Spa Week

Spa Week in Boston and surrounding cities begins tomorrow! Several Spa's open there doors and offer signature services for as little as $50. October 15-October 21. Why not spoil yourself? No better time than the present!
Here is a limited list of participants. For a complete list, go to the Spa Week website.


Breathe Spa
37A Davis Square
Somerville, MA O2144
617.628.7772
Available Treatments:
60 Min Pumpkin Latte Facial
75 Min Ice Cream Spa Manicure And Pedicure
60 Min Pumpkin Creme Body Wrap

A-Skin Care Salon
19 Mystic Street
Arlington, MA O2474
781.641.1110
Available Treatments:
75 Min Decollete Facial
45 Min Eyebrow And Brazilian Bikini Non-Puritan Purity Waxing
Micro Glow Microdermabrasion

Maison Esthetique Christiane Bourque Spa
94 High Street
Danvers, MA O1923
978.777.7278
Available Treatments:
50 Min A Passion For Pumpkin Peel
50 Min Vitamin Infusion Body Treatment

Central Art

Central Square will be transformed this weekend for ArtsCentral:See Art in Everything.

During this weekend, ArtsCentral invites visitors to the Square to celebrate and enjoy its unique blend of art and commerce. Central Square’s favorite artists—artists of all kinds and from every corner of the Square—will take to the streets, drawing visitors to our neighborhood and enticing them into its businesses, shops, restaurants and organizations.

Event Buttons will get you into all the events as well as offer discounts to Central Square businesses. To purchase a button you must go to the CSBA office. (130 Bishop Allen Drive)
Button Prices:
$10 14 and up
$5 ages 10-13
Children under 10 are free.
ARTSCENTRAL
Central Square
Friday 5:30p-Sunday 8:00p
**There is no rain date for ArtsCentral. There are several indoor locations that are reserved in case of bad weather.

>>Weekend Schedule
>>Map of Businesses
>>Artists in Businesses (Artists numbers corresponds to map)

Beaded Fair

Interested in beads? I am not talking beads you used in the fifth grade to make friendship bracelets, or braid your BFF's hair. Artists from all over the country are gathering on Saturday to show off their beads, beaded jewelry, and supplies. Also The Women’s Craft Cooperative of Rosie’s Place will be present and showing/selling their work.
Admission is $6 Children under 12 are free. A portion of the admission proceeds will be donated to the Women’s Craft Cooperative of Rosie’s Place. Funds raised by the show are used to support the ongoing activities of the bead society, including school sponsorship for three Maasai girls as part of the Beads for Education program.

29th Annual Bead Affair
Armenian Cultural Center
47 Nichols Ave
Watertown, MA (Watertown Square)
Saturday 10/13
10a-5p
Admission: $6. Children 12 and under: free
Discount Coupon

Burren Comedy

Ed Byrne is appearing at the Burren tomorrow night for a night full of laughter. Some of you may remember his buddy, Keith Farnan, from St. Patrick's Day.

Irish comic and Fringe Festival favorite Ed Byrne, said to be the biggest comic in Ireland, which means he should also be the biggest comic in Southie, Charlestown, Brighton and parts of Dorchester and Somerville, comes to Somerville to perform at the Burren. Byrne has appeared at the Montreal Just for Laughs Festival six times, and at the HBO Comedy Festival in Aspen. He has made five appearances on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and is a regular guest on The Panel on RTE Television Ireland. Also appearing will be fellow Irishman Keith Farnan, back by popular demand after his St. Patrick's Day appearance a the Burren, and Brian Joyce, who is Boston Irish, but might soon turn into Ireland Irish with recent gigs at Kilkenny and Galway, in addition to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Off the Boat Comedy
The Burren
Somerville
Wednesday October 10
Tickets: $25-$30
8:00pm

Project YUM

A festival of FOOD! Union Square plaza hosts the most amazing festivals! This upcoming weekend it is one of tasty treats. Experience locally grown veggies, as well as exotic foods.

Hankering for some kimchee with your curry? Craving chilis with your cheese puffs? Ever wanted to try chucchitos? Or bitter melon? At ArtsUnion's first ever food festival, you'll now have the chance to indulge and explore all your culinary desires.

Other reasons to attend?
*Ethnic food tastings from the Square's restaurants and markets
*How to heal through ayurveda, flower essences, plants and herbs
*Food themed music and art, as well as preservation techniques.
*3 local chefs face each other in an Iron Chef cook-off
*Dish! A giant interactive culinary map of the world
AND:
*Berwick Institute's potluck conversation table

Project YUM
Union Square Plaza Somerville
Saturday October 13
3:00p-6:00p

>>Somerville Arts Council

Tour de Somerville

Unless you are hard core and don't mind frost bit, prime bike riding season is coming to an end. So, next Saturday, bring out the bike for a little tour of Somerville.

This year's ride will explore the flat side of Somerville, avoiding all of the city's hills. We'll ride along the Community Path and its future extension, then take a level, low-traffic route through East Somerville to the Mystic River at Assembly Square. From there, we'll ride alongside the river into a bit of South Medford, then return through West Somerville back to our starting point.

The Tour begins at 10 am at Seven Hills Park, behind the Somerville Theatre in Davis Square. Our nine-mile ride will be leisurely-paced, easy for cyclists of all ages. We strongly encourage all riders to wear helmets.

Saturday, October 13 (rain date Sunday Oct 14)
Somerville

>> Tour de Somerville

Healthworks Open House

I live right up the street from Healthworks and would love to join, unfortunately it has crazy fees. I feel like the monthly fee is insane, and then add in fees for all the special things. Don't get me wrong, it definitely has its perks. Location, nice facility, women only, and did i mention location? Well here is your chance for you to decide if it is worth it. They are having a week long open house. Each day consists of classes/events focused around the daily theme.

Monday: General Fitness - Fitness Assessments & Orientations
Tuesday: Group Exercise
Wednesday: Focused Training - BURN/Quads/Gravity
Thursday: Spa Day
Friday: Nutrition/Cafe
Saturday: Foundation & Community Outreach
Sunday: Mind & Body
FULL SCHEDULE

Join during this week and receive a $50 gift card as well. Restrictions apply of course. All participants must be at least 18 years of age and women.

Closest Healthworks:
Cambridge: Porter Square Shopping Center
Others:
Brookline: Commonwealth Ave.
Back Bay: Stuart St.
Chestnut Hill: 1300 Boylston St.
Salem: Highland Ave.

Monday October 8-Sunday October 14.

Oktoberfest

29th annual Oktoberfest in Harvard Square is this weekend. Several things are planned out for this 6 hour event. Mom bands, Honkfest, Concerts in several different locations, pumpkin patch, and a performance of Our Town to name a few.

ROCK, HONK, DANCE, PARADE, PEACE OUT, PICK A PUMPKIN and BRING YOUR MAMA to Oktoberfest for dancing in the streets and in the crosswalks throughout HARVARD SQUARE!

More? Of course! Grendal's Den toast and keg tapping, Uno's will serve pizza outside the restaurant, Z-square will have a special Oktoberfest menu! Sample music

Oktoberfest
Harvard Square(It's taking over!)
Sunday, October 7th
12p-6p
FREE!

>>Oktoberfest Schedule
>>Mamapalooza
>>Photo's of Oktoberfest '06

Spare Change

Every morning as I rush down the escalator, I get a friendly hello and a wave from Harold, the Porter Square Spare Change newspaper man. In most cases, I ignore these vendors, but this guy is nice and I guess I could use a little education in what he is trying to sell, and maybe you should too.

