Events in MAY

Monday, May 1

CONCERT: Tanglefoot, thunderous Canadian band known for big vocal harmonies. Institute of Musical Traditions Series. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door . Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org.

Tuesday, May 2

MUSIC: Karen Collins solo at Songwriter's Showcase. 8:30-11 PM. Austin Grill, 919 Ellsworth Ave. Free. Info: www.karencollins.net

POETRY: Takoma DC Library Spring Series. Readings by local poets Susan Bucci Mockler, D.O. Moore, and Kathleen O-Toole. 7:30 PM, Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar NW, DC. Free. Info: 202-576-7252.

THEATRE: The Amen Corner. James Baldwin's first play explores role of church in African-American family. 7:30 PM, through May 6, times vary. Kogod Theatre, Clarice Smith Center, U-Md, intersection of University Blvd and Stadium Drive. $20/$7-student. Info:www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-7794

Wednesday, May 3

BOOK GROUP: Condi. Antonia Felix's biography of Secretary of State Rice. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 240-773-9420

FREE SEMINAR: "You're Wearing THAT? Conversations between Mothers and Daughters" by Dr. Deborah Tannen 9:30 AM-12:30 PM. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville. Free. Register by April 25 at www.montgomerycounty.gov

MUSIC: Young Artists Jam Session of this year's artists in residence. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike. $15. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

Thursday, May 4

BOOKSIGNING: The Lost Men. Kelly Tyler-Lewis account of the Shackleton polar expedition. 7 PM. 8518 Fenton, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.bordersstores.com or 301-585-0550

CONCERT: Fine Arts Quartet. Shostakovich and Mozart. 8 PM, Recital Hall, Clarice Smith Center. $30/ $7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu, 301-405-ARTS.

DANCE: Charm City Ramblers Cajun Band. 7:30 PM. Los Arrieros, 7926 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. $10. Info: 301-585-8813 or www.wherewegotozydeco.com

KIDS: Who's Making Tracks in Rock Creek Park, includes making plaster animal track. 4 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

WOMEN: Stories of Transformation through Raja Yoga Meditation. 7:30-8:30 PM. Brahma Kumaris, 9913 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-593-4990 or www.bkwsu.org

Friday, May 5

CONCERT: BSO at Strathmore. "Lure of the Diva," opera's greatest females. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $43-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

THEATRE: Northwood High School presents "Cinderella Waltz." comic version of the fairytale. 7 PM. Northwood High School, 919 University West, Silver Spring. $3/students; $7/adults. Info: 301-649-8088

Saturday, May 6

CONCERT: Doo Wop. Martha Reeves, et al. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $43-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CONCERT: Spring Sing & String Concert. featuring Jesse Palidofsky & Laura Baron, hosted by Azalea City Recordings. 8 PM. Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland Ave, Takoma Park. 10. Info: 301-891-3214 or www.azaleacityrecordings.com

CONCERT: UM Bands Pops Concert. 8 PM. Concert Hall, Clarice Smith Center. $20. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu, 301-405-ARTS.

CONFERENCE: Surviving Peak Oil! Petrocollapse, Culture Change and Post-Petroleum Sustainable Living. Featuring experts on peak oil and the growing global energy crisis, and advocates for alternative energy, community agriculture and local sustainable economics. Films and multimedia presentations will demonstrate solutions. 9 am to 7 pm, All Souls Unitarian Church, 1500 Harvard Avenue, NW at 16th Street, DC. $10 - $100. Info: conferences@culturechange.org or www.petrocollapse.org

DANCE: Children of Uganda. 3 PM and 8 PM. Clarice Smith Center. $30/ $7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu, 301-405-ARTS.

DANCE: Step Aside Tap Company perform "Looking Back: A 10 Year Celebration of Rhythm.” 7 PM. BlackRock Center for the Arts. 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown. $22. Info: 703-835-0762

ENVIRONMENT: Clean Energy Open House. Solar Power, native landscape, tofu-powered lawnmower at Maryland's only 95% renewables house. Noon-4 PM. 7125 Willow Avenue, Takoma Park. Free. Info: www.chesapeakeclimate.org or 301-270-3722

FARMERS MARKET: FreshFarm Market opening day, features chef demonstrations by Janis McLean of of redDog Cafe. Market 9 AM-1 PM; chef at 11 AM. Market open Saturdays through October 28. Ellsworth Drive between Fenton and Cedar Streets, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.freshfarmmarkets.org.

FUNDRAISER: Fashion Show and Silent Auction to benefit ARC of Montgomery County's support for persons with developmental disabilities. 10:30 AM (Cocktails and Auction); noon lunch. $60 ARC/$75 non-member. Mail checks to ARC of Montgomery County Fashion Show, 11600 Nebel Street, Rockville, MD 20852 or call 301-984-5777.

