Mid-Week Snakes and Rain

Today is WEDNESDAY, May 25, 2011. There is a rattlesnake warning in Marin County, due to an influx of rodents there, which is apparently causing the rodent eaters (rattlers) to come out in full force. No word yet on whether that warning extends to Contra Costa, but best to watch your step and keep your ears open, just the same. Still, today is probably not the best day for a hike, since rain is in the forecast. This morning definitely has that pre-rain feel to it, with the sky kind of murky and the air feeling moist and a little ominous. Is that what they call "earthquake weather?" I've lived in this state for most of my life, and I can never recall exactly what conditions comprise earthquake weather. Is it before a rain? Or when the sky is cloudless? Or a full moon? It's probably best not to know, since the whole notion is supposedly bunk anyway. At any rate, take your umbrella with you today.

1. The musical '' has been extended at the Campbell Cabaret, through June 18. If you haven't seen it yet, don't feel alone. Those who have say it's great, and it's one production I plan to attend. Normally I'm not a big fan of musicals (to put it mildly), but when this movie came out, it bowled me over. The songs are great, and Bob Fosse's choreography is just over the top. Local publications have raved about this particular production as well. Stay tuned to Martinez Patch for a review. 
2. And don't forget tonight, despite today's rain, is the hike sponsored by the Alhambra Hills Open Space Committee at 6 p.m. This hike is designed to show off the Alhambra Highlands property, which has been approved for development - the request is due to be discussed next month by the City Council. Meanwhile, the open space group is seeking to purchase the property and keep it permanent open space. 
3. I hope you're reading Doug Stewart's blog about his homeless outreach efforts. If you are, you're probably wondering how you can help. Well, glad you asked. For the rest of this month, you can take men and women's clothing, socks, blankets, toothpaste, floss, toothbrushes, deodorant, lip balm and other items to Noodles for Kids, 725 Main St. This is a great program - Doug is really helping those folks who, for whatever reason, find themselves in need of some basic things. Now you can help, too.
4. Today's Design Review Commitee meeting has been cancelled.
5. Finally, if you're up for a little hoedown, then check out the Bluegrass Jam tonight at The $3 cover gets you an evening of great bluegrass, and you are invited to bring your instrument and join on in. The plucking begins at 7 p.m.