Live: Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden - Volunteer
Get your hands dirty in one of Berkeley Youth Alternatives' two gardens. Tasks may include weeding, bed preparation, sowing, transplanting, and harvesting. Meet at the Bancroft Garden. Call with questions.
January 16, 10am-1pm
Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden, Bancroft Way, between Bonar and West St., Berkeley.

Live: E-Waste Recycling Event -- Solano
Electronic Equipment / Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Accepted: Televisions Monitors; Computer systems; Copy machines; Fax Machines; Printers; MP3 Players; Scanners; Video Game Consoles; Video Games; Cellular Phones (batteries can be included); Household phones; Stereo Equipment; Miscellaneous wiring; CD's (players and discs); DVD's (players and discs); Computer components (i.e. keyboards, mice, internet devices etc.). Universal Waste Management, Inc. does not accept household appliances at recycling events. Download the State E-Waste verification form from website and fill it out before you visit this event.
January 17, 2009 - January 18, 9am-3pm
Solano Middle School, 1025 Corcoran Ave., Vallejo. More...

Play: Trails Challenge 2009
The Regional Parks Foundation and the East Bay Regional Parks District are pleased to have Kaiser Permanente as our partner in Trails Challenge 2009. We believe, together with Kaiser, that everyone should Embrace Life and Thrive! Get started by logging in or registering as a new user on this website (Regional Parks Foundation). There are specific trail maps, tips for hikers, and other valuable information you will only see if you are logged in and are a registered user.
Register now – March 2009

Play: Stars to the Rescue XVIII
Please join host Tony La Russa for the 18th annual Stars to the Rescue, benefiting the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF). This fabulous evening of music and entertainment will include soft rock duo from the 70’s and 80’s, Air Supply; Tony Orlando, one of America's most endearing and enduring stars; Oscar winning actor and musician, Billy Bob Thornton; and Moving Arts Dance, accompanied by saxophonist great, Marc Russo. Sponsorships are also available for this exciting annual event.
January 10, 6:45–11pm
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek

Live: Coming Clean: Breaking America's Addiction to Oil and Coal
Michael Brune, Executive Director of Rainforest Action Network and author, will speak on his new book. In his new book, Coming Clean, Brune provides the road map, showing how we, as motivated citizens, can promote real solutions and collectively pressure government and corporations to change their energy priorities. Brune tracks the myriad ways our thirst for dwindling supplies of oil and coal corrupts national policy and international finance, harms poor communities worldwide, and wreaks havoc on the climate. He describes the most promising developments in renewable energy sources, biofuels, and efficient design, and outlines an inspiring vision of the clean energy future within our reach.
January 10, 7pm - 9:30pm
Alameda Free Library, 1550 Oak Street, Alameda.

Go: Free Hands-on Bicycle Classes:
Join an REI bike technician to learn how to maintain your bike in excellent working condition. The January 11 class will cover flat repair; the January 25 class, 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.
Sundays, January 11 & 25, 10 am–11 am
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley
*View coupon
 
Live: How Green Is Your Footprint?
Organized by the OML Branch of the AAUW (American Association of University Women): How GREEN is YOUR Footprint? Special Guest Speakers: Doug Grandt and Paul Valva, both associated with Al Gore's Climate Project. There will be tables with products and representatives who will show you how to go green and exciting new green projects ideas for the future. Come to this meeting with your questions, concerns, and green ideas. Invite your friends - this meeting will be open to the public. Wear Green!
January 13, 9:30-11:30am
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 1700 School Street, Moraga

Live: Tai Chi Chuan
Tai Chi Chuan is a system of slow graceful movements thought to reduce stress, tone internal organs and muscles, improve balance, and increase longevity. Visit the website for more weekly events.
Tuesday, January 13, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Elephant Pharm, Berkeley
*View coupon

Go: Snowshoeing Basics
In tonight’s slide presentation, professional snowshoe guide Cathy Anderson-Meyers will show you how easy it is to get out and experience Tahoe’s winter wonderland on “shoes”. After a review of the basics of snowshoe fit and design, Cathy will give you pointers on technique and winter safety preparedness. Come find out about perfect destinations for your first time out.
January 13, 7 pm
REI, 1338 San Pablo Avenue, Berkeley
*View coupon

Play: EAST BAY GREEN DRINKS
A monthly gathering of people interested in sustainability, including green business, architecture, design, organics, clean energy and other topics. We’re meeting the second Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month in Berkeley , Oakland, and the Tri-Valley. We average 50 souls at these events… You don’t have to drink the brew…sip water! It’s all great fun!
January 13 (Every 2nd Tuesday), 5:30-7:30pm
First Street Ale House, Tri-Valley
*View coupon

Live: Feldenkrais Movement & Pilates Core Strength (Movement)
Strengthen your core the smart way and reduce the chance of injury by combining Feldenkrais® Movement with Pilates Core Strength Exercise. Feldenkrais® enhances your sensory and movement systems improving coordination and efficiency. Pilates is a method of exercise designed to stretch and strengthen your body in an intelligent and balanced way. Visit the website for more weekly events.
January 14, 3-4pm
Elephant Pharm, Berkeley
*View coupon  More...

