.50. 

Molly's Revenge, Moira Smiley, Dec. 8.  

Mark Hummel, Rusty Zinn, Dec. 9.  

Claudia Schmidt, Dec. 10.  

House Jacks, Dec. 11.  

Stairwell Sisters, Dec. 12.  

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

JAZZSCHOOL  

Christina Perna, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $15. 

Lisa Lindsley, Dec. 4, 8 p.m. $15. 

Theolis Crump, Dec. 5, 4:30 p.m. $15. 

Jazzschool Studio Bands, Dec. 6, 8 p.m. $15. 

Jazzachool Young Musicians, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $10. 

Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 2087 Addison St., Berkeley. (510) 845-5373, www.jazzschool.com.< 

JUPITER  

"Americana Unplugged," 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  

Truth & Salvage Co., Dec. 3, 10 p.m. $8-$12. 

The Dodo's, Tim Cohen, Dec. 4, 9 p.m. $15-$18. 

No Age, Dec. 8, 10 p.m. $13-$15. 

Valerie Orth, Finding Stella, Dec. 9, 9 p.m. $10-$12. 

Albino, David Satori, Dec. 10, 10 p.m. $10-$13. 

Melvin Seals, JGB, Dec. 11, 9 p.m. $18-$20. 

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

ORACLE ARENA  

Roger Waters, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $50-$400. 

The Judds, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $47.25-$75.75. 

7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. (510) 625-8497, (925) 685-8497, (415) 421-8497, www.ticketmaster.com or www.theoaklandarena.com.< 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. $10-$40. 

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

"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.  

Montuno Swing, ongoing. 8 p.m. Wed. $10. 

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

Mortified, The Freeze, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $15-$20. 

Sotaque Baiano, Dec. 4, 9 p.m. $10. 

Conjunto Taino, Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Live salsa and dance lessons from 8:30-9:30 p.m. $10.  

DJ Kool Karlo and Chris Fox, Dec. 9, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

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.  

Yardsale, Tara Linda, Shovelman, Dec. 3, 9 p.m.  

We All We Got, Dec. 4, 9 p.m.  

David Gans, Casey Neill, Dec. 9.  

David Berkeley, Dec. 10.  

Siouox City Kid, Coyote Grace, Dec. 11.  

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  

French Miami, Dangermaker, Parentz, Dec. 3, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

45 Grave, Plan 9, Alaric, Dec. 4, 9 p.m. $10. 

Dick Dale, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. $20. 

Mermaid Bones, The Frankensteins, Dec. 8, 9 p.m.  

Free.  

Petunia & The Vipers, Dec. 9, 8 p.m. $10. 

Big Light, Antioquia, Dec. 10, 9 p.m. $10. 

Sidecar Tommy, Dec. 11, 9 p.m. $10. 

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

YOSHI'S  

Ravi Coltrane, Dec. 3 through Dec. 5, 8 and 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$20. 

Jazzschool Studio Band, Dec. 6, 8 p.m. $15. 

Steve Smith, George Brooks, Prasanna: Raga Bop Trio, Dec. 7, 8 p.m. $16. 

Taylor Eigsti, Dec. 8, 8 and 10 p.m. $10-$12. 

Charlie Hunter, Dec. 9 through Dec. 12, 8 and 10 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$24. 

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.<

John Brown's Truth , by William Crossman, is a multi-genre, musically improvised opera with classical and jazz singers and musicians, dancers, and spoken-word artists. It is a radical departure from traditional opera format and, as such, is truly an opera for the 21^st Century. Its most innovative feature is that while its script (libretto) is written, its music is not.  

All music—including that performed by the principal singers, the chorus, and the orchestra—is entirely improvised on the spot to the libretto. This means that each performance of the opera is musically unique, newly recreated in the moment.  

The opera covers selected events, all within the year 1859, in the life of anti-slavery abolitionist John Brown as he prepares and carries out his raid on the federal armory at Harpers Ferry, Virginia and, afterwards, as he is put on trial for the raid. Though the timeline of events depicted is historically accurate, the libretto is a mostly fictionalized rendering of conversations John Brown might have had—and in some cases actually did have, according to historical reports—expressing his actual beliefs, intentions, and plans.  

This John Brown character is a true visionary who sings about freedom with Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King, and others from Brown*s past, present, and future. The opera is receiving its first performances on this 150^th anniversary of Brown*s Harpers Ferry raid and trial. 

Cast: India Cooke, Raymond Nat Turner, Eliza O’Malley, Maria Medina Serafin, Lewis Jordan, Sarita Cannon, Akinyele Sadiq, Cheryl Schwartz, Henry Mobley, Zigi Lowenberg, Ava Square-LeVias, Sandy Poindexter, William Crossman, Bolanle Origunwa, India Boyd-Wilkerson. 

Dates/Times:: 

Sunday, December 5, 2010, 3:30PM 

Sunday, December 12, 2010, 3:30PM 

What: John Brown*s Truth, a multi-genre, musically improvised opera with an extraordinary cast of classical & jazz singers, musicians, dancers, and spoken-word artists. Created by William Crossman; directed by Michael Lange. 

Where : Live Oak Theatre, 1301 Shattuck Ave. (at Berryman) Berkeley, CA 

Info/Media/Tickets: visit website johnbrownstruthopera.com  

Phone: 510-839-5691 

Cost: General $15; Students $10. 

Contact: William Crossman by email: willcross@aol.com  

John Brown’s Truth is a production of MIMESIS, a performing arts organization/California non-profit 501(C)3. 

Tickets: brownpapertickets.com 1-800-838-3006, & at Door 

Website: johnbrownstruthopera.com  

Landmark's Shattuck Cinemas will host a special screening Wednesday, Dec. 1, of two short films: Rite of Love and Death (30 minutes) by Yukio Mishima and Rites of Love and Math (26 minutes) by Reine Graves and Edward Frenkel. The 7 p.m. screening is presented by the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute and the Berkeley Video and Film Festival, and will include a Q&A with Edward Frenkel. 

Frenkel, a professor of mathematics at UC Berkeley, co-wrote and co-directed the film and also plays the lead. The film, a sprawling allegory about truth and beauty, love and death, mathematics and tattoo, premiered in Paris in April of 2010 and has played at international film festivals and other venues around the world. It has been featured in Le Monde, the Huffington Post, Science magazine and other publications, as well as radio and TV programs in the United States and Europe. Wednesday's screening will mark its North American theatrical premiere. 

