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.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

CAYA Events for May 2012

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Grove of Hekate Women's Full Moon Circle - Goddess of Garlands
Saturday, May 5
8:00PM (no one admitted after circle is cast)
409 E. Campbell Avenue, Suite 220 (upstairs from Moonfyre Metaphysical)
Downtown Campbell
$10 donation requested
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Grove of Artemis Women's Full Moon Circle - Righteousness
Saturday, May 5
Doors open at 7:45PM, doors locked at 8:15PM when circle is cast
2121 Bonar Street, Berkeley, Studio C
$10 donation requested
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Brotherhood of the Moon Men's Full Moon Circle - West/Water/Father
Saturday, May 5
Doors open at 7:45PM, doors locked at 8:15PM when circle is cast
1250 Addison Street, Berkeley, Studio 209
$10 donation requested
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Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for May 2012 and beyond - Mark Your Calendars!

Mark your calendars for:
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The 9th Annual Renaissance Workshops and Symposium
Saturday-Sunday, May 4-5
Folsom City Lions Park, 403 Stafford Street, Folsom
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
http://www.rensymposium.com

“It’s time to come together to learn from each other and share ideas to help make for a better Renaissance Faire experience. To be held at the same park as the annual Folsom Renaissance Faire on May 4th-5th, a weekend long workshop and symposium geared toward faire participants, vendors, and playtrons. Basically for anyone interested in learning about fitting into the Renaissance atmosphere.”
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Creating the Chalice: Imagination and Integrity in Goddess Studies
The Association for the Study of Women and Mythology’s Second Biennial National Conference
Friday-Saturday, May 11-12
Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf, 1300 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
http://womenandmythology.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/creating-the-chalice-the-2012-national-conference-program/
http://womenandmythology.wordpress.com/2012/01/16/matriarchal-studies-day-may-10-2012/

“Registration is now open for our 2012 National Conference, Creating the Chalice: Imagination and Integrity in Goddess Studies.  

We are excited to present a rich and varied program this year.  Some of our panel topics include:
Archaeomythology
Cultural Appropriation
Mother-Daughter Mythology
Place Wisdom
Young Adult Fiction
Methodologies
Womanism, Goddess Studies, and Women’s Spirituality
Visual Arts
Matriarchal Studies
Poetry
Publishing

Our keynote speakers are Miriam Robbins Dexter, Judy Grahn, and Ana Castillo.  There will also be a special presentation by our 2012 Demeter Award winner, Charlene Spretnak.  We will also have as a special panelist Dr. Heide Goertner-Abendroth, founder of Modern Matriarchal Studies. And we will present the winners of the Kore Award for Best Dissertation in Women and Mythology, and the Sarasvati Awards for Best Published Fiction and Non-fiction Books.

As in our past conference and symposia, we will feature selected films that are relevant to issues in women’s experiences, feminisms, and mythology.  We will also include workshops that permit the integration of body-mind wisdom.  We will again feature a lively networking luncheon, with opportunities to meet other participants to discuss such topics as academic careers, ritual, issues for graduate students, and the performing and visual arts.  We will have a Book Fair and Marketplace for arts and crafts.

Friday evening’s entertainment is coordinated by faculty members from the California Institute of Integral Studies and the Institute for Transpersonal Psychology.

Remember that the Matriarchal Studies Day takes place in the same location, on May 10 - the day before our conference begins!  We hope that you will be able to attend both events for a long weekend of stimulating and inspiring presentations.”
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11th Annual Pagan Festival and Parade
Theme: Paradigm Shift
Saturday, May 12, 10:30AM-5:30PM
Parade is at noon
Civic Center Park, 2151 Martin Luther King Jr. Way , Berkeley
Free
http://thepaganalliance.org
http://thepaganalliance.org/volunteer.asp

“Keeper of the Light 2012: T. Thorn Coyle
MCs: Shay Black and Dian Rowan

Music, Dance, Stage Performances, Speakers, Pagan Pride Parade in the streets of Berkeley, Speaker's Pavilion, Altars, Public Ritual, Vendors, Druid Story Telling Pavilion, Green Pavilion and Displays, Authors Circle, Arts and Crafts Pavilion, Info Booths and Program/Resource Guide.

Best Costume prizes for Youth and Adults! Best Float prize!
Visit the Pagan Marketplace with over 40 vendors and numerous non-profits and organizations.

Beloved Dead Altar- Please bring copies of photos that will honor our loved ones that have crossed over.

Please bring canned/non-perishable goods for the Alameda County Food Bank. Bins located next to the Pagan Festival Info Booth.”

Volunteer for the Festival!  
Contact Arlynne Camire, Festival Director at arlynne@thepaganalliance.org
Put VOLUNTEER in the subject line.
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Maker Faire
Saturday-Sunday, May 19-20
San Mateo Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo
see Eventbrite link for registration information
http://makerfaire.com
http://makerfairebayarea.eventbrite.com
http://www.sanmateoexpo.org

“A two-day, family-friendly festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement.”
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Redwood Men’s Center’s Annual Men’s Conference
Friday-Monday, May 25-28
Mendocino Woodlands Camp, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
see website for registration details
http://redwoodmen.org/wp/?page_id=6
http://www.mendocinowoodlands.org

“Welcoming and supportive of men of all ages, fifteen to a hundred, the Conference is very interactive and rich with dialogue. Personal stories are told; songs are sung; victories celebrated; grieving shared - all in a safe place full of honest talk and mutual respect. There is time to hear ancient tales, meet in small groups, engage in healing ritual, sing gloriously together, play together, converse over meals, and sit in the silence of the trees.

This conference is particularly helpful for any man wishing to move out of old patterns and wounds which have shaped his life and relationships. Men in transition or undergoing significant life-passages often find meaning, strength and comfort here. Many fathers bring their sons to have them welcomed into the community of men. And many men return each year for the ongoing celebration of brotherhood.”
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Annual Memorial Day Volunteer Work Weekend
at Feather River Camp
Friday-Monday, May 25-28
Feather River Camp, 5469 Oakland Camp Road, Quincy, CA, 530-283-2290
Payment is by volunteer work
http://www.featherrivercamp.com/programs.html

"Plan ahead to come to Feather River Camp over the Memorial Day weekend to help Friends of Feather River Camp prepare camp for its summer run. All work is by volunteers who are fed and given a tent to sleep in. Contact Sara Scheid to participate. campsincommon@comcast.net

There is a lot of raking and cleaning to do along with assorted other tasks. It is fun and a great way to visit the camp in spring when the water is usually higher and the wildflowers are abundant."
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Belly Dancer of the Year Pageant
Saturday-Monday, May 26-28
Performing Arts Theater, El Cerrito High School, 540 Ashbury Avenue, El Cerrito
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
http://www.bellydanceroftheyear.net
http://www.gildedserpent.com/articles27/azizabdoy.htm
http://www.gildedserpent.com/cms/2010/05/17/monica-sula/#axzz1Ok9cnYsm

“The Belly Dancer of the Year Pageant was founded by Sula Frick . When Sula passed away in 1978, her son asked Leea Aziz to continue producing BDOY, as it was Sula's proudest accomplishment. Now in it's 38th year, Leea has produced BDOY in Sula's honor since 1979.

At first, there was only one category for soloist and the event was held in very small venues. In 1979, the Troupe category was added at the request of Kattoura/Ginny. Later, the Grand Dancer category was added at the request of Halame, and, finally, the Duet Category was added. Several years ago, the Duet of the Year category was changed to Duo/Trio. In 2010, the BDOY Pageant Committee added Tribal Soloist and Tribal Ensemble categories, beginning in 2011, to represent the American Tribal and Tribal Fusion styles in the belly dance community.

