Dear readers,
Welcome to another list of events, classes, actions, films, conferences, grant deadlines, etc., for your planning convenience. Our searchable website edition of the calendar ( http://www.ecologycenter.org/calendar/ ) contains events further into the future. Please continue to send event listings to calendar@ecologycenter.org and forward any breaking action alerts to alerts@ecologycenter.org .
Check out our online EcoDirectory: http://www.ecologycenter.org/ecodirectory/ . Do you have questions? The EcoDirectory provides resources and referrals for common environmental concerns.
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E C O C A L E N D A R _/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/_/
(the events are listed by date and title, then again below with full descriptions)
ECOLOGY CENTER EVENTS
11/18/2007 Solar Hot Water Heater Workshop
12/3/2007 Presentation: Berkeley Biodiesel Collective
12/8/2007 Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair
12/9/2007 Workshop: Grow Edible Mushrooms at Home
12/15/2007 Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair
12/22/2007 Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair
ALL EVENTS
Through 11/9/2007 Co-op America's Green Business Conference
Through 11/11/2007 Sebastopol Documentary Film Festival
Through 11/18/2007 International Latino Film Festival
Through 11/24/2007 SF Climate Challenge
Through 11/25/2007 Farallon Islands Nature Cruises 2007
Through 11/29/2007 Exhibit: "No Goodbyes: Re-imagining Trash"
Through 12/1/2007 Eco-City Sketchbook Design Competition
Through 12/11/2007 UC Berkeley Extension Sustainable Design Program Fall Schedule
Through 12/31/2007 Volunteer in an Eco-City: Bahia de Caraquez, Equador
Through 3/29/2008 Volunteer Training: Bay Interpretive Training
11/9/2007 Application Deadline: Climate Protection Grant Program
11/9/2007 Improv Performance: "Wing It" Takes on Global Warming
11/9/2007 San Francisco Green Festival
11/10/2007 Volunteer Orientation: Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge
11/10/2007 Workshop: Off-Grid Systems for Professionals
11/10/2007 Class: Pruning with Friends of the Urban Forest
11/10/2007 Workshop: Basket Weaving
11/10/2007 Educational Adventure: "Native to the Americas"
11/10/2007 Volunteer: San Pablo Creek Stewardship and Restoration
11/10/2007 TreeSpirit Project at Memorial Oak Grove
11/10/2007 Save the Oaks Community Picnic
11/10/2007 Volunteer: Russian Hill Tree Planting
11/10/2007 Volunteer: Shoreline Cleanup at Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Park
11/10/2007 Workshop: Preparing Your Garden for Winter
11/10/2007 Volunteer: Save the Quails!
11/10/2007 Deadline: Call for Papers: Ecocity World Summit 2008
11/10/2007 Vegetarian Cooking Class: Thanksgiving for the Birds
11/10/2007 Hike: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
11/10/2007 March and Rally to Stop Richmond Refinery Expansion
11/10/2007 Short Course: "Solar Power Basics for Residential Customers"
11/10/2007 Volunteer with Save the Bay: Plant Natives at Santa Venetia Marsh
11/10/2007 Volunteer: Berryland on the Richmond Greenway
11/11/2007 Volunteer: "Weekend Weed Warriors"
11/11/2007 Workshop: Survival Essentials
11/11/2007 Educational Adventure: Walnut Harvesting
11/11/2007 Workshop: Hands On Biodiesel Homebrewing
11/11/2007 Volunteer: Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge
11/12/2007 Lunch and Talk: "Urban Youth Gardening Conference"
11/13/2007 Workshop: Garden Herbs and Trees for Your Health
11/13/2007 Lecture: Climate Change Implications of Waste Treatment
11/13/2007 Lecture: The Wolves of Yellowstone National Park
11/13/2007 Green Developer Speaker Series: Greening Affordable Housing
11/13/2007 Workshop: Smart Energy Management in Agriculture for the Sacramento Valley
11/14/2007 Public Talk: Measure T
11/14/2007 Lead-Safe Painting and Remodeling Class
11/14/2007 Training for Non-Profits: Increasing Your Visibility on the Internet
11/14/2007 Class/Lecture: The End of Oil
11/14/2007 Meet the Author: "Zoom: The Global Race to Fuel the Car of the Future"
11/14/2007 Discussion: Green Cities Brown Folks
11/14/2007 Workshop: Transportation 2035
11/15/2007 Workshop: Transportation 2035
11/15/2007 Berkeley Green Gathering IV
11/15/2007 Deadline: Seeking Green Homes for Tour
11/15/2007 Contra Costa County Creek and Watershed Symposium
11/15/2007 Lecture: Countryside Living: Impacts to Wildlife and Watersheds
11/15/2007 Conference: Building the Cleantech Crossroads
11/15/2007 Simplicity Forum: Simplifying the Holidays
11/15/2007 Lecture: Current Research at Cordell Bank
11/15/2007 Film and Discussion: UAS Green Movie Night
11/15/2007 Green Chamber of Commerce Mixer
11/15/2007 Lecture: "Revisiting the Meteorologically Utopian City in a Changing Climate"
11/16/2007 Presentation: Images of the Indigenous Americas
11/16/2007 Course: Introduction to Permaculture
11/16/2007 Finding Community: A Community-Seekers' Fair
11/16/2007 Film: Maquilapolis: City of Factories
11/16/2007 Music and Videos from the Dump
11/16/2007 Environmental Justice Symposium
11/16/2007 Conference: Educating for Justice
11/17/2007 Save the Bay: Wetland Planting in Oakland
11/17/2007 Class: Basic Gardening Techniques
11/17/2007 Communities Convergence: Ecovillages, Cohousing Neighborhoods, & Intentional Communities
11/17/2007 Fall Plant Sale at Merritt College
11/17/2007 Volunteer with Save the Bay: Plant Wetland Plants along Tolay Creek (Sears Point)
11/17/2007 Volunteer with Save the Bay: Winter Planting Project at Baylands Preserve
11/17/2007 Forum: Introducing Wisdom Councils
11/17/2007 Slideshow and Discussion: "Visions of Peace and Justice"
11/17/2007 Summit: Jobs, Housing & Justice in Oakland
11/17/2007 Walking Tour: Berkeley's Downtown Parks: Real, Envisioned & Vanished
11/17/2007 Volunteer: Plant Natives on Berkeley Paths
11/17/2007 Volunteer: Wetlands Restoration at Pier 94
11/17/2007 Green Career Conference
11/17/2007 Workshop: Growing Garlic
11/18/2007 BAY-Peace Open House & Youth Performance Showcase
11/18/2007 Workshop: Seedball Making
11/18/2007 Workshop: Starting and Sustaining Healthy Ecovillages
11/18/2007 Community Labyrinth Peace Walk
11/18/2007 Workshop: Bioregional Education in SF
11/18/2007 Solar Hot Water Heater Workshop
11/18/2007 Volunteer: "Bernal Hilltop Native Grassland Restoration"
11/18/2007 Skillshare: Fermented Foods
11/19/2007 Activist Lives: An Interview with Mother Jones Editor
11/19/2007 Workshop: Transportation 2035
11/20/2007 Workshop: Natural Building and Traditional Architecture
11/20/2007 Film: "Darwin's Nightmare"
11/21/2007 Online Seminar: Preparing for a Carbon Constrained World
11/22/2007 Give Thanks Vegetarian Potluck Feast
11/23/2007 Talk: Ward Churchill: "Speaking Truth in the Teeth of Power"
11/24/2007 13th Annual Womyn of Color Arts and Crafts Fair
11/24/2007 Really Really Free Market
11/25/2007 Philippines Tour: Green Empowerment and Community Connection
11/26/2007 Lecture: "Rising Tides: Helping Coastal Cities Adapt to Sea Level Change"
11/27/2007 Lead-Safe Painting and Remodeling Class
11/28/2007 Benefit Book Event: "Exposed: The Toxic Chemistry of Everyday Products"
11/28/2007 Online Seminar: Preparing for a Carbon Constrained World
11/28/2007 Talk: "Green Dreamers in the Real World: The Work of Rumsey Engineers"
11/29/2007 Workshop: Winter Permaculture Design Course
11/29/2007 Talk: Sandor Katz on Fermentation and Food Culture
11/30/2007 Symposium on Industrial Land -- This Land is (Whose) Land?
11/30/2007 Community Connection Tour: Nicaragua
11/30/2007 Community Forum: East Bay Paratransit
11/30/2007 Basins of Relations: Starting and Sustaining Watershed Groups
11/30/2007 Workshop: Keyline Design and Sustainable Agriculture
12/1/2007 Volunteer: Plant Natives on Berkeley Paths
12/1/2007 Training: "Environmental Education Through Outdoor Experiential Programs"
12/1/2007 Walk: Upper Claremont with Berkeley Path Wanderers
12/1/2007 Workshop: Holiday Ornaments with SCRAP
12/1/2007 Workshop: Bioregional Education in SF
12/1/2007 Volunteer: French Broom Removal
12/1/2007 Workshop: Intro to LEED and Commercial Green Building
12/1/2007 Fungus Fair: A Celebration of Wild Mushrooms
12/2/2007 Intro to Green Renovations
12/2/2007 Info Night: Jewish Youth for Community Action
12/2/2007 Meeting: Cool Schools Warming Campaign
12/2/2007 Concert: The Troublemakers Union
ECOLOGY CENTER EVENTS
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Solar Hot Water Heater Workshop — Come learn the process of retrofitting a solar water heater on your house. A slideshow presentation and tour of the EcoHouse solar water heater system will be given. Workshop will be lead by Jon Christianson, Sun Light & Power. Space is limited -- call or email to RSVP. Location: EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., (enter via garden entrance on Peralta), Berkeley. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: $15 sliding scale, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 510-548-2220 x242, ecohouse@ecologycenter.org .
Monday, December 3, 2007
Presentation: Berkeley Biodiesel Collective — Monthly Biodiesel 101 Presentations. We hold monthly introductory presentations on the first Monday of (almost) every month at the Ecology Center. We'll be in the first door on the left, off the hallway that goes straight back. These presentations are for those who have had no contact with the collective, are new to Biodiesel, or know about biodiesel but are new to the area. We talk about biodiesel emissions, homebrewing, types of vehicles and commercial availability. Then we will talk about what our coop does, its history and vision. And, of course, we will talk about how to get involved with the BBC or other regional groups. We will try to answer any questions about biofuels and the local biofuels scene. Location: Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-594-4000 x777, berkeleybiodiesel@yahoo.com , http://www.berkeleybiodiesel.org/bbc/ .
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair — A great opportunity to shop for holiday gifts, the Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair will be held on Saturdays December 8, 15 and 22. You can support local craftspeople and find beautiful and practical handmade gifts. The fair is located next to the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market and also features continuous live music: 10am-12 noon - Talking Wood (Afro Roots Music); 12 noon-12:30pm - World Harmony Chorus (choral group);12:30pm-1:30pm - Mark Abdilla (playing 500 years of lute & guitar music); 1:30pm-2pm - Women & Song (community chorus); 2pm-4pm - Equal Rights and Just Us (jazz band with spoken word). Proceeds benefit the Ecology Center's work. This event is supported in part by the Berkeley Civic Arts Program. Location: Civic Center Park, Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, Center Street , Berkeley. Time: 10am - 4pm. Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/bfm/ .
