You can’t tell the players without a scorecard—and you can’t understand what the Berkeley City Council is doing without an agenda. Even with one it might be hard, but in any case, you can find it here 

Items to keep an eye on: 

First and foremost, the City of Berkeley's budget woes are multiplying. The City Manager and his budget director will present a report on what is now a $1.8 million expected shortfall. And it could easily get worse. 

Then there are competing proposals from the city manager and the Housing Advisory Commission for how much developers should contribute to the city’s affordable housing fund when they get permits to build new market rate housing, in lieu of including affordable units in their project. Berkeley currently has a glut of expensive housing and a shortage of affordable housing, 

There’s a good example of what I like to call the Shady Acres theory of nomenclature on today’s agenda., e.g. a builder clear-cuts a forest and names the resulting subdivision “Shady Acres”. An item combining the so-called “Open Government” ordinance and an accompanying sneaky change the Mayor’s proposing for the operation of the agenda committee, which controls what the Council gets to consider at its increasingly infrequent meetings, are the reverse of what you might think they are. The O.G. is harmless but toothless, positioned as an alternative to the Citizens’ Sunshine Ordinance. The Mayor’s rules change is designed to make Berkeley more like Sacramento, stripping councilmembers and commissions of the power to put items on the council’s agenda,. The late Dona Spring stopped this one the first time Mayor Bates proposed it, but like a vampire it’s Undead again. 

Another pair of dueling proposals: the Peace and Justice Commission wants the city to offer to resettle innocents being released from Guantanamo, but the deputy City Manager objects. 

Then there’s the “support Private Bradley Manning” resolution, narrowed in scope so that no one has any reason to object—but don’t count on it. 

And finally, if they’re still awake by then, the council will consider recommending an alternative budget which counters Governor Jerry Brown’s draconian proposals with some more humane alternatives. 

You can see the whole performance online in real time, or watch it later at your convenience. If you're truly dedicated, you could even attend in person: starting at 7 pm. in the council chambers at the Maudelle Shirek Building (old city hall). 

A Berkeley police officer was injured early Saturday morning when his patrol car was struck by a car driven by a man evading police officers. 

Police officers saw a Honda Accord speeding across the Oakland-Berkeley border at about 1:50 a.m. 

The car, which did not have its lights on, was moving north on Sacramento Street, where a police sergeant attempted to stop the vehicle, police said. 

The driver fled east on Woolsey Street past California Street, blowing through stop signs along the way. 

A patrol officer was driving north of Sacramento Street when, based on preliminary reports, the Honda ran the stop sign and struck the patrol car's passenger side, police said. 

The officer was transported to a local emergency room for treatment of injuries that are believed to be non-life threatening. 

Police took the Honda's driver into custody after drawing their weapons and challenging the driver, police said. 

The driver, Hodges Akili Taplet, 20, of Oakland, was treated at a local hospital and then booked into Berkeley Jail for reckless driving while vading police. 

According to police, Taplet also allegedly drove without a license and was in violation of probation. 

His 23-year-old passenger was not arrested.

Guantánamo detainees would be able to resettle in Berkeley, according to a resolution to be considered today by the Berkeley City Council. 

The Resolution asks Congress to remove any legislative barriers to resettling cleared Guantánamo detainees in the U.S. and welcomes one or two of the detainees to live in Berkeley once they're able to leave Guantánamo. Berkeley will become the third municipality in the United States and the first in California to do so. No city funds would be used to support the former detainees, who would be sponsored by community volunteers and organizations that help torture victims and refugees. 

"I'd offer a room in my house to one of the men," said Cynthia Papermaster, Berkeley resident and who heads Berkeley No More Guantanamos. She asked the Berkeley Peace and Justice Commission to bring the measure to the Council. The commission did so on December 6. 

Papermaster said, "The U.S. government—under President Bush and President Obama-- cleared the majority of Guantánamo prisoners for release, but many cannot safely return to their home countries because of the risk of persecution, torture or death. Berkeley is a compassionate and caring community, like Amherst and Leverett, Massachusetts, which passed similar resolutions in 2009 and 2010. Berkeley wants to extend the hand of friendship and support to help these men resume their lives in peace and safety, and to heal from the ordeal of capture, torture and detention at the hands of our government. I'm proud Berkeley could take this action, to help correct the record and provide some help for the innocent victims of our 'War on Terror.' These men are not and never were terrorists. "Former government officials who illegally authorized torture, such as John Yoo, who lives and works in Berkeley, Jay Bybee, his former boss who has a lifetime appointment to the 9th Circuit Court, Dick Cheney, and Donald Rumsfeld told us to fear all the detainees at Guantánamo. But Americans don’t know that the vast majority of Guantánamo detainees were sold to U.S. forces by people who received bounties averaging $5,000 per head for turning in anyone. Stories those people fabricated to collect the bounties were the initial ‘evidence’ against those men, and false confessions of wrongdoing were secured through torture.” 

Nancy Talanian, Director of No More Guantanamos, points out that "most of the 174 detainees who remain in the prison have been determined to pose no danger to the U.S. or its allies, yet they cannot return to their home countries because they would face persecution or because the Obama administration has placed a moratorium on resettlement of Yemenis. On January 11, 2011, some of the men who remain in Guantánamo Bay prison began their tenth year there.” Talanian explained, “Congress’s ban on allowing any Guantánamo detainees to resettle in the U.S. is standing in the way of their resettlement in other countries. Many U.S. allies want to help, but they question why they are expected to accept all the men in need of third countries when the U.S. refuses to accept a single one." 

"This is an opportunity to bring healing not only to the victims of torture, but to the American people," said Holly Harwood, Coordinator of the Golden Gate Chapter of Codepink, supporters of the measure. 

Papermaster continued, “It is past time these men were given their freedom and allowed to rebuild their lives. This is a humane gesture and the least we can do to lessen their suffering. Guantánamo detainees who cannot safely return home are really no different than other refugees whom Bay Area communities have welcomed in the past. And if the U.S. government, which has held the men for nearly nine years, can tell other governments it’s safe to take the men, then it should be perfectly safe for them to live here. I'm sure Berkeley citizens will offer support for them. I'm going to offer a room in my house to one of the men." Community coalitions in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Vermont are supporting the closure of Guantánamo prison by welcoming detainees, sharing their stories, or both. 

Tonight, at the 53rd annual Grammy Awards, American Idiot – the raucous show that was born at Berkeley Repertory Theatre before bursting onto Broadway – won the Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album. Produced by Billie Joe Armstrong, the recording features Green Day and the original Broadway cast, who performed together on national television during last year’s Grammy ceremony. Reprise Records released the album on April 20, 2010, the same day the show began its Broadway run. The musical features music from Green Day’s most recent albums, American Idiot and 21st Century Breakdown, both of which won Grammy Awards as well. 

In the last nine years, Berkeley Rep has helped develop seven Broadway shows: American Idiot (2010), Bridge & Tunnel (2006), Ghetto Klown (2011), In the Next Room, or the vibrator play (2009), Metamorphoses (2002), Passing Strange (2008), and Wishful Drinking (2009), which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Audio Book last year. Berkeley Rep also celebrated its second London transfer last fall: following in the footsteps of Continental Divide, which played at the Barbican in 2004, Tiny Kushner transferred to London’s Tricycle Theater in September. 

The smash-hit, Tony Award-winning musical American Idiot tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia. Their quest for true meaning in a post 9-11 world leads them on an exhilarating journey. The result, according to the Toronto Star, is “the first great musical of the 21st century!” 

The Broadway engagement of American Idiot is produced by Tom Hulce and Ira Pittelman in association with Berkeley Rep. The show made its world premiere in Berkeley Rep’s Roda Theatre in September 2009. Its record-breaking run brought in the biggest advance sale in the Theatre’s 42-year history, the biggest day at the box office, 18 of the top 20 days ever, and due to demand had to announce its first extension before it played its first performance. Now it’s rocking the St. James Theatre in Manhattan, which is located at 246 West 44th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue. 

Green Day – vocalist/guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong, bassist Mike Dirnt, and drummer Tré Cool – created one of the best-selling albums of all time with the groundbreaking rock opera American Idiot. Then the band collaborated with one of theatre's most acclaimed creative teams – Tony Award-winning director of Spring Awakening Michael Mayer, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and orchestrator Tom Kitt, and Olivier Award-winning choreographer Steven Hoggett – to bring this explosive, iconic story to the stage. 

The show features Tony Award-winning scenic design by Christine Jones (Spring Awakening), costume design by Baryshnikov fellow Andrea Lauer (The Butcher of Baraboo), Tony Award-winning lighting design by Kevin Adams (Hair), sound design by Olivier and Obie Award-winner Brian Ronan (Cabaret), and video design by Darrel Maloney. The music director is Carmel Dean and Lorin Latarro is the associate choreographer. For more information, visit AmericanIdiotonBroadway.com. 

Berkeley Repertory Theatre has grown from a storefront stage to a national leader in innovative theatre. Known for its core values of imagination and excellence, as well as its educated and adventurous audience, the nonprofit has provided a welcoming home for emerging and established artists since 1968. The Theatre welcomes an annual audience of 180,000, serves 20,000 students, and hosts dozens of community groups, thanks to 1,000 volunteers and more than 400 artists, artisans, and administrators. With two stages, a school, and a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, Berkeley Rep is proud to premiere exhilarating new plays. 

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Reporters and cameramen outnumbered dancing (historic) hippy celebrants as Larry Blakes on Telegraph Avenue was laid to rest Saturday. Cause of death may have been suicide. 

Blake's ailing business survivors on Teley are calling their doctors as La Fiesta, a mainstay on the Ave. for 50 years, just announced its impending sale. 

Blake's survived several ownership changes in three decades. But recent changes, perceived declines in food and service, and a south of Market nightclub scene may have contributed to its own three-strikes demise. 

While a weeping chorus of Teley businessmen complains often and loudly of conditions on Telegraph, Blake's, with its raucous early morning crowds blocking the sidewalk, may have shot itself through the head. 

La Fiesta had moved a few years ago from its historic site at Teley and Haste to its catering site only a stone's throw away on Haste, but according to a source close to the owner, the daily operation of the business had become too much for its elderly owner. 

Blake's, founded in 1940, is survived by such elder businesses as the Med,'56; Moe's,'56; the Print Mint,'65; Lhasa Karnak, '70; Bill's Clothes,'61; Annapurna,'67; Jim the Tailor, 62; and Fondue Fred's circa '70 at the former C.J.'s Garage. 

As the Spirit of '29 Dixieland band drew on-lookers, the wake swelled to as much as 20 at its peak. Lynn Danielle, 67, the wake's organizer recalled her parents taking her to Blake's when she was only eight. She noted that U.C. alumni visiting campus from afar would first stop at Blake's before "setting a foot on campus." 

Larry Blake, Blake's founder, who died in retirement in 1992, was recalled as an impresario, who rented an elephant and trainer to "walk" across the Bay Bridge adorned with the sign: "if you haven't been to Blake's, you haven't been to Berkeley." 

Danielle recalled that Blake originally hired student waiters with what today would be called, “ ‘tude," who wore outlandish clothes and had their way with the customers. The sawdust-covered rathskeller floors were innovative at the time. 

According to Danielle, Blake prepared his famous Caesar Salad every day for years, based on his own "secret" recipe. 

According to the S.F. Chronicle, the "rathskeller" was Larry Blake's trademark, a subterranean beer hall where some of the Bay Area's best blues, jazz and R&B bands performed over the decades. The whole Berkeley clan gathered there, from Abbie Hoffman to Joe Kapp, from graduate students to campus janitors." 

As the last famous Teley businesses die off--Sather Gate Jeweler's, site of filming on "The Graduate, 1969" was the most recent casualty--Berkeleyans are wondering where are the Larry Blakes of the future. 

The resignation of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak today was considered a favorable action by several Bay Area professors and residents who have been affected by recent events in the Middle East.  

"It's the best option we could have hoped for," said Robert Sproul, the assistant dean of development at University of California at Berkeley's Boalt Hall School of Law, on Thursday when Mubarak was expected to step down.  

Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Cairo over the past several days on rumors that Mubarak would step down, but the president surprised protesters Thursday by saying he would not resign, and instead delegate more power to Vice President Omar Suleiman.  

But Mubarak resigned his post today, Suleiman announced, which brought a wave of celebration in Egypt, according to media reports.  

"It's a moment of transformation that's taking place because the people of Egypt are calling for change," President Obama said in a speech at Northern Michigan University on Thursday.  

"It's young people who have been at the forefront," Obama said. "A new generation, your generation, who want their voices to be heard."  

Saba Mahmood, a professor of anthropology at UC Berkeley, said the protests and resignation of Mubarak is the biggest event in the Middle East in the past 60 years.  

"This uprising is going to be felt in every single country in the region," Mahmood said. "There is a huge concern whether there will be a transition to a true democratic process."  

Hisham Ahmed, a politics professor at Saint Mary's College of California, said the movement in Egypt and in surrounding Arab countries is irreversible and signifies the beginning of a revolutionary change.  

Ahmed said that the Obama administration must be vocal in its support for the Egyptian people.  

"It's a delicate situation for the Obama administration, but these are historic times. These are serious times," Ahmed said. "I hope the administration won't be making the mistake of sending a message to the Egyptians that their friendship with a dictator is more important than the welfare of the people."

The Berkeley City Council continued its public hearing on proposed amendments to the West Berkeley Plan this Tuesday, carried over from the January 25^th meeting. Sixty speakers came to the podium to comment on the proposal, which is aimed at increasing the amount of economic activity in West Berkeley, especially research and development. It is focused on the reuse of existing buildings, the development of large multi-parcel sites, and start-up of new types of industrial activities. There is concern about the proposed 75-foot height limit for buildings and the preservation of the arts in the area. Council moved to carry over the public hearing once again to the regular meeting on February 22. 

The council returned to the labor dispute between the KPFA union and Pacifica Radio, calling for all parties in the dispute to “negotiate or mediate in good faith” to reach a fair and speedy resolution. All Councilmembers voted aye on the resolution except Councilmember Wengraf, who left the meeting at 10:30. 

Council unanimously approved a resolution supporting California State Assemblymember Nancy Skinner's bill (153) requiring online-only out-of-state retailers to apply California's sales tax when selling in California. 

The City Manager changed the agenda by removing item 8, establishing Early Bird parking fee schedules for Berkeley parking garages. 

The complete video of the meeting, including the public hearing, can be found here.

In a dueling megaphones cacophony last Saturday in Berkeley between Jesus freaks on Haste Street and Michael Delacour demonstrating outside Moe's Books, a new chapter in Berkeley street politics emerged. 

Delacour had called for the demo the preceding week to focus on beefs with such Berkeley businesspersons as Doris Moskowitz of Moe's and Craig Becker of the Caffe Mediterraneum. 

Calling the Med "a good place to meet in," but saying it’s profiting from a local community it doesn’t support, Delacour denounced Teley merchants who have blamed the park for their declining revenues. 

Eight persons demonstrated. According to Delacour, a large solidarity demonstration at U.N. Plaza in San Francisco in support of Egyptian dissidents may have cut his attendance. 

Ann Fagan Ginger, 85, a well-known east bay civil liberties attorney opened the event. Although her eyesight has failed, she saw into the hearts of passersby, urging them to see how U.S. imperialism in the Middle East was about to ruin their lives. 

Moe's recently mounted a nostalgic set of handsomely mounted 60s demonstration photos of Telegraph Avenue when "the whole world was watching." 

One of those photos pictures a demo crowd massed in front of Moe's, the world famous emporium of rare and used books. 

In another of those topsy-turvy significations with which history surprises itself, the current demo was against Moe's. That's as in, “against”. 

How could the flip be flopping this way? 

Moe's founder, Moe Moskowitz (d.1997), was a high-profile Teley businessman known for his comedic in-store performances (his cigar always stole the show) and his liberal to radical politics. Moskowitz was a founder, along with Fred Cody, of the Berkeley Free Clinic. 

According to his fans and acquaintances, Moe hosted free speech movement planning meetings on the balcony of his store, often contributing to the deliberations. 

At one point, when FSM protestors were gassed in the streets, he invited them to seek shelter in his store, according to Julia Vinograd, 62, who said she was there. Always irascible, Moe denounced them for not sheltering themselves sooner. 

Fast forward to Michael Delacour, 72, who presented the first Berkeley community plan to rescue what is now People's Park from becoming a parking lot and playing field and went on to lead demonstrations against the university. 

Saturday, Delacour encamped in a 1967 Volvo, with his 3 year old granddaughter, wife Gina Sasso, 8 protesters and a bull horn in front of Moe's to protest--among other issues—Doris Moscowitz, 46, Moe's daughter, who is now at the helm of the fabled store. 

Say it isn't so, Mike. 

But it's all true. Doris Moskowitz has gone her own way. She publicly (store window placard) endorsed defeated candidate, George Beier, who ran against incumbent Councilmember Kriss Worthington in the recent District 7 race. Beier had advocated major crackdowns in People's Park and on the avenue. 

Her father, who coined the phrase "Some People's Park," often spoke out against alleged drug use in the park which he claimed was showing up in his store doorway. 

According to Delacour, when the subject of the park was raised with Moe, "Moe was bad enough, but Doris is a reactionary." 

Two nights before she was demonstrated against, Doris was leafing through sheet music in the store as this reporter approached. When told that the reporter had heard her sing in a student musical, she chose a copy of a handsome sheet, a Gershwin song, and broke out in, "Oh no, they can't take that away from me." 

Afterwards, she said, "Moe's is in business to sell literacy," and by implication, not politics. 

Delacour's granddaughter Angelina, 3, may have the last word. When she eschewed the demonstration Saturday for the world of Moe's, Gina, 49, her grandmother, located the politically incorrect child in Moe's children's section, where she was being hosted by Doris Moskowitz, referred to by Delacour as Mz. Moe. 

According to Delacour, friendly words were exchanged by all. 

And so it goes, in the all's well that ends well of the new Berkeley street politics. 

Ted Friedman covers south side issues for the Planet.

A series of disturbing reports from Iraq and Vietnam (backed up by a horrific collection of videos) have exposed a hidden legacy of war — weapons that continue to create victims years after the conflict has ended. 

Thanks to the US military’s embrace of Mutagenic Weapons — technologies that can poison cell tissue and ransack the human DNA far into the future — babies and children have become the latest form of "collateral damage." Today, in Vietnam and in Iraq (and in Kosovo and Afghanistan), children are being born with deadly cancers, grotesque tumors, twisted or missing limbs, freakishly enlarged heads, and a range of horrific mutations. 

In Vietnam, the US sprayed an estimated 20 million gallons of chemical defoliants over the country to kill vegetation that provided cover for the insurgent armies. The Pentagon and the manufacturer (Dow Chemical) knew as early as the 1950s that Agent Orange contained dioxin, an intensely dangerous chemical that could poison the ground and water and kill animals and people long after application. Today, 35 years after the war’s end, three million Vietnamese live with compromised health and crippling deformities attributed to exposure to Dow’s long-lasting poisons. Every day, mothers give birth to deformed babies as the latest generation of Vietnamese children struggles to survive America’s legacy of Agent Orange. 

Wounds of the Vietnam War 

Toxic Legacy of the Vietnam War 

In Iraq, Baghdad’s hospitals are filled with grieving families of children born with deformities and cancers. In Fallujah (the site of two devastating US attacks in 2004), children now suffer from cancer at rates greater than those experienced by the survivors of the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima. In November 2004, Operation Phantom Fury destroyed 70 percent of the homes and shops in “the City of Mosques.” An Iraq Health Ministry official charged that US used “internationally banned weapons” in the assault — including napalm, phosphorous bombs, chemical weapons and shells containing depleted uranium. 

US Ammunition Blamed for Iraqi Cancer Hike 

In July 2010, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health published a report on cancer rates and infant mortality in Fallujah. An extensive survey of nearly 5,000 individuals revealed that survivors of the 2004 assault experienced a 12-fold increase in childhood cancers, a 10-fold jump in breast cancers and significant hikes in adult lymphoma and brain tumors. Fallujah has also seen an unprecedented 38-fold increase in leukemia. (By comparison, leukemia rates following the atomic bombing of Hiroshima increased 17-fold.) Infant mortality in Fallujah hit 80 per 1,000 births (compared to 9.7 percent in neighboring Kuwait) and the number of male births has plummeted — another sign of genetic damage. 

Dr. Chris Busby, one of the report’s authors, concluded that the “congenital illness and birth defects” were likely linked to “very major mutagenic exposures [that] must have occurred… when the [US] attacks happened.” Noam Chomsky called the report “vastly more significant” than the disclosures in the “Afghan War Diaries” released by Wikileaks. Regrettably, the findings have received little to no coverage in the US media. 