BDOY is now an international event, and Belly Dancer of the Year is recognized as the premier title in belly dancing. It opens the door to teaching workshops, starring in performances, and DVD appearances. Previous winners include Aziza (2002), Judeen (1993), and Alexandra King  (1988). The goal of BDOY is to give qualified dancers a fair and equal opportunity to exhibit their skills, as well as promote and elevate the art of belly dance and support its amazing community.”
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Valhalla Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, June 2-3 and June 9-10,
10:00AM-6:00PM Saturdays, 10:00AM-5:00PM Sundays
Camp Richardson’s Wood, 1900 Jameson Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe
Adults $17, ages 13-17, seniors and military $12, ages 6-12 $7, under 6 free
http://www.valhallafaire.com
http://www.renaissanceproductions.com

“Get away from it all and lose yourself in the magic and merriment the Renaissance times.  Rub elbows with nobility, pirates, barbarian and beautiful ladies, This year's Valhalla Renaissance Faire will feature four stages of continuous entertainment, Action packed shows, Music, Dancing, jesters, 900 costumed actors, Shakespearian vignettes, expertly staged battles,  storytelling for children and adults, archery tournaments and much more. Shop over 100 merchants selling a wide array of arts and crafts, one of a kind jewelry items, woodcrafts, artwork, ceramics, clothing, historic weapons and leather goods. And to top it all off, a hard hitting joust.  This is a place to be!”
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WaterSongLine
Igniting an International Call for Healing the Waterways and Earth
Tuesday-Wednesday, June 5-6
locations all over the world - see website for local events
http://watersongline.com
http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/transit/venus0412.html

“WaterSongLine is an on going collaborative effort to join together all our prayers for the waters across languages, cultures, and peoples. It grew out of dreams, messages, visions and the energy of the Mother Waters and Earth in her many forms urging us on – letting us know that the time is now to send the healing out. With the awakening of the spirit of the Watersongline, we recognize that our prayers are the streams that form the oceans of our existence. As we weave all our prayers together the ocean of existence grows stronger, more powerful, and more healing for all our relations.

Lighting Of The Lights Ceremony, June 5-6, Venus Transit
Join the WaterSongLine. We invite all wisdom keepers and all around the world to this historic event where we launch the beginning of the WaterSongline, and when we as a planet renew the pact we have with the Mother Waters and Earth, and ignite some powerful healing for the world. We do this through one of the most ancient ceremonies of propitiation to the universal Mother Waters and Earth - The Lighting of the Lights Ceremony. There are many ways to light a sacred fire and bless the waters in traditions across the world, such as in the Native American, African, and Asian Nations. We honor all these ways and converge them all together for this auspicious time of healing.   This will be the first time these sacred fire and water healing ceremonies will be done by cultures from all over the world unifying their energies together. This promises to be a powerful moment.

We have timed the ceremony with the famous Venus Transit which happens only once every 150 years. The transit marks the coming in of the cosmic feminine energy of love, compassion, cooperation, and earth renewal. Astrology tells us it is important for all to pray at this time. The ceremony falls on the date of World Environmental Day and two days latter is  World Ocean Day. How auspicious! We honor both these days, as well.”
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Solaris
Thursday-Sunday, June 21-24
Earth Matters Retreat Center, 11629 Love Creek Road, Ben Lomond
early registration before May 5 $100
May 6-June 1 $140, after June 1 $180
http://www.communityseed.org/2012/04/solaris-june-21st-24th/

“Hello Nature Lovers. Mark your calendars for the weekend of June 21st-24th and get the days off work now: Solaris is back for another long, leisurely weekend of Spiritual Renewal.
This year we’re experimenting with having two-track of playshops at times. A more meditative track and a more energetic one.”

See the website for a detailed schedule of playshops and other activities.
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Fairy and Human Relations Congress
Communication and Co-Creation with Devas, Nature Spirits and the Faery Realms
Friday - Sunday, June 24-26
Skalitude Retreat, Twisp, Washington
See website for registration details.  Register by March 15 for discounted rate.
http://www.fairycongress.com
http://www.skalitude.com

"The Fairy and Human Relations Congress affects the planet by joining with the nature, devic and other higher realms to bring more peace, love and understanding into the world. Our goal is not to escape the outer world but to positively affect it. At this time of multiple crises affecting humanity we feel it is very important to seek alliances with as many light forces as possible in other realms. Mother Earth and the fairy realms ARE big players in what is transpiring on the planet. Though many deny their existence, the numbers of people who are tuning into the spiritual realms and to the nature spirit/fairy/devic realms is increasing by leaps and bounds. The Congress is one of the vanguard events bringing these people together. We are not a frivolous event although we do have lots of fun and costume up. Our intent is communication and cooperation, not only for our personal selves, but for all of humanity. We are allying ourselves with Mother Earth and with the forces for peace and love on planet Earth.”
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Fabulosa Fest
Friday-Sunday, July 20-22
Walker Creek Ranch Retreat and Conference Center, 1700 Marshall Petaluma Road, Petaluma
Registration due by July 15 - see website for registration details
http://fabulosafest.com

“Fabulosa 2012 is July 20-22 at Walker Creek Ranch - an amazing women-centered camping, music, fundraiser, swimming, community building experience on a ranch!”
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ConjureCon
Friday-Sunday, July 27-29
The Serpent's Kiss, 2015 N Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz
see website for detailed schedule and registration information
http://www.conjurecon.com

“The first ever ConjureCon will be held at Serpent's Kiss in Santa Cruz, California on July 27-29, 2012!

Building on the successes of the Folk Magic Festival in New Orleans in 2010 and 2011, your favorite conjurers are coming to Santa Cruz.

Organized by Susan Diamond, Orion Foxwood, Sindy Todo and Starr Casas, featuring special guest Cat Yronwode!”
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San Jose Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, August 4-5, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Guadalupe River Park, 494 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose
Adults $17, ages 13-17, seniors and military $12, ages 6-12 $7, under 6 free
Parking $5.00 at HP Pavilion
http://www.sanjosefaire.com
http://www.renaissanceproductions.com

“If you love Renaissance Faires, this full scale, interactive experience is not to be missed. San Jose Renaissance Faire offers you a chance to visit the days of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth I!

See about 800 costumed performers bring Shakespeare’s England to life with parades, pageants, and fun townsfolke, offering continuous entertainment of spectacular variety spread throughout the village. You’ll enjoy musicians, jugglers, and the ribaldry of actors drawing you even deeper into the Renaissance.

Around 100 artisans display beautifully crafted masterpieces in the village, plenty of variety for even the most discerning shopper.  

See brave and bold knights competing for the favor of the Her Majesty’s Court and for their lady’s affection during any one of two full-contact jousts held in the Queen’s Tiltyard each day!

Whether you thirst or  hunger for a Turkey leg or a chocolate dipped strawberries on a stick, an amazing gourmet foods and a dozen delicious drinks will satisfy your  taste buds to give them a try.

Support the Community!  Bring a can of food and get $2.00 off adult admission!”
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WomenSpirit Elderflower Festival
Thursday-Sunday, August 9-12
Mendocino Woodlands, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
see website for registration details
http://www.elderflower.org
http://www.mendocinowoodlands.org

“The theme for 2012 is Sharing the Spirit

Elderflower Womenspirit is a women’s spirituality festival that takes place every August, in the Mendocino Woodlands of Northern California.  Since 1988, women have gathered together to create this festival, to create a time and space for healing and growth, as well as a growing community of empowered women.

Elderflower Womenspirit gives you four days of rest and relaxation, camping in cabins or tents by a creek in a beautiful redwood forest.  Enjoy gourmet catered meals, with vegetarian options.  Camp amenities include hot showers!

