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, November 26, 2013

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for the Week starting Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Indigenous People's Sunrise Gathering, Troilus and Cressida, Red n Blues Concert, Mentalist Jay Alexander, Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk, The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!, A Silver Bells Holiday at Ainsley House, QED, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, Dancing in the Sacred Grove: Celebrating Sacred Land in the African Tradition, Karbi Ritual Dances and Ceremonies: An Audio-Visual Insight, Beyondananda and Beyond: A Two-Man One-Man Show, These Are Not My Hands and Beat Poet Toby Lurie, Carlos Reyes In Concert, World Aids Day, Conscious Goddess: Temple Service, African Dance Song and Drumming, dhyana Center Member and Guest Appreciation Party, Conscious Goddess: Priestesshood in the New Age, The Witch's Garden, Belly Dance Student Showcase, Celebrating the Body: A Cosmic Mass, Dark of the Moon Practice for Hermes and Hekate, Irish Christmas in America, Belrose Holiday Tea Party, Standing with the Watershed, Celebrate Mary in all Her Forms, NorCal Trans Partners Family and Friends Support Group, Herbal Immunity
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Indigenous People's Sunrise Gathering
Thursday, November 28, 4:45AM
Alcatraz - boat leaves from Pier 33, San Francisco
$14

“Please note that there are no regular Alcatraz tours offered on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2013. All participants in the Indigenous People’s Sunrise Gathering must return to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing on the last boat, which will depart Alcatraz Island at approximately 8:45AM.

This is a one day event. Boats will depart Pier 33 every 15 minutes from 4:45-6:00AM. The Indigenous People’s Sunrise Gathering is a commemoration of the 1969-71 occupation of Alcatraz by the ‘Indians of All Tribes’.

Purchase and print tickets on the web. Tickets can also be purchased by calling 415-981-7625 or from the Ticket Booth at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. The ticket booth opens at 4:15AM on Thursday, November 28, 2013. Tickets are $14 per person. Children under 5 years of age are free.

There is absolutely no sale of merchandise of any kind allowed on Alcatraz Island, at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, or on the sidewalk outside of Alcatraz Landing.”
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Troilus and Cressida
Thursday-Sunday, November 28-December 1,
Thursday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 7:00PM
playing through December 15
Impact Theatre at La Val's Subterranean, 1834 Euclid, Berkeley, 510-224-5744
see website for ticket details

“It is the seventh year of the Trojan War. Everyone is battle-weary, and no one is really sure that the war is still worth pursuing. In the Greek camp, troop morale is at an all-time low as King Agamemnon can’t persuade Achilles to get off his ass and fight. In Troy, royal family members debate whether they should just give Helen back to the Greeks and be done with the whole thing. And yet, love still flowers: Trojan Prince Troilus pines for Cressida, who plays hard to get until she can no longer deny her desire for him. But just as they finally come together, a political trade rips them apart. In a world where everyone speaks of honor but few actually embody it, the play exposes the callous ways in which the petty whims of the privileged few endanger the lives of the millions beneath them.

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.”
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Red n Blues Concert
presented by Brava Theater  and AIM West present
as part of the Second Annual Native American Day
Friday, November 29, 7:00-11:00PM
Brava Theater, 2781 24th Street, San Francisco
$12 in advance, $15 at door

“A benefit for AIM-WEST featuring three irresistible Indian bands!

Dr. T and the Blues Criminals
and back by popular demand Paul and Rich Steward of Twice as Good
and from the Oakland flatland The Bobby Young Project
Opening the show is guitarist
Daniel Rodriguez

There will be raffles, refreshments, vendors, and much more!”
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Mentalist Jay Alexander
Friday, November 29, 8:00PM
Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley
$25 in advance, $30 at the door

“An Evening of Comedy, Magic, Psychology and Lies

Step right up and see world-renowned Mentalist Jay Alexander as he hits the stage (for the fourth year of sold out shows at Throckmorton Theatre) with more energy than the electric company on Christmas eve.  This unique and hilarious show is regularly requested across the nation by celebrities from Robin Williams to the Rolling Stones.