KIDS: Hua Hua Zhang: Chinese Puppet Theater. 6 & 8 PM. Black Box Theare, Montgomery College TP-SS, corner of Philadelphia and Chicago Avenues. $15/$10 under 12. Info: www.classactsarts.org or 301-588-4475.

KIDS: Community Arts Project. Build giant puppets from recycled materials. 10 AM. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, at Dartmouth, College Park. Free. Info: 301-927-3013 or info@cpae.org.

PERFORMANCE: The Dragon's Project: Power Play. A moving fairytale. 8 PM (repeats Sunday). Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $20/$7students. Info: www.danceplace.org or 202-269-1600

THEATRE: Northwood High School presents "Cinderella Waltz." comic version of the fairytale. 7 PM. Northwood High School, 919 University Blvd West, Silver Spring. $3/students; $7/adults. Info: 301-649-8088

VOLUNTEER: Old Takoma Spring Clean Up sponsored by Main Street Takoma. 9 AM-1 PM, raindate is Sat May 13. Meet at Takoma Junction or Laurel & Carroll or 4th and Blair, NW. Free. Info: designcommittee@mainstreettakoma.org

WALKING TOUR: Silver Spring's "Main Street." Jerry McCoy of Silver Spring Historical Society offers guided tour of Georgia Avenue. Meet "under the clock" at Georgia and Colesville Roads. Rain or shine. 10 AM-Noon. Tour ends at B&O train station (open til 3 PM). Both free, donations welcomed. No RSVP required: 301-537-1253 or email sshistory@yahoo.com

Sunday, May 7

ART: Artists Reception for "Journeys of the Heart." Takoma Artists Guild Annual Show. 3-5 PM. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Free. Info: 301-891-7224

CONCERT: Martin Kasik, classical pianist. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. 26. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

CONCERT: Spring Choral Showcase. 7:30 PM. Concert Hall, Clarice Smith Center. $30. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu 301-405-ARTS.

DANCE: Children of Uganda. 3 PM. Clarice Smith Center. $30/ $7 student. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu 301-405-ARTS.

ENERGY FAIR: Environmental Fair. Mike Tidwell featured at 10:30 AM service, followed by fair (displays, activities, crafts and alternative energy vehicles) from 11:45 AM-1:30 PM. Christ Congregational Church, 9525 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-585-8010 or www.chesapeakeclimate.org

FAMILY: Children's Day Festival. Riversdale House Museum, features historic games, Punch & Judy show, food. 1-4 PM. Riversdale Museum, 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park. $1/kids; $3/adults. Info: 301-864-0420 or www.pgparks.com

GARDENING: Make Your Own Rain Barrel. Sponsored by Takoma Park Committee on the Environment. 1 PM. Heffner Park Building, Oswego Avenue, Takoma Park. $35 for materials. Info: RSVP: 301-891-7633

KIDS: Discovery Hike. 1-1/2 mile hike for ages 8 and up. 10 AM. Rock Creek Nature Cente,, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

KIDS: Create It! Terra Cotta Tiles. Check out real samples, follow the process and make your own ornamental tile to take home. 1-4 PM. National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, DC (Judiciary Square metro). $5/project. Info: www.nbm.org

KIDS: Model Rocket Launch. Bring your own model; cancelled if rain. 1 PM. Goddard Space Center, 8800 Greenbelt Road, enter on Explorer Drive. Free. Info: www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard or 301-286-2000

PERFORMANCE: The Dragon's Project: Power Play. A moving fairytale. 7:30 PM. Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $20/$7students. Info: www.danceplace.org or 202-269-1600

SCOUTS: Soapbox Derby. Nine teams From Troop #33 compete in time trials. 11 AM-1 PM. Intersection of Birch and Cedar Avenues, Takoma Park. Free. Info: www.bsa-troop33.net

TOUR: Takoma Park House & Garden Tour. 1-5 PM. Advance tickets at Old Town merchants, $15; Same day tickets (and brochures) at Framers Market, $20, Laurel and Carroll Avenues. Info: www.historictakoma.org

Monday, May 8

BOOK GROUP: Collapse: How Societies Chose to Fail or Succeed, by Jared Diamond. 7:30 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 240-773-9420

CIVIC: Public Comment on proposed Takoma Park City budget. 7:30 PM. Council Chambers, Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park. Free. Info: www.takomaparkmd.gov or 301-891-7267

CONCERT: IONA 20th Anniversary celebrates the music and dance of Celts worldwide. plus release of Double CD "A Celebration of 20," a compilation of past faves and "new" tunes. Institute of Musical Traditions Series. 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org

KIDS: Flower Buds offers gardening, stories, crafts and garden walks (ages 3-5 with parent). 10:30-11:30 AM. Visitors Center Classroom, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. $2/child, must register in advance using ParkPASS (www.ParkPASS.org or call 301-495-2580). Info: 301-962-1400 or www.brooksidegardens.org.