This film was inspired by Yukio Mishima's cult classic Rite of Love and Death (also known as Yukoku), made in 1965. That film had a very unusual and mysterious history of its own: after Mishima’s dramatic death on November 25, 1970, the film was banned and all copies were presumed destroyed — until the original negative was miraculously found in a jar of tea. The film has recently been released on DVD. 

Admission is free. Passes are available at the door, or can be attained in advance at East Bay Media Center, 1939 Addison St. (510) 843-3699. 

For more information on Frenkel's film, see http://math.berkeley.edu/~frenkel/RITES. and www.berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2010/11/30_rites.shtml 

The Pacific Mozart Ensemble, acclaimed for performances of music ranging from Mozart to Meredith Monk, presents a special L@TE program this coming Friday at 7:30 pm at the Berkeley Art Museum, with new commissioned works by Amy X Neuburg and Sanford Dole, as well as vocal gems by Meredith Monk and Gabrieli. The singers will position themselves around the acoustically resonant Gallery B, and listeners are invited to sit or recline on the BAMscape sculpture and on the floor. A limited number of chairs are available. 

Directed by Lynne Morrow, the Pacific Mozart Ensemble has performed at Carnegie Hall for Meredith Monk’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, has made guest appearances with Sweet Honey in the Rock, presented the West Coast premiere of David Lang’s The Little Match Girl Passion, and received a grant from the National Endowment of the Arts to record the choral music of Dave Brubeck. The ensemble has made three European tours and numerous recordings. 

Program: 

Meredith Monk: Processional Meredith Monk: Astronaut Anthem Meredith Monk: Strand 2 Gabrieli: Vox Domini Sanford Dole: Water: Making Everything New Amy X Neuburg: Circle of Lullabies: Songs for children and planets born & unborn 

7:30 Friday, December 3 (doors open at 5, DJ at 6:30; wine and beer available)  

Berkeley Art Museum, 2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley (510) 642-8054 www.bampfa.berkeley.edu 

$7 general admission, free for museum members and UC Berkeley faculty, students, and staff

When I acted in a theatre company down on 20^th St. in NYC’s Chelsea district in the late 70’s, some twenty actors who all shared one dressing room would perform a bad rewrite of Candide or Bartleby the Scrivener for no pay. We sometimes lured our audience with a bottle of muscatel (“just don’t rattle the paper bag”).  

“The Integrity Players” in David Bell’s THE PLAY ABOUT THE NAKED GUY could be that company reduced to three players, whose sole funder is the mother of the actress. However, Mother’s single-minded goal is to break up the marriage of her daughter to the impoverished artistic director and get her back to Westport, Connecticut through any deviousness necessary. 

When Eddie Rossini who produces live male porn finds out the little company is going under and offers them a devilishly lucrative deal to produce a homoerotic take-off on Mel Gibson’s “Passion of the Christ,” we’re off on two hours of Sacrilegious Hilarity, pitting Holy Theatre against Mammon in Leather Cutoffs.  

Directed by Evren Odcikin, the casting is pitch perfect. Like most good screwball comedies, it’s character driven with plot twists that give the actors an opportunity to show their exasperation, desperation, and exhilaration with a funny spin. Odcikin has the cast dancing through the scene changes to keep the energy streaming through the blackouts, and his blocking makes the bandbox stage seem ample. He sets a proper pace, and choreographs the bawdiness to keep it edgy and believable but well on this side of funny.  

The writing seems to be of those plays that you write just for fun when high on joy or whatever; then you find that what you’ve got is witty, pretty and gay, and you’ve got a little comic masterpiece. Or perhaps the playwright plotted it all along for the big bucks, because this could be one of those on-going little Off-off cult midnight offerings (“I’m thinking Lesbian Vampires from Sodom”) that plays for years. Comedy is harder to write than drama, and The Play about the Naked Guy is better comedy than most. Campy comedy is Impact Theatre’s calling card, though they mix it with excellent Shakespeare.  

Drag stripper and performance artist Steve Satyricon is type cast as Kit Swagger. His cut, buffed, and tattooed torso writhes, flexes, and cavorts about the stripper pole to audience cheers of both genders. He is almost too accurate in his inability to give a line reading in the inept manner of nearly every actor in porn. 

Jai Sahai plays Harold N. Shyamalan, a Yale drama grad nebbish of Indian extraction. Sahai plays him with a subtlety that captures humor and heart in every ungainly gesture. Harold is outed early on, and the play is as much about his growing into this new sexual identity as it is about saving the theatre and putting on the play. 

Brian McManus as theatrical purist, artistic director of the Integrity Players, and new dad-to-be is a combination of Kevin Kline with all his theatrical charm and Fish-Called-Wanda self-confident buffoonery and Conan O’Brien’s geeky awkwardness—a very funny, straight-man combo. 

The show starts with the last act of unknown and unattended classic Restoration play with Eliza Leoni playing a pregnant beggar woman; life imitates art and she’s really pregnant (in the play), and the company’s stark financial crisis is aggravated by the impending arrival. Ms. Leoni shines with radiant fecundity and bright eyes that reflect and augment every glimmer of light. One wonders if indeed she is enceinte. When her hubby calls her by her pet name, “Pretty,” we concur. She is believably the ingénue naïve from Westport Connecticut caught between a life of art and the reality of a child coming any day.  

John Ferreira is convincingly greedy and conniving in his characterization of sex impresario Eddie Rossini, but occasionally has difficulty keeping up with the hellzapoppin’ comic tempo. Eddie’s minions are played as a NYC twinkie duet by Adrian Anchondo and Timitio Artusio. They keep the background humor churning as this Heckle and Jeckle pair vogues, grinds, and flounces their way into our hearts through our funny bones. 

Monica Cappuccini is a shot of hot liquid energy in her award-worthy Mommy Dearest role; she classes up the plays with her timing and phrasing, and it’s a wonder that this talent works at this basement level rather than for the big bucks.  

But, Impact’s keen sense of humor and execution, regardless of venue, is worth double the admission. If you offend easily, skip this one, but if you’ve got a keen sense of satire and camp, the laughs per dollar can’t be beat. My gay British friend put it succinctly, “Jolly Good Fun!” 

The climax is a tad anticlimactic; perhaps the unveiling of the long awaited Monty in all its Fullness might have augmented that finale chord with a prosthetic homage to the final scene of Boogie Nights. 

