EcoMetro East Bay

Use Clean Energy

EcoMetro Editors — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:47:00 GMT

Buy green power
PG&E (joinclimatesmart.com, 800-743-5000) The unique ClimateSmart program funds conservation and protection projects that capture carbon emissions, instead of funding renewable energy programs. The average cost is $5 per month.

Alameda Power (alamedamp.com, 510-748-3900) sources 85% of its energy from renewables, but customers can contribute to the Clean Future Fund for 1 cent/kWh, or an average $3.75 per month. Fund contributions go towards pursuing new renewable resources.

Home solar production
Solar power at home is increasingly easier to afford through mortgage loans and incentives. Check your utility’s site first, and EBMUD for solar hot water heaters. PG&E (pge.com/solar) has more customers with photovoltaic systems than any other utility in the nation, and provides resources from worksheets to partnership information. Alameda Power (alamedamp.com/electricity) issues rebates per kW, with 2010 rebates at $2.42/watt. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (dsireusa.org) will give you the most complete look at federal and state incentives. For example, there is a 30% federal tax credit for photovoltaic systems that can help make solar more affordable.

Home wind power production
If you live in a rural area, or are part of a community with some extra space, you may be a candidate for producing wind energy with your own turbine and selling excess energy back to your utility through net metering. Wind Powering America (windpoweringamerica.gov) is a good place to start searching for state incentives and assistance for small wind projects. The American Wind Energy Association has a site dedicated to Small Wind (awea.org) with a state breakdown of contact information for California utilities with net metering. PG&E has information on their site as well.

Make Your Cleaners

EcoMetro Editors — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:18:00 GMT

Scrub the tub Mix baking soda with water for an abrasive scrubbing paste, or substitute castile soap such as Dr. Bronner’s in place of water for extra power. To disinfect the bathroom, spray with hydrogen peroxide and rinse with water.

Claim the drain Pour baking soda in the drain, add 1 cup white vinegar, and watch the volcano, just like in grade school. Flush with hot water and repeat if necessary.

All hands on the pans Mix white vinegar with enough salt to form a paste, and watch the grease slip away. Add 1 tsp lemon juice for scent and extra power.

Lovin’ the oven An overnight soak is the trick. Sprinkle the oven with baking soda and water, and let sit. Pour salt on major spillage. Scour the next day.

See grass through the glass Pour a drink for yourself and use the remaining club soda on windows. In place of paper towels use newspaper. Club soda also makes stainless steel shine.

The floor is a chore Most wood floors can’t take harsh soaps, but 3 tbsp of baking soda in 3 gal of warm water will do the trick. For linoleum, dissolve 2 tsp of dishwashing or castile soap in 3 gal of water, mop, and follow with 1 cup white vinegar in 3 gal cool water.

EcoMetro Community Events Through Nov 21

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:30:00 GMT

San Francisco Green Festival
Join EcoMetro Guide in booth 532 at the nation’s premier sustainability event, where you will see the best in green. Enjoy more than 125 renowned authors, leaders and educators; great how-to workshops; cutting-edge films; fun activities for kids; organic beer and wine; delicious vegetarian cuisine and diverse live music. Shop in our unique marketplace of more than 350 eco-friendly businesses—everything from all-natural body care products and organic cotton clothing to Fair Trade gifts and beautiful kitchen tiles made from renewable resources.
Fri-Sun, Nov 13-15
Concourse Exhibition Center 635 8th St, San Francisco
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Play: East Bay Green Drinks
A lively monthly gathering for anyone interested in sustainability, including green business, environmental and social causes, architecture and design, organics, renewable energy and more.
Wed, Nov 18, 5:30-8pm
Visit the website for location

Go: Wednesday Walks - Lake Chabot
Discover the natural and human history of our beautiful parklands and improve your health on a fast-paced hike. Hikers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Wear sturdy footwear, bring water and dress for the weather.
Wed, Nov 18, 9:30am-Noon
Lake Chabot Marina-Lake Chabot Regional Park, 17500 Lake Chabot Rd, Castro Valley

Live: Giftmaking with Recycled Materials
Learn to create four holiday items using recycled materials. Make an origami gift box, a skewer-bound note pad, potato-printed holiday cards, and colorful mailing envelopes for them. Bring scissors, ruler, pencil, single-hole paper punch, glue stick, an 8" x 11" piece of cardboard, a letter opener, and a paring knife. Call or email to register. 510-548-2220 x239, register@ecologycenter.org.
Sat, Nov 21, 10am-1pm
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Image credit: BenjaminHill/Creative Commons

Knit 2 Your Heart's Content

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:06:00 GMT

-Elliott Mamauag, EcoMetro Guide East Bay Market Director

Every knitter's heart does a little purl every time they see a sheep. Not simply because of the inherent cuteness contained therein, but because they are imagining the lifetime of warm and cozies that can come from the irrepressible growth of wool.

Knitting has always been the ultimate sustainable craft; the purest, most organic materials used in the craft grow from an animal's back.

Sheep, llama, rabbit and even cat and dog fur can be used to make yarn. However, knitting has recently undergone an even greener revolution. With advances in turning plant fibers into yarn, you can now enjoy a hat made from hemp, socks of soy or a belt of bamboo. Stocks of organic cotton yarns are also making their way to store shelves.

With winter approaching it is a perfect time to pick up or rejuvenate your knitting skills. Not only are knit items always appreciated as gifts, but they can be donated to those in need (please go here for a comprehensive list of charities). Our partners at Article Pract in Oakland, K2TOG in Albany or Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics in Berkeley will be more than happy to assist you with any questions you may have or materials you may need; don't forget your EcoMetro Guide when you go!

Image credit: Wonder Mike/Creative Commons

EcoMetro Events Through Nov 13

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:10:00 GMT

Live, Play: San Francisco Green Festival
Join EcoMetro Guide in booth 532 at the nation’s premier sustainability event, where you will see the best in green. Enjoy more than 125 renowned authors, leaders and educators; great how-to workshops; cutting-edge films; fun activities for kids; organic beer and wine; delicious vegetarian cuisine and diverse live music. Shop in our unique marketplace of more than 350 eco-friendly businesses—everything from all-natural body care products and organic cotton clothing to Fair Trade gifts and beautiful kitchen tiles made from renewable resources.
Fri-Sun, Nov 13–15
Concourse Exhibition Center 635 8th St, San Francisco
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Play: CASA Town Hall - “Celebrate, Challenge, Champion"
Celebrate progress reducing Alameda's Carbon Footprint. In 2008 the City of Alameda adopted a Local Plan for Climate Protection, the goal of which is to reduce Alameda’s carbon emissions to 25% below 2005 levels by the year 2020. COme hear what's been happening, what's planned, and learn about some great Alamedans who have shown leadership locally and globally.
Thu, Nov 5, 6:30–8:30pm
Independence Plaza Community Room, 703 Atlantic Ave, Alameda

Live: Pharmaca - Winter Spa Day
Enjoy complimentary mini-facials, makeovers, massage, product samples, raffle drawings and more.
Fri, Nov 6, 12-4pm
1744 Solano Ave, Berkeley
Sat, Nov 7, 11am-5pm
5729 College Ave, Oakland
View EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Eat: Vegetarian Cooking Class: Thanksgiving For the Birds
Create five dishes for a healthful, humane holiday: Parsnip Soup, Citrus Glazed Tempeh, Cranberry, Apple and Sausage Stuffing, Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Apples and Pecans, Fresh Fig Cake. $60 (in advance), plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class.
Sat, Nov 7, 10am-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro, Oakland
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Go: REI Ridge Trail Service Day: EBMUD’s Skyline Trail in Berkeley
REI will partner with land management agencies throughout the nine-county Bay Area for a morning of volunteer work on the Bay Area Ridge Trail, a planned 550-mile trail on the ridgelines circling San Francisco Bay. Come join us in the Berkeley hills. REI Berkeley and Bay Area Ridge Trail Council will team up with East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) to restore sections of the Skyline Trail. For information on who can participate, where to meet, what to bring, and to register (required in advance), visit www.ridgetrail.org or call Joel Gartland at (415) 561-2595.
Sat, Nov 7, 8am–1pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave, in Berkeley
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Live: How to Lower Your Carbon Footprint, at the EcoHouse
Come learn how to calculate your carbon footprint and take action to lower your climate impact by drawing inspiration from the EcoHouse. Register by Nov 6. $15 general, $10 Ecology Center members, no one turned away for lack of funds.
Sun, Nov 8, 10am-1pm
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
View the EcoMetro Guide coupon>>

Image credit: Hitchster/Creative Commons

Produce Stand Brings Glenview Community Together

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:15:00 GMT

Working with local schools on their fundraisers we often hear their great ideas to raise money and awareness for green living. This fall one of the schools fundraising with EcoMetro Guide, Glenview Elementary opened its first-ever produce stand, a project of the PTA’s school food and nutrition committee. Open from 2-4pm every Tuesday afternoon, the stand includes a “tasting” table, where all Glenview students have the opportunity to taste the fruit or vegetable of the week.

In addition to the tasting table, the stand sells fresh, organic produce at cost to Glenview parents, students, staff and teachers. Many of the teachers, in particular, are thrilled to have the opportunity to purchase produce at their workplace. The reception to the fresh, high-quality produce has been extremely positive. Parent Jessica Lopez expressed her appreciation, noting that “the tomatoes, apples, lettuce and figs we bought were delicious!” Glenview parent Patti Gima credits the first day of the produce stand for turning her son, a historically picky eater, into a “strawberry-eating guy!”

