Dude, she was shot at Jonestown! it doesn't matter she didn't win her race for Lieutenant Governor. Former State Senator Jackie Speier speaks at the Commonwealth Club tonight about the book she co-authored, This Is Not The Life I Ordered, which tells not only her story, but the story of three of her friends as well. $18, reception at 6, reading at 7, at 595 Market 2nd Fl. (x 2nd).

Other events:

--The Stars and Garters Theater is throwing a fundraiser party, complete with trapeze artists, short films, the Robber Bridegroom band, burlesque performances, and a raffle, to raise money for its upcoming production of The Robber Bridegroom, a musical fable based on a Brothers Grimm fairytale. 8 p.m. at the Voice Factory at 1519 Mission (x 11th and S. Van Ness), $10.

--It's Live 105 Battle of the Bands night at Bottom of the Hill! Winner gets to play at BFD. 8 p.m., $5, 1233 17th Street (x Missouri).

--Free screening of the Bob Dylan/Scorsese movie No Direction Home at 12 Galaxies. 8 p.m., 2565 Mission (x 23rd).

--Presidential historian and Daily Show guest Michael Beschloss speaks at Herbst Theater for City Arts and Lectures about his book about presidential courage. $19, 401 Van Ness (x McAllister), 8 p.m.