>> Boston Behind the Scenes Podcast - Spare Change
>> Homeless Empowerment Project

Holy Burrito

As if there isn't enough burrito places as it is, a new one is opening up in Harvard and Davis: Chipotle. Try all you want, but I doubt you will replace my beloved Anna's.

>> There’s a New Burrito on the Block

Zombie Marathon

We have all seen them. They walk at night. Although a few months ago, they walked during the day down Mass Ave. Well now, you can see them for 12 hours straight!
Somerville Theatre is holding a Zombie Marathon.
Tickets are $24 in advance or $30 at the door.
The event will also include guests and contests. Movies include: Fido, I walked with a Zombie, 28 Weeks Later, and Shaun of the Dead.

Zombie Marathon
Somerville Theatre (Davis Square)
Saturday 10/6-Sunday 10/7
7p-7a
Ticketmaster for tickets, or get them at the door for $30.

>>Somerville Theatre

Bowl-a-thon

At Saccos Bowl Haven in Davis Square. This is to assist in raising money for the Center for Cancer Support and Education.

Money donated will help support their Wellness Program, which is a one-on-one series of sessions for cancer patients, their family, and caregivers, to try a variety of wellness exercises such as guided meditation, art and music therapy, reiki, journaling, life coaching and dialogue, and creating their own "pathway to wellness" depending on what the individual needs. The Center also offers free support groups.

Teams are 5 people. Or you can call the center to be paired up with a team. The center encourages everyone to raise appx. $100-$200. Each team will be paired with a corporate sponsor that will match all donations. You can find your own, or call the Center for one.
Teams are encouraged to dress up! This is a costume bowl-a-thon! You should be creative and be thinking about your sponsor.
Free food! Redbones, JP Licks, as well as Dial a Pizza have all donated dinner. Registration fee and shoe rentals are covered by the Center. There will also be prizes and DJ's. Yes DJ's plural.

Bowl-a-thon. (I repeat COSTUME BOWL-A-THON!)
Tuesday, October 2. (TOMORROW)
SACCOS BOWL HAVEN
45 Day St. (DAVIS SQUARE)
6p-9p

>>Center for Cancer

Open Air What?

Open Air Circus is hosting a face painting fundraiser. Activities include:

• Face painting
• Ballooning
• Yard Sale
  
• other circus related activities

Saturday 10/29
10a-4p
Davis Square (Holland and Simpson St.)

What the Fluff?

Thats right...you know! It's time for the 90th anniversary of Fluff! Archibald Query didn't spend many a day and night creating this magical substance. Personally, crappy thing to eat, but seems like a fun substance to play with!
Which is what I think this day is all about. There will be activities galore along with musical and theatrical performances. Rumor has it there will also be fluff martini's and a pool of fluff. I just don't know if such fun is true!

What the Fluff
Celebration of a Union Square invention
Union Square Plaza
Saturday 9/29 4p-7p
Rain Date 9/30

>>What the Fluff

Get Cultured!

The Sox are making the final push for the playoffs and if you are anything like me, you are spending many a nights watching the games and drinking beers. Could you use a little more culture in your life right now? Possibly? To make it easy for us the Smithsonian is sponsoring a free museum day this Saturday.

Also unrelated, the MIT museum is free on Sunday.

Museum Day
Saturday, Sept 29

>> MuseumDay - MA
>> MIT Museum

Harvard Miracle of Science??

It's been confirmed! Miracle of Science owner, Chris Lutes, has signed a lease for the old Greenhouse property. 3 Brattle St. prime Harvard property. It has been four months since Greenhouse closed its doors. Hopefully we will see something soon. Will it be another Miracle of Science? There are no definite answers yet. Lutes also owns Cambridge 1, the pizzeria on Church St. in Harvard.
Some things that need fixing? There was no public restroom in Greenhouse, nor was it handicap accessible. Hopefully with the new renovations, this will change. Having worked at Greenhouse for appx. a month, I was a little sad to see it go. They had the best french fries and honey mustard sauce, but it was a killer to ask for extra feta. Something like $2.50 extra.

Disco Bikers

I was walking home from Davis Square late last night, and an interesting site passed by me. A bicycle train of 7ish people. What makes this one different than the rest? They were mostly very tall bicycles, and one of the men was dressed up and wearing a top hat. In addition to his stunning outfit, he had a disco ball, and some music riding along with him. The last bike on this train had some for of fish net over her wheels with glow sticks of some sort throughout. Who were these people? A club, a group of friends? I am so intrigued!

Drop a Beat this weekend

Two great music events this weekend in Cambridge.

First off, Dancing on the Charles 4 on Saturday night.


Then on Sunday, Aesop Rock will be at the Middle East.


Dancing On The Charles
Saturday Sept, 22 @ 7pm
1 Gerry’s Landing
Harvard Square, Cambridge
>> Dancing on the Charles

Aesop Rock @ the Middle East
Sunday Sept, 23 @ 8pm
480 Massachusetts Ave.
Central Square, Cambridge
>> Aesop Rock Event

A Sox Fans Guide to Balitmore

I went to more Sox games at Camden Yards than at Fenway this season, kinda sad I know. With the cheap available tickets and easy trip more and more sox fans are flocking south to catch games. So, if you happen to be one of these fans here are a few tips.
* Buy tickets ahead of time, yes some will be available but why chance it.
* You can bring water in from the outside, so take advantage of all those vendors.
* Its easy to take the light rail from the airport to Camden yards, but the ticket machines take exact change, so have dollar bills and some change (1.60 / trip). They also don't check your ticket, but they have all these signs saying you need one, and everyone seems to buy them, so I went with it.
* Every restaurant in the inner harbor will have a long wait, don't walk around for a half hour thinking you are going to find the one place that doesn't.
* People are really nice, and most are also drunk.
* There are two Dunkins in the area, one up Howard st near university center and the other is on Light st.

You got any tips?

Go Green Cab

Recently Green Cab was the first to offer a hybrid taxi service in Somerville. Go Green Cab! They have some worries about maintainability and cost, but how are you gonna work out the kinks till you start working it. Hopefully this is the beginning of a bigger trend.

>> Green Cab test drives city's first hybrid taxi

One Dollar!

There will be a flea market in Somerville this Saturday. What makes this one different? Everything is a buck or best offer! Things include linens, silverware, clothes, picture frames, tools and more! Even if it is trash and works a week? Would it matter, it was $1! Everything must go!
All proceeds benefit Nave gallery guest curator program.

Saturday 9/22
Clarendon Hill Presbyterian Church (basement)
155 Powderhouse Blvd.

>>Somerville Arts

Talk Like a Pirate Day

It exists. Worldwide. For serious! Tomorrow, September 19-Talk Like a Pirate Day. Last year one of the boys I work with told me the best pirate joke, and I never thought I would have a chance to share it. Well here it is!
Why couldn't the pirate go to the movie?
Because it was rated ARRR! Hehe, I heart fourth graders.

OK, so apparently this is a big thing. International! Check out all the cool things happening.
Locally: Brattle Theatre will be featuring 1976 pirate film, Swashbuckler. Arrive dressed as a pirate or wench and get in for half off.
Plot outline from IMDB: A pirate and a hot-tempered noblewoman join forces to protect Jamaica from a tyrant.

Other ways I can help you with this crazy day-here are some pirate terms you might not have known before. This may help get you the wench of your dreams. Although if you are using the word wench, you don't need my help.
Ahoy-Hello
Aye-Yes
Belay-stop talking (shut up)
Blimey-Exclamation of surprise
Bucko-friend
Deadlights-Eyes
Lubber(or land lubber)- a man who loves the land. Always an insult.
Smartly-Do something quickly
Swag-Loot (Can also use Booty)
More Vocab Words

Talk Like a Pirate Day: Everywhere
Free,
ALL DAY 9/19

Swashbuckler
Brattle Theatre
9:30p
$9.50 (unless dressed appropriately=half off.)