Costumes by Miyuki Bierlein, particularly the appropriately fashionable ensembles for Mommie Richest, decorate the bare stage of rehearsal cubes and painted stone, and enhance each character. The sound design of Colin Trevor keeps the disco beat thumping, and Jax Steager’s simple set of revolving ball of colored lights, funky bar signs like “One Gay at a Time,” and rehearsal cubes keep it simple and make it fun.  

About La Val’s & Impact: I’m short, and I can touch the ceiling in the basement of La Val’s Pizza on Hearst alongside UCB in North Berkeley. It’s an unlikely place for theatre, but a lot of good theatre and good times come from there. The audience eats pizza and drinks beer in their seats, and their closeness to the actors makes it exciting. Artistic Director Melissa Hillman’s showmanship in her curtain speeches set the irreverent tone and relaxes you out of any theatre stiffness and pretension. If you haven’t been, and you don’t mind unpadded theatre seats for two hours, take in this vibrant theatre experience of throbbing, young talent. 

The Play About the Naked Guy at Impact Theatre  

Playing at La Val’s Pizza 1834 Euclid, Berkeley through DEC 11^th 

Tickets: 510 464-4468 / www.impacttheatre.com 

Written by David Bell, directed by Evren Odcikin , costumes by Miyuki Bierlein, stage management by Ashley Bodnar, graphics by Cheshire Isaacs, lighting by Anne Kendall, set by Jax Steager, sound by Colin Trevor. 

WITH: Adrian Anchondo , Timitio Artusio, Monica Cappuccini, John Ferreira, Eliza Leoni, Brian McManus, Jai Sahai, and Steven Satyricon. 

John A. McMullen II is a member of the American Theatre Critics Association. Editing by E J Dunne.  

Comments to eyefromtheaisle@gmail.com 

Musica De Amor, Berkeley Symphony's concert this Thursday, at 8, will see the premiere of Mexican composer Enrico Chapela's Private Alleles, the Symphony's first commission under the music direction of Joana Carneiro. Peter Lieberson's Neruda Songs (composed for his wife, the late Lorraine Hunt Lieberson), sung by resident artist, mezzo-soprano Rachel Calloway, and Manuel de Falla's 1915 El amor brujo (originally composed for flamenco singer-dancer Pastora Imperio), complete the program. 

After the Symphony's last concert on September 23, arguably the most intense of Carneiro's tenure so far, with a virtuosic—heroic—-Jennifer Koh essaying both Beethoven's Violin Concerto in D minor and John Adams' Violin Concerto (one of the Berkeley resident's greatest compositions) the continued unfolding of Carneiro's unique sense of programming can only prove more and more intriguing, this concert illuminated perhaps by the memory of last April and the latest singer as resident artist, soprano Jessica Rivera delivering a ravishing rendition of Samuel Barber's Knoxville, 1915—which Rivera sang for her first time at Carneiro's urging.. Carneiro's montage of new, recent and older works has relied on deep—and sometimes unusual—musical affinities, rather than thematic devices or centering programs around "crowd pleasers." 

Zellerbach Hall, UC campus, Bancroft near Telegraph Ave. 8 p. m. Thursday. $20-$60.841-2800; berkeleysymphony.org

Architect Julia Morgan, widely admired in the Bay Area, remains surprisingly little known. And those who do know of her are curious about her private side. She remains elusive, even to her most ardent admirers. Berkeley playwright Belinda Taylor addresses this conundrum in Becoming Julia Morgan, exploring Morgan’s determination to stay out of the limelight – “I’m not one of those talking architects!” – and the equal determination of one young San Francisco Examiner reporter to persuade her to give up her secrets.  

Come and spend some quality time with Julia Morgan and an array of characters who people the world of Becoming Julia Morgan. Noted Berkeley actor and director Barbara Oliver returns to the Berkeley City Club (where she helped found Aurora Theatre) to direct the ensemble cast, with Janis Stevens reprising her award-winning role as Julia Morgan, Dave Garrett as Bernard Maybeck and William Randolph Hears, Sally Clawson as Phoebe Hearst and Marion Davies, and Paul Baird as the reporter Jerry, and Julia's brother Avery.  

Performances are December 3, 2010 thru January 9, 2011, Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Ave, Berkeley.  

Show times Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 8 pm, Sunday at 5 pm.  

Tickets $30, $24 Thursdays and for students at all performances at Brown Paper Tickets www.brownpapertickets  

Information and to purchase tickets by phone: 510-984-3864.  

E-mail becomingjuliamorgan@gmail.com .  

www.juliamorganproject.org

A benefit concert for Chilean children victims of the February earthquake  

Donations for international aid are needed especially for Christmas time…give a gift worth giving.  

RAFAEL & INGRID + QUIJEREMA IN CONCERT!!! 

Rafael Manríquez has been one of the leading exponents of Latin American music in the San Francisco Bay Area for over twenty years. Originally from Santiago, Chile, Rafael brings us the gift of both his exquisite voice and remarkable skill on Latin American string instruments, ranging from the guitar to the charango to the cuatro and tiple. Rafael is a passionate and well-loved composer and performer. Through his music, he reveals the richness of Latin folk rhythms influenced by the Spanish, Native American and African cultures. His lyrics reflect the struggles and hopes of the people of this continent. He has performed throughout the Americas and Europe. His music has been recorded on over ten albums. 

Rafael Manríquez and Ingrid Rubis specialize in Latin American music from the past and the present. They sing and play guitar, charango, quena and zampoñas (from Bolivia), cuatro (from Venezuela), cajón (from Peru) and bombo (from Argentina) as well as many other folk instruments. Residents of Berkeley, California, they have been performing together for over 4 years.  

www.rafaelmanriquez.com  

Quijeremá

"Using various methods of artistic expression, Quijeremá is more than just a band. They are poets and multi-media designers. 
 Combining sounds from almost all over Latin America, their music contains a multi-cultural vibe that is guaranteed to impress anyone." 

 - SFReMezcla 

 

Quijeremá is a fine-tuned San Francisco Bay Area based quintet that has been recreating the concept of mixtura in World Music. 
 The ensemble infuses their original contemporary Latin American compositions with a deep sense of unique ancient musical traditions. Still, the blending of rhythm, texture, and color in their music is seamless, transparent and one-of-a-kind. 

