Randy's Guide CLXXXV (185)

Historic milestones this week: 7 years since President Bush's "Mission Accomplished" speech; 11 years since the world's strongest recorded tornado, with speeds of 318 mph (Oklahoma City); 18 years since the start of the LA riots; 83 years since the first footprints outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre (Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford); 110 years since Hawaii became a US territory; and 148 years since the Cinco de Mayo battle in Mexico.


Local News
Get ready for one more promotional sticker on business windows, for Facebook is joining Google, CitySearch, Zagat, Yelp, and others in the recommendation market. Look for Facebook "Like" decals to slowly roll out nationwide. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/28/BUFG1D5U07.DTL


Upcoming Event
The 9th annual Dining Out For Life is today, April 29. Various Bay Area restaurants will donate 25% of its food (and, for some, beverage) purchases throughout the day to local HIV/AIDS charities. www.diningoutforlife.com/sanfrancisco/participating

*Note: San Diego, Los Angeles, Denver, Albany, Boston, Houston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and several other cities are also participating today. Eat up! www.diningoutforlife.com


Deal of the Week
I realize the CFL argument is probably overdone by now... still, you can get two free compact fluorescent light bulbs, which will undoubtedly save you energy costs versus halogen or conventional bulbs. They do contain mercury, so you will have to dispose of them at your local hardware or home-improvement store. http://energyefficientnow.com/tfli_signup.asp


Change for Change
Charity: The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Founded in 1979, this Oakland nonprofit collects and sells donated materials for artists, teachers, and households (36,000 annual customers). Example items included antique linens, artificial flowers, yarn, and feathers. There are also periodic educational outreach programs that reach 20,000 students per year. www.creativereuse.org

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, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Urban Solutions, and San Francisco Suicide Prevention.


Environmental News
A new California state bill by Sacramento Democrat Dave Jones would enable private car owners to rent out their autos without any penalties from their existing car-insurance policies. The CEOs of City CarShare and Spride were on hand for the news conference in San Francisco. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/29/BA1B1D6DR5.DTL


Weekend Weather
This week's unusual storm is blowing out today, leaving us with the prospect of very warm weather starting Saturday for several days.

THU-FRI:
highs: low-60s
lows: low-40s (coast-inland); mid-40s (bay); upper-40s (SF)

SAT-SUN:
highs: mid-60s (coast); low-70s (SF); mid-70s (bay); low-80s (inland)
lows: mid-40s (coast); upper-40s (bay-inland); low-50s (SF)


Music
"Lake Michigan" by Rogue Wave (Oakland, Calif.)

The lead singer, Zach Rogue, started the band back in 2002 after losing his job during the dot-com bust. Rogue Wave recently jumped labels over to Jack Johnson's Brushfire Records, which released the group's fourth album in March. If you saw the 2009 romantic comedy "Love Happens," Rogue Wave figures prominently in the film plot. Catch them at the Fillmore on Friday, along with shows at Los Angeles' El Rey tonight and Chicago's Lollapalooza in August. www.roguewavemusic.com


Movies {domestic revenues through April 26}
"How to Train Your Dragon" pulled the rare feat of moving back into the top slot in its fifth weekend, with $15.4 million [3665 theatres; $4,188 per theatre; $178.3 million overall]. "The Back-up Plan," the cinematic return of Jennifer Lopez after five years, opened moderately with $12.2 million [3280 theatres; $3,720 per theatre]. Adventure film "The Losers" premiered weakly in fourth place with $9.4 million [2936 theatres; $3,204 per theatre]. Disney's Earth Day launch of "Oceans" mustered up $6.1 million, good for eighth spot [1206 theatres; $5,024 per theatre].

The Cartel (NR): Documentary; about the status of public education in the U.S., as well as the need for reform

Dancing Across Borders (NR): Documentary; about a filmmaker who encounters a talented teenage boy in Cambodia

Furry Vengeance (PG): Comedy; about a real estate developer who moves his family to Oregon for a major housing project; co-starring Brendan Fraser and Brooke Shields

Harry Brown (R): Thriller; about an average citizen who turns renegade after his best friend is killed; co-starring Michael Caine

A Nightmare on Elm Street (R): Horror remake; about a group of teenagers stalked by a disfigured killer in their dreams; co-starring Jackie Earle Haley

Touching Home (PG-13): Drama; about a homeless father in Marin County trying to reunite with his twin sons during their pursuit of professional baseball; co-starring Ed Harris

DVD Pick - Breakfast with Scot (PG-13): Tom Cavanagh, better known for his TV role on "Ed," plays a washed-up Canadian hockey player who is suddenly thrust into parenthood. The slight wrinkle is that he is closeted, partnered, and the new foster parent of an effeminate young boy. Domestic box office: $46,060.


Free Activities
Critical Mass [Fri 6p]: Starts from Justin Herman Plaza and proceeds around San Francisco. Watch for street closures.