Play: BIRDING ON THE BAY
The birds have discovered the secret shoreline, have you? Join a naturalist for a walk along the shore to spot magnificent birds feeding on the newly created mud flats. Rain cancels. Disabled accessible. This is a drop in program; no registration is required. For information, call (510) 272-4802.
December 21, 9:00AM - 10:30AM      
Middle Harbor Park-Middle Harbor Shoreline Park


Eat: Walnut Creek Farmers' Market
What's In Season: Apples, Artichokes, Avocado, Beets, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Butternut squash, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Kiwi, Lemons, Mushrooms, Onions, Oranges, Parsley, Potatoes, Raisins, Rutabaga, Salad greens, Sweet potatoes, and Turnips.
December 21, 9:00am-1:00pm (Dec. 28 Closed) Open Sundays Year-Round: Winter hours: 9am-1pm
N. Locust St, Walnut Creek


Play: SOLSTICE CONNECTION: EARTH AND SPACE
Discover 'the reason for the seasons' with lively indoor activities led by Astronomer Celeste, including a solstice craft to take home! Outside, stroll among salamanders, slugs, and dewy redwoods with Nancy to observe spaces' effects on earth. Stay to independently visit Chabots' dynamic exhibits, 4-5pm. Ages 8+ yrs. Parking fees apply where charged. Disabled accessible. Reg. Required: 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757).
December 21, 2-4pm
Chabot Space & Science Center
View the EcoMetro Guide Coupon More...

Play: Santa's Wonderland on 4th Street
Visit Santa & sit in his big red sleigh at 1809B Fourth Street. Whisper your holiday wishes to him any Thurs. thru Sun. ‘til 6 p.m. thru Dec. 23 when he must fly back to the North Pole to tend to his workshop. Donate a new pair of socks filled with small toiletries or an unwrapped kid"s book. Donations benefit Harrison House homeless shelter. Outside, the canopy of trees is filled with dazzling lights and music fills the air while the stores stay open late. www.FourthStreet.com
Now - December 23, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Fourth Street Shops, 1809B Fourth Street, Berkeley

Live: Tear Out Your Lawn Challenge
Drought conditions and water rationing often lead to a proliferation of ugly brown lawns. Now Ploughshares Nursery has a better way of saving water and saving money. The Nursery is offering a "Tear Out Your Lawn Challenge". Participants in the challenge will receive a one time 20% coupon good for the purchase of drought tolerant plants and a free half hour landscaping consultation with a senior staff member. To be eligible you must remove 40% or more of your lawn and provide before and after photos as proof. The offer is good until the end of 2008. Info: 510-898-7811
Through December 31, 2008
Ploughshares Nursery at 2701 Main St. in Alameda
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Live: One Warm Coat Drive
The One Warm Coat program encourages supporters to pass along new and used coats to benefit those in need. Coats will be collected in The Concierge at Broadway Plaza.
Now – December 31
Broadway Plaza, S. Main Street & Mt. Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek

Play: Walnut Creek on Ice
Walnut Creek on Ice returns for a fourth season with a new location in Civic Park. The ice rink will be located in the Clay Arts parking lot along Civic Drive - same size rink, new memories to make. Our magical wonderland moves just a little North to make room for the new library. Come see for yourself the magical transformation of Downtown Civic Park into what can only be described as a twinkling Winter Wonderland.
Now - January 25
Walnut Creek On Ice, 1313 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek

Live: All About the Oakland Green Job Corps
Learn about resources and successful strategies for creating meaningful employment in the new green business sector. Presented by The Sustainable Business Alliance. Featuring: Honorable Barbara Lee, 9th Congressional District; and Arthur Shanks, Executive Director, Cypress Mandela Training Center. Presentations by Local Green Companies. Pre-registration required and seating is limited -- RSVP by phone or email no later than December 5. Info: 510-208-0845
December 11, 3:30-5:30pm
James Irvine Conference Center, 353 Frank Ogawa Plaza, near 14th and Broadway, Oakland

Home: Introduction to Urban Permaculture
Hear and see local permaculture designers from the Ecological Division of Merritt College's Landscape Horticulture Department discuss what's possible in a city. Come see what's been incubating at this little 7-acre gem in the Oakland Hills. Christopher Shein will talk about the large food forest and garden built by students and the Permaculture Design Certificate program. Hear about the Regenerative Design Class, and working with biology to purify air, food, water and ourselves. Other classes offered at Merritt include Natural Building taught by Kevin and Marisha Farnsworth and Growing Mushrooms with Ken Litchfield. Our amazing teachers will be on hand to present a quick overview of their classes and what motivates them to live their passions for urban sustainability. Find out where and how to plug-in to the local permaculture scene!
December 11, 7-9pm
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Live: Make Your Own Bike Bag -- Advanced
Looking for a bag that specifically designed for YOU? Need a bag that's BOTH a pannier AND a backpack? Check out Waterside Workshops' bike bag workshop, and learn to design and build your own bag specifically for your bike lifestyle. We have many different materials to use including recycled signs, vinyl, canvas and different types of nylon. We also have hardware, zippers, buckles, rivets, everything you might need to complete your project. You are encouraged to bring your own materials if you have something specific in mind. Sewing experience is required, but don't worry - we have a NEW CLASS just for beginners. Sign up for both the beginning (12/6/08) and advanced (12/13/08) classes for only $85 (plus the Kit Fee). Visit website for more info and to sign up. Info: 510-644-2577
December 13, Noon - 4pm
Waterside Workshops, 84 Bolivar Drive, (at Berkeley's Aquatic Park), Berkeley

