Randy's Guide CLX (160)

An early edition, in advance of my move within San Francisco tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Today is Liberan President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf's 71st; Friday is the 35th anniversary of the "Rumble in the Jungle"; Saturday is Halloween and actor Brent Corrigan's 23rd; Sunday is Day of the Dead and All Saints Day; Monday is jazz musician Kurt Elling's 43rd; Tuesday is Election Day; and Wednesday is comedian Kathy Griffin's 49th.


Local News
At least one more day of living without the Bay Bridge, much to the chagrin of 260,000 commuters, will be forthcoming. A cable snapped on Tuesday night due to heavy winds and car vibrations. Additional BART cars and Golden Gate ferries will be in operation. www.mercurynews.com/traffic/ci_13664703


Deal of the Week
Free blackjack taco at all Taco Bell locations from 6pm until midnight on Halloween. I found out about this one while watching my beloved Angels lose Game 6. www.tacobell.com/freeblackjacktaco


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center. I walked by its home offices the other day en route to KFC, and this section of Polk Gulch is a mess. The group has promoted sexual health and broken down barriers within the Asian and Pacific Islander communities since 1987. Its support of the LGBT community, abused women, and no-insurance individuals includes an alliance with health care providers and organizations. www.apiwellness.org

Donate through the nonprofit's Web site or your corporate donation program.

Previous organizations Randy's Guide has spotlighted and donated: Common Ground Relief, LYRIC, Aldea Inc., Glide Memorial, City CarShare, Maitri, Loaves and Fishes, Friends of the Urban Forest, Farm Sanctuary, Bay Area Community Services, Blue Energy, My New Red Shoes, College Track, Foundation for the People of Burma, Vital Life Services, Little Angel Fund, San Francisco Health Services Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Bay Localize, San Francisco Women Against Rape, Sustainable Conservation, Ashoka, Old Skool Cafe, Darfur Sister Schools, and Rebuilding Together San Francisco.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
Looking good for tricks and treats. Mostly clear skies, even at the coast.

Highs: mid-60s (coast); upper-60s (bay); low-70s (inland)
Lows: near 50


The Environment
The Electrolux UltraSilencer Green canister vacuum is made from shredded cars and packaged in recycled cardboard. The filter is washable, and the sound-insulated motor releases about as much noise as an electric shaver. Find it at Bed Bath & Beyond and other retailers. www.electrolux.com.au/node38.aspx?productId=20673


Music
"What Matters More" by Derek Webb

From reader Joseph F. comes this popular award-winning Christian music artist whose latest album was deemed too controversial. So instead he turned to the Web, and his current tour is going through Florida, Texas, Missouri, and Ohio. www.derekwebb.com


Movies (domestic revenues through October 25)
The excellent scare film "Paranormal Activity" surged to the top spot in its fifth week of release, with $21.1 million {rated R, $61.6 million overall, 1945 screens, $10,850 per screen}. Torture flick "Saw VI" tallied a relatively low $14.1 million, good for second place {rated R, 3036 screens, $4,650 per screen}. Families didn't turn out for "Astro Boy" {rated PG, $6.7 million opening, 3014 screens, $2,224 per screen}. "Cirque Du Freak" failed to draw in audiences too {rated PG-13, $6.3 million opening, 2754 screens, $2,285 per screen}. Finally, Hilary Swank's performance in "Amelia" has a so-so opening with $3.9 million {rated PG, 820 screens, $4,761 per screen}.

The Beaches of Agnes (NR): Documentary; about the filmmaker Agnes Varda's existence, as seen through the beaches and people in her life

Brain Dead (NR): Comedy; about a series of guys who try to win a girl attending the University of Oxford

Bronson (R): Drama; about a defiant teenager whose persona is changed after decades behind bars in solitary confinement

The Canyon (R): Thriller; about a young newlywed couple who meet a mysterious guide in the Grand Canyon on their honeymoon

Heart of Stone (NR): Documentary; about an inner city school's journey to better days

Michael Jackson's This Is It (PG): Documentary; about the final days of Michael Jackson in advance of his tour; directed by Kenny Ortega ("High School Musical")

Walt and El Grupo (PG): Documentary; about Walt Disney's tour through South America during WWII

The Yes Men Fix the World (NR): Documentary; about political activists who attempt to expose the activities of major corporations

DVD Pick - Man on Wire (PG-13): It's quite amazing to watch the petite Frenchman prepare and execute a flawless plan to walk between the Twin Towers in 1974. This is currently the best-reviewed film on Rotten Tomatoes, and it appeared as a top-five film on year-end lists for The New York Times, The Boston Globe, Newsweek, and The Wall Street Journal. Oscar winner of Best Documentary. Domestic box office: $3.0 million; foreign box office: $2.3 million.