You don't have to be famous to enjoy the show. Jay gives everyone in the audience the celebrity treatment as he takes them on a journey of impossibilities, laughter and wonder with his world-class magic, comedy and mind reading. Jay doesn't claim to be psychic, but when you leave you will question everything you know.

Buy a ticket today to find out why people come to see the Jay Alexander Show year after year. You will buy a ticket for the entire seat, but you will only need the edge!

Jay Alexander is the great grandson of the legendary vaudeville performer, Gentleman Ben Darwin. As a child, Jay found a trunk in his grandparents attic filled with magic and escapes. His interest in magic took off from there. At the age of fourteen, Jay was honored to be the youngest recipient of the Society of American Magicians Gold Medal of Honor. For over 25 years, Jay has lived his passion of creating unique live entertainment.”
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Downtown Martinez Ghost Walk
Friday, November 29, 8:00PM, and the fourth and fifth Friday of every month
tour starts at Main Street Martinez, 649 Main Street,  Suite 106, Martinez
$25

“Take the 90 minute guided walking tour through Historic Downtown Martinez to discover the hidden past, little known facts and tales of days-gone-by.

Tours conducted by Central Valley Paranormal.

Tours are limited to 25 people. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. No children under 12 years allowed. Teens 12-17 years must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable shoes. Bring jacket and wear comfortable clothing.”
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The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!
Friday-Sunday, November 29-December 1, 10:00AM-7:00PM
and every weekend through December 22
Cow Palace Exhibition Halls, 2600 Geneva Avenue, Daly City
see website for ticket details
Parking fees are $10 per car charged by the Cow Palace
Free shuttle available from Glen Park BART Station

"The bustling streets of London, immortalized for all time by the mighty pen of Charles Dickens, form the living backdrop of your excursion into Christmas Past. You are a living part of a Victorian Christmas card come to life!

A Bay Area tradition since 1970, the Great Dickens Christmas Fair returns to the San Francisco Cow Palace Exhibition Halls for five weekends in 2013, including the Friday after Thanksgiving, from Saturday, November 23 through Sunday, December 22, from 10:00AM 'til 7:00PM.

Created by Ron and Phyllis Patterson, the fair is now produced by Kevin and Leslie Patterson and Red Barn Productions, who continue the family tradition of theatrical excellence through authenticity, participation, and playfulness.

Come wander the lanes of Victorian London, as the glow of twilight settles upon the city, with the scent of pine boughs and freshly baked scones floating in the air and the sound of carolers and holiday merrymakers accompanying your stroll.”

This is one of my favourite Yuletide traditions, and, really, one of my favourite things in the whole wide world.  And don't be fooled into thinking it's not extremely Pagan-friendly just because it's a "Christmas" event. Christmas not Pagan, you say?!  It is too! Especially in a simulated Victorian London reconstructed by Bay Area Faire Geeks.  It's lousy with Pagans, I'm tellin' ya!  Next time you're at PantheaCon, picture the people around you in corsets and/or top hats, and you'll realize they're the same people you saw at Dickens, just dressed more diaphonously...

There is soooo much to do and see (and eat and buy, if you want to spend money...), I heartily recommend going as many times as you possibly can!  With characters from the works of Charles Dickens roaming the streets, as well as historical figures of the Victorian Age (and a few non-Dickensian fictional ones), it's wall-to-wall entertainment.  You can dance and play parlour games at Fezziwig's Warehouse, you can watch various variety acts at the Victoria and Albert Music Hall, you can sing sea shanties with the sailors of Paddy West’s School of Seamanship, you can hobnob with authors, explorers, and inventors at the Adventurer's Club, you can be amazed at the wonders of the Legion Fantastique, you can take child-like glee in meeting Father Christmas, riding a hand-spun carousel, and seeing a Punch and Judy show, you can take adult-like glee in reveling in the naughtiness at Mad Sal's, the wondrous mechanical models of the Dark Garden display windows, and even the extra naughtiness of Saucy French Post Cards.  Delight in watching Scrooge turn from nasty to nice over the course of the day!  Hear Mr. Dickens himself read aloud from A Christmas Carol - spellbinding!

