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, September 3, 2013

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, September 4, 2013

The Neuroscience of Magic, Spell Casting with the Light and Dark of the Moon, Freddie Mercury’s Birthday, Exploratorium After Dark: Transformation, Dark of the Moon Practice for Hermes and Hekate, Macbeth at Fort Point, What Every Girl Should Know, AROUSAL and The Lover, Clausen House Art Show, Mini Herbal MIxology Course, Stirring the Cauldron: A Roundtable Discussion, Downtown Benicia Ghost Walk, Future Creatures, King Tut Festival, The Shakespeare Bug, Sebastopol Cajun Zydeco Festival, ManulFest, Archery - Try It!, Shal, Bella Notte - Italian Night at the Rite, Hoot and Howl, Scofield’s Cowboy Campfire, Camp Fire Program, The Empress of India Ball, Willits Kinetic Carnivale, Renaissance Tudor Fayre, Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival, The King Stag, Solano Stroll, Temple of Aphrodite, Antique Autos at History Park, The Drunken Botanist, Tibetan Medicine Lecture, Berkeley Morris Workshop, National Heirloom Exposition, Tibetan Astrology Lecture, CAYA Public Service Day at Alameda County Community Food Bank, The Secrets Of Laughter
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The Neuroscience of Magic
with Adam Gazzaley, UCSF Neuroscientist
and Robert Strong, the Comedy Magician
A production of Wonderfest and Ask a Scientist
Wednesday, September 4, 7:00-9:00PM
SoMa StrEat Food Park, 428 11th Street, San Francisco
Free

“From ancient conjurers to quick-handed con artists to big ticket Las Vegas illusionists, magicians throughout the ages have been expertly manipulating human attention and perception to dazzle and delight us (or scare us, or steal our watches). Of course you know that the phenomena of cognitive and sensory illusions are responsible for the ‘magic’ of a magic trick, but you've got to admit it still kind of freaks you out when some some guy in a top hat defies the laws of nature right in front of your eyes. Come meet neuroscientist Adam Gazzaley and magician Robert Strong as they team up to demonstrate how magicians use our brains as their accomplices in effecting the impossible - and to explain what scientists can learn about the brain by studying the methods and techniques of magic. This event is presented in partnership with Ask a Scientist SF.

Our venue is as exciting as our topic. Surrounded by a diverse convoy of gourmet food trucks, we will gather in the enclosed heart of Streat Food Park.”
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Spell Casting with the Light and Dark of the Moon  
with Didi
Wednesday, September 4, 7:30-9:00PM,
and seven more Wednesdays
Serpent's Kiss, 2015 N Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, 831-423-5477
$25 per workshop
For more information or to register, please call Didi at 831-423-5477

“Spell Casting by the light and dark of the Moon - using the Moon’s energy to enhance your workings. Presented by Didi
Nine workshops designed to enrich your knowledge of how to use the power of the Moon to enhance your spell crafting.

Workshop 3:
Which types of workings which are done with the dark of the moon and the light of the full moon .

$25 per workshop - cash only please.  Cash payment accepted the night of workshop.”
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Freddie Mercury’s Birthday
Thursday, September 5

Put on your craziest hat and pay tribute to this avatar of my own patron God!
2011 tribute video:
Best Google Doodle Evar!!!!!

If you want to get him a gift, please make a donation in his name to one of these charities:

Or have even more fun and raise money by becoming Freddie for a day! http://www.freddieforaday.com

(You could be Mercury for a Day, but it’s just not the same...)

Lover of Life, Singer of Songs!
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Exploratorium After Dark: Transformation
Thursday, September 5, 6:00-10:00PM, and the first Thursday of each month
Exploratorium, Pier 15, San Francisco
$15, 18 and over

“After Dark: Transformation

Many of nature’s transformations, like caterpillars turning into butterflies, are easy to see. But a closer look at the world reveals that matter is constantly moving from one state to another, and myriad processes are at work to transform reality as we know it. Explore the power of change and the elegant ways our world grows and evolves at After Dark: Transformation.

Not a theater, cabaret, or gallery, Exploratorium's After Dark contains aspects of all three. Each evening showcases a different topic - from music to sex to electricity - but all include a cash bar and film screenings, plus an opportunity to play with our hundreds of hands-on exhibits.”
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Dark of the Moon Practice for Hermes and Hekate
with Sam Webster
Thursday, September 5, gather at 8:00PM, Ceremony begins at 8:15PM,
and each month within the three day Dark Moon window
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
Donations welcome
“Sam Webster (founder of the Open Source Order of the Golden Dawn, author of Tantric Thelema, and Priest of Hermes and Hekate) hosts an open Dark of the Moon practice at The Sacred Well each month, making offerings to Hermes and Hekate. The large wooden representation of Hermes, classically called a Herm, was consecrated and worshipped at PantheaCon 2013 by Pagans, Magickians, and spiritual practitioners from many different backgrounds in a large ceremony that drew heavily on classical Greek material. The Herm now resides at the Sacred Well, and each month we gather to continue this sacred work with Dark Moon ritual for Hermes and Hekate, who were frequently honored at the crossroads together in ancient Greece. The practice that Sam shares in this circle is one he has maintained without fail since the Dark Moon of January 1992.

