Avid Users Meeting

If you don't know the three following words stop reading this post: Avid, firewire, bin. If you do and you want a change to get together with some other video editors there is a users meet up this Wednesday at the Asgard.

Welcome in 2007 as we celebrate the second-year anniversary of the Boston Avid Users Group! Our Winter social event is a great opportunity to mingle with fellow New England editors and digital artists. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar will be available throughout the evening. There won't be any presentations, just time to socialize with your peers and pick the brains of industry gurus.

Wednesday, February 7, 2007
7 pm - late

Asgard Irish Pub & Restaurant
350 Mass Ave
Cambridge, MA

Superbowl

Now I know the Superbowl will not be as exciting as it would be if the Pats were there, but it is still the Superbowl! Here is something different. Your place is lame, and your favorite sports bar is just too crowded. You should check out Upstairs on the Square.
They took a different approach and focused on the food part. They may not have a big screen, but they have a good size TV. As well as-arrive in a helmet and receive a free plate of "Hot Dates" (Medjool Dates stuffed with salted Marcona Almonds,wrapped in bacon and spiced with cinnamon butter)
Other foods include: Fire Engine Chili, the hottest Grilled Cheese Dogs, Steak Frites and handmade Nachos.

We like to think of our Super Bowl Party as mellow, with the separate Zebra Room to retreat to if football talk gets too intense, and where football party food is taken to a new level.

Upstairs on the Square
91 Winthrop Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-864-1933

Scrap and Craft

Scrapbooking, the fairly new craft that rushed through the world like wildfire. Girls (and I am sure some guys somewhere) of all ages picked up on it. Personally-I tried to put together a scrapbook recently, I hated it! I cannot cut a straight line for the life of me! Ribbon and I do not get along. It is not for me. But luckily I don't have to attend all the events i write about. I am open to other people attending this fantastic event!

Calling all scrapbookers and crafters! Gather your adhesive, fun photos and papers and meet us at Spark Craft Studio at 1pm on Saturday February 3rd. We will enjoy 3 hours of unrestricted access to all of Spark's tools and equipment, including the Sizzix die cut machine with shape and alphabet die cuts, rubber stamps, and more!

Please bring 7-10 photo's and your supplies. If you do not have any, they can be purchased in the Spark Retail Boutique.
Not into scrapbooking, but really enjoy crafts? Just bring your supplies some beads or yarn, and join the fun!
Also feel free to bring some clean, non-sticky snacks.

Saturday February 3rd.
SPARK CRAFTS
50 Grove St.
Somerville MA, 02143
Members: $8.00 studio fee*
Non Members: $13 ($8 studio fee* + $5 lunch club fee)

>>Spark Craft Studio

Is God Green?

As part of the MIT Environmental Film Festival, Is God Green? is being shown at MIT tomorow night.

A new holy war is growing within the conservative evangelical community, with implications for both the global environment and American politics. For years, liberal Christians and others have made protection of the environment a moral commitment. Now, a number of conservative evangelicals are joining the fight, arguing that man's stewardship of the planet is a biblical imperative and calling for action to stop global warming. Followed by a discussion with guest Rev. Amy McCreath.

MIT
Building 4, 4-370
Tuesday, Jan 30
Dinner at 6, film starts at 6:30


>> MIT Environmental Film Festival

Belly Dancing to Live Elvis Music

So I guess what happens here is there is an Elvis tribute band and some belly dancers entertaining you. I don't think you can participate in the dancing, which is sad I think i would be an excellent belly dancer.

Belly dancing and Elvis go together like peanut butter and fried bananas...
Another extravaganza with lots dancers, featuring familiar Elvis songs,
as well as a few from his 1965 "Middle Eastern" movie: Harem Scarum.

The rockin' music will be provided by enigmatic front-man, Scott "the Cat" Anderson, backed up by The Marshalls...

With dancing by Samarra, Nefertiti, Gypsy Fire, Qalayla, Baseema, Genevieve, and Zelanique

All Asia Cafe
Central Square, Cambridge

Saturday, Jan 27
7:45 pm - 9:45
$7

>> Samarra Dance
>> All Asia

History through clothes?

Former History teacher Rachel Hirsch has opened her new vintage shop History. A store that brings history to life through the clothes. Starting with the 40's and ranging all the way up to today's wrap around dresses. Stop by and check it out-definitely a chicer way to learn.

Ever the historian, Hirsch tags every hand-picked item with a short story based on the decade in which it was made and the lives of female characters. One reads: "She looked across the table and wondered how Annie Hall would handle this."

History
1693 Mass Ave.
(Between Porter and Harvard Sq.)

Australia Day @ Tommy Doyle's

Did you know that Jan 26th is Australia Day? Well, it is., and if you are looking for somewhere to celebrate Tommy Doyle's in Harvard Square in hosting a trvia night and more.

Come and celebrate Australia Day with a night of Australian Trivia and live music from "The Beantown Project" at Tommy Doyle's Irish Pub, Harvard Square. There will be prizes galore, meat pies, music, dancing and much more...

Some facts to get your ready:
- 21% of the world's gambling machines are in Australia. We have a mere 0.003% of the world's population!
- The Australian $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes are made out of plastic.
- The first official world surfing championships were held at Manly, Sydney, in 1964 and won by an Australian, Bernard 'Midget' Farrelly.
- More people die in NZ every year playing Lawn Bowls than Scuba Diving.
- Australia is the world's biggest exporter of beef and veal.

Tommy Doyle's Irish Pub
96 Winthrop Street
Harvard Square, Cambridge

Friday, January 26
7:00pm (trivia game to start at 7:30pm)
$20 per person, Pay at the Door

>> American Australian Association

Union Square Ethnic Market Tour

I went on a market tour of the North End a few months ago and loved it. Now come to find out there is a Union Square Market Tour. The Somerville Arts Council has developed a guide of the markets that is available in brochure format (from the city hall or any of the participating markets) as well as three group tours.

This guide will tell you where to find squid ink pasta, coxinha (Brazilian cheese dumplings) and 30-pound fish from Bangladesh called Lakka—just for starters.

The ArtsUnion Ethnic Market Guide provides lively short descriptions and key information about Capone’s Foods, Casa de Carnes, Halal Market, La Internacional Foods, Little India, New Bombay Market, Pao de Acucar & Brazilan Buffet and Reliable Market. Whether you’re looking for exotic, hard-to-find ingredients or simply want to learn more about the cultural and culinary diversity of Union Square, pick up one of these brochures and take a self-guided tour.

There will be three group tours of three markets each. Shop owners will share stories about their market— relating to history, culture and clientele and each will share a favorite recipe.

· Jan. 25: Halal Market (Bangladesh/India), Internacional Market(Latin American and Haitian goods), Casa de Carne (Brazilian butcher) Meet at Halal Market, 380 Somerville Ave., 6pm

· Feb. 15: Little India, Capone’s (Italian), Reliable Market(Asian) Meet at Little India, 77A Bow Street, 6pm

· March 8: Pao de Acucar (Brazilian), New Bombay (Indian), Internacional Foods (Latin American and Haitian goods) Meet at Pao de Acucar, 57 Union Square, 6 p.m.