Committee co-chairs Delana Toler and Christy Getz source all of the produce from local (or at least California) organic farms. Farmer Joe’s grocery store has been very helpful in allowing the committee to use the store as a distribution hub for some of the produce. A number of Glenview families have donated some of their own garden-grown fruits and vegetables to the stand. Even neighbors not affiliated with the school have joined in the effort, with one elderly lady donating about 10 pounds of cherry tomatoes from her garden! These donations allow the stand to cover the cost of the free “tastings” for the kids without losing money. The Glenview students, staff and teachers have also carry their own “Glenview Produce Stand” reusable ecology tote, whose logo was designed by Glenview parent Gaea McLaughlin.

The committee co-chairs and volunteers are proud to promote the visibility of fruits and vegetables which play a subtle but important educational role and bring the community together.

For the first three weeks in November show your support for a local school by visiting the produce stand and purchasing your EcoMetro Guide along with your fresh local veggies.

Photo courtesy: Joseph Bansuelo. Thanks to Delana Toler and Christy Getz

Urban Foraging: Harvesting Food From Your Neighborhood

Jennifer Morkunas, Celilo Group Media — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:43:00 GMT

Have you ever thought about what sort of food grows around your neighborhood? The bounty of edibles found right around the corner, from apples and nuts to rosemary and greens, is astounding. The urban landscape is filled with fresh, free food if you just know what to look for. Plants you might normally ignore, like dandelions or nettles, can be cooked into healthy, delicious meals.

Many people first experienced wild foods in their childhood—learning to mushroom hunt with their grandfather or picking apples from a neighbor’s tree. Looking for wild fruits, veggies, and nuts is a fun family activity that helps teach kids the value of local, fresh food. In addition to having kids help you forage for your own kitchen, you can volunteer to help harvest urban edibles for those in need (see resources below).

Urban foraging has something to offer everyone, from a locavore who wants to keep their food sources close home, to a baker who picks roadside berries for a pie, to a concerned community member who volunteers to gather extra food for those in need. Many cities have organized local movements centered on foraging and gleaning, but you need not be a local foods activist to explore your neighborhood’s wild food offerings. Get involved at whatever level you’re comfortable using the tips below.

Here are some tips to keep your foraging respectful and safe:

Ask permission before picking from others’ gardens. Many people are happy to share their abundance. Don’t forget to look in public areas such as parks or open lots.
Correctly identify the plant you’re harvesting. Correct identification can keep you from getting sick. Go foraging with people that know what they’re looking for, or check out one of the many helpful books on the subject, The Forager's Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants by Samuel Thayer. For an online guide, see http://plants.usda.gov/
Be aware of your foraging surroundings for food safety. Food found in an urban setting could have levels of toxicity, such as motor oil, car wash runoff or paint that might contaminate the sources you pick from.
Take only as much as you need. Consider how much can you carry and decide before you pick so that what you take won’t go bad. Just say no to over-harvesting.
Never disturb the plant roots. Pick from the top of the plant, where there is new growth and where most plants regenerate.
Familiarize yourself with the laws related to foraging in your area. These laws are usually set with the intention of preventing over-harvesting and protecting endangered plant species.

Here are a few great resources to help you in your urban foraging journey:

Forage Oakland: “viewing food as a shared pleasure and a shared resource, redistributing it to those who will enjoy it”
Neighborhood Fruit and Veggie Trader: find and share fruits and veggies in your neighborhood
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver: focuses on eating locally and discusses foraging
Fat of the Land: Adventures of a 21st Century Forager by Langdon Cook

Fall and Winter Gardening Ideas

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:02:00 GMT

-Heather Hale, Sustainable Business Accounts Manager

The seasons here in the East Bay are definitely changing. We've had our first two heavy rains, and there's a new crispness to the air. Leaves are turning wonderful shades of red, orange, and rust, and many trees are losing their leaves altogether.

You're probably picking the last of your homegrown tomatoes, if you haven't already. But wait! If you're packing all that gardening equipment away until early next spring - and you haven't tried fall and winter gardening yet - you're missing out on six months of outdoor fun!

For starters, there are several vegetable crops that are happier in colder weather. These cold crops include kale, spinach, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, bok choy, and many other plants. You'll find that several cold crops will bolt in the summer, whereas when grown in colder temperatures, they grow at a steady pace - and their taste is at its peak. It's not too late to start these vegetables from seed, however; nurseries still have several of these starters available.

Another part of fall gardening is planting bulbs. Some of the easiest and cheapest bulbs to grow are the Narcissus. There are several different species of Narcissus, depending on your personal aesthetics. If you plant them now, they bloom in the winter. You can plant groups of them in succession for blooms throughout the winter. You can even "force" these bulbs indoors for some extra cheeriness in the coldest part of the year; let the leaves die back, and plant the bulb outside when you're done. The best part about Narcissus is that many species of it will naturalize, which means that you only need to plant them once and they'll come back every year.

And lastly, but always most important in the garden: the soil. Some people recommend pulling up debris in the fall as a clean up, but I say leave it there. Unless you have a plant disease problem, collect as much as you can and continue to mulch. Mulching is the best thing you can do for your soil, and therefore for your plants. Also, there are several beneficial insects that need winter shelter in your garden.

Use some of that extra time you would have spent in the garden during the spring to better your compost system. National Public Radio said this week that we compost only 3% of our compostable food waste. Create a system that works well for your household, and you will be rewarded with a rich, almost magical compost mixture in the spring that is sure to feed a bountiful and beautiful garden.

Use one of the many EcoMetro Guide coupons in the Yard & Garden chapter, like Thornhill Nursery, to save on plant purchases in your neighborhood nursery.

Image credits: sa_ku_ra/Creative Commons and jam343/Creative Commons

Ways to Green Your Halloween

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:59:00 GMT

October is the greatest time of year. My favorite, in fact. I love the smell in the air, the sun going down too early and I love picking out Halloween costumes. Recently l've been reading about some tips on how to green Halloween. One idea came from our very own website: buy candy that comes in recycling-friendly packaging, such as aluminum foil or paper. I also found tips on the Green Schools Initiative newsletter: using cloth/reusable bags, avoid vinyl masks, buy second hand, make your own, and so on.

The idea that really stuck was to have a costume swap! What a great idea. I know that I have a couple of costumes of my own that could be easily passed on.

For instance, I have the best handmade, thrift store bought 60's get-up that I won't wear again, but can't seem to part with. If there was someone who really wanted it, I'd be willing to do a trade. Who would like to dress up like Tippi Hedren from "The Birds"? This costume cost me $10 and that was mostly for the birds and to create their droppings. The beautiful suit was on sale at Goodwill for $3! I hated to rip out the seams.

This year I am open for ideas and did a little creative shopping. I was particularly inspired by the multitude of beautiful fabrics found at Stonemountain & Daughter Fabrics to dress up my dog. With some very minimal finishing touches from The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse I hope to transform my dog either into Chewbacca or Falcore.

EcoMetro Events through October 22

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Live: Fall Neighborhood Plant Exchange
Have plants you must prune or divide? How about trading your excess with others in your neighborhood? Take home new plants for your yard and have an instant new garden! All types of plants are welcome, from cuttings up to full size. Garden accessories and accents welcome: umbrellas, clippers, books on gardening, pots, stepping stones, tools and supplies—even goldfish.
Sat, Oct 17, Noon-4pm
3811 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland

Live: FOSC Fall Native Plant Sale
Here's a chance to purchase native plants for your own garden. For details, contact nursery@sausalcreek.org.
Sat, Oct 17, 10am-3pm
Joaquin Miller Native Plant Nursery, in Joaquin Miller Park

Go: Free Urban Bicycle Safety Classes
The East Bay Bicycle Coalition is again offering free bicycle safety classes this Fall. Each class consists of a 3.5 hour Traffic Safety 101 Classroom workshop and a 6.5 hour Traffic Safety 101 Road Class of on-bike instruction. We encourage you to take both Day One and Day Two and to entice you to do so, we'll give you a free front/back bike light upon completing the class. Register online at: www.ebbc.org/safety.
Tue, Oct 20, 6-9:30pm
Kaiser Medical Center, 3801 Howe St, Fabiola Building Room G65B

Go: Adventures on the Bay Area Ridge Trail
With 320 of its proposed 550 miles now completed, the Bay Area Ridge Trail offers hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists a remarkable wilderness experience within a short drive of home. Bay Area Ridge Trail Council’s Board Member Morris Older will give a slide show tour of sections of the trail, perfect for day hikes/rides and multiday backpacking adventures.
Tue, Oct 20, 7-8:30pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Ave, in Berkeley

Live: Berkeley Start at Home Workshops: Home Energy Improvement
Do you live in a drafty Berkeley home? Not only is your leaky home letting all your warm air out, it may also be letting dust and contaminants in. City of Berkeley is sponsoring free workshops to teach you about how to protect and insulate your home to save energy, money, and improve the overall health, comfort and performance of your home. Learn about how to: Improve Comfort, Save Energy & Money, Improve Indoor Air Quality, Finance Energy Efficiency Retrofits, Take Advantage of Incentives and Rebates. Meet local home performance contractors and energy specialists. Presentations by City Staff, PG&E, The Ecology Center, and SmartSolar. Free Snacks and Giveaways. Call or email to RSVP or for information about accommodations.
Thu, Oct 22, 7-8:30pm
Epworth Unified Methodist Church, 1953 Hopkins St, Berkeley

Image credit: hortulus/Creative Commons

EcoMetro Events through October 16

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 20:52:00 GMT

Point Richmond Fall Fest
Fall Fest will feature live music, an arts fair, beer garden, chili cook-off and fall-inspired activities for people of all ages and interests.
Oct 10, 10am-8pm
Washington Ave and Park Pl in downtown Point Richmond

Oaktoberfest in the Dimond
Enjoy German and local craft beers, Kid's Rootbier Garten, Gourmet German Food, Entertainment and Raffle, Sausal Creek Eco Fair, and new this year, Homebrew Competition.
Oct 10, 11am-6pm
MacArthur Blvd at Fruitvale Ave

