NEWS BRIEFS: Student, folk legend to reunite on board trains today

But third-year French graduate student Geri Smith has certainly not forgotten it. In the midst of the storm, Smith filled in as "Mary" during an impromptu concert Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary conducted aboard an Amtrak train. Today Yarrow and Smith will lead a "Blizzard Reunion Tour" from New York's Penn Station to Union Station in Washington, D.C. aboard two Metroliner trains. The musical travelers will make a stop at the Philadelphia 30th Street Station around 12:20 p.m. The folk-singer said in a prepared statement that the purpose of the concert is to "offer my thanks to Amtrak." According to an Amtrak press release, Yarrow will perform songs and greet friends such as composer Marvin Hamlisch. "This is going to be a huge event," Smith said last night. "I heard that we might have the opportunity to meet congressmen in Washington." Smith added that she is a little overwhelmed by the planned event. "I'm trying to take the concert one step at a time," she said. "I haven't even sang in the longest time." Another concern of Smith's is the French class that she is currently teaching. A friend of Smith's will substitute on Monday, but she is wary about the students attending class. "I better not see any of my students at the concert on Monday," said Smith. "I will be really upset if they are not in class." But Smith is definitely more excited than apprehensive. "I am anticipating a wild hoot," said Smith. "I'm just going along for the ride." -- Jaclyn LaPlaca