Once again, there is harrowing video evidence to support these conclusions. Warning: these videos are very disturbing but they must been seen — and shared. Here is the link: 

Deformed Babies in Fallujah 

These stories -- along with many videos now circulating on the Internet -- carry a powerful message to viewers around the world. Protestors in the Middle East once held aloft a banner that read: "America! Ask Why You Are Hated!" The answer is found in the images of these young victims, born with missing limbs, missing eyes and stolen lives. 

We can never win a "war on terrorism" with more war. War and terrorism are mutually self-enforcing. The simple fact is: War IS terrorism. And now, in the name of “national security,” we are attacking tomorrow’s children. 

Berkeley’s Landmarks Commission held a lengthy—more than four hour long—meeting Thursday February 3 with an ultimately productive set of results. 

One new building—the Pelican Building on the UC Berkeley campus—was designated a City of Berkeley Landmark, improvements to three major existing landmark structures were reviewed and approved, and a number of smaller matters discussed. 

The approved renovations will have a big visual impact on University Avenue, where all three buildings are located. Two are commercial structures near San Pablo Avenue and the third is the historic UC Theatre in Downtown Berkeley. 

The most time consuming item of the evening will not be resolved, however, until March. This was the proposed landmarking of 22 Roble Road, an old Mediterranean-style mansion with extensive grounds built in the 1920s by prominent Berkeley developer Duncan McDuffie as his own family residence.

 

In an odd variation of debates before the Landmark Commission, everyone present—including the new owners of the house and an extensive delegation of their consultants—favored landmarking the house. 

There was a heated dispute, however, over the accuracy and completeness of the landmark nomination and when the Commission should take action on the landmarking proposal. 

After considerable public testimony and debate the Commission voted to give a subcommittee a month to review and reconcile all the material presented, with a final vote on the landmark nomination scheduled for March 3.

 

The Commission convened with a full nine members, including one temporary substitute, architect David Trachtenberg who was sitting in for absent Commissioner Steve Winkel. 

Pelican Building Landmarked 

In one of the quicker items of the evening the Landmarks Commission voted 9-0 to landmark the Pelican Building (also known as Anthony Hall) on the University of California, Berkeley campus. 

Designed by Joseph Esherick in 1956, it becomes City of Berkeley Landmark #311.

 

Two members of the Commission, Gary Parsons and Robert Johnson wrote the Landmark application. The Commission had initially opened the public hearing on the application at the January meeting, heard from one speaker, and decided to continue to hearing until February. 

 

At that time it was expected that representatives of the EHDD firm, which Esherick founded, would attend the February meeting but Chair Gary Parsons said he had learned they could not come for various reasons. “They are all super pleased this is happening,” he said.

 

The continued public hearing had only two speakers who both spoke briefly in favor of the nomination. John English said “the Pelican Building obviously should be landmarked”, and concluded with the slogan “Long Live the ‘Pelican’, the Bird is the Word!”  

The “Pelican” was the campus humor magazine, founded by Earle Anthony, who also donated funds for the building a half-century later to provide a home for the publication. LisaEsherick, daughter of architect Joseph Esherick, told the Commission “I think it should be landmarked.” 

 

The landmark application was “an incredible job”, said Commissioner Austene Hall. “I learned a lot. This has always been one of my favorite (buildings).” 
“We took a lot of time on this one” said Johnson, referring to the writing of the application, “but it was fun.” 

 

“We have heard from the University that it does not object to landmarking the building”, he said, adding “We hope that they might come and consult with us when they get into the design of the seismic retrofit.” University owned properties are not subject to City ordinances, so the designation does not have any direct control over the building. 



“This building is relatively young, and there was a ton of information available,” Chair Parsons added, because Esherick office files have been preserved in the Environmental Design Archives at UC Berkeley. 

“When we get into the era when people are e-mailing, there’s going to be a billion e-mails—but where will those e-mails be, is the question,” he mused about the future of research in archival documents. 

On the motion of Commissioner Carrie Olson, the building with its site was designated a landmark with the Period of Significance 1956-1980, the era when the ‘Pelican’ occupied the space. 

The University now assigns the building to the Associated Students of the University of California, which makes it available as a headquarters for the Graduate Assembly. 

McDuffie Estate 



The second and much more contentious landmark nomination of the evening involved 22 Roble Road, the Duncan McDuffie estate. The circa 1926 property, a large, tile-roofed, Mediterranean style house with extensive gardens, was built by developer Duncan McDuffie as his family home. 

More than a quarter century earlier the young McDuffie joined older Berkeley realtor Joseph Mason, to found the now iconic firm of Mason-McDuffie. 
The firm did planned developments of several Berkeley neighborhoods, including the Claremont district and Northbrae, as well as developments in other communities, including St. Francis Wood in San Francisco. 

McDuffie was also a leader in conservation organizations, including the Save The Redwoods League and the Sierra Club. The firm of noted architect Ernest Coxhead prepared the design for the house, with the Olmsted Brothers firm planning the gardens. 

The landmarking was proposed because of the distinguished design pedigree of house and grounds, the significant role of Duncan McDuffie in local development and environmental history, and the use of the house by the long-time second owners—the Moncharsh family—as a place for numerous social and fundraising events over the years. 

Debate centered around two lines of reasoning. On the one hand, the current owners of the property had brought several consultants—some of whom had prepared a landmark application—to argue that the application was sufficient and the house should be designated as a landmark that evening. They were supported by some of the adjacent property neighbors who came to testify. 



On the other hand Lila Moncharsh, daughter of the previous owners, had also pursued a landmark application and mustered her own array of historic consultants, local history experts and community members to also argue that the house should be landmarked but that the owner-sponsored application was inaccurate and flawed and should be improved before acceptance by the Commission.

 

A third perspective was provided by City staff—regular LPC assistant Amanda Bensel, and Current Planning Director Debbie Sanderson, who was sitting in for injured Commission Secretary Jay Claiborne—who took no position on the merits of landmarking the house, but advised the Commission that the landmark application as submitted by the owners was technically complete but, in the view of staff, needs revision. 

Commissioners in their public comments largely divided into two groups that aligned with the arguments of the public hearing speakers. On the one hand were those, led by Commissioner Miriam Ng, who thought the owners’ proposals and plans for renovations shouldn’t be delayed and the building should be landmarked immediately. 

On the other were those led by Commissioner Carrie Olson, who argued the application should be revised and that the Commission would be unwise to act without a clear and detailed list of features of significance to preserve. 

After sometimes heated discussion and debate the Commission resolved to continue the matter to the March meeting with the goal of making a final resolution then. 

In the meantime a subcommittee of three Commissioners was formed to try to reconcile all the historical materials and testimony submitted and produce a list of features of significance for the Commission to consider in March. 

 

Identifying features of significance—parts of the building and property that are character defining and should be preserved—is a crucial action by the Commission, since that list will guide Commission review of any proposed renovations, even decades from now. 


Before the Commission acted it took extensive testimony from more than a dozen individuals. Attorney Rena Rickles, acting as a representative of the owners, said “It’s much more fun coming to you and saying we’d like to landmark this property.” (Rickles has appeared before the Commission in the past as a representative of other owners unhappy about proposed landmarking.) 

She argued that the landmark application prepared by the firm of Page & Turnbull and submitted by the owner was sufficient. “With more time, more details, it would not change” the key issues and features of significance. 


Rickles said the current owners, Rachelle and Stewart Owen, who currently live on the East Coast, “have had great success in their professional lives and they very much want to open up the house again” as a location for fundraisers and community events. 



“They were advised that landmarking would seriously impact their sales value. They said they didn’t care.” The couple, Rickles said, plans to move to Berkeley to retire in the renovated house and make it their last home. 



Kerstin Fischer of Fischer Architecture, design consultants for the owners, told the Commission that “generally speaking the landmark designation is for those areas of the building visible from the public right of way”, and offered the Commission a presentation showing views from Roble Road: The property sits downhill of a wall along the street.

 

Fischer’s stated assumption about the scope of landmarking resulted in some awkwardness, as Commissioners explained that the LPC has purview over all exterior features of a landmark property, not just those visible from the public right of way. 
“There is nothing in our ordinance that talks about public right of way”, Olson clarified. 

“A landmark is a parcel. The features to be preserved are the features to be preserved.” “Our purview is the exterior of the building”, Chair Parsons emphasized. “It’s the whole exterior.” 



In the face of that clarification, Fischer Architects seemed to make a strategic retreat. Kerstin Fischer abandoned what appeared to be a detailed PowerPoint presentation, quickly flipping through the slides instead. 

Andrew Fischer, her partner, told the Commission that “much of this discussion should be left to the historians.” 

 

However, he added, “it’s important to point out a few things.” He said that some features of the house and garden identified in material given by the Moncharsh group to the Commission had since been altered by subsequent owners. For example, the beams of a rustic loggia had been covered with insulation and cut through by heating tubes and that a garden stairway had been converted from stone to concrete steps. 

 

“The bigger part is, in the overview, the building is described as if it was in 1926, and the reality is it’s 2011”, he said. 


Berkeley-based architectural historian Michael Corbett spoke next. He had been hired by Lila Monscharsh to comment on the Page & Turnbull landmark application. 

“I have to say I think it’s funny in the famously contentious world of Berkeley landmarks that both sides here want to see the same thing. We both want to see this made into a landmark”, Corbett told the Commission. 

The area of difference, he said is “our position is basically that the nomination isn’t ready yet.” “This nomination isn’t there yet.” “The nomination you have (from the owners) is incomplete and inaccurate.” 



“This building is unusually complex and sophisticated”, Corbett said. “That’s no surprise, it should take some time to get things right.”

He added that he had “a list of recommended features to preserve if you get to that point.” 

The list “would be good to see”, answered Chair Parsons. 

Lila Moncharsh spoke next. “I’m very touched” that Commissioners want to landmark the home her family lived in for many years, she said, but the application “should be a celebratory document. We’re having trouble getting there.” 



“It’s been a struggle and a half.” “We’re having a battle over what to preserve.”“I can’t keep having Michael Corbett…giving landmarking lessons to Cora Palmer”, she said, referring to one of the Page & Turnbull architectural historians who had worked on the owner’s application. 



“If the McDuffies were here, if my parents were here, they would want (you) to know how grateful they are for what you do for the community”, she told the Commission. 

Judy Holland, a neighbor of the property, was the next speaker. She said she had lived below 22 Roble Road for more than 35 years, calling it “this beautiful, beautiful house that is the linchpin of the neighborhood.” 

She said she and her husband were there in support of the current owners and their proposed renovation. 

“I’d just like to reiterate what Michael Corbett said”, Susan Cerny, the next speaker, told the Commission. Cerny is the author of two architectural histories and guidebooks and numerous landmark applications. 

“When I wrote Berkeley Landmarks I used landmark applications as my source of information”, she explained. If she were writing the book again and including 22 Roble Road, “this landmark application would end up leaving me bereft of information.” 

 

“I would like to ask you to hold the public hearing open”, she concluded. “The whole history of Duncan McDuffie (in the application) is insufficient.”

 

Cerny was followed by Cora Palmer from Page & Turnbull. “There were a lot of hands in this” researching and writing the landmark application on behalf of the owners, she said. 

The house has architectural merit, cultural value, and historic value and, she told the Commission, she believes it’s significant.

 “This really was the purpose-built house that Duncan McDuffie constructed for himself and his wife Jean”, she said, calling McDuffie “a really important developer in the area.”

 

The house is also significant, she said, for “all the different political and non-profit fundraisers that took place here.” “That’s the great story about this property, all of the these things together. This is a wonderful place.” 

“One of the most important things about this property is the interplay of the garden and the house”, she added. “Duncan McDuffie was really interested in the 1920s ideal of the indoor / outdoor room.”

 

David Bigham, landscape architecture consultant, addressed the same theme, talking about “this distinguished garden” and “formal / informal in close relationship” in the landscape and house. “The axial treatment of the property is strong but often softened by the plant materials”, he said. 

“The formal parts of the garden were very much intended for outdoor living.” 
“I hope that this garden’s future will be as one of the most beautiful landmarks in Berkeley”, he concluded.

 

Bigham was followed by Rachelle Owens, one of the owners of the house, who emphasized she had made a difficult trip from the wintery East Coast to attend the hearing. 

She said she had attended Cal, the College of Arts and Crafts, and worked as an administrator at a local private elementary school.

 

“I’m happy to be back in Berkeley”, she concluded. “I am very interested in the idea of aging in place.”

 

When a realtor told her about the house for sale, “I came out just to see the house and I really fell in love. The garden is amazing.”
 “Everything about the Roble Road house is amazing.” 



“We’re getting into our retirement years”, she said of herself and her husband. She talked about her adult children, her grand children, and wanting to bring them to the house. She grew up in Southern California and ‘when I saw Roble Road, that’s the memory I had, of my grandmother’s house”, a large, Spanish-style home.

 

As her allocated time for comments ran out, she told the Commission, “I traveled 3,000 miles. I’d like one more minute”. Chair Parsons invited her to continue.

 

“I grew up in a house filled with intellectual ferment”, she said. “There was lots of politics in my house. I’m used to it”, but “I’m embarrassed for my neighbors” on Roble Road. 

Turning to Lila Moncharsh who was sitting in the audience a few feet away she referred to messages to neighbors, saying “these e-mails have been going around saying things about us that are not true”, including warnings, she said, that the house might just be remodeled and re-sold.

 

“We’re coming to Berkeley to retire. We’re coming to Berkeley to live”, she said. “We want to bring back the life of Roble Road. I want to put the money back into Roble Road.” “I’m hoping you’ll be mindful of that.”
 


“I love the house, I want to move in, I want you to designate it”, she said to the Commissioners. 



Ruth Todd from Page & Turnbull followed Owens in the random draw of speaker cards. She defended the application prepared by her firm, saying that architectural historians follow reference standards and guidelines in the preparation of their research. 

“We did enough due diligence and research”, she concluded. “I don’t think there’s any argument about this project’s significance.” 

“We’ve already spent 175 hours and counting…and we stand by our report”, she said. “We feel we have met the criteria for landmark status.” 



“No one in this room would argue the property doesn’t need to be designated a landmark” said the next speaker, Daniella Thompson, who is also the current president of the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association. 

But, she added, “there are differences of view about the quality of the application.” 

“Page & Turnbull can’t really say they’re not aware of needs to go into a proper landmark application.” 



“I totally agree with what Michael Corbett said and I second what Susan Cerny said”, she concluded.

 

Two neighbors spoke next, both saying they supported the landmark application of the owner. They were the last that had turned in speaker cards.
 


Commissioner Olson then began an informal Commission discussion, saying she was inclined to continue the public hearing until March. 

“I feel like I have a lot of information in front of me that needs to be consolidated. We need to have the application that building deserves.”
 


“My intent is not to have anyone pay for hours more of professional consultants”, she said. “The great thing about this Commission is that we have incredible resources in this community.” 

“Not all architects understand historic preservation, it’s a unique skill”, she added. 

She also noted that owners of designated historic buildings have access to the State Historic Building Code, which can give some flexibility and cost savings in making modifications. 



“I have one question”, Owens asked from the audience. “If we’re designating the house, we’re designating the house.” “We’ve been paying, so far $15,000, to get this report done.” 

 

“There are things that are missing from this report that are really substantial”, Olson replied. 

“Can you give me an example?” Owens shot back.

 

“Features to be preserved”, said Olson. “This will have dozens of items. And it isn’t just the house, it’s the gardens.” “I can see holes in the landmarks applications. They (other applications) tell a story. This tells bits and pieces.” 



“I’m not opposing anything you’re saying”, Owens answered. “But we do have time constraints.” 

“I think you’ll find that we do our best to be understanding of the constraints”, Olson said. 

She asked if the owner had submitted architectural drawings and a project to the City; if the house were to be landmarked, a next step would be for those plans to come before the Commission for review.

 “I’ll have to check up on that”, Sanderson said from the staff table. Rickles walked past the podium to talk to Sanderson. 

“They’re waiting to submit structural alteration permits”, Bensel clarified for the Commission. 

“I think we’re looking at it (reviews of proposed alterations) being on the agenda in April” for review of alteration permits, Olson concluded. 


“I’ve read these letters from the neighbors”, Commissioner Ng objected. “I think there’s a sense of urgency.” The house has been vacant, she said. She said she thought after a previous Commission meeting that the two groups with perspectives on landmarking the house would get together, but “we come here tonight and we find they haven’t been working together.” 

 

“These poor people want to get on with the project.” “We don’t want to be viewed as a deterrent to completing the landmark house they deserve”, Ng concluded.
 


“I don’t feel we’re a roadblock at all”, said Commissioner Anne Wagley. “I see us as bending over backwards.”  

“We would just like to get all of these pages into a form that looks like this”, holding up the sheaf of loose documents given to the Commission on 22 Roble Road on the one hand, and the Pelican Building landmark application on the other. 

“I do think it’s important to have a complete and accurate application”, she concluded.“It’s incumbent on us to not make a decision until we have a complete and accurate application.” 

“I think it’s unreasonable to hold these people up to a standard” equal to the Pelican Building application, Commissioner Antoinette Pietras said. 

“We have model standards”, Wagley replied. 

“Why do you allow people to spend $15,000?” Pietras said. “I’m just putting myself in the shoes of these homeowners.” 

“Why were all of these documents plopped on our desks tonight?” Commissioner Ng asked. “Good question”, Chair Parsons observed. 

“What the public document is, is the landmark application in print”, said Olson. The application goes into the City of Berkeley’s records as the accurate account of the history and significance of the building. 

Parsons pointed out that staff had recommended that the application needed further work. “We have been put in this position of looking like a roadblock”, he said, but “the fact that there are architectural plans ready for approval when we haven’t ever discussed the features to be preserved is the cart before the horse.” 

“This has been dumped in our lap, and I’ve been hearing everyone’s frustrations with that”, Parsons concluded. “This is half-baked.” 

“I would also like to give the owners a chance to respond to the things that have been provided” by other people commenting on the application, Olson said. 

“If staff may give you some advice”, Sanderson said to the Commission, “Doing an application with two distinct groups” is difficult for staff and the Commission. “The application we received was incomplete.” 

Shortly afterwards Sanderson clarified, saying “I need to correct an inaccurate statement.” “There was a letter sent (by the City) that the application was complete”, explained Bensel. “It does need revision.” 

“If you took action tonight I think you would be in a vulnerable position on defense of that position,” Sanderson said. “Once you’ve landmarked it, you can’t undo it.” 

“I know it appears to folks this is taking a long bit of time but it’s complicated”, she concluded. “We don’t want people to use the appeal process to get a change added in.” 

“I’ve been on the Commission for eight years and I can never remember a case when there have been so many people who have raised issues about an application”, Commissioner Johnson said. “We’re adding one month” to the process. 

“Is there a way we can bifurcate the issue?” Commissioner Pietras asked. 

No, said Sanderson. “It has to be one thoughtful, consolidated and serious project.” “Some things take time, and there’s an awful lot of information at the last minute.” 

Trachtenberg had a similar question. “Is it possible to, in an informal sense, give the architect some of the features to be preserved?” 

“If we did that it would be with the caveat it’s informal”, Chair Parsons said. “Maybe it’s just an act of consolidation that has to take place.” 

“It’s really every positive” Commissioner Hall said. “There are so many people who are interested in this amazing property.” “We want it to happen when we have all the right information.” 

But, Commissioner Ng said, “we all agree we don’t want it (the landmark application) to come back in April” instead of being fully resolved in March. “Everyone wants the thing” landmarked Trachtenberg said. 

Olson said she thought the list of significant features offered by Michael Corbett was a useful starting point, but “the owner hasn’t seen it yet.” Parsons said it might be useful for Commissioners to revisit the property (“Oh my God!” Owens said audibly in the audience). 

“If I was working on this project, looking at that list I would have to stop work”, Trachtenberg said. 

Olson moved to create a subcommittee of the Commission to review the material presented and return to the Commission in March with a list of recommended features to preserve. Olson, Wagley, and Ng were appointed to the subcommittee. 

It was agreed that the public and the owner would have one more week to submit additional material and comments to the subcommittee. The Commission is “not asking the applicant to submit a revised application”, Sanderson clarified. 

Olson added that it was not necessary for the two disputing groups to reach a full agreement themselves. “What we don’t need is for you guys to agree. What we do need is to see what you are putting in there” for Commission consideration. 