Eat: HEALTHFUL & HUMANE HOLIDAY COOKING & BAKING
We’ll focus on delicious recipes perfect for holiday dining and entertaining. On the menu: Warm Lentil Salad; Pan-Grilled Portabello Mushrooms with Fresh Herb Marinade; Purple Potatoes with Cashew Cream and Toasted Sage and Walnuts; Decadent Chocolate Truffles; Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Cost: $55, plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class. Register online or mail a check to Compassionate Cooks P.O. Box 18512 Oakland, CA 94619. Deadline to sign up - Thursday, December 11th
December 13, 10-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro.
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Eat: The Berkeley Farmers' Market 17th annual Holiday Crafts Fair
Farmers' Market (lots of organic produce) & Local craftspeople selling a wonderful variety of beautiful handcrafted gifts. Live Music all day, every day of the fair. This event is supported in part by the Berkeley Civic Arts Program. A program of the Ecology Center since 1987, the Berkeley Farmers' Markets offer a wide range of mostly organic produce and healthy, locally-produced foods.
December 13, 10am-4pm
Martin Luther King, Jr. Civic Center Park, Center St. @ MLK, Jr. Way, Berkeley
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Live: FRENCH BROOM REMOVAL PROJECT
Help restore beautiful Redwood Regional Park. French broom has been displacing the native plants. Volunteers are needed to remove the broom. We provide the tools. Meet at Skyline Gate staging area (8500 Skyline Blvd. Oakland) on the first Saturdays and meet at the Wayside overflow lot off Redwood Road on the second Sundays in Redwood Regional Park. For more information, call Dee Rosario at (510) 482-6024. Meet at the Wayside overflow lot
December 14, 9:30am-1:30pm
Redwood Gate Entrance-Redwood Regional Park

Go: Sunday Family Hikes
Earth and sky unite in an outing that is out of this world. Hike the redwood-laced trails near Chabot to hidden, historic sites. Experience the ecosystem walking through the beautiful, shady paths of the Redwood Regional Park, led by a naturalist from the East Bay Regional Park District. Then explore the cosmos at Chabot with hands-on interactive exhibits and displays and be amazed how your child’s Universe can expand in one excursion! Tickets are $5 plus General Admission to Chabot Space & Science Center.
December 14, 9-11am: Redwoods to Cosmos (8 years & up), 1:30-2:30pm: Little Tike Hike (5 years & up)
Chabot Space & Science Center
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Play: Holiday Kid's Yoga (4 & under)
What better time than now to introduce your little ones to yoga? Kids will stretch, focus, laugh, and play with fun yoga postures! Teach them early about the yogic themes of cooperation, peaceful interaction and acceptance. Perfect for the winter holiday season when kids are cooped up indoors! For kids ages 2-4, with a parent or caregiver. Visit the website for more weekly events.
December 16, 10:30- 11:00 am
Elephant Pharm, Walnut Creek
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Live, Volunteer: Scrub Canoes with Save The Bay
Local non-profit Save The Bay leads canoe field trips on San Francisco Bay for about 5,000 youth and adults each year, teaching people about the ecology and importance of San Francisco Bay to our lives. After a busy Fall season filled with these trips we need help to scrub down canoes, organize education materials and make minor repairs on our equipment. All abilities of volunteers are accepted and needed! Save The Bay educators will provide all instruction, tools and guidance for the cleanup. No experience is necessary. Hosted by the California Canoe and Kayak store. RSVP by phone or email required. You’ll be emailed directions and additional information. Please indicate when you will be able to show up for the cleanup - 4.5 hour shifts acceptable: 8am-12:30pm or 12:30pm-5pm. Info: 510-452-9261 ext. 119, bayevents@savesfbay.org.
December 16, 8am-5pm
Jack London Square, Oakland

Play: Gentle Yoga
Use chairs, the wall, the floor and props to support gentle yoga poses. The perfect class for seniors and yoga beginners. Visit the website for more weekly events.
December 17, 10-11am
Elephant Pharm, Walnut Creek
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Play: EAST BAY GREEN DRINKS
A monthly gathering of people interested in sustainability, including green business, architecture, design, organics, clean energy and other topics. We’re meeting the second Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month in Berkeley , Oakland, and the Tri-Valley. We average 50 souls at these events… You don’t have to drink the brew…sip water! It’s all great fun!
December 17 (every 3rd Wednesday), 5:30-8pm
Bobbie G’s, Berkeley
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon

Home: Solstice Sale for Ecology Center Members
All Merchandise 20% Off for Members Only! Plus hot cider from Pomo Tierra Farm and Free Gifts. This holiday, give gifts full of possibility, like seeds and cookbooks. A thoughtful purchase from the Ecology Center Store can be the first step down the path of simplicity, sustainability, or self-sufficiency. Our seasonal produce wheel, stainless steel lunch kits, and ziploc bag drying racks make terrific gifts. Give a boost to the faltering recycling industry by buying recycled glass and paper gifts. Stimulate organic agriculture by purchasing clothing made from organically grown fibers. A gift to a friend can also be a gift to the earth.
December 20, 11am - 6pm
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
*View the EcoMetro Guide coupon More...

This holiday season give the gift of EcoMetro Guide – a one-of-a-kind resource and coupon book, offering more than 300 valuable coupons for all aspects of life. Help your friends and family explore the East Bay with the guide for shopping and saving locally.