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Workshop: Grow Edible Mushrooms at Home — Take a slideshow tour of some amazing mushrooms of the Bay Area and learn how to grow edible mushrooms at home. Teacher: Babak Tondre. Hand's-on: bring extra newspaper, cardboard, sawdust, wax, cordless drills, drill bits, and leave with some mushrooms of your own! Location: EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., (enter via garden entrance on Peralta), Berkeley. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: $15 sliding scale: no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 510-548-2220 ext. 242, ecohouse@ecologycenter.org .
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair — A great opportunity to shop for holiday gifts, the Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair will be held on Saturdays December 8, 15 and 22. You can support local craftspeople and find beautiful and practical handmade gifts. The fair is located next to the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market and also features continuous live music: 10am-12 noon - This Old Band (classic r+b, soul, blues, etc.); 12 noon-1pm - Stuart Steinhardt (songs with banjo); 1pm-2pm - Mark Abdilla (playing 500 years of lute & guitar music); 2pm-3pm - Lindell Reeves (classic r+b, soul, blues, etc.); 3pm-4pm - Lili DuBois (slide guitar blues). Proceeds benefit the Ecology Center's work. This event is supported in part by the Berkeley Civic Arts Program. Location: Civic Center Park, Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, Center Street , Berkeley. Time: 10am - 4pm. Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/bfm/ .
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair — A great opportunity to shop for holiday gifts, the Berkeley Farmers' Market Holiday Crafts Fair will be held on Saturdays December 8, 15 and 22. You can support local craftspeople and find beautiful and practical handmade gifts. The fair is located next to the Saturday Berkeley Farmers' Market and also features continuous live music: 10am-11am - Amy Hofer & friends (Old Time/Bluegrass); 11:00-12 noon - Berkeley Community Chamber Singers; 12 noon-1pm - Mark Abdilla (playing 500 years of lute & guitar music); 1pm-2pm - Dave Harris (great rock & folk songs acoustic); 2pm-4pm - Tangria (jazz duo). Proceeds benefit the Ecology Center's work. This event is supported in part by the Berkeley Civic Arts Program. Location: Civic Center Park, Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, Center Street , Berkeley. Time: 10am - 4pm. Info: 510-548-3333, http://www.ecologycenter.org/bfm/ .
ALL EVENTS
Through Friday, November 9, 2007
Co-op America's Green Business Conference — Join us for the 5th annual Green Business Conference: Llearn how to reduce your company's footprint; discover innovative financial models to scale your company; get expert coaching to grow your green business; get plenty of speed networking and speedplanning to go home with an action plan. Register online. Location: SF. Cost: $595. Info: http://www.coopamerica.org/cabn/conference/ .
Through Sunday, November 18, 2007
International Latino Film Festival — The eleventh annual International Latino Film Festival presents more than 100 films at seventeen locations around the Bay Area and in Sacramento. Features include "638 Ways to Kill Castro" documenting the CIA's attempts on the Cuban leader's life; "The City of Photographers," on Chilean photographers' resistance to the Pinochet regime; and "So, What's Your Price?", which explores the absurd cultural relationship between the United States and Mexico. Full festival details available online. Info: http://www.latinofilmfestival.org .
Through Saturday, November 24, 2007
SF Climate Challenge — How it works: save energy at home for one month and compete with others to win prizes. The contest is among teams of five or more households. You can start your own team with your friends, families or coworkers. You can join an existing team. Or you can just sign up solo as part of your local neighborhood team. You spend your next PG&E* billing period doing everything you can to reduce your energy use. The more energy your team saves, the better your chances of winning. It can be as simple as turning off a few lights and lowering the thermostat, to as dramatic as installing solar panels on your roof or creating a human-powered generator. At the end, we compare the contest period with your bills from the same time last year, and present prizes to the teams who've done the best and come up with the most creative solutions. Even if that isn't you, you'll still have saved some money on your power bill and helped fight global warming. * PG&E © is not affiliated with the SF Climate Challenge. SF residents who have been in their home at least one year prior to the contest period (10/07) are eligible. Location: SF. Info: http://www.sfclimatechallenge.org/ .
Through Sunday, November 25, 2007
Farallon Islands Nature Cruises 2007 — The Oceanic Society conducts all-day nature cruises to the Farallon Islands National Wildlife Refuge each Saturday and Sunday from May to November. The refuge is the largest seabird rookery in the eastern Pacific south of Alaska; a quarter of a million birds nest there in the spring and summer. Most trips encounter marine mammals from sea lions and seals to humpback and blue whales. Reservations required; trips go rain or shine. Location: Oceanic Society Expeditions, Ft Mason Center #E-230, SF. Time: 8am - 4pm. Cost: $95; call for group rates. Info: 415-474-3385, http://www.oceanic-society.org .
Through Thursday, November 29, 2007
Exhibit: "No Goodbyes: Re-imagining Trash" — This group show will feature multi-media artwork from Bay Area artists and O'Hanlon Center Members that may be entirely, or primarily, composed of waste or recycled materials, or may address environmental issues such as recycling, reducing, or reuse. Location: O'Hanlon Center for the Arts, 616 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley. Info: 415-388-4331, office@ohanloncenter.org , http://www.ohanloncenter.org .
Through Saturday, December 1, 2007
Eco-City Sketchbook Design Competition — Submit your single page sketch of a slice of life in the green city of tomorrow. The purpose of the Califia Sketchbook Design Competition is to express to a wide variety of people what life will be like in Califia, a proposed next generation eco-city in the SF Bay Area. People from around the world are invited to enter a conceptual sketch revealing smarter greener ways of building, powering, maintaining, and inhabiting the urban fabric. Register online. Location: t. Info: http://www.greencenturyinstitute.org/sketchbook.html .
Through Tuesday, December 11, 2007
UC Berkeley Extension Sustainable Design Program Fall Schedule — Designed with the working professional in mind, this year-long program focuses on developing the mandated knowledge needed by architects, designers, builders, developers, project managers, and other decision makers who want to be leaders in the sustainable, cradle-to-cradle revolution now in progress. The professional program consists of two 10-week core curriculum courses, Principles of Sustainable Design and Practical Applications of Sustainable Design, and four six-week electives from a wide range of choices, for a total of eight semester units. There are two tracks: Track I serves the needs of architects, developers, and builders; Track II addresses the needs of interior architects and interior designers. Location: UC Berkeley Extension, 95 Third St, SF. Info: 415-284-1041, interiordes@unex.berkeley.edu , http://www.unex.berkeley.edu/profseq/sustain.html .
Through Monday, December 31, 2007
Volunteer in an Eco-City: Bahia de Caraquez, Equador — Planet Drum Foundation seeks volunteers for its Ecological City projects, through 12/2007. Work with a revegetation project, planting and maintaining native plants to reduce erosion and create habitats for birds and other animals. Join neighborhood efforts to learn and use ecological practices. Help in renewable energy development. Assist bioregional environmental education groups for children and adults. A background in environmental education and activities, Spanish language speaking ability, and cooperative living experience are desirable. However, willing hands and a desire to help restore our damaged biosphere are most important. Benefits include free accommodation in a large shared apartment, extraordinary beach and wilderness recreational activities, and opportunities to improve Spanish skills as well as experience tropical Ecuadorian culture. Please email a description of your qualifications and interests to Clay Plager-Unger, Field Projects Manager. Info: planetdrumecuador@yahoo.com , http://www.planetdrum.org/ .
Through Saturday, March 29, 2008
Volunteer Training: Bay Interpretive Training — Hands-on training sessions covering the history of the Bay, marine habitats, bayshore plant and animal life, and more, with an emphasis on teaching using artifacts and live animals. Location: Shorebird Park Nature Center, 160 University Ave, at the Marina, Berkeley. Cost: $49. Info: 510-981-6720, pdonald@ci.berkeley.ca.us , www.cityofberkeley.info/marina .
Friday, November 9, 2007
Application Deadline: Climate Protection Grant Program — The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has launched a $1.5 million Climate Protection Grant Program to help reduce the Bay Area's contribution to global warming. Grants will be made to local governments, K-12 schools, non-profit organizations and small businesses within the Air District's nine-county jurisdiction. Grants will fund activities in the areas of youth outreach, city and county planning, and best practices that have proven their ability to reduce emissions. Application guidelines available online. Time: 5pm. Info: 415-749-4754, ayoung@baaqmd.gov , http://www.baaqmd.gov/ .
Friday, November 9, 2007
Improv Performance: "Wing It" Takes on Global Warming — Are we going to burn to a crisp in 10 years? This multi-talented improvisational ensemble weaves storytelling, movement, and live music while exploring the personal and political angles of this "hot" issue. Suggested donation: $20 if you drive, $15 each if you carpool (3 or more), $10 if you leave your car at home. Location: First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way, Entrance on Dana, Berkeley. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $10-20. Info: 510-465-2797, http://www.interplay.org/ .
