Rosy Chu's 'Bay Area People'

July 12, 2008

Air Quality

Since June, over 1700 fires have burned through California. Smoke has been choking the Bay Area and health alerts have advised people to stay inside due to poor air quality. How is the air quality affecting us and what can people do to stay safe for the summer? As we begin to see the air we breathe due to smoke from wildfires, we need to be cautious about participating in outside activities. The American Lung Association advises us to be aware of smoke in the area and to check online for air quality announcements.

American Lung Association of California
510.638.LUNG
HelpLine
1.800.586.4872
http://www.www.californialung.org
http://www.sparetheair.org

My New Red Shoes

My New Red Shoes is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide new shoes and clothing to low income and homeless children so that they can begin their new school year feeling confident and good about themselves. Already preparing for this new school year, volunteers are collecting, packing and sending out shoes to children who need them most. The organization is looking for volunteers to help pack 1,500 bags for children on Saturday July 19, 2008.

Pack With Pride Volunteer Day
July 19, 9am – 12Noon/12Noon-3pm
Haven House Family Shelter
260 Van Buren Rd.
Menlo Park, 6500462-8411

My New Red Shoes
Menlo Park
650.539.5454
http://www.mynewredshoes.org

Children’s Health Council’s 49th Annual Summer Symphony

It’s that time of year again to sit out under the stars and enjoy the Children’s Health Council’s 49th Annual Summer Symphony Fundraiser featuring award-winning Kenny Loggins. The Health Council benefits thousands of children and families each year by providing programs and services for emotional and developmentally challenged children.. It’s not too late to help support the Children’s Health Council in their efforts.

Children’s Health Council’s 49th Annual Summer Symphony
Kenny Loggins Live in Concert
July 20, 6 PM
Frost Amphitheatre
Stanford University July 20
http://www.summersymphony.org

July 5, 2008

Save Our Young

Save Our Young (S.O.Y) is a non-profit which offers food services training to today's youth. Their focus is on youths 15-25 years old who need positive modeling. S.O.Y they teaches skills that will last a lifetime and can be used both personally and professionally. Their program assists in building self confidence while developing a good work ethic and motivation toward success.

Once they have completed the three month program, they start a chef in training internship, where every student gets the opportunity to showcase the skills they have just learned in a live restaurant environment. This gives them the experience they need and helps build their resumes for future job opportunities.

Save Our Young
Hayward, CA 94544
http://www.dmsoyinc.org

ARF

For a limited time Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a opportunity to adopt cats with application fees being waived from now through July 13th. ARF saves the lives of beautiful dogs and cats that have run out of time at public shelters. The foundation currently has over 130 cats and kittens looking for a loving family. Make room in your home to adopt a cat or kitten.

Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation
2890 Mitchell Drive
Walnut Creek
925-256-1ARF
http://www.arf.net

June 28, 2008

American Red Cross

Each year, the American Red Cross responds immediately to more than 70,000 disasters, including house or apartment fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes and other natural and man-made disasters. When a disaster threatens or strikes, the Red Cross provides shelter, food, and health and mental health services to address basic human needs. In 1905, the U.S. Congress chartered the Red Cross with the responsibility of responding to disasters and although it works in concert with FEMA, it is not funded by the government and they rely solely on donations through The National Disaster Relief Fund.

American Red Cross
National Disaster Relief Fund
To Donate:
1-800-435-7669
http://www.redcross.org

American Red Cross
For Blood Donations:
1-800-GIVE LIFE:
http://www.givelife.org

Oakland Heritage Alliance, Summer Walking Tours

There is so much history right here at our home in the Bay Area, but we rarely get the chance to appreciate it. The best way to learn about these historical sites is to go out and see them for ourselves. The Oakland Heritage Alliance offers twenty-two Summer Walking Tours which features Oakland neighborhoods and landmarks. Tours take place from July through September.

Oakland Heritage Alliance
446 17th Street, Suite 301
Oakland, CA 94612
510-763-9218
http://www.oaklandheritage.org

The Randall Museum

For those animals that are not able to survive on their own in the wild, the Randall Museum offers them a safe haven. Children have a chance to get up close to some of these wild animals every Saturday at the “Meet the Animals” program. And through November 1st, the museum will be presenting a new interactive exhibit exploring San Francisco’s wildlife in a program called, “Wild in the City”.

Randall Museum
199 Museum Way
San Francisco
Admission is Free
415-554-9600
http://www.randallmuseum.org

June 21, 2008

Water Conservation

Californians have been asked to cut back on their water consumption as the state is experiencing its driest year in 75 years. On June 4, 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger declared a state wide drought and has asked Californians to cut as much as 20% of water use. Local Bay Area water utility districts have implemented mandatory or voluntary rationing, based upon local water availability. EBMUD customers have been under mandatory water rationing of 19% since May 19.

East Bay Municipal Utility District
http://www.ebmud.com/

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus is firmly established in the Bay Area and already dead birds with West Nile have been found. The disease is passed on via mosquito bites and prevention of the spread of this disease includes the elimination of standing pools of water where mosquitoes breed. With the current housing and foreclosure situation, many homes have un-kept backyard swimming pools where thousands of mosquitoes can breed. It is important to report any abandoned swimming pools to the Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District, or the control district in your county.

Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District
Concord
925-685-9301
www.ccmvcd.dst.ca.us

Dead Bird Hotline
California Department of Public Health
877-WNV-BIRD
www.westnile.ca.gov

CAL-PEP Presents: Black Men’s Health Fair

California Prevention and Education Project (CAL-PEP) is a non-profit organization that specializes in HIV and AIDS prevention and education. Due to a state of emergency regarding HIV infections among African-Americans in Alameda County, CAL-PEP is sponsoring a “Black Men’s Health Fair” on Saturday, July 5, 2008. It will be a day of free HIV testing (oral sample only, no needles), health screenings, food, raffles, LIVE music and a DJ to motivate African-American men to get tested and to know their HIV status.

CAL-PEP
Black Men’s Health Fair
Mosswood Park, July 5
510-874-7850 x132
www.BruthasProject.com

June 14, 2008

1868 Hayward Earthquake and Hayward Fault Line

Seismologists have been warning the Bay Area that the next big earthquake will occur on the Hayward fault line and will be 6.8 or greater in magnitude. One reason they know that the Hayward fault will go is that October 21, 2008 will mark the 140th anniversary of the 1868 Hayward earthquake, which was the first great “San Francisco earthquake” and one of the most damaging earthquakes in the nation's history.

The Hayward fault has not had a major shake since 1868 and experts know that the history of this fault shows that a major quake will occur, on average, every 140 years. The Hayward fault is about 40 miles long stretching from the San Pablo Bay down to Milpitas. A repeat of the 1868 earthquake today would affect property worth more than $500 billion and approximately 200,000-300,000 people will be homeless.

For Hayward Earthquake Information
http://earthquake.usgs.gov

1868 Hayward Earthquake Alliance
http://1868alliance.org

“Did You Feel It”
http://earthquake.usgs.gov

Earthquake Safety Kits

Less than 7% of us will be ready for the next big quake, so getting prepared with proper safety kits should be high on everyone’s agenda. It’s recommended that we have a survival kit in the car, at work as well as for the home. You can create your own survival kit or purchase one already made and ready for use. Remember, you and your family should plan on surviving on your own for at least 72 hours before emergency responders may reach you.

A storefront business called “Your Safety Place” in Dublin not only has survival kits for purchase, but they also offer free seminars and information on earthquake safety.

Your Safety Place
7197 Village Parkway
Dublin, CA 94568
925-829-0350
www.yoursafetyplace.com

May 31, 2008

David Roche

Having been born with a facial disfigurement has lead motivational speaker, David Roche, to inspire audiences all over the world. David has transformed the challenges and gifts of living with a disability into a compelling message and heroic journey for others. Today, David is encouraging others to attend the International Film Festival in Berkeley to celebrate diversity.

David Roche
www.davidroche.com

International Disability Film Festival
June 20-22
Gaia Arts Center
Berkeley, CA
www.culturedisabilitytalent.org

Oakland Neighborhood Summit

The Neighborhood Services Division (NSD), a part of the Oakland Police Department, helped initiate the Oakland Neighborhood Summit in the early 90’s. Since the 2005 Summit, the number of registered members has doubled and has also been able to offer more workshops in English, Spanish, and Cantonese. The NSD wants to encourage everyone to attend the 2008 “My Block, My Community, and My Responsibility” Summit. The summit offers several specific workshops that will teach us all how to build and protect city of Oakland.

Oakland Neighborhood Summit
Laney College
May 31, 8AM – 3PM
www.oaklandnet.com

Neighborhood Services Division
Oakland Police Department
510-238-7159

May 24, 2008

Mission High School
Mission High School is thrilled that 33 of their students have been accepted into UC Berkeley’s Summer Academic Talent Development Program (ATDP). These students may be children of immigrant families, or a member of an ethnic minority, but all are from poor to low income economic backgrounds. They are not the kind of students to graduate from high school nor to go on to college. These students need to raise money for their tuition fee in order to attend the ATDP summer program, so on May 30th, Mission High invites everyone to attend “Futuro Sin Fronteras”, an evening filled with performances, music, and dancing. This fundraising event will also help to pay for supplies, books and transportation costs.

Mission High School
“Futuro Sin Fronteras”
El Rincon Mexi-Cuban Club
May 30, 9PM
415-241-6240

ID Theft
Identity theft is an ever-increasing phenomenon that not only affects companies all over the world, but more importantly, it affects us and our friends & families. The President of Cryptography Research explains what ID theft is and how individuals can prevent ID theft from happening to them.

Cryptography Research
San Francisco
415-397-0123
www.cryptography.com

“Binge Drinking”
An alarming 40% of college students and kids as young as 12 years old binge drink. The Solano County Office of Education in association with Time Line Media Productions has created an educational documentary entitled, “Binge Drinking: The Rite of Passage,” which focuses on the dangers of underage drinking particularly among high school students. The documentary will be available to school districts throughout California.

Binge Drinking:
Rite of Passage
Premiere: May 28
Benicia High School Theatre
707-421-6565
www.solanocoe.net

May 3, 2008

Solar Energy Challenge
Thanks to a unique challenge to Silicon Valley solar installers, solar panels on your rooftop may be affordable. San Jose Major Chuck Reed challenged solar installers to come up with a plan that would make solar paneling affordable for homeowners. SolarCity stepped up to Mayor Reeds challenge and is offering a special 2 month promotion on the leasing of solar panels for all residents of Northern Cailfornia at a savings of several thousand dollars. Deadline to apply is end of early July 2008.

