There's plenty to do around town today, from watercolors on display on Alcatraz to chamber music at St. Patricks. Stop by the Fairmont to hear Mayor Gavin Newsom talk about his contentious relationship with the board of supervisors or relax with some chamber music at St. Patrick's Church. For the full calendar with all the details, read on …

Rock garden: Watercolors by S.F. Botanical Garden Society artists are on view in “The Softer Side of the Rock,” an exhibit of illustrations inspired by gardens on Alcatraz. [Exhibit Hall, main prison building, Alcatraz Island; (415) 661-1316]

Who’s in town

Vocalist, composer and MacArthur “Genius” Meredith Monk shares music she created while working with hospice patients at Rosetta Life, along with other compositions. [8 p.m., Jewish Community Center, 3200 California St.]

City activities

Wine art: California Wine Classic, benefiting the local chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, features wine, food and auctions. Wine expert Karen MacNeil hosts. [6 to 10 p.m., Ritz-Carlton, 600 Stockton St.]

Laurel and hardy: The Laurel Ensemble performs a concert of American chamber music by Barber, Larsen and Torke. [12:30 p.m., St. Patrick’s Church, 756 Mission St.]

Literary events

Miranda July: The writer, performer, and filmmaker discusses “No One Belongs Here More Than You.” [8 p.m., Modern Times Bookstore, 888 Valencia St.]

Arlene Blum: The author and mountain climber discusses “Breaking Trail.” [12:30 p.m., Stacey’s Bookstore, 581 Market St.]

Lectures

Gavin Newsom: San Francisco’s mayor discusses the state of The City, his relationship with the Board of Supervisors and the approaching election. [6:15 p.m., Gold Room, Fairmont Hotel, 950 Mason St.]

Nina Pflumm: The certified care manager gives a talk titled “Aging in Place: Practical Suggestions for Promoting Health, Well-Being, and Safety.” [5:15 p.m., Commonwealth Club, 595 Market St.]

At the public library

Asian stories: Emily Papert-Williams tells stories originating in Asia in this program designed for ages 4 to 7. [4 p.m., North Beach Branch, 2000 Mason St.]

Business counseling: The Service Corps of Retired Executives offers free sessions. [10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Main Library, Business Center, 100 Larkin St.; call (415) 744-6827 for an appointment]