What do you wish for?

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

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Molly Blue Dawn's List of Events for August 2014 and beyond - Mark Your Calendars! - Part 1

Mark your calendars for:

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Lughnasadh Games and Campout
presented by Coru Cathubodua
Friday-Sunday, August 1-3
Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
see below for schedule and registration details

“Community Fun Will Reign at Lughnasadh Games and Campout

Coru Cathubodua Priesthood to Host Two Day Lughnasadh Games and Campout in Honor of Ancient Irish Deities and Community

The Coru Cathubodua Priesthood invites all Bay Area Pagans to participate in our Lughnasadh Games and Campout being held on Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3 at Coyote Hills Regional Park.

Games as Devotion: The Lughnasadh Games and Campout is a two-day celebration of friendship and community, and a day to honor the Gods with feats of sport, bardic arts, ritual, bonfire, and food. We encourage Pagans of all beliefs and backgrounds to compete on Saturday, or pitch a tent and stay the entire weekend.

Campout: 7:00PM on Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3
Games and Feast only: 11:00AM-8:00PM on Saturday, August 2

Prices
Children: $5.00, Child Games (no feast, children under 12)
$10.00, Child Games (plus feast)
$17.00, Child Overnight (plus feast)

Adults: $10.00, Adult Games (no feast, children 12+)
$20.00, Adult Games (plus feast, children 12+)
$35.00, Adult Overnight (plus feast)

Competitions: There will be three tiers of sport: combat arts, field, and bardic. Prizes include a lady's favor, the heroes’ portion at the feast, a handmade prize, and boasting rights.

Arts Category: showcase your mental skills with a game of engineering skill, your strategy prowess with a game of chess, and your artistic merit with a bardic/poetry performance.

Field category: we’ll test how fleet footed you are in an over-hill foot race, your aiming skills in the archery contest, and see how well you long jump.

Combat category: you and your friends will prove your mettle in a teams of three Hurley match.

Want to attend? Sign up with Amelia Hogan, Event Coordinator, at ameliaisaverb@yahoo.com or arrive on-site at 11:00AM on August 2.

Pricing questions? Contact Amelia Hogan, Event Coordinator, at ameliaisaverb@yahoo.com.

Media Information: Rynn Fox, Coru Communications Officer, rfox@corupriesthood.com

About Coru Cathubodua
Service, sovereignty, kinship and warriorship are the values that guide the Coru Priesthood (full name Coru Cathobodua Priesthood). We are Pagan priests on the move, ready to take action to advance our mission to bring about sovereignty and kinship to the world through acts of community and individual service. Guided by our matron the Morrigan, Celtic Goddess of sovereignty, prophecy, and battle, we welcome all who share this vision of service to bringing these values to life for all people.”
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Martinez Peddlers Faire
Saturday, August 2, 8:00AM-4:00PM
Downtown Martinez, Alhambra Avenue at Marina Vista, Martinez
free admission

“Join us for the 2014 Peddlers’ Faires
Voted East Bay's Best Source for Old Treasures!
Featuring Vintage, Antiques, Collectibles and Arts and Crafts
in Downtown Martinez, The Antique and Collectible Capital of Contra Costa County!

One of the largest outdoor antique and collectible shows in northern California. Held on the streets of historic downtown Martinez on Saturday, May 17 and Saturday, August 2, from 8:00AM-4:00PM. Get here early to get the first pick of that special item to add to your collection.

You will find plenty to choose from as dealers will be showing a huge variety of antiques and collectibles including glassware, porcelain, pottery, furniture, old advertising, toys, Native American wares, paper items and much more.

While at the Faire, be sure to visit the 12 downtown Martinez Antique and Collectible stores. The 50-plus dealers in the stores will be bringing in new inventory for the Faire in preparation for the thousands of visitors on Faire day. In addition to the antiques and collectibles, there are over 50 arts and crafts vendors so there will be something for everyone at the show.

John Humphries, radio and TV collectibles talk show host, and the author of several books on collectibles, will again be on hand during the day to give evaluations of one carry-in item for a $5 donation to the Martinez Historic Society. John will be located at the information booth on Ferry Street near Main Street from 8:00AM-4:00PM. John is always a popular feature at the Faire so be sure to get in line early and get a number. Bring in that old piece of pottery, glass, toy or other collectible but remember, no furniture, carry-in items only please.

Parking and admission are free.  See you at the Faire!”
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Beaver Festival
Saturday, August 2, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Beaver Park, 495 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez
Free
article about 2013 Festival:
Delightful video about Beavers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cyPyEQ4OHI

"Learn how the beavers in Martinez have improved the watershed and re-energized the community. Find out about simple tools that can manage beaver behavior, and see first hand how beaver-created wetlands improve populations of fish, birds and wildlife. Live music, children's activities, and guided beaver tours make this an event for the whole family, and one you definitely won't want to miss! Ride Amtrak directly to the festival. Have dinner in town and come back in the evening to see the beavers for yourself. We promise you'll have a 'dam' good time!"
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Fremont Festival of the Arts
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Paseo Padre Parkway and Capital Avenue, Fremont
Free

“The Fremont Festival of the Arts hosts a wide variety of activities and entertainment for the entire family; over 700 top-quality artisan booths delight the most discerning shoppers, music lovers enjoy continuous music featured on three stages, children are thrilled with the many games and activities found in Kid City, and Gourmet Marketplace offers gourmet specialties for the discerning cook. The best news of all, admission to the Festival is free.”
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San Jose Renaissance Faire
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Guadalupe River Park, 494 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose
Adults $17, ages 13-17, seniors and military $12, ages 6-12 $7, under 6 free
Parking $5 at HP Pavilion

“Queen of England, ambassadors from foreign lands and juggling jesters, winsome wenches, lords and ladies, knight on horseback, squires and simpletons. They aren't just the stuff of fairy tales. They'll gather August 2-3 for San Jose's favorite festival, the 4th annual San Jose Renaissance Faire. Be a part of history and come in costume, or come as you are and immerse yourself in games, theater and the splendor of the Renaissance marketplace.
Drawing thousands of visitors, the San Jose Renaissance Faire is a unique entertainment experience and an extraordinary outing for children. The festival includes real jousting and full armored combat between knights, along with culinary delicacies, craft demonstrations, music, dance and comedy. Patrons will participate in archery, fencing, and fantastic costume contests. Activities for the children will include games, crafts, puppet shows and storytelling, not to mention meeting Shakespeare and Queen Elizabeth herself.
The San Jose Renaissance Faire recreates a Renaissance village and includes a merchant marketplace with nearly 70 unique merchants and crafters with amazing wares for sale, from jewelry, to leather corsets, swords, pewter cups, aromatic oils, soaps, wooden hangings, and so forth. A scrumptious selection of food and delicious variety of drink will be on sale to satisfy your belly and quench your thirst.  
The show will feature many famous and well loved characters from Shakespeare's plays. Master Shakespeare himself will be on site, yet again in the midst of one of his plays, the Midsummer Night's Dream this time, and looking for inspiration for his upcoming work. Could you be his Titania, Oberon, Lysander, or Hermia? Don on an outfit and find out!    
Knights of Mayhem will showcase their amazing horsemanship skills in the joust.

Come as you are or dress as a princess, knight, or pirate
Enjoy a wide variety of activities for kids
Experience more than 40 hours of live entertainment daily on four stages
Explore the largest selection or Renaissance-themed crafters in San Jose
Feast upon a savory assortment of exotic food and drink fit for a king and queen
Interact with one of the largest stage and street casts
Witness amazing jousting battles and combat like it was done by knights over 400 years ago  
Featuring Battle of the Nations fighting it out for honor  
Fowl Tales FINALLY coming to San Jose!”
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Carnival of Stars World Dance and Arts Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 10:00AM-10:00PM
Richmond Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center, 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond
Adults $15, children under 12 $6

“Put on annually by Pepper Alexandria and Latifa.

Carnival of Stars is a combination Belly Dance show and Comic Book Convention. Our location for the August 2014 show will take place in the Richmond Auditorium in Richmond, California. That's two full days of non-stop professional belly-dance performances and other entertainment interspersed with live musical performances, panel discussions and a costume contest - complete with prizes!

Performers from all over the world converge on the stage, solo after solo, troupe after troupe, while audience members are free to peruse the various items on sale at the vendors' booths that fill the hall, and also to savor delectable food and drinks at reasonable prices. Our International Market features arts and crafts, dance costumes and accessories, jewelry, comic books, artwork and gifts of all kinds. Our continuous show includes stars of the bellydance world and a variety of other entertainers.”
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Art and Soul Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 12:00PM-6:00PM
downtown Oakland - see website for map
adults $15, seniors and youth 13-17 $8, under 12 free
(discounted tickets available in advance - see website)

“A symbol of downtown Oakland’s renaissance, Art and Soul is a great entertainment value that sizzles with two music-packed days featuring Jazz, Rock, Gospel, Latin, R&B, Acoustic and Blues performed by national recording artists and top local talent.

Youngsters will love the kid-friendly carnival rides, interactive art projects, face painting and roaming costumed characters.

Stroll through the Artisan Marketplace, sample exotic foods and tasty treats from a multicultural menu and view great art.

Art and Soul, the Bay Area’s coolest festival, has direct transit access and free parking for thousands of cars.”
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Astronomical Society of the Pacific Annual Meeting
Saturday-Wednesday, August 2-6
Hyatt Regency, 1333 Old Bayshore Highway, Burlingame, 650-347-1234
See website for registration details

“The ASP’s 2014 Annual Meeting will be held August 2-6, 2014, at the Hyatt Regency in Burlingame, just south of San Francisco. The Galileo Teacher Training Program (GTTP) workshop will be held August 2-3, 2014. The E/PO Meeting will be held August 4-6, 2014.

Celebrating Science: Putting Education Best Practices to Work through:
Supporting the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
Engaging with 21st Century Media and Technology
Enhancing Science Communication Skills and Practices
Evaluating, Assessing and Documenting E/PO Impacts
Promoting Multicultural Diversity and Gender Equity
Using Authentic Science and Citizen Science
Improving Our Professional Practice

Plenaries, Panels and Workshops

Milton Chen, Senior Fellow and former Executive Director of the George Lucas Educational Foundation will deliver the Supporters Luncheon keynote address

Kick-off plenary will feature a discussion with high-level STEM agency administrative officials, tackling Co-STEM and the future of federal funding and programs in STEM education/outreach, with panelists Shelley Canright (NASA Education) and Janice Earle (NSF Education and Human Resources).

Panel moderator Bonnie Meinke (Space Telescope Science Institute) will lead Increasing Diversity in Earth and Space Science, an interactive plenary discussion with panelists sharing their perspectives from working with diverse audiences, including Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and girls and women. Panelists are: Gibor Basri (University of California, Berkeley), Annette Lee (St. Cloud University), Karen Kenney (Girls Inc. of the Island City), and Salvador Acevedo (Contemporanea).

Panel moderator Dennis Schatz (Pacific Science Center) will lead a Working with Scientists Who Interact with Public Audiences plenary, about enhancing the science communication skills of research scientists. Panelists will include Katherine Nielsen (UC San Francisco), Suzy Gurton (ASP), and Sue Ellen McCann (KQED and the Center for Advancing Informal Science Education).

Panel moderator Linda Shore, new Executive Director of the ASP and prior Director of the Teacher Institute at the Exploratorium, will lead a Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) plenary to address implications for schools, school districts, and teacher professional development providers. Panelists include Janet Carlson (Stanford), Julia Plummer (Penn State), and Caleb Cheung (Oakland USD).

Panel moderator Sanlyn Buxner (Planetary Sciences Institute) will lead Weighing the Balance of Science Literacy in Education and Public Policy. Plenary panelists will include Chris Impey (University of Arizona) and Bryce Johnson (Exploratorium).

Keynote speaker Dennis Bartels, Executive Director of the Exploratorium, will address connections across formal and informal STEM learning.

Other plenaries and concurrent sessions will explore NASA EPO impacts and metrics, public science literacy, ‘big science’, and amateur astronomers’ impact on research and outreach.”
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Esther Day
in honour of Esther Earl
Sunday, August 3

“Esther Day is not about metaphors. It is not about gestures. Instead of mass-produced greeting cards and baked goods, it calls for an uncommon honesty and bravery.

As the story goes, John and Hank Green asked Nerdfighter Esther Earl (now a published author) to decide how the community would celebrate her birthday every year. Given the opportunity to create a holiday, Esther chose to make it about love, family, and friends. When John uploaded the first annual video in August of 2010, he said ‘The words we use to describe the things we feel matter. [...] So maybe Esther Day is the day where we think, ‘who do I love who I have trouble saying I love you to?’

Esther passed away from thyroid cancer later that month; she was sixteen.

Since then, Nerdfighters have participated in Esther Day, celebrating the power and importance of love. Videos are uploaded, songs are sung, and we tell the people we love that we love them in no uncertain terms.

It sounds simple enough. In truth, it often comes as a challenge - being honest and unapologetic about love almost feels counterintuitive sometimes. We flee vulnerability.

This campaign - like Esther Day - is about changing that.

In the 2013 Esther Day video, John called the holiday ‘a Valentine’s Day for the rest of love.’ There is truth to that and it is an easy comparison to make, but this is a different kind of celebration.

On Esther Day, we act for love: to uplift each other and create a more positive fandom; to empower and inspire our community; and to increase empathy. Our goal is nothing less than to make Esther Day a globally recognized, baggage-free holiday about love and gratitude.

In the months leading up to Esther Day, we want to make this community an everyday celebration of our favorite holiday. We want you to join in.

Here are a few ways you can participate:

Before Esther Day
If you’re seeing The Fault in Our Stars, take a selfie or a picture with your friends making the shape of a heart with your hands. Tag your photos #EstherDay wherever you upload them.
Plan your #EstherDay projects and share your plans to inspire others.
Attend a Nerdfighter or HPA Chapter meetup celebrating Esther Day.

On Esther Day
Tell a friend or family member that you love them: pick up the phone, make a YouTube video, send them a text, an email, an owl, or some treacle tart.
Post your final #EstherDay projects online to share them with the world
Attend the Esther Earl Rocking Charity Ball at LeakyCon.

The beauty of this is that you can figure out what works best for you and then go do it. You can scream I love you’s from the rooftops or you can whisper them. Text messages, YouTube vids, Tumblr posts, scavenger hunts, postcards, positive reviews on Yelp: there’s no wrong way to tell someone you love them.

This is what it comes down to: love is awesome. Love is important. Love is what saved the wizarding world and, long before that, its residents. Fandoms become communities when we celebrate loving not just a book or a movie, but each other.

Whether it’s via owl post, social media (#EstherDay) or at LeakyCon in Orlando, please join us in celebrating love and celebrating each other during this year’s Esther Day.”
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Cupcakes and Muffintops: Clothing and Bake Sale
Sunday, August 3, 12:00-4:00PM
Humanist Hall, 411 28 Street, Oakland
$5-$10 suggested donation, no one turned away for lack of funds

“Fat-Friendly Clothing and Bake Sale with Big Moves Bay Area

Most clothing $1-$7; Some boutique items $10 and up, shopper’s discretion.
We are excited to announce that we will be accepting both cash and credit cards for clothing purchases. The door and bake sale will remain cash only.

Now in its 6th year, our fat-friendly, gender-inclusive clothing and bake sale happens every August. Presented jointly with friends of NOLOSE and the Fat Friendly Funders, we’re so proud that this bonanza of fat fashion and fellowship is becoming a Bay Area institution. It’s a delightful, low-pressure entry point for folks new to fat community, and an important resource for those already living in it.

It’s never too early to clean out your closets for great fat causes! We’re currently accepting donations of gently used clothing for people of all genders, size large and up, up, up! Superfat and masculine-spectrum clothing especially appreciated.

Send an email to cupcake@bigmoves.org schedule a donation pickup, volunteer to help at the sale, or sign up to bake some goodies!

You can follow all the latest arrivals to Muffintopia at the Cupcakes and Muffintops blog.”
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Forgiveness Day Celebration
Sunday, August 3, 7:00PM
Angelico Hall, Dominican College, 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael
$20

“18th Annual Forgiveness Day Celebration
Dedicated to Evoking the Healing Power of Forgiveness

Join us as we celebrate International Forgiveness Day. Be inspired and healed as our Champions and Heroes share their amazing journeys to Freedom Through Forgiveness. The Worldwide Forgiveness Alliance is a non-profit 501(c)3 tax-deductible organization whose mission is to evoke the healing spirit of Forgiveness worldwide. We declare that ‘Forgiveness Is the Greatest Healer of Them All’ and that ‘Without Forgiveness There Is No Future.’ (Archbishop Desmond Tutu)

Special Musical Performances by The East Bay Gospel Choir.

Speakers Include:
Scarlett Lewis’s son was killed at Sandyhook. Forgiveness turned tragedy into something that can change the world.

Dr. Marshall Rosenberg is the creator of Nonviolent Communication, which helps people to resolve conflicts and differences peacefully.

Dana Liesegang was raped, thrown off a mountain, paralyzed and left for dead. Her journey of forgiveness helped her to walk again.”
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Born to Drum: Women’s Drum Camp
Thursday-Sunday, August 7-10
Bort Meadow, Anthony Chabot Regional Park
see website for registration information

“Join us on August 7-10, 2014 at beautiful Bort Meadow, Anthony Chabot Regional Park, just 20 minutes from Oakland, for a long weekend of camping, drum workshops, drum circles, shared meals, camp fires, performances, and fun for women and girls, 10 years and up.  We also plan to have several vendors and a massage therapist on site.

This year, Women’s Drum Camp will be at Bort Meadow, the site of last year’s Community Camping Trip/fundraiser which was so wildly successful that we kept  this site at popular request.  Fees will remain very affordable, with only a slight increase in sliding scale to accommodate increased class offerings and provide payment for teachers.  As always, trade for service will be available.  Again this year, all participants at drum camp will volunteer for one or two 45 minute to 1 hour work shifts.  Last year’s participants reported that work shifts were enjoyable and community-building.

Whether you are brand new to drumming or have been playing for years, you will find workshops that will both support and challenge you. We welcome women new to drumming, and will offer workshops to help you build a strong foundation. Some drums will be available to use.  Workshops range from beginning to advanced with many all-levels classes.  All workshops and drum circles are outdoors.