If you drive, plan to carpool, because the Cow Palace charges for parking.  But you don't have to drive, because you can take the free shuttle from BART.  The free shuttle will be operating between Glen Park BART station and the Cow Palace from 10:15AM-7:00PM each day of the Fair.  

The Dickens Fair is the place to bring your donations for Toys for Tots!  
Get $3 off regular admission with your Toys for Tots donation.

If you love anything about the month of December, you will adore The Great Dickens Christmas Fair!  If you wish you could attend a Renaissance Faire in the dead of winter, this is the place for you!  If watching A Christmas Carol on the stage or screen is not participatory enough for you, come and live it in glorious 3D, with full colour, rich surround-sound, the ultimate Christmas-y smell that wafts from the yummy cinnamon crunch almonds, the warm, cozy flavour of hot buttered rum or chocolate egg nog*, possibly even the realistic feeling of one of Sal's gals in your lap...  It just doesn't get any better than this!

*Yes.  You read that right.  Chocolate.  Egg nog.  Chocolate egg nog.
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A Silver Bells Holiday at Ainsley House
Friday-Sunday, November 29-December 1, 12:00-4:00PM
Ainsley House, 300 Grant Street, Campbell, 408-866-2757
Adults $8, Seniors $6, Youth 7-17 $4.50, Children Under 7 Free

“In the beautiful, historical Ainsley House in Downtown Campbell, all of its 15 rooms will be transformed into a warm, inviting home for the holidays with the theme of A Silver Bells Holiday.  The entire house will be decorated by local interior designers, house decorators, florists, and volunteers and will feature a special holiday boutique, full of unique delights for holiday shoppers.

Tours will be offered November 14-17, November 21-24, and November 29-December 19, 12:00-4:00PM. Proceeds from the tours as well as sales at the holiday boutique will benefit the non-profit Campbell Historical Museum and Ainsley House Foundation.”
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QED
presented by Indra’s Net Theater
Friday-Sunday, November 29-December 1,
Friday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 5:00PM
playing through December 22
Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Avenue, Berkeley
$28

“Indra’s Net Theater
presents QED
By Peter Parnell
Inspired by the writings of Richard Feynman and Ralph Leighton’s Tuva or Bust!
Directed by Bruce Coughran

Dates: November 29-December 22, 2013
Times: Thursday-Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday Matinee 5:00PM
Venue: Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Avenue, Berkeley

This play is an exploration of the extraordinary life of legendary Nobel Prize-winning Physicist Richard Feynman. Feynman began as a young man working on the Manhattan project, and then created a reputation as an inspiring and charismatic teacher, a brilliant physicist, as well as a practical joker. He had a flamboyant love of life. Near the end of his life, he was nationally visible as the scientist on the Presidential committee investigating the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. This fascinating and enigmatic figure is remembered by many, and this play probes under the surface of genius, to find the heart of the man inside.”
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Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
Friday-Sunday, November 29-December 1,
playing through December 22
see website for schedule and ticket details
Marin Theatre Company‎, 397 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, 415-388-5200

“Perfect for the whole family, this festive ghost story opens, as does Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, with Old Marley dead (‘as a door-nail’). However, the focus never leaves his chained and burdened soul, remaining in the ethereal planes of the afterlife.

Given just 24 hours to redeem himself, Jacob Marley scrambles to reform his former partner in greed - that ‘squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous old sinner’ Ebenezer Scrooge. This is going to be one long night… of spirited fun!”
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Dancing in the Sacred Grove: Celebrating Sacred Land in the African Tradition
Facilitated by Chief Luisah Teish, Iyanifa Oshun
Saturday, November 30,
Workshop 10:00AM-4:00PM, Book Party 7:00-8:30PM
Center for Sacred Studies, 13550 Church Street, Guerneville
Workshop $125, includes book party entry
Book Party $5 suggested donation

“The Center for Sacred Studies is proud to present a unique Earth Forum one-day workshop with Luisah Teish. A world-renowned storyteller and performance artist, Teish is a serious student of the Earth and Earth's magic.

Dancing in the Sacred Grove
Come enter the sacred grove in the mystical forest of the African diaspora. Here you will meet the spirits of Africa, South America, the Caribbean Islands and the United States in their expressions as deities inhabiting the natural world.

