WEDNESDAY 9/10 WEDNESDAY 9/10 Around Town "Apollo Amateur ...

| 16 Feb 2015 | 06:26

    Around Town

    "Apollo Amateur Night" Legendary amateur night at the Apollo "where stars are made & legends are born"; Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th St. (betw. Frederick Douglass & Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvds.), 212-531-5303, apollotheater.com; 7:30, $16-$24.

    Candle Light Procession Walk silently down Broadway to the World Trade Center site w/the 9/11 families; Union Square Park, 17th St. (betw. B'way & Park Ave.), 212-714-8241; 6:45, free.

    Full Moon Ritual Celebrate the full moon w/Steve Jones, light, fire & music-bring a poem or story; 6th & B Garden, 6th St. (Ave. B), 212-982-5673; 8-10, free.

    "NOW NYS Consciousness-Raising on Birth Control" Hear the experiences of women, then discuss abortion & birth control issues; Washington Sq. Methodist Church, 135 W. 4th St. (6th Ave.), 212-529-4737; 6:30, free.

    "Thinking and Drinking" Smarty-pants compete in five fast rounds of random trivia for prizes of $10-$25 bar tabs; Dempsey's Pub, 61 2nd Ave. (betw. 3rd & 4th Sts.), 212-678-5126; 7:30, free.

    Turi Vodka Estonia-based liqour recently introduced to US announces the "Baltic Sea Martini"?garnished w/red caviar (also available at Butter, Pangea, Sage & Bryant Park Grill); 60 Thompson, 60 Thompson St. (Spring St.), 212-431-0400;, $12-$15 [through 10/31].

    Film/Video

    "Blast From Your Past What Gen X Watched: 1969-1985" Groovy Tunes. Every 70s program, incl. The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour & The Partridge Family, had a groovy soundtrack or dynamite musical hosts?see which shows worked & which were best forgotten; Museum of Television & Radio, 25 W. 52nd St. (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 212-621-6600; 12:30 & 3, $10, $8 st./s.c., $5 child. under 14 [repeats Thurs.-Sun. & Tues., through 9/18].

    Hey Is Dee Dee Home The brain behind the Ramones brought to you by Lech Kowalski; Pioneer Theater, 155 E. 3rd St. (Ave. A), 212-254-3300; call for times & prices [through 9/16].

    Touchez pas au Grisbi New 35mm b&w print of director Jacques Becker's 1953 Parisian ganster classic, feat. René Dary & Jean Gabin, who duel over loot, when Jeanne Moreau's big mouth reveals too much about their 50 million franc score?French w/English subtitles; Film Forum, 209 W. Houston St. (betw. Varick St. & 6th Ave.), 212-727-8110, www.filmforum.com; 1:30, 3:25, 5:30, 7:25 & 9:20, $9.75, $5 child./s.c. [repeats Thurs.-Tues., through 9/18].

    Lectures

    An Evening w/Eli Wallach Actor Wallach discusses his life & prolific career w/presentation of film clips feat. unseen footage; Graduate Center CUNY, 365 5th Ave. (34th St.), 212-817-8215, www.gc.cuny.edu; 7, $15.

    Food History vs. Culinary History Author Barbara Haber examines the "interdependencies" between an academic & cultural study of food history; Fraunces Tavern Museum, 54 Pearl St. (Broad St.), res. req. 212-334-4175; 6:30, $30, $22 st./s.c.

    How to Evaluate Mutual Funds Anyone can learn how to evaluate mutual funds using independent information available in most libraries; New School University, 66 W. 12th St. #407 (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 212-229-5682, www.newschool.edu; 6, free.

    Hugo Chavez & Venezuela: An Interim Discussion Panel discusses Chavez's significance to Venezuela, Latin America & the U.S.; Brecht Forum, 122 W. 27th St., 10th fl. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-242-4201; 7:30, $6-$10 sugg. don.

    The War on Our Freedoms Anthony Lewis, Alan Brinkley, Ann Beeson & Mary Jo White discuss the "national security crisis that has arisen since Sept. 11th"; 92nd St. Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. (92nd St.), 212-415-5500, www.92y.org; 8, $25.