Somerville Community Gardens

When I first heard about the opening of the Durrell Community Garden, I thought it would be simialr to the Boston Gardens. That doesn't make sense though. But what I found out was better anyway.
Somerville is home to six (2 more very soon) Communtiy Gardens. You can rent a plot of grass to create your very own garden. Living in a city with very little green, never mind actual yards with rooms for gardening, I thought this was huge.

Each garden is managed by one or more volunteer Garden Coordinators. Coordinators assign plots, help gardeners get seeds and compost, and provide information and advice to those who want it. Garden plots are available on a first-come-first-served basis. If no plot is available, your name may be added to a “wait list”. Gardeners are charged a nominal fee and asked to sign a letter of agreement recognizing the cities rights and the gardener’s responsibilities.

Durrell Park is special because this will be the first designed for gardeners with physical disabilities. There are raised beds for people who are in wheelchairs.

Durrell's opening will occur Tuesday 9/18 at 4:00pm.
Allen St. Garden will open the next day, Wednesday 9/19 at 4:00pm.
For more information, call Steve Winslow, senior planner, at 617-625-6600, ext. 2519

>>City Of Somerville Gardens

I <3 NESN

After being out of town most of the last week, tonight, I'm finally home. With beer in hand I sit down to enjoy the Sox / Yankees game. I flip to NESN and nothing, dammit its on ESPN. So I switch over and sit back to relax and watch the game. Not only in the first few moments in my viewing does the evil empire tie the score but I realize how much I hate the commentators. I'm not sure why I hate them, it could have been the 20 min explanation of the pesky pole or the comment about how 80% of Jeter is better than 100% of anyone else. I miss Jerry. Mute time?

It's all Hawaii tonight!

Join Somerville Arts Council for a Hawaiin theme night in Union Square!

Grab your leis and flowered shirts as Todd Sargent transforms Union Square into a tropical destination, with sights and sounds from the Hawaiian isles.
DJ Brother Cleve will launch the evening with a tropical soundtrack to a backdrop of vintage surf and Hawaiian footage. The Mai Tai Serenaders, featuring Rick Russo on ukulele, will croon to the sounds of Hawaiian pop. Polynesian Dance Arts will perform Tahitian dance as well as the Hulas of Hawaii. Headlining the evening will be Waitiki, presenting lounge sounds in the vein of Martin Denny, Les Baxter and Arthur Lyman, along with original compositions, for a sonic Tiki cocktail.
The evening will finish with a pastiche of clips from films and documentaries about Hawaiian music, including Susan Friedman’s “The Ki Ho’alu: That’s Slack Key Guitar.” Sargent, responsible for turning the space under McGrath Highway into a 70’s dance rave up this summer, will create a magical landscape, festooning Union Square with palm trees and other tiki ephemera.

The first 50 people to arrive receive a free lei.

Friday: 9/14 (Tonight!!)
Rain date: Saturday 9/15
Union Square
Somerville
7:30p-10p

Calling all Somerville Dog Lovers

I wish I had a puppy. I would take him to this doggy heaven! AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Day. At Nunziato Field. You may also know it by seeing all the super awesome kickball players there on Wed/Thurs. nights this summer. Speaking of, if you own a very large white dog and often go to the dog park-your dog is awesome! He was considered our mascot.
In appreciation for all dog lovers, there will be pet portraits, pet massages, and nail clippings.

Saturday 9/15
10:30am-2:00pm
Nunziato Field
Summer St.

>>AKC

Rock & Roll Yard Sale

An outdoor sale of all things rock and roll! Cd's, vinyl records, t-shirts, old stereos, posters, and more! Vegan food and vintage clothing will also be around.
DJ xdonricklesx will be providing the entertainment

everything he will be playing was found in thrift stores or at yard sales - and always bought for a buck or less . . .everything is priceless . . . No DJ secrets here!
there will be a "Now Playing" and "On Deck" display to showcase the music being played for curious listeners

There will also be a hideous lamp contest. "Better to Curse the Darkness" If you have a lamp with character, or just plain hideous you are encouraged to bring it and join the contest. The winner will be voted "Worst in Show" and the light bulb will be mashed with a hammer.

Union Square
Somerville
9/15
3:00p-7:00p

Oh yes it's 80's night, oh what a night!

There was nothing super great about the 80's minus the music. Several places hold 80's night, and here is a new addition!
Holiday Inn's Night Games. They host an 80's dance party every Thursday night 8p-2am. Free appetizers, prizes, and games!

80's dance party
Night Games Night Club
30 Washington St.
Somerville
Behind the Holiday Inn

Never forgotten

As we are all well aware: today is the 6th anniversary of 9/11. In my lifetime, the most devastating day our country has ever seen. Some prefer to take a moment by themselves, others may prefer support.
Tonight a candlelight vigil will be held in Somerville. It begins at the Cedar St. entrance to the community path. Honor guards from both police and fire departments will also march.
Candles will be provided.
7:15pm
For more information call: Nancy Aylward at 617-625-6600, ext. 2100.

Davis Square Block Party

Davis square lover? Or even a young professional who lives there and is a Davis Square hater-you are invited! DARBI is presenting its first annual Davis Square Block Party.

The Davis Area Resident/Business Initiative (DARBI) is a newly formed community organization whose goal is to maintain and enhance the quality of life in the Davis Square area through creative and strategic collaboration between residents and the business community.

You will have a chance to meet your neighbors, business owners, and enjoy food from Redbones.
Cost: $5 for DARBI members
$10 for non-members.
Not a member, but would like to be? You can sign up at the event, and still get in for $5. Memberships are $20 for the year, and includes a free T-shirt!
Don't forget to check out the door prizes and the cash bar!

Proceeds from the event will support the HONK! Festival’s return to Davis Square Friday, Oct. 5. HONK! (www.honkfest.org) is a grassroots festival of activist street bands from all over the United States and beyond, playing music that celebrates progressive ideals.

Monday 9/10
6p-8p
Redbones
Chester St. (Davis Sq.)

Grecian Food Festival

Feta mmmm. Lots of food actually. Lamb, Moussaka, Gyro, Souvlaki, Pastichio, Spanakopita, just to name a few. Where? Somerville Greek Music and Food Festival. Starting today! Festival will have live Greek music nightly.

Headlining the Festival will be live Greek music by the The Makredes Ensemble on Friday Night and The Greek Mudic on Saturday Night and The Makredes Ensemble on Sunday Night.

Schedule:
Friday: 12p-2p (lunch)
Friday: 5p-11p
Saturday:12p-11p
Sunday: 12p-9p

Online Raffle Tickets
Raffle prize: New 2007 Piaggio Fly 50 Scooter and a special memorial service for the victims of 9/11 and for all Americans who gave their lives in the Greek War of Independence.




Domination of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church
29 Central St.
Somerville
Free entry as well as parking


>>Festival
>>Schedule of Events

Meat Puppets Tonight

Meat Puppets are playing at the Middle East tonight and tickets are still available.

>> Meat Puppets tickets via ticketmaster

ReXercise

Can't find the time for the gym? Or can't find time to make new friends? That's my issue, ever since college the friends have all settled in, families, moved away, fun, fun, fun. Or lack there of. For me kickball has been the answer. But, kickball can't be the answer for everyone. So, how about walking? Somerville is starting a walking club for ladies.

