What do you wish for?

Do you base our choices on what you want, or what you think you're supposed to want? Let yourself feel what you feel and want what you want, THEN engage your mind in the process. The best wishes are born from your heart.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, October 19, 2011

British Traditional Wicca 101, Natural Remedies for Stress and Fatigue, The Cuckoo, Understanding the Birthchart, Living As a River, Writing Ritual, Divination Night, 13 Moon Introductory Series, La Boutique Obscure, Edward II, Cob Building Workshop, Herbal Medicine for Winter Health, Build a Rainwater Garden, Day of the Dead Santa Cruz, El Cerrito Free Folk Festival, Growing Edibles In Containers, Thalassa's Spooky Pre-Samhain Tarot Tea Party, Firefly Night, Airmed’s Cupboard: Rosemary, San Jose Halloween Art Market, Diwali: Festival of Lights, A Witchy Class, Shrouded Tales, October Masquerade Evening, Rhythmix Fright Night Halloween Gala, Orla Fallon, Earth Medicine Alliance's Annual Conference, Witches and Wizards Weekend, Inanna’s Descent, Mole Day, Intro to Organic Garden Design, From Sheep to Shawl, Sudden Oak Life Workshop, Sacred Stream Center Open House, Day of the Dead at the Oakland Museum, Commonweal Garden Tour, Peter van Gelder and Friends, Henna-World, Mask Yourself!, Body Therapy Demonstration, Samhain Celebration, Drawing Circus, Tea and Chanting with Rabbit, FEAR, Mask-Making Workshop
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British Traditional Wicca 101
with Lady Argante
Wednesday, October 19, 7:00-9:00PM, and 8 more Wednesdays through December 14
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$10 per class
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events

“Lady Argante, a third-degree Gardnerian Elder and the High Priestess of the Coven Daoine Sidhe, comes to The Sacred Well to offer a class that will provide students with a spiritual and practical introduction to Wicca from a British Traditional perspective.

This 14-week course includes an introduction to British Traditional Wicca's history, cosmology and Wheel of the Year; meditations on the Goddess, the God, and the four elements; basic magical ethics and methods; and informal rituals for Samhain and Yule.

Class space is limited, so call The Sacred Well today at 510-444-9355 to sign up for the entire course, or for any individual class.”
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Natural Remedies for Stress and Fatigue
with Connie Wang
Wednesday, October 19, 7:00PM
Firefly Willows, 111 Main Street, Los Altos, 650-947-9300
Free, please RSVP to  workshops@fireflywillows.com or 650-947-9300
http://www.fireflywillows.com
http://www.drcorrinewang.com

“This talk will focus on how stress affects the body, the fatigue that results from it, and different methods of dealing with it.  Therapies covered will include botanicals, nutritional supplements, and different physical medicine modalities including craniosacral therapy and EFT.”
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The Cuckoo
part of Bridging the Ancient and Modern film series
Thursday, October 20, 7:00PM
The Dream Institute of Northern California, 1672 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-845-1767
$15
http://www.dream-institute.org/idx_calendar.htm#Bridging_Ancient_&_Modern

“This series is hosted by Tom Knoblauch, career psychologist at Napa State Hospital, who has a longstanding interest in alternative healing methods and films concerning people from diverse cultures. He has carefully selected these films and will lead a discussion afterward.

Thursday October 20 - The Story of the Weeping Camel
This unique documentary follows a Mongolian camel that rejects her newborn white colt. Two young shepherd boys travel across the Gobi Desert to find a healing musician. This Oscar-nominated film offers a portrait of nomadic herders who are preserving an ancient way of life (2003, 87 minutes).

The Dream Institute is an experimental cultural center founded in 2003. It has come into being during this time known as the shift or the great turning. Our offerings include weekend workshops, daylong seminars, evening salons, film series, professional training, art exhibits, retreats, and dream-based performances. We are also the West Coast center for Culture Dreaming. Programs and events are open to the public; continuing education seminars are for professionals in the healing arts. We do not advocate any single philosophical, psychological, spiritual, or religious viewpoint toward dreams or personal growth.”
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astrobarry's Fundamentals of Astrology 2: Understanding the Birthchart
Thursday, October 20, 7:30-9:30PM,
and 3 more Thursdays - October 27, November 3 and November 10
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$140 - please call 510-444-9355 to register in advance
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events

“In Part Two of astrobarry's 4-part astrology course, we will integrate our knowledge of the zodiac signs, the planets, the house, and the aspects by learning to interpret astrological birthcharts.

A birthchart provides us an archetypal map of our innate personality tendencies. By becoming more conscious of the different drives operating in us, we're better able to make the decisions and take the actions best suited to our unique selves. This class covers how to analyze charts for insight into relationships, career, family, and life purpose.

Prerequisite: Fundamentals 1, or a good working knowledge of the astrological symbols. Contact the store to see if this class is right for you.”
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Living As a River:
Finding Fearlessness in the Face of Change
with Bodhipaksa
Thursday, October 20, 7:30PM
East West Bookstore, 324 Castro Street, Mountain View
Free, but please RSVP to 650-988-9800
http://livingasariver.com

“To face reality is to embrace change; to resist change is to suffer.  Bodhipaksa explores this liberating insight in his new book, Living As a River. Based on almost 30 years of spiritual practice, the book is an investigation into the nature of self, blending current science with time-honored spiritual insight that can free us from the fear of impermanence, even in a world defined by change. Bodhipaksa is a Buddhist practitioner, teacher, and author, who will present from his East Coast center via Skype.”
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Writing Ritual
with Valerie Voigt and Jason Mankey
Friday, October 21, 7:00PM
Firefly Willows, 111 Main Street, Los Altos, 650-947-9300
Free, please RSVP to  workshops@fireflywillows.com or 650-947-9300
http://www.fireflywillows.com
http://www.meetup.com/palo-alto-pagans/members/41761/
http://www.panmankey.com

“Writing good ritual is a challenge, turning good ritual into great involves more than slight of hand. Listen to two old ritual writing pros as they share their tips and tricks for writing great ritual. Learn the differences between writing for groups small and large, and how to conduct satisfying personal ritual. Join us as we break down the ins and outs of ritual and help you create ritual that’s everything you want it to be!”
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Divination Night and Silent Auction
Benefiting the Sonoma County Pagan Network
Friday, October 21, 7:00PM
Luther Burbank Art and Garden Center, 2050 Yulupa Avenue, Santa Rosa
$5 suggested donation for non-members
http://www.scpagans.org/divnite.html

“Come have your fortunes read by our gifted Diviners. This is a fund raising event so for each reading there is a suggested donation of $5.00.  All proceeds go to benefit the SCPN so that we may continue to serve our Pagan community.

