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Holiday Hysterics
- rmarisco Oct 8, 2013 03:48 PM
Ok, I'll start this, but I want to hear that I'm not the only one with history on this...
Some of my holidays have been fun-loving Americana..most have been some sort of mildly entertaining nightmare involving embarassing comments from over-lubricated adults and well-meaning relatives.
The funny ones are not so easy to remember. I have 2 good ones though:
1. The first year we were married, my husband and I were housesitting, and I didn't realize that the oven was on the fritz. I pulled out the gorgeously browned turkey after several hours, wondering why the little button hadn't popped up, only to discover that only the 1/2" closest to the skin had cooked! We ate as much as we could.... why we didn't get sick I will never know.
2. One year, I asked my MIL, who was visiting, if she would do the honors with the gravy. I had an 8 cup measure filled with stock and fat that I had just poured off the pan. She got some water, some flour, and a little bit of the fat... and that was our gravy. She poured the stock out. She hadn't cooked in so long, she was completely off the mark! I hope she's not reading this - don't know if she would think it was funny. Guess she never had watched her mom make the family's famous gravy,,
Other mildly entertaining tales of woe in the holiday kitchen??
one holiday, i cooked a goose and while it was resting, i realized i'd neglected something at the store and just HAD to run across the street for it.
was a dog-owner at the time, so put the goose, still in the pan, on top of the fridge.
was gone less than 10 minutes.
dog had eaten the entire goose, including the carcass, and most of the disposable roasting pan. dog was fine and we ordered pizza.
re: hotoynoodle
what type of a dog did you have that could cimb a fridge??!! (beyond smart, that is..)
re: rmarisco
re: hotoynoodle
We had a portable dishwasher that had to be moved across the room and hooked up to the sink when I was growing up. It was huge and weighed a lot and was very hard to move. When our Chihuahua was young, we used a large screen to block the kitchen doorway and keep him in there while we were gone. One end was secured between the fridge and the wall, the other behind this dishwasher.
Well, we came home from running errands one day and as we drove up we saw the dog sitting on the back of the couch in the living room window.
When we went inside, the dishwasher was moved about ten feet away from the wall into the middle of the kitchen and the screen was in the dining room.
We never figured out how the four-pound dog did this.
Not a holiday story, but certainly a heroic dog story.
My mom still thinks that's how gravy is made. She has always taken burnt grease and added a flour and water slurry and too much pre-ground black pepper. It tastes like burnt grease and uncooked flour and cheap pepper and nothing else. The idea of stock or broth was always beyond her.
re: Tokyoite
I gave detailed instructions to my brother one year on how to cook the giblets, etc. I'm just very lucky I happened to be on the phone with him and he asked what to do with all the hot liquid and vegetables since he didn't have a garbage disposal!
re: firecooked
He was lucky! I left for a brief moment and could only look on in horror when I re-entered the kitchen!
re: Tokyoite
We were both lucky... I was going to his house thanksgivings day!
re: Tokyoite
"... and strained the broth down the drain"
I gotta admit I did this once and I KNOW better. this is why I need a 'cooking station of isolation', so the endless chattering and second-guessing doesn't get me derailed. (drain it into a pan, not the sink and mince the giblets into a softly cooking roux - see how easy that is?"
re: hill food
re: hill food
I have also absentmindedly done this with pasta water that I wanted to use for my sauce, takes a second before the shame sets in and when it does, it likes to stay and have a chat with my shot nerves!
My tale of woe is also oven on the fritz related... Not my first turkey, but the first thanksgiving with both my mom and MIL, and a turkey that just would not get done (and my MIL reference for a done poultry is balsa wood). Finally, My DH escorted both moms out of the kitchen, the breast was pretty much cooked except right at the bone, and the legs got put in the microwave. And he is still my DH....
re: firecooked
Yeah the oven not working is hard to get around. Mine ran out of propane halfway through and I only realized it a half hour before the guests were arriving. They were panic striken when they heard the news (my husband's side; if mine had come they would have had a good laugh at my expense!) They were telling me, put it on the BBQ! Microwave it!
