--When word got out that Mayor Menino wanted to bring in a petting zoo to revitalize Downtown Crossing, we thought it was a joke. But it turns out that the barnyard animals are at the crossing on weekends outside Filene's Basement. Animal activists are underwhelmed, and how can looking at sad, cold animals inspire people to shop? [Boston Herald] --Wondering what all the screaming was about early yesterday evening at Downtown Crossing? It didn't......

Samuel Adams is introducing a new beer to its family. Celebrating Boston's 375, Sam Adams released for "draft only" a Colonial Ale at the BeerSummit Octoberfest, on tap at the Tour Center in JP. What followed was an advertising campaign wishing Boston a Happy Birthday and conincidentally placing the beer on tap at a lot of Boston's beer friendly local bars. The much publicized Boston 375 Colonial Ale was a hit in the limited locations......