Teish will discuss guidelines for approaching the sacred sites of the African diaspora; and will recommend ways to evoke the energy of these sacred places, even when residing in urban areas.

The workshop will include:
Entering sacred space, at home and in nature.
Saluting the deities at the entrance.
Invoking the directions and the ancestors of the Place.
Creating altars of power and beauty.
Preparing and presenting offerings to the Spirits.
Working with the Spirits of Place for healing, empowerment, and love.
Praise poems, songs, and dances to celebrate the Spirits of the Earth.

Note:
Special attention will be given to the Water Spirits: Yemaya, Oshun and Mami Wata; the fires deities Shango, the Lord of the Flame and His father Aganju, the Erupting Volcano; and Obatala and Oya, the spirits of the air.

Please wear comfortable clothing, bring writing materials, an object for the altar and a small musical instrument. Open to men, women and children (7-97 years old)

Book Party for On Holy Ground
7:00-8:30PM, recommended donation $5
Books available for $19 autographed.

Teish is an author of several books on African and African American Spiritual Culture and Feminist Myth. She is an initiated elder (Iyanifa) in the Ifa/Orisha tradition of the West African Diaspora, and she holds a chieftaincy title (Yeye'woro) from the Fatunmise Compound in Ile Ife, Nigeria. Currently, she is the Chair of the World Orisha Congress Committee on Women's Issues. She is also a devotee of Damballah Hwedo, the Haitian Rainbow Serpent, under the guidance of Moma Lola.”
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Karbi Ritual Dances and Ceremonies: An Audio-Visual Insight
Saturday, November 30, 5:00-7:00PM
Silk Road House, 1944 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-981-0700
Free

“The second presentation of Dr. Dattaray will be introducing the dance tradition from Karbi Anglong, a hill tribe from North East India.
The introductory talk and the fieldwork documentary clippings of Karbi harvest and funeral related dances would add substantial bit of visual and musical information of that colorful ancient tradition. We will see the intriguing wordless way to convey storytelling in dances and ceremonial gestures.
The documentary movie is 41 minutes long. It has no subtitles, but the dances and gestures are self-explanatory. Besides, our dear guest will give all necessary commentary to her fieldwork visual data.
Debashree Dattaray is Assistant Professor in Comparative Literature at Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India. She is currently a Fulbright Visiting Faculty with the Department of Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley for Fall 2013. In 2012, she was awarded an Erasmus Mundus Europe Asia Fellowship for Academic Staff at the University of Amsterdam. In 2007-08, she was a Fulbright Doctoral and Professional Research Fellow at the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Her areas of interest and publication are Indigenous Studies, Gender, Narrative, Oratures and Comparative Indian Literature Methodology.”
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Beyondananda and Beyond: A Two-Man One-Man Show
Saturday, November 30, 7:30PM
East West Bookstore, 324 Castro Street, Mountain View, 650-988-9800
$15in advance, $20 on the day

“If you’ve seen Swami Beyondananda before, here’s a chance to see him again... and to go ‘beyond Beyondananda’ to meet the man behind the Swami, Steve Bhaerman. Not only will you experience the Swami in his most natural habitat - offering questionable answers to answerable questions - you’ll get a look behind the scenes at the ‘innards’ of cosmic comic distinctions, and discover the ‘aha’ in the wake of the ‘ha-ha’. You’ll hear Steve’s ‘laugh story’ and discover how it parallels your own journey to Fool Realization and Cosmic Comic Consciousness. Who or what is behind Beyondananda? Come find out, and you’ll be laughing till the sacred cows come home!”
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These Are Not My Hands and Beat Poet Toby Lurie
part of Rhythmix Cultural Works’ Honoring Veterans Series
Sunday, November 30, 8:00PM
Rhythmix Cultural Works 2513 Blanding Avenue, Alameda
$10-$25 suggested donation in support of The Mission Continues

“An evening of spoken word and spontaneous composition featuring poet, composer, artist and 88-year-old veteran Toby Lurie and the band These Are Not My Hands.
All proceeds will benefit the veterans organization, The Mission Continues.