SolarCity
Foster City, CA 94404
888-SOL-CITY

City of San Jose
Office of Economic Development
San Jose, CA 95113-1905

Fighting Asthma
African Americans have a 30% higher chance of developing asthma over the general population. Later this week, the City of Oakland and heath and policy experts will meet for the “End the Asthma Attacks Now” Summit, specifically aimed at the African American community. Pediatrician, Dr. Michael Lenoir and Chairman of the Summit joins the show to discuss this new epidemic.

ETA NOW Summit
May 6, 8 AM – 1 PM
The Claremont Hotel
Berkeley
www.asthmacontrol.com

BOSS’ 35TH Anniversary
BOSS, Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency, is celebrating 35 years of fighting homelessness and the public is invited to join in on the festivities. BOSS has been at the forefront in helping to get people off the streets and into stable lives with housing and jobs.

BOSS
Berkeley
510-649-1931
www.selfsufficiency.org

BOSS 35th Anniversary
May 8, 6 PM – 9 PM
Hs Lordships, Berkeley

April 26, 2008

SF Community
SF Community Power is a non-profit organization that creates innovative programs in order to improve our local environmental and economic conditions. In preparation for this coming summer, SF Community Power has partnered with PG&E in offering programs that will help Bay Area residents and businesses save energy as well as money.

SF Community Power
415-626-8723
Email: info@sfpower.org
www.sfpower.org

“Dogs Are Talking"
April is STD Awareness month and the SF Department of Public Health STD’s Prevention and Control Unit is urging everyone to take control of their health by getting information and by getting tested. In San Francisco, the number of syphilis cases is especially of concern. “Dogs are Talking” is a campaign specifically targeting the gay, lesbian, transsexual and transgender communities and reminds them that they can help fight San Francisco’s high number of syphilis cases through STD testing.

“Dogs Are Talking"
FREE STD Testing
April 27, SF
www.dogsaretalking.com
www.sfcityclinic.org

Hopalong Animal Rescue
Kitten season has begun and Hopalong Animal Rescue Foundation already has a large number of kittens available for foster care and adoption. They also have Paul, who is black Labrador-mix. rescued from a residence in Nevada along with 40 other dogs.

Hopalong Animal Rescue
Oakland
510-267-1915
www.hopalong.org

April 19, 2008

Elephants
The Oakland Zoo’s 12th Annual “Celebrating Elephants” event is coming up on May 3, which will include an animal free circus performance. One year ago, we met Donna, an African Elephant at the Oakland Zoo. Today, Stanford Professor, Dr. Caitlin O'Connell-Rodwell and Oakland Zoo Curator, Colleen Kinzley give us an update on their continuing studies of how African Elephants, like Donna, communicate with each other and with people.

12th Annual Celebrating Elephants
Oakland Zoo
May 3, 10 am – 3 pm
May 9, 6 pm – 9 pm
www.oaklandzoo.org

Utopia Scientific
www.utopiascientific.org

Vamos a Nadar (Let’s Go Swimming)
Vamos a Nadar was developed to address the disproportionate drowning rate of Latino residents within the past several years of Sonoma County. This month, Vamos a Nadar is offering a free water safety and introductory swimming lesson for children and their parents. Children between the ages of 5-18 years and their parents are welcome to attend and will receive a $15 coupon from the Red Cross to continue on with their swimming lesson.

Vamos a Nadar (Let’s Go Swimming)
6 Locations in Sonoma County
May 3- July 12
707-577-7611
Free admission

The Great Silicon Valley Caper
The Great Silicon Valley Caper is a unique limousine scavenger hunt organized by EMQ Children & Family Services to fund addiction prevention programs in local schools. Proceeds will benefit educational programs for children and families facing unhealthy behavioral choices. The entire event includes delicious dinner, prizes, and a live auction after the scavenger hunt.

The Great Silicon Valley Caper
April 27, 2 pm – 7pm
The Hayes Mansion
San Jose
408-364-4113
www.greatsiliconvalleycaper.org

April 5, 2008

Hollywood Chinese
Often overlooked in Hollywood history is the role of the Chinese in movies. Filmmaker Arthur Dong shares with us the portrayed exoticism of Chinese culture of early films and how those roles have expanded and grown to today’s blockbuster hits. His new documentary, Hollywood Chinese, takes viewers through the history of what the Chinese have accomplished in front and behind the camera lens.

Hollywood Chinese
Directed, Produced & Edited by Arthur Dong
www.deepfocusproductions.com/HollywoodChinese

The Fortune Cookie Chronicles
Author Jennifer 8. Lee wanted to know where fortune cookies came from. But her mission to find the origin of the cookie became a quest for the best Chinese food in the world. She documents her travels in The Fortune Cookies Chronicles, a book of her experiences, Chinese food history, and surprising trivia she learned along the way.

The Fortune Cookie Chronicles
By Jennifer 8. Lee
Published by Twelve
www.twelvebooks.com/books/fortune_cookie.asp

Cherry Blossom Festival
Now in its 41st year, the Cherry Blossom Festival has been a staple of Japanese culture in the Bay Area. The celebration shows off the pride and heritage of Japanese Americans and invites all of Northern California to take part in the festivities, music, and food of Japan.

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival
April 12 & 13, 19 & 20
Japantown, San Francisco
www.nccbf.org

March 29, 2008

"Voices from the Street"
The California Research Bureau commissioned a statewide survey to find out about homeless youth in California. “Voices from the Street: A Survey of Homeless Youth by Their Peers” documented the highly mobile population of homeless youth. Co-author of the survey, Nell Bernstein, discusses survey results. Some of the topics covered in the survey included struggles with food, safety, housing, money, mental health, and education.

“Voices from the Street: A Survey of Homeless Youth by their Peers”
www.library.ca.gov/crb

California Research Bureau
916-653-7653

Larkin Street Youth Services
Working with homeless youth since the mid-1980s, Larkin Street Youth Services have been recognized locally, nationally, and worldwide for its approach in helping youth. Larkin Street provides access to a number of services that can help homeless youth get off the streets, access education, housing and help them into the job market. Executive Director, Sherilyn Adams, joins our panel.

Homeless Youth Helpline
800-447-8223

Larkin Street Youth Services
1138 Sutter Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-673-0911

March 22, 2008

Light Brown Apple Moth
The California Department of Food and Agriculture has identified the Light Brown Apple Moth as a danger to this state’s vegetable and fruit crops. The state wants to eradicate the moth via aerial spraying of a pesticide called pheromone, which has resulted in a very contentious debate about its effect in urban areas and possible side effects on humans. There is debate among experts as to the actual danger the Light Brown Apple Moth may or may not present to California crops and Daniel Harder, Ph.D, Executive Director of The Arboretum at UC Santa Cruz explains.

For a Report of the Light Brown Apple Moth:
www.assembly.ca.gov/laird/pdf/HarderNZReportFinal.pdf

16th & Bryant
During the days of the Pacific Coast League, the San Francisco Seals and the Oakland Oaks caused great excitement among local baseball fans. One particular fan shares his experiences as a bat boy for the Seals and the sights and sounds of working behind-the-scenes with the legendary team and its players. Bill Soto-Castellanos shares his boyhood memories in his new book.

16th and Bryant: My Life and Education With the San Francisco Seals
By Bill Soto-Castellanos
Published by Clubhouse Publishing
Email: leenbill2k2@aol.com

Autism Film Festival
Making its debut this weekend is the Autism Film Festival, an event that focuses on the people and families living with this brain disorder. Started by a parent with an autistic child, the festival hopes to bring more awareness and understanding to the importance of neurological research.

Autism Film Festival
March 28 - 30
Gunn High School
780 Arastradero Road
Palo Alto
sfautismsociety.virtualave.net

March 15, 2008

Earth Hour
Earth Hour is a global event created to bring together a diverse group of communities, corporate and non-governmental organizations to heighten awareness about climate change. On March 29, 2008, between 8-9 PM, World Wildlife Fund is inviting the public to turn their off lights in iconic buildings, businesses, and homes as part of their commitment to finding climate change solutions.

Earth Hour
March 29, 2008 8:00 PM
www.EarthHour.org

World Wildlife Fund
www.worldwildlifefund.org

ADHD & Me
Diagnosed at the age of five with ADHD, Blake Taylor later decided to share his personal story in his book entitled, “ADHD & Me: What I Learned from Lighting Fires at the Dinner Table.” Taylor's book is a manual on how to control the most adverse affects of ADHD, many of which become magnified in adulthood if untreated. It includes advice on how to deal with being unpopular, bullied, isolated, blamed, and disobedient and discriminated against.

ADHD & Me: What I Learned from Lighting Fires at the Dinner Table
Blake E.S. Taylor
New Harbinger Publications

Lowriding
With the tremendous help of the Castellano Family Foundation, the Mexican Heritage Plaza is proud to present the exhibit, “Mi Coche / My Culture -Livin' the Lowrider Lifestyle.” The exhibit will feature art and designs of Chicano subculture including low-rider automobiles from their origins in the 1960's and 1970's. Admission is free and will run from February 28 to June 30, 2008.

“Mi Coche/My Culture: Livin’ the Lowrider Lifestyle”
Mexican Heritage Plaza
Now through June 30
San Jose, CA
408-929-5524

March 8, 2008

Irish Beer
Brewing in Ireland has a long history, and by the beginning of the nineteenth century there were over two hundred breweries in the country. The bar manager at Enrico’s restaurant in San Francisco offers some expert advice about popular stout, lager, and ale.

Irish San Francisco
The Irish have always contributed to a tremendous part of San Francisco’s history. City historian John Garvey along with archaeologist Karen Hanning has gathered more than 200 vintage photographs of the Irish in San Francisco. Their book entitled, Irish San Francisco tell the story of Irish immigrants from the 1840’s to present.

Irish San Francisco
New Arcadia Publishing

Irish Food
Helping kick off St. Patrick’s Day this year is American-style bistro Enrico’s. Co-owner and executive chef, Seamus Cronin, will be celebrating St. Patrick’s weekend by serving traditional Irish dishes such as lamb stew and grilled salmon. He’s also sharing is own personal recipe of Irish Lamb Stew.

Enrico’s
504 Broadway
San Francisco, CA 94133
415-982-6223

Irish Lamb Stew

Ingredients:
8 medium sized potatoes, sliced 1-inch pieces
¼ lb. thickly sliced bacon, diced
3 lbs. boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely chopped
½ cup water
4 cups stock-water or vegetable
2 cups carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large yellow onion, peeled and sliced
1 sprig of rosemary

Instructions:

Using a large frying pan, sauté the bacon. Reserve the fat and the bacon.
In a large mixing bowl place the lamb, salt, pepper, and flour. Toss to coat the meat evenly.
Reheat the frying pan. In batches, toss the meat in the flour to coat evenly, and then brown in the reserved bacon fat. If you run out of fat, use a little oil. Transfer the browned meat to a 5-quart stove top casserole, leaving about 1/4/ cup of fat in the frying pan.
Add the garlic and yellow onion to the pan and sauté until the onion begins to color a bit. Deglaze the frying pan with ½ cup of water and add the garlic-onion mixture to the casserole, along with the reserved bacon pieces, stock, and sugar.
Cover and simmer for 1-1/2 hours, or until tender. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Check for salt and pepper before serving. Top with the parsley garnish before serving.

