Randy's Guide CLXVIII (168)

Today is suspense writer Mary Higgins Clark's 82nd; Friday is Christmas, singer Dido's 38th, and political adviser Karl Rove's 59th; Saturday is St. Stephen's Day, Boxing Day, and the first day of Kwanzaa; Sunday is French tennis player Gilles Simon's 25th; Monday is actor Denzel Washington's 55th; Tuesday is the 158th anniversary of the first U.S. YMCA; and Wednesday is golfer Tiger Woods' 34th and skateboarder Ryan Sheckler's 20th.


Local News
Berkeley's Black Oak Books, shuttered last year in its tony Gourmet Ghetto location, has reopened in West Berkeley with Good Vibrations as its neighbor. The new spot is larger and will offer a greater selection of books and author readings. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/24/BATF1B909T.DTL


Deal of the Week
Free Peet's coffee or tea today, December 24. Consider making a donation to the store's chosen nonprofit, as Peet's will match up to $1,000 per location. www.peets.com/stores/store_events.asp


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Urban Solutions. Started in 1992 as the South of Market Foundation, this nonprofit focuses on promoting small-business development in the Fillmore District, the SoMa, and seven corridors designated by the Neighborhood Marketplace Initiative. www.urbansolutionssf.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, Rebuilding Together San Francisco, and Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center.


Holiday Weekend Weather
Sunshine, with cool nights. Slight chance of rain starting Saturday afternoon. Still, much milder than Chicago, Seattle, or New York City...

Highs: mid-50s
Lows: mid-30s (inland); upper-30s (bay); low-40s (coast); mid-40s (SF)


The Environment
Check out cat litter products made from 100% recycled paper at PetSmart (ExquisiCat) or Petco (store brand). www.petsmart.com www.petco.com


Movies (domestic revenues through December 20)
James Cameron is king of the world again, as his multi-year, big-budget sci-fi production "Avatar" premiered with $77.0 million {rated PG-13, 3452 theatres, $22,313 per theatre}. The Hugh Grant-Sarah Jessica Parker romantic comedy "Did You Hear About the Morgans?" opened weakly with $6.6 million {rated PG-13, 2718 theatres, $2,434 per theatre}. "Up in the Air" exceeded my expectations, took in another $3.2 million to move into eighth place, and will be in wide release this coming weekend {rated R, 3rd weekend, $8.2 million overall, 175 theatres, $18,344 per theatre}. Lastly, Pedro Almodovar's latest creation with Penelope Cruz expanded into the Bay Area and gathered $0.2 million {rated R, 5th weekend, $0.8 million overall, 30 theatres, $6,833 per theatre}.

Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (PG): Animated sequel; about the three chipmunks that raked in $217 million two holidays ago

Crazy Heart (R): Drama; about a down-and-out country musician who finds a helping hand from a journalist ("Wrestler" anyone?); co-starring Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Robert Duvall; nominated for 2 Golden Globes - Best Actor, Best Song

It's Complicated (R): Romantic comedy; about a divorced couple who starts to rekindle emotional connections; co-starring Alec Baldwin, Meryl Streep, Steve Martin, and John Krasinski; directed by Nancy Meyers ("Something's Gotta Give"); nominated for 3 Golden Globes - Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay

The Lovely Bones (PG-13): Drama; about a young murdered girl who watches over her family and her murderer; co-starring Rachel Weisz, Mark Wahlberg, Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci, and Saoirse Ronan; directed by Peter Jackson ("Lord of the Rings"); nominated for 1 Golden Globe - Best Supporting Actor

The Missing Person (NR): Drama; about a private detective who tracks a man on a train from Chicago to L.A.; co-starring Amy Ryan and Michael Shannon

Nine (PG-13): Musical remake; about a film director who hits a creative wall while balancing numerous women in his life; co-starring Daniel Day Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Marion Cotillard, Nicole Kidman, Kate Hudson, Stacie "Fergie" Ferguson, and Judi Dench; directed by Rob Marshall ("Chicago"); nominated for 5 Golden Globes - Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Song

Sherlock Holmes (PG-13): Action; about the legendary detective, his trusted colleague Watson, and his lover Irene; co-starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law; directed by Guy Ritchie; nominated for 1 Golden Globe - Best Actor

DVD Pick - The Bucket List (PG-13): A Christmas Day release in 2007, this good-natured comedy pairs two quality veteran actors, Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. The two embark on a series of adventures designed to fulfill final wishes before it's too late. The film performed particularly well in Brazil, Japan, Mexico, and Germany. Domestic box office: $93.5 million; foreign box office: $81.9 million.