>> Somerville Arts Council - Cultural Tours
>> Take a tour of Union Square’s ethnic markets - Somerville Journal

Geary's Beer Dinner

Cambridge Common is hosting a celebration for Gearys 20 year anniversary. It all begins with a taste of Anniversary Ale; a rich strong ale.

The first course is Black Bean Cakes with a Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, paired with Geary's Hampshire Special Ale, a year-round favorite, loaded with malt and alcohol warmth.

Next in line is a Potato Leek Soup with Carrot Chip Croutons, paired with Geary's Pale Ale, their flagship beer, brewed in the style of a classic British Pale.

For the third course of the evening, there are two choices. Either Bangers with Au Gratin Potatoes and Ale Mustard or Mussels in a Winter Ale Broth with Oat Bread Croutons, paired with Geary's Winter Ale, brewed seasonally and as long as the weather is bad.

Finally, the dessert course offers an unbelievable Porter Chocolate Cake with Fresh Whipped Cream, paired with Geary's London Porter.

Tuesday January 23
Tickets are available for $35
Reservations are recommended.
617.547.1228.

>>Cambridge Common

Dynamic Women in Business Conference

Ladies of the business world: The Women's Student Association at the Harvard Business School's Annual Dynamic Women in Business Conference is next weekend, Saturday Jan 27th.

Every year, the conference brings together over 1,000 women, including students, alumnae, faculty, distinguished business leaders, and community members, to explore the opportunities and challenges facing women in today's business world. The Dynamic Women in Business conference is a powerful forum for women to learn, share, and inspire one another.

Harvard Buisiness School
Saturday, Jan. 27
8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Fee: $25.
Breakfast, coffee, lunch, and snacks provided

>> Women's Student Association

Ceramics for Kids

Half days are great for kids, but as for working parents-not so much. What are you to do with your kids from noon-3. The town of Somerville would like to help. The Recreation Building is hosting Early Release Ceramics classes. The cost is only $3 a week and it includes ceramic pieces, supplies, brushes, paints and a snack. Activity is available to children in grades 4-8.

To Register Call: 617-625-6600, ext. 2980.
Recreation Building,
19 Walnut St
Somerville MA.

Girl Talk will kill you

Trying to explain the scene at the Middle East for a sold-out Girl Talk concert is pretty much impossible. One of my friends said it was like being in a rap video, and that comes pretty close to describing the kind of chaos, debauchery and dancing that went down.

Before Girl Talk hit the stage, you could catch glimpses of DJ Greg Gillis watching opening act Dan Deacon and even stop by to say hello, which many people did. Gillis, who is very tiny in person, has the demeanor of a normal guy. And that's part of what makes Girl Talk so extraordinary.

The minute Gillis/Girl Talk hit the stage, standing in front of the blue-glow of his laptop, everything started to change. The kind of dance party that burst out at the Middle East is unrivaled by anything I've ever seen in Boston before. The minute the first song began, the crowd rushed the stage and a throng of dance-crazed lunatics surrounded Gillis while he laughed, danced and tried to keep his fingers on the laptop keyboard.

Sweat poured out of everyone and clothing began coming off instantly. T-shirts were tossed into the crowd, girls danced on platforms and arms were thrown up into the air with reckless abandon every time Gillis transitioned into a new song. "Once Again", "Pure Magic", "Bounce That" and "Hold Up" were highlights of the set, but wonders like "Smash Your Head", "Overtime", "Let's Call It Off" and "Scentless Apprentice" were enough to keep you dancing against your will. When the sweet sounds of Elton John's "Tiny Dancer" meet the fine lyrics of "Juicy" by rapper Biggie Smalls, you know it is time to get down.



There aren't many times when you would imagine a crowd of 600 people surrounding a man with a laptop. But Gillis makes it work. In recent interviews, the Pittsburgh-native who works as a biomedical engineer by day, claims that he just likes to take the best parts of songs and combine them. Meanwhile, music critics say his latest effort, Night Ripper, is "recontextulizing pop music". But I think Gillis is doing more than that. He's recontextulizing genres and scenes; nobody is too hip, emo, or indie to shake their ass at a balls-out dance party. And that's what Gillis delivers.



After three plus hours of booty-shaking to constant beats, the audience left the Middle East in a blissful, worn-out haze, almost happy that Girl Talk was done, if only so they could finally take a rest. You got the feeling that if Gillis would have kept playing, everyone would have danced themselves to death.

Show: A+

Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes

Be a man and check out this screening of Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes.

Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats & Rhymes provides a riveting examination of manhood, sexism, and homophobia in hip-hop culture. Director Byron Hurt, former star college quarterback, longtime hip-hop fan, and gender violence prevention educator, conceived the documentary as a "loving critique" of a number of disturbing trends in the world of rap music. He pays tribute to hip-hop while challenging the rap music industry to take responsibility for glamorizing destructive, deeply conservative stereotypes of manhood. The documentary features revealing interviews about masculinity and sexism with rappers such as Mos Def, Fat Joe, Chuck D, Jadakiss, and Busta Rhymes, hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons, and cultural commentators such as Michael Eric Dyson and Beverly Guy-Shetfall. Critically acclaimed for its fearless engagement with issues of race, gender violence, and the corporate exploitation of youth culture.

Free Screening: Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes
The Democracy Center
45 Mount Auburn St, Cambridge

Tuesday, January 23
7:00pm-9:00pm

>> Boston Cares - Event Listing

BBQ and Coloring for a Cause

If you have ever been downstairs at Redbones you have noticed the colorful artwork of Rob Logan. Logan and Redbones have teamed up to host a group of events in which you can create your own art cards (learn more about artist trading cards), enjoy some redbones, sip a beer, hang with the kids (if you have em, if not bring someone elses) all to raise money for the Redbones Art in Somerville Fund.

Logan has created art card workshops for kids and he's bringing them to Redbones in a series of events for all ages. "The drawing facilitates creative thinking and trading them is all about communication," says Logan who launched his Art Cards workshops in Lewiston, ME to great acclaim. No skills necessary - just come for the fun!

All events are fund raisers for Redbones Art in Somerville Fund, a partnership of Redbones and the Somerville Arts Council.

Sunday, Jan 28 & Monday, Feb 19
noon - 6 pm
$10.00 admission buys 18 Art Card Templates/2 full cards, a Redbones sandwich and lemonade.

Monday evenings - Feb 5, Mar 5 & Mar 19
6 - 10 pm
$10.00 includes 18 Art Card Templates/2 full cards and an appetizer.

>> Art Cards @ Redbones

How Bad Do You Wanna See GIRLTALK??

So you heard Girl Talk was coming to town awhile ago and you did nothing. It sold out. You were sad. Then they added more tickets, you still did nothing. It sold out again, and you were sad again. Now its the day of the show and the press around town has been crazy and you really wish you listened to that friend that said, hey buy those tickets. The only option now: be this creepy guys date to the show for $1. So how bad do you wanna see Gril Talk?

>> Girl Talk
>> 1 extra GIRLTALK ticket for one HOT party Girl

Where Beauty Kicks Booty!

World Womens Wrestling Returns to Somerville this Sunday Jan. 21st. How could I not report on an event of this important to the city of Somerville.

This event will be topped by a special mixed tag team grudge match, as WWW Champion, Tanya Lee teams with D.C. Dillinger of manager Sean Gorman's Dynasty of Champions to battle former champion, Nikki Roxx and her partner, "Straight Edge" Brian Fury.