Free Activities
Battle of the Bay Tennis Classic [Thu-Sun]: Featuring college exhibition matches, including a pro exhibition with local Paul Goldstein. At the California Tennis Club (SF). www.calclubtennis.com

Critical Mass [Fri 6-8p]: Watch for the masses of bicyclists starting from the Financial District and spreading throughout town.

Muni Diaries Live [Fri 7:30-9:30p]: Next week, I'll post the infamous MUNI video. For now, hear about various riders' stories over a cocktail. At the Make-Out Room (SF). www.makeoutroom.com

Halloween Costume Walk in the Gardens [Sat noon-4p]: Featuring live music, kids' activities, a haunted house, and more. At Yerba Buena Gardens (SF). www.ybgf.org

Halloween on Solano [Sat 5-8p]: Featuring face painting, pizza, Doctor Solar performer, a costume contest, and more. At Ray's Pumpkin Patch (Albany). www.solanoavenueassn.org

ShadowLight Theatre [Sat 7p]: Featuring traditional Balinese shadow puppetry for the production of "Ghosts of the River." At Union Square Plaza (SF). www.shadowlight.com

Take Back Halloween [Sat 9pm-midnight]: Featuring two mobile DJs. Near Ferry Plaza (SF). www.flashdance.org

Dia de Los Muertos Festival [Sun 10a-5p]: Featuring live Latin music, traditional dance, cultural cuisine, and more. Along International Blvd. (Oakland). www.unitycouncil.org

BookFest [Sun 12:30-6p]: Check out the site for more information about sessions and authors. At the Jewish Community Center (SF). www.jccsf.org

Free Museum Day [Tue / Wed]: The SF MOMA, de Young, Cartoon Art Museum, and Legion of Honor - free on Tuesday; Exploratorium - free on Wednesday.


Paid Activities
An Evening with Kevin Smith [Thu 8p]: The filmmaker behind "Clerks" and "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" hits town. At the Warfield (SF), $40-57. www.viewaskew.com

En Vogue [Thu-Fri 8p/10p]: A homecoming, of sorts, for the Grammy-winning Oakland quartet. At Yoshi's (Oakland), $50. www.yoshis.com/oakland

Dia de los Muertos Concert [Sun 1p]: Featuring a performance of Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals," author Laura Esquivel, and Mayan dancers. At Davies Symphony Hall (SF), $15-65. www.sfsymphony.org

Queen Latifah [Tue 8p]: The actress-singer behind "Chicago" and "Bringing Down the House." At the Regency Center (SF), $38-48. www.queenlatifah.com

First Day of School [through Nov 7}: About five parents who suddenly have more time on their hands once their youngest kids have started school. At the SF Playhouse, $30-40. www.sfplayhouse.org

The Little Dog Laughed [through Nov 8]: About a closeted Hollywood star who chases after a hustler dating a woman. At the New Conservatory Theatre (SF), $22-40. www.nctcsf.org

Previous: Theatre - The Chosen [through Sunday in Mountain View]; Theatre - American Idiot [extended again through Nov 15 in Berkeley]

Randy's Guide CLIX (159)

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Randy's Guide CLVIII (158)

Today is chef Emeril Lagasse's 50th; Friday is Boss' Day and English "The X Factor" winner Shayne Ward's 25th; Saturday is singer Eminem and Wyclef Jean's 37th; Sunday is actor Zac Efron's 22nd and retired tennis player Martina Navratilova's 53rd; Monday is RNC chairman Michael Steele's 51st; Tuesday is the 25th anniversary of the Monterey Bay Aquarium; and Wednesday is U.K. Apple Day.


Local News
Later today, President Barack Obama will make his first stop in San Francisco since winning the election. He will attend two fundraisers - a dinner for 200 VIPs and a reception for 1,000 supporters - and stay overnight at the Westin St. Francis Hotel. Protesters, both conservative and liberal, will be across the street in Union Square. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/10/15/MN3S1A5G14.DTL


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Rebuilding Together San Francisco. Originally formed in response to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, this nonprofit focuses on conducting makeovers of homes and community facilities. Recent projects include the Arab Cultural & Community Center in Forest Hill, Daniel Webster Elementary School in Potrero Hill, and the YMCA facility in the Mission. http://www.rebuildingtogethersf.org/

Donate through the nonprofit's Web site or your corporate donation program.