Elderflower Womenspirit is a grassroots volunteer event.  There are no paid staff, presenters or entertainers.  It is a participatory spiritual experience; the rituals, workshops, entertainment and other activities are created by the women who attend.  Every woman is encouraged to bring her own unique talents and contribute to the diversity of the festival by leading and participating in workshops, rituals and other activities.

Elderflower Womenspirit is a non-denominational gathering, women of any spiritual path are welcome to participate.  We honor the Divine Feminine, however She chooses to manifest in our lives.  Our rituals celebrate the Goddess and the sacredness of nature.

Elderflower Womenspirit workshops have included a wide range of topics:  Drumming, songs and chants, movement and dance, crafts, writing, divination, ritual, herbal magic and medicine, tarot, psychic skills, astrology, Reiki, herbal medicine, bodywork, yoga, meditation, Goddess lore, various spiritual traditions, crystals, sexuality and gender issues, political topics.

Elderflower Womenspirit activities include hiking, sports, massage, an open air market, our Friday Night Performing Arts Show, 12 Step Meetings, Silent Auction and our Treasure Table.”
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Second Annual Conference on Earth-Based, Nature-Centered, Polytheistic and Indigenous Faiths
2012 Theme: Gender and Earth-Based Spiritualities
Presented by the Pagan Alliance
Saturday, September 8, 9:00AM-5:00PM (Special Mixer with the Presenters 6-8)
First Unitarian Universalist Church and Center, 1187 Franklin Street, San Francisco
see website below for ticket information
http://genderandpaganismconference.eventbrite.com/
http://thepaganalliance.org
http://circleofdionysos.org
http://www.solarcrosstemple.org

“The Pagan Alliance’s second annual on Earth-Based, Nature-Centered, Polytheistic and Indigenous Faiths, cosponsored by Circle of Dionysos, and Solar Cross Temple, in 2012 will examine the interrelationship of Earth-based spirituality and gender. Presentations, workshops and panels will address the Construct of Dualism, Transgender Issues, Men's Mysteries, Queer Mysteries, Womyn's Mysteries, Gender and Indigenous Beliefs, Gender in the Spiral of Life, Genderqueer Thealogy, Gender and Minority Faith Parenting.

The conference will include presenters who grapple with issues relating to gender in their academic scholarship, as well as those who are leaders within their spiritual communities.

We will also be including more breakout sessions where folks can discuss issues and actions to address them.

Speakers will include:
joi wolfwomyn of the Holy Order of the Epicene http://epiceneorder.org/site/en/
Lady Yeshe Rabbit of CAYA Coven http://www.cayacoven.org
T. Thorne Coyle http://www.thorncoyle.com
Derik Cowan and Dr. Hayden Reynolds of the Circle of Dionysos http://circleofdionysos.org

Work-Trade Available.
for more info please email:
JoHanna White, Pagan Alliance President at  johanna@thepaganalliance.org
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Ardenwood Shakespeare Festival and Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, September 15-16, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, Fremont
$17 for adults, $13 for seniors (62 and over), $8 for children and teens 4-17, under four free
http://www.ardenwoodfaire.com
http://www.renaissanceproductions.com

“Shakespeare's Muse Returns to Ardenwood Historic Farm
Experience a spectacle of fun and excitement!

The rising young star of London's theater scene, Will Shakespeare, faces a scourge like no other: a paralyzing bout of writer’s block while the great Elizabethan age of entertainment unfolds around him. Will is without inspiration on material. What Will needs is a muse and in an extraordinary town whilst on progress with Her Most Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, he finds himself surrounded by numerous quirky characters who draw him into an amazing, dramatic adventure of action and love. Their stories make their way into his plays and into our hearts. The theme of the Faire is Shakespeare's Muse.

Over September 15-16, 2012 Ardenwood Historic Farm will be transformed to a delightful Elizabethan town filled with myriad characters and vignettes resembling those of Shakespeare's plays we so dearly love. In addition, over 900 costumed entertainers and over 100 shopkeepers and artisans will add to the ambiance of the Faire.The Festival will be the ultimate Renaissance bash, a lively Dionysian party, where the guests enjoy turkey legs, exotic food, and drink as they banter with the myriad performers filling the streets. The event sports one-of-a-kind shows, music, and comedy.

The Joust!
The Weekends highlight will be a full contact joust.  The  onlookers will be  astounded by the action of the hard-hitting jousting and the humorous interplay. Check out Imperial Knights!

Support the Community!  Bring a can of food and get $2.00 off adult admission - limit one per customer.”
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Sacramento Pagan Pride Harvest Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 22-23
Fair Oaks VFW Hall, 8990 Kruithof Way, Fair Oaks
Free
http://www.sacpaganpride.org

“Pagan Pride Day and Harvest Festival is place where magic is afoot, and fairies dance. It is where you can learn the ways of old or learn just enjoy life.

Pagan Pride Day and Harvest Festival goal is to educate the masses, those who are looking for fellowship, and bring the community together. And of course, this is all done with fun and mayhem.”
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Earth Medicine Alliance Annual Conference
Celebrating Ancestral Wisdom
Saturday-Sunday, October 20-21
First Unitarian Universalist Center, 1187 Franklin Street, San Francisco
see Brown Paper Tickets link for registration details
http://www.earthmedicine.org/2012-conference
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/234237

“Our 2012 conference will be the weekend of Oct 20-21st in San Francisco.  We'll follow basically the same format as the previous two years.  We are open to suggestions for presenters who have a solid background in ritual work with the ancestors and who are comfortable working in an interfaith/multi-cultural setting.  We're looking forward to a great third annual conference and hope you can join us!”
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Folsom Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, October 20-21, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Folsom City Lions Park, 50 Natoma Street, Folsom
$14.00 adults, $9.00 students, seniors (55+) and children 6-12, under six free
http://www.folsomfaire.com
http://www.renaissanceproductions.com

“Experience the Magic and The Merriment of The Renaissance in Folsom!

The rising young star of London's theater scene, Will Shakespeare, faces a scourge like no other: a paralyzing bout of writer’s block while the great Elizabethan age of entertainment unfolds around him. Will is without inspiration on material. What Will needs is a muse and in an extraordinary town whilst on progress with Her Most Royal Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, he finds himself surrounded by numerous quirky characters who draw him into an amazing, dramatic adventure of action and love. Their stories make their way into his plays and into our hearts. The theme of the Faire is Shakespeare's Muse.

Over October 20-21, the Folsom City Lions Park will be transformed to a delightful Elizabethan town filled with myriad characters and vignettes resembling those of Shakespeare's plays we so dearly love. In addition, over 900 costumed entertainers and over 100 shopkeepers and artisans will add to the ambiance of the Faire.The Festival will be the ultimate Renaissance bash, a lively Dionysian party, where the guests enjoy turkey legs, exotic food, and drink as they banter with the myriad performers filling the streets. The event sports one-of-a-kind shows, music, and comedy.

The Joust!
The Weekends highlight will be a full contact joust. Men and horse collide and do battle right before your eyes.Say hello to Imperial Knights!

Proceeds of the Faire, and from some of the booths, goes to benefit:

The Folsom CAVE Teen Centers
Located at each of the middle schools in Folsom, they provide over 700 students a week with a supervised drop-in after school program that is free to the participants.

The Friends of the Folsom Public Library
A nonprofit, volunteer orginization that supports the Folsom Library and literacy programs for adults and children in the Folsom area.

The Folsom Rotary Club.

