TUES 8/5: Bocce, Burlesque, Rock, Free Zoo

I don't have much to add today. If you look young and can act professional, there's a bocce ball get-together at the "north tip" of North End after work today. Think about it -- but quickly -- because there might not be any space left.

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TUES 8/5

5:30pm to 8:30pm
Young Professionals Bocce Ball Tournament
at Puopolo Park, about 530 Commercial St, Boston (North End)
at Joe's Bar and Grill, 100 Atlantic Ave, Boston (North End)
FREE w/ RSVP

Okay. This is the "first annual" tournament, so no one should feel more comfortable than anyone else -- except there will probably people who already know each other and play bocce every week... Don't focus on that! Think about having fun, enjoying free appetizers afterwards at Joe’s, and maybe meeting some new people.

You're supposed to RSVP, so there might still be room for individuals or a few friends. Either write to mail@tbha.org, or call Angelica at 617-482-1722.


From the Weekly List:

TUES 8/5

The Duke Spirit (11pm), The December Sound (10pm), Jeddo Stars (9:05pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

This is what I wrote about The Duke Spirit in April: "I don't know if The Duke Spirit will make major waves in the music world, but they whip out a bluesy, alternative rock with a charismatic frontwoman. They've already opened for REM and Queens of the Stone Age, and they're going on tour with Black Rebel Motorcycle Club."

It's brawny, buzzing rock that should get everything shaking. The band basically just stand there while the singer provides all the stage energy, but they rocked on "The Tonight Show" a couple weeks ago, so who knows where they'll play next time in Boston. (It was also TT's in April...) The December Sound and Jeddo Stars (new band of Ellie Vee, ex-Charms) provide ample support in a racously complementary way.

TUES 8/5

5pm to 8pm
National Night Out Celebration
at Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Rd, Dorchester
FREE

Go to the zoo for free on the city's dime (the police? a national grant? whatever).

I've felt ambivalent about zoos as an adult. I enjoyed them so much when I was a kid, but the concept of caging wild animals leaves a funny taste in my mouth. It gives young people a chance to see these animals who are generally well-cared for...

Besides the free hot dogs and soft drinks, the purpose of the event is to "strengthen neighborhood spirit" and "generate support for local anticrime programs". I just wanted to warn you to expect a very positive atmosphere -- but I think everyone can get behind that. There are lots of music, children's activities, etc as well.

TUES 8/5

9pm to 1am
Pinchbottom Burlesque Show
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE (but bring some singles to show appreciation)

I don't know why we have to import our burlesque from NYC, but Pinchbottom cofounder Nasty Canasta is from Boston. (I hear she does an impressive tribute to the Red Sox.) It'll probably be a fun show at the Beehive where the ambiance is bohemian -- and the drink prices are South-End-normal but overpriced for the average drinker.