Previous organizations Randy's Guide has spotlighted and donated: Common Ground Relief, LYRIC, Aldea Inc., Glide Memorial, City CarShare, Maitri, Loaves and Fishes, Friends of the Urban Forest, Farm Sanctuary, Bay Area Community Services, Blue Energy, My New Red Shoes, College Track, Foundation for the People of Burma, Vital Life Services, Little Angel Fund, San Francisco Health Services Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Bay Localize, San Francisco Women Against Rape, Sustainable Conservation, Ashoka, Old Skool Cafe, and Darfur Sister Schools.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
After last Tuesday's record rainfall (21 inches in the Santa Cruz mountains in one day!) and hurricane-force winds, we're dry for the next few days. Next chance of rain will be Sunday night into Monday.

Highs: low-60s (coast); upper-60s (bay); low-70s (inland)
Lows: mid-50s


The Environment
Organic beer, made with organic hops, uses fewer pesticides and promotes better farming practices. Wolaver's, Fish Tale Ales, and Peak Organic appear to be winning brands. An alternative is to purchase locally crafted ales (Anchor Steam, Speakeasy, Sierra Nevada), which travel shorter distances to get into stores.

Previous:
With the first autumn rains approaching, it might be time to consider a rain barrel for harvesting water. The collected water is excellent for plants, car washes, and indoor cleaning jobs. Stop by your local hardware store to check out options.


Music
"Heart of Chambers" by Beach House (Baltimore, Md.)

The dream-pop duo, whose third album is coming out next year, has a sold-out show at San Francisco's Bottom of the Hill on Monday, followed by stops in L.A., San Diego, and Big Sur. http://www.beachhousemusic.net/


Movies (domestic revenues through October 11)
"Couples Retreat" - A quasi-update to "Swingers" - landed in first place with $34.3 million {rated PG-13, 3000 screens, $11,429 per screen}. "Zombieland" held onto second with $14.8 million {rated R, 3038 screens, $4,872 per screen}. The very low-budget scare film "Paranormal Activity" used inexpensive marketing tactics to pack theatres to the tune of $7.9 million {rated R, 3rd weekend, $9.1 million overall, 160 screens, $49,379 per screen}. Chris Rock's documentary "Good Hair" premiered with $1.0 million in limited release {rated PG-13, 186 screens, $5,611 per screen}.

Birdwatchers (NR): Drama; about Amazonian tourists and natives paid to dress in traditional attire

An Education (PG-13): Romance; about a schoolgirl debating between trying for Oxford or living with an older man; co-starring Peter Sarsgaard and Alfred Molina

The Horse Boy (NR): Documentary; about a Texas family who treks through Mongolia in search of a cure for the son's autism

Law Abiding Citizen (R): Thriller; about a grieving father who tracks down one of the murderers of his family following his early release from prison; co-starring Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler

More Than a Game (PG): Documentary; about five young basketball players from Akron, Ohio; co-starring LeBron James

New York, I Love You (R): Drama; about varied human connections in New York City, as imagined by an array of filmmakers; co-starring Hayden Christensen, Ethan Hawke, Christina Ricci, Shia LaBeouf, Natalie Portman, and Orlando Bloom

The Providence Effect (PG): Documentary; about a guidance counselor at a tough inner-city school in Chicago

The Stepfather (PG-13): Suspense; about a troubled teen who is on break from military school and suspects that his soon-to-be stepfather has a spotted past; co-starring Sela Ward

Where the Wild Things Are (PG): Comedy; about a misunderstood boy who lands on a mysterious island filled with Wild Things; co-starring Catherine Keener and Chris Cooper

DVD Pick - Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (PG-13): It's a beautiful homage to the nightlife in New York City, with the associated romance and hip tunes. Domestic box office: $31.5 million; foreign box office: $2.0 million.


Free Activities
Sidewalk Fall Fest [Fri-Sun 10a-5p]: 13th annual. Featuring 90+ artisans. Along Santa Cruz Ave. (Menlo Park). http://www.menloparkchamber.com/

Pacific Coast Brewing Block Party [Fri 5-11p]: Celebrating its 21st anniversary with local bands, birthday cake, special beers, and more. Near Washington St. and 10th St. (Oakland). www.pacificcoastbrewing.com/21anniv.htm

Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival [Sat-Sun 9a-5p]: 39th annual. Featuring a pie-eating contest, pumpkin parade, haunted house, pumpkin ale, and more. Along Main St. (Half Moon Bay). http://www.miramarevents.com/

