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, June 11, 2013

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Intuition for Self-Empowerment, Concert in the Redwood Grove, Pagan Activists Meet-Up, Tinsel Tarts in a Hot Coma, The Medea Hypothesis: A Reconfiguration, Sacred Hearth Classes, The Road To Ife, Temple of Aphrodite Book Club, Dreamways of the Iroquois, Astrology with Margaret Cole, 9th Annual Queer Women of Color Film Festival, Women's Visionary Congress, The Home of Truth Rummage Sale, Spirituality and Men: Wisdom in the Digital Age, Ukrainian Enchantment Songs Workshop, Open House at Sofia University, Ghirardelli Square KidsBash, SF Juneteenth Festival, Earth Energy Walk, Belrose Theatre 100th Anniversary Open House, South Bay Pagan Kids Solstice Celebration, Bones Quigley, Lake Merritt Pagans, San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, San Francisco Crystal Fair, Pirate Festival, Marin Art Festival, Scottish Renaissance Faire, Bloomsday Celebration, Bay Area Seasonal Herb Walk, Father’s Day at History Park, SoulCollage, Unlocking Your Psychic Potential, A Cup of Tea with Spirit, Intermediate Tarot with Rabbit, Bones Quigley, Juneteenth, Vagabond Opera, CAYA Solstice of Light Triumphant  
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Intuition for Self-Empowerment
with Nina
Wednesday, June 12, 7:30-9:00PM
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$30

“Inner wisdom is a natural gift that can assist in decision making, overcoming obstacles, and leading a happier, more fulfilling life. In this talk you will learn a simple, relaxing meditation to strengthen your connection with your inner voice. This technique can be practiced anytime you seek information from a higher source. Free hand-outs with supportive suggestions will be given to each participant.

Nina has followed her intuitive impulses since childhood. While traveling in the Amazon and Southeast Asia her intuition was her guide. This has lead to a life lived with courage in the spirit of freedom. Nina encourages others through informal talks and private readings.”
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Concert in the Redwood Grove
featuring Sean Hayes
Thursday, June 13, 5:30-7:30PM (and every Thursday through August 29)
“Doors” open at 5:00PM  
UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Drive, Berkeley
Adults $25, Youth $15, under 5 Free
Please register online at the website below
for more information, e-mail garden@berkeley.edu

“Join us this summer for a series of concerts in our beautiful Redwood Grove!

Urban dirt-road folk rock

Ticket includes admission to the Garden before 5:00PM. BYO picnic and non-alcoholic drinks welcome.”

Thanks to Pixie for letting me know about this event!
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Pagan Activists Meet-Up
Thursday, June 13, 7:30-9:30PM, and the second Thursday of each month
Ancient Ways, 4075 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, 510-653-3244
Free

“At PantheaCon some of us met at Starhawk's workshop on Magic and Activism and
discussed regular meetings for Pagan activists in the Bay Area. We meet the 2nd Thursday each month.”
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Tinsel Tarts in a Hot Coma
The Next Cockettes Musical
Thursday-Saturday, June 13-15, 8:00PM
playing through June 29
The Hypnodrome, 575 10th Street, San Francisco
$30-$35

“Thrillpeddlers 6th annual Theatre of The Ridiculous Revival showcases a rare Cockettes Musical, Tinsel Tarts in a Hot Coma, a new full-length, restored version of The Cockettes’ 1971 musical extravaganza featuring original Cockettes Scrumbly Koldewyn, Sweet Pam Tent, and Rumi Missabu. Seats and private Shock Boxes always sell out quickly, so be sure to get your tickets in advance.”
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The Medea Hypothesis: A Reconfiguration
presented by Central Works
Thursday-Sunday, June 13-16,
Thursday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 5:00PM
playing through June 23
Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Avenue, Berkeley
sliding scale $15-$28

“A world premiere from the Central Works Writers Workshop:  The Medea Hypothesis.  Local playwright Marian Berges takes the time-honored Greek myth about a wronged woman with a score to settle, and reconfigures it into the story of a modern jet-setting ‘execu-diva’ in a fractured world of absurdity - a quirky cultural critique with a wicked sense of humor.”
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Sacred Hearth Classes
with Lady Maia
Friday, June 14, 6:00-8:00PM
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$35  

“Making Housework Magical
Few people enjoy doing chores, but what if you could make those chores magic? Regular household chores provide a wide variety of possibilities for magic and fun. In this class we will discuss a multitude of ways to bring the sacred into these mundane activities. At the end of the class we will be making raffia brooms to remind us that there is magic in the mundane.”
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The Road To Ife
Friday, June 14, 6:30-9:30PM, (and bi-monthly through 2013)
East Bay Healing Collective, 1840 Alcatraz Avenue, Berkeley
$21 per class

“Classes will share the teachings of Ifa, a West-African spiritual and life tradition and the progenitor of the Orisha/Santeria tradition. The wisdom and intelligence of Ifa includes cosmology, philosophy, science, ethics, poetry, folktales, proverbs sacred scripture and song. The values inherent in the Ifa tradition (consistent with values across most indigenous and spiritual traditions) provide an approach to life that can lead to greater satisfaction and alignment with our personal and collective destinies as humans.