In a very special challenge match, it will be former champion, "The Portuguese Princess" Ariel taking on the Canadian star, Portia Perez.

The bitter feud between Violet Flame and the mysterious Mistress Belmont continues with a "Princess of Darkness Match." The rules of this match are that each participant will be blindfolded and the battle continues until one person is pinned or submits.

Sunday, January 21
3 PM
Tickets: $16

Good Time Emporium
30 Assembly Square Drive
Somerville, MA

>> World Womens Wrestling

Nude Comedy Revisited

I posted about the Naked Comedy Showcase a few weeks ago (Naked Comedy), but i thought there were some noteable quotes from this recent article about the show in the Cambridge Cronicle.

“Cambridge doesn’t have a problem with nudity; they just don’t want you to be a [tease] about it.”

“That’s how Cambridge defines art — lack of payment,” said Ofiesh.

“Really, what is the big deal about taking off your clothes? It’s more weird for the audience,”

>> Knock, knock: Where’s your clothes?

Ice Ice Baby is Back

Grab those neon parachute pants you have been hiding in your closet and hit the Redline this Thursday for the Early 90's Revival Party.

Join HeyLetsGo and NGParty.com as we begin a new monthly tradition at Harvard Square's Redline. Each month we will be hosting an Early 90's Dance Party with only our favorite hits to get you JUMPing.

Thursday, Jan 18
10 pm

Redline
59 JF Kennedy St.
Cambridge

>> Early 90's Revival Party

On Ice at Charles Hotel

It's a great date idea if you have the cash. Classy snacks, cocktails, ice skating and benifits go to the The Greater Boston Food Bank.

Please join the Kitchen Cabinet on Thursday, January 18, 2007 from 6 to 9 pm, for On ice at the Charles Hotel. The Kitchen Cabinet is a group of socially-conscious professionals dedicated to raising funds and hunger awareness on behalf of the Food Bank. Guests will be treated to classic cocktails fine food and an evening of ice skating.

Thursday, January 18, 2007
6-9 pm
$75 / ticket ($50 is tax deductable)

Charles Hotel
One Bennett Street
Cambridge

>> On Ice - Greater Boston Food Bank

Laughing Liberally

I like to laugh and I sure as hell like libral politics. This week at the Comedy Studio In Harvard Square Baratunde Thurston hosts Laughing Liberally.

Laughing Liberally Lab is a night of left-leaning political standup comedy featuring New England comics bringing their sharpest and newest standup material. Consider it a gym for political laughs.

Laughing Liberally
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
8:00 PM

The Comedy Studio (@ the Kong)
1238 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA

>> The Comedy Studio
>> Laughing Liberally

Adolescent Psychology

This sounds like a course I took in college. The fact is, some of us have kids, and they will all eventually get to adolescence. This could possibly be the worst stage of human life. Everyone involved gets hurt.

Joani Geltman will talk about the physical, cognitive and social-emotional changes that occur in adolescence and how these changes affect relationships with parents, friends and school life.

Thursday, January 18th.
Kennedy School
5 Cherry St. Somerville MA.
6:30pm

Opera Boston Underground

I have no idea if I like opera, I could say I dont, but I really haven't been exposed to it. Now am I going to go pay some insane amount of money, get all dressed up, and then trek across the river to see if I like it? Probably not. But, I am willing to walk down the street, pay 5 bucks, and drink some beers while checking it out, that sounds do-able.

Opera Boston Underground, a concert series in the Cambridge bar the Lizard Lounge with a cover charge instead of season tickets and standing room instead of velvet seats. You won’t see any fat ladies in Viking helmets or hear Italian arias; instead, some of the actors performing in Opera Boston’s next show, Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny, will be performing concert versions of some of the show’s songs.

January 17
7 pm
Cover: $5

Lizard Lounge
1667 Mass Ave
Cambridge

>> Opera Boston Goes Underground

Mashup Events this week

For all you geeks out there. There are two mashup events around MIT this week.

If you are confused already, here is what a mashup is from the About Mashup Camp site:

Mashups (be they software or content-oriented) are most often characterized by the way they draw upon functionality and/or content from two or more sources (at least one of which is third-party to the developer) to produce a new creative work. For example, if a birdwatcher "mashed up" her own database of birdsightings (by GPS coordinates) with the functionality and content of Google Maps, the resulting visual presentation where the locations of birdsightings are interactively overlayed on top of a map within the context of a Web browser could be considered a mashup.

First event,
Mashups in Flash
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Free
MIT Stata Building
Room 32-144

This presentation includes a what is discussion, expamples, and a walk through of how to create a mashup using flash and photos from flickr.

>> Mashups in Flash

The second event,
Mashup Camp 3 @MIT
Wednesday, January 17, 2007 - Thursday, January 18, 2007
Hotel @ MIT
20 Sidney Street
Cambridge

This two day event will include a variety of topics (proposed list of dicussions) and will be run open space style.

>> Mashup Camp

Harvard wants Allston back

I have always thought of Allston as BU land, but apparently Harvard has plans to the contrary. Last Thursday, Jan 11th, Harvard released their plans for Allston to the City of Boston.

The globe reports:

Harvard University today released a sweeping plan to transform a 250-acre swath of Allston into an expanse of academic facilities, student housing and a new public square that officials said would be a twin to Cambridge's Harvard Square across the river, with a plaza, retail stores, theaters and a new art museum.

Fun fact From Universal Hub

Allston was originally part of Cambridge, but seceeded (along with Brighton) when Cambridge refused to repair the bridge linking the two.

>> Harvard details Allston campus plan - Boston Globe
>> Harvard submits multi-decade master plan framework for Allston - Harvard Gazette
>> Irredentist Harvard seeks to reclaim Allston - Universal Hub

Crepe's in Davis Square

Word on the street is that Mr. Crepes has opened in Davis square (where someday cafe used to be) with a limited menu.

>> Mr. Crepe returns
>> Mr Crepe - without the crepes!

Beerunch!!

I haven't gone to a brunch since high school when I was dragged to Mother's Day brunch with a big group of extended family. I wasn't impressed. Over the past year I have heard a lot about brunches, its the new thing. I still haven't gone. Its kinda on my to-do list but nothing has sparked my interest.... until now. Cambridge Brewing Company is starting a Beerunch that will run every Sunday starting Jan 14th. Its Beer and Bunch, what a wonderful idea.

OK, so we’re a little bit obsessed with beer at the CBC. We admit it. We drink it; we put it in our food. Sometimes we even put food in our beer. ‘Beer-Cuisine’ has become a mantra at the Cambridge Brewing Company. Starting on Sunday, January 14th from 12-4 we will be open for ‘Beerunch’, our own beer infused spin on the classic brunch.

Every Sunday Starting January 14th.
12:00PM to 4:00PM

Cambridge Brewing Company
1 Kendall Square, Bldg 100
Cambridge
617-494-1994

>> Cambridge Brewing Company

Somerville Dog Licences??

I did not know that Somerville Public Library was funded in part by dog licenses. And I'm gonna guess that you didn't know that either. I didn't even know that licensing your dog was the law. I dont even like dogs (don't judge me), but I do like books and other public works projects. So, if you are dog owner and want more info on how to get your 2007 dog license, check the links below.

>> Somerville Dog - License your Somerville dog!
>> Obtaining a dog license

It's never too late!