Prices for a long weekend of drumming are $50-$150  day on Friday-Sunday.  This year we will provide the option of arriving on Thursday, August 7, to set up camp and enjoy the evening for $20. Register early. Space is limited.

We will be tenting at Bort Meadow.  Our cars will be parked at a designated spot a short distance away from the meadow, with a drop off circle for convenient unloading of drums and gear.  We also will provide a shuttle on an as0-needed basis.  There is limited parking. Carpooling is recommended.  Please network with friends to organize carpools. You can also post on the Born To Drum Yahoo site.  After July 31,  you can  contact us at camp@womendrummers.org if you want to offer a ride or need a ride,  and the organizers will help you.   There are no electrical or other hook ups for RV. There are porta-potties but no showers. For those who do not want to camp out, the meadow is close to your homes or hotels in Oakland. Join us during the day!  If you want to spend the night, bring your tent and camping equipment. Please bring a chair or stool for drumming. Potable water is available.

While we will share meals, everyone is responsible for bringing and cooking their own food and snacks. We will have a communal kitchen area.  Last year we had sumptuous potlucks at every meal.”
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RASANBLE! Haitian Arts and Culture Festival
Friday-Sunday, August 8-10
The Humanist Hall, 390 27th Street, Oakland
see website for detailed schedule and prices

“The word Rasanble, in Haitian Kreyol, means ‘to gather’ or ‘to assemble.’ Our goal is to gather dancers, musicians, community leaders, scholars, activists, dance and music educators, linguists, cultural and food enthusiasts and supporters of Haiti to CELEBRATE make VISIBLE and INFORM participants of the rich cultural traditions that are the foundation of Haitian culture.

The Festival will provide a live forum over the course of multiple days that will allow for conversations, inquiries, technique analysis, and in depth interactions with traditional artists from Haiti.

Rara Tou Limen would like to extend a personal invitation to you, requesting your presence at RASANBLE! We look forward to collectively celebrating the richness and vibrancy of Haitian art, music, dance and culture with you!”
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History Walking Tours of Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery
Saturday, August 9, tours leave every 20 minutes, 10:00-11:00AM
tours start at Franklin Gate, 1600 Franklin Avenue, Santa Rosa
Free
For additional information, please call 707-543-3292

“Experience the history and stories of the pioneers of Sonoma County and California during an 80 minute docent-led walk. Hear about those who crossed the country by covered wagon, veterans of the War of 1812 and the Civil War, the great earthquake that destroyed Santa Rosa and much more.

Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery was established as the result of an accident. In November of 1854 a young father, who had arrived from Missouri only a matter of weeks before, drowned in a pond near the center of town. He was buried on land that was part of a Mexican grant given to one of the earliest settlers of Santa Rosa, Dona Maria Ignacia Lopez de Carrillo. Soon other families needed burial places, and the area became an unofficial cemetery. In 1867 the Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery Association was formed and burial plots in the 17-acre site were formally offered for sale.

Sales of plots continued through 1930, through records of these transactions have been lost. During this period of 70-plus years, parts of the land were sold off, and three separate but adjacent cemeteries were established: the Stanley, Moke, and Fulkerson Cemeteries. Today the four cemeteries combined are owned by the City of Santa Rosa and known collectively as Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery. The only burials permitted today are those of descendants of families who held deeds to cemetery plots. The total number of burials is over 5200.

Neglect and vandalism took their toll on the cemetery through years of unclear ownership and sporadic maintenance. A Restoration Committee organized by dedicated volunteers in 1994 and operating under the aegis of the City of Recreation and Parks Department has made great strides in repairing damage, clearing overgrowth, and planning for permanent maintenance. In 1997, the City of Santa Rosa awarded Historical Landmark status to the Rural Cemetery.

Docent-led tours during the summer months acquaint visitors with the history of the town and the many town pioneers who are buried here. Lamplight Tours, conducted in September as fund-raising events, present dramatic vignettes from the lives of the famous and not-so-famous people buried in the Rural Cemetery.”
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Ice Cream Social at Forest Home Farm
Saturday, August 9, 10:00AM-2:00PM
Forest Home Farm, 19953 San Ramon Valley Boulevard, San Ramon
$5

“Take a tractor ride, try old-fashioned games, and compete in hula hoop, watermelon-seed-spitting, or egg toss contests. Ice cream for sale.”
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Greater Vallejo Recreation District’s 70th Birthday Party
Saturday, August 9, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Blue Rock Springs Park, 650 Columbus Parkway, Vallejo
Free

“GVRD is happy to announce it's celebrating its 70th Birthday Party!

You are cordially invited to help us celebrate on Saturday, August 9, 2014 from 11:00AM until 4:00PM at Blue Rock Springs Park! There will be entertainment, food (for purchase), a Kids Corner and all around good time fun and the best part of all… admission is FREE!

We invite you to come and celebrate GVRD’s rich history and contributions and to thank the community for supporting the District throughout the years. Learn new things you didn’t know (or may have forgotten!) and reminisce about days past.”
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Moonlight Steam Train Dinner Party at Roaring Camp
Saturday, August 9, 5:00-10:00PM,
and two more Saturdays, September 6, and October 4
Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, 831-335-4484
see website for schedule admission details

“Treat yourself to an evening of fun and relaxation at Roaring Camp's Western Moonlight Dinner Train Party. Start with a hearty barbecue steak dinner followed by a leisurely train ride aboard vintage railway cars. The steam train stops atop Bear Mountain to a glowing campfire, hot cider and musical sing-along. Upon returning to Roaring Camp, hot apple pie and a country western band await you. Get into the swing of things by line dancing or two-stepping the night away.”
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Peace Lantern Ceremony
Saturday, August 9, 6:30-9:00PM
North end of Aquatic Park, Bolivar Drive, and Addison Street, Berkeley
Free

“August 6th and 9th are the 69th anniversaries of the world’s first atomic bombings. In Japan and around the world, people will gather in early August to float lanterns in remembrance of the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, all victims of war, and all who have gone before us. This moving and beautiful tradition provides a chance to reaffirm our commitment to building a better future.”
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Walk in the Spirit Worlds: Shamanic Journey Initiation
with Anne Hatfield and Stuart Dole
Saturday-Sunday, August 9-10, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Santa Rosa, address given upon registration
Saturday morning session 10:00AM-1:00PM free, $125 for rest of weekend
“August is the traditional height of summer, and it's a great time to learn to walk in the spirit worlds, meet and get to know your helping spirits and more!
So many people would love to connect with the spirits! But so many hold back because they think you have to be special to do that, or only people who are from a certain ethnic background can do that, or maybe they had a spiritual intuition that someone else ridiculed or got angry about.
The truth is that it's easier than you think to connect with the spirits and walk in their worlds. Almost everyone who takes the whole weekend class succeeds in journeying to the spirit worlds. The spirits are eager to communicate directly with us
The truth is that shamanism has been practiced on every inhabited continent on the earth, making it your birthright no matter what your background is.
The truth is that each of us has spiritual gifts waiting to be discovered, and making this special connection with the spirit worlds is a first step in that direction.
In this class you will learn how to travel safely in the spirit worlds, how to discover and connect to your power animal, how to connect to other spirit helpers, how to obtain information and healing, and how to bring healing power to others.
If you've been wondering about power animals, other spirit helpers, journeying, and shamanic work - this is for you! A good connection with your spirit allies - and journey skills - are prerequisites for many of our advanced trainings - especially the Advanced Shamanic Healing coming up next year - and of course will serve you well in many other aspects of your life.
The class meets from 10:00AM-5:00PM on both Saturday and Sunday, August 9 and 10. (This includes time for lunch.).
Free Trial
The Saturday morning session (from 10:00AM-1:00PM) is FREE - you can get a taste of the work and decide if it's for you if you're not sure. In this first session you will learn to travel to the spirit worlds and meet your power animal:
You'll have all the instruction and support you need to walk in one of the spirit worlds and meet your power animal right then and there.
If you like, you can sign up for the rest of the class that takes place over the rest of the weekend and goes more in-depth. But there's absolutely no obligation to do so.
This is the only Shamanic Journey Initiation class we have scheduled for the rest of the year - take advantage of this one!”
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Gravenstein Apple Fair
Saturday-Sunday, August 9-10, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Ragle Ranch Park, 500 Ragle Road, Sebastopol
Adults $12,  Seniors and Bicyclists $10, Children 3-12 $5, Under 3 Free

“The Sweetest Little Fair in Sonoma County

The 41st Gravenstein Apple Fair will be held on August 9-10 under the shade of majestic oaks in Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol. Join us for a weekend of old-fashioned fun.
There’s something for everyone: live music on 2 stages, arts and crafts vendors, excellent local food, wine, cider, and beer, contests and activities, children’s corner, chef’s tent, artisan cheese tent, do-it-yourself tent, life on the farm arena and of course our famous heirloom gravenstein apples.

The Gravenstein Apple Fair is produced as Sonoma County Farm Trails’ primary annual fundraiser. All proceeds fund our efforts to support sustainable agriculture in Sonoma County.”
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Willits Kinetic Carnivale
Saturday-Sunday, August 9-10,
Saturday 10:00AM-7:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-7:00PM
Mendocino County Museum, 400 East Commercial Street, Willits
Adults $10, Seniors 65+ and Youth 12-18 $5, Children Free

“Mendocino County Museum’s 3rd Annual Willits Kinetic Carnivale powers up on August 9-10, 2014 with a full weekend of activities combining the old and new in a way that is uniquely Mendocino and totally 21st century.

This highly-anticipated kinetic and steampunk festival returns with many fan favorites including the popular kinetic handcar races; the Whimsy Circus for children; the Mustache and Beard competition; and the evening spectacular known as the Grand Ball.

Visitors are encouraged (but never required) to attend in vintage or steampunk costumes, and during the day will experience myriad activities and enjoy a diverse group of craft and food vendors, entertainment, rides on restored rail cars, historic and steampunk-themed workshops, lectures and discussions, and sundry Museum exhibits.

For more information, please call 707-459-2736 or e-mail Info@KineticCarnivale.com
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Enta Omri: You Are My Life
with the Suhaila Dance Company
Saturday-Sunday, August 9-10,
Saturday 8:00PM, Sunday 3:00PM
Southside Theater, Fort Mason Center, 1 Letterman Drive, San Francisco
$20

“Suhaila presents Enta Omri. Choreographed by Suhaila Salimpour and performed by the Suhaila Dance Company, this full-length production presents the modern evolution of belly dance with vibrant choreography and rich Arabic music.

Enta Omri translates to ‘You are my life.’ The beautiful poetry of the Arabic world and themes of love and lost converge in this creative vision. Suhaila Dance Company takes the audience on a journey down a woman’s road to wisdom earned through her experiences in love. Sometimes mischievous, playful, and tender, other times brutal, lonely and lost, the dancers navigate this emotional landscape with the highest level of technical virtuosity and artistic sensitivity.”
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In the Creek Litter Clean Up
hosted by Friends of Sausal Creek
Sunday, August 10, 10:00AM-12:00PM
El Centro Trailhead, near the Dimond Recreation Center,
3860 Hanly Road, Oakland
Free, please RSVP to Kimra at coordinator@sausalcreek.org
Ages 12+

“Trash and golf balls await you (42 pounds of golf balls were hauled out during the May 18 clean up). Late summer is a great time to remove the garbage before the first flush takes everything into the bay. Wear your grubbies and bring your own boots if you have them. Note that this event is not suitable for small children -12 and older only, please. RSVP to Kimra so we can provide enough boots.

Our mission is to promote awareness and appreciation of the Sausal Creek Watershed and to inspire action that will help preserve and protect the creek and its watershed as both natural and community resources.”
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A Sunday in the Kitchen
with Jessica Prentice
Sunday, August 10, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Three Stone Hearth, 1581 University Avenue, Berkeley, 510-981-1334
$20

“Get a behind-the-scenes tour and a hands-on experience in our working kitchen. Day includes lunch and a two-hour lecture introducing the principles of Traditional Diets.

10:00-11:00AM: Tour with Co-founder Jessica Prentice
11:00AM: Tea time and orientation
11:30AM-1:30PM: Hands-on in the kitchen
1:30-2:00PM: Communal lunch made with nutrient-dense ingredients
2:00-4:00PM: Traditional diets lecture with Co-founder Jessica Prentice

Please wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes (you will be on your feet!) Avoid wearing scents, and be prepared to pull your hair back and cover it.”
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Children's Stargate
presented by the Center for Sacred Studies
Monday-Thursday, August 11-14
Wildwood Foundation,  20111 Old Cazadero Road, Guerneville
Ages 6-12 $190, Ages 12-17 $330, Parents $375

“Children's Stargate: Listening to the Earth and All Her Beings

Your Child is invited to the Center for Sacred Studies.  Our Elders tell us that those closest to Creator are the children and the elders.

During our time together, we will encourage and give opportunities for our children to listen to the voice of Spirit that is in all things and bring those messages and instruction back to the community and the elders.

Children's Stargate begins on Monday August 11, in the afternoon (please come early and swim) and completes after lunch on Thursday, August 14.

We want to invite our Parents to stay and participate in the ‘in between times’, especially if your child is younger. When you aren't scooping up children from the lodge or helping with bedtimes, you may have some relaxing time by the pool, meditating, walking on the land... come participate!

We welcome all our relations to come witness the Children's presentation to the elders and community and their graduation late morning on Thursday.  Please let us know if you will be joining us in celebration of our children and if you will be staying for lunch.
The Children's Stargate will be located at Wildwood Foundation in Guerneville.”
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Perseid Peak
Tuesday, August 12, close to midnight (so technically, Wednesday, August 13)
in the northeastern sky, near the constellation Perseus

The Perseid Meteor Shower is at its meteoriest on this night.  As Dave Barry would no doubt point out, "Perseid Peak" would be a good name for a rock band.  Or maybe one of those promiscuous-teens-played-by-pretty-twentysomethings-prime-time-dramas.  The ones that are named after places.  Like if "Perseid Peak" were a mountain near which lots of pretty young people who generate drama and hotness lived.  Not that I watch any of those, but I'd totally listen to the band.
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WomenSpirit Elderflower Festival
Thursday-Sunday, August 13-17
Mendocino Woodlands, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
Registration due by August 1 - see website for registration details
http://www.elderflower.org

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

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

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

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

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

Elderflower Womenspirit activities include hiking, sports, massage, an open air market, our Friday Night Performing Arts Show, 12 Step Meetings, Silent Auction and our Treasure Table.”
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Redwood Magic Reclaiming Family Camp
Wednesday-Sunday, August 13-17
Campsite Three, Mendocino Woodlands, 39350 Little Lake Road, Mendocino
see website for registration information

“Share in four days of Reclaiming style, Earth-based spirituality, magic, and community!

Join us in the redwoods at Mendocino Woodlands as we weave a web that crosses the generations.

Redwood Magic is a do-it-ourselves family camp. During our time at camp, all of us will be responsible for creating a vibrant, magical experience!

This is a community retreat, not a festival or a drop-in camp. We ask that people plan to attend the entire event (unless advance arrangements are made) and be committed to creating camp culture.”
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Beer Shamanism 201
with William Bostwick
Thursday, August 14, 7:00-9:00PM
Gravel and Gold, 3266 21st Street, San Francisco, 415-552-0112
$35

“William continues his summer home brewing series with this workshop focused on the more peculiar types of home booze. Please note that this is a stand alone workshop! One needn’t have participated previously!

Foraged Fruit Wines, Beers, and Meads - Foraged loquat cider, wild blackberry mead, persimmon beer. Melomels, pyments, cysers, and other strange fruit-beer hybrids from around the world, and throughout history. We’ll taste some examples, go through the many different ways of making these beverages, talk about some of the delicious local fruits we can use in our brews, from prickly pears to cherry plums. Students will go home with plenty of instructional material, and a gallon of fruit wine to take home and age.

Email Tomra@gravelandgold.com to sign up or call the shop at 415-552-0112.”
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RiffTrax Live presents Godzilla (1998)
Thursday, August 14, and Tuesday, August 19
see website for local event details

“Our first Kickstarter-backed Live show of 2014 is happening on August 14th, with a special rebroadcast on August 19th!

You thought you saw Godzilla this Summer? Think again!

We're thrilled to once again be partnering with Fathom Events and Sony Pictures to give our next big-budget blockbuster title the RiffTrax Live treatment. Godzilla (1998) is one of the most highly-requested titles in RiffTrax history, and with help from our successful Kickstarter campaign, we're able to bring it to select cinemas nationwide for this special two-night event.

RiffTrax Live: GODZILLA can first be seen Thursday, August 14 at 8:00PM.

A special encore rebroadcast will be on Tuesday, August 19th at 7:30PM.

Don't forget: arrive to the theater early for our hilarious pre-show trivia slides!”
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Butoh Workshop
with Vangeline
Friday, August 15, 6:00-9:00PM
Mobu Dance Studio, 1605 Church Street, San Francisco
see website for registration details

“This Butoh workshop creates a supportive environment to start an individual and collective process of investigation through creative movement. Participants start a spiritual and energetic journey to express, heal and transform hidden aspects of themselves. The work incorporates Japanese Butoh techniques, guided imagery, bio-energetics, core energetics, creative movement, improvisation, release techniques, elements of Noguchi gymnastics. This unique training is an invaluable tool for dancers, actors, adult beginners, encouraging participants to open up and expand physically and energetically. All levels are welcome.

Vangeline is a teacher, dancer, and choreographer specializing in the Japanese post-war avant garde movement form Butoh. She is the Artistic Director of the Vangeline Theater (NYC), a dance company firmly rooted in the tradition of Japanese Butoh while carrying it into the 21st century. She was born in Bourgogne, France and moved to New York in 1993.

Since its inception in 2002, the Vangeline Theater has fused the post-apocalyptic vision of Butoh with the aesthetics of 21st century film noir. The Company's unique style, which might be described as ‘butoh meets film noir’, is informed by Vangeline's extensive training with Butoh Masters, including Tetsuro Fukuhara, Yoshito Ohno, Yumiko Yoshioka, Diego Pinon and Katsura Kan, as well as performing Butoh solo on stage and film.