Yields 6-8 servings

Grilled Fillet of Salmon - with Brussels sprouts and brown butter almonds

Ingredients:
1 6oz. fillet of salmon (skin on)
1 cup of Brussels sprouts
¼ cup sliced almonds
2 tbs. unsalted butter
Salt and pepper
Extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Parsley for garnish

Instructions:
Marinade salmon in lemon juice and oil (12-24 hrs. is ideal). Clean and cut in half Brussels sprouts. Grill salmon on hot grill (4-5 min. each side). In the meantime, heat a saute pan on the stove. Add a little oil and butter, sauté Brussels sprouts for 6-7 minutes. Add the sliced almonds and cook for 2 more minutes. Place the salmon in centre of plate and top with ingredients from pan. Garnish with parsley.

March 1, 2008

V-Day to the Tenth
It has been 10 years since Eve Ensler’s award winning play “The Vagina Monologues” first debuted. V-Day is a worldwide campaign that aims to end violence against women. V stands for Violence, Vagina, and Victory. Bay Area volunteers have collaborated to produce the play with proceeds benefiting Bay Area Women Against Rape and V-Day’s spotlight organization, The Katrina Warriors in New Orleans.

Bay Area Against Rape
510- 430-1298
Hotline
510- 845-RAPE

"The Vagina Monologues"
March 8, 9
First Congretional Church
Oakland
800-838-3006
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/28621

Eccentrics, Heroes, and Cutthroats of Old Berkeley
Author Richard Schwartz reveals the legendary personalities at the center of Berkeley life since its founding. His new book entitled, Eccentrics, Heroes, and Cutthroats of Old Berkeley spins the tales of the lives of men and women, squatters, speculators, missionaries and mystics during the late 1850’s to early 1900’s

Eccentrics, Heroes, and Cutthroats of Old Berkeley
Published by RSB Books
http://www.richardschwartz.info

Pets Unlimited
The non-profit animal shelter, Pets Unlimited, opens its doors for pet lovers and owners all over the Bay Area. Pets Unlimited is the only 24-hours emergency pet care hospital in SF. Pets Unlimited raises money for cats and dogs in need by running a state-of-the-art veterinary center and through donations from people who care about helping animals. A portion of every dollar spent at Pets Unlimited helps support their critical needs shelter and charitable care programs.

Pets Unlimited
2343 Fillmore St.
San Francisco
415-563-6700

February 23, 2008

Animal Cloning
The recent FDA announcement on meat cloning has caused some confusion and public concern. Animal research specialist, Alison Van Eenennaam, Ph.D. from the Department of Animal Science at UC Davis explains the animal cloning process. Van Eenennaam also shares how cloning has been around for 20 years in both animal breeding and agriculture.

US Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov/cvm/cloning.htm

FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
888-723-3366

White Elephant Sale
Northern California’s largest rummage sale takes place March 1st and 2nd in the Oakland Museum Women’s Board warehouse. There will be a vast selection of merchandise ranging from antiques, clothing, toys, and even sporting goods. Proceeds from the sale will help support education programs, exhibits, and the preservation of collections for the Oakland Museum of California.

White Elephant Sale
333 Lancaster Street
Oakland, CA
March 1 & 2, 10 am – 4 pm
510-836-6800
http://www.museumca.org

Black Cuisine
The 27th annual Black Cuisine Cooking Contest & Street Festival will be held on March 1, 2008. Guests are welcomed to enjoy soul food favorites as professional and amateur chefs get together to show off some of their cooking styles. The event will generate revenue to support and improve health care programs servicing 300 senior citizens within the community. A special bar-b-que cook-off will be held between representatives of the SFPD and SFFD.

27th Annual Black Cuisine Cooking Contest & Street Fair
March 1, Noon – 5 PM
1706 Yosemite Ave @ 3rd St.
San Francisco
415-822-1444

February 9, 2008

SB 1121 – Cloned Food Bill
The FDA recently announced that dairy and meat from cloned animals are safe for consumption. In January 2008, California State Senator Carole Migden introduced SB 1121, requiring all meat and dairy products from cloned animals to be clearly labled. The bill seeks to provide Californians with the right to choose whether or not they want to purchase or eat food made from cloned animals and calls for protection of consumer choice and has been presented to the California Legislature.

Senator Carole Migden
District Office
San Francisco
415-557-1300
http://www.dist03.ca.sen.govoffice.com

“Quantum Hoops”
The Caltech Basketball Team is comprised of some of the brightest students in the country. Yet, as they venture into another season, the young competitors face a 21-year losing streak. Directed and produced by Rick Greenwald, the documentary “Quantum Hoops” opens on February 8, 2008 at the Shattuck Cinemas in Berkeley. The film will share the relentless efforts of the Caltech team, who, despite their remarkable odds, work towards one of their most exciting seasons in school history.

“Quantum Hoops”
The Shattuck Cinemas
Through Feb. 14
Berkeley
510-464-5980

Vietnamese Spring Festival and Parade
The public is invited to the 11th Annual Vietnamese Spring Festival and Parade in downtown San Jose to bring in the Lunar New Year. The colorful parade is the premier cultural event for the South Bay’s Vietnamese community. Along with decorated floats, cultural groups, and marching bands, the Festival will be highlighting the richness of ethnic diversity. Admission is free.

Vietnamese Spring Festival and Parade
Feb. 10
Festival: 10 am – 6 pm
Parade: 11 am
Downtown San Jose
408-202-2672
http://www.vsfsanjose.org

February 2, 2008

Zoo Safety
Recent events at the San Francisco Zoo have lead to many questions about how the zoos and other wildlife parks are evaluated. The Association of Zoo’s and Aquariums (AZA) is nationally recognized as the official agency that accredits facilities by providing guidelines for safety and animal management. Dr. Joel Parrott, Executive Director of the Oakland Zoo, talks about the advantages of accreditation and what happens when facilities do not follow the suggestions made by the AZA.

Oakland Zoo
http://www.oaklandzoo.org

Association of Zoos and Aquariums
301-562-0777
http://www.aza.org

Celiac Cook Off
1 in 133 Americans are diagnosed with Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten. As part of an awareness campaign, a gluten-free cooking contest to be held in San Francisco on Feb. 2, 2008. Teams of local top chefs, doctors, dietitians, and nutritionists come together in preparing healthy gluten-free cuisine. The competition is focused on educating the public, restaurants, and medical communities on the lifestyle aspects of Celiac disease. The cook off is sponsored by the National Foundation of Celiac Awareness.

Gluten-Free Cooking Spree
Feb. 2, 6:30 pm – 10 pm
West Bay Conference Center
San Francisco
For tickets call:
215-692-2639

National Foundation for Celiac Awareness
215-692-2639
http://www.celiaccentral.org

NexusBridge
If proven successful, approximately 5 million dominoes are scheduled to fall on February 9, 2008 at 6:00 pm. Local East Bay Area high schools and schools in Hong Kong and China will collaborate to create what will be the longest domino chain in history. NexusBridge, a web portal launched late last year organized the event to help connect students and educators in U.S. and China. The event will be televised live through web streaming just before Chinese New Year.

NexusBridge
“Connect, Live, Learn”
Feb. 9, 6 PM
510-673-5994
http://www.nexusbridge.com

January 26, 2008

Ethnic Notions
Jan Faulkner, a retired sociologist and collector of rare African American artifacts, is placing her unusual collection on sale. These pieces are part of her personal 2,000 piece collection that she calls “Ethnic Notions”, and have been produced from 1848-1969 depicting racial stereotypes of African Americans. All of the controversial images will be available for purchase on February 10th.

“Ethnic Notions”
A Sale of History
African American Artifacts
Feb. 10, 9am- 5pm
Four Point Sheraton
Emeryville
$5 fee at the door

Bay Area Gardeners Foundation
The Bay Area Gardener’s Foundation has been helping students get into college by providing $1500 scholarships. The non-profit organization was started by a Bay Area gardener whose mission became providing funds for students after his own son graduated from law school. Catalino Tapia and the Bay Area Gardener’s Foundation have raised over $145,000 for low income college students. Applications will be accepted for the 2008-09 school year in March 2008.

Bay Area Gardener’s Foundation
Redwood City, CA
Applications Accepted From
March 1 – May 17
650-655-2002
http://www.bagf.org

Lunar New Year Flower Market
Bring in the lunar New Year with beautiful plants and flowers from the 10th Annual Lunar New Year Flower Market. The event will take place in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and admission is free.

Lunar New Year Flower Market
SF Botanical Garden
Golden Gate Park
Free Admission
Feb. 2, 10 am – 3 pm
415-661-1316 x 316

January 19, 2008

Glaucoma Research Foundation
January is National Glaucoma month and this year the National Glaucoma Research Foundation in San Francisco is holding its 30th Anniversary at the Westin St. Francis. The foundation aims to inform Bay Area residents on the severe implications Glaucoma may have on an individual’s eyesight as well as ways of recognizing and preventing Glaucoma in its early stages.

30th Anniversary
Westin St. Francis
San Francisco, Jan. 23
800-826-6693
www.glaucoma.org

Latino Education Summit
The Latino Education Summit was created by local businessmen who were concerned about low college attendance by Latino students. Workshops and information for parents and students will be provided by local educators, as well as from representatives from colleges outside of the Bay Area. The Latino Education Summit will be held at Cal State East Bay in Hayward.

Latino Education Summit
CSU East Bay
Feb. 2, 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
http://edschool.csueastbay.edu/Departments/TED/edsummit/summitframe01.htm

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
510-536-4477
http://www.HCCA.COM

"Always a Bed" Campaign
The non-profit organization called the Bill Wilson Center is currently conducting an “Always a Bed” campaign to raise $300,000 to better accommodate children and young adults facing challenging circumstances at home and/or in their personal lives. The Bill Wilson is the single remaining shelter for runaway and homeless youth in Santa Clara County and is therefore promoting the campaign so as to provide more short term housing and beds in the center.

"Always a Bed"
Bill Wilson Center
Santa Clara, CA
http://www.billwilsoncenter.org

January 12, 2008

Aging Out of Foster Care
The Oakland non-profit organization, "First Place for Youth" is a haven for young men and women who are transitioning from foster care to the sometimes overwhelming and complex stages of adulthood. On January 17, 2008, a free public screening of a documentary called, Aging Out will be offered at the Ellen Driscoll Theatre. After the viewing, "First Place for Youth’s" Executive Director, Sam Cobbs will speak about youths who age out of the system.