 As writer Willy Lizarraga states, Quijeremá “...manages to render a whole constellation of South American rhythms into a jazz idiom... how the cueca from Chile, tango from Argentina, waltz at its most Latin, landó from Peru, joropo from Venezuela, huaino from the Andes fuse into a musical continuum whose identity, no matter how jazzy, always remains rooted in the deep South, not of the U.S. but of the Americas.” 

 

Members of the ensemble play over thirty instruments, and have performed worldwide and appeared on regional, national and international radio and television. 

 Founded in 2002, Quijeremá is: 

 Quique Cruz (Chile: strings, Andean wind instruments & percussion) 
 Jeremy Allen (USA: bass & percussion) 
 Maria Fernanda Acuña (Venezuela: percussion & venezuelan cuatro) 
 Elijah Samuels (USA: saxophones, clarinet) 

www.quijerema.com
Featuring: Guest Artists:Patrick Fahey and LeAnna Sharp  

Where: Art House Gallery & Cultural Center
2905 Shattuck Ave.
Berkeley Ca, 94705
When: Friday Dec 3rd 

Donation $50.00 - $10.00
 

Time: 7-10:30 pm
 

Info: Harold Adler 510-472-3170

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.< 

CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY  

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

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

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

"Think California," through Feb. 5, Wed.-Sat. noon-4:30 p.m. An exhibition highlighting the colorful history of California through the institution's remarkable collection of artwork, artifacts and ephemera. Themes include: Coming to California, Scenic Splendors, Earthquakes, Floods and Volcanoes, and more. $1-$3; members are always free. 

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

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

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.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Animal Feeding," ongoing. Saturday, noon. 

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

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

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

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

"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. 

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

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.  

"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 November; see website for full details. Free. 

"Sailing Adventure Aboard Scow Schooner ALMA," ongoing. 12:30-4:30 p.m. Three-hour educational, hands-on sailing program. Takes place on various days throughout the month; see website for full details. $20-$40; children under 6 are free. 

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

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.<

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.  

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

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

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM 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.< 

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.< 

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.  

"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. 

"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. 

"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. 

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.  

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

$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.  

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

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

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.< 

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.<

"BERKELEY ARTISANS HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIOS," -- through Dec. 19. More than 100 artists and craftspeople will be showing their works, including glass, ceramics, furniture, photography, paintings, and much more. 

Free.11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun.www.berkeleyartisans.com.< 

"HOLIDAY HOME TOUR," -- Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. Tour five beautifully decorated homes in the Danville and Alamo area; call or see website for more details. 

$25-$35.10 a.m.-4 p.m.(925) 788-1698, www.aauw-da.org.< 

"HOMETOWN HOLIDAY CELEBRATION," -- Dec. 4. A festive, community-based parade taking place along Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. 

5-7:30 p.m.www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us.< 

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"Tri-Valley Toy, Comic Book and Collectible Show," Dec. 5, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.  

$1-$3. www.toyhavoc.com. 

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

ALTARENA PLAYHOUSE  

"Brian Copeland's Not A Genuine Black Man," Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Local awardwinning playwright and performer returns to perform his one man show about growing up in San Leandro. $50.  

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

"Christmas at Ardenwood," Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season in Victorian style, with Christmas carols, live music, crafts and more. $5-$8; children three and under free.  

$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.< 

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Pacific Chamber Symphony presents Handel's Messiah," Dec. 3, 8 p.m.  

$7-$39. www.pacificchambersymphony.org. 

"Valley Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker," Dec. 11 through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19. This long-running production of the classic tale of "The Nutcracker'' also adds Taeko drummers and a large Chinese Dragon. $18-$33. (925) 243-0925, www.valleydancetheater.com. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

CAL PERFORMANCES All performances in Zellerbach Hall unless otherwise noted. 

Takacs Quartet, Dec. 5, 3 p.m. Concert takes place in Hertz Hall. $56.  

Zellerbach Hall, University of California, Berkeley, Bancroft Way at Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. (510) 642-9988, www.calperformances.net.< 

CIVIC PARK, WALNUT CREEK  

"Walnut Creek On Ice," through Jan. 17. A special holiday time outdoor ice skating rink. See website for complete details. www.walnut-creek.com. 

1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. < 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

"Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra presents Handel's Messiah," Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. $35-$95. 

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

HERTZ HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

"University Symphony Orchestra," Dec. 10 and Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Works by Stravinsky. $5-$15.  

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

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

"Jack London Square Lights Up for the Holidays," Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join in the family fun at this holiday kick off event, with the lighting of the 55 foot tall tree, decorated with thousands of energy efficient LED lights that make this tree truly "green.''  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.< 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE EAST BAY  

"Community Festival of Light," Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A fun, free day of holiday activities for the whole family.  

1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. (510) 848-0237, www.jcceastbay.org/.< 

JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Cinderella," by Rodgers and Hammerstein, through Dec. 5. Featuring Grammynominated Broadway star, Frenchie Davis; directed by Elizabeth McKoy. See website for full performance listing. $15-$33. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org. 

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

LANEY COLLEGE THEATER  

"Burning Libraries: Stories From The New Ellis Island," Dec. 3 through Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 3 and 7 p.m. Sun. A new play telling more than 30 real life stories of ordinary people from minority and immigrant communities in and around Oakland. $15-$25.  

900 Fallon St., Oakland. (510) 595-5500 X25.< 

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"White Christmas," by Irving Berlin, through Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Nov. 26, 27, Dec. 3, 4; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 27, 28, Dec. 4. The Diablo Theatre Company presents the holiday classic, featuring songs such as "I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm.'' $20-$42. www.diablotheatrecompany.org. 

"Contra Costa Ballet presents Story of the Nutcracker," through Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Thu.; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri.; 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. The beloved holiday classic is brought to life live on stage. $22-$32.  

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

THE NEW PARISH  

No Age, Dec. 8, 10 p.m. $13-$15. 

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

ORACLE ARENA  

Roger Waters, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. $50-$400. 

The Judds, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. $47.25-$75.75. 

7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland. (510) 625-8497, (925) 685-8497, (415) 421-8497, www.ticketmaster.com or www.theoaklandarena.com.< 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE  

Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. $10-$40. 

"Oakland East Bay Symphony: Let Us Break Bread Together," Dec. 12, 4 p.m. With special guest Joan Baez. $12-$45.  

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

TOMMY T'S COMEDY AND STEAKHOUSE  

Jay Mohr, Dec. 10 through Dec. 12, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Fri.; 7 and 9:30 p.m. Sat.; 7 p.m. Sun. $30-$40. 