The holiday's are a very crazy time-and I have brought this up so many times here, but I am not done! For those of you that are sad you forgot to send out holiday cards-don't wait until next year! Project Bread is offering Happy New Year Cards for those of us that enjoy procrastinating.

By sending Project Bread new year cards, you will be helping hungry children and families in Massachusetts. All of the 5 x 7 cards are printed in Massachusetts on high-quality recycled paper using soy inks.

So it's not too late to send someone a quick note, or a message of hope.

>>Project Bread Cards

Get on the T with a tap of your ass

I personally like the new CharlieCard system, probably cuz I had a big issue putting those paper tickets in correctly. Now here is another perk of the cards, apparently if you have the card in your back pocket, you can tap your ass on the sensor and the gate opens. I haven't tried it yet, but I'm a fan of any excuse to put my bum on something.

>> An advantage of CharlieCards you may not have thought of

This reminds me of the Tom Green Bum song, for a little flash back, check it out the video.

Winter Camping Expedition

I'm a big fan of camping. Especially sitting by the campfire drinking a beer. I usually try and get my camping in during the summer though, but if you can't wait that long and need to get away from the city for a weekend, BSSC is hosting a Winter Camping Expedition Jan 13 -14.

Learn the basics of winter camping in one day and night! The trip will consist of hiking into a local conservation land campsite, setting up camp, hiking wearing snowshoes, learning how to navigate by GPS, and learning how to cook to stay hydrated, nourished and warm. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a snowshoe/geo-caching hike, go on a night hike, enjoy a warm fire with fireside stories and a special dessert prepared by our guides! Dinner and breakfast will be provided for you as well as ALL of the necessary camping equipment. You will be responsible for bringing proper clothing, a lunch for the first day and personal camping equipment. An extensive list will be provided for you.

January 13 - 14
Saturday 10AM – Sunday 10AM
$95, non-members add $10.
Acton, MA

Space is limited, you must reserve ahead.
617-789-4070.

>> BSSC

Food for me, help for you

If you need to get some food shopping done this week, might as well head to Whole Foods in Cambridge this Tuesday. 5 percent of sales from all three stores for the entire day of shopping go to help prevent homelessness among Cambridge residents.

Now that the post-holiday refrigerator and pantry need restocking, the Cambridge community is encouraged to shop at one of three Whole Foods Markets on Jan. 9 to help support the Cambridge Housing Assistance Fund (CHAF), an organization of Cambridge Realtors and concerned citizens who responded to a need to help people with rising home rental costs. This fund-raising event will net 5 percent sales from all three stores for the entire day of shopping to help prevent homelessness among Cambridge residents.

The three Cambridge Whole Foods Markets participating in this fundraiser are located at Fresh Pond Mall, 200 Alewife Parkway, 340 River Street (off Memorial Drive) and 115 Prospect Street in Central Square. By making purchases on this day, shoppers will help to contribute funds to provide initial rental costs to individuals and families who otherwise would not have a place to live.

Kill two birds with one stone: feed yourself and help someone afford a home.

>> Shop and Help

Country at The Kirkland

If you like country music or just need a place to show off that new cowboy hat and belt bucklet, Kirkland Cafe is hosting Boston City Limits Festival the first Saturday of every month which will highlight country bands and singers from around the area. This week: The Billies, Carrie Elkin, and Ashmon Station.

Boston City Limits Festival
Saturday, January 6
8:00PM
Cover: $5.00

Kirkland Cafe
425 Washington Street
Somerville

>> Kirkland Cafe

Whole Tree Identification

Ummm What??

This event is free and open to the public.

We can easily observe the unique shapes and branching patterns of trees after their leaves have dropped in the fall. For this program we will walk on the golf course to look at a number of specimen trees* that are inaccessible to the public during other seasons. We will start outside and finish inside with refreshments and wrap-up. Wear
footwear for walking off-path.
*Trees that illustrate the outstanding
characteristics of their species.

Date: Saturday, January 6
Time: 1:00 to 3:00 pm
Meeting Place: Maynard Ecology Center
Basement of Neville Place
650 Concord Avenue, Cambridge

Please register ahead of time by:
Email Elizabeth Wylde at friendsoffreshpond@yahoo.com
Call:(617) 349-4793 and leave your name and phone number.

Somerville Condo for $155,000

I'm not mature enough to buy a home. I mean, I still have posters on my walls and a large pile of empty beer cans lining my kitchen wall, so I have a way to go. If you are a little ahead of me, there is a steal available through the city of Somerville Housing Division.

This luxury loft style condominium is located in the historic Durrell School Place. This affordable unit has top of the line finishes for $155,000, and includes 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, off-street deeded parking, central AC, 12 foot ceilings, and is just steps from shopping and public transportation. The condominium is located at 245 Beacon Street. The unit will be offered to income-qualified households of 1-2 people, who currently live or work in Somerville.

>> Somerville Housing Programs
>> Details

Welcome Home Opening

Not exactly the warm and fuzzy version of home but, this looks interesting. A mixed media show by Meghan Bernal, opening this Saturday, January 5th and running until Jan 27th.

"Welcome Home" brings an artist to a place where she feels mentally and physically comfortable and at peace. Ironically, to most it is a cold and uninviting state of ruins. Over the span of 3 years, she has taken full advantage of this particular location's hospitality. Using a variety of mixed media, she attempts to convey her connection with certain aspects of a place that was left to fall apart and be forgotten. With words, objects and images, she chooses to rebuild and remember.

Saturday, January 5 (opening)
6PM-9PM

Exhibit:
Saturdays 12 -4
January 5 - 27

"Welcome Home" by Meghan Bernal
Washington Street Art Center Gallery Committee
321 Washington Street
(617) 623-5315

>> Washington Street Art Center

Best Burger in town! (No really!!)

For most Somerville residents, I know you can back me up on this-R.F. O'Sullivans burgers are FANTASTIC! They have actually won awards! Each burger has 1/2 pound ground beef, and topped with a variety of items of your choice. There are over 25 different pre-selected burgers. If those don't tickle your fancy-the cooks will pretty much add anything you request.
My personal favorite is the Blackjack. A burger slowly cooked with cajun spices and then topped with a chipotle mayonnaise. Al burgers come with thick steak fries, but you can opt out and switch them for a large portion of onion rings.

If you just want to hang out, and not in the mood for food, this is also a good choice. They have 4 large TVs and almost always have sports events on. They also have a jukebox for those nights where there is just nothing on. A plethora of beers in the bottle, and a nice selection on tap as well.

One downfall-it can get pretty crowded. They have a very simple layout. A U-shaped bar in the middle, and tables nestled snugly along the wall for 2-6 people each. Obviously I am not the only one who is a huge fan, because getting a table can be tough. BUT, on the plus side, you can get to it from the T. It is a little lengthy of a walk, but definitely doable. Plus if you can't get a seat at the bar, and/or prefer a table, the waitstaff have always been quick and friendly!

R.F.O'Sullivan's
282 Beacon St.
Somerville MA, 02143
Hours: 11am-1am.