The Vegetable Garden
Join Stefani and Zac to celebrate The Vegetable Garden. Tips for what to plant now, preserving the last of this year's crops and planning for next year. There will also be tasting of tomato varieties from Baia Nicchia.
Oct 10, 10-11am
Magic Gardens, 729 Heinz Ave, Berkeley

California Native Plant Society Sale
Naive plants, books posters and gift items for sales. Vendors showcasing photography, seeds and bulbs, crafts. Exhibits about invasive plants, native bees, CNPS membership. Guest Speaker each day at 1pm.
Oct 10, 10am-3pm
Oct 11, Noon-3pm
Native Here Nursery, 101 Golf Course Dr, Tilden Park, Berkeley

Sundays in the Redwoods 2009
Mark your calendars now for Neo Soul with Ledisi at the free concert held at Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park. All concerts are great family events, even for toddlers, who can run around in the back. To reserve a picnic table, contact Renee Tucker at 238-4720.
Oct 11, 2-5pm
Woodminster Amphitheater, Joaquin Miller Park, 3594 Sanborn Dr, Oakland

Taste of Temescal
Come to Temescal for a culinary crawl to scintillate your palates. Enjoy an evening of drink, live music, fabulous prizes and food, including Aunt Mary's Cafe. Cost is $25, proceeds benefit local schools and organizations.
Oct 13, 6-8:30pm
Telegraph Ave between 40th and 51st, Oakland

Cycling Solo Across America: A Fundraising Ride
This last May, cyclist Shawne Camp set out on a dream adventure. He pedaled his bike solo from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. to raise funds for the American Lung Association. Join Shawne for slides and highlights of his self-supported cycling and camping journey, on which he rode 3,630 miles in all, covering an average of 96 miles each day. Learn what it takes to successfully complete a self-supported ride of this magnitude, including planning, gear, mental training, and physical fitness.
Oct 14, 7-8:30pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley

EcoMetro Events through October 2

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 02:06:00 GMT

Play: "The World in a Woman's Hands" - Shotgun Player's
A wonderful show sung in cool jazz about Rosie the River gals during the war in Richmond. Anyone who buys a ticket before this September 27 for any performance until the closing date will get a $5 discount on their ticket.
Now - October 11
Ashby Stage, 1901 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play, Eat: Rockridge Out & About
This is the third year of the Rockridge District Association's annual street festival. On top of its usual delights, College Avenue becomes the stage for musicians, clowns, street performers, fashion shows, cooking demos, in-store workshops, and wellness activities. Come visit us at the EcoMetro Guide booth: pick up your 2010 edition, support a fundraiser, and enter to win great prizes!
September 27, 11am - 6pm
College Avenue from Manila to Claremont, Rockridge, Oakland

Play: RICHMOND SHORELINE FESTIVAL
Celebrate the shoreline with your community at this eco-friendly event! Live music, food, entertainment, children's activities, and guided walks. There will be fun for all.
September 26, 11am - 5pm
Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond

Live: Planting Techniques of Magic Gardens
Aerin Moore, owner and head designer of Magic Gardens Learn will teach favorite planting, watering, soil amending, fertilizing and mulching techniques.
September 26, 10 - 11am
Magic Gardens, 729 Heinz Avenue, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Love Your Parks Annual Survey
Be part of a team of volunteers to conduct a City-wide survey of the state of Oakland Parks. Help the Oakland Parks Coalition do its annual survey of Oakland's 120 parks. The information helps the City measure it's progress on park maintenance and helps the Public Works Department focus its efforts. This year the survey is even more critical since budget cutbacks have reduced park maintenance staff by 50%. Please go to the website to consult the list of orphan parks or to sign up for Love Your Parks Day.
September 26, 8:30 - Noon
Lakeside Garden Center, 666 Bellevue, Oakland

Go, Play: Cycles of Change APC's Third Anniversary Bash & Fundraiser
Come to the fundraiser and birthday bash for Cycles of Change APC (at the Alameda shop). Julie’s Coffee and Tea will provide beverages. Visit the website for more information.
September 27, 1 - 4pm
Cycles of Change, 650 W. Ranger Avenue, Alameda
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Berkeley East Bay Humane Society - Dog Bone Alley
The Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society will be visiting Dog Bone Alley - Alameda store with pets available for adoption. Stop by and meet adorable pets looking for a home!
September 27, 11am - 3pm
Dog Bone Alley, 1342 Park Street, Alameda
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live, Play: Sundays in the Redwoods 2009
This week: Oakland East Bay Symphony featuring Michael Morgan and the winners of the Youth Artist Competition. Also, John Handy and S.O.N.G.- Strings of a Nubian Groove.
September 27, 2 - 5pm
Woodminster Amphitheater, Joaquin Miller Park, 3594 Sanborn Drive, Oakland

Go: Free Urban Bicycle Safety Classes
The East Bay Bicycle Coalition is again offering free bicycle safety classes this Fall. Each class consists of a 3.5 hour Traffic Safety 101 Classroom workshop and a 6.5 hour Traffic Safety 101 Road Class of on-bike instruction. We encourage you to take both Day One and Day Two and to entice you to do so, we'll give you a free front/back bike light upon completing the class. Register online.
September 29, 6 - 9:30pm
Kaiser Medical Center, 3801 Howe St, Fabiola Building Room G65B, Oakland

Live: Sustainable Contra Costa Awards
Sustainable Contra Costa Awards honors businesses, government programs, community groups, non-profits, and individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to sustainable practices. The nominee’s actions should support the health and well being of Contra Costa County’s Society, Environment, and Economy. Please RSVP.
September 30
The Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm, Walnut Creek

Eat, Play: Free Waterfront Night Bazaar with Oakland Unwrapped
Shop with the local artisans of Oakland Unwrapped! on a moonlit October night at Jack London's Waterfront! Sample and scoop up produce and artisan foods from the twilight Farmers' Market, grab some grub at Jack London Square's restaurants. Let loose and have fun with the strolling musicians, fire dancing, ice skating, and other surprise entertainers from the Full Moon Buy Night line up.
October 1, 5:30 - 9:30pm
Jack London Square, Oakland

Eat: Networking Lunch - Swans Co-Housing
Join us at Swan's Market in Oakland for business networking and lunch with sustainability-minded entrepreneurs. Non Member - $15.
October 2, Noon - 1:30pm
Swans Co-Housing, 930 Clay St, Oakland

Live: West Coast Green
Experience a feast of innovations, ideas and opportunities designed to expand your business, widen your vision, and stimulate your thinking with the latest best practices and key players in building, business and design. The latest emerging products to reduce global warming will be included- solar, wind and waste reduction!
October 1 - 3
Fort Mason Center, San Francisco

EcoMetro Events through September 25

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 23:47:00 GMT

Play: Film & Talk: "No Impact Man"

Author Colin Beavan, in research for his next book, began the No Impact Project in November 2006. A newly self-proclaimed environmentalist who could no longer avoid pointing the finger at himself, Colin leaves behind his liberal complacency for a vow to make as little environmental impact as possible for one year. Debra Berliner of the Ecology Center will lead a Q&A after the 7pm screening, and discuss ways to get involved with the Climate Change Action Project.

September 18, 7pm

Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley

View coupon at ecometro.co

Play: Creek to Bay Day

International Coastal Clean-Up Day.

Since 1986 thousands of volunteers from around the globe have cleared over 100 million pounds of trash from 170,000 miles of shorelines, rivers, lakes, and wetlands! Join volunteers in 90 nations around the world in the largest coastal and waterway clean up of the year.

September 19, 9am - Noon

Visit the website for site location near you.

Eat: Beer Tasting Dinner and Jazz

La Estrellita Cafe is hosting beer tasting dinner and jazz. Seating available for those who have not yet signed up. $25 per and $30 per two all inclusive Dinner Jazz and Beer. Limited seating so call up make your RSVP.

September 19, 7pm

La Estrellita Cafe, 446 E 12th Street, Oakland

View coupon at ecometro.com

Go: Hands-on Bicycle Class: Flat Repair

Join an REI bike technician to learn how to repair a flat tire. All you need to bring is your bike and tools. We’ll provide the expert guidance.

September 20, 11am - Noon

REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley

View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Sundays in the Redwoods: Featuring Latin Jazz

Join us this Sunday for dancing in the aisles with some of the Bay Area's best Latin sounds. The John Santos Sextet, Rankin Scroo, Candido Oye-Oba, Dos Four y Los Mios. Free Shuttle from Fruitvale BART: 1:30 - 4:30pm.

September 20, 2 - 5pm

Joaquin Miller Park, Woodminster Amphitheater

Live: If She Can Do It, You Can Too: Inspirational Outdoor Role Models Around the World

Join Miho Aida for slides and stories of women outdoor role models she met along the way. As Miho takes you from Patagonia, to Japan, Nepal, Kenya, and Tanzania, she’ll introduce you to those who inspired her–remarkable women of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and professions, including the members of the 2008 Nepalese women’s team to climb Mount Everest, abalone divers, tree planters, a sea kayaking guide, and more.

September 22, 7 - 8:30pm

REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley

View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Green Book Fair and Business Recognition Event

The Bay Area is home to a wealth of sustainable business experts - many of these local 'green gurus' are also published authors! This is a your chance to meet some of these writers and browse their books, too! We'll also celebrate with the newest certified Bay Area Green Businesses in Alameda County! Visit the website to view authors and RSVP.