Aging Out
January 17, 2008, Free
Ellen Driscoll Theatre
325 Highland Ave.
Piedmont
www.diversityfilmseries.org

First Place for Youth
510-272-0979
www.firstplaceforyouth.org

Fruitvale Public Market
The exciting grand opening of the new Fruitvale Public Market is spearheaded by a non-profit organization known as "The Unity Council". The public market is just one of the several phases of development which will ensure the revitalization of the Fruitvale neighborhood. Visitors will definitely enjoy the beautiful and handcrafted projects for sale and guests should also bring a hearty appetite as food is prepared by local vendors.

Fruitvale Public Market
Grand Opening Celebration
January 18, 2008 10:00 AM
Community Celebration from 4 PM – 7 PM
3340 E. 12th St
510-535-6900
www.unitycouncil.org

Clothing Swap SF 2008
Originating from a casual trading of clothes among close friends, co-Founder Jason Lewis and Monica Hernandez share the spectacular growth of their clothing swap as hundreds of Bay Area residents flock to SF’s “CELLspace” and trade in their old clothes for other’s garments.

Clothing Swap SF 2008
January 19, 2008 12-3 PM
CELLspace, SF
415-690-5198
www.swapsf.com

December 8, 2007

LEVI STRAUSS & CO.
In the mid-1800’s, a young Levi Strauss traveled from New York to San Francisco to set up his family’s dry goods business. He later partnered with Jacob Davis to create a study pair of men’s work pants, which then lead to the creation of the Levi’s blue jeans. Levi Strauss & Co. historian and author Lynn Downey has documented the fabulous history of this brand and its creator on her new pictorial book called: Images of America, Levi Strauss & Co. The Levi Visitors Center is open to the public at the Levi Strauss Headquarters.

Levi Strauss & Co.
1155 Battery Street
San Francisco, CA

Levi Strauss & Co.
By Lynn Downery
Arcadia Publishing

The Bay Area Crisis Nursery
For parents or guardians who are dealing with life’s difficulties, the added stress of the upcoming holidays may put the entire family in jeopardy. The Bay Area Crisis Nursery offers a safe, caring family environment for children whose parents need help and support through stressful times. Children may stay in a friendly and supportive facility for up to one week as a parent or guardian seeks services or help. This is free service provide by BACN and is available throughout the Bay Area.

Bay Area Crisis Nursery
925-685-6633
Children Birth – 5 years
925-685-8052
Children 6 -11 years
925-685-3695
www.BACN.info

The Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
The holiday season is a time were millions of toys are sold. However, this year is particularly difficult with the threat of lead infused toys on store shelves. The Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program can provide information on how to detect toys that contain lead.

Alameda County Lead Poisoning
Prevention Program
510-567-8280
www.aclppp.org

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
1-800-638-2772
www.cpsc.gov

December 1, 2007

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch
800 miles north of Hawaii is a 10 million square mile of swirling garbage composed mostly of discarded plastics. It’s garbage that should be in landfill or in recycling centers, but instead, it’s been caught in a subtropical gyre of ocean currents. This garbage patch has become a real danger to birds and sea life. Chris Parry, Public Education Manager with the California Coastal Commission explains the importance of reducing our use of plastics to prevent the garbage patch from growing larger.

Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Alaglita Marine Research Foundation
www.algalita.org

The California Coastal Commission
www.coastal.ca.gov

Holiday Light Exchange Program
PG & E is offering 15,000 free LED holiday tree lights in exchange for your old holiday lights. Up to 4 strands of your old lights may be exchanged for 4 strands of the new energy efficient lights. For locations of their exchange sites visit the PG & E website.

PG & E Holiday Light Exchange
Call Center
1-800-743-5000
www.LetsGreenThisCity.com

INDULGE: 100 Perfect Desserts
Claire Clarke, award winning pastry chef of The French Laundry, has written her first cookbook called, INDULGE, featuring 100 of her favorite dessert recipes. Chef Clarke shares her recipe for Fruit Fools.

INDULGE: 100 Perfect Desserts
By Claire Clark, Head Pastry Chef at The French Laundry
Published by Whitecap books

Fruit Fool
125ml/4fl oz fruit puree or pulp(you may use a blender or a food processor for this: a blender will give a smoother texture)
Caster sugar to taste (for the fruit)
250 ml/9fl oz double cream
Powdered sugar to taste (for the cream)
Fresh fruit, to decorate
Serves 6

Sieve the puree to remove seeds, if you like, then add enough caster sugar to sweeten and mix well. Whip the cream to soft peaks, being careful not to over whip it. Sweeten with powdered sugar if desired and use to fill a piping bag fitted with an lcm/1/2 inch nozzle. Place about 1 ½ tablespoons of the fruit puree in each of 6 serving glasses. Place the piping bag in each glass to the nozzle is nearly touching the puree. Now squeeze the bag: as you do so, it will push the puree to the edge of the glass and create a spiral effect of cream and fruit puree. As the glass fills with cream, lift the bag towards the top of the glass, stopping when it is nearly full. Chill the fools in the fridge for an hour. Decorate with the fresh fruit or colored sugar, if like, and serve with any remaining fruit puree.

Claire’s Notes:
For the best results, use fruit that is in season and as ripe as possible Honey can be used to sweeten the cream instead of powdered sugar, or you could Add a little white wine or fruit-based liqueur for a dinner party dessert.

November 17, 2007

Oil Spill
We are constantly being updated on the clean up and consequences of last week’s oil spill and its affect on our Bay and ocean. Jordan Stout, a Scientific Support Coordinator of the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, and Bernadette Fees of the California Department of Fish and Game, tell us how these organizations are actively involved in the cleaning process of our wildlife and ocean.

For updated information and websites pertaining to the oil spill,
Visit www.ktvu.com

Bead Artwork Sale
December 1st is World AIDs Day, and on this day Vital Life Services, a non-profit organization in Oakland, will be holding a beaded artwork sale. The amazing beaded artwork comes from South Africa and is hand-made by underprivileged women, many of whom are HIV positive. The proceeds from this sale will go towards supporting the community AIDs work of Vital Life Services.

Beaded Artwork Sale
World AIDs Day
Vital Life Services
Oakland
510-655-3435
www.VitalCalifornia.org

Holiday Crafts
The Christmas season is around the corner, and many of us are eager to get into the holiday mood. San Francisco’s Randall Museum will be holding a hands-on holiday extravaganza where you can learn how to make candles, candle holders, candy houses, and more. This creative and affordable arts and crafts event is perfect for families with children under the age of twelve and can make for perfect Christmas gifts.

Holiday Crafts Day
Randall Museum, SF
Dec. 1, 10am – 3pm
415-554-9600
www.randallmuseum.org

November 10, 2007

TurningWheels For Kids
What stared out as a modest act of generosity by one person to provide underprivileged children with bicycles for Christmas has grown into a phenomenon that supplies thousands of Santa Clara County children with bikes every holiday season. TurningWheels for Kids, a non-profit organization has been bringing thousands of deserving boys and girls bicycles during the holidays for over three years.

TurningWheels For Kids
408-314-1516
www.turningwheelsforkids.org

Keeping Science Alive
According to a recent study, researchers found that California elementary school teachers either don’t have the time or are not confident in incorporating science into their academic curriculum. Fifth grade teacher, Kimberly Pratt is passionate about teaching science to her students and makes time every day to incorporate science studies into her daily teaching schedule. Ms. Pratt weighs in on the recent study and the importance of keeping science alive within the school system.

Keep Science Alive at your School
Grant Information in support of Science education may be found via Alvarado Elementary School
Union City.
web.mac.com/bwet/iWeb/BWET/Welcome.html

Other Available Grants for Teaching Science
www.sfbayjv.org/grants.html
www.coastal.ca.gov/publiced/plate/plgrant.html
sanctuaries.noaa.gov/news/bwet/welcome.html
www.starbucks.com/aboutus/grantinfo.asp

Institute for Inquiry
San Francisco’s unique science museum, The Exploratorium, offers science workshops for professional educators. The Institute for Inquiry offers elementary classroom teachers “hands-on science” workshops that provide professional development, designed to make science classes informative, educational and fun.

Institute For Inquiry
Exploratorium
San Francisco
415-561-0360
www.exploratorium.edu

November 03, 2007

Helping Handbook
As a result of the Southern California Wildfires, lawyers at the Morrison & Foerster law firm have created a comprehensive guide to answer questions about what to do to begin the recovery process after a catastrophe. The “Helping Handbook” is a free guide targeted to individuals and small businesses which tells you what you need to know about housing, employment, and how to deal with government agencies during times of disaster. The handbook is the sixth in a series of guides created in response to major disasters such as the 9-11 terrorists attack and the Katrina floods. The 2007 Helping Handbook is available at local disaster centers and San Diego county bar associations. The handbook is also available on line.

2007 Helping Handbook
www.mofo.com/about/community/helpinghandbooks.html

Charitable Scams
During times of catastrophes, there are always people trying to take advantage of the generous individual who wants to make a donation to disaster victims. But Gene O’Neil, president of the Golden Gate Better Business Bureau gives us advice on how to avoid being victims of charitable scams.

Golden Gate Better Business Bureau Oakland
www.give.org

CORE
Hurricane Katrina and the most recent Southern California wildfires have shown how disasters can happen in an instant, making it almost impossible to prepare for a quick emergency get away. The Office of Emergency Services in Oakland provides a free training program for individuals and neighborhood groups, teaching self-reliance skills and helping to create neighborhood response teams. The training program is through the Citizens of Oakland Responding to Emergencies program (CORE).

Citizens of Oakland Responding to Emergencies (CORE)
Free training classes
510-238-6351
www.oaklandcore.org

October 27, 2007

Oakland’s Chinatown Oral History
The Chinatown Oral History Project was created to preserve the cultural legacy and history of Oakland’s Chinatown. Underwritten by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, the project ties youth to seniors over the age of 50 so that the youth can better understand their own cultural history and legacy by hearing the elders share life stories. The Oral History Project hopes to raise more money in the hopes of continuing their work. Seniors and volunteers are welcome to participate in the project.

Oakland Chinatown Oral History Project
Oakland Asian Cultural Center
Oakland
510-520-3348
www.oacc.cc
email: annehuangtaiwan@gmail.com

The Mentoring Center in Oakland
Nowadays, hundreds of youth offenders are on the streets committing crimes and wasting their future. Sometimes these youths are not given a second chance, but that is not the case in Oakland. The Mentoring Center works with the California juvenile justice system to change youth’s lives by providing supportive programs and giving them the opportunity to better themselves through mentoring.

The Mentoring Center
1221 Preservation Park Way, Suite 200
Oakland, CA 94612
510-891-0427
www.mentor.org

Canine Wine & Dine
Dog lovers won’t want to miss this annual event of wine tasting, food and a great silent auction. All the proceeds from this event will go towards funding Second Chance Animal Rescue’s on going efforts to save and rehabilitate lives. Second Chance Animal Rescue is a sister organization of Hopalong Animal Rescue in the East Bay.