Free Activities
Contemporary Jewish Museum [Fri 11a-4p]: Free admission on Christmas Day. Great exhibits on Sendak ("Where the Wild Things Are" author), the Torah, and vinyl music. At the CJM (SF). www.thecjm.org

Critical Mass [Fri 6p]: It should be smooth sailing for the bicyclists on this Christmas holiday. Starting from Justin Herman Plaza (SF).

ODC Dance Program [Wed 10a-midnight]: Featuring several free dance classes, a live performance, reception, and dance party. At ODC Dance Commons (SF). www.odcdance.org


Paid Activities
Home for the Holidays [Thu 5p/7p/9p]: 20th annual. Featuring the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, in support of HIV/AIDS charities. At the Castro Theatre (SF), $10-30. www.sfgmc.com

Kung Pao Kosher Comedy [Thu-Sat 6p/9:30p, Sun 5p/8:30p]: 17th annual. Featuring comedians Jonathan Katz, Brian Malow, Hilary Schwartz, and Lisa Geduldig. Early dinner show and late cocktail show. At New Asia Restaurant (SF), $42-62. www.koshercomedy.com

Zombie Xmas Day [Fri noon-10p]: Featuring an array of zombie films and free refreshments (popcorn, hot toddies, eggnog). At Pirate Cat Radio (SF). www.piratecatradio.com

Emerald Bowl game [Sat 5p]: USC Trojans vs. Boston College Eagles. At AT&T Park (SF), $25-75. http://emeraldbowl.cstv.com

A Christmas Carol [through Sunday]: At the ACT (SF), $14-102. www.act-sf.org

Nutcracker Ballet [through Sunday]: Updated to 1915 San Francisco, on the eve of the Panama-Pacific Exposition. At the War Memorial Opera House (SF), $18-182. www.sfballet.org

Nutcracker Ballet II [through Sunday]: Featuring the Ballet San Jose at the Center for Performing Arts, $30-85. www.balletsj.org ... also Featuring the Oakland Ballet Company at the Paramount Theatre, $15-50. www.oaklandballet.org

Cartier exhibit [through April 18]: A fantastic, dizzying array of over 200 objects finely crafted by Cartier. At the Legion of Honor (SF), $10 surcharge on admission. www.legionofhonor.org

Previous: Theatre - Black Nativity [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - A Civil War Christmas [through Sunday in Palo Alto]; Theatre - The Coverlettes Cover Christmas [through Sunday in Berkeley]; Event - Holiday Ice Rink in Union Square [through Jan. 18 in SF]; Art - Prejudice and Patriotism: The Story of Japanese Americans [through Jan. 31 in SF]

Randy's Guide CLXVII (167)

And in typical political fashion, Randy's Guide is making a flip flop and reversing a decision to charge some of its readers. That said, I am exploring ways to take the Guide to a wider audience. Stay tuned.


Today is Wright Brothers' Day and Filipino champion boxer (and possible representative) Manny Pacquiao's 31st; Friday is French chef Jacques Pepin's 74th; Saturday is Pakistani model Iman Ali's 29th; Sunday is "American Idol" winner David Cook's 27th; Monday is comics artist John Severin's 88th and Winter Solstice; Tuesday is Swedish singer Basshunter's 25th; and Wednesday is Oaxaca's Night of the Radishes.