September 22, 5:30 - 7:30pm, book fair: 5:30-6:30, networking & food: 6:30-7:30

Hotel Shattuck Plaza in Berkeley

Live: Putting it All Together: Immediate Funding & Program Opportunities for CCC Local Governments - EECBG, SEP, and Beyond

Join fellow Contra Costa County decision makers to discuss the next round of funding opportunities for energy efficiency and climate action projects. Topics will include small city/county EECBG grants, competitive EECBG grants, and State Energy Program (SEP) grants, all of which have due dates in the next few months. The event is FREE. Please RSVP: info@cccclimateleaders.org

September 24, 9am - Noon

Orinda Community Center, Room 9AB: 28 Orinda Way, Orinda

Play: Point Richmond Music September Concert

The Point Richmond Music summer concert series comes to a close with Lava followed by Birdlegg and the Tight Fit Blues Band, play the final concert of the season.

September 25, 5:30 - 7:45pm

Park Place Avenue at Washington Avenue, Point Richmond, CA

Play: Athletic Playground one year anniversary

Join in on this weekend long event including: free classes, performances, games, food, music, movies and slide show.

October 3 & 4

The Athletic Playground, Emeryville

View coupon at ecometro.com

Correction: Mattress Recycling in the East Bay Area

EcoMetro Editors — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:59:00 GMT

In our 2010 edition we inaccurately reported how mattresses are recycled in the East Bay area. The Salvation Army does accept mattresses in good condition for recycling; however, Goodwill (eastbaygoodwill.org) does NOT accept mattresses. Mattresses are also accepted at the Berkeley Transfer Station for $10. For pick up of bulky waste, including mattresses, appointments can be scheduled in Oakland (510-613-8710) and Berkeley (510-981-7270).

We at EcoMetro Guide regret the error printed in our 2010 edition.

EcoMetro Events through September 18

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 01:05:00 GMT

Live: Master Gardeners Garden Walk
Contra Costa Master Gardeners are offering a garden Walk which showcases stylish ways to landscape without lawns. View 6 Master Gardener owned neighborhood gardens located in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, and Martinez. Nearly all of the gardens selected for this year's Garden Walk demonstrate how to have a vibrant and useful garden without extensive turf. $15/person.
September 12, 10am - 4pm
Various locations in Contra Costa County

Eat, Play: Webster Street Jam
Join us in September for the annual Webster Street Jam, a special weekend of music, wine, international food and art, plus a fun-filled area for the kids! Stop by the EcoMetro table on Saturday.
September 12, 10am - 6pm and September 13, 10am - 5pm
Webster Street, Alameda

Play: 4th Annual Day in the Park
Featuring local musicians, kids' games, bike repair, BBQ and a lot more.
September 12, Noon - 5pm
Maxwell Park, Oakland

Eat, Play: Solano Stroll
Over five hundred vendors, non-profit organizations, food booths and entertainers! Look for the new 2010 EcoMetro Guide being sold by your favorite merchants and fundraisers.
September 13, 10am - 6pm
Solano Avenue, Albany and Berkeley

Eat, Play: Montclair Village Jazz and Wine Festival
This year's event features Jazz pianist Taylor Eigsti, Swingin' vocalist Kitty Margolis; Wayne Wallis Latin Jazz Quarter, Middle East Meets West Mo' Rockn' Project, and Marcus Shelby Jazz Orchestra. Wine tasting, arts & crafts, wellness/eco village, kids' down. This year, a portion of the proceeds support the Oakland Fund for the Arts. Visit the EcoMetro Guide booth and enter to win prizes.
September 13, 11am - 6pm
Montclair Village, Oakland

Go: Bike Love Festival & Swap Meet
This "swap meet plus" features discounted and used gear from bike shops and bike geeks, as well as an Alley Cat ride, raffle, and free coffee and donuts. Show your Oakland Bike Love and support Walk Oakland Bike Oakland - proceeds will benefit our efforts to improve Oakland's neighborhoods by making it easier and safer to bike and walk.
September 13 at 8am - 2pm
2400 Valdez, Oakland

Live: Energy in California Conference
This 11th annual conference will bring together experts at the local, state and federal levels, as well as the private sector, to address the current state of energy markets, legislative and regulatory initiatives, the perspective and concerns of the financial community and developments under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
September 14-15
InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel at One Nob Hill in San Francisco

Eat, Play: East Bay Green Drinks
A lively monthly gathering for anyone interested in sustainability, including green business, environmental and social causes, architecture and design, organics, renewable energy and more.
September 16, 5:30 - 8pm
Luka's Tap Room, Oakland

Live: Teachers Focus Group
As the new school year begins, we would like to get your feedback on how the Depot can better meet the needs of teachers. We are hosting an evening focus group to get your input on what materials you would like to see at the Depot, how we can help you weave re-use and environmental awareness activities into the classroom, and also to share our plan for an exciting new Green Educator Program that we will launch this Fall. There will be a free and delicious light dinner, and a raffle. So please come, and help us to better serve you! Please RSVP (required) to julie@creativereuse.org by September 11th.
September 16, 5:30 - 7:30pm
East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse, 4695 Telegraph Ave, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live, Play: Diablo East Bay’s Inaugural Gala
Join the newly formed East Bay Branch of the US Green Building Council (USGBC) in an evening of sustainability. Enjoy a presentation on the sustainable practices used by the Wente vineyards, live music, excellent food, and fun activities. Gil Friend, CEO of Natural Logic and author of The Truth About Green Business, will provide a motivational presentation from his 37 years in business.
September 17, 6 - 8:30pm
Wente Vineyards, 5050 Arroyo Rd, Livermore

Eat: City of Lafayette Farmers Market in September
The City of Lafayette will have a trial farmers market at the downtown Plaza Park on the first three Thursday evenings of September. This market will be more local than most, with most of the farmers coming from less than 100 miles! The purpose of the trial is to see if there are any traffic or parking issues, and to gauge the impact on local businesses.
September 17, 4 - 8pm
Plaza Park, downtown Lafayette
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Film & Talk: "No Impact Man"
Author Colin Beavan, in research for his next book, began the No Impact Project in November 2006. A newly self-proclaimed environmentalist who could no longer avoid pointing the finger at himself, Colin leaves behind his liberal complacency for a vow to make as little environmental impact as possible for one year. Debra Berliner of the Ecology Center will lead a Q&A after the 7pm screening, and discuss ways to get involved with the Climate Change Action Project.
September 18, 7pm
Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

A Better Fashion Cycle

EcoMetro Editors — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:28:00 GMT

Buy organic
Conventionally grown cotton is responsible for as much as 10% of pesticide use in the world and up to 25% of insecticide use annually, according to Grist. The chemicals can impact workers and leach into the groundwater. Because the United States produces more cotton than all countries except China, much of this is on our soil.

Next, ask about the processing method for cotton, wool, and other fabrics. Look for those that use natural dyes and avoid chlorine bleaching. Organic Consumers estimates that 1/3lb of chemicals are used in the production of a cotton T-shirt, so buying secondhand comes second to buying a product that avoids the conventional cycle.

Image: CreativeCommons/Cosmic Kitty

Buy and sell secondhand
Organic clothing can be (but is not always) more expensive than its counterpart. Buying your major cotton items like socks and basics in organic cottons still leaves a wardrobe to fill. Secondhand stores range from kids and babies to high end, giving you plenty of options to take in your own clothes and receive credit towards shopping, all without spending more (hopefully) or contributing to additional clothing production. Most stores buy with the immediate need in mind, so select items that are seasonally appropriate and turn them in clean and neatly ironed. Fixing small faults, like a button, can make the item more likely to be accepted.

Recycle or donate
As colder weather sets in and a shabby looking jacket appears from the closet, first look into donating to a store like Goodwill. If it’s too beat up or broken, call the company and ask about their recycling program. Many clothing companies, especially outdoor companies, have a system for recycling their high performance fabrics. At Patagonia, if something on the garment has failed such as a zipper, they’ll replace it with a new one for free.

Logos to look for: 1% For the Planet, Green America’s Business Seal of Approval

View our directory for:
Eco fashion
Used clothing

EcoMetro Events through September 11

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 18:17:00 GMT

Go: The Bay Bridge will be closed
September 3, 8pm to September 8, 5am
Go to 511.org for alternatives

Live: Climate Change Action Groups
Reduce your personal and community carbon footprint through the Ecology Center's four-session Climate Change Action Groups, you can join with other community members in a supportive, engaging and creative setting and play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. Write to debra@ecologycenter.org or call 510-548-2220 x240 to sign up.
September 7, 16, 23 & 30, 6 - 8pm
Ecology Center, 2350 San Pablo Ave (at Dwight), Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Image Credit: Creative Commons/http2007

Live: Green Living Project: Sustainability Across South America, Part III
The Green Living Project returns to the Bay Area with an inspiring, new multimedia presentation, featuring unique sustainability projects in Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. Join Rob Holmes, as he and other members of the Green Living Project Team journey through rainforests and mountains, and along rivers and coastlines, to document innovative projects, involving wildlife conservation, community education, renewable energy, eco-lodge operation, and “voluntourism”. Rob will discuss responsible travel and how you can get involved with each of these exciting projects. Come learn about the Amazon rainforest, efforts to protect endangered birdlife, sea turtle and shark conservation, organic farming, Brazil nut harvesting, indigenous cultures, outdoor adventures (hiking, cycling, horseback riding), and more. Don’t miss free giveaways and the chance to take home great raffle prizes from “National Geographic Adventure”, Gregory, Timberland, Keen, ExOfficio, and Clif Bar! For more information, please visit www.greenlivingproject.com.
September 9, 7 – 8:30pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Kid's Story Time
Bring the little ones for an afternoon story.
September 9, 3:30pm
Laurel Book Store, 4100 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat: City of Lafayette Farmers Market in September
The City of Lafayette will have a trial farmers market at the downtown Plaza Park on the first three Thursday evenings of September. This market will be more local than most, with most of the farmers coming from less than 100 miles! The purpose of the trial is to see if there are any traffic or parking issues, and to gauge the impact on local businesses.
September 10, 4 - 8pm
Plaza Park, downtown Lafayette
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Green Rheem Film Night- “Addicted to Plastic"
Green Rheem film nights are a chance to socialize with friends, enjoy local wine and appetizers, and then watch an educational documentary related to the environment. The doors open for wine and appetizers in the lobby at 6pm and then the movie starts around 7pm. More information at the website. The two for the price of one summer special is continuing for one more month! Purchase 1 ticket and bring a second person for free!
September 10, 7pm (appetizers at 6pm)
Rheem Theater, 350 Park Street, Moraga (Rheem Shopping Center)