Greening El Cerrito [Sat 9a-2p]: Plant trees or learn about environmental activities. At City Hall (El Cerrito). http://www.el-cerrito.org/

San Francisco Trolley Dances [Sat-Sun 11a-4p]: 5th annual. Featuring six different San Francisco dance troupes performing outdoors along the J-Church MUNI line in the Mission District, Noe Valley, and Balboa Park. Meet at the large Miguel Hidalgo statue in the middle of Dolores Park, with tours beginning at 11a and leaving every 45 minutes. At Dolores Park and elsewhere (SF). http://www.epiphanydance.org/

Family Festival [Sat 11a-3p]: Featuring performances, jump houses, carousel rides, and resources geared toward children and families. In Yerba Buena Gardens (SF). http://www.ybgf.org/

Potrero Hill Festival [Sat 11a-4p]: 19th annual. Featuring live music, a petting zoo, local food producers, and more. Along 20th St. (SF). http://www.potrerofestival.com/

Festival on the Square [Sat 1-4p]: Featuring lion dancing, Supervisor David Chiu, free alleyway tours, and more. At Portsmouth Square (SF). http://www.caasf.org/

Target Family Day at the Museums [Sun 11a-4p]: Featuring taiko and indigenous performances, circus theatre, activities, and admission to the new Contemporary Jewish Museum (which I'll be attending), SF Museum of Modern Art (excellent), the Museum of the African Diaspora (also excellent), and Zeum. http://www.yerbabuena.org/

Fiesta on the Hill [Sun 11a-6p]: 21st annual. Featuring live music, a petting zoo, pumpkin patch, and more. Along Cortland Ave. (SF). http://www.sresproductions.com/


Paid Activities
Treasure Island Music Festival [Sat-Sun 11a-11p]: Featuring MGMT, The Decemberists, Grizzly Bear, Passion Pit, The Flaming Lips, and more. Free parking and shuttle from AT&T Park. At Treasure Island (SF), $65-250. http://www.treasureislandfestival.com/

Jake Shimabukuro [Wed 7:30p]: The Hawaiian ukelele star shot to stardom on YouTube. At Davies Symphony Hall (SF), $25-65. http://www.jakeshimabukuro.com/

South Pacific [through Oct 25]: Tony Award-winning revival about race and romance during WWII. At Golden Gate Theatre (SF), $30-99. http://www.shnsf.com/

Previous: Theatre - Brief Encounter [extended through Saturday in SF]; Event - Northern California Renaissance Faire [through Sunday in Hollister]; Film - Mill Valley Film Festival [through Sunday in Mill Valley and San Rafael]; Theatre - Rent [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - American Idiot [extended again through Nov 15 in Berkeley]

Randy's Guide CLVII (157)

Today is Croatia's Independence Day; Friday is Leif Erikson Day; Saturday is San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom's 42nd; Sunday is the 34th anniversary of the first Saturday Night Live; Monday is Columbus Day; Tuesday is singer Ashanti's 29th; and Wednesday is fashion designer Ralph Lauren's 70th.


Local News
In light of the massive Presidents' Cup tournament at Harding Park this weekend, this golf story from VIsitacion Valley seems particularly relevant. First Tee of San Francisco Learning Center offers middle-school students a brand new driving range, sand trap, and putting green as part of the school's playground facilities. Two professional golfers, Paul Azinger and Nick Faldo, gave 100 students a few lessons about swinging a golf club. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/10/07/BAUI1A2E0A.DTL


Free Stuff
Hooray for my two free tall coffees from Starbucks... on Wednesday, sign up at www.tixbayarea.com for two free tickets to over 100 shows in the Bay Area. I've already attended Smuin Ballet (excellent) via September's ticket release. Opportunities include Beach Blanket Babylon and American Conservatory Theater.


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Rebuilding Together San Francisco. Originally formed in response to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, this nonprofit focuses on conducting makeovers of homes and community facilities. Recent projects include the Arab Cultural & Community Center in Forest Hill, Daniel Webster Elementary School in Potrero Hill, and the YMCA facility in the Mission. www.rebuildingtogethersf.org

Donate through the nonprofit's Web site or your corporate donation program.

Previous organizations Randy's Guide has spotlighted and donated: Common Ground Relief, LYRIC, Aldea Inc., Glide Memorial, City CarShare, Maitri, Loaves and Fishes, Friends of the Urban Forest, Farm Sanctuary, Bay Area Community Services, Blue Energy, My New Red Shoes, College Track, Foundation for the People of Burma, Vital Life Services, Little Angel Fund, San Francisco Health Services Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Bay Localize, San Francisco Women Against Rape, Sustainable Conservation, Ashoka, Old Skool Cafe, and Darfur Sister Schools.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
Enjoy the temperate, dry weather before the first fall rain could hit early next week.