    Readings

    Brick Lane: A Novel From Publishers Weekly: "The immigrant world [Monica] Ali chronicles in this penetrating, unsentimental debut has much in common with Zadie Smith's scrappy, multicultural London, though its sheltered protagonist rarely leaves her rundown East End apartment block where she is surrounded by fellow Bangladeshis:; Astor Place Barnes & Noble, 4 Astor Pl. (betw. B'way & Lafayette St.), 212-420-1322; 7:30, free.

    Brooklyn Poets Circle Monthly meeting boasts open reading plus refreshments & "musical interlude"; First Unitarian Church, 50 Monroe Pl. (Pierrepont St.), Bklyn, 718-624-5466; 7, $3 don.

    No Graves As Yet: A Novel of World War I From Publishers Weekly: "This absorbing mystery/spy thriller, set in tranquil Cambridge just before the onset of the Great War, marks a powerful start to bestseller [Anne] Perry's much anticipated new series"; Barnes & Noble, 2289 B'way (82nd St.), 212-362-8835; 7:30, free.

    Parasites Like Us From Publishers Weekly: "An archeological find sets off an apocalyptic epidemic in this first novel by [Adam] Johnson (Emporium), an erratic, overstuffed satire that tracks the antics of a South Dakota academic"; Astor Place Barnes & Noble, 4 Astor Pl. (betw. B'way & Lafayette St.), 212-420-1322; 7:30, free.

    Workshops

    Hidden Conversations that Keep Love Away Women learn how to "shift their relationships" & lead more "fulfilled, easy, graceful lives"; Life Works, 55 Fifth Ave. (betw. 12th & 13th Sts.), 212-741-8787; 7:30-9, free.

    "Hues of a Millennium: A Glimpse of Natural Dyeing in Korea" Expert Ok Ja Choi hosts dyeing demo & workshop; Gallery Korea, 460 Park Ave. (57th St.), 212-759-9550; 6:30, free.

    Tabla Class Bull Buchen teaches beginnners & pros how to play the tabla & "feel the pulse" of Indian music?bring your own drum; Tribal Soundz, 340 E. 6th St. (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 212-673-5992; 7, $15.

    THURSDAY 9/11

    Around Town

    Blood Drive Give blood & get a free pass to the aquarium; NY Aquarium, Education Hall, W. 8th St. (Surf Ave.), Coney Island, 718-837-4455; 10-4, free.

    "A Celebration of Liberty: America Two Years Later" View the one & only Declaration of Independence in the building's lobby; Time & Life Building, 1271 6th Ave. (50th St.), 212-682-7700; 8-5, free.

    Commemoration Staten Island honors the fallen w/live music from the Staten Island Chamber Music Players & photography exhibit feat.images of 9/11 tattoos; Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave. (Richmond Rd.), Staten Island, 718-351-1611; 1, free.

    A Day of Remembrance Come together through music, yoga, meditation & movement. Healing begins w/a blessing & reflection; New York Open Center, 83 Spring St. (betw. B'way & Lafayette St.), 212-219-2527; 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m., free.

    An Evening of Memorial Review feat. reading by Erica Jong, dancing, music by the Chiara String Quartet, meditation & remembrance; 92nd St. Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. (92nd St.), res. req. 212-415-5500; 7:30, free.

    "Memory & Hope" Service Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt leads prayer, reflection & rememberance?childcare provided; Fourth Universalist Society, 160 Central Park W. (76th St.), 212-595-1658 x21; 7, free.

    National Dance Institute Children's Dance & Orchestral Performance Part of the September Concert series started last year to mark 9/11; Washington Square, 6th Ave. (betw. 8th & 14th Sts.), www.septemberconcert.org;.

    Rebirth "Celebrate our Love, Life, Music & the city" w/music & beutiful people?wear blue jeans & a white shirt; Remote Lounge, 327 Bowery (2nd St.), 212-288-5201; 8, $10, $5 before 10.

    Film/Video

    Brothers...On Holy Ground Filmmaker & retired firefighter Mike Lennon screens his 2002 doc. revealing the efforts of fellow firefighters & struggles of survivors on 9/11, feat. narration by Pete Hamill, music by Van Morrison & the Chieftans?followed by discussion w/Lennon; Donnell Library Center, 20 W. 53rd St. (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 212-621-0618; 6 p.m., free.

    From the Ashes Deborah Shaffer screens two 9/11 inspired films & stays for Q&A; Pioneer Theater, 155 E. 3rd St. (Ave. A), 212-254-3300; call for times & prices.