Vangeline's critically acclaimed choreographed works have been presented in New York at Joyce SoHo, White Wave, the New Museum, Dance Theater Workshop, PS122 Performance Space, and Abrons Arts Center. She was the recipient of a six-month artist residency at PS122 Performance Space; since 2006 she has received prestigious awards from the Puffin Foundation, the Japan Foundation, the New York Department of Cultural Affairs, the New York Foundation for the Arts, the Asian American Arts Alliance, Brooklyn Arts Council, and the Robert Friedman Foundation. She is the founder of the 7-year running, award-winning program The Dream a Dream Project, which brings Butoh dance to incarcerated men and women at correctional facilities across New York City. Vangeline passionately believes that Butoh can be a vehicle for collective and individual transformation in the 21st century.”
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Harbour Lights Music Festival
Friday-Saturday, August 15-16, 7:30-11:00PM
Craneway Pavillion, 1414 Harbour Way South, Richmond
Free admission. Parking for event $10

“Harbour Lights Music Festival!

August 15-16, 2014 - Doors Open at 7:30PM and admission is FREE!

The Craneway Pavilion is excited to debut the Harbour Lights Music Festival, featuring national headliners Lydia Pense and Cold Blood introduced by Acoustic Soul on Friday August, 15. On Saturday August 16, there will be a special Guest appearance by internationally known Maria Muldaur, performing with The Bobby Young Project. Regional headliners The Dave Matthews Blues Band and Willie G will have everyone dancing the night away.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and skyline with shimmering lights of the harbor as you enjoy fine eats and drinks provided the Craneway’s own Assemble Restaurant.

A select offering of beverages and food will be available all night. Skip the lines and pre-order items for pickup during intermissions.

Lineup:
Friday, August 15
Doors open at 7:30PM
8:00PM Acoustic Soul
9:00PM Lydia Pense with Cold Blood
Saturday, August 16
Doors Open 7:30PM
8:00PM Willie G
9:00PM The Bobby Young  Project with special guest appearance by Maria Muldaur
10:15PM Dave Matthews Blues Band”
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Biodynamic Conference: Medicine for Earth and Man
Presented by Dennis Klocek, Thomas Radetzki, Steffen Schneider
Friday-Sunday, August 15-17,
Friday 2:00-9:00PM, Saturday 8:15AM-9:00PM, Sunday 8:30AM-12:30PM
Rudolf Steiner College, 9200 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks
$175 through July 3; $185 July 4-August 7; $200 at the door

“Medicine for Earth and Man: the Earthworm, the Cow, and the Bee
Sponsored by the Biodynamic Association

Biodynamic experts with many different specialties will lead workshops on provocative and timely topics for farmers, gardeners, beekeepers, and students of biodynamic and organic agriculture. Festivities will include biodynamic food and wine festival and film screenings.

Discussion Group Topics:
Women in Biodynamics
Demeter Certification
Small Dairy Farming
Biodynamic Compost Making
Biodynamic Prep Making
Young Farmers
CSA Management and more

Keynote Speakers:
Dennis Klocek, MFA, is the Director of Consciousness Studies, a study of alchemy and transformation, at Rudolf Steiner College and co-founder of the Coros Institute. He is the author of seven books including Sacred Agriculture: The Alchemy of Biodynamics. Dennis is also known as an international lecturer.

Thomas Radetzki has been a beekeeper for over 40 years; in 1985 he founded Mellifera e.V, a center for biodynamic beekeeping. Thomas is recognized as a pioneer for organic beekeeping by the conventional Beekeepers Association and the Federal Government of Germany. With Mellifera e.V, he contributes substantially to rethinking beekeeping, and the politics and broad public knowledge of beekeeping.

Steffen Schneider has over three decades of experience as a farmer and herdsman. He is the director of Farming Operations, Hawthorne Valley Farm; Treasurer and Vice President of the Board of Directors of the BDA; adjunct faculty member of the Pfeiffer Center and the Hawthorne Valley Farm Learning Center teaching livestock management and biodynamics.

Workshop Presenters:
Matias Baker, Mike Benziger, Lisa Bjorn, Marney Blair, Maureen Curran, Paul Dolan, Luke Frey, Keith Gelber, David Gershan, MD, Bobby Grimes, Harald Hoven, Patricia Kaminski, Deter Lenoir, MD, Delmar McComb, Stephen Payne, Thomas Radetzki, Eduardo Rincon, Johnny Romero, Steffen Schneider, Matt Taylor
Apprentice Scholarships
Rudolf Steiner College is offering scholarships to Farm Apprentices at a reduced conference fee. To apply, simply indicate you are an apprentice and tell us the name of your farm when registering.”
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Kosmos Music and Dance Camp
Friday-Tuesday, August 15-19
YMCA Camp Campbell, 16275 State Route 9, Boulder Creek
sliding scale $570-$740 includes meals and accommodations

“Dance and Play - 14th Annual Camp in Beautiful Santa Cruz

Enjoy this Once-In-A-Lifetime expressive camp experience with…
24 hours of dance, drum, and yoga classes with professional instructors
11 meals
4 nights of sleeping accommodations
4 nights of music and dance performances
Perform with your instructors on final evening
An amazing pool party with live music and water slide

What To Bring:
Sleeping Bags, Blankets, sheets, pillows
Flashlight
Bathroom soap and shampoo (there are private showers to use)
Musical Instruments
Cash for Kosmos T-Shirts and Massage
(there will be a massage therapist available for reasonable private massage)
Warm Sweater or Jacket for possible chilly nights
Yoga Mats
Snacks if you have special eating needs
Amenities of YMCA Camp Campbell which provides a brand new swimming pool and a massive hardwood floor compound, fire pits, hiking trails in the Santa Cruz Redwoods, and much more

Camp Campbell is nestled among giant redwood trees on acres of lush forest. The rustic elegance and gorgeous views come together to form a majestic and peaceful environment.

Register with your friends today to reserve as space is limited and we are expecting a sellout this year.”
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Sonoma County VegFest: A Celebration of Compassionate Eating
Saturday, August 16, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Finley Community Center, 2060 W College Avenue, Santa Rosa
$5 at door

“We will feature nationally recognized speakers, vegan cooking demonstrations, informative exhibitors, a film festival, VIBE vegan artisan market, vegan ice cream and more. We hope to reach out to the veg-curious community and show them how fun, delicious and awesome plant-based eating is. We hope you will join us!

Compassionate Living, an all volunteer non-profit in the North Bay, is excited to announce this Sonoma County celebration of compassionate eating!

The Sonoma County VegFest was conceived by a small group of compassionate SoCo vegans that wanted to share with their beloved county how wonderful living free of animal products can be. We are so lucky to live in an area with an abundance of delicious plant-based foods, nutritional experts, farmer’s markets, and stores with healthy and compassionate choices. Cruelty-free eating is so easy in the North Bay and we wanted to show others how enjoyable, rewarding and exciting vegan eating can be. The VegFest will bring together vendors, natural foods stores, restaurants, nutritionists, professional cooks, and other knowledgeable people to share their expertise with us. Come and learn, eat, share and have fun!”
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Cajun Zydeco Festival
at Ardenwood
Saturday, August 16, 10:00AM-7:00PM
Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, Fremont
$24 adults, $7 children 4-15, children under 3 free

“Enjoy some of the best Cajun-Zydeco music performed by local artists and groups from Louisiana. The day includes dance lessons, specialty vendors, and delicious Cajun food.”
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The Muppet Movie 35th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 16, 11:00AM (doors open at 10:15AM)
The Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street, San Francisco
$10 (this will probably sell out, so plan to reserve tickets in advance!)

“The Muppet Movie
35th Anniversary Family Matinee Screening

Join Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, The Great Gonzo and all of your favorite Muppets as they head to Hollywood in their first big-screen adventure, The Muppet Movie. It’s hard to believe it’s been 35 years since Jim Henson brought his beloved creations to cinemas in a hilarious road-trip like no other. Kermit and pals try to strike it big in Tinseltown while on the run from the fast-food mogul Doc Hopper (Charles Durning) and his lackey Max (Austin Pendleton). Featuring a bevy of celebrity cameos including Steve Martin, Mel Brooks, Milton Berle, Bob Hope, Dom DeLuise, Elliott Gould, Madeline Kahn, Richard Pryor, Cloris Leachman and Orson Welles, and a fantastic collection of songs by Paul Williams.”
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Sonoma County Wine and Swine
Saturday, August 16, 11:00AM-7:00PM
Railroad Square Historic District, 9 4th Street, Santa Rosa
Free

“At Sonoma County Wine and Swine you'll find:
Delectable vittles of the pork persuasion - Foodies of Sonoma County will delight in the array of artisan foods.

Pair your pork with wine from local wineries - Sonoma County is renowned for it's vast array of award winning vintners.

Listen to the sweet sounds of homegrown Americana - curated by North Bay Hootenanny.

Creative ideas are realized on canvas, in textile and macaroni.

Pig out for prizes! Cheer local celebrities as they chow down for charity at the pie eating contest. Then show us what your capacity for mounds of melon at our watermelon eating contest.

Relax with friends and family in the Santa Rosa sun!
Oh, there’s plenty to smile about at Wine and Swine! Down here you’ll find nothing but good friends, great food, music, art and lots of fun! What else would you expect from Sonoma County’s most unique event producers?
Sonoma County Wine and Swine is proudly presented by The Artistic Wonders Society, a local Sonoma County 501(c)3 nonprofit.”
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Time Travelers Bazaar
Saturday, August 16, 12:00-6:00PM
Great Escape Games, 1250 Howe Avenue, Sacramento
Free

“Welcome! The Time Travelers Bazaar features vendors and interests from around the globe and throughout time. Pirate, Steampunk, Anime, Renaissance Faire, Magical, Fairy and Fantasy - it's all here. Come spend the day shopping, sharing and enjoying yourself!”
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Pagans All Meeting
hosted by Ancient Ways and The Pagan Alliance
Saturday, August 16, 1:00-4:00PM
Ancient Ways, 4075 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, 510-653-3244
Free

“In the spirit of the theme of the 2015 PantheaCon - Pagan Visions of the Future; Spirit of Networks - Building Pagan Safety and Social Net, a discussion of ways to plan infrastructure and events that meet our Community’s needs.”
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Moonlit Fandango Gala and Fundraiser
benefiting Friends of the Petaluma River
Saturday, August 16, 5:30-10:00PM
David Yearsley Heritage Center, Steamer Landing Park, 6 Copeland Street, Petaluma
$150

“Please join us for an unforgettable evening and support Friends of the Petaluma River’s work to Celebrate and Conserve the Petaluma River and Watershed.

The festivities begin at 5:30PM and include a silent auction and a very lively live auction with local radio personality Brent Farris. Chef Amber Balshaw from Preferred Sonoma Caterers will have your mouth watering with a beautifully prepared family style dinner overlooking the River.

All proceeds will benefit programs like our Watershed Kids Camp and free Boating at the Barn Sundays. We are also launching a capital campaign to renovate the loft at the DYRHC and add sprinklers to the building to protect it from fire. Your donation will go a long way to supporting a fully renovated River Heritage Center.

Friends of the Petaluma River is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to celebrating and conserving the Petaluma River, its wetlands, and wildlife.

Our mission: To promote stewardship of the Petaluma River. We work throughout its watershed; providing access opportunities, educational materials, and conservation programs. We also provide a voice for the River’s inhabitants and resources in public affairs.

Our Goals: Access, Education, and Conservation
To establish a permanent presence in the watershed; becoming the first non-government organization to work fulltime for the betterment of the Petaluma River and its inhabitants

To pursue outreach and educational activities that will foster enthusiasm and commitment in the watershed for long term sustainable stewardship.

To monitor conditions and engage in activities that will reduce or prevent pollution and lessen other harmful impacts on the River and its wetlands.

To create a River Heritage Center as a community resource. A place to archive information, host events, administer programs, and coordinate river related activities.”
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Santa Cruz Starlight Evening Train at Roaring Camp
Saturday, August 16, 8:00PM
Train departs from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz
see website for ticket details

“Experience the beauty of an ancient Redwood Forest lit up at night from Pullman-like coaches and open-air excursion cars of the Santa Cruz, Big Trees and Pacific Railway. Smell the aroma of Redwoods, Pines, Tan Oaks and Madrone trees while traveling under the stars. Evening trains depart from and return to the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz for a leisurely two-hour round-trip along the San Lorenzo River Gorge and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.”
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Office Space 15th Anniversary Screening
with special guest Stephen Root
Saturday, August 16, 9:00PM
The Castro Theatre, 429 Castro Street, San Francisco
$12 (this will probably sell out, so plan to reserve tickets in advance!)

“Yeeeeaaah, we’re going to need you to come into the theater on Saturday.

Office Space15th Anniversary Screening with special guest Stephen Root (Milton)

Wear your minimum fifteen pieces of flair and bring your TPS reports for the 15th anniversary screening and celebration of Mike Judge’s classic comedy Office Space, with very special guest Stephen Root (Milton, who believes you might have his stapler) live in person. Follow Peter Gibbons and his co-workers Samir Nagheenanajar and Michael Bolton (no relation to a certain no-talent ass clown) as they get increasingly fed up with INITECH software boss Bill Lumbergh and decide to take matters into their own hands, while Peter falls for Chotchkie’s waitress Joanna. Don’t jump to conclusions and miss this rare 35mm archival print screening of the film, which also stars Ron Livingston, Jennifer Aniston, Gary Cole, Ajay Naidu, David Herman and Diedrich Bader. Join us at the Castro Theatre and don’t forget to show us your best ‘O-face.’”
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Cotati Accordion Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 16-17, 9:30AM-8:30PM
La Plaza Park, 60 West Cotati Avenue, Cotati
$17 per day, $25 for both days

“Cotati Accordion Festival is a yearly event. The 2014 festival will be the 24rd annual. The venue is open under the shade trees of La Plaza Park in Cotati. If you plan to stay for the whole day, bring your own comfortable, short-backed, folding lawn chair. You may have to find parking on the street several blocks away. Limited handicap parking is available at 8020 Old Redwood Highway and in front of the Korean Baptist Church at 81 West Cotati. Annual attendance reaches 2,000-3,000 a day.

Whether you love 'em or hate 'em, there are plenty of ‘those darn accordions’ at the festival. At the Cotati Accordion Festival the sound stage features a cast of rotating acts who play 30  to 45 minute sets. Musical styles range from traditional TexMex to whacky Rock-pop-San Francisco-mischief music. The festival is family-friendly wholesome fun!

If you like to dance, there is a separate tent that features polka music. In the adjoining club, Friar Tuck's, there is zydeco dancing both days from 1:00-5:00PM. There is also zydeco in the polka tent from 5:00-6:30PM both days.

Cruise the vendor displays. There are 100s of accordions for sale, music books and related merchandise. The vendors also include everything from arts and crafts to food, beer and wine.”
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First Annual Art of Reuse Sale
Saturday-Sunday, August 16-17, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Occidental Center for the Arts, 3850 Doris Murphy Court, Occidental, 707-874-9392
Free

“Indoor market featuring QUALITY:  art, gently used items, and back-to-school clothing.  Tables available for rent or donate qualified items to OCA beginning August 1.  BBQ and beverages for sale.  Massive raffle daily!”
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Hayward Zucchini Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 16-17, 10:00AM-8:00PM
Kennedy Park, 19501 Hesperian Boulevard, Hayward
$8 Adults, $4 Children and Seniors, Under 5 Free

“Clear your calendar for the third weekend of August when the annual Zucchini Festival swings into action. There's sure to be something for the entire family including live music, arts and crafts and a Kids' Town area with fun games, cool prizes, face painting and rides.”
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San Jose Pride
Sunday, August 17, 12:00-7:00PM
Discovery Meadow, 180 Woz Way, San Jose
see website for detailed schedule and ticket information

“Silicon Valley Pride invites you to join us in Honoring Our Past, Securing Our Future.

For almost 40 years, the local festival has honored the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community and its allies. Held annually, festival attendees come from all over the Bay Area to participate in the festival and related events. It is the largest LGBT event held in the South Bay.

The name has changed, but our commitment to celebrating the diversity of our community while promoting outreach and awareness remains the same.

This year the festival will be a one-day event taking place on Sunday, August 17, 2014 at Discovery Meadow in San Jose. The festival will feature local and national entertainers, vendors, food, and fun.”
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Savory Jams  with Seasonal Fruit
with Rachel Saunders
Tuesday, August 19, 6:00-8:00PM
Botanical Garden at UC Berkeley, 200 Centennial Drive, Berkeley
$95

“In this 2-hour class, explore the savory side of fruit! Rachel will open up the world of fruit jams to pair with cheese by teaching you how to make Blue Chair Fruit’s signature cheese-oriented savory fruit jams. In addition to key jam-making topics such as the role of sugar, the importance of lemon juice, and the cooking process, this class will explore how to bring out the savory elements of fruit both by selecting appropriate fruits and by using herbs, spices, dried chiles, and other flavorings. This class starts with a jam tasting and discussion, then proceeds to the cooking process. You will receive two jars of jam to take home!”
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Making Makko Incense
with Kelsey Barrett and Melanie Beckett
Thursday, August 21, 6:30-8:30PM
Homestead Apothecary; 486 49th Street,  #C, Oakland
$41.50

“Incense has been used since Mesopotamian times in rituals, to influence healing, ease stress, cleanse physical space, and to carry prayers and intentions to the heavens. The Makko incense workshop will begin with a guided plant meditation to attune energetically to the medicinal qualities of the incense ingredients.

Makko powder based incense allows for combustion without chemicals.
How to make incense by hand
Put your own magic and intention into your recipe
Each person will leave with a small jar of their own incense cone creations. about 10 pieces

*Please bring a vessel to take home your incense.