Local News
San Francisco is strongly considering tougher anti-smoking laws that would prevent smoking at outdoor dining tables, farmers markets, entertainment ticket lines, and residential common areas. Belmont, Dublin, Novato, and Richmond are among the Bay Area cities with tougher smoking restrictions than San Francisco. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/16/MNP01B4T3P.DTL


Deal of the Week
Free Mariani dried plums. Use promo code SUPERFRUIT at http://marianifruit.com/micro_plumpromo/form.php


Change for Change
Charity to consider: Urban Solutions. Started in 1992 as the South of Market Foundation, this nonprofit focuses on promoting small-business development in the Fillmore District, the SoMa, and seven corridors designated by the Neighborhood Marketplace Initiative. www.urbansolutionssf.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, Rebuilding Together San Francisco, and Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
Finally some dry, sunny days ahead... at least until Sunday night. Good timing with holiday shopping, travel, and parties upon us!

Highs: near 60
Lows: low-40s (inland); mid-40s (coast); upper-40s (SF)


The Environment
A request from reader Andrew is on the subject of green computer printers. I have found that HP has an Eco Solutions line that includes a desktop printer that is made from 83% recycled plastic, is Energy Star certified, and uses recycled plastic ink cartridges. Other important features to look for in any product include double-sided copies, automatic shutoff, and refillable ink cartridges. www.hp.com/hpinfo/globalcitizenship/environment/products/eco-highlights3.html


Music
"Misread" by Kings of Convenience (Bergen, Norway)

Thanks to reader Mario for this tip. The Norwegian duo has known each other for over 20 years. A Coldplay producer brought forth their debut album in 2001, and now they are touring to promote their third album. If we're lucky, they'll touch down in North America at some point. www.kingsofconvenience.com


Movies (domestic revenues through December 13)
Disney's return to animation, "The Princess and the Frog," opened in the top slot during its nationwide release, with $24.2 million {rated G, $27.1 million overall, third weekend, 3434 theatres, $7,050 per theatre}. "Invictus," the latest Clint Eastwood film, took in $8.6 million {rated PG-13, 2125 theatres, $4,052 per theatre}. "Up in the Air" garnered several nominations from the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild, and netted another $2.4 million {rated R, $4.0 million overall, 2nd weekend, 72 theatres, $33,255 per theatre}.

Avatar (PG-13): Sci-fi action; about a visionary world that must be saved by a reluctant hero; co-starring Sam Worthington and Sigourney Weaver; directed by James Cameron ("Titanic")

Broken Embraces (R): Drama; about a writer who lost his vision and his lover in a car accident; co-starring Penelope Cruz; directed by Pedro Almodovar ("Volver" and "Talk to Her")

Did You Hear About the Morgans? (PG-13): Comedy; about a Manhattan couple whose rocky marriage improves after joining the witness protection program; co-starring Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker

35 Shots of Rum (NR): Drama; about a metro conductor and his beautiful daughter who both enter into potential romances

The Young Victoria (PG): Drama; about the early years of long-ruling monarch Queen Victoria and her marriage to Prince Albert; co-starring Emily Blunt, Jim Broadbent, and Miranda Richardson

DVD Pick - Frozen River (R): Melissa Leo is the chief reason to see this wintry drama about a single mom's attempt to save her family's home by smuggling in illegal immigrants. Domestic box office: $2.5 million; foreign box office: $2.8 million.


Free Activities
Underground Farmers Market [Thu 5-11p]: Featuring food producers without commercial kitchens, with products ranging from sarsaparilla to empanadas to wild mushrooms. At 2755 Bryant (SF). http://foragesf.wordpress.com

SF Thomassons release party [Fri 6-9p]: Featuring a holiday architectural book launch reception, a preview of the "SF Thomassons" tour, and refreshments. At PariSoma (SF). www.kaya.com

Circus Center Carnival [Sat 10a-3p]: Featuring circus performances, tightrope lessons, face painting, and more. At Circus Center (SF). www.circuscenter.org

Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale [Sat-Sun 11a-7p]" Featuring independent artisans, book raffles, free photo booth pictures, and more. At Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion (SF). www.renegadecraft.com

Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair [Sat-Sun-Wed 11a-6p]: Featuring fine arts, live music, and food vendors. Along Telegraph Avenue (Berkeley). www.telegraphfair.com

Santa on Solano [Sat-Sun noon-4p]: Photos with Santa, snacks, and live holiday music. At the Chamber of Commerce office (Albany). www.solanoavenueassn.org