You do not need prior knowledge nor be a practitioner of the tradition to benefit from the teachings. Each class provides a discrete teaching; you do not have to take the classes in order. Please note that each class is limited to 15 participants, so while drop-ins are welcome, we encourage you to pre-register.

Please note that Road to Ife classes during 2013 will meet bi-monthly (February, April, June, October and December) with a break during the summer months. Unless otherwise communicated, the classes will be held on second Fridays from 6:30-9:30PM or second Sunday mornings from 11:00AM-2:00PM.

October 2013: Sunday; December 2013: Friday

Also note that classes are being extended to three hours so that we can delve more deeply into our content and to support an interactive experience for those who attend.  Classes are limited to 15 participants.

June 14:  This class will explore divination in the Ifá/Orisa tradition. Class content includes: 1) A Definition of Divination in the Tradition, 2) You, Your Destiny, and the Diviner,  3) Types of Divination, 4) Approaching a Divination Session, and   5) Prescriptions (Homework, Medicine, Taboos and Sacrifice).“
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Temple of Aphrodite Book Club
Friday, June 14, 7:00-8:00PM, and the second Friday of each month
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
Donations gratefully accepted

“We are a group devoted to Aphrodite in all Her splendor. Please join us to learn more about Aphrodite’s presence in our lives through a roundtable discussion of her lore and literature. We begin on March 8th with Laurelei Black’s In Her Service: Reflections from a Priestess of Aphrodite.

Please come prepared to discuss chapters 4 and 5 of In Her Service, bringing any relevant questions and experiences you may have!”
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Dreamways of the Iroquois: Honoring the Secret Wishes of the Soul
with Robert Moss
Friday, June 14, 7:00-9:00PM
The Dream Institute of Northern California, 1672 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-845-1767
$20

“Long before the first Europeans arrived in Northeast America, the peoples of the Longhouse, or Iroquois, taught their children that dreams are the single most important source of both practical and spiritual guidance. The first business of the day in an Iroquois village was dream-sharing, as dreams were messages from the spirits, and the deeper self, and might contain guidance for the community as well as the individual. The early Iroquois believed that in dreams, we routinely travel beyond the body and the limits of time and space, can visit the future or the past, and may enter the realms of the departed and of spiritual teachers on higher levels.

The ancient teaching of the Iroquois people is that dreams also reveal the wishes of the soul, calling us to move beyond our ego agendas and the web of other people’s projections into a deeper, more spirited life. In dreams we also discover where our vital soul energy may have gone missing - through pain or trauma or heartbreak - and how to get it back.

In this tradition, dreaming is a survival tool. The dream self scouts out possible futures, discovering challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The well-being of the whole community may depend on reading such dream previews correctly and taking appropriate action. Dreaming is also good medicine. The Mohawk word ratetshents, which literally means ‘one who dreams,’ is also the term for a doctor or shaman.

Robert Moss was called to study this tradition when he moved to a farm on the edge of Mohawk country in upstate New York and started dreaming in a language he did not know, which proved to be an archaic form of Mohawk. Helped by native speakers to translate this dream language, he came to believe that he had been called by an ancient shaman - a Mother of the Wolf Clan of the Mohawk people.

Robert Moss is the author of Dreaming the Soul Back Home, Active Dreaming, Dreamgates, The Secret History of Dreaming, The Three ‘Only’ Things, The Dreamer's Book of the Dead, Dreamways of the Iroquois, Dreaming True and Conscious Dreaming.”
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Astrology with Margaret Cole
Friday, June 14, 7:30-9:30PM
Ancient Ways, 4075 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, 510-653-3244
$5-$10 sliding scale

“These times are confusing and difficult. What's going on astrologically? How do the planets affect us and how can we know what we are dealing with? Mini readings. Bring your horoscope or have one made at Ancient Ways for $5 by appointment only.“
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9th Annual Queer Women of Color Film Festival
presented by Queer Women Of Color Media Arts Project
Friday-Sunday, June 14-16
Brava Theater Center, 2789 24th Street, San Francisco
Free

“The 9th annual Queer Women of Color Film Festival premieres an unprecedented 55 short films in 5 screening programs. The Festival Focus ‘Bridge To Truth: Queer SWANA/AMEMSA Communities,’ includes a Featured Screening that explores tradition and culture, feminist waves and the simmering revolutions among Southwest Asian, North African/Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, South Asian (SWANA/AMEMSA) communities, followed by a discussion with artists and activists.

The festival also showcases films from across the U.S. created through the QWOCMAP Film and Freedom Academy. From the intoxicating first kiss to candlelit prayer rugs, to the ebb and flow between parents and children, this festival is awash with films that fill our spirits. From the deep reservoirs of Hawaiian and Navajo cultures, to the buoyant swells of chosen families, to the reservoirs of queer artists, dive into these depths and soak up the juicy possibilities of these powerful films!”
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Women's Visionary Congress
Friday-Monday, June 14-16
EarthRise Retreat Center, Institute of Noetic Sciences, 101 San Antonio Road, Petaluma
see website for detailed schedule and registration information

"The Women's Visionary Congress (WVC) is an annual gathering of visionary women healers, scholars, activists and artists who study consciousness and altered states. The WVC supports the transfer of knowledge among women who apply the insights of their research and spiritual path. We gather on beautiful land in Northern California to renew our community of adventurers and visionaries.