Tuesday, May 9

ART: Opening Reception, "Reflections on Katrina." 25 New Orleans artists consider the future of New Orleans. 6:30-8:30 PM. Pyramid Atlantic, 8230 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-608-9101 or www.pyramid-atlantic.org

BOOK GROUP: Mozart and Leadbelly, collection of short stories by Ernest J. Gaines, part of African American Book Group. 7 PM. White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-622-2492

LECTURE: Zoning in Montgomery County. Sponsored by League of Women Voters. 7:30 PM. Montgomery College TP/SS. Resource Center. Free. Info: 301-587-1323 or bsanders@TerpAlum.umd.edu

MEETING: Amnesty International. 7:30 PM. 7071 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. Free. Info: 301-270-2233

FREE CONCERT: Night & Day Trio, jazz and big band. 6:30-8 PM. McCrillis Gardens, 6910 Greentree Road, Bethesda, off Old Georgetown Road. Free. Info and directions: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

Wednesday, May 10

BUSINESS: Networking Breakfast, sponsored by Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. 7:30-9:15 AM. Taste of Morocco, City Place. Members: $20/advance;$25/door. Nonmembers: $30 advance; $35/door. IRSVP: (by May 8) 301-565-3777 or www.gsscc.org

KIDS: Interact Story Theater presents Too Much Nose for ages 3-6 as part of Jump Start with the Arts, sponsored by Class Acts Arts. 10:30 AM. Silver Spring Nursery School, 10309 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring (3 blocks north of beltway exit 28A, right on Oaklawn Drive). $6. Limited space; advance tickets: 301-588-4475 or www.classactsarts.org or by mail (send SASE and check payable to Class Acts Arts, PO Box 3580, Silver Spring, MD 20918.

THEATRE: Crime and Punishment. Stanislavsky Theater original adaptation of Dostoyevsky. Opening night for previews ($10) through May 14; show runs weekends, May 20-June 18. Black Box Theater, Montgomery College TP/SS campus, corner of Chiacgo & Philadelphia Avenues. $15-25. Info: www.sts-online.org or 800-494-TIXS

VOLUNTEER: Help out at Silverdocs (June 13-18). Details at info session, 6:30 PM. Discovery Channel Headquarters, One Discovery Place , Silver Spring. Info: 301-495-6721 or email volunteer@silverdocs.com.

Thursday, May 11

ART: Gallery Talk. "Out of Your Frame," panel discussion on reframing notions of art and mental illness. Sponsored by local mental health agencies. 6-8 PM. Gateway Heliport Gallery, 8001 Kennett St. Suite #3, Silver Spring. $10 to benefit scholarship fund. Best to RSVP:David@gatewaydc.com.

ART: Eyes Wide Open: The Human Cost of the Iraq War. Opening day for acclaimed exhibit featuing a pair of combat boots to honor each U.S. military fatality, sponsored by American Friends Service Committee. 10 AM-6 PM, through Sunday May 14. National Mall @ 14th Street, DC. Free. Info: www.afsc.org/eyes or 202-482-3341

CONCERT: BSO at Strathmore. "The Jazz of Matisse." 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $43-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

DANCE: Liz Lerman Studio Opening. Dance Exchange opens 30th season with new space. 6:30-9 PM. Dance Exchange, 7117 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park. Free. Info: RSVP: sarahp@danceexchange.org or 301-270-6700.

GARDENING: Repotting Plants Demonstration. 1 PM. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400

KIDS: Forest in Spring. Explore Woodland trail, ages 5 and up. 4 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

WOMEN: Stories of Transformation through Raja Yoga Meditation. 7:30-8:30 PM. Brahma Kumaris, 9913 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-593-4990 or www.bkwsu.org

Friday, May 12

BIKING: Last day to register for Bike to Work Day. Sponsored by Washington Area Bikers Association. Free shirts and snacks at pit stops throughout Metro area. Info: Details: www.waba.org or 202-518-0524

CONCERT: National China Symphony. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $55-60 left. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

DANCE: Tropical Spring Fling Dance Party. Olu Yemisi & Company also perform. 8-11 PM (begins with free salsa lesson). 631 Silver Spring Avenue, Silver Spring. $15. Info: www.DanceWithMeDC.com or 301-559-4281

MUSIC: Karen Collins solo. Susquehanna Music & Arts Festival. 6-7 PM. Ramblewood Resort, 2564 Silver Road, Darlington MD. $15; also Fri/Sat & 3-day tickets. Info: www.karencollins.net or email smaftix@comcast.net

MUSIC: Aspen Hill Trio. Jazz for Guitar, Cello and Woodwinds. 8-10 PM. Inwood Coffeehouse. 10921 Inwood Avenue, Wheaton. $5. Info: www.coffeehouse.ufoco.org or 301-649-6595

THEATRE: A Body of Water by Lee Blessing. A couple wakes up in an unfamiliar house with no memory of who they are and must fill in the memory gaps. Runs May 12 – June 4. Round House Theater, 8641 Colesville Road, next to AFI, Silver Spring. $30-40. Info: www.round-house.org or 240-644-1100.