Kelsey Barrett and Melanie Beckett are California based herbalists and co-founders of Heavy Nettle Collective, an herbal workshop gathering that began in New York, now based in Los Angeles. Heavy Nettle Collective creates and empowers community through the alchemy of conscious crafting, plant attunement, and the exchange of knowledge.  As urban dwellers, we aim to provide an opportunity for individuals to receive and incorporate the wisdom of the natural world into daily life - whether it is through a guided walk in the local woodlands, baking and crafting with medicinals in the kitchen pharmacy, or brewing traditional beer with herbal allies. We aim to foster a deep relationship with nature while, cultivating a community that serves the land, Urban and Wild.”
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Inner Sanctum Symposium on Infinite Possibilities
presented by Temple of Isis
Friday-Monday, August 22-24
Isis Oasis Sanctuary, 20889 Geyserville Avenue, Geyserville, 707-857-4747
see website for registration details

“This August, Isis Oasis will be hosting the Inner Sanctum Symposium on Infinite Possibilities, a knowledge-sharing event within the Egyptian Pantheon Mysteries, and would like to invite you to participate. It is a scholarly weekend that is meant to be a playground of interesting ideas, practices, ritual, and learning. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend. You do not have to be a priestess or priest. You simply must have a healthy curiosity.

As a community, we have so many wonderful practitioners that have very specific skills that many others would like to learn. Have you ever seen a ritual or event and wondered, ‘How does she do that? Where can I learn to do it?’ These and other questions will be answered throughout our programming track. At a time when Isis is making herself more known than ever in the modern past, achieving our goals in seeking her wisdom often lies within the wisdom of others.

We will have workshops, rituals, meditations, and lectures for your enjoyment, as well as lots of needed downtime meeting new friends and seeing old ones. As our shiny new website is under construction, we will be adding presenters to the ones already listed, and making the programming tract as complete as possible.

The event will commence with a potluck dinner on Friday night where guests are encouraged to come dressed as a deity within the Egyptian Pantheon, and will we will go around the pavilion with introductions and inspirations. Saturday will be full of learning, and a grand ritual in the late evening, after dinner. Sunday will be a high-holy day, with more intentions and practical applications of magic, ending the symposium with another group dinner and fond farewell to our guests.

Our special pricing makes this affordable for everyone, and we will also be accepting a few volunteers on work-trade. Please keep watching the website for updates and new information as this amazingly fun weekend comes together in an organic, magical way.

We hope to see you in August!”
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Sonoma County Pagan Network Solstice Camp Out
Friday-Monday, August 22-24
Doran Park Campground, 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay
$5-$10 suggested donation

“Join Us For Our 13th Annual SCPN Solstice Camp Out at Doran Park in Bodega!
It's time to pull out the gear and get ready to join us for our annual SCPN Solstice Camp Out! This years event will take place in Bodega Bay at the Doran Park campgrounds on the weekend of August 22-24. Friday check in - after 2:00PM, Sunday checkout is at noon.

Doran Park campground is located at 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay. We have sites D and E reserved at the Miwok Tent Campground. There are bathrooms and showers located nearby. Go 1.1 miles past the Ranger Kiosk at the Park Entrance. Miwok Campground is in the grove of trees on the left side of the road just past the Coast Guard Station.

Who's invited: Members and e-list members of the Sonoma County Pagan Network, their Friends and Families.

What do we bring: Whatever you would normally bring to go tent camping with you and your family (including: gear, food, beverages, first aid kit, etc.)
Additionally:
Firewood for the communal fire pit
Bring clothes for warm weather for the daytime and warm clothes for the evenings. It tends to get foggy and cold after sundown.
Please bring your own food, drinking water and camp gear. Sunday evenings feast is the only planned communal potluck meal. So please bring a side dish to share and something to put on the grill for your group at the Sunday Potluck following the ritual.
Campfire stories, chants, songs

Saturday Ritual and Potluck Feast: There will be a ritual on Saturday the 23rd which will be facilitated by several members of the SCPN. The ritual start time to be announced soon.

What is there to do?: Relax, walk on the beach, hike along the trails, jump in the surf, nap, surf, fish (please bring your own gear and license), fly a kite, watch the waves, visit with fellow Pagans, gaze at the campfire, learn a new story, teach us a chant, celebrate the Solstice at one of the most beautiful spots on the California coast.

What if I don't camp?: Drive out for the day and join us anyway! We'd love to see you and the beauty of Doran is approximately 30 minutes from Santa Rosa which makes it nice and accessible to everyone that wants to come out and play!

How much does it cost?: Donations $5-$10 are welcome during this event to help the SCPN offset the cost for the reservation fees. No donation asked for kids under the age of 12. However, NO ONE will be turned away for lack of funds.

Parking:
Each campsite gets one free car, the rest of the vehicles will be $6 per day for overnight parking. They don't have a lot of extra parking, so carpool if possible. If you are staying overnight, be sure to tell the Rangers at the entry kiosk and get the proper parking stickers, because they do check cars at night and ticket improperly parked ones. Please do not park in the handicapped spaces unless you have a handicap plaque card. The fine for doing so is $240.

Pets:
If you bring your dog you will have to pay at the gate per dog, per night. Dogs must be on leash no longer than 6' in length. Rabies certificate required.

Where do I sign up: Please RSVP to the e-list if you plan on attending. This helps us get an idea of how many people will be attending so we can plan accordingly. Please include if you plan on camping or being a day tripper and how many folks in your group. Everyone is responsible for their own gear and whomever they bring with them. By joining our group you agree to follow the rules and guidelines set forward by the Campground. Please behave responsibly.”
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Peace in the Park
Saturday, August 23, 11:00AM-6:00PM
Spreckels Temple of Music, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Free

“Peace in the Park is a free festival with a rejuvenating atmosphere. It will contain music, relaxation techniques and fascinating insights. It is designed to be a community inclusive of all ages and backgrounds and will take place in San Francisco’s wonderful Golden Gate Park Bandshell on Saturday, August 23, 2014 from 11:00AM to 6:00PM.

Stage Concerts
World music and dances on the main stage: Listen to classical music from the Far East, Latin America and India. Watch folk dances from Mexico and Middle East. Prepare to be totally Enchanted!

Activities Pavilion
Fun and uplifting activities for kids and families. Making things, theraputic yoga, taichi, juggling, plus try out relaxation for kids of all ages to rise above worries and enter a world of calm and happiness.

Peace Exhibits
Engage with peace initiatives ranging from saving rain forests to youth cooperation circles to meditation experience to tree of blessings. Get involved with nonprofits doing global and local peace projects.”
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Bounty Of Heart’s Delight
Saturday, August 23, 4:00-10:00PM
Veggielution Farm, 647 S King Road, San Jose
$100 includes Tour, Appetizers, Dinner, Dessert, and Barn Dance.

“Join Veggielution for a farm fresh feast of local produce and wine, sourced and prepared by gifted chef Affie Mahini from Cafe Pomegranate.  Celebrate the rich tastes of our bountiful harvest while soaking in the sights of the farm and sounds of live music.  Polish off the evening with a decadent dessert, an exciting Barn dance and the warm feeling of supporting a healthy, homegrown, San Jose.

4:30PM: Farm Tours and Hay Rides
5:00PM: Appetizers  
5:30PM: Dinner Begins
8:30PM: Barn Dance
10:00PM: Event Ends

Our chef will be using the very best produce from Veggielution Farm, and our event committee is currently sourcing other gourmet food items, beer and wine from local producers.”
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All Night Stargazing
with Stargazer Li
Saturday, August 23, 6:00PM-7:30AM (the following morning)
RSVP to info@stargazerli.com for exact location in Sebastopol
$180, adults only
see website for registration details

“Come learn nearly the entire starry sky in one night!

We’ll gather before sunset to learn the horizon calendar, then throughout the night in a field under the stars, guided by the visible beam of a green laser, you’ll see and learn the patterns and movements of the constellations, including most of the zodiac and some of the lunar mansions, many of the planets, and folklore from different times and cultures, all the while directly seeing the story that’s unfolding at this time, dosing with planetary essences and essence elixirs, and dancing deeply with the cosmos…

This night will change your relationship with the starry night sky forever!

This evening is especially for those who have experienced a night under the sky with Stargazer Li before, so we can go even deeper into connection with the cosmos, but it is open to first time stargazers who want an immersion experience.

Adults only, no kids this time.

There will be tea and  potluck snacks through the night, and light breakfast as an option the next morning. You can stay over on Sunday to sleep before heading out by late afternoon if you’d like. Directions will be emailed to registered participants.

Join me for this once in a lifetime opportunity to deeply engage with the universe!

To register (or get on the waiting list):
1) Email me info@stargazerli.com with the names and email addresses of the people that will be attending, in how many cars, and where you’re coming from. Also, let me know how you are connected to me, and if you’ve stargazed with me before.

2) Once I let you know there’s room. Pay a deposit of $60 per participant to hold your spot.

TOTAL COST for the event: $180 person ($120 person - low income)

Balance due upon arrival the evening of the event.

If the night gets clouded out, in all or part, there will be a pro-rated refund.

Join me for this once in a lifetime opportunity to deeply engage with the universe!”
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Wine, Women, and Song: From Broadway to the Blues
Rhythmix Cultural Works 7th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 23, 7:00PM VIP Reception, 8:00PM Show
Rhythmix Cultural Works, 2513 Blanding Avenue, Alameda
$25

“Rhythmix Cultural Works 7th Anniversary Celebration featuring blues, jazz, accordion, belly dance, taiko, cello, marimbas, environmental art, and a silent auction with fantastic donations. Proceeds from this event will support RCW’s youth arts programming. Rhythmix will also be presenting its first annual Golden Gear Awards to three East Bay artists in recognition of their outstanding contributions in three categories: visual arts, performing arts and arts education.”
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Tales of John Muir
with Storyteller Garth Gilchrist
Saturday, August 23, 7:00PM
private home in Oakland, address given upon RSVP
$15
Please RSVP to 650-327-5493 or shmoover@comcast.net

“Barry and Maya Spector invite you to a House Concert in Oakland

Garth Gilchrist portrays John Muir, America’s meteoric champion of wilderness and the healing power of wild nature.  Muir wings us through a wild and challenging boyhood filled with natural revelations, family struggles, and curiously brilliant inventions, through discoveries of ancient glaciers in the Sierra and outrageous high-altitude adventures.  Muir whispers to us his mountaintop visions and shouts his conservation triumphs.  Gilchrist delivers an intimate view of a man who looked into the heart of nature and changed the heart of a nation.”
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52 Letters
with Regina Y. Evans
A Fundraising Performance for Regina's Door
Saturday, August 23, 7:30PM
The Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, Oakland
$25

“Oakland Native and Poet Regina Y. Evans presents her award winning play, 52 Letters, which brings awareness to the issue of sex trafficking and American youth as a fundraising performance for Regina's Door. Regina's Door, a customer-oriented upscale vintage clothing boutique, is slated to open on Saturday, September 20, 2014, at 352 17th Street, Oakland. The boutique (featuring uniquely beautiful vintage dresses from the Victorian Era to the 1980s)  is a social enterprise designed to support Bay Area sex trafficking survivors and is owned by Bay Area Abolitionists and friends Regina Y. Evans and Kim Saquing.

Regina and Kim would both like to thank all of the sponsors for their support of the 52 Letters Fundraising Performance for Regina's Door. With gratitude to the following:

Love Never Fails Anti Trafficking Organization, Nola Brantley (NolaBrantley SPEAKS!), Sarai Theolinda Smith (MISSSEY Co Founder), Bay Area Anti Trafficking Coalition, Allen Temple Baptist Church Street Disciples Anti-Trafficking Ministry, Genice Jacobs (Abolitionist Mom), Cheryl Chambers (President, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Xi Gamma Omega Chapter), Michael Cory Davis (Actor/Director/Abolitionist), Safely Home (Neighborhood Church Anti-Trafficking Ministry Safe Home), Don Reed (Actor/Comedian), East Oakland Youth Development Center, PopUpHood, Phyliss Pincosy (Abolitionist), Deb Fink (Actor and Board Member for Central Works Theatre), Susan Dunn (Development Director, Virago Theatre), Susan Vyborney (Community Activist), Carrie Kuba (Abolitionist), Les Higashi (Abolitionist), The Flight Deck, and Virago Theatre.”
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Bay Area Tarot Symposium
Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24
Doubletree Hotel, 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose
see website for detailed schedule and registration information

“The first, the original, the only... There is NOTHING like a BATS!

Two days of Tarot-drenched fun and frolic including workshops, presentations, readings in the Pagan Science Reading Room, fabulous schmoozery, and the legendary Tarot Bazaar, featuring Tarot Garden (your source for all things Tarot) and the Millard Fillmore Memorial Spiritualist Temple Garage Sale (the retail arm of the DoD)
Plus! the Raffle of Fabulous Prizes!

The BATS in the Belfry Magickal, Mystical Mixer on Saturday night will feature the Michael Kenny jazz combo and special guest performers.”
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The Shamanic Journey, Power and Healing
with Beth Beurkens
Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24
Santa Rosa, address given upon registration
for payment details, please contact Beth Beurkens at 541-708-0473

“During this experiential workshop, participants are introduced to core shamanism, the universal and near-universal basic methods of the shaman to enter non-ordinary reality for problem solving and healing. Particular emphasis is placed on the classic shamanic journey, one of the most remarkable visionary methods used by humankind to explore the hidden universe otherwise known mainly through myth and dream. Participants are initiated into shamanic journeying, aided by drumming and other techniques for experiencing the shamanic state of consciousness and for awakening dormant spiritual abilities, including connections with Nature.

Practice includes comparisons by participants of their discoveries in shamanic journeys as well as being introduced to shamanic divination and healing. Students are also provided with methods to discover, and study with, their own individual power animals and spiritual teachers in non-ordinary reality, a classic step in shamanic practice. Participants learn how the journey is utilized for divination and to restore spiritual power and health, and how shamanism can be applied in contemporary daily life to help heal oneself, others, and the planet.

This workshop constitutes the prerequisite for more advanced workshops and training courses with Michael Harner, Beth Beurkens, and the other faculty members of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies.

Instructor is Beth Beurkens, M.A., senior faculty with the Foundation for Shamanic Studies.

Please contact Beth Beurkens for further information at 541-708-0473 or beth@shamanicuniverse.com.”
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Italian Family Festa
Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24,
Saturday 10:00AM-8:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-6:00PM
Guadalupe River Park, 494 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose
Free

“We invite you to stop by and experience what Italians already know. Sharing the day with great friends and family, authentic Italian foods, fantastic live entertainment, and strolling the many wonderful arts and crafts merchants is  La Vita Dolce Italiana.
Now in its 34th year, the Italian Family Festa has evolved and flourished now drawing over 25,000 attendees. So grab a lawn chair or a blanket and join us in the park for a day of fun and festivities!
Live continuous entertainment
Italian sweet and savory specialty foods
Giardino di Vino (Wine Garden)
Italian culture and heritage center
Culinary demonstrations
Bocce ball and bambini bocce
Grape stomps
Prize drawing opportunity
Specialty food sampling
Unique arts and crafts
Fun activities for the entire family

SEATING IS LIMITED. Please feel free to bring a lawn chair and/or blankets to enjoy the entertainment.
NOTE: There are no bottles, cans or coolers allowed.

As a courtesy to others, we kindly request that you do not bring your pets to the Festa.
PROCEEDS: The Italian Family Festa is sponsored by the Italian American Heritage Foundation (IAHF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit. All proceeds from the Festa help us maintain and promote Italian history in the Santa Clara Valley area. In addition, the proceeds allow us to continue and enhance our IAHF Scholarship Program. Contact the IAHF for more information on additional sponsored programs and events.”
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Assyrian Food Festival
Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24, Saturday 11:00AM-11:00PM, Sunday 11:00AM-8:00PM
Assyrian Church of the East, Mar Yosip Parish, 680 Minnesota Avenue, San Jose

“A Place for Family Fun

Bring the whole family and join us in celebrating the 22nd Annual Assyrian Food Festival: The Celebration Continues! This two-day event, open Saturday 11:00AM-11:00PM and Sunday 11:30AM-9:00PM, will feature traditional Assyrian food (real kabobs!); live music, dancing, and entertainment; a wine bar; the original Samovar Alley featuring exotic teas, coffee, and pastries; arts, crafts, and exhibits; vendors from all over the world; and a Kids' Zone, as well as $10 Raffle for a 2014 car (Model and Color TBD). It’s a great deal of fun!!!

The annual festival is an opportunity to showcase Assyrian food, traditions and educate the community about the Assyrian heritage as well as to preserve and to continue passing on Assyrian cultural traditions to the next generation. If you enjoy trying authentic food, music, and dance, make plans to attend the festival! You can mingle with and learn about the people whose ancestral homeland is known in history as ‘the cradle of civilization.’

The festival will be held at the Assyrian Church of the East, Mar Yosip Parish. Admission Is Free, Parking and Shuttle Free, no pets please.”
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Puppet Fair Weekend at Children’s Fairyland
Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24, 11:00AM-4:00PM
Children's Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland
Included with admission

“All Day Puppet Petting Zoo! Now's your chance to get up close and make these wonderful puppets come alive.
11:00AM, 2:00PM, and 4:00PM - Puppet Show: Three Brave Deeds
Yuki is a Native American boy who wants to help his people save their land. He is directed by the medicine man to undertake a journey and perform three difficult tasks. The friends he meets along the way teach him about hardship, friendship, and the importance of common sense. Original tale by David C. Jones, based on the three Indian legends. Puppets designed by Pamelia McIntire. Scenery by Lewis Mahlmann.

12:00PM - Puppet Show: The Magic Teakettle, a Japanese fairytale
Presented by The Puppet Company

12:30PM and 3:00PM - Children's Theatre Presents: Rabbitses
The world is full of rabbits - no wonder that there are so many tales about them! Tricky rabbits, clever conejos, bad bunnies, and lovely lapins from all over the world come together in this collection of fuzzy rabbit tales from West Africa, India, and Korea. Bounce along with the bunnies as they search for wisdom, safety, and the perfect salad. Written and directed with original music by Doyle Ott. Costumes by Tonya Marie and Gypsy Cat Studios.
12:00PM-2:00PM - The Marilynn O'Hare Arts and Crafts Center is open with activities geared toward children and their families.
1:00PM-1:20PM - Animal of the Day!
Come up close and learn about one of our animal friends. Which one of Fairyland's feathered, furry or wooly creatures will it be today? Find out at the Humpty Dumpty wall.