The WVC welcomes interested women and men to join us as we create a temporary community, dance, eat delicious food and engage in a series of conversations with wise women. The Women's Visionary Congress is a benefit for the V Fund which makes grants to visionary women."
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The Home of Truth Rummage Sale
Saturday June 15, 9:00AM-3:00PM
The Home of Truth, 1300 Grand Street, Alameda, 510-522-3366
Free
 
“We help people in our community to acquire things they need at low prices.  We price to sell and at about 1:00PM we sell bags for $1.00 and each can be filled with as many things as will fit in.  Last sale saw 3 bags go all the way to China for poor relatives living in the countryside!
Things that are left are given to groups providing items to the poor in Alameda County who really need things.
It's A Win-Win-Win-Win Event!!!!  And A Lot Of Fun Too!!!!”
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Spirituality and Men: Wisdom in the Digital Age
with Soren Gordhamer
Saturday, June 15, 10:00AM-3:00PM
Anubhuti Meditation and Retreat Center, 820 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato, 415-884-2314
Free, donations accepted

“We will spend the day exploring the context of wisdom in our modern digital lives - what does this mean and how can we bring ancient wisdom in the context of a digital age. We will explore what it means to live with greater awareness and purpose in a culture moving faster and faster. This will be a day of deep exploration on how our lives are wanting to unfold, and each of our particular paths. We will investigate the challenges and opportunities of our times, and what this means for each of us as we move from a focus on information and knowledge to a wisdom-based culture.

Soren Gordhamer works with individuals and groups on living with greater mindfulness and purpose in our technology-rich age. He is founder and host of the Wisdom 2.0 Conference, and the author of Wisdom 2.0: Ancient Secrets for the Creative and Constantly Connected (HarperOne, 2009), one of the first books to explore living with mindfulness and wisdom within the context of our modern technology age.

As project director for Richard Gere's public charity, Healing the Divide, he organized The Healing through Great Difficulty conference with his Holiness, the Dalai Lama. He has been featured in various media, including GQ Magazine and Newsweek.com, and has taught mindfulness programs everywhere from youth in New York City juvenile halls, to trauma workers in Rwanda, teachers in Nigeria, and to staff at US technology companies.

He spent a year walking through parts of the United States, India, Pakistan, and Japan as a part of the Global Walk for a Livable World. He later founded the New York City-based non-profit, The Lineage Project, which offers awareness-based practices to at-risk and incarcerated teens.

Spirituality and Men is a self-development forum for men aiming to explore the spirit of man through informative dialogue, honest interaction and the silence of meditation. They are run by men for men of all backgrounds who are interested in exploring their inner spirit.

These circles meet quarterly and provide men a safe and harmonious opportunity for discussing and sharing ideas and feelings around a variety of topics relevant to the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world. The meetings feature guest speakers followed by an interactive workshop which includes readings, music, silent reflection and guided meditation.

Includes wholesome and delicious vegetarian lunch

All workshops and retreats at Anubhuti are made possible by the generosity and contributions of the participants.”
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Ukrainian Enchantment Songs Workshop
with Mariana Sadovska
Saturday, June 15, 10:30AM-1:30PM
Silk Road House, 1944 University Avenue, Berkeley
$60

“Mariana Sadovska brings Ukrainian tradition into new musical territory. In her furious programmes the singer, actress and composer crosses all borders: archaic midsummer night invocations, wedding songs and emigrant chants from remote villages in rural Ukraine get a singular turn and transmute into contemporary sound, from folk until avantgarde. Creating her own innovative compositions and arrangements in dialogue with ancient traditions, Mariana Sadovska approaches each piece with a fresh and uniquely personal vision.

Mariana Sadovska is a singer, musician, actress and composer. Born in Lviv, Ukraine, her work in music and theater is inspired by the indigenous cultures and sounds from around the world. By organizing ethno-musical expeditions, she has collected a large body of traditional songs, stories and rituals which she transforms into modern sounds for today's generation. She performs and teaches around the world at the Grotowski Center (Poland), Giving Voice Festival (GB), International Workshop Festival (Israel), The Royal Shakespeare Co.(London), as well as various universities in the U.S.A. (Princeton, Harvard, Swarthmore, NYU, UNM, and Santa Barbara), and the University of Kabul (Afghanistan). She is currently working on a new project with the Kronos Quartet, Chernobyl - a Pagan Requiem.”
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Open House at Sofia University
with Vicki Noble and D'vorah Grenn
Saturday, June 15, 11:00AM-12:30PM
Sofia University, 1069 East Meadow Circle, Palo Alto
Free
“Open House/Information Session On Our New Online Programs!