The motion to appoint the subcommittee passed 8-1. A subsequent motion to keep the public hearing open until March was approved unanimously, and the Commission moved on to other business. 

Weisbrod Building 

As the room emptied out, architect Jim Novosel came to the podium to present plans for renovations at the Weisbrod Building, 2001-2005 San Pablo Avenue and 1106 University Avenue. The landmark one story brick commercial building anchors the southeast corner of the San Pablo / University intersection. Much of the building is vacant. 

The building, designed by Spiveck and Spiveck, was constructed in 1930. It was designated a City of Berkeley landmark in July 1985. 

The 27-foot high facades, Novosel said, retain a remarkable amount of their original upper character, but the storefronts below have been extensively altered. “Everything above the clerestory (window) band is intact.”  

“Everything below that band has been bastardized over the years” with multiple commercial remodels and different business occupants.  

“It’s a pleasure to do this building. It’s a great gatepost building”, Novosel said. The owner is putting together financing for a staged renovation, and the first part will be renovation of the vacant storefronts. 

“We put together what we thought would be the logical thing” in terms of a renovation design, Novosel told the Commission. “The real art in the building is luckily above the clerestory.” Along the commercial façade his design proposed an array of uniform storefronts with butt windows (glass panels up against each other without dividers between them), tile bulkheads below the windows, and restored columns between the stretches of windows. 

“We want to have a rich base at the bottom of the building” Novosel said. 

“We have drawings ready” for the renovations. “Based on your approval, we’ll submit these to the City.” 

While Commissioners were generally favorable to the proposed design and renovation, some took exception to the fact that much of the façade has been covered by plywood so Commissioners couldn’t see the existing condition of the building before approving the renovation. 

Novosel said that the façade had been covered while interior demolition work, with City permits, had been going on. He apologized for the covering. “I assure you there was nothing of the (old) building on that façade below the clerestory”, he said. 

“I’d like to make a [request] please, there has to be visibility of the project”, Commissioner Olson said. “we didn’t get the benefit of being able to go see.” 

“This is a real key building” Novosel said. “We’d like to get going and get it remodeled.” 

Trachtenberg asked about the seismic status of the building. “Luckily the building was seismically upgraded about 12 years ago”, Novosel said. Trachtenberg suggested that awnings might be incorporated into the design. 

“At this point we don’t have a tenant” for the corner space, Novosel answered. “We didn’t want to commit to an awning” without knowing what a commercial tenant would like. 

Chair Parsons said he was concerned that the Commission didn’t receive design details in the presentation or packet, just the drawings of the proposed design. Novosel responded that he had worked on several landmark buildings with a similar process. Basic drawings are submitted for approval, then staff reviews subsequent design details as working drawings are prepared. 

“I really like what you’re proposing here”, Commissioner Wagley said. She suggested that some panels covering utility boxes on the University Avenue façade be painted to “recede as much as possible.” Olson suggested they be painted to match the reddish colors in the building façade. 

“I thought this was a big improvement”, Commissioner Johnson said. The current façade “is pretty much of a hodgepodge.” “I’d like to feel like we can approve the concept design here.” 

On a motion by Commissioner Olson the Commission approved the proposed renovations, designating a subcommittee of Commissioner Christopher Linvill and Commissioner Steve Winkel to review colors and later design details. 

1007 University Avenue 

The Commission reviewed renovation plans for the historic Mobilized Women of Berkeley Building at 1007 University Avenue. This 1949 structure, built with numerous glass block windows in a diamond pattern, was designated a City of Berkeley landmark in July 2009.  

(The landmarking decision was later appealed by the owner, then reaffirmed by the City in March, 2010, with a small modification.) 

Since then, the owners have leased the building—which most recently was part of the old Amsterdam Art complex that filled the north side of the block—to a cooking school, the Bauman College for Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts. Renovations to the building itself are now underway with a projected opening date, project architect Charles Kahn said, in March. 

This particular review by the Commission focused on plans to modify the low concrete wall (not a historic element) and add a metal and wood entrance and pergola to the street-facing courtyard of the “U” shaped structure. 

The Commission discussed whether a partial wall and gate of horizontal ipe wood boards was appropriate for the courtyard entrance. Kahn explained that an earlier design used all horizontal metal cables, but “it felt way too exposed for the safety of this culinary school.”  

“This was our balance,” to provide a cable fence at the sizes, and wood in the center for the courtyard entrance. 

“We want people who are welcome to the campus to feel welcome”, Kahn said, “but we also want people who have no interest in the school not to be able to just wander in.” 

“My personal pet peeve is that ipe is used and not maintained”, said Commissioner Olson. “It does require [maintenance] every three years”, Kahn agreed. “Ipe does have certain issues,” said Commissioner Trachtenberg.  

After discussion the Commission agreed to the ipe wood. “The intent is that it be maintained” Olson said. She moved approval of the design, with the condition that the material in the fence could be ipe wood, or a similar vandal-resistant material. 

The Commission unanimously approved the modifications. 

“The turnaround in that block has been remarkable”, Parsons observed, noting this project and the renovation of the adjacent non-landmark structures to house a wine business. “It’s really important that this school will be the last piece of the puzzle.” 

UC Theatre 

The third and final major project review of the evening involved renovations to the UC Theatre at 203-36 University Avenue, below Shattuck. Long shuttered, with plywood boards over the recessed open-air entry, the theater is planned for conversion into a live music venue, staging “an estimated 60 to 120 concerts plus year plus an estimated additional 12 to 24 public and private community and corporate events”, the applicants said in their written statement to the Commission. 

David Mayori, one of the managing partners of the Berkeley Music Group, LLC, and architect Robert Remiker presented the design. 

Small modifications are proposed to the entry, including a metal security gate that would pull across the façade at the sidewalk edge when the theater is closed, modifications to the freestanding ticket booth, and a metal door required by the fire department so staff inside the building can exit in an emergency if the security gate is closed. 

“The façade at the upper portion will remain intact” above the lobby, Remicker told the Commission. The non-historic marquee on the façade will be altered to have a “black skin and white letters.” 

Digital display panels, described by Mayori as “digital picture frames” would also be installed in the storefront to the immediate west of the lobby, and project changing images probably including historic photos, information about performers scheduled to appear, and possibly the menu for the café which the venue will contain. 

“More power to you”, Chair Parsons said. “I’m totally excited about the revival of this building.” 

“I want to make a pitch for why this is art,” said Olson of the digital displays. Sanderson said that City staff had carefully reviewed the display proposal and wanted to make sure the Commission considered it. 

“We have spent extraordinary numbers of hours with the sign ordinance…which is why we want to show you the examples” of the displays, she said. “What we’ve ended up with is OK with all the various ordinances that intersect here.” “Our primary concern is that it be pedestrian friendly.” 

The proposed modifications to the building were approved by the Commission on an 8-0 vote. 

Other Business 

In other business, the Commission appointed an initial subcommittee to go review landmark buildings with Mills Act contracts, to see that the owners have complied with agreements to maintain the structures. The state Mills Act allows for owners to divert a portion of their property taxes for a historic structure to building maintenance and improvements; individual contracts are made with local jurisdictions and monitored by them. 

The Commission also heard a brief staff report that a problematic utility box proposed by AT & T for The Circle on Marin Avenue will be relocated slightly further down Marin Avenue, outside the fountain-centered Circle itself.  

Sanderson praised City Public Works staff for bringing the issue forward to Planning staff. “The issue with the AT&T box is a victory because Public Works is learning to talk to us” about historic issues when modifications are made on City property, she said. 

The Commission also heard an update about Commission Secretary Jay Claiborne who was injured in a Tilden Park fall recently. “Jay is at home” said Amanda Bensel. “We’ve told him take it easy, rest and recover…I don’t have an estimated return date.” 

Parsons thanked Bensel for her extra work as the sole Commission staffer in Claiborne’s absence. 

Finally, the Commission heard Commissioner Robert Johnson report that March will be his last meeting. He has reached the two-term, eight year, limit on Commission membership. He will be replaced by a new, as yet unnamed, appointee of Councilmember Susan Wengraf. 

(Disclosure: the author made brief public hearing comments on two of the items on the agenda, 1007 University Avenue and the UC Theater. He also works for the University of California and is working on a Historic Structures Report on the Pelican Building, which the University owns.)

On Sunday, February 6, 2011 at approximately 3:10 a.m. the two victims, a 

male and a female affiliation unknown, were walking eastbound on the 2700 

block of Bancroft Way. They were approached by two males who started 

punching the male victim. The male victim was pursued by the suspects as 

he ran to a nearby porch. The victim started to fight back and the 

suspects fled the scene. The female victim flagged down a pedestrian who 

phoned 9-1-1. The pedestrian chased the suspects westbound to a parking 

garage where they got into a dark sedan and drove away westbound on 

Bancroft. BPD officers searched the area but were unable to locate the 

suspects or the sedan. During the incident, the victim heard the suspects 

mention “taking his things.” The male victim was slightly injured and was 

treated at the scene by BFD. 

The suspects were described as: 

Suspect #1 – An Asian or Hispanic male in his early 20s, 6’0” in height, 

150 lbs., with a medium build, black hair, brown eyes, wearing a black 

hooded sweatshirt and black jeans with a gold design on them. 

Suspect #2 – A Hispanic male in his early 20s, 6’0” in height, 150 lbs., 

with a medium build, black hair, brown eyes, wearing a black hooded 

sweatshirt, and black jeans. 

If you have any information about this crime, please contact: 

Berkeley Police Department 

(510) 981-5900 / 24 Hours

On Sunday, January 30, around 9:00pm, three 13 year old boys were playing on McKinley Avenue near Bancroft in the Washington school portable building area when some teens, described as African-American males between 15-18 years old, accosted them with a gun. One of the older boys held the gun to the head of one of the 13 year olds and demanded his things. He searched through the younger boy’s pockets and stole everything, including keys, wallet and other items. The thieves then ran off southbound on McKinley. 

The teen with the gun was approximately 5’10”, medium build.  

The other two boys ran to the house and did not lose anything. 

Police apprehended 2 suspects in the area of Blake and Grant St. and they were taken into juvenile custody. A BB gun was recovered on the ground near where the suspects were apprehended.

More milestones this week in the big ongoing quest for The Future of Journalism. Arianna Huffington leapt gleefully into bed with AOL.com, prompting a friend, a journalist with long experience who has been covering environmental issues from the Midwest for HuffPo’s Green Page, to write “Bummer, really, and somewhat disgusting that Huffington et al have made millions on the unpaid work of HuffPo bloggers....”

She has a point, and yet the discussion could be turned on its head:

Only some of these writers, the ones who are paid for work published elsewhere, are providing something of value for free. But the Huffington Post has been providing hundreds of otherwise unpublished writers with a platform at absolutely no charge to them. Just sayin’.

And there’s a third, often ignored, perspective, that of the readers, also known as the seekers after information. They don’t need to care who’s making and who’s losing money as long as the information (or entertainment) continues to flow in their direction. 

My own take on it, as someone who’s done both marketing and journalism at various points in my life, is that Arianna is a so-so journalist and a brilliant marketeer. She’s turned herself and her unusual first name into a saleable brand, just like that other marketing genius, Oprah. Arianna’s website contains a few nuggets of valuable information, much of it re-packaged from other sources or supplied free by bloggers, plus an amazing volume of celebrity fluff, cotton candy for the masses. There are many other sites which follow similar models, but only Arianna has invented a household word, the HuffPo. 

The other partner in the deal, AOL.com, brings value to the table too, though probably not its user base. Among my own friends, the only ones still using AOL for browsing and/or email are slow to change, though they might have been early adopters way back at the dawn of the internet age. 

An interesting experiment in the AOL mix can be found in the Patch online papers. These supply a basic amount of local news for small towns like El Cerrito and Albany using a mix of professional (i.e. paid) and volunteer (i.e. free) reporting. 

The El Cerrito Patch this week had a good report on the local implications of the HuffPo-AOL deal by Charles Burress, the editor, who covered Berkeley for the San Francisco Chronicle for many years. Reading the Albany Patch, I learned that a couple of Berkeley developers are going into the cannabis business. 

Another announcement this week pointed to a new direction in video journalism. Keith Olbermann, fired by MSNBC after (post hoc, not necessarily propter hoc) he contributed to a couple of Democratic campaigns, is joining Current TV, the little cable TV operation started by ex-newsie Al Gore. Olberman’s bound to liven up the reportedly dull Current, shouter and arm-wrestler that he is. No comment from me, since I watch TV only on the internet, and I’ve never seen Current TV, if it’s even available around here. But my mother, who follows C-Span the way some men follow football, will be delighted to have Keith back if she can get him. (Actually she follows football too.) 

My own interest in all this excitement is from the politically-minded citizen’s perspective, similar to but not identical with the reader’s perspective. I fervently believe things will work better if everyone knows what’s going on, especially what government’s doing on our behalf and with our money. So the more news that gets out by whatever means available, the better off we’ll be. 

That’s why I welcome having a variety of sources for news, even though I’ve never spent much of my own time watching television, either broadcast or cable. I do read several print papers: one metropolitan, one local and one national. I keep track of what the others are doing by checking them out online from time to time. I subscribe to more informational magazines of all kinds than I have time to read conscientiously, and I rely on my partner to read others and tell me about them. I listen to the radio a lot, usually while I’m doing other things. Between here and Santa Cruz I hear four different stations which carry NPR-type programs and sometimes I even listen to KPFA. 

But what about local news? My neighborhood association just hosted a panel presentation of a couple of new Berkeley-centric publications, one (the Berkeley Times) a print weekly and the other (berkeleyside.com) online. Since I wasn’t’ able to go myself, I’m grateful that a frequent Planet contributor attended, and he promises a report in the near future. 

As far as I’ve been able to determine, each of these has a somewhat different emphasis, which might augur a breadth of coverage which would be beneficial to local citizens. Both have been accused of stressing “feel-good” topics, but that’s not really fair, because a diverse town like Berkeley has a diversity of interests, including but not limited to kids, food and real estate, the staple of small town sunshine sheets since the early days of the republic. With several publications available at the click of a mouse, it could be almost like getting back the local dailies of old, with news and lifestyle features all available at once. 

And we also have the Daily Cal, covering the world as seen from Sather Gate, as well as the East Bay Express, which seems to be shifting into doing actual news coverage of Berkeley from time to time, and the huge Bay Area News Group conglomerate, which puts on a different face for every locale: the same article might appear in the Oakland Tribune, the Contra Costa Times, the West County Times, the Berkeley Voice, the Albany Journal and the San Jose Mercury on any given day. 

The San Francisco Chronicle mostly continues its historic practice of creating the odd Bezerkeley story to reinforce historic stereotypes. The online Bay Citizen, when I occasionally check it out, seems to have little or no original reporting outside of the big city, relying on hyper-local sites for its coverage of outlying areas, such as it is. 

And what are we doing in this space? Well, that’s the question du jour, isn’t it? We’re profoundly grateful for the stellar work being done for us by reporters who must keep their day jobs since we can’t pay them because of our bizarre financial circumstances. We’re also very grateful to the readers who have contributed to the Fund for Local Reporting, which sometimes has enough money in it to pay for specific articles, though not very well. 

Our goals continue to be the traditional ones: To let people know what’s coming down before it lands on them. To print the news and raise hell. To afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted. By any means necessary. Clichés, all, but worthy clichés that have stood the test of time. 

Let's hope that Olbermann, Huffington and all rest of the high profile celebrity journalists share these goals, at least some of them, some of the time. 

Reader Victor Herbert suggests three new links, and we found more:

The Daily Cal looks into Berkeley's very slow start getting pot measures S & T into action.

Have we succeeded in keeping those Rapid Transit buses out of Berkeley? In the East Bay Express, J.Douglas Allen-Tayor thinks so.

Anna McCarthy tells where all those Berkeley bingo "non-profit" millions ended up. A sordid story, indeed, from the Express.

And here's a scary story from the El Cerrito Patch: Albany high school kids have ended up in the hospital after eating cannabis brownies—and the proposed new Albany pot super-store hasn't even opened yet.

From Nate Pitts::The man who brought down the tree sit is in Santa Rita awaiting trial for battery. Austin White, the accuser of the People's Park tree sitter Matt Dodt, was arrested in People's Park on Monday Jan 8th. He had threatened violence towards three people, and punched and punched a fourth man in the head, mere feet away from UC police. The entire case against Matt is based on the testimony of this violent individual, who claimed he was a peacekeeper. Austin White claimed he was almost murdered by Matt, a story which the judge did not believe. Dodt faces an assault charge, not attempted murder as White and the UC police had requested. Indymedia has an account. 

Dan O'Neill

Joseph Young

Library Branch Van; Football Injuries; Wood Burning; Modern Art; Affordable Care; Control the Insurance Companies 

Library Branch Van 

As usual, Peter Warfield's action research reportage is right on! Re the itsy bitsy "branch van," I'm wondering who will be employed as its licensed driver-cum-professional librarian. 1,500 volumes is approximately the number of books and other media on hold-shelves and being branch-processed at any given time. 

Helen Rippier Wheeler 

*** 

Football Injuries 

The Super Bowl is over. Or the "stupid bowl" as my wife calls it. Now, the National Football League should address the safety of football and the exaggerated claims for equipment designed to protect players from injury. Not only are pro-football injuries and concussions at a nine-year high, but brain-related injuries are the most common type of injury in NFL games. In this regard, I recommend Ben McGraph's article in the Jan. 31, The New Yorker, "Does Football Have A Future?," which sets forth the injury caused by 300 pound behemoths crashing into each other. And last month, the Federal Trade Commission announced that it will look into the safety marketing claims made by football helmet manufacturers. 

I will always remember the sight of Jim Otto, former center for the Oakland Raiders, on television. Otto completed 308 consecutive games, punishing his body, resulting in nearly 40 surgeries, including 28 knee operations (nine of them during his playing career alone) and multiple joint replacements. His joints are riddled with arthritis, and he has debilitating back and neck problems. He had his right leg amputated in 2007. Admittedly, Otto took "playing with or through pain" to an absurd level. Should the NFL or the Oakland Raiders have allowed Otto to abuse his body for the sake of the game? Otto claims it was all worth it to be one of the gladiators to satisfy the blood thirst of American couch potatoes. 

Maybe, sports writers and broadcasters across the country will begin to tackle this sensitive subject now that the FTC is involved. Can football be played at an acceptable safety level? And what is an acceptable safety level? Until these questions are answered, I suggest, with apologies to Willie Nelson, "Mammas don't let your babies grow up to be football players." 

Ralph E. Stone 

*** 

Wood Burning 

When does Berkeley ban wood stoves and cease its hypocrisy? 

http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-02-air-pollutants-fireplaces-wood-burning-stoves.html 

Ormond Otvos 

*** 

Modern Art 

While readily admitting that I'm most assuredly not a connoisseur of modern art, nonetheless I know what I like (as that saying goes). Adding to my reputation as a cultural "square", when reading the recent S.F. Chronicle article about the huge acquisition of modern art at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, I must admit that I blanched at some of the paintings shown (not all, mind you). I cheerfully confess that my own plebeian tastes run towards Andrew Wyeth and Georgia O'Keefe, although I dig some of Chagall's paintings of all those people flying in the air).. 

But again, viewing some of the works shown, it occurred to me that the lovable chimpanzee in those Robitussin TV commercials might equal, possibly exceed, for aesthetic beauty, the new works at the Museum. But, then—what do I know? 

Dorothy Snodgrass 

*** 

Affordable Care 

What is going on? Why do they have the right to overturn or even consider overturning the Affordable Care Act? 

The Affordable Care Act frees Americans from discrimination when insurance companies deny women health insurance because they are pregnant, or refuse to provide coverage to children who are born with disabilities 

It gives all parents the choice of providing health coverage for a child after they finish school. 

We dealt with Bush Policy for eight years. Accepted it, spoke out against it, but dealt with the outcome. Now it is their turn to eat their own rhetoric: "Bush is our president, we must support him. It is only patriotic." Remember that line? I do. 

Now Republicans in Congress want to unravel the law that holds insurance companies in check, allowing insurance companies to once again deny coverage to children with existing conditions, cancel coverage when people get sick, and limit the amount of care you can get - even if you need it. Where is the patriotic thread in this? 

Please support the people and Our President in opposing repeal of the Affordable Care Act. 

Lisa Bolivar
*** 

Control the Insurance Companies 

As a disabled senior of limited means, I strongly disagree with those who want to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The act provides Americans like me with more freedom and control in our health care choices. Presently, insurance companies would throw me to the winds - they would not give me affordable insurance. Republicans in the Congress and Senate want to unravel this law that holds insurance companies in check. What are they thinking of? If they want to save money, this is not the way to go about it--rolling back the Affordable Act will add a trillion dollars to the deficit. 