Friday, November 9, 2007 - Sunday, November 11, 2007
San Francisco Green Festival — Join us for this big three-day party with a purpose. Enjoy more than 150 visionary speakers, 400 green businesses, how-to workshops, organic beer and wine, delicious organic cuisine and diverse live music. Recharge your batteries with great ideas, positive energy and the abundant hope you'll find at the Green Festival. Tickets available online or at door. Location: San Francisco Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth Street, SF. Cost: $10-25. Info: http://www.greenfestivals.org/content/view/626/281/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer Orientation: Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge — Have you been thinking about volunteering? Wonder if there's something you can do to help your local Wildlife Refuge? Come find out at this information packed presentation. Volunteers staff our Visitor Center and run our Native Plant Nursery; they lead nature walks and school field trips; pick up trash and pull weeds; take biologists to boats and help organize files. See if there's something that's just right for you. Meet at the Visitor Center Auditorium, Fremont. Pre-registration by phone required. Location: Don Edwards SF Bay Refuge Visitor Center, 1 Marshlands Road, Fremont. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Info: 510-792-0222 ext 43, http://www.fws.gov/desfbay/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Workshop: Off-Grid Systems for Professionals — This two-day advanced class in off-grid PV covers the complex world of hybrid power systems, which integrate multiple energy sources (PV, wind power, small hydro, and generators) to satisfy the electrical demand of off-grid sites. This workshop is intended for advanced owners/builders and others with electrical backgrounds who are interested in off-grid applications. There will be more and more emphasis on: Advanced system options; Specific features of available electrical equipment; National Electric Code issues; Programming equipment set points and generator automation; Battery care and maintenance. Prerequisite: PV 190 or equivalent experience. Register online. Location: Real Goods Solar Living Center, 13771 S. Highway 101, Hopland. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $240. Info: 707-744-2017, http://www.solarliving.org/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Class: Pruning with Friends of the Urban Forest — RSVP by phone. Location: SF. Time: 9am - 12:30pm. Cost: free. Info: 415-561-6890 x102, ellyn@fuf.net , http://www.fuf.net/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Workshop: Basket Weaving — Explore the plaited method of basket weaving, working primarily with paper (with discussion of other possibilities), to create traditional baskets through non-traditional means. There will be plenty of opportunity to embellish your basket with fabulous SCRAP finds. Teacher Jim Caddick worked on a project involving baskets and mathematics at the Exploratorium over 15 years ago and has been making baskets ever since. Class size is limited and classes fill up quickly, please call to reserve a space. Location: SCRAP, 801 Toland St., entrance on Newcomb, between Toland and Selby, SF. Time: 1pm - 4pm. Cost: $15 materials fee. Info: 415-647-1746, scrap@scrap-sf.org , http://www.scrap-sf.org/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Educational Adventure: "Native to the Americas" — Grind corn, shell beans, and help make roasted pumpkin seeds while we explore the native foods in our diets. Location: Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. Time: 1pm - 2pm. Info: 510-796 - 0199.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer: San Pablo Creek Stewardship and Restoration — Help the San Pablo Watershed Neighbors Education and Restoration Society (SPAWNERS) restore the banks of San Pablo Creek behind the El Sobrante Library. Newcomers welcome! Location: El Sobrante Library, 4191 Appian Way, El Sobrante. Time: 9am - 12:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-665-3538, juliana@thewatershedproject.org , http://www.spawners.org .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
TreeSpirit Project at Memorial Oak Grove — Photographer Jack Gescheidt will hold the next big TreeSpirit Project photo shoot/event/demonstration in Berkeley's threatened-by-development Memorial Oak Grove. We will draw public attention to these mature oak trees that are threatened by UC's development plans and make a photographic artwork celebrating their beauty and value. If you believe as I do that the great new gymnasium intended for this site can be more safely, wisely built at an alternate location -- not on top of the Hayward earthquake fault -- please support this peaceful, creative, playful, adventurous art event/demonstration. All are welcome to participate or simply bear loving, supportive witness. I expect a large turnout because the oak grove is in the news, as well it should be. These trees are important to both the local community, as well as globally symbolic of the crucial role trees play in our physical, emotional and spiritual lives. If you feel as I and many others do that trees are a precious and valuable environmental resource, and that we need more greenspace and not less, please join us in this chance to act locally while thinking globally. A photographic celebration of our connection to nature. Location: Memorial Oak Grove, (on Piedmont, just north of Bancroft), Berkeley. Time: 8am. Info: jack@treespiritproject.com , http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/eve/459719603.html .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Save the Oaks Community Picnic — Join friends of the oak grove tree-sit to show support protecting this sacred, majestic place during the last home game of the Cal football season. Bring food, music, art, and anything else to share. Even if you can't come, call to be added to the emergency response phone tree to respond if an eviction is attempted. Location: Memorial Oak Grove, (on Piedmont, just north of Bancroft), Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 6pm. Info: 510-938-2109, http://www.saveoaks.com .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer: Russian Hill Tree Planting — Tree planting with Friends of the Urban Forest. We need volunteers to help plant trees in neighborhoods throughout the city. Breakfast/lunch is provided! Meeting location: 1465 Washington St. RSVP by phone. Location: SF. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 415-561-6890 x100, http://www.fuf.net/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer: Shoreline Cleanup at Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Park — The first rainstorm that hits the Bay can bring down a lot of trash from our neighborhoods. We need your help to remove trash from the shoreline and prevent if from entering the Bay after the "first flush". Other projects include wetland restoration activities like planting native plants, non-native plant removal, seed collection and transplanting. Site Partner: East Bay Regional Parks District. RSVP online, by phone or by email. Location: Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline, Oakland. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-452-9261 x119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://www.savesfbay.org .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Workshop: Preparing Your Garden for Winter — When Autumn nights grow longer, it's time to start preparing your garden for winter. Learn how winterizing your garden will conserve water and ensure less work and more vitality for the spring. Topics will include mulching, cover cropping, pest control practices, weeding tips, and a crop selection appropriate for the Bay Area Winter months! This workshop is part of our Resource Efficient Gardening and Landscaping Program. Pre-register by phone. Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave., @ Lawton St., SF. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: $5 donation requested. Info: 415-731-5627, info@gardenfortheenvironment.org , http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer: Save the Quails! — Help save California quail in San Francisco! Plant native seedlings and restore quail habitat at the Harding Park Golf Course, near Lake Merced, and in the Presidio at Quail Commons. Volunteer or sponsor the work of a volunteer and support the continuing efforts of the Save the Quail campaign. Refreshments provided! All ages and skill levels are welcome. Call for reservations/directions/more information. Location: The Presidio, SF. Time: 9am - noon. Cost: free. Info: 510-843-2222, ggas@goldengateaudubon.org , http://www.goldengateaudubon.org .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Deadline: Call for Papers: Ecocity World Summit 2008 — The Ecocity World Summit will address the ecological city, town and village from the perspectives of people, nature, sustainable development, economies and technologies, and incentives and support structures. The Call for Papers for the Academic and Talent Scouting Sessions is open. Those interested should submit their Abstract through the Ecocity World Summit Website. Location: SF. Info: kirstin@ecocityworldsummit.org , http://www.ecocityworldsummit.org/papers.htm .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Vegetarian Cooking Class: Thanksgiving for the Birds — Join the Compassionate Cooks' Vegetarian Cooking Class that celebrates the harvest as well as the turkeys! We feature local, in-season, mostly organic ingredients. During this class, we will demonstrate five delicious, nutritious dishes, including Autumn Harvest Squash, Fennel, and Apple Soup; Mushroom Phyllo with Delicata Squash and Porcini Mushroom Sauce; Mashed Root Vegetables with Fresh Herbs; Rosemary Drop Biscuits; German Apple Cake. Desserts from Compassionate Cooks' new cookbook, The Joy of Vegan Baking. We feature uncomplicated recipes, debunk myths regarding plant-based eating, eat yummy food samples, have a lot of fun, and share Holiday Nog with Fresh Nutmeg! Fees include demonstration, food samples, copies of recipes, coupons for restaurants and local groceries, resources and more. Register in advance online or by phone. Location: First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St., at Castro, Oakland. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost: $55 + $5 food/materials fee. Info: 510-531-COOK, http://www.compassionatecooks.com/ .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Hike: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve — Join friends of the "Top of the World Park" for a hike of about 4.5 miles with great views of Mound Diablo, surrounding valleys, and even the Sierras if it's clear. Bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, and lunch. Also, be sure to wear sturdy shoes, especially if there has been any recent rain. Sponsored by Bay Nature. Location: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, 9401 Morgan Territory Road, Livermore. Time: 10am - 2pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-528-8550, hikes@baynature.com , http://www.baynature.com/events.html .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
March and Rally to Stop Richmond Refinery Expansion — Join a coalition of citizens and organizations to march and rally for environmental justice in Richmond and its airshed, which are threatened by Chevron's proposed refinery expansion to process dirtier, sulfur heavy oil. Meet in BART station parking lot; march to the refinery. Cosponsored by West County Toxics Coalition, GreenAction for Health and Environmental Justice, Richmond Environmental Health & Justice Leadership Academy, and others. Assemble at the parking lot. Location: Richmond BART Station, 1700 Nevin Avenue, Richmond. Time: noon - 3pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-302-0430 ext 24.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Short Course: "Solar Power Basics for Residential Customers" — Hear about current market-ready solar power technologies and the key steps necessary to own a solar electric system for your home. Become familiar with the solar power installation process and how to reduce energy costs. Get answers to frequently asked questions from instructors at PG&E's Pacific Energy Center. Space limited; register online. Location: Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard St., between 4th & 5th, SF. Time: 10am - noon. Cost: free. Info: http://tinyurl.com/2q68q5 .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer with Save the Bay: Plant Natives at Santa Venetia Marsh — If the rains have started, we will plant native wetland plants like gumplant and grasses plants on this day! Another project includes removing invasive weeds like Harding grass and fennel. Site Partner: Marin County Open Space District. RSVP online, by phone or by email. Location: Santa Venetia Marsh, San Rafael. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-452-9261 x119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://www.savesfbay.org .
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Volunteer: Berryland on the Richmond Greenway — Please join the 5% Local Coalition for the November Foodshed Development Day on Saturday as we work together to rebuild a local food system. We will be continuing work on Berryland on the Richmond Greenway between 6th and 7th Streets near Lincoln Elementary in the Iron Triangle. The Richmond Greenway parallels Ohio and Chanslor Streets. Berryland is just starting to take shape. We have mulched a 2,000 square foot section of the Greenway and installed 10 wine barrel planters, a stump seating circle, and a log planter. A couple of years from now Berryland will be a delicious attraction for both children and adults showcasing more than 30 varieties of edible berry bushes. Berryland will help develop a love of fresh produce among the neighborhood children and be a free source berry starts for the growing backyard and community gardening movement in Richmond. We will work from 9:30am to about noon and close out the day with a brunch of West County-grown food, so bring some goodies from your garden to share. Please bring a mug, utensils, a plate/bowl, and your friends, family, and neighbors. RSVP by email or phone to volunteer or make a donation. Location: Richmond. Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm. Info: 510-691-5051, park@urbantilth .
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Volunteer: "Weekend Weed Warriors" — Help eradicate non-native plants. Learn techniques for invasive plant removal and nature planting. Learn more about the native plants and animals of the Hayward Shoreline. Refreshments provided. Bring gloves or borrow some of ours. Ages 12 and over. Registration required. Location: Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center, 4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward. Time: 1pm - 4pm. Cost: $8. Info: 510-670-7270.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Workshop: Survival Essentials — This introductory workshop covers the basic principles and methods of wilderness survival. Topics include assembling survival kits, shelter building, fire starting, signaling, and water purification. Registration required. Location: Lake Chabot. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: $18 (non-res $20). Info: 888-327-2757, option 2, 3.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Educational Adventure: Walnut Harvesting — Millions of squirrels know harvesting walnuts is lots of fun! We'll gather them, then hull and wash them with our antique machinery. You may take some home! Location: Ardenwood Historic Farm, 34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont. Time: 1pm - 2:30pm. Info: 510-796 - 0199.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Workshop: Hands On Biodiesel Homebrewing — This class gives you the hands on experience you need to begin making your own high quality fuel. Topics Include: Demo & Practice; Basic Chemistry of Making Biodiesel; Oil Quality Testing - Free Fatty Acid Titration and Quantitative Water Test; Calculations and Trade-offs for Methanol and Catalyst Use; Fuel Quality Testing For Conversion; Washing Techniques; Separating Fuel From Glycerol and Water; Processor Operation; Avoiding & Breaking Emulsion; Processor Design & Building Tips; Basic Safety Guidelines. This class will combine lab, practical, theory and Q&A. Recommended Resources: http://www.biodieselcommunity.org , http://biodiesel.infopop.cc , http://www.b100supply.com . Includes lunch. Limit 8 participants. Second person from the same household 1/2 price. Register via email. Location: Oakland. Time: 9:30am - 5:30pm. Cost: $90. Info: morris1524@yahoo.com .