Support the Community!  Bring a can of food and get $2.00 off adult admission.”
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Sacred Forest Spiritual Retreat
with Mbali Creazzo and Mahealani Uchiyama
Saturday-Sunday, October 27-28
Humanist Hall, 390 27th Street, Oakland
for registration details, contact Iya Mahea at 510-827-3997 or iyamahea@thesacredforest.org
http://thesacredforest.org/events

“Mbali Creazzo - voice for the ancestors,  Medicine Woman, Ceremonial and Ritual leader joins with Mahealani Uchiyama - priestess of Ifa, dancer and musician, in a unique and exciting collaboration that will draw from the healing wisdom of Africa, with dance, ritual drumming and song, and ceremony as we answer the earth’s call for us to reawaken ancient aspects of ourselves….

This date and location are confirmed. Please save and be on the look out for more details.”
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San Francisco Green Festival
Saturday-Sunday, November 10-11
SF Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 8th Street, San Francisco
http://www.greenfestivals.org/coming-soon#sanfrancisco

“This is the first and original ‘Party with a Purpose’; don't miss the celebration, education and rejuvenation, all yours for the taking at San Francisco Green Festival 2012. As a city winning awards for inspiring green living and alternative power programs, it's no surprise that San Francisco is the home of the original Green Festival. Celebrated in San Francisco since 2002, it is the largest Green Festival of the five cities. The San Francisco Green Festival captures the mood and festivities as a ‘Party with a Purpose.’ Expect both inspiring and pragmatic programming reflecting the Bay Area’s diversity of interests with over 125 informative workshops, sessions, demonstrations and talks. Great live music, all-weekend film installation, a fun and engaging Green Kids' Zone, mouthwatering vegan, raw and vegetarian food vendors, top local organic beer makers and wine vintners and the best responsible shopping found anywhere.”
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Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Bay Area Dance Week, 200 Years of Grimm Fairy Tales, Hot Greeks, Maybe Baby, Arbor Day, Upcycle Clothing Sale, East Bay Pagan Meet and Greet, Mbira: An Evening of Sacred African Music, The Pink Tent, Beekeeping, Botanical Garden Spring Plant Sale, SkyJam Festival, California Revels May Day Celebration, Spiritual Cleansing, Community Seed Beltane, Coventry Magic Workshop, A Witchy Class, Gaskell Ball, Mad Hatter's Tea Party, Tree Walk, Ile Orunmila Oshun, Reiki Crystal Healing, Family Day at Sienna Ranch, CAYA Sprouts Beltane, Middle Eastern Treasures Concert, Talking about SEX with our Girls, ukiaHaiku Festival, Akashic Record Workshop, Liturgy of the Lady and Lord, May Day!, Drum Circle with Albert and Rabbit, Song and Maypole Dance Beltaine Ritual, South Bay Pagan Salon, Dickens Day Celebration, Healing Nagging Back and Body Pains, Rabbit's 5th Annual Oshun Party, 11th Annual Pagan Festival and Parade
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Bay Area Dance Week
Wednesday-Sunday, April 25-29
see website for local events
http://bayareandw.org
http://www.dancersgroup.org/programs_bandw.php

“Bay Area Dance Week (BADW) is a 10-day festival of free public dance events, which takes place in April of each year. As a celebration of our local dance community's extraordinary diversity, BADW features movement styles ranging from ballet to modern, Argentine tango to classical Indian, jazz and hip hop to traditional hula, fire dance to Chinese Classical, Samba to belly dance, aerial to West African, contact improvisation and more.”

Thanks to Gina for letting me know about this event!
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200 Years of Grimm Fairy Tales
a joint art exhibition
opening reception Thursday, April 26, 6:30PM
exhibit runs through May 25, see website for gallery hours
Goethe Institut Art Lounge, 530 Bush Street, San Francisco, 415-263-8760
http://www.goethe.de/ins/us/saf/ver/en9145601v.htm

“The Goethe-Institut San Francisco invited well-known German artists from the Bay Area to create their own interpretation of the 200-year anniversary of the Brothers Grimm. The artists will present paintings, drawings, photos and installations exclusively created for this event and to honor the 200-year anniversary of the Grimm Fairy Tales.”
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Hot Greeks: The Cockettes Musical
Thursday-Saturday, April 26-28, 8:00PM, plays through May 5
The Hypnodrome, 575 10th Street, San Francisco
$30-$35
http://thrillpeddlers.com/hot-greeks-the-cockettes-musical
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/225549

“Thrillpeddlers are proud to announce our Spring Season 2012 production of Hot Greeks, A New Full-Length, Fully Restored Version of The Cockettes’ 1972 Musical Extravaganza, an original musical by Martin Worman and Scrumbly Koldewyn. This is the 40th Anniversary of the original production. Originally produced as a Nocturnal Dream Show and performed in 1972 at midnight at the Palace Theatre in Chinatown in SF, Hot Greeks was the fabled and fabulous Cockettes’ only other scripted book musical besides Pearls Over Shanghai. The Cockettes were a gender-bending theatrical troupe who not only originated these two shows, but also exerted a profound influence on the culture of our times, from the phenomenon of midnight movies to glitter rock stars and their outrageous fashions. In 2010 The Thrillpeddlers mounted a condensed 70-minute version of Hot Greeks and it was an instant, sold-out hit. This new 2012 production expands the show to a full-length version and restores 3 songs from the original 1972 production.

In Hot Greeks, college rhythm meets the Peloponnesian War as Athens University takes on Sparta State for their annual pigskin showdown. This musical, loosely based on Aristophanes’ Lysistrata features the Tri Thigh Sorority girls and their hunky footballer sweethearts jiving to the big-band hit parade sounds of the 1940s. The kids sing and dance through the ruins of ancient Greece, on their way to consult the Oracle of Delphi in their pursuit of victory on the gridiron. Dancing columns, vestal virgins, country cousins, and even a pig, all join Lysistrata on her journey to save the day for the Gods and Greece.”
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Maybe Baby
presented by Ragged Wing Ensemble
part of the Bay One Acts Festival
Thursday, Saturday, April 26 and 28, 8:00PM, and Sunday, April 29, 7:00PM
see BOA website for detailed schedule (Program 2)
http://raggedwing.org/show/show_detail/21
http://bayoneacts.org

“The Fortune Project Chapter 3: Maybe Baby

Ragged Wing Ensemble opens 2012 with a series of interactive performance events exploring the theme of Fortune.

We investigate how the universe speaks to us through our daily interactions: road signs, dreams, messages and images that find us when we most need them or warn us from going down the wrong path.

How can we take responsibility for our own destiny, while also accepting the cards we are dealt?

Each of the four chapters explores an aspect of this question from a different perspective. This 6 month project will culminate in an evening of pieces in late May directed by various ensemble members.

Upcoming performances:
Chapter 4: The Fortune Project: The Complete Works, May 23-27

Ragged Wing Ensemble is a collective of artists who create innovative work for the theater, drawing our theatrical vocabulary from physical theater, dance, clowning, mask work and puppetry. We seek to redefine classic stories, folktales and myths by creating original interpretations and placing them in new contexts. Our process is collaborative - from the  management of the company to the creation of our pieces, from our educational programs to our commitment to low ticket prices and audience involvement.”
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Arbor Day
Friday, April 27
http://www.arborday.org/arborday

Today is a day to plant, tend, appreciate and celebrate trees!
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Upcycle Clothing Sale
Friday, April 27, 6:00-9:00PM  
Julie's Coffee and Tea Garden, 1223 Park Street, Alameda, 510-865-2385
http://upcycleclothes.wordpress.com/calendar-of-upcoming-events
www.juliestea.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Julies-Coffee-Tea-Garden/143011747518

“Upcycle is popping-up at Julie's! Upcycle Mobile Boutique is a new way to shop for gently used clothing and accessories. We have a keen eye for style and have put together a collection of high-quality, fashionable gems from estate liquidators, private collections, and warehouse-based clothing brokers. We always have lots of NEW (used) stuff.”
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East Bay Pagan Meet and Greet
at The Mystic Dream
Friday, April 27, 6:30-8:30PM, and the fourth Friday of every month
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
donations accepted
http://www.themysticdream.com

“Everyone's favorite Pagan meet-up returns to The Mystic Dream!

