Friends of the Society
of Primitive Technology

Activities Calendar for 2010


Some of these activities are organized by individual members of the Friends of the Society of Primitive Technology as gatherings of friends (except Winter Count, Rattlesnake Rendezvous, Rabbitstick Rendezvous and other park programs). Contact the instructor for information and to sign-up for the activity. The activities are free to the public unless a fee is mentioned.
Visit this webpage each month to view additional activities.

IGLOOS TO SNOW CAVES: COLD WEATHER CAMPS
This course teaches winter camping techniques from igloo technology to modern gear. With PowerPoint presentation and styrofoam, you will learn the basics of how to build an igloo, quincy, and snow cave, and the unique challenges of cold weather camping.
Date: January 24, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Fee: $18.00 ($20.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties)
Min/max Age: 14-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Location: Lake Chabot Regional Park, 17600 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley, CA 94546
Meet at the Nike Classroom.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3

COYOTE HILLS FLINTKNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - January
The Coyote Hills Flintknappers is a knapping get-together of flintknappers who like to flake stones, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow knappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning about the skill of flintknapping is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.
Date: January 9, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the children's swings, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/Coyote%20Hills%20Flintknappers.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

THIRD ANNUAL STONE AGE AND PRIMITIVE ARTS FESTIVAL
See how early man lived and worked. Participate in demonstrations of flintknapping, the art of projectile point fashioning along with deer hide brain tanning, bone, wood and antler carving. Observe Old and New world bow and arrow construction, basket weaving and early pottery. Atlatl throwing and primitive bow competitions are scheduled. Donated artwork will be auction off on Saturday!
Date: February 12 - 14, 2010
Park hours : 8:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Free admission to event
Fee: $4.00 parking fee per vehicle
Location: Ochlockonee River State Park, 429 State Park Road, Sopchoppy, Florida 32358
Call for information: Contact Linda Trice (Park Service Specialist) at 850-962-2771 or send an email to ltrice@nettally.com

WINTER COUNT
This premier event focuses on primitive technology. The Winter Count gathering has dozens of workshops that will be familiar and will also introduce you to many new and different formats, skills and personalities. Experienced instructors, with various primitive skills, will teach you how to brain tan deer hide, create pottery, learn fire-by-friction methods, ply cordage and many other utilitarian skills.
Date: February 14 - 20, 2010
Fee: Early registration - $275 (prior to February 1), Late registration - $300
Location: Maricopa, Arizona
For info & registration: Contact Dave Wescot at dwescot@aol.com or access http://www.backtracks.net/Index2.html to register on-line.

SCOTT CREEK BEACH GATHERING
This beach has a lot of shell, bone, wood and kelp for projects. We can gather empty abalone shells, red turban shells and olivella. At times, there are bones that wash up for making tools. The area is rich with limpets, snails, crabs, mussel and sea urchin ready for a snack. A 2010 California fishing license is needed if you plan to harvest any fish and bull kelp.
The tide on Saturday, February 27th, at 3:00 pm, is favorable. Bring food for a meal in a pack, water to drink and something to share. Dress in layers, wear sensible shoes and possible extra cloths in your car in case you get wet. Sunscreen lotion and a wide brimmed hat are recommended. The area we'll be hiking can be slippery and exposed. No dogs are allowed on this beach at this time. Be ready for a good walk and a fun time!

Date: February 27, 2010
Time: Plan on meeting at the parking lot on the side of Hwy 1 at 12:00 (noon) to walk north on the beach.
Guide: Kenny Elvin
Location: Scott Creek enters the coast 11 miles north of Santa Cruz Western Blvd, 26 miles south of Hwy 84 San Gregorio and 36 miles south of Highway 92 Half Moon Bay. It is recognizable in having a distinct bridge across the creek. There is parking on the sides of the highway.
For information & RSVP: E-mail Kenny Elvin at Kenny_Elvin@yahoo.com or call (408) 307-9675.

COYOTE HILLS FLINTKNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - February
The Coyote Hills Flintknappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: February 28, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the children's swings, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/Coyote%20Hills%20Flintknappers.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

SURVIVAL ESSENTIALS
Thinking of traveling to desolate locations? This introductory workshop will prepare you for your adventure teaching you basic principles and methods of wilderness survival. Topics covered will include assembling survival kits, shelter building, fire starting techniques, emergency signaling, water purification, and more!