This September:
We Are Launching A Women'S Spirituality Professional Certificate
and Our Women's Spirituality Master's Degree Program Moves Into A Hybrid Format

(Three in-person meetings each year, and an interactive online learning community)

In response to many requests over the years from distance students, from now on, instead of our students traveling to weekend classes as often as 14 times a year, our Master's program is going online for the first time. There will be three in-person meetings during the year (see below), and the rest of the communications and course work will take place in an interactive online learning community.

In addition to the two-year accredited Masters degree program, we are now adding a one-year online Professional Certificate in Women's Spirituality, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Women's Spirituality for MA students, offered after the first year of studies.

The Professional Certificate
meets online in six-week modules from September 28 through July 4, and provides:
An introduction to Women's Spirituality
An overview of the foundations and everyday applications of the values embodied by the Sacred Feminine
Tools and techniques to bring back to families and communities.
The Professional Certificate will offer Women's Ritual Heritage; Conflict Transformation as a Spiritual Practice; Women, Psychology and the Sacred; and Creative Inquiry and Expression.

These transformative courses will be of interest to:
People interested in the Sacred Feminine and how the values of Women's Spirituality can help to re-balance the world
Those wanting to work with internationally sought teachers, authors, ritual practitioners and scholars
Those seeking whole-person education which includes the intellectual, emotional, physical, spiritual, creative, and relational aspects of being human
People who want to learn this material and may not be seeking a Women's Spirituality Master's degree
International students
Individual classes are also available through our Public Programs department.

The Women's Spirituality Master's Degree students meet in September with a week-long residency at our campus in Palo Alto, California, and after that in online community with additional residencies in February (4 days) and May (one week). A Graduate Certificate in Women's Spirituality is offered after one year in the program, and the Master's degree after two years.

The distance-learning format allows students to study from home, be with their families, maintain their current job schedules and engage with schoolwork during times that fit into their schedule. Students will work together in an engaged learning community through our online campus and through written, video and audio methods. Participation in one's own chosen spiritual and other experiential practices are part of the curriculum. Students will also have full access to Sofia's extensive library.

We hope to see you at the Open House, where your questions can be addressed in person, or feel free to email me with any concerns or inquiries. And please pass this on to other interested women!

P.S. There is a possibility that we will Livestream the Open House, so please ask if you are interested in joining us online, and we will send you the link as soon as possible.

Best,

D'vorah J. Grenn, Ph.D.
Co-Director, Women's Spirituality Programs
Sofia University (formerly the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology)
1069 East Meadow Circle
Palo Alto, CA 94303

For further information, please contact me at: dvorah.grenn@sofia.edu, 650-863-1986”
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Ghirardelli Square KidsBash
Presented by Peekadoodle
Saturday, June 15, 11:00AM-3:00PM
Ghirardelli Square and on Beach Street between Larkin and Polk, San Francisco
$20 for each Child 10 and under, Adults are Free!

“Ghirardelli Square invites you and your family to join us for a Street Festival that is just for the kids! The 4th Annual KidsBash has all of the perfect activities for every family's youngest members.

Tickets include access to all rides, games, and entertainment during the event and only need to be purchased for the children in your family, adults are free! The event is geared for children 10 years old and younger.

Event highlights include a jumpy house, rock wall, a visit from local firemen with their fire engine, a visit from Hello Kitty, train rides, face painting, live musical performances and more!

Background on Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is one of the most well-known and best-loved icons of San Francisco.  The enormous illuminated Ghirardelli sign and the smell of chocolate beckons over 4 million visitors per year to Ghirardelli Square.  After a multimillion dollar revitalization, Ghirardelli Square and its landmark red brick buildings have re-emerged as one of San Francisco's hottest new lifestyle destinations, featuring wine tasting, acclaimed restaurants, specialty boutiques, engaging activities, and seasonal family-friendly events.”
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SF Juneteenth Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 15, 11:00AM-7:00PM
see website for detailed schedule of events and locations

“A Celebration to Remember: Rededicate and Resolve

The San Francisco Juneteenth Committee and the San Francisco Chapter of the NAACP invites you to attend the 63rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration and NAACP Unity Weekend! This year’s festival will take place in the Fillmore District, between Geary and Eddy Streets, on Saturday, June 15, 2013 from 11:00AM to 7:00PM.   

Juneteenth Celebration activities include:
Live musical performances from local artists.
A kick off parade with special appearances by Mayor Ed Lee and Board of Supervisors London Breed and Malia Cohen.
Free health screenings and community resources/merchandise.
A car show.
Arts and Crafts booths and a variety of food vendors.
Children’s activities including a Kids Zone with pony rides, a petting zoo, and jumpers.

This event is free and open to the public.

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration among African Americans across the country commemorating the announcement of the end of slavery in the United States.  It has been an African American tradition since the late 19th century.  Economic and cultural forces caused a decline in Juneteenth celebrations beginning in the early 20th century.  The Depression forced many African Americans off farms and into the cities to find work.  In these urban environments, employers were less eager to grant leaves to celebrate this date.  July 4th was already established as an Independence Day Holiday, and a rise in patriotism among African Americans steered more toward this celebration.

The Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s yielded both positive and negative results for the Juneteenth celebrations. While it pulled many of the African American youth away and into the struggle for racial equality, many linked these struggles to the historical struggles of their ancestors.

Again in 1968, Juneteenth received another strong resurgence through the Poor Peoples March to Washington, D.C.  Rev. Ralph Abernathy called for people of all races, creeds, economic levels and professions to come to Washington to show support for the poor.  Many of these attendees returned home and initiated Juneteenth celebrations in areas previously absent of such activity. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s Juneteenth continued to enjoy a growing interest from communities and organizations throughout the country as African Americans have an interest to see that the events of 1865 in Texas are not forgotten. Many see roots tying back to Texas soil from which all remaining American slaves were finally granted their freedom.   

This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation by former President Abraham Lincoln on January 01, 1863. It also marks the 50th Anniversaries of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (August 28, 1963) where Dr. Martin Luther King gave his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech; the assassination of Medgar Evers, the NAACP’s 1st National Field Director in Mississippi (June 12, 1963);  and the letter from Birmingham Jail (April 16, 1963) written by Dr. Martin Luther King.”  
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Earth Energy Walk
with Community Seed
Saturday, June 15, 12:00-3:00PM (and third Saturday of every month)
Bonny Doon Beach, Bonny Doon Road at Highway 1, Santa Cruz
see link below for directions to meeting place

“Gather at 9:45AM, Departure: 10:00AM, Return: around 12:00PM.
Our walk is usually about 2-3 hours round trip with a short stop half way in. Remember to wear good shoes, bring your own water and a snack to share if you like.
We will walk rain or shine, however, if the forecast is very stormy, call ahead to verify: 831-469-0336
Before beginning our walk together, we will take a moment to center our minds and bodies. Once we are all fully present, we will begin our journey, walking in silence, all the while tuning in, listening, and absorbing the energies of the elements, plants, and animals. Halfway into our walk we will sit for meditation, a guided visualization, and to share food.”
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Belrose Theatre 100th Anniversary Open House
Sunday, June 15, 12:00-5:00PM
The Belrose Theater, 1415 5th Avenue, San Rafael
Free

“This is a special invitation for you to take part in the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the building that occupies 1415 5th Avenue, San Rafael.

Please join us for our Open House on Sunday, June 15, 12:00-5:00PM.

We will have lots of food, fun entertainment, and a good time for all.

This once-upon-a-time church was architected and built by the parishioners of Saint Matthew’s German Evangelical Church in 1913 for $5,000.  They sold the edifice to the Trinity Lutheran Church in 1942.  They worshipped in this lovely little building until 1962.  It was then time for them to build a large and beautiful church at the end of Woodland Avenue in San Rafael.  

In 1962, the building was sold to the Belrose family to be lovingly used for a school, theatre, costume shop, and the Belrose home.

We so look forward to seeing you and visiting as we commemorate our building’s 100 years.

- Margie Belrose”

The Belrose is a beautiful historic theatre in San Rafael.  Margie Belrose continues to live an extraordinary life devoted to performing and helping others to live their dreams.  
She has been honored by the Marin Women’s Hall of Fame: http://www.marinwomenshalloffame.org/honorees/margie-belrose-bio.html
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South Bay Pagan Kids Solstice Celebration
Saturday, June 15, 3:00-6:00PM
private home in San Jose, for address contact Taffy Dugan at thespiralmom@gmail.com
suggested donation $5-$10 per person or $10-$20 per family

“Hello and Merry Meet!

We are a cross-tradition gathering of Pagan families with children who meet monthly to celebrate the Esbats and Sabbats; to share food and music, traditions and knowledge, crafts and dancing. We are eclectic Wicca, Druid, Dianic, British Traditionalists, and are open to and looking for more varieties. We seek to share and learn from each other while providing support in a fun and nurturing environment.

Please join us in our Litha/Summer Solstice ritual. We'll share songs, do crafts, play, and enjoy the longest day of the year. Please bring whatever sacred tools you would like to recharge.

What to bring: A potluck dish to share. Please consider bringing a suggested donation of $5-$10 per person or $10-$20 per family.

Blessed Be,
Taffy”
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Bones Quigley in concert
featuring Albert Robles
Saturday, June 15, 3:00-6:00PM
Swirl On The Square, 21 S Livermore Avenue, Livermore

This band features Albert Robles, the gifted drummer who livens up many CAYA rituals!
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Lake Merritt Pagans
Saturday, June 15, 5:00PM
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, 510-444-9355
Free

“Lake Merritt Pagans is a group for Pagans of all stripes who live near Lake Merritt to socialize and touch base about life on the lake in all its aspects, practical and spiritual.

Activities include: full moon lake walks, altar building, volunteering at the city's regular lake clean-ups, and other good ideas you bring!”
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San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, and every weekend through June 30
see website for detailed schedule

“We celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival with a series of inspiring events and performances featuring 35 dance companies that embody the breadth and diversity of the Bay Area’s dance communities.