    "John Mills: Forever English" Series of films feat. British actor Mills begins. Today, guest curator Clyde Jeavons introduces director David Lean's 1954 b&w romantic comedy Hobson's Choice, also starring Charles Laughton; MOMA's Gramercy Theater, 127 E. 23rd St. (betw. Lexington & Park Aves.), 212-777-4900; 8 p.m., $12, $8.50 st./s.c.

    On The Town Celebrate NY w/screenings of 1949 musical adventure, shot mostly on location, feat. three WWII sailors (Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra & Jules Munshin) on shore leave in the city; BAM Rose Cinema, 30 Lafayette Ave. (Ashland Pl.), Ft. Greene, 718-636-4100; 4:30, 6:50 & 9:10, free.

    September 11: A Day of Remembrance Free admission to museum plus screenings of documentaries on & video footage of twin towers' collapse; The New-York Historical Society, 2 W. 77th St. (Central Park W.), 212-873-3400; call for complete sched.

    Video Thursdays Series screens director Vera Chytilová's 1993 comedy The Inheritance, about a lazy rural man who begrudgingly inherits a factory & turns its city locale upside down?Czech w/English subtitles; Czech Center New York, 1109 Madison Ave. (83rd St.), 212-288-0830; 7, free.

    Lectures

    9/11: A Kabbalistic Explanation of Why it Happened Seminar examines how "good can come out of horrible events" when interpreted through Kabbalistic teachings; Kabbalah Center, 155 E. 48th St. (betw. 3rd & Park Aves.), 212-644-0025; 6:30, $18.

    "From Tragedy to Unity: A Celebration of the Human Spirit" Second-annual Virtue Foundation symposium raises issues about the global community & America's role after Sept. 11th?feat. Ann Curry, Forest Sawyer, James Rubin, Chris Cramer, Gordon Conway, Christina Lamb, Richard Murphy, Joseph Verner Reed, Dr. Jones Kyazze & Sherry Rehman; Metropolitan Museum of Art Grace Rainey Rogers Aud., 5th Ave. (82nd St.), 212-355-2227; 8:30 a.m., free.

    Readings

    D.A. Levy Lives: Celebrating the Renegade Press in America Series continues w/Meritage Press' Ellen Tabios (editor & publisher); Aca Galleries, 529 W. 20th St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), 212-206-8080; 6, free.

    New York: An Illustrated History An appropriate subject, our beloved city, for remembering the sad day when somebody tried to take her down?and failed. Ric Burns & James Sanders appear; Union Square Barnes & Noble, 33 E. 17th St. (betw. B'way & Park Ave. S.), 212-253-0810; 7, free.

    Remembering 9/11 Krystyna Sanderson signs novel Light at Ground Zero: St. Paul's Chapel After 9/11?followed by performance of Gabriel Faure's requiem by the Choir of Grace Church (7:30); Grace Church, 802 Bíway (10th St.), 212-254-2000 x121, www.gracechurchnyc.org; 5, free.

    Workshops

    Beginner Dance Series: Ethnic Thursdays Learn the techniques of "belly, African, Indian dance & more!"; McBurney YMCA, 125 W. 14th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-741-9210; 7 p.m., $12.

    Capoeira Class Contra-Master Gulliver teaches techniques of this unique exercise/art form?walk-ins & beginners welcome; OfficeOps, 57 Thames St., 2nd fl. (betw. Morgan & Knickerbocker Aves.), Bushwick, 718-418-2509; www.OfficeOps.Org; 7-8:30, $10 [repeats Sat. 11-12:30].

    Prepare for the Unexpected The American Red Cross is concerned for your safety, let them help you prepare for disasters; American Red Cross, 150 Amsterdam Ave. (betw. 66th & 67th Sts.), 212-875-2168; 6-7:30, free.

    Vinyasa Yoga Before work, take an hour to relax & stretch-out w/instructor Jonesy?hey, it beats drinking before noon; Joyous Life Center, 119 W. 23rd St. #700 (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-352-9910; 7:30 a.m., $10.

    FRIDAY 9/12

    Around Town

    Esther Nash Rock Star Glam Resort Wear Fashion Show Semi-formal attire is a must for this twisted catwalk affair; Lobby, 330 W. 38th St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 646-733-9123; 8, free.

    Fashion Week celebrates its 10th anniversary; Bryant Park, 6th Ave. (40th-42nd Sts.), www.mbfwnyc.com; see website for times, prices & complete sched. [through 9/19].

