Fungi, a sprout spaghetti dinner

[shduff.livejournal.com]

Fungi. Even the name sounds a little gross. "Fungi..." It's damp and squishy. It feeds on detritus--the dead and decaying stuff in nature. It is sometimes poisonous and sometimes edible, with species that are microscopic in size and others that weigh many tons. The largest organism in the history of our planet was a fungus. And the stories of their growth are amazing. Tonight, we are going to look at fungi as food source, ecological partner, psychadelic, and complex system with the help of [[read the lj-cut for details!]]...

( Read more... )

This month's dinner is this Wednesday November 16. As usual, we'll meet at 730PM for dinner with performances starting at 8PM, all at sprout's studios at 339R Summer St. in Somerville just outside Davis Square. There will be spaghetti, drinks, and bread for all. We encourage you to bring your own plates and utensils, though we will have paper options and there is a $10 suggested donation, though all are welcome!

MORE CATS! (seeking vet recommendations)

[thismightbejess.livejournal.com]

I am a relatively new pet owner and I would like some advice on local veterinarians. My cat is young and healthy and just needs a wellness exam, and maybe some help with some sudden itchiness. Very routine. I am, however, "living on a budget" as they say. There are rave reviews for many vets in the area; Porter Square, Union Square, Winter Hill and Huron all have 4 to 5 stars on The Yelp, but I suspect they are all rather expensive. Also, since I am a new pet owner, I don't actually know what "expensive" is.

Do you have any suggestions for a reasonably priced cat vet in the Davis-ish area?

Could any of you tell me what to expect to be charged for a basic exam?

Also, I'm curious if any of you have tried the Merwin Memorial Free Clinic in Allston. It seems you just show up with your pet, are seen on a first-come-first-serve basis, and are only charged for medicines and materials (though they encourage donations). The downside is that there can be a crazy-long wait. I, personally, wouldn't mind waiting, but I suspect Pickwick might consider it An Ordeal. I also think it might be better to establish a relationship with a nearby vet, who would then have all of the cat's information on hand. But super-cheap vet visits are mighty tempting....

Powderhouse Yoga Alert

[tealegirle.livejournal.com]

Hey guys, I just thought I'd alert the community to new(ish) yoga classes in Powderhouse Square, at Mass Metta Massage (on the side with Subway and Toni & Ana's). There's one 5.45 pm Mondays, and one 7.45 pm Tuesdays; they're vinyasa by approach and adapt well to any level. The room is pretty small and only fits seven students, so it's a good idea to reserve a spot beforehand by emailing emily@massmettamassage.com or calling 617.955.3036. They're $11 (+$1 if you rent a mat), and 75 minutes long.

I'm not associated except as a student--and somebody THRILLED to have a yoga option in Powderhouse. Patty is one of the best teachers I've had, and I wish these classes to prosper.

Cambridge Savings Bank for mortgage?

[mamajoan.livejournal.com]

I've read through the recent posts in the banking tag for this community, and there's a lot of useful info there -- but they all seem to be mostly about checking/savings accounts. I'm wondering about mortgages. I want to refinance and am looking at Cambridge Savings Bank particularly. Does anyone have experience with CSB for mortgages? Or another small local bank (or credit union) that you'd recommend? Thanks!

Save the date - December 11th is the 15th annual Ciclismo Classico Jingle Ride

[obie119.livejournal.com]

(I know it seems early, but seeing as I'm receiving holiday party evites like crazy this week - tis the season)

Put some antlers on your helmet, tie some jingle bells to your two-wheeled friend, and join fellow holiday merrymakers at the 15th annual Ciclismo Classico Jingle Ride.

On Sunday, December 11th, a grand parade of cyclists, many in holiday costumes, will meet in Arlington for a leisurely bike excursion to Boston and back. This 22 mile ride rolls through Harvard Square, the Esplanade, Boston Common, and Newbury Street. The group makes occasional stops to sing carols for passersby, and enjoys bringing some unexpected holiday cheer to all who witness the group.

The ride concludes with a party in Ciclismo Classico CEO Lauren Hefferon’s Arlington home – complete with food, hot drinks, and a roaring fire.

NEW for 2011 – ride includes “picnic” lunch in Boston, and we are encouraging more people to ride as a team or group. There will be new prizes for best-dressed team (of 4 or more riders), and biggest team. We’ve also streamlined the riding route.

Jingle with Ciclismo Classico!
Date: Sunday December 11, 2011 (rain/snow date Sunday, December 18th)
Time: 11 AM to 2:30 PM
Distance: 22 mile leisurely loop from Arlington to Boston and back
Starting point: Jam N’ Java, 594 Mass. Ave in Arlington Center
Cost: Suggested donation of $25 (children under 18 are free if accompanied by an adult). Includes an on-the-go lunch. All proceeds go to CYCLE Kids.
Fun stuff: Prizes for best costume, best decorated bike, and (NEW FOR 2011) best-dressed team of four or more riders, and biggest riding team.
More info: http://www.ciclismoclassico.com/jingleride2011

Note: Whether you are a tin soldier or “Olive, the Other Reindeer”, there needs to be a helmet on your head!

RSVP is required – contact MJ Keeler at 781-646-3377 or mj@ciclismoclassico.com
(x post to bostoncycling)

This Wednesday 11/16: Ward 6 ResiStat meeting

[ron_newman]

from http://somervilleresistat.blogspot.com/p/meetings.html

When: Wed, November 16, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Where: Ciampa Manor, 27 College Ave., Davis Square

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the Board of Aldermen invite residents to the Fall 2011 ResiStat Community Meetings, a twice-yearly effort to share the latest city data and news directly with residents and gather their feedback.

Seven neighborhood meetings, one in each ward, will be held between Tuesday Oct. 25th and Tuesday Dec. 6th. Mayor Curtatone, ward and at-large aldermen, police and City staff will discuss issues of importance for residents—from crime stats and road maintenance to citywide initiatives. Light refreshments will be served at a casual meet and greet after each meeting.

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This Thursday: Theatre@First's Bare Bones: The Oldest Profession - ONE NIGHT ONLY!

[ron_newman]

Bare Bones: Staged Readings at Theatre@First presents

The Oldest Profession
a play by Paula Vogel
directed by Lisë Stern

starring Cindy Bell, Susan Fendell, Sandi McDonald, Gilly Rosenthol,
and Dayenne Walters!

Five amazing actors take the stage as a group of elderly prostitutes
discussing their diminishing clientele, increased competition, and
aching joints. With wit, compassion, and humor, they struggle to
adjust to changing circumstances.

You won't want to miss this funny, moving and thought-provoking performance!

ONE NIGHT ONLY!
Thursday, November 17th at 8pm
Unity Somerville
6 William St @ College Ave

Suggested donation $5
No reservations required

[copied from lillibet's post in theatreatfirst. Please, Firsties, promote your shows in davis_square also!]

Seeking roomie in book-laden Tufts neighborhood home

[leafshimmer.livejournal.com]

Dear gang,

Go to the link for the scoop. This is for late Dec./Jan. 1. The lease is for five months but we could extend if you are looking for a home rather than just a perch. The latter is fine, of course.

About me: I am a gay male vegetarian, but not fascistic about it, and whatever you want to cook is fine. I like cleanliness but am not super neat. The house is across the street from a beautiful park (mainly frequented by dog-walkers at this time of the year). My cat Simona is very friendly but will respect your need for privacy. Feel free to ask questions if there's anything you need to know.

http://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/roo/2704501967.html