THE BUZZ: Shakespeare, music and a defense against terrorism

Counter-terrorism expert Brian Fishman kicks off new lecture series in Petaluma: On Sunday, June 11, at SRJC Petaluma’s Ellis Auditorium, acclaimed author and counterterrorism expert (and Petaluma High graduate) Brian Fishman will be discussing the recent terrorist attacks in London, and efforts to stop ISIS. The talk (3:45-5 p.m.) is presented as a benefit for Petaluma’s LiteracyWorks Center, and officially kicks off the new LiteracyWorks Lecture Series. Fishman is the author of “The Master Plan: ISIS, al-Qaeda, and the Jihadi Strategy for Final Victory,” considered a definitive history of the Islamic State. The talk is free to SRJC students, $25 general. The series will continue in August with an appearance by KQED’s Michael Krasny. For tickets and further information, visit Literacyworks.org or call 707-981-8086.

Shakespeare in the Vineyard benefit this weekend: Like the hard-partying Prince Hal, eager to draw his kingly father’s busy attention, Petaluma Shakespeare Company once again takes to the fruit of the vine to make a point. It’s the annual Shakespeare in the Vineyard benefit, the primary fundraiser for the local theatrical nonprofit bringing free Shakespeare to the Foundry Wharf every summer. Taking place at the lush Azari Vineyards (1399 Springhill Rd.) on Sunday, June 11, from 2-5 p.m., the event will feature delicious wines, homemade artisanal pizzas, salads and desserts so good Sir Falstaff himself would willingly go into battle for a single taste. Cast-members from this August’s production of the Bard’s bawdy comedy-history-?adventure “Henry IV, Part One” will be present to perform snippets of the play, along with performers from Petaluma Readers Theater, presenting Shakespeare’s most memorable sonnets and soliloquies. A live auction will give attendees some epic opportunities to win tickets to see Lady Gaga in San Francisco, and more. Tickets $40, available at PetalumaShakespeare.org.

Petaluma musicians hit Novato this weekend: When the annual Novato Festival of Art, Wine and Music unfurls itself this Saturday and Sunday, June 10-11, the festivities will carry a distinctly Petaluma flavor, as the lineup of 21 bands will include The Hots, Soul Section and Petty Theft, all of which boast members who reside in Petaluma. For more information, visit NovatoArt?WineMusic.com.