Check off the names from your shopping list and make the most of our December Holiday Special! Save $5 on each copy of EcoMetro Guide (regularly $20) at select retailers listed below or receive free shipping at our online store ($5 value).

While getting copies for friends and family, remember to grab an extra for yourself! EcoMetro Guide offers great gift ideas and the opportunity to stretch your dollar.

Click on the store names below for locations and hours: More...

GO: EAST BAY GREEN TOUR
Meet the leaders of sustainability face-to-face, and catch an insider's look at how green businesses operate on the official EAST BAY GREEN TOUR brought to you by Rasa Travel. Join us on the EAST BAY GREEN TOURS to meet and experience the owners and operators of the groups and businesses that drive the global green economy. These one and two-day flagship tours are engaging and entertaining, profiling a panorama of innovative green certified businesses: restaurants, housing, service providers, entertainment, manufacturing and many more! Gain inspiring insights into how businesses think green and succeed! Seating is limited. Call for details marissa@studiorasa.org or 510-704-0379.
Through November 17

Home: Lead-Safety for Remodeling, Repair & Painting of Older Homes Workshop
HUD and EPA approved one-day course. Recommended for remodelers, renovators, painters and maintenance workers doing painting and minor repairs. Register by phone or download registration form from website. Free to owners (and their employed maintenance crews) of residential properties built before 1978 in Alameda, Berkeley, Emeryville or Oakland. Class fee for all others is $130.
November 12, 8am - 5pm.
Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Main Office, 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland.

Play: Green Rheem Film Night: "Dead in the Water"
There is a problem with the world's water supply. One in four people on earth don't have access to clean drinking water. In conjunction with other Lamorinda community organizations, we are proud to announce the second "Green Rheem" film night. A $14 ticket (purchased online) includes wine tasting and appetizers in the lobby starting at 6pm, followed by the documentary "Dead in the Water" at 7pm (88 minutes).
November 13, 6 - 8:30 pm
Rheem Theater in Moraga

Play: Walnut Creek on Ice
Walnut Creek on Ice returns for a fourth season with a new location in Civic Park. The ice rink will be located in the Clay Arts parking lot along Civic Drive - same size rink, new memories to make. Our magical wonderland moves just a little North to make room for the new library.
November 13 – January 25
Walnut Creek On Ice, 1313 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA

Live: Benefit Talk: Building a Green Economy: Indigenous Strategies for a Sustainable Future
Winona LaDuke (Mississippi Band of Anishinaabeg) is the Founding Director of White Earth Land Recovery Project and Executive Director of Honor the Earth, where she works on a national level to advocate, raise public support, and create funding for frontline Native environmental groups. She has written extensively on Native American and environmental issues - her books include Recovering the Sacred: The Power of Naming and Claiming and All Our Relations: Native Struggles for Land and Life. This event benefits the work of Speak Out and Honor the Earth. Cost: $10-$15 general; $5 youth 17 and under; $75 reception with Ms. LaDuke (includes ticket to lecture, prime seating, signed copy of All Our Relations, and Dessert Reception following the lecture). Call 510-601-0182, info@speakoutnow.org for more information.
November 14, 7pm.
First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison St, @ 27th St., Oakland.

Play: 1st Annual Holiday Gratitude Art Faire
Fabulous Art & Crafts, Music, Kids Art Table. Special offerings by Bridgeside Merchants. Stroll by the tranquil water side.
Find holiday gifts and something for yourself too, you deserve it!
November 15, 10-5pm
Bridgeside Shopping Center, 2671 Blanding Ave, Alameda
*View the coupon

Live: Friends of the Albany Library Book Sale
Shop 3 areas of books at this great sale. The large Community Room will be packed with vintage and collectible books, all reasonably priced and great for holiday giving. 50 cent items will be sold in the smaller room, and weather permitting, magazines and library discards will be sold outside. The sale continues on Sunday, starting at 11am.
November 15, 10am-4pm
Community Center – Hall, Albany

Go: Baxter Creek Work Party
Lend a hand to restore Baxter Creek and Watershed.
November 15, 9:30am-12:30 pm
Meet at Gateway Park, Ohlone Greenway, between Key Blvd & San Pablo Ave near McDonald Ave, El Cerrito

Eat: HARVEST FEAST Cooking Class: THANKSGIVING FOR THE BIRDS
Join Compassionate Cooks as we celebrate the abundance of the harvest by featuring a fabulous menu for a compassionate Thanksgiving dinner that will leave guests satisfied and grateful. We serve special beverages and enjoy the meal together for this special class. The cost is $55, plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class. Register online or mail a check to Compassionate Cooks, P.O. Box 18512 Oakland, CA 94619. DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: Thursday, November 13th
November 15, 10am-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro.