Canine Wine & Dine
Mill Valley Community Center
Nov. 4, 3pm – 6pm
415-506-0161
www.hopalong.org

October 20, 2007

The Bond
Back in the early nineties, three teenage boys from the rough side of New Jersey decided to make a pact with each other. They would support one another to stay in school and eventually become doctors. Today, collectively known as "The Three Doctors," Doctors Sampson Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt made a new promise with each other to reconnect with their absent fathers. In their book, The Bond, they detail their experiences of growing up without their father-figures and the emotional decision all three made to forgive.

The Bond
Drs. Sampson Davis, George Jenkins,
and Rameck Hunt
Published by Riverhead Books

The Three Doctors
www.threedoctors.com

October 13, 2007

Women Who Light the Dark
Poverty, malnutrition, illiteracy, domestic violence, in-equality, and illnesses, are some of the issues that many people are facing today. But in some countries around the world, women have united to fight these obstacles and seek the brighter side of life. “Women Who Light the Dark” is a new book by the author/photo-journalist Paolo Gianturco, which features successful stories of women who are making changes in their communities. 100% of Gianturco’s royalties from this book are being donated to the Global Fund for Women to help these women improve their lives. If you are also interested in making a difference contact the Global Fund for Women.

Women Who Light the Dark
Paolo Gianturco
Published by PowerHouse Books

Global Fund for Women
www.globalfundforwomen.org

The Next Iron Chef
Food Network’s “Iron Chef” is a wildly popular program featuring outstanding chefs who create one-of-a-kind dishes in a competition for the title of “Iron Chef”. Now comes a new reality program in search for “The Next Iron Chef”. The Bay Area has two local chefs in this eight person competition, Chef Chris Consentino of Incanto Restaurant and Traci Des Jardins, chef/owner of Jardiniere.

The Next Iron Chef
Sundays, 9 pm
At the Food Network
www.foodnetwork.com

September 22, 2007

Kaiser’s Living Whole, Well, and Wise
Kaiser Permanente’s Oakland and Richmond Medical Centers are holding a free conference for women and teenage girls on the topic of, Living Whole, Well and Wise. You’ll have a chance to explore and learn how to achieve healthy living by nurturing your mind, body and spirit. Self-defense for women, Tai Chi, healthy eating, acupuncture and acupressure, and prevention of knee injuries are some of the topics that will be presented. The public is invited to attend this free event and a gourmet lunch will also be provided. Registration is required.

Living Whole, Well, and Wise
Celebrating Everyday Health
Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente
Oakland Marriott
Oakland
Sat., Oct 13, 8:30am to 2:30pm
www.kpwomenswellness.org

U.L.E All Stars and Kid Street Learning Center
Unstoppable, Loving, and Extraordinary (U.L.E All Stars) is what a group of people call themselves, as they have organized to make a difference in Bay Area communities. U.L.E. provides volunteers and seeks out donations to help various Bay Area non-profits and causes. U.L.E. is currently building a healing garden and amphitheatre for the Kid Street Learning Center in Santa Rosa. Another project that U.L.E. is involved with is the “H20 for Africa Foundation”, raising funds to give African villages the ability to dig and create underground water wells.

U.L.E All Stars
“H20 For Africa Foundation”
510-861-6555

Charles Reid Foundation
Santa Claus IS coming to town and will be providing toys and clothing to impoverished neighborhoods of North Richmond. The Charles Reid Foundation was created in 1947 by former Negro League pitcher, Charles Reid. Reid created Christmas parties for low income families, giving food, toys and clothing. The Foundation is now celebrating it’s 60th anniversary with their first dinner dance to help benefit their upcoming 2006 community Christmas party.

“Celebrating 60 years of Giving”
The Charles Reid Foundation Dinner Dance
October 6, 6pm – Midnight
The Ford Building Craneway
Harbor Way South, Richmond Marina
510-287-5669
www.charlesreidfoundation.org

September 15, 2007

Common Ground Collective
It has been 2 years since Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans leaving thousands of people without their homes and un-inhabitable neighborhoods, and many of these people are still in need of help. Based in New Orleans, Common Ground Collective is a non-profit organization looking for volunteers and donations. Common Ground is providing healthcare, support for rebuilding neighborhoods and also investing energy and money into creating a self-sustaining environment with community gardening projects.

The public is also invited to the October 6th Napa Wine Country Cajun Food & Music Festival where Common Ground Collective will have a booth providing information on their work in New Orleans.

Common Ground Collective
www.commongroundrelief.org
504-483-2145 (New Orleans)

Wine Country Cajun Food & Music Festival
Oct 6, 1pm-6pm
Napa
707-257-0322
www.winecountrycajunfestival.com

EcoHouse
At the forefront of green living is a Berkeley home that has been developed as a model to help educate local communities about efficient living. Co-founder of EcoHouse, Babak Jacinto Tondre, describes how the house is affordable and accessible as a home built holistically. EcoHouse is used as a source of education for the entire community in efficient living.

EcoHouse
www.ecologycenter.org/ecohouse
510-548-2220

Savor the Season
There is nothing more satisfying then indulging in a California grown food and wine luncheon, where all proceeds benefit the fight against hunger. Executive Director, Suzan Bateson, discuses “Savor the Season” a worthy cause helping to end everyday hunger.

“Savor the Season”
Alameda County Community Food Bank
September 23, Noon- 3pm
Wente Vineyards, Livermore
510-635-3663
www.accfb.org

September 1, 2007

5 P Minus Syndrome
Every year in the United States, 50-60 children are born with 5 P Minus Syndrome; also known as Cat Cry Syndrome. One local mother has invested her energy and resources into spreading awareness and education about the syndrome. To help raise money for further research she runs a music cruise around the bay every Sunday which includes a buffet dinner.

“Live Music on the Bay”
Sundays 4pm-8pm
(415) 332- 3291
www.empressevents.com

5 P Minus Syndrome
www.fivepminus.org

The Yosemite Fund
Since 1988 the Yosemite Fund has raised money and donated time and energy into protecting, revitalizing and improving one of nature’s sacred treasures. More than $40 million has gone to 200 park projects by Yosemite Fund donors to protect and enhance Yosemite National Park. Yosemite Fund President, Bob Hansen, shares with us some of the recent improvements to the park.

The Yosemite Fund
www.yosemitefund.org

The Produce Man
Our favorite produce man, Dan Avakian joins us to encourage us to explore fruits and vegetables that may not be familiar to us and to remind us of all the bounty we have here in California.

Dan Avakian
www.beyondwonderful.com
www.dansfreshproduce.com
www.producepair.com

August 18, 2007

Leatherback Turtles
The numbers for the Leatherback Sea Turtles have dramatically declined over the past two decades. Even though the turtles are on the endangered species list, their population has decreased by 95%. Karen Steele of the Marine-based Sea Turtle Restoration Project shares with us the current status of the sea turtle population. She will present “Last Journey for the Leatherback Sea Turtle” at the Marine Humane Society on Thursday August 23rd @ 7 pm.

Sea Turtle Restoration Project
(415) 488- 0370
www.seaturtles.org

Flex Your Power
Learn more about California’s Flex Your Power Program and what you can do to save money and help the environment through energy efficiency and energy conservation. Commissioner Dian Grueneich of the California Public Utilities Commission shares with us how California ranks number one as the most energy efficient state in the nation.

CA Public Utilities Commission
www.cpuc.ca.gov
Energy Hotline
1-866-431-FLEX
www.flexyourpower.org

Arab Cultural Festival
Come and enjoy food, dance, arts and craft at this year’s 13th Annual Arab Cultural Festival in the city. The Festival brings under one roof, the many and diverse groups that make up the Arab culture. The festival will feature lots of entertainment, arts, and food, all in the name of celebrating the diversity of the Arab culture with people of all races.

13th Annual Arab Cultural Festival
County Fair Building
Golden gate Park, S.F.
August 26, 11am-6pm
(415) 664-2200.
www.arabculturalcenter.org

August 11, 2007

Eliminating Menstrual Cycles
New on the market is Lybrel, a new contraceptive pill that, if taken 365 days a year, would provide continuous contraception, eliminating a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. Dr. Vanessa Chan, OB-GYN with Alta Bates Summit Medical Center explains how this new birth control pill works and how it may be beneficial to some women.

Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.
www.altabatessummit.org

Take Wings Foundation

Celebrating 10 years of helping young Bay Area women living in public housing and foster care, Take Wings Foundation is preparing for their 5th Annual Angel Awards Gala Dinner. Founded by actress, Terri Vaughn, the organization provides support, education and mentorships for girls ages 13 to 18 who trying to find ways of improving their lives. Ms. Vaughn’s Hollywood friends will join her at this annual event and this year, Cedric The Entertainer will be the dinner’s special guest emcee.

5th Annual Angel Awards
Take Wings Foundation.
August 18 .
Hyatt Regency S.F..
415-674-1111.
www.takewings.org

San Bruno Mountain Watch
From the early 1900’s to the 1960’s, San Bruno Mountain was the dumping grounds for San Francisco garbage. Because the mountain area was filled with garbage, it was never a desirable site for developers and mother nature took the opportunity to allow rare and endangered plants and animals to flourish. The San Bruno Mountain Watch, a non-profit organization, was founded by David Schooley, to prevent the development and endangerment of one of the last open spaces in the Bay Area. The San Bruno Mountain Watch provides free tours and hikes to visitors.

San Bruno Mountain Watch
Call for Free Saturday Tours and Hikes.
1-415-467-6631.
www.mountainwatch.org

August 4, 2007

Oakland Ballet
After 35 years of leading the Oakland Ballet into international acclaim and recognition, founder and artistic director Ronn Guidi retired, only to see his beloved dance company slowly disintegrate. Guidi then took a leap of faith and brought the ballet company back for a special performance of the Nutcracker during the 2006 holiday season. Now riding on that success, Guidi has announced the return of the Oakland Ballet Company. His commitment will bring the company back for a short October 2007 season and he has already booked dates for 2008. His fundraising efforts begin now, with a goal of $350,000.

Donations for the Oakland Ballet: Ron Guidi Foundation for the Performing Arts
www. RGFPA.org

Team Tibet
Tibet advocacy groups throughout the United States have teamed up to bring awareness to the issue of China’s human rights abuses in Tibet. Using the upcoming 2008 Beijing Olympics as a way to bring attention to their concerns, Team Tibet, is hoping bring international pressure upon China to ease its political will on Tibet. August 4 will be their first national presence where they will use present visual displays at eleven Major League Baseball venues across the country.