Not on my watch! I too was panicky, but I poured myself a drink and went down to the basement, got out all my old catering equipment and transferred the turkey to one of those electric roasting pans (when finished, they said it was the most tender turkey they ever had), got out the electric Sabrett cart with the four insert pans and put the (luckily pre-prepped) veggies in there, the potatoes in the crock pot, and the tabletop butane stove for the gravy.
The next day, I fired the propane company for letting me run out (not the first time!) All's well that ends well, I guess. That was the only glitch I ever had in 35 years of making Thanksgiving, so I guess it was bound to be a doozy!
re: rmarisco
Oh thank you. I freaked out at first, but then something inside me kicked in somehow. Hope it's like that if I ever have a more serious problem!
re: coll
Those old electric roasters are brilliant! I'd been wanting one mounted on the metal base and found one at a yard sale for $5! It lives just outside the back door under a garbage bag, and gets called to duty several times a year for cooking fowl or roasts. Our name for it, of course, is R2D2 …
Not actually a holiday meal, but our second annual Labor Day White Trash Picnic saw the water smoker run out of heat somehow two hours before showtime, and the pork shoulder was very far from pullable. R2D2's cover was pulled off, the cord deployed, a little water poured in the bottom of the pan and the shoulder placed on the rack. By the time we were setting the food out I was pulling the pork into tender, moist shreds, trying hard not to "sample" too much.
re: Will Owen
This is VERY good information. Time to pull it out of the basement for experimentation purposes. Someone gave it to me many years ago, and I think that was the one time it got used. Not sure what it's expertise is, braising I guess?
re: Will Owen
Man, I wish I had one of those old floor model roasters.
Last year was my first hosting Thanksgiving. Per request, I was making the typical sweet potato casserole w/ the marshmallows on top. I guess I had mine too close to the broiler because the marshmallows burnt to a crisp in about a minute. So there I was scraping and picking out bits of burned marshmallow right before dinner.
re: juliejulez
Hm, that's a problem? My grandpa used to say the sweet potatoes weren't done until the marshmallows caught on fire... :)
re: juliejulez
Two years ago I spent three days getting Thanksgiving dinner together- even made a green bean casserole from scratch, with fresh green beans and mushrooms and fried shallots on top, etc. I went all out, but the only thing that anybody remembers is that the damn shallots caught fire in the oven when I was crisping them up right before serving them.
re: EWSflash
ahhhh... thanks, i needed that laugh. We each have something in the kitchen for which we will be remembered (against our will.) some of us have more than one. my most recent was setting the oven to broil instead of bake for the turkey. My that was a pretty bird, worthy of a magazine cover. And raw almost all the way through.
re: juliejulez
Your sweet potato casserole story reminded me of a story my mother told. Many years ago we were at my paternal grandmother's house for Thanksgiving. My grandmother told my mother to put the miniature marshmallows on top of the sweet potato casserole. My mother asked her how she wanted it done (I think how many marshmallows) and my grandma said, "you know, fancy like". My mother said she didn't know fancy, and my grandma said "why not, you got fancy husband"!
My mother had a good laugh.
Once upon a time, my Uncle Dick, who had a *bit* of a drinking problem, was sent out to fetch the Thanksgiving turkey. Apparently he took a *little* detour, because he never showed up...and there was no turkey for Thanksgiving. The next morning, he was found sleeping it off in his car...and the turkey was in the back seat, where he had considerately put a blanket over Tom, to keep him warm.
re: mwhitmore
Ahhh, the relative with a drinking problem...
I've never really had any huge holiday mishaps, but we also had that uncle. My grandmother insisted no alcohol be served at holidays because of him, so you have to stand around out in kitchen or garage to drink out of view. It was fairly annoying because everyone knew he was still drinking. The truth about that one came out when he later died of cirrhosis O_o
re: alliegator
is it always drunk uncle?
once when i was very small we drove to my father's sister's for thanksgiving. driving rain, awful traffic, we got a flat, the hubcap ran away, my parents were fighting.
way pre-cell phone era, so we couldn't call mid-car crisis.
we were late.
my uncle was roaring drunk by the time we arrived and furious about our tardiness.
literally pitched my father down a flight of stairs.
not my favorite thanksgiving.
re: hotoynoodle
OMG how small were you? I hope young enough that you don't actually remember this in your memory bank.
re: coll
there is a picture of me from later in the evening wearing a football helmet and "playing" a guitar, lol, so it's not a repressed memory, no.
meh. not painful though, just an early exposure to a mean drunk and served as a good life lesson to never become involved with somebody who was one.
re: hotoynoodle
re: hotoynoodle
In my case not always. I believe he was a slow and steady drinker. Never mean. It's just that he had convinced everyone he wasn't drinking.