Holiday Surprise Screening [Sat 7:30p]: At the YBCA (SF). www.ybca.org

Prejudice and Patriotism: The Story of Japanese Americans, 1941-1952 [through Jan. 31]: An exploration of their stories through portraits. At the Presidio Officers' Club (SF). www.presidio.gov


Paid Activities
Christmas Concerts: Love Is Born [Thu 8p, Sat 6p]: Come see reader Michael K. perform as part of Musaic, an ensemble of ten exploring Gregorian chats, hymns, holiday carols, and modern jazz. At St. Mark's (SF) and Unity in Marin (Novato), free for students or $15 adults. www.musaicsf.org

Kwanzaa Celebration [Sat 10a-4p]: Featuring ethnic foods, live foods, a parade, and more. At History Park (San Jose), $3-5. www.historysanjose.org

Preservation Hall Jazz Band [Sat 8p]: Featuring the venerable institution from New Orleans. At Davies Symphony Hall (SF), $15-65. www.preservationhall.com

A Christmas Carol [through Sunday]: Two different versions. At the Lesher Center for the Arts (Walnut Creek), $15-41; and at Sonoma County Rep (Sebastopol), $20-25. www.centerrep.org www.the-rep.com

The Hard Nut [through Sunday]: Featuring the Mark Morris Dance Group, with an update to 1970s suburbia. At Zellerbach Hall (Berkeley), $36-62. www.calperformances.org

A Civil War Christmas [through Dec. 27]: Featuring a mixture of historical figures with fictional characters, Civil War songs, holiday carols, and spiritual hymns. At Lucie Stern Community Theatre (Palo Alto), $26-62. www.theatreworks.org

The Coverlettes Cover Christmas [through Dec. 27]: Featuring a trio of young ladies performing holiday songs and '60s rock. At Aurora Theatre (Berkeley), $28. www.auroratheatre.org

Holiday Ice Rink [through Jan. 18]: 90-minute sessions on every even hour. At Union Square Plaza (SF), $4.50-9 + $4-5 for skates. www.unionsquareicerink.com

Previous: Theatre - Another Night Before Christmas [through Sunday in San Jose]; Event - Great Dickens Christmas Fair [through Sunday in Daly City]; Theatre - Nutcracker at the Zeum [through Sunday in SF]; Dance - Christmas Revels [through Sunday in Oakland]; Theatre - A Christmas Story [through Sunday in San Jose]; Theatre - Black Nativity [through Dec. 27 in SF]

Randy's Guide CLXVI (166)

Change is coming to Randy's Guide for 2010! Starting with Issue 170 (January 6), there will be a "free" online version with limited details (sections designated by "L") and a "subscription" email version with the full set of categories. It's a $30 donation for the entire year, or $1 per week. Send via PayPal (randysguide@gmail.com), by mail (inquire for address), or in person.


{L} Today is the Nobel Prize Ceremony and Terra Madre Day; Friday is Argentina's Tango Day; Saturday is former "Price Is Right" host Bob Barker's 86th; Sunday is Saint Lucy's Day and singer Taylor Swift's 20th; Monday is the 106th anniversary of the Wright Brothers' first flight attempt; Tuesday is Detroit Tigers' manager Jim Leyland's 65th; and Wednesday is Bangladesh's Victory Day.


{L} Local News
Now could be the time to adopt a chihuahua. Apparently, they are so numerous at the Oakland shelter that staff members are arranging a charter plane to take excess Chihuahuas to neighboring states. Experts blame the "Paris Hilton" effect, the economic downturn, and uninformed expectations. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/09/BAPB1B18CG.DTL


Deal of the Week
Free coffee, cappuccino, hot cocoa, or tea at any participating 7-Eleven. Just a note: expect to see more 7-Elevens around the Bay Area, as expansion plans for 50 additional locations in the next two years. http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/7671/711.jpg


{L} Change for Change
Charity to consider: Urban Solutions. Started in 1992 as the South of Market Foundation, this nonprofit focuses on promoting small-business development in the Fillmore District, the SoMa, and seven corridors designated by the Neighborhood Marketplace Initiative. www.urbansolutionssf.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, Rebuilding Together San Francisco, and Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center.