5104 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton. (925) 227-1800, www.tommyts.com.< 

UPTOWN NIGHTCLUB  

45 Grave, Plan 9, Alaric, Dec. 4, 9 p.m. $10. 

Dick Dale, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. $20. 

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

YOSHI'S  

Charlie Hunter, Dec. 9 through Dec. 12, 8 and 10 p.m. Thu.-Sat.; 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$24. 

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.<

"BERKELEY ARTISANS HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIOS," -- through Dec. 19. More than 100 artists and craftspeople will be showing their works, including glass, ceramics, furniture, photography, paintings, and much more. 

Free.11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun.www.berkeleyartisans.com.< 

"BERKELEY POTTER'S GUILD HOLIDAY EXHIBITION," -- through Dec. 24. A diverse array of pottery and sculpture will be available at this annual sale and show. Event takes place at 731 Jones St., Berkeley. 

Free.10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun.www.berkeleyptters.com.< 

"HOLIDAY HOME TOUR," -- Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. Tour five beautifully decorated homes in the Danville and Alamo area; call or see website for more details. 

$25-$35.10 a.m.-4 p.m.(925) 788-1698, www.aauw-da.org.< 

"HOMETOWN HOLIDAY CELEBRATION," -- Dec. 4. A festive, community-based parade taking place along Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. 

5-7:30 p.m.www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us.< 

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"Tri-Valley Toy, Comic Book and Collectible Show," Dec. 5, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.  

$1-$3. www.toyhavoc.com. 

"SF Bay Bombers Roller Derby," Dec. 11, 8 p.m.  

$10-$25. www.arsdbombers.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.  

"Christmas at Ardenwood," Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season in Victorian style, with Christmas carols, live music, crafts and more. $5-$8; children three and under free.  

$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  

"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.< 

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Valley Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker," Dec. 11 through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19. This long-running production of the classic tale of "The Nutcracker'' also adds Taeko drummers and a large Chinese Dragon. $18-$33. (925) 243-0925, www.valleydancetheater.com. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

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.< 

BAYFAIR CENTER  

"Bayfair Center's Holiday Season," through Dec. 24. A variety of holiday events are planned at the center, including the arrival of Santa on Nov. 20, photos with Santa throughout the month, and a host of different entertainers. See website for complete details.  

15555 14th St., San Leandro. www.shopbayfair.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 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.< 

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. 

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.  

"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. 

"Tales Of The Maya Skies," ongoing. "Tales of the Maya Skies'' is a new full-dome planetarium show that explores the cosmology of the ancient Maya, along with their culture and their contributions to astronomy. Starts November 21. 

"Immersive Space: Fly Through the Cosmos," ongoing. Fridays, 8 p.m. Experience the "digital universe'' in a new full-dome system. Travel to the nearest star and beyond in seconds. 

"Sunshine," ongoing. A 15-minute planetarium show for children ages 5 and under. In the show, Sunshine, a lovable animated cartoon of the Sun, urges children to sing and play along with his tricks. In the process, he introduces the colors of the day sky and the other suns of the night sky. Free with regular general admission. 

"Sonic Vision," ongoing. Friday-Saturday, 9:15 p.m. This show uses the latest digital technology to illuminate the planetarium with colorful computer-generated imagery set to today's popular music, including Radiohead, U2, David Bowie, Coldplay, Moby and more. 

"Secret of the Cardboard Rocket," ongoing. Take a journey through the solar system with two young adventurers who turn an old cardboard box into a rocket. Recommended for ages 5-10. 

"Space NOW!", ongoing. Each week, this real-time ride through constellations, stars, and planets will reflect current happenings in our sky. Space NOW! will also tie in activities going on throughout the center. This is Chabot's first daytime guided tour of the universe. 

"The Search for Life: Are We Alone?" ongoing. A voyage from the ocean deep to the outer reaches of the cosmos in search of life, narrated by Harrison Ford. 

"The Sky Tonight," ongoing. Saturdays, 8 p.m. Take a live tour of the starry sky overhead on the night of your visit. The show includes a look at constellations, planets and special celestial objects. 

"Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity," ongoing. Take a ride to the inside of a massive black hole and learn about the latest scientific evidence, which suggests that black holes are real. Narrated by Liam Neeson. Suitable for age 12 and older. Free with General Admission ticket. 

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.Ongoing.  

"Dinner, Movie and the Universe," ongoing. Every Friday and Saturday evening. Enjoy a bistro-style dinner, then cozy up for a film in the 70-foot MegaDome theater and end the evening with a telescope viewing. Call to purchase general admission tickets and to make dinner reservations. (510) 336-7373. 

"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. 

Telescope Visions Class, ongoing. 7 p.m. This course introduces participants to the astronomer's main tool: the telescope. Classes are held in the Galileo Room twice monthly. $85-$95; reservations required. (510) 336-7373. 

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. 

"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. 

"The Living Sea," ongoing. The film celebrates the beauty, power and importance of the ocean. Produced in association with The National Maritime Center, the Ocean Film Network and Dr. Robert Ballard. 

"Cosmic Voyage," ongoing. A breathtaking journey through time and space. Zoom from the surface of the Earth to the largest observable structures of the Universe and back down to the sub-nuclear realm, a guided tour across some 42 orders of magnitude. Explore some of the greatest scientific theories, many of which have never before been visualized on film. 

"Forces of Nature," ongoing. This film showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms as scientists continue their quests to understand how these natural disasters are triggered. 

"The Human Body," ongoing. This show explores the daily biological processes that go on in the human body without our control and often without our notice. This amazing story is revealed in detail on the giant screen. 

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.< 

CIVIC PARK, WALNUT CREEK  

"Walnut Creek On Ice," through Jan. 17. A special holiday time outdoor ice skating rink. See website for complete details. www.walnut-creek.com. 

1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. < 

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.< 

FRANK OGAWA PLAZA  

"Oakland Artisan Marketplace," ongoing. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays. The City of Oakland and Cultural Arts & Marketing Department presents a weekly market featuring fine arts and crafts of local artists. Free. (510) 238-4948, www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org. 

14th Street and Broadway, Oakland. < 

JACK LONDON AQUATIC CENTER  

"Oakland Artisan Marketplace,"' ongoing. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays The City of Oakland and Cultural Arts & Marketing Department presents a weekly market featuring fine arts and crafts of local artists. Free. (510) 238-4948, www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org. 