Saturday, May 13

ART: A Salon Second Saturday Open Studio. 5-8 PM, 6924 Willow Street, Takoma DC. Info: www.washingtonart.net or 202-882-0740.

AZALEA AWARDS: Honoring Takoma Park leaders. Co-sponsored by the Takoma Voice and the Takoma Foundation. 3 - 5 PM, Takoma Park Community Center, Maple & Philadelphia Aves., TP. Free. All are welcome. "Red carpet attire" encouraged, but not required. (Nominations and voting are now closed.)

ART: Montgomery Potters Spring pottery sale. Sponsored by Montgomery Potters. 9 AM-4 PM. Colesville Presbyterian Church lawn, 12800 New Hampshire, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.montgomerypotters.org

CONCERT: National Philharmonic—Mozart's Don Giovanni. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $45-60; age 7-17 free. Info: www.claricesmithcenter.umd.edu or 301-405-7794

CONCERT: Imagination Movers. High-energy kids singalong. 10:30 AM and 1 PM. Olney Theatre Center, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road. $20. Info: 301-924-3400 or www.olneytheatre.org

CONCERT: Roads to You: Celebration of One World, featuring Carpe Diem, local community choir. 8 PM. Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st Street NW, DC. $15-50. Info: www.roadstoyou.com or 202-824-0786

GARDENING: Annual Garden Mart. Herbs., vegetables, azaleas, shrubs, baskets for sale. 9 AM-3 PM. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

KIDS: Fort DeRussy Hike, one mile hike to Civil War fort that helped save DC, ages 8 and up. 10 AM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

KIDS: Community Arts Project. Build Giant Puppets from recycled materials. 10 AM. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, at Dartmouth, College Park. Free. Info: 301-927-3013 or info@cpae.org.

LECTURE: History of Washington Metro. Author Zachary Schrag discusses his book, The Great Society Subway. 1 PM. National Capital Trolley Museum, 1313 Bonifant Street, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-384-6088 or www.dctrolley.org

LECTURE: Meditation and Law, with Attorneys Onkar Sharma and Patrick Chapmas. 10:30 AM-noon. Brahma Kumaris, 9913 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: Must RSVP: 301-593-4990 or www.bkwsu.org

NATURE: Live Butterfly Show. Native and exotic butterflies amidst a colorful garden. 10 AM-4 PM. Opening day, exhibit runs through September 17. South Conservatory, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. $4.50 adults/$3.50 ages 3-12. Info: 301-962-1453 or www.brooksidegardens.org or 301-962-1400.

PROTEST: Silent March to Capitol in conjuntion with "Eyes Wide Open" exhibit. Gather at Mall (10:30 AM), March (11:30 AM); Speak Out at Capitol 1:30 PM). National Mall @ 14th Street, DC. Info: www.afsc.org/eyes or 202-482-3341

VOLUNTEER: Help out at Silverdocs (June 13-18). Details at info session, 6:30 PM. Discovery Channel Headquarters, One Discovery Place , Silver Spring. Info: 301-495-6721 or email volunteer@silverdocs.com.

Sunday, May 14

ARTWALK: ArtWalk/GreenWalk. Wear green, defy gas prices and gather "eco" treats. 2-4 PM. Beginning at Los Arrieros, 7926 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.gatewaycdc.com

CONCERT: Imagination Movers. High-energy kids singalong. 1 PM and 4:30 PM. Olney Theatre Center, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road. $20. Info: 301-924-3400 or www.olneytheatre.org

KIDS: Rapids Bridge Hike. 3 mile hike for ages 7 and up. 2 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW,off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

Monday, May 15

CONCERT: The Avant Gardeners Concert & Contra Dance, combine rock and roll, fiddle, swinging jazz and classical folk melodies. Institute of Musical Traditions Series 7:30 PM. Saint Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $14 Adv/$17 Door. Info: 301-754-3611 or www.imtfolk.org

LECTURE: State Smart Growth Strategies. Anthony Flint, author of This Land: The Battle Over Sprawl and the Future of America describes the Massachusetts experience. 12:30-1:30 PM. National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, DC (Judiciary Square metro). Free. Info: www.nbm.org

Tuesday, May 16

FUNDRAISER: Eat at Mark's Kitchen and support the Takoma Park Middle School instrumental program. All day. 7006 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. Info: www.markskitchen.com/events.htm

NATURE: Building a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. Learn how to make your yard attractive to birds, butterflies and other wildlife. Sponsored by Friends of Sligo Creek. 7:30 PM. Brookside Nature Center. On Glenallan Avenue in Wheaton Regional Park. Free. Info: www.fosc.org or 301--585-8891

Wednesday, May 17

BOOK GROUP: One Thousand White Women. Jim Fergus' imaginary tale of white women who become Indian brides in the Old West. 7:30 PM. White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-622-2492

BOOK GROUP: Piano Tuner. Daniel Mason's novel set in 1886 Burma. 2 PM. White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-622-2492

MUSIC: Artists in Residence Grand Finale, includes Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike. $10. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

PARENTING: Coping with Challenging Behavior, how to understand and deal with our children. 7:30-8:30 PM. Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. $25/resident; $30/non-resident.