Live: EARTH DAYS
EARTH DAYS looks back to the dawn of the modern environmental movement -- from its post-war rustlings in the 1950s and the 1962 publication of Rachel Carson's Silent Spring, to the first wildly successful Earth Day celebration in 1970, and the subsequent firestorm of political action. In personal testimony, the era's pioneers -- among them Whole Earth Catalog founder Stewart Brand, Population Bomb author Paul Ehrlich, Apollo Nine astronaut Rusty Schweickart, and renewable energy pioneer Hunter Lovins -- reveal what originally motivated them to act, the political and social changes that have taken place over the years, and the ways in which they are moving forward now to forge positive change. Berkeley's Ecology Center was incorporated on that very first Earth Day in 1970 and continues to pursue our goals, 40 years later! Ecology Center Executive Director Martin Bourque will be on hand to give a short presentation after the film, and answer questions about the Ecology Center's role in the movement. $10 general; $8 senior/child/student.
September 11, 7pm
Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

EcoMetro Events through Sept 3

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:33:00 GMT

Eat, Play: Downtown Berkeley Music Fest
This event, produced by the Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse, is made possible by the Downtown Berkeley Association with additional support from the City of Berkeley, Amanda's Feel Good Fresh Food, Habitot Children’s Museum, Buy Local Berkeley and more.
August 27 - 30, view website for venues and performances.
Shattuck - University to Bancroft

Go, Eat: East Bay Evolution Eat Real Bike Tour

Join a tour for two-wheeled foodies! Begin and end at the Eat Real Festival at Jack London Square. Peddle along Oakland's waterfront and meet local culinary artisans, learn about their specialties and sample their creations. Members of East Bay Bicycle Coalition or Walk Oakland Bike Oakland receive $10 off cost. Bike rentals available from Bay Area Bikes. $40.
August 29 or August 30, Noon - 4pm
Jack London Square, Oakland

Image Credit: Creative Commons/Tiffany Silva

Go: Exploring Central Baja California
The 1,000-mile-long Baja peninsula, with its mountainous spine, offshore island beaches, and waters teeming with wildlife, offers adventurous travelers a host of opportunities to explore its rich desert environment. In tonight's slide presentation, Trudi Angell, longtime Baja resident and REI Adventures’ guide, will introduce you to central Baja's natural and cultural wonders, as she shares some of her favorite outdoor adventures. Trudi will discuss efforts to protect sea turtles, whales, and centuries-old, mural rock art, and give you tips on ecologically- and culturally-sustainable Baja travel.
September 1, 7 – 8:30pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat, Live: Green Business Association Networking Lunch
This months presenter is Steve Torres with NextEnergy. RSVP required to lprindle@earthlink.net.
September 2, 12 - 1:30pm
Nibblers Eatery, 1922 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill

Eat: City of Lafayette Farmers Market in September
The City of Lafayette will have a trial farmers market at the downtown Plaza Park on the first three Thursday evenings of September. This market will be more local than most, with most of the farmers coming from less than 100 miles! The purpose of the trial is to see if there are any traffic or parking issues, and to gauge the impact on local businesses.
September 3, 4 - 8pm
Plaza Park, downtown Lafayette
View coupon at ecometro.com

Go: The Bay Bridge will be closed
September 3, 8pm to September 9, 5am
Go to 511.org for alternatives

Spice up your wardrobe without spending a dime - host a clothing swap

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:15:00 GMT

If you haven't been to a clothing swap yet, you are missing out on a growing phenomenon. It isn't new, but it is catching on. A clothing swap is the best place to raid a friend's closet AND divest yourself of the clothes you don't enjoy anymore. Most important, it's a good excuse to throw a party.

The idea is to bring your clothes, accessories, and shoes - anything that is still in good shape, that you don't want or that doesn't fit - and add it to a pile of clothes from other guests. Then dive in and pull out new outfits for yourself.

My roommate and I recently hosted our own swap. We each invited a handful of ladies and provided drinks and nibbles. As our guests arrived we sorted the clothes into piles of shirts, pants, skirts and dresses, shoes and accessories. Then in a somewhat civilized manner we began tossing through the piles and trying on everything. I made out with a totally new wardrobe and my friends are wearing clothes I don't fit into anymore. By the way, guys can swap too. Come to think of it, moms could swap kids clothes.

Here are a few tips to having a successful Clothing Swap:

Pick a date a few weeks in advance to allow your guests time to go through their closets.
Send out email invitations and post your Clothing Swap Party on your Facebook page. If you have the space, let your friends bring their friends too.
Be sure to include your address and directions and ask for help with snacks and drinks.
Send out a reminder the day before. Remind them that in addition to clothes they should bring accessories and shoes.
Borrow extra full length mirrors and if your swap is open for both men and women, be sure to have dressing rooms available.
The swap will last a comfortable two hours, maybe more if you have "fashionably late" guests. Just a reminder that late comers don't get the benefit of all the clothes presented before they arrive.
Plan for Goodwill or a charity of your choice to pick up the remaining items. Your guests should retrieve anything they want to keep or bring to the next swap.

Finally, enjoy the new-to-you wardrobe you just acquired and embrace the complements you'll receive from your friends and co-workers.

If you've got a few treasures that don't get swapped and they are the right season, take them to a consignment store in the East Bay - like Crossroads Trading Company. This is just one fun way to reduce and reuse clothes.

Images Credit: Jennifer Hallstrom

EcoMetro Events through August 30

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 22:23:00 GMT

Play: Chinatown Street Fest
Celebrate the year of the Ox, Chinese lion dances, Japanese taiko drumming and Tahitian dance as Oakland's Chinatown (the oldest Chinatown in the state) celebrates! This 22nd annual event covers nearly 10 blocks and includes three stages and hundreds of food booths. For details, check out their website.
August 22 & 23, 10am - 6pm
Downtown Oakland Chinatown district, covering 10 city blocks from 7th Street to 11th Street and from Broadway to Harrison Street

Go: Oakland's Second Kidical Mass
Walk Oakland Bike Oakland invites you to join in a social ride for families with kids of all ages, and others interested in riding along.This is your opportunity to get to know some other families who are moving around Oakland by pedal power.
August 22, depart at 10:45am
Meet up at Frog Park (also known as Hardy Park), 491 Hardy St. Ride to Lake Shore Park (between Lake Merrit and 580), Oakland

Image credit: Creative Commons/Gary Soup

Eat: Vegetarian Cooking Class: Middle Eastern & Mediterranean
Join us as we cook up: Quinoa Tabouli, Stuffed Artichokes, Roasted Fennel with Carrot Puree, Saffron Risotto, and Blood Orange Granita. Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, author of the Joy of Vegan Baking and The Vegan Table will demonstrate at her monthly fun-filled Vegetarian Cooking Classes that celebrate healthful and humane eating.
August 22, 10am -1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: The Radio Regatta
Don't miss this fun party - there will be DJ's, food, beer, free gondola rides and half-price boat rides all day long. Some of the 2009 Oakland Innovators award winners will be present, so you can learn more about them and the work they do.
August 23, 1 - 7pm
Lake Merritt Sailboat House, 568 Bellevue Ave, Oakland

Go: Free Hands-on Bicycle Classes
Join an REI bike technician to learn how to maintain your bike in excellent working condition. We'll cover safety inspection (how to check wheels, derailleurs, gears, cranks, handle bars, and stems for wear and tear). All you need to bring is your bike and tools. We’ll provide the expert guidance.
August 23, 11am – noon
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat: Cooking Class: Knife Skills 101
In this informative and interactive class, students will not only learn basic knife skills (what type of knife you need, how to hold your knife, how to protect and sharpen your knife), but also how to master various cutting techniques to make cooking easy, fast, and enjoyable. Each student will have the opportunity to test out what they learn and will also enjoy a cooking demonstration by our instructor, using the veggies we cut up (Vegetable Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce). Space is limited, so register today! Register at Compassionatecooks.com
August 27, 7 - 9pm
BSC Culinary, 1665 Mission St, San Francisco
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Power IT Down Day
Join the 2nd annual power down day to save both money and energy! Switch off your personal computers and peripherals when leaving the office this evening. Citrix, Hewlett-Packard, Intel and Microsoft have all agreed to participate as well. Last year 2,800 government employees participated saving 37,000 kilowatt-hours in one night, let’s see if we can increase this years impact!
August 27
Your home and office

Live: Learn How to Facilitate Your Own Climate Change Action Group
Receive the tools and training to start your own Climate Change Action Group with 5-10 friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors, classmates, or congregation members. Following the training, you will be equipped to lead your group members through a four-session action group. Members will: Calculate their personal carbon footprints; Create a measurable personal action plan to reduce their footprints; Discuss ways to become a climate change leader in their households and communities. Participation is free but a $10 fee will be charged for the Low Carbon Diet workbook if you don't already have a copy.
August 27, 6 - 8:30pm
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Compost Give-away at Berkeley Marina
The City of Berkeley's Parks, Recreation & Waterfront Department offers free compost for Berkeley residents on the last Friday of the month from February through October, weather permitting. Self serve. Please bring your shovels, containers and safety gear.
August 28, 8:45am - 2:45pm or until compost is gone.
Berkeley Marina Maintenance Yard, 201 University Ave (next to Adventure Playground), Berkeley