Mertis Shekeloff

The explosion at the end of January 2011 in Egypt is raising huge identity crises for Jews. And it should be. 

It is not news to say that Jews are divided. (There is an old joke that if there were only two Jews left in the world, one would attend one synagogue and the other would attend the other one.) But that is funny. This is not. 

There is a huge group of Jews who instinctively support the Egyptian opposition to the Mubarak regime. And instinctively is the operative word. They start emailing each other to support it, attend protest demonstrations, listen to NPR News Report, and Democracy Now, KPFA etc.  

There is a huge (maybe even a greater) group who immediately fear the uprising as portending the unleashing of the forces of radical Muslim jihad, religious zealots and an enormous cloud of threat to Israel. Everything about the uprising of hundreds of thousands of repressed, oppressed and suppressed Egyptians is seen by these Jews through a prism of “So, Nu shoen, is it good for the Jews?”  

Then of course, there is the probably sizable group of Jews who say “Frankly, Scarlett, I don’t give a damn”. Busy with what seems to them to more directly impact their lives. Children, jobs, manicures.  

And there is another group of Jews who feel no questions or conflicts at all and just exclaim as one did to me yesterday, “Good, I hope they all kill each other”. I will discount them merely as failed people. 

For many of us there is a lot of conflict–all different I imagine. So I’ll just talk about mine or how I understand the larger conflict. 

Of course I care about Israel. Her existence. Her continued existence. Her safety. But I am not a Zionist. I never was.  

As a kid in the 40's and 50's I thought it a ridiculous idea that Jewishness was to be embodied in or by a country. I thought that Jews who went to Israel were merely fleeing the question and the difficulty of what it means to be a Jew.  

A Jew is a person in a wider society. A Jew’s identity is made of his or her relation to that society. From the basic question of being allowed to exist to, once that is secure, granted or tolerated, to the much larger question, the one that is basic to being a Jew: “What does it mean to be a Jew?” 

The Egyptian people’s uprising brings me right to that point. What it means to be a Jew is to be totally engaged by a people’s, a large body of people’s, revolt; resistance, bravery, uprising, protest; demonstration for freedom and democracy and a life.  

That is Jewish. No matter who is doing it. (I admit, like everybody, I have my prejudices. So I can get more personally moved by one country’s such action than another. But while that may be a fault, it is not relevant to the present huge uprising that is taking place in Egypt and across the Arab world, and therefore not the point.)  

I don’t have prejudices against Egypt. Well, if I think of their attitudes toward women I would be crazy to say that. Maybe some day millions of Egyptian and other Arab women will rise up against Egyptian and Arab men. Enshallah. 

But, that’s a different story. Maybe not. Maybe this is the time Arabs learn that they can’t gain a life of dignity without women having dignity and equality too.  

What is upsetting me now is the polarity of the Jews I know and the pain it is causing me. 

Some I can dismiss as thoughtless idiots who can dismiss a whole continent’s struggle for a dignified life as degraded, impossible, unmeritorious, pathetic and trivial. They say things like: 

“They never had any democracy and they never will.” “They are uneducated and therefore can never have it or use it.” They don’t say, but they do mean, that the Egyptians or the Arabs don’t deserve it: “They are fanatics and religious zealots and therefore can’t be trusted and are dangerous.” 

But I ask what are they dangerous to from the point of view of these Jewish friends? 

1–That they threaten Israel’s survival. (Maybe true). 

2– That they threaten the balance of power in the Middle East. (True). 

The consequence thereof being: 

a. They threaten Israel’s survival; and 

b. They threaten the unleashing of a reign of jihadist terrorism, a specter of 911 to the 911^th power (not so true—if Arabs can have a revolution they don’t need terrorism—and if we help them gain dignity they have no reason to harm us);  

c. The rise of crazy Iran in the region (which, for these Jews, once again means only threatening Israel’s survival) and the larger threat of unleashing physical threats by Iran to America, and of less importance to them, to the wider Western world. This one has implications greater than realized by them or the rest of us in that China and Russia will abet Iran in trouble making in a power grab during any vacuum. I am informed that China has already encouraged Mubarak to hang in there because they will cover his back (Brookings Institute Panel Discussion aired February 3, 2011).  

Now I am not in denial. These threats are real threats. At least some of them some of the time. But I am more concerned about the threat to the Egyptians and the Arab world. They have been treated as less than human (by their own regimes and by us who just don’t care) and thus, not deserving of livelihoods, futures, decent living conditions, education and opportunity, political voice, democracy, freedom, or most of all, dignity. 

As a Jew I cannot justify or countenance the existence or safety of Israel on the backs of a hundred million disenfranchised, deprived, needy, hungry, imprisoned, tortured, silenced, Egyptians or Arabs. I don’t see the Jews survival or prosperity as being obtained or maintained by keeping a hundred million Egyptians imprisoned in a police state. If I did that what would be the point of being a Jew? 

Now let me digress with a little honesty. The problem gets harder if the discussion goes to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Why? Because Israel already exists and I don’t support a solution that ends her existence. A tough place to be in. But I also abhor Israel’s expanded settlements making homes for Jews, fanatics at that, by building them on other people’s homes and land. 

There have always been names for people who did that and it disgusts and pains me that Jews do that and earn those names. And I resent those Jews because they are giving me a bad name. They pretend to do those awful things in my name. That hurts.  

If Israel could trade all those settlements for an agreement with Arabs that Israel has the right to exist, Israel should do it in a flash. (Put the settlers in Queens, NY where they’ll be just one more of those fanatic ethnic groups which are tolerated well in NewYork. Notice I didn’t say Manhattan.)  

I am no saint. I don’t know that I would want to see a two state solution because I still think Israel has the right to exist and as a Jewish state. I know I am not winning any friends here, but that’s too bad. 

But Egypt is not Palestine. And it is not Iran. It is neither a small country nor a new country. It is thousands of years old with a powerful history and culture. Egyptians are not ignorant. If they could teach us mathematics, perhaps they might teach us much about being human as they struggle to make a new society with more freedom, (democracy???), political participation and dignity.  

Everything in me as a Jew wants them to have this opportunity to try and do this. Everything in me as a Jew wants to reject the position of my Jewish friends who say: 

“They can have democracy when they can choose a good, stable government and not now”; 

“Mubarak should remain in power until the Egyptians come up with acceptable (to whom?) leaders;” “No Arab country has ever had democracy and they never will”; “We can’t risk the threat to Israel”; “We can’t risk another Iran”; and on and on. 

I say I am willing to risk it. (I could regret this when I am blown up by a suicide bomber. Especially as, unlike him, I have no use for virgins in the afterlife). 

I am much less afraid of that risk than I am of the risk that Egyptians would fail. That would make me cry.  

I am willing to risk some of my, or Israel’s, safety, freedom and democracy to give a hundred million people their chance to have some of it too. If for no other reason than the fact that I wouldn’t like myself if I did not.  

I am no hero. I probably could not live without having good, fresh food available to me. Or great coffee (no fear of losing that with Egyptians). And I probably would give up the movement just to keep a good, hot, daily shower and such basic dependable things in my life. But I am not yet threatened with such dire consequences. (Lesser ones, yes: The rise of gas prices, yes, etc. I am willing to pay for that for democracy). But until I am so threatened by dire consequences and have to make that choice (and I hope thereafter) I choose to risk the uncertainty of how this will play out and support Egypt’s right to pursue a political voice, with the safety to have it, a meaningful and dignified life. That’s what it means to be Jewish. 

I lived for 10 years at 6th and Gilman, and have spent 21 years volunteering at 924 Gilman Street, the all ages volunteer run art space/music venue at 8th and Gilman.

My wife has worked at Berkeley East Bay Humane Society for years, and I have recorded at many West Berkeley recording studios, including Fantasy Studios. I was an enthusiastic patron of the original Berkeley home of The Crucible art & educational space, as well as many other current & former art spaces, screen-printing shops, and artisan workshops across West Berkeley. Uniquely Berkeley landmarks like Urban Ore, the skate park, Ashby Lumber, and the Sculpture Garden have added to the neighborhood's singular mix of industry, creativity and green businesses.

Two words- economic diversity- have been key to West Berkeley's successes. Unlike the rest of Berkeley, there is more than just residential and retail zoning available. 

Allowing residential housing to be dropped in the middle of any part of this pretty well balanced neighborhood is a one-way ticket to economic homogeneity. The manufacturing, light manufacturing, and related areas are just 4% of the city. Berkeley's rental housing market is nowhere near capacity, nor is there a lack of housing for sale elsewhere in our city. 

Businesses & artisans in our Manufacturing or Mixed Use/Light Industrial zone can make a lot of noise, operate all night, use large trucks, smell odd, have a non-traditional appearance/practices, and take up parking at odd hours, among many other things. 

Whether it's across the street from 924 Gilman or next to the often-bad-smelling breweries of Trumer Pils & Pyramid, this seems to be an idea that invites outraged new residents to protest & eventually close long-existing, successful businesses & non-profits. 

Common sense and any decent economist will tell you that removing existing economic diversity is a really bad idea. 

Please remove the "housing anywhere" portion of the proposed revisions to the West Berkeley Plan. 

Let's be kind and say the unwanted tree sit was an unwitting Trojan horse that brought bad juju to People's Park temporarily. It started by muddled minds seeking publicity ostensibly to avoid harm to the park, but the violence and weapon and damage involved clearly brought much more harm to the Park's reputation than would have happened if they just let it be. 

To achieve a grander people's vision of the Park's evolution we have to get past a few misconceptions: It is not Native American owned land; the original leaflet was a literary, not a literal trope. 

The Regents are land stewards of the land and hold title for the people of California. If as in the new article on the founding of People's Park the former Chancellor Heyns tells UC Berkeley College of Environmental Design Professor Sym van Der Ryn that he is just the Regents' janitor, then we can be the Regents' gardeners and reconciliators. It is wrong and improper to see the University as an enemy or the enemy; look to your left, as the old joke goes and look to your right...one of those people is a therapist. Now if the therapist is on your left, the Berkeley dwelling citizen who works for UC Berkeley is on your right. 

Rather than aspire to take away the miniscule pensions of mostly female administrators who gave up higher salaried corporate jobs to commit 10, 20, 30 or 40 years of their lives to raise their children on a slender paycheck , but then someday have health care and a pension to augment medicare and social security, the carpers of People's Park and the organizers of the assembly on Telegraph (which I totally do not support as the cause is misguided and unproductive, provocative by nature and too old-school) should aspire to getting and keeping jobs. 

People's Park should become a focus of a green jobs total approach involving town/gown/Berkeley and Oakland and RIchmond youth. Anyone who wants to work and can work who now hangs out in People's Park should be triaged, treated, led to shelter and family, given therapy and food stamps and substance abuse treatment and get a chance to choose a better life. I truly say that the working life is a better life than hanging out looking for love in some of the right places, but keeping away others who are also looking for love by the acting out of some people who need help, not tolerance, not encouragement and enablement, but help. 

It is time to get ready to welcome the coming Anna Head students who will live across from People's Park. Their paths of desire will draw them into the Park and to Peet's coffee. Those students should specialize in the emerging social sciences of happiness as taught by Dacher Keltner and Hubert Dreyfus, our local heroes, who can rise to the challenge of dispersing paradigms of spontaneous packets and continuous streams of bliss at counting our blessings and stopping to smell the roses (after we communally plant them). 

We need to welcome the new top administrator from the World Bank and have BP (Yes: Berkeley People's Park) donate a few million for micro economic green jobs. 

incubators rotating around the Park, the BART paths, Provo Park, Berkeley City College and Ohlone Park. Train the youth on weekends. Train the Park habitues in the skills of civility, give them access to the things that make us more human such as hot showers, stable housing. 

Work is the answer. And for those who can't work: They can't disrupt the Park just because it is the People's Park. It is Ronnie Reagan who closed the mental hospitals, we need compassionate volunteer psychiatrists and psychologists and social workers and nutritionists to help motivate Park and Telegraph Avenue dwellers to try something different. 

Since we can't seem to get our beloved Iceland open, why not build housing on the soccer fields there that was once Savo Island (home of the first People's Pad) and have a jobs center and mental health consortium for the poor, transient and homeless inside Iceland. 

It is time to reclaim the original concepts of volunteer work, community, the Wow feeling of a participatory not passive event that constructs something positive, or creates a product, including food, to sell. From the productive Park to Telegraph kiosks, find the natural leaders and train them to thrive. Find out their stories, reunite them with their families in love this time, not bitterness and disappointment. 

Ishmael Reed, our resident genius, supports President Obama 100%. That's good enough for me. Obama wants a recovery through green jobs. The new administrator likes micro commerce, helping people to bootstrap themselves up with loans to become independent. The youth need mentoring, jobs, training, money and love. I suggest BP donate seed money to Gardens on Wheels Association (my nonprofit) which would give honorariums to leading luminaries of social change --- UC Berkeley's own Dr. Walter Hood who can advise on how to keep the Park as beautiful as ever and help people who are afraid of it understand that striated multi-use reflects our society and can coexist if flagrant psychotics are given treatment elsewhere as a matter of serving the greater good at the same time as loving the individual. Let's bring in Don Mitchell, who has written about the detriment to social good that will come from extincting the rights of the people to enjoying the streets and parks. I would be curious to see how he would balance all of the grumblings versus how good the Park looks, with its big well maintained meadow on a warm day when all kinds of people do picnic there or come to hear music. 

It is time to reconsider if the Park itself is served by Food Not Bombs (which I love as a concept) serving food there, as opposed to a different location. And finally, I would ask Denny Abrams, owner of Fourth Street and social/architectural designer, what are his secrets to creating a fun street even just for broke browsers. I would bring in the freakonomic writers and have them unearth whether it is actually the changed demographics of the UC student body itself that has prevented Telegraph from emerging from a long, long recession. And I would make sure all seniors get their social security so they can read Kindles and drink coffee on Telegraph, tutor students, and do some gentle weeding at the Park. 

When you wake up tomorrow morning, ask yourself: "What would Dr. Martin Luther King do? What would Dr. King say?" 

“You’re going to have it so easy. Don’t you just sit around counting pills?” I cannot even come close to counting the number of times I have heard this comment. It’s a remark I hear often during a nice brunch out with friends or a casual dinner with the boyfriend’s family. I was so irritated at first. How could people not understand what I do for a living? I am simply offended to hear how little my loved ones think I am capable of. Was it not obvious? I then realized the answers to my own questions. The public really has a hard time seeing beyond the image of the pharmacist in the white coat, behind the counter at their local Walgreens or CVS. 

Since I started pharmacy school at UCSF three years ago, I realized that it was my duty to help the public understand the pharmacists’ role in the healthcare system. In the near future, pharmacists will play an extremely important role in medication therapy management if healthcare reform is fully implemented. Therefore, the public needs to understand the role of pharmacists, so they can maximize their access to care and get the help they need to properly manage their medication regimens. 

I can say for sure I did not spend $100,000 to go to pharmacy school just to come out and “count” pills. Pharmacists are currently playing an important role in helping patients manage their medication therapy. We meet with patients to discuss the medications they are on and whether they are appropriate for treating the patient’s current disease states. Helping the patients understand their medicines and how to take them appropriately can greatly impact a patient’s road to recovery from a surgery, comorbidities from chronic diseases, and occurrences of uncomfortable side effects. 

Patients may have stopped taking a medicine because it makes them go to the bathroom 3 times during the night. Their blood pressure medication may be causing them to cough or the blood thinner they are taking increases their chances of getting huge, unsightly bruises. Others stop taking a medicine because they are simply too busy, or they forget to take it at the appropriate times. That’s exactly where we can step into patients’ lives to make a difference. We can switch the patient to a blood pressure medication that doesn’t give them an awful cough or help them come up with ways to take the medicines so it is less likely a dose would be missed. 

Pharmacists can also help motivate patients to make lifestyle changes because it is the best way to naturally treat many chronic diseases. Exercise for example is extremely important and is very effective in decreasing cholesterol levels. Of course, getting a patient to exercise is not easy to do. I know it was hard for me to get started – sitting in front of a television set to watch “Glee” was just so much more enjoyable. Helping patients make difficult lifestyle changes one step at a time is another critical task for pharmacists. Medicines can help treat many diseases, but when patients combine it with exercise and a balanced, healthy diet – they are maximizing the benefits and success of their therapy. 

I hope next time when you see your local pharmacist, you won’t just think of him as your local “pill picker” but rather someone who can help you manage those 10 bottles of pills you take every day but know absolutely nothing about.

To hear descriptions of yet another demonstration, especially in foreign Arab countries, why, who cares? Tunisia's 500,000 or Egypt’s million, all over the country if not in the main square, so what? What has that to do with anything in the U.S.? The U.S. had a million-man march organized by the Black Muslims and others. The U.S. had a million people on the streets protesting the Republican and Democratic Party's invasion Iraq. (Everyone voted for it except one other person. Or was that the Patriot act?) A million person protest on the street in the U.S.: so what? 

Bush said “See democracy in action.” Obama has said the same thing in more intellectualized terms: so what? And, if one relies upon the New York Times for news, it is usually within the mind of Israelis, both in Zionist positions in Israel and Zionist positions in the U.S. government (along with AIPAC): so what? 

It is easy for excited newscasters, journalists and even scholars to call the uprising in Egypt a “revolution.” It sounds more fascinating than a protest movement—a demonstration—against the barbarians of U.S-backed dictatorship for 28 years. 

After all, a one-liner attracts immediate attention, claims: “This is serious! This is it. A big thing!” Such headline exaggeration sells newspapers and turns heads to listen. 

The minimally accurate description of events, at least of the economic/political substantive details are to be found in the Wall Street Journal (WSJ). Military budgets 1.3 to 2 billion for Egypt, are at stake, and U.S. corporations have enormous investments in Egypt. This is the big time for the Murdoch-run WSJ, so the paper has to report about the safety of investments and not whether the protestors are peaceful or without rocks, or non-Islamist or secular.  

All that is secondary and only important to the extent that the U.S. investments and the U.S. military are safe, plus that smaller item, the Egyptian treaty with Israel. The Pentagon pays for, trains and consults with the Egyptian leadership and military. 

In the first hours of the eruption the Egyptian Generals were at the Pentagon discussing???? The report in the WSJ stated they “didn’t discuss Egypt – except in the hallway conversations.” Now really, how cute. 

There are three elements in this protest-to-rebellion movement that are barely encountered in the current discussion/discourse, yet affect one’s understanding as to what may happen next: 

• 1. Description of what is going on, what to call it?
• 2. The influence of the Egyptian Youth Movements and
• 3. The conscripts in the Egyptian Army.

The older people will of course get out of the way, become first aid supporters and window watchers, while the younger folks able to throw back what is thrown at them will organize and guerrilla-ize to beat out the Mubarak-hired plainclothes forces. If not, the change at the top will be superficial 

The single demand that is most essential, mouthed by all protestors, not for the U.S. but for the Egyptian people, youth and old, is to get Mubarak out now. Even though Obama used the term “now”– much like U.S. demonstrators who chant, “What do we want?” “No war!“, “When do we want it? “Now!” –I always thought that such a chant was defeated before its echo died. Who would do anything “now” except ask where is the water and do the toilets require small change? If the majority of protestors stick with “Mubarak Out Now” then some structural changes could take place. 

The so-called revolution , labeled by liberal U.S. journalists, is a misnomer, and so if the protestors were defeated it would be a depressing let down. Rather it is a protest movement, soon to turn into a resistance or rebellious one, while if it continues and stops the entire country with a general (Trotsky) strike, then it becomes a rebellion. However, it’s not yet a revolution until the Mubarak forces try to squelch, invade, brutalize the people’s resistance, when everyone without a weapon in his hand is likely to be beaten, wounded and killed by U.S. backed military and security forces in Egypt. 

However the government ointment is not without flies. The military’s soldiers are conscripts, although its leadership is in direct contact with and paid for by the U.S, Pentagon, That means they are ordinary people required to serve in the Army for one to three years – against their will, or because they need a job. 

Such conscripts are notoriously unstable they don’t need to kill their own people or other people like them. The reason the U.S. has a volunteer “professional” army is that conscripts are unruly and don’t like to take orders to kill people they don’t know and who might have the same problems as they do.  

In the U.S. Vietnam invasion, the conscripts turned against the war and the U.S. government. Therefore there is a class difference and a survival difference between the grunts and the generals. The conscripts after service have to live with the people; they speak the same language and perhaps listen to the same music, and are about the same age. 