I'm so sorry for what you had to deal with that year. What a hard thing to un-remember.
Not T-day, but a turkey and a chicken involved anyhow.
1) When we were engaged I was going to spend Yom Kippur in the fiance's/our future apartment. I put up a chicken to roast for the pre-fast meal and went about doing other things. Check back on the chicken in however long and it's still raw and the oven is cold. Fiance had lived in that apartment at least 4 months and hadn't realized that the oven didn't work. No choice, so we microwaved the chicken. Major yuck.
2) A year later and we're newlyweds at the BIL's mom's house for Hannukah. She swears that the precooked turkey is just that - precooked - and only needs to be heated up. Asks the Spouse to do the honors carving and we discover that yes, the turkey is indeed precooked and frozen solid. She apparently neglected the part about defrosting the bird before heating it up. Microwave to the rescue again. We took turns chipping and shaving bits of frozen turkey and heating in the microwave.
Both of these are Thanksgiving related -
1. We host Thanksgiving, it is Mr. CB's favorite holiday. A couple of years back, Mr. CB was making mashed potatoes in a huge bowl. He overworked the electric hand mixer and it blew apart, as in the plastic housing exploded. He found all but one large, cream colored piece. We served the mashed potatoes anyway (that is how my family is) and offered a door prize (wine) to whoever found the missing piece. My cousin won.
2. The one and only time my ILs came to our house for a meal was Thanksgiving 15+ years ago. They are an awkward couple and family relations were strained long before I came along.
Mr. CB always cooks enough to feed an army, ran out of oven space and decided to cook the extra stuffing (in aluminum pans) and yams on the gas grill in a small gratin dish. His mistake was filing the dish to the point of overflowing with maple syrup. The whole affair quickly burst into flames, causing my MIL to go into a screaming, crying fit. She seriously had a mental brake over this and could NOT settle down. Mr. CB calmly threw the flaming pan into the yard and I poured more wine for the two of us. It was their first and last meal at our home. (My husband's choice.)
re: cleobeach
I love the door prize idea, that's the way to do it!
And your in laws sound a lot like mine.
For past several years, have been doing T-Day with brother, sil, and a lot of her family. REALLY nice people but a bit Kitchen Klueless!?! I asked... what needs to be done, as dinner hour approached. My brother was in charge of the bird... yummy as always. Was told I could do gravy and quickly handed a few JARS of "turkey gravy"?? Something TOTALLY foreign to me... especially with a roasting pan of nice brown stuff to start with. They weren't even gonna USE it?? Got them to FIND some flour and a container to shake it in with water. I was declared the QUEEN of GRAVY that day!?!
Over 20 years ago, sister had recently gotten a goofy yellow lab puppy and came up to PA from VA for turkey with our Dad. After dinner, we all headed up the road (maybe a mile) for dessert with his sister and rest of family. Since pup was only about 12 weeks old, she planned to leave her in small bathroom. She took rug off floor and towels off rack. Closed toilet seat and took everything off the top of tank... tissues, etc. We figured place was puppy-proof and worst that would happen would be an "accident" (or 2) on a tile floor... easy clean-up anyway. We were gone maybe 2 hours or so. As we pulled into Dad's driveway, we could hear the puppy HOWLING away!! Somehow she had gotten up on toilet lid and INTO small sink nearby!! We just hope she hadn't done that the minute we left the house!!
re: kseiverd
I had a similar gravy issue with the in laws last year. They finally finished the turkey and then panicked because they hadn't bought any gravy packets and didn't know how to make it. They were amazed when I saved the day with some flour and water.
re: jw615
I know, it's sad. I don't want to be a snob, but gravy didn't always come in packets and jars. it's not brain surgery, it's just rocket science.
re: hill food
And I'm not very old at all - but gravy never came from the store for me - my Mom always made it from scratch, and adult onset food allergies mean that store bought options are not for me.
Besides, my gravy is WAY better than anything that you can buy in the store.