This event is one in Rhythmix series, Honoring Veterans on Veterans Day.”
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Carlos Reyes in concert
Saturday, November 30, 8:00PM
Throckmorton Theatre, 142 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley
$28 in advance, $33 at the door

“Carlos Reyes brings in another amazing musical evening with a great lineup of Special Guests including Tony Lindsey of Santana and others.  

On stage from the age of five, Carlos Reyes never ceases to amaze. World renowned for his mastery of the Paraguayan Harp and Violin, he has touched the hearts and spirits of people around the globe. From performances on the streets of Havana to the Vatican, his music transcends all boundaries. Described as ‘Santana meets Gipsy Kings’, Carlos bridges traditional musical genres and mesmerizes audiences with unique fusions of Blues, Rock, Jazz, Latin and Classical styles.

Born in Paraguay to a world-famous musician and national hero, Carlos began to play the violin at age three and a half under his father’s strict tutelage. He moved to the United States as a child and continued to develop his already extraordinary musical talent. At age ten, he debuted on harp with the Oakland Symphony and made his debut on violin with the Oakland Youth Symphony at age fourteen.

He continued to develop his talent on both harp and violin, establishing himself as a successful solo artist, touring the world and also sharing the stage with a long list of musical superstars such as Steve Miller, The Doobie Brothers, Clint Black, Chuck Mangione, Charlie Daniels, Wynona Judd, Willie Nelson, and many, many others. Bay Area audiences have recently been fortunate to see Carlos in concert with legendary slide guitarist Roy Rogers as well as other musical talents such as acclaimed acoustic guitarist Peppino D’Agostino.

In addition to his profound mastery of harp and violin, Carlos also plays guitar, bass, mandolin, and keyboards; and is a well-respected producer, composer, and engineer. He has consistently broken technical and musical boundaries and pioneered techniques that have expanded musical possibilities for musicians and audiences alike. Standing ovations are the norm, not the exception, when Carlos and his aptly named band The Electrick Symphony performs.

The magnitude of Carlos’ musical talent is matched only by his spirit and generosity. His passion for helping others is evident through his frequent appearances at benefits such as Hope for Haiti, the Voices of Latin Rock, the Animal Rescue Foundation, work with local school districts and numerous community events.”
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World Aids Day
Sunday, December 1
check the website below to find local events

“World AIDS Day is held on 1 December each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died. World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day and the first one was held in 1988.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for you to learn the facts about HIV and put your knowledge into action. If you understand how HIV is transmitted, how it can be prevented, and the reality of living with HIV today - you can use this knowledge to take care of your own health and the health of others, and ensure you treat everyone living with HIV fairly, and with respect and understanding.  

You can also show your support for people living with HIV on World AIDS Day by wearing a red ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness.

World AIDS Day is also a great opportunity to raise money and show your support for people living with HIV.”
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Conscious Goddess: Temple Services for She of 10,000 Names
(formerly Goddess Awakening)
with Rabbit, Iris, and guest Priestesses
Sunday, December 1, 11:00AM-12:00PM, (and the first Sunday of every month)
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
Donations gratefully accepted
Women only

"Women! Join our spiritual circle for an empowering start to your day, bringing alive the wisdom of the Goddess within!

We are a holy community of sacred sisters, encouraging one another through our challenges and celebrating our triumphs.

December 1: Beauty, Personal Aesthetics, and the Work of Aphrodite with Amy”
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African Dance, Song and Drumming
with Cheza Nami
Sunday, December 1, 11:00-11:30AM,
and two more Sundays through December 15
Mothership HackerMoms, 3288 Adeline Street, Berkeley
$12 per class, $60 for whole six-class series

“It’s back! Simply the most enjoyable music class for both kids AND parents this side of the Indian Ocean. Instructor Catherine Ndungu-Case of the Kikuyu tribe started her non-profit Cheza Nami to teach her twins the songs and dances of her native Kenya. You and your kids will enjoy 30 intense minutes of songs, games, music, drum circles and African-themed stories in a highly energetic and rhythm-centric class at HackerMoms. It’s also a dance workout for parents, so wear comfortable clothes. For kids 0-5 and their caregivers. Note: Only kids require tickets but caregivers do not.”
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dhyana Center Member and Guest Appreciation Party
Sunday, December 1, 11:00AM-4:00PM
The dhyana Center, 186 N. Main Street, Sebastopol, 707-823-8818
Free

“Bring your friends and family to share in the celebration!