Study with Sam and more formal training in the Priestcraft of Hermes for those who desire to keep this rite are available. Please speak with Sam about this directly when you attend.”
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Macbeth at Fort Point
presented by We Players
Thursday-Sunday, September 5-8, 6:00PM
Fort Point, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, 999 Marine Drive, San Francisco
$60

“Macbeth at Fort Point
Co-directed by Ava Roy and John Hadden, Produced by Lauren D. Chavez and Ava Roy

Blood will have blood.

We Players remounts our epic production of Macbeth at Fort Point (first produced in 2008). Multiple performance trajectories wind through the dark stone corridors, narrow passageways, expansive brick casemates, and inner chambers of the fort. On the parade ground, in the direct onslaught of the billowing fog and relentless wind, the witches work their charms. The Golden Gate bridge soars overhead, the city skyline flickers – join us for a full sensory immersion into Macbeth’s Scotland as it collides with Civil War era and modern day San Francisco. In collaboration with the National Park Service, We Players will engage the stories embedded in the northernmost tip of San Francisco with performance, visual art, and education programs in fall 2013.

Regular Performances $60: September 5 Opening, Friday-Sunday, September 6-October 6
Discounted Thursday Performances $45: September 12, 19, 26 and October 3

Looking for a less expensive ticket? Add your name to our rush tickets announce list.

Prepare yourself for the sound and fury of the elements… Fort Point is a very cold place. Long underwear, down jackets, windbreakers, hats and gloves are recommended.

You will be on your feet throughout the 3 hour event, and navigating narrow passageways, spiraling stone staircases and dark chambers. If you have any mobility disabilities that prevent you from climbing stairs, please call us. If you want to limit your stair climbing, be sure to state so on your registration form.

There are no bathrooms within the Fort. Provisions exist for emergencies, but in the absence of such circumstances, the doors of the Fort will remain sealed for the duration - once we go in, we’re in.

We will offer tea and snacks at a few places to keep you fueled.

We Players does not recommend bringing children less than 12 years old. Parts of the Fort are dark and creepy, it is COLD and DAMP, and there is a good deal of violence in this play. Please be aware of this when deciding whether or not to bring children.

No cameras or recording devices allowed.

No refunds. No exchanges. Please choose your dates carefully.

Questions? Call 415-547-0189 or email reservations@weplayers.org
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What Every Girl Should Know
Thursday-Sunday, September 5-8,
Thursday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 7:00PM
playing through October 13
Impact Theatre at La Val's Subterranean, 1834 Euclid Avenue, Berkeley
Previews Thursday-Friday, September 5-6 $10
Thursdays and Sundays $17 in advance, $20 at the door
Fridays and Saturdays $20 in advance, $25 at the door

“What Every Girl Should Know
Written by Monica Byrne
Directed by Tracy Ward
Choreographed by Erika Chong Shuch

In 1914, four teen girls are thrown together in a New York reformatory. Within the walls of their small room, together they discover their sexuality and personal power as they reveal the horrifying events that led each to that dormitory room. Developing rituals to connect with an unorthodox patron saint, Anne, Joan, Theresa, and Lucy open up an exciting and dangerous realm in which they take on new identities and exact revenge fantasies - while back in their room, a revelation pushes them toward real-life rebellion.

Since 1996 Impact Theatre has spoken to a new generation of theatregoers and longtime enthusiasts alike who want to see something fresh and fearless on stage. Our audience ranges from students to professionals to seniors, all of whom share a taste for exciting, unpretentious theatre that doesn’t conform to traditional assumptions of what constitutes high culture.

Impact ensures the continued strength of American theatre by
featuring new plays by emerging playwrights
producing vital, contemporary spins on classic drama
engaging new audiences
fostering the development of Bay Area theatremakers

Impact shows compel, provoke, and inspire, at prices everyone can afford.”
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AROUSAL and The Lover
two plays presented by Virago Theatre
Thursday-Sunday, September 5-8,
Thursday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 2:00PM
Phoenix Theater Annex, 6th Floor, 414 Mason Street, San Francisco
Preview, Thursday, September 5: $10
$25

“AROUSAL, a new play by George Pfirrmann
and The Lover by Harold Pinter

Directed by Chloe Bronzan
Featuring Laura Lundy-Paine and John Steen

AROUSAL
She's a Ukrainian prostitute, he's a virgin with Aspergers Syndrome. Could it be their needs are different? This erotic, charming new comedy from Bay Area playwright George Pfirrmann won Best of Fringe at the 2010 SF Fringe Festival.

The Lover
One of Nobel Prize winner Harold Pinter's most famous and delightful plays, The Lover gives us a sneak-peek into the world of Sarah and Richard, an English married couple with one hell of a sexy secret.

The plays are one-acts performed back-to-back.

SPECIAL EVENTS AFTER THE SHOW!
Friday, September 6th
The Silk Panties Cocktail Party, with music and the Cast!

Hot Friday Night Chats September 13, 20 and 27
Wine, chocolate and unprotected conversations. Toys available for purchase from Good Vibrations

Saturday, September 28
Closing Night Wine and Cheese Party with the cast and director, hosted by Blacksmith Cellars”
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Clausen House Art Show
Friday, September 6, 6:00-8:00PM
Clausen House, 650 Grand Avenue, Oakland
Free admission

“Clausen House is a non-profit organization that serves developmentally disabled adults in Oakland.  