Now is the time to think about what you can donate for our Annual Silent Auction.  Proceeds will go to help the SCPN, which is a 501c3 organization.....so all donations (which of course silent auction items would be) are tax-deductable.
Is it a craft item?  (something you've made) …… Is it a skill?  (some action that can be bid upon) OR, is it a witchy/pagan item you find you're not using anymore (in good shape, of course.)
In the past, we have had: Capes, portable altar, staff, wand, cauldron, blade, videos and more! Perhaps they'll get you thinking about what YOU have, or can make or can do (services certainly can be bid upon). Perhaps what you do professionally is something that someone else can use?  After all, you're paid for your skills at work, right?  Or your avocation: that which you love.

Since our gathering is at the dinner hour, we ask that you bring a potluck dish and/or non-alcoholic brew to share that serves 4-6people. Let’s treat ourselves to a good meal. Please bring your own place setting. There will be hot water available for tea.
We ask non-members to make a donation of $5-$3 to help us cover operating costs.No one turned away for lack of funds.”
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13 Moon Introductory Series
Friday, October 21, 7:00-9:00PM (and the third Friday of every month)
Aphrodite’s Closet, 1201 Park Street, Alameda
$55
Please call 510-521-3313 to pay and reserve your space
http://www.13moonmysteryschool.org/aphrodites_closet.html

“Learn more about the 13 archetypes of the Divine Feminine and how to live and be seen as the Goddess you are! Go away with practical ways to connect with your authentic Divine self. This is a bite-sized taste of the 13 Moon Mystery School's journey into the Divine Feminine. Come add YOUR magic to the mix!  
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La Boutique Obscure - Pajama Party Edition
presented by the Vespertine Circus
Friday, October 21, doors open at 8:00PM, show starts at 9:00PM
The Vagabond Ballroom, 803 Isabella Street, Oakland
$15 in advance, $20 at the door (or $15 at the door if you come in pajamas!)
18+
http://www.vespertinecircus.com
http://www.thevespertineorchestra.com

“The Vespertine Circus is a collection of young, ambitious oddballs on a quest to spread joy and absurdity. Heavily inspired by the golden age of traveling sideshow and traditional family-based circuses, they consist of 6 main characters and a plethora of talented guest performers, who put on shows for both adult audiences and families in a mess of wild rabble-rousing and outlandish shenanigans.

More than a touch otherworldly, they’re the kind of circus you wanted to run away with as a kid.

Their acts are many and varied (frequently featuring juggling, clowning, fire arts, varied aerial acrobatics, handbalancing, puppetry, dance, contortion, sideshow-geek stunts, stilt-walking, magic, mermaids, storytelling and  peanuts) and are sometimes performed to original live music, as concocted by The Vespertine Orchestra.

Vespertine:
Adjective
1. (zoology) Pertaining to animals which are principally active at dusk.
2. (botany) Pertaining to plants which open or bloom in the evening.”
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Edward II
by Christopher Marlowe, adapted by Edwin Peabody
presented by Butterfield 8
Friday-Sunday, October 21-23, plays through October 30
see website for detailed schedule of performances
$18
http://www.b8company.com/events.htm

"For the first show of the 2011-2012 season, Butterfield 8 Theatre Company takes on Christopher Marlowe's Edward II, directed and adapted by company member Edwin Peabody.

It's 1921 in London, the great war has ended and the jazz age has begun. The populace has been decimated by the Spanish flu, which took King Edward I's life. His son, King Edward II, an open homosexual, is perceived as ineffectual as a leader and a husband, and has raised the ire of the nobles by inviting back into England his exiled love, Piers Gaveston. Feeling they need stronger leadership and national unity, the nobles turn to young Mortimer, a hot-headed noble with a fascist slant and a hatred of the new King. As Gaveston returns, the country faces its biggest challenge as fascism rises and peace and prosperity are threatened with revolution. How far will Edward and Mortimer go in their pursuit of what is best for England? Find out what it truly means to be a king in this complex and psychological play.
Edward II previews October 6, 2011 and closes October 30.

“The Mission of Butterfield 8 Theatre Company is to provide audiences a fresh take on classic plays, and foster the creation of new works.

Our Vision is to present audiences with examples of both ends of the theatrical spectrum: new productions of classic works, focusing in particular on text-driven plays (such as the works of Shakespeare), and new works devised by the company or written by local playwrights.  Our work often examines perceptions of gender, both within the context of the play and the larger context of society as a whole.  We strive to create an immersive environment, believing the audience’s experience starts when they buy the ticket, and shouldn't end when they leave the theatre. We honor that the audience has come for a live theatre experience to engage with a story or an idea; to be taken on a journey. This is our responsibility, and our craft.”
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Cob Building Workshop
with Miguel Elliot of Living Earth Structures
Saturday, October 22, 9:00AM-5:00PM
Isis Oasis Sanctuary, 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, 707-857-4747
$65 (optional dinner for $12 additional)
to register, please contact Miguel at 707-320-3609 or livingearthstructures@yahoo.com
http://www.livingearthstructures.com/events/cob-building-workshop
http://www.isisoasis.org

“Learn to build a Beehive Oven!