Date: February 28, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Fee: $18.00 ($20.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties)
Min/max Age: 14-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Location: Lake Chabot Regional Park, 17600 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley, CA 94546
Meet at the Nike Classroom.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3

ARCHAEOLOGICAL VILLAGE SITE: OHLONE CULTURE
Learn about the Ohlone culture as we tour a model of village life at the Visitor Center. We’ll hike to a 2,500-year-old Tuibun Ohlone village site, see replicated structures and examine reproductions of artifacts. Along the trail, we’ll look at plants that provided food, medicine and tools for the first people that lived in the Bay Area.
Date: March 7, 2010
Time: 1:30 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet at the Coyote Hills Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

COYOTE HILLS FLINTKNAPPERS: BEGINNERS
Unearth the art of turning an obsidian flake into a functional Paleolithic cutting tool. Learn about prehistoric equipment, such as hammer stones, and use modern materials, like copper pressure flakers. Practice beginning skills to create a Stone Age microblade or shape an arrowhead.


Date: March 14, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet at the Coyote Hills Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

BASIC LAND NAVIGATION
Hit the trails without fear of getting lost. Learn the basics of map and compass reading, and triangulation for on-trail navigation. We’ll try our newly learned skills on the trail in a hike with moderate elevation gain. Compasses and maps will be provided.
This class will allow participants to learn and to practice map and compass skills. These are the skills that help you find your way through the wilderness on or off trail, and the skills that get you out if you find yourself lost. Information: email SLabiste@ebparks.org


Date: March 14, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Age: 14-years-old to Adult
Location: Sunol Regional Wilderness, 1895 Geary Road, Sunol, CA (meet at the Green Barn)
Fee: $23.00 for residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3. Or register on line at http://www.ebparks.org/registration (course # 23735)
Call registration for the non-resident of Contra Costa and Alameda counties fee.

COYOTE HILLS FLINTKNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - March
The Coyote Hills Flintknappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: March 20, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the children's swings, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/Coyote%20Hills%20Flintknappers.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

THE INVERNAL EQUINOX HIKE
We'll hike the Canyon View Trail to Little Yosemite, eat lunch, then hike back on the road.  Purpose: to see wildflowers and discuss the Ohlone uses of the land while having a good time.
Date: March 20, 2010 (The Equinox)
Time: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Norm Kidder
Location: Sunol Regional Wilderness, 1895 Geary Road, Sunol, CA
Meet at the Sunol Visitor Center.
Call Norm Kidder at (510) 794-9415 for information. Please RSVP, so Norm can call in case of a change.

EDIBLE AND USEFUL PLANTS HIKE
The California Natives and European settlers gathered wild plants for food, medicine and tools. We’ll look at plant samples and go on a springtime hike to identify edible and useful plants. We’ll gather Miner’s lettuce, Chickweed, Milk thistle, Black mustard and Wild radish for a tasty salad. We'll also process Manzanita cider, snack on dried Huckleberries, munch on acorn cookies, sip on Yerba buena tea and sample other savory wild foods.


Date: March 21, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Min/max Age: 12-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Location: Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park, 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, CA 94544
Meet at the Garin Red Barn.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

LAND NAVIGATION ON THE TRAIL
It should be a beautiful hike, a picnic lunch with a view, and a chance to practice what you have learned in previous classes or reading. We will spend the day on the trail. Plan to read the topographic map, take bearings, walk a bearing, place yourself on the map and on a trail, triangulate our position on the map, and learn practical ways to double check our position. Participants should have basic knowledge of how to use a compass prior to attending this class. Be sure you are in good physical shape, i.e. you are ready to climb steep hillsides at intervals throughout the 5 hour program.
Date: March 27, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Age: 14-years-old to Adult, Parent participation required
Location: Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, 9401 Morgan Territory Road, Eastern Contra Costa Co. (meet at the Staging Area)
Fee: $23.00 for residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3. Or register on line at http://www.ebparks.org/registration (course # 23737)
Call registration for the non-resident of Contra Costa and Alameda counties fee.

SKILLS OF THE PAST: CORDAGE MAKING
The ability to twist, twine or braid fibers into cordage allowed indigenous cultures to tie their world together. You’ll learn the methods of gathering, preparation, extraction and plying of plant materials to create cordage. The efficient method of leg rolling dogbane fibers will be practiced.