The show will exhibit works by the Clausen House Artists and Instructors.  Refreshments provided.”
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Mini Herbal MIxology Course
with Elevated Spirits
September 6, 6:00-9:00PM
Homestead Apothecary, 486 49th Street, Oakland
Free

“Elevated Spirits will be offering an interactive mini mixology course in front of Homestead Apothecary for Temescal Alley's first Friday extravaganza! Come out and learn (and taste) medicinal herb infused cocktails!”
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Stirring the Cauldron: A Roundtable Discussion
with Elayne Lockhart
Friday, September 6, 7:00-8:30PM, and the first Friday of every month
The Mystic Dream, 1437 N Broadway, Walnut Creek, 925-933-2342
Free

“Join us on the first Friday of each month for a round table discussion. Each month a topic is selected in regards to paganism, witchcraft, or the esoteric arts. This is a moderated group; strong discussion is welcomed, however respect for diverse opinion and tolerance of other people's beliefs is a must.

Elayne Lockhart is a 4th generation witch living in the East Bay, where she works to educate the public on paganism and the esoteric arts. She has appeared in various live and print media regarding witchcraft and is the former moderator of Witchy Wednesdays. You can reach Elayne by phone at 925-935-3808, by e-mail at elaynelockhart@yahoo.com.”
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Downtown Benicia Ghost Walk
Friday, September 6, 8:00PM, and the first and third Friday of each month
meet at 90 First Street, Benicia
$25, reservations required.
Ages 10-16 must be accompanied by adult.
For more information, please call 707-745-9791

“Paranormal history of Downtown Benicia are revealed on this exciting, interactive and fun Ghost Walk led by paranormal investigator Devin Sisk. Each tour is limited to 20 people and lasts approximately 2 hours, depending on what entity you encounter along the way! Walking shoes and flashlight recommended. No children under ten years of age permitted on tours. Ages 10-16 must be accompanied by adult. $25 per person. Prepaid reservations required by calling 707-745-9791.”
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Future Creatures
Friday-Saturday, September 6-7, 8:00PM
The Imaginists, 461 Sebastopol Avenue, Santa Rosa
Sliding Scale $10-$20

“The Imaginists present Future Creatures
an original puppet show by Catherine Sieck and Emile Rosewater

Guarantee a seat by purchasing your tickets in advance

The residents of a small town are building a monument to solidify their legacy and inspire future generations. In the surrounding woods, a creature begins to shape its environment in a very different way.

Told through a combination of shadow puppetry, trash puppetry and costume puppetry, Future Creatures is a meditation on the ways in which our creations shape the world.

This show is the first incarnation of a traveling puppet show that we will be touring across the United States starting in September! As Future Creatures is a reflection of our experience growing up in Santa Rosa, the traveling show will attempt to reflect the places it passes through, gathering stories that illuminate different perspectives and experiences of people living in the United States.

As well as being a fundraiser to get this show moving, this event will also benefit the Imaginists!”
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King Tut Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 6-8
Friday 5:00-10:00PM, Saturday 10:00AM-10:00PM, Sunday 12:00-6:00PM
Saint Antonius Coptic Church, 2500 Hansen Road, Hayward
parking at Hayward High School, 1633 East Avenue, Hayward
Free

"We invite you to join us at the Annual King Tut Festival, for a glimpse into one of the most storied and ancient civilizations in the world.

The Festival will be filled with
Delicious foods
Ornate arts and crafts available for purchase
Historical and cultural information, and more.

There are kids activities, senior discounts are available, and best of all, ADMISSION IS FREE! It’s great entertainment for the entire family!

Mark your calendars, and don’t miss the royal treatment you’ll receive at the 2013 King Tut Festival!”
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The Shakespeare Bug
presented by Killing My Lobster
Friday-Sunday, September 6-8, 8:00PM,
playing through September 29
Stage Werx, 446 Valencia, San Francisco
Previews $15

“Killing My Lobster Presents: The Shakespeare Bug
In Association with Playground: A New Play by Ken Slattery, award-winning author of Truffaldino Says No

Join us for this world premiere comedic play written by award-winning playwright, Ken Slattery, and directed by award-winning director, M. Graham Smith. (San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle winner of Best Original Script, Best Director of Truffaldino Says No)

Something's rotten in the city of San Francisco. A modern-day Hamlet is forced to play out the story of his namesake when his eccentric family contracts a mysterious illness on Opening Night. Thrust into a world where actions are amplified to Shakespearean proportions, Hamlet finds himself caught in a revolving door of tragedy and comedy. He is forced to answer the question: If all the world's a stage, how does he know what role to play?

Thursdays-Sundays, September 6-29
Previews: September 6-8 and 12-13
Opening Night: Saturday, September 14”
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Sebastopol Cajun Zydeco Festival
Saturday, September 7, 11:00AM-7:00PM
Ives Park, 7400 Willow Street, Sebastopol
Adults $25, Children under 12 Free

“Huge shaded wooden dance floor under the redwoods
Downtown Sebastopol in lush Ives Park
Gator sausage, Gumbo, BBQ, Ice Cream, Watermelon,
Shave Ice, Beer, Wine, Margaritas, Hurricanes
Oyster Shooters!