When I was a young teen my mothers business partner said she would bring over the turkey for Thanksgiving. Well, even at that age I knew she was a flake and didn't trust her cooking. She was into tofu, whey powder, etc. way before the rest of society was. This was the mi-70's. I cooked up around 6-7 side dishes, and a small 10 lb. turkey with the excuse that I wanted leftover turkey for sandwiches. Well, she came over on Thanksgiving with a huge turkey. I smelled it and said something was wrong with it. She huffed at me and ate a slice. Then immediately got ill. She had heard about roasting it for 20 minutes on high, then overnight on low heat. Well, the turkey had browned a bit but I think then she turned the heat off overnight. Damn crazy lady could have killed us. I was so glad I made all the side dishes and turkey.
This same nut job several times brought over leftovers from when her parents ate lobsters. Just the carcasses with legs. No claws, tails, meat, nothing. My parents were too polite and said nothing. the third time I lost it and told her off.
re: sandylc
Yes. She isn't as clueless nowadays. She means well.
re: Kontxesi
I took over all the family cooking by the time I was 10-11. My mother couldn't cook, and worked full time. My uncle was art director for a major magazine and he sent me their whole line of cookbooks. Several dozen, and I made my way through them.
I also had some of my friends Italian and Jewish grandmothers and they taught me a few things as well.
When I was 16-17 I had a small private chef business catering and doing small Park Ave parties. I almost didn't graduate high school because I had so many missed days of school from working. I did that off and on until I went to college eventually. But my main job as soon as I turned 18 became retail wine sales and store management for a few years.
I never tried the mac in blue box until when my nieces and nephew were young. Nasty stuff.
re: JMF
That's awesome. I wish I had been more interested in cooking at that age.... I remember reading cookbooks and liking to help my mom, but I didn't really get into making things from scratch and experimenting until my early 20s.
Yeah, if you grew up on real food, I can see Kraft being pretty revolting. We ate a decent amount of boxed meals (Hamburger Helper, Rice-a-roni, etc) when I was a kid, so it just tastes like childhood to me.
I do cook better now. I promise. Usually....
re: JMF
I had a coworker who made a simillar turkey every year. She got the recipe from a "natural" cookbook. High heat for about a 1/2 hour, slap a wine-soaked cheesecloth over the breast, turn off the oven and and let sit there overnight. She made it every year and, as far as I know, none of her guests got sick. She'd get really pissed off when we would ask her if she was serving "salmonella turkey" again that year.
There again, my grandmother would leave the stuffed turkey on the table so we could have sandwiches 4 or 5 hours later. No one died. That was a long time ago.
re: kseiverd
Ack! Turkeys should not be cooked via the low-slow method. Doesn't kill the bacteria or something.
re: Jerseygirl111
that turkey calls for a re-read of "The Accidental Tourist"
re: hill food
Good book. Better than the movie, but then which book isn't?
re: Jerseygirl111
I will say the movie did a darn good job of the awkward Thanksgiving day (inedible) dinner.
I've written this before, but think it bears a re-visit on a bizarro Thanksgiving invitation at the home of newly-immigrated Indians. They asked that we arrive about 11 a.m. "for a full day of festivities," and that we bring just a couple of bottles of wine and some sodas (maybe 6 people had been invited).
When we arrived, she asked "when should I take the turkey out of the freezer?" (Uh, 3 days ago?) Her hubs dang near chain-sawed the frozen behemoth into bits and she shoved them into the oven with "Indian seasonings." Hours later, natch, it was still turkey popsicles.
I suggested the microwave. She still had to hack bits off and nuked 'em. They ended up beige. She had a great sense of humor about it all, and we did have great fun socializing (and drinking). I made our Thanksgiving the next day!
My grandfather is asking, literally right now if it's normal for his ears to tingle during orgasm. I am in the bathroom trying to hold in my giggles while posting it here. Does that count? (It's Canadian thanksgiving)
re: LexiFirefly
It's ok, LF. Happy thanksgiving!
My grandfather lives with me known and observed that it's odd I grew boobs because no other woman in our family had. And other such things... it just happens:)
re: alliegator
Don't know why there's a "known" in there. Auto correct from noticed?
re: alliegator
I speak fluent AC, I knew what you meant!
re: alliegator
re: LexiFirefly
tell him at his age to just be happy he has them.
