Local issues, events and news.

On a 2000 visit to Venice, Peter Mehegan was so moved by the city, he broke into song. A look at the beauty, history and troubles facing the bewitching Italian city in 2000.

Back in 1986, Peter Mehegan wondered: Can writing be taught? Andy Rooney was on the receiving end of that question. We also explore new books from authors better known from television, including conservative commentator George Will on politics.

Peter Mehegan steers the Old Chevy "On the Road" to Bangor, Maine.

In 2001, the Old Man in the Mountain still hadn't crumbled. Crowds still flocked to the top of Mount Washington and to the beaches off Rye. Chronicle headed to New Hampshire to visit some of the Granite State's amazing public parks.