Strangely drawn...

To some of you I have described the basic topography of Rochester as: a nucleus comprised of the Mayo Clinic and affiliated hospitals, clinics and other buildings, which is surrounded by a ring of hotels and restaurants, which is surrounded by yet another ring best described as “residential,” and then, there’s nothin’ but prairie. This is in no way binding or entirely accurate – but you get a rough idea. The slue of hotels and restaurants vary in quality and corresponding affordability. They are meant for those whose loved ones are actually patients in the aforementioned hospitals and clinics. The mom’n’pop places tend to advertise their amenities rather garishly to attract the eye of those passing through. I pass my favorite everyday on my way to and from work. They have faded red awnings with bold white lettering. “MICROS AND FRIGS” gets me every time.

Best sign on the back of a bus: Little Bob’s Auto Body “Highly Wreck-a-Mended” Ha! Get it? "Wreck-a-Mended?" Genius.

Most hypocritical package in my pantry: Woodstock Farms “Every day 5000 acres of farmland are being sold for development. With education and enthusiastic consumer demand, we can preserve our American farming heritage, keep farming families on the farm, and keep farming a viable economic livelihood.”
Small print on the back – “Product of Turkey.”

And I’m taking a small survey – how many of you have eaten greasy burgers and fries in libraries? Anyone? Why does the new Wendy’s $2.99 commercial have the two guys eating their meals in a library? Of all places. The better to whisper “$2.99” in? Or are libraries the new cool place to hang out and eat your fast food? Maybe that’s where all the folks my age are…