This is our way to say thank you and to express our gratitude for your commitment to learn, heal and grow with self-care as the best healthcare.

Participate in a free workshop…
12:00-12:30PM: Healthy Foods for the Holidays: Seasonal Foods, Nutrition and Detox with Dr. Elson Haas
12:30-2:00PM: The Tao of Self-Healing Yoga, combining meditation and movement with Cain Carroll.
2:00-3:00PM Ceremonial Indian Dance Class with Revital Carroll

Nourish yourself throughout the event…
Delicious Eggnog Chai and Farm Fresh food, sponsored by Coffee Catz and Feed Sonoma
Organic Asian cuisine by Eight Restaurant

Shop for gifts and holiday specials in our Essentials Retail Store. Special Membership prices offered!
Self-Care Essentials
Mini Massage
Assessments
Numerology and Energy Readings
Learn about essential oils and enzymatic spices to support you through the Winter season.”
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Conscious Goddess: Priestesshood in the New Age
series of Sunday afternoon classes
Sunday, December 1, 12:30-2:00PM - final class
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$35 per class
Women only

“This class also has a free Temple Service, open to all women, from 11:00AM-12:00PM on the days above. Come just for the Temple, or stay and take the class!

Conscious Goddess is a monthly class for women who feel the power of the Goddess surging through their lives, for women who know themselves to be ready to live, breathe, and dance the Goddess Incarnate, with a creative eye toward sharing their unique gifts with their loved ones and the world. This class is especially suited for mothers, artists, and professional women who wish to experience and exude Goddess energy at a more profound and life-changing level.”
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The Witch's Garden
with Rabbit
Sunday, December 1, 3:00-5:00PM, and the first Sunday of every month
The Sacred Well, 536 Grand Avenue, Oakland, 510-444-9355
$35 per class

“A series of classes for the budding herbalist.  If you have been studying or practicing on your own, or are curious and seeking to deepen your knowledge of how to use herbs magically and for personal healing, this class is for you!

As a general rule, please wear clothes that you can get dirty in as we play with the plants and make our potions!”
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Belly Dance Student Showcase
Sunday, December 1, 6:00PM, and the first Sunday of each month
Suhaila Salimpour Studio, 425 San Pablo Avenue, Albany, 510-527-2400
Free

“Join us the first Sunday of every month at Suhaila’s studio for an evening of live music and belly dance.  Free to the public.

Suhaila Salimpour is a highly acclaimed performer, teacher, and choreographer of belly dance. Schooled from an early age in jazz, tap and ballet, Suhaila began integrating her extensive classical training with the Middle Eastern dance passed on by her mother, Jamila Salimpour. The result was a true artistic breakthrough: a revolutionary foundational technique that has brought the art of Belly Dance to a new level.

The Suhaila Salimpour Format and School of Belly Dance enjoy worldwide success. Dancers who train with The Salimpours quickly realize Suhaila's method of teaching allows them to excel in their art beyond any other training they have received.”
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Celebrating the Body: A Cosmic Mass
Sunday, December 1, 6:00-8:30PM
Kimballs Carnival, 522 2nd Street, Oakland
$12 in advance, $15-$20 at the door, no one turned away for lack of funds

“The Cosmic Mass - Celebrating The Body

Come join in the fun and celebration as we revive The Cosmic Mass in Oakland! This December’s Mass Features spiritual luminary Matthew Fox and guest speakers Joanna Macy and Pancho Ramos-Stierle, music by Ancestral Voice, DJ Dragonfly, Caroluna and video art by VJ Luna.

The Cosmic Mass (TCM) is an interactive community dance celebration created by Reverend Matthew Fox in the 90s that re-invents the form of worship. Incorporating cosmology, ritual, immersive visual art, music, spoken word and the practice of dance, The Cosmic Mass invites participants of all spiritual traditions to engage body and spirit directly.