Date: March 28, 2010
Time: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 9-yrs-old / Adult. Parent participation required
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: FIRE MAKING
Ever wondered how fire was created before matches or a lighter? What materials were used?  We’ll unravel the secrets of fire-by-friction, fire-by-percussion and fire-by-compression. Discover the techniques required to produce a glowing ember as we practice our fire making skills through hands-on activities.


Date: March 28, 2010
Time: 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 12-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

TUIBUN OHLONE CULTURE
Discover how the first people that lived in the Bay Area utilized natural resources from the environment to create useful everyday items. Examine reproductions of functional tools and learn about plant uses. Watch flintknappers demonstrate the skill of flaking arrowheads from a volcanic stone called obsidian.
Date: April 10, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Instructors: Dino Labiste + assistance from the California Flintknappers
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Coyote Hills Visitor Center
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SURVIVAL ESSENTIALS
Thinking of traveling to desolate locations? This introductory workshop will prepare you for your adventure teaching you basic principles and methods of wilderness survival. Topics covered will include assembling survival kits, shelter building, fire starting techniques, emergency signaling, water purification, and more!
Date: April 11, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Min/max Age: 14-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Location: Lake Chabot Regional Park, 17600 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley, CA 94546
Meet at the Nike Classroom.
Fee: $23.00 for residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3. Or register on line at http://www.ebparks.org/registration (course # 23739)
Call registration for the non-resident of Contra Costa and Alameda counties fee.

100TH ANNIVERSARY JAMBOREE - BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
A 4-day, joint celebration of Scouting Councils of Northern California. Years in the planning, this is an event to thrill everyone, from visitors to new Scouts to the most experienced Scouter.
PrimitiveWays will be a part of the Boy Scouts of America 100th Anniversary Jamboree. The founding members of PrimitiveWays.com will have a booth exhibiting and demonstrating skills of the past and primitive technology.


Date: April 17, 2010 & April 18, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm and 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Presenters: PrimitiveWays Clan
Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton, CA 94566
For more information, access http://www.100thanniversaryjamboree.org/

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - April
The Coyote Hills Flintknappers has changed it's name to the California Knappers. It is a flintknapping get-together of people who like to create paleolithic tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow knappers. The get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced knappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: April 25, 2010 (Sunday)
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the children's swings, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Flintknappers2.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

USEFUL PLANTS OF LIME RIDGE
What can relieve an itch? What can make your feet smell better? What’s edible or not? Join us and discover the sustainable world our local plants can provide. Easy hike on mostly flat areas. This should be a good year for a spectacular wildflower show.
Date: May 1, 2010
Time: Starts at 10:00 am
Instructor: Bruce Weidman
Location: Meet behind Boundary Oaks Golf Course. Follow signs.
Boundary Oaks Golf Course, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
For information, call Ranger Bruce Weidman at 943-5899 ext 2665.

17th ANNUAL COYOTE HLLS KNAP-IN
Come join us at the Bay Area’s longest-running flint-knapping event. Try your hand at making arrowheads and other stone tools, or just come and observe other stone-workers. Bring stone to work, tools and eye protection if you have them. If not, there’s usually plenty to share, so come on down!


Date: May 1 - 2, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Fee: No fee for this program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
In front of the Coyote Hills Visitor Center
Contact Ken Peek for more information: call (510) 537-1215 or e-mail kspeek123@att.net

1ST ANNUAL NORTHERN CALIFORNIA BUCKEYE GATHERING
Ancestral Arts & Primitive Living Skills