The Somerville Recreation Commission is accepting registration for the women’s walking program, “RecXercise.” The program is offered Mondays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the high school field house. This “prescription for fitness” program includes a warm-up, paced walking to music, and a cool-down.

Registration will be held Thursday 9/13 from 6p-8p. Or you can get registration forms online.
Walking group will start 9/17 and will run until March.

Gamble Much?

On average the MA lottery makes $700 per resident annually. Cambridge residents spend around $466 while Sommervile residents spend $816. Why such a difference? Is it cuz in Somerville our housing is cheaper and we have sooo much extra money to throw around, or cuz you Cantabrigians think you are so smart you know gambling is a waste of money? What do you think?

>> On average, Cambridge residents spend $466.31 gambling with state

Tango by Moonlight

Dancing under the stars, literally. It is so romantic.

Join us to dance the Argentine Tango outdoors in a romantic and atmospheric setting,or just to watch and listen to the music.

Not sure how to Tango? Impromptu 15minute lessons available.
On the Weeks pedestrian bridge near Harvard Square (at Memorial Drive, just east of JFK Street, across from DeWolfe Street).

Thursday 8/30
7:30p-11:00p (free)
Rain date: 8/31.
Tango by Moonlight™ is sponsored by The Tango Society of Boston

>>Tango Society

Somerville Outdoor Movie Addition

Some of you may remember the post in July about the Somerville outdoor movies. Well an addition has been made. Due to popular demand Madagascar has been added to the line up. Madagascar will be shown tomorrow 8.28 at Hodgkins Park. (Holland St./Simpson Ave.) Movie will start at dusk.
Also added to the line up was viewers choice Ferris Bueller's Day Off. (Conway Park) Footloose was a close second, but unfortunately will not be seen until next year.

Porter Square redesign

First of all, I had no idea Porter Square has the name due to a claim of naming the porterhouse steak. Secondly, why can't we be cool like Harvard and Davis?. Do we even want to be? Has the design project really helped Porter? As someone who walks that area daily it seems about the same to me and although it is spruced up a bit, whats the deal with the checkers. What do I know about the subject anways, link below to an article writen by someone who knows what they are talking about.

>> Between a rock and hard place; Re-visiting the Porter Square design project

Camberville Dancing

OK, again, I am going to try something new. As some of you may have noticed Rachel rarely posts, so this is my thing. SO-I can do whatever I like! Down to business, this is going to require responses from you readers.

Who knows of a good dancing place on Saturday nights?

*It is my birthday and I need help. Few requirements:
~I like this side of the river
~Bands are OK. (Burren for example is perfect, BUT, all of Cambridge and Somerville attempt to fit in the backroom.)
~I like top 40, classic, 80's.
~I like bars, not clubs.

Thoughts? Help!!

Back up dancers

Back up dancers are needed for a gig at the Middle East on Thursday. I am unsure at this time what kind of music it is, but I am sure you can find that out. This is not a paid gig, but will get lots of exposure in the "local scene." Rumor has it, it will be a sold out show. Rehearsal will take place Wednesday evening at 234 Huntington Ave. Call Jay @ 978-604-9256 if you are interested.

>>Middle East

Hurricane Katrina

The two year anniversary is approaching, and it is important to realize there is still a lot of work that needs to be done in New Orleans. Join Karl Seidman and Leigh Graham for a free presentation.

Seidman and Graham play integral roles in the strategic planning for redevelopment in New Orleans through MIT’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning. They will discuss their work and the department’s New Orleans Rebuilding Initiative, including the status of rebuilding, challenges and deep seeded problems, and national dissemination strategies. This is a great opportunity to truly understand the damages and the work ahead to rebuild after Hurricane Katrina.

In order to sign up, email Amy Wheeler
TODAY! Tuesday 8/21
6:00-8:00pm
The Democracy Center
Harvard Square
45 Mt. Auburn St.

America's Next Top Model

I don't usually watch this show, I admit I have seen it, but only at the gym, because i don't even have cable. But anytime there is a reality show and they say someone is from Mass, i get super excited. So here is your chance beautiful Boston ladies!
America's next top Model is coming to Boston tomorrow. They will be at Felt. There are some eligibility requirements of course. Some of them are:
*Must be at least 5'7" (check with some to height to spare!)
*Be beautiful (check)
*No previous modeling in a national campaign within the last 5 years (check)
*18-27 years old. (check hit the end of the range today!)
*Not currently holding a public office (check-phew, being VP of SGA in college would have killed my shots.)
*Willing to be photographed clothed, partially clothed, or naked. (NOT CHECK)
Shoot, having sweet calf muscles probably won't help my un-toned belly look nice. I am out.
But good luck to everyone else!

Felt
Boston
12:00-4:00
Tuesday 8/21

>>Application and schedule

Chartreuse Cocktails

DrinkBoston.com and LUPEC Boston (Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails) have joined forces for a party with the Green Goblin girls. They will discuss Chartreuse with a bartender disguised as a Carthusian monk to assist with the history, and the ladies will mix drinks for you along with appetizers with fresh ingredients.

Chartreuse, the brilliant green, 110-proof spirit made by Carthusian monks in France and flavored with 130 herbs and other botanicals, is perhaps the noblest of liqueurs. If you’ve had Chartreuse, you know that nothing else tastes quite like it. How do you even begin to describe its bright, herbal complexity? You don’t. You just mix it into a cocktail and admire the distinctive result. At the Green Street event, you’ll taste cocktails made with green Chartreuse, described above, and its sibling, yellow Chartreuse.

Green Street
Central Square
Sunday 8/19
7:00pm
Ticket Price $35 (Includes 4 Chartreuse beverages and appetizers)
Advance tickets available by calling Green Street 617-876-1655 or emailing LUPEC Boston.

>>DrinkBoston

Cambridge Arts Festival

Cambridge artists on display next to the Cambridgeside Galleria. What more could you want?!?! Shoppng, music, art, AND activities for the kids.

The festival will be an arts festival with a focus on performing arts, visual
arts, and culinary arts. The festival will be located in Cambridge, MA alongside the CambridgeSide Galleria at Canal Park. Throughout the festival, international musicians, local bands and music students will perform on one stage in front of an expected all day crowd of 15,000! Musical acts include the Kenwood Dennard Power Trio (Sting), Hiran Bullock (Paul Simon), and Tal Wikenfeld (Chick Corea).

Amongst the diverse musical lineup, CAF will feature arts and cuisine from businesses of Cambridge as well as the greater Boston area. Being an enjoyable event for the whole family, the festival also provides activities for children and adults under the School of Groove music tent. With a focus on community building through music and the arts, CAF offers a true taste of Boston.

>>CAF

Gluten Free

My mom has been on gluten free (basically means wheat free) for a few years now. When she comes to visit it's sometimes hard to find places to grab a quick bite to eat. Come to find out, right down the street from my house the Oxford Spa has a good selection of Gluten free baked goods. I have yet to check it out, but next time my mom is up I will be sure to stop by.

>> Chowhound Gluten Free tread

Project MUM

Project MUM (Meet under McGrath) is Somerville's unique way of fund raising.

Project MUM, a unique and unforgettable open-air dance party, could only take place in Somerville, a city known for its innovative use of art space. A fundraiser for the arts in Somerville, MUM is free and open to the public (with a $10 suggested donation fee.) Proceeds will benefit ARTSomerville, the Somerville Arts Council, Mudflat Pottery Studio and Somerville Community Access Television.
This year's event pays tribute to the glorious 1970s and features four hours of music spun by DJs Flack, Axel Foley and Pace, with lighting (and mirror ball) by Todd Sargent/VDA Productions that provide the perfect backdrop for your fabulous dance moves. Eye-popping video and light sculptures will include a psychedelic slideshow flashback featuring your own* authentic 70s photos. Special guest video artist jackbackrack.