The Cosmic Mass reinvigorates Western ritual by deconstructing the forms of worship we have inherited from the modern era. We reconstruct these forms of worship by going back to the pre-modern practice of dance. DJs and live musicians provide the musical ambiance and the VJ or video artist provides immersive images that tell the story of the theme celebrated. We danced in the presence of these images, bringing in the spirit of the theme.

Each Cosmic Mass is a community journey traversing the 4 Paths, the ‘via positiva’ - a dance of Joy and Delight and Celebration. The ‘via negativa’, or grief experience, where we grieve and lament together the negative aspect of each theme. Grieving is an essential aspect to getting over anger and into our ‘via creativa’, our creativity. The ‘via transformativa’ - warrior dance which prepares us to go into the world and back to our communities as healers and strong defenders of compassion. We also celebrate Communion that unites all beings in the sacred act of eating and drinking divine bread and wine. All ages are present as well as diverse cultures and religious backgrounds ranging from Christian to Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and Pagan. The worship is so pre-modern in many respects that many find home there. Beauty is everywhere present. And one might say, magic.”
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Dark of the Moon Practice for Hermes and Hekate
with Sam Webster
Sunday, December 1, 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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Irish Christmas in America
Sunday, December 1, 8:00PM
Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse, 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley, 510-644-2020
$22.50 in advance, $24.50 at the door

“Irish Christmas in America, the popular touring show now in its 9th season, presents outstanding Irish music and dance in an engaging performance rich in history, humor, and boundless energy. Produced by Oisin Mac Diarmada of the award-winning Irish group Teada, this year’s program features Lumiere, an amazing vocal group from the town of Dingle in County Kerry, Seamus Begley, recently named Traditional Singer of the Year by the Irish television network TG4, champion dancer and California native Samantha Harvey, Sean Gavin on flute, whistle, and uilleann pipes, and Oisin on fiddle.

Lumiere, with Pauline Scanlon and Eilis Kennedy on vocals and Donogh Hennessey on guitar, has released two albums, including this year’s My Dearest Dear, with special guest Sinead O’Connor. The Irish Times has praised the group’s vocal harmonies, canny song choices, and ‘melodious West Kerry Irish.’ Seamus Begley comes from one of Ireland’s most acclaimed musical families and is famous for his heartfelt singing and brilliant playing of the accordion, on which he performs jigs, slides, and polkas with astonishing energy and spontaneity. Samantha Harvey is a champion Irish dancer, pianist, and accordionist for Los Angeles. Chicago resident Sean Gavin learned uilleann pipes from his father Mick and his teacher Al Purcell and has been strongly influenced by flute legend Kevin Henry. He performs often with his musical family and tours regularly with the acclaimed groups Bua and NicGaviskey. Oisin Mac Diarmada, in the words of the Irish Echo, is ‘one of the most gifted and creative traditional fiddlers playing today.’ He was recently appointed Chief Examiner of the Irish Traditional Music Examination System. Join this fine lineup for an evening of great music and dance imbued with the spirit of Irish Christmas in America.”
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Belrose Holiday Tea Party
Mondays-Saturdays throughout December, 1:00-4:00PM
The Belrose Theatre, 1415 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael
$25 per person
reservations required, please call 415-902-5188 or e-mail 2TeaOrNot2Tea@att.net

“Tea Parties at The Belrose are Back!
Come enjoy four weeks of The Belrose Tea Party with family, friends, and co-workers.
Mondays through Saturdays, 1:00-4:00PM
$25 for this experience includes:
A Pot of Fine Tea
Tea Sandwiches
Petit Fours
Cookies and Scones”

The Belrose Theatre is a beautiful and truly magical place!
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Standing with the Watershed
Art Exhibition
presented by Wholly H2O
December 1-January 31
Lobby of Sherwood Design Engineers, 58 Maiden Lane, San Francisco
Free

“The mixed media art show Standing with the Watershed at Sherwood Engineering's Lobby in downtown San Francisco opening December 5th seeks artists to share their visceral experiences of both the Tuolumne River Watershed itself and the use of these waters in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. We want to enliven the souls of those who visit during the two month exhibit with the energy and vitality of this watershed pre-, during-, and post Rim Fire.  We want to celebrate the watershed and its inhabitants in all forms. Viva la Tuolumne!