Oakland Museum of California [Sat 11a-Sun 6p]: 31 nonstop hours of entertainment for the grand re-opening weekend. Featuring a Native American blessing, flashlight tours, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, sunrise yoga, bhangra dance, plus the exhibits of the museum. At the Oakland Museum of California. www.museumca.org

Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon Festival [Sat 11a-7p, Sun 7a-3p]: 30th annual. Check out various fitness and food vendors; race is on Sunday morning from Alcatraz to Marina Green, Presidio, and Golden Gate Park. At Marina Green (SF). www.escapefromalcatraztriathlon.com

Children's Day in Japantown [Sat 11a-4p]: Featuring hands-on craft activities, snacks such as arare popcorn and spam sushi, and live entertainment. At Peace Plaza (SF). www.jcccnc.org

May Day Rally and March [Sat 11a-7p]: Assemble and march from 24th St/Mission St to Civic Center Plaza, then listen to speeches and hear about different organizations at Dolores Park (SF). Watch for street closures. www.actionsf.org

Marcus Shelby Orchestra [Sat 1-2:30p]: Performing "MLK" in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. At Yerba Buena Gardens (SF). www.ybgf.org

Free Comic Book Day [Sat, various hours]: Check out participating stores online. Throughout the U.S. and world. www.freecomicbookday.com

Asian Art Museum [Sun 10a-5p]: Free admission. Admission to the Shanghai special exhibit is $5. At the Asian Art Museum (SF). www.asianart.org

Bike San Leandro [Sun 10:30a-5p]: Featuring a 5-mile leisurely ride around downtown San Leandro, including the Dunsmuir House grounds, or a 13-mile mountain ride of the Lake Chabot bicycle loop. Post-ride festival featuring live music and food vendors. Meet at Parrott and Washington (San Leandro). www.bikesl.org

Polish Festival [Sun 11a-5p]: Featuring Polish food, beer, dance, and music. At Golden Gate Park's County Fair Building (SF). www.polishfestival.com

Arts & Green Festival [Sun 11a-3p]: Featuring live music, green workshops, food vendors, and more. At Memorial Park (Albany). www.albanyca.org

Art in the Alley [Sun noon-6p]: Featuring 25+ local artists on Kerouac Alley (SF).

Brent Green performance [Sun 5-8p]: Featuring an opening reception and cinematic event with live narration and music soundtrack for Brent Green's first feature film "Gravity Was Everywhere Back Then." At Berkeley Art Museum. www.bampfa.berkeley.edu

Bay Area National Dance Week [through Sunday]: Featuring 400+ free dance events, including pole dance lessons, fire dance performances, and salsa classes. Throughout the Bay Area. www.bayareandw.org

San Francisco Art Museum Day [Tue various hours]: Check out the SF MOMA, Legion of Honor, deYoung, Yerba Buena Galleries, and Cartoon Art Museum for free.


Paid Activities
Norway Day Festival [Sat 10a-7p, Sun 10a-5p]: Largest of its kind in the U.S. Featuring Norwegian food, entertainers, agility demos, traditional wedding, and more. At Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion (SF), free-$22. www.norwayday.org

Broken Social Scene [Sat 9p]: Canadian indie rock musical collective, with a new album coming out next week. With Julie Dorian opening. At the Fillmore (SF), $25. www.brokensocialscene.ca

The Wind and Rain [through Saturday]: Two actors and a violinist reflect on an old Irish ballad. Part of 2010 DivaFest. At the Exit Theatre (SF), $15-25. www.theexit.org

A Seagull in the Hamptons [through Sunday]: Based on Chekhov's story, with a shift to contemporary Long Island. At the Ashby Stage (Berkeley), $15-28. www.theatrebayarea.org

To Kill a Mockingbird [through May 8]: Based on the Harper Lee novel about a black man accused of raping a white woman in 1935. At the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, $29-62. www.theatreworks.org

Girlfriend [through May 9]: Based on Matthew Sweet's album, this two-hour rock musical focuses on feelings between two teenage boys. At the Berkeley Rep's Thrust Stage, $16-71. www.berkeleyrep.org

Previous: Theatre - Equivocation [through Sunday in Mill Valley]; Theatre - Master Class [through Sunday in SF]; Film - San Francisco International Film Festival [through May 6 in SF]

Randy's Guide CLXXXIV (184)

Historic milestones this week: 5 years since the birth of the first cloned dog; 24 years since the Chernobyl nuclear disaster; 40 years since the first Earth Day celebration; 71 years since the first publication of Batman; and 375 years since the founding of the first U.S. public school (Boston Latin School)


Local News
San Francisco-based PG&E will test its new Smart Meters alongside its older analog meters in 150 randomly selected homes in Northern and Central California. Hundreds of complaints have poured in from customers who claim the new meters have unfairly charged them for higher uses of electricity. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/21/BU5G1D2BKH.DTL


Upcoming Event
The 9th annual Dining Out For Life is coming up next Thursday, April 29. Various Bay Area restaurants will donate 25% of its food (and, for some, beverage) purchases throughout the day to local HIV/AIDS charities. If you don't have a reservation, good options include: Amber India and Pasta Pomodoro on the Peninsula/South Bay; Specchio, Dottie's True Blue Cafe, and La Mediterranee in SF; and Beckett's and Fenton's Creamery in the East Bay. www.diningoutforlife.com/sanfrancisco/participating

*Note: San Diego, Los Angeles, Albany, Boston, Houston, Denver, Chicago, Philadelphia, and several other cities are also participating on Thursday, April 29. Eat up! www.diningoutforlife.com


Deals of the Week
Origins is offering a free 5-ounce bottle of its environmentally formulated cleansers, either its frothy face wash or antioxidant cleanser. You have to bring in an empty or full bottle, tube, or jar of your current skincare product. Origins can be found at most malls, including the San Francisco Centre, Embarcadero Center, Stonestown, Hillsdale, Stanford Shopping Center, and Valley Fair. www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=113457148684973

National Parks Week is here, which means free entrance to all 392 national parks through Sunday. www.nps.gov/npweek


Change for Change
Charity: The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Founded in 1979, this Oakland nonprofit collects and sells donated materials for artists, teachers, and households (36,000 annual customers). Example items included antique linens, artificial flowers, yarn, and feathers. There are also periodic educational outreach programs that reach 20,000 students per year. www.creativereuse.org

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, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Urban Solutions, and San Francisco Suicide Prevention.


