Once again I have failed you as a blogger America.
OK, fail might be a strong word. More like "partially meets expectations."
ANYWAY, if this weekend blog is going to do any good it's got to get up sooner, and I know that.

But conditions down here at the NXT desk have been at threat level magenta. Once we get back down to goldenrod things should get back to normal.

On the plus side we've got our first new podcast of 2008.

Tonight over at the North Star Cafe is the first gathering of Freedom Space Portland.

A Freedom Space in theory could be any space where artists, musicians and just about anyone feels comfortable and safe expressing themselves. The idea comes from Iraqi peace and women's rights activist Yanar Mohammed.

Freedom Space Portland is the work of several local groups including The University of Southern Maine Women & Gender Studies Program and Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Meg Perry Center, Peace Action Maine, the League of Young Voters and the Amistad Arts Collective.

In this week's podcast I sat down with some of the organizers of the event, including Jennifer Kemp, Danny Muller from Peace Action Maine, Hashim A’Allah of the Amistad Arts Collective and Gabriel DeMaine, diversity liaison for USM.

It was the first real roundtable discussion we've done on the podcast so there's a little random mic noise. It was a good discussion and unfortunately we could only bring you just a taste of it through the podcast.

But if you head to the Freedom Space tonight I'm sure you'll have a chance to hear more good discussion and find out ways to help connect with Iraqis in need of help.

The event starts at 7 p.m. and an open mic will follow beginning at 8:30 p.m.

FRIDAY

• It's GOING DOWN tonight at the Big Easy! The first Ruckus Cup is being held tonight, a new MC battle that is certain to attract some of the best rhymesmiths from around Portland and New England, possibly even further. Ill by Instinct and DJ Shade are the evening's hosts and the action starts at 8 p.m. It's a 21 plus gig and $8 to get in the door. No fee to enter the battle, but prizes, and possibly a trophy for the winner. And oh yeah, the glory and braggin' rights.
  
• It is First Friday which means time for the art walk, and don't let the weather hold you back. A couple of quick hits along your path – over at Four Walls Gallery they are holding an opening for the Girls! Girls! Girls! exhibit, which features work from women artists about women. Sales of any art from the exhibit will go to the American Breast Cancer Foundation. The reception begins at 5 p.m.

  Down at Sanctuary Tattoo it's Super Milk–Baby Japanese Monster Mash–Up!
  Tonight is a group show featuring art from area artists all playing with Japan–centric themes. Expect monsters, giant robots and screaming school girls. Excellent fun time for all! Exhibit opens at 6 p.m.
  

SATURDAY

• ALL AGES ALERT! Tonight The Cambiata are holding a CD release party for their newest effort, "to heal," at the Station. The Killing Moon, Alias Grace, The British Incline and Kid:Nap:Kin fill out the rest of the line–up, which is sure to draw a serious crowd. Kids get there early, otherwise you'll be straining your neck in the back the whole time. Tickets are $10 and doors open at 7 p.m.
  
• One Longfellow Square presents Kate Schrock tonight starting at 8 p.m. Schrock is bringing her own blend of rock and jazz through One Longfellow in support of her most recent album "Invocation." Poet Rick Crockett opens. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.
  
• He's a stealthy cat who likes the soul tracks but doesn't have a problem bring the club bangers out if necessary. The very versatile DJ Graymatter is whipping it up tonight down at UNA starting at 10 p.m. Remember, don't hate the player, hate the game.
  

Finally since it's SUPER BOWL weekend, we can't send you out of here without some parting shot on the impending Giants/Patriots struggle. Luckily NXT reader and Adult Swim aficionado Jeff did all the heavy lifting for us and found this video clip to close on. Carl, neighbor to that lovable, rascally bunch, the Aqua Teen Hunger Force, has some thoughts on the Giants chances.

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