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Volunteer: Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge — Friends of the Alameda Wildlife Refuge workday, with Michael Martin. Come help us prepare habitat for California Least Terns! Meet at the main refuge gate at the northwest corner of former Alameda Naval Air Station. Location: Alameda. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-843-2222, mmartin@goldengateaudubon.org , http://www.fawr.org/ .
Monday, November 12, 2007
Lunch and Talk: "Urban Youth Gardening Conference" — Join Street Parks Youth Program in hands-on workshops. Get inspired, meet new people, and get involved! Come at early (10am) for breakfast club and discussion. Free Lunch, live music, and dessert by Mission Pie. Registration required by phone or email. Location: CELLspace, 2050 Bryant St., @ 18th St., SF. Time: 11am - 3pm. Cost: Free. Info: 415-750-5110, julia@sfpt.org , http://www.sfpt.org .
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Workshop: Garden Herbs and Trees for Your Health — Instructor Darren Huckle loves to open gardeners to the abundance of health giving delights growing in their gardens. He will bring in an abundance of common garden plants and explain in plain language how to incorporate them into daily life. This will be a fun and flavorfully interactive class. About the Instructor: Darren Huckle L.Ac., is a Western and Chinese herbalist and avid gardener. Darren has been teaching about herbal medicine for over a decade and has been in clinical practice of acupuncture and herbal medicine for over 5 years. Location: The Center, 435 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Time: 5pm - 6:15pm. Cost: $30. Info: 650-493-6072, http://www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/ .
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Lecture: Climate Change Implications of Waste Treatment — The UC Berkeley Water Resources Archives Center continues its Tuesday afternoon lectures with this talk by Perry L. McCarty, Silas H. Palmer Professor Emeritus, Environmental Engineering and Science, Stanford University. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that four percent of the equivalent anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions in the world result from methane and nitrous oxide produced from wastewater, solid wastes, and animal manure. However, if such methane gas is collected and used as a biofuel, not only would the methane emissions decrease, but also the need for fossil fuels could be decreased as well. Indeed, the potential to produce methane from wastewater treatment might be exploited to a greater extent than it has at present to turn a potential problem into a significant benefit for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. How might wastes best be handled in the future to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and how might this change our current practices? These questions will be explored in this seminar. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Wurster Hall, 112 Wurster Hall, (near Bancroft and College), Berkeley. Time: 5:30pm - 7pm. Info: http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/WRCA/ccow.html .
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Lecture: The Wolves of Yellowstone National Park — Wildlife biologists Nathan Varley and Linda Thurston have been "on the ground" with the wolves of Yellowstone since 1995. They will discuss the status of the wolves 12 years later and how the wolves have helped to restore the natural ecology of the park. Varley and Thurston will also touch on the peaceful co-existence of wolves and ranchers that has resulted from innovative livestock guarding practices. Reception at 5:15pm, program at 5:45pm. Make reservation online. Location: Commonwealth Club of California, 595 Market St., 2nd Floor, SF. Time: 5:15pm. Cost: $15 general, $8 members. Info: https://www.commonwealthclub.org/mlf/#wolf .
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Green Developer Speaker Series: Greening Affordable Housing — This month we are proud to present Jeff Oberdorfer, Executive Director of First Community Housing. Jeff will present an overview of First Community Housing's evolution as a green developer using case studies to illustrate current LEED projects, green "living" roofs, water recycling and creating habitat for endangered species, while building affordable urban infill housing. Location: Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard St., between 4th & 5th, SF. Time: 6pm - 8pm. Cost: free. Info: http://tinyurl.com/37wsjx .
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Workshop: Smart Energy Management in Agriculture for the Sacramento Valley — Farmers, dairies, ranchers, and wineries tired of high energy costs can learn to save money through energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. Get updates on the latest incentives and financing options, meet with energy consultants and go on farm tours. Lunch, material, and tours included in fee. Space is limited. RSVP by phone or online. Location: St. Anthony's Parish Hall, Winters. Time: 8:30am - 4:30pm. Cost: $40. Info: 831-763-2111 x4, http://www.eco-farm.org/energy/sacramento.html .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Public Talk: Measure T — Measure T: the anti-corporate legislative success story of 2006. In 2006, a group called Democracy Unlimited in Humboldt County California did something revolutionary; they passed a law that limited the power of not just one corporation but all corporations in their county. Known as measure T, the law bans out-of-county corporations from participating in the electoral process. Their campaign is part of a growing effort nationally to challenge corporate power locally, reinvigorate democracy and place human interests above corporate profit. Listen to their story. Discuss campaign possibilities to limit corporate power in the bay area. Location: CounterPULSE, 1310 Mission St., at 9th Street, SF. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: free, donations welcome. Info: 415-425-8837, jessicambell@gmail.com , http://www.counterpulse.org/ .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Lead-Safe Painting and Remodeling Class — This day-long course on detecting and remedying lead hazards in the home leads to a Notice of Completion in training and meets the training requirements for some federally assisted housing, including Section 8. Call to register (classes fill quickly). Class free for owners of residential property built before 1978 in Alameda, Berkeley, Emeryville, and Oakland. Fee for all others is $130. Location: Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Main Office, 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland. Time: 8am - 5pm. Cost: see below. Info: 510-567-8280, http://www.aclppp.org .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Training for Non-Profits: Increasing Your Visibility on the Internet — This training provides an in-depth look at how nonprofit organizations can utilize Web 2.0 tools - such as MySpace, Facebook, YouTube and Change.org - to increase their visibility on the Internet, recruit new donors and e-newsletter subscribers, and build online community around your organization's mission and programs at little to no cost to your organization. The training will be given by Heather Mansfield, creator of the Nonprofit Organizations MySpace and online community manager for Change.org. Register by email. Location: 1500 Broadway, Suite 400, Oakland. Time: 9am - noon. Cost: $25 donation to TransFair USA. Info: heather@diosacommunications.com , http://www.diosacommunications.com/trainings/oakland.htm .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Class/Lecture: The End of Oil — Richard Heinberg, widely regarded as one of America's foremost Peak Oil educators, will discuss the most recent evidence regarding the timing of the global production peak, its likely consequences, and what can be done at both the international and local levels to prepare for the event and mitigate the impacts. Space limited; register online. Event also offered via the Internet. Location: Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard St., between 4th & 5th, SF. Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm. Cost: free. Info: http://tinyurl.com/3dwj4q .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Meet the Author: "Zoom: The Global Race to Fuel the Car of the Future" — Vijay Vaitheeswaran gives a glimpse inside the global race to build the car of the future, as pioneers in Japan, India, China, and the USA tackle the challenge of creating automobiles that will run on cleaner energy sources. While tracing the history of the linked industries of oil and automobiles, the "industry of industries," and how the two have shaped domestic capitalism and the international landscape, he will discuss how Toyota topped American competitors to become the world's largest automobile manufacturer and, more importantly, a leader in hybrid cars using electric power. Registration: 6pm; Program: 6:30pm. Location: World Affairs Council of Northern California, 312 Sutter St., Suite 200, SF. Time: 6pm. Cost: $15 general, $5 student, members free. Info: 415-293-4600, info@wacsf.org , http://www.itsyourworld.org/wac/ .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Discussion: Green Cities Brown Folks — What does it look like when people of color take the lead in greening our cities? The Ella Baker Center continues their "Solutions Salon" series with this event featuring leaders in the East Bay who are on the cutting-edge of creative environmentalism that is rooted in communities of color. Hear about the inspiring work of people like Babak Tondre (Dig City Cooperative), Jason Harvey (Oakland Food Connection), and other "eco-equity" revolutionaries. The event will also feature Van Jones, who recently launched the groundbreaking national "Green For All" initiative. This gathering will be a chance for you to meet, talk, and share with hundreds of others in the growing movement for an equitable, just, and environmentally sane future. RSVP by phone or email. Location: Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland. Time: 5:30pm - 8pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-428-3939 x247, greencities@ellabakercenter.org , http://ellabakercenter.org/page.php?pageid=1 .