Saturday, August 23 only
1:30PM - Puppet Show: Alameda County 4H Puppeteers
3:30PM - Puppet Show: Carnival of the Animals
Presented by The Fratello Marionettes

5:45PM - Summer Sleep Over! Experience the magic of Fairyland in the moonlight. Pitch your tent in the Teddy Bear Picnic area and enjoy dinner, rides and entertainment under the stars. In the morning, wake up to the smell of fresh coffee, bagels and cereal, with our continental breakfast. Savor some quality time with your kids!
Pre-registration required. http://fairyland.org/events-and-performances/summer-sleepovers

Sunday, August 24 only
1:30PM - Puppet Show: The Vagabond Puppets will be here to perform for you.
3:30PM - Puppet Show: Perez and Mondinga
A Mexican fiesta tale of a cockroach who marries a mouse. Presented by Rhonda Kay.”
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Fandango!
at the Peralta Adobe
Sunday, August 24, 12:00AM-4:00PM
Peralta Adobe and Fallon House Historic Site, 175 West Saint John Street, San Jose
Adults $8, Children $5, Activity Tickets $1 each or 6 tickets for $5

“Sunday, August 24, is the annual Fandango! at the Peralta Adobe Historic Site, at the heart of the San Pedro Square Market.

This date commemorates the death of Luis Maria Peralta 162 years ago. Peralta was one of the first Alcalde or Mayors of the Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe.  A Californio, he lived in the Adobe with his family.

Come and explore our Ohlone Indian display, learn about adobe building materials, and practice your roping skills. Watch weaving demonstrations, and create crafts, such as corn husk pocket buddies and dipped candles. Enjoy music from Los Arribenos while feasting on the many foods available from the San Pedro Market.

We will offer tours of the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House for adults, as well as special tours for children age 4 to 10 at the Peralta Adobe.”
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Sunnyvale Historical Society Antique Faire
Sunday, August 24, 12:00AM-4:00PM
Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum, 570 E Remington Drive, Sunnyvale, 408-749-0220
Free

“The Sunnyvale Historical Society is hosting an Antique Faire on Sunday, August 24, from noon to 4:00PM.  We will have on-site appraisers from Michaan's Auctions with expertise in Fine Art, Stamps and Coins, Asian Art, Jewelry, Furniture and Decorative Arts.

Your $20 appraisal fee provide you with up to three appraisals.  Reservations are strongly encouraged since space is limited.  

Entrance to the event is FREE.  We will have live music, free museum tours and a special selection of antiques and treasures from our museum collection that are available for purchase.

We hope to see you there!”
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Berkeley Morris Workshop
Tuesday, August 26, 7:30PM,
and three more Tuesdays, September 2, 16 and 23
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!

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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Oneness Meditation
with Jan and Marystella of Vortex Journeys
Wednesday, August 27, 6:30-8:30PM
The Crossroads, private land in Santa Rosa, RSVP for address
Free, donations welcome
RSVP  to 707-542-4928 or beyondbeliefs@vortexjourneys.com
“What Intentions are you energizing on August 25's New Moon? Our meditation will focus on choosing intentions that nurture Oneness. The evening includes some discussion, the meditation and a mini-energy reading for each person.

The energy from meditating alone is great, in community it is greater.”
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Capitola Begonia Festival
Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1,
see website for detailed schedule
the beautiful seaside Village of Capitola, near Santa Cruz
Free admission

"The Capitola Begonia Festival is held every Labor Day Weekend in Capitola, California. It features FUN activities that all the Family can enjoy, from a Sand Sculpture contest, a Fishing Derby, Row Boat races, and a Nautical Parade of begonia-laden floats traveling down Soquel Creek. Join in on Children's Art events, compete in the Horseshoes tournament, or decorate yourself with begonias! Watch as float builders rush to put the finishing touches on their parade entries. Or, really get involved and put together a team of family and friends to build your own float. You can watch a movie on the beach, or dance to the sounds of the band. All events are FREE to the public!

Begun in 1952, the Capitola Begonia Festival is in its 61st year. It is put on by a committee of 100% volunteers who are dedicated to continuing this long-standing tradition, and it is sponsored with donations from the local business community and fundraising activities.

Don't miss out on this weekend of fun!”
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Gold Rush Days
Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1,
See website for detailed daily schedule
Historic Old Sacramento, 101 I Street, Sacramento
Free

“Hitch up the team to your buckboard and come on down! Bring the young'uns and the in-laws, the neighbors and the new folk just off the stage from Back East.  Heck, bring your sweetheart along for a thrill… During Labor Day Weekend in Old Sacramento you’ll find yourself transported back to the days of Gold and Glory, when California was a brand-new state with brand-new ideas. Join in the truly old-time fun in the world of Yesterday!

More than 200 tons of dirt will pave the streets of Old Sacramento as this annual festival "turns back the clock," transforming Sacramento's historic district into a scene straight out of the 1850s. Hundreds of costumed performers take on the roles of celebrities, personalities and just plain folks, bringing history to life while bluegrass pickers and old-timey Musicians perform on several stages, evoking the vivid tunes of the times.

Featuring Dancers, Street Dramas, Wagon Rides, Gold Panning, Period Artifacts, Storytelling, Craft Making, Embarcadero Tent City, Period Musicians, Horse-Drawn Carriages and much more!”
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River of Bliss: A RiverGuidess Adventure
Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1
on the Stanislaus River in Oakdale, address given upon registration
see website for registration information

“This Labor Day, forget those dusty campsites and long traffic jams.

Unplug, unwind, and FOLLOW YOUR BLISS down to the river with us! Enjoy comfortable shaded camping on velvet lawns, gentle rafting, swimming, yoga, meditation, various forms of conscious and ecstatic dance, massage, hot showers, gourmet organic meals, and so much more. Yes, Paradise has been found at the Stanislaus River, just 90 minutes east of the San Francisco Bay.

Let your inner child out to play!

Open to Singles, Couples and (a few) Families, we offer exclusive access to a magical, private riverfront estate that few ever get to see, let alone be for an entire holiday weekend. You’ll discover sandy beaches, hammocks and rope swings galore, exotic statues, a temple made of redwood trees, plants carved into topiaries, and more surprises at every turn.
Swim in gentle currents, feel the warm breezes on your skin. Nurture your body, open your heart, soothe your soul and connect with people of like mind and spirit. This will become one of your most treasured memories in this lifetime! We’re along the road from San Francisco to Yosemite, so you might include a trip to the Park in your plans.

Our guest teacher and artist line-up is coming soon, featuring:
Live and DJed music
Yoga and Meditation
Conscious Dance and Movement Classes
Inspirational Playshops and Connecting Activities
Delicious organic meals and snacks

No rafting experience necessary! This gentle river is great for novice and experienced alike.”
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Northern California Women's Herbal Symposium
Session 3: Friday-Monday, August 29-September 1
Black Oak Ranch, 50350 Highway 101, Laytonville
see website for detailed schedule and registration details

“PlantWomen gather! The Tribe comes together!

Now, three times a year women from many backgrounds of life gather together in great celebration for four full days of inspiring Herbal and Sustainability classes, gourmet vegetarian meals, talented campfire capers, amazing handcrafted marketplace items, Rites-of-Passage Ceremonies, powerful campfire drumming and dancing, refreshing swimming hole dips, and conversations with remarkable and inspiring women!

We meet together under the ancient oaks, douglas firs, and bay trees of Northern California. Our main gathering area is encircled by sixteen tipis with a large firepit in the center. All classes are held sitting on the ground under these majestic trees, or under shade tarps that we have set-up. At night we camp together, either in the tipis or in tents that we each bring.

During the days we are a gathering of women and children studying, teaching, learning, networking, and talking about plants, healing, and healthy lifestyles. When the sun goes down we become a playful and celebratory group, chatting, chanting, singing, showing off our talents, drumming and dancing into the night around the campfire.

We are a group of 350-400 women and children and we gather to learn from each other, to nurture and nourish each other, to take a break from our daily lives, to regenerate, refresh, dance, frolic, talk plants, and most of all, to have a REALLY GOOD THYME together!

Each session is a separate event. Do join us for one, two, or all sessions!”
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Scottish Highland Games
presented by Caledonian Club of San Francisco
Saturday-Sunday, August 30-31, 8:30AM-6:00PM
Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
Adults 1 day $20, 2 day $27, Children 12 - 17 and Seniors 65+ $12, 11 and under Free
Parking $8

“One of the world's largest Celtic Festivals. Thirty pipe bands. World Championship Heavy Events and Amateur, Woman's and Masters Invitational. Western Highland Dancing Championships. Living History - Mary Queen of Scots, Highland Warriors, Roman Legion and Invading Vikings. Gathering of Clans. Celtic Heritage - Fiddling, Harping and Singing. Six stages continuous entertainment - traditional to Celtic Rock. Children’s Glen, Scottish Country Dancing. Irish Step dancing. Birds of Prey. Sheep Dog Trials. Clydesdale Horse Team. Five-A-Side Soccer, Rugby and Shinty Tournament. Whisky Tasting. British food and drink. Five buildings with 100 + Vendors.”
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Power Within the Land: Earth Magic of the Underworld and Faery Realm
with R.J. Stewart and Anastacia Nutt
Saturday-Sunday, August 30-31,
Saturday 10:00AM-5:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-4:00PM
The Barn at Rudolf Steiner College, 9200 Fair Oaks Boulevard, Fair Oaks
$190 if paid by August 1, $220 after August 1
To register, please pay by PayPal to: rjspeak@earthlink.ne,
Please note “Fair Oaks” in memo
For more information, please contact Eric Sciullo at emsciullo@yahoo.com

“At this time of environmental upheaval and global uncertainty, we have a valuable, and largely untapped, resource in the form of traditional teachings. These teachings hold important knowledge that we can apply to the present situation. To begin, we endeavor to understand and commune effectively with the Power Within the Land.

R. J. Stewart is a renowned Teacher, Author, Musician and Creator of Inner Temples and Inner Convocation methods.
 
Anastacia J. Nutt is a Working Priestess, Teacher, Author and Seer.”
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Historic Rail Fair
at Ardenwood
Saturday-Monday, August 30-September 1, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, Fremont
$10 adults, $5 children 4-17, children under 3 free

“The Rail Fair returns to the farm over the Labor Day weekend. Enjoy steam train rides, handcar rides, displays of garden railroads, model railroads, railyard equipment displays, Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor displays, food, the children's Hobo game, music and much more!”
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King's Mountain Art Fair
Saturday-Monday, August 30- September 1, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Kings Mountain Community Center, 13889 Skyline Boulevard, Woodside

"The Kings Mountain Art Fair is an annual event, held every Labor Day weekend. The Art Fair benefits the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade and other community activities, including the Kings Mountain Elementary School, and is staffed completely by volunteers from the local community.

Known for its stunning location among the redwoods and for its unique and varied artists (selected by jury), the Kings Mountain Art Fair celebrates 50 years of art and ambiance. Come visit!

Fair admission and parking are free."
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Great Train Robberies at Roaring Camp
Saturday-Monday, August 30-September 1
Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, 831-335-4484
see website for schedule admission details

“Witness shootouts between famed lawmen and notorious outlaws from the 1880s aboard the Redwood Forest Train to Bear Mountain. See why the West was wild!!”
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Oakland Pride
Sunday, August 31, Parade at 10:30AM, Festival 11:00AM-7:00PM
19th Street and Franklin Street, Oakland
see website for detailed map and schedule
$10 General Admission, $5 Seniors over 65/Youth under 12

“Oakland Pride exploded onto the pride scene in 2010 with a first year event so large and fabulous that it has been branded Northern California’s second largest pride. 2014 marks the 5th year of Oakland’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride celebration and we have gone the extra mile to ensure there is something for everyone. In additional to four stages featuring a diverse lineup of over 75 wonderful artists, Oakland Pride will host pavilions for seniors, HIV/AIDS Health, and the Asian Pacific Islander (API) Community. Our Family Coalition, Children’s Fairyland and The Oakland Public Library have teamed up to host a fun-filled Family Garden with live entertainment and interactive activities for children of all ages. With all of this plus almost 200 vendors and exhibitors providing a wide variety of food, merchandise, and information. Oakland Pride is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Come celebrate a proud day on the sunny side of the Bay!!”
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Songs of the Sea Cards
crafting workshop with Toy Jalanugraha
Sunday, August 31, 11:00AM-5:00PM
Castle in the Air 1805 Fourth Street, Berkeley, 510-204-9801
$80 includes materials
register in advance - class limited to 10 students

“These charming moveable cards are inspired by mermaids, whales, and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. You’ll learn to make the collaged background, cut your figures, and attach them to a moveable wheel to animate the scene. Then build your front layer of paper to make the cards three-dimensional. Embellish with Dresden trim and ephemera of your choice to complete your treasure, and you’ll be hearing the mermaids’ voices floating to the surface and calling to sailors and all lovers of the sea.”
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Abbot's Bromliad
Monday, September 1, 12:00-3:00PM
Joaquin Miller Park, 3594 Sanborn Drive, Oakland
Free

"The annual Abbots Bromliad in Oakland's Joaquin Miller Park is set for Labor Day on September 1. Since 2010, a continually increasing group of Revelers take part in or watch what has become the world's largest Abbots Bromley Horn Dance. All Abbots Bromley and traditional English dance enthusiasts are invited to join the California Revels in a day of good food, good music, good dancing and another celebration our 4th Abbots Bromley Horn Dance Day.

Every Wakes Monday, the dancers in Abbots Bromley, England take up the traditional horns for their legendary 16 kilometer trek of dancing through countryside and pub yards. In 2010, our inaugural Bromliad, Wakes Monday happened to fall on Labor Day in America.This year it's a week later, but we will continue to use Labor Day for our celebration.

We are calling for dance teams and individuals to come together for a day of picnicking, dancing and music, which will culminate in the Bromliad - a mass dance of the Abbots Bromley antler dance featuring even more people than danced last year (150 along with over 20 musicians!). And while we are dancing in Oakland, Bromliads will be performing with Portland Revels and Puget Sound Revels. Someday there may be horn dancers from coast to coast on Labor Day!

This free event will take place in a beautiful glade in Joaquin Miller Park in Oakland on Monday, September 2. Picnickers can arrive any time after 11:00AM. Bring the kids, a blanket and your favorite foods and beverages. There will be music and Morris dancing (teams cordially invited) as well as called group dancing. Then at 1:00PM, we'll set up for the largest Abbots Bromley serpentine ever. Bring your antlers, toy bow and arrow, hobby horse, fool’s cap or parasol. If you're a musician, bring your fiddle, your drum or your pipe too. The fun continues until 3:00PM. Show up and be a part of dance history!

DIRECTIONS: We'll be dancing and picnicking in this beautiful glade. Here's how to find Joaquin Miller Park Make a left into the park at the upper Sanborn intersection - you'll see a sign for Woodminster Amphitheater. You can park for free along Joaquin Miller Road and walk in, or park at the community center just inside the park ($5) and walk down. There may also be free parking in the Amphitheater lots. We'll be in the first glade along the trail downhill from the Sanborn entrance. We'll post a sign."
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Forest Therapy Guide Training
with TreeGirl (Julianne Skai Arbor)
Monday-Friday, September 1-5
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, 2605 Adobe Canyon Road, Kenwood
$800 plus $35 camping fee

“Learn how to lead people on shinrin-yoku walks.
An immersive five-day training at beautiful Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.
Shinrin-yoku is a term that means ‘taking in the forest atmosphere’ or ‘forest bathing.’ It was developed in Japan during the 1980s, and has become a cornerstone of preventive health care and healing in Japanese medicine.
Our approach to Shinrin Yoku Forest Therapy combines leisurely walks on gentle paths under forest canopy with guided activities and meditations to help you open your senses, hone your intuition, and experience the forest as you never have before. We draw upon mindfulness meditation practices, and the techniques of deep nature connection mentoring.

In an unhurried way, allow your feet to wander. Shinrin-yoku is not about exercise. It is not about hurry. It is about being alive in all your senses and trusting that the forest and other landscapes upon which you wander hold something good for you.
Be one of an international group of 22 people who will discover the inner secrets of planning and leading shinrin-yoku walks.

This is the first step toward meeting the standards of certification by shinrin-yoku.org as a shinrin-yoku guide.
Researchers primarily in Japan and South Korea have established a robust body of scientific literature on the health benefits of spending time under the canopy of a living forest. Now their research is helping to establish shinrin-yoku and forest therapy throughout the world.

The idea is simple: if a person simply visits a natural area and walks in a relaxed way there are calming, rejuvenating and restorative benefits to be achieved.

We have always known this intuitively. But in the past several decades there have been many scientific studies that are demonstrating the mechanisms behind the healing effects of simply being in wild and natural areas. For example, many trees give off organic compounds that support our NK (natural killer) cells that are part of our immune system's way of fighting cancer.
The scientifically-proven benefits of Shinrin-yoku include:
Lowered blood pressure
Lowered pulse rate
Reduced cortisol levels
Increased vigor
Reduced anger
Reduced depression

Just as impressive are the results that we are experiencing as we make this part of our regular practice:
Deeper and clearer intuition
Increased flow of energy
Increased capacity to communicate with the land and its species
Increased flow of eros/life force
Deepening of friendships
Overall increase in sense of happiness
shinrin gals tree

Become a Guide!
Learn a powerful approach to connecting people with nature and a path to wellness:
The 10 gates of perception and activities to open and improve them
Listening to the land to find the shinrin-yoku activities it supports
Choosing and getting to know a trail
Building your shinrin-yoku trail map
Cultivating mindfulness in the wild
Practicalities of building your referral network
Over 60 specific activities that you can use and adapt for the place where you work
Core routines of deep nature connection
Expressive arts activities
Fundamentals of nature connection mentoring
Our unique framework for the Way of the Guide
Much more...

Your guides Amos Clifford, Lindsey Mitchell, Pamela Wirth and TreeGirl (Julianne Skai Arbor), along with guest speakers and other guides, will lead you on a fun, challenging, and deeply nourishing journey of discovery.”
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Visions Of The Wild
Wednesday-Saturday, September 3-6
various venues in downtown Vallejo
see website for schedule, location, and admission details

“A Festival Connecting Nature, Culture, and Community

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Wilderness Act, the Visions of the Wild Festival will be held in Vallejo, CA from September 3-6, 2014.  It will include art shows, speakers, films, music, and field trips. The goal is to connect diverse urban communities to the wildness of nature around them.