115 Embarcadero, Oakland. < 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

"Jack London Square Lights Up for the Holidays," Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join in the family fun at this holiday kick off event, with the lighting of the 55 foot tall tree, decorated with thousands of energy efficient LED lights that make this tree truly "green.''  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.< 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE EAST BAY  

"Community Festival of Light," Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A fun, free day of holiday activities for the whole family.  

"The Buddy Club Children's Show," Dec. 12, 1 p.m. Featuring the Keith Show. $8.  

1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. (510) 848-0237, www.jcceastbay.org/.< 

LANEY COLLEGE THEATER  

"Burning Libraries: Stories From The New Ellis Island," Dec. 3 through Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 3 and 7 p.m. Sun. A new play telling more than 30 real life stories of ordinary people from minority and immigrant communities in and around Oakland. $15-$25.  

900 Fallon St., Oakland. (510) 595-5500 X25.< 

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.< 

NIROGA CENTER  

"Holiday Bazaar," Dec. 11, 1-6 p.m. Peruse hand made arts and crafts, benefitting the center's outreach programs to at risk youth.  

1808 University Ave., Berkeley. (510) 704-1330, www.nirogacenter.org.< 

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.< 

VALLEY ART GALLERY  

"Artful Giving," through Dec. 23, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. A show and sale featuring fine crafts from over 50 Bay Area artisans. (925) 935-4311. 

1661 Botelho Dr., Suite 110, Walnut Creek. <

"BERKELEY ARTISANS HOLIDAY OPEN STUDIOS," -- through Dec. 19. More than 100 artists and craftspeople will be showing their works, including glass, ceramics, furniture, photography, paintings, and much more. 

Free.11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun.www.berkeleyartisans.com.< 

"BERKELEY POTTER'S GUILD HOLIDAY EXHIBITION," -- through Dec. 24. A diverse array of pottery and sculpture will be available at this annual sale and show. Event takes place at 731 Jones St., Berkeley. 

Free.10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat.-Sun.www.berkeleyptters.com.< 

"HOLIDAY HOME TOUR," -- Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. Tour five beautifully decorated homes in the Danville and Alamo area; call or see website for more details. 

$25-$35.10 a.m.-4 p.m.(925) 788-1698, www.aauw-da.org.< 

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. < 

FORT MASON CENTER  

"Celebration of Craftswomen," through Nov. 28 and Dec. 4 through Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. More than 200 craftswomen will be offering up a unique opportunity to find gorgeous, one of a kind holiday gifts, fine crafts and contemporary art. Event takes place at the Herbst Pavilion. $7-$9. www.celebrationofcraftswomen.org. 

Marina Boulevard and Buchanan Street, San Francisco. www.fortmason.org.< 

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.< 

USF THACHER GALLERY  

"Galleons and Globalization: California Mission Arts and the Pacific Rim," through Dec. 19. The exhibit explores the lively commerce in iconography, materials and ideas that shaped California's rich mission arts.  

2130 Fulton St., San Francisco. (415) 422-5178.<

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.Ongoing.  

"Play Readers," ongoing. 7-8:30 p.m. on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Play readers meet once a month to read a play aloud. They meet for cocktails and chitchat at 5:30 p.m. (Venetian Room), dinner at 6 p.m. (Dining Room), and the reading begins at 7 p.m. Open to BCC members and their guests; the cost is lunch at BCC. 

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.  

"Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity," ongoing. Take a ride to the inside of a massive black hole and learn about the latest scientific evidence, which suggests that black holes are real. Narrated by Liam Neeson. Suitable for age 12 and older. Free with General Admission ticket. 

"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. 

"Space NOW!", ongoing. Each week, this real-time ride through constellations, stars, and planets will reflect current happenings in our sky. Space NOW! will also tie in activities going on throughout the center. This is Chabot's first daytime guided tour of the universe. 

"Tales Of The Maya Skies," ongoing. "Tales of the Maya Skies'' is a new full-dome planetarium show that explores the cosmology of the ancient Maya, along with their culture and their contributions to astronomy. Starts November 21. 

"Immersive Space: Fly Through the Cosmos," ongoing. Fridays, 8 p.m. Experience the "digital universe'' in a new full-dome system. Travel to the nearest star and beyond in seconds. 

"Sunshine," ongoing. A 15-minute planetarium show for children ages 5 and under. In the show, Sunshine, a lovable animated cartoon of the Sun, urges children to sing and play along with his tricks. In the process, he introduces the colors of the day sky and the other suns of the night sky. Free with regular general admission. 

"Secret of the Cardboard Rocket," ongoing. Take a journey through the solar system with two young adventurers who turn an old cardboard box into a rocket. Recommended for ages 5-10. 

"The Search for Life: Are We Alone?" ongoing. A voyage from the ocean deep to the outer reaches of the cosmos in search of life, narrated by Harrison Ford. 

"The Sky Tonight," ongoing. Saturdays, 8 p.m. Take a live tour of the starry sky overhead on the night of your visit. The show includes a look at constellations, planets and special celestial objects. 

"Sonic Vision," ongoing. Friday-Saturday, 9:15 p.m. This show uses the latest digital technology to illuminate the planetarium with colorful computer-generated imagery set to today's popular music, including Radiohead, U2, David Bowie, Coldplay, Moby and more. 

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.Ongoing.  

"Dinner, Movie and the Universe," ongoing. Every Friday and Saturday evening. Enjoy a bistro-style dinner, then cozy up for a film in the 70-foot MegaDome theater and end the evening with a telescope viewing. Call to purchase general admission tickets and to make dinner reservations. (510) 336-7373. 

"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. 

Telescope Visions Class, ongoing. 7 p.m. This course introduces participants to the astronomer's main tool: the telescope. Classes are held in the Galileo Room twice monthly. $85-$95; reservations required. (510) 336-7373. 

"New Year's Eve Balloon Drop," Dec. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri., and Sun. Ring in 2011 with your kids at this daytime balloon drop celebration. $4 and up; registration required. 

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. 

"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. 

"Cosmic Voyage," ongoing. A breathtaking journey through time and space. Zoom from the surface of the Earth to the largest observable structures of the Universe and back down to the sub-nuclear realm, a guided tour across some 42 orders of magnitude. Explore some of the greatest scientific theories, many of which have never before been visualized on film. 