SF Tibet Alliance
http://sfbay-chinaolympics2008-tibetalliance.blogspot.com
Students for a Free Tibet
www. studentsforafreetibet.org
Save Tibet
www.savetibet.org
San Francisco Tibetan Youth Congress
www.SFTYC.org
Friends of Tibet
www.friendsoftibet.org

West Nile Virus and Mosquitoes
This is the 3rd year of the West Nile Virus watch in Northern California. So far this year, Northern California has seen 56 cases of West Nile compared to only 20 cases in 2006. While the real estate market is concerned about the high rate of property going into foreclosure, the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District is watching empty backyard swimming pools fill up with mosquito larvae.

Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District
925-685-9301
Dead Bird Hotline: 1-877-WNV-BIRD (968-2473)
www.ccmvcd.dst.ca.us/

July 28, 2007

“Friedreich’s Ataxia”
Friedreich's Ataxia is a very rare form of muscular dystrophy that is a neurological genetic disorder affecting speech, balance and coordination. Twenty-four year old Phillip Bennett has been diagnosed with the debilitating disease since the age of ten and even though he’s in a wheelchair with limited mobility, he is making everyday count. He’s a senior at San Jose State University and 3 years ago, he decided to hold a fundraiser to support research on Friedreich’s Ataxia. So far he has raised $125,000 and hoping to reach $175,000 with his 4th annual fundraiser.

”Sunset on Friedreich’s Ataxia
Rosenblum Cellar’s Alameda
August 4th
(707) 795-3293
www. sunsetonfa.org

Mural Music & Arts Project
26 murals have been painted in and around the cities of East Palo Alto, Menlo Park and Redwood City. The works of art are part of a mural music and arts project that reaches out to at-risk youth. The program helps students expand their horizons by encouraging them to become involved in community issues and to take their educational opportunities seriously.

Mural Music & Arts Project
(650) 520-8061
www.muralmusicarts.org

Berkeley Kite Festival
Kites of all sizes and shapes will be featured at the annual Berkeley Kite Festival on July 28th & 29th. There will be a 100 foot Octopi, giant dogs, cats, bears and more. Featured kite flyers will be members of the Sode-cho Kite-Flying Society of Hamamatsu, Japan, who will use their traditional fine paper and bamboo designed kites.

Berkeley Kite Festival
July 28 & 29, 11am – 5pm
Cesar E. Chavez Park
Berkeley
510-235-KITE
www.HighlineKites.com

July 21, 2007

“Wild Coyotes”
A surprising attack by wild coyotes in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park reminds urban dwellers to take precautions as they venture out. As development expands,wild animals are losing territory and are beginning to wander into urban and suburban neighborhoods. WildCare in Marin County reminds us to pick up our garbage, block accessibility into our homes and to keep pets indoors.

WildCare
Marin County
Hotline: 415-456-SAVE
www.wildcarebayarea.org

Academy of Arts University
Former 49er and Superbowl winner, Jamie Williams, Ed.D discusses his role as the Athletic Director of the Academy of Arts University and of his goal in developing a division one NCAA sports program. Williams also addressed the issue of having the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre relocate from a building that the University had purchased.

Academy of Arts University
800-554-ARTS
www.academyart.edu

Project Luz
Jasmin Lopez, founder and director of Project Luz, talks about how professional photographers will be traveling to Ejido Hermosillo in Baja California to teach children how to document their lives and culture. Many of the adults in this small rural village have left to find work in the United States and these children are being asked to photographically capture what life is like with missing parents and to capture the affects of immigration on their village lifestyle.

Project Luz
323-599-3120
e-mail Jasmin @ www.project_luz@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/projectluz

July 14, 2007

“Aging Gracefully”
Author Amy Gorman wanted to find out if people 85 years old and up were active in creative and artistic endeavors. She found that many seniors are still creatively active and are “successfully aging”. We’ll meet Frances Catlett, who at 99 years of age, still paints, bowls and meets with her friends for a serious weekly round of Scrabble. Ninety year old Dorothy Toy Fong may no longer tap dance, but still teaches tap and ballet classes. Known in the 1930’s & 1940’s as the Oriental Ginger Rogers, Dorothy and her dance partner, Paul Wing, became a successful dance team, playing worldwide and on Broadway. We were able to coax Dorothy into putting on her tap shoes one more time and she gave us a special performance.

"Aging Artfully - 12 Profiles: Visual and Performing Women Artists"
By: Amy Gorman
PAL Publishing
Film: Still Kicking
(Available on website) By: Greg Young
www.agingartfully.com

Lorraine Hansberry Theatre
The acclaimed African American Theatre, The Lorraine Hansberry, located in downtown San Francisco lost its lease and is looking for a new location. There is some dispute as to whether the new owners would allow the theatre to continue performances from their current location and the theatre is hoping to continue negotiations.

Lorraine Hansberry Theatre
415-345-3980
www.lhtsf.org

Chevron Family Theatre Festival
July 28th will feature non-stop family entertainment with live performances on stage at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. This one day event will feature well known performances by The Sippy Cups, Leslie Carrara of The Muppets and Fantasy Forum performing The Crimson Pirate.

Chevron Family Theatre Festival
Lesher Center for the Arts
Walnut Creek
July 28, 10am – 4pm
925-943-7469 (SHOW) www.LesherARTSCenter.org

June 30, 2007

"At Face Value: My Triumph Over a Disfiguring Cancer"
By: Terry Healey
Published by: Liesse Publishing/ Harco Productions
At a young age, Terry Healey, discovers a bump on the side of his nose only to discover it is a rare form of cancer. After multiple surgeries and treatments that involved skin grafting and scarring resulted in years of him being self-conscious. Finally, through his life progressions he became accepting of his disfigurement.

A Summer Symphony With Dionne Warwick
No summer is complete without an outdoor concert. This year, the Children’s Health Council’s 48th Annual Summer Symphony features Grammy award-winning singer Dionne Warwick. She’ll perform her greatest hits to help the CHC support children with developmental disabilities.

Frost Amphitheatre at the Stanford campus
July 15
650.617.3859
www.summersymphony.org

East Bay Municipal Utility District- Water conservation
This past winter was one of the driest in twenty years, and now EBMUD is asking people in the Bay Area to conserve water. There is enough water in our reservoirs this summer, but depending on the coming winters, there is the possibilty of water rationing. That's why EBMUD is asking their customers, now, to conserve water by watering the yard and washing the car less, checking pipes for leaks, and taking shorter showers. All these simple tasks can also really save you money!

East Bay Municipal Utility District
1-866-403-2683
www.ebmud.com

June 16, 2007

National HIV Testing Day
The 13th Annual National HIV Testing Day is an annual nation wide campaign encouraging at-risk individuals to get tested for HIV. According to the CDC, up to 280,000 Americans do not know that they are HIV positive.

S.F. Dept. of Public Health
www.sfhiv.org

California AIDS Hotline
800-367-2437
www.aidshotline.org

Foundation for Self-Reliance
Founded in January 2005, the Foundation for Self-Reliance services and promotes economic independence and self-empowerment for Afghan refugees in the Bay Area and war widows in Afghanistan. To create more awareness of Afghan interests, FSR is holding a free public forum featuring Afghan and American academic and community leaders.

East Meets West: Awakening to the Challenges of Afghans in Fremont
The Golden Peacock
3681 Peralta Blvd.
Fremont
June 23, 11am – 3pm
510-797-4660
www.efsr.org

Zipcar
Zipcars are becoming a popular means of alternative transportation for many San Francisco residents. Zipcar provides cars for “rent” on an hourly or daily basis. It offers an alternative to owning a car and fits your lifestyle with up to twenty models to choose from, available just blocks away from your home!

Zipcar
1-866-4ZIPCAR
www.zipcar.com

June 9, 2007

Tuberculosis
TB is a highly infectious disease that many had assumed was eradicated in the United States decades ago. In fact, TB is very much in our population and a recent scare of an extreme drug resistant case of tuberculosis with Atlanta attorney, Andrew Speaker, has brought the disease back into the news. Dr. Robert Benjamin, tuberculosis controller with Alameda County Public Health Department, explains what TB is and why there’s a concern with this new XDRTB case.

Spare the Air Day
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District begins the 2007 summer ozone watch season from June through to October 12th. This year, Spare the Air days, during non-holiday weekdays only, will include free commute days from the early mornings to 1pm on all Bay Area BART CalTrain, ACE trains and ferries.

Spare the Air Day
1-800-HELP-AIR
www.sparetheair.com

Cougar Cub
The newest residents of the all new Six Flags Discovery Kingdom are three new cougar cubs named Takoda, Yazhi and Ashkii. They were found and dropped off at a rescue center in Idaho and the Idaho Fish & Game Department asked if Six Flags Discovery Kingdom would adopt them. We’ll meet Ashkii, currently 4 months and 25 lbs and a bundle of energy and curiosity.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Vallejo, CA.
707-643-6722

June 2, 2007

Epicurious: Wine Dine Donate
Jan Birnbaum, Executive Chef and Co-Owner of San Francisco’s Epic Roasthouse and other well-known San Francisco chefs will be giving back at Epicurious, a special evening where you can wine, dine, and donate to help mark National Hunger Awareness Day. It is a series of 5 dinners that will be held across the country within 5 consecutive days. The donated funds will benefit the Second Harvest Food Banks across the country. Chef Jan Birnbaum will share his recipe of Maple-Braised Bacon and Egg.

Epicurious
Wine. Dine. Donate.
June 8, 6:30pm
Farallons, S.F.
1-800-922-1691
www.epicurious.com

Maple Braised Bacon and Eggs
Yield: 6 servings
By JanBirnbaum

For the Bacon:
18 oz. Slab bacon 1.5 cups Real Maple 2 quarts Chicken or Beef Stock 3 Bay leaves ½ bunch Fresh Thyme 4 Cloves Garlic, smashed 1 Tbs. Kosher salt 2 tsp. Ground black pepper ½ cup Grain mustard

Directions: Place the slab bacon in a small heavy pot in a mixture of the maple, stock, and spices, leaving the Mustard out for now. Bring it all to a simmer on top of the stove over medium heat. Cover and place in preheated over 350 degrees F. for 1 hour. Remove from oven and allow to cool overnight in liquid.

For the Crispy Grits Cakes:
Grits is a staple of the southern cook. It is cooked with water, salt and butter for Breakfast. Some add brown sugar or honey. The left overs from breakfast are often kept, cooled and fried later for dinner. These grits are more savory and are great with a pork chop or short ribs at dinner time. Once you eat them you’ll know why we call them Sexy.

Soft Grits
Yield: 4 cups

3 oz. Butter 2 cups Light chicken stock 2/3 cup Half and Half (milk if you prefer) 1/2 tsp. Chopped garlic To Taste Salt & pepper To Taste Tabasco 2/3 cups Alberts Grits (Standard Quick Grits, Ground Hominy)

Directions: Prepare a cookie sheet with parchment paper and cooking spray and reserve.