Go, Eat: East Bay Evolution Eat Real Bike Tour
Join a tour for two-wheeled foodies! Begin and end at the Eat Real Festival at Jack London Square. Peddle along Oakland's waterfront and meet local culinary artisans, learn about their specialties and sample their creations. Members of East Bay Bicycle Coalition or Walk Oakland Bike Oakland receive $10 off cost. Bike rentals available from Bay Area Bikes. $40. Call Karen Hester for details. Or register here.
August 29 or August 30, Noon - 4pm
Jack London Square, Oakland

The Truth About Green Business Event - August 18

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:48:00 GMT

Live: Gil Friend: The Truth About Green Business - The Potential for Jobs and Prosperity
How can Green businesses help both the planet and the nation's financial bottom line? Running a profitable business that takes care of the environment, provides meaningful jobs, and helps the community is an oxymoron, right? Not so fast. Gil Friend, Founder/CEO, Natural Logic, Inc and author of "The Truth About Green Business," states that green business practices are good for business and the world. Come hear one of the leaders in the field explain how we can change the world. Cost: $8 members, $15 non-members.
August 18, 5:30pm networking reception, 6pm program
Common Wealth Club, 595 Market St, Gold Room, San Francisco

EcoMetro Events through August 22

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:32:00 GMT

Play, Eat: Art & Soul
Art & Soul Oakland is moving the popular downtown festival from the crowded Labor Day weekend to our very own weekend in mid-August. Visit the website for more information.
August 15 - 16, Noon - 6pm
Downtown Oakland adjacent to the 12th Street/City Center BART station.

Live: Landscape Watering
Join The Urban Farmer Store for a survey and introduction to innovative water-saving sprinkler and drip irrigation solutions. Learn about system automation with valves, timers, rain sensors, and the new smart self-adjusting controllers. This FREE class will teach you how to plan your own efficient irrigation system. Reserve seating by calling the 510-524-1604 or by e-mail to richmondclasses@urbanfarmerstore.com, or registering on-line.
August 16, 10:30am
Urban Farmer Store, 2121 San Joaquin Street, Richmond
Look for coupon in the 2010 EcoMetro Guide

Image Credit: Creative Commons/by photofarmer

Live: Climate Change – What is it and what you can do about it in Alameda
Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda (CASA) presents Alameda resident Srikant Subramaniam (Sri) who will focus on the science of Climate Change, with emphasis on the impacts being seen around the world, and need for change in energy production and use. Joyce Mercado, CASA Steering Committee Member, will provide practical tips for incorporating many of the items in her Alameda Global Warming Checklist and Resource List (www.bikealameda.org/info/Global_Warming_Checklist.pdf) into your lifestyle.
August 18, 7 - 8:30pm
First Congregational Church – 1912 Central Avenue, Social Hall (Enter down ramp on Chestnut)

Live: Angels in the Wilderness: One Woman's Extraordinary Story of Survival
In July 2003, solo ultralight backpacker Amy Racina set out on a trip of a lifetime–a challenging 170-mile loop in Kings Canyon National Park. Near the end of her journey, while traveling off-trail across a ravine in remote Tehipite Valley, she fell 60 feet, shattering both legs. Tonight, Amy will share her slide show and story of her miraculous rescue and recovery, including readings from her award-winning book, “Angels in the Wilderness”. Come learn how she survived four days and nights, alone in the backcountry and severely injured, and how this near-death experience shaped her life.
August 18, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat, Play: East Bay Green Drinks
A lively monthly gathering for anyone interested in sustainability, including green business, environmental and social causes, architecture and design, organics, renewable energy and more.
August 19, 5:30 - 8pm
Luka's Tap Room, Oakland

Live: Tour of Moraga Barn, Historical Green Renovation
The Moraga Barn is the oldest building in Moraga and is now a state of the art green building. Hear the President of the construction company speak on the restoration &preservation project.
August 20, 6 - 8pm
Moraga Barn, 925 Country Club Drive, Moraga

Play: Chinatown Street Fest
Celebrate the year of the Ox, Chinese lion dances, Japanese taiko drumming and Tahitian dance as Oakland's Chinatown (the oldest Chinatown in the state) celebrates! This 22nd annual event covers nearly 10 blocks and includes three stages and hundreds of food booths. For details, check out their website.
August 22 & 23, 10am - 6pm
Downtown Oakland in the Chinatown district, covering 10 city blocks from 7th Street to 11th Street and from Broadway to Harrison Street.

Eat: Vegetarian Cooking Class: Middle Eastern & Mediterranean
Join us as we cook up: Quinoa Tabouli, Stuffed Artichokes, Roasted Fennel with Carrot Puree, Saffron Risotto, and Blood Orange Granita. Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, author of the Joy of Vegan Baking and The Vegan Table will demonstrate at her monthly fun-filled Vegetarian Cooking Classes that celebrate healthful and humane eating.
August 22, 10am -1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Using Electricity to Save it with eBilling

Scott Thomsen — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:15:00 GMT

Every now and then you run across a situation where instinct tells you to zig when you really ought to zag.

For saving electricity and keeping a few more dollars in your bank account, THIS SPACE is about to bend your mind around the idea of using electricity to save it.

This week’s ONE THING you can do to conserve energy is to try online billing for your utility bills and any other payments you need to make. The switch will increase your time on the computer, which would seem to increase your energy consumption, but this is a situation where one step back can lead to two or three steps forward.

Here’s why.

When you receive your bill and pay it online, you eliminate the need for your utility to print the bill and mail it to your home. There’s a whole lot of savings going on there, including the electricity to process wood pulp into paper, run the printing presses, stuff the envelopes and sort that mail.

That’s not even considering the trees that make that paper, or the gasoline to run the vehicles to deliver the raw materials and finished product at the various stages of the production and delivery cycle or the return trip with your payment.

Shifting to electronic delivery of the bill eliminates the physical production and distribution cycle. Less energy use means less impact on the environment, particularly in the area of greenhouse gas emissions tied to climate change.

For the customer, there’s the added convenience of being able to receive and pay a bill without tearing bill stubs, licking envelopes or remembering to drop the payment in the mail box. The customer also gets the immediate savings of 44 cents by avoiding the use of a stamp.

Another part of the savings is indirect for the customer.

When your utility can cut its billing costs, those savings translate into lower rates.

I’ve been steadily adding online billing to my different accounts recently and find myself struggling a bit when I have to pay one with a traditional check in the mail. I’ve grown accustomed to the convenience and my miserly side comes out when I have to attach the stamp to a paper bill.

So give electronic billing a try. If you hate it, you can always go back to the tactile sensations of getting a dead-tree version in the mailbox. If you like it, your bank account and your environment will thank you.

EcoMetro Events through August 16

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:23:00 GMT

Eat, Play: 10th Annual Laurel Street Festival
The festival will showcase live music and performances highlighting some of the greatest Bay area and local talents, a street fair with over a 100 vendors, street art, gourmet food booths, family fun at the Kid's Zone featuring games, activities for children of all ages and showcases more than 100 retail, service and restaurant establishments in Oakland's own Laurel District.
August 8, 1- 6pm
The Laurel District along MacArthur Blvd. between 35th and High

Play: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie at Children's Fairyland
Active Arts Theatre for Young Audiences will perform If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, a play based on the book by Laura Numeroff. As a special treat for families, every ticket to the show includes one hour free admission to Children's Fairyland prior to the show.
Now - August 16 - visit website for times
Children's Fairy Land, 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play, Eat: Live Music
Erela Collins, Solo Guitar and Vocals.
August 8, 7 - 9pm
Spice Monkey, 1628 Webster Street, Oakland

Go: Free Hands-on Bicycle Classes
Join an REI bike technician to learn how to maintain your bike in excellent working condition. We'll cover flat repair. All you need to bring is your bike and tools. We’ll provide the expert guidance.
August 9, 11am – Noon
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Speaker Event - Choosing & Using Green Cleaners at Home & Work
Join us for a presentation and interactive discussion about how to clean your office and home using environmentally-preferable products and practices.
Speaker Leila Khatapoush will be joined by local 'green' cleaners who will add their experience and expertise!
August 11, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
East Bay Cohousing Clubhouse, 2105 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley

Live: A Celebration of Sierra Wilderness Adventure
Darren Malloy will show you great places in the new Eastern Sierra wilderness to backpack, climb, backcountry ski, or fish. Then, Allen Stecl will present of one of the first color films made of climbing in Yosemite, a 1966 recording of the third ascent of El Capitan’s Salathe Wall. Come experience Yosemite big-wall climbing in the heyday of bold first ascents, and find out how you can keep the spirit of Sierra adventure alive for future generations.
August 11, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Promote Your Business Through Social Networks
In this Buy Local Berkeley workshop, you will learn how to leverage the power of blogs and social media to reach your audience more effectively and build long term relationships.
August 13, 8 - 10am
Eudemonia, 2154 University Ave, Berkeley

Play: Summer Noon Concerts - Tamar Sella
With her rich, heartfelt voice, Tamar explores songs spanning swing, bebop, funk, modal and contemporary jazz, alongside Mediterranean.
August 13, Noon
Downtown Berkeley BART Plaza, (Shattuck at Center St.)