Environmental News
San Francisco will be celebrating Earth Day in six different locations today. Composting cowgirls at San Francisco State, a Carnaval fundraiser with organic empanadas in the Mission, and a Friends of the Urban Forest charity event featuring organic wine in the Financial District are among the options. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/22/BAHT1D2AQI.DTL


Weekend Weather
After record-cold temps earlier this week, we are ready for the spring sun again. Rain should return by next Tuesday.

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

SAT-SUN
Highs: mid-60s (coast); upper-60s (SF); low-70s (bay); mid-70s (inland)
Lows: mid-40s (coast-inland); upper-40s (bay); low-50s (SF)


Music
"White Dove" by Sleepy Sun (San Francisco, Calif.)

They're currently wrapping up a tour with the Arctic Monkeys. Catch this blues rock band at the Rickshaw Stop on Saturday, along with a June tour that includes shows at Reno's Lincoln Lounge, Denver's Hi Dive Club, Seattle's Chop Suey, Chicago's Double Door, and the Brooklyn Bowl. www.sleepysun.net


Movies {domestic revenues through April 19}
Under a cloud of reporting controversy, "Kick-Ass" opened in first spot with $19.8 million [3065 theatres; $6,469 per theatre]. "How to Train Your Dragon" moved back into second place with $19.6 million [3825 theatres; $5,133 per theatre; $159.3 million overall; 4th weekend]. The Chris Rock ensemble comedy "Death at a Funeral" premiered in fourth with $16.2 million [2459 theatres; $6,595 per theatre]. And even though "Avatar" coincided its DVD release today with Earth Day, it added another $1.0 million in its 18th week, good for 12th place [500 theatres; $2,006 per theatre; $745.0 million overall].

The Back-up Plan (PG-13): Romantic comedy; about a forlorn woman who decides to undergo in-vitro fertilization on the same day she meets a potential mate; co-starring Jennifer Lopez

The Harimaya Bridge (NR): Drama; about a father who travels to Japan following the death of his estranged son

The Losers (PG-13): Action; about a U.S. Special Forces unit battling a powerful enemy known as Max; co-starring Zoe Saldana and Chris Evans

Mid-August Lunch (NR): Drama; about a middle-aged man who lives with his tyrannical mother in central Rome

No One Knows About Persian Cats (NR): Drama; about a young boy and girl who plan to launch a music group after getting out of prison

Oceans (G): Documentary; about the Earth's oceans; narrated by Pierce Brosnan

Remembering Playland (NR): Documentary; about the San Francisco seaside museum park, which was torn down in 1972

The Secret in Their Eyes (R): Drama; about a retired criminal court employee who decides to write a novel based on his work experiences; winner of best foreign film Oscar

Sleeping and Waking (NR): Thriller; about an artist who returns from the brink of death following an experimental procedure

What Girls Want (NR): Drama; a compilation of six stories about women

DVD Pick - In the Loop (NR): This British import satire lampooned the run-up to the Iraq war, as led by the British and American diplomatic forces. James Gandolfini has a decent turn as a lieutenant general who has doubts about the evidence. Nominated for 1 Oscar, best adapted screenplay. Domestic box office: $2.4 million; foreign box office: $5.4 million (including $3.5 million in the UK).


Free Activities
Oakland Tote Bag Giveaway [Thu 10a-8p]: Celebrate Earth Day by picking up a canvas tote bag at all Oakland public libraries. www.oaklandlibrary.org/PR/pr041410bag.htm

Fremont Earth Day [Sat 9a-3p]: Volunteer, exchange your halogen lamp for an energy-efficient model, dispose pharmaceuticals, and more. At Central Park (Fremont). www.fremont.gov/DocumentView.aspx?DID=3315

Cupertino Cherry Blossom Festival [Sat-Sun 10a-5p]: Featuring taiko groups, the Northern California Sword Club, the Midori Bonsai Club, origami demonstrations, tea ceremony, and more. At Memorial Park (Cupertino). www.cupertinotoyokawa.org

Petaluma Butter & Egg Days Celebration [Sat 10a-5p]: 29th annual. Featuring a community parade and festival. In historic downtown Petaluma. www.sresproductions.com/butter_and_egg_days.html

Marin Earth Day [Sat 11a-6p]: Featuring guest speakers including State Senator Mark Leno, organic food vendors, live entertainers, family activities, and more. At College of Marin (Kentfield). www.earthdaymarin.org

Berkeley Earth Day [Sat noon-5p]: Featuring biodiesel and electric cars, solar power, a farmers market, live entertainment, and more. At Civic Center Park (Berkeley). www.bayareaearthday.org/berkeleyearthday/index.html

San Jose Nikkei Matsuri [Sun 9a-4p]: 33rd annual. Featuring taiko groups, two entertainment stages, Japanese food vendors, flower-arranging demonstrations, and more. Near Jackson St. and 5th St. (San Jose). www.nikkeimatsuri.org

Glen Park Festival [Sun 10a-4:30p]: 12th annual. Featuring local vendors, live entertainment, and children's activities. Along Diamond Street (SF). www.glenparkfestival.com

A Fresh Look: Observations on Urban Farming [Tue 4-9p]: Featuring the fourth monthly version of ForageSF Underground Market, a panel discussion, and cafe reception. At the San Francisco Art Institute. www.sfai.edu