{L} Bay Area Weekend Weather
It has been wet. And cold. With snow in the hilly regions. Slightly warmer conditions, with more rain expected, primarily Thursday afternoon until Saturday afternoon.

Highs: mid-50s
Lows: upper-30s (inland); low-40s (bay); mid-40s (coast); upper-40s (SF)


{L} The Environment
A Happy Planet is a San Francisco-based online retailer of organic, chemical-free clothing, bedding, and other home products. www.ahappyplanet.com


Music
"Percussion Gun" by White Rabbits (Brooklyn, N.Y.)

Yet another Brooklyn band, though these guys met while attending the University of Missouri. Their second studio album came out earlier this year, with stops on NPR, David Letterman, and Bimbo's yesterday. Their tour continues to KROQ's show on Monday (LA), as well as La Jolla and Portland. www.whiterabbitsmusic.com


Movies (domestic revenues through December 6)
"The Blind Side" overtook the top spot in its third weekend, with $20.0 million {rated PG-13, $128.9 million overall, 3326 theatres, $6,026 per theatre}. The Afghan War drama "Brothers" didn't light up the skies, as $9.5 million was enough for third place {rated R, 2088 theatres, $4,563 per theatre}. Laurence Fishburne and Matt Dillon nabbed $6.5 million for "Armored" {rated PG-13, 1915 theatres, $3,400 per theatre}. Robert De Niro's comedic turn in "Everybody's Fine" yielded a mere $3.9 million {rated PG-13, 2133 theatres, $1,806 per theatre}. But it was George Clooney who swooped in and gained some Oscar buzz as a jet-setting corporate HR guy in "Up in the Air" {rated R, $1.2 million, 15 theatres, $78,763 per theatre}.

Invictus (PG-13): Sports drama; about the united forces of Nelson Mandela and the captain of South Africa's rugby team; co-starring Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman; directed by Clint Eastwood

Me and Orson Welles (PG-13): Drama; about an aspiring actor who has a whirlwind week involving the Orson Welles Mercury Theatre Company; co-starring Zac Efron, Christian McKay, and Claire Danes; directed by Richard Linklater

The Princess and the Frog (G): Animation; Disney's latest about a beautiful girl in New Orleans who meets a frog prince who wishes to be human again

The Private Lives of Pippa Lee (R): Comedy-drama; about a restless married woman who seeks to redefine herself; co-starring Robin Wright Penn, Alan Arkin, and Keanu Reeves

A Single Man (R): Drama; about a British college professor who struggles to find meaning to his life; co-starring Colin Firth and Julianne Moore; directed by Tom Ford

Uncertainty (NR): Drama; about a couple whose lives are decided between a choice of a July 4th barbecue or dim sum in Chinatown; co-starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt

DVD Pick - Revolutionary Road (R): It's a really heavy drama... so naturally it does better overseas in places like France, Japan, and Australia. Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio are a picture-postcard couple who make the mistake of settling down in the suburbs during the 1950s. Domestic box office: $22.9 million; foreign box office: $52.3 million.


Free Activities
Holiday Buy Night [Thu-Fri 5-10p]: Featuring locally made goods, live entertainment, and holiday treats. At *indoor* Jack London Market (Oakland). www.jacklondonsquare.com/newscenter/upcomingevents.html#december

Slow Food Recipe & Cookbook Exchange [Thu 6:30-9p]: Bring a cookbook and 10 copies of your favorite recipe to exchange with others. Holiday inspired drinks will be provided. At 599 3rd St. (SF). RSVP at www.slowfoodsanfrancisco.com

50th Anniversary Holiday Party [Thu 7:30-11:30p]: Honors the San Francisco Mime Troupe. Featuring a revivial performance of "Ghosts," live music, cocktails, and more. At Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF). RSVP at www.ybca.org.