I do the sides, spouse does the bird. Spouse forgot about the giblets one year and cooked the turkey with the giblets still inside, wrapped up in the nice little package. Fished it out at the table, right in front of the guests. Had a good laugh.
Last T'Day, I was wearing a very pretty gauzy scarf around my neck while cooking (trying to look nice for guests), but leaned too far over the gas burner and it caught on fire. It burned pretty quickly and I just had time to rip it off before it got close to my face. Lesson learned!!
First thanksgiving - invited my husband's aunts (his closest family left alive) - tiny NY kitchen and apartment - carefully cooked large turkey - slanty floor - opened oven door and roaster and bird slid out onto floor - husband's aunt calmly said: we'll pick it up, slide it back in, and never notice a thing. I loved my in-laws dearly! she never said a word and ate a big portion. I've been married 52 years now and miss those ladies still.
re: teezeetoo
Love this story! Nice inlaws are a rare find...
I'm sure I'll have some to add after Christmas, my mom is coming!! She never willingly boards a plan to visit me, ever, but her dad now lives with me. We do not have a good relationship, but I will try my best and and cook a meal that says "if you just try and practice, anyone to can learn to cook". A nice pork loin dinner is coming to mind. Provided my stove doesn't explode or some such thing.
re: alliegator
I used to have an exploding stove. Apparently the pilot light for the oven didn't work, so the oven would slowly fill with gas until it started to escape out the vent, which was close enough to the pilot for the burners to catch. There would be a loud boom, the oven door would fly open and flames would shoot out half way across the kitchen. Lighter items, like the dinner rolls emerged as flaming projectiles. It was really quite entertaining, my dinner guests were duly impressed. Not so much the gas company or the landlord when I called both the next day. Killjoys.
re: KaimukiMan
Wow!! I am very impressed!! It must have be quite a sight :)
The motor of my fridge already caught fire this year, so I think I've used up my share of kitchen "holy shit!" moments for a while.
re: KaimukiMan
I am in tears at your description. Talk about grace under fire (of flaming projectiles)! The picture you describe is just too funny :)
re: KaimukiMan
And that's why you cannot purchase a gas stove with a pilot light, since 1983. I know this because we just recently purchased a new gas range for our cabin. We have no electricity up there, so a gas range with electronic ignition won't work. We could light the stove burners by hand. We could also light the oven by hand, but once it gets up to temperature, it shuts off and would have to be lit again. I'm not sticking my hand into a hot oven and attempt to re-light the oven. We had to choices, we could look around for an old range with pilot light (and who wants to clean up a 30 year old stove/oven?) or, we could buy a 'cordless' range. We have done the latter. It takes a 9 volt battery to power the electronic ignition. It will be nice to have a new range however.
re: John E.
good to know, although I think it also has something to do with energy conservation. yeah, how much gas does a pilot light burn right? but hey, until recently they wanted to totally ban incandescent light bulbs. i mean really, who is going to try to light a factory using incandescents?
Almost had a disaster at this weekend's (Canadian) Thanksgiving dinner. Just as we had put out the appetizer, the table started to collapse! BIL, sister, niece and I held up the table while Mr. S whisked everything off. It could have been much worse, as we hadn't started eating yet, or poured the wine. Ended up getting cozy at a card table and a couple of TV tables.
re: Sooeygun
Ah, those Kodak moments.
re: Sooeygun
I always worry about that with our table. It is only braced in the center, no legs at each corner. And I have a lot of people who like to rest heavily on the table.... You should see how it leans. :/ I'm always afraid everything is going to slide into their lap!
One time before Hannukah dinner, my step brother wanted to help my mother make latkes. He managed to drop a whole potato down the kitchen sink drain. Instead of taking it out, he turned on the garbage disposal. This caused some major problems with the sink (I think it was completely clogged, not water until it could be fixed.) My step father was able to find a plumber who was willing to work on Christmas eve. He got it fixed, but we had a pretty late dinner that year.
We weren't kids when this happened - I think my step brother was in his mid or late 20s at the time.
re: Sooeygun
New Years Day, many years ago, I was feeling the not so great after the prior night's festivities. Mr. CB was left unsupervised in the kitchen.