Building and sustaining community is an important aspect of any spiritual or religious movement. Come and join other Pagans in the East Bay in a casual setting as we share our stories, our lives, and even a few laughs! Coffee and tea will be served. Feel free to bring a small food item to share.”
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Mbira: An Evening of Sacred African Music
with Mahealani Uchiyama
Friday, April 27, 7:00-8:30PM
Mountain Yoga, 2071 Antioch Court, Suite 100, Oakland, 510-339-6421
$20 in advance, $30 at the door
http://thesacredforest.org/events
http://www.m-yoga.org

“Mbira is a mystical form of music from Zimbabwe. The instrument and its repertoire can be traced back well over 1000 years. Mbira has a canon of songs that are offered as prayers. The instrument features an interlocking polyrhythm that is at once complex, hypnotic and majestic. The songs are cyclical; the ending of one cycle is the beginning of the next. In this way, a single song can be played for however long is desired.  The buzzing sound, produced by shells, rocks or bottle caps, adds texture to the music and is thought to be pleasing to the spirits. Although the mbira can and is played for sheer enjoyment, it is the only instrument of its kind associated with ceremonies of ancestor worship, personal healing and meditation.”
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The Pink Tent
Friday, April 27, 7:00-9:30PM, and one Friday each month
The Red Tent, 15495 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite C, Los Gatos, 408-365-4905
$25 per mother/daughter pair
please pre-register at the website below
http://theredtent.net/red_tent_events?eventId=400153&EventViewMode=EventDetails

“The Red Tent invites Young Ladies ages 9-13 and their Mothers to join us for a unique educational opportunity.

The Pink Tent

An Intimate monthly circle based on the spirit of the Red Tent to discuss Maturing into Womanhood

All circles will include an opening meditation, sharing of stories, fact-based information, chocolate and other decadent goodies, and time for (anonymous) questions. This is a safe space for girls and their mothers to start these important, yet often difficult, discussions in a group of caring, supportive women.

Please feel free to bring edibles and beverages to share.

The topics for each evening varies and have included the following...

Menarche - what to expect, what is happening inside your body, tips to be prepared...Menarche Kits can be purchased for a small cost
Feeling Feminine - A discussion of culture and style: Make-up, Bras, dealing with body hair, hygiene, and more...
Relationships - Friends, family, boyfriends, girlfriends, "crushes": navigating the waters, whether calm or tumultuous, to get the most out of your journey.
Reproduction and Birth - Knowing how it happens and what to expect so as not to fear the magic of motherhood when the time is right.

Facilitated by Jeanna Lurie, Mother, Yoga Teacher specializing in women's yoga, Childbirth Educator, Doula, and Teen Educator.

Due to the sensitive nature of the subject material, mothers are invited to call Jeanna at 408-743-5692 with any questions or concerns.”
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Beekeeping: Part 1 - Practicalities
with Mark Trease of DunMor Permaculture
Friday, April 27, 7:30-9:00PM
Ancient Ways, 4075 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, 510-653-3244
$10
http://ancientways.com/Newsletter/CALSpring612.pdf
http://www.dunmor.org/land

“Are you curious about the life cycle of honeybees, or what it means to tend them? We'll talk about organic home beekeeping, answer questions as best we can and demonstrate the how-to basics of hobbyist beekeeping.”
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Botanical Garden Spring Plant Sale
Saturday, April 28, 10:00AM-2:00PM
Botanical Garden at UC Berkeley, 200 Centennial Drive, Berkeley
free admission
http://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu/plant_sale/Spring2012/plant_sale.shtml

“Welcome to our 37th annual Spring Plant Sale! Since 1975 we have been known for offering a choice selection of intriguing plants to Bay Area gardeners. We propagate plants chosen from the Garden's own global collection and provide discerning gardeners rare and uncommon plants that will thrive in local gardens. This is a wonderful opportunity to add something special to your own garden while supporting the UC Botanical Garden.

Admission to the sale is free. All proceeds benefit the Garden.”

Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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SkyJam Festival
Saturday, April 28, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Skytown Preschool, 1 Lawson Road, Kensington
$4 per person, children under 2 free
http://www.skytown.org/skyjam
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/224449
http://www.octopretzel.com

“A great time for the younger crowd and their families. Featuring Octopretzel, Manning Music Fiddlers, Hanabi Judo and Disco Dance Party.

Admission $4, Kids 2 and under are FREE!

Bouncy House all Day.

Food by Chez Panisse Alumni
Anchor Steam Beer and California Wine
Silent Auction

Proceeds benefit Skytown Preschool, a parent-run cooperative preschool, located in the East Bay hills near Berkeley.”
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California Revels May Day Celebration
at The Oakland Zoo
Saturday, April 28, 1:00PM
Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland
included with zoo admission
http://californiarevels.org/calendar
http://www.oaklandzoo.org
article about 2010’s event:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2010/04/29/NS0B1D1OD2.DTL

“This is our annual celebration of Mayday with the crowning of the May Queen, Morris and Maypoles, and lots of good singing from and with our Solstice Ensemble. Join us in the Children's Zoo area for a traditional celebration the whole family will enjoy. Procession starts at 1:00PM. Free with Zoo admission.”
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Spiritual Cleansing
with Storm Faerywolf
Saturday, April 28, 1:00-3:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$20, please register by phone at 925-933-2342
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://www.faerywolf.com

“Every religion and spiritual path has knowledge of practices for the purpose of cleansing the soul of that which ails us. Whether this be in the form of anger, grief, worry, negative energy or ‘evil spirits’, we can take control of ourselves and our environments to banish unwanted spirits and energies and attract those things that are beneficial. Together we will discuss herbs, stones, symbols and rituals from various cultures and traditions and combine what we have learned into a simple rite to cleanse ourselves leaving us feeling purified and free.

Storm Faerywolf is a practicing warlock and priest in the Feri tradition of witchcraft where he holds the Black Wand. He has studied various forms of magic and spiritual practice for almost 25 years and has taught classes for over 17.”
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Community Seed Beltane
Saturday, April 28, 2:00PM
40 Thieves Picnic Area, De Laveaga Drive, 850 Branciforte Avenue, Santa Cruz
Suggested Donation $7-$13, no one turned away for lack of funds
http://www.communityseed.org/2012/04/beltane-april-28th
http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/index.aspx?page=596

“Come celebrate the season as we honor; Community, Ourselves and Deity with the King and Queen of the Greenwood.
We plan to have a rocking good time in the forest that day!
Wear fun comfortable clothing and shoes for dancing in the dirt.

Circle trained children welcome, no pets please and no photography during the ritual thank you.

Potluck feast to follow the ritual.
Zodiac Potluck:
Earth signs - Salads
Air signs - Main dish
Fire signs - Desserts
Water signs - Drinks
No Alcohol - CS events are clean and sober”
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Coventry Magic Workshop
with Jacki Smith of Coventry Creations
Saturday, April 28, 3:00-6:00PM
Serpent's Kiss, 2015 N Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5477
$55-$75 Sliding Scale
http://www.serpents-kiss.com
http://www.coventrycreations.com

“Advanced Spell Crafting, Coventry Style

How many times are you going to light a prosperity candle on that same issue before you decide to deal with the bigger issue that is buried within?