Included in the day will be
* A tour of other Cob Structures on Site
* A discussion on Natural Building principles
*Lunch using food from the garden
*An optional afternoon swim
* Movie on Natural Building in the Theater.
*Dinner in the Pavilion (Extra $12)
* Optional tent camping in the forest. or stay in the lodge.”
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Herbal Medicine for Winter Health
with Ali Budner
Saturday, October 22, 10:00AM-12:00PM
Garden for the Environment, 7th Avenue at Lawton Street, San Francisco
$25
http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/pages/calendar.html
http://wintermedicine2011.eventbrite.com/?ref=ebtn


“As the days get shorter and the air gets cooler, it's time to strengthen our immune systems. Come get empowered around your own health this year, using plant medicine. Join Ali Budner and Garden for the Environment as we learn how to create simple herbal tonics and remedies for staying healthy and strong through the winter. We will be making one herbal cordial to tonify the immune system and one herbal vinegar for kicking the common cold in the pants. We will talk about the basic actions of the plants we use and how they work in combination. You will leave with a jar of each remedy for your medicine cabinet, plus handouts with copies of the recipes. This workshop is open to all levels of experience.”

Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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Build a Rainwater Garden
part of EcoRanch Projects’ Sustainability Series
Saturday, October 22, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette, 925-283-6311
$60  
please register at the website below
http://www.siennaranch.net/Sustainable_Sienna_Ranch.html

“Want more for your garden? Harvest the rain!

Harvesting rainwater reduces your reliance on irrigation, infiltrates water into the soil to recharge groundwater, and reduces stormwater pollution in streams and the Bay.  In this hands-on workshop, we'll build a rain garden at Sienna Ranch to catch water from the roof and surrounding areas and infiltrate it into the soil to grow edible, medicinal, and native plants.  We'll explain how to integrate rain barrels and cisterns into the garden, and how to trace the flow of water through the landscape.”
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Day of the Dead Community Celebration - Santa Cruz
Saturday, October 22, 11:00AM-2:00PM
Museum of Art and History at the McPherson Center, 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz
Free

“Our lively annual festival celebration features live music by Zun Zun, cultural dance performances, a mercado (market) with food, public ofrendas and colorful art activities for adults and children! The Museum’s community altar is enhanced with several installations by local Santa Cruz artists. Community members are invited to bring a memento, photo, add a poem or draw a picture memorializing a special someone who has passed.”
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El Cerrito Free Folk Festival
Saturday, October 22, 12:00-10:00PM
Windrush School, 1800 Elm Street, El Cerrito
http://www.elcerritofolkfest.org

“Welcome to the El Cerrito Free Folk Festival a daylong arts and music festival that is free of charge and open to the public.

This exciting event features performances and workshops from world renowned and local musicians alike, with open microphone, jam sessions, and much, much more.”
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Growing Edibles In Containers
with Johanna Silver
Saturday, October 22, 1:00-3:00PM
Garden for the Environment, 7th Avenue at Lawton Street, San Francisco
$25
http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/pages/calendar.html
http://ediblesincontainers2011.eventbrite.com/?ref=ebtn
http://www.sunset.com/garden/sunset-magazine-johanna-silver-00418000071821

“Whether you’ve run out of yard space, have compromised soil, or just like the look, containers are a great choice for fruit and veggie gardening. Learn how to choose the right pot, the right soil, and most importantly – the right crops for containment. Instructor Johanna Silver experiments with all sorts of containers in Sunset Magazine’s test garden, from homemade self-watering ones, to galvanized steel, to turning straw bales into planting space.”

Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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Thalassa's Spooky Pre-Samhain Tarot Tea Party
Saturday, October 22, 1:00-5:00PM   
Mission Alchemy Event Space, 2601 Mission Street, San Francisco
$35
http://www.dodivination.com/classes_with_thalassa

“As the veil grows thinner and nights grow even cooler, there's no better time to work with the Tarot. Sip tea, munch cookies and participate in a fun, knowledge-packed Tarot class. History, mystery, myth and magic will be covered along with lots of hands-on work!

Thalassa is the producer of the San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium - the oldest established, permanent floating Tarot Symposium in the world (actually, the longest continuouslyy produced Tarot event) and founder of the Daughters of Divination (DOD).  She has been living, working and playing with the Tarot for more than 40 years (she was an infant prodigy).
She is also active in the production of Pagan and Divination events across the country, and her writing has been published in a wide range of publications, including the Llewellyn Tarot Reader almanacs since their inception.  She has been involved in standup comedy, choreography, and stage management, and currently teaches improvisation and physical characterisation for performers of Renaissance and Victorian festivals.
Her other interests include historical recreation, needlework, and plotting global domination.  Thalassa lives in San Francisco with her long-suffering husband, a herd of semi-feral dustbunnies, a sword collection, and more Tarot cards than is safe to assemble in one place.  She is working on a book (on Tarot, of all things).”
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Firefly Night
book launch party
Saturday, October 22, 1:00-6:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
Free  
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.psychicreadings-evanne.com/firefly
http://www.findingthelostuniversalprinciples.com
http://www.etsy.com/people/belongingsbags

“Meet the Author, Publishers and Editor of Firefly Night and Finding the Lost Universal Principles.
Learn How to Publish Your Own Book!

Featuring:
Personally signed copies of: Firefly Night by Evanne Jordan
Finding the Lost Principles by Patricia McCulley
Firefly Puppets and Handcrafted Fashion Accessories by Irma Toman
Free souvenirs!

Firefly Night follows the adventures of Ajay and his sister as they set out to catch fireflies on a warm summer evening. Young readers will delight in the beautiful and whimsical hand-painted illustrations of the fireflies, and will enjoy counting the sequenced sets of fireflies on each delightful page. When Ajay and Sidney decide to release their fireflies to the night sky, they learn, as young readers will learn, that ultimately nature should be returned to nature. They also receive a special message from the fireflies!”
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Airmed’s Cupboard: Rosemary
with Elayne Lockhart
Saturday, October 22, 2:00-4:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$50 - please pre-register by phone or at the website below
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://elaynelockhart.blogspot.com

“Airmed is the Celtic Goddess of herb wisdom. Once a quarter, Airmed’s Cupboard will explore a different herb, flower or other type of plant. Various ways of use such as magical, medicinal, and/or culinary will be covered. Everyone will leave with at least one project they have made in class.