Bay Area National Dance Week [through May 2]: Featuring 400+ free dance events, including pole dance lessons, fire dance performances, and salsa classes. Throughout the Bay Area. www.bayareandw.org


Paid Activities
Harlem Globetrotters [Thu-Fri 7p, Sat 1p/7:30p, Sun 3p]: Started in Chicago in 1926, the team was renamed two years later because of more favorable connotations. Among their 345 losses (or less than 2% of their games) are to Michigan State, UTEP, and the NABC College All-Stars (in 2006). At Hartnell College (Salinas), $24; Cow Palace (Daly City), $21-109; HP Pavilion (San Jose), $15-157; Memorial Gym (Berkeley), $15-69; Arco Arena (Sacramento), $17-136. www.harlemglobetrotters.com

Conan O'Brien [Thu-Fri 8p]: Cable-bound comic booted off of NBC will have ample material. At Nob Hill Masonic Auditorium (SF), $40-80. www.teamcoco.com

San Francisco International Beer Fest [Sat 7-10p]: 27th annual. Featuring more than 300 beers from dozens of breweries, food from local restaurants, and a raffle. All proceeds benefit the Telegraph Hill Cooperative Nursery School. Sold out - check Craigslist. At Fort Mason Center (SF), $60. www.sfbeerfest.com

Dr. Dog [Sat 9p, Sun 8]: Former Randy's Guide featured music artist. Both shows sold out - check Craigslist. With Sean Bones, Deer Tick, and/or Pepi Ginsberg opening. At the Great American Music Hall (SF), $18-20. www.drdogmusic.com

Aqua Teen Hunger Force [Sun 8p]: A live version of the Adult Swim cartoon, with promised audience participation and a puppet show. At the Regency Ballroom (SF), $25. www.aquateenlive.com

Master Class [through May 2]: About opera diva Maria Callas and a presumed role as instructor for a Julliard master class of young singers. At New Conservatory Theatre (SF), $22-40. www.nctcsf.org

San Francisco International Film Festival [through May 6]: 53rd annual. Featuring evenings with Joan Rivers, Roger Ebert, Stephin Merritt (Magnetic Fields), and Robert Duvall. Oh, and the 177 international films too. At the Kabuki, Castro, Clay, and Pacific Film Archive theatres (SF), $12.50 for most shows. www.sffs.org

Previous: Theatre - A Seagull in the Hamptons [through Sunday in Berkeley]; Theatre - Macho Bravado [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - ...and Jesus Moonwalks the Mississippi [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - Equivocation [through May 2 in Mill Valley]

Randy's Guide CLXXXIII (183)

Historic milestones this week: 21 years since the Tiananmen Square protests; 23 years since the short-cartoon premiere of "The Simpsons"; 49 years since the Bay of Pigs invasion; and 98 years since the opening of Fenway Park.


Local News
Yosemite is in full swing, with its famed waterfalls ushering in this season's snow melt. Check them out in the next month or two for peak flows. Entrance fees of $20 are waived between April 17-25. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/15/SPL51CU3UM.DTL


Deals of the Week
Bring in a reusable travel mug into Starbucks, and receive a free refill of coffee today, April 15. www.starbucks.com/thebigpicture

National Parks Week is here, which means free entrance to all 392 national parks starting Saturday, through April 25. www.nps.gov/npweek


Change for Change
Charity: The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Founded in 1979, this Oakland nonprofit collects and sells donated materials for artists, teachers, and households (36,000 annual customers). Example items included antique linens, artificial flowers, yarn, and feathers. There are also periodic educational outreach programs that reach 20,000 students per year. www.creativereuse.org

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, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Urban Solutions, and San Francisco Suicide Prevention.


Environmental News
More than 6 million tons of food are thrown away each year by Californians, making it the single largest source of waste at 15.5 percent. Farmers regularly plow under misshapen or excess crops, while restaurants and supermarkets rarely participate in food-rescue programs. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/05/MNCK1CNVEH.DTL


Weekend Weather
A break in the spring rain. Time to hit the slopes before the resorts close at the end of this month. Sunshine galore!

Highs: low-60s (coast); mid-60s (SF); upper-60s (bay); low-70s (inland)
Lows: upper-40s


Music
"Harrowdown Hill" by Atoms for Peace

Radiohead's Thom Yorke has a new invention, with Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and other key musicians joining together last year. Their show at Oakland's Fox Theatre is sold out, but resale tickets are available at Craigslist. They'll also be at Santa Barbara Bowl and Coachella this weekend.


Movies {domestic revenues through April 12}
"Clash of the Titans" held on to first, with $26.6 million [3802 theatres; $7,005 per theatre; 2nd weekend; $110.2 million overall]. Comedians Tina Fey and Steve Carell helped carry "Date Night" to a strong $25.2 million opening [3374 theatres; $7,471 per theatre]. The Christian drama "Letters to God" premiered poorly with $1.1 million [897 theatres; $1,228 per theatre].