If you need to do magic around an issue, you probably have a bloch there. If you didn't, you wouldn't need magic!

In this workshop, Jacki Smith will take you deeper into your magical quest and help you uncover what your core magical needs are, thus making every spell more effective and long lasting.”
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A Witchy Class
Saturday, April 28, 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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Gaskell Ball
Saturday, April 28, 7:30PM
Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
$20
http://www.gaskellball.com
http://www.gaskellball.com./flyer/current.pdf
http://www.scottish-rite.org
http://www.brassworksband.com

"Ye Gaskell Occasional Dance Society has been sponsoring Victorian Ballroom dances for over 20 years. We currently sponsor 6 balls a year at the Scottish Rite Temple in Oakland.
We have live music played by the Brassworks of San Francisco, a group of 5 brass horns and a
drummer led by Frank Davis. The dances feature Victorian Waltzes, Polkas, Schottisches, Mazurkas, and set dances such as the Sir Roger de Coverley and the Congress of Vienna.

The general format of the dance is three 40 minute and one 30 minute sessions of live music, with three 20 minute breaks. We also occasionally have other entertainment during the breaks such as Morris dancing. The first set starts at 8:30 PM, with the last set ending at Midnight. Starting at 7:45 PM is a dance workshop where members of the Society quickly cover the basics of waltzing, polkas and the schottische.

Of course, the usual 19th, 20th and 21st century formal wear is always welcome.

Dress is 19th, 20th, or 21st Century Formalwear
Admission may be refused for those inappropriately dressed.

Refreshments are potluck finger food with the Society providing both fruit punch and ice water.

Upcoming dates:
August 4, 2012
October 27, 2012
December 15, 2012"
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Mad Hatter's Tea Party
Saturday-Sunday, April 28-29, Tea sittings at 12:00PM and 3:00PM
Falkirk Cultural Center, 1408 Mission Avenue, San Rafael, 415-485-3328
$27.50 for adults, $22.50 for children.  
reservations required - please call 800-838-3006
ages 3 and up
http://www.falkirkculturalcenter.org/event.html?eventid=69
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/206529
http://www.starkravens.com

"Make a date for tea with Alice, the March Hare, Door Mouse and Mad Hatter for a decidedly unique and unorthodox tea complete with tea sandwiches, hot chocolate, and desserts. Enjoy the theatrical company of characters in original costumes from the Stark Ravens Historical Players, as they entertain and cause smiles and giggles in Falkirk's elegant Victorian setting.

This event sells out; please make your reservations early! Includes goodie bag for child. Bring your camera for great photos!"
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Tree Walk
with Tree Girl Julianne Skai Arbor and Damien McAnany of Abundant Earth Landscaping
Sunday, April 29, 10:15AM-12:30PM, and the last Sunday of every month
SteelHead Beach, 9000 River Road, Forestville (in Sonoma County)
Free
Please RSVP to skaiarbor@treegirl.org
http://www.sonoma-county.org/parks/pk_stlhd.htm
http://www.treegirl.org
http://www.abundant-earth.com

“WHERE: Each time in a different location in the North Bay!  

Sometimes it will be a state or county park, and other times in other locations. It may even be a 'urban' tree walk identifying landscape trees and their disastrous pruning jobs.

With demand, we'll venture out further. Let us know if you are interested.

Look for me holding up an open umbrella!

We'll always park and meet where we can enter a park for Free!

WHY:
Learn to identify trees, shrubs, plants and wildflowers!
Get your Tree Questions answered!
Spend time outside in Nature!
Enjoy some mild to moderate exercise!
We'll spend at least 15 minutes of every walk just sitting in silence with a tree!
Meet other treegirls, treeboys and plant geeks!
Although you can bring your camera, this is not a TreeGirl photoshoot. Everyone, please, keep your clothes on!

WHAT TO BRING:
Layers of clothing
Rain gear or umbrella if chance of rain, just in case (we'll cancel if there is a good chance of rain)
Water, water, water
Snacks (we'll end in time for those who want to stay for a picnic can get it out of your vehicles)
Field guides (we'll have some too)
Good walking shoes
Notebook or journal and pen
Sunscreen
Little budding treegirls and treeboys
Dogs? (we'll find out for each hike if we can have dogs where we're going. It will vary hike to hike)
Something to sit on to avoid possible poison oak.

Please join us!
Please reply to this email and we'll put you on a mailing list to remind you of upcoming Tree Walks including their locations, where to meet, what to bring, and let you know if we're cancelling due to rain. We are planning to have these events posted on our websites.

We'd love you to RSVP by email, so we don't leave without you! If you are late or can't find us, please call Julianne at 707-332-9925 or Damien at 707-360-5231.

Feel Free to forward this message to interested Tree People.

TreeGirl (Julianne Skai Arbor) and husband Damien McAnany are not only Tree geeks, but plant geeks too, certified arborists with the International Society of Arboriculture, as well as passionate and experienced educators and nature guides. Together they are owners of Abundant Earth Landscaping and TreeCare in the north Santa Rosa area, and are both Certified Permaculture Designers and Teachers.
We Love trees!!”
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Monthly Temple Service with Ile Orunmila Oshun
Sunday, April 29, 11:00AM (and the last Sunday of every month)
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$10 donation requested
Please be 5 minutes early as we start the Temple Service promptly at 11:00AM
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events
http://www.ileorunmilaoshun.org

“Ile Orunmila Oshun, the Yoruba-based house of worship founded by Luisah Teish (author of Jambalaya), hosts its monthly Temple Service at The Sacred Well.

Join us at 11:00AM on the last Sunday of every month to explore the mysteries of the Orishas with Initiated members of the Ile's clergy. The powerful, ancient wisdom of Ifa is readily applied to modern situations, and each ceremony is a life lesson. At the end of the service, donations are gratefully accepted.”
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Reiki Crystal Healing
with Devin Hunter
Sunday, April 29, 12:00-2:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$30, please register by phone at 925-933-2342
http://www.themysticdream.com
http://modernwitch.podbean.com
http://modernwitchmag.com

“In this class we will explore both Reiki and Crystal healing methods as a single contemporary healing technique. We will discuss the use of crystals as allies in Reiki healing, basic crystal gridding for maximizing the Reiki healing experience, using crystals to widen the Reiki channel, and more. This workshop is for those with a Reiki level 1 attunement and higher.

Devin Hunter has been a practicing witch his entire life and has been teaching the Craft for seven years. Devin hosts Modern Witch Podcast, and publishes Modern Witch Magazine for which he also writes, He hails from Ohio where he sat on the board of directors of the Pagan Community Council of Ohio, and had a popular private psychic service for over two years before relocating to California. Currently Devin is the House Medium at The Mystic Dream where he teaches the art of psychic development and tarot, and sees clients privately.”
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Family Day at Sienna Ranch
Sunday, April 29, 12:00-4:00PM, (and the last Sunday of every month)
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette, 925-283-6311
$85 includes up to five people, advance registration required - see website
http://www.siennaranch.net/Family_Days.html

“On the last Sunday of each month, Sienna Ranch will open its doors for a special family and community day.  Come enjoy the activities, good company, healthy food, and the wholesome environment at Sienna Ranch.  Family Day is fun for all ages.  

Horse and pony rides, sustainability education and projects, archery, hayrides, survival skills activities, and more.  Bring your own picnic lunch or buy from one of our healthy food vendors.  

Family Days are on Sundays, 12:00-4:00PM.  
Family Day Pass is $85.