Imagine the conversations between the 6^th April Youth group and the soldiers as different from the Mubarak's security undercover agents and the soldiers. Which has the tone, the language, the connection? 

The second item of interest appearing in the WSJ (Feb. 3, 2011: A11) is a list of the proposed “Egypt’s Opposition Steering Committee” composed of 11 groups: El Baradei, and also Abdel Galil Mustafa of National Association for Change (El Baradei’s group). Secular groups: Karama Party, Kefaya protest movement, Tegammu secular leftist party, and Liberal secular Ghad party. Pro Islamist Labor Party. Three to five members from 6 April Youth, Al Ghad Youth, Muslim Brotherhood Youth, NDP Youth.  

The 11 to 12 members are called “Opposition Steering Committee”-- perhaps in Arabic they are called “Transitional Opposition Steering committee.” Certainly anyone who has been around such events and reads them deeply knows there will be shuffling where by the liberals will drop out as the demands by the radicals increase, or as is the case at the moment (3 Feb, Thursday) the Government forces become violent and force the radicalization of the movement in order to survive. 

This may be exactly what Obama and his side of the Administration (not Biden, not Hillary or the U.S. military) worries about. The protest movement could have been managed when it was peaceful, but when the violence starts there are fewer games and gains the U.S. CIA, U.S. Military, U.S. Embassy, U.S. business operatives can play. Their role can become even more reactionary since they lose connections to the street fighting and begin to think of military actions. 

What other tools can they use? Send the Martin Luther King people to demand “non violent tactics” but for which side the protestors or the government? Since the Mubarak Government owns most of the big weapons ,but not all the small ones, who is supposed to become peaceful when the protestors are being attacked by organized government forces, plain cloths men, with their ID cards in their pockets? 

What is happening only Tariq Ally would say: “ The more oppression the more it increases resistance.” And Mubarak, the one time instrument of U.S. and neo-liberal oppression of Egypt, is like many hired CIA operatives (Iraq, Afghanistan, Panama) who often don’t want to leave and give up power. They have their own agenda, that is to continue exploiting and brutalizing. For many such people, their habit is to rule, oppress, and follow the neo-liberal economic program. So pity the long time U.S. quislings and lackeys: They can’t give in, move out, take a plane ride without a fight. 

Macho man…a film character? Now a historical hologram?

Last week I foolishly offered to try to identify a moth. There are only 4500 named moth species in California. Piece of cake, right? 

I was expecting a photograph of the creature, but it arrived in a jar. It clearly wanted to get out. It was small and brown, with no vestige of a pattern. I opened Jerry Powell and Paul Opler’s magisterial Moths of Western North America to the color plates. There were only a few hundred species that matched it. At least it wasn’t a light brown apple moth: Wings were the wrong shape. It might well have been a member of the noctuid family, an extremely speciose group. Or it could just as easily have been a geometrid, or something else. Lacking a microscope and dissecting kit, there was only so far I could go with this one. 

I’ve never exactly been a moth person, but I can understand the attraction. We had serious moths in the South. Once a female luna got into our house in Little Rock, laid her eggs on the living room curtains, and expired. When I had to assemble an insect collection for high school biology, I tried the classic bait: a mixture of bourbon (Four Roses, for medicinal purposes only) and molasses smeared on the trunk of a longleaf pine. I can no longer recall what I caught, but there may have been underwings (Catocala). Powell and Opler write that sugaring for moths isn’t as effective in California, probably because our summer evenings aren’t humid enough. 

A few years ago, on a trip to Hawai’i, I heard about the semi-mythical green sphinx moth of Kau’ai and thought it would be great material for an article. (The moth has been found and lost and written off as extinct and found again over a couple of centuries; its larval food plant is unknown.) The piece eventually saw print in a national environmental magazine, but only after the life had been edited out of it. At one point in the sphinx saga, I wrote about a forestry worker who found a female in the act of laying eggs and enclosed her in a glass jar. My draft came back reading “a glass jar with holes in the lid.” I objected that the holes were conjectural and at this point impossible to verify. The editor’s response: “How would you feel if someone shut you up in a glass jar with no holes in the lid?” 

So I’ve left the moths alone for awhile. But I got interested in them again recently while working on a project about butterflies. There’s a tendency to see moths as the poor relations of butterflies: drab skulking nocturnal creatures. That’s hardly a fair generalization. 

Moths as a group are far more numerous and diverse, physically and ecologically, than butterflies. (It makes more sense to think of butterflies as a specialized lineage of moths rather than a separate category. Butterflies are to moths as snakes are to lizards.) 

It used to be safe to say that all butterflies were day-fliers and most moths were night-flyers. Then the taxonomists decided that one obscure tropical moth family, the Hedylidae, were genetically closer to the true butterflies and the skippers than to other moths. 

Although a few hedylids are active by day, most are nocturnal. 

The diurnal habit is not all that uncommon among moths, having been documented in at least sixteen families. 

The consensus now seems to be that butterflies differ from moths in having club-shaped (as opposed to feather- or comb-shaped) antennae and lacking the mechanism that allows moths to hook their wings together. Most other butterfly traits are shared by at least one family of moths. 

Moths and butterflies as a whole—the order Lepidoptera—are thought to share a common ancestor with caddisflies, small winged insects with aquatic larvae. The most primitive living moths have functional jaws as adults: some feed on pollen, others on leaves. One species, Epimartyria pardella, survives in coastal redwood forests. More typical moths, like butterflies, have a siphon-like proboscis that confines them to a liquid diet. Some, notably the giant silkmoths, have lost their mouthparts and never eat as adults. Uninterested in nectar, they’re ecologically irrelevant to flowering plants. All they do is mate and die. I would have felt better about that luna if I had known that. 

Ecologically speaking, there’s very little moths haven’t tried. Some Hawai’ian species have larvae that are ambush predators: they hold themselves at an angle from a tree branch, looking as much like a twig as possible, until a fly or other prey item comes within reach; then, blam! Adult moths of the Southeast Asian species Lobocraspis griseifusa will drink human tears. There are flightless moths, mostly on oceanic islands where not being blown out to sea has adaptive value, but at least one (Areniscythris brachypteris) in sand dunes on the central California coast. A. brachypteris has outsized hind legs that allow it to jump up to twenty times its body length: a moth converging on grasshopperhood. 

All of this was fascinating, but no help with the brown moth in the jar. I let it go its anonymous way.

Despite the fact that 2010 tied for the warmest year on record, President Obama made no mention of Global Climate Change in his January 25th State-of-the-Union remarks. That wasn’t a surprise; last summer an attempt to fashion a bi partisan Climate Change bill floundered in the Senate and since then prospects for Congressional action have dwindled. Global Climate Change hasn’t gone away, but the political will to take action has disappeared. Why? What can you and I do about this tragic situation? 

Early in January the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration announced that 2010 had tied 2005 as the warmest year. The world saw many indications of this: global snow cover was the lowest on record; there were horrendous forest fires in Russia; and much of Pakistan flooded. Nonetheless, the peril of Global Climate Change does not command public attention. In the most recent New York Times/CBS News poll respondents overwhelmingly (43 percent) saw Congress’ top priority as Job Creation, followed by Healthcare (18 percent), the Federal budget deficit (14 percent), Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan (12 percent), and Illegal Immigration (7 percent), Something else (3 percent), and Unsure (3 percent). There was no mention of Global Climate Change in this and similar polls. 

Given the seriousness of the problem it’s curious that the American voting public has lost interest in Global Climate Change. One possible explanation is the economic crisis; perhaps Americans are so concerned about their jobs, homes, and savings they don’t have the energy to worry about mammoth snowstorms and hurricanes. Another explanation may be the contrast between a bad economy that touches folks in every community and Global Climate Change whose impact, at present, seems restricted to particular geographical areas. 

Sadly, the likely explanation is that many Americans have changed their minds about the seriousness of the problem. In October of 2010, the Pew Research Center presented their latest poll regarding Opinions About Global Warming. Over the past five years public concern about the problem has lessened; whereas, in 2006, 79 percent of respondents said there was “solid evidence the earth is warming”, in 2010 only 59 percent shared this opinion and 32 percent denied there was any evidence. In 2010, asked whether global warming was a problem requiring immediate governmental action, 46 percent of respondents said yes but 29 answered no and another 21 percent that they either didn’t believe it was a problem or didn’t know. Finally, the Pew study asked: “Do Scientists agree that the earth is getting warmer because of human activity?” and the respondents split: 44 percent said yes and another 44 percent answered no. 

Given that 97 percent of scientists believe the earth is getting warmer because of human activity, it’s startling that so many Americans don’t believe that Global Climate Change is a serious problem. What explains this troubling finding? 

2006 saw the debut of An Inconvenient Truth the Al Gore movie that educated Americans about the perils of Global Climate Change. At the end of that year, 79 percent of Americans felt there was “solid evidence the earth is warming” and 61 percent wanted “immediate government action.” 

Then an unholy conservative triumvirate got busy. Huge multinational corporations, such as Exxon Mobil teamed with conservative investors such as Charles and David Koch to fund a vast disinformation strategy about Global Climate Change. Conservative media barons, such as Rupert Murdoch saw this as a money-making opportunity. Soon the Fox News Network and hate radio jocks, such as Rush Limbaugh, trumpeted a four-part message: Global Climate Change is an exaggerated peril; climate problems are not man made; Al Gore manufactured the issue to spur his investments in green energy; and there is no scientific consensus on the problem. Then the Republican Party, led by John Boehner and Mitch McConnell, made a strategic decision to get on board the gravy train. Today, only 38 percent of Republican voters believe in Global Climate Change and only 24 percent believe government action is needed. Recently, Speaker of the House Boehner remarked, “The idea that carbon dioxide is a carcinogen, that it is harmful to our environment, is almost comical.” 

Faced with so many reversals, the anti-Global-Climate-Change movement is “rebooting.” Nonetheless, you and I can mobilize on two levels. First, we can attack the conditions that produced this tragedy: the undue political influence of wealthy individuals and corporations; the over-the-top partisan rhetoric of the Fox News Network and conservative hate jocks; and the prostitution of the Republican Party. 

Second, we must refuse to be discouraged. Global Climate Change is a long-term peril that affects our children and grandchildren. As we search for opportunities to work at the state and local level, we should take heart in the knowledge that each of the historic US human rights campaigns began with a moment when the Federal government was missing in action. 

Since 1976, Black History Month is celebrated annually in the United States in February. While it is a celebration, it should also be a remembrance of slavery, the dark side of Black history in this country. 

While in New Orleans last year, we visited the New Orleans African American Museum, located in the Tremé neighborhood some three blocks from the French Quarter. For much of its history, Tremé was the largest and most prosperous community of free people of color in the United States. 

One of the exhibitions at the museum was called Drapetomania: A Disease Called Freedom. The title of the exhibition was taken from an 1854 article in a monthly Southern journal entitled The Georgia Blister and Critic . The journal dealt with the “diseases and physical peculiarities of the Negro race.” In his article, the word drapetomania was created by the noted Louisiana physician and psychologist Dr. Samuel A. Cartwright by combining the Greek words for runaway slave and mad or crazy. Drapetomania was used to describe the disease that “induces the negro to run away from service. [and] is as much a disease of the mind as any other species of mental alienation, and much more curable, as a general rule.” 

According to Dr. Cartwright, the disease of drapetomania -- peculiar to Blacks -- justified the enslavement as a therapeutic necessity for the slaves and as a medical and moral necessity for their White masters. He claimed that Blacks who fled slavery suffered from drapetomania. At the time pro-slavery advocates believed that Blacks benefited from slavery and any Black who tried to escape must be crazy. The cure was a sound beating. 

Cartwright also described another mental illness called Dysaethesia Aethiopica to describe the apparent lack of work ethic exhibited by many slaves. The cure was to put the slave to hard work in the sunshine under the watchful eye of a White man. 

Drapetomania and Dysaethesia Aethiopica are among many examples of scientific racism or racist propaganda masquerading as objective scientific inquiry. Today, we should know that the desire for freedom is not a disease, nor is the unwillingness to work for a slaver. Clearly, the goal of Cartwright and other scientific racists is and was the defense of a racial hierarchy. 

Unfortunately, Cartwright was not the only scientist to use pseudoscience to rationalize or justify the subordination of Africans and African Americans. For example, in 1797, Dr. Benjamin Rush, the “father” of American psychiatry, declared that the dark skin of Blacks was caused by a rare, congenital disease called Negritude, which derived from leprosy. The only cure was to turn the skin white. 

And in the 19th and 20th Centuries, many White craniologists, phrenologists, evolutionists, geneticists, and others argued that dark-skinned peoples are inherently inferior to light-skinned peoples intellectually, morally, socially, and culturally. This led to a racial hierarchy that had Whites at the top, Yellows in the middle, and Reds, Browns, and Blacks at the bottom. Remember South Africa under apartheid? 

Why should we care about the past? Because: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” - -George Santayana, 1863–1953, American philosopher 

A few years ago, I was offended when I was referred to as "a psychotic" on someone's website. The perpetrator was attempting to discredit me and my defense of the Berkeley Daily Planet. In the process of this attempt at mudslinging, the authors of this website showed their true bigotry and hypocrisy. 

A long time ago, I wrote a paper for a magazine in which I criticized some psychotherapists as having techniques that are damaging to their clientele. It was called; "The Damaging Effects of Some Psychotherapy." A man read this paper whose son is a professional therapist, and was offended by what I said. My response, at that time was that I was offering mere words, and as such, should not be accused of doing damage. The man became livid and said; "Words are weapons." This statement caused me to think. 

Words are weapons. This is because our society gives massive weight to our words. Our system of laws is made of words. It is said; "a man is as good as his word." Mere words are strong enough items to start fights, and even, to start wars. Hitler came to power through his words. Our Presidents in the US become elected based largely upon which one is better at speech. The Uni-bomber’s writings were apparently used as evidence in his conviction. In the public school system, some of the harassment includes name-calling. If they didn’t like you, you were called a “fag.” If someone was called names like this a few too many times, they became either antisocial, suicidal or homicidal, or perhaps they lived on with permanent emotional scars. 

In Transcendental Meditation, which was popular in the 1970’s, they gave people a Mantra, a phrase to repeat to oneself that could bring enlightenment. It is a very powerful tool. 

Words have power. 

When you label a person, “a schizophrenic,” or “a bipolar” what effect do those words have on someone? If the label is given to a person enough times, and if it is reinforced by other talk given to that person, how then, can they become anything else? A massive structure has been created; it is almost like a jailhouse made of words. The individual has been given no way out. All of the other people in that person’s life have mutually agreed to call that person “crazy” or “a sick person” and so that person has been left without an exit path. 

A man who has read this column, Harold Maio of Florida, also a writer and retired newsletter editor, wrote to me and agreed to have his name used. This is what he had to say: 

“To be one of us, one would have to be a legislator, a judge, professor, doctor. One would have to be a mail deliverer, a grocer, reporter. Name a profession, blue or white collar job, and you will see "us." Familiar shoes, mostly. 

“Me? 

“Retired from editing, and earlier from teaching German, husband, 38 years, a grown daughter, a grown son. Life in the suburbs, daily stints at the computer addressing language still. Caring for a just today 94 year old mother-in-law with Alzheimer's. She remains a delight to be with, despite her absence of memory, both long and short term. 

“To be one of "the" mentally ill, however, you would have to agree to be caricature, that is what the phrase suggests, and why it has been so popular in its many forms, "the" Jews, "the" Blacks, every time period and every geography has had its own. 

“All hollowly entertain, not inform.” 

Many persons with mental illness resent that label that has been thrust upon them without their consent. For one thing, such a label can irreparably alter the architecture of the person’s existence. In the future, I will attempt to use a minimum and the least harmful labels when referring to persons with mental illness, such as, “persons with mental illness,” “people,” “people who see a psychiatrist,” or “one,” (pronoun usage).

PC also stands for personal and pleasant communication! Cognitively stimulating activity is among the lifestyle factors that may help lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. And yet only 3% of persons age 74 and older use the Internet. Technology use among elderly Americans is low, relative to the rest of the population.  

But times are changing. Seniors 74-years-old and older are the fastest-growing age group on social-networking sites, where usage has quadrupled since 2008 to 16% from 4%. According to the Wall Street Journal (Jan. 12, 2011), teens are teaching elders how to use the Internet. 

Why are some senior citizens so resistant to technology? Would they be less so if senior centers and retirement communities encouraged their learning and acquisition? Instruction and equipment are often lacking. An eleven step-instruction manual for teaching senior citizens to use a computer points out that “Once they master the basics, seniors can use computers to pay their bills, communicate with relatives who live far away and write business letters.” To name just a couple of things! I recently received an email from England from a cousin I never knew I had -- she had found me via the Internet.  

I have tried a “Mac” (Macintosh computer). Success may depend somewhat on which you learn on and your instructors. I prefer a PC (personal computer).  

Albany Library (Alameda County Library) 

Wednesdays, Feb. 9, 16 and 23 (and Wednesdays throughout March), Alameda County Library Albany branch (plenty of parking), 1247 Marin Av., (510) 526-3720: 12 PM Computer tutoring. Sign-up required.  

Albany Senior Center 

846 Masonic Avenue, Albany, CA 94706. (510) 524-9122 

Has one PC computer available for seniors’ use and is working on getting a volunteer instructor. 

Berkeley Public Library 

In February 2011 the Berkeley Public Library’s free computer classes at Central include:  

Thursdays, Feb. 10, 17, and 24 at 10 AM “Computers for Beginners” 

Mondays, Feb. 7, 14 and 28 “Evening Computer Class” 

Berkeley senior centers 

Training “for all seniors 55 & over.” Days and times are detailed on page 3 of the February Tri-Center Nugget: 

North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Ave., (corner MLK; #25 AC bus stops at the Center). (510) 981-5190. 

South Berkeley Senior Center, 2939 Ellis St., (corner Ashby). (510) 981-5170. 

West Berkeley Senior Center, 1900 6 St. (510) 981-5180. 

Emeryville Senior Center 

4321 Salem St., Emeryville 94608. (510) 596-3730: 

Mondays, 9:30 AM Internet training.  

“Oakland Public Library  

Offers free computer classes for the public. The library also maintains a directory of schools offering free or low-cost computer classes for adults in the Oakland area and places offering free or low-cost computer classes for people with disabilities.” (510) 238-3138.

BEACH BLANKET BABYLON This long-running musical follows Snow White as she sings and dances her way around the world in search of her prince. Along the way she encounters many of the personalities in today's headlines, including Nancy Pelosi, Condoleezza Rice, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Harry Potter, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey, Britney Spears, Dianne Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Hillary Clinton, George and Laura Bush, Michael Jackson, Martha Stewart, Tom Cruise, Angelina, characters from Brokeback Mountain and Paris Hilton. Persons under 21 are not admitted to evening performances, but are welcome to Sunday matinees. 

"Steve Silver's Beach Blanket Babylon," ongoing. 8 p.m. Wed. - Thurs.; 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Fri. - Sat.; 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sun.  

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

CHANCELLOR HOTEL UNION SQUARE  

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

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

CLIMATE THEATRE  

"The Clown Cabaret at the Climate," ongoing. 7 and 9 p.m. First Monday of the month. Hailed as San Francisco's hottest ticket in clowning, this show blends rising stars with seasoned professionals on the Climate Theater's intimate stage. $10-$15.  

285 Ninth St., Second Floor, San Francisco. www.climatetheater.com.< 

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.< 

THE MARSH  

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

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

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

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.< 

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.< 

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/.< 

WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE  

San Francisco Ballet: Giselle, through Feb. 13, Performances vary; see website for complete schedule. Composed by Adolphe Adam. Choreography by Helgi Tomasson. $48-$150.  

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

A GREAT GOOD PLACE FOR BOOKS  

Lise Saffran, Feb. 15, 7 p.m. "Juno's Daughters.''  

Peggy Orenstein, Feb. 17, 7 p.m. "Cinderella Ate My Daughter.''  

6120 LaSalle Ave., Oakland. (510) 339-8210, www.ggpbooks.com.< 

BARNES AND NOBLE, EMERYVILLE  

Ise Lyfe, Feb. 15, 7 p.m. "Pistols and Prayers.''  

5604 Bay St., Emeryville. < 

BOOKS INC., BERKELEY  

Michael Koryta, Feb. 13, 3 p.m. "The Cypress House.''  

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

DIESEL, A BOOKSTORE  

Alan Senauke, Feb. 13, 3 p.m. "The Bodhisattva's Embrace.''  