The gathering is an educational event that will consist of teachers hosting classes ongoing for five days, on a variety of topics including: hand-drill fire making, plant fiber cordage, stone tools, buckskin, basket weaving, nature awareness, pottery, local flora and fauna identification, food preparation (acorns!), primitive weapons including bows and arrows, fiber arts, herbalism, shelter building, and storytelling. We are excited to have local Native American involvement in both the planning process and the gathering itself. We will encourage a family-oriented, all-ages event and will emphasize skills and materials indigenous to California, while welcoming students and instructors from all over the map. There will be events interspersed throughout the week such as a marketplace, panel discussion, and dance night. We will provide breakfast and dinner. Participant camping will consist of cars, tents, tipis, and trailers. We expect 100-200 students the first year, but would like to be capable of handling up to 350 so we don't have to turn anyone away. Instructors who teach for a predetermined amount of hours will attend free, including meals. Instructors with a premium of experience will be paid for travel, and all instructors will be invited to come a few days early.
Date: May 2 – 8, 2010
Location: Held at Ya-Ka-Ama, a non-profit of confederated Tribal land. Ya-Ka-Ama is located at 7465 Steve Olson Lane, Forestville, CA.
Fee: Rates for the whole week of the event - $240 if registered by March 20, $280 if registered by April 15, $320 if registered after April 15.
~ Youth rates: 8 and under free, ages 9 - 12: $120, ages 13 - 16: $160.
~ Senior rate: $200
~ Native American discount: adults $50 off, youth $30 off. $15 off daily rates.
~ Daily rate: $70 adult, $25 / $35 youth.
Visit the website at http://www.buckeyegathering.net/Home.html for registration and information. Contact califorigin@gmail.com for more information or to get on the mailing list.

BLACKSMITHING AT OLD BORGES FORGE
Blacksmithing is a childhood dream: get dirty, make noise, smash things, and play with fire!  Here’s your chance to bang on some hot iron and make a simple hook, or just come by and watch others.
Date: May 8 , 2010
Time: Starts at 2:00 pm
Instructor: Bruce Weidman
Fee: $2.00 per person material fee
Location: Old Borges Ranch, 1035 Castle Rock Road, Walnut Creek
Reservations Required. Call Ranger Bruce Weidman at (925) 943-5899 ext 2665.

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - May
The California Knappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to create paleolithic tools, trade for materials, learn from each other, socialize and meet fellow knappers. The get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced knappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: May 9, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the restrooms, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Flintknappers3.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

5TH ANNUAL MAKER FAIRE BAY AREA
A two-day, family-friendly event to MAKE, create, learn, invent, CRAFT, recycle, think, play and be inspired by celebrating arts, crafts, engineering, food, music, science and technology. The 4th Annual Maker Faire will showcase individual creativity and grassroots innovation in the largest festival devoted to DIY (Do It Yourself) culture and technology in the country.
PrimitiveWays has signed up to be a part of the 5th Annual Maker Faire. We will have a booth exhibiting and demonstrating skills of the past and primitive technology. Come and join in on the fun and stop by our booth to meet the founding members of PrimitiveWays.com.


Date: May 22, 2010 and May 23, 2010
Time: 10:00 - 8:00 pm and 10:00 - 6:00 pm
Presenters: PrimitiveWays Clan
Fee: Access http://www.makerfairetickets.com/
Location: San Mateo County Event Center, 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo, CA 94403
For more information, access http://www.makerfaire.com

27th ANNUAL RATTLESNAKE RENDEZVOUS
Travel far back in time and join our intrepid band of primitives for a weekend of Stone Age living skills. Aside from modern sleeping gear and clothing,
we will attempt to experience as closely as possible the rigors and satisfactions of living in the old ways. We’ll free ourselves from our dependence on
machines, and find much of what we need in the natural world. Experience fire starting, flint knapping, cordage, cooking over an open fire (no metal pots, pans
or grills allowed), tracking, bead making, storytelling, music around the campfire, and so much more!


Date: May 29 - 31, 2010
Time: 9:00 am (Saturday) to 2:00 pm (Monday)
Naturalists: Cat Taylor & Anthony Fisher
Age: 9-yrs-old to Adult
Fee: $90/Adult ($102 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties), $45/Child ($51 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties)
Location: Sunol-Ohlone Regional Wilderness, 1895 Geary Road, Sunol
Call for registration: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3

LEARN TO CONSTRUCT A TULE BOAT
Experience how to build a tule boat from a marsh plant called tule. The California Native Americans made tule boats (or tule balsas) to cross inlets, deep marshes, lakes and the bay.
June 6
, 9:00-2:00 pm (meet at the Coyote Hills Regional Park Visitor Center): We’ll gather tule. Then, we'll return back to the Coyote Hills Visitor Center to see a slide show about the indigenous uses of tule and learn about California Native tule boats.
June 27
, 10:00-3:00 pm (meet at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area): We’ll build a three-person tule boat and launch it for a paddle around the lake.
Participation in gathering tule is required to take the program.