World class Zydeco Music.”
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ManulFest
Pallas Cat Fundraiser
Saturday, September 7, Noon-Midnight
Isis Oasis, 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, 707-857-4747
$40 all day and night performances, includes two meals
$15 after 7:00PM, live music only

Manulfest13 is happening September 7 at Isis Oasis

featuring live music, poetry, djs, plays by:
Jill Tracy, Gitane Demone with Rikk Agnew, Protea, Sublime Friction, Shadow Circus Creature Theatre, Retribution Body, Baron Rubenbauer, DJ Death Boy, Rain Graves, Serena Toxicat, Sumiko Saulson, DJ Fact.50, missFAILed, Feral Fox Burlesque, Lilith Babellon

ManulFest is a multi-media event in Geyserville, CA dedicated to the Pallas' cat, a fluffy feline phenomenon native to Mongolia, Russia, and surrounding areas.

This small wild cat's fierce spirit has motivated the art and entertainment world into a whirlwind of furry fury, positive cattiness, and creative inspiration to spread awareness, adoration, and emulation.

Artists from both coasts of the US come together this year to celebrate this lesser known, near threatened species, with music, poetry, puppetry, ritual, fashion, ‘cattoo’, theater, paintings, tarot, food and much more. The full-day, family-friendly event takes place in an Ancient Egyptian style retreat center complete with a functioning temple and a sanctuary that is home to ocelots, servals, peacocks, and other exotic cats and birds. A portion of the proceeds will benefit them. We are dismayed to say there will be no Manuls on the premises, however, you can take a tour of the animal enclosures at 5pm and meet the wild spotted and feathered Isis Oasis residents!

The idea of a Manul themed festival grew out of an obsession with Pallas' cats known as Manulomania. Our goal is to raise funds to donate to Save Manul and/or the Manuls at the EFBC Feline Conservation Center.”
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Archery - Try It!
Saturday, September 7, sessions at 12:30PM and 1:30PM
Sienna Ranch, 3232 Deer Hill Road, Lafayette
$20, all equipment provided
ages 8 - Adult
pre-registration required

“Children have FUN doing archery.  Additionally, archery has proven to increase attention, self-confidence, self-control, listening skills, and ability to follow directions.   

Archery is a sport where children can experience complete acceptance, feel safe, and receive reward and recognition.  Archery is not only a life-long skill, but a wholesome activity which can be enjoyed by anyone.   Many families are discovering archery as a quality way to spend time together.

Try-it! Days
Come to any of our one-time Try-It! classes.  Try-It! classes are $20- all equipment provided.  Maximum of 8 archers at a time on Try-It! Days.”
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Shal
film screening
Saturday, September 7, 5:00-7:00PM
Silk Road House, 1944 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-981-0700

“In the spring of 2011, as many of us should remember, Silk Road House presented Kelin [the Daughter-in-Law] (Kazakhfilm, 2009), the first film in the trilogy by Ermek Tursunov (b. 1961), the writer, director (and in the past a well-known sportsman), - the unique Kazakh film, which has no dialogue. Now we’re going to see the second film in the trilogy, Shal [the Old Man] (Kazakhfilm, 2012), being shot after Hemingway’s novel The Old Man and the Sea, a survival story as if rewritten for our days in Kazakhstan. ‘Hemingway a la Kazakh,’ as Tursunov once labeled it. Only instead of an aging fisherman, a giant marlin, sharks, and the sea, here we have an old Kazakh man, sheep, wolves, and the steppe.
Critics call this film a definite landmark of Kazakh cinematography: they point out its epic scale and the distinctive style that reminds of a deep parable speaking of something that is common and essential to all humankind.
Director: Ermek Tursunov. Writers: Ermek Tursunov and Maulen Ashimbaev. Cinematography: Murat Aliyev. Artistic director: Bopesh Zhandaev. Original music: Kuat Shildebayev. Sound technician and music director: Sergei Lobanov.  First assistant director: Naryn Igilik. Visual effects producer: Damir Ainikeev. Producer: Aleksandr Vovnianko.
Cast: Erbulat Toguzakov, named the best actor of 2012 (in fact, he was just an unskilled laborer at the studio) plays the Old Man and Orynbek Moldakhan plays his grandson, lovingly called by a nickname ‘Shaitanbek’ (lit. ‘a little devil‘).

Running time: 102 minutes.  In Kazakh with English subtitles.

The screening will be introduced and commented on by Alma Kunanbaeva.

Silk Road House events are sponsored by the Silkroad Foundation.”
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Bella Notte - Italian Night at the Rite
Saturday, September 7, 6:00PM
Oakland Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
$25

“The Oakland Scottish Rite Ladies Club is hosting Bella Notte, an evening where a little of Italy is transported to the Scottish Rite Center. The evening will feature an array of Italian epicurian delights and live music with a guest appearance by the California Revels Solstice Ensemble. Tickets are $25 and proceeds benefit the Oakland Scottish Rite Childhood Language Center. For tickets or more info call 510-549-3705.”
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Hoot and Howl
Saturday, September 7, 6:00-10:00PM
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, 1300 Senter Road, San Jose
$150, 21+

“What is the Hoot and Howl?
This is a fundraising benefit unlike any other. A secret back entrance to Happy Hollow through Danny’s cave, 3 signature cocktails, private access to the park playgrounds after hours, 7 foodie stations by PSRT, up close animal encounters, complimentary photo booth by The Laugh Box, dancing, bathtub racers, Happy Hollow ‘Lounge’, and a sake bar from Yuki Sushi at the top of the Redwood Lookout. Danny the Dragon and the rollercoaster will be open. All your favorites from last year, plus some new surprises. Leave the kids at home, and party with the animals after dark.