"The Living Sea," ongoing. The film celebrates the beauty, power and importance of the ocean. Produced in association with The National Maritime Center, the Ocean Film Network and Dr. Robert Ballard. 

"Forces of Nature," ongoing. This film showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms as scientists continue their quests to understand how these natural disasters are triggered. 

"The Human Body," ongoing. This show explores the daily biological processes that go on in the human body without our control and often without our notice. This amazing story is revealed in detail on the giant screen. 

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.< 

CHOUINARD VINEYARDS AND WINERY The winery features an exhibit of stone craft and baskets honoring the rich culture of the Ohlone Indians. Palomares Canyon was a summer home to the Ohlone Indians. The exhibit also includes historical photos and artifacts that document more recent colorful inhabitants to the canyon."Music at Chouinard," ongoing. 4:30-8:30 p.m. on select Sundays June-August. The rest of the year features live music in the tasting room on the second Sunday of each month. Enjoy the best of Bay Area artists at Chouinard. Bring your own gourmet picnic (no outside alcoholic beverages). Wines are available for tasting and sales.  

$40 per car. 

"Holidays in the Vineyards," Dec. 4 through Dec. 5, noon-5 p.m. An oldfashioned country celebration with the delights of music, food, gifts and beautiful crafts. Free. 

Free. Tasting Room: Saturdays-Sundays, noon-5 p.m. 33853 Palomares Road, Castro Valley. (510) 582-9900, www.chouinard.com.< 

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 --  

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. 

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

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. 

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. 

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.  

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. 

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. 

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.  

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. 

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY --  

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.  

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. 

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

1425 S. Main St., Walnut Creek.  

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.  

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. 

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

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

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. 

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. 

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.  

$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.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.< 

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.< 

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.< 

OAKLAND ZOO The zoo includes a Children's Petting Zoo, the Skyride, a miniature train, a carousel, picnic grounds and a gift shop as well as the animals in site specific exhibits, which allow them to roam freely. Included are "The African Savanna,'' with its two huge mixed-animal aviaries and 11 African Savanna exhibits; the Mahali Pa Tembo (Place of the Elephant), with giraffes, chimpanzees and more than 330 other animals from around the world; "Simba Pori,'' Swahili for "Lion Country,'' a spacious 1.5-acre habitat offering both a savanna and woodland setting for African lions; "Footprints from the Past,'' an anthropology exhibit showcasing four million years of human evolution and an actual "footpath'' of the first hominids to emerge from the African savanna; "Sun Bear Exhibit,'' a stateof-the-art space the zoo has developed for its two sun bears; and Siamang Island, a state-of-the-art, barrier-free area that emulates the gibbons' native tropical rain forest habitat. Also see the Malayan Fruit Bats from the Lubee Bat Conservancy in Florida that are now roosting in trees at the zoo. In addition there are special exhibits and events monthly. "Valley Children's Zoo," ongoing. The three-acre attraction offers a completely interactive experience for both children and adults. The exhibits include lemurs, giant fruit bats, otters, reptiles, insects and more. Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

"Endangered Species," ongoing. An exhibit of photographs about the most endangered animals on the Earth and what can be done to save them. At the Education Center. Open daily during zoo hours. ONGOING EVENTS --  

"Valley Children's Zoo," ongoing. Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The three-acre attraction will offer a completely interactive experience for both children and adults. The exhibits include lemurs, giant fruit bats, otters, reptiles, insects and more. Free with regular Zoo admission.  

"Wildlife Theater," ongoing. Saturday, 11:45 a.m.; Sunday, 1:45 p.m. On Saturday mornings listen to a story and meet a live animal. On Sunday afternoon meet live animals and learn cool facts about them. Meet in the Lobby of the Zoo's Maddie's Center for Science and Environmental Education. Free with regular Zoo admission. (510) 632-9525, ext. 142.Ongoing.  

"Paws and Claws," Dec. 18 through Dec. 19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kids can meet Santa Claus, share their wish lists and have their pictures taken. A variety of other family-friendly events are planned for each day. See website for full details. $5 donation for picture with Santa. 

$7.50-11; free children under age 2; $6 parking fee. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Knowland Park, 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland. (510) 632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.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.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.<

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. "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.  

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

$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.< 

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.< 

CIVIC PARK, WALNUT CREEK  

"Walnut Creek On Ice," through Jan. 17. A special holiday time outdoor ice skating rink. See website for complete details. www.walnut-creek.com. 

1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. < 

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.  

"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. 

"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. 

Free. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. (510) 670-7270, www.hard.dst.ca.us/hayshore.html.< 

JOHN MUIR NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE The site preserves the 1882 Muir House, a 17-room Victorian mansion where naturalist John Muir lived from 1890 to his death in 1914. It was here that Muir wrote about preserving America's wilderness and helped create the national parks idea for the United States. The house is situated on a hill overlooking the City of Martinez and surrounded by nine acres of vineyards and orchards. Take a self-guided tour of this well-known Scottish naturalist's home. Also part of the site is the historic Martinez Adobe and Mount Wanda. 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.  

$3 general; free children ages 16 and under. Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez. (925) 228-8860, www.nps.gov/jomu.< 

KENNEDY GROVE REGIONAL RECREATION AREA 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.< 

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.< 

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.< 

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.< 

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.< 

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 Sunol Regional Wilderness. 

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

Free unless otherwise noted; $5 parking; $2 dog fee. Geary Road off Calaveras Road, six miles south of Interstate Highway 680, Sunol. (510) 652-PARK, www.ebparks.org.<

"HOMETOWN HOLIDAY CELEBRATION," -- Dec. 4. A festive, community-based parade taking place along Main Street in downtown Pleasanton. 

5-7:30 p.m.www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us.< 

ALAMEDA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS  

"Tri-Valley Toy, Comic Book and Collectible Show," Dec. 5, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.  

$1-$3. www.toyhavoc.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. "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.  

"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. 

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

"Christmas at Ardenwood," Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the holiday season in Victorian style, with Christmas carols, live music, crafts and more. $5-$8; children three and under free.  

$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  

"Flemenco Family Holiday Show with Roberto Granados," Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. $10. 

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

BANKHEAD THEATER  

"Valley Dance Theatre: The Nutcracker," Dec. 11 through Dec. 19, 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19. This long-running production of the classic tale of "The Nutcracker'' also adds Taeko drummers and a large Chinese Dragon. $18-$33. (925) 243-0925, www.valleydancetheater.com. 