Date: June 6, 2010 & June 27, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm & 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 12-yrs-old / Adult
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555 - June 6 & Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area, 2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont, CA 94536 (inquire at the Quarry Lake's kiosk entrance for the location of the program in the park) - June 27
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: OBSIDIAN ARROWHEAD
Experience firsthand the skill of turning a volcanic rock into a functional Stone Age cutting tool. Learn the basic principles behind the ability to flake off obsidian chips predictably. Try hands-on knapping activities with hammer stones, antlers and copper tools.


Date: June 6, 2010
Time: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Age: Adult
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

COILED BASKET WORKSHOP
This workshop teaches coiling technique for making baskets. Participants have the opportunity to work with a variety of materials and a variety of techniques to produce their own basket. Anyone who is interested in learning about the skill of coiled basketry is more than welcome. Open to the public.


Date: June 12, 2010
Time: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Instructor: Susan Labiste
Age limit: This is not a child's class, as the dexterity needed would most likely frustrate those under 12-years-old. Anyone under 18-years-old, a parent must be a participant as well.
Fee: There is no fee for this workshop or for the materials used (just register to attend).
What to bring: Water, hat, sunscreen, chair, bowl for soaking materials, small scissors and a small sharp pocket knife. If you own a basketry awl, bring it. If not, I will provide a loaner.
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the children's swings, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Registration Required: Contact Susan Labiste, so I know how much material to bring.
For more information: Contact Susan Labiste at labiste_s@sbcglobal.net.

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - June
The California Knappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: June 19, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the restrooms, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Flintknappers3a.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

CELEBRATING FATHER’S DAY IN THE STONE AGE
Travel back in time as we explore the lives of hunters and gatherers. We'll bond as a Paleolithic tribe as we discover our world through a new language, learn to use stone tools, create fire-by-friction and feast on meat (hot dogs) and grain (buns).


Date: June 20, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 7-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Fee: $10.00 ($12.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: FISH NET
Indigenous cultures utilized cordage and knots to create nets for catching fish. Discover the art of knotting to make a netted mesh. Learn the techniques to ply cordage and weave the start of a fishing net using a shuttle and gauge.
Date: July 3, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Age: Adult
Fee: $15.00 ($17.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area, 2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont, CA 94536
Meet at the picnic table near the Boat Launch or inquire at the Quarry Lake's kiosk entrance for directions to the program in the park.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: SOAPROOT BRUSH
Create a brush made of fibers from the dry, outer layers of the Soap Plant bulb. California Natives utilized the soaproot brush for acorn flour processing or brushing hair. Identify and learn about the other applications of this useful plant during a short walk.
Date: July 10, 2010
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 16-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Fee: $10.00 ($12.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Parks, 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, CA 94544
Meet at the Garin Barn Visitor Center (red barn).
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: TULE BASKET
The marsh plant, called tule, was used by California Natives for various utilitarian items, like mats, boats, houses, duck decoys, as well as baskets. What makes this versatile plant so unique? Learn more as we create a berry picking basket from tule.
Date: July 10, 2010
Time: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Age: Adult
Fee: $10.00 ($12.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Parks, 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, CA 94544
Meet at the Garin Barn Visitor Center (red barn).
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: TULE MAT
Experience how to construct a California Native style tule mat from a marsh plant.
July 17, 2:00-4:00pm (meet at the Coyote Hills Regional Park Visitor Center): Gather tule.
July 24, 10:00-2:30pm (meet at the Coyote Hills Regional Park Visitor Center): Learn the skill to twine the tule with cordage to create a comfortable mat to sit on.
Participation in gathering tule is required to take the program.

Date: July 17, 2010 & July 24, 2010
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 10:00 am - 2:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Age: Adult
Fee: $10.00 ($12.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

THE TAO OF ATLATL
Join Ranger Bruce Weidman for an inward experience with an outward twist! Using modern tools, we’ll spend two mornings learning to make the Atlatl: Atom Bomb of the Stone Age. On the 24th, we’ll fabricate our stick (atlatl). On the 31st, we’ll make the dart (spear). Time will be scheduled for target practice to prepare for the ISAC on August 14. As time permits, we’ll check out other primitive tools.
Date: July 24, 2010 & July 31, 2010
Time: Starts at 10:00 am
Instructor: Bruce Weidman
Fee: $20.00 per person material fee
Location: Sugarloaf Open Space, 2161 Youngs Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Registration Required: Contact Ranger Bruce Weidman at (925) 943-5899 ext 2665.