Breaking Upwards (NR): Drama; about a young New York couple who decides to strategically end their four-year relationship with rules and boundaries

Death at a Funeral (R): Comedy; about a family's secrets revealed during a funeral; co-starring Chris Rock, Martin Lawrence, Tracy Morgan, Danny Glover, and Regina Hall

The Eclipse (R): Fantasy drama; about a widower in Ireland who sees terrifying ghosts, and the sci-fi writer who befriends him; co-starring Aidan Quinn

Exit through the Gift Shop (R): Documentary; about one person's quest to document graffiti, including works by British artist Banksy

It Came from Kuchar (NR): Documentary; about the underground filmmaking twins; co-starring John Waters and Atom Egoyan

The Joneses (R): Comedy drama; about a fictional family used for marketing purposes; co-starring David Duchovny and Demi Moore

Kick-Ass (R): Adventure; about a comic fan who decides to adopt a superhero persona; co-starring Nicolas Cage

La Mission (R): Drama; about a Latino family in San Francisco's Mission District; co-starring Benjamin Bratt

The Perfect Game (PG): Drama; about a ragtag baseball team in Mexico that dreams of playing Little League; co-starring Cheech Marin

The Square (R): Thriller; about an unhappy husband whose affair with an unhappy married woman leads to a possible getaway with heist proceeds

DVD Pick - Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day (PG-13): Amy Adams, in another sparkling role, plays a perfect foil to Frances McDormand, the Miss Pettigrew in question. Domestic box office: $12.3 million; foreign box office: $4.4 million.


Free Activities
Underground Farmers Market [Fri 5-11p]: Featuring talks about Sour Flour's homemade sourdough (great bagels btw!), home brewing, and seed savings. Ample food vendors with churned bacon butter, homemade mustard, American Kobe beef brisket, and more. At SomArts (SF). http://foragesf.wordpress.com

Three Stories at Mission Dolores [Fri 8p, Sat-Sun 3p]: With the Sixteenth Street Players performing lively one-act plays by Chekhov, Giraudoux, and Glaspell. At Mission Dolores Auditorium (SF). www.missiondolores.org

Earth Day on the Bay [Sat 8a-5p]: Canoe paddling, shark feeding, music playing good times. At the Marine Science Institute (Redwood City). http://sfbaymsi.org/earthday.html

Cal Day [Sat 9a-4p]: Check out campus museums, pottery wheel demos, fraternity house tours, and more. At UC Berkeley. http://calday.berkeley.edu

* Cherry Blossom Festival [Sat-Sun 11a-5p]: Featuring tea ceremonies, a Sunday afternoon parade (from City Hall to Japantown), taiko, karate, shishu (embroidery), traditional dance, and more. In Japantown (SF). www.nccbf.org

Stanford Football: Cardinal and White Spring Game [Sat 2p]: With pregame and postgame autographs with the Stanford Football team. Optional tailgame buffet catered by Gordon Biersch ($25). At Kezar Stadium (SF). www.gostanford.com

Amoeba Records Day [Sat 10a-6p]: Featuring live performances by Jonsi, Holly Golightly, and others, as well as promo giveaways and surprises. At Amoeba Records (SF/ Berkeley/ Hollywood). www.amoeba.com

* San Francisco Sunday Streets [Sun 10a-3p]: 3rd installment of the year. Featuring an Earth Day festival at Heron's Head Park, free bicycle rentals, Family Wellness Fair at the Bayview Opera House, and more. From 3rd and King (South Beach) to 3rd and Armstong (Bayview). www.sundaystreetssf.com

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, with Circus Bella [Sun noon-1p]: Featuring conducting lessons, Circus Bella performances, and music by Joplin and Mozart. At Laney College Theatre (Oakland). www.sfchamberorchestra.org

Urban Zipline [through Sunday, 10a-7p]: Arrive early if you want to zipline across Embarcadero Square. www.ziptrek.com/san-francisco-california


Paid Activities
Passion Pit [Thu 8p]: With Mayer Hawthorne & The County and Bear Hands opening. Sold out - check CL! At the Warfield (SF), $30 retail. www.myspace.com/passionpitjams

Hot Chip [Fri 8p]: With The xx opening. Sold out - check CL! At the Fox Theatre (Oakland), $30 retail. http://hotchip.co.uk

Bodega Bay Fisherman's Festival [Sat-Sun 10a-5p]: 37th annual. Featuring a fleet blessing, boat building contest, bathtub races, and more. At Westside Park (Bodega Bay). www.bbfishfest.org

Music for Families: Musical Postcards [Sat 3p, Sun 2p]: Featuring the San Francisco Symphony performing works by Dvorak, Mozart, Rimsky-Korsakov, Offenbach, and others. At the Flint Center (Cupertino) and Davies Symphony Hall (SF), $7-60. www.sfsymphony.org

Macho Bravado [through April 25]: A sterile Korean American soldier returns from Iraq to find his wife and a newborn. At the Thick House (SF), $15-25. www.asianamericantheater.org

...and Jesus Moonwalks the Mississippi [through April 25]: A Civil War mini-epic tracing the efforts of two men, one black and one white, for the same woman. At the Cutting Ball Theater (SF), $15-30. www.cuttingball.com

Previous: Theatre - Den of Thieves [through Saturday in SF}; Art - Cartier exhibit [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - Vigil [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - A Seagull in the Hamptons [through Apr. 25 in Berkeley]; Theatre - Equivocation [through May 2 in Mill Valley]

Randy's Guide CLXXXII (182)

Historic milestones this week: 10 years since the opening of San Francisco's AT&T Park; 85 years since the publication of The Great Gatsby; 108 years since James C. Penney's first store (in Wyoming); 117 years since the first recorded college basketball game (Geneva College vs. New Brighton YMCA); 136 years since the first Arbor Day (in Nebraska)


Local News
Landlord James Quinn has deflected dozens of lawsuits over the past 15 years. His building at 850 Geary has been infested with cockroaches and bedbugs, and has a registered sex offender with several minors on the premises. Quinn claims that a 200-pound woman in a wheelchair has been "overloading" the elevator and is a probable cause for breaking it. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/04/08/MNIL1CR5NO.DTL


Change for Change
Charity: The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Founded in 1979, this Oakland nonprofit collects and sells donated materials for artists, teachers, and households (36,000 annual customers). Example items included antique linens, artificial flowers, yarn, and feathers. There are also periodic educational outreach programs that reach 20,000 students per year. www.creativereuse.org

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, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Urban Solutions, and San Francisco Suicide Prevention.