To get into it even more, take some shots of you and your friends in your 70's outfits and send them in. They will be put on display during the show! Email digital images at least 4”x6” 300 dpi to: info@artsomerville.org

Project MUM
August 18th
9:00pm-1:00am
McGrath Highway
Washington St. & McGrath Highway

>>ARTSomerville
>>Jackbackrack
>>Somerville Arts Council

Harvard Square Market

If there is one thing Harvard Square is missing it is a grocery store. That should change by this fall. Luckily, not a chain, but an independent grocer will open its doors on the corner of Church St. and Brattle.

The new tenant, Connecticut grocer Peter Whang, said he’s looking forward to moving into his new store, called market in the Square, even if it means snubbing another Ivy League school to the south. For years, Whang has owned two groceries minutes from the Yale University campus in New Haven. Earlier this year, Whang sold both stores to be able to move to Cambridge.

I have lived on both sides of Harvard and I prefer the Watertown (Well technically Cambridge) Shaws as opposed to the Porter Square. But nothing compares to the prices of Market Basket. No better people watching either :) Maybe this independent market will bring some competition.

Yelp bowling

Anyone know of Yelp? A pretty interesting site full of reviews by regular people. Or as they put it "Real reviews, real people." They are starting a yelp bowling league. If you are registered (it's free) they will be bowling at Lanes and Games on Thursday's. I am pretty sure they are going to try to make this a regular event. They are starting it out on Thursday August 16.

If you are not interested in bowling, you should check out Yelp.com anyway. It is a pretty exciting site, and they have recently added an events section, which is where you will find more info about their bowling league.

Thursday's 9:00pm

Lanes and Games

195 Concord Tpk

Cambridge MA. (Right near Alewife)

Scary Poppins

Growing up, this was one of my all time favorite movies. Julie Andrews was practically perfect in every way! When I went for interviews I sang "A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, medicine go dooooooooowwwnn." No I didn't, but wouldn't you just laugh so hard if I did. :)
Kidstock Creative Theatre will be at the Central Library to host the interactive show. Now I have no clue how close this is to one of my top ten favorite movies/musicals, but it seems like it could be close. Kids grades K-6 will enjoy this most.

Wednesday 8/15. 2:00pm
Central Library
Somerville

Healthy food/Movie

Community Growing Center is hosting a food/film potluck. Bring a dish with a list of ingredients. Focus on the food, and then enjoy a movie. King Corn. Here is a plot summary by Sustainable Table.

King Corn is a humorous and touching documentary about two best friends who decide to move to Iowa to grow an acre of corn – after finding out (through laboratory hair analysis) that their bodies were made primarily out of….corn. But this is not your typical buddy picture. While it does trace a year in the life of two friends, the film is really about the history of corn in modern America and the filmmakers’ relationship with the crop they’ve decided to grow.
After the somewhat shocking discovery about their bodily composition, Ian Chaney and Curt Ellis move to a small county in Iowa (where, coincidentally, both had farmer great-grandfathers) in order to find out how they (and most other Americans) ended up made out of corn. The two friends convince an Iowa farmer to lend them an acre of land to plant their corn crop. They purchase genetically modified corn for planting, and with the help of their neighbors, some heavy machinery, and lots of chemical fertilizers and herbicides, they end up growing a bumper crop of corn. But as Ian and Curt show us – this isn’t your sweet summer corn-on-the-cob we’re talking about – it’s corn bred specifically for industrial applications. The two friends decide to find out what happens to the corn they’ve grown after it leaves the grain elevator – and find that tracing their crop is easier said than done. Ultimately, however, they come to the conclusion that their corn is likely destined for one of two American industries: animal feed or corn syrup

Wednesday August 15. 6:00pm
Community Growing Center
22 Vinal Ave.
Somerville

New Noodles

Wagamama, a chain of noodle bars, is opening in Harvard Square today, Aug 13th.

Some interesting info about Wagamama from wikipedia:

Wagamama has a number of features that set them apart from other restaurants. These include:

• Orders are taken via PDAs, and wirelessly networked to the kitchen, so that as soon as an order is taken it can begin to be prepared.
• Food is delivered to the table as soon as it is ready, they sell sides instead of starters and these and the main courses can arrive in any order.
• Customers sit on either side of large tables—one table-set can seat up to 20 people.
• All restaurants are non-smoking, by Law in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland and recently England.
• Green tea is supplied free on request.
• Reservations are not taken; all customers are seated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Wagamama merchandise can be bought in the restaurant, including a cookbook, dishes and cutlery.

>> Wagamama

WWW-TONIGHT!

World Women's Wrestling at the Good Time Emporium tonight! 8/12. Apparently Good Time Emporium is the place to be for wrestling fans with this AND the MWF 2 weeks ago. If Rachel lives up to all her smack talking, Tanya Lee is going down!
WWW champion Tanya Lee defends her title against Lexxus, the Diva Killaz Reunite, Rachel Donovan (jk, jk), and more!
Tickets $16, $12 for kids under 12 or students with an ID.

August 12 7:00pm
Good Time Emporium
30 Assembly Square Dr.
Somerville.

Recraft an Eco-Friendly Craft Fair

Mark your calendars for this environmentally friendly craft fair. Spend the afternoon checking out vendors, enjoying live music, and get this, decorating your very own reuseable grocery bag! If you got the skills you can hit up the free style crafting activity, what can you do with a pile of random stuff?

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE...RECRAFT!
An eco-friendly craft fair brought you by Magpie
and the Somerville Arts Council.

Saturday August 18 (rain date 8.19)
3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Union Square’s Central Plaza
Union Square, Somerville

>> REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE...RECRAFT!

Somerville drivers

This is a rarity. I am about to rant about Somerville for a second. I know this blog is about activities, but this concerns the well being of all Somerville citizens. Cambridge too, since I live literally right on the line. OK, so, I know you have all seen this. Anyone who has ever been on a road with a traffic light has seen this, or even looked out your window at a traffic light. The super left on red move. Now, I am not talking left on red onto a one way so it is kinda like a right on red. No-cross through a busy intersection, probably because you are stupid, left on red. Somerville drivers-why is this OK!?!? I have seen this too many times to count in the last four years, and it only seems to happen in Somerville. Particularly at the Somerville/Beacon intersection lights. Anyone else notice this? As I said, if you are denying it, you are probably one that has done it. I think I am done ranting, but i beg of you, for the children! Know the left on red is not Ok, it will NEVER be ok. And people behind you laugh, some may wish bad things on you, others will curse up a storm. But they all think the same thing. "IDIOT!"

Home Movie Day

Got some tasty films you have been working on using that second hand camcorder, no not the ones that happen behind closed doors, the other ones. Maybe a little artsy, maybe a little cheesy, who knows how you like to do it, but now there is an event to salute you. Home Movie Day!

What Is Home Movie Day?
Home Movie Day is a celebration of amateur films and film making held annually on the second Saturday in August at many local venues worldwide.

Home Movie Day events provide the opportunity for individuals and families to see and share their own home movies with an audience of their community, and to see their neighbors' in turn. It's a chance to discover why to care about these films and to learn how best to care for them.