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - July
The California Knappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: July 25, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the restrooms, under a pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Knappers%205.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

BOW DRILL & HAND DRILL FIRE MAKING
Learn the secrets of making fire. Indigenous cultures throughout the Americas utilized the hand drill method. The bow drill is used more by contemporary practitioners of fire making. Explore the difference between the two techniques of fire-by-friction. Learn how fire was created through hands-on activities.
Date: July 31, 2010
Time: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Min/max Age: 12-yrs-old / Adult, Parent participation required
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: PALEOLITHIC TOOLS
Explore the world of human technological prehistory through stone tools. Learn tool making techniques and manufacture scrapers, burins and simple cutting implements using obsidian, chert and dacite. Practice how these lithic tools were used for drilling holes, shaping wood and processing food.
Date: July 31, 2010
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Age: Adult
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

ANCIENT WAYS AT SUGARLOAF PRESERVE
Atlatl Competition comes to Sugarloaf! Join us for our second year of competitive primitive technology contests, games, and activities. Try your skill at tossing the Atlatl, “The Atom Bomb of the Stone Age.” ISAC rounds will be scheduled. Throw the rabbitstick, the American Indian boomerang that doesn’t come back. Make and spin an acorn top. Play stick dice and other games. Make simple crafts from cattails, tules, pine nuts, and more, using only primitive tools. Exhibitors will have more to share. Make this a family day at Sugarloaf. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy following the competition.
Date: August 14, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Organizer/Instructor: Bruce Weidman
Location: Sugarloaf Open Space, 2161 Youngs Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
For more information, call Ranger Bruce Weidman at 925/943-5899 x2665.

OBSIDIAN GATHERING AT DAVIS CREEK, CA
Join the California Knappers on an obsidian gathering trip to Davis Creek, California. We'll visit the various gathering sites in search of red mahogany, rainbow and midnight lace obsidian.


Date: August 20-24, 2010
Contact Dino Labiste for more information: kahikoarts@yahoo.com

1st ANNUAL COYOTE HILLS ATLATL COMPETITION & KNAP-IN
Join us for a day of competitive primitive technology contests and stone tool making demonstrations. Learn from experienced Paleolithic spear (dart) throwers as they compete for atlatl championship scores in the International Standard Accuracy Competition (ISAC). Watch skilled knappers as they transform stone into functional tools. Age appropriate Stone Age activities for the public at the beginning of the event.


Date: September 5, 2010
Time: 10:00 pm - 4:00 pm [atlatl International Standard Accuracy Competition (ISAC) before noon]
Fee: No fee to attend the event (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet at the Dairy Glen campsite (8 minutes walk towards the bay from the Old Quarry parking lot).
Open to the public.
Call Dino Labiste for informatiuon: (510) 544-3215. If you want to compete in the atlatl International Standard Accuracy Competition (ISAC) and/or be a part of the Knap-In, contact Dino Labiste at dlabiste@ebparks.org.

RABBITSTICK RENDEZVOUS
The Rabbitstick Rendezvous is a totally unique learning experience of various primitive technology and wilderness skills. This premier event focuses on hands-on classes that will introduce you to many new and varied formats, skills and personalities. Rabbitstick will provide you with an unparalleled chance to learn from both journeyman and master teachers. This gathering of experienced instructors and eager participants is made available to you from Backtracks. The Rabbitstick Rendezvous is one of the largest and oldest of the comtemporary primitive skills gatherings.
Date: September 12 - 18, 2010
Fee: Early registration - $275 (prior to September 1), Late registration - $300
Location: Rexburg, Idaho
For info & registration: Contact Dave Wescot at dwescot@aol.com or access http://www.backtracks.net/Rabbitstick.html

OHLONE VILLAGE SITE TOUR
Learn about the Tuibun Ohlone culture as we tour a model of village life at the Visitor Center. Walk to a 2,500-year-old Ohlone village site, see replicated structures and examine reproductions of artifacts. Along the trail, we’ll identify plants that provided food, medicine and tools for the first people of the Fremont/Bay Area.
Date: September 19, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm & 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

THE ALMOST AUTUMNAL EQUINOX HIKE
We will hike up the flank of Brushy Peak while looking for interesting plants and animals and discussing the Native uses of the Land.  After a stop for a picnic lunch, we'll return on the new loop connection.
Date: September 25, 2010 (Equinox +2)
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Norm Kidder
Location: Brushy Peak Regional Park, north end of Laughlin Road, Livermore, CA
Call Norm Kidder at (510) 794-9415 for information. Please RSVP, so Norm can call in case of a change.