Thursday, May 18

CONCERT: BSO at Strathmore. Golden Age of 1950s. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. limited tickets ($40-58). Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

GARDENING: Azalea Pruning Demonstration. 1 PM. Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or301-962-1400

KIDS: High Tailing It. 1/2 mile hike looks for deer, all ages. 4 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

POETRY: Takoma Park Poetry Series. Join Marin FitzPatrick, Terra Greene, T.J. Mathews and Annette Dexter Sawyer for open reading. 7 PM. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Free. Info: 301-891-7224

Friday, May 19

TEENS: Ice Skating, teens only. 8-10 PM Wheaton Ice Arena, 11717 Orebaugh, Wheaton Regional Park. $6 (with ID, includes skates). Info: 301-649-3640

BIKING: Bike to Work Day, sponsored by Washington Area Bicyclist Association. Free shirts and snacks at pit stops throughout Metro area. Pre-register by May 12. Details: www.waba.org or 202-518-0524

BOOKSIGNING: Riding Daily on I-95, Nikki Turner's newest hip-hop novel. 7 PM. 8518 Fenton, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.bordersstores.com or 301-585-0550

CONCERT: John Paul on harpsichord. 7:30 PM. Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike. $26. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

KIDS: Mister Don, interactive kid's music. 4-5 PM. Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland Ave, Takoma Park. $5/child; $7/2 children. Info:www.donbridgesongs.com

OPEN HOUSE: Bethesda Jewish Congregation a trans-denominational, independent congregation serves Jews from traditional to liberal religious backgrounds, interfaith couples and their families. Learn more after Sabbath services, 6:30 PM. 6601 Bradley Boulevard, Bethesda. Info: 301-469-8636.

Saturday, May 20

ART FUNDRAISER: Sale of Nicaraguan art to assist Potters for Peace and the Nicaraguan Cultural Alliance. Examples of this work may be viewed at www.quixote.org/nca. 10 AM-3 PM. The Quixote Center Gallery, 3502 Varnum Street, Brentwood. Free admission and parking. Info: Roz Fischer, 301-864-5218.

AUTHOR TALK: Deatri King-Bey. discusses "Caught Up." 4 PM. Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar Street, NW. Free. Info: 202-576-7252

CONCERT: National Philharmonic: All Tchaikovsky. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-80. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

FESTIVAL: Maryland Faerie Festival. Celebrate faeries with music and merriment, come in costume. 10 AM-6 PM. Patuxent 4H Center, 18405 Queen Anne Road, Upper Marlboro. $7 (12 and up); $3 (3-11). Info: www.marylandfaeriefestival.org or 888-607--9134

FORUM: Emergency Preparedness. Learn to be prepared for disaster, terrorism and pandemic flu. Sonsored by Montgomery County Homeland Security. 9:30-11:30 AM. Health Sciences Building, Montgomery College TP/SS Campus, 7977 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-565-7300.

GARDENING: Cactus and Succulent Show and Sale. 9 AM-5 PM, also Sunday. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or or 301-962-1400.

GREEN:: Going Green at Home exhibition, sponsored by Montgomery County Park and Planning Commission. Wheaton Regional Park, 2000 Shorefield Road. Free. Info: www.mcparkandplanning.org/goinggreen

KIDS: Marble Tournament qualifying round for National Tournament in New Jersey (week of June 18). Ages 7-14, Boys, 10 AM; girls, 1 PM. Jequie Park, Takoma and Albany Avenues. Free but pre-registration required: www.tprecreation.org or 301-891-7290.

MUSIC: Stripey Socks Presents: Mosquito Death Squadron, (quirky local instrumental ensemble ranging from crusty-math-surf-metal to freeform-thrash-jazz), & Dan Roberts Trio, (jazz re-creations of songs by artists such as Wilco, the Postal Service, the Flaming Lips, the Shins, Aimee Mann, Radiohead). 8-10 PM. Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park. $7 INFO: Stripey Socks Productions: 301-219-7728.

