Shelly Slovin: The Pierce farm somehow withstands the budget cuts and the tempting offers from covetous developers that perennially threaten its existence. You can support it by attending its periodic Farm Walks.

Shelly Slovin: The eyes on the sign may not blink anymore, but the donuts are fresh and light and the coffee's hot. It ain't Starbucks and that's a good thing.

Shelly Slovin: A small, special occasion restaurant with highly rated food and attentive service.

Shelly Slovin: You'll probably run into your neighbors at this welcoming restaurant. Don't miss the special chicken chopped salad. Of course, we stuff ourselves the crazy good garlicky bread they bring to the table first.

Shelly Slovin: How often do you see people lined up at a restaurant before it opens? Happens all the time at Brother Sushi.

Shelly Slovin: Every town should have an old-time hardware store. Ours is Franklin's. I can never figure out how they always have everything I need--but they do.