He put peels from 5 pounds of potatoes down the garbage disposal. Minutes before my parents and step-bro walked through the door, the kitchen sink clogged.
My father was a plumber in his younger years and both Mr. CB and step-bro are in the construction business. They found the clog, took a saw to the plastic drain lines and re-routed the free flowing lines it into the sewer lines and patched all the connections with rolls of duct tape. It held us over until the next morning.
re: cleobeach
re: cleobeach
Our first Thanksgiving in the house. We had closed on it in July or August. We had three guests. I had not done any big cooking in the kitchen yet. So I am going about my preparations. The usual peeling, chopping etc. My husband went down to the laundry room to get something. He called for me to come down stairs. there was garbage all over the laundry room floor. In Indiana at that time there were no full disclosure laws and the problem would not be found in a whole house inspections. It turns out that the plumbing for the kitchen sink to drain into the washing machine drain. It backed up and spilled out of the pipe the washing machine drained into. That plumbing was a common practice when this house was built. We rarely use the disposer any more. We have had the problem repeatedly. It made for a pretty messy Thanksgiving evening.
re: cleobeach
I have taken apart the pipes under the sink to unclog the vegetable peels enough so they no longer go down the drain.
A few years ago my niece was staying with my mother while my father, brothers, and I went on a fishing trip. Why my niece cooked three pounds of angel hair pasta I'll never know. Why she put the leftover pasta down the disposal is a mystery as well. That much pasta makes about a six foot plug of glue in the pipes.
We too decided a plumber wasn't needed. It did take considerable effort with the snake to clear the pipe however.
re: John E.
in a community kitchen i know of the people were not accustomed to using a garbage disposal. they would cram as much into it as it would hold, turn on the switch, and when they thought it was all ground up they would turn on the water and try to flush it down the drain. Not exactly a recipe for success in so many ways. Used correctly the peelings from a couple of vegetables, or the scrapings from dinner plates isn't a problem. After peeling 10 or 15 pounds of potatoes for a thanksgiving meal for the whole family, not such a great idea. Use LOTS of water, get it moving through the pipes and before you start pushing food down there, and keep the water running for a few minutes afterward. You will cut your problems considerably.
re: KaimukiMan
...and no pasta, as I learned last year. Swells and beautifully seals even the most pristine pipes!
re: 4X4
The day after Thanksgiving is supposedly the busiest day of the year for plumbers, as so many people clog their kitchen drain pipes with congealed fat from the gravy, skin, etc. We live in a house that is more than 100 years old and there have been at least 2 Thanksgivings when we ended up hand-washing all of the dishes in the laundry room because of a backed up kitchen drain that prevented use of both the DW and kitchen sink. Fortunately the utility sink in the laundry room drains separately. (And I now have the "trap" in the driveway, which is the source of our drainage problems, cleaned out prophylactically in advance.)
I was reminded of this thread when a friend asked me for a recipe and I went rummaging for a cookbook. Jeff Smith's "The Frugal Gourmet Cooks American" was my companion for my first Thanksgiving in my house - 25 years ago, as a new mom and homeowner. I invited the lot of my family, as we were pleased to be new parents and homeowners. Smith's sherry and butter injected turkey sounded wonderful as a dish to serve our families in our new home.
Why didn't I know that injectors could gum up so irretrievably? I was busy in the morning, injecting a 26(!) lb turkey with a combination of butter and sherry, when the whole thing (the injector) burst. I was covered in sherry-butter. The floor was covered in sherry-butter (I slipped on this mess and had a bruised tailbone to show for it). The cookbook was covered in sherry-butter. I said, rubbing my greasy butt and needing a shower to get the sherry-butter out on my hair, "into the oven." Dinner was well received, but the mess was an unholy greasy one.
My Frugal Gourmet cookbook bears the scars. After 25 years, it still smells like rancid butter and stale sherry, vaguely, and has the grease stains of an injector explosion to mark its history.
ETA: the grease stains start on page 261, the turkey recipe. FWIW, I have never used it again.
re: cayjohan
love it that you included a pic of the book. too funny
re: cayjohan
ok I'm not much for keepsakes... but I would totally keep that book forever. What a great story! hope you had a good chiropractor!