>>R.F.O'Sullivan's

>>Directions

Naked Comedy

Sometimes comedy shows are awkward, right before if you know if they are gonna be funny or not, now imagine if the performer is naked. Well, that is how it works at ''Naked Comedy Show" at ImprovBoston in Inman Square

The dynamic of nude comedian and clothed audience added an extra dimension to self-deprecating material, and, at times, the comedians seemed to be assessing their usual material to see if it was appropriate in the nude. But after taking a few minutes to address the obvious, most comedians fell back into their routines, albeit with a bit more self-awareness.

I dont know if it would be funnier, more awkard, or just wierd. I guess you will just have to check it out to know.

The Naked Comedy Showcase @ ImprovBoston
Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month
10pm
1253 Cambridge Street
Cambridge
$10

>> Naked Comedy Show
>> ImprovBoston

Karaoke at Charlies Kitchen

Its been a crazy past few weeks: family, dinners, parties. Everything has been so planned and stressful. I don't know about you but I'm looking forward to getting back to normal and some low key nights. Tomorow night at Charlie's Kitchen it's karaoke night. Throw back a few cheap beers, listen to some drunk signing and enjoy a burger with friends. Ahhh, it feels good to be back.

Every Tuesday Night
Charlie's Kitchen
10 Eliot Street
Cambridge, MA

>> Charlie's Kitchen

Om Rhum Bar

It may be a little too late for VIP seats on New Years Eve, but this is a place you should check out year round.
Om recently opened it's Rhumbar upstairs. It is a more tranquil enviornment comparitively to the downstairs lounge. The rhumbar serves the latest rhum-based special creations from resident mixologist Clif Travers.

Clif Travers holds court nightly with a star team of bartenders serving up a new generation of cocktails subtly infused with essential oils such as lavender, jasmine and lemon verbena.

Starting at midnight on Friday and Saturday evenings.
OM
92 Winthrop Street, Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138
617.576.2800

>>OM Lounge

>>Menu

Mike Tyson = Hilarious

I don't really care that Mike Tyson was arrested last night on suspicion of DUI and for possession of coke, but I do care about how funny this montage of Tyson clips is.

A little ridiculousness for your Friday afternoon.

Best Seat in the CIty

I like to sit. I'm not lazy or anything, I just enjoy a little rest here and there. Now what would be better than sitting on a piece of art? Well, probably my couch, so I will rephase, what would be cooler than sitting on art? The arts council of Somerville has commissioned a series of artist designed public benches in Union Square.

Designed by public artist Ross Miller for Union Square, these whimsical benches are playful transformations of standard anonymous city benches. They have personality, and offer a commentary on sociability. One bench encourages intimate conversation through a loveseat configuration, while another offers the solitary pedestrian a seat next to the tree growing through its slats. The third bench is the result of two benches crashing together to form one.

Take a seat in Union Square and check it out.

>> The best seat in the city is in Union Square
>> Public Art in Somerville

$50 Donation = $10 CharlieCard

If you are looking for a good place to donate to or an easy tax deduction LivableStreets is giving away a $10 CharlieCard with any donation of $50 or more.

LivableStreets Alliance is a non-profit organization that believes urban transportation has the power to make Boston a more connected, livable city. We challenge people to think differently and to demand a system that balances transit, walking, and biking with automobiles. We promote safe, convenient, and affordable transportation for all users in urban Boston. Streets that are enjoyable to use will better support neighborhoods and small business districts. LivableStreets believes that to remain a competitive, world-class city, Boston needs a world-class transportation network – one that makes our city a better place to live, work, and play.

LivableStreets Alliance
email: jeff@livablestreets.info
phone: 617-939-3824

>> LivableStreets Donations
>> LivableStreets

Improv Family Show

It is really hard to find an activity that the whole family will enjoy. Things like movies and dinner can be too expensive, and we know it is hard for two people to agree on a movie nevermind a family of 4, 5 or 6.
Improv Boston has a family show that everyone would enjoy. Because honestly who is going to be the one that says "I don't like to laugh"

Start your Saturday night with hilarious short-form improv for Mom, Dad, Sis, Grandma, Spot the dog and the entire family! This evening full of interactive games, performed by the ImprovBoston Family Show Crew, is sure to bring out the child in everyone.

A bonus to this show-if your son/daughter is an aspiring comdian they host a February vacation Camp as well as a Teen Summer Camp!

The ImprovBoston Theater

1253 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02139

Every Saturday at 6 PM
Tickets $12 / $10 for seniors / $7 for students and children
617-576-1253 for info and reservations

>>IB Family Show
>>IB Calendar

MINE

It is really hard to think about yourself around this time of year. Ironically, I feel, it is the time when we need to the most. Media says the "Holiday's" are the happiest time of year. Think about all the stress people have about all sorts of things! Not even just money,
this is the biggest diamond selling season-there is always that girl that gets her heart broken instead.
What about family and tragedy? This is also one of the highest selling season for alcohol. I don't think I need to get into details of that one.

So I think you need to stop and think for a second. Are you driving yourself insane wishing it would just be February already. You don't need to. The holiday's are supposed to be a happy time, but you don't need to kill yourself making it happen.

To help with this you should visit MINE. Massage Institute of New England. They offer student clinics at a discount price.

Classic Swedish Massage $35
Advanced Therapeutic $40
Deep Tissue Massage $45
$5 Discount for Doctors, Nurses, Students, Policemen, Firemen, Teachers & Seniors (ID's required)

Clinic hours:
Monday thru Thursday 10:30-8:30
Friday 10:30-4:00 and Saturday 10:30 - 4:30

22 McGrath O'Brien Hwy. Suite 11
Somerville MA, 02143
Call to set up an appt. 617-666-3700

>>MINE

Beatles and Beers

Take a break from the hustle and bustle and sit back and enjoy a beer and some classic tunes. This friday at Sally O'Brien's in Union Square The Nowheremen, a Beatles tribute band, will be playing nine to close.

Friday, 12.22
9pm

Sally O'Brien's Bar and Grill
335 Somerville Ave.
Somerville, MA 02145

>> Sally O'Brien's

A Cure for the Seasonal Hangover

Having just come off a weekend of over induldgent holiday parties, CNN's article on seasonal hangovers is exactly what I needed three days ago. It gives tips on over eating, over drinking, and over stressing, or in other words: my life. Some of the tips are a little obvious, but I guess this isn't rocket science.

Drink up. If people were smoking at the party and you were downing wine, you're probably dehydrated, and your vocal cords may be irritated. Consume 2 quarts of water during the day to rehydrate your body and lubricate your pipes.

Soothe the soreness. A steaming bowl of chicken soup will pamper your poor cords. Or, gently gargle for 2 minutes with a solution of 6 ounces of warm, distilled water mixed with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of light corn syrup; this strange-but-potent combo may help stimulate mucous flow in your dry throat. Or try Entertainer's Secret, a throat spray with aloe vera.

>> CNN - Seasonal hangovers

CambridgeSide Galleria Best Buy Closed

I had no idea, apparently a pipe burst last week flooding the Best Buy at CambridgeSide Galleria. The store is expected to be closed for months to clean up. What a horrible time of year for this to happen, I'm glad I know before heading out to finish (start) my shopping on Saturday.

>> Cambridge Chronicle - Best Buy to be closed for months

America's Smartest City: For Real

The other day I titled a post "Smartest city in the world?". To be honest this title was not at all based on fact, but come to find out it is kind of true. According to Forbes Magazine Cambridge, MA was included in the "America's Top 10 Smartest Cities," list.