Saturday, August 11
12:00pm - 4:00pm

Harvard Film Archive
24 Quincy Street
Cambridge, MA
(617) 495-4700

>> Home Move Day

Somerville Mural

There will be a community meeting held by Mayor Joe Curtatone, Ward 5 Alderman Sean O'Donovan, and Save Our Somerville (a non-profit group whose goal is to provide a voice for those who feel they have no voice.) in attempt to gather Somerville's thoughts. There is to be a new mural painted at Lexington Park and they want your input.
Tuesday August 14.
7:00pm
Visiting Nurses Association.
3rd floor Community Room
259 Lowell St.
Somerville
For more information please contact Carlene Campbell at (617)-625-6600 x3303.

Same Sex America Art Exhibit

On 9.6 the Same Sex America Art exhibit opens in the Porter Exchange Gallery. Get a chance to meet the artists and enjoy free wine. The exhibit will include the award winning Same Sex America documentary and photographs from Amber Davis Tourlentes.

Thursday, September 6
6:00pm - 8:00pm
The Art Institute of Boston Gallery at University Hall
Porter Exchange Building
1815 Mass Ave
Cambridge, MA

>> Same Sex America Exhibit Opening and Wine Reception

yumm blueberries...

Cambridge Common is holding a blueberry beer dinner on August 9th. If this wasn't 35 bucks or I wasn't cheap, I would be all about this. Not only are blueberry beers delicious, they are going to have chilled blueberry soup, which is freaking delicious. If you are a fan of that berry that is blue, check you might want to check it out.

Thursday, August 9th
$35 (excluding tax & gratuity)

Cambridge Common
1667 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02138

>> Blueberry Beer Dinner

Mardi Gras in Cambridge!

Close! The Cambridge Carnival International is hosting the Taste of Cambridge Carnival on Sunday August 12.

A kick-off fundraising event to support the 15th year of Cambridge Carnival International a Caribbean and Mardis Gras style festival in Cambridge. This event will feature a cultural presentation from a historical and social perspective of Cambridge Carnival.

Steel pan presentation, drumming, folkloric, dancing, and educational exhibits.
Tickets are $10. $5 for children. (Includes refreshments.) People are encouraged to buy advance tickets due to limited seating. Call 617-492-2518.

Broad Institute
7 Cambridge Center
Kendall Square.
Free Sunday Parking in the MIT lot across the street.
Sunday, August 12th.
3:00p-7:00p

National Night Out

National Night Out Against Crime-self explanatory. What do I do about it? Write about two places. Same time, same day different activities different location.

National Night Out is a unique crime prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and Target to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anticrime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Somerville first since this is my home town:
SCAP(Somerville Cares about Prevention) partners with local businesses, civic groups, local and state organizations for the fourth year for this event. Where: Foss Park. Tuesday August 7. Activities will begin at 4:00pm. Activities include: K-9 presentation(6:00pm), obstacle course, dance performances, and to end the night, a movie under the stars. (Shark Tale) Complimentary popcorn. THere will also be face painting and Child ID kits to help engage families.

Cambridge:
Again-Tuesday August 7. For the 16th year in a row, Cambridge Task Force will host there event at Rindge Field. (Adjacent to the Peabody School.) Cambridge also includes a morning addition. Morning Out will be from 9:30am to 1:30pm. Pony rides, entertainment for kids, a DJ, roaming clown, and a reptile/amphibian presentation.
Cambridge Night Out will then begin at 5:30pm and go until 8:30pm. Activities include: Basketball competition for 11-16 year olds, cookout, safety demonstrations, DJ, McGruff the Crime Dog, and again more pony rides!

Both events are free and open to the public. Both communitie ask for the public's help to prevent crime by simply leaving your outside light on at night.

>>National Night Out

MWF Soul Survivor IV.

I am sure most of you read how much Rachel loved Good Times. She went on and on about the place. I wonder what she will think about this event then!
MWF Soul Survivor IV at Good Time Emporium. Tickets range from $16 to $30. Event includes:Live Wrestling, VIP Q&A, Autographs, Photo's and Fanfest. (?)
Wrestlers include: Iron Sheik, Road Dogg, Joey Mercury, and Alex Shelley.
I don't know much about wrestling, but I guess this is a big deal. My question is, where is this going to happen. Is there a place in Good Time for this event. Obviously the answer is yes, i just don't know where.

VIP-6p Bell time 8p.
Good Time EMporium
30 Assembly Square Dr.
Somerville MA.

>>MWP

Mystery Customers

The city of Somerville is focusing on customer service and is seeking volunteers to help them do so. If you become a mystery shopper, you will evaluate your transaction with various city offices and then provide valuable feedback and customer service suggestions. Read Instructions carefully. After you have done so, you can take the quiz. If you have done well, they will contact you via email to sign you up.

The first 25 people to review 5 offices will get a Somerville T-shirt. Also, all "customers" will be invited to a reception to review all transactions and discuss results of the new program. Wow, I am there for the T-shirt!



>>If the above links do not work, click here. Somerville's customer page. You will be able to get the quiz and instructions there.

Free Ice Cream in Davis - TONIGHT

I wrote about the RCN free ice cream truck a few weeks ago, but here I go again. Word is the truck will be in Davis Square tonight from 5-7. Since I owe someone an ice cream I might be heading that way.

RCN free Ice Cream
Davis Square T stop
Tuesday, July 31
5 - 7 pm

>> Free Ice Cream Today

Calling all Somerville Artists!

Davis Square is next on the list for renovations. Included in this new look will be an installment of community art throughout the station. When walking through the Davis station, i notice all the art and think-anyone I know? Of course not! The current panels were placed in 1984 when the station was first built. Some of the art panels will be replaced, but the structural art and children's panels will remain intact.

A number of the existing panels will be replaced with 4’x 4’ art panels that reflect the vibrancy of the City of Somerville, Tufts University, and the linkages that join them. The Somerville Arts Council has released a Call to Artists with specific parameters relevant to the scope, size, and materials required for the 4’x 4’ panels. A jury comprised of representatives from Tufts University, the MBTA, and Somerville will review all submissions and will recommend approximately nine for display within the T station.

All artists who live or work in Somerville are encouraged to contribute. To participate, submit a photo, sketch, painting, or image for consideration. Submissions are due to the Arts Council by September 14 2007. Contact Gregory Jenkins of the Somerville Arts Council at (617) 625-6600, ext.2985

Nobody puts Baby in a corner.

Contestants get to compete by re-enacting their favorite Patrick Swayze moment and go for the prize!

Also shown will be Doug Harry's spoof "The Real World: Capes." It comically answers the question: what would happen if you put 7 superheroes together and taped their lives?

There will also feature stand up comedy of Don Diego, Josh Gondleman, Dan Hirshon, and Katie McCarthy.

Middle East
Central Square
July 31
10p
18+

>>Anderson Comedy

Smell-o-vision

Smell your way through a movie? Crazy talk!

The film will screen at 8.30pm, with subtitles in Spanish. Show up at 7pm and explore the Carnival of the Nose tables, featuring interactive games and exhibits that probe the functions and meanings of smell, our most powerful sense memory.

Sponsored by the Somerville Arts Council.

Film: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
July 28th.
Union Square
Somerville
7p-10p

>>SAC

Greenhouse Replacement

Word is that there is an agreement underway for a new resturant to move into the old Greenhouse spot in Harvard Square. The name is yet to be released but they say the new place will have a bathroom, another place to pee is always good news. Lets just hope its not another chain..

>> New restaurant to open at former Harvard Square cafe

This isn't Rocket Science

Free preview screening of Sundance 2007 award winner Rocket Science tonight at Somerville Theatre hosted by Boston Independent Film Festival .