NATURE: Explore the Sky. View stars outdoors with National Capital Astronomers. 9 PM, rain cancels. Military Field, Picnic Groves #13 & #14 off military road near Rock Creek Nature Center. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

NATURE: Butterflies of Sligo. A natural history outing sponsored by Friends of Sligo Creek. 1-3 PM. Meet at Hillwood Manor Playground, near New Hampshire Ave at Erskine, Silver Spring. Free. Info: www.fosc.org

THEATRE: Lumina Presents King Lear. Set in Imperial Russia with live gypsy music and Russian dancing. Noon, repeated 5 PM. Olney Theatre Center for the Arts, Olney-Sandy Springs Road (Route 108), one-one half miles east of Georiga and two miles west of New Hampshire. $12/adults; $6/students. INFO: LuminaTickets@aol.com, or 301-589-2687.

TOWN HALL: Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. joins Jaime Raskin for a forum on Revitalizing the Democratic Party. 5-7 PM. Check website for location.

YARD SALE: Takoma Park Independence Day Committee Annual Yard Sale. Funds parade and fireworks. 9 AM-4 PM. Donations accepted May 19, 6 PM-9 PM. Library Lawn, 101 Philadelphia Ave, Takoma Park. Info: 301-270-8121 or 301-270-6876

Sunday, May 21

ART FUNDRAISER: Sale of Nicaraguan art to assist Potters for Peace and the Nicaraguan Cultural Alliance. Examples of this work may be viewed at www.quixote.org/nca. Noon-3 PM. The Quixote Center Gallery, 3502 Varnum Street, Brentwood. Free admission and parking. Info: Roz Fischer, 301-864-5218.

CONCERT: 60th Anniversary Concert. Montgomery County Youth Orchestra. 2 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $15 ($5 student). Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

FILM: Geisha: An Artist's Journey. The real story of the Japanese Geisha. 2 PM, reception follows. Montpelier Arts Center, 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel. Free. Info: 301-953-1993 or www.pgparks.com/places/artsfac/mac.html

FREE FESTIVAL: "Feria de Sevilla," celebrates music, food, dance of Spain. Noon-5 PM. Grounds of Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike. Free. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

GARDENING: Cactus and Succulent Show and Sale. 9 AM-4 PM, also Sunday. Visitors Center, Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton. Free. Info: www.brooksidegardens.org or or 301-962-1400.

KIDS: Easy to be Green. Explore life-size "green" house and build your own from a shoebox (you provide); all ages. 1-4 PM. National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, DC (Judiciary Square metro). $5/project. Info: www.nbm.org

KIDS: Arts Drop-In. Build your own big bug, kids 3-8, accompanied by adult. 2-4 PM. Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, at Dartmouth, College Park. Free. Info: 301-927-3013 or info@cpae.org.

THEATRE: Lumina Presents King Lear. Set in Imperial Russia with live gypsy music and Russian dancing. Noon, repeated 5 PM. Olney Theatre Center for the Arts, Olney-Sandy Springs Road (Route 108), one-one half miles east of Georiga and two miles west of New Hampshire. $12/adults; $6/students. INFO: LuminaTickets@aol.com, or 301-589-2687.

WALKING TOUR: Explore Old Takoma. Diana Kohn offers guided tour of Gilbert’s sylvan suburb, including both Maryland and District sides. 1-3 PM. Meet at Takoma Metro station. $10 ($5 for Historic Takoma members). Info: RSVP not required; 301-270-8187.

Monday, May 22

CONCERT: Dylan 65 - A birthday tribute. Institute of Musical Traditions Season finale features Billy Coulter along with Lisa Moscatiello, Brian Simms playing favorite Dylan hits. 7:30 PM. St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Road, Rockville. $15 advance/$20 door. Info: 301-270-9090 or www.imtfolk.org

BENEFIT CONCERT: Chuck Redd jazz concert for Takoma Park Middle School. Fundraiser toward purchase of portable sound system. 7 - 9 PM. Mayorga Coffeehouse, 8010 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. $18/adults; $8/age 12-18. Info: 202-904-5959.

LECTURE: History of Washington Metro. Author Zachary M Schrag discusses his book, The Great Society Subway. 6:30-8 PM. National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, DC (Judiciary Square metro). $10 members/$15 others. Info: RSVP required: www.nbm.org

Tuesday, May 23

BOOK GROUP: Case Histories. Kate Atkinson's further adventures of P.I. Jackson Brodie. 10:30 AM. White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-622-2492

CRAFTS: Knitting Group. 7:30 PM. Savory Café, 7071 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. Free. Info: 301-270-2233

FILM: Resurrection, directed by Robert Frye. 7 PM. Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 240-773-9420

FORUM: Affordable Housing Forum. City and metro Washington government sponsors discussion of local housing issues. 7-9 PM. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Free. Info: www.takomaparkmd.gov or 301-891-7119

Wednesday, May 24

BUSINESS: Networking After Hours, sponsored by Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce. 5:30-7 PM. Silver Spring Urban Alliance, 8110 Georgia Ave, 3rd floor. Members free; nonmembers $10. Info: RSVP: (by May22) 301-565-3777 orwww.gsscc.org

