No one would mistake New York City for Green Acres. But that didn't stop the folks behind Farm Aid from hauling their tree-hugging hoedown to our city for the first time in the event's 22-year history.

We natives use the delicate foliage to make festively colored baskets for our fertility rituals, during which we plead with ample-breasted goddesses to bring us more young people. It's the perfect starter bus for newly arrived students, and if you have a student ID, you can ride it, like all Port Authority bus routes in town, for free. They're missing a lot, but fortunately, one ritual we do conduct -- at least for now -- involves sending large buses on predetermined routes throughout the...

In Gioberti, these decorations come across as ironic, nice touches, rather than a self-conscious attempt to proclaim Italianess. Signs saying "mafia parking only" add to the light-hearted feel of the place, as do the smiles from the friendly, but not overbearing, serving staff. The narrow restaurant is full of atmosphere, which is not even ruined by the cheesy, annoying pop music that is piped in among the diners. The service is excellent, and the food is perfect for those who like a good...

This article does not have any comments associated with it. Friday by Washington Street Station on River Street, one block behind the Keystone Theatre. The final market day is Oct.

After years of subtly packing on pounds one slice of pizza at a time, computer/technology teacher Ralph Utech accepted his wife's challenge to join her in watching what he ate. So for nostalgia's sake, he bought the shoes and decided that despite the many years that had stood between him and his cross-country path, he'd test his new shoes. Then, eight months into their challenge, and 55 pounds lighter, Utech went shopping with his wife. We're both teachers and we would come home late in...