    Gone Fishing "Sittin' on the dock of the bay" w/Master Anglers for a relaxing day of "catch & release" fishing?rods, reels & bait provided; Battery Park City, Wagner Park, Battery Pl. (West St.), 212-267-9700, www.bpcparks.org; 11:30-1:30, free.

    Mike Kirda: Light for Success Kirda sheds some light on maintaining a healthy reef aquarium-followed by a donated marine fish & propagated coral auction; Brooklyn Aquarium, Surf Ave. (W. 8th St.), Bklyn, 718-837-4455, www.brooklynaquariumsociety.org; 7:30, $5 don.

    "Reversing the Flow: South Africa Feeds the South Bronx" Commemorate the 27th anniversary of the Soweto uprising, when this former porn theater turned gallery plays host to multimedia exhibit on slavery feat. South Africa-related & inspired works?bring food & clothing donations for underprivileged South Bronx youths; Peep-O-Rama, 121 W. 42nd St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 917-602-1981; 12-8 [repeats Thurs.-Sun. & Tues. 11-7, through 9/21].

    Film/Video

    The Hunger Midnight screening of director Tony Scott's 1983 artsy horror romance about an Egyptian vampire (Catherine Deneuve), her rapidly-aging lover/victim (David Bowie) & the doctor set to save him (Susan Sarandon); Landmark Sunshine Cinema, 143 E. Houston St. (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 800-555-TELL; 12 a.m., $10, $6.50 s.c. [repeats Sat.].

    "Rooftop Shots" Summer series pres. dark shorts incl. Gabriella Dentamaro's drama Caterpillar & Eric Fleishchauer's animation ESC?plus live music from Parts & Labor (8:30 p.m.) & Vic Thrill (11); OfficeOps, 57 Thames St. (betw. Morgan & Knickerbocker Aves.), Bushwick, 877-786-1912, www.rooftopfilms.com; 9, $6.

    Squint Your Eyes Special screening of Polish director Andrzej Jakimowski's debut film?preceeded by Tomasz Baginski's short Cathedral, 2003 Polish Academy Award-nominee; Galapagos, 70 N. 6th St. (betw. Wythe & Kent Aves.), 718-782-5188; 7, $6.

    Warrior Light German Monika Treut's portrait of elite Brazilian Bezerra de Mello's activist work w/"Rio's street children" (Q&A w/director & subject Fri.-Sun.); BAM Rose Cinema, 30 Lafayette Ave. (Ashland Pl.), Ft. Greene, 718-636-4100; call for times, $6-$10 [through 9/18].

    Lectures

    The Buddah on War & the Causes of Peace Geshe Michael Roach dicusses issues of war & peace in modern times; St. Vartan Cathedral, 630 Second Ave. (35th St. ), 212-475-7752, www.world-view.org; 7-9, $20 sugg. don. [repeats Sat. & Sun.].

    How to Talk to You Doctor Dr. Fischer discusses "all you need to know about the most important health issues" & latest medical information; DOROT Headquarters, 171 W. 85th St. (Amsterdam Ave.), 212-769-2850; www.dorotusa.org; 11:45, $5 sugg. don.

    Native American Medicine Kenneth "Bear Hawk" Cohen discusses "core principles & practices of Native American healing" incl. the importance of sacred space, pilgrimage, drumming, song & prayer; New York Open Center, 83 Spring St. (betw. B'way & Lafayette St.), 212-219-2527; 6:30-8:30, $18.

    Readings

    Chuck Palahniuk The man who penned Fight Club, Choke & Lullaby reads from his latest?Diary; Union Square Barnes & Noble, 33 E. 17th St. (betw. B'way & Park Ave. S.), 212-253-0810; 7, free.

    A Window Across the River From Publishers Weekly: "Stagnating in her relationship with an ailing academic, writer Nora Howard calls her old flame, photographer Isaac Mitchell, at three a.m. one night...But Nora has a cannibalistic habit of turning friends and lovers into fodder for her short stories, and fears she won't be able to resist making use of Isaac"; Barnes & Noble, 2289 B'way (82nd St.), 212-362-8835; 7:30, free.