Eat: Walnut Creek Farmers' Market
Cooking demonstrations, live music, clowns, and John Muir Women's Health Center will be featured. Validated parking will be available in the North Locust Garage next to the Lester Center for the Arts. What's In Season for Sept: Apples, Dill, Lettuces, Mushrooms, Oranges, Parsley, Potatoes, Raisins, Spinach.
November 16
N. Locust St., Walnut Creek, CA

Home: "Residential Green Building and Remodeling" workshop
Learn about healthier building materials, how to lower your utility bills, reduce home maintenance, and minimize remodeling construction waste. Local architect Greg Van Mechelen will present ways to incorporate green building materials and methods into your home remodeling and improvement projects. Also includes exposure to a variety of alternative and mainstream materials. Cost: $85.
November 16, 10am - 5pm.
Building Education Center, 812 Page St, (at 6th St.), Berkeley

Eat: Micio Mambo Special Event
Join Micio Mambo in welcoming cookbook author and cooking instructor Colleen Patrick-Goudreau of Compassionate Cooks as she provides guidance and goodies for enjoying a vegetarian Thanksgiving! Come with your questions and leave with everything you need to know about the history of Thanksgiving, about creating a beautiful harvest centerpiece, and about treating family and friends to traditional autumnal desserts. Enter a drawing to win a cookbook, a cooking class gift certificate, a Micio Mambo T-shirt or a Micio Mambo gift bag. Receive 10% off any purchase made that day (excluding sale or skincare items). And, a special donation will be made to Farm Sanctuary!
November 16, 3pm
Micio Mambo, Oakland
*View the Micio Mambo coupon
*View the Compassionate Cooks coupon

Eat, Play: Cornucopia: West Berkeley Arts Festival
Hosted by Black Pine Circle School. Cornucopia is FREE and open to the public. Fall family fun including New Style Motherlode (hip-hop dance), Global Gumbo (African music), Charlie Chin (storytelling) and homegrown bluegrass, rock n’ roll acts and more. Festival attractions including a climbing wall and dunk tank, an eco “Green Zone”, craft vendors, make and take crafts, delicious food and beer garden.
November 16, 10:00am-4:00pm
2016 7th Street, Berkeley (located one block from the I-80 University Ave. exit).

Home: Greening the Plumbing in Your Home and Business [Register]
In this seminar, we will discuss the importance of the water-energy connection--roughly 19% of the state's electricity, 33% of natural gas, and a bunch of diesel is used to move, treat, pressurize, or heat water. Attendees will learn how to heat and deliver hot water most efficiently for both new construction and retrofit. We will also show you how to deliver hot water to every fixture, wasting no more than 1 cup while waiting no more than 5 seconds. For builders, plumbers, architects or anyone interested in improving water efficiencies.
November 17, 9:00am -4:30 pm
150 Frank Ogawa Plaza , Lionel J Wilson Bldg, Oakland

Home: Solar PPA Workshop
An educational workshop on solar power purchase agreements (PPAs). Power Purchase Agreements are a new way to purchase solar where you don't have to buy the panels - you just commit to a monthly charge for the electricity coming from your roof. After an upfront cost, your combined monthly payment is less than before. Main speaker will be Robert Frehling, an energy expert, who helped develop the first generation of PPAs. His talk will be followed by a specific success story.
November 20, 7 - 8:30pm
Location TBD. Please send an email to info@sustainablelafayette.net to RSVP.

Eat: Green Gathering V + Sustainability Summit: Celebrating Our Local Climate
The Ecology Center and the City of Berkeley are combining the third annual Berkeley Sustainability Summit with the Green Gathering. Food from local green caterers, a wealth of interesting speakers and topics, and the opportunity to network with leaders in the local sustainability movement. Judy Wicks, Keynote Speaker (Co-founder of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies). Josh Kornbluth, Master of Ceremonies (Berkeley Energy Commissioner and Host of the Josh Kornbluth Show). Green Caterers: Back to Earth, Bread Workshop, Bancroft Catering. Purchase tickets online-$35. Info: 510-548-2220 ext. 222, amy@ecologycenter.org,
November 20, 4pm - 8pm.
Bancroft Hotel, 2680 Bancroft Way, Great Hall, Berkeley
*View the Ecology Center coupon

Eat: 29th Annual Thanksgiving Community Breakfast
Presented by the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce.
November 21
Temple Isaiah Synagogue, 3800 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette

Go: Day 2 Oakland: Bicycle Safety Class–FREE to the Public
Day 2: Street Skills Class
6-hour on-road course provides an opportunity to put into practice what was learned in the Day 1 Street Skills class, including emergency maneuvers and riding in various traffic conditions, to test your knowledge of vehicular cycling skills. Bicycle required for Day Two, completion of Day 1 class required.
November 22, 10am-4pm
Main Conference Room, Joseph P. Bort MetroCenter, 101 8th Street at Oak, Oakland (at Lake Merritt BART)

Home: Greywater Design and Installation
This is a three-part workshop: Information on the most common, low-tech, low-cost, effective, residential greywater systems. Help with planning a system for your own home. Then, we'll move into the design for the system we'll be building on the site. We'll reroute the water from the washing machine to irrigate fruit trees, bushes and large perennial plants. Activities will involve digging, measuring, cutting pipes, observing, and more! Workshops tend to fill up quickly, so if you're interested register ASAP. Pre-register by email - laura@greywaterguerrillas.com.
November 22, 2008
Berkeley

GO: Aquatic Park Walking Tour
Hike along Berkeley’s original bay shoreline where civic leaders, bolstered by federal WPA funding in the 1930s, created an elegant regional destination for aquatic recreation. The City’s largest municipal park is more widely known today for shorebirds and kayaks than for the sailboats and model yachts of yore, but remnants of the past blend well with more recent recreational facilities. About 2 1/2 level miles. Led by Mark Lioilos. Members $8; Non-members. BHS members season pass $30. Call for reservation; (510) 848-0181.
November 22, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Aquatic Park, Berkeley

Home: Keep Green with Untapped Water
It is environmentally responsible to cut water use but we don't want to restrict our lives or kill our gardens. Learn how to limit water use, use greywater and rain water to lower your water bill and keep your plants alive in the coming era of water shortages. Cost: $40.
November 23, 10am - 1pm
Building Education Center, 812 Page St., (@ 6th St.), Berkeley.