Plot overview from IMDB

Hal Heffner (Reece Thompson) is just an ordinary , no frills high-school kid who happens to have a severe stutter. He has a some-what broken home life, living with his older, bullying, thief of a brother, Earl (Vincent Piazza). Their parents don't get along so well... Hal has a difficult time dealing with his stutter in school as well as general daily life. He is especially shy. Well... Hal is approached by the school Debate Team Star, Ginny Ryerson (Anna Kendrick) and she entices Hal into joining the Plainsboro High Debate Team. Hal develops a fondness for Ginny and desperately attempts to be closer with her. Hilarity Ensues...

Interested, visit Boston Independent Film Festival and pint passes.

Tonight, Thursday July 26
Somerville Theatre
Davis Square, Somerville
7:30

>> Rocket Science on IMDB
>> Rocket Science trailer
>> Free Preview Screening: Rocket Science

Camberville Farmers Markets

The Boston Weekly Yelp had a great write up of Farmers Markets in the area.

Some Cambridge / Somerville picks:

Central Square (Mon 11:30 to 6pm)
Parking lot at Bishop Allen and Columbia
Cambridge, MA

Davis Square (Wed from noon 'til dark)
Day Street & Herbert Street
Somerville, MA

Kendall Square (Thurs from 11am to 2pm)
300 Athenaeum St
Cambridge, MA

Union Square (Sat from 9am to 1pm)
70 Union Sq
Somerville, MA

Cambridgeport (Sat from 10am to 2pm)
Morse School Parking Lot
Magazine St & Memorial Dr
Cambridge, MA

If you missed ArtBeat...

If you missed ArtBeat like I did, here are some videos that will make you feel like you were there, or so I think, how would I know, like I said I wasn't there. Were you?

>> Knitting around a tree
>> Cage Interview
>> Vendors
>> Boston Typewriter Orchestra
>> ArtBeast, night one

Similar to a drive in...

Same concept, watching a movie outside. Although no car necessary.
Somerville Movie fest. This week's movie "Babe" to be held at Conway Park. Also known as SomerMovie fest.

Every Thursday night at dusk, beginning on July 5th, join fellow Somerville residents for the annual, summer-long “movie in the park” festival. Each week, different Hollywood movies will be shown at parks throughout the City – including Seven Hills Park in Davis Square, Conway Park on Somerville Ave., and Prospect Hill Park in Union Square.

Click here for full Summer Schedule.
The fun part is, some are meant for kids some are not. Next week's movie for those of you that are too lazy to check out the schedule is Rent. Seven Hills Park in Davis Square.
Movies may be cancelled in the event of rain. Somerville residents dial 311. Other interested non-somerville residents could visit City of Somerville and click on the “Summertime in Somerville” logo.

The Simpsons Movie

You know it is going to end when a movie comes out. This could go either way. But with a plot like this?!

When Homer Simpson accidentally pollutes the river with toxic waste from the
nuclear power plant, he gets fired from his job, and everyone has to
evacuate Springfield, possibly forever!

You also know everyone in the world loves the Simpsons. So where are you going to go to see
it? Opens July 27th. Next Friday. Here are some ideas.

Somerville Theatre. (Davis Square)

They sell beer and wine during all shows (except for midnight viewing) They should just win? c'mon. Mmmmmm beer. Just imagine the drool. Tickets

Showtimes: Friday July 27th & Saturday July 28th
1:15 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:45 pm, 8:00 pm, 10:15 pm, 12:15 am.

$7 for evening/weekend tickets.

Fandango has all the other options Somerville and Cambridge has to offer. Unfortunately for you, they aren't scheduled yet, so you have to do the leg work of finding showtimes elsewhere.

All the more reason Somerville Theatre is the place to be.

Taste of Cambridge

Any reason you missed the Taste of Cambridge, but wish you hadn't. The rain, forgot to get tickets, or just a prior commitment? No worries! The rain set it back a week. Tickets are still available.
http://camberville.blogspot.com/search/label/food

Check out this weeks post for more info!
All the same stuff-just a different date.
Thursday July 26.

Davis Square ArtBeat

Once a year mid-summer Davis Square is transformed, thanks to the Somerville Arts Council. This year's theme, ArtBeast. Beginning with a Beastly Parade Workshop Friday night, this event will go through Saturday evening. Performers, vendors, and talents of all kinds.
Check out the schedule.
Stage area's include: Seven Hills Park, Elm St. Statue Park, and many more.

ArtBeat includes music, performance art, craft vendors, dance, theater, food,
and a whole more. Each year we develop a theme that serves as a launching point
for artists and the community to express themselves. Take a look at our previous festivals.

ArtBeast
Friday July20, and Saturday July21. Events happening throughout the day.
Davis Square

Shop til you drop

Some of you may remember Davis Square Midnight Madness. Yes? No? Either way it is back! Shopping in Davis Square starting at 5pm with specials in participating stores.

Shoppers will enjoy discounts at participating stores and tasty treats courtesy of area restaurants. Partial proceeds benefit Solutions at Work, a non-profit organization that provides programs that help the homeless transition back into the “mainstream” working world. The evening is being organized in collaboration with the Davis Area Resident Business Initiative (DARBI).

Participating Stores:

• Black & Blues — Men’s and women’s clothing, 89 Holland St.
• Cameras Inc. — Cameras and supplies, 267 Elm St.
• Chinook — Outdoor clothing and gear, 93 Holland St.
• Cibeline — Designer clothing and accessories, 85 Holland St.
• Magpie — Hip local crafts, 378A Highland St.
• Poor Little Rich Girl — Designer consignment, 255 Elm St.
• Rockin Bob’s Guitar — Music store, 37 Holland St.
• And many more.

July19th
5p-12a
Davis Square

Taste of Cambridge

Anyone who knows Rachel and I know how much we love to eat! So this event is a huge deal! The Taste of Cambridge is being hosted July 19th. Restaurants from all over Cambridge are gathering in Technology Square so everyone can get a bite!

The Taste of Cambridge is a celebration of the diverse restaurant scene in Cambridge. With cuisine from America to Japan to Brazil to France and everything in between, Cambridge is a melting pot- a tasty one to be sure- of culture and cuisine. This event features creative and abundant samples of food, beer and wine from the wonderful restaurants found around the city, enhanced by a beautiful outdoor setting, live music and a great crowd.

Tickets are $50 if you purchase them in advance. $60 at the door. VIP Tickets can be purchased online for $75. They will also be sold at the door for $75. The difference in price?
VIP: Let into event 30minutes early and unlimited beverages and trips to all restaurants.
General: Open at 5:30, Punch card for each restaurant and tickets for 4 beverages.
I know what you're thinking. This is a lot of money for two hours. Did you know the tickets are tax deductible and ALL PROCEEDS go to 4 deserving charities.
*Cambridge Prevention Coalition
*Cambridge safeRIDE Program
*Cambridge Collaborative
*North Charles Inc.

Thursday July 19th
Technology Square
Rain Date: July26.

>>Participants
>>Taste of Cambridge

Bastards Comedy

Funny stuff midweek!

Sprung from the loins of creativity and bad attitude, Bastards Inc. first took the stage in late summer of '06. The house team consists of six members performing weekly. Joining in the fun are other acts from the Boston area and beyond to round out a brilliant comedy set every week.

The Cantab
738 Mass Ave. (Central Sq.)
Thursday's. $3


>>Bastards Inc.
>>Meet the Bastards

Kids Eat Free!