The publication looked at data from the 200 largest metropolitan areas.

They ranked them based on the percentage of the population age 25 and over with at least a bachelor's degree.

Boulder, Colorado tops the list. Second is Bethesda, Maryland. Cambridge, Massachusetts comes in a solid fourth, ahead of San Francisco.

>> WHDH Publication names Cambridge one of America's smartest cities

The Golden Tooth

Picture it-

You are holiday shopping at the mall and you decide to stop for dinner with your friends. Mmmm something crunchy. But you are eating a hamburger?!?! Your tooth broke! Gross right?

That's how I felt when it happened to me. It was holiday party weekend, driving between New Hampshire and Rhode Island, so I was unable to get to the dentist immediately.
I scheduled an appt. for this morning (Tues.) three hours later I leave Gentle Dental (in Porter Square) feeling, well not really because I was numb, satisfied with my visit. This RARELY happens with me and dentists.

I have a long history of skipping from dentist to dentist; sporadic appointments only when I feel pain. (Possibly the cause of my tooth falling out) Other dentists have tried to sway me into coming back, but I was just not feelin' it.

I will go back to this Gentle Dental. One-I have to. They are still working on fixing my tooth, but also I felt extremely comfortable. This procedure could have been extremely painful. For what may have been the first dentist visit ever, I was pain free!

I highly recommend Gentle Dental.

21 White St.
Cambridege Ma, 02140
Porter Sqaure Shopping Plaza
(617) 354-3300

>>Gentle Dental

Cognitive Responsibility

This is no relaxing Tuesday night activity. Well at least not for me, this deep philosophical conversation wears me out. If this is your cup of tea, join the Davis Square Philosophy Cafe at McIntyre & Moore Booksellers for a discussion on Cognitive Responsibility: Should faith ever trump facts?

In our open society, freedom of religion is an essential liberty protected by the First Amendment. But what if faith-based beliefs conflict with empirical evidence? Some believe that physical disease is an illusion, to be healed by prayer; others that mental illness is a fraud, so psychiatry should be banned; others that condoms don’t prevent the spread of HIV. Such beliefs can have damaging consequences, so is it responsible to hold them? If not, how can freedom of belief and our cognitive responsibilities best be reconciled?

December 19
7:30-9:30 pm
McIntyre & Moore Booksellers
255 Elm St.
Somerville MA

>> McIntyre & Moore Booksellers

The December Store

There is always that one person where you just can't seem to think of a gift for. This year it is my mom. Heck-every year it is my mom! She doesn't like any normal mom things! The one thing she does like, is pretty and unique items.
The December Store, an art market at the Brickbottom Gallery, has gifts for art lovers! Lots of one of a kind paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.

Sunday Dec. 1-23.
2pm-6pm
Brickbottom Gallery
1 Fitchburg Street Somerville, MA 02143
617-776-3410

>>Brickbottom Gallery

Smartest city in the world?

Entering Cambridge: We're wicked smaht. Still looking for the perfect gift for the MA sports fan in your life. Find this tee and many more Sox and NE pride shirts at Supahfans.com.

A passionate enthusiast of New England sport, the Supahfan sets themselves apart by being a positive influence on their community.

>> SupahFans - Store

New MBTA.com

I have always been a fan of the MBTA website, it wasn't the best design but it was just so damn functional. Especially the trip planner which is awesome at letting you know which train you have to take to get bus connections and stuff like that. (I have an issue standing around waiting, i preffer to overplan each commute and errands as to optimize my oh so value time.)

Today the MBTA has launched a new and improved site to go along with their new and improved Charlie system. Its like a whole new transit system, no wonder fares are going up. The site has a fresh design, interactive street maps, personalize options (save maps, trips, and schedules). For a site that was already so much ahead of other tranisit systems this is impressive.

Although, as i was checking the site out this morning it was really really slow, i know they got a lot of press and the traffic must be heavy, but come on, you increased your server power 4x and it still takes me 5 minutes to load a page!

>> mbta.com

Darfur Diaries Screening

This Friday the Democracy Center in Cambridge is hosting a "Darfur Diaries" screening. To be honest I know very little about this topic, but here is a little intro:

The Darfur conflict is an ongoing armed conflict in the Darfur region of western Sudan, mainly between the Janjaweed, a militia group recruited from the tribes of the Abbala, and the non-Baggara people of the region. The Sudanese government, while publicly denying that it supports the Janjaweed, has provided arms and assistance and has participated in joint attacks with the group, systematically targeting the Fur, Zaghawa, and Massaleit ethnic groups in Darfur. The conflict began in July 2003. The mass media have described the conflict as both "ethnic cleansing" and "genocide." - Wikipedia

This film focuses on the people that are living through this conflict.

Through the voices of refugees, displaced persons, and in particular women and children, who are always among the most vulnerable in any conflict situation, this film seeks to provide space for the marginalized victims of atrocities to speak and to engage with the world.

Friday, Dec. 15
6:30 pm

The Democracy Center
45 Mt. Auburn
Cambridge MA 02138

>> RSVP
>> Darfur Diaries
>> Wikipedia - Darfur Conflict

Shop Inman by Moonlight

Tonight Inman sqaure is open till midnight for some moonlight shopping and fun. Is this the new thing, has this always been a thing? The first time i heard about this idea i thought it was neat (Davis Square Midnight Madness), but really who needs to be shopping that late at night. Do you think you can just trick us with your free food and open bar doors to believe that a booze and shopping is a good idea? They aren't pushing the booze thing that was my addition, they actually offer hot cider, which is cute. The overall idea is cute, just not as original as I would have thought, so I guess I will stop ranting.

The highlights: wine and cheese at Bird by Bird, live ImprovBoston performace and Santa at Boutique Fabulous , free pizza and cookies at City Girl Cafe, hot cider at East Coast Grill, 15% off and free gift wrapping at Lorem Ipsum Books, free soaks in the hot tub (I dont know if that is a highlight or gross!) at Urban Oasis.

You had me at wine and cheese.

Thursday, December 14
7pm - Midnight
Inman Square

>> Shop Inman Square by Moonlight

Holiday Whine, Dine, and Laugh

This time of year is filled with comedic material. Work parties, family, in-laws the situations are ridiculous and if only there was time it could be turned into a killer stand up act. I'm not suggesting you try, leave it to the professionals.

Cormier's Comedy Madness hosted by Janet Cormier presents HOLIDAY WHINE, DINE AND LAUGH DINNER SHOW. Comedy, music, poetry... get tips on dealing with bad gifts, bad guests and crazy relatives

Wednesday, Dec. 13
6:30 PM
$5.00

All Asia
334 Mass Ave, Cambridge (outside of Central Sq.)

Get Lit! Illuminations Tour

Mayor Joe Curtatone and the Somerville Arts Council presents the annual. Start off at City hall for refreshements, crafts, and choral music, and then get on the bus! A trolley will take you through Somerville to witness some of the most dazzling display's of residential spirit. These are the people that apparently eaither truly love the season, or are just trying to show each other up. Either way-we win!

Sat. 12/16
***Snow date is Sun. 12/17
Tours leave : 4:30, 5, 5:45, 6:15, 7, 7:30, 8:15, 8:45 and 9:15 p.m.
Tickets: Adults $10
Kids $5

For those of you who would like to see these display's on a different day; you can purchase the map of the tour for $3 at McIntyre and Moore Booksellers in Davis Square.