Eat: South Berkeley Fresh Produce Stand
Fresh, organic and pesticide-free fruits and vegetables from local farmers, at low prices, every Tuesday! A project of Spiral Gardens Community Food Security Project.
November 25 (and every Tuesday), 3pm - 7pm
Spiral Gardens, 2830 Sacramento, at Oregon, Berkeley
*View the Spiral Gardens coupon

Go: 16th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk
This fun, family tradition starts at Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Club. The 5K starts at 8am, sharp, with prizes for the top winner and raffles for participants. Everyone receives a goody bag and t-shirt. Free childcare is included during the race, with face painting, kids bounce house and turkey temporary tattoos. A Kids Fun Run starts at approximately 9am for children ages 2 - 10. Fees apply for Turkey Trot and Kids Fun Run, with part of proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).
November 27, 8-10:30am
Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Club, 1908 Olympic Blvd, Walnut Creek

Live: One Warm Coat Drive
The One Warm Coat program encourages supporters to pass along new and used coats to benefit those in need. Coats will be collected in The Concierge at Broadway Plaza.
November 28 – December 31
Broadway Plaza, S. Main Street & Mt. Diablo Blvd, Walnut Creek

Eat: Mandela Farmers' Market (Indoors for the Winter)
EVERY SATURDAY! Affordable fresh produce, compost and plant starts, ethnic foods and music, cooking demonstrations, local arts and crafts. This is one project of a collaborative effort by organizations, residents and agencies to support small, local farmers and increase health and nutrition in West Oakland.
November 29, 10am - 3pm
Mandela Farmers' Market, 7th St, @ Mandela Pkwy, Oakland

Go: Biodiesel 101 Presentation
The Berkeley Biodiesel Collective holds monthly introductory presentations on the first Monday of (almost) every month at the BioFuel Oasis. 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.
December 1, 7:30pm
BioFuel Oasis, 2465 4th St., at Dwight Way, Berkeley.

Home: Class: "Succulent Wreath-Making"
Create a gorgeous succulent wreath at this year's new holiday event. Enjoy your wreath all year round. You'll select among a variety of succulents and be guided on how to plant and care for your wreaths. Led by Garden staff and volunteers. Register by phone - 510-643-2755 ext. 03. Cost: $60, $50 members.
December 3, 7pm - 9pm.
UC Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr., Berkeley.

Live: Presentation: Cool Cuisine: Taking the Bite out of Global Warming
Come and hear San Francisco Bay Area chef Laura Stec with Dr. Eugene Cordero, Ph.D, San José State University Professor of Meteorology, discuss the findings of their book. Cool Cuisine addresses why global warming could be the best thing to happen to the culinary world in a long time, and reports on innovative science, business, and savory solutions to the Global Warming Diet. The class and the book embark on an exploration that feeds mind and mouth with art, science, food lore, culinary tips and recipes on how to cook a global cool cuisine. Presentation includes show-and-tell displays (salt taste test, tap water vs. bottled water taste test, whole grain selection, oily water bottle display, shady coffee and chocolate explanation) and mini culinary "how-to" class (see www.globalwarmingdiet.org).
December 4, 7pm - 9pm.
Ecology Center, 2530 San Pablo Ave, near Dwight Way, Berkeley
*View the Ecology Center coupon

Home: Lead-Safety for Remodeling, Repair & Painting of Older Homes
HUD and EPA approved one-day course. Recommended for remodelers, renovators, painters and maintenance workers doing painting and minor repairs. This class leads to a Notice of Completion in training for lead-safe work practices and meets the minimum training requirements for individuals performing certain activities in federally assisted housing, including Section 8. Register by phone or download registration form from website. Visit the website or call 510-567-8280, for cost and more information.
December 6, 8am - 5pm.
Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Main Office, 2000 Embarcadero, #300, Oakland

Eat: HEALTHFUL & HUMANE HOLIDAY COOKING & BAKING
In our class, we focus on delicious recipes perfect for holiday dining and entertaining. On the menu: Warm Lentil Salad; Pan-Grilled Portabello Mushrooms with Fresh Herb Marinade; Purple Potatoes with Cashew Cream and Toasted Sage and Walnuts; Decadent Chocolate Truffles; Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. The cost is $55, plus $5 food/materials fee due on day of class. Register online or mail a check to Compassionate Cooks P.O. Box 18512 Oakland, CA 94619. DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: Thursday, December 11.
December 13, 10am-1pm
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 14th St. at Castro.
*View the Compassionate Cooks coupon

Home: The Crucible's Annual Holiday Gift Art Sale & Open House
Over 60 Bay Area artisans display their handcrafted wares in our massive indoor studio space amid family-friendly activities, an art show, astounding performances, food and fun for all ages.
December 13 - December 14, 10am - 4pm
The Crucible, 1260 Seventh Street, Oakland
*View the Crucible coupon

Eat: EcoHouse 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! Please call to register - 510-548-2220 ext. 242. Cost -$15 sliding scale: no one turned away for lack of funds.
December 14, 10am - 2pm.
EcoHouse, 1305 Hopkins St., (enter via garden entrance on Peralta), Berkeley
*View the Ecology Center coupon More...

