I don't want to get a contract since I won't be usingit much. I just need something reliable that I don't have to worry about a monthly bill. Any recs?

I am in CT, but I think these cover your area too...

Some guys at my work SWEAR by Tracfone (I think I spelled it right). Check them out. It has free incoming text messages.

My fiance's US phone is on Cingular Go Phone, because I have Cingular as a wireless carrier so it's more or less free for him to call me. We have had good luck with that one too.

Virgin Mobile

$20 every 90 days

I'm in NYC. I use T-mobile. It's been good so far. I hardly ever use my phone so pay as you go works great for me.

T Mobile is great in the US. If you ever plan on calling outside of the states on it DON'T! If you have a contract calling Ireland is $0.34 a minute; if you have pay-as-you-go its $1.60 a minute!!