Mycology is to fungi as botany is to plants. Only a few of my friends know I studied mycology at San Francisco State University and was active in the Mycological Society of San Francisco, which hosts the annual Fungus Fair. I became interested in mushrooms after collecting all the wonderful Chanterelle at our former Napa ranch. They were plentiful under the oak trees, and are delicious cooked in a cast iron skillet in their own oils (I recommend only eating mushrooms you know aren't poisonous). I realized there was so much I didn't know (much like when I began birdwatching thirty years ago), and I set out to educate myself. The Bay Area is one of the best places in the country to forage and learn.
If you have watched the new HBO show about a fungal apocalypse, you probably know that Cordyceps, the fungus in The Last of Us, does not affect humans — it only affects insects. Climate Change could alter that.
Fungi are vital in sustaining the ecosystem we are a part of. Fantastic Fungi is a groundbreaking 2019 documentary that will give you a much better understanding of the vital role fungi play in our envrionment.
Last night my friend Ian organized a terrific group for an excursion to the CA Academy of Sciences for the Fungus Among Us NightLife event. He kindly purchased us all hats in the shape and colors of the poisonous Amanita Muscaria (fly agaric), the familiar species used in Super Mario Brothers video games, and as Smurfs' abodes. The NightLife events hosted by the CA Academy of Sciences are extremely fun and educational experiences.
It's easy to take for granted all the incredible offerings in San Francisco, as well as to not know where to start. In addition to my knowledge of the real estate market, I love to be a resource of information for my friends and clients about local events and organizations. Please feel free to reach out anytime.
-- Jack
(pictured: Stereum ostrea, or "False Turkey Tail")