2400 First Street, Livermore. (925) 373-6800, www.livermoreperformingarts.org.< 

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.< 

BAYFAIR CENTER  

"Bayfair Center's Holiday Season," through Dec. 24. A variety of holiday events are planned at the center, including the arrival of Santa on Nov. 20, photos with Santa throughout the month, and a host of different entertainers. See website for complete details.  

15555 14th St., San Leandro. www.shopbayfair.com.< 

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.< 

BORDERS BOOKS  

Leslie Baker, Dec. 4, 1 p.m. "Healing Feelings: A Healing Story for Children Coping with a Grownup's Mental Illness.''  

4575 Rosewood Dr., Pleasanton. < 

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. 

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.  

"Tales Of The Maya Skies," ongoing. "Tales of the Maya Skies'' is a new full-dome planetarium show that explores the cosmology of the ancient Maya, along with their culture and their contributions to astronomy. Starts November 21. 

"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. 

"Space NOW!", ongoing. Each week, this real-time ride through constellations, stars, and planets will reflect current happenings in our sky. Space NOW! will also tie in activities going on throughout the center. This is Chabot's first daytime guided tour of the universe. 

"Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity," ongoing. Take a ride to the inside of a massive black hole and learn about the latest scientific evidence, which suggests that black holes are real. Narrated by Liam Neeson. Suitable for age 12 and older. Free with General Admission ticket. 

"Immersive Space: Fly Through the Cosmos," ongoing. Fridays, 8 p.m. Experience the "digital universe'' in a new full-dome system. Travel to the nearest star and beyond in seconds. 

"Sunshine," ongoing. A 15-minute planetarium show for children ages 5 and under. In the show, Sunshine, a lovable animated cartoon of the Sun, urges children to sing and play along with his tricks. In the process, he introduces the colors of the day sky and the other suns of the night sky. Free with regular general admission. 

"Secret of the Cardboard Rocket," ongoing. Take a journey through the solar system with two young adventurers who turn an old cardboard box into a rocket. Recommended for ages 5-10. 

"The Search for Life: Are We Alone?" ongoing. A voyage from the ocean deep to the outer reaches of the cosmos in search of life, narrated by Harrison Ford. 

"The Sky Tonight," ongoing. Saturdays, 8 p.m. Take a live tour of the starry sky overhead on the night of your visit. The show includes a look at constellations, planets and special celestial objects. 

"Sonic Vision," ongoing. Friday-Saturday, 9:15 p.m. This show uses the latest digital technology to illuminate the planetarium with colorful computer-generated imagery set to today's popular music, including Radiohead, U2, David Bowie, Coldplay, Moby and more.Ongoing.  

"Dinner, Movie and the Universe," ongoing. Every Friday and Saturday evening. Enjoy a bistro-style dinner, then cozy up for a film in the 70-foot MegaDome theater and end the evening with a telescope viewing. Call to purchase general admission tickets and to make dinner reservations. (510) 336-7373. 

"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. 

Telescope Visions Class, ongoing. 7 p.m. This course introduces participants to the astronomer's main tool: the telescope. Classes are held in the Galileo Room twice monthly. $85-$95; reservations required. (510) 336-7373. 

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. 

"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. 

"The Human Body," ongoing. This show explores the daily biological processes that go on in the human body without our control and often without our notice. This amazing story is revealed in detail on the giant screen. 

"The Living Sea," ongoing. The film celebrates the beauty, power and importance of the ocean. Produced in association with The National Maritime Center, the Ocean Film Network and Dr. Robert Ballard. 

"Forces of Nature," ongoing. This film showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms as scientists continue their quests to understand how these natural disasters are triggered. 

"Cosmic Voyage," ongoing. A breathtaking journey through time and space. Zoom from the surface of the Earth to the largest observable structures of the Universe and back down to the sub-nuclear realm, a guided tour across some 42 orders of magnitude. Explore some of the greatest scientific theories, many of which have never before been visualized on film. 

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.< 

CIVIC PARK, WALNUT CREEK  

"Walnut Creek On Ice," through Jan. 17. A special holiday time outdoor ice skating rink. See website for complete details. www.walnut-creek.com. 

1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. < 

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."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. 

"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. 

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.< 

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.< 

FREMONT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA  

"The Nutcracker," Dec. 4 through Dec. 5, 2 and 7 p.m. Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. The beloved holiday classic comes to life on stage. $20-$48.  

Jackson Theater, Smith Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. (510) 794-1659, www.fremontsymphony.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.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. 

"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.< 

JACK LONDON SQUARE  

"Jack London Square Lights Up for the Holidays," Dec. 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join in the family fun at this holiday kick off event, with the lighting of the 55 foot tall tree, decorated with thousands of energy efficient LED lights that make this tree truly "green.''  

free. Foot of Broadway, Oakland. (866) 295-9853, www.jacklondonsquare.com.< 

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.  

"Community Festival of Light," Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A fun, free day of holiday activities for the whole family.  

"The Buddy Club Children's Show," Dec. 12, 1 p.m. Featuring the Keith Show. $8.  

1414 Walnut St., Berkeley. (510) 848-0237, www.jcceastbay.org/.< 

JULIA MORGAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Cinderella," by Rodgers and Hammerstein, through Dec. 5. Featuring Grammynominated Broadway star, Frenchie Davis; directed by Elizabeth McKoy. See website for full performance listing. $15-$33. www.berkeleyplayhouse.org. 

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

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

"Contra Costa Ballet presents Story of the Nutcracker," through Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Thu.; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Fri.; 2, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sat. The beloved holiday classic is brought to life live on stage. $22-$32.  

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

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.< 

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.< 

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 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.< 

YOSHI'S  

Ravi Coltrane, Dec. 3 through Dec. 5, 8 and 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sun. $5-$20. 

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.<

ASHKENAZ  

"Los Boleros: Cuban Dance Night," Dec. 3, 9 p.m. $10-$12. 

"Flemenco Family Holiday Show with Roberto Granados," Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. $10. 

Jeffery Broussard & The Creole Cowboys, Dec. 7, 8:30 p.m. Caujun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. $12.  

Trio Garufa, DJ Polo Tanir, Dec. 11, 9:30 p.m. Argentine Tango lesson at 8 p.m.  

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

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. 

"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. 

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

Conjunto Taino, Dec. 8, 8 p.m. Live salsa and dance lessons from 8:30-9:30 p.m. $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.<