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

FIREHOUSE ARTS CENTER  

Deborah Grossman, Cher Wollard, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. Poetry and prose writers from around the Bay Area will be featured at the event "The Myth & Reality of the Hero & the Anti-Hero from Mythology to Reality and Personal Story.''  

4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 931-4848, www.firehousearts.org.< 

MOE'S BOOKS  

Trinh Minh-ha, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. "Elsewhere, Within Here.''  

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.< 

OAKLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY, MAIN BRANCH  

Catherine Brady, Feb. 20, 2 p.m. "Revealing Character Through Dialogue.'' Free.  

Free. Monday, Tuesday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday, noon-8 p.m.; Friday, noon-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. 125 14th St., Oakland. (510) 238-3134, www.oaklandlibrary.org.< 

UNIVERSITY PRESS BOOKS  

Katherine Wentworth Rinne, Feb. 15, 6 p.m. "The Waters of Rome.'' Free.  

Leonard Pitt, Feb. 16, 6 p.m. "Paris: A Journey Through Time.''  

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

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.< 

WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE  

San Francisco Ballet: Giselle, through Feb. 13, Performances vary; see website for complete schedule. Composed by Adolphe Adam. Choreography by Helgi Tomasson. $48-$150.  

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

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.< 

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

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

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, Feb. 17, 5:30 p.m. Works by Stravinsky. Free. www.sfchamberorchestra.org. 

$5-$10; free for ages 18 and under. 1-8 p.m., Thu.; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri.-Tue. 736 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 655-7800, www.thecjm.org.< 

DAVIES SYMPHONY HALL  

San Francisco Symphony, through Feb. 12, 8 p.m. Wed., Sat.; 6:30 p.m. Fri. Works by Bach, Haydn and Schubert. Conducted by Ton Koopman. $15-$140.  

San Francisco Symphony, Feb. 12, 2 p.m. "Music For Families.'' Works by Ravel, Prokofiev, Mussorgsky, John Williams and more. Conducted by Donato Cabrera. $15-$57.  

Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Ivari Ilja, Feb. 13, 7 p.m. Works by Tchaikovsky, Liszt, and Faure. $15-$83.  

San Francisco Symphony, Feb. 17 through Feb. 19, 2 p.m. Thu.; 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Works by Mozart. Conducted by Bernard Labadie. $15-$140.  

San Francisco Symphony, Feb. 20, 2 p.m. Works by Beethoven, Hindemith and Mendelssohn. $36.  

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

HERBST THEATRE  

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. Works by Spohr, Hummel and Mendelssohn. Conducted by Nicholas McGegan. $25-$80.  

The Borodin Quartet, Feb. 13, 3 p.m. Works by Shostakovich and Beethoven. $34-$44. www.chambermusicsf.org. 

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, Feb. 18, 8 p.m. Works by Stravinsky. Conducted by Ben Simon. Free. www.sfchamberorchestra.org. 

Alexander String Quartet, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. Works by Bartok and Kodaly. $25-$46.  

Hilary Hahn and Valentina Lisitsa, Feb. 19, 8 p.m. Works by Beethoven, Ives, Bach and more. $50-$75. www.sfperformances.org. 

Rafal Blechacz, Feb. 20, 3 p.m. Works by Mozart, Debussy and Chopin. $34-$44. www.chambermusicsf.org. 

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

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

ONGOING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM --  

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

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

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

OLD FIRST CHURCH  

Josh Wright, Feb. 13, 4 p.m. Works by Chopin, Ravel and Liszt.  

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

OLD ST. MARY'S CATHEDRAL  

Joshua Wright, Feb. 15, 12:30 p.m. Works by Mozart, Chopin and Liszt.  

$5 donation requested. 660 California St., San Francisco. www.oldsaintmarys.org/.< 

SAN FRANCISCO CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC  

Conservatory Orchestra, Feb. 11 through Feb. 12, 8 p.m. Works by Brahms, Shostakovich and Lutoslawski. Conducted by Jerry Liu. $15-$20.  

Gabriele Cassone, Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. Works for classical trumpet. Free.  

Paul Hersh and Friends, Feb. 14, 8 p.m. Works by Ravel. $15-$20.  

Violin Students, Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. Free.  

Baroque Master Class, Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m Conducted by Jeffrey Thomas.  

Piano Department Recital, Feb. 16, 8 p.m. Free.  

Guitar Department Recital, Feb. 17, 8 p.m. Free.  

Violin Studio Recital, Feb. 19, 8 p.m. Free.  

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

ST. MARY'S CATHEDRAL  

Stanley Browne, Feb. 20, 3:30 p.m. Classical works on the organ.  

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

WAR MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE  

San Francisco Ballet: Giselle, through Feb. 13, Performances vary; see website for complete schedule. Composed by Adolphe Adam. Choreography by Helgi Tomasson. $48-$150.  

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

BANKHEAD THEATER  

Vienna Boys Choir, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. Works by Strauss, Lanner, Lehar and more. $12-$62.  

Livermore-Amador Symphony, Feb. 12, 8 p.m. Works by Debussy and Gioachino Rossini. Conducted by Bob Williams. $10-$28.  

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

BERKELEY PIANO CLUB  

Berkeley West Edge Opera, Feb. 13, 3 p.m. Works include Mozart's "Zaide.'' $20. (510) 841-1903. 

2724 Haste St., Berkeley. < 

FIREHOUSE ARTS CENTER  

Peter Fletcher, Feb. 20, 3 p.m. Works on the classical guitar. $12-$24.  

4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 931-4848, www.firehousearts.org.< 

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BERKELEY  

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. Works by Stravinsky. Free. www.sfchamberorchestra.org. 

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

HERTZ HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

University Symphony Orchestra, Feb. 11 through Feb. 12, 8 p.m. Works by Shostakovich. Conducted by David Milnes. $5-$15.  

"Elizabeth Elkus Memorial Noon Concert," Feb. 16, 12:15 p.m. Works include selections of English and French Baroque music. Alana Mailes, soprano, Melody Hun, harpsichord. Free.  

Jason Yu and Rachel Keynton, Feb. 18, 12:15 p.m. Works by Beethoven. Free.  

Paul Lewis, Feb. 20, 3 p.m. Works by Schubert. $42.  

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

LESHER CENTER FOR THE ARTS  

Diablo Symphony, Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. Works by Korsalov, Granados, Chabrier and Bizet. Conducted by Joyce Johnson Hamilton. $12-$20.  

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

ZELLERBACH HALL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY  

Zukerman Chamber Players, Feb. 12 through Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Sat.; 3 p.m. Sun. Works by Mozart, Brahms, and Schumann. $42-$72.  

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

924 GILMAN ST. All ages welcome. 

Emily's Army, I.V., The Vat, Sarchasm, Thezarus, Feb. 11, 7 p.m. $8.  

Bite, Snowball, Pyschology of Genocide, The Corruptors, Loose Tights, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. $8.  

Cerebro Negro, La Toska, Thug Life, La Muneca Y Los Muertos, Pata De Perro, Feb. 19, 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 Wed. Free.  

Citizen's Jazz with Caroline Chung, Feb. 19, 9:30 p.m. $3.  

Free unless otherwise noted. Shows begin Wednesday, 9 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 1822 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley. (510) 843-2473, www.albatrosspub.com.< 

ARMANDO'S  

The Delbert Bump Organ Trio, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $10.  

The West Coast Ramblers, Feb. 12, 8 p.m. $10.  

The Hopeful Romantics, Feb. 13, 3 p.m. $10.  

"Blues Jam," Feb. 14, 7 p.m. $3.  

The Leo Vigil Trio, Feb. 18, 8 p.m. $10.  

Caroompas Room, Feb. 19, 8 p.m. $10.  

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

ASHKENAZ  

Tambores Julio Remelexo, Palavra, Feb. 11, 9:30 p.m. $10-$13.  

Shimshai, Seraphim Sound System, Yaquelin, Jamie, Feb. 12, 9 p.m. $12-$15.  

Israeli Folk Dancing, Feb. 13, 1:30 p.m. $8.  

The Creole Belles, The Aux Cajunals, Feb. 15, 8:30 p.m. Cajun/Zydeco dance lesson at 8 p.m. $12.  

Fishtank Ensemble, The Sour Mash Hug Band, Feb. 16, 9 p.m. $15.  

The Thugz, Feb. 17, 9 p.m. $10.  

Swingthing, Feb. 18, 9 p.m. Swing dance lesson at 8 p.m. $10-$13.  

Sarena & Mark Forry and Friends, Eszterlanc Hungarian Dance Ensemble, Feb. 19, 9 p.m. Kolos dance lessons at 8 p.m. $12-$15.  

Hipline Bellydance Recital, Feb. 20, 7 p.m. $12.  

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

BECKETT'S IRISH PUB  

Feelosophy, Feb. 11.  

Z'Amico, Feb. 12.  

The Dan Stanton Jazz Ensemble, Feb. 17.  

Jacques Ibula, Feb. 18.  

Sang Matiz, Feb. 19.  

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

FIREHOUSE ARTS CENTER  

Wesla Whitfield, Feb. 13, 2-4 p.m. $15-$25.  

4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. (925) 931-4848, www.firehousearts.org.< 

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

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

Alasdair Fraser, Natalie Haas, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $24.50-$26.50.  

Laurie Lewis, Tom Rozum, The Foghorn Trio, Feb. 12, 8 p.m. $20.50-$22.50.  

The Bee Eaters, Family Lines, Feb. 13, 8 p.m. $18.50-$20.50.  

Albany High School Jazz Band & Rhythm Bound, Feb. 14, 8 p.m. $18.50-$20.50  

Flatt & Scruggs Tribute, Feb. 15, 8 p.m. $18.50-$20.50.  

Dr. K's Home Grown Roots Revue, Feb. 16, 8 p.m. $14.50-$16.50.  

Pierre Bensusan, Feb. 17, 8 p.m. $24.50-$26.50.  

Chris Smither, Feb. 18, 8 p.m. $26.50-$28.50.  

Octopretzel, The Bubble Lady, Alphabet Rockers, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. $24.50-$26.50. 

The Crooked Jades, The Water Tower Bucket Boys, Frank Fairfield, Feb. 20, 8 p.m. $20.50-$22.50.  

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

JAZZSCHOOL  

Mike Zilber/John Stowell Quartet, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $15.  

Melanie O'Reilly & Trio, Feb. 12, 8 p.m. $15.  

"African Music & Dance Celebration," Feb. 13, 4:30 p.m. $12.  

"The Deconstruction of What You Know," Feb. 18, 8 p.m. $12.  

Kakri, Feb. 19, 8 p.m. $15.  

"Happy Hour Jam," Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. $5-$10.  

The Dick Hindman Trio, Feb. 20, 4:30 p.m. $15.  

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. < 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Los Amiguitos Saturday Morning Children's Show," Feb. 12, 10:30 a.m. Featuring Alphabet Rockers. $4-$5.  

Asheba, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. $4-$5.  

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

THE NEW PARISH  

John Vanderslice, Tartufi, Feb. 11, 9 p.m. $12.  

Cyndi Harvell, Cameron Ochs, Feb. 12, 8:30 p.m. $8.  

Re: Creation, Feb. 12.  

Ghosts of Electricity, Feb. 13, 8 p.m. $18-$20.  

Jolie Holland, Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. $16.50-$20.  

DJ Premier, Feb. 17, 9:30 p.m. $22-$30.  

Camper Van Beethoven, Feb. 18, 9:30 p.m. $15-$18.  

Ana Tijoux, Feb. 19, 9:30 p.m. $8-$10.  

Celso Pina, Feb. 20, 9 p.m. $15.  

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

ROUND TABLE PIZZA  

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

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

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW For ages 21 and older. 

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

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

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

"Doomed Valentine's Show," Feb. 12, 8 p.m. $15-$20.  

La Fuerza Gigante, Feb. 16, 8 p.m. Salsa dance lessons at 8:30 p.m. $10.  

KRS-ONE, Feb. 18, 9 p.m. $15.  

"Amour, the Many Faces of Love," Feb. 19, 8:30 p.m. $12.  

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.  

Scott Alexander, Nickel Slots, Astral Kitchen, Jay Rosen and the Chuckelberries, Feb. 11, 9 p.m. $8.  

Redwood Wires, Felsen, Pomegranate, Feb. 12, 9 p.m. $8.  

Fleeting Trance, Shark Alley Hobos, Beso Negro, Feb. 17, 9 p.m. $8.  

Nebula Force, Go, Rocking Chairs, Bengsons, Feb. 18, 9 p.m. $8.  

Kissing Cousins, Winter's Fall, James & Evander, Feb. 19, 9 p.m.  

For ages 21 and over unless otherwise noted. Sunday and Wednesday, 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 3101 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-2082, www.starryploughpub.com.< 

UPTOWN NIGHTCLUB  

The Dave Rude Band, The Butlers, Deck Neck, DJ Tim, Feb. 11, 9 p.m. $10.  

Sidecar Tommy, Lynx, DJ Kentinuim, Feb. 12, 9 p.m. $10.  

Younger Dryas, Semi Deluxe, Sodium Fox, Sacred Dog, Feb. 16, 9 p.m. Free.  

The Pentacles, Alright Class, The Yellow Dress, Rabbit Ears, Feb. 18, 9 p.m. $8.  

"Hella Gay," Feb. 19, 9 p.m. $7.  

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

YOSHI'S  

The George Duke Quartet, through Feb. 11, 8 and 10 p.m. $26-$30.  

Tower Of Power, Feb. 12 through Feb. 14, 8 and 10 p.m. $45.  

Anat Fort, Feb. 15, 8 p.m. $16.  

Bill Frisell & Vinicius Cantuaria, Feb. 16 through Feb. 17, 8 and 10 p.m. $16-$24. 

Eric Benet, Feb. 18 through Feb. 20, 8 and 10 p.m. Fri. and Sat.; 7 and 9 p.m. Sun. $38  

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.<

Seeing a copy of Smoking Typewriters (by John McMillan Oxford University Press Copyright 2011) for sale over the weekend, inspired us to see if the Berkeley Public Library had that book available in its new releases section because we were curious about how far one would have to delve into it before encountering any reference to the Berkeley Barb. When we learned that the Library would be glad to take a suggestion that they acquire that particular work, we sped back to Moe’s Book Store on Telegraph Ave. and overcame the cheapskate aspect of our personality and bought a copy of the new book with the subtitle: “The Sixties Underground Press and the Rise of Alternative Media in America.” 

The Introduction compared and contrasted the coverage of the Rolling Stones free concert at Altamont which had appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle and the Berkeley Barb. The Barb was mentioned in the first sentence. 

Since the Chronicle was the flagship of William R. Hearst’s newspaper empire and the Barb was one of the first “underground” newspapers, the corporate viewpoint was very different from the work in the publication driven by the drive towards profits than was the reportage found in the alternative news source. 

The basic business philosophy of those two publications was as different as that of Fox News and this website. It’s as if it is just a matter of history to see that the official government endorsed view of reality is engineered to perpetually spawn a market for media which was designed to subvert the distortion of reality by the unscrupulous businessmen hoping to curry favor from the politicians. 

The Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) and their Port Huron Statement is credited with being the source of inspiration for the underground press movement. The Village Voice and Paul Krassner’s magazine, The Realist are acknowledged to be the prototypes from the Fifties for the underground newspaper movement of the Sixties. Passing mention is made of the role underground newspapers played during the German occupation of Paris (France, not Texas). 

McMillan takes a close look at the stories about the start of the Los Angeles Free Press, and the Paper in the East Lancing Michigan area near Michigan State University (MSU), and the Rag in Austin Texas. The author itemizes numerous parallels and ties between the Paper and events in Berkeley CA. 

In chapter three, McMillan looks at Berkeley’s association with a widespread belief in the late Sixties that smoking dried banana skins was just as important to enthusiasts of psychedelic experimentation as was the dreaded marijuana plant that spawned a nation wide panic over the concern that the youth of America were risking falling into the life of a drug fiend just for a few momentary feelings of elation called “highs” or “kicks.” 

McMillan, in a book that is heavily annotated with scholarly references to provide a lifetime of work for at-home fact checkers, cavalierly quotes numerous efforts by the underground press to substantiate and validate the urban legend that the peels of the tropical fruit could, if dried and smokes like tobacco, produce a transitory feeling of bliss known as “Mellow Yellow.” In every case, the road test was declared to substantiate the claim, but then McMillan notes that the FDA declared the belief to be a “hoax.” He undercuts the work of the government agency by injecting an unverifiable line from a contemporary stage play that asks: “Now do you think a responsible government agency would mislead the American public?” McMillan doesn’t include the words “nudge nudge wink wink,” but he ignores the strong possibility that he may be responsible for possibly causing a number of young and gullible readers to jump to the conclusion that the “hoax” explanation was itself the real hoax and thus subsequently lures them into a “don’t try this at home” bit of fact checking. 

Chapter four, which details the rise of the Liberation News Service (LNS) indirectly focus on Berkeley because the organization, which came to sudden prominence in the journalism industry because of its coverage of both the “Battle of the Pentagon,” which started on October 21, 1967 and the week long student strike at Columbia which erupted spontaneously on April 23, 1968, had one of its first three teletype machines in Berkeley, when the organization started using them in February of 1968 (page 103). 

Since the students didn’t permit reporters from Establishment media into the building, journalism student Steve Diamond was one of the LNS personnel who acted as a human news wire network between the various occupied buildings and got a unique perspective on the evolving events. Diamond is quoted (page 114) as saying in September of 1968: “We’ve educated a generation that no longer buys or needs daily newspapers.” Isn’t that sentiment being echoed these days on the Internets? 

The lively and entertaining events that occurred when the staff of the Berkeley Barb revolted and formed the nucleus of a rival publication that came to be called The Berkeley Tribe were glossed over quickly on page 122 and again in Chapter 6’s footnote no. 84 on page 239. 

[Personal note: This reviewer, while covering a 2010 story, in Berkeley CA, of the cripple peoples’ rights protest known as “Arnieville,” heard a recounting of that bit of underground newspaper history and is of the opinion that that facet of the topic at least deserved a longer and more conspicuous place in the book’s main body of text. We learned later in the book that the squabbling at a fictional underground newspaper, the Back Bay Mainline, was the basis for the 1977 film Between the Lines, which was set in the Boston area.] 

McMillan quotes Bob Woodward’s 1974 assessment of the situation: “The underground press was largely right about government sabotage but the country didn’t get upset because it was the left that was sabotaged.” 

The chapter about the power struggles in the editorial offices across the USA ends with the transcription of Thomas Forcade’s statement presented to a Congressional hearing on May 13, 1970. The words would be a hilarious blast from the past if the subtle implications of the move to impose “net neutrality” were only a figment of the imaginations of the conspiracy theory lunatics. 

For the underground press, the question of “who decides” was a matter of basic philosophy. Their debate established once and for all that no topic was off limits in a free press. Internet sites would later make the one essential exception for conspiracy theories, but essentially continued the “no holds barred” philosophy established in the Sixties. 

The Liberation News Service, as the summer of 1968 drew to a close, split into two rival factions. One wanted to move the headquarters to a farm in Vermont and the other thought that staying in the country’s media hub in New York City made sense. The events that followed sound like the scenario for a Three Stooges episode. The press was hijacked and a late night confrontation at the farm had ominous potential endings. 

It was the high water mark for the underground press phase of American Journalism. The Seventies saw the emergence of the “alt” era of the newspaper business. 

In the book’s Afterword, McMillan points out the similarities and parallels between the Sixties underground newspaper fad and the new trend of writers expressing themselves via blogging, which raises the question: Will future media scholars write books about the early days of the Internets? McMillan’s book will leave hippies asking this question: “Other than new labels and slogans for old issues, does anything really change from one generation to the next?” 

For someone who can remember getting details of the shooting of James Rector from copies of the Berkeley Barb that were “hot off the press,” and who remembers the opportunity for catching a free Stones concert at Altamont as being an invitation to participate in a traffic jam of historic proportions, reading McMillan’s book was an enjoyable preliminary means for gathering material for a new column, but as to the readability appeal of this book for someone who hadn’t yet been born when Nixon beat Hubert Humphrey for the right to a free squat in the White House, we’ll let you know if a friend in Concordia thinks about it if they send us a review after we send them our personal copy of this new book from Oxford University Press. 

It is apparent that the lessons learned in America during the Sixties about gaining control of unruly mobs are well known in Cairo today. 

(We are relatively certain that any Berkeley citizen who still has copies of the Berkeley Barb among the material in their personal archives will like this book.) 

On page 76 McMillan quotes the editor of the Barb, Max Scherr, as saying: “We’d plant small articles in the paper saying ‘There’s a rumor that something is going to happen on Telegraph Avenue Friday at two o’clock.’ So people would show up on Friday to see what would happen, someone would say, ‘Hey, let’s close off the street,’ and something would happen.” 