Highs: mid-60s (coast); near 70 (bay); mid-70s (inland)
Lows: low-50s


The Environment
With the first autumn rains approaching, it might be time to consider a rain barrel for harvesting water. The collected water is excellent for plants, car washes, and indoor cleaning jobs. Stop by your local hardware store to check out options.

Previous:
Natural Value sponges are made with 50% recycled cellulose, while its trash bags are fully compostable. Check them out at your local specialty grocery store or at www.naturalvalue.com.


Music
"One More Try" by Music for Animals (San Francisco, Calif.)

This group got a nice boost from LIVE 105 and Bay Area rock band Wallpaper. Stops later this month and next include San Jose's Blank Club (Friday), San Francisco's El Rio (Nov. 21), and Portland (Ore.). www.music4animals.com


Movies (domestic revenues through October 5)
"Zombieland" surprised a few observers with its strong $24.7 million opening {rated R, 3036 screens, $8,147 per screen}. Starting in third place is the re-release of "Toy Story" in 3-D, with $12.5 million {rated G, 1745 screens, $7,159 per screen}. Ricky Gervais' comedy "The Invention of Lying" premiered in fifth with $7.0 million {PG-13, 1707 screens, $4,117 per screen}. Drew Barrymore directorial debut, "Whip It," tossed up $4.7 million {PG-13, 1721 screens, $2,702 per screen}. Lastly, Michael Moore's latest rant, "Capitalism: A Love Story," expanded nicely into eighth, with $4.4 million {rated R, $4.8 million overall, 2nd weekend, $4,623 per screen}.

Boys Are Back (PG-13): Drama; about a father who suddenly must take care of his two sons after his wife passes away; co-starring Clive Owen

Chelsea on the Rocks (R): Documentary; about the legendary Chelsea Hotel in New York City; co-starring Dennis Hopper

Couples Retreat (PG-13): Comedy; about four Midwestern couples who stay at a tropical resort; co-starring Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau

Eating Out 3: All You Can Eat (NR): Comedy sequel; about a series of young individuals in West Hollywood

Paranormal Activity (R): Horror; a highly touted film about a middle-class couple that may have a haunted home

A Serious Man (R): Drama; about a Midwestern man's search for truth during the 1960s; directed by the Coen Brothers

The Wedding Song (NR): Drama; about two adolescent girls living in Tunisia during the Third Reich's occupation

DVD Pick - The Wrestler (R): Director Darren Aronofsky, a critical darling for "Pi" and "Requiem for a Dream," hit art-house gold with this quiet film about a washed-up professional wrestler. Mickey Rourke really is that good, and Marisa Tomei shows us plenty of her lovely but aging body. Domestic box office: $26.2 million; foreign box office: $18.5 million.


Free Activities
Fleet Week [Thu noon-6p, Fri 1-6p, Sat 9a-10p, Sun 9a-7p]: Featuring the Blue Angels, ship parade, Navy Band performances, fireworks, ship tours, and more. At Pier 39, Fort Mason, and above San Francisco. www.military.com/fleetweek

One City One Book: Alive in Necropolis [Thu 6p, Sat 3p, Mon 6p, Tue 6p]: What a fabulous read. It's about a rookie cop in Colma who battles through ghosts, dead-end relationships, and an alcoholic teen. Come discuss the novel or meet the author, Doug Dorst. At Books Inc. Castro and Opera Plaza (SF), The Page Bar (SF), and the Main Library's Koret Auditorium (SF). http://sfpl.org/news/ocob/events09.htm

Dolores Park Movie Night [Thu 8p]: Bundle up for an outdoor screening of "Goonies." At Dolores Park (SF). www.doloresparkmovie.org

Oakland Walking Tour [Sat 10a]: The Uptown District's Art Deco influences is the focus, with stops at the Paramount Theatre, Fox Theater, and Sweet's Ballroom. RSVP to 510-238-3234. Meet at the Paramount Theatre (Oakland). www.oaklandnet.com

Point Richmond Fall Festival [Sat 10a-8p]: 1st annual. Featuring an "Edible Garden" theme with live music, cooking tutorials, and more. Near Washington Ave. and Park Pl. (Richmond). www.pointrichmond.com

Pumpkins in the Park [Sat 10a-4p]: 15th annual. Featuring a large pumpkin patch, scarecrow display, and more. At Discovery Meadow (San Jose). www.grpg.org