Join us for four weekends of dance from around the world, including both traditional masterpieces and innovative world premieres that may forever change the way you think about dance.”
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San Francisco Crystal Fair
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-4:00PM
Fort Mason Conference Center, Building A, 99 Marina Boulevard, San Francisco
$6.00 for both days (children under 12 free accompanied by adult)
You can get a flyer/coupon at The Sacred Well for $1 off admission

“The Crystal Fair is a magical mix of crystals, minerals, beads, jewelry, and the healing arts. It takes place 6 times a year in 2 different locations. With over 40 vendors at each show, there are thousands of items available at affordable prices.”
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Pirate Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Vallejo Waterfront, next to Vallejo Ferry Terminal, 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
$7 in advance, $10 at the gate, Children under 12 Free

"The Northern California Pirate Festival has one goal:
To create an entertaining event where everyone who loves pirates will have a great time and feel welcome!

Whether you love nautical music, swordfighting, sailing, cannon-battles, theater, maritime crafts, food and drink, or just shopping fer' pirate booty... there's something here for YOU!

Fun For ALL AGES: Children, Adults, Teens and  Whole Families!

We encourage coming out in costume... whether you dress as an historical era pirate from the Golden Age of Sail or a bejeweled Mardi-Gras Krewmate from New Orleans... whether your taste runs towards Hollywood Swashbucklers or Foreign Buccaneers from international waters! Dress up and share in the experience...

You certainly don't need to come out in costume, but when you leave you're sure to feel like a pirate!

Sail out to the PirateFest and join us for a great time!"

CAYA Fun For Everyone and CAYA Sprouts at The Pirate Festival

Cross Sidhe says:
“Come, come whoever you ARRRRRG!!!!  This is a co-trip with Sprouts!!!  As for the festival...  it is a PIRATE Festival.  What more do you need to know?  The Pirate Festival is now charging for this event (Please read their web site for why).  The admission is now $10 and free for 15 yo and under.  GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY ON THE OFFICIAL NORCAL PIRATE FESTIVAL WEBSITE!!!

Afterwards we are planning to go to neighboring Benicia and feast at PIRATE PIZZA!  Pirate Pizza is a wonderful pirate themed pizza place.  The have GLUTEN FREE pizzas and have a very large salad bar!

Given the popularity of the Pirate Festival, rides sharing is the BEST way to get there and park.  I have two parking places at my place, plus other parking very near my house.  
If you are on public transit,I can pick you up at the Del Norte Bart Station.  PLEASE MESSAGE ME TO MAKE ARRAIGNMENT.

I am offering rides for people who are going to both the Pirate Festival and Pizza Pirate.  I have three seats open.  No charge for gas.  Message me if you need a ‘Miracle’ for both places.

Luv,

Cross Sidhe”
Pizza Pirate, 72 Solano Square, Benicia:
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Marin Art Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, 10:00AM-6:00PM
The Lagoon, Marin Civic Center, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael
$10 adults, under 14 free

“Over 250 fine artists in a spectacular setting by the Lagoon in the Marin Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, fifteen minutes North of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Festival foods range from Louisiana gumbo and crawfish, Greek salads, South Western chicken breast sandwiches, fresh crabcake, grilled oysters, and French pastries.

Stroll through spacious pavilions.
View works by and visit with the 2012 Marin Master.
Enjoy the delights of the Great Marin Oyster Feast.
Meet with the artists and talk about their work.
Check out our Dance Showcase: Hula to Hip Hop.
Enjoy sit down dining with a team of student waiters.
Sample fine wines and brews.”
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Scottish Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, Saturday 10:00AM-10:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-6:00PM
Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville
See website for ticket prices - discounts available for ordering in advance, two-day tickets available

"Explore the History, Myth, and Legend of 16th century Scotland!  
Enjoy the Excitement and Competition of the Highland Games!

Entertainment - Music - Arts - Crafts - Activities - Games - Magicians - Faeries - Food - Beverages - Ale

Something for the whole family!"
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The 10th Annual Bloomsday Celebration
presented by Wilde Irish Productions
Saturday, June 15, 7:00PM and
Sunday, June 16, 2:00PM
Garden Gate Creative Center, 2911 Claremont Avenue, Berkeley
$25

“Wilde Irish Productions presents the 10th Annual Bloomsday in Berkeley.  Staged readings from James Joyce's novel Ulysses.  With special guest artist direct from Dublin Marion McEvoy who will present her Portrait of the Artist's Mother commissioned by James Joyce's nephew.

Special guests Shosi and Shay Black.”
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Bay Area Seasonal Herb Walk Series: Summer Session
with Tellur Fenner
Sunday, June 16, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Montara Mountain near Pacifica - directions to meeting place provided upon registration
$60 for one class, $55 per class for two or three classes, $180 for four-class series

“From the mist shrouded sea cliffs to the sun-baked arid expanse of its eastern most regions, the San Francisco Bay area provides us with a chance to view a large variety of botanical specimens all within a relatively small geographical range. Join us as we discover together the diverse array of both edible and medicinal plants found growing within these contrasting yet closely interconnected micro-climates. Historical and modern medicinal applications will be covered along with any edible and/or utilitarian potential. Tips on basic plant identification will be offered, with an emphasis on how to differentiate poisonous look-alike plants from their beneficial counterparts. Plant family characteristics will be discussed as well.