    Workshops

    Introduction to Polarity Therapy Lisa Schimski leads hands-on "mini workshop" exploring the "principles of Polarity Therapy" incl, bodywork, exercise & nutritional guidance; New York Open Center, 83 Spring St. (betw. B'way & Lafayette St.), 212-219-2527; 6:30-9:30, $42.

    Poetry Writing Poet Sarah Zenis teaches poetry techniques & styles; West Side Senior Center, 120 W. 76th St. (betw. Amsterdam & Columbus Aves.), RSVP 212-712-0170; 10:45, free.

    Women's Couples Groups Discuss what "makes couples work" & the "issues couples face"; Identity House, 39 W. 14th St. #205 (betw. 5th & 6th Aves.), 212-243-8181, www.identityhouse.org; 6-8, $10 sugg. don.

    SATURDAY 9/13

    Around Town

    Autumn Crafts Festival American Concern for Art & Craftsmanship pres. porcelain, molded & dyed leather, precious jewelry, wool & blown, stained & fused glass crafts; Josie Robertson Plaza, Lincoln Center, Columbus Ave. (betw. 62nd & 65th Sts.), 973-746-0091; 11-7, free [repeats Sun.].

    Fall Woodland & Community Volunteering Help end erosion at Endor Community Garden?meet at W. 253 St. (Fieldston Rd.); Wave Hill, 675 W. 252nd St. (Independence Ave.), Bronx, 718-549-3200; 1-4, free.

    Fifth-Annual Kitchen Neighborhood Street Fair feat. an eclectic menu & outdoor performances by the Wau Wau Sisters, Fred Dejesus & Qool DJ Mary?also interactive events for kids & adults; the Kitchen, 512 W. 19th St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), 212-255-5793 x10; 2-5, free.

    Giant Vintage Gate Sale Ladies' vintage clothes, shoes, bags & accessories plus men's clothes, rock t-shirts, cool collectibles, some furniture, records, books, magazines & a few antiques; 10th St. (Hudson St.), Hoboken; 10-5, free [repeats Sun.].

    Harvest Fair Bring in the harvest while enjoying square-dancing, bluegrass music, gardening workshops & a quilt exhibit; Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave. (Carroll Pl.), Bklyn, 718-623-7200; 11-5, free w/adm.

    Open House to celebrate public reopening; NY Transit Museum, Boerum Pl. (Schermerhorn St.), Bklyn, 718-330-5839; 10-6, free [repeats Sun.].

    Open House Your chance to meet Continuing Education Program instructors & attend "mini-lectures"; New York Botanical Garden, 200th St. (Southern Blvd.), Bronx, 718-817-8747; 10:30-3:30, free.

    The Richmond County Fair feat. period costumes, pie-eating competition, water balloon toss & old fashioned activities that take you back in time; Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave. (Richmond Rd.), Staten Island, 718-351-1611 x244, www.historicrichmondtown.org; 11-7, $7, $4 child./s.c. [repeats Sun.].

    University Place-Core Festival Celebrate & unite all races in our great city w/arts & crafts, food, antiques & quality merchandise; University Pl. (betw. Waverly Pl. & 14th St.), 212-809-4900; 11-6, free.

    Film/Video

    Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb "The cold war played for laughs," directed by Stanley Kubrick & starring Peter Sellers & Peter Sellers; American Museum of the Moving Image, 35 Ave. (36 St.), Astoria, 718-784-4520; 4:30.

    15th Anniversary Celebration Day Take advantage of free admission all day & catch screenings incl. 1960 JFK doc. Primary (1 p.m.), 1964 drama Seven Days In May (2), 1964 sci-fi classic Dr. Strangelove, feat. intro & book signing by J. Hoberman (4:30) & 1952 Gene Kelly musical Singin' in the Rain (6:30); American Museum of the Moving Image, 35 Ave. (36 St.), Astoria, 718-784-4520, www.movingimage.us; free.

    "Hand in Hand: Films About Friendship" "Evenings at the Picture Show" screens director John Matthews' 1985 animation Frog & Toad Are Friends (1985) & Albert Lamorisse French short The Red Balloon (1956)?also friendship bracelet workshops & live music by the Main Sqeeze Orchestra; Socrates Sculpture Park, B'way (Vernon Blvd.), LIC, 718-956-1819, www.socratessculpturepark.org; 6 p.m., free [through 9/27].