Play: Green Rheem Film Night
Green Rheem film nights are a chance to socialize with friends, enjoy local wine and appetizers, and then watch an educational documentary related to the environment. The doors open for wine and appetizers in the lobby at 6pm and then the movie starts around 7pm. More information at the website.
August 13, 7pm (appetizers at 6pm)
Rheem Theater, 350 Park Street, Moraga (Rheem Shopping Center)

Play, Eat: Art & Soul
Art & Soul Oakland is moving the popular downtown festival from the crowded Labor Day weekend to our very own weekend in mid-August. Visit the website for more information.
August 15 - 16, Noon - 6pm
Downtown Oakland adjacent to the 12th Street/City Center BART station.

Increase your education and understanding of environmentally-friendly practices

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:43:00 GMT

The Women's Cancer Resource Center invites you to participate in a FREE workshop through StopWaste.org. The workshop will be presented by Mark Spencer, Senior Program Manager

Please come and learn about environmentally sound solid waste management and resource conservation practices to maximize waste prevention, recycling, and economic development opportunities. As WCRC begins its greening journey, StopWaste is committed to partnering with Community Based Organizations with compatible goals. You do not need to bring anything with you except a willingness to listen and learn. Please RSVP by Friday, August 7 to sarah@wcrc.org. A final email will be sent to confirm the training date.
August 14, 10am - 12pm
WCRC, 5741 Telegraph Ave, Oakland

The Crucible's Fire Arts Festival is So Hot

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:22:00 GMT

By Heather Hale, Sustainable Business Accounts Manager

Image Credit: maywong photos/Charlie Gadeken/Creative Commons

Walking into The Crucible’s Fire Arts Festival is like stepping into a carnival from a previous era. Men in stilts parade about and crouch down from their 15-foot stance to whisper “hello”, while ornate shadow puppets dance across an outdoor stage to live music, and enormous and intricate mouse-traps snap and fly.

But even more fantastic than all of this are the massive bursts of fire erupting from installation pieces scattered around the compound. Some come so close that I found my hands creeping up to my eyebrows to make sure they were still there.

The show is truly a mix of circus flair, old-world industrial craft, exhibitionism, and creative folks who appear to be willing to try anything with fire. What else could you ask for? Oh, and beer. Yes, there is beer.

And how is this shindig green, you ask? Education and community classes are one of the most powerful tools to greening and empowering a community. And besides that, most of us have lost touch with hand making things. The thought of building even the simplest of tables can sound daunting (come on, I know putting together those Ikea tables is intimidating). Resourcefulness is in itself, green.

Having said this, why not learn how to weld scrap metals together to make a lamp, or learn the basics of working with wood? After all, making things from used parts at home is far more green than buying anything at a store. And it also serves as a creative outlet.

Now the hard part is choosing which class to take. I like the sound of Monster Barbeque Building (so that’s where my landlord’s barbeque came from!).

For class listings at The Crucible, visit thecrucible.org. Be sure to check out their upcoming coupon in the next edition of EcoMetro Guide and online at ecometro.com.

Image Credit: maywong photos/Jon Sarriugarte/creative commons

EcoMetro Events through August 7

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:26:00 GMT

Play, Eat: LAKEFEST
Lakeshore Ave. will be turned into a pedestrian zone from Lake Park to Mandana to host this free community event featuring live music, artisans, merchant sidewalk sale, art installations, "green" businesses and non-profits, street performers, children's fun zone.
August 1-2, 10am - 6pm
Splash Pad Park, Oakland

Play: Bay to Barkers
Join the 12th annual dog walk & festival featuring Doggy Olympiad games, a 1-Mile Dog Walk, "Do You Look Like Your Dog?" and other contests, spa time for canines and people, art and craft activities for kids and dogs, and the Pet Festival with booths hosted by community groups and pet supply companies.
August 2, 10am - 1pm
North Parking Lot of Golden Gate Fields, Albany

Image Credit: Jennifer Hallstrom

Live: Climate Change Action Groups
Reduce your personal and community carbon footprint through the Ecology Center's four-session Climate Change Action Groups, you can join with other community members in a supportive, engaging and creative setting and play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. Write to debra@ecologycenter.org or call 510-548-2220 x240 to sign up.
August 3, 10, 17 and 24 –OR- August 4, 11, 18 and 25, 6-8pm
Ecology Center, 2350 San Pablo Ave (at Dwight), Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: National Night Out
The City of Oakland welcomes the participation of any neighborhood or community group in National Night Out, and encourages you to utilize this event as a way to bring people together and to have fun! Register your neighborhood.
http://www.oaklandnet.com/nno2009.html
August 4, 7-9pm
Your neighborhood.

Live: Green Innovation for Business Silicon Valley Unconference
The "unconferences" will bring together dozens of professionals engaged in making their organizations more efficient, sustainable and leading-edge. Connect with other internal innovators to share experiences and ideas, explore new trends and opportunities, and brainstorm out-of-the-box solutions to the challenges we're all facing.
August 5, 8:30am - 4:30pm
eBay, 2161 North First Street, San Jose

Live: The Life of a Wildlife Photographer
Professional wildlife photographer for six years, Suzi Eszterhas specializes in photographing wildlife families in their native habitats. Suzi will give a slide presentation on her adventures photographing wildlife around the world. She'll discuss what it takes to be successful in her profession, including research, equipment, and how to cope with the unique challenges of working in the wilds.
August 5, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Summer Noon Concerts - Julian Pollack
Julian Pollack and his new group, Infinite Playground, play new compositions deeply rooted in soul, minimalism, and jazz.
August 6, Noon
Downtown Berkeley BART Plaza, (Shattuck at Center St.)

Go: Backpacking 101
REI backpacking specialist Andy Miksza will show you the fundamentals of selecting gear for a weekend backpacking trip. Learn how to layer your clothing for maximum warmth; adjust and load your pack; and select the sleeping bag, tent, and stove that best suit your needs. He’ll also give you pointers on lightening your load, water filtration/purification, bear-proofing your food, and first aid kit essentials. Come find out tricks-of-the-trade to make your backcountry trips safe and fun.
August 6, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat: SBA Networking Lunch
Join us at Swan's Market in Oakland for business networking and lunch with sustainability-minded entrepreneurs. Open to non-members.
August 7, 12 - 1:30pm
Swans Cohousing, 930 Clay St, Oakland

Play: Best of the East Bay Party
East Bay Express celebrates its winners of the 2009 Best of the East Bay Issue at the Oakland Museum of California. Visit the website for more info. Free.
August 7, 5pm - midnight
Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St, Oakland

Art Monday: Secret Worlds on the Streets

Carissa Wodehouse — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:59:00 GMT

Artist Helen Nodding creates tiny, hidden worlds among the loose bricks and sidewalk splits that are usually taken as signs of decay in our cities. With a change in scale, the nooks and crannies becomes destinations. See a world tucked beneath a floor and a wall crack turned countryside on her website Stories from Space.

The Subtle Art of the Roll Up

Travis A. Wittwer — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:35:00 GMT

This morning, I took a train to Seattle to teach at a conference. It is one of the joys in life. I bike to the train station, work on a crossword as the scenery passes by, and then bike around Seattle which, by the way, seems to be made entirely out of hills.

Today, I entertained myself with a new distraction, the subtle art of the roll up. For those of you unfamiliar with the term, a “roll up” is when a cyclist folds, or in some way “rolls” up, his or her pant leg to avoid it getting caught in the chain. Roll means fold. It’s so clear. A thoughtfully folded pant leg is a style I don’t often sport because my bakfiets has a chain guard. However, today I took a commuter bike on my trip to Seattle, and with 3 hours to kill on the train, I mastered some pretty awesome roll ups. Check them out. Let me know what you think.

TRADITIONAL: Nothing fancy. Textbook functionality for keeping the pant leg out of the chain assembly. The style most often used.

TRADITIONAL PLUS: A bit of a deviation in the sense that this roll up would get some looks as you rode by due to the excess exposure of your calf.

TALL CUFF: Looks good on the ladies. Gentlemen, don’t do it. Seriously. Don’t. You have been warned.

PIRATE RAWWWL UP: Keep your peg-leg-covering pants out of your buccaneering bike chain. Can I get a “Yar!”?

MARTHA STEWART: Anything you can do, Martha Stewart can do better and with more style. Accept it.

ORIGAMI: Not often seen due to the skill one must master before attempting this roll up. Great to look at.

THE STRIPPER: All skin, all the time.

SOCK-IT-TO-THEM: Technically not a “roll up” but serves the same purpose. A nice alternative to the all-too-often-seen roll up.

I-SHOULD-HAVE: An attempt to solve an already destroyed pair of pants by doing a roll up too late in the game. Fourth-quarter foul.

DOUBLE WHAMMY: Hey, the chain is only on one side, but why let that decide your fashion sense. What would happen if the chain suddenly shifted sides and grabbed on to the other pant leg? Better to be safe and do them both up.

MINIMALIST (or would that be a roll down?): Just enough fold to classify it as a roll in the world of competitive roll ups. However, this roll up would not survive more than a leisurely jaunt to the grocery store for a bottle of Shiraz.

BONUS: This is not one from the trip. However, it is something I created a few years ago out of a pant leg so that this "cover" would keep tight my pant leg, like a roll up does, and the cover would act as a shield from any grease or road grit.

There are so many options out there for the roll up. I decided on the “traditional” for my ride through Seattle. The conference went well and biking through the city was wonderful. And for the train ride back to Portland, I will keep myself entertained one leg at a time.

Thank you to Tana for the leg modeling.