Herb Walk Locations
July 21:  Redwood Regional Park (Oakland, CA)
August 11:  Mt. Tamalpais (Marin County)
September 15:  Point Reyes National Seashore

What to bring:
Water
Bag lunch
Hat/sunscreen
Appropriate clothing (check the forecast)
Notebook
Camera

All walks will occur RAIN OR SHINE!”
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Father’s Day at History Park
Sunday, June 16, 11:00AM-4:00PM
History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
$5, Fathers get in free with coupon below
City parking available for $6

“Plan Your Fathers Day at History Park!

Music by Fiddle Road

11:00AM-3:30PM
Celebrate the 150th Birthday of Horsecar 7
Meet the Motormen and ride the California Trolley and Railroad Corp’s historic trolley!
Handcar and Horsecar rides
Toy Train exhibit
Wells Fargo Stage Coach
Antique Autos and Fire Trucks
Exhibit: Bear in Mind: History of the California Grizzly
Exhibit: Shaped by Water: Past, Present and Future

1:00PM: Meet One-eyed Charley Parkhurst-the ‘whip’ of the Wells Fargo Stage. Take your own picture with Charley and his costumed friends from Portraits of the Past.

Buildings Open:
Pacific Hotel Gallery and the Leonard and David McKay Gallery
Trolley Barn with California Trolley and Railroad Corporation
Print Shop with the Printers Guild
Paulson House with the California Pioneers of Santa Clara Valley
Chinese American Historical Museum with Chinese Historical and Cultural Project
Portuguese Historical Museum with the Portuguese Heritage Society of California
Dashaway Stables
Stevens Ranch Fruit Barn”
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SoulCollage
with Maya Spector
Sunday, June 16, 1:30-5:00PM
private home, 685 ½ Fairmount Avenue, Oakland
$15, all materials provided.  
Space is limited, please RSVP to Maya at 650-329-1415 or mayaspector@hotmail.com

“I'd love for you to join me on Sunday, June 16 for this easy yet profound way to access intuition, have fun, and create your own set of collaged cards. Invite your friends!

SoulCollage is a process for creating and working with a set of cards that reflect your inner self.  SoulCollage is deeply satisfying and a lot of fun; it’s a fantastic creative exploration that anyone can do.  Although it is highly personal, it is wonderful and most insightful when done in small groups.”  
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Unlocking Your Psychic Potential
with Devin Hunter
Sunday, June 16, 2:00-6:00PM
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
$40

“Every human being is born with psychic potential and you are no exception. Have you ever wanted to learn more about your psychic skills and how to cultivate them? Have you found yourself experiencing psychic phenomenon but haven’t understood what exactly is happening? Have you known for a long time that you were psychic but didn’t know where to begin? Join House Medium Devin Hunter as we discover the psychic potential in each of us. Topics will include psychic types, energy bodies and how to work with them, everyday meditation skills for psychic development, perception and projection, the law of ‘psychic’ attraction and more.

For ten years Devin Hunter has been helping people connect to their higher-selves, spirit guides and loved ones. He is a Mystic and Spiritual Medium who has taught both nationally and internationally and whose message of empowerment lead him to receiving a nod as one of the best podcast hosts by the AV Club. Devin has trained with some of today’s top mystics like Christopher Penczak, Storm Faerywolf and others.  Currently Devin offers in-person classes and services at The Mystic Dream in Walnut Creek, CA and host’s several podcasts like Soul-u-tions and Modern Witch.”
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A Cup of Tea with Spirit
with OwlSnake
Sunday, June 16, 4:00-5:00PM, and the third Sunday of every month
Julie’s Coffee and Tea Garden, 1223 Park Street, Alameda, 510-865-2385
suggested donation $5-$10

“Esoterica Shamanic Center invites you to join OwlSnake (Medicine Woman/Shaman Lineage) for...

A Cup of Tea with Spirit
We will sip tea,  and eat tasty treats as we connect and receive messages from Spirit and the Ancestors to guide us in our daily lives. We will Journey, Chant and Listen within, and be Inspired. A relaxing afternoon gift to yourself and others.

Who is OwlSnake?
Born into a long lineage of Medicine Men/Women, Spiritual Healers, Seers, and Shamans, on both her maternal and paternal ancestral lines, she was first called to this sacred path at the age of 4 years old from her Great Aunt. She was chosen to continue the family tradition of Spiritual Medicine work, some would call Shamanism. Through the years she would experience many of life's challenges and growth opportunities that have allowed her to learn and experience firsthand some of the greatest issues that plague this world today. From those experiences, along with her direct connection with Great Spirit, Guides, Angels, and Ancestors, OwlSnake has awakened into being a compassionate healer that is willing to be used as a ‘Hollow Bone’ for Spirit to assist all those that seek healing and inspiration on their journey.”
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Intermediate Tarot with Rabbit
Sunday, June 16, 6:00-8:00PM,
and one more Sunday, June 23
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$35 per class

“If you have taken Rabbit's Art of Tarot Class, and you'd like to take the next step as a reader, consider taking Intermediate Tarot. This class is designed to help the student of tarot begin to explore creativity, shift the internal landscape, and integrate the wisdom of the tarot more fully into daily life choices.