    Saturday at the Movies Green-Wood Partnership pres. 1959 Walt Disney-animated classic Sleeping Beauty (3 p.m.), Alfred Hitchcock's 1951 b&w drama Strangers on a Train, starring Robert Walker & Farley Granger (6) & Orson Welles' 1941 drama Citizen Kane (9)?proceeds benefit Saved In Time; Green-Wood Cemetary Chapel, 500 25th St. (5th Ave.), Sunset Park, 718-857-4816, RSVP www.gowanus.com; $5-$8 per film.

    Lectures

    Marine Aquarium Hobbyist Day Discuss a "myriad of marine aquarium topics" incl. aquarium maintenence, set-up & planning; NY Aquarium, Education Hall, W. 8th St. (Surf Ave.), Coney Island, 718-265-FISH, www.nyaquarium.com; 10-5:30, free w/adm.

    Moving Our Children Beyond the MAAFA Discussion about the calamity of transantlantic slavery & its effects on future generations; St. Paul Community Baptist Church, 859 Hendrix St. (Linden Blvd.), Bklyn, 718-257-1300; 10 a.m., free.

    Workshops

    Dance Fieldwork "Rigorous" weekly workshop for choreographers working on duets, solos or group pieces in "any style"; Dance Space Center, 451 B'way, 2nd fl. (betw. Grand & Howard Sts.), RSVP 212-691-6969, www.thefield.org; 12-2:30, $90.

    HipHop Jazz Saturdays Two on-going dance workshops for hiphop & jazz lovers; McBurney YMCA, 125 W. 14th St. (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-741-9210; 12, $12.

    Kundalini Yoga Spend the morning stretching w/Francoise; Joyous Life Center, 119 W. 23rd St. #700 (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), 212-352-9910; 9:30-10:45, $10.

    The Pond is a Home Kids meet animals & plants in the greenhouse & learn how "ponds make homes for so many creatures"; Brooklyn Children's Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. (St. Mark's Ave.), 718-735-4400; 1-4, $4 [repeats Sun.].

    Women's Coffee House Eva Yaa Awantawaa shares how to "uncover the guiding, healing & empowering messages" of our dreams; LGBT Community Center, 208 W. 13th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 212-689-9795; 3-5, $5.

    SUNDAY 9/14

    Around Town

    American Jewry and the Civil War Bud Livingston delivers "strange & wonderful facts about Civil War Jewry"?hosted by the Jewish Historical Society of NY; Central Synagogue Community House, 123 E. 55th St. (betw. Park & Lexington Aves.), 212-415-5544; 2, $5.

    Asian Moon Festival Kids learn about this ancient festival, eat "moon pies" & design their own paper lanterns; South Street Seaport, Melville Gallery, 213 Water St. (betw. Fulton & Beekman Sts.), 212-748-8735; 2-4, $5.

    Harmony on the Hudson Family music festival feat. performance by the Biddies & Tom Chapin; Battery Park City, Wagner Park, Battery Pl. (West St.), 212-267-9700, www.bpcparks.org; 12-7, free.

    Hispanic Heritage Month Opener feat. "hot merengue," "hard salsa," & a boat-load of Hispanics ready to cha-cha the day away; South Street Seaport, South St. (Fulton St.), 866-893-1812, www.pathmark.com; 1-6, free.

    Komen Race for the Cure Fight breast cancer by raisinging funds at 5k walk?proceeds aid education, screening, research & treatment programs; Central Park, 59th St. (6th Ave.), 212-802-8222, www.komennyc.org; 8:45 a.m., free.

    MS Bike Tour Gather pledges of $50-$100 & take a 30-, 60- or 100-mile tour through NY & NJ?proceeds benefit the National MS Society's NYC Chapter; Battery Park, State St. (West St.), 212-463-9791, www.msnyc.org; 6:30-7:15 check-in, $40, $26 adv.

    92nd Street Y Festival feat. performances, classes & events; 92nd St. Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. (92nd St.), 212-415-5500, www.92Y.org; 11-5:30, free.

    Stores A Go Go "Fashion conscious" natives get a rare chance to see fashions by LES designers before they hit the Bryant Park tents for Fashion Week?plus live performances by Drala & Falguni; Orchard St. (betw. Houston & Stanton Sts.), 212-226-9010; 1-6, free [raindate 9/21].

    "Tea and Tour for Two" Traditional afternoon tea w/tasty scones & sandwiches followed by guided house tour?benefits the Garden Fund; Merchant's House, 29 E. 4th St. (betw. Bowery & Lafayette Sts.), 212-777-1089; 1:30 & 3, $15, $35/couple.