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Workshop: Transportation 2035 — The MTC is preparing a major update to the region's long-range transportation plan, known as Transportation 2035. MTC is the transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. MTC's next step is to develop policies to guide investments included in the 2035 Plan. The policies address climate protection, focused growth, transportation revenues and pricing, safety, maintenance of the transportation network, and social justice needs. Please join us at this facilitated workshop. Space limited -- RSVP via email or phone. Location: Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road, Concord. Time: 5pm - 7pm. Info: 510-817-5757, info@mtc.ca.gov , http://www.mtc.ca.gov/planning/2035_plan/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Workshop: Transportation 2035 — The MTC is preparing a major update to the region's long-range transportation plan, known as Transportation 2035. MTC is the transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. MTC's next step is to develop policies to guide investments included in the 2035 Plan. The policies address climate protection, focused growth, transportation revenues and pricing, safety, maintenance of the transportation network, and social justice needs. Please join us at this facilitated workshop. Space limited -- RSVP via email or phone. Location: Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 East San Fernando Street, San José. Time: 5pm - 7pm. Info: 510-817-5757, info@mtc.ca.gov , http://www.mtc.ca.gov/planning/2035_plan/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Berkeley Green Gathering IV — We invite you to Green Gathering IV to celebrate our local sustainability leaders while enjoying good company, delicious food and lovely wine from local green caterers. The evening will feature Hunter Lovins as our key note speaker and Josh Kornbluth as the master of ceremonies. Past Green Gatherings have attracted more than 150 business, community, government, and research leaders working to make Berkeley a model for combining economic vitality, environmental quality and social equity. Purchase tickets online. Location: Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar Street, at Arch, Berkeley. Time: 5pm - 8pm. Cost: $30 in advance, $35 at door. Info: 510-981-7532, jcogley@ci.berkeley.ca.us , http://www.berkeleychamber.com/calendar/listing.php .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Deadline: Seeking Green Homes for Tour — Build It Green Home Tour Organizers are seeking new and remodeled green showcase homes for the third Build It Green Home Tour in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The Green Home Tour will be held on 6/1/08. All types of residences will be considered, including single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and apartment buildings. Examples will include both new construction and remodeled homes. Residences selected will demonstrate a variety of green building practices, products, and technologies and be located in geographic clusters throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. If you have participated in the construction or retrofit of a green residence in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, we encourage you to submit an application. Application form available online. Location: t. Info: 510-845-0472 x105, http://www.builditgreen.org/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Contra Costa County Creek and Watershed Symposium — The 3rd Quadrennial Contra Costa County Creek and Watershed Symposium, Contra Costa County Watersheds: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. A venue where individuals representing a wide variety of organizations and perspectives can assemble and learn about timely and significant issues regarding the health of creeks and watersheds. Emphasis on understanding past conditions and events, a comprehensive overview of current activities and who is behind them, inspirational initiatives from inside and outside the region, trends, challenges and opportunities over the long term, and a discussion on the crisis in the Delta and renewed calls for construction of a peripheral canal. Register online or by mail. Location: Shadelands Arts Center, Walnut Creek. Time: 8:30am - 4:30pm. Info: 925-335-1230, kono@cd.cccounty.us , http://tinyurl.com/2ed875 .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Lecture: Countryside Living: Impacts to Wildlife and Watersheds — Exurban development—the subdivision of large, privately owned properties into smaller parcels for residential use—is one of the fastest-growing types of land use that is surrounding public lands and fragmenting wildlife habitat. The research by Dr. Adina Merenlender's laboratory group at the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management at UC Berkeley, addresses the impacts of expanding exurbia on birds and other wildlife in California's oak woodlands and the North Bay wine country. For this talk, she will present evidence that exurban development is different from suburban development and can have substantial negative impacts on bird communities. Her research also reveals that low-density residential and vineyard development affects the quality of salmon spawning habitat more seriously than previously believed. To meet the goals of protecting salmon habitat and conserving bird species diversity, additional land conservation tools are needed to prevent the ongoing subdivision of wildlife habitat in the oak woodlands. Location: Northbrae Community Church, 941 The Alameda, near Solano, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Info: http://www.goldengateaudubon.org/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Conference: Building the Cleantech Crossroads — Building the Cleantech Crossroads will bring together business leadership, venture capital firms, policymakers, developers, and city planners to promote the growth of the Bay Area cleantech industry as a hub to the global market. The conference will explore how the Bay Area can provide policy incentives and physical infrastructure to attract, retain, and grow cleantech firms and new jobs. Register online. Location: Mission Bay Conference Center, 1675 Owens St, (near AT&T Park), SF. Time: 7am - 4:30pm. Cost: $95. Info: http://www.cleantechcrossroads.com/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Simplicity Forum: Simplifying the Holidays — Tired of being pressured to spend too much for the holidays, giving gifts to people who already have too much, and depleting your bank account? Disgusted by the commercialization of what was once an occasion for family and friends? Join us for a discussion on "Simplifying the Holidays." Bring your suggestions as to how we can avoid the buying frenzy and experience a sane and peaceful holiday season. Location: Berkeley Public Library, Claremont Branch, 2940 Benvenue Ave., @ Ashby, Berkeley. Time: 6:30pm - 8pm. Cost: free.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Lecture: Current Research at Cordell Bank — Research coordinator Dr. Lisa Etherington discusses current projects at Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, including the long-term study using the Delta submersible to classify habitats and monitor fishes and macro-invertebrates. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Time: 12:30pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-238-2200, http://www.museumca.org/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Film and Discussion: UAS Green Movie Night — Urban Alliance for Sustainability's (UAS) Green Movie Night provides a casual space for you to meet others in the local sustainability movement and encourages lively, open discussion. Movie Descriptions: "Food, Communities and Power" -- 2005 Bioneers plenary talk from Thomas Linzey, co-founder of and staff attorney for the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund. "Democracy in America" -- Joseph McCormick, former Republican nominee to the U.S. House of Representatives from Georgia, was doing research on the state of "Democracy in America" after his lost election bid. His research was revealing a sorry state of affairs until he found out about our experiment with the Wisdom Council in the Rogue Valley. "Building Stronger Communities" -- How does the region's high cost of housing and incessant traffic congestion affect our schools, families and communities? What can we do about it? This film features heart-warming stories from Bay Area residents, which reveal the often hidden and highly personal costs of these regional issues. Forum Speakers: Allison Quaid, the Executive Director of the Bay Area Alliance for Sustainable Communities. Wisdom Council, speaker tba. Seating is limited. Location: Little Roxie Theater, 3125 16th Street, SF. Time: 6pm - 9pm. Cost: $9 general, $5 seniors and New College students. Info: http://www.uas.coop/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Green Chamber of Commerce Mixer — The Green Chamber of Commerce and Cynthia Burke/Bee Realty invite you to attend a mixer. Enjoy terrific finger food and learn more about our Chamber. Bring plenty of business cards for this networking opportunity. Cold beer, fine wine available, juice, tea and coffee, too. Fab door prizes. Join before November 10th & get in free. Please RSVP by email by Nov. 12th. Bee Realty is minutes away from I-80, first offramp north of Hilltop Mall. across the street from the West County Times. Location: Bee Realty, 3065 Richmond Parkway, Richmond. Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Cost: $10 general, $5 members. Info: chivachuca@yahoo.com , http://greenchamberofcommerce.net/ .
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Lecture: "Revisiting the Meteorologically Utopian City in a Changing Climate" — The National Center for Atmospheric Research's Gordon Bonan reviews the physical basis for the urban heat island, by which cities are warmer than surrounding areas, and design concepts to mitigate urban warming. Particular emphasis on the role of vegetation in ameliorating urban temperature. Climate models must take into account the warming effect of cities. 106 Wurster Hall, UC-Berkeley. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 3pm - 5pm. Cost: free. Info: http://www-iurd.ced.berkeley.edu/ .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Presentation: Images of the Indigenous Americas — Through A Western Lens: Representations of the Other. Although we live in a "global village", most of the information we receive about the world we live in seems to be a one-way flow. US media consumers are viewing themselves and cultural others through the eyes of dominant Western global discourse, which deploys various forms of representation to make domestic and international others "knowable". In this series of workshops we will explore forms of mainstream representation of different peoples. We will investigate the roles of power relations, ideology, gender, colonial histories and economics and how they contribute to the popular understanding of these images. Activities will include presentations, panel discussions with guest speakers, viewing images and video clips, and animated group discussions. Images of the Indigenous Americas includes a special one hour presentation from 6-7pm, to be followed by John Ross' "Eye on Mexico" event from 7-9pm. Meet in room 23, 766 Valencia Street, SF. Location: New College of California, 766 & 777 Valencia St., SF. Time: 6pm - 9pm. Cost: free. Info: 415-437-3400, http://www.newcollege.edu/events/#16 .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Course: Introduction to Permaculture — Reconciling the need to meet basic human needs with concern for the sustainability and regeneration of the natural world is the essence of permacultural design. This course will expose you to the basic principles and applications of permaculture with a variety of lectures, discussions and hands-on activities in OAEC's 80-acre garden, community and wilderness. Topics will range from water catchment to erosion control, organic and polycultural food production, natural building, site design, and more. Begins 11/16/07 at 5pm and ends 11/18/07 at 4pm. Meals and lodging included. Register online. Location: Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, 15290 Coleman Valley Rd., Occidental. Cost: $375. Info: 707-874-1557 x 201, oaec@oaec.org , http://www.oaec.org/ .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Finding Community: A Community-Seekers' Fair — This event will feature exhibits by members of Northern California communities seeking new members. Author Diana Leafe Christian will offer do a presentation on how to research thoroughly, visit enjoyably, evaluate intelligently, and join gracefully an ecovillage or other kind of intentional community. This is the subject of her new book, Finding Community: How to Join an Ecovillage or Intentional Community. RSVP online. Location: Green City Gallery, 1950 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley. Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Cost: $15-$20 donation. Info: http://www.norcalcoho.org .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Film: Maquilapolis: City of Factories — Maquiladoras are plants owned by transnational corporations which dominate the economy of the U.S.-Mexico border, employing over a million people. This heartfelt documentary was filmed in part by workers who are organizing to create livable solutions to the hardships of their lives. We see the long and ultimately successful campaign by local activists to require the cleanup of an abandoned battery-recycling plant, and are inspired by Carmen's determination in waging a successful legal campaign to get severance pay owed workers after Sanyo's closure of its Tijuana plant. A powerful look at the true human and environment cost behind many of the consumer items we take for granted here in the U.S.. With Guest Speaker Myrna Santiago. Raised in Tijuana, and currently head of the Women's Studies Department at St. Mary's College, Myrna teaches a course on Women in Latin America, with a focus on women in the maquiladoras. 7pm doors open for mingling and fair trade shopping (artesania, coffee), 7:30pm program begins. Location: First United Methodist Church of San Rafael, 9 Ross Valley Dr, San Rafael. Time: 7pm. Cost: $7-$10 donation, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 415-924-3227, mitf@igc.org , http://www.mitfamericas.org/ .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Music and Videos from the Dump — Norcal Waste Systems presents: Music and Videos from the Dump. A special celebration of recycling. Videos: Over the years, several artists have produced short videos as part of their residency which will be shown on a big screen for the first time. This evening will be a mini-film festival of short videos by Reddy Lieb, Robbin Lasser, Banker White, Nomi Talisman, Don Ross and a short video interview and tribute to Jo Hanson, the founder of the program. Music: This evening will include special performance by members of the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra of local composer Nathaniel Stookey's "Junkestra," a composition for recycled percussion instruments created during his 2007 residency. About the Program: Norcal's Artist In Residence Program provides selected artists with a studio space, art show, equipment, tools, a stipend and 24-hour access to San Francisco's waste stream at it's 46-acre solid waste transfer and recycling center in San Francisco. Since 1990 more than 65 artists working in a variety of media have created work to inspire the public to conserve resources and recycle more. Not just for sculptors, the program has hosted writers, musicians, performance artists and photographers. Tickets are available online at www.cityboxoffice.com, by phone 415-392-4400, or in person at 180 Redwood Street (at Van Ness). Location: Herbst Theater, War Memorial Performing Arts Center, 401 Van Ness Ave, @ McAllister, SF. Time: 8pm. Cost: $10-15. Info: http://www.sunsetscavenger.com/AIR/ .
Friday, November 16, 2007
Environmental Justice Symposium — Environmental justice 25 years after Warren County. Presentations on: Breuner Marsh in Richmond; Environment-Labor Collaboration; Environmental Justice at Mainstream Environmental Groups; Disproportionate Air Pollution Impacts; Environmental Justice in Environmental Impact Assessment Laws; Environmental Justice at the U.S. EPA and Federal Agencies; California's Environmental Justice Legislation; Los Angeles Urban Parks Movement. Keynote speaker: Dr. Robert Bullard, author of "Dumping in Dixie." Presenters include: Amy Cohen (Bay Area Environmental Health Collaborative); Luke Cole and Caroline Farrell (Center on Race, Poverty and the Environment); Whitney Dotson (North Richmond Shoreline Open Space Alliance); Richard Drury (Adams Broadwell Joseph & Cardozo); Veronica Eady (New York Lawyers for the Public Interest); Robert Garcia (The City Project); Anhthu Hoang (West Harlem Environmental Action). Space is limited, so pre-registration by phone or email is recommended. Registration fees will be collected (cash, check or charge) on the day of the event. Location: Golden Gate U. School of Law, 536 Mission St, between 1st & 2nd, SF. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $30-60, students free with current valid ID. Info: 415-442-7234, sweston@ggu.edu , http://tinyurl.com/wy8bk .