The festival is sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service, the Vallejo Community Arts Foundation, and many other agencies and organizations.”
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Goddess Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 5-7
Redwood Forest in Santa Cruz area
see website for detailed registration information

“Goddess Festival 2014
Health, Wealth and Wisdom: Empowering Women, Cultivating Sisterhood

Join us for a blissful weekend filled with magic, sisterhood, and deep connection to the rhythms of the Earth!

Once again, we gather together in the coastal redwoods of California among the enchanted energies of Mother Nature to honor the Goddess, ourselves, and one another.

For three days we live together in this sacred setting, partaking of powerful workshops, rituals, singing, drumming, dancing, and the dynamic vitality of female-focused intentional community. Guided by world renowned Priestesses and leaders, you can learn to identify and use herbs, hone your skills in the ancient Amazon art of archery, contribute your voice as we pass the rattle, develop ritual skills, empower yourself through the sacred archetypes of women, and much, much more.

Each day we offer a variety of workshops and opportunities for learning.  Choose to attend as few or as many as you like, or simply relax - swim in the pool, hike through the woods, listen to the music, enter into deep discussion, shop with our hand-selected vendors, or just sit quietly and meditate in this sacred space.

Evenings are reserved for us to come together in the Gaia Bowl, our sacred ritual space of Fire and Light.  It is here that we call to the Goddess and weave our magic; honor and invoke our Foremothers; hold Initiation and Ordination rituals; and drum, dance, and sing our prayers - for ourselves and the Earth! All of nature is just a step outside your cabin door.

All meals are prepared for us - there is no work duty, no food to cook, no dishes to do. Your only responsibility is to come with an open heart and open mind, find connection through Sisterhood, and share your energies in this movement for social change.  Come and meet us Between the Worlds, outside of mundane space and time, to find rejuvenation and renewed purpose!”
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Sebastopol Cajun Zydeco Festival
Saturday, September 6, 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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Solfest 2014
Saturday, September 6, Noon-Midnight
Solar Living Center/Real Goods store
13771 Highway 101, Hopland (in Mendocino County)
Adults $20 in advance, $25 on the day, under 14 free
video from a previous year: http://vimeo.com/15751571

“SolFest XVI is a one-day event filled with hands-on educational workshops, inspirational speakers, live performances, eco-conscious vendors, kid’s activities, organic food, and many other festivities.  It’s the largest fundraising event for the Solar Living Institute in Hopland, giving you the chance to gain a wealth of knowledge through workshops, speakers, and the variety of environmental organizations and businesses on hand. Or kick back, relax, socialize, listen to live music, relish organic food, wine and beer, and enjoy all the other festivities SolFest has to offer. Join us Saturday, September 6, Noon-Midnight.”
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Hoot and Howl
Saturday, September 6, 6:00-10:30PM
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.

Who benefits?
The Hoot and Howl supports all areas of park and zoo growth.  Some of the accomplishments made possible through Happy Hollow Foundation support include bringing back the Crooked House, launching the Summer Animal Show, exhibit renovations, providing scholarship to Title 1 schools, and Species Survival support, highlighting Get Sophia a Boyfriend!. http://www.hhpz.org/index.cfm/id/1329
This fiscal year we will be adding a new attraction to the amusement collection!”
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Renaissance Tudor Fayre
Saturday-Sunday, September 6-7, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Cameron Park Lake, 2989 Cambridge Road, Cameron Park
$12 Adults, $8 for Children 4-12 and Seniors,  Family package $30
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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San Francisco Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival
Saturday, September 6-7, 11:00AM-6:00PM
along Grant Avenue between California and Broadway, San Francisco
Free

“The Chinatown Merchants Association will present the Annual Autumn Moon Festival to be held in Chinatown on Saturday and Sunday, September 6-7, 2014.

Chinatown's best-attended annual event, will begin with a grand opening ceremony and parade at 11:00AM on Saturday starting at California and Grant. As in years past, events will include free live entertainment, an open-air pedestrian street bazaar featuring a wide array of bargain merchandise, and multiple parades along historic Grant Avenue between California Street and Columbus Avenue. Festivities will continue non-stop until 6:00PM daily. Thousands of local residents and foreign visitors typically attend the Moon Festival each year.

A variety of cultural performances will be offered on the main stage throughout the festivities, hosted by Mistresses of Ceremonies Anita Cheung and Rose Chung. Guest entertainer schedule will be announced shortly.

Celebrated for more than 1,000 years in Asia, the Moon Festival marks a time to reflect upon the bounty of the summer harvest, the fullness of the moon, and the myth of the moon Goddess, Chang O (or Chang E). The Moon Festival is a distinctly and authentically Asian holiday, which has been likened to a Chinese Thanksgiving. It is among the most popular holidays in Asia, ranking alongside the celebration of the lunar New Year in cultural significance.

With the celebration of the Moon Festival in San Francisco each year, east meets west, traditional meets modern, and a joyous time is had by all in the streets of historic Chinatown. Local and visitors alike are cordially invited to join in the grand 24th anniversary celebration of the Moon Festival.

Note: Attendance at the Autumn Moon Festival is always heavy, so the public is encouraged to use MUNI or BART.”
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Rumi’s Caravan
Sunday, September 7, 7:00PM
Humanist Hall, 390, 27th Street, Oakland
$15 in advance, $20 at the door
Video from a previous performance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biCH5VnmwMg

“Recitation of world poetry with Barry and Maya Spector, Doug Von Koss, Larry Robinson, Kay Crista, Maurice Wren and musicians.
Benefiting Wisdom Spring’s Walking for Water project in West Africa, Rumi’s Caravan has been held annually for the last 13 years and has been sold out each time.

Please mail your check to Barry Spector
685 1/2 Fairmount Avenue, Oakland 94611
or pay by Paypal: shmoover@comcast.net
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The Power Within:
Embracing Your Menstrual Cycle As A Path To Personal Growth And Inner Balance
with Tatiana Diakoff and Karina Colliat
Monday, September 8, 6:00-8:00PM,
and seven more Mondays, twice per month through December 15
Terra’s Temple, 3051 Adeline Street, Berkeley
$440 ($55 per session) + $120 Outdoor Day Long, Winter Solstice Integration Day
limited to six participants

“In this eight-week Expressive Art Therapy group, you will have the opportunity to deepen your relationship with your body and your menstrual cycle while learning to draw strength and resource from your connection to the Earth and the larger cycles of nature.
We will use psycho-education, Expressive Arts, and Eco-therapy to explore how the menstrual cycle influences and affects emotions, mood, productivity, creative expression, sexuality, and feelings of connectedness throughout the month. Each session will progressively assist you in attuning to your body's natural rhythm in order to work in better accordance with each phase of your monthly cycle.

Having accurate information about your body's natural rhythms and hormonal cycle, paired with the ability to clearly identify and care for any unmet physical and emotional needs, empowers you to change your relationship with your body and your PMS.

Facilitators:
Karina Colliat, MFT (#77630), is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Expressive Arts Therapist and visual artist with a private practice in Berkeley. She finds healing comes through connection with self, others and nature by way of grounded art making, ritual and play. She has a consistent Qi Gong and mindfulness practice and over ten years of experience facilitating groups.
Tatiana Diakoff, M.A., is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (#77919) at Holos Institute supervised by Jan Edl Stein, MFT (#25863). She provides therapy for individuals, families, couples and youth. She holds a strong foundational understanding in the healing capacities of nature and creativity. Her therapeutic approach integrates perspectives from eco-psychology, expressive arts, interpersonal-neurobiology, mindfulness and somatic awareness as well as wisdom from depth psychology and Earth-based, Indigenous practices.”
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Folk Medicine and Magic of Old Europe
a thirteen week series
with Liz Migliorelli
Monday, September 8, 7:00-9:30PM,
and twelve more Mondays through December 1
Ancestral Apothecary, 3798 Grand Avenue, Oakland
$575, registration and $100 deposit due by August 25

“This class will be dedicated to exploring the indigenous folk medicine of old Europe and the ways in which we can engage with this ancestral medicine on a daily basis. We will study folklore, herbal medicine, nature spirits and develop our own personal practices that deepen our connection to this medicine.

We will make herbal concoctions, amulets, and other objects that hold power for us as we engage with the natural world throughout the Autumn and Winter seasons. There will be homework that will include reading, creative writing and collecting of special items for certain class activities.

Liz Migliorelli is a western clinical herbalist and magic maker. Her clinical herbal work is inspired by the folklore of the plants, and aims to find herbs that bring your personal mythology into balance. Liz has studied with folk herbalist Corinne Boyer in Olympia, WA and has completed the apprenticeship program and clinical year at the Ohlone Herbal Center in Berkeley, where she now teaches. Liz has studied under herbalist Atava Garcia-Swiecicki and now works at Ancestral Apothecary as a teaching assistant and medicine maker. Liz is the founder of Sister Spinster Apothecary, where she is committed to making flower essences in love and ceremony for her community.

Cost: $575
To Register: $100 deposit due by August 25.
E-mail ancestralapothecaryassistant@gmail.com for an application. Deposits can be paid by Paypal or mailed to:
Ancestral Apothecary 3798 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610”
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National Heirloom Exposition
Tuesday-Thursday, September 9-11, 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 third annual event held mid-September 2013 in Santa Rosa, California drew more than 18,000 people from around the country and beyond. With more than 100 speakers and 300 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 Pure Food!”
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San Francisco Electronic Music Festival
Thursday-Sunday, September 11-14
see website for schedule, venue, and ticket details

“The 15th Annual San Francisco Electronic Music Festival is proud to offer four evenings of stimulating performances and installations by internationally recognized composers and performers in the electronic music field. This year's lineup includes a wide variety of electronic music, ranging from live tape collage, noise, musique concrete, sound design, and free improvisation. The featured artists utilize instruments such as analog synthesizers, home-brewed electronics, acoustic instruments, and laptop patches.

SFEMF has invited a distinctive group of artists from across the field of electronic music. On the main stage at Brava Theater Center, we are presenting UK-based industrial-ambient legends Zoviet France, renowned electronic composer Nic Collins (Chicago), live tape collagist Aki Onda (New York), violist/composer Ezra Buchla, interdisciplinary sound artist Joker Nies (Cologne), ambient electronic composer Sarah Davachi, violinist/composer Christina Stanley, electro-acoustic artist Xo Xinh, and ambient loop composer Julia Mazawa. And, on our special opening night concert at the Exploratorium's Kanbar Forum, field recording maverick and composer David Dunn and antic keyboardist Head-Boggle (with live visuals by Caitlin Denny) will be playing through the immersive constellation sound system.”
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Mystical Mermaid Retreat
Friday-Sunday, September 12-14
Harbin Hot Springs, 18424 Harbin Springs Road, Middletown
$295 includes camping and food,
must register by September 4

“Calling All Mer-Folk And Mer-Curious…

Come play, soak in the beauty of each other, the mineral springs, and be inspired.

Are you fascinated by mermaids, or even identify as one?
Do you find water incredibly healing and love soaking for hours at hot springs?
Are you enticed by the idea of spending a weekend at hot springs with mer-folk, playfully and sacredly embracing the healing powers of mermaids and water?
Are you ready to connect more deeply with your body, your sensuality, get out of the office cubicle, and feel alive again?
Do you think it sounds like fun to swim with a mermaid tail on?
Are you a mer-man or the ‘tender’/partner of a mermaid who wants to spend the weekend in solidarity and support with mermaid goddesses?”
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King Tut Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 12-14
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 2014 King Tut Festival!”
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Sea Music Festival
Saturday, September 13, 9:30AM-5:00PM
see website for detailed schedule and list of performers
Hyde Street Pier and onboard the Balclutha and Eureka, San Francisco
Adults $5, Youth 15 and under Free

“This summer we'll celebrate another long-standing maritime tradition with the Sea Music Festival at Hyde Street Pier. Be sure to join us for a day of heartfelt singing and sweet instrumentals from a talented crew of local musicians and nationally-renowned performers. Join us for a day and evening of traditional music from around the world.

From two stages on Hyde Street Pier, and onboard the historic vessels Balclutha and Eureka.

Admission: Hyde Street Pier and Visitor Center, free. Boarding fees for the historic vessels: Adults, $5, ages 15 and under, free. Free with National Park passes. For more Information call 415-447-5000.

Experience traditional songs of the sea with performers Revell Carr, Erin Conner, James Kelly, Michael Kahan, Erin Thompson, Brass Farthing, Hai Yan Jackson Chinese Dance Company, Gibb Schreffler, Shay Black, Riggy Rackin, The Jammy Dodgers, John Roberts and Debra Cowan, Holdstock and Macleod and many more!”
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Dr. E.P. Kitty’s Wunderkammer Festival
featuring the Great Sonoma County Handcar Races
Saturday, September 13, 11:00AM-6:00PM
Windsor Wunderkammer, 350 Windsor River Road, Windsor
$8 in advance through April 15, $10 after April 15, children 12 and under free

“Wunderkammer blends art and science into one gigantic feat of moving parts, sounds, and people.

Wunderkammer, featuring The Great Sonoma County Handcar Races, represents a public celebration of Mechanical Handcar Races, Visual, Culinary, and Costumed Performing Arts combined with an inclusive concept of Community Participation and Human Ingenuity embracing sustainability, alternative transportation, and good old fashioned fun.

Attractions include:
Children’s Midway
The Luther Burbank Food Circus
Live Music and other Performers
Vendors
and, of course, the Handcar Races!”
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Much Ado About Sebastopol
Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14, Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Ives Park, 7400 Willow Street, Sebastopol
Adults $12, Ages 6-14 $7, Under 6 Free

“Join us for Sebastopol's very own Renaissance Faire and support local public schools and programs!

Ives Park in the center of Sebastopol, is transformed into the town of Fenford in 16th century England. The locals are celebrating the apple harvest, and Queen Elizabeth and her extensive court pay a visit to honor these humble citizens.

As a visitor to our Faire, wander around and interact with a myriad of villagers from 1578, make herbal soap or try your hand at weaving while listening to a wandering minstrel… enjoy some ice cold lemonade while watching the falcons and learning about their role in Renaissance farming, sit back and take in a short Shakespeare performance while feasting on a hearty, rustic lunch.

Come celebrate the Feast of St. Michael (Michaelmas) - when rents are due, wages are paid, and the crops have been gathered and stored for the coming Winter. It's time for the people of the little town of Fenford to relax and enjoy some well-earned recreation, while giving thanks for a bountiful harvest.

Queen Elizabeth has been out hunting with her courtiers, and her Master of Horse, Robert Dudley, The Earl of Leicester has arranged a surprise for her. He intends to lead her back to his manor by way of the celebration. Here she will join the revels of her loving subjects, and be entertained in their lusty, country fashion.”
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Sacramento Pagan Pride Harvest Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14,
Saturday 10:00AM-7:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Fair Oaks VFW Hall, 8990 Kruithof Way, Fair Oaks
Free admission and free parking

“Sacramento Pagan Pride Day and Harvest Festival is place where magic is afoot and the fairies dance. It is where you can learn the ways of old or just enjoy the coming together of community.
The Sacramento Pagan Pride Day and Harvest Festival goals are to educate the Neopagan and larger community, celebrate fellowship, and come together to celebrate Neopagan spirituality. And of course, this is all done with fun and mayhem.
Come check out the wide range of events we have planned. There is fun for all!

Non-perishable food donations for entrance to the festivities is appreciated.
All the food will be donated to a local Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services”
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Casa de Fruta Renaissance Faire
Saturdays-Sundays, September 13-14,10:00AM-6:00PM,
and each weekend through October 12
10021 Pacheco Pass Hwy 152, Gate 6, Hollister (south of Gilroy)
$25 Adults, Children under 12 Free!  Parking $10
Discounted tickets available through the website

“Our little village of Willingtown comes to life as our annual Market Faire welcomes talented and exotic performers from throughout the globe to our streets and stages. The Entertainment is non stop all day.

The streets and stages boast music and dance from traditional Morris and English Country, to Celtic and Gypsy Tribal. Swashbuckling swordfighters render women defenseless with their charm and skill.

The original form of Renaissance theatre is played out on the Royal Garden stage in the form of the hilarious Commedia Dell Arte performed by the renowned troupe, Commedia Volante.

Foolishness and fun rule the day as ever popular favorites, Moonie the Magnif’cent and BrooN bring their unique brand of mischief and humor to the Fools stage. The town is buzzing as the villagers prepare for a visit from Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth and the most famous Privateer of the time, Sir Francis Drake. Happy peasants, crooked Constables, gossiping washerwomen, and merry maidens fill the streets with revelry as the festivities begin. Seven stages boast non stop entertainment. For a complete list of shows, click on The Stages category. Meet all of the Theme Characters, Guilds and Musicians that fill the streets on our Theme Characters, Guilds and Musicians pages.”

CAYA Sprouts will be at the Faire on Saturday, October 11!
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14, 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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Solano Stroll
Sunday, September 14, 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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14th Annual Antique Autos at History Park
Sunday, September 14, 11:00AM-4:00PM
San Jose History Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
Free admission, parking $6

“Welcome to the Largest Annual Antique Auto Show on the West Coast!

Join us for the 14th Annual Antique Autos in History Park presented by the Santa Clara Valley Model T Ford Club and History San Jose. This event fills History Park with 200 antique autos, fire equipment, bicycles and motorcycles of all makes and models from the late 1800s to 1945. Kids will especially enjoy building and racing their own race cars.

In addition, our trolley will be running and you will be able to see demonstrations at the Print Shop. Visit the Fruit Barn, Umbarger House and One Room School House, and take in our two exhibits at the McKay Gallery at the Pasetta House, and the Arbuckle Gallery at the Pacific Hotel.

Peggy Sue’s will offer food for sale, as well as O’Briens Candy Store and Ice Cream Parlor.

For more information about the event contact Allan Greenberg at allang@pacbell.net or call 408-997-0879.”
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Comedy Day
Sunday, September 14, 12:00-5:00PM
Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Free

“It was 1975, and comedian Jose Simon had a dream. Barbra Streisand did it. A number of rock 'n' roll bands had done it, too. Even the symphony gave it a go. Free outdoor concerts were becoming more commonplace in music. So, why not one featuring comedians? A free outdoor performance in The City that is considered the cradle of civilization for comedy would be a great way for local comedians to say thank you to their fans.