Environmental News
Two more glaciers have disappeared from Glacier National Park in Montana. Glaciers release cool water into streams and lakes during late summer and fall for the benefit of local species and water supplies. In 1850, about 150 glaciers existed; today, there are fewer than 40. www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20100408/NEWS01/4080304/1002/news01/Glacier-National-Park-loses-two-glaciers


Weekend Weather
Slight cooling trend, with showers likely by Sunday morning.

THU-FRI
highs: low-60s (coast); mid-60s (SF); upper-60s (bay); low-70s (inland)
lows: low-40s (bay-inland); mid-40s (coast); upper-40s (SF)

SAT-SUN
highs: upper-50s
lows: near 45


Music
"Time to Pretend" by Jonsi (Iceland)

In honor of MGMT's concerts next week in San Francisco, here is a cover of one of their hits by Jonsi, the Icelandic vocalist from Sigur Ros. His debut solo album came out Tuesday, and he has shows in Berkeley (April 15) and San Francisco (April 16), as well as a free program on April 17 at Amoeba Records (SF). Other stops over the next month include New York City's Terminal 5, Boston's House of Blues, Chicago's Vic Theatre, Denver's Paramount Theatre, and the Coachella Festival. www.jonsi.com


Movies {domestic revenues through April 5}
"Clash of the Titans" ushered in the young males and claimed victory with $61.2 million [rated PG-13; 3777 theatres; $16,213 per theatre]. Meanwhile, Tyler Perry brought in the older black women with "Why Did I Get Married Too?" and scored a personal best opening with $29.3 million [rated PG-13; 2155 theatres; $13,591 per theatre]. Miley Cyrus carried the young female audience in "Last Song," netting $16.0 million [rated PG; 2673 theatres; $5,989 per theatre].

After.Life (R): Sci-fi thriller; about a funeral director who believes he can communicate with the dead, and the young woman who desperately believes she is still alive; co-starring Christina Ricci and Liam Neeson

Date Night (PG-13): Romantic comedy; about a suburban New Jersey couple who decides to enliven things up by going to dinner in Manhattan; co-starring Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Mark Wahlberg

The Greatest (R): Drama; about a couple whose son is killed in a car crash, only to have his girlfriend arrive months later carrying their child; co-starring Susan Sarandon and Carey Mulligan

Letters to God (PG): Drama; about an eight-year-old boy who writes daily letters to God to cope with his battle with cancer, and the postman who intercepts these letters

2012 Time for Change (NR): Documentary; about author Daniel Pinchbeck and his dictates that psychedelics are critical to ending consumerism and apathy; co-starring Sting, David Lynch, and Ellen Page; showings at the Lumiere (SF) on Friday-Sunday at 7pm

The Warlords (R): Action; about three warriors who encounter political intrigue and a love triangle during the Taiping Rebellion; co-starring Jet Li and Andy Lau

When You're Strange (R): Documentary; about the rock quartet The Doors; narrated by Johnny Depp

DVD Pick - Get Smart (PG-13): Steve Carell and Anne Hathaway are the bumbling lead agents, and great bit roles by Bill Murray, James Caan, Masi Oka, and Terence Stamp surely help in the proceedings. Domestic box office: $130.3 million; foreign box office: $100.4 million.


Free Activities
Dolores Park Movie Night [Thu 7:30p]: Featuring "Back to the Future" (1985). In Dolores Park (SF).

West Portal Fine Arts Festival [Fri-Sun 10a-5p]: 22nd annual. Featuring 75+ artists. Along West Portal Ave (SF). www.pacificfinearts.com

Arc Studios Open Gallery Reception [Fri 7-10p]: Featuring 65+ artists, live music by The Corners, Blue Bottle Coffee, Pizza Politana, and more. At Arc Studios & Gallery (SF). www.arcsf.net

Three Stories at Mission Dolores [Fri 8p, Sat-Sun 3p]: With the Sixteenth Street Players performing lively one-act plays by Chekhov, Giraudoux, and Glaspell. At Mission Dolores Auditorium (SF). www.missiondolores.org

* San Francisco Green Festival [Sat 10a-7p, Sun 11a-6p]: The fall spectacle has been so popular that a spring version has arrived. Featuring 200+ speakers (including Mayor Gavin Newsom), a green careers exhibit, an eco fashion show, the Plant Cafe Organic kitchen demos, and more. At the Concourse Exhibition Center (SF), free with four canned goods or for students/minors/City employees, otherwise $5-100 (discounts for bicyclists/public transit rirders/seniors/union members). www.greenfestivals.org

International Lao New Year Festival [Sat 10a-5p]: Featuring an ethnic fashion show, southeast Asian cultural performances, green papaya salad contest, and more. In Civic Center Plaza (SF). www.laonewyear.org

* Cherry Blossom Festival [Sat-Sun 11a-5p]: Featuring taiko, karate, shishu (embroidery), traditional dance, and more. In Japantown (SF). www.nccbf.org

Cesar Chavez Day [Sat 11a-6p]: 10th annual. Featuring a parade that starts at Dolores Park and terminates at a street fair along 24th St., between Bryant and Treat. www.cesarchavezday.org