When is the event?
Save the date: it’s Saturday, September 7, 6:00-10:30PM, at the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

Who benefits?
Our animals like to have fun, too, and at Hoot and Howl you can see and purchase special enrichment toys for the animals. In addition to animal enrichment, your donations support many quality programs at Happy Hollow, including conservation efforts on four continents, a science education program aligned with California standards, and one of the oldest puppet theaters in the country. Did you know that Happy Hollow is a nationally accredited zoo with a stellar reputation in the industry? Did you know that Happy Hollow is the FIRST LEED certified GOLD park and zoo in the country? You’re supporting the arts, conservation and species survival when you support Happy Hollow.”
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Scofield’s Cowboy Campfire
Saturday, September 7, 6:00-10:00PM
Red Mule Ranch, Fiddletown (East of Sacramento, in the Gold Country)
directions given upon registration
$45 includes dinner and entertainment

“Scofield’s Cowboy Campfire
Old West Music, Cowboy Poetry, Chuckwagon Dinner

Ron and Marie Scofield are your hosts for an evening of old-time cowcamp entertainment under the stars at the Red Mule Ranch in Fiddletown, California. Enjoy a chuck wagon tri-tip dinner and cowboy music, poetry, and story telling in an 1880s setting. In addition to Ron's traditional brand of old cowboy standards, special guest performers contribute their unique style of western wit, wisdom, satire, and song.

Dinner is served at 6:30PM. Entertainment begins at 7:30PM with a break for intermission and dessert. After lots of music and poetry, it's ‘Happy Trails’ around 10:00PM.

September 7: Old West Trio and McAvoy Layne as the Ghost of Mark Twain

Old West Trio is an acoustic trio based in the foothills of Northern California’s gold country. Members Steve Ide, Leslie Ide, and Steve Johnson perform traditional Western standards, cowboy ballads of every era, and yodeling tunes. You can sing along or simply tap your feet while enjoying their three-part harmony and a trip down memory lane.

For almost two decades now, in over two thousand performances from Leningrad University in Russia to C-Span, McAvoy Layne has survived, and in fact been preeminent, in preserving the wit and wisdom of ‘The Wild Humorist of the Pacific Slope,’ Mark Twain. Says McAvoy, ‘It's like being a Monday through Friday preacher, whose sermon, though not reverently pious, is fervently American.’ McAvoy is the author of the biography, Hooked On Twain, and winner of the Nevada award for excellence in school and library service. He portrays Samuel Clemens in A&E's biography of Mark Twain and in the Discovery Channel's Cronkite Award winning documentary, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The Red Mule Ranch is the right place to soak in the spirit of Mark Twain, and McAvoy brings that spirit to life.”
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Camp Fire Program
Saturday, September 7, 6:30-8:00PM
John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez
Free

“Listen to songs and stories around a campfire this summer during our ranger-led programs

Join the National Park Service for free campfire programs this summer. Program last about 1.5 hours. Rangers will lead the group in songs, skits and stories to celebrate the legacy of John Muir, one of the greatest naturalists and conservationists the United States has ever known.

No reservations are required. Meet at the front gate of the John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Avenue, in Martinez, CA (at the Alhambra Ave. exit off Highway 4). Bring the whole family along with picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and a desire to have a good time.

Rangers will direct you from the gate to the fire ring, located under a small grove of redwood trees. If it rains heavily, the program will be canceled.”
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The Empress of India Ball
presented by PEERS
Saturday, September 7,
Doors Open 6:45PM, Dance Lesson: 7:00PM, Dancing Begins: 8:00PM
Masonic Lodge of San Mateo, 100 N Ellsworth Avenue, San Mateo
$20

“Join us for an evening in the British Raj - India during the reign of Queen Victoria, now Empress of India.

Bangers and Mash plays an evening of popular 19th century waltzes, mazurka waltzes, polkas, schottisches, reels, and set dances, including the Star of India Lancers. All set dances will be taught and called. For those wishing either an introduction or a brush-up in Victorian ballroom dance, there will be a pre-ball workshop at 7:00PM. Formal dancing begins at 8:00PM.

Suggested costume is late Victorian evening dress, dress uniform, traditional Indian costume, or a combination of the two. This has, traditionally, been one of our most creative costume events, but , as always, modern evening dress is also perfectly appropriate and costumes are admired, but not required.

At intermission there will be a performance of classical Indian dance by the Madhuri Kishore Kuchipudi School. To learn more about this beautiful art form, see the school's website.