Elayne Lockhart is a 4th generation witch living in the East Bay, where she works to educate the public on paganism and the esoteric arts. She has appeared in various live and print media regarding witchcraft and is the former moderator of Witchy Wednesdays.”
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San Jose Halloween Art Market
Saturday, October 22, 2:00-6:00PM
Historic Reed House, 328 North Sixth Street, San Jose
http://www.wix.com/sjhalloweenartmarket/2011
http://www.sanjosevictorian.com

“What lies in store...

Seven prolific Bay Area artists exhibiting their work and wares for the public to peruse and purchase in the spirit of Halloween and Dia de los Muertos.  Each artist varies diversely in style and medium.  All approach the strange with affinity and find a muse in the macabre; Assemblage, Collage, Dolls, Jewelry, Paintings, Photography, Sculpture and so much more.  Libations will be served.  Costumes and festive attire welcomed.”
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Diwali: Festival of Lights
Saturday, October 22, 6:30-8:30PM
Anubhuti Meditation and Retreat Center, 820 Bel Marin Keys Boulevard, Novato, 415-884-2314
for more information or to RSVP, please call 415-884-2314 or e-mail anubhuti@bkwsu.org
http://www.anubhutiretreatcenter.org/Events/special-events
http://www.diwalifestival.org

“Diwali (Deepavali) is an ancient Indian festival celebrating the victory of light after darkness. When we ignite our inner light, the darkness automatically gets dispelled.

Please join us in an evening of meditation, music, Indian dance, childrens procession, video images, a candle lighting ceremony, an inspirational talk, and a vegetarian dinner.

Anubhuti Meditation and Retreat Center provides an environment of spiritual hospitality. We invite people from all walks of life and of all faiths to explore the inner values and strengths that enable them to lead fulfilling and productive lives. We offer weekend residential retreats, workshops, one day retreats, and weekly classes in spiritual awareness, meditation and the practical application of spirituality.”
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A Witchy Class
Saturday, October 22, 7:00PM (and the fourth Saturday of every month)
Antioch Public Library, 501 W 18th Street, Antioch
Please RSVP - see Meetup page for more information
http://www.meetup.com/a-witchy-class

“Join us for a series of classes about the craft.
You will find a bit of everything; working within ritual space, energy workings, history, ethics,
And there's more, there's always more!”

Thanks to Ardys for letting me know about this event!
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Shrouded Tales
Ghostly tours of Hayward-area historic landmarks
Saturday, October 22, 7:00PM
San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery, corner of Hesperian Boulevard and College Street, Hayward
http://www.sanlorenzoheritage.org/history/cem-hx.htm

Adults $10, students and seniors $5
Tickets must be purchased in advance.  Please call 510-581-2516 for reservations.
http://www.haywardareahistory.org/events/view/102-shrouded_tales_tours

“At Shrouded Tales, tours, you will learn about the historic McConaghy House, Meek Mansion, and San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery.  The tours include family histories, information about Victorian death traditions and superstitions, and paranormal findings.  Each tour is about an hour long.

Proceeds support restoration and preservation of historic properties.”
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October Masquerade Evening and Circle for Women
Saturday, October 22, 7:30PM
The Red Tent, 15495 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite C, Los Gatos, 408-365-4905
$35, please RSVP at website below
http://theredtent.net/red_tent_events?eventId=344180&EventViewMode=EventDetails

“Come for a magical evening, candlelight & decadent desserts! Come adorned in your created mask or any mask of your desire...dressed for our Masquerade Evening. We will begin in circle and move fluidly into a free evening of stories and friendship, warm tea and sweet treats. We will complete our evening by candlelight in circle to honor our many roles/masks that we "live in" and will remove our masks to speak of our experiences and set our intentions in moving forward in our lives free from our "masks"....to live more authentically....and closer to our truth.

This is an opportunity for transformation...for moving forward...for deepening your understanding of yourself and your relationship to the various roles/masks that you wear in your life.

Bring good friends and/or family...WOMEN ONLY.”
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Rhythmix Fright Night Halloween Gala
Saturday, October 22, 8:00PM
Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Avenue, Alameda
$20 in advance, $25 at the door, ages 21+
http://www.rhythmix.org/content/11events/111022.html
http://www.ujuju.com

“A return of the classic Halloween Party! Come get your Ghoulish Groove on with the eclectic sounds of local favorite DJ “Fitz” as he spins the vinyl to your Devilish Delight. Sip Fiendish Drinks and nibble Zombie Snacks in the K Gallery while you rest between dances and await the Costume Contest festivities...
DJ Fitz will be in command of the teetering turntables of terror along with a few other experimental devices in order to cram as many decades of paranormal audiology as possible into your pointy little ears. The full spectre-um of sound will keep you guessing laughing and dancing. Have a ghoulish time rocking out to the spooky sounds from your favorite 80s funk punk hard rock-abilly disco surfing tango traxx. Fitz is on the regular rotation of DJ's at the mighty Forbidden Island and he has recently been promoted to Senior Warthog at Rhythmix own Wednesday Art Jam.
Special Parking Lot appearance by Lucky Juju Pinball!
All proceeds from this super fun event go towards RCW arts programming. We thank you for your support.