With the purchase of a family pass, you will get
admission to Sienna Ranch family day for up to 5 people
3 horse ride tickets
3 archery tickets
5 hayride tickets
participation in the featured hands-on sustainability or survival skill activity
unlimited animal visits to goats, sheep, chickens
special demonstrations, entertainment, or hands-on projects (vary from month to month)

Note: Food and special services offered at an additional cost.  For additional archery and horse ride tickets, please purchase a second family pass.

Family Days are limited to 40 families, so register soon!”
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CAYA Sprouts Beltane
Sunday, April 29, 3:00PM  
Berkeley - please RSVP to hvnwalker@gmail.com for exact location
http://cayacoven.org/sprouts.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/CAYA-Sprouts/95151727852

“Come As You Are to Sprouts Beltane!

Come dance around the maypole with us and celebrate the height of Spring. We will each bring a ribbon to make our very own maypole. We will speak our intentions for the Summer and weave them into being while we dance in celebration of the fertility and abundance of Spring.

Please RSVP to hvnwalker@gmail.com with the size of your family if you plan to attend.

What to Bring: a 7 foot ribbon, and a snack to share

CAYA Sprouts offers Sabbat rituals that are specifically designed for children up to age ten. However, the all self identified families are welcome to attend. Come and celebrate the Wheel of the Year with us!”
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Middle Eastern Treasures Concert
with Mary Ellen Donald
Sunday, April 29, 1:30PM
Humanist Hall, 390 27th Street, Oakland
$17, no one turned away for lack of funds
http://humanisthall.net/wp/2012/04/01/middle-eastern-treasures-concert-5
http://www.maryellendonald.com

“This will be an afternoon of exhilarating, delightful, and incredible Arabic and Middle Eastern music, drumming, and belly dancing! Mary Ellen Donald is a nationally acclaimed Middle Eastern percussionist, instructor, and recording artist for 35 years. She is the prime mover of the gorgeous and exotic Middle Eastern Treasures Concerts. She shines not only as an expert and thrilling player of Persian drums and cymbals, but she is also an amazing jazz singer.

This afternoon Mary Ellen Donald will feature beautiful Egyptian, Syrian, and Iraqi music as performed by her Arabic Music Ensemble.  Husain Resan will sing;  Younes Makboul will play violin;  and Mary Ellen, Angelena Kyzar-Crowhurst, and Brian Nutson will play percussion.  Mary Ellen and her son John Donald are the duo performing in the Donald Drum Duo.  The exquisite belly dancers performing precisely in sync with the music this afternoon will be Ma*Shuqa Mira Murjan and Hannah Romanowsky.  In addition, Mozaik will perform women’s a cappella folk harmonies from around the world.  And to top it off, there will be two large percussion ensembles with more belly dancers.  And of course, there will be audience dancing afterward!

Come, see, and experience these Middle Eastern instruments, sounds, and belly dancing.  It’s impossible to have a more enjoyable afternoon at Humanist Hall!  Come and join Mary Ellen in raising the rafters of Humanist Hall as high as the sky today!  Complementing Mary Ellen’s spectacular concert will be an irresistible feast!  Be sure to keep the abundance flowing and bring a scrumptious potluck dish to share!”
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Talking about SEX with our Girls
at the Red Tent
Sunday, April 29, 2:00-4:00PM
The Red Tent, 15495 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite C, Los Gatos, 408-365-4905
$10
for all women who are mothering girls and young women
please pre-register at the website below
http://theredtent.net/red_tent_events?eventId=474476&EventViewMode=EventDetails

“For all women who are mothering girls and young women (if you have daughter's going off to High School or College... come... let's talk about how to support them in making responsible decisions and honoring themselves.)

How do we begin/initiate that discussion? Do we initiate it? Do we wait until they ask us questions? What if they don’t ask? Do I want to be the first person they learn from? What if her friends are talking about it: will she tell me? Is she already sexually active?
I don’t remember that conversation… I don’t remember WHO I learned from? Can someone give me some guidance?

Come together with other moms to talk about how/when to talk to our girls about SEX. (*This is not a workshop on Menarche or Puberty) Bring your books and other resources that you have turned to that are helping you in bringing this topic to discussion in your family.

We can read books, watch videos, listen to ‘professionals’… but ultimately the simple sitting down with your daughter is going to happen in your home or when you are out together, just the two of you, and it will be just you and your daughter. Let’s  help each other figure it out... look at our comfort level, our anxiousness, our apprehension, or our stories of conversations/experiences we have already had with our daughters.

Let's work together to support strong, informed young women who value their bodies and share them wisely when they feel the time is right.

Let’s help each other feel more comfortable and confident in speaking about SEX with our daughters, share our stories and ultimately learn from each other.

Pre-registration is encouraged. Please feel free to forward this on to other mothers in your community, circle, workplace, network.”
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ukiaHaiku Festival
Sunday, April 29, 2:00-4:00PM
SPACE Theater, 508 West Perkins, Ukiah
http://www.ukiahaiku.org/haiku-festival-info.html

“ukiaHaiku festival 2012
A celebration and competition devoted to the haiku form of poetry

The ukiaHaiku festival is an afternoon devoted to the haiku form of poetry. A program of music is followed by a presentation of certificates and awards for the winning haiku. Poets of all ages read their winning poems. A reception with refreshments follows, during which the audience has the opportunity to read through an exhibit of selected poems submitted to the festival.”
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Akashic Record Workshop
with Jacki Smith of Coventry Creations
Sunday, April 29, 3:00-6:00PM
Serpent's Kiss, 2015 N Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5477
$55-$75 Sliding Scale
http://www.serpents-kiss.com
http://www.coventrycreations.com

“Akashic Records are Easy!

In this workshop Jacki de-mystifies your Akashi Records by showing you how to get in them, how to use visualization and crack your own symbolic Akashic Record code.”
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The Fellowship of the Spiral Path welcomes you to attend….
Liturgy of the Lady and Lord
Sunday, April 29, 5:00PM (and the last Sunday of every month)
BFUU Main Hall, 1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Donations gratefully accepted
More information or special requests: LiturgyoftheLady@gmail.com
http://www.thespiralpath.org/calendar/view_entry.php?id=277&date=20120429

“The Liturgy of the Lady is an open celebration of the Goddess in Her many forms. She is the Maiden of youth, the Mother of culture, the Crone of wisdom, and She is mirrored in all life, death and rebirth. We honor Her with reverent and joyful singing, ritual activities, and opportunities to learn. Now in our fourth decade of offering this sacred service, we invite you to join us.

In keeping with the season, this Liturgy also includes the honoring of The Lord, in all his forms. His strength, His passion, and His love for the Lady. It is His celebration with The Lady that brings the season to its fullness, plows the field, and plants the seed for our coming year, bringing The Lady forth from Maiden to Mother.

Please come and enjoy this Liturgy, joining the Goddess and the God in all their splendour, with readings from Kahlil Gibran, The Song of Songs, and many other beautiful, romantic and passionate readings, including some written by our own long time Spiral member Charline Palmtag.

Objects may be charged on the altar during the rite. Wheel-chair accessible (let us know if you need someone to hold the door for you.) Family and child-friendly. Incense will be used in this ritual, unless requested in advance. Mark your calendar for the next Liturgy of the Lady, May 27. Please share this invitation with your friends.”
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May Day!
Tuesday, May 1, 5:15-7:00AM (yes, AM!)
Inspiration Point, Tilden Park, Berkeley
see website for directions
http://berkeley-morris.org/performances.html
http://berkeley-morris.org/mayday.html

Morris Dancers and other sundry Pagan, old fashioned and/or eccentric Berkeley-type folks will be gathering to make the sun come up!