There will be a complimentary buffet of Anglo-Indian snacks. Your potluck contributions are greatly appreciated.“
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Willits Kinetic Carnivale
Saturday-Sunday, September 7-8, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Mendocino County Museum, 400 East Commercial Street, Willits
see website for admission and schedule details

“The Second Annual Willits Kinetic Carnivale, September 7-8, 2013
An Amazing Array of Activities for Aficionados of Kinetic Energy and Steam Handcar Races
Grand Ball
Roots of Motive Power
Annual Steam-Up
Kinetic Fly-In
Airport Day
Kinetic Carnivale and Vendor Fair
For more information, please call 707-459-7699 or e-mail Info@KineticCarnivale.com
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Renaissance Tudor Fayre
Saturday-Sunday, September 7-8, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Cameron Park Lake, 2989 Cambridge Road, Cameron Park  (near Folsom)
$12 adults, $8 children 4-12, other discounts available, see website
For more information, please contact Raelynn Debone at 916-223-6725 or raelynn_debone@yahoo.com

“Join the King for a Weekend of Entertainment, Feasting, Arts, Crafts, and Merrymaking!

Fun for Everyone!”
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 7-8, 12:00-5:00PM
Ghirardelli Square and on Beach Street between Larkin and Polk Streets, San Francisco
$20 includes 15 chocolate samples

“Ghirardelli Square will host the 18th Annual Chocolate Festival attracting about 40,000 visitors from the Bay Area and around the world. This family-friendly event features prominent local chefs creating chocolate inventions during cooking demonstrations, live musical entertainment, children’s activities and the popular Earthquake Ice Cream Sundae Eating Contest. Over 30 different booths from local restaurants, bakeries and chocolate companies will provide dessert samples during the two-day event.

Ghirardelli Square hosts several signature events throughout the year to attract both local and tourist business.

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.

All proceeds from the event are donated to Project Open Hand, a non-profit organization that provides food and compassion to people living HIV/AIDS, homebound and critically ill people, as well as seniors in San Francisco.  In 2010 we raised over $60,000 for Project Open Hand.”
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The King Stag
presented by Curtain Theatre
Saturday-Sunday, September 7-8, 2:00PM,
playing through September 8
Old Mill Park Amphitheatre, 375 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley
Free

“The Curtain Theatre - Free Outdoor Theatre in Old Mill Park, Mill Valley, California
presents The King Stag, a comedy of trust, transformation and affairs of the Hart.
by Carlo Gozzi, Translated and Directed by Doyle Ott

This summer the Curtain company is exploring great European theatrical traditions beyond Shakespeare. King Stag is Carlo Gozzi's fairytale masterpiece featuring comic servants, princes and princesses, magicians and magical animals, brought to the stage with masks, puppets and the performance tradition of the commedia dell'arte.

The action follows mismatched lovers, body-snatching villains and one very magical parrot from the palace of the mythical kingdom of Serendippo to the mystical forest of Roncislappe. Will truth triumph? What will be the cost, when true love faces off with wicked magic and corrupt politics?

Free and family friendly!   No reservations.

A limited number of chairs are available, first come, first served. You are also invited to bring your own field chairs or blankets for the hillside. BRING A SWEATER - the park can be cool in the shade even on a warm day. Picnic friendly too!”
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Solano Stroll
Sunday, September 8, 10:00AM-6:00PM
along Solano Avenue in Albany and Berkeley
Free

“Since 1974, Solano Avenue and the twin-cities of Albany and Berkeley have hosted the Solano Avenue Stroll, the East Bay's largest street festival! The Solano Avenue Association invites you to come and see what makes Solano Avenue such a wonderful place. We feature over five hundred vendors including entertainers, food booths, government and non-profit agencies, hand-crafters and more!

Participants and the event guests visit from everywhere throughout California! (Some even from out of the state.)

The fun begins at 10:00AM with the opening of Solano Avenue businesses and Stroll booths and the kick-off is the theme parade with about 75 groups.

After the parade, you can visit one of 50 entertainers, 50 food booths, 150 government and non-profit agencies, 150 juried arts and crafters, state of the art mechanical rides, and, not to mention the unique and popular professional services, restaurants, and shops already here on Solano Avenue.

Come join us for an afternoon in the sun, brought to you by the Cities of Albany and Berkeley; and with the help of our generous sponsors, SAA members, and volunteer board of directors.

This alcohol and *tobacco free event promotes the unique traits of Solano Avenue, helping local businesses, local artists, and community organizations to thrive by exposure and fundraising. The Solano Stroll solidifies community spirit; neighbors find old friends, and families enjoy an afternoon in the sun. (*Both the Cities of Albany and Berkeley have strict smoking ordinances.)

Free shuttles, AC Transit and BART: A free Solano Avenue Stroll shuttle will run 10:00AM-7:00PM from the North Berkeley BART station to Marin Avenue (where it will travel back/forth from San Pablo Avenue to the Alameda).

Ride your bike and enjoy free valet parking at two locations on Solano Avenue, Wells Fargo Bank on the east end of Solano, and by the Sophia Cafe on the west end. Thank you to the East Bay Bicycle Coalition and the Albany ‘Strollers and Rollers’ for continuing to provide this wonderful accommodation.”
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Temple of Aphrodite
Sunday, September 8, 11:00AM-12:00PM, and the second Sunday of each month
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
Donations gratefully accepted

“Men and women of all backgrounds are invited to participate in monthly rituals and activities dedicated to the benevolent Lady of Love.

