Good Day for Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009

September 17, 2009
Around Town
Who’s in town

Mu Sochua, member of the Cambodian Parliament, opposition leader, women’s-rights advocate and 2005 Nobel Peace Prize nominee, discusses her efforts to oppose sex trafficking, domestic violence, land grabs and corruption in Cambodia. [6 p.m., World Affairs Council, 312 Sutter St., S.F.]

At the colleges
Ask a Scientist: Group presents “The Story of Time and Life,” a discussion and tour of a massive multidisciplinary science exhibit. [7 p.m., City College, Science Building, Room 136, 50 Phelan Ave., S.F.]

Lectures
Job searching: Staffing executives discuss developing a winning résumé, the art of networking and other basics for finding a job. [7 p.m., Menlo Park City Council Chambers, 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park]

Literary events
Allison Bartlett: The local writer talks about “The Man Who Loved Books Too Much.” [7:30 p.m., Booksmith, 1644 Haight St., S.F.]

At the public library
Youth writing workshop: Michelle Zink, author of the young-adult novel “Prophecy of the Sisters,” offers advice on how to bring your stories to life. [7 p.m., Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St., Menlo Park]

‘Samurai Without Swords’: Film series presents “Ronin” (1998), directed by John Frankenheimer. [Noon, Main Library, Koret Auditorium, 100 Larkin St., S.F.]

Local activities
Science social: The Academy of Sciences hosts its “Nightlife” gathering. Artist Maya Lin, musician DJ Al Kal, and “Cool Cuisine” authors Laura Stec and Eugene Cordero are this week’s guests. [6 to 10 p.m., Golden Gate Park, S.F.]

Sweet treat: The Conservatory of Flowers hosts “A Chocolate Evening,” a talk and tasting with Bittersweet founder Seneca Klassen. [6 p.m., Golden Gate Park, S.F.; register: www.conservatoryofflowers.org; (415) 831-2039]

Dining Out
Pot de Pho: Chef Khai Duong is featuring sashimi ahi tuna pho with fresh rice noodles and onion pickle. He also recommends the Vietnamese meatballs, wrapped with rice paper. For dessert: a fried baby-banana spring roll with coconut tapioca sauce, topped with peanuts. [3300 Geary Blvd., S.F.; (415) 668-0826]