Can't Miss This!

Some people don't read Phillyist. We don't know why, either. Maybe it's because they don't know what's good for them. Or maybe they're busy mapping the human genome. All 3 billion base pairs of DNA. Yes, we know, billion is a crazy word. It means "hella lots." We've also included a charity event, so put on your best generous face and consider taking a chance on the price of admission, since it's for a good cause (and we don't have any exact figures).

TOWN SQUARE SERIES - CRAIG VENTER AND GENETICS
Venter is a busy man. But you can bet your 6 pound, $175 chem book that he knows what the hell he is doing. And if you enjoy alone time with your microscope and DNA jokes, you'll jump at the chance to attend this lecture. He'll describe his work and talk about the possible applications of a guidebook to humanity's biological make-up. He'll do most of the talking and you'll either be taking notes, wishing you brought a pen and paper, or scratching your head and second-guessing your grad school application for that bioengineering degree. We got out of the bioengineering game years ago. There were no groupies and the math was really really hard.
WHO: Anyone!
WHERE: The Academy of Natural Sciences, 19th and Race Streets (map)
WHEN: 6:30pm
HOW MUCH: Free dollars and nothing cents. RSVP here.

VARIETY’S AUTISM GALA, PIECE BY PIECE
This gala showcases the work of those who advocate for children with autism. The night's highlight will include recognition of Brian Harrington, Dr. James Coplan and Dr. Robert Naseef for their efforts to raise awareness, find solutions, and create an enriching home life for those who struggle with autism, both children and their families.
WHO: Anyone!
WHERE: Sheraton Hotel, Dock Street, between Front and 2nd Streets (map)
WHEN: 6:30pm
HOW MUCH: We're not technically sure. You can call (610) 584-4366 for more information and to RSVP.

KARAOKE AT SLAINTE
Yeah. Go embarrass yourself. We've told you to do karaoke before, and we know that look. But we're sick of your wallflower mentality. Go sing. What? You live in the 'burbs? We don't give a blog's ass. The bar is across the street from 30th Street Station.
WHO: 21+
WHERE: Sláinte, 30th and Market Streets (map)
WHEN: Just go after work. It probably starts after sundown (read: we don't have a clue when).
HOW MUCH: Cheap drinks. Get the skinny here.

Image via Flickr user V. Svensson, remixed (extensively) with Picnik.

The listed events were chosen by the editors of Phillyist and brought to you by the 2009 Toyota Corolla.