Theme for September: Astronomy of Venus with Volpe

These services help you tap into the ever-flowing fountain of love within, and to connect that love with your personal practices, work, relationships, and activities in the world.”
to open to the adventure of life as a witch.”
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13th Annual Antique Autos at History Park
Sunday, September 8, 11:00AM-5:00PM
San Jose History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
Free admission, parking $6

“Largest Annual Antique Auto Show on the West Coast

The 13th Annual Antique Autos in History Park presented by the Santa Clara Valley Model T Ford Club and History San Jose will take place on Sunday, September 8 from 11:00AM to 4:00PM. This event fills History Park with 200 antique autos, fire equipment, bicycles and motorcycles of all makes from the late 1800s to 1945.

This year we are planning dual featured vehicles; 100 year plus orphan autos and antique Rolls-Royces and Bentleys.

Also located on the grounds will be the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association. There will be antique crafts demonstrated and antique collectibles displayed. The Toot Sweet Jazz Band will provide music from noon to 1:30PM. And food is available from Peggy Sue’s Restaurant and O’Brien’s Cafe. Activities provided for kids. Admission to this event is free to everyone.

For more information about the event contact Allan Greenberg at allang@pacbell.net or call 408-997-0879.”
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The Drunken Botanist: The Plants That Create the World's Great Drinks
with Amy Stewart
featuring cocktails from St. George Spirits
Sunday, September 8, 3:00-6:00PM
Botanical Garden at UC Berkeley, 200 Centennial Drive, Berkeley
$75
Register online, or by calling 510-642-7082, or by e-mailing gardenprograms@berkeley.edu

“The UC Botanical Garden is pleased to host author Amy Stewart who is back with her fourth New York Times bestseller, The Drunken Botanist: The Plants That Create the World’s Great Drinks. Join her for an exploration of the dizzying array of plants that humans have, through ingenuity, inspiration, and sheer desperation, contrived to transform into alcohol. From the sugar cane that gives us Caribbean rum, to the juniper berries that flavor gin, to the odd and obscure fruits that flavor Italian liqueurs, Amy Stewart takes a most intoxicating perspective on the leaves, bark, seeds, roots, flowers, and fruit imbibed around the world. It's the compelling mixture of history, science, literature and humor that Stewart is known for.

You will also enjoy a unique walk through the Garden in the lovely evening hours looking at intoxicating plants with Amy Stewart and Garden docents.

And! Special guests include St. George Spirits who will be serving up delicious artisanal cocktails.”
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Tibetan Medicine Lecture
with Dr. Yeshi Dorjee
Sunday, September 8, 6:00-8:00PM
Gyuto Foundation, 6401 Bernhard Avenue, Richmond
$15

Holistic Approach to Tibetan Medicine and the Role of Diet and Behavior in
Maintaining Good Health

Tibetan medicine is a science, art, and philosophy that provides a holistic approach to health care. It is a science because its principles are enumerated in a systematic and logical framework based upon an understanding of the body and its relationship to the environment. It is an art because it uses diagnostic techniques (pulse and urine examinations and questioning) based on the creativity, insight, subtlety and compassion of the medical practitioner. And, it is a philosophy because it embraces the key Buddhist principles of altruism, karma, and ethics.

Dr. Yeshi Dorjee was born in 1961. He completed his Higher Secondary Education from Central Schools for Tibetans in Dalhousie, India. Thereafter, he joined Tibetan Children's School in Dharamsala as he wanted to pursue further studies.

In 1982, he joined Tibetan Medical and Astrological College in Dharamsala to study Tibetan Medicine, and completed his Tibetan medical studies in 1987. Since 1988, he has served as the Resident Doctor in various Tibetan communities in India providing health consultations and treatments to Tibetan patients as well as Indian and foreign patients.

He received his Medical Degree in 1999 and after undergoing intensive courses and examinations. He has officially as well as unofficially visited several countries to provide health consultations and health talks. He is currently serving as the Resident Doctor at our branch clinic in Mcleod Gunj, Dharamsala, India.”

Thanks to Rabbit for letting me know about this event!
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Berkeley Morris Workshop
Tuesday, September 10, 7:30PM, and one more Tuesday
Christ Church of Berkeley, 2138 Cedar Street, Berkeley
Free

"Every year Berkeley Morris hosts a series of FREE workshops in morris and related dance traditions. No experience is needed, and all are welcome! Workshops are taught by members of Berkeley Morris, or friends of ours from the local (or not so local) dance community. Come to one, or attend all four. Join us afterwards at the Jupiter Pub at 2181 Shattuck Avenue in downtown Berkeley.

The particular styles and dances taught vary from year to year. If you attended last year, come back for something new!

Workshops for 2013 will be held on the following dates (all are Tuesdays beginning at 7:30PM):
September 10
September 17

Come and learn the basics of Morris Dancing at a series of free workshops in Berkeley. Each Tuesday we will teach a different variation and begin at the beginning, so come to as many as you want.  No partner needed; this is danced in a group rather than with a partner.

Morris Dance is a traditional English performance dating back hundreds of years, typically done in the spring by a team of dancers and musicians who have practised together over the winter months.  Berkeley Morris was founded in 1977. We perform throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Our team members cover a wide range of locations, professions, ages and genders.”