San Carlos Art & Wine Festival [Sat-Sun 10a-5:30p]: 19th annual. Featuring wine tasting, a family fun zone, three stages of entertainment, and more. At Laurel Street Park (San Carlos). www.sancarloschamber.org

Indigenous Peoples Day Pow Wow & Indian Market [Sat 10a-6p]: 18th annual. Featuring exhibition dancing, American Indian culture, and more. At Civic Center Park (Berkeley). www.ipdpowwow.org

Oaktoberfest in the Dimond District [Sat 11a-6p]: Featuring a traditional biergarten, a homebrew competition, bratwurst, strudel, German street performers, an Eco Fair, and more. Near Fruitvale Ave. and MacArthur Blvd. (Oakland). www.oaktoberfest.org

ArtWalk Livermore [Sat 11a-5p]: Featuring working artist studios, local wine tastings, live music, food samplings, and more. In downtown Livermore. www.artwalklivermore.org

SF Bicycle Coalition Family Day [Sun 11a-3p]: 3rd annual. Featuring a bicycle course, safety clinic, scavenger hunt, free maintenance, parade, and more. Near Golden Gate Park's Doughboy Picnic Area (SF). www.sfbike.org

UNION Design Festival [Sun 11a-6p]: Hipsters unite as 130 independent clothing and accessories designers converge. At Hayes Valley Park (SF). www.uniondesignsf.com

Free Folk Festival [Sat noon-10p]: Featuring performances and workshops from 50+ musicians, jam sessions, open mic, and more. At WIndrush School (El Cerrito). www.elcerritofolkfest.org

Italian Heritage Parade [Sun 12:30p]: 141st annual. Featuring a variety of parade floats, Italian clubs, marching bands, open-air dining specials, and more. Starts at Fisherman's Wharf and ends in Washington Square (SF). www.sfcolumbusday.org

Golden Gate Park Band [Sun 1p]: Final performance of the season. Featuring "Swings the Thing," a swing, jazz, and rock concert. In Golden Gate Park's Music Concourse (SF). www.goldengateparkband.org

Sundays in the Redwoods [Sun 2p]: Featuring local performing artist Ledisi, the Montclair Farmers Market, and children's activities. At Woodminster Outdoor Amphitheater (Oakland). www.jeanquan.org


Paid Activities
Comedian Hal Sparks [Thu 8p, Fri-Sat 8p/10:15p, Sun 8p]: From "Talk Soup" to "Queer as Folk" to "Dude, Where's My Car," this comedian/actor has been across the board. At Cobb's Comedy Club (SF), $15-21. www.cobbscomedyclub.com

Chocolate Fest [Fri 7:30-10p, Sat 1:30-4p/7:30-10p, Sun 1:30-4p]: Featuring unlimited chocolate tastings and live jazz. At the UCC (Belmont), $20-25. www.uccbelmont.org

ODC Theater: Ame to Ame [Sat 8p, Sun 7p]: Based on the Japanese dance form butoh. At ODC Dance Commons (SF), $15-18. www.odctheater.org

Smuin Ballet: Fly Me to the Moon [through Sunday]: Varied and accessible program. Featuring three sets, one for Frank Sinatra's hits, one for the Greek tragedy "Medea," and the first (and best) is a multi-cultural affair. At Palace of Fine Arts (SF), $18-56. www.smuinballet.org

Mill Valley Film Festival [through Oct 18]: 32nd annual. Featuring opening night films "Precious" and "The Boys Are Back," and discussions with Clive Owen, Woody Harrelson, and Uma Thurman. At 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley), Cinearts @ Sequoia (Mill Valley), and Smith Rafael Film Center (San Rafael), $5-125. www.mvff.com

Rent [through Oct 18]: The ground-breaking modern rock musical that paved the way for later hits "American Idiot" and "Spring Awakening." Featuring original Broadway cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp. At Curran Theatre (SF), $30-99. www.shnsf.com

Previous: Theatre - East 14th: True Tales of a Reluctant Player [through Saturday in SF]; Theatre - Brief Encounter [extended through Oct 17 in SF]; Event - Northern California Renaissance Faire [through Oct 18 in Hollister]; Theatre - American Idiot [extended again through Nov 15 in Berkeley]


Upcoming November Activities
David Gray concert [Nov 8 in SF]; Green Festival [Nov 13-15 in SF]; Great Dickens Christmas Fair [starts Nov 27 in Daly City]

Randy's Guide CLVI (156)

Apologies for the late (and abridged) Guide for the week!