Thursday, May 25

ART: Katrina: Art and the Environment. Panel discussion with artists, environmentalists and community leaders. 6-9 PM. Pyramid Atlantic, 8230 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: 301-608-9101 or www.pyramid-atlantic.org

FORUM: Revitalizing Commercial Districts. Four officials of Main Street Center describe 25 years of assisting community rehabilitation. 6:30-8 PM. National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW, DC (Judiciary Square metro). $10 members/$15 others. Info: RSVP required: www.nbm.org

KIDS: Forest in Spring. Explore Woodland trail, ages 5 and up. 4 PM. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW, off Military Road, DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

MUSIC: Chopteeth. Afro-funk music. 8 PM. Los Arrieros, 7926 Georgia Avenue, DC, south of Hwy 410. $10 cover/ $5 students. Info: www.chopteeth.com

Friday, May 26

DANCE: Bellydance Festival 2006. Four days of classes plus Sat/Sun performances. Sponsored by Bellydancers of Color Association. 9 AM-10 PM, Hilton Hotel, 8727 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. $20 per class. Info: 202-271-3240 or www.bellydancersofcolor.org

Saturday, May 27

BOOK SALE: Friends of Takoma Library semi-annual sale raises funds to support library programs. 10 AM-3 PM. Library lawn, 101 Philadelphia Avenue, Takoma Park. Free; book donations accepts during library open hours. Info: www.ftpml.org/

DANCE: Bellydance Festival 2006. Classes plus performances. Sponsored by Bellydancers of Color Association. 9 AM-10 PM. Hilton Hotel, 8727 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. $20 per class. Performances at University of DC Auditorium, $20. Info: 202-271-3240 or www.bellydancersofcolor.org

MUSIC: Stripey Socks Presents Cremaster & Friends, best local teens and young adult bands. 8 PM- MIDNIGHT, Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland Avenue, Takoma Park. $7. Info: 301-219-7728.

NATURE: Cleanup of Fort Stevens and listen to Civil War stories of bravery (ages 10 and up). 10 AM (or meet at Rock Creek Nature Center and carpool). Fort Stevens, 13th & Piney Branch DC. Free. Info: www.nps.gov/rocr or 202-895-6070

POLITICS: Green Party Nominating Caucus. Maryland Greens chose statewide candidates. 1:30-4:30 PM. Savory Café, 7071 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park. Info: 240-498-6733.

Sunday, May 28

DANCE: Bellydance Festival 2006. Classes plus performances. Sponsored by Bellydancers of Color Association. 9 AM-10 PM. Hilton Hotel, 8727 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. $20 per class. Performances at University of DC Auditorium, $20. Info: 202-271-3240 or www.bellydancersofcolor.org

Monday, May 29

FAMILY: Homefront Street Cars. Role of transit in wartime, including wartime film. Noon-5 PM. National Capitol Trolley Museum, 1313 Bonifant Street, Silver Spring. Free; rides $2/kid or $3/adult. Info: 301-384-6088 or www.dctrolley.org

Tuesday, May 30

BOOK GROUP: Shutter Island, by Dennis Lehane, author of Mystic River. 7 PM. Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar Street, NW. Free. Info: 202-576-7252

Wednesday, May 31

BOOK CLUB: The Known World. Edward Jones' tale of freed slaves owning slaves. Takoma Park Library, 101 Philadelphia Ave, Takoma Park. Free. Info: 301-891-7259

PARENTING: Community conversation on gender stereotypes. Led by Children As They Are, focusing on bullying, teasing and low self-esteem. 7 - 9 PM, Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Ave., TP. Info: or cata@childrenastheyare.org or call 202-462-6610.

THEATRE: A Murder, A Mystery & A Marriage: A Mark Twain Musical Melodrama. based on discovered short story. Opening night 7:30 PM, continues Wed-Sat plus Sun matinee through June 25. Round House Theatre, 4545 East-West Highway at Waverly, Bethesda. $40-50 (depending on day). Info: www.round-house.org or 240-644-1100

Scroll below to sneak preview local events
scheduled in June and Beyond.
Be sure to check back on June 1st for
a complete listing of that month's happenings.

Thursday, June 1

CONCERT: BSO at Strathmore: Russian Romance. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $43-78. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

Friday, June 2

DANCE: Summertime Salsa Dance Party. Olu Yemisi & Company also perform. 8-11 PM (begins with free salsa lesson). 631 Silver Spring Avenue, Silver Spring. $15. Info: www.DanceWithMeDC.com or 301-559-4281

Saturday, June 3

BOOK SALE: Takoma DC Library Spring Book Sale. 10 AM-4 PM. Takoma DC Library, 416 Cedar Street, NW. Info: 202-576-7252

CELEBRATION: Community Gathering in Honor of Lee Jordan. Food and remembrances plus footage of Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame induction ceremony. 2-4 PM. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Free. Info: 301-270-8187.

