Interstate 93's HOV Lane Is Still There

1) HOV Lane Rules Still Apply
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation wants to remind people that the high occupancy vehicle—HOV—lane on Interstate 93 southbound in Somerville is for cars with two or more occupants. Due to roadwork, the normal HOV-lane island barriers have been taken down temporarily. They've been replaced with pavement markings. MassDOT says the normal HOV lane restrictions are still in place on weekdays between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. State police are monitoring the lane, MassDOT said, and you could get a $50 fine for violating the restriction.

2) Free Fun Fridays At New Repertory Theatre
You can see the New Repertory Theatre's production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," for free, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It's part of the Highland Street Foundation's Fun Free Friday's program. The performances are at 321 Arsenal St., Watertown.

3) Boston Sports Club Open House on Sept. 2
The Boston Sports Club, including the one in Davis Square, is offering a free open house on Sept. 2, according to an announcement from the gym. Stop by to work out for free.

4) How to Throw a Backyard Barbecue for Under $100
The challenge, here, was to throw a barbecue for eight people, including drinks, appetizers, a main dish and desert, for under $100. I should probably add the word "decent": The challenge was to throw a decent barbecue for eight people. The writer served blueberry lemonade cocktail, kale, spinach and artichoke dip with Greek yogurt, turkey burgers with zucchini, easy veggie kabobs, and frozen peanut butter-pretzel pie. My solution to the challenge would have been hot dogs, chips, generic brand ketchup, some Pop-Ice and a 30-pack of Natty Ice. Voila! We're looking at, like, 35 bucks. Enjoy Labor Day weekend.

5) Weather
Mostly sunny with a high around 82.