    37th-Annual Aaron Banks' Asian World of Self Defense See the world's greatest martial arts masters incl. Bill Louie & Maurice Elmalem perform martial arts incl. kung-fu, tai chi chuan, karate, jiu jitsu, aikido & tae kwon do; Chinese Benevolent Theatre, 62 Mott St. (betw. Canal & Bayard Sts.), 718-897-4468; 2, $30, $60 VIP.

    "Volunteer Orientation" Learn to help the Urban Park Rangers maintain this magnificent park, lead nature walks & care for the gardens; Inwood Hill Nature Center, 218th St. (Indian Rd.), 212-304-2365, www.nyc.gov/parks; 12-5, free.

    Walk the Walk for Prostate Cancer Join singer Harry Belafonte on a 25-mile walk to help sick prostates everywhere?proceeds benefit the Kidney & Urology Foundation of America; Riverside Park, 89th St. (Riverside Dr.), 1-800-63-DONATE; 9 a.m. sign-in, $25.

    Film/Video

    Dracula It sucks! Blood, that is! Green-Wood Partnership's "Sunday at the Movies" pres. director Tod Browning's 1931 b&w version of the horror classic, starring Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler & Dwight Frye?proceeds benefit Saved in Time; the Brooklyn Lyceum, 227 4th Ave. (betw. Union & President Sts.), 718-857-4816, RSVP www.gowanus.com; 8:30, $8.

    "Protect Yourself Through Pixel" Screening of Elisabeth Subrin's experimental videos The Fancy (2000) & Swallow (1995), examining "the intersections of history and subjectivity within female biography"?followed by live music from Tracy + the Plastics; Ocularis at Galapagos, 70 N. 6th St. (betw. Wythe & Kent Aves.), Williamsburg, 718-388-8713; 7, $5.

    Lectures

    Around the Block w/Clyde Haberman Musings on the "intriguing, inspiring & just plain unfathomable" aspects of the city; Brooklyn Public Library, Grand Army Plaza, Flatbush Ave. (Prospect Park W.), res. req. 212-556-3507; 2, free.

    "Facing the Challenge of Statehood: Israel in the 1950s" Conference feat. Alan Dowty, Yael Feldman, Ian Lustick, Aaron Shai, Yaron Tsur & Ronald Zweig discussing the recent history, society & politics of modern Israel; Kimmel Center for University Life, 60 Washington Sq. S. (LaGuardia Pl.), RSVP 212-998-8980; 1-7, free.

    JASA's Fall Semester Lecture Series Jewish Association for Services for the Aged pres. Senator Thomas K. Duane discussing "issues relevant to older adults"; Council Senior Center, 241 W. 72nd St. (betw. Amsterdam & West End Aves.), RSVP 212-273-5304; 1-2, $3, free w/reg.

    Readings

    The Great Mayor: Fiorello La Guardia and the Making of the City of New York Author Alyn Brodsky discusses; Barnes & Noble, 2289 B'way (82nd St.), 212-362-8835; 4, free.

    KGB Fantastic Fiction Series This week: Jacqueline Carey (Crossley's Baby) & Nelly Reifler (See Through); KGB, 85 E. 4th St. (betw. 2nd Ave. & Bowery), 212-505-3360; 7, free.

    Spiral Thought An allusion to W.B. is not a bad place to start for this "summer" reading series feat., this week, Joel Allegretti, Thomas Guarnera & Hal Sirowitz; Fall Cafe, 307 Smith St. (President St.), Bklyn, 718-832-2310; 6.

    Workshops

    Beginning Djembe Workshop Bashir Shakur teaches traditional rhythms from Ivory Coast, Mali, Ghana, Senegal & Guinea?beginners welcome; Tribal Soundz, 340 E. 6th St. (betw. 1st & 2nd Aves.), 212-673-5992, www.tribalsoundz.com; 2-3, $15.

    Finding Your Help Through Times of Change Certified holistic health counselor Aarona Pichinson discusses health, nutrition, movement & visualizations; Joyous Life Center, 119 W. 23rd St. #700 (betw. 6th & 7th Aves.), res. req. 212-352-9910; 12-2, $15, $10 adv.

