Lecture by Former U.S. Senator Gary Hart — Nov. 3
Come listen to the Denver Forum’s much-anticipated lecture by author Gary Hart, speaking on his new book, God and Caesar In America: An Essay on Religion and Politics. Thu noon luncheon in The Oxford Hotel, 1600 17th St., Denver, www.theoxfordhotel.com. $30 for members and $40 for non-members. For reservations call 303-832-9030.

Join an Evening with Edger Allen Poe — Nov. 3-6
If you are still in the mood for Halloween, what better way to scare yourself senseless than with an Edger Allen Poe reading in an old haunted mansion? Come listen to renditions of the infamous poet’s chilling tales, while enjoying the ambiance of the old Victorian Byers-Evens House. (Note: The Byers-Evans house, to our knowledge, is not really haunted. Or is it?). Thu-Sat 7:30 p.m.; Sun 6 p.m. Byers-Evans House, 1310 Bannock St. $15, with $2 discount for students and seniors. For reservations and more information call 303-893-5438 or visit www.hungerartists.org. Thanks for Giving Poker Run — Nov. 5
Poker’s never been so much fun. Register for the annual bike ride and poker run to benefit The Denver Children’s Advocacy Center, an organization dedicated to help fight child abuse and neglect. The 77-mile bike/run includes five stops along the way; at each stop a card is drawn, and the top three poker hands at the end win prizes. Bike registration begins Sat 8 a.m. at The Zone Sports Bar & Grill, 15600 W 44th Ave., Golden, 303-279-3888. At the conclusion of the race food, beverages, and a 50/50 drawing will take place at Fox and Hounds Pub and Grill, 5150 E. Arapahoe Rd., Littleton. Rider fee is $10 and passenger fee is $5. For more information call 719-686-7775. Rob Thomas — Nov. 5
Most known for his vocals in Matchbox Twenty and “that duet with Carlos Santana,” the vocalist has topped the pop charts for years. Currently, Thomas is touring his solo debut album, Something to Be. Sat 8 p.m. Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St. Tickets available through www.ticketmaster.com or call 303-832-TIXS. Colorado Rapids in the Western Conference Final — Nov 5
Hey, soccer fans. Your very own Colorado Rapids are just one win away from advancing to the 2005 MLS Cup Championship. See them battle it out with the Los Angeles Galaxy. Sat 7 p.m. Invesco Field at Mile High. Tickets $5-25 for tickets call 303-825-GOAL or visit www.coloradorapids.com.