* San Francisco Civic Orchestra [Sat 1p]: Their shows are high-quality! The oldest community orchestra on the West Coast offers up works by Mendelssohn, Friedman, Foote, and Glazunov. At the Kensington Park's Elks Club Ballroom (SF). www.civicsymphony.com

Greek Cultural Day [Sat 2-6p]: I watched the show last year and would have noshed on the food spread had I not brunched at Brenda's right before. Featuring a parade along Market Street and an indoor cultural festival with food and dance/song performances. At Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (SF). www.hellenicfederation.org

Alice Waters book signing [Sat 3-4p]: The Chez Panisse founder will be signing copies of her new book "In the Green Kitchen." At Omnivore Books (SF). www.omnivorebooks.com

* San Francisco Sunday Streets [Sun 10a-3p]: 2nd installment of the year. In partnership with World Health Day, with over 1,000 events. Featuring free one-hour bike rentals, roller-skate rentals, pet programs, yoga lessons, and more. Along the Great Highway and Golden Gate Park's JFK Drive (SF). www.sundaystreetssf.com

* Streets Alive - San Mateo County [Sun 10a-2p]: 1st ever event. Expected participant cities include Belmont, Brisbane, Foster City, Millbrae, Pacifica, Redwood City, San Mateo, and South San Francisco. Featured activities included guided walks, free swimming pools, pilates classes, and more. www.streetsalivesmc.org

The Tech Museum [Sun 10a-6p]: Free admission. It's also the final weekend for Star Trek: The Exhibition, which costs $19-25. At the Tech Museum (San Jose). www.thetech.org

Contemporary Jewish Museum [Sun 11a-5p]: Free admission in honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Current exhibits include The Torah Project and Jews on Vinyl. At the CJM (SF). www.thecjm.org

Macy's Flower Show [through Sunday]: 64th annual. At Macy's Union Square (SF). www1.macys.com/campaign/flowershow/highlights_san-francisco.jsp


Paid Activities
Duncan Sheik with the San Francisco Symphony [Thu 8p, Fri 6:30p, Sat 8p]: Featuring the Grammy Award-winning artist performing the world premiere from his latest musical, along with works by Gounod, Vivier, and Poulenc. At Davies Symphony Hall (SF), $15-130. www.sfsymphony.org

MGMT concert [Mon-Tue 7p]: Previous Randy's Guide spotlight artist. At the Fillmore (SF), $30. www.whoismgmt.com

* Beach House concert [Wed 8p]: Previous Randy's Guide spotlight artist. With Bachelorette opening. At Bimbo's (SF), $16-18. www.myspace.com/beachhousemusic

Vigil [through April 18]: Featuring Olympia Dukakis as the dying aunt and Marco Barricelli as the self-absorbed bachelor whose relationship with her evolves. At the ACT (SF), $10-80. www.act-sf.org

Equivocation [extended through May 2]: A fantasy drama about Shakespeare evading a royal command to draft a play based on the Gunpowder Plot and instead drafting"Macbeth." Winner of Best New Play by Steinberg/ACTA. At the Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley), $20-54. www.marintheatre.org

Previous: Theatre - Concerning Strange Devices from the Distant West [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - Loveland by Ann Randolph [through Sunday in SF]; Theatre - Den of Thieves [through April 17 in SF}; Art - Cartier exhibit [through Apr. 18 in SF]; Theatre - A Seagull in the Hamptons [through Apr. 25 in Berkeley]

Randy's Guide CLXXXI (181)

Historic milestones this week: 9 years since the Netherlands became the first country to legalize same-sex marriage; 34 years of Apple Computer; 37 years since the first portable cell phone call is made (in New York City); 54 years since the CBS debut of "As the World Turns" (which is ending later this year); 61 years since the Republic of Ireland was formed; and 123 years since the election of the first female mayor in the U.S. (Argonia, Kan.)


Local News
Four San Francisco restaurants - Slanted Door, Scoma's, The Cliff House, and Boulevard - made the list of the top 100 grossing restaurants in the U.S. for 2009. The top two restaurants were Tao Restaurant (Las Vegas) and Tavern on the Green (New York City), which closed on New Year's Eve. www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/mbauer/detail?entry_id=60337


Change for Change
Congrats to San Francisco Suicide Prevention for the latest Randy's Guide donation! If you haven't done so, please check it out at www.sfsuicide.org

New charity: The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse. Founded in 1979, this Oakland nonprofit collects and sells donated materials for artists, teachers, and households (36,000 annual customers). Example items included antique linens, artificial flowers, yarn, and feathers. There are also periodic educational outreach programs that reach 20,000 students per year. www.creativereuse.org

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, Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Urban Solutions, and now San Francisco Suicide Prevention.


Deal of the Week
Free Butterfinger bar. If you are feeling creative, you could submit a short story to win an XBOX 360, Apple iPhone, or other prizes. www.butterfinger.com/BarInsurance/FileAClaim.aspx


Environmental News
Over 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are estimated to be overweight or obese in the U.S. Table scraps and pet treats, such as pig ears, are often laden with large amounts of sugar and fat. To investigate whether your pet is unhealthy, check out www.petobesityprevention.com.


Weekend Weather
Chance of showers on Friday and Easter Sunday. Otherwise, partly cloudy. Sierra snow showers - great for spring skiing next week!

Highs: 55-60
Lows: upper-30s (inland); low-40s (coast-bay); mid-40s (SF)


Music
"Ghetto Ways" by Scissors for Lefty (San Francisco, Calif.)