Rhythmix Cultural Works (RCW) is a relatively new community arts center in the East Bay that brings people of all ages together for a wide range of high quality arts experiences. With a 200 seat theater space, art gallery, book arts store and classroom, RCW offers affordable space in a state-of-the-art facility for live performance, exhibitions, art education and cultural exchange for youth, families and adults. Through exhibits, workshops, classes and performances, RCW supports local, regional and international artists in the presentation of their work and hopes to encourage community participation in the arts.”
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Orla Fallon
in concert
Saturday, October 22, 8:00PM
Freight and Salvage Coffee House, 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, 510-644-2020
$32.50 in advance, $34.50 at the door
http://www.freightandsalvage.org/orla-fallon

“Orla Fallon, singer/harpist from Celtic Woman and her stellar ensemble.

Órla sings (in English and Gaelic) and plays, as she presents favorites like The Water Is Wide, She Moved Thro’ the Fair, and Down by the Sally Gardens, as well as traditional Irish songs such as Aliliu Na Gamhna, and The Gartan Mother’s Lullaby. Órla is ably backed by Dan Shea (Keyboards, Bass), Amberly Rosen (Fiddle, Vocals) and Tin Cup Gypsy: Jordan Lawson (Mandolin, Fiddle, Bass, Vocals),Cassandra Lawson (Whistle, Concertina, Percussion, Vocals), Jonathan Lawson (Vocals, Guitar, Mandolin, Fiddle), and Tyler Oban (Drums, Percussion).”
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Earth Medicine Alliance's Annual Conference
Saturday-Sunday, October 22-23
Unitarian Universalist Church of San Francisco, 1187 Franklin Street, San Francisco
$75 - early registration is encouraged
http://www.earthmedicine.org/2011-conference

“2011 Conference - Honoring Spirits of Place

Spirits of place are our closest neighbors in the larger web of relations, those whom we most impact and are most impacted by. In addition to our human kin, they include animal and plant relations, mountains and rivers, ancestors of the land, the elders who bring rain and storms, stone people, elementals, local deities, nature spirits, and other strange old powers whose bodies we perceive as the natural world.

This October 22-23 we invite you to join nearly 20 ceremonial leaders and teachers of diverse backgrounds for a full weekend of embodied learning, interfaith dialogue, and co-creative ritual around the theme of honoring spirits of place.

On Saturday we’ll gather from 9:30AM to 6:00PM at the Unitarian Center in San Francisco for a day of teachings, ceremony, and interfaith dialogue. On Sunday participants are invited to gather at one of four locations on the land in and around the City for earth-honoring rituals co-led by conference presenters.

We aim to host a conference that is spiritually nourishing, heart-centered, and welcoming for people of all backgrounds and traditions (or lack thereof). Spaces are limited to 250 participants. We hope you can join us!”
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Witches and Wizards Weekend at Playland
Saturday-Sunday, October 22-23, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Playland-Not-At-The-Beach, 10979 San Pablo Avenue, El Cerrito
see website for admission details
http://www.playland-not-at-the-beach.org/calendar_01.html

“As the bewitching time of the year approaches, Playland-Not-at-the-Beach becomes a bit more haunted. All Harry Potters and friends can explore our magic potions, mysterious spells and enchantments. Bring your magic wands and broomsticks, come in costume for special prizes!

Over 30+ pinball machines spanning seven decades, video games, Penny Arcade machines, challenging carnival games of skill, interactive displays and exhibits, miniature circuses, sideshow exhibits, baffling magic shows — they are all here waiting to entertain and amuse you!
Revisit Whitney's Playland and the Sutro Baths as well as the 1939 World's Fair on Treasure Island.  There is always fun at Playland-Not-at-the-Beach! “

Playland at the Beach is a fun part of San Francisco history, now being kept alive by a guy in El Cerrito who is obsessed with fun and history!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Playland_(San_Francisco)
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Inanna’s Descent
a mythic art occurrence
celebrating the darkening of days
presented by Ragged Wing Ensemble
Saturday-Sunday, October 22-23, 1:00-5:00PM, and every weekend through October,
plus Monday, October 31, 5:00-8:00PM
Codornices Park , 1201 Euclid Avenue, Berkeley
Free
http://www.raggedwing.org/show/show_detail/18

“Inanna’s Descent is a unique Halloween event featuring site-specific interactive art installations, each one portraying a different aspect of Inanna’s myth as well as a central performance in repetition throughout the afternoon (evening on the 31st.) We invite you to wander through the tunnels, meadows, streams and forests of the park at your leisure, witnessing, participating, offering, playing and singing.  This show is for all ages and you may stay for as little or as long as you like.

Inanna, queen of heaven and earth, goddess of love and war, opens her ear to the great below.  She passes through the 7 gates to the underworld, shedding layers of earthly identity and entering the darkness.  What will she meet there? Will she find her way back?  What is the meaning of her journey?  This seasonal myth from ancient Sumer, from the dawn of civilization, reaches through time and space to ask us:  What calls us to the dark places?  What are we willing to sacrifice? and What must we do to save our dying civilization?  Join us on this journey to the depths of the underworld, through the unconscious, to celebrate the darkening of days.”
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Mole Day
Sunday, October 23, 6:02AM-6:02PM
http://www.moleday.org

“Celebrated annually on October 23 from 6:02AM to 6:02PM, Mole Day commemorates Avogadro's Number (6.02 x 10^23), which is a basic measuring unit in chemistry.  Mole Day was created as a way to foster interest in chemistry. Schools throughout the United States and around the world celebrate Mole Day with various activities related to chemistry and/or moles.
For a given molecule, one mole is a mass (in grams) whose number is equal to the atomic mass of the molecule. For example, the water molecule has an atomic mass of 18, therefore one mole of water weighs 18 grams. An atom of neon has an atomic mass of 20, therefore one mole of neon weighs 20 grams. In general, one mole of any substance contains Avogadro's Number of molecules or atoms of that substance. This relationship was first discovered by Amadeo Avogadro (1776-1858) and he received credit for this after his death.”
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Intro to Organic Garden Design
part of EcoRanch Projects’ Sustainability Series
Sunday, October 23, 10:00AM-2:00PM
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette, 925-283-6311
$40  
please register at the website below
http://www.siennaranch.net/Sustainable_Sienna_Ranch.html

“Learn how to grow a healthy and beautiful garden that minimizes the impacts on the environment. From building a healthy soil with compost to selecting beautiful plantings appropriate for our climate, this workshop will give you the basics to implement sustainable gardening practices.