Target-To-Go [Fri-Sun 10a-8p]: Everyone's favorite discounter springs a walk-up shopping kiosk - perhaps a preview of things to come? At Mint Plaza (SF). www.target.com/togo

Book Holiday Fair [Fri 5:30-8:30p]: Featuring a wide range of calendars, journals, holiday cards, calligraphy supplies, and more. At Center for the Book (SF). www.sfcb.org

Holiday Art Sale [Sat-Sun 10a-4p]: Featuring blacksmithing demonstrations, holiday refreshments, Santa photos, handmade glass, and more. At the Crucible (Oakland). www.thecrucible.org

Japanese American WWII Lecture Series [Sat 11a-4p]: Featuring a program of lectures, discussions, and booksignings. At the Presidio Officers Club (SF). www.presidio.gov

Young@Heart Screening [Tue 5:30p]: Featuring the very moving documentary about a group of aging retirees who form a choir belting hits ranging from James Brown to Coldplay. www.sfpl.org

Chef Tyler Florence [Wed 6p]: Meet the celebrity chef, hear about his new cookware, and taste some samples of his cooking. At Macy's (SF). RSVP to 800-786-2665 or at www.macys.com/store/event/index.ognc?action=search&storeId=212


Paid Activities
Lady Gaga concert [Sun-Mon 7:30p]: The next Madonna? We'll see. At Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (SF), $48. www.ladygaga.com

The Christmas Ballet [through Sunday]: From Smuin Ballet. Featuring classical music by Handel and Mozart, as well as more contemporary pop and jazz renditions. At the Center for the Arts (Mountain View), $41-56. www.smuinballet.org

The Velveteen Rabbit [through Sunday]: 23rd annual. From ODC/Dance. Based on the beloved children's classic. At Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (SF), $15-45. www.ybca.org

White Hot Christmas Bingo [Wed 7p]: Featuring the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the SF Fog Rugby Club, and a Holiday in the Tropics Swimwear Competition. Benefits SFFD Local 798 Toy Drive and Tenderloin Tessie. At War Memorial's Green Room (SF), $30-40. www.thesisters.org

Christmas Revels [through Dec. 20]: 24th annual. Featuring Bavarian dance and music in honor of the Winter Solstice. At Scottish Rite Theater (Oakland), $12-50. www.calrevels.org

A Christmas Story [through Dec. 20]: Based on the holiday film about a 9-year-old boy who wishes to have a BB gun despite calls from his family and others to deny him. At San Jose Repertory, $17-64. www.sjrep.com

Black Nativity [through Dec. 27]: An annual gospel musical retelling of the birth of Christ. At Marines Memorial Theatre (SF), $20-40. www.lhtsf.org

Previous: Theatre - Fat Pig [through Sunday in Berkeley]; Theatre - Another Night Before Christmas [through Dec. 20 in San Jose]; Event - Great Dickens Christmas Fair [through Dec. 20 in Daly City]; Theatre - Nutcracker at the Zeum [through Dec. 20 in SF]

Randy's Guide CLXV (165)

Today is the 80th anniversary of Hoover's announcement that the worst of the Great Depression was over; Friday is businessman Charles Keating's 86th; Saturday is Saint Nicholas Eve; Sunday is "Knocked Up" director Judd Apatow's 42nd; Monday is Pearl Harbor Day and Maine Senator (R) Susan Collins' 57th; Tuesday is the Enlightenment of Buddha and singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson's 30th; and Wednesday is Swedish-Finnish Anna's Day.


Local News
San Francisco MUNI is implementing 18 months' worth of transit data findings over the weekend, resulting in six route eliminations (including the beloved 26-Valencia), five route service increases (including the 14L and 44), and 47 minor route alterations on either schedule or type of vehicle used. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/03/BAQT1AU1CF.DTL


Deal of the Week
On Sundays through December 27, a $2 fare on San Francisco's MUNI system will give you an all-day transfer for travel. This is designed to spur public-transit use and local-business sales during the holiday season.


Change for Change
Congrats to Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center for the latest Randy's Guide donation. I hope all of you were able to access its main site for additional information: www.apiwellness.org

New charity to consider: Urban Solutions. Started in 1992 as the South of Market Foundation, this nonprofit focuses on promoting small-business development in the Fillmore District, the SoMa, and seven corridors designated by the Neighborhood Marketplace Initiative. www.urbansolutionssf.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, Rebuilding Together San Francisco, and now Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center.


