Friday morning I left my house a girl. That wasn’t exactly the case an hour later when I returned home. I had short blond hair, thick eyebrows, a patchy beard and sideburns. I pulled in my driveway and was met by my roommate, who could barely walk or talk upon seeing me, and who remained hunched over and hysterically laughing even after I ran inside the house and closed the door.

Customers call the Army Navy Surplus, “The store that’s like a museum.”

Richard Backman, 63, is the owner of the Navy Surplus Store on historic Thames in Newport, Rhode Island. Originally from the Boston area, Backman moved to Barrington 28 years ago.

WHO TO SEE: Those Guys

WHY: A favorite with Salve students and locals alike, this five-man-band is a blast to see with friends. Playing covers like Coldplay’s “Clocks,” to a medley of Duran Duran hits with crisp vocals, clear guitar riffs, and fantastic keyboard solos provides a rocking good time on those Newport club nights.

The Salve Campus Ministry is holding the annual Mardi Gras celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 28 in Miley Hall. The festivities start at 8 p.m.

The Mardi Gras Committe has been planning the event for several months, anticipating the large crowd that attends every year.

Today’s Birthday (02-23-06). You’re an inspiration to others this year, but that’s not enough. You also need to get them to help you accomplish the goals you’ve set.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.