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BOSTON GLOBE. CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS occupies a place of primacy in the American pantheon, yet little is known about his driving motivation - and its significance for the challenge that America faces today. (Read the article)

The New York Times. Wednesday was a bad day for Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, but a good day for Italian democracy. The Constitutional Court upheld the fundamental democratic principle that no one, however rich or powerful, can stand above the law, even if a compliant Parliament legislates immunity. (Read the article)

ANSA ustin Hoffman is to front promotional campaigns for Marche, the Adriatic region said Wednesday. Two-time Oscar winner Hoffman, 72, will start filming the ads in November, the regional tourist board said. (Read the article)

The annual Columbus Day festivities in New York will take on a Venetian theme, as this year's events are dedicated to the Italian region of Veneto.  The city transformed Vanderbilt Hall, the main room of Grand Central Station, into Saint Mark's Square, one of Italy's -- and the world's -- most famous of its kind.  This year's event schedule was presented by the president of the Columbus Citizen Foundation, Louis Tallarini, Francesco Maria Talò of the Italian Consulate, and Paolo Donadini from the Veneto Tourist Center.

At Grand Central one is welcomed by two floats -- the tower of Saint Mark's Square and the Empire State Building, together representing historical symbols of both Venice's classical majesty and the Big Apple.  In addition of the towers stands a reproduction of Palazzo dei Dogi, which is currently holding the exhibition entitled, "Veneto: A Bridge Between Vencie and New York."  The exhibit holds such works as a tree decorated with original Muano glass from Venice,  minituare handmade shoes by artistians from Brenta, as well as panoramic photographs from the Dolomite mountain range.  

The exhibit is open to the public until October 17th and is sponsored by the region of Veneto.