It took a few years and a lot of cooperation from a lot of people to make it happen, but since 1981 more than 600 of the world's funniest comedians have performed free-of-charge for over a half-million people at the original outdoor comedy concert, Comedy Day. It started in the Golden Gate Park Music Concourse (affectionately known as the Band Shell), moved to the Polo Fields in 1987 to accommodate larger crowds and, for the past few years, has found a home in Sharon Meadow.”

Check the website to see if one of your favourite comedians will be there!
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Gatsby Summer Afternoon at Dunsmuir House
presented by the Art Deco Society
Sunday, September 14, 1:00-6:00PM
Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland
$70

“Our annual, wonderful ‘five-hour time-travel vacation’:  antique cars, dancing to the Royal Society Jazz Orchestra, bathing beauties - and hundreds of vintage-attired, picnicking guests, including YOU!”
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Mi Cuerpo Sagrado
a thirteen week series
with Atava Garcia Swiecicki and Lilia Roman
Tuesday, September 16, 9:30AM-12:30PM,
and 12 more Tuesdays through December 9
Ancestral Apothecary, 3798 Grand Avenue, Oakland
$600
To Register, please contact atava@ancestralapothecary.com or call 510-541-2715.

“This class is an exploration of herbal medicine and our body.

Using yoga, meditation and energy work we will examine each system of the human body (nervous system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, etc.). In addition, we will learn key herbs that support each of our body's system to stay in harmony and balance.

We will cover some key health issues that arise in each body system and learn how to treat them using herbal medicine, movement and meditation.

Class fee includes materials and a private consultation with instructor.

This class is co-facilitated by Atava Garcia Swiecicki, MA, Registered Herbalist and Lilia Roman.

Atava has been studying and practicing herbal medicine, curanderismo and healing arts for over 20 years. She sees clients, teaches classes and has her own line of herbal products.

Ancestral Apothecary is a school dedicated to herbal, folk and indigenous medicine.”
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Lessons From Earth And Spirit Part One
with Jan and Marystella of Vortex Journeys
a four part series
Wednesday, September 17, 6:30-9:00PM,
and three more Wednesdays through October 8
The Crossroads, private land in Santa Rosa, RSVP for address
$100
RSVP  to 707-542-4928 or beyondbeliefs@vortexjourneys.com

“Jan and Marystella's first meeting, orchestrated and unavoidable, initiated them into a vortex journey beyond beliefs.  Without a map or destination, they’ve stumbled along with endless lessons and blessings.  

In the  storytelling tradition they share details about a dozen vortices and portals activated on the half acre where they live in West Santa Rosa. Along the way you may wonder, Is there a vortex in my yard?

Six to Ten Participants per Circle. Invite a Friend!   

Part 1:  $100, Wednesdays. 6:30-9:00PM, September 17 and 24, October 1 and 8

Part 1 required to enroll in Part 2
Part 2:  $100  Wednesdays. 6:30-9:00PM, October 15, 22, and 29 and November 5”
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The Curandera/o's Toolkit: Fall Series
a twelve week series
with Atava Garcia Swiecicki
Thursday, September 18, 6:30-9:00PM
and eleven more Thursdays through December 4
Ancestral Apothecary, 3798 Grand Avenue, Oakland
$550, $100 deposit due by September 1 to reserve space.
To Register, please contact atava@ancestralapothecary.com or call 510-541-2715.

“Learn healing skills steeped in ancient wisdom to provide basic health care to yourself and your family.

This class will highlight herbal medicine, but we will also incorporate massage, meditation, and other aspects of curanderismo to learn how to care for our physical, emotional and spiritual health.

Class time will include hands-on experience learning how to make different herbal medicines and we will also learn and practice curanderismo techniques, such as the limpia (energetic cleansing ceremony).

In this class, each participant will assemble their own ‘toolkit’ of herbal remedies for home and family use including: herbal tinctures, salves, cordials, and more!”
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An Evening of Stargazing
with Stargazer Li
Friday, September 19, 9:00-11:30PM
RSVP to info@stargazerli.com for exact location in Sebastopol
$20 per Adult, $5 per Kid under 15
see website for registration details

“This is my annual evening where kids are welcome to attend with adults.

Come join me for an evening out in a field under the stars, guided by a green laser wand, learning to find your way around the night sky and the names of the stars and constellations, while hearing folklore from many different times and cultures. We’ll see Saturn, the Scorpion, the Dragon, the Summer Triangle, and so much more…

To Register, Email Me info@stargazerli.com
with the numbers of Adults and Kids that will be attending (and in how many cars), and how you know me.

I’ll email back to confirm you’re on the list and then will send details on the location and what to bring in the days before the event.

Plan to arrive around 8:30PM to get situated before full dark.”
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Lamplight Tours of Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery
Friday-Saturday, September 19-20, tours leave every 20 minutes, 7:30-9:50PM
tours start at McDonald Gate, McDonald Avenue and Franklin Avenue, Santa Rosa
$30
For additional information, please call 707-543-3737
Space is limited, please pre-register - see website below:

“Walk at night through Santa Rosa’s oldest cemetery to see and hear all new dramatic portrayals of some of our town’s early settlers. Lights, costumes and stage settings create a magical time as characters from the past depict a scene from their lives in the history of Santa Rosa, California and the United States. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a flashlight. (Uneven surfaces and slopes). Period costumes (1850 to 1950) encouraged. Tours last approximately one hour and leave from the McDonald Gate every 20 minutes from 7:30pm to 9:50pm. Pre-Registration Required. Book early - tours sell out!

Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery was established as the result of an accident. In November of 1854 a young father, who had arrived from Missouri only a matter of weeks before, drowned in a pond near the center of town. He was buried on land that was part of a Mexican grant given to one of the earliest settlers of Santa Rosa, Dona Maria Ignacia Lopez de Carrillo. Soon other families needed burial places, and the area became an unofficial cemetery. In 1867 the Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery Association was formed and burial plots in the 17-acre site were formally offered for sale.

Sales of plots continued through 1930, through records of these transactions have been lost. During this period of 70-plus years, parts of the land were sold off, and three separate but adjacent cemeteries were established: the Stanley, Moke, and Fulkerson Cemeteries. Today the four cemeteries combined are owned by the City of Santa Rosa and known collectively as Santa Rosa Rural Cemetery. The only burials permitted today are those of descendants of families who held deeds to cemetery plots. The total number of burials is over 5200.

Neglect and vandalism took their toll on the cemetery through years of unclear ownership and sporadic maintenance. A Restoration Committee organized by dedicated volunteers in 1994 and operating under the aegis of the City of Recreation and Parks Department has made great strides in repairing damage, clearing overgrowth, and planning for permanent maintenance. In 1997, the City of Santa Rosa awarded Historical Landmark status to the Rural Cemetery.

Docent-led tours during the summer months acquaint visitors with the history of the town and the many town pioneers who are buried here. Lamplight Tours, conducted in September as fund-raising events, present dramatic vignettes from the lives of the famous and not-so-famous people buried in the Rural Cemetery.”
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Eat Real Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 19-21,
Friday 1:00-9:00PM, Saturday 10:30AM-9:00PM, Sunday 10:30AM-5:00PM
Jack London Square, 466 Water Street, Oakland
free admission

“Eat Real Festival is a social venture created to inspire eaters to choose tasty, healthy, good food. Through a vibrant, local festival in Oakland, and a focus on delicious and sustainable street food, Eat Real puts eaters in contact with the real people - the farmers, chefs, and producers - who make our food. Eat Real Festival will donate a percentage of its profit to several California organizations promoting access to healthy and affordable food, entrepreneurship and economic development.”
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Harvest Festival  Original Art and Craft Show
Friday-Sunday, September 19-21,
Friday and Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM
Alameda County Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall, 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
Adults $9, Students and Seniors $7, Ages 13-17 $4, children under 12 free
One ticket is good for all three days, coupon available on website

“The Pleasanton Harvest Festival offers three fun-filled days of family entertainment in a fun shopping atmosphere. Attendees can buy one-of-a-kind handmade products directly from top artisans, watch live artist demonstrations, experience great live music and performances, and spoil their taste buds with delicious festival food. The Fargo Brothers will share the outdoor stage with entertainer Captain Jack SpareRibs. Plus, keep an eye out for our strolling performers, Big Mama Sue and Fast Eddie and Fables of the West.”
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Walnut Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 19-21
Heather Farm Park, 500 San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek
see website for details of schedule and tickets

“The first Festival held in 1911 was a celebration of the harvest of grapes and was called 'The Grape Festival'. During prohibition, grapes were replaced with walnuts as the cash crop of the area and the vineyards became walnut groves. In 1936, the harvest celebration became known as The Walnut Festival. The Walnut Festival Association was officially incorporated in 1938 and except for a suspended period during World War II, has been celebrated as the popular annual community event it remains today.

As Walnut Creek as grown, and suburban developments have replaced walnut groves, the Walnut Festival Association has maintained the tradition of producing fundraising events for the benefit of the community. Locations for the event have changed over the years from the center of town to Civic Park and finally, in 1976, to Heather Farm Park, where is is now held the third Thursday after the first Monday in September.”
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Creek to Bay Day
Saturday, September 20, 9:00AM-12:00PM
see website for locations where events are planned

“Mark your calendars for Oakland's 18th annual Creek to Bay Day!

Creek to Bay Day, a volunteer-based cleanup and beautification event, will take place on Saturday, September 20 from 9:00AM to noon at more than 20 creek and waterway locations citywide.

Volunteers are needed at numerous creek sites, Lake Merritt and the Oakland Estuary to pick up litter, remove non-native invasive plants and plant California native species. There is no registration necessary to volunteer. If you are part of group with over 10 people, we would appreciate you letting us know where you plan to volunteer so the coordinator of that site can plan accordingly. If you would like a site recommendation from our staff, please contact us via email creektobayprotection@oaklandnet.com or call 510-238-7630.

Participants of this event, which is held as part of International Coastal Cleanup Day, join thousands of volunteers throughout the United States and over 100 countries around the world in taking part in the largest waterway and beach cleanup of the year.”
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Willow Glen Founders' Day Parade
Saturday, September 20, 10:30AM-12:00PM
along Lincoln Avenue from Broadway to Minnesota Avenue, San Jose
Free

“The Founders’ Day Parade will be held on Saturday, September 20, starting at 10:30AM, ending at approximately noon.  The Parade will consist of over 70 entries celebrating the Past, Present and Future of Willow Glen - from local schools, organizations, businesses, cultural groups, bands and much more!

What to Do After the Parade?
There will be lots of fun activities following the Founders' Day Parade!
Visit the many wonderful restaurants and shops along Lincoln Ave!  Many will be having historical exhibits and/or Founders' Day specials.

Like ice cream?   Willow Glen Charm and Willow Glen Frozen Yogurt and Ice Cream Co. are hosting an ice cream eating contest after the Founders' Parade - at 1:00PM at Willow Glen Town Square.  Space is limited - register at http://willowglencharm.com/icecream

Join in the fun at the Willow Glen Elementary's 150th anniversary celebration!  They are planning a great party to take place following the Founders' Day Parade.  

The beautiful Palm Haven neighborhood in Willow Glen will be celebrating 100 years of history with an event from 12:00-5:00PM. Download a flyer or visit their website for details.

Historical Clark Home Open House and Tour 12:00-4:00PM at 1147 Minnesota Avenue.  Includes an opportunity to view the film History of Willow Glen and light refreshments.”
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Regina’s Door Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, September 20, 6:00PM
Regina’s Door, 352 17th Street, Oakland
Free
for more information, please contact regina@reginasdoor.com or kim@reginasdoor.com

“The Roaring Twenties! The Jazz Age! The Era of Renaissance! The1920s was a fusion decade of fashion, art, culture, and music in it's most glorious form. On September 20th, Regina's Door will journey back in time to visit the spirit of the 1920s at its Grand Opening ‘Oakland Renaissance’ party! We invite you to travel with us for an historical evening filled with 1920s Joie De Vivre and fabulousity! So, grab a hold of the Flapper that lives within! Throw on your most creative 1920s frock! We will see you at the party. It is sure to be one for the ages.

Regina's Door is a high-end, customer-service oriented vintage boutique specializing in one-of-a-kind and beautifully exquisite vintage dresses and gowns from the Victorian Era to the 1980s. The boutique also stocks a limited and tightly edited range of treasured vintage tops, pants, suits, coats, and accessories. Regina's Door also offers costuming for rental and a select range of evening gowns.

In a world where chaos can sometimes reign, Regina's Door seeks to provide its beloved customers with a slice of shopping inspiration infused with an atmosphere of solace and care.
At its very foundation, Regina's Door operates by the motto ‘Compassion is always in fashion.’ In this regard, Regina's Door is honored to be in partnership with Love Never Fails, ‘a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation, education and protection of youth involved or at risk of becoming involved in domestic sex trafficking.’
The party will began flowing at 6:00PM, 352 17th Street, Oakland.”
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26th Annual Sea Music Concert Series
Saturday, September 20, 8:00PM,
and two more Saturdays, October 25 and November 15
Hyde Street Pier and onboard the Balclutha and Eureka, San Francisco
$14 per concert, $36 for all three

“During September, October, and November experience the driving rhythms of chanteys and the beauty of seafaring ballads and instrumentals from the wooden decks of the historic sailing ship Balclutha. Join the park in its 26th season of presenting some of sea music’s finest performers. Wheelchair accessible.
Salty Walt and the Rattlin’ Ratlines
http://saltywalt.net
Saturday, September 20, 8:00PM
Named ‘San Francisco’s best sea chantey band’ (SF Weekly), Salty Walt and the Rattlin’ Ratlines enjoy the close harmonies, instrumentation, and camaraderie that a group affords. Chanteys of African American, Anglo American, English, and French origin are included in their repertoire, covering international maritime history and lore. Founder and leader Salty Walt has performed at the Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival, the Chicago Maritime Festival, as well as performing internationally in Britain, Germany, and the Netherlands, and has crewed aboard several square-rigged sailing ships.
Linsey Aitken and Ken Campbell
http://www.linskenscotland.co.uk
Saturday, October 25, 8:00PM
Linsey Aitken and Ken Campbell, direct from Loch Lomond, Scotland, present one of the best repertoires in contemporary Scots acoustic music: Self-penned and traditional songs and tunes, that covers a host of subjects, all with a Scottish theme. They have performed in festival and concert venues throughout Europe, the USA and beyond. Linsey accompanies on cello, and Ken on guitar.
Holdstock and Macleod
http://www.holdstockmacleod.com
Saturday, November 15, 8:00PM
Dick Holdstock and Allan Macleod are still enthusiastically performing together after over 30 years. They perform authentic renditions of the songs of their homelands - England and Scotland. Captivating audiences from coast to coast, they trade off on guitar and mandolin for accompanying their songs, as well as singing without accompaniment. Hearing their music is always a memorable event and an extraordinary glimpse into a not so distant maritime past. New insights into history and old customs are revealed through their songs.”
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San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 20-21, 10:00AM-5:00PM
California Avenue and Avenue D, Treasure Island, San Francisco
Free

“Come join us for a weekend of world-class dragon boat racing, spectacular cultural performances, and fun-filled activities for the whole family at the largest competitive dragon boat festival in the United States. This year, we have over 130 dragon boat teams and 3,500 dragon boat paddlers racing our 500 and 300 meter course.

Dragon boat teams range from novice to competitive skill level. Novice teams represent local Bay Area corporations, public agencies, and non-profit community.

Recreational and competitive teams practice year-round and hail from all over the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands. This year's championship race is going to be one of the fiercest battles for victory to date!

In addition to the exciting dragon boat racing, the Festival features many fun cultural activities: an entertainment stage with live dance and music performances, the Dragon Land children's activity pavilion, and a variety of food, arts and crafts, and other vendors.”
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Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 20-21, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Old Mill Park, 375 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley
Parking with free shuttle from Tamalpais High School, 700 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley
$10 General Admission, $5 Students and Seniors, Free for kids under 12 years

“Experience this annual event in the magical redwoods at the foot of Mount Tamalpais in historic Old Mill Park.  Come and enjoy the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival.

This community event reflects the spirit of Mill Valley and its purpose of supporting established independent artists and emerging student artists. Scores of Festival volunteers staff the gates and the Poster, T-Shirt and information booths during this annual two-day event. Much needed support comes from all areas of our community including: in-kind services and donations from the food and beverage providers who partner with Mill Valley nonprofit service organizations. Entertainment by fabulous Bay Area performers at the main and children's stages is included with the gate charge. Children’s craft activities are supported by local high school student artists and youth organizations.

The Festival Committee works diligently to continue our tradition of:
Encouraging and fostering public education in the awareness and appreciation of fine arts and crafts.
Providing an open and continuing dialogue between the established artist and the public.
Creating a foundation upon which local service organizations are able to raise a large portion of their operating budgets.
Providing an important showcase for new and emerging artists.
Presenting a high quality family friendly event.”
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Berkeley World Music Festival
Saturday-Sunday, September 20-21, 12:00-9:00PM, see website for schedule details
performances in various locations in Berkeley - see website for details

“The assembled artists will again offer you a stunning show!

From People's Park headlining acts: Pride and Joy's electrifying Motown and Soul, Manzo Rally's New Latin Rock and  AfroFunk Experience to special festival finale Georges Lammam with special guest, Naser Musa presenting Khaliji, these music of Eastern Arabia and throughout the day, a dazzling display of Eastern Europe and Norteno polka, electric sarode, World Fusion, Brazilian choro, Belly Dance Bazaar, Dixieland Jazz, even Trans-atlantic Chamber music and more live music to be announced....

Stay tuned for complete line-up bios, and other festival updates.

For eleven years the Berkeley World Music Festival has been celebrating the rich diversity of the San Francisco Bay Area's world music scene.

Come celebrate Summer Solstice on Sunday, June 22, 2014  for a full day of live concerts that will surprise your musical palate and take you on a musical journey around the world and back.