Today is President Jimmy Carter's 85th and World Vegetarian Day; Friday is musician Sting's 58th; Saturday is author Gore Vidal's 84th; Sunday is "Clueless" actress Alicia Silverstone's 33rd; Monday is Indonesia's Army Day; Tuesday is Australia's Labour Day; and Wednesday is columnist Dan Savage's 45th.


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Rebuilding Together San Francisco. Originally formed in response to the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, this nonprofit focuses on conducting makeovers of homes and community facilities. Recent projects include the Arab Cultural & Community Center in Forest Hill, Daniel Webster Elementary School in Potrero Hill, and the YMCA facility in the Mission. www.rebuildingtogethersf.org

Donate through the nonprofit's Web site or your corporate donation program.

Previous organizations Randy's Guide has spotlighted and donated: Common Ground Relief, LYRIC, Aldea Inc., Glide Memorial, City CarShare, Maitri, Loaves and Fishes, Friends of the Urban Forest, Farm Sanctuary, Bay Area Community Services, Blue Energy, My New Red Shoes, College Track, Foundation for the People of Burma, Vital Life Services, Little Angel Fund, San Francisco Health Services Coalition, Natural Resources Defense Council, Bay Localize, San Francisco Women Against Rape, Sustainable Conservation, Ashoka, Old Skool Cafe, and Darfur Sister Schools.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
Cool, clear nights... preceded by mild mostly sunny days, steadily getting cooler through Sunday.

Highs: low-60s (coast); upper-60s (bay); mid-70s (inland)
Lows: near 50


Deal of the Week
Taste test Starbucks' new instant coffee, called VIA Ready Brew, for free between Friday and Monday. You'll also receive a coupon for a complimentary tall brewed coffee on the next visit. http://news.starbucks.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=271


The Environment
Natural Value sponges are made with 50% recycled cellulose, while its trash bags are fully compostable. Check them out at your local specialty grocery store or at www.naturalvalue.com.

Previous:
For clearing clogged drains, pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by three cups of boiling water. Don't use over-the-counter products like Drano, which will corrode the metal pipes and release toxic vapors into the home.


Movies (domestic revenues through September 28)
"Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" added another $25.0 million in its second weekend {rated PG, $60.5 million overall, 3119 screens, $8,028 per screen}. Bruce Willis' "Surrogates" opened with $14.9 million {rated PG-13, 2951 screens, $5,050 per screen}. The musical remake "Fame" weakly premiered with $10.0 million {rated PG, 3096 screens, $3,234 per screen}. The final major release was "Pandorum" with a paltry $4.4 million {rated R, 2506 screens, $1,765 per screen}.

A Beautiful Life (NR): Drama; about a girl who leaves her father for a strip bar

Capitalism: A Love Story (R): Documentary; about the effects of capitalism on ordinary Americans over the past few years; directed by Michael Moore

Coco Before Chanel (PG-13): Drama; about the famed high-culture woman, from her beginnings as an orphan; co-starring Audrey Tautou

Five Minutes of Heaven (NR): Drama; about militant fighting in Northern Ireland during the 1970s; co-starring Liam Neeson

The Invention of Lying (PG-13): Comedy; about a bad-luck loser who suddenly finds rewards for his ability to lie; co-starring Ricky Gervais and Jennifer Garner

Oblivion (NR): Documentary; about the lives of everyday people in Lima, Peru

Passing Strange (NR): Comedy; about a young black musician seeking to break outside of his middle-class bubble

Toy Story and Toy Story 2 (G): Animation; the beloved Disney-Pixar favorites get a return engagement in theatres with the 3-D treatment; co-voiced by Ton Hanks, Tim Allen, Kelsey Grammer, and Joan Cusack

Whip It (PG-13): Comedy; about a Texas beauty queen who joins a female roller derby team; co-starring Ellen Page and Juliette Lewis; directed by Drew Barrymore

Zombieland (R): Horror; about a team trying to survive in a world filled with zombies; co-starring Woody Harrelson, Abigail Breslin, and Jesse Eisenberg

DVD Pick - Burn After Reading (R): The madcap comedy, given the Coen Brothers' touch, is too hard to describe. What's important is that George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Brad Pitt, John Malkovich, and Tilda Swinton are largely used to the best of their acting capabilities. Domestic box office: $60.4 million; foreign box office: $100.8 million.