Somerville Public Schools announces its participation in the US Dept. of Agriculture Summer Food Program for kids. The wonderful children of Somerville can eat breakfast/lunch at the park or pool they are hangin out at for free. Children includes everyone under the age of 18. Available through August 24th.

List of Parks:

• Trum Field — Starting Monday, July 2, lunch will be served from 11:25 to 11:40 a.m.
• Kidstop at Powder House Park — Starting Monday, July 9, breakfast will be served from 9:45 to 10 a.m.
• Sen. Corbett Park — Starting Monday, July 2, lunch will be served from 10:25 to 10:40 a.m.
• Latta Brothers MDC Pool at Foss Park — Lunch is being served from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.
• Perkins Playground — Lunch is being served from 1:35 to 1:55 p.m.
• Dilboy MDC Pool — Lunch is being served from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Lexington Avenue Playground — Lunch is being served from 10:40 to 10:55 a.m.
• Mystic Housing and Playground — Lunch is being served from 11:55 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.

>>Breakfast/Lunch Menu

Free Ice Cream!

How can you not like someone that gives you free ice cream?

Starting June 28, RCN’s ice cream truck will be making rounds in neighborhoods where RCN provides internet/cable/phone services.

RCN’s free ice cream truck will travel neighborhood streets between 5 - 7 pm every weekday and 1 - 3 pm every Saturday, handing out free ice cream to residents and providing them with information describing RCN’s signature services.

>> Free Ice Cream

Tour De France Breakfast

Nothing like a sweet ride ending with a tasty breakfast. I say that like I ride a bike often. I don't even own a bike anymore. I want to though, and will soon, it is just not something happening right this second. Anywho, you do it :)
Ride your bike to Davis Square Redbones, they have valet parking for bikes. Or you can walk in. The cost is $7 and they set up a tv outside. Sit back, relax and enjoy the mountain stage of the tour. (Stage 9)

Each day of the tour is considered a separate race or stage; the 20 stages are of varying degrees of difficulty as the route travels 3,550 kilometers from July 7 to July 20. Redbones breakfasts are scheduled during two of the six mountain stages — the most challenging for competitors and the most exciting for viewers. Local cyclists are encouraged to put together a group or ride in alone, stay for breakfast and the broadcast, and then ride away inspired by the competition.

Redbones will be serving breakfast at 9am. Including: fruit, sausage, coffee, yogurt, scrambled eggs and more!

Redbones
55 Chester St.
Davis Square
9am
Tuesday July17 AND Wednesday July 25.

7.11 - Free Slurpee Day!!!

Help yourself to an ice cold delicious free slurpee, yippee!

7.11 is free slupree day at, you guessed it, 7-11!!!

Camberville 7-11 locations:

600 Technology Square, Cambridge
40 JFK, Cambridge
750 Mass Ave, Cambridge
589 Mass Ave, Cambridge
275 Prospect st, Cambridge
582 Broadway, Somerville

M Salon

BEFORE
I recently decided I would like to get all my hair cut off, not shaved or anything that crazy, but something different. I have never had short hair above my shoulders and I wanted something new. I have heard rave reviews about M Salon. I am not going to lie, I was a little intimidated by their unique decorating. Were they going to be snobs, and look down on me?

When we first opened M in 2001, we wanted a vibrant, inspiring space that would reflect the artistry of the stylists who worked within the salon, and our colorful, art-filled space reflects just that: the lively imagination of our stylists and the inventive and friendly spirit of the salon as a whole.

I was looking for a salon, but hadn't found one I liked, so the last time I got my bangs trimmed, I went to Great Cuts, they cut them almost off. I was horrified for months! I needed a professional to try to even them out, and hopefully make them look like what i call trendy bangs again.

Enough with my depressing story: So I made an appointment, and went in. Maggie the owner greeted me when I entered and complimented my outfit. Dana, my stylist asked me what i wanted and i listed a few opinions: I want it short, but i hate short bangs. He looked at me, pulled my hair a little and said i have an idea! He then talked to me about it and i was in love. I have so much hair in the back that i could make a blanket for my family. Dana cut off all my hair picked up what used to be my layered back and said "feel this, it's heavy!" I did and then shuddered a little as I held my own hair in my hand.
Dana was very friendly, we chatted. Which at times I don't really like. Sometimes it is nice to just sit there and have someone play with your hair, but this was pleasant. Not forced. Comfortable silences as well. Like we were old friends. Not really, but it was still nice. Rumor has it they have dogs usually, and I was very excited to pet them, but there were no dogs.

The one downfall. Unless you have previously been, this will probably be news. They can't add tip to your credit card. I had no cash on me. I was thrown back at that. They tell you as they ring you up. You have to go get money and go back in that circumstance. Unusual.

Anywho-I love my hair. It is cute, and usually when i get my hair done, it is practically impossible to get it to look like the day it was cut. It will look good that first day, and then never again. Not with this cut. I can recreate it everyday if I like! It is low maintenance and adorable! I highly recommend M Salon!





AFTER

>>M Salon
1748 Mass Ave. (Between Porter and Harvard)
Cambridge Ma

Life is good

Life is good festival is being held at Fenway this year. I know this is not Camberville events, but sometimes things are just worth crossing the river for. I am pretty sure this is one of them. The list of entertainment seems endless! Things such as: Dugout Photos, Seed Spitting, Dunk a Yank, Gin Blossoms, Superfan Competition and so much more!
Tickets are $20 bucks for adults and $10 for kids. Proceeds are to benefit Project Joy
and Red Sox Foundation. The goal is to reach 1 million dollars.
Spend a day at Fenway and benefit kids in need throughout Boston. I can't get in when the Red Sox are there, so I might as well take advantage of this! Rumor has it there will be some legends available for autographs and photos.

Saturday July 7th
11a-6p
Fenway Park

>>Life is Good

Dancin' in the street!

And we're dancin' and it feels all right! City of Cambridge is hosting its annual Dance Party. I think of Sarah Jessica Parker circa 1985 Dancin' in the street playing in the background. C'mon who's with me! Girls just want to have fun! Also starring Helen Hunt. Good movie, but then again I was 5, what did i know :)

Put on your dancing shoes and join us as we move to the groove at the City of Cambridge's Annual Dance Party Friday, July 6, from 7-11 p.m., on Massachusetts Avenue, between Inman and Bigelow Streets (in front of City Hall – at the heart of Central Square)!!

It doesn't matter what you wear! Just as long as you are there, so c'mon every guy grab a girl everywhere around the world! They'll be dancin, they're dancin in the streets!
Music by DJ Joey Demers. After dark a spectacular lights show will assist the magic of the night.

Friday July 6th.
7p-11p
All ages welcome to this free event!
Rain Date: July 13.
**Mass Ave. will be closed, therefore the #1 bus will end at Central Square.

>>City of Cambridge

Where to pee

We've all been there, whether its a late night walking home from the bar or early afternoon when it hits you. You feel a little sweat on your brow, you squeeze your legs together, your eyes dart around at the surrounding buildings, panic sets in. Shit you have to pee and you have to pee NOW. You could try to sneak into that restaurant over there, but its a gamble. Why can't Cambridge invest in public restrooms? What is that you say, these bathrooms exist already?

These stealth toilets exist in the MBTA stations at the Central, Harvard, Porter, and Alewife stops. Some are available to the public, but are unmarked and may require help, and a key, from a customer service agent.

Starting in September, the T will pilot a program to make them more public by posting signs in the customer service agent booths and allowing the City of Cambridge to direct pedestrians aboveground to the facilities below.

Not as cool as the self cleaning bathrooms Boston is getting, but when you got to go, any bathroom will do.

>> Restrooms an underground phenomenon