Call for Art
Submit your existing art or planned design to: standingwiththewatershed@whollyh2o.org

Pieces may be any medium, including audio/visual (Well, that is, except fire!)

Submissions sought related to the Tuolumne River Ecosystem, Watershed, Rim Fire, and End Uses in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Elements of architecture and engineering are desirable. Please Note: Limited photography accepted.

Submit 3-5 jpgs of your work. accompanied by contact information, a 200 word bio and 200 word statement of purpose.

No entry fee. Artists must cover their own shipment and delivery costs.

Show Dates: December 1, 2013 - January 31, 2014
Submission Deadline: November 11, 2013
Artists Notified: November 18
Art Drop Off: November 29
Show Opening: December 5, 2013
Art Pick Up: February 1, 2013”
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Celebrate Mary in all Her Forms: Stella Maris, Tonantzin, Guadalupe
Monday, December 2, 7:30PM
Concord location, directions given upon RSVP
$15 newcomer discount, $35 one time exchange
This ritual is for cisgendered women.
Please RSVP to 925-787-9247 or Leilani@DaughtersoftheGoddess.com

“Mary is the Compassionate Mother Goddess. She has been called by many names and seen in many different phases and stages of womynhood all around the world. Some of Her names are Divine Mother, Cosmic Mother, Queen of Heaven, Yemaya, Black Madonna, Stella Maris, and Guadalupe. She is the Divine Feminine, exuding power, grace and mystery through Her motherhood.
We see the Worship of Mary throughout cultures and upon many continents. The Black Madonna is traced to Isis of Egypt - The Goddess Queen who cared for the dying and often restored the dead back to life. In Italy, She is Stella Maris - The Star of the Sea who protects seafaring travelers.   She is Yemaya in West Africa and Brazil - The Mother Goddess of all womyn and children; She who collects our tears in Her great ocean pools and creates life from this fertile water.  As Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico She brings great miracles and protects children. She is also connected to Kwan Yin - The Great Lady of Compassion and Healing.  Wherever She is prayed to, Mary is the Goddess of mercy, protection, peace, healing, and transformation throughout the world.
How do you see Mary? Which of Her names call to you? How is Mary working in your life and how can you make everything you do a prayer in honor of the Goddess?  For the altar please bring a white or blue candle and any images or symbols of Mary in any of Her forms that calls to your heart.
If you are interested in participating in a ritual or celebration, please help out by doing the following:
Please bring a snack to share (if possible, food of the culture we are celebrating), washable eating utensils (bowl, cup, plate, utensils, etc. In honor of Mother Earth, we do not provide disposable items), a candle (for safety reasons, we highly recommend a candle in a glass container, often called a novena), and pillow or chair to sit on to all rituals. For more information about our rituals please visit our FAQ page.
Please see our current series schedule and check the web page for the specific ritual to see what items to bring and how to prepare yourself. Please take the time to read this, especially if you are a newcomer. New information is added from time to time so even if you feel you have already seen this, it is important to check back in every now and then.”
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NorCal Trans Partners, Family and Friends Support Group
Monday, December 2, 7:30-9:00PM, and the first Monday of each month
Billy DeFrank LGBT Center, 938 The Alameda, San Jose, 408-293-3040

“Having a family member, child, spouse, partner, or other loved one go through transition can be difficult and comes with a unique set of challenges that most folks don't really comprehend. Come join the Northern California Trans Partners and Family support group at the DeFrank Center the first Monday of each month from 7:30-9:00PM.

To communicate between meetings, we also have a Facebook page and a Yahoo mailing list.”
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Herbal Immunity
Wednesday, December 4, 6:30-8:00PM
Homestead Apothecary, 486 49th Street, Oakland
$35 if registered by November 30, $45 after November 30

“Join Atava Garcia Swiecicki owner of Ancestral Apothecary for an evening of learning about how we can prepare ourselves for the cold and flu season. You'll learn key herbs that support the immune system that help to both prevent and treat colds and flu. We'll also be sharing some great, easy herbal remedies and recipes for this time of year. We'll be demonstrating how to make an herbal cough syrup and each participant will get to take their own bottle home.”
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Have a Week of Ecstatic Insight and Conscious Dance!

Molly Blue Dawn

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