The 8th annual Hidden Gems of Berkeley bike ride explores the curious, quirky, and crafted features and grassroots greening initiatives that make Berkeley unique — this year in Berkeley’s charming Northbrae and Westbrae neighborhoods. Meet at the North Berkeley Branch Library, 1170 The Alameda and Hopkins, 10 AM Sat., May 15. The leisurely ride on level and gently sloping terrain ends at 1 PM. Bring lunch, water, and the family — great for children over 10. The event is free; updated Hidden Gems of Berkeley maps available for $5 donation. Sponsored by Berkeley Partners for Parks, Livable Berkeley, East Bay Green Tours, and Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition; led by John Coveney, Marlene Fouche, and originator John Steere (for information contact John at 510 849 1969).
What do green building, red tail hawks, native oaks, bird migration and climate change have in common?
Design for Wildlife
is a first-of-its kind workshop on designing wildlife-friendly buildings, landscapes and communities.
Focus on ecology and practical design options. Includes wildlife behavior, site-specific methods, materials, wildlife corridors – and more — for those interested in the future of wildlife and ecodesign.
Sponsored by the San Francisco Institute of Architecture
Instructors Dave Deppen, Architect; Jennifer Berry, Ecologist
9 AM – 4:30 PM Friday, May 21, 2010
Grace North Church, 2138 Cedar Street (at Walnut), Berkeley
$200, professionals and public; $100 students & teachers (with current ID).
Advance registration only
603.793.3000
Friends of Five Creeks and Transition Albany invite you to enjoy Cerrito Creek and Albany Hill on a spring evening, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Meet at 6 PM at Peet’s Coffee, San Pablo and Carlson, El Cerrito; wear long pants and sleeves (poison oak) and sturdy hiking shoes with good traction; bring sticks if you use them. This two-hour exploration of rare urban wilderness with fascinating history will cross the creek on stepping stones and gain 300′ elevation on moderately steep, narrow dirty trails — with refreshments at the top! Information at www.fivecreeks.org, f5creeks@aol.com, 510 848 9358.
Tour green buildings and pioneering “green economy” businesses, meet leaders in sustainability, learn about healthy resources, and enjoy a day-long seminar on wheels with Bay Area Green Tours and the Oakland Museum’s Natural Science Build, 9 AM – 4 PM Thursday, May 6; cost $90. Bring bag lunch or enjoy no-host lunch at a restaurant that supports local farmers. Information and sign-up at www.ebgt.org.
510arts.com, World Culture in the East Bay, launches their new web site featuring cultural activities focusing on the 510 area code.
Berkeley’s thriving cultural scene is home to more than 130 non-profit arts organizations and hundreds more artists and performers. It’s clear why Berkeley locals and visitors “Come for the Culture, Stay for the Food” – the arts hold equal pride of place with Berkeley’s international reputation as a center for culinary and educational excellence.
Berkeley offers a comprehensive array of year-round cultural attractions. The Downtown Berkeley Arts District is a nationally recognized model as an arts destination and “arts led” downtown revitalization. The Arts District is centered on Addison Street; once lined with auto body shops, Addison Street now “rolls” with live theatre, live music, and performing arts education space.
Creative spirit infuses Berkeley with everyday discoveries ranging from vibrant street art and public art galleries, to major events such as the Berkeley Artisan Holiday Open Studios, and the renowned exhibitions and permanent collections at UC Berkeley Art Museum/Pacific Film Archive.