Parents heading out on Halloween with children can do more than just chaperon the candy raids. The site Green Halloween suggests taking along your own reusable bag and offering to collect old cell phones from the neighbors you visit. Not only will you prevent e-waste from reaching the landfill, but you can then send the phones free of charge to the Good Deed Foundation. The phones are recycled and fund programs supporting women and children in poverty.

See Green Halloween for additional ideas, or use our listings for Organic, Fair Trade, and local chocolate for yourself or costumed visitors.

OCTOBER EcoMetro Local Green Events

EAT Tea Tasting (Nutrition)
Explore the healing benefits and medicinal properties of tea. Each week there will be a new discovery - from the familiar to the rare and exotic!
October 10, 3-4pm    
Elephant Pharm, Berkeley

PLAY Harvest Festival at Ardenwood
It's harvest time on the farm! Bring your family and join your friends for some down home country fun. Harvest the Indian corn and popcorn and help fill our corncribs. Take home a share of our colorful corn for your holiday table. Please bring your own bags to take home your harvest. Enjoy magic shows, cider pressing, old-time music and crafts. Visit the blacksmith, ride the horse-drawn train and tour the beautiful Patterson House.
October 11 - 12, 10am–5pm
Ardenwood Historic Farm, Fremont

HOME HERBDAY
Learn the history of the Garden’s Herb collections, including the Garden’s most distinctive ethnobotanical collection on this tour through the Chinese Medicinal Herb Garden and Herb garden with
Horticulturist Elaine Sedlack. Cost - $15, $12 members.
October 11, 10am-12pm
University of California Botanical Garden, 200 Centennial Dr. Berkeley

EAT, LIVE Fall Fruit Tasting & Pow Wow
The best local organic farmers and prepared food vendors plus the Saturday Berkeley Farmers’ Market annual FALL FRUIT TASTING and the annual Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow & Indian Market. Free. Open to the Public.
October 11,
Fall Fruit Tasting - 10am-3pm
Saturday Berkeley Farmers’ Market, Center St. at Martin Luther King, Jr. Way
Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow & Indian Market - 10am-6pm
Civic Center Park (adjacent to the Berkeley Farmers’ Market)

HOME Solar Power Basics for Residential Customers [Register]
Is solar electricity right for you? 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. This is not an advanced class. This short overview is for residential customers interested in learning the fundamentals of solar power for small grid-tied systems.
October 11, 10am-12pm
Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard Street, San Francisco

GO Step Out - Walk to Fight Diabetes
Step Out is a whirlwind day packed with energy, fun, support for others and a perfect amount of selfless dedication. Anyone can take part in Step Out—your participation isn't measured by your dexterity or the speed you walk, but by the level of your enthusiasm and your commitment to ending diabetes. Step Out To Fight Diabetes while strolling the streets of beautiful downtown Walnut Creek. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, great lunch, health fair, and kid zone.
October 12, Registration Opens: 8:30am/Event Start Time: 9:30am.
Civic Park - Civic Drive, Walnut Creek

EAT Annual Fall Fruit Tasting
All of our usual wonderful farmers and prepared food vendors plus
our annual Fall Fruit Tasting. Free. Open to the Public
October 14, 2-7pm
Tuesday Berkeley Farmers" Market, Derby St. at MLK, Jr. Way, Berkeley

LIVE Homeopathic First Aid (Holistic Health)
This class covers all the basics of using homeopathic remedies for First-Aid. Get your household prepared - naturally!
October 16, 7:30-8:30pm    
Elephant Pharm, Berkeley

LIVE Volunteer: Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden
Help in one of Berkeley Youth Alternatives' two gardens. Tasks may include weeding, bed preparation, sowing, transplanting, and harvesting. Meet at the main garden. For more information call 510-647-0709 or visit the website.
October 17, 10am-1pm.
Berkeley Youth Alternatives Garden, Bancroft Way, between Bonar and West, Berkeley. More...

*Featured Event: EcoMetro 2009 Launch Party / Green Business Recognition Event / East Bay Green Drinks
Green Business Community - Please Join Us for Green Drinks! Sponsored by EcoMetro Guide, Green Business Program, Sustainable Business Alliance, and East Bay Green Drinks. No cost to attend, but you must RSVP online!
September 17, 5:30-8:30pm
Bancroft Hotel, 2680 Bancroft Way, Great Hall, Berkeley.

PLAY:  "The Will Rogers Follies"
Diablo Light Opera Company kicks off their 50th anniversary with "The Will Rogers Follies". Performances will take place the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.
Runs until September 17, See ticket information for times.
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek

EAT LIVE PLAY: Berkeley Farmers' Market String Band Contest & Crafts Fair
Twenty high-spirited old-time string bands will compete for agricultural prizes in the Berkeley Farmers" Market String Band Contest plus a ’half time’ show by The Brandy Snifters and a Crafts Fair.
September 13, 10-4pm
Berkeley Farmers Market, 2530 San Pablo Avenue

PLAY: Chabot Space & Science Center 125th Anniversary Gala
Travel through a galaxy of foods and beverages, dance to live music, explore interactive exhibits, enjoy special performances, participate in games, hands-on activities, scientific discoveries, and view the heavens through our incredible telescopes while helping support Chabot's educational programs. See website for prices and information.
September 13, 6pm-10:30pm

EAT: Elephant Pharm Berkeley Class - Organic Harvest: Celebrating Organic Wines
Join Michelle L’Don with Organic Vintners as she presents numerous wines made with organic grapes and shares delicious harvest recipes that compliment each wine.
September 17, 5-6pm
Elephant Pharm Berkeley, 1607 Shattuck Ave.