These are the Morris Dancers who make the sun come up at Tilden Park on Beltane!
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National Heirloom Exposition
Tuesday-Thursday, September 10-12, 9:00AM-9:00PM
Sonoma County Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa
Adults $10 for one day, $25 for all 3 days, children 17 and under free

“The National Heirloom Exposition is a not-for-profit event centered around the pure food movement, heirloom vegetables, and anti-GMO activism. Our inaugural event held mid-September 2011 in Santa Rosa, California drew more than 10,000 people from around the country and beyond. With more than 70 speakers and 250 natural food vendors, the event was the largest gathering in pure food history! The Heirloom Expo has gained incredible interest among home growers, farmers, school groups and the general public - so much so that it is being called the World’s Fair of the pure food movement!”
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Tibetan Astrology Lecture
with Mr. Monlam Yeshi
Wednesday, September 11, 6:00-8:00PM
Gyuto Foundation, 6401 Bernhard Avenue, Richmond
$15

“Tibetan astrology has two parts: astronomy and elemental astrology. Astronomy being a part of Shri Kalachakra Tantra, explains the twelve zodiac houses, planets, and the two shadowy planets of Rahu and Ketu.

The Tibetan calendar is lunar based and consists of 360 days in a year. Arising Vowel System is also a part of the astronomy and assigns a different vowel to each of the days of the month, and calculates its effect on individuals and nations. Elemental astrology explains the five elements, the twelve-year cycle, eight trigrams, and nine magic square numbers for casting the horoscopes and so on.

Mr. Monlam Yeshi was born in Gojo in the eastern part (Kham) of Tibet and received all formal schooling in India. He came to India in 1992 and went to Tibetan Homes School in Mussoorie, a hill station in the northern part of India, and graduated as an arts or humanity student in 2003. Soon after he gained admission to the Tibetan Medical and Astrological college as a student in Traditional Tibetan Astrology through a competitive entrance examination with many other candidates.

After five years of rigorous study in the Traditional Tibetan Astro-science with a one year internship, he attained in Traditional Tibetan Astrology and Astronomy, Yeshi was appointed as a full-fledged astrological practitioner in the Astro-department of Men-tsee-khang in 2009 and since then, he has been working in this department. He has cast numerous detailed horoscopes both in English and Tibetan as well as many other astrological calculations like yearly predictions, compatibility charts, astrological calculations for sickness and minor calculations. In addition, he prepared the annual Tibetan Almanac for the year 2018 during the last year of his college.

He has also participated in tours for exhibition and introduction of astrology in many places around northern India and also has given a few brief lectures on Traditional Tibetan Astrology in schools and for elder people as well. He has also done daily predictions in English for a TV channel called Sadhana and daily predictions in Tibetan online on many occasions.”

Thanks to Rabbit for letting me know about this event!
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Share the Abundance of the Harvest Season with Come As You Are Coven!

CAYA Public Service Day at Alameda County Community Food Bank
Saturday, September 14, 1:00-4:00PM
Alameda County Community Food Bank, 7900 Edgewater Drive, Oakland
Please RSVP to Molly Blue Dawn at mollmac@gmail.com

CAYA’s Public Service Project for Autumn 2013 will include an afternoon shift helping out at the Alameda County Community Food Bank.  In the spirit of gratitude for and eagerness to share our abundance during the harvest season, we will help to sort and pack donated produce to be distributed to those in need of extra nourishment this year.  Please join us!

If you would like to join our team, please contact me at mollmac@gmail.com.

CAYA is also doing a Virtual Food Drive!

The Alameda County Community Food Bank has has gratefully received CAYA’s donations of canned food gathered and blessed at our Festival of Heart and Harvest.  An even better way to support the Food Bank is through our Virtual Food Drive.  The blessings of Heart and Harvest will also extend to our virtual donations, and will multiply them four-fold!

On the CAYA Virtual Food Drive Page, you can “go shopping” and choose what will be bought with your donation of money, or you can choose any amount you wish to donate.  Through the magic of bulk purchasing, every dollar donated this way transforms into $4 worth of food!

CAYA’s Virtual Food Drive page:

Please share this link on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and anywhere else where magically generous people can be found!

CAYA’s Virtual Food Drive will be running through the end of September, so whenever you have some extra abundance to share this Autumn, please “go shopping” with CAYA and help us to reach our goal of $500 - which will, of course, buy $2,000 worth of food for those in need of extra abundance this season!
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The Secrets Of Laughter
Certified Laughter Yoga Leader Training
with Annie Goglia
Saturday-Sunday, September 21-22, 9:30AM-5:30-PM
private home, Rockridge, Oakland, exact address given upon registration
Register by September 14

“Spread the Joy! Become a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader!

Would you like to:
Attract more joy and laughter in your life?
Promote health and well-being through laughter?
Learn skills that will improve your leadership abilities and social life?
Know how to use laughter as a way to improve quality of life for yourself and others?
Spread peace through the magic of laughter?
Start your own laughter club?
Learn how to lead laughter yoga workshops for parties, the elderly, businesses, organizations, schools?
Answer yes to any of these questions? Then this fun and useful workshop is for you!  
Pay (postmarked) by September 14 - check $345 or Paypal $350
                      
Feel free to email or call me with questions.
annie@lifefire.com, Home: 510-655-1433 and Cell 510-282-1279
Looking forward to lots of laughter and fun with you!

Warmly and in shared laughter
Annie”
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Have a Kinetic, Stirring, Transformation, Festive Week!

Molly Blue Dawn

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