People cite a variety of reasons for not frequenting a cafe. If they peek in a window and only one or two tables are occupied, they’ll walk away. Kitschy decor can be a turn-off; and modern furnishings are sometimes viewed as cold and unwelcoming. Comment

Lou Reed and a few of his friends will present "Ravishing Poe," a sold out night of readings from his recently released book "The Raven" (Grove/Atlantic, 2003) at St. Ann’s Warehouse (38 Water St. between Dock and Main streets in DUMBO) on Dec. 8 at 8 pm. Comment

Ask Kelly Tang, the manager of Mango Fusion Thai, what the fusion in the new cafe’s name is all about and she’ll tell you, "The food is very authentic, but the plates are like America, very modern." The dishes she refers to are platter-sized white squares and the portions are ample. Comment

The BAM 2003 Next Wave Festival ends with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s "The Flight Project," a program that celebrates the 100th anniversary of the maiden flight of Ohio natives Wilbur and Orville Wright. Comment

The Charlie Pineapple Theater Company is located on a quiet street in Williamsburg. The theater seats two dozen people and has no fancy stage trappings. But if the company’s latest production, "Danny and the Deep Blue Sea," is any indication, it is here that you may see some of the best drama this side of the East River, or perhaps the Mississippi. Comment

Through Dec. 21, Safe-T-Gallery in Williamsburg presents, "Decked: The Holiday Decadence Show," featuring 80 works by 28 painters, etchers, photographers and more who explore the theme of decadence in their works. Comment

It may seem an odd choice for a holiday season dominated by Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations, but BAMcinematek’s latest film series, "Bollywood Shuffle" - a collection of nine recent films from India - is a perfect thematic fit. Comments (2)