Free Activities
Free Museum Day [Thu; Sun; Tue; Wed]: Various open times for museums around the Bay Area. Check out the Asian Art Museum (Sunday), SF MOMA (Tuesday), de Young (Tuesday), Exploratorium (Wednesday), and several other options.

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass [Fri-Sun 11a-7p]: 9th annual. Featuring big-name artists such as Gillian Welch, Aimee Mann, Emmylou Harris, Steve Martin, Lyle Lovett, MC Hammer, Allen Toussaint, Dr. Dog, Neko Case, and countless others. In Golden Gate Park's Speedway, Marx, and Lindley Meadows (SF). www.strictlybluegrass.com

Greek Festival [Fri 5-9p, Sat 11a-9p, Sun noon-7p]: 38th annual. Featuring Greek dancing, music, food, and more. At Resurrection Church (Castro Valley). http://festival.cvresurrection.org

OktoberCreekFest [Fri 5-10p, Sat 1-10p]: Featuring live music, local comedian, carnival games, bratwurst, and of course beer. Along Locust St. (Walnut Creek). www.walnutcreekdowntown.com

Black Cowboy Parade & Festival [Sat 11a-2p]: 36th annual. Featuring a parade of black cowboys, live entertainment, pony rides, and more. In Frank Ogawa Plaza (Oakland). www.blackcowboyassociation.org

Veg Festival [Sat-Sun 10a-6p]: Featuring guest speakers, vegetarian cuisine demos, vegan speed dating, and more. At Golden Gate Park's County Fair Building (SF). www.sfvs.org

Los Altos Fall Festival [Sat-Sun 10a-5p]: 18th annual. Featuring a scarecrow contest, 150+ artisans, classic car show, and more. Near Main St. (Los Altos). www.losaltoschamber.org

Pacific Fine Arts Fest [Sat-Sun 10a-5p]: In Montclair Village (Oakland). www.montclairvillage.com

LovEvolution Parade & Festival [Sat noon-8 6th annual. Featuring a parade of internationally known DJs on floats, followed by a festival and various after-parties. Parade along Market St. (SF); festival in Civic Center Plaza (SF). www.sflovevolution.org

Film Night in the Park [Sat 8p]: Final performance of the season. Featuring "Slumdog Millionaire." In Washington Square Park (SF). www.filmnight.org

North Berkeley Spice of Life Festival [Sun 10a-6p]: 7th annual. Featuring local chef demos and samples, farmers market, yoga demos, and live music on three stages. Along Shattuck Ave. (Berkeley). www.gourmetghetto.org

Art & Olive Festival [Sun 10a-5p]: Featuring olive demonstrations, live music, artisans, and more. At Canada Community College (Redwood City). www.olivefest.com

Castro Street Fair [Sun 11a-6p]: 36th annual. Featuring two live music stages (including Wonderbread 5), two entertainment stages, and more. Along Castro Street (SF). www.castrostreetfair.org

Excelsior Festival [Sun 11a-5p]: 7th annual. Featuring local music, artisans, and more. Near Mission and Ocean Ave. (SF). www.excelsiorfestival.org

Save the Music Festival [Sun 11a-5p]: 7th annual. Featuring three stages of varied musical performances. At Twin Pines Park (Belmont). http://savethemusic.schoolforce.org

Country Fair Day & Parade [Sun 11a-3p]: Featuring a parade, three entertainment stages, and more. Along San Anselmo Ave. (San Anselmo). www.townofsananselmo.org

Latin Jazz [Sun 12:30-3:30p]: Featuring Francisco Aguabella and various performers. In Yerba Buena Gardens (SF). www.ybgf.org

Golden Gate Park Band [Sun 1p]: Featuring audience favorites, as requested. In Golden Gate Park's Music Concourse (SF). www.goldengateparkband.org


Paid Activities
Oktoberfest By the Bay [Fri 3p-midnight, Sat 11a-midnight, Sun 11a-6p]: 10th annual. Featuring Chico Bavarian Band, German food and drink, dancing, and more. At Pier 48 (SF), $15-35. www.oktoberfestbythebay.com

Youth Science Institute Day [Sun 11a-4p]: 24th annual. Touch or meet various animals, participate in hands-on science activities, and a live falconry presentation. At Alum Rock Park (San Jose), $6 vehicle fee and $5 suggested family donation. www.ysi-ca.org

Previous: Theatre - East 14th: True Tales of a Reluctant Player [through Oct 10 in SF]; Theatre - Brief Encounter [through Oct 11 in SF]; Event - Northern California Renaissance Faire [through Oct 18 in Hollister]; Theatre - American Idiot [extended again through Nov 15 in Berkeley]