ACORN PROCESSING
The fall season is upon us and the acorns are dropping. Learn the skill of gathering acorn to produce a nutritional meal from the oak tree. The preparation of extracting the nut, pounding the flour, leaching and cooking will be demonstrated. Hands-on activity and tasting.
Date: September 26, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Parks, 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward, CA 94544
Meet at the Garin Barn Visitor Center (red barn).
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

SKILLS OF THE PAST: FLINTKNAPPING
Unearth the art of turning an obsidian flake into a functional Paleolithic cutting tool. Learn about prehistoric equipment, such as hammer stones, and use modern materials, like copper pressure flakers. Practice beginning skills to create a Stone Age microblade or shape an arrowhead.
Date: October 16, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: No fee for the program (only $5.00 parking fee/vehicle)
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

MAKING OF A SMALL RABBIT SKIN BLANKET
Learn how to make a small rabbit skin blanket done the old way. Not with hides sewn together, but with long strips of twisted rabbit fur. The interconnected twisted strips are twined together with cordage on a simple loom. This is a two day class. Participants will twine a sampler blanket, which can be expanded at home, if desired. Class fee includes twine and 10 pelts, additional pelts available at cost. Bring hat, water and lunch.
Date: October 16 & 17, 2010
Time: 10 am – 4 pm (both days)
Instructors: Dino Labiste and Sue Labiste
Fee: $140 plus materials fee of $41. Total $181.
Location: Olompali State Historic Park
The park is located three miles north of Novato on U.S. 101. The entrance is accessible only to southbound traffic from Highway 101. Northbound vehicles should continue north past the park and make a safe U-Turn in order to travel south and enter the park.
Registration Required: Access Miwok Archeological Preserve of Marin (MAPOM) website for registration - http://www.mapom.org/skillsclasses.htm
For more information, call Janice Cunningham at (415) 491-0401 or email info@mapom.org

SKILLS OF THE PAST: KNOTLESS STRING BAG
Acquire the skill to create a bag using the ancient technique of looping cordage. Knotless netting has been used to create bags, baskets, nets, garments and more for over 40,000 years. You’ll also learn about plant fibers and process a dogbane stalk to make cordage.
Date: October 23, 2010
Time: 12:30 am - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Dino Labiste
Fee: $5.00 ($7.00 for non-residents of Contra Costa and Alameda counties) + $5.00 parking fee/vehicle
Location: Coyote Hills Regional Park, 8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555
Meet in front of the Visitor Center.
Registration Required: 1-888-327-2757, option 2, 3
Call Naturalist Dino Labiste for info: (510) 544-3215

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - October
The California Knappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.


Date: October 24, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located near the restrooms, near a small pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Knappers%209.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

GOURD CRAFTING / FLINTKNAPPING DAY AT THE PEEK'S PLACE
Ever wanted to try making a beautiful and functional item from a gourd? It’s easier than you think. Gourds are very forgiving and fun to work with! Stop by our place for this informal day of gourd-work, and try your hand at stone tool making while you’re at it. Bring raw materials and tools if you have them. If not, we’ve got lots to share.


Date: November 6, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: 27361 Palomares Rd, Castro Valley, CA 94552
Contact Ken Peek for more information: call (510) 537-1215 or e-mail kspeek123@att.net
Bring a lunch item to share, if you’d like.

CALIFORNIA KNAPPERS GET-TOGETHER KNAPPING SESSION - November
The California Knappers is a knapping get-together of people who like to make stone tools, learn from each other, trade for materials, socialize and meet fellow flintknappers. The knapping get-together is open to beginners, intermediate and advanced flintknappers. Anyone who is interested in learning the skill of flaking stone is more than welcome. We will meet one day in every month.
Date: November 14, 2010
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Location: Karl Nordvik Park, 5850 Commerce Dr, Fremont, CA 94555
The park is on the corner of Commerce Dr. and Ardenwood Blvd. We will be located across the restrooms, near a small pine tree. Parking is free.
Contact Dino Labiste for more information at kahikoarts@yahoo.com or access http://www.primitiveways.com/California%20Knappers%211.html
No fee to attend the knapping get-together. Open to the public.

 

 

 


 

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