Tickets: call Rachel Strutt at 617-625-6600, ext. 2985
Email: Rachel@ somervilleartscouncil.org

>> Somerville Illuminations Tour

Magical Herbs for Winter Celebrations

Ha, this titles makes me laugh a little. Not that kind of herb though.

Holly, ivy, mistletoe, the Yule log, the fir (Christmas) tree—all are magical/sacred and associated with celebrations of light as winter sets in and we prepare for the dark time of the year. Learn some of the ancient myths, beliefs, and uses of the herbs that helped people move through this time and make sacred connections. We’ll look at Christian, Jewish, Druidic, Pagan, and Christian customs. As part of the workshop we’ll make a small wreath or other decoration using some of the sacred herbs of the season. Handouts and supplies are included.

Informative and if you are still looking for a gift for mom I'm sure she would love a handmade wreath.

Tues. 12/12/06
6:00 pm–8:00 pm
FREE

Harvest Coop Market
581 Mass Ave.
Cambridge, MA
617-661-6978

>> Harvest Coop

Mezcal Tasting

Ok, first things first, what is Mezcal:

Mezcal is a Mexican distilled spirit made from the agave plant. There are many different types of agaves, and each produces a slightly different mezcal. Agave is part of the Agavaceae family, also called maguey. While Tequilais a mezcal made only from the blue agave plant in the region around Tequila, Jalisco, spirits labeled "Mezcal" are often made using other agave plants.

This Tuesday Ole Mexican Grill in Inman Square is holding an informative mezcal tasting paired with appitizers. So, if you are looking for a little midweek booze, nibbles and info, check it out, although I suggest saying away from eating the worm on a work night.

Tuesday, Dec. 12
7:00pm
Ole Mexican Grill
11 Springfield Street, Cambridge
$15 (plus tax & gratuity)
617-492-4495

>> Ole Mexican Grill
>> Mezcal

Chocolate Tasting

Around this time of year I have been invited to every kind of party imaginable. Tupperware, jewelry, purses, pampered chef, and even a pedicure party. Not to dump on these, cuz some of them are pretty fabulous, but I can't imagine any one of them competing with this. A CHOCOLATE party!
Founder of Experience Chocolate will come to your home with everything neccessary to host a fun and informative chocolate tasting. Including Tasting Techniques Guide and Tasting Evaluation Worksheets.

An Experience: CHOCOLATE™ Chocolate Tasting acquaints discerning chocolate lovers with premium chocolate brands and the factors that influence their taste. Some chocolates have an immediate intense flavor that disappears quickly. Others can be initially bland, with the flavor taking its time to explode and linger in your mouth. Everyday flavor connections such as fruity, nutty, buttery or spicy can be detected as you learn about cocoa content and bean origin for each tasting selection.Our goal is to educate discriminating chocolate lovers about exceptional chocolate choices and provide a forum for their convenient purchase.

If you would like to witness what this even entails Spark Crafts in Davis Square is holding a Chocolate Tasting on Monday 12/11.

To register for this event call Call 617-718-9132.

Or visit Sparks website for more info on their studio.

>>Spark Craft Studio

To schedule your own tasting you can call or email-

617-840-4766
questions@experiencechocolate.com

>>Experience Chocolate

Booze and Books - Four Stories

I love to read and I love to drink. Before hearing about Four Stories these two true loves have never overlapped. Four stories is a monthly literary series bringing together authors, readers, and friends in a bar setting to enjoy the readings of four pieces under a similar theme. This monday is the 2006 season finale: Power Plays: Tales of love, war, and politics featuring
Peter Brown, Jennifer M. Ivers, Bret Anthony Johnston, and Katherine Vaz.

Monday, December 11, 2006
7-9pm; Music starts @ 6pm

The Enormous Room
567 Mass Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Telephone: 617-491-5599

>> Four Stories

Amnesty International's Write-a-thon @ Elephant Walk

This Sunday, Dec 10th, is Human Rights Day. In observation of this day join other concerned citizens by participating in Amnesty's annual Global Write-a-thon at Elephant Walk Resturant in Cambridge. Participants are encouraged to write letters to help free Prisoners of Conscience, stop violence against women and make powerful changes in the lives of individuals

Any and all interested individuals are welcome to join us for an afternoon of letter writing in the beautiful dining room of the Elephant Walk Restaurant's Cambridge site (2067 Massachusetts Avenue). Coffee and pastries will be provided for all letter-writers who stop in.

The doors will be open for this event from noon until 4 pm on Sunday, December 10th. Some local businesses will be donating paper, pens, envelopes and postage, however any and all donations of these goods by participants will be greatly appreciated. See you there!

Elephant Walk Restaurant - Cambridge
2067 Massachusetts Avenue
Sunday Dec. 10
12 - 4

>> Elephant Walk Cambridge
>> Amnesty International's Global Write-a-thon
>> Amnesty International Event Listing

Reading from Roses Take Practice

Connie Biewald reads from "Roses Take Practice" this sunday, Dec 10th, at Harvard Coop.

"Connie Biewald’s writing…probes and sifts the buried storage vaults of family relationships with an archaeologist’s precision. Her work will appeal to those readers who love the fiction of Anne Tyler and Carol Shields."

Dec. 10
2 pm
Harvar Coop
Third floor
free

>> Harvard Coop

Winter Hip Hop Fest

This Saturday night Leedz Edutainment presents the 2006 Boston Winter Hip Hop Fest downstairs at the Middle East. The show will be featuring Insight, Termanology, Letia Larok, Elemental Zazen, D-Tension, AWOL, Brix, JDO - Hosted by Ricky Roman. Music by DJ On&On. Follow the links to listen to some samples. It's good stuff, so good I just spent all my time listening instead of writing, oh well.

Sat Dec. 9
The Middle East
$12adv/$15doors

>> The Middle East

Cirque de Magic

'Cirque de Magic' With Simon Winthrop & Cirque-style Performers has come to Cambridge to dazzle us for one night only! Cirque de Magic performers regularly perform for celebreties such as The Clinton's, Tom Cruise, and Bruce Willis.
What a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon? Contortionists, magic, wonderment, as well as knowing you are helping a good cause!!
This event is a fund raiser for Art Of Living foundation's world wide service projects.

Art of Living Foundation's Silver Jubilee celebration also witnessed the inauguration of the launch for the largest global humanitarian project ever undertaken, the 'One World Family Fund'. This consolidated fund will be used to support Art of Living's internationally acclaimed educational and humanitarian services, and social programs.

Is it weird we think of fundraising more often around the holiday's? Ah, another topic for another day.


Dec. 9th 12:00pm
Kresge Auditorium, MIT- 84 Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA.

>> Cirque de Magic
>> Art of Living Foundation's Silver Jubilee

Spicey Cooking Demo

Ana Sortun, chef and owner of Oleana Restaurant in Cambridge, will host a cooking demo and book signing for her new cookbook Spice: Flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean.

What makes each contry's food taste unique? What gives it life? In the Arabic foods around the Mediterranean and Middle East, the answer is spice.