Topics covered include:
How to build healthy soil
Selecting climate-appropriate plants
Designing your garden
Yearly planting schedule
California natives
Preventing nutrient run-off
Natural pest and weed management”
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From Sheep to Shawl: Creating Beautiful Garments from Raw Wool
part of the Re-Skilling Workshop series
Sunday, October 23, 10:00AM-4:00PM,
and two more sessions on October 30 and December 4
Commonweal Garden at the Regenerative Design Institute, Bolinas
$250
see website for directions, detailed schedule,and registration information
http://regenerativedesign.org/sheep-to-shawl
http://www.regenerativedesign.org/re-skilling-series

“In this 3 part series, discover the process of making raw wool into a wearable garment. With experienced local fiber artisans guiding you each step of the way, you will learn to discern the best fleeces of certain breeds, how to scour the fleece, how to card and comb to prepare for spinning and eventual knitting or felting. These hands-on workshops will show you the process of working with something that comes directly off the farm into a fashionable wearable garment – the most eco-friendly and natural way to clothe yourself!

What is Re-skilling?
Our ancestors, perhaps only a few generations back, were able to make what they needed for daily life or trade for what they needed with a skilled neighbor.  
In this modern culture, most of us have lost the skills of basic craftsmanship. As we transition away from global consumerism and towards localized, earth-friendly economies, we need to reclaim these skills for ourselves and for our community.

Many of us have already started to re-skill around food — growing fresh vegetables in the backyard or cultivating a plot at a local community garden. This self-sustaining practice is deeply satisfying, and in the Bay Area there is a vibrant local economy around food that supports local farmers, garden teachers, restaurants, and burgeoning new vegetable landscaping businesses.

The Re-skilling Series
The Re-Skilling Series at RDI was inspired by our greater community's interest in learning more craftsmanship skills. Beyond growing our own vegetables, we can start re-skilling around food preservation, clothing, personal care products, furniture, and other needs of daily life.
Re-skilling requires that we connect more deeply to the natural world. It involves cultivating (or foraging) plants for basketry, building materials, medicine, general body care, dyes, food and clothing. It invites us into a closer relationship with domestic and wild animals, and asks that we pay more attention to the changing of the seasons and the cycles of the natural world. It also fosters a deeper gratitude for all that nature continues to provide us.
Re-skilling is happening all over the world — especially within communities engaged in the Transition Town  movement. Now is the time to reclaim these basic skills of local craftsmanship! We believe that joy of reclaiming these skills will increase our self-sufficiency and meet the growing needs for a local, regenerative economy.”
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Sudden Oak Life Workshop
with Dr. Lee Klinger
Sunday, October 23,
11:30AM-12:30PM - free event
1:00-4:00PM - paid workshop
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette, 925-283-6311
$40 - to register, please call Lindsay Dailey at 707-889-3744
http://suddenoaklifeorg.wordpress.com
http://www.siennaranch.net

“Learn how to improve and restore the health of the oak ecosystem in this enlivening workshop with “Sudden Oak Life” oak tree expert and scientist, Dr. Lee Klinger.
For thousands of years the native California people tended oak forests and other food-producing ecosystems using prescribed fire and other methods of traditional land management. Now-a-days, with the suppression of fires, oaks and other trees are experiencing accelerated rates of decline in many parts of California, as witnessed by spread of epidemics such as sudden oak death.
Join Dr. Klinger as he demonstrates various “fire mimicry” methods to help the oak ecosystem flourish. Demonstrations will include a variety of practical, hands-on techniques, and we will treat several grandmother valley and live oaks on the ranch. All treatment methods are organic, and no synthetic chemicals are used. Details will be presented on how fires and fire mimicry methods act to improve the fertility of soils and the health of trees, and results will be shown of case studies involving a suite of techniques and natural products to restore oak trees.

Lee Klinger, MA PhD is an independent scientist and ecological consultant from Big Sur, CA with over 25 years of professional experience and over 50 peer-reviewed publications in the fields of biogeochemistry, forest ecology, and soil science. Dr. Klinger has worked as a staff scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research inBoulder, and has held scholarly appointments at the University of Colorado, theUniversity of Oxford, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences.”
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Sacred Stream Center Open House
Sunday, October 23, 12:00-2:00PM
Sacred Stream Center, 2149 Byron Street, Berkeley
Free
http://www.sacredstream.org/component/option,com_events/task,view_detail/agid,263/year,2011/month,10/day,23/Itemid,319/

“Learn about our classes in Buddhist Psychology, Applied Shamanism, Depth Hypnosis, Integrated Energy Medicine and Transpersonal Psychology. Meet practitioners, teachers and students.

Founding Director, Isa Gucciardi, PhD, gives a talk on Depth Hypnosis: The Intersection of Shamanism and Buddhism. Starts at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Q & A.”
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Community Celebration for Day of the Dead
at the Oakland Museum
Sunday, October 23, 12:00-4:30PM
Oakland Museum of California, 100 Oak Street, Oakland
included with museum admission - see website for details
http://museumca.org/calendar/community-celebration-days-dead

“In conjunction with the Days of the Dead 2011 exhibition, OMCA will host its 17th annual “Community Celebration for Days of the Dead” on Sunday, October 23, from 12 to 4:30PM. The event features ofrendas, music and dance performances, arts and crafts demonstrations, activities for children, and a variety of food and arts and crafts vendors. Entrance to the event is included with Museum admission.”
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Commonweal Garden Tour
Sunday, October 23, 1:00-4:00PM
Commonweal Garden Regenerative Design Institute, Bolinas, 415-868-9681
(exact location given with registration)
$10 per person, kids free. Fee waived for those who are unable to pay.
http://www.regenerativedesign.org/commonweal-garden-tour

“Here's a great opportunity if you've been interested in visiting Commonweal Garden and learning more about Permaculture.