CONCERT: National Philharmonic: Mozart's Great Mass. 8 PM. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. $25-80. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

DANCE: We Are Still Crossing. Liz Lerman Dance Exchange. 8 PM. Dance Exchange, 7117 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park. Info: www.danceexchange.org

FESTIVAL: Adelphi Friends Meeting Strawberry Festival. Food, fun, crafts, games, plants & books sale and red ripe strawberries. 10 AM- 4 PM. 2303 Metzerott Road, between Riggs and Adelphi Roads, Adelphi. Free admission. Info: 301-445-1114

FAMILY: Kite Making Workshop. Experts help you build a perfect kite. Noon-4 PM. Colllege Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Corporal Frank Scott Drive, off Paint Branch Parkway, College Park. $2/kids; $4/adult; plus $4/kite. Info: 301-864-6029 or www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.org

LECTURE: Meditation and Ayur-vedic Medicine, with Dr. Kumuda Reddy. 10:30 AM-noon. Brahma Kumaris, 9913 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: Must RSVP: 301-593-4990 or www.bkwsu.org

Sunday, June 4

KIDS: Model Rocket Launch. Bring your own model; cancelled if rain. 1 PM. Goddard Space Center, 8800 Greenbelt Road, enter on Explorer Drive. Free. Info: www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard or 301-286-2000

WALKING TOUR: Sligo Branview House and Garden Tour of Highland View and Oakview Elementary neighborhoods. 1-4 PM. Being at Fire Engine Park, Hamilton & Wilmer Street, Silver Spring. $6. Info: 301-587-8749 orcathyrwashington@yahoo.com

Monday, June 5

CLASS: Foundation Course in Meditation. Features an understanding of the Self. 10 AM and 7:30 PM. Brahma Kumaris, 9913 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. Free. Info: Must RSVP: 301-593-4990 or www.bkwsu.org

Tuesday, June 6

Wednesday, June 7

FREE CONCERT: American Symphonic Clarinet Choir, part of Free Outdoor Concert Series. 7 PM. Strathmore Grounds, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. Free; parking $4. Info: 301-581-5100 or www.strathmore.org

Thursday, June 8

DRIVING: AARP Two-Day Driver Safety Classroom Course. Sponsored by Takoma Park Police for experienced drivers 50 years and older. 9 AM-1 PM, plus Sunday, same time. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. $10. Info: 301-791-7124

POETRY: Anne Dykers and Alan Rubenstein, presented by Takoma Park Poetry Series. 7 PM. Takoma Park Community Center, 7500 Maple Avenue. Free. Info: 301-891-7224

Friday, June 9

Saturday, June 10

DANCE: DanceAfrica outdoor performance. Free outdoor performances and marketplace (1-6 PM), Indoor Matinee. 3 PM and 8 PM. Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $18 matinee/$20 evening, free child with adult. Info: www.danceplace.org or 202-269-1600

JAZZ FEST: Takoma Park Jazz Fest presents "Odd Instruments." 11 AM-7 PM. Jequie Park, Fenton Street at Takoma Ave, Takoma Park. Free. Info: 202-829-3088 or 301-589-4433

PERFORMANCE: Tappers With Attitude 15 Year Anniversary Gala. 7:30 PM, Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the Univ of MD. Tickets: 301-405-ARTS or visit claricesmithcenter.umd.edu

Sunday, June 11

DANCE: DanceAfrica DC. Free outdoor performances and marketplace (1-6 PM), Indoor Matinee. 3 PM and 8 PM. Dance Place, 3225 8th Street NE, DC. $18matinee/$20 evening, free child with adult. Info: www.danceplace.org or 202-269-1600

Monday, June 12

Tuesday, June 13

Wednesday, June 14

Thursday, June 15

Friday, June 16

Saturday, June 17

Sunday, June 18

GARDENING: Pruning clinic with City Gardener Mike Welsh and "the Easy Gardener" Pat Howell. 1 PM, Memorial Park, Maple Ave. and Rte. 410, TP. (Across from the Takoma Park Library and Community Center) Rain or shine, but the clinic will be canceled if there is lightning. Free.

Monday, June 19

Tuesday, June 20

MUSIC: Stripey Socks Presents: The Mystechs, Afrosheen Explosion & Emotron, cutting edge rockers, psychedelic comedy act and punk rock. 8:30 PM-Midnight. Sangha, 7014 Westmoreland, Takoma Park. $7. Info: takomamama@yahoo.com or 301-219-7728.

Wednesday, June 21

Thursday, June 22

Friday, June 23

Saturday, June 24

Sunday, June 25

Monday, June 26

Tuesday, June 27

Wednesday, June 28

Thursday, June 29

Friday, June 30