Friday, November 16, 2007 - Saturday, November 17, 2007
Conference: Educating for Justice — Teaching for Labor and Community Power. A two day conference bringing together labor and worker's rights educators, community organizers, and student activists. We will learn about each other's programs and campaigns -- the challenges we face, the resources we can share, and ways we can help each other do our work more creatively and effectively. Registration fees cover conference, continental breakfast Friday and Saturday and Friday night cultural event. Location: City College of San Francisco-Mission Campus, 1125 Valencia Street, (between 22nd and 23rd), SF. Cost: $10-$50, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 415-550-4473, educatingforjustice@gmail.com , http://educatingforjustice.googlepages.com/ .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Save the Bay: Wetland Planting in Oakland — Help plant native wetlands plants at the MLK Jr. Shoreline Park. Location: Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Shoreline, Oakland. Time: 9am - 12pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-452-9261, http://savesfbay.org .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Class: Basic Gardening Techniques — Join Aerin More to learn tricks to soil preparation, planting techniques, mulching choices and pruning dos and don'ts. Hear how to make your garden the best on the block. Come early: enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries, and meander through the gardens. Location: Magic Gardens (Berkeley), 729 Heinz Ave, Berkeley. Time: 10am. Cost: Free. Info: 510-644-2351, http://www.magicgardens.com .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Communities Convergence: Ecovillages, Cohousing Neighborhoods, & Intentional Communities — Leaders from the cohousing and ecovillage movements share information on making intentional communities work. More information/registration online. Location: Green City Gallery, 1950 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $45-$75 sliding scale. Info: http://www.norcalcoho.org .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Fall Plant Sale at Merritt College — Purchase plants grown by Merritt students and the Merritt College Propagation Club. All money raised through the sale goes toward improving and supporting the Landscape Horticulture Department. A list of available plants will be posted online. Location: Merritt College, Landscape Horticulture Grounds, 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland. Time: 9am - 3pm. Info: 510-531-4911 , http://www.merrittlandhort.com .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Volunteer with Save the Bay: Plant Wetland Plants along Tolay Creek (Sears Point) — Join Save The Bay in our efforts to restore North Bay wetlands by planting native plants grown locally in partnership with the San Pablo Refuge. Other projects may include site monitoring and non-native plant removal. Sign up by phone, email, or online. Location: San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Time: 9am - noon. Cost: Free. Info: 510-452-9261 ext 119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://savesfbay.org .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Volunteer with Save the Bay: Winter Planting Project at Baylands Preserve — We depend on the winter rains to water newly planted native plants. If it has rained, this could be our first planting project of the season! Other projects include transplanting native plants, collecting plant seeds and removing non-native plants. Site partner: City of Palo Alto. Sign up by phone, email, or online. Location: Palo Alto. Time: 9am - 12pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-452-9261 ext 119, bayevents@savesfbay.org , http://savesfbay.org .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Forum: Introducing Wisdom Councils — Concerned about Our Democracy? You are not alone! It is time to remember that The People represent the ultimate authority in a democracy. It is time to join other efforts around the world to promote and support participatory democracy through the growing number of citizen councils. We believe in the ability of ordinary citizens to identify, creatively explore, and propose solutions to the issues that confront us today. RSVP by phone or email. Location: 6501 Telegraph Ave, Oakland. Time: 9am - 4:30pm. Info: 510-843-3651, thelisteningpath@aol.com .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Slideshow and Discussion: "Visions of Peace and Justice" — Examining the role of political posters and graphics as mass communication tools for social justice movements. Featuring Lincoln Cushing, author and archivist, Favianna Rodriguez, co-founder of Tumis Design, and Sabiha Basrai and Nadia Khastagir of Design Action Collective. Presented by Inkworks Press, a worker-managed, union printshop. Location: Berkeley Art Center, 1275 Walnut St., Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Info: http://www.inkworkspress.org .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Summit: Jobs, Housing & Justice in Oakland — Dead-end jobs? Unemployment? Toxic Pollution? Violence in our streets? Housing we can't afford? People pushed out of our communities? We have a different vision. Building Oakland for Everyone: development should create the good jobs, affordable housing, and healthy communities that Oaklanders need. Together, we will join with our neighbors, call on our leaders, and make a plan to put this vision into action! Lunch will be served. Childcare and translation will be available. Registration begins at 9:30am. RSVP by phone. Location: St. Anthony's School Gym, 1500 15th Street, Oakland. Time: 10am - 2pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-893-7106 x20.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Walking Tour: Berkeley's Downtown Parks: Real, Envisioned & Vanished — In Celebration of Berkeley's Downtown Parks: Real, Envisioned and Vanished, led by Steve Finacom. Fountains of light, grand boulevard plans, war memorial groves, playgrounds, spacious greenways and pocket parks. Downtown Berkeley not only is a commercial, transportation, and civic hub but also has a history of open space and parkland. Martin Luther King Jr., Park evolved from a neighborhood playground and was completed in the early 1940s after voters approved a bond issue; it's now the partially refurbished centerpiece of Berkeley's landmark Civic Center Historic District. There was once a park - now built over - on Shattuck Square and for a time fountains ran down the middle of Shattuck Avenue. Visit all these sites, past and present, as well proposed open spaces that never were. Tour is restricted to 30 prepaid reservations. RSVP by phone. Location: Berkeley. Time: 10am - noon. Cost: $10 general, $8 BHS members. Info: 510-848-0181, http://www.cityofberkeley.info/histsoc/#EVENTS .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Volunteer: Plant Natives on Berkeley Paths — Join Friends of Five Creeks and Berkeley Path Wanderers to plant natives along pathways in the Upper Codornices Creek watershed. Meet at the bottom of lower Glendale Path, Glendale Ave. at Campus Dr. Light picnic follows. Location: Berkeley. Time: 10am. Info: 510-848-9358, f5creeks@aol.com , http://www.fivecreeks.org/ .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Volunteer: Wetlands Restoration at Pier 94 — Pier 94 wetlands restoration workday with Michael Martin. As part of our on-going efforts to restore wetlands along San Francisco's southern waterfront, we'll hold a clean-up and planting at Pier 94. Come join us! Over the past two years, thanks to Golden Gate Audubon volunteers. Pier 94 has morphed from an abandoned industrial site to a functioning wetlands hosting large plant, bird, and small wildlife populations. The site also has the world's largest population of California sea-blite, a federally endangered wetlands plant. Light refreshments will be provided. RSVP by phone or email. Location: SF. Time: 9am - noon. Info: 510-843-7295, mmartin@goldengateaudubon.org , http://www.goldengateaudubon.org/ .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Green Career Conference — As the global issues of climate change and peak oil become increasingly urgent, we must rethink the way we occupy the planet and satisfy our basic needs, including food, shelter, transportation and energy. Redesigning these basic needs will create a plethora of new jobs, entrepreneurial ventures, and exciting opportunities. Join the Solar Living Institute and its cadre of sustainable living professionals for an interactive day of practical information that will help you find a rewarding career, and make a living while making a difference! Register online. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 8am - 7pm. Cost: $175, $100 student with valid ID. Info: 707-744-2017, http://www.solarliving.org/workshops/ .
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Workshop: Growing Garlic — While most gardeners around the country are turning in their crops and getting ready for the long cold winter, here in coastal California we are ready to start another season of planting. One of the best crops to plant in the late fall is garlic! Garlic is a powerful medicine and food that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Garlic reduces cholesterol, lowers the risk of cancer and heart disease. This tasty and nutritious plant is easy to grow in our San Francisco climate all through the winter. Join us for a delicious class and learn how you can grow your own garlic in your backyard. Food will be provided along with some garlic seed for you to take home and plant! Pre-register by phone. Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave., @ Lawton St., SF. Time: 10am - noon. Cost: $15. Info: 415-731-5627, info@gardenfortheenvironment.org , http://www.gardenfortheenvironment.org/ .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
BAY-Peace Open House & Youth Performance Showcase — Community members are invited to celebrate the opening of the new office of BAY-Peace and AMIE. Come out for free food, fun and information. Enjoy youth performances, video and a chance to support young people who are fighting back against aggressive military recruiting and war. Four blocks from Fruitvale BART. Location: BAY-Peace, Better Alternatives for Youth, 1470 Fruitvale Ave, Oakland. Time: 2pm - 5pm. Cost: free, donations encouraged. Info: 510-809-7416, BAYpeace4youth@gmail.com .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Workshop: Seedball Making — As the rainy season begins, now is the time for spreading seedballs. We will be molding clay, compost, and seed blends into small balls to be dried and scattered (perhaps in a neglected vacant lot). The seeds are protected until the seedball receives the catalyzing rains which dissolve the clay, leaving them in a nutrient nest - ready to grow! Members of the East Bay Permaculture Guild are hosting this project and serving hot apple cider. Bring your own cup, if possible, and a bag or box to carry home your seedballs. Kids are welcome! Come play and browse the Green City Gallery. Location: Green City Gallery, 1950 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley. Time: noon - 3pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-655-8252, http://digcity.coop/greencitygallery/ .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Workshop: Starting and Sustaining Healthy Ecovillages — A one-day workshop about starting and sustaining healthy ecovillages and intentional communities. Lead by Diana Leafe Christian. RSVP required. Location: Berkeley. Time: 9am - 5:30pm. Cost: $130 in advance, $145 at door. Info: 828-669-9702, diana@ic.org , http://www.norcalcoho.org/ .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Community Labyrinth Peace Walk — Everyone welcome. Rain cancels. Location: Willard Middle School, Telegraph Ave., between Derby St. and Stuart St., Berkeley. Time: 3pm. Info: 510-526-7377, info@eastbaylabyrinthproject.org .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Workshop: Bioregional Education in SF — These workshops take a holistic ecological approach with emphasis on observation, discussion, and hands-on learning. Register via phone or email. Location: Glen Canyon Park, SF. Time: 10am - 5pm. Cost: $35-50 sliding scale. Info: 415-285-6556, outreach.planetdrum@gmail.com , http://www.planetdrum.org/ .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Solar Hot Water Heater Workshop — Come learn the process of retrofitting a solar water heater on your house. A slideshow presentation and tour of the EcoHouse solar water heater system will be given. Workshop will be lead by Jon Christianson, Sun Light & Power. Space is limited -- call or email to RSVP. Location: EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., (enter via garden entrance on Peralta), Berkeley. Time: 10am - 3pm. Cost: $15 sliding scale, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: 510-548-2220 x242, ecohouse@ecologycenter.org .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Volunteer: "Bernal Hilltop Native Grassland Restoration" — Help control invasive weeds. Meet at the foot of road leading to phone company microwave tower near southwest road closure off Bernal Heights Blvd. Bring your own clippers/tools if possible. Location: SF. Time: 11am. Info: 415-831-6328, bpandrp@peoplepc.com .