James Stark will educate and inspire as he takes you through our 17-acre farm nestled on the edge of Pt Reyes National Park. He will guide you through features like our on-contour production garden, cob constructions, chickens and goats, heirloom orchard, grey water systems, passive solar camp showers, production greenhouse, yurt classroom, and more.
As you tour these features, James will highlight how permaculture principals can be applied in your own life to create sustainable and regenerative home and community environments.”
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Peter van Gelder and Friends
in concert
Sunday, October 23, 8:00PM
Isis Oasis Sanctuary, 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, 707-857-4747
$10
http://www.isisoasis.org/html/special_event.html
http://petervangelder.com

“One of the first American disciples of India's great Maestro Ali Akbar Khan, Peter van Gelder first appeared on the San Francisco music scene playing bass guitar and soprano sax in the seminal Great Society rock band with then unknown Grace Slick.
He began his study of Sitar with Maestro Ali Akbar Khan in California and later in India where he spent years learning from the Khan family, notably Smt. Annapurna Devi (sister of Maestro Ali Akbar Khan.) Returning to California he resumed his study with Maestro Khan and became junior instructor at the newly formed Ali Akbar College of Music in San Rafael, California.
In 1989 he was awarded the prestigious A.I.I.S. Performance Fellowship from University of Chicago. He was Artist in Residence at Allauddin School of Music in Canada, and in 1991 he initiated a Music of India course at World College West. He continues to give sitar instruction at Ali Akbar College of Music.
A well known figure to Bay Area concertgoers, he has performed with world famous musicians including Zakir Hussain, Chitresh Das, and Lalgudi Krishnan. He has composed and collaborated on music for films and dance dramas, and his lucid sitar style has won praise from audiences around the world, from Europe to the Fiji Islands as well as India and China. He has given concerts and lectures in universities throughout America.”
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Henna-World
with Kamala
Tuesday, October 25, 10:00AM-1:00PM
The Red Tent, 15495 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite C, Los Gatos, 408-365-4905
$20 deposit required to reserve a time slot, Henna body art starting at $40
Please RSVP/register at the website below,
Please call 408-365-4905 to reserve an appointment time
http://theredtent.net/red_tent_events?eventId=391613&EventViewMode=EventDetails
http://www.henna-world.com

“This is a perfect opportunity to get a beautiful Henna Tattoo just before the holidays. Come by yourself or with a friend and enjoy the beauty of traditional Mehndi.”
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Mask Yourself!
with Annette Wagner
Tuesday, October 25, 7:00-9:00PM
Firefly Willows, 111 Main Street, Los Altos, 650-947-9300
$20 - includes all materials, please RSVP to  workshops@fireflywillows.com or 650-947-9300
http://www.fireflywillows.com
http://www.annettewagnerart.com

“In honor of the upcoming Halloween holiday, come decorate the mask of your dreams. You can be anyone and anything you want to be. I supply the masks, feathers, paints, glitter, markers, and such and you bring your images, ideas, or just come and be spontaneously creative!
Annette has a M.A. in Women's Spirituality and a certificate in Creative Expression. She spent 25 years in the hi-tech industry innovating (18 patents) and continues to teach and coach. She studies with American Master painter Sue Hoya Sellars and Contemporary Symbolist painter and teacher Shiloh Sophia McCloud.”
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Body Therapy Demonstration
with Catherine MacGuiness, R.N.
Tuesday, October 25, 7:30-8:30PM
Julie’s Coffee and Tea Garden, 1223 Park Street, Alameda, 510-865-2385
Free, please RSVP to Catherine at catherinemacg@sbcglobal.net or 925-324-7337
http://www.bodytherapyforhealth.com
http://www.juliestea.com

“Free Introduction and Demonstration of Cranio Sacral Therapy, Lymph Drainage Therapy
and Rosen Method Therapy with Catherine Mac Guinness R.N.

Come to learn more and to experience this amazing work and how it can be used .
Pain, Stress, Trauma of any kind, Lymph Drainage problems, Migraines and Headaches, Chronic neck and back pain, Chronic Fatigue, and Central Nervous System Disorders can all be treated and managed very successfully with this work.

Catherine is a registered nurse who practices:
Rosen Method
Swedish and Esalen Massage
Cranio Sacral Therapy
Lymph Drainage Therapy and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Reiki
Integrated Energy Therapy
Biogenesis Healing

Her work combines a wide knowledge of the body with intuition and compassion to assist others in their healing process. She is conscious of the body, mind & soul connection.
Catherine came to the Bay Area following 17 years working as a nurse and midwife in West Africa. Her contact with native people and healers, with their groundedness and earth-based spirituality together with their natural connection to the spirit world has greatly influenced her healing work today.”
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Samhain Celebration
with Sarah Astarte
Tuesday, October 25, 7:30PM
East West Bookstore, 324 Castro Street, Mountain View
Free, but please RSVP to 650-988-9800
http://www.innerfirespiritguide.com

“Samhain is the ancient Celtic holiday that was the precursor to the modern Halloween. It is a time of letting go, beginnings and endings, and honoring the ancestors. Come and celebrate by releasing your intentions into the cauldron of creation, and being one with your ancestors. Photos and mementos of loved ones that have passed are welcome to be placed on the altar. Sarah Astarte, who has a Ph.D. in transpersonal psychology, specializes in creative expression and shamanic healing practices.”
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Drawing Circus
An Immersion Experience with Edward Stanton
Tuesday, October 25, 7:00-10:00PM,
and 5 more Tuesdays, November 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
The Dream Institute of Northern California, 1672 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-845-1767
$275, to register, please call 510-845-1767
http://www.dream-institute.org/idx_calendar.htm#Drawing_Circus

“Not your ordinary drawing class, this is a rendezvous with the unexpected; a continuous drawing “workout” in an experimental, ever-changing environment. The first three sessions will be an introduction; the next three with a performer in a partially staged ephemeral atmosphere are self-directed. Music and theatrical lighting fill the room with energy that inspires. The Drawing Circus distinguishes itself through its deliberately diverse crossover of artistic disciplines. It challenges preconceived ideas and attitudes toward creativity. Stanton says, “What we generally take for real these days takes us further and further from the actual experience of what it is to ‘see.’ The process of making art is also an art form in and of itself. The Drawing Circus is in essence a collective and cooperative courage incubator.”