In a sauce pot bring butter, stock, cream, garlic and S&P and Tabasco to a boil. Lower to a simmer and allow the garlic to soften in flavor. The liquid should be over seasoned at this point. Remember that the meal will really absorb a lot of seasoning. Add all of the grits whisking and stirring constantly. Lower to a simmer. As it thickens remove whisk and stir regularly with wooden spoon. Taste for seasoning and texture. Cook gently until the gritty meal becomes soft and sexy about 10-15 minutes. If you have access to freshly ground grits use them. If you do the cooking time is considerable longer, probably twice as long. If you do use freshly ground grits you will want to keep a little extra stock available. Because of the longer cooking time more evaporation occurs.

When the grits have become a thick cereal that is no longer grainy, pour them onto the prepared cookie sheet. Refrigerate overnight. With a pastry cutter 3” in diameter, cut 6 disks out of the sheet of now firm grits. In a non stick pan with some butter brown one side of each of the discs. Cool on rack and reserve for reheating later.

The next day:
Remove the bacon from the braising liquid and place it on a cutting board. Strain the liquid and reduce over medium heat in a sauce pan for about 20 minutes or until sauce consistency. Add the mustard and 1 tsp of fresh thyme leaves picked. Reserve the sauce warm.

Cut the bacon into 6 even squares. In a sauté pan over low to moderate heat crisp the bacon skin side down. Place into 350 degree oven for 15 minutes. Meanwhile heat the grits cakes in the same oven for 10 – 15 minutes.

Assembly:
7 Eggs 2 cups Herb salad (parsley leaves, tarragon, chive points, other small greens you like)

In 6 cups of simmering water that has been salted with 2 Tbs. kosher salt and 2 Tbs. White vinegar poach 6 eggs + 1 for an extra.

Platting:
In a large soup plate place the crispy grits cake. Place one piece of the crispy bacon at the 9 o’clock position and one of the poached eggs at the 3 o’clock position atop the grits cake. Pour some of the sauce around the outside of the grits cake and top with the herb salad.

Repeat platting 6 times. Serve immediately.

LGBT Film Festival
It is the 31st annual San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival, a showcase for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender programs. It will feature some of the best new queer Asian films from Asia and Asian American filmmakers.

San Francisco Internatiional LGBT Film Festival
June 14 - 24
Various Locations
www.frameline.org

Hopalong Animal Rescue
Two adorable brother and sister kittens need a loving home. They’re ready to be adopted and brought home. More than 100 kittens are currently available for adoption at the Hopalong Animal Shelter.

Hopalong Animal Rescue
In Oakland:
510-267-1915
www.hopalong.org
In Marin:
www.secondchancerescue.com

May 5, 2007

The Elephant’s Secret Sense
After 14 years of researching elephant behaviors, field scientist Caitlin O’Connell made a groundbreaking discovery on the way elephants communicate. Working with the Oakland Zoo, she tested her theory. O’Connell’s findings are presented at a new exhibit at the Oakland Zoo entitled “The Elephants’ Secret Sense.”

Celebrating Elephants
Visit Donna the Elephant
Behind the Scenes at the Oakland Zoo
May 12, 10am – 3pm
510-632-9535
www.oaklandzoo.org

“The Elephants’ Secret Sense”
Meet Caitlin O’Connell
May 19, 6pm
Oakland Zoo
510-632-9535
www.oaklandzoo.org

American Idol Gives Back Locally
A portion of the proceeds from “American Idol Gives Back” will support two Bay Area non-profit groups. Alameda County Food Bank and Boys and Girls Clubs of Oakland will be receiving some of the 70 million dollars raised from American Idol. Volunteers are always needed for these groups.

Alameda County Community Food Bank
510-635-3663
www.accfb.org

Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland
510-444-8211
www.BGCOakland.org

April 28, 2007

“This is Not the Life I Ordered”
Four Bay Area women met once a month over the course of ten years to share the highs and lows of their lives as they supported each other through marriages, illness, death, children and careers. Their life experiences have resulted in a book called, This is Not the Life I Ordered, a book encouraging the gathering of good friends over the kitchen table for support. Bay Area TV personality, Jan Yanehiro and former state senator, Jackie Speier are two of the co-authors who share their personal stories.

“This is Not the Life I Ordered : 50 Ways to Keep Your Head Above Water When Life Keeps Dragging You Down
Published by Conart Press

Tracking Hawks
The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory is looking for volunteers to help track the Pacific States’ largest bird of prey migration. Tens of thousands of hawks, falcons and eagles pass over the Marin Headlands each fall and volunteers will help monitor, track and count the numbers of raptors as they fly overhead. Training begins in early May and tracking begins from mid-August to early December 2007.

Hawk Tracking
Golden Gate Raptor Observatory
May 1 & 2, 7pm – 9:30pm
May 5, 10am – 12:30pm
415-331-0730

www.ggro.org

April 14, 2007

Taste of Tamales
The first annual tamale tasting will be held on April 22nd at Fort Mason Center as an upscale benefit for the non-profit Benchmark Institute. Benchmark Institute teaches advocates in non-profit organizations how to use the law to help low income communities. The public is invited to sample tamales from some of the infest tamale makers in Northern California, serving a variety of tamale styles from Mexico, Yucatan, Salvador and Chile.

“Taste of Tamales by the Bay”
Benefiting Benchmark Institute
Fort Mason Center
San Francisco
April 22, Noon – 4pm
www.tamalesbythebay.org
www.benchmarkinstitute.org

Firefighter Bachelor Auction
It’ll be a fun filled night for ladies who put in bids at the 5th Annual Firefighter Bachelor Auction Fundraiser for the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. 9 Bay Area firefighters will be up for grabs to the highest bidders as they help support the work of enhancing the lives of burn survivors and promote burn prevention.

5th Annual Bachelor Auction with Bay Area Firefighters
The Red Devil Lounge
San Francisco
April 27th 7pm
415-495-7223
www.aarbf.org

Quake Preparedness
The American Red Cross reminds us to get ready for that next big one with emergency and survival kits. Too many Bay Area residents put off what they can do today, so everyone is encouraged to be ready for the next major disaster by having at supplies for a minimum of 3 days per person.

Earthquake Preparedness
American Red Cross
1-877-PREP-BAY
www.redcrossbayarea.org

April 7, 2007

Marine Protected Areas
On August 13, 2007, the California Fish and Game Commission will be voting on the first of a series of proposed Marine Protected Areas along the California coastline. The first area of protection is along California’s Central Coast, where some or all types of human activity is restricted in an effort to help conserve habitats and aid recovery of depleted fisheries.

CA. Dept of Fish & Game Commission
Email comments to
FGC@fgc.ca.gov
Subject Line: Central Coast ISOR Comment
www.dfg.ca.gov

Earth Day Build-A-Thon
Habitat for Humanity East Bay will be hosting a build-a-thon, framing 8 homes for low income families at their 26 home site development, Sobrante Park in Oakland. Volunteers are needed to help frame these new “green” homes, using environmentally friendly techniques and materials.

Earth Day Build-A-Thon
Habitat for Humanity East Bay
April 19 – 22
109000 Edes Ave, Oakland
www.habitateb.org

Bug Day!
The Randall Museum is celebrating Earth Day by celebrating bugs. Meet anthropods and creepy crawlies up close. Learn how to handle these bugs and even learn which ones are fit for eating.

Bug Day!
April 21, 10am – 2pm
Randall Museum
199 Museum Way
San Francisco
415-554-9600
www.randallmuseum.org

March 24, 2007

Anorexia Nervosa
There are 10 million women and a million men who are battling the eating disorder, anorexia nervosa. It is the most fatal disease in psychiatry with 20% of anorexics dying of complications. 26 year old Michele Mullin was diagnosed with anorexia when she was 16 years old and 48 year old Tracy Wagner has been battling her disease for 30 years. Both women share their stories of their multi-year struggle anorexia nervosa and of how the disease had taken over their lives. Dr. Neal Anzia, an eating disorder specialist with Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, explains that the eating disorder can be controlled through rigorous treatment.

Marin County Eating Disorders Resource Guide
www.co.marin.ca.us/nutritionwellness

For information and programs in Marin County:
Nutrition Wellness Program
Department of Health and Human Services
Marin County
415-473-6489
www.co.marin.ca.us/nutritionalwellness

Alta Bates Summit Medical Center’s Behavioral Health Services and Eating Disorders Program Herrick Campus
Berkeley
Outpatient program
510-204-4560
Hospitalization
510-204-4405

March 16, 2007

EveryOne Home
Alameda County is tackling the issue of homelessness with a new federally funded program called, EveryOne Home. The plan is to create 15,000 housing units for in 15 years with a budget at 2 billion dollars for the existing 30,000 people and families who are without permanent shelter.

EveryOne Home
Ending Homelessness in Alameda County
www.everyonehome.org

Audubon Canyon Ranch
From mid-March to mid-July, the public is invited to see Egrets and Herons come to nest and create families at the Audubon Canyon Ranch. The Ranch is a wildlife sanctuary in Northern California that preserves and protects native plants and animals; educates the public on the natural environment; and supports research efforts in preservation and management of natural resources.

Audubon Canyon Ranch’s Bolinas Lagoon Preserve
4900 Highway One
Stinson Beach
Hike and bird watching
Weekends through July 15th
415-868-9244
www.egret.org

155th S.F. St. Patrick’s Day Parade
For the first time in parade history, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in San Francisco will be held on St. Patrick’s Day. One of the parade features will be Irish Wolfhounds, a breed of dogs that nearly became extinct. Myles O’Reilly, owner of O’Reilly’s Holy Grail Restaurant shows off his 14 week old Irish Wolfhound puppy and talks about his wonderful Irish food. The parade will begin at 2nd and Mission and finish at the Civic Center Plaza where the Family Festival will be held featuring food, music and games.

155th St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Family Festival
Today, 11 am – 5pm
2nd & Market to Civic Center
415-675-9885
www.sfstpatricksdayparade.com

March 10, 2007

Toasting Women Chefs & Restaurateurs
Bay Area women chefs will be honored by the Women Chefs & Restaurateurs reception and dinner. The event will showcase the culinary talents of Bay Area women chefs in a presentation of a five course fine dining experience. The dinner is also a fundraiser for scholarship and internship programs for Women Chefs & Restaurateurs.

At the Table San Francisco: Toasting Women Chefs & Restaurateurs
March 15, 2007
De Young Museum
San Francisco
877-927-7787
www.womenchefs.org

M.C. Escher Exhibit
The San Jose Museum of Art is presenting an exhibit called, “M.C. Escher: Rhythm of Illusion”, organized by the Portland Art Museum. Seventy prints and drawings will be on display spanning Escher’s work from 1924 – 1935, and from 1935 – 1969.

