October 17th, 2009 - San Francisco’s 10th Annual Litquake Festival continues with the notorious Lit Crawl (one word or two??), featuring local writers at local bars. I’ll be part of the Travel Writers’ event (oddly named “Glamorous in Retrospect”), and will perform at the Liberties Irish Bar & Restaurant at 998 Guerrero, on the corner of 22nd Street in the Mission. Those of you who came to see Strange Travel Suggestions last summer may remember this bar; it’s where we hung out after every show. Other writers will include Pamela Alma Bass, Laurie McAndish King, and my long-time colleague Don George.

September 12th, 2009 – I am utterly delighted to announce Ethical Traveler’s First Annual Fundraiser: a Saturday afternoon of sailing, comedy, music, and supper! Entertainment will include the brilliant monologist Josh Kornbluth, didjeridoo master (and KPFA “Music of the World” host) Stephen Kent, and myself. There will also be an amazing auction, featuring — among other things — a biplane tour of the Bay Area, sailing lessons for two, and – wait for it – breakfast in bed with Mary Roach, including a signed 1st edition of her best-selling Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex (no, the winner will not get a chance to couple with Ms. Roach. This is pajamas-only opportunity). A ticket for the full event, which includes a three-hour schooner sail around San Francisco Bay, is only $100. Supper and entertainment only, $50. Please register as soon as you can at this link to the ET Sail and Supper. See you there!