Kitchens Lane and Scotforth Rd., Mt. Airy, Philadelphia

Wissahickon Park, a lush, peaceful oasis in our city, needs ongoing restoration to remain healthy and beautiful. Help the Wissahickon Restoration Volunteers remove invasive plants, plant trees and shrubs, and perform trail maintenance. All tools, gloves, etc. are provided. Find out about upcoming activities at their website. Contact: Ron Ayres at (215) 653-0421 or e-mail.

Penn's Landing Great Plaza, 301 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia

Learn about Islamic culture... or show your pride... at the Sixteenth Annual International Islamic Heritage Festival, part of PECO’s Multicultural Series. This FREE and unique event draws visitors, vendors, and Islamic scholars from all over the country. It will be a chance to experience authentic Islamic cuisine, music and entertainment along with learning about the rich Islamic heritage and history. For more information, call (610) 352-0424.

The William Way Center, 1315 Spruce St., Philadelphia

Take part in a conversation about the politics of inclusion/exclusion of lesbians in the LGBT community, from a contemporary and "herstorical" perspective. Almost 40 years after the Stonewall riots, the LGBT community has achieved dramatic change in society as a whole. Yet, where is the "L" in the LGBT movement today? If you would like to attend, please bring a snack or some books or materials to share with the group. FREE.

Unitarian Society of Germantown, 6511 Lincoln Drive, Philadelphia

How will legislators know what we want them to do unless we tell them? Learn how to practice democracy in action at this workshop where you will learn where to find addresses, how to ask the "big" questions, and become familiar with state political processes. It's time to be heard! FREE. For information, call (215) 844-1157.

REI , 200 W. Ridge Pike, Suite 115, Conshohocken, PA

Never get lost again! Let an REI Outdoor School Instructor lead you through the basics of GPS navigation and introduce you to some of the fun and practical applications of using a GPS unit in your outdoor activities. You will learn how to pinpoint your location, create routes, use online maps and transfer information to your unit. Then...you will test your skills in the great outdoors! Bring your GPS; some demo units are available. REI members: $35. Non-members: $55. Call (610) 940-0809 to register.

The Wellness Community of Philadelphia, 1 Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia

This studio class, led by Caroline Peterson, helps cancer patients and their caregivers explore creativity and enjoy art. No experience necessary, just the desire to express yourself and meet other people living with cancer. FREE. Call (215) 879-7733 for information.

White Dog Cafe, 3420 Sansom Street, Philadelphia

Join this White Dog Table Talk that will address global food insecurity and the need for sustainable agricultural practices and local production to stem a crisis here and abroad. A panel representing organizations working on food security issues will talk about ways to address global warming, the nurtrient value of food, and famine prevention. 3-course dinner: $36 per person (65+, $30). Call (215) 386-9224 for reservations.

National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia

The issue of health care, which has become a focal point of debate during the 2008 presidential election process, will be addressed by Secretary Tommy Thompson, (on left), former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, with a response from Senator Tom Daschle, former Senate Majority Leader from South Dakota. This is a great opportunity to learn more... and ask questions of those who've been on the frontline in Washington. FREE. Reservations needed. Contact: (215) 409-6700.

Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia

One of the most influential political thinkers of the progressive movement, George Lakoff, an advisor to the Democratic Party, will discuss his newest work, The Political Mind: Why You Can't Understand 21st-Century American Politics with an 18th-Century Brain. Lakoff explains how our brains really work, why language is so important, and how progressives can use this to their advantage to make strides in the coming elections. FREE. No tickets required. Contact: (215) 567-4341.

Radnor Hotel, 591 E. Lancaster Avenue, Radnor, PA

The World Affairs Council invites you to attend a panel discussion about global shifts in political, economic and military influence and the future of America's global dominance. The speakers are Bill Emmott, former editor-in-chief of The Economist; Parag Khanna, author of The New York Times magazine cover story on rising powers; and Mona Sutphen, (seen here), managing director of Stonebridge International and co-author of The Next American Century. Reception and talk: $60 non-members. To register, call (215) 561-4700.

Civic Club, Stone Harbor, New Jersey

The Stone Harbor Garden Club and Philadelphia Horticultural Society proudly present horticulturalist and designer Michael Bowell,who will talk about the challenges and rewards of gardening at the shore. Learn timely tips on plants to use and how to tame the elements for a lovely seashore garden. Travel directions will be sent upon registration. For more information, contact Carol Dutill at (215) 988-9969. $8 PHS member; $12 non-members.

Library Company of Philadelphia, 1314 Locust St., Philadelphia

Plan to attend Richard S. Newman's talk about his biography of Richard Allen, Freedom's Prophet: Bishop Richard Allen, the AME Church and the Black Founding Fathers. Richard Allen (1760–1831), founder of the first major African American church and the leading Black activist in the age of Washington and Jefferson, was a tireless abolitionist and reformer who influenced nearly every Black leader of the 19th century. This book firmly establishes Allen's historic importance. FREE. Space is limited. RSVP to (215) 546-3181 or e-mail.

Big Blue Marble Bookstore, 551 Carpenter Lane, Philadelphia, PA

Don't mess with grandmas! Joan Wile, founder/director of Grandmothers Against the War, the New York-based group which has been fighting agaist the war in Iraq for four and a half years, will read from her new book, Grandmothers Against the War: Getting Off Our Fannies and Standing Up for Peace. Philadelphia activist and Granny Peace Brigade member, Marlena Santoyo, will speak about local actions that grannies are taking against the war. FREE. Click here for future bookstore events.