Now the disk jockey will play Donovan’s “Mellow Yellow,” Harry Belefonte’s “Banana boat” song, and Country Joe McDonald’s “Fixin’ to Die Rag.” We have to go over to San Francisco to check out an event that is being called a Neal Cassidy birthday party. Have a “groovy” week.

Even today, more than three decades after his death and nearly 100 years since he first stepped before a motion picture camera, Charlie Chaplin is still one of the most recognizable people in the world. The dandified Tramp, with his brush mustache, ill-fitting clothes, wicker cane and derby hat, is an iconic figure, but one whose familiarity has to some extent undermined his art. 

Chaplin today has become something of a two-dimensional figure, a static icon that means little to those born in the decades since his heyday; he exists as a fully formed entity, a seemingly known quantity, and is therefore just as easily ignored — just a flickering image from the past that no longer requires our attention. 

The San Francisco Silent Film Festival will showcase evidence to the contrary when it presents three of Chaplin's short comedies this Saturday, Feb. 12, as part of its annual winter event at the Castro Theater. Each year the festival puts on a one-day miniature festival in the winter; the full festival takes place in July. The marquee event of the festival is King Vidor's adaptation of La Boheme, starring Lillian Gish and John Gilbert, showing at 8 p.m., with accompaniment provided by Dennis James on the Mighty Wurlitzer. La Boheme will be preceded at 3:30 p.m. by L'Argent, a film many critics rank among the silent era's greatest works. The film will be accompanied by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra. The festival kicks off at 1 p.m. with Chaplin, in three of the best two-reelers from his Mutual period — a rare opportunity to see the great comedian's early work on the big screen, in 35 mm prints, with live accompaniment by Donald Sosin at the piano. 

The image of the Tramp is so ingrained in our consciousness that it is hard to imagine that he — and film comedy itself — had to be invented. But Chaplin essentially invented both, and he did it, for the most part, single-handedly. He took the crude, knockabout, ensemble comedy of Mack Sennett’s Keystone Studios and zeroed in on character and personality, forging a strong individual identity as well as a unique bond with his audience. 

Once Chaplin broke away from Keystone he went to work for the Essanay company in the East Bay, in Niles, near Fremont. (The Niles Essanay Film Museum offers screenings of silent films every Saturday night. See www.nilesfilmmuseum.org.) Chaplin made 14 short films for Essanay, firmly establishing himself as the most popular performer in the movies. 

But it is in the next group of films, made for the Mutual Film Corporation, where Chaplin finally realized his potential. The Mutual films represent the first true blossoming of his comic genius. He was already enormously famous, and his comic exploits had made him something of a populist hero. But it is the Mutual series that truly endeared him to his fans, for it is in those 12 two-reelers that he delved deeper into the nature of the tramp character: his fastidious habits, his contempt for authority, his longing for beauty and love, his artistic temperament. 

With films such as Easy Street and The Immigrant, Chaplin depicted the poverty and strife of his childhood while taking his first steps toward a more rounded cinematic oeuvre with forays into social commentary. Later, of course, Chaplin would more completely incorporate drama and commentary into his work, drawing complaints from fans and critics alike that Chaplin was abandoning his comedic roots in the pretentious pursuit of Art. But in the Mutual films, the Tramp retains the rambunctious, anarchic, irrepressible humor that Chaplin’s detractors found lacking in his later, more sentimental work. 

The series began with films that were not much different from his Essanay work and steadily progressed from there, with increasing complexity, finely tuned comedic timing, and brilliantly choreographed action sequences. In The Rink, Chaplin, playing an inept waiter, demonstrates his remarkable physical agility when he tangles with his rival in an elaborate rollerskating sequence. And in The Adventurer, the most fast-paced of the Mutual films, Chaplin plays an escaped convict and spends the entirety of the film running from the law. The chases and acrobatics are executed beautifully, but there is more to Chaplin than manic hijinks. Too often forgotten in appreciations of Chaplin is the fact that he was not just a great comedian but a great actor. In The Pawnshop he demonstrates his acting skills in a famous scene in which he dissects an alarm clock, using expert timing and remarkable subtlety in portraying himself as a doctor and the clock as a sick patient — then as a sardine can, and eventually, after he has destroyed it, as an unsalvageable piece of junk that he returns disdainfully to the customer. 

With these early masterpieces, Chaplin set the standard for the great comedians who would follow in his wake: Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle, Buster Keaton, Harold Lloyd and Harry Langdon. Arguably some would surpass him, in inventiveness, in direction, in staging and camerawork, even in pure laughter. But no one ever came close to matching his enormous talent, his instinctive sense of pathos, or the unique and affectionate bond between he established with his audience. 

Some say the Mutuals are his best period; certainly he was never again so free from self-consciousness, so anarchic and inventive. But a sound argument can be made that the Mutual period represents the artist’s adolescence, with his full artistic maturity expressed most clearly in his features of the '20s and early '30s: The Kid, The Gold Rush, The Circus and City Lights. 

But though those later films are more fulfilling and emotional, it is the Mutuals, with their casual, careless fun, that lend themselves to repeated viewings, that entice us to immerse ourselves again and again in the madcap adventures of a newly famous, newly wealthy 27-year-old comedian who had suddenly found himself on top of the world. 

The San Francisco Silent Film Festival's winter event. Saturday, Feb. 12 at the Castro Theater, 429 Castro Street, San Francisco. silentfilm.org.

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM ongoing. Ardenwood farm is a working farm that dates back to the time of the Patterson Ranch, a 19th-century estate with a mansion and Victorian Gardens. Today, the farm still practices farming techniques from the 1870s. Unless otherwise noted, programs are free with regular admission.  

ONGOING PROGRAMS --  

"Blacksmithing," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch a blacksmith turn iron into useful tools.  

"Horse-Drawn Train," Thursday, Friday and Sunday. A 20-minute ride departs from Ardenwood Station and Deer Park.  

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Help slop the hogs, check the henhouse for eggs and bring hay to the livestock.  

"Victorian Flower Arranging," Thursday, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Watch as Ardenwood docents create floral works of art for display in the Patterson House.  

$1-$5; free children under age 4. Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. (510) 796-0199, (510) 796-0663, www.ebparks.org.< 

BAY AREA RAIL TRAILS ongoing. A network of trails converted from unused railway corridors and developed by the Rails to Trails Conservancy.  

BLACK DIAMOND MINES REGIONAL PRESERVE RAILROAD BED TRAIL -- ongoing. This easy one mile long rail trail on Mount Diablo leads to many historic sites within the preserve. Suitable for walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Accessible year round but may be muddy during the rainy season. Enter from the Park Entrance Station parking lot on the East side of Somersville Road, Antioch.  

IRON HORSE REGIONAL TRAIL -- ongoing. The paved trail has grown into a 23 mile path between Concord and San Ramon with a link into Dublin. The trail runs from the north end of Monument Boulevard at Mohr Lane, east to Interstate 680, in Concord through Walnut Creek to just south of Village Green Park in San Ramon. It will eventually extend from Suisun Bay to Pleasanton and has been nominated as a Community Millennium Trail under the U.S. Millennium Trails program. A smooth shaded trail suitable for walkers, cyclists, skaters and strollers. It is also wheelchair accessible. Difficulty: easy to moderate in small chunks; hard if taken as a whole.  

LAFAYETTE/MORAGA REGIONAL TRAIL -- ongoing. A 7.65 mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail line. This 20-year old trail goes along Las Trampas Creek and parallels St. Mary's Road. Suitable for walkers, equestrians, and cyclists. Runs from Olympic Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road in Lafayette to Moraga. The trail can be used year round.  

OHLONE GREENWAY -- ongoing. A 3.75-mile paved trail converted from the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railway. Suitable for walkers, strollers and skaters. It is also wheelchair accessible. The trail runs under elevated BART tracks from Conlon and Key Streets in El Cerrito to Virginia and Acton Streets in Berkeley.  

SHEPHERD CANYON TRAIL -- ongoing. An easy 3-mile paved trail converted from the Sacramento Northern Rail Line. The tree-lined trail is gently sloping and generally follows Shepherd Canyon Road. Suitable for walkers and cyclists. It is also wheelchair accessible. Begins in Montclair Village behind McCaulou's Department Store on Medau Place and ends at Paso Robles Drive, Oakland. Useable year round. 

Free. (415) 397-2220, www.traillink.com.< 

BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL ongoing. The Bay Area Ridge Trail, when completed, will be a 400-mile regional trail system that will form a loop around the entire San Francisco Bay region, linking 75 public parks and open spaces to thousands of people and hundreds of communities. Hikes on portions of the trail are available through the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. Call for meeting sites. ALAMEDA COUNTY -- "Lake Chabot Bike Rides." These rides are for strong beginners and intermediates to build skill, strength and endurance at a non hammerhead pace. No one will be dropped. Reservations required. Distance: 14 miles. Elevation gain: 1,000 feet. Difficulty: beginner to intermediate. Pace: moderate. Meeting place: Lake Chabot Road at the main entrance to the park. Thursday, 6:15 a.m. (510) 468-3582.  

ALAMEDA-CONTRA COSTA COUNTY -- "Tilden and Wildcat Bike Rides." A vigorous ride through Tilden and Wildcat Canyon regional parks. Reservations required. Distance: 15 miles. Elevation gain: 2,000 feet. Difficulty: intermediate. Pace: fast. Meeting place: in front of the North Berkeley BART Station. Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. (510) 849-9650. 

Free. (415) 561-2595, www.ridgetrail.org.< 

BERKELEY CITY CLUB TOURS Guided tours through Berkeley's City Club, a landmark building designed by architect Julia Morgan, designer of Hearst Castle."Aquatics class," ongoing. 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Wed., and Fri. The BCC pool is open to the public for classes that teach how movement in the water can help improve strength, balance, coordination and endurance. $8-$10. 

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.  

"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. 

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

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

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

"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. 

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

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

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

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

"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. 

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

"Valentine's day love missions," Feb. 12 through Feb. 13, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Celebrate with your valentine on a simulated space mission to the Red Planet. The package includes an all access pass to Chabot, savory treats, fizzy Martian beverages, and a souvenir of your trip. $85 per couple. 

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. 

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

"Wildlife Hike," Feb. 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy a 4.2 mile hike with naturalist Jessica Sheppard. 

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

DEAN LESHER REGIONAL CENTER FOR THE ARTS TOUR ongoing. A behind-the-scenes tour of this multi-million dollar arts facility. Tours last for one hour and include walks on both the Hofmann and Lesher stages, a look at the Hofmann fly-loft, the dressing rooms, the Green Room and an amble down the Center's opulent spiral staircase. Reservations required. Call for tour dates and times. 

$5 per person. 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. (925) 295-1400, www.dlrca.org.< 

DUNSMUIR HOUSE AND GARDENS HISTORIC ESTATE ongoing. Nestled in the Oakland hills, the 50-acre Dunsmuir House and Gardens estate includes the 37-room Neoclassical Revival Dunsmuir Mansion, built by coal and lumber baron Alexander Dunsmuir for his bride. Restored outbuildings set amid landscaped gardens surround the mansion.  

ESTATE GROUNDS -- ongoing. Self-Guided Grounds Tours are available yearround. The 50 acres of gardens and grounds at the mansion are open to the public for walking Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Booklets and maps of the grounds are available at the Dinkelspiel House. Free.  

GUIDED TOURS -- Docent-led tours are available on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. (except for July) and Wednesdays at 11 a.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors and juniors (11-16), children 11 and under free. 

Dunsmuir House and Gardens, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland. (510) 615-5555, www.dunsmuir.org.< 

EAST BAY FARMERS MARKETS  

ALAMEDA COUNTY --  

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

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. 

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

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. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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. 

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.  

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. 

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY --  

EL CERRITO CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET -- ongoing. A chance to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, cut flowers, baked goods and more.  

Tuesday Market: Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.  

Saturday Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. El Cerrito Plaza, San Pablo and Fairmont Avenues., El Cerrito. (925) 279-1760. 

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

1425 S. Main St., Walnut Creek.  

"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. 

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 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.  

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

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

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

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

Free. www.cafarmersmarkets.com.< 

EUGENE O'NEILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE ongoing. Closed on New Year's Day. Visit Eugene O'Neill's famous Tao House and its tranquil grounds. Phone reservations required for a ranger-led, twoand-a-half-hour tour. Tours are given Wednesday through Sunday at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Please note: The National Park Service provides a free shuttle van for transportation to Tao House. Access via private vehicle is not available. 

Free but reservations required. Wednesday-Sunday. 1000 Kuss Road, Danville. (925) 838-0249, www.nps.gov/euon.< 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIFTY-PLUS ADVENTURE WALKS AND RUNS ongoing. The walks and runs are 3-mile round-trips, lasting about one hour on the trail. All levels of ability are welcome. The walks are brisk, however, and may include some uphill terrain. Events are held rain or shine and on all holidays except Christmas and the Fifty-Plus Annual Fitness Weekend. Call for dates, times and details. 

Free. (650) 323-6160, www.50plus.org.< 

FOREST HOME FARMS ongoing. The 16-acre former farm of the Boone family is now a municipal historic park in San Ramon. It is located at the base of the East Bay Hills and is divided into two parts by Oak Creek. The Boone House is a 22-room Dutch colonial that has been remodeled several times since it was built in 1900. Also on the property are a barn built in the period from 1850 to 1860; the Victorian-style David Glass House, dating from the late 1860s to early 1870s; a storage structure for farm equipment and automobiles; and a walnut processing plant. 

Free unless otherwise noted. Public tours available by appointment. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. (925) 973-3281, www.ci.sanramon. ca.us/parks/boone.htm.< 

GOLDEN GATE LIVE STEAMERS ongoing. Small locomotives, meticulously scaled to size, run along a half mile of track in Tilden Regional Park. The small trains are owned and maintained by a non-profit group of railroad buffs that offer rides. Come out for the monthly family run and barbeque at the track, offered on the fourth Sunday of the month.  

Free. Trains run Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Rides: Sunday, noon-3 p.m., weather permitting. Grizzly Peak Boulevard and Lomas Cantadas Drive at the south end of Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. (510) 486-0623, www.ggls.org.< 

GOLDEN STATE MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM -- ongoing. The museum, which is handicapped accessible, features extensive displays of operating model railroads constructed and operated by the East Bay Model Engineers Society. Covering some 10,000 square feet, steam and modern diesel-powered freight and passenger trains operate in O, HO and N scales on separate layouts as well as narrow gauge and trolley lines. Of special interest is the Tehachapi Pass and Loop on the N-scale layout showing how the multiple engine trains traverse the gorges and tunnels, passing over themselves to gain altitude to cross Tehachapi Summit just east of Bakersfield. The layouts include such famous railroad landmarks as Niles Canyon, Donner Pass and the Oakland Mole where transcontinental passengers were ferried across San Francisco Bay from their arriving trains. VIEW THE LAYOUTS ONLY ON WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS; WATCH TRAINS RUN ON THE LAYOUTS ON SUNDAYS. 

$2-$4 Sunday, $9 family ticket; free on Wednesday and Saturday. April-November: Saturday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Wednesday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. December: layouts are operational on weekends. Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline, 900-A Dornan Dr., Point Richmond. (510) 234-4884, www.gsmrm.org.< 

GONDOLA SERVIZIO ongoing. "Gondola Servizio.'' Weather permitting. Take a ride around Lake Merritt in a real Venetian gondola rowed by a Venetian-style gondolier. The boats of Gondola Servizio were built by hand in Venice. Each gondola seats up to six people and reservations are required.  

Marco Polo: Bring a picnic lunch and/or a beverage to enjoy on this 30 minute private gondola tour. $40 per couple, $10 for each additional person.  

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

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

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

September-May: Wednesday-Sunday, 5 p.m.-midnight; June-August: Daily, by appointment. Lake Merritt Sailboat House, 568 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. (866) 737-8494, (866) 737-8494, www.gondolaservizio.com.< 

GREENBELT ALLIANCE OUTINGS A series of hikes, bike rides and events sponsored by Greenbelt Alliance, the Bay Area's non-profit land conservation and urban planning organization. Call for meeting places. Reservations required for all trips.  

ALAMEDA COUNTY --  

"Self-Guided Urban Outing: Berkeley," ongoing. This interactive smart growth walking tour of central Berkeley examines some of the exciting projects that help alleviate the housing shortage in the city as well as amenities important to making a livable community. The walk, which includes the GAIA Cultural Center, Allston Oak Court, The Berkeley Bike Station, University Terrace and Strawberry Creek Park, takes between an hour-and-ahalf to two hours at a leisurely pace. Download the itinerary which gives specific directions by entering www.greeenbelt.org and clicking on "get involved'' and then "urban outings.'' Drop down and click on Berkeley. Free. 

"Berkeley waterfalls and walkways," Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit the relatively unknown waterfalls and cascades of the Berkeley hills. 

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

MOUNT DIABLO SUMMIT MUSEUM ongoing. The museum is located in a historic stone building atop Mt. Diablo's highest peak and features ongoing exhibits that chronicle the history of the mountain. An instructional video examines the geological forces that created the mountain and panel displays describe the Native American history of the region. A diorama provides an overview of the mountain's ecosystems. Telescopes are mounted on the Observation Deck so visitors can enjoy one of the finest views in the world. 

Museum: free; Park entrance fee: $5-$6 per vehicle. Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Park hours: daily, 8 a.m.-sunset. Oak Grove Road or North Gate Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 837-6119, (925) 837-6119, www.mdia.org/museum.htm.< 

MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY WALKING TOURS Take a three-hour, docent-led walking tour of this cemetery, designed by renowned architect Fredrich Law Olmsted, where many historical figures, both local and national, are buried. 

Special Events,  

"Black history month tour," Feb. 26, 10 a.m. Visit the gravesites and hear stories of some African American community leaders and residents who lived that history. Free. 

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

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

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

NIMITZ WALK ongoing. A level, paved walk originally constructed when the army was considering putting a missile site in the hills above Berkeley. Near Inspiration Point; from San Pablo Dam Road turn west onto Wildcat Canyon Road in Orinda. The entrance to the walk, and a parking lot, is at the top of the ridge. This is an easy hike for people of all ages and especially ideal for the very old, the very young, and the disabled. Bicycles and roller blades are allowed. 

Free. Daily, sunrise-sunset. Tilden Park, near Inspiration Point, Berkeley Hills. (510) 525-2233, www.ebparks.org.< 

OAKLAND ARTISAN MARKETPLACE ongoing. www.oaklandartisanmarketplace.org/. A weekly market featuring the fine arts and crafts created by local artists. Included will be handmade jewelry, sculptures, ceramics, paintings and drawings, photography, dolls, floral arrangements, clothing, soaps, and greeting cards. The three weekly markets are at different sites in Oakland. 

Free. (510) 238-4948.< 

OAKLAND CASTING CLUB MEETINGS ongoing. The Oakland Casting Club and Department of Parks and Recreation present free fly-casting clinics in this monthly meeting. Experts of the club will be on hand to offer tips and training techniques for youths and adults. Everything from basic casting to advanced techniques will be taught. Beginners or experienced anglers welcome. No registration or appointment necessary, but please e-mail ahead (and include relative skill level) to give notice of your participation, if possible.  

Meetings are held at McCrea Park, located at Carson Street and Aliso Avenue (just off Hwy. 13), Oakland. 

Third Saturday of the month March-July. Oakland. www.oaklandcastingclub.org.< 

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."For the love of primates," Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Enjoy Rhythmic Village, the premiere Afro-fusion performance ensemble and interactive music experience. There will be a silent auction. All proceeds support Budongo Snare Removal Project in Uganda. $20 suggested donation. 

$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.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.< 

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 Intersection of Wildcat Canyon Road and South Park Drive, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley. www.ebparks.org.< 

CRAB COVE VISITOR CENTER At Crab Cove, you can see live underwater creatures and go into the San Francisco Bay from land. You can also travel back in time to Alameda's part. The goal is to increase understanding of the environmental importance of San Francisco Bay and the ocean ecosystem. Crab Cove's Indoor Aquarium and Exhibit Lab is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the East Bay."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. 

"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. 

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. 

"Berkeley waterfalls and walkways," Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit the relatively unknown waterfalls and cascades of the Berkeley hills. 

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

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

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," ongoing. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join an expert birder to go "behind the gates'' to areas of the marsh that are not open to the public. 