Bay Area Weekend Weather
Very cool and some clouds in the sky... be prepared for a very wet week ahead starting Sunday night.

Highs: mid-50s
Lows: upper-30s (inland); low-40s (bay); mid-40s (coast); upper-40s (SF)


The Environment
The EcoSmart cutting board is made in a zero-waste facility from recycled plastic and flax husk. Dishwasher safe too! Available at Target and Crate & Barrel.


Music
"I Do Not Hook Up" cover by Gaslight Anthem (New Brunswick, N.J.)

Evocative of Bruce Springsteen, this rock band with a light punk edge has two albums under its belt and has actually toured with Springsteen and Social Distortion. They're playing a few shows back east in New York, New Jersey, and D.C. before releasing a third album next year. www.gaslightanthem.com


Movies (domestic revenues through November 29)
"The Twilight Saga: New Moon" held the top spot with $42.9 million {rated PG-13, 2nd weekend, $230.9 million overall, 4042 theatres, $10,606 per theatre}. The John Travolta-Robin Williams comedy "Old Dogs" tallied $16.9 million for fourth place {rated PG, $24.2 million overall, 3425 theatres, $4,933 per theatre}. "Ninja Assassin" opened in sixth place with $13.3 million {rated R, $21.2 million overall, 2503 theatres, $5,320 per theatre}. Animated snark from Wes Anderson had a cool reception in its expansion, with just $7.0 million, good for ninth {rated PG, 3rd weekend, $10.0 million overall, 2033 theatres, $3,426 per theatre}. Apocalyptic drama "The Road," based on Cormac McCarthy's novel, enjoyed a healthy limited release with $1.5 million {rated R, $2.0 million overall, 111 theatres, $13,534 per theatre}.

Armored (PG-13): Thriller; about armored truck guards who attempt to rob their own security firm; co-starring Matt Dillon, Jean Reno, and Laurence Fishburne

Brothers (R): Drama; about a Marine captain who is believed to have been killed in duty, and his younger brother who steps in to care for his family; co-starring Tobey Maguire, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Natalie Portman; directed by Jim Sheridan ("My Left Foot")

Collapse (NR): Documentary; about a variety of topics such as peak oil and food production that lead to a frightening vision of civilization collapse

The End of Poverty? (NR): Documentary; about the root causes of poverty; narrated by Martin Sheen

Everything's Strange and New (NR): Drama; about a man trapped by family, sexuality, and drug addiction

Everybody's Fine (PG-13): Comedy; about a widower who embarks on a road trip; co-starring Robert De Niro, Drew Barrymore, and Kate Beckinsale

La Danse (NR): Documentary; about the young men and women of the Paris Opera Ballet

Serious Moonlight (R): Drama-comedy; about a top attorney who holds her husband captive until he commits to saving their marriage; co-starring Meg Ryan and Timothy Hutton

Transylmania (R): Comedy; about an unusual university deep in Transylvania

Up in the Air (R): Drama-comedy; about a corporate HR expert who has amassed millions of frequent-flyer miles but remains a bachelor; co-starring George Clooney

DVD Pick - The Visitor (PG-13): Richard Jenkins has the role of a lifetime, with Oscar and SAG nods to boot, as a stubborn, aging professor who stumbles across an immigrant couple mistakenly residing in his Manhattan apartment. It's poetic, beautiful, crisp. Domestic box office: $9.4 million; foreign box office: $8.2 million.