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Skillshare: Fermented Foods — Never fermented anything before and not sure what 'fermented foods' means? Come to the skillshare and we'll show you the basics and introduce you to some well cultured experts who know the details and complex variations. For beginners and experts. Our first skillshare was wildly successful so please come to our second one and bring your friends! We'll cover Sourdough breads, Russian Kvass, Kefir and more... with an intro talk on phytic acid, soy, and the importance of soaking your grains and beans. Bring your own utensils, cups, and containers, and your experiments, brews, and bubbles to show and tell, giveaway, and taste! We'll begin promptly at 11am! Location: Sacramento Street Cohousing, 2220 Sacramento St, @ Allston, Berkeley. Time: 11am - 1pm. Cost: $5 donation for supplies. Info: karmin510@gmail.com .
Monday, November 19, 2007
Activist Lives: An Interview with Mother Jones Editor — Monika Bauerlein is (with Clara Jeffery) the editor-in-chief of the San Francisco-based Mother Jones, a 31-year-old investigative magazine with a circulation of 230,000 in the U.S. and internationally, widely recognized as one of the most respected and influential progressive publications in the country. Prior to working at Mother Jones, Monika had years of experience in environmental journalism, reporting for a wide variety of newspapers and public radio programs. Location: New College Cultural Center, 766 Valencia St., between 18th and 19th, SF. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: free. Info: http://www.newcollege.edu/events/ .
Monday, November 19, 2007
Workshop: Transportation 2035 — The MTC is preparing a major update to the region's long-range transportation plan, known as Transportation 2035. MTC is the transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area. MTC's next step is to develop policies to guide investments included in the 2035 Plan. The policies address climate protection, focused growth, transportation revenues and pricing, safety, maintenance of the transportation network, and social justice needs. Please join us at this facilitated workshop. Space limited -- RSVP via email or phone. Location: San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael. Time: 6pm - 8pm. Info: 510-817-5757, info@mtc.ca.gov , http://www.mtc.ca.gov/planning/2035_plan/ .
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Workshop: Natural Building and Traditional Architecture — Learn about architecture and natural construction that is rooted in the land, and thousands of years of tradition! In this exciting course you will experience hands-on a variety of natural building techniques and practices that will provide a new paradigm for the construction of habitable spaces using local resources and bioclimatic design principles. These techniques include cob, strawbale, light claystraw, and natural plasters. Students will participate in a group design process and model building of a structure. Past courses have covered thatched roofing, rock construction, cob, strawbale, natural plasters and paints, oven-building, adobe bricks and floors, wattle and daub, alternative energy, water catchment and cleaning, composting toilets and more. The course is divided into two sections. During the first week, foreigners (usually from U.S., Europe and Canada) convene for an immersion in regional Mexican culture. The area surrounding Tlaxco, with it's millennia-long history of natural building and cultures rooted in the land, will be our classroom. Through field trips, classroom exercises and hands-on "practices", participants will get an overview of regional Mexican and indigenous cultures rarely experienced by visitors. Past field trips have included traditional meals in the homes of local families, visits to artisans' workshops, tours of haciendas -- both restored and in ruins, tours of the local ecology based elementary school that Proyecto San Isidro supports and trips to homes and buildings that display examples of contemporary, ancient and colonial natural building techniques. During the second week, participants from México join the group and the bulk of the coursework focuses on hands-on practices. All formal sessions are translated so you can learn a lot of Spanish by immersion and constant use. Fee includes tuition, three delicious vegetarian meals per day, lodging, and field trips. Register online. Cost: $1200. Info: 707-744-2017, http://www.solarliving.org/ .
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Film: "Darwin's Nightmare" — Darwin's Nightmare is a tale of food supply and the global commodities trade. In the 1960's, in the heart of Africa, a new animal was introduced into Lake Victoria as a little scientific experiment. The Nile Perch, a voracious predator, extinguished almost the entire stock of the native fish species. Today, its fillets are exported all around the world. Ex-Soviet cargo planes come daily to collect the latest catch in exchange for their southbound cargo: Kalashnikovs and ammunitions for the uncounted wars in the continent. Location: Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar Street, at Arch, Berkeley. Time: 6:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: http://www.agrariana.org/film-series .
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Online Seminar: Preparing for a Carbon Constrained World — Inspiring Green Leadership presents this forty-five minute live Executive Briefing addresses important elements of climate change, peak oil and how they affect each other. It includes a fifteen-minute question and answer period at the end with the presenter. Register online. Location: t. Time: 9:30am - 10:15am. Cost: free. Info: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/71429648 .
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Give Thanks Vegetarian Potluck Feast — East Bay Food Not Bombs will be doing our annual Give Thanks Vegetarian Potluck Feast. We gather, circle, give thanks and feast together in community. It's a sweet event of sharing and we would love to share it with you. We ask folks to bring a vegetarian dish and a thanks to share if they can. We may have some time for poems or songs. Location: Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo Ave., @ Gilman, Berkeley. Time: 6pm - 9pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-658-9178, http://www.ashkenaz.com/ .
Friday, November 23, 2007
Talk: Ward Churchill: "Speaking Truth in the Teeth of Power" — Ward Churchill has long been an outspoken critic of violence by the US State, and as such, has attracted negative attention from those in positions of power in the government, the media, and academia. Not one to back down in the face of criticism, Churchill will speak on academic repression as well as the history and the lasting effects of colonization and genocide in America. Location: AK Press, 674A 23rd St., between MLK & San Pablo, Oakland. Time: 7pm. Cost: $5 donation, no one turned away for lack of funds. Info: http://www.akpress.org/ .
Saturday, November 24, 2007 - Sunday, November 25, 2007
13th Annual Womyn of Color Arts and Crafts Fair — This fair and art show features artists and craftswomen selling their original, handcrafted works. Features paintings, clay sculptures, textiles, jewelry, wearable art, and more. Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. Time: 10:30am - 4:30pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-849-2568, http://www.lapena.org .
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Really Really Free Market — Come celebrate International Buy Nothing Day by participating in the Really Really Free Market! Don't give your time, money and life energy to greedy corporations that exploit the Earth and people. Come to the Really Really Free Market instead! Share, enjoy each other's company, be creative, nourish yourself, play, make friends! Put an end to passive, mindless, destructive consumerism and create the world you really want. You make the market happen. We all have skills, ideas, games, music, objects, smiles, talents, friendship, excitement, discussions, laughter and many other things to share. If we bring them all together at the Really Really Free Market, we can provide more balanced and full lives for everyone. As a community we have many more resources than we do as individuals. If we share our resources, we won't need to buy as many new ones. This uses fewer of the Earth's resources, and fewer of our working hours, leaving us more time to devote to ourselves and our communities. Would we all work forty hours a week at one job if we didn't feel we had to? What if instead we worked at improving our individual skills and talents and shared them with each other? We would all spend more time doing things we enjoyed. The Really Really Free Market is an attempt to put these ideas into practice for four hours every month and then spread the seeds everywhere - share, share, share! Located near 19th and Dolores Street. Location: Dolores Park, between 19th & 20th, SF. Time: 1pm - 5pm-ish. Cost: free.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Philippines Tour: Green Empowerment and Community Connection — Community building and empowerment in Mindanao, Philippines. You will meet your tour leader and group in Manila, then fly to Davao City to meet Green Empowerment's Mindanao NGO partners. You will travel to several micro hydro project sites and visit community leaders. Cost: $1740 (double occupancy). Info: 503-284-5774, info@greenempowerment.org , http://www.greenempowerment.org/ .
Monday, November 26, 2007
Lecture: "Rising Tides: Helping Coastal Cities Adapt to Sea Level Change" — Kristina Hill is Associate Professor and Director of the Graduate Program in Landscape Architecture at the School of Architecture at the University of Virginia. Her work has focused on the application of ecological ideas in urban design. She has worked on water systems, transit systems, and designs for biodiversity. Her current focus is on "adaptive urbanism" which can help guide urban investments addressing climate change. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Wurster Hall, 112 Wurster Hall, (near Bancroft and College), Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 8:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 510-642-4942, maclark@berkeley.edu , http://new-laep.ced.berkeley.edu/ .
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Lead-Safe Painting and Remodeling Class — This two-hour course is for homeowners who want to learn to detect and remedy lead hazards in the home. Call to register (classes fill quickly). Location: Emeryville Recreation Center, 4300 San Pablo Ave, Emeryville. Time: 6pm - 8pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-567-8280, http://www.aclppp.org .
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Benefit Book Event: "Exposed: The Toxic Chemistry of Everyday Products" — Author Mark Schapiro discusses the health and environmental risks of consumer products with environmental journalist Michael Pollan in this benefit for Global Exchange. Location: First Congregational Church of Berkeley, 2345 Channing Way, Entrance on Dana, Berkeley. Time: 7:30pm. Cost: $10 in advance, $13 door, $5 students (with ID at door only). Info: 510-559-9500, info@codysbooks.com , http://www.codysbooks.com/calendar/nov07Calendar.jsp .
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Online Seminar: Preparing for a Carbon Constrained World — Inspiring Green Leadership presents this forty-five minute live Executive Briefing addresses important elements of climate change, peak oil and how they affect each other. It includes a fifteen-minute question and answer period at the end with the presenter. Register online. Location: t. Time: 9:30am - 10:15am. Cost: free. Info: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/71429648 .
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Talk: "Green Dreamers in the Real World: The Work of Rumsey Engineers" — Oakland-based Rumsey Engineers is currently working on several zero-energy buildings. The firm is focused on designing buildings that are highly energy and water-efficient as well as safe, comfortable, practical, and affordable. Firm founder Peter Rumsey will present a range of different successful projects and discuss how to optimize efficiency and building value through an integrated design process. Register online. Location: Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard St., between 4th & 5th, SF. Time: 6:30pm - 8pm. Cost: Free. Info: http://tinyurl.com/3597je .
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Workshop: Winter Permaculture Design Course — Learn practical tools for self-reliant living and sustainable human habitats from some of the most experienced permaculture teachers in the U.S.. Topics include: organic agriculture; natural cycles and pattern recognition; soil building - erosion control; edible landscaping; forest gardening; eco-forestry; natural building; appropriate technology; renewable energy; social sustainability; ecovillage design. Program fee includes accommodations and food. Register online or by phone. Location: Lost Valley Educational Center, 81868 Lost Valley Lane, Dexter, OR. Cost: $1315-$1525 sliding scale. Info: 541-937-3351 ext 112, http://www.lostvalley.org/ .
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Talk: Sandor Katz on Fermentation and Food Culture — Sandor Katz, the author of "Wild Fermentation" and "The Revolution Will Not be Microwaved", will be coming to Berkeley to talk about fermentation and food culture. This event is part of the Food + Farming lecture series happening at the university this semester. We are also organizing a starter giveaway and tasting at the event -- please bring your own containers, tasting cups/spoons, and labels. Location: UC Berkeley Campus: Morgan Hall Lounge and Patio, Berkeley. Time: 6:30pm. Cost: free. Info: karmin510@gmail.com , http://www.agrariana.org/ .