LIVE: The Art of Sustainability Series
In this six-part series, visual artists, package designers, landscape architects, interior designers, those working in the emerging field of sustainable design, and others offer their visions of sustainable practices—and ways all of us can incorporate sustainability in our professional and personal lives. Please call (510) 642-4111 to reserve a space. Free.
UC Berkeley Extension, South of Market Center, 95 Third St.
September 16: Seeing the Land: Two Contemporary Napa Landscapes
September 20: Zooming in to Zero Energy
September 25: The Eco-Art of Lita Albuquerque
September 27: Overcoming Inertia with Green Design More...

EcoMetro Green Events

Play: Fiber Art & Textiles from the National Institute of Art & Disabilities
"Fiber Art and Textiles" from the National Institute of Art and Disabilities is open at the Addison Street Windows. The exhibit takes place while NIAD is celebrating 25 years of creativity, promoting independence, dignity, and community integration for people with developmental and other disabilities. The exhibition is on through August 28 and can be viewed 24 hours a day from the sidewalk on Addison Street. It is free and wheelchair accessible. This exhibit features a large selection of fiber arts and textiles created by NIAD artists, including quilts, weaving, custom embroidered t-shirts, bags, silk scarves, and sculpture. The fiber works are made from a variety of materials including yarn, donated cloth and clothing.
Through August 28
Addison Street Windows Gallery, Berkeley

Play: Camping Out Week
Camping Out Week at Habitot Children’s Museum. See a terrarium of live crickets at the “nighttime crickets” table near Water Works. Create a take-home, glow-in-the-dark cricket using cloths pins, special glow-in-the-dark paints and stickers. Listen to stories about camping and the outdoors around our tent and pretend "campfire" outside the Infant Toddler Garden.
August 15-16, 12pm-12:30pm daily.
Habitot Children’s Museum
*See the 2009 Chinook Book for a new coupon!

Play: Starlight Movie in the Park
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial - Bring the whole family out for some nighttime fun! This FREE event will take place at the Alameda Point Multi-Purpose Field. Bring your chairs, blankets and a picnic meal for dining on the field. You may also pre-order a box meal through A.R.P.D. and pick it up at the movie. Visit the website for information on what you should bring or leave home. Refreshments and snack foods will be sold throughout the movie. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Reserve your spot - Space is limited! Call (510) 747-7529, or register at arpdeplay.com. Walk up registrations will be accepted that evening until spaces are filled.
August 15, field open at 6:30pm, pre-show festivities begin at 7:30pm, Movie begins around 8:15pm.
Alameda Point Multi-Purpose Field

Live: E-Waste Recycling Event -- Alameda
Electronic Equipment / Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Accepted: Televisions Monitors; Computer systems; Copy machines; Fax Machines; Printers; MP3 Players; Scanners; Video Game Consoles; Video Games; Cellular Phones (batteries can be included); Household phones; Stereo Equipment; Miscellaneous wiring; CD's (players and discs); DVD's (players and discs); Computer components (i.e. keyboards, mice, internet devices etc.). Universal Waste Management, Inc. does not accept household appliances at recycling events. Download the State E-Waste verification form from website and fill it out before you visit this event. For more information call 888-832-9839, or visit here.
August 15- 16, 9am - 3pm.
Alameda Towne Centre, 523 South Shore Ctr. West, Alameda.

Play: The Will Rogers Follies
Diablo Light Opera Company kicks off their 50th anniversary with "The Will Rogers Follies". Performances will take place the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. For more information visit the website.
August 19-September 17
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek
(New coupon for 2009)

Play: Sunday Family Hikes
Earth and sky unite in an outing that is out of this world. High in the hills of Oakland, hike the redwood- laced trails to hidden, historic sites led by a naturalist from the East Bay Parks District. Experience the ecosystem walking through the beautiful, shady paths of the Redwood Regional Park near Chabot Space & Science Center. For 8-yr-olds and up “Redwoods to Cosmos” 9-11am. For 5-yr-olds and up “Little Tike Hike” 1:30p-2:30pm
August 24, 9-11am or 1:30p-2:30pm
Chabot Space & Science Center
*View coupon for Chabot Space & Science Center

Play: 8th Annual Comcast Art & Soul Festival
Enjoy 3 sensational days of music, food, fun and art in beautiful downtown Oakland during the 8th Annual Comcast Art & Soul Festival.  Six concert stages will be packed with an eclectic all-star lineup of 60 national recording artists and hot Bay Area bands to please every musical taste. Bring the entire family. Kids will love the Family Fun Zone with rides, hands-on activities, entertainment and special performances. Plus admission is free for kids 12 and under!
Stroll the Global Artisan Marketplace for great art and unique gifts to take home. Sample gourmet food, wine and chocolate at Oakland's Own Expo highlighting Oakland's many celebrated food producers.
August 30 - September 1, 11am-6pm
Downtown Oakland More...