EcoMetro Events throught August 2

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 22:50:00 GMT

Play: Berkeley Kite Festival
The 22nd Annual Berkeley Kite Festival & West Coast Kite Championships take place this weekend. Enjoy the free festival including kite competitions, kite ballet, kite making for kids, food, games and the world’s largest octopus kite.
July 25-26, 10am-5pm
Cesar Chavez Park at the Berkeley Marina
Clemson/Creative Common

Go: Heartbeat of Oakland
The Heartbeat of Oakland is a 1-mile community walk (Parade) to promote community health and togetherness. Be ready to take a walk with your neighbors starting at the SE corner of Market and 40th Streets. We will continue down the 40th St. sidewalk to Webster St, turn right onto Webster St and end at Mosswood Park.
July 25, 11am
Market and 40th Street to Mosswood Park

Eat: Vegetarian Cooking Class: Greens, Greens, Glorious Greens!
Join Compassionate Cooks’ founder Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, author in her Vegetarian Cooking Classes that celebrate healthful and humane eating! Greens still mystify people, and yet they are the most healthful foods we can eat! Join as as we help you to fall in love with greens. $55 (in advance), plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class
July 25, 10am-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Eat: SBA Picnic - Sustainable Summertime Fun!
Join your SBA friends, well-known and new, for a picnic in Tilden Park. Bring your loved ones, yummy food, refreshing drinks, musical instruments, play equipment for a hilly site, and your life-sustaining, fun-loving spirit! View the website to register and for your potluck assignment.
July 26, 12-5pm
Tilden Park (Fern picnic site), Berkeley

Play: Oaklandish presents the Second Salsa by the Lake
The first was so popular, they are doing it again. Salsa by the Lake will be at Splash Pad Park. There will be free dance lessons by Isaac Kos-Read, and live band "Pasion Habanera."
July 26, 1-7pm
Splash Pad Park (across from the Grand Lake Theater), Oakland

Go: Adventure to the Ends of the Earth with Polar Explorer Eric Larsen
Join Eric on his early dog sled journeys in the Canadian Arctic; on his history-making summer expedition to the North Pole. Eric will discuss what it takes to cope with extreme challenges, such as months on the Arctic Ocean, 50-degree below zero wind-chills, Polar Bear encounters, and more. For more information, visit www.ericlarsenexplore.com.
July 28, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Go: Walking Tours of Oakland - Old Oakland
A great way to introduce our fair city to your visitors, or to learn more about the richness of Oakland yourself. All tours are free. Reservations are encouraged. Call 238-3234.
July 29, 10am
Meet at G.B. Ratto & Co, 821 Washington Street, Oakland

Live: Climate Change Facilitator Action Group
Gather 5-10 friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors, classmates, or congregation members and attend a facilitator training. RSVP required. Write to debra@ecologycenter.org or call 510-548-2220 x240 to sign up.
July 30, 6-8:30pm
Ecology Center, 2350 San Pablo Ave (at Dwight), Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play, Eat: LAKEFEST
This Lakeshore festival will have vendors and performers, wine tasting, gourmet food and kids activities.
August 1-2, 10am-6pm
Splash Pad Park, Oakland

Art Monday: The Artist in the Trees

Carissa Wodehouse — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:27:00 GMT

Image: D'Arcy Norman/Creative Commons

Treehugger has a new review up about a book/DVD set wittily named Treedom. It tells the story of Takashi Kobayashi, who tires of his secondhand clothing shop and sets out for more, becoming a famous treehouse builder after reading another book, Treehouses. He also credits the World Treehouse Builder Association Conference as a major influence. Looking to create an escape for yourself? The conference takes place in October in Washington and Oregon, but you can start your reading now.

EcoMetro Events throught July 25

EcoMetro Guide East Bay — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:05:00 GMT

Live: 40th Anniversary Celebration of our Moon Landing Missions
In celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the first moon landing, Chabot will have hands-on space activities and demonstrations, special Challenger Learning Center missions, Discovery Lab activities for tots with astronaut costumes, starry time read-alongs and space crafts. Visit website for more info.
July 18, 11am–5pm

Chabot Space & Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Live Dinner Music and Art Reception

Enjoy a photo exhibit by Bill Beckerman and enjoy live music provided by "An Evening With Hyp" an acoustic trio - harp, violin and guitar.
July 18, 5pm-8:30pm
Spice Monkey, 1628 Webster, Oakland
Look for coupon in the 2010 EcoMetro Guide

Image: tomeppy/CreativeCommons

Live: Landscape Watering: Free Classes at The Urban Farmer StoreJoin The Urban Farmer Store for a survey and introduction to innovative water-saving sprinkler and drip irrigation solutions. Learn about system automation with valves, timers, rain sensors, and the new smart self-adjusting controllers. Classes are free. Reserve seating by calling the Richmond Urban Farmer Store (510-524-1604), by e-mail to richmondclasses@urbanfarmerstore.com, or registering on-line at www.urbanfarmerstore.com.

July 19, 10:30am
Urban Farmer Store, 2121 San Joaquin Street, Richmond
Look for coupon in the 2010 EcoMetro Guide

Go: Exploring the Magnificent Mount Shasta Region: Hiking, Camping, Cycling, and More
Robin Kohn, professional tour guide and author of “Mount Shasta Guide to Fun”, will introduce you to the remarkable variety of adventures and activities in the Mount Shasta region. As Robin shows you great places to hike, cycle, rock climb, ski, or simply tour by car, she’ll teach you about the region’s flora and fauna, geologic and glacier events on Mount Shasta, and how to safely explore this grand 14,162-foot peak.
July 21, 7pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, in Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Play: Gross Animals with Wildlife Associates

Animals can be gross. Learn about some gross animal habits with Wildlife Associates. Event free with Museum Admission.
View coupon at ecometro.com
July 22, 2-2:50pm
Lawrence Hall of Science, Auditorium, Centennial Drive, Berkeley
View coupon at ecometro.com

Live: Green Business Mixer hosted by RichmondBUILD
Learn about the amazing work being done by Richmond BUILD. The training program was first developed to create employment and career opportunities for Richmond residents and also to implement a strategy for reducing community violence. We’ll be touring their space and the model home the latest students are working on. Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members; $5 more at the door.
July 22, 5:30-7:30pm
Richmond BUILD, 360 South 27th Street, Richmond

Live: Richmond Greenway Documentary
Join EarthTeam at our upcoming Community Screening of the "Our Backyard -- The Richmond Greenway & Shoreline," a short documentary film. This documentary was created by twelve Richmond high school students, who filmed footage about their community and its history, particularly documenting the Richmond Greenway Project, a multimillion-dollar project transforming a large stretch of abandoned property along a former Santa Fe railroad corridor into open space for the community. Free.
July 23, 6:30-7:30pm
Madeline F. Whittlesey Community Room at the Richmond Public Library, 325 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond

Eat: Vegetarian Cooking Class: Greens, Greens, Glorious Greens!
Join Compassionate Cooks’ founder Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, author in her Vegetarian Cooking Classes that celebrate healthful and humane eating! Greens still mystify people, and yet they are the most healthful foods we can eat! Join as as we help you to fall in love with greens. $55 (in advance), plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class
July 25, 10am-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St, Oakland
View coupon at ecometro.com

Cruising the Sundays Parkways in Portland

Travis A. Wittwer — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 20:39:00 GMT

Sundays Parkways is a Portland Department of Transportation event where a loop of city roads are closed to vehicles to create a space for pedestrians, cyclists, and community booths.

The last Sundays Parkways happened on Father’s Day, when Portland closed off 7.5 miles of roadway in North Portland. I would like to thank Portland for doing so specifically for me, Daddy-Travis. The route was great, joining together several neighborhoods with events and sights along the way. Families on bikes were most notably seen, however, Sunday Parkways drew a wide audience of cyclists, walkers, and runners.

As a family, we rode the loop that included Peninsula and Arbor Lodge parks. We pedaled past Peninsula, knowing that we would hit it on the way back so on we went. Throughout the route we rode over chalk drawings and statements of celebration for the day.

Volunteers stood by at many of the side streets to assist with questions and help people driving cars make it to their houses. Police stood at the intersections to main streets waving the Parkway users on through, smiling and saying “hi” to all the kids.

We stopped at Arbor Lodge Park for music and a drink. Our sons tried the unicycles without much luck. I would like to say that I mastered a unicycle, but I cannot. The park was filled with every bike imaginable, even the elusive “Bullitt” cargo bike about which I have only read. Yes, I touched it.

The kids jumped in the box and we were off to our next destination. Peninsula Park was our second stop, just before our house. Here we perused the vendors a bit more, stopping to check out Zip Car. Of course we did take a moment to breathe in the glory that is the Rose Garden of North Portland before heading home.

I was unable to attend last year’s Sunday Parkway so I reveled in the fact that the planets aligned to make it happen this year. I was told by a woman we met at the Peninsula Park stop that this year’s route was larger and there were more sideline attractions—food, vendors, music, and “people just watching”. It was a lovely way to spend the afternoon on Fathers’ Day (my day), surrounded by bikes, enjoying the calm and simplicity, and being with family.

The day ended as perfectly as it started and we headed off to a friend’s house for a BBQ where the driveway was packed with bikes; it was a sight.

Image: Screenshot from City of Portland, Office of Transportation

Keeping life moving on a bike.

Art Monday: Moss Art and Moss Graffiti

Carissa Wodehouse — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 22:05:00 GMT

Looking for a way to decorate your patio wall or a patch of ground? With a little coaching and watering, grow moss into shapes such as a poem, an eco statement, or animals.

Full instructions are on Instructables.

Image credit: Flickr/aaron13251

EcoMetro Active: Freezing Veggies and Berries

EcoMetro Editors — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 19:02:00 GMT

Imagine stocking up on your favorite vegetables and berries at the farmers market, then opening the freezer months later and having them available to you again.

Vegetables need to be blanched in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to stop the growth of the plant. After boiling, immediately dunk them in ice water then spread individual pieces on a cookie tray and freeze.

Berries should be washed, dried thoroughly, and frozen on a tray. Transfer the pieces to a freezer bag. Whenever you have a hankering for the taste of summer, pour out a few pieces and cook with them as you would fresh produce.

Did you try this? Have another tip? Comment below!