In cooking school in Paris, I was taught that the way to add flavor to a dish was with fat. The rule still lingers that where there is fat there is flavor, and so French-influenced chefs regularly use extra butter or heavy cream to add richness to a dish. I have nothing against the use of fat, but my experience has taught me that it is not the only way to achieve flavor.

To attend, email pr@cambridgeculinary.com.

Dec. 6, 2006
6:30pm-8:30pm
The Cambridge School of Culinary Arts
2020 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA
FREE and open to the public

>> Cambridge School of Culinary Arts Events
>> Spice: Flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean

Holiday Glass lab

Hand blown glass, in my opinion, could be one of the most beautiful artforms. It requires so much work to create this delicate and elegant product. It is rare to be invited into a lab, never mind actually being able to purchase the glass at a reduced price. MIT's glass lab is opening its doors for one of three yearly public sales of student/instructors work.

12/11 and 12/12
10am-5pm
MIT Lobby 10
>> http://web.mit.edu/glasslab

Ballroom Dancing

Who hasn't watched Dancing with the Stars and thought, wow I wish I could move like that! For you-Extreme Dancesport is going to make that happen with their 8 week Ballroom Sampler. You can learn the most popular dances of American Smooth and Rhythm styles. For those of you who have no idea what that means, the dances are called ChaCha, Rumba, Swing, Waltz, Tango and Foxtrot.
The class is scheduled for the next three Thursday's. 12/7, 12/14, and 12/21. January dates are yet to be determined.

Thursday's Dec 7, 14, 21
7:30pm

Cost: Please contact Extreme Dancesport for holiday rates.
Email: info@extremedancesport.com
Website: www.extremedancesport.com
Phone:617-492-2122

Davis Square Midnight Madness

Work is busy, weekends are packed with holiday parties, the shopping list is getting longer, life needs to be delt with, and oh yeah wouldn't it be nice to help someone less fortunute. If only there were more hours in the day. Well. I have yet to figure that one out, but at least this week your will have a few more useable hours. On Thursday Dec. 7th select stores in Davis Square will be open until midnight during this years, Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping Night offering tasty treats donated by local eateries, one night only discounts, and they’ll also be selling Somerville Homeless Coalition T-shirts for $12, with 100 percent of proceeds going to help Somerville’s vulnerable populations.

Davis Square
Dec. 7
5:00 - 12:00am

>> Davis Square Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping Night

Barbie Nation

Growing up my sister and I had tons of Barbies. I remember pulling out boxes from under our beds filled with dolls, clothing, and accessories. We would create towns, homes, and lives for these dolls. We would dress them up, do their hair, and rip off their legs. The Barbie boxes quietly left our lives as we grew up, finding a home in the damp basement, and although we were not huge collectors Barbie was part of our childhood. This wed Dec. 6th the documentary about the cult of Barbie directed by Susan Stern will be shown at Harvard's Radcliffe College Room. To be followed by discussions.

The Barbie doll is not just the world's most popular toy, she's a Rorschach test, revealing attitudes about sexuality, body image, gender roles and creativity.

"Barbie Nation: An Unauthorized Tour."
Wed., Dec. 6
6 p.m.

Schlesinger Library
Radcliffe College Room
10 Garden St. (617) 495-8647.

Harvard's Center for European Studies

If you happen to have a weekday off and a hankering for knowledge; Hardvard's Center for European Studies lectures are free and open to the public.

The Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies is dedicated to fostering the study of European history, politics and society at Harvard. Through our graduates, who go on to teach others about Europe and to many other roles in society, the Center sustains America's knowledge base about Europe, an important contribution to international understanding in difficult times.

The Center was founded as a catalyst to bring scholars and students together to talk and think about Europe. As such, it creates an intellectual community that is more than the sum of its parts. That community is open to everyone with interests in Europe.

Lectures this week include: Women and the Varieties of Capitalism, Does Europe Still Need NATO?, and Jews and War in Modern Europe: Patriotism or Internationalism?

>> The Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies
>> Complete CES Calendar

Marcus Samuelsson at Rialto

In celebration of the release of “The Soul of a New Cuisine” A Discovery of the Foods and Flavors of Africa, Marcus Samuelsson be hosting a dinner and reception at Rialto. Try out three Ethopian inspired courses straight from the cookbook.

Monday, December 4, 2006
Reception at Noir 5:30-7 pm
3-Course Dinner at Rialto 7:15 pm

$75 per person (reception and dinner)
$25 per person (reception only)

For reservations and information
call 617.661.5050

Rialto at The Charles Hotel
One Bennett Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

>> Dinner at Rialto
>> The Soul of a New Cuisine: A Discovery of the Foods and Flavors of Africa

Monsieur Gainsbourg Revisited at the Middlesex Lounge

This Monday at the Middlesex Lounge DJ Christopher Muther will be spinning the tribute album Monsieur Gainsbourg Revisited. The Cultural Services of the French Consulate in Boston and the French Library Alliance Francaise invites you to sit back and enjoy Gainsbourg songs by some of today's most infulencial artists including Portishead, Tricky, Frans Ferdinand,and the Kills. (Give a listen to the album)

Monday Dec 4, 2006
9:00 pm - 1:00 am
Middlesex Lounge
315 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge

>> Monsieur Gainsbourg Revisited at the Middlesex Lounge
>> Middlesex Lounge

Cultural Survival Bazaar

I hate shopping. I hate the pressure and materialism that surrounds it. This time of year is challenging for me. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy gift giving, but just not in the same way as a majority of the American public does. I attempt to find gifts that are opportunities for a loved one to broaden their horizons: a CD of new music, a book I enjoyed, a piece of art from a local artist. This isn't any easy task, trust me, but this event might be a solution. The Cultural Survival Bazaar this weekend, 12.2 - 12.3, at David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies.

"The Cultural Survival Bazaar brings together the work of dozens of skilled artisans and craftspeople from around the world in one place. With each step you take, the sights, smells, and sounds will transport you to a time and place in another land. Our members and friends come back year after year for this colorful event."
--Pia Maybury-Lewis, Co-founder of Cultural Survival

Items include handmade jewelry, hand-knotted rugs, pottery, silk weaving, and much more. Exotic cuisine and entertainment (storytelling, dancing, music) will be available as well.

Every year, hundreds of vendors committed to ethical business practices and fair trade principles sell traditional crafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry, carpets, and accessories at the Bazaars. Thousands of New England residents take advantage of these globally-minded shopping opportunities, knowing that their purchases help Cultural Survival's work with indigenous peoples.

December 2-3
10:00am-6:00pm
David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies
1730 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA. 02138

>> Cultural Survival Bazaar

Pyara Holiday Open House

If I had to pick one word I loved to hear it is free. And around this time of year nothing rings my bells such as this. The Pyara Spa and Salon is here to help a few stressed out shoppers this season with a Holiday Open House. On December 3 from 6-8 The Pyara Spa is opening its doors for those in need of break for "me". This time of season everyone feels guilty splurging on themselves; bringing us back to my favorite word-FREE! While there you can

check in with spa therapists and skin, hair, and makeup specialists for personal consultations on anything beauty-related, seasonal or not.

You can also get some holiday shopping done with a wide variety of health and beauty products they carry. Before you leave, don't forget to grab your gift bag packed with specific products for you. Make sure you reserve your spot, as space is limited. Call 617-497-9300 or email events@pyaraaveda.com

>> Pyara Spa and Salon