M.C. Escher: Rhythm of Illusion
San Jose Museum of Art
Now through April 22
www.sanjosemuseumofart.org

National MS Awareness Week
National MS Awareness Week, March 5 – 11, is a national awareness campaign to promote education and understanding of Multiple Sclerosis. There is also an outreach to ethnic communities with an emphasis on educating the Latino community about MS. The annual MS Walk will be held in multiple locations, including Alameda’s Crown Beach on April 14th.

2007 MS Walk
April 14
Crown Beach, Alameda
1-800-FIGHT-MS
www.nationalmssociety.org

March 3, 2007

Yul Kwon – Survivor Winner
Survivor: Cook Island reality television winner, Yul Kwon, is an Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2007 Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco and will appear on the Asian American Donor Program float. Kwon will also be a special guest at the BARE Benefit Fashion Show and Party, to help bring awareness and attention to the issue of poverty in Asia.

2007 Chinese New Year Parade
KTVU 2
March 3, 6pm

BARE Benefit Fashion Show Party & Silent Auction
March 3, 10pm
Westin St. Francis Hotel
San Francisco

Ugandan Mothers
Uganda has been recognized for their work in reducing AIDS, however, they still have an unusually high maternal death rate. A San Francisco State University student, Anisha Moore-Johnson, shares her experience in assessing the health care services of Ugandan mothers in rural Ugandan villages through a program called Global Volunteer Nework, located in New Zealand.

Global Volunteer Network
www.volunteer.org.nz

Anisha Moore-Johnson
anisha@sfsu.edu

26th Annual Black Cuisine Contest & Street Fair
Thousands of people look forward to the annual Black Cuisine Contest that features Southern style soul food. Dr. George Davis, Executive Director of the Bayview Hunters Point Multipurpose Senior Services, created the event to share African American culture and traditions to youth who have lost touch with some of their culture. The event is also a fundraiser that raises funds to improve and support health care programs serving Bayview’s senior citizens.

26th Annual Black Cuisine Cooking Contest & Street Fair
March 3 at 12Noon to 5pm
1706 Yosemite Ave @ 3rd St.
San Francisco
415-822-1444

February 24, 2007

Autism
A recently released survey states that 1 out of every 150 children is diagnosed with autism and that our nation may have as many 650,000 children with autism. The average child is diagnosed between ages 3 and 5 but efforts are being made in diagnosing autism at earlier ages of 18 months.

ASD Parent Support Group
www.php.com

For free Autism assessments for children under age 3 call:
Regional Center of the East Bay
Oakland
510-383-1355

For a CHAT test on Autism:
http://depts.washington.edu/dataproj/chat.html

San Francisco in World War II
San Francisco became a major deployment center during World War II and thousands of soldiers, sailors and Marines came through the city for some much needed rest and recreation. The book, San Francisco in World War II takes us back to US history through historical photographs. Guests include WWII veterans, Eugene Tarrant and Johnnie Enger, who share stories of their time in the war.

San Francisco in World War II
By John Garvey
Published by Arcadia Publishing

February 17, 2007

Seasonal Affective Disorder
It’s common for people experience some kind of “winter blues” during the long, dark days of winter, but for some, those “blues” may be signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. SAD is commonly related to depression and can be successfully treated with more exposure to light and possibly medication.

San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy
510-652-4455 ext. 15

Katrina Dog Rescued
Approximately 50 dogs rescued from Katrina were brought to the Bay Area by Hopalong Animal Rescue. 40 of the dogs have been adopted by Bay Area homes and 10 have been reunited with their original owners. The last to be reunited is a Chow Chow that was just sent home in February 2007.

Hopalong Animal Rescue
Oakland
510-267-1915 ext. 500
www.hopalong.org

White Elephant Sale
The 47th White Elephant Sale benefiting the Oakland Museum of California will be held on March 3rd & 4th. Billed as Northern California’s biggest and best rummage sale, the Event has brought in millions of dollars that have been used to bring in and help support exhibitions at the Museum.

2007 White Elephant Sale
March 3 & 4
333 Lancaster St.
Oakland
510-536-6800
www.museumca.org

February 10, 2007

BMI Testing
With the country’s growing concern about obesity rates, it shouldn’t be a surprise that California public schools are required to test their students for their body mass index or BMI. BMI testing has become the buzz phrase in trying to fight obesity. What exactly is BMI testing and how accurate is it?

For information on BMI
www.nhlbisupport.com
www.cdc.gov/index.htm

Lunar New Year Flower Market
The San Francisco Botanical Garden’s annual Lunar New Year Flower Market will be open on Saturday, Feb. 10th to providing a variety of traditional plants and flowers to celebrate the Year of the Boar. An array of plum blossoms, orchids and camellias will be available to bring good luck and prosperity into any Asian home.

Lunar New Year Flower Market
Strybing Arboretum
Golden Gate Park
Feb. 10, 10am – 2pm
www.sfbotanicalgarden.org

SF Crab Cracking Festival
The 5th annual Crab Cracking Festival will host local chefs and members of the San Francisco 49ers to demonstrate who can clean and crack the most crab in 5 minutes. Local restaurants will provide sampling of San Francisco’s seafood treasure Dungeness crab. This fun and tasty event will benefit the San Francisco 49ers Foundation and it’s work in helping undeserved youth.

5th Annual Celerity Crab Cracking
Union Square, San Francisco
Feb. 24, Noon – 3pm
415-781-7880
www.unionsquaresf.net

February 3, 2007

Meningitis
What is meningitis and how contagious is this disease? There are new vaccinations available for teens and pre-teens that may become part of their routine vaccination program.

National Black AIDS Day
February 7th is National Black AIDS Day and Alameda County intends to use this special day to further educate and inform the African American community about HIV/AIDS prevention. The public is invited to a number of events taking place on February 7th.

National Black AIDS Day
Awareness Day
Feb. 7
www.acaataskforce.org

USF Nursing Program
Nursing students at USF may apply for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a Guatemalan village to provide pre-natal care to pregnant women. The USF School of Nursing has developed a partnership with San Lucas Toliman, Guatemala to help decrease maternal and infant death rates.

USF School of Nursing
415-422-6681
www.usfca.edu/nursing

January 27, 2007

Gay Blood Donors
A gay Santa Cruz high school student stood in line to become a blood donor during the high school’s blood drive. It was then that he and the community learned that there is a lifetime ban against gay men being blood donors, imposed by the FDA. Many organizations,including the American Red Cross, have asked the FDA to reconsider its ban in light of improved blood tests.

To Donate Blood
American Red Cross
800-GIVE-LIFE
www.BeADonor.com

World Forum 2007
Facing violence, justice, religion and conflict resolution are the topics of discussion at the World Forum 2007 in San Francisco. Founded by four Bay Area women, the event is organized by the RockRose Institute which promotes non-violent conflict through communication. Among the many world leaders at the forum will be Madeline Albright, former U>S. Secretary of State.

“Facing Violence, Justice, Religion & Conflict Resolution”
World Forum 2007
Argent Hotel, S.F.
Feb. 1 – 3
888-544-2695
www.rockroseinstitute.org
Pre-registration suggested

“Amazing 7 Minute Meals”
Chef Yvonne Stephens says that you can lose weight and eat well with her new cookbook, Amazing 7 Minute Meals. The book features 100 stir fry recipes that include flavor combinations from around the world; from Italian and Indian to Thai and Basque. Chef Stephens demonstrates her Mediterranean Salmon Stir Fry.

“Amazing 7 Minute Meals”
Free recipes
www.getrealhealthyfood.com

Mediterranean Salmon Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
8 – 12 oz. Salmon, cut into bit size
1 Onion, sliced thin
1 T. Garlic
1 T. Capers
2 C. Escarole
2 T. Cream or Half and Half
2 T. Pine Nuts
½ C white wine (optional)
1 T. dill
Salt & Pepper to taste
Serve over linguine or any leftover pasta or rice and garnish with dill.

1. Cut ingredients into desired size.
2. Add a little oil or cooking spray of your choice to the pan. Heat pan to 376 degrees F/medium high heat.
3. Add salmon. Stir for 2 minutes.
4. Add onion, capers, and garlic. Stir for 2 minutes.
5. Add escarole, sea salt and pepper to taste. Finish with cream, wine, pine nuts
and dill. Stir for an additional minute. Serve over linguine and garnish with dill.
Serves 2 dinners or 3 lunches.
Prep time: 10:00. Cooking time: 6:00.

January 20, 2007

Preventing Homicides
The Oakland police department and the Oakland Community Organizations have new plans and expectations in preventing the violence and high homicide rates of 2006. They share their renewed strategies and approach, in bringing city government, community and families together.

Oakland Community Organization
www.oaklandcommunity.org

Child Quest International Poster Contest
Child Quest International is a non-profit corporation that protects and recovers missing children. They are celebrating eleven successful years of the Amber alert program by conducting a national poster contest. The contest is opened to 5th grade school children who can express lessons learned on safety.

Child Quest International
National Poster Contest
Deadline: March 13, 2007
"Bringing Our Missing Children Home”
408-287-4673
www.childquest.org

BORP
The Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program provides people with disabilities access to a range of physical and outdoor activities. During the holidays, the building in which BORP operates from was sold and they had only 4 weeks to find new office space. They’ve have searched for space that is reasonable in rental fees and is accessible to the physically disabled. They need help in locating new offices by January 28, 2007 and will also help in moving.

BORP
Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program
510-849-4663
www.borp.org

January 13, 2007

Fungus Fair
The wet season is the perfect time for foraging for wild mushrooms but there are also poisonous mushrooms that are dangerous if eaten. Wild mushrooms should only be picked in the wild by experts. You can learn the difference between the safe and poisonous ones by attending the upcoming Santa Cruz 33rd Annual Fungus Fair.

33rd Annual Santa Cruz Fungus Fair
Jan. 13 & 14, 10 am – 5pm
Louden Nelson Community Center
831-420-6115
www.santacruzmuseums.org

Bay Area Mycological Society
www.bayareamushrooms.org

Berkeley One and Only
Photographer and author Jon Sullivan, describes his love for Berkeley through lively photographs showing historical landmarks, city culture, uniqueness, and diversity, altogether, showing a spiritual side of Berkeley.

Berkeley One and Only
Published by Command Performance Press
www.berkeleyoneandonly.com

Just for Women
The Positive Resource Center, a San Francisco based non-profit, provides the only program of its kind in the Bay Area that helps educate and inform HIV/AIDS men and about career opportunities and health benefits. They’re holding a one-day workshop for women with HIV/AIDS who need support in finding out about health benefits and options for training and education and employment.

Just for Women: HIV/AIDS Women Considering Options for Employment and Education
January 25, 10am – 4pm
The Center
1800 Market Street at Octavia
San Francisco
To register call 415-777-0333

Positive Resource Center
785 Market Street
San Francisco CA 94103
415-777-0333
www.positiveresource.org