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

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.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.< 

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."For the love of primates," Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Enjoy Rhythmic Village, the premiere Afro-fusion performance ensemble and interactive music experience. There will be a silent auction. All proceeds support Budongo Snare Removal Project in Uganda. $20 suggested donation. 

$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.< 

PLEASANTON RIDGE REGIONAL PARK ongoing. This 3,163-acre parkland is on the oak-covered ridge overlooking Pleasanton and the Livermore Valley from the west. A multi-purpose trail system accommodates hikers, equestrians and bicyclists. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Foothill Road, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

POINT PINOLE REGIONAL SHORELINE ongoing. The 2,315-acre parkland bordering Pinole, Richmond and San Pablo offers views of Mount Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline and San Pablo Bay. There are trails through meadows and woods, and along the bluffs and beaches of San Pablo Bay. Visitors can hike, ride bikes or take the park's shuttle bus to reach the 1,250-foot fishing pier at Point Pinole. 

$5 per vehicle; $4 per trailered vehicle; $2 per dog (guide/service dogs free). Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Giant Highway, Richmond. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

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

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

QUARRY LAKES REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. The park includes three lakes sculpted from former quarry ponds. The largest, Horseshoe Lake, offers boating and fishing, with a swim beach that will open in the spring. Rainbow Lake is for fishing only, and the third lake, Lago Los Osos, is set aside for wildlife habitat. In addition, there are hiking and bicycling trails that connect to the Alameda Creek Regional Trail. The park includes three lakes sculpted from former quarry ponds. The largest, Horseshoe Lake, offers boating and fishing, with a swim beach that will open in the spring. Rainbow Lake is for fishing only, and the third lake, Lago Los Osos, is set aside for wildlife habitat. In addition there are hiking and bicycling trails that connect to the Alameda Creek Regional Trail. 

$5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs; boat launch fees; Park District fishing access permit fee of $3. Through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sept. 6 through Sept. 30, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. 2100 Isherwood Way,, between Paseo Padre Parkway and Osprey Drive,, Fremont. (510) 795-4883, Picnic reservations:: (510) 562-2267, www.ebparks.org.< 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE ongoing. East Bay residents have several volcanoes in their backyard. This park contains Round Top, one of the highest peaks in the Oakland Hills. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6800 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. The 296-acre park includes an 80-acre lake and a four-flume waterslide, with picnic grounds and a swimming beach. Water slide fees and hours: (925) 829-6230. 

$6 per vehicle; $2 per dog except guide and service dogs. May 1 through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; shortened hours for fall and winter. Stanley Boulevard, one mile from downtown, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

SUNOL REGIONAL WILDERNESS This park is full of scenic and natural wonders. You can hike the Ohlone Wilderness trail or Little Yosemite. There are bedrock mortars that were used by Native Americans, who were Sunol's first inhabitants."Sunol Sunday Hike," ongoing. Sundays, 1:30-3 p.m. A natural history walk in 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.<

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BERKELEY ART MUSEUM AND PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE  

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

2626 Bancroft Way, Berkeley. < 

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM ongoing.  

AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM -- The museum's permanent exhibition of internationally renowned automobiles dated from 1897 to the 1980s. The cars are displayed as works of art with room to walk completely around each car to admire the workmanship. On long-term loan from the Smithsonian Institution is a Long Steam Tricycle; an 1893-94 Duryea, the first Duryea built by the Duryea brothers; and a 1948 Tucker, number 39 of the 51 Tuckers built, which is a Model 48 "Torpedo'' four-door sedan. "International Automotive Treasures," ongoing. An ever-changing exhibit featuring over 90 automobiles.  

"A Journey on Common Ground," ongoing. An exhibit of moving photographs, video and art objects from around the world exploring the causes of disability and the efforts of the Wheelchair Foundation to provide a wheelchair for every person in need who cannot afford one. Free Public Tours, Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Docent-led guided tours of the museum's exhibitions. 

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

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

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

"Chabot Observatories: A View to the Stars," ongoing. Explore the history of the Chabot observatories and how its historic telescopes are used today. Daytime visitors can virtually operate a telescope, experiment with mirrors and lenses to understand how telescopes create images of distant objects and travel through more than a century of Chabot's history via multimedia kiosks, historical images and artifact displays. "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. $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.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. $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. $6-$12; free children ages 2 and under. Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. University of California, Centennial Drive, Berkeley. (510) 642-5132, www.lawrencehallofscience.org.< 

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

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital.SPECIAL EVENTS -- 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.$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."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.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.$2. Wednesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; CLOSED DEC. 23-JAN. 8. 603 Main St., Pleasanton. (925) 462-2766, www.museumonmain.org.< 

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

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

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

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

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

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

PARDEE HOME MUSEUM ongoing. The historic Pardee Mansion, a three-story Italianate villa built in 1868, was home to three generations of the Pardee family who were instrumental in the civic and cultural development of California and Oakland. The home includes the house, grounds, water tower and barn. Reservations recommended. Group tours may be arranged between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tues.-Sun.  

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

Tour with light tea: $12 per person  

Tour with high tea: $25 per person.  

High tea without tour: $20 per person. 

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

SAN LEANDRO HISTORY MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY ongoing. The museum showcases local and regional history and serves as a centerpiece for community cultural activity. There are exhibits on Ohlone settlements, farms of early settlers, and contributions of Portuguese and other immigrants. There will also be exhibits of the city's agricultural past and the industrial development of the 19th century. "Yema/Po Archeological Site at Lake Chabot," ongoing. An exhibit highlighting artifacts uncovered from a work camp of Chinese laborers, featuring photomurals, cutouts and historical photographs. 

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

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

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

CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES  

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

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

BENJAMIN DEAN LECTURE SERIES -- ongoing.  

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

CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA The CHSA Museum and Learning Center features a permanent exhibition, "The Chinese of America: Toward a More Perfect Union'' in its Main Gallery, and works by Chinese-American visual artists in its Rotating Galleries. "Leaders of the Band," ongoing. An exhibition of the history and development of the Cathay Club Marching Band, the first Chinese American band formed in 1911.$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.  

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

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

ONGOING CHILDREN'S PROGRAM --  

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

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

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

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

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

MEXICAN MUSEUM ongoing.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

MUSEUM OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AT SAN FRANCISCO STATE UNIVERSITY 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 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.''"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.$5-$8; free children age 12 and under. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; CLOSED MARCH 13 THROUGH MARCH 21. 685 Mission St., San Francisco. (415) 358-7200, www.moadsf.org.< 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Live Animal Exhibit," ongoing. Visit with more than 100 creatures including small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, raptors and small birds, insects, spiders and tide pool creatures. "Saturdays Are Special at the Museum," ongoing. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A series of drop-in ceramics and art and science workshops. All ages are welcome, though an adult must accompany children under age 8. $3 per child, $5 per parent-child combination.  

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

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

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

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

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

DROP-IN ART AND SCIENCE WORKSHOPS -- ongoing. 1-4 p.m. $3-$5. "Drop-in Family Ceramics Workshop," ongoing. Saturday, 1:15-2:15 p.m. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Animal Feeding," ongoing. Saturday, noon. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HISTORIC SHIP AT FISHERMAN'S WHARF --  

"USS Pampanito." This World-War-II-era submarine is berthed at Fisherman's Wharf. The submarine celebrated her 50th anniversary in November of 1993 and is perhaps best known for her participation in a "wolf pack'' attack on a convoy of enemy ships during World War II. The entrance fee includes a taped audio tour that describes what life on this submarine was like. At Pier 45, near foot of Taylor Street. Monday through Thursday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. $9 general; $5 seniors, $4 active duty military, $4 youth ages 6 to 12; free children under age 6. (415) 775-1943. "Historic Ship Volunteer Work Party," Saturday, 9 a.m. Become part of an effort to preserve four of the park's nautical treasures. Work on a different ship each Saturday. Bring work clothes, work shoes and lunch. Call for meeting place. (415) 332-8409.  

Unless noted otherwise, events take place on the Hyde Street Pier, located at the foot of Hyde Street on Jefferson Street.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."Crafts for Kids," ongoing. Every third Saturday of the month; 3-4 p.m. Learn a little about sea life and make a maritime craft. $5 vessel admission; free for children under 15. 

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

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

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

"Music of the Sea for Kids," Feb. 19, 3-3:45 p.m. Sing songs that are geared for younger ears and chosen especially for fun. Ages 6 and up. $5; children under 15 are free. 

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

BAY AREA FREE BOOK EXCHANGE  

"Free Books," ongoing. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. - Sun. Donate your unwanted books and receive new titles for free.  

10520 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito. (510) 526-1941, www.bayareafreebookexchange.com.< 

CALIFORNIA GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY AND LIBRARY  

"California Genealogical Society and Library Free First Saturday," ongoing. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Event takes place on the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Trace and compile your family history at this month's open house event. Free. www.calgensoc.org. 

2201 Broadway, Suite LL2, Oakland. (510) 663-1358.< 

CALIFORNIA MAGIC THEATER  

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

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

CHABOT SPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER State-of-the-art facility unifying science education activities around astronomy. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, indoor stargazing, outdoor telescope viewing and films."Destination Universe," ongoing. Take a journey from our Sun to the farthest reaches of the cosmos. 

"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. 

"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. 

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

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

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

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

"Valentine's day love missions," Feb. 12 through Feb. 13, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Celebrate with your valentine on a simulated space mission to the Red Planet. The package includes an all access pass to Chabot, savory treats, fizzy Martian beverages, and a souvenir of your trip. $85 per couple. 

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. 

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

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

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.< 

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.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.<

ARDENWOOD HISTORIC FARM Ardenwood farm is a working farm that dates back to the time of the Patterson Ranch, a 19th-century estate with a mansion and Victorian Gardens. Today, the farm still practices farming techniques from the 1870s. Unless otherwise noted, programs are free with regular admission.  

ONGOING PROGRAMS --  

"Blacksmithing," Thursday, Friday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Watch a blacksmith turn iron into useful tools.  

"Horse-Drawn Train," Thursday, Friday and Sunday. A 20-minute ride departs from Ardenwood Station and Deer Park.  

"Animal Feeding," Thursday-Sunday, 3-4 p.m. Help slop the hogs, check the henhouse for eggs and bring hay to the livestock.  

"Victorian Flower Arranging," Thursday, 10:15-11:30 a.m. Watch as Ardenwood docents create floral works of art for display in the Patterson House. "Country Kitchen Cookin'," ongoing. Sundays, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy the flavor of the past with treats cooked on Ardenwood's wood burning stove. Sample food grown on the farm and discover the history of your favorite oldtime snacks. 

"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. 

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

"Toddler Time," ongoing. Tuesdays, 11-11:30 a.m. Bring the tiny tots out for an exciting morning at the farm. Meet and learn all about a new animal friend through stories, chores and fun.  

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

$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 POINT LIBRARY  

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

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

BLACKHAWK MUSEUM ongoing.  

AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM -- The museum's permanent exhibition of internationally renowned automobiles dated from 1897 to the 1980s. The cars are displayed as works of art with room to walk completely around each car to admire the workmanship. On long-term loan from the Smithsonian Institution is a Long Steam Tricycle; an 1893-94 Duryea, the first Duryea built by the Duryea brothers; and a 1948 Tucker, number 39 of the 51 Tuckers built, which is a Model 48 "Torpedo'' four-door sedan. "International Automotive Treasures," ongoing. An ever-changing exhibit featuring over 90 automobiles.  

"A Journey on Common Ground," ongoing. An exhibit of moving photographs, video and art objects from around the world exploring the causes of disability and the efforts of the Wheelchair Foundation to provide a wheelchair for every person in need who cannot afford one. Free Public Tours, Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Docent-led guided tours of the museum's exhibitions. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

"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. 

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

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

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

"Valentine's day love missions," Feb. 12 through Feb. 13, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Celebrate with your valentine on a simulated space mission to the Red Planet. The package includes an all access pass to Chabot, savory treats, fizzy Martian beverages, and a souvenir of your trip. $85 per couple. 

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. 

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

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

CHILDREN'S FAIRYLAND A fairy tale theme park featuring more than 30 colorful fantasy sets. Designed especially for children ages 10 and under, there are gentle rides, a train, the "Peter Rabbit Village,'' puppet shows, story-telling and lots of slides and animals. Admission price includes unlimited rides, special shows, guest entertainers and puppet shows.  

OLD WEST JUNCTION -- Children's Fairyland's newest attraction is a Wild West-themed town sized just for children, with a livery stable, bank, jail and a water tower slide.  

PUPPET SHOWS -- Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. All shows are at the Open Storybook Theatre. Free with regular Fairyland admission.  

ARTS AND CRAFTS CENTER -- Activities on Saturday and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.  

ANIMAL OF THE DAY -- Saturday and Sunday, 1-1:20 p.m. at the Humpty Dumpty Wall. Learn about one of Fairyland's animal friends."Animal of the Day!" ongoing. Saturdays and Sundays, 1-1:20 p.m. Come up close and learn about Fairyland's creatures. 

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

$6; free for children under age 1; $2 for a Magic Key. No adult admitted without a child and no child admitted without an adult. Summer (June through Labor Day): Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fall and Spring: Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Winter: Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CLOSED DEC. 25-JAN. 4. 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. (510) 452-2259, www.fairyland.org.< 

CRAB COVE VISITOR CENTER At Crab Cove, you can see live underwater creatures and go into the San Francisco Bay from land. You can also travel back in time to Alameda's part. The goal is to increase understanding of the environmental importance of San Francisco Bay and the ocean ecosystem. Crab Cove's Indoor Aquarium and Exhibit Lab is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the East Bay."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.< 

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.< 

FREIGHT AND SALVAGE  

Octopretzel, The Bubble Lady, Alphabet Rockers, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. $24.50-$26.50. 

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

"Waterfowl of the Freshwater Marsh," ongoing. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join an expert birder to go "behind the gates'' to areas of the marsh that are not open to the public. 

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

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE EAST BAY  

"Shabbat Celebration for Young Children," ongoing. Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join other families with young children to sharethis weekly Jewish holiday of joy and renewal.  

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

JUNIOR CENTER OF ART AND SCIENCE ongoing. A center dedicated to encouraging children's active wonder and creative response through artistic and scientific exploration of their natural urban environment. The center's classes, workshops, exhibits and events integrate art and science. Three educational exhibits are mounted in the "Children's Gallery'' each year. A docent-led tour, demonstrations, hands-on activities and art projects are available to school groups throughout the year.  

"Jake's Discovery Garden," ongoing. Jake's Discovery Garden is a new interactive studio exhibit designed for preschool-aged children and their adult caregivers that teaches young visitors about the natural environments found in their backyards, playgrounds and neighborhoods.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.< 

LA PENA CULTURAL CENTER  

"Los Amiguitos Saturday Morning Children's Show," Feb. 12, 10:30 a.m. Featuring Alphabet Rockers. $4-$5.  

Asheba, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. $4-$5.  

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

LAKE CHABOT REGIONAL PARK ongoing. The 315-acre lake offers year-round recreation. Services include canoe and boat rental, horseshoe pits, hiking, bicycling, picnicking and seasonal tours aboard the Chabot Queen. For boat rentals, call (510) 247-2526. 

Free unless noted otherwise; $5 parking; $2 per dog except guide/service dogs. Daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. 17930 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOLT PLANETARIUM ongoing. Shows on Saturdays and Sundays. Programs recommended for ages 6 and up unless otherwise noted. $2.50-$3 in addition to general admission.  

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

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

WILDLIFE HOSPITAL -- September-March: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is open daily including holidays to receive injured and orphaned animals. There is no charge for treatment of native wild animals and there are no public viewing areas in the hospital.$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."Saturday Stories," ongoing. 1 p.m. For children ages 2-5. Free."Saturday Stories," ongoing. 1 p.m. For ages 2-5. Free. 

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

OAKLAND 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."For the love of primates," Feb. 14, 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Enjoy Rhythmic Village, the premiere Afro-fusion performance ensemble and interactive music experience. There will be a silent auction. All proceeds support Budongo Snare Removal Project in Uganda. $20 suggested donation. 

$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.< 

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

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

POINT PINOLE REGIONAL SHORELINE ongoing. The 2,315-acre parkland bordering Pinole, Richmond and San Pablo offers views of Mount Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline and San Pablo Bay. There are trails through meadows and woods, and along the bluffs and beaches of San Pablo Bay. Visitors can hike, ride bikes or take the park's shuttle bus to reach the 1,250-foot fishing pier at Point Pinole. 

$5 per vehicle; $4 per trailered vehicle; $2 per dog (guide/service dogs free). Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., unless otherwise posted. Giant Highway, Richmond. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

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

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

ROBERT SIBLEY VOLCANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE ongoing. East Bay residents have several volcanoes in their backyard. This park contains Round Top, one of the highest peaks in the Oakland Hills. 

Free. Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6800 Skyline Blvd., Oakland. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

SHADOW CLIFFS REGIONAL RECREATION AREA ongoing. The 296-acre park includes an 80-acre lake and a four-flume waterslide, with picnic grounds and a swimming beach. Water slide fees and hours: (925) 829-6230. 

$6 per vehicle; $2 per dog except guide and service dogs. May 1 through Labor Day: daily, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; shortened hours for fall and winter. Stanley Boulevard, one mile from downtown, Pleasanton. (510) 562-PARK, www.ebparks.org.< 

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

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

"Protestant Divine Services," ongoing. Hornet chaplain John Berger conducts church services aboard The Hornet in the Wardroom Lounge. Everyone is welcome and refreshments are served immediately following the service. Sundays, 11 a.m.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.<

"SUN SPHERES," -- ongoing. "Sun Spheres'' is a trio of mosaic sculptures by artist Laurel True at the intersection of Ocean and Granada Avenues in the OMI District of San Francisco. 

(415) 252-2551, www.sfartscommission.org/pubart.< 

EVENING GALLERY WALKS These monthly evening gallery walks or "crawls'' are a way to learn about art for the casual viewer without the intimidation of visiting a gallery with no one else around. Generally the galleries are filled on the "walk'' evenings with people drinking wine and talking. Gallery owners are happy to answer questions about the art on view. The important thing to remember is that it is free to gaze and drink. 

"First Thursday," ongoing. 5:30-8 p.m. Generally some 20 galleries participate in this monthly evening of open galleries. Many are located around Union Square. Some of the galleries that participate on a regular basis are Pasquale Iannetti Gallery, Caldwell Snyder Gallery, and Hackett-Freedman Gallery, all on Sutter Street; Meyerovich Gallery and Dolby Chadwick Gallery on Post Street; and Rena Bransten Gallery and Stephen Wirtz Gallery on Geary Street. Sponsored by the San Francisco Art Dealers Association. First Thursday of the month. Free.  

San Francisco. < 

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

"Painted Rooms," ongoing. An exhibit of painted rooms in the hotel by emerging artists.  

Free. Daily, 8 a.m.-11 p.m. 447 Bush St., San Francisco. (415) 956-4322, www.sfhoteldesarts.com.< 

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF SAN FRANCISCO  

"The Digital Liberation of G-d," ongoing. A permanent interactive media installation created by New York-based artist Helene Aylon, which examines the influences of patriarchal attitudes upon Jewish traditions and sacred texts.  

Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3200 California St., San Francisco. (415) 292-1200, Box Office: (415) 292-1233, www.jccsf.org.< 

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

"Bayview's Historical Footprints," ongoing. A permanent photographic exhibition celebrating the diverse history of Bayview Hunters Point featuring multimedia oral histories from community elders.  

Free. Monday, Tuesday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wednesday, 1 p.m.-8 p.m.; Thursday, 1 p.m.-7 p.m.; Friday,BRARY, 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.<

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.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.<

ELKS LODGE, ALAMEDA  

"All You Can Dance Sunday Socials," ongoing. Sunday, 4-6 p.m. Marilyn Bowe and Robert Henneg presents monthly socials with ballroom, swing, Latin and rock & roll themes. www.dancewithme.info. 

2255 Santa Clara Ave., Alameda. (510) 864-2256.< 

SHATTUCK DOWN LOW For ages 21 and older. 

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

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

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

SOLAD DANCE CENTER  

"Persian Dance," ongoing. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 and 10 p.m. Rosa Rojas offers traditional dance classes. $10.  

Citrus Marketplace, 2260 Oak Grove Rd., Walnut Creek. (925) 938-3300.< 

STARRY PLOUGH PUB  

"Ceili and Dance," ongoing. Traditional Irish music and dance. The evening begins with a dance lesson at 7 p.m. followed by music at 9 p.m. Mondays, 7 p.m. Free.  

For ages 21 and over unless otherwise noted. Sunday and Wednesday, 8 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. 3101 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. (510) 841-2082, www.starryploughpub.com.<