Open to anyone: nonartists, wannabe artists, hobbyists, and serious exhibiting artists. Everyone can benefit from this unique experience.

Edward Stanton holds a BFA in Graphic Design from the Kansas City Art Institute (1968) and an MA and MFA in Creative Photography, Drawing and Art History from the University of Iowa, 1970 and 1971. He has been the director of the photography programs at SUNY Alfred and the University of Oregon and taught photography, drawing color and design at UCLA, CSU Fullerton, SFSU, and Stanford.

The Dream Institute is an experimental cultural center founded in 2003. It has come into being during this time known as the shift or the great turning. Our offerings include weekend workshops, daylong seminars, evening salons, film series, professional training, art exhibits, retreats, and dream-based performances. We are also the West Coast center for Culture Dreaming. Programs and events are open to the public; continuing education seminars are for professionals in the healing arts. We do not advocate any single philosophical, psychological, spiritual, or religious viewpoint toward dreams or personal growth.”
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Tea and Chanting with Rabbit
Tuesday, October 25, (and the fourth Tuesday of each month)
Meet for tea at 7:30PM, chanting begins at 8:00PM for 30 minutes
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$5 suggested donation
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events

“Join Rabbit for an evening of "the herbal and the verbal." After sharing information about this month's unique, delicious herbal tea, and explaining this month's mantra, we will chant for approximately 30-50 minutes.  

Beginners are always welcome at every class. Join us to drop in, center, and recharge your batteries!”
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The Un-Scripted Theater Company presents:
FEAR.
Tuesday-Monday, October 25-31, 8:00PM
SF Playhouse, Stage 2, 533 Sutter Street, San Francisco
$25 general admission, $12 students and seniors
http://un-scripted.com/show/fear-2011

“On Halloween 2002, a seed of terror was planted in the BATS Belfry production of Fear.
In 2003, Fear was reborn through the Un-Scripted Theater Company in the basement of a pizza parlor in Berkley.
Vowing that the show had become too draining, too damaging, and too dangerous to be performed again, Un-Scripted performed Fear for the last time October 30, 2004...

... but Fear wouldn't die...

It's baaaaaaack .... This Halloween, horror returns to the Bay Area. It comes to life from your suggestions. It can kill without warning. And no one knows how it will end. Watch as the Un-Scripted Theater Company creates a full-length thriller before your very eyes. Without a script, no two shows are the same - and no one is safe.

Fear FAQ

We’ve gotten a lot of calls and emails about our upcoming run of Fear. We’d like to take this opportunity to answer some frequently asked questions and dispel some myths:

1. Yes, the performers create a different show every night with the help of audience suggestions.
2. No, we're not channeling any dark entities, that we know of. Unless there's one in the audience.
3. No, we don't offer a special ticket price to dark entities, demons, hell spawn, etc., but you can get $3 off each ticket you buy through our website when you use the coupon code "PASSITON".
4. No, the show is not a spoof of the horror genre. We are actually planning to scare you.
5. Yes, there will be humor in the show. We promise you'll laugh. Oh yes, you'll laugh…
6. No, there's no truth to the rumor that we haven't done this show for 7 years because of a nasty incident involving the performers and some meat hooks. The meat hooks had nothing to do with the show going on a 7 year hiatus.
7. Yes, even though the show lasts just 7 short days, we will still have free popcorn, fresh-baked cookies at intermission, and beverages priced so low, it's scary.
8. Yes, if the tale is too terrifying... too hair-raising... too bone-chilling to bear, you only have yourself to blame.

Get your tickets today!”
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Mask-Making Workshop
with Sue Kearney of Magnolias West
Saturday-Sunday, November 12-13
private home in west Oakland, address will be given upon registration
pay what you wish, pay what you can, $80 deposit required in advance
see website and blogpost for more details
for more information, contact Sue at Sue@MagnoliasWest.com

In many mystical traditions the mask has been a powerful symbol of realization and promise. It has been used as a tool for connecting to collective wisdom, channeling protective energy, divination, restoring health, and sacred initiatory rites.

The ritual of mask-making, when done with focus and intention, is a powerful way to connect your everyday persona with your inner, more intuitive, higher self. It's also fun!

Join Sue for a mask-making workshop this fall, the weekend of November 12-13, at her home in west Oakland. This workshop will be small by intention: no more than seven participants.

*What is this Pay what you wish/what you can thing? you ask. Read on: Sculptors, shamans and coaches offer two-day mask-making workshops for $199–$225. For this workshop, you are invited to choose the fee that's the right fit for you. You won't be asked to pay your balance until the workshop is complete. A few words about the $80 deposit to hold your space: When you email Sue to reserve, you'll be asked to date your check for two days after the workshop (November 14, 2011).  This check won't be cashed until the workshop is complete. If you need to cancel and let me know up to two weeks before the workshop date, your check will be torn up. If you let Sue know by one week before, she'll return $40. If you cancel week of the workshop, you lose the deposit.

Sue Kearney is also know as Raven of the Redwoods, Amazon High Priestess of Rhythmic Transformation!
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Have a Divine, Free, Spooky Week filled with Fireflies!

Molly Blue Dawn

2 comments:

  1. thank you so much,molly, for taking the time to gather and share all this wonderful info!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Molly this is fantastic!!!! Glad to see you doing this!!!
    Blessings, Venee

    ReplyDelete