Free Activities
Etsy's Handmade Ho-Down [Thu 6p-midnight]: Featuring 55+ local vendors with handmade goods, live DJ, and special tote bags. Free swag bags to the first 200 people. At 1015 Folsom St. in SoMa (SF). www.handmadehodown.com

La Cocina Culinary Gift Fair [Fri 4-9p]: Featuring items and gift boxes from La Cocina kitchen, which promotes micro food-based businesses to disadvantaged individuals. At the Mission Cultural Center (SF). www.lacocinasf.org

International Orange Chorale Concert [Fri 5p, Sat 7:30p]: From reader Josh. Featuring a wide array of works including Monteverdi, Mendelssohn, and others. Theme is "Dinner, as a Concert," with each piece functioning as a musical version of an edible course. At the Solarium Public Space on 2nd St. in the Financial District (SF, Friday) and Most Holy Redeemer Church in the Castro (SF, Saturday). With complimentary food and wine following the Saturday performance. www.iocsf.org

Jack London Square Tree Lighting Ceremony [Fri 5:30-7:30p]: Featuring costumed characters, the Oakland Symphony Chorus, KBLX, and the waterfront holiday light installation. At Jack London Square (Oakland). www.jacklondonsquare.com

The Lab: Postcard Show [Fri 6-9p]: 13th annual. Featuring local DJs and a wide array of artists of small format multiples. At The Lab in the Mission District (SF). www.thelab.org

Lower Haight Art Walk [Fri 7-10p]: Featuring art shows, live music, free snacks and drinks, and more. Along Haight, near Fillmore (SF). www.lowerhaight.org

Nutcracker Workshop [Sat 10:30a-noon]: Featuring ballet dancer Ikkolo Griffin in a participatory workshop and talk about San Francisco Ballet's Nutcracker. For families with children ages 6-13. Those who attend both portions will receive free tickets to the actual performance at the Opera House in December. RSVP to 415-557-4554. www.sfpl.org

Weihnachtsmarkt [Sat noon-6p]: 4th annual. Traditional German Christmas marketplace, with live music, bratwurst, waffles, shops, and more. At the German International School (Mountain View). www.gissv.org

Hometown Holiday Celebration [Sat 4-8p]: Featuring holiday entertainment, pictures with Santa, a holiday parade, the Mayor's tree lighting, and more. Along Main St. (Pleasanton). www.pleasantondowntown.net

Holiday Indie-Mart [Sat 4p]: Featuring 40 unique vendors, happy hour specials, and live music. At the Independent (SF). www.theindependentsf.com

Lighted Yacht Parade [Sat 5:30-9p]: Featuring the Oakland Yacht Club and Encinal Yacht Club in an organized parade throughout the Oakland-Alameda estuary. Excellent viewing at Jack London Square (Oakland), with the Oakland Symphony Chorus. www.lightedyachtparade.com

Cirque du Soleil Bug Dance Fever [Tue noon-2p]: Join Cirque du Soleil performers from the new production "OVO" in a special choreographed dance. With free snack and OVO prizes. At Union Square (SF). www.thebugdance.com


Paid Activities
Swedish Christmas Fair [Sat 9a-4p]: 26th annual. Featuring Swedish folk music, costumes, glogg (mulled wine), meatballs, Santa, and more. At the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption (SF), free-$5. www.swea.org

Tibet Day Fair [Sat 11a-11p]: Featuring cultural performances, films, food, and more. At Fort Mason Conference Center (SF), $5-25. www.friends-of-tibet.org

The Cranberries concert [Sat 8p]: Seven years since the last tour, with such hits as "Zombie" and "Linger." At the Regency Ballroom (SF), $36. www.cranberries.com

Fat Pig [through Dec. 13]: About an ill-fated romance with an oversized woman. From creator Neil LaBute ("In the Company of Men"). At the Aurora Theatre (Berkeley), $15-55. www.auroratheatre.org

Great Dickens Christmas Fair [through Dec. 20]: Featuring hundreds of costumed agents from the Victorian era, Christmas boutiques, six entertainment stages, and hearty pub fare. At the Cow Palace (Daly City), free-$22. Free shuttle from Glen Park BART; discount vouchers available. www.dickensfair.com

Nutcracker at the Zeum [through Dec. 20]: A smaller-scale ballet designed to attract families. Featuring Mark Foehringer Dance ProjectSF. At the Zeum Theatre (SF), $25. www.zeum.org

Previous: Theatre - Boom [through Sunday in Mill Valley]; Theatre - Nutcracker [through Sunday in San Mateo]; Theatre - Another Night Before Christmas [through Dec. 20 in San Jose]