    Introduction to Meditation & Buddhism Learn the basics of chanting, meditation & "Buddhist principles"; Manhattan Won Buddhist Temple, 431 E. 57th St. (betw. 1st Ave. & Sutton Pl.), RSVP 212-750-2773; 12:30-1:30, $5 sugg. don.

    Tin Whistle Workshop World-renowned "whistle teacher" Bill Ochs teaches workshops for "absolute beginners," advanced beginners & intermediate players; the Irish Arts Center, 553 W. 51st St. (betw. 10th & 11th Aves.), RSVP 212-247-3231; 2, free.

    MONDAY 9/15

    Around Town

    Bone Density Screening Purchase AdvaCAL & test out the old pile of bones; Wilner Chemist, 100 Park Ave. (E. 40th St.), 212-682-2817; 11-3, free [repeats Tues. at 235 B'way (Park Pl.)].

    Open House See Swedish massage & shiatsu demos, then learn about curriculum & financial aid info from faculty & staff; Swedish Institute, 226 W. 26th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), RSVP 212-924-5900 x35; 6:15-8:30, free.

    Organic Wine Tasting Astor Place Wines & Counter facilitate your drinking w/bug-friendly vintages; Counter Vegetarian Restaurant, 105 1st Ave. (betw. 6th & 7th Sts.), 212-674-7500 x15; 6:30-8:30, $25.

    Ring of Fire Pyrotechnic art event by Cai Guo-Qiang signifying renewal & wholeness; Great Lawn, Central Park, Central Park W. (betw. 79th & 85th Sts.), 212-875-5700, www.nyc.gov/parks; 7:45-7:50, free.

    The 24 Hour Plays on Broadway Performers, writers & directors create, reherse & perform six plays in just 24 hours w/celebrities Marisa Tomei, Benjamin Bratt & Alan Cumming?proceeds benefit Working Playground's Permanent Schools Program; American Airlines Theater, 227 W. 42nd St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 212-868-4444, www.smarttix.com; 8, $120.

    Vigil at Ground Zero Bring your body, heart, mind & spirit and remember; Church St. (betw. Fulton & Vesey Sts.), 212-358-3843, lomapc@aol.com; 5:30-6:30, free.

    Film/Video

    Monday Night Shorts Julianne & Carter travelled to Woodstock back in 1969 & 25 years later they're still there in director Bob Simonello's comedy Keeping Romeo; Freight Restaurant, Chelsea Market, 410 W. 16th St. (betw. 9th & 10th Aves.), 212-242-6555; 7:30, free.

    Lectures

    "Reach the World" Heather Halstead discusses her round-the-world voyage aboard a 43-ft. ship/school; Explorers Club, 46 E. 70th St. (betw. Madison & Park Aves.), 212-628-8383, www.explorers.org; 6:30, $15, $5 st.

    Sexuality Series: What is Small Anyway? At long last, small penised men have a place to turn?learn about the "myths," "realities" & available resources while sharing trials & tribulations with other small-penised peers; LGBT Community Center, 208 W. 13th St. (betw. 7th & 8th Aves.), 212-620-7310; 6:30, $8.

    Voices of Women Media Leaders The International Women's Media Foundation invites top media women to discuss major issues facing the industry; Carnegie Corporation of New York, 437 Madison Ave. (W. 49th St.), res. req. 202-496-1992; 9:30 a.m., free.

    The War on the Bill of Rights Stephen Brill, Lewis Lapham, Ira Stoll, Nadine Strossen, Kurt Vonnegut & Nat Hentoff assess civil liberties "controversies generated by recent policies of the Bush administration"; New School University, Main Gallery, 2 W. 13th St. (5th Ave.), 212-229-8923, www.newschool.edu; 7, $10.

    Wired Icons: A Conversation w/David Byrne Talking Heads lead singer Byrne discusses PowerPoint software & how to present "subjective, even emotional information" through various audio/video mediums; 92nd St. Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. (92nd St.), 212-415-5500, www.92y.org; 8, $25.

    Readings

    Cause Celeb! "Dramatic readings of celebrity autobiographies...Laugh till you cry with the first-person, jugular stylings of the famous, infamous and almost were"; the Marquee, 356 Bowery (betw. Great Jones & E. 4th Sts.), 212-475-1975; 8, $5.

    Mariel Hemingway, Maud Casey (The Shape of Things to Come) & Edward Hirsch (Lay Back the Darkness) read for Ri