Prerequisite: Art of Tarot with Rabbit

June 16: Intuitive Listening:
The temporary autonomous relationship is everything

June 23:Tarot Rituals:
Shaping your life with the tarot”
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Bones Quigley in concert
featuring Albert Robles
Tuesday, June 18, 6:30-8:00PM
Shea Homes Plaza, Bankhead Theater, 2400 1st Street, Livermore
Free

This band features Albert Robles, the gifted drummer who livens up many CAYA rituals!
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Juneteenth
Wednesday, June 19
see website to find events in your area

“Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.

Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.”
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Vagabond Opera
Bohemian Balkan Gypsy Cabaret
Wednesday, June 19, 8:00PM
Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, 831-479-1854
$12 in advance, $15 at the door

“European Cabaret! Vintage Americana! Balkan Belly Dance! Neo-Classical Opera! Old World Yiddish Theater! Welcome to the six-piece, Portland, Oregon-based Vagabond Opera.

Bohemian Cabaret ensemble Vagabond Opera is described by the Washington Post as ‘band of ceaseless charisma, boundless energy, impeccable musicianship and more than a little touch of both the naughty and exotic.’ The group delivers passionate offerings of Bohemian cabaret for young and old. Paris hot jazz, gut bucket swing, tangos, Ukrainian folk-punk ballads, klezmer and vigorous originals meet a world of riverboat gambling queens, Turkish belly dancers, and the enigmatic Marlene Dietrich. Weaving elements of Kurt Weill, Duke Ellington and Edith Piaf with absurdist flair, theatrics and an old world mood, Vagabond Opera presents the new wave of opera - lusty voices singing in 13 languages and presenting a cabaret of rich musical phrasing, sparkling lyrics and indomitable stage presence, all played with exuberance, skill and a gritty Vagabond edge. This is Opera liberated and reinvented for everyone!”
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***PLEASE NOTE: many things about this ritual are different than usual, so please read this e-mail carefully if you plan to attend.**

CAYA Solstice of Light Triumphant
Saturday, June 22,
Ritual will begin at 6:00PM, but please arrive any time between 5:30 and 5:45PM since the cove is a few minutes walk from where you will park.
Crab Cove Beach, Alameda (directions below)
$10

“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean, but the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”
- Mother Teresa

“CAYA Coven welcomes you to our Summer Solstice of Light Triumphant!

CAYA's Summer Solstice ritual this year will honor the Greek Deities Pythia and Apollo, in a story of coming together to provide their oracular wisdom to the world, through our community. We'll also have a community working to heal the food supply and the ocean and to thank the waters for their abundance, their healing powers and their helping us to mark time's ebb and flow. This ritual will be joyous, family-friendly, educational, participatory, and respectful.
Please do join us as we turn the Wheel of the Year one more spoke and combine our energies in creating positive change which will benefit all.

Please feel free to bring drums, rattles, shakers, and anything you wish to charge with the healing powers of the water. Due to the outdoor location and sand concerns, we will not have traditional Cakes and Ale. Though following the ritual, if there is interest, you may wish to eat at a local eatery. Some of us will be doing so shortly after ritual's close.  The usual blessing of the Cakes and Ales will be dedicated in this case to the Ocean as part of the community working above.  .

We encourage participants to dress in the colors of the Sun or Ocean, or maybe a Dragon! Please do dress warmly and bring extra layers as we will be outdoors and the breeze off the water can get very chilly in the evening. If you wish to be seated, please bring a lawn chair or blanket. Unfortunately this space allows only limited access for those with mobility concerns, as there is a swath of beach sand to traverse along. Please feel free to contact us to ask for a guide/helper if necessary.

*Driving Directions:*
Easiest 2 ways to enter Alameda:
From the south: Exit 880 northbound at High Street. Turn left. Cross the bridge and continue on High until you reach Central Avenue. Right at Central and follow about 2.25 miles to just past Webster Street (See Below for common directions)

From the North, you may wish to take the Webster Tube (accessible via Webster Street in Oakland), which will enter Alameda on Webster Street. Follow that until you reach Central Ave (about a mile) and turn Right. Continue on Central a couple blocks (See Below for common directions):

There are three other bridges that lead into Alameda, all of which can connect you to Central Avenue. Let us know if you need assistance, or Map from your location to 620 Central Avenue. (See Below for common directions)

(You will find an entrance to McKay just a short way northwest of Webster at the Crab Cove sign at 620 Central Avenue. Turn left at McKay and follow to end. You may be able to park in the parking lot for the Visitors Center on the left, about 2/3 of the way down the road. (Parking lot may be $5 charge.)  Or park on the street and walk through the parking lot, about 350 steps to the ‘SeaWind’ entrance to the beach. There will be a colorful CAYA signifier.).

If you have any questions, please let us know. We look forward to sharing this ritual with you!”
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Have an Active, Empowered, Spiritual, Festive Week!

Molly Blue Dawn

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