Previously featured in three other weeks for their concerts, it's time to feature the local band properly. Two brothers, joined by three members of another family, make up the quintet, which was featured by Live 105 as part of BFD 2007. Catch their show at The Bottom of the Hill on Saturday, with The Hundred Days and Saint Motel opening. www.scissorsforlefty.com


Movies {domestic revenues through March 28}
Dreamworks' "How to Train Your Dragon" opened with positive reviews and a tally of $43.7 million [rated PG; 4055 theatres; $10,785 per theatre]. 1980s-based comedy "Hot Tub Time Machine" underperformed with its third-place finish of $14.0 million [rated R; 2754 theatres; $5,091 per theatre]. The Ben Stiller drama "Greenberg" expanded gently and picked up $1.0 million [rated R; 181 theatres; $5,642 per theatre, 2nd weekend, $1.2 million overall]. Finally, the erotic thriller "Chloe," with Julianne Moore and Liam Neeson, premiered with a tepid $0.9 million [rated R; 350 theatre; $2,573 per theatre].

Breath Made Visible (NR): Documentary; about modern dance pioneer Anna Halprin

City Island (PG-13): Comedy-drama; about a corrections officer living in the Bronx who secretly takes acting courses in Manhattan; co-starring Andy Garcia, Julianna Margulies, and Alan Arkin

Clash of the Titans (PG-13): Action; about Perseus' quest to dethrone Hades and Zeus; co-starring Sam Worthington, Ralph Fiennes, and Liam Neeson

The Last Song (PG): Drama; about a father who reunites with his daughter for one summer in a small Southern beach town; co-starring Miley Cyrus and Greg Kinnear

Secret of Kells (NR): Animation; about a young boy who explores a magical book as a means to escape barbarian raids; nominated for 1 Oscar

Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married Too? (PG-13): Comedy sequel; about four couples who meet for their annual reunion in the Bahamas; co-starring Janet Jackson and Tyler Perry

Vincere (NR): Drama; about the mother of Mussolini's illegitimate son and their eventual conclusion in asylums

DVD Pick - Frontrunners (NR): This compelling documentary about four individuals running for student body president at ultra-competitive Stuyvesant High in New York City is a must for those who thirst for a more wholesome approach to politics. Jerry and Meg, Barbara and Gavin, take notice! Domestic box office: $27,000.


Free Activities
Lower Haight Art Walk [Fri 7-10p]: Check out various bars, restaurants, shops, live bands, and art galleries. Between 400 and 700 Haight (SF). www.lowerhaight.org

La Mesa [Fri 8p]: An evening with performances from the Alliance for California Traditional Arts. At the Red Poppy Art House (SF). www.redpoppyarthouse.org

Big Idea Night [Sat 9p]: Featuring Oakland-based art collective The People, live DJs, live dance videography, local food vendors, and more. At the YBCA (SF). RSVP at www.ybcafree.org

Spring Celebration [Sun 10a-5p]: 19th annual. Featuring an Easter parade, sidewalk bistros, live music, an Easter bonnet contest, and more. Along Union Street (SF). www.unionstreetsf.com

Asian Art Museum [Sun 10a-5p]: Free museum admission. At Asian Art Museum (SF). www.asianart.org

Easter Sunday in Dolores Park [Sun 11a-4p]: Featuring a Hunky Jesus contest, the Easter Bonnet contest, Easter Egg hunt, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and live performances. At Dolores Park (SF). www.thesisters.org

Hot Air Music Festival [Sun 2-10p]: Featuring three conservatory graduates who have assembled eight hours of classical music, plus puppets to boot. At the Conservatory of Music (SF). www.hotairmusic.org

Bring Your Own Big Wheel Race [Sun 4p]: 10th annual. Near Vermont and 20th St. in Potrero Hill (SF). www.jonbrumit.com/byobw.html

San Francisco Free Museum Day [Tuesday]: Check out the Conservatory of Flowers, the Museum of Modern Art, Museum of Craft and Folk Art, YBCA Gallery, de Young Museum, the Legion of Honor, and Cartoon Art Museum.


Paid Activities
WonderCon [Fri noon-7p, Sat 10a-7p, Sun 11a-5p]: Featuring Kevin Smith, Nicolas Cage, Jake Gyllenhaal, and hundreds of other comic-book-related professionals. At Moscone Center South (SF), $12-40. www.comic-con.org

Teen Poetry Slam Finals [Sat 7pm]: 14th annual. As presented by top youth nonprofit, Youth Speaks. At the Warfield (SF), $6-50. www.youthspeaks.org

Mo'nique [Sat 8p]: The Oscar-winning stand-up comedian and BET talk show host makes a local stop. At Paramount Theater (Oakland), $40-60. www.1monique.com

Music for Animals concert [Sun 7p]: Former Randy's Guide featured band. Opening acts are Mata Leon, Links, and Doll and the Kinks. At Rickshaw Stop (SF), $10-12. www.music4animals.com

Loveland by Ann Randolph [through April 11]: A solo show about the coping with the death of a parent. At the Marsh (SF), $15-50. www.themarsh.org

A Seagull in the Hamptons [through April 25]: About a beachfront play with a young man and his first love out on Long Island. At the Ashby Stage (Berkeley), $15-30. www.shotgunplayers.org

Previous: Theatre - Learn to Be Latina [extended through Friday in Berkeley]; Theatre - Concerning Strange Devices from the Distant West [through Apr. 11 in SF]; Theatre - Den of Thieves [through April 17 in SF}; Art - Cartier exhibit [through Apr. 18 in SF]