All performances are free to the public!”
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Heart Rain in the Season of Drought
with Daniel Foor   
Saturday-Sunday, September 20-21
China Camp State Park, San Rafael
$250 includes camping and meals

“As we enter the year's hottest and driest season, all of California is now in extreme drought with rainfall levels at the lowest levels in over 150 if not 500 years. For those walking an earth-honoring path, what does it mean to live in a time of drought? Without judgment, reactivity, or I-know-what-needs-to-be-happening arrogance, how can we be conscious people in harmony with the larger cycles? Although it's for each of us to grapple with these questions, we can seek to personally embody balance which, in dry times, includes deeply honoring elemental water in our lives, hearts, and relationships. Tears are holy rain, and thirst calls for feeling more deeply and for praise of life-giving water.   

We'll gather for two full days (Saturday 10:00AM-Sunday 4:00PM) of community teaching and ritual to mark the Autumnal Equinox and give praise for the waters of life. We'll offer ritual to thank the spirits of place and rains-to-come and invite heart rain from those present. In addition to meeting the challenging gift of drought with open hearts (including grief ritual practices), there will be a time during the weekend for participants to make or renew vows of service and relationship with the Holy Earth.
This weekend intensive is also the monthly gathering for the closed 2014 Earth Ritual Training group. It's our one 2014 gathering that's open to new folks. If you're not already in the dedicated group, expect some basic prep and integration dialogue pre/post gathering (nothing too time intensive). Cost is $250, some flexibility as needed. This includes three healthy meals (Saturday dinner - Sunday lunch) and campsite reservations. Spaces are limited and already half full with folks from the dedicated group, so please be in touch soon to confirm your space: ancestralmedicine@gmail.com.”  
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Art in Nature: The Nature of Art Festival
Sunday, September 21, 11:00AM-5:00PM
Stream Trail of Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Road, Oakland
Free admission
Please see below for details of parking and shuttle fees

“Art in Nature: The Nature of Art Festival
Annual FREE admission multidisciplinary performing arts Festival located at the Stream Trail of Redwood Regional Park in Oakland, California.

Shuttle Bus Depot and Parking Lot at Merritt College, 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA 94619

Experience participatory art that is in relationship with nature, and shows the creative process of the artists.

Stroll along the mile-long Stream Trail of Redwood Regional Park and experience more than 200 artists and performers tucked among the meadows, redwoods and oaks in this family, bicycle and dog friendly festival.

Experience art in nature and delve into the nature of art in 12 Theme Areas featuring music, dance, sculpture, painting, martial arts, poetry, body painting, circus arts, theater, visual arts, storytelling, arts and crafts and kids events.

Bring a picnic lunch! There will be two food trucks outside the trail but NO vendors, or items for sale in the festival.

While no admission is charged for the festival, the Redwood Regional Park parking has a $5 fee, it is very limited and will fill up by the crew and volunteers early Sunday morning.”
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Savor the Season
Benefitting the Alameda County Food Bank
Sunday, September 21, 12:00AM-3:00PM
Wente Vineyards, 5050 Arroyo Drive, Livermore
$125 includes luncheon and wine
For information, please contact Kathryn Weber at 510-635-3663 xt328 or kweber@accfb.org

“Join us for our annual Fall celebration of California-grown food and wine in a beautiful vineyard setting.

This festive outdoor event will feature:
Gourmet seasonal food and estate wines from Wente Vineyards
Live music featuring the Silverwood Jazz Quartet
Silent and live auctions

Proceeds from Savor the Season go directly toward hunger relief efforts in Alameda County.”
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Vortex Fall Equinox Ritual Celebration
with Jan and Marystella of Vortex Journeys
Sunday, September 21, 2:45-5:15PM
The Crossroads, private land in Santa Rosa, RSVP for address
$25
RSVP  to 707-542-4928 or beyondbeliefs@vortexjourneys.com
“We'll circle in community and prepare for the arrival of Equinox at 7:29PM the following evening with a balance of focus and spontaneity, inner and outer movement. We'll harvest what we've sown since Spring and notice shifts from last month's New Moon intentions. And, as always, each person will receive a mini-energy reading.”  
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Friends of the San Francisco Public Library Big Book Sale
Wednesday-Sunday, September 24-28, 10:00AM-6:00PM
Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason, Buchanan Avenue and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco
Free admission

“Held at Fort Mason Center’s Festival Pavilion, the 49th Annual Big Book Sale will feature over 500,000 books, DVDs, CDs, books on tape, vinyl and other forms of media in over 100 categories.

EVERYTHING is $3 or less, with a 3-2-1 scale: $3 hard cover books; $2 paperback books; $1 DVDs, CDs, books on tape, vinyl and other forms of media. All items remaining on Sunday are $1.

All proceeds benefit the San Francisco Public Library’s education programs that promote literacy for children, teens and adults.”
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Fabulosa Fest
Thursday-Sunday, September 25-28
Spinning Wheel, Forest Route 1S30, Groveland (near Yosemite)
See website for registration details

“The Fabulosa Collective creates fund-raising parties where diverse groups of women and friends come together to celebrate Women-centered arts and raise money for LGBTQ-oriented causes.  Fabulosa is an inclusive feminist fundraising gathering for women, their families and friends of all genders.

Fabulosa was initially the idea of Dawn Huston, who is the owner of the most diverse ‘dive bar’ on the planet, performance space and watering hole, El Rio in San Francisco. She formed the Fabulosa Collective with original members Judea Eden and Jenny Hoyston. Eden is a nutrition specialist and a San Francisco blues-folk singer. Hoyston is a West Coast promoter, DJ and the bandleader of the women’s experimental ensemble Erase Errata.

The Fabulosa Collective continues to grow and seek out new members who love to make beautiful things happen.

Fabulosa Proceeds
Our community is stunning, diverse and deserving of nurture. During financially tough times, many organizations that serve our LGBTQ community need additional help to ensure that their work remains possible. Fabulosa recycles much-needed funds back into the LGBTQ community by donating all proceeds to charities that serve the Bay Area and beyond.”
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Nature and Soul Retreat for Autumnal Equinox
with Jan Edl Stein, MFT
Friday, September 26, 9:30AM-4:00PM
Green Gulch Farm and Zen Center, 1601 Shoreline Highway, Muir Beach, 415-383-3134
see website for registration details

“Nature and Soul: A day of retreat where nature mirrors our inner landscape

This seasonally offered retreat is a day of renewal and rediscovery, as we open ourselves to the land around us in addition to the landscapes within us.  This is a deeply experiential daylong retreat for restoration of health, psyche and spirit, offering a renewal of the soul's intention and a re-connection with the elements of nature that support us.  We will slow down and take in the beauty that surrounds us and let nature reflect the shapes and patterns that are held in the psyche.

The day is a combination of indoor experiences that involves guided meditation and inner journey process and outdoor, land-based contemplative practices. The experience as a whole is an embodied example of eco-therapy.  Each retreat day reflects themes of the season in the meditations, journeys and our approach to the elements we discover in nature.

No previous experience is necessary.

The retreat takes place in the beautiful setting of Green Gulch Farm and Zen Center, with its splendid coastal range flora, meandering gardens, Japanese architecture, and easy walk to the beach.  An organic, vegetarian lunch (included in registration fee)  is offered to the group in the dining hall.  Retreat fees include lunch and refreshments.

Details on how to prepare for the day an a confirmation of registration will be sent one week before the event.

Retreat leader, Jan Edl Stein MFT, is the director of Holos Institute and a licensed psychotherapist with many years of experience in guiding people into deep explorations in their own psyche as they open to deeper levels of perception in the natural world.”
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Ancestor Three-Day Intensive
with Daniel Foor   
Friday-Sunday, September 26-28
Taoist Healing Energetics, 1044 Murray Street, Berkeley
$300

“Our blood and family ancestors help us remember our location in the matrix, our life purpose, and our higher self and destiny. They're great supporters for transforming family pain and dysfunction into good medicine and healthy pride. This is also true for those who deeply dislike or don't know their biological family. We all stand to benefit from getting to know our loving ancestors and partnering with them to transform past pain.   
The focus of this three-day intensive will be working in partnership with supportive lineage ancestors for the well-being of the recent dead and the living family. If your work has you supporting others in a healing/helping capacity, you can also expect to learn skills to support your existing practice.”
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Sound Healing Conference And Festival
Four Days of Sound Healing Speakers, Exhibits, and Concerts
Friday-Monday, September 26-29
Kaiser Center Tower and Rooftop Garden, 300 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
All Access Pass $210, Festival Only $25, Concerts $20 each

“A good balance of Sound Healing Science, New Technologies, and Life Transforming Experiential Workshops and Concerts.

Forty of the top Researchers, Pioneers, Instructors, Doctors, Sound Therapists, and Musicians in the field addressing important issues and topics in this rapidly expanding field of Sound Healing.

Sound, Meditation, and Consciousness  
Sound and Medicine
Natural Acoustic Sound Healing: Voice, Bowls, Tuning Forks
Healing Sounds and Music
Sound and Research
New Sound Technologies
Sacred Geometry
Voice Analysis
Sound and Intuition

Three Evening Sound Healing Concerts:
Friday, September 26: Steven Halpern, Scott Huckabay, Gospel and Kirtan with Suzanne Sterling and Friends
Saturday, September 27: Power of Love Concert with full band and choir
Sunday, September 28: David Hykes and Harmonic Presence, Karma Moffett Tibetan Bell and Bowl Experience

The Sound Garden: Ongoing Music, Workshops, Exhibits (indoors also), and Food Outdoors in the huge private Sound Garden Park on the 5th Floor

Come and Be Vibrated into Bliss!”
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Halloween and Vine
Art and Craft Show
Saturday, September 27, 9:00AM-3:00PM
Hermann Sons Hall, 860 Western Avenue, Petaluma
$5

“On September 27, 2014, some of the finest Halloween artists in the nation will congregate in Petaluma, CA for one of the most spooktacular art shows in the United States!

Halloween and Vine artisans share a love for all things dark and spooky, and are here to release their original creepy creations on an unsuspecting public. But do not fear, for there is something here for all collectors whether your desire is crypt-creepy or spooky-sweet.”
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Cupertino Diwali Festival
Saturday, September 27, 10:00AM-5:00PM
Memorial Park, 21267 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Cupertino
Free
park at De Anza College, Lots B, C and Northern Half of Lot A

“The purpose of this festival is to bring people together and celebrate intercultural understanding that promotes economic prosperity.  We expect about 10,000 people to attend this lively and cherished family event.

Diwali - Festival of Lights marks the beginning of the new business year in India and it is a festival of joy, splendor, brightness, happiness and prosperity. Celebrated throughout the world, typical Diwali traditions include exchanging gifts, new clothes, meeting new and old friends, offering traditional sweets and wishing each other prosperous new year.

Visitors to the festival will be treated to a festive atmosphere of sari festooned trees, spectacular lanterns, and a cultural kaleidoscope of activities and performances. Beginning at 10:00AM with the popular Kids Zone art show and grand opening featuring community and elected leaders in native Indian clothing, the festival appeals to all senses. Indian food, music and dancing, featuring classical Kuchipudi and Kathak to folk Koli, and Innal Kolatam to popular Bollywood dances.

Attendees may get decorative mehndi tattooed on the palm of their hands, learn their future with a visit to the fortune teller’s stall or attend the bazaar with ethnic Indian art, clothing, jewelry, children’s books and toys.

The elaborate and exciting Kids Zone will be packed throughout the day with children visiting the magic show, petting zoo, pony rides, bounce abouts, face painting and coloring contests.”
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Superhero Street Fair
Saturday, September 27, 1:00-11:00PM
Waterfront Boardwalk Oasis, 1700 Indiana Street, San Francisco
$10 in Costume, $20 in Clark Kent
All ages welcome!

“Our changing world requires new discoveries and changing habits... what creativity and superpowers will you bring? Release your imagination and help create a new world. Join the adventure pitting heroes and villains within an urban theatrical landscape, a day full of worm-holes and time machines, spy gadgetry and visual explosions, fantasy and reality played out on a colossal stage where captivating displays of human feats will entrance and amaze you!

Create your own SuperHero with personalized powers to share and astound the world! Who will YOU be?

Adventures and Thrills For All You Villains And Superheroes!
Dance Music
Live Acts
Cartoon Art Museum - Museum exhibit and live animation drawing
League of Awesomeness - joining forces with SuperHero Street Fair this year to bring you the 'Hero's Courage' Climbing Wall, the Superhero Bootcamp, and one-on-one Superhero Life Coaching sessions. So this year, don't just play a Hero, become a Hero!
Mission Comics - Comic book and graphic novel exhibit, from your local comic book store located on 20th street in the Mission
ArtMobileUs - Mobile art gallery and roving arts incubator
Sporting Green: Climbing Wall and Zorb Racing. FREE and open to the public
COSPLAY Masquerade and Costume Contest
Local SuperHero Awards Ceremony at 4:00PM
Boardwalk Oasis: beautiful new waterfront boardwalk for 2013 with cobblestone walkways and outdoor art displays
Go-Go Floating Barges - free boat rides all day!
Om-Shan-Tea Tea House - complimentary tea service in the relaxing comfort of a middle eastern oasis lounge
Future Motion Light Sculpture Garden
GIANT Space Backdrops and props for cool photos and inter-dimensional fun
Food and Drink Space Stations
SupperClub Sky Lounge
Gallery of Villains
InterPlanetary Make-up and Photo Montage Zones
ZorbaThon HumanSphere Racing

Amazing Good To Be Done!
Join us in a celebration of outstanding individuals and organizations in the Bayview and San Francisco arts and community at large with the SuperHero Awards ceremony at 4:00PM at the fair. As every year, a portion of the proceeds from this festival go to the recipients of the awards. We recognize local businesses and artists who are performing heroic feats every day.”
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Bay Area ParaCon
Saturday-Sunday, September 27-28
Benicia Veterans Hall, 1150 First Street, Benicia
$225

“Share the two day experience with other adventurers, investigators and contrarians who seek to know truth.

Two full days of:
International Celebrity Guests
Presentations
Vendors
Enthusiasts
Trade Show
Panel Discussion

Ghost Tours/Investigation (Saturday Night Only)

Myths and legends are important because they give us cultural contrarians who seek to know truth identity and inspire us to get in touch with our personal belief system. Bay Area Paracon 2014 was created to further the conversation about reality beyond the physical realm and to engage with some of the top thinkers and practitioners in the fields of astrology, mysticism, intuition, mediumship and more. Do you believe in synchronicity? Are you a fan of Big Foot? Have you ever seen a leprechaun or a ghost? See what the experts have to say.”
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KVMR Celtic Festival and Marketplace
Saturday-Sunday, September 27-28,
Saturday 10:00AM-10:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM-8:00PM
Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley
See website for ticket details
Parking $5

“The 18th annual KVMR Celtic Festival and Marketplace mixes Celtic music and magic with world-class musicians, dance, pageantry, living history, falconry, athletics, storytelling, jam sessions and shopping.   The outdoor event takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 27, and 28 in Grass Valley, California at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, a bucolic setting on 100 acres among giant ponderosa pines . There are eight stages and performance areas.  Our main stage hosts many of the best Celtic musicians on the world stage.  

As late summer begins to cool, the Nevada County Fairgrounds will be transformed into a Celtic village where world-famous Celtic musicians perform, shopping and dining opportunities abound and O'Dea's Irish Pub celebrates the change of season.  Hundreds of regional performers, singers, bagpipers, actors, jugglers and storytellers roam the fairgrounds.

Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and join in with jam sessions and workshops scheduled throughout the weekend.  Revelers make music into the night in the campgrounds complete with tall trees and a lake.

History buffs explore encampments of Guilds who re-create points and places in time. Royalty and their subjects demonstrate how peasants and gentry lived in Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Exciting and educational, the Celtic Animals exhibit houses falcons, eagles, hawks, owls, sheep and ponies.

Amateur and professional athletes test their strength and skill in Scottish Games. Children are kept engaged with arts and crafts, story telling, and romping in a straw bale castle. Seniors are admitted an hour before the event opens on Sunday and treated to scones and tea. The festival is disabled accessible.  Camping and RV hookups are available on-site.”
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Piedmont Harvest Festival
Sunday, September 28, 11:00-3:00PM
Piedmont Community Center, 711 Highland Avenue, Piedmont

“Please join us for the 16th Annual Piedmont Harvest Festival on Sunday, September 28. Show the world the bounty of your garden and tempt your neighbors with your culinary skills. This year’s festival will include the carnival, jazz festival, growing and cooking contests, Farmers’ Market, art show, disaster preparedness fair, fix-it clinic, as well as local foods and lemonade.”
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Alameda Legacy Home Tour
Sunday, September 28, 11:00AM-5:00PM
pick up guidebook at Franklin Park, 1432 San Antonio Avenue, Alameda
$30

“A Self-Guided Tour of  Seven Homes:
Six Victorian-era and a carpenter's dream home on the West End
Refreshments at the Meyers House Garden
Please note the Meyers House Museum is NOT open for the home tour.  It is open on second and fourth Saturdays of the month, from 1:00-4:00PM.  

Spend a day on our beautiful bayside island, strolling through neighborhoods rich in architectural heritage. The tour is self-guided - pick up your Legacy Guidebook and visit the homes at your own pace, in any order you choose. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at a park, in the Meyers House Garden, at the beach, or visit one of our many fine local restaurants.

Go green, and bike the tour! Alameda is hill-free, and enjoys light traffic at a leisurely pace on Sundays.

Proceeds will benefit the Alameda Museum and the Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (AAPS), non-profit organizations dedicated to preserving our small town ambiance and cherished older buildings.

For additional information, email us, or call Diane Coler-Dark, 510-523-5907.”
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Forbidden Island's 7th Annual Parking Lot Sale
Sunday, September 28, sale 2:00-7:00PM, party continues until Midnight
Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge, 1304 Lincoln Avenue, Alameda, 510-749-0332
21+

“Northern California’s largest sale of collectible and vintage tiki, Hawaiiana, rockabilly, and mid-century modern goods.  This annual event sale features an incredible selection of original art, collectible mugs and decor, vintage Aloha and rockabilly clothes, vinyl, furniture, and much more.  We’ll also be offering drink specials and a few surprises.  Come early for the best selection - it’s guaranteed to be a sell-out event!  Don’t miss it!”
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