Friday, November 30, 2007
Symposium on Industrial Land -- This Land is (Whose) Land? — Many Bay Area cities are currently trying to decide how much of their industrial land supply to convert to residential and commercial uses. This symposium will help to coordinate the conversation going on in various municipalities by offering a macro perspective on the demand for industrial land. Key academic and professional planning experts will discuss the nature of industrial land demand in the 21st century economy, the emerging arrangement of land uses in California's mega-regions, green industry and building issues, and trends in residential development. Location: Seaborg Room, The Faculty Club, University of California, Berkeley. RSVP online. Location: UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley. Time: 9:30am - 3:30pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-643-9103, http://communityinnovation.berkeley.edu/ .
Friday, November 30, 2007
Community Connection Tour: Nicaragua — Solar Water Pumps and Community Development in Nicaragua. Green Empowerment is pleased to announce it is launching a new initiative that is aimed at promoting stronger connections between North Americans and communities we work with abroad. In partnership with Asofenix, our local partner in Nicaragua, we will be leading a group of 10 sustainability minded individuals who live in the US, on a 10 day tour of various project sites in that country. Green Empowerment has helped to install 2 solar water pump projects in Nicaragua over the last year. This program is a training of sorts, providing participants with a first hand experience of what a successful, sustainable community development project is -- and how they can promote similar projects in the future. Participants will experience the full gamut of what it takes to implement a community-based renewable energy project, including working side-by-side with community members on a service-project. This trip is different from other travel programs because we want to maintain a relationship with you even after the trip. We can help you get 'plugged in' to the international sustainable development movement -- either through volunteering or other interests that you have, whether it's with our organization, or another. Our goal is to help you find something that is meaningful to you and contributes to the sustainability of our planet. Cost includes trip arrangements, in-country travel, and lodging. International air fare and personal travel insurance and personal incidental expenses not included. Register via email. Cost: $1,350. Info: 503-284-5774, dexter@greenempowerment.org , http://www.greenempowerment.org/ .
Friday, November 30, 2007
Community Forum: East Bay Paratransit — Assemblywoman Loni Hancock invites you to The Route to Success: A Community Forum on East Bay Paratransit. East Bay Paratransit provides transportation services to senior and disabled populations throughout the East Bay. Paratransit is not merely an alternative to fixed-route public transportation; it provides a direct link to basic life needs and plays an integral role in creating greater independence and equal opportunity. How is the current system working? Do you have suggestions for improving Paratransit services? Paratransit riders, family members, service providers and transportation advocates are all encouraged to attend. Come to learn more about Paratransit and share your comments, concerns and suggestions with representatives from East Bay Paratransit. RSVP by phone. Location: North Oakland Senior Center, 5714 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, entrance at parking lot at 58th Street, Oakland. Time: 1pm - 3pm. Cost: free. Info: 510-559-1406, http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/members/a14/ .
Friday, November 30, 2007
Basins of Relations: Starting and Sustaining Watershed Groups — This four-day intensive residential training is designed to promote and support the creation of North Coast community-based watershed groups. This training is specifically designed for teams of three to four residents, with each team representing a local watershed. You will learn about watershed processes, salmonid ecology, water quality monitoring, in-stream restoration, biotechnical engineering, uplands erosion control, road restoration, native habitat restoration, sustainable forestry, community group process, and funding opportunities for watershed groups. Your team will develop a watershed group formation plan during the training and commit to facilitating the creation of a community-based group in your home watershed. Enrollment is limited and subject to an application process intended to select committed watershed-based teams. Instructor: Brock Dolman with guests. Meals and lodging included. Location: Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, 15290 Coleman Valley Rd., Occidental. Cost: $200. Info: 707-874-1557 ext. 206, oaec@oaec.org , http://www.oaec.org/ .
Friday, November 30, 2007
Workshop: Keyline Design and Sustainable Agriculture — Keyline Design is a complete design system for landscapes. It is applicable to both rural and urban designs. It is a unique combination of water conservation and soil building, with great appeal to both farmers and ranchers, as it has the ability to build and regenerate degraded soils rapidly, and sees the use of grazing animals as beneficial to this process. The term Keyline comes from the reference to a "keypoint" on the watershed, which is the interface between collection and distribution of water on the landscape, where ridge meets the valley. Keyline is a philosophy and technique that doesn't pit the needs of farmers against environmentalists trying to protect wildlife and fish habitat, and with carbon sequestering techniques used, helps to address aspects of global warming and climate change. Workshop led by Darren Doherty, an Australian Keyline Designer. Includes lunch. Inquire about continued 2 day hands-on Earth-working intensive Dec 3rd and 4th. For more information and registration, contact by phone or email. Location: Rancho Rico, Big Sur, AZ. Cost: $250. Info: 831-667-2376, pcdesigns@earthlink.net , http://www.permaculture.biz/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Volunteer: Plant Natives on Berkeley Paths — Join Friends of Five Creeks and Berkeley Path Wanderers to plant natives along pathways in the Upper Codornices Creek watershed. Call to RSVP. Location: Berkeley. Info: 510-848-9358, f5creeks@aol.com , http://www.fivecreeks.org/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Training: "Environmental Education Through Outdoor Experiential Programs" — This training is part of a Masters Program in Environmental Education from Prescott College. You'll participate in several ropes course initiatives that focus on teaching basic environmental knowledge. If you're a teacher looking for new tools to educate your students or an outdoor educator wanting to build your repertoire, this training is for you. Bring outdoor clothing, water, and lunch. Registration required. Location: YMCA Camp Jones Gulch, 11000 Pescadero Road, La Honda. Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm. Cost: Free. Info: 650-747-9451, moriartyshawn@gmail.com .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Walk: Upper Claremont with Berkeley Path Wanderers — Explore history, trails, and hidden open spaces in the upper Claremont area on a Berkeley Path Wanderers Association walk. Meet at Peet's Coffee, 2916 Domingo. Location: Berkeley. Time: 10am. Cost: free. Info: 510-849-1969, http://www.berkeleypaths.org/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Workshop: Holiday Ornaments with SCRAP — Create original ornaments for your tree using hand printed and found papers. Fold up 3-D shapes and embellish them with laces, ribbons, yarns and scrappy treasures. Included will be demos for paste-paper printing with inks, for those who want to create their own papers. Learn how to fold Chinese boxes, cranes, Hawaiian shirts, kimono and other shapes. Instructor Joy-Lily is an artist exploring the possibilities of printing on a variety of surfaces, including paper and textiles. Class size is limited and classes fill up quickly -- please call to reserve a space. Location: SCRAP, 801 Toland St., entrance on Newcomb, between Toland and Selby, SF. Time: 1pm - 4pm. Cost: $15 materials fee. Info: 415-647-1746, http://www.scrap-sf.org/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Workshop: Bioregional Education in SF — These workshops take a holistic ecological approach with emphasis on observation, discussion, and hands-on learning. Register via phone or email. Location: Glen Canyon Park, SF. Time: 10am - 5pm. Cost: $35-50 sliding scale. Info: 415-285-6556, outreach.planetdrum@gmail.com , http://www.planetdrum.org/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Volunteer: French Broom Removal — Volunteers needed to remove the Broom. We provide the tools. Meet at the Skyline Gate staging area (8500 Skyline Blvd.). Location: Redwood Regional Park, Oakland. Time: 9:30am - 1pm. Info: 510-812-8265.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Workshop: Intro to LEED and Commercial Green Building — If you're a builder or looking to get into the green building industry, this unique course is for you. You will be introduced to the six key categories used by the USGBC's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program for rating green buildings, including: sustainable site selection; water efficiency measures; energy efficiency; eco-friendly building materials; indoor/outdoor air quality; innovative design. Participants will examine several fascinating case studies of commercial green buildings to learn how these techniques have been employed. Register online. Location: SF. Time: 9am - 5pm. Cost: $120. Info: 707-744-2017, http://www.solarliving.org/ .
Saturday, December 1, 2007 - Sunday, December 2, 2007
Fungus Fair: A Celebration of Wild Mushrooms — Explore the mysteries of the mushroom at the 38th Annual Fungus Fair, presented by the Oakland Museum of California and the Mycological Society of San Francisco. See hundreds of freshly gathered local specimens. Learn to identify and prepare safe and savory species. Meet a mycologist! Exhibits, slide talks, mushroom marketplace, tasty mushroom soup for sale, and hands-on fungus fun for the whole family. Saturday 10am-6pm & Sunday noon-5pm. Included with museum admission. Location: Oakland Museum of CA, 1000 Oak St., @ 10th St., Oakland. Cost: $8 general, $5 seniors + students w/ ID, under five free. Info: 510-238-2200, http://www.museumca.org/ .
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Intro to Green Renovations — Embarking on a home renovation project? This workshop, sponsored by the Institute for Solar Living, will help you learn about intelligent alternatives to environmentally unsound renovation techniques and building materials. The workshop is also suitable for designers and builders who want to serve sustainability-minded clients. Inquire for time and location details when registering. Location: SF. Cost: $120. Info: 707-744-2017, http://www.solarliving.org .
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Info Night: Jewish Youth for Community Action — Jewish Youth for Community Action (JYCA) is a youth empowerment program for high school aged teens interested in social justice and Judaism. We are an open space for all sorts of folks and encourage anyone interested to apply. The Info Night is for any prospective youth who want to learn more about the group. Location: Jewish Community Center of Berkeley, 1414 Walnut Ave, @ Rose, Berkeley. Time: 7pm - 9pm. Info: http://www.jyca-justice.org/ .
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Meeting: Cool Schools Warming Campaign — EarthTeam's COOL SCHOOLS Global Warming Campaign equips middle and high school students in the Bay Area and beyond with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to take action against global warming in their schools and communities. Students can get involved in different ways, depending on their interest and amount of time they have available. Have fun while working on the most challenging environmental issue by attending one or more of our monthly meetings or by planning an action project on campus with help from the Cool Schools program director. Snacks provided. RSVP by phone or email. Location: Berkeley High School, 1980 Allston Way (at Milvia), College and Career Center, Berkeley. Time: 2pm - 4pm. Info: 510-704-4030, chicory@earthteam.net , http://earthteam.net/ .
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Concert: The Troublemakers Union — The Troublemakers Union performs international music for human rights. Location: La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. Time: 7pm. Cost: $10. Info: 510-849-2568, http://www.lapena.org
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Carrie Bennett
Ecology Center
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// Thanks to volunteers Guy Baldwin, Lori Fagerholm, David Klotz, and Kimberly Thompson for help with the EcoCalendar.
// Thanks to Jennifer Bresee, Beck Cowles, and David Ricardo for their help and guidance.
The Ecology Center is a membership organization providing environmental information and direct services to promote sustainable living and a healthy, socially just world. Please support this community resource for the environment by becoming a member or making a donation. Support our work on-line at http://www.ecologycenter.org/donate/ |