Berkeley Morris says:
“As is traditional, we will begin our regular season by dancing the sun up at Inspiration Point, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley.

We will gather at Inspiration Point at 5:05AM and begin dancing around 5:15AM. Sunrise happens at 6:13AM, and we will dance until around 7:00AM. Dress warmly!”
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Drum Circle with Albert and Rabbit
Tuesday, May 1, 6:00-8:00PM, and every month, typically first Tuesdays
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
Donations gratefully accepted
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events

“Join Albert and Rabbit for a drum circle at The Sacred Well. Bring your drums, rattles, bells, etc. From month to month we'll be exploring different rhythms, practicing techniques such as drumming and singing at the same time, developing our own drum language, and doing shamanic journey together.”
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Song and Maypole Dance Beltaine Ritual
Presented by The Fellowship of the Spiral Path’s Gateway Circle  
Tuesday, May 1, 7:30-9:00PM (and the first Tuesday of every month)
BFUU Main Hall, 1924 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Donations gratefully accepted
http://www.thespiralpath.org/calendar/view_entry.php?id=2&date=20120501
http://www.meetup.com/Wheel-of-the-Year/events/61252292/?a=ea1_grp&rv=ea1

“Come dance the Maypole or be Queen or King of May or sing for the dancers! We'll sing and dance for what we wish to grow and be fertile in our lives and to celebrate May. We will have a sing-along to seasonal Pagan songs and chants, music from the band Elinel and a mini bardic for those who wish to bring songs to share. Additionally you are invited to bring friends, drums, rattles or musical instruments and/or food to share. Dress festively and colorfully. This is a participatory ritual. Hosted by Lycorenna and friends.

The ritual will start as close to 7:30 PM as possible. Please be prompt.

All are welcome to this open public outreach circle sponsored by the Fellowship of the Spiral Path.”
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South Bay Pagan Salon
Tuesday, May 1, 7:30PM (and the first and third Tuesday of every month)
Cafe at Books Inc, 301 Castro Street, Mountain View
for more information, contact Jason Mankey at panmankey@gmail.com

Jason says:
“We'd like to formally invite you to join us the first and third Tuesdays of every month for the South Bay Pagan Salon. The SBPS is a discussion and networking group, dedicated to talking about "Pagan Things" and networking in the Bay Area. Generally we'll start each meeting with a specific topic to get the discussion rolling along, but after we get started it'll be rather open ended with the participants dictating where the discussion will go.

We hope you'll join us.

No donations required, heck, if you show up I just might buy you a cup of coffee.

If you've got questions, I might have answers. Email me (Jason) at panmankey@gmail.com
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Dickens Day Celebration
In Honor of Charles Dickens’s 200th Birthday Anniversary Year
Wednesday, May 2, 12:00-8:30PM (see website for detailed schedule of events)
Mechanics' Institute Library and Chess Room,  57 Post Street, San Francisco, 415-393-0102
$15
http://www.milibrary.org/dickens

“The day will start with lunch in their London Pub followed by a series of talks from 12:30-3:30PM on Discovering Dickens' London; from 3:30-4:30PM we feature English Tea with Charles Dickens (performed by the Dickens Christmas Fair's own Robert Young) with additional readings from the audience. The evening program, from 6:30-8:30PM, features a panel of speakers with a keynote by Jane Smiley and professors from the UC Santa Cruz Dickens Project and others, culminating with a dramatic reading by actor Paul Whitworth.”  
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Healing Nagging Back and Body Pains With Emotional Freedom Technique
with Andrea Johnson
Thursday, May 3, 4:00-5:30PM
Rockridge Library, 5366 College Avenue, Oakland
Free - please call 510-229-4555 or e-mail  AndreanAFK@yahoo.com to reserve your spot!
http://www.thehealingtide.com

“Learn to move your own energy for self-healing!!
Emotional Freedom Technique, EFT, eliminates the stress that maintains nagging body pains. EFT has reduced stress-related pains in my back, neck, and shoulders. I didn’t realize the years of continuing pain were related to my high stress level. I found chiropractors’ and physical therapists’ efforts did not keep me pain-free for long. EFT is designed specifically for stress-related neck and lower back pains. After experiencing EFT, I now wake up pain-free, with much more energy for my day.”
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Rabbit's 5th Annual Oshun Party
Friday, May 4, 5:00-9:00PM
party starts at The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
and processes across Grand Avenue to the Colonnades at Lake Merritt
free
http://www.sacredwell.com/classes-events

“Whether you're a regular patron, or if this is your first visit to The Sacred Well, make a special effort to attend one of our most lively, fun, and sacred events this Spring!

Each year in May, in gratitude for the love, abundance, intuition, and joy that is present in her life, Rabbit offers an public devotional celebration in honor of Oshun. The Orisha of sweet waters, love, beauty, and wealth offers us so many blessings: fresh water to drink, the beauty of the natural world, the blood in our veins. All over the world, Oshun is worshipped in many different religious systems as "the sweetness that makes life worth living." This annual event is a beautiful, elegant, and fun-filled celebration of Oshun: with singing, dancing, drumming, storytelling, free hors d'oeuvres, fancy water, wine & champagne, and store specials on select items to help draw love, wealth, beauty and healing.

Drop in between 5:00 and 7:00 pm to chat, nibble, sip and socialize. Bring your drum, rattle, or bell and join us from 7:00 to 9:00 pm as we sit beneath the Colonnades and offer our energies in song, dance, and drumming to Lake Merritt, the Oshun of Oakland. You'll want a jacket or wrap in case of chill, and a camp chair if you don't want to sit on the stone steps.

If you plan to attend, here are some ideas to make your experience even more fun. Bring an offering to Oshun if you'd like to ask Her to bless you with a favor in the coming year: honey, champagne, honey wine or ale, peacock feathers, fans, mirrors, costume jewelry, or sweets are good choices, 5 pennies, nickels, or any monetary amount in multiples of 5. Oshun is asked to bless Her adorants with love, prosperity, healing, joy, and greater beauty and grace in their lives. Your offerings will be gathered upon Her altar in the store.

If you'd like to dress up for the party, wear white, yellow, gold, green, orange, or peacock print. Wear lots of jewelry if you like, or adorn yourself festively in some way. Celebrate the beauty of who you already are and the joys of life, ever-growing into more, more, more goodness!

No RSVP necessary, just show up ready to have a great time!”
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11th Annual Pagan Festival and Parade
Theme: Paradigm Shift
Saturday, May 12, 10:30AM-5:30PM
Parade is at noon
Civic Center Park, 2151 Martin Luther King Jr. Way , Berkeley
Free
http://thepaganalliance.org
http://thepaganalliance.org/volunteer.asp

“Keeper of the Light 2012: T. Thorn Coyle
MCs: Shay Black and Dian Rowan

Music, Dance, Stage Performances, Speakers, Pagan Pride Parade in the streets of Berkeley, Speaker's Pavilion, Altars, Public Ritual, Vendors, Druid Story Telling Pavilion, Green Pavilion and Displays, Authors Circle, Arts and Crafts Pavilion, Info Booths and Program/Resource Guide.

Best Costume prizes for Youth and Adults! Best Float prize!
Visit the Pagan Marketplace with over 40 vendors and numerous non-profits and organizations.

Beloved Dead Altar- Please bring copies of photos that will honor our loved ones that have crossed over.

Please bring canned/non-perishable goods for the Alameda County Food Bank. Bins located next to the Pagan Festival Info Booth.”

Volunteer for the Festival!  
Contact Arlynne Camire, Festival Director at arlynne@thepaganalliance.org
Put VOLUNTEER in the subject line.
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Have a Week of Dancing and Revelery!

Molly Blue Dawn