My first Thanksgiving in Texas, and the first with my new in-laws. They did not trust me with any significant piece of the meal (little did they know!) but I offered to bring an apple pie. In my new kitchen, I had created a masterpiece - flaky crust, topped with a little apple-shaped cutout and leaves decorating the edges. It was baked to perfection, and Dear Husband said it was time to leave ... turning the new-to-me stove off, I dashed to the bedroom to finish dressing. Within about 5 minutes my nose told me that something was very wrong - indeed, I had turned the oven to BROIL instead of OFF, and the whole top of my beautiful pie was black. This was back in the day when Paul Prodhomme was serving "blacked redfish" so we were going to tell his family we'd made "blackened apple pie" but thought better of it. Luckily there was a bakery open on the way to his mom's house ... the next year, they suggested I bring crudités.
re: Cheflambo
That is such a sad story.


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Lily Allen: Hospitalized with Blood Conditionby Hilton Hater at . Comments
Lily Allen really can't catch a break.
Just days after suffering her second miscarriage, the singer was rushed to the hospital on Friday for a blood condition called septicemia. With symptoms that include a fever, chills and rapid breathing, this ailment involves bacteria in the blood that can cause severe infections.
Says a rep for the artist:
"She is responding well to treatment and her condition continues to improve. Lily thanks everyone for their messages of support and again asks that she and partner Sam Cooper be left alone whilst she recovers."
Here's to a healthy, speedy recovery!
It sounds like her illness from a bad virus led to the premature delivery/stillbirth of the baby and even her own life has been threatened from it all! I really hope the sweet, talented Lily feels better soon and does not blame herself for her loss. It's no coincidence that women in the 19th century often died from these situations!...(I saw a display and the mortality statistics at the Smithsonian museum.)


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Villa, 14 Bedrooms, 15+ Baths (Sleeps 28)
Housed in intimate levels you'll find this 14 guest room Casa Mega Point Villa within the elite Pedregal community. This Villa exudes a nostalgic sense of Cabo in all its luxury. A peerless collection of native Mexican artwork compliments expansive, open-air living spaces and contemporary inspired décor.
Avid foodies will admire the Gourmet Chef's kitchen, fully stocked with all the modern conveniences and formal seating for 10. Sports and Movie fans will congregate to the main living room for entertainment as they view over 500 local and international channels on a state-of-the-art 42" Flat Screen TV with surround sound and DVD features. Sun Worshippers will find their utopia by lounging on the sundeck or swimming in the luxurious Infinity pool.
We go out of our way to give a special "welcome" to our guests and our resourceful Concierge is always close at hand to offer suggestions or help with travel needs.
Why You'll Love It
Resort Styled Sun Deck
Take a look at the tropical landscaping and luxurious private lounge beds nestled beside the uniquely situated Infinity pool. The pool is designed in a highly specialized manner. The invisible edge produces a visual effect of the pool water extending into the Pacific Ocean.
Residential "At Home" Feel
Completely furnished guest and entertainment rooms, overlooking the beautifully landscaped grounds, make you feel right at home. Each guest room, adorned with local art pieces, feature a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and extra spacious living.
Club Floor
With its sunny oceanfront setting, Casa W functions as both an inspiring venue for business groups and a romantic hideaway in which to celebrate special occasions. Dance the night away on the club floor, fully equipped with optional DJ services and a bartender.
With sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Casa Mega Point sits high on the hills of the exclusive Pedregal Mountain. This newly built home is elegant and formal, yet fully inviting with its open, comfortable spaces and attention to fine detail.
The interior of Casa Mega Point is graced with marble floors, granite countertops, and Canterra tile. The master suite has its own entrance from the courtyard, and is very private with a kitchenette and full bathroom with Jacuzzi tub. The formal dining room allows seating for 10, with additional breakfast-bar seating. The kitchen is equipped with everything a gourmet chef could desire and also opens up to the outdoor deck area.
The outdoor area features a large pool deck, infinity-edge pool, Jacuzzi tub, and lovely teak furniture for outdoor dining. Surrounding the pool are private sun beds for lounging. (One sunbed includes an enclosable privacy curtain.) While enjoying the outdoor space, guests can cool off with a beverage from the large outdoor bar.
Bedroom #1: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #2: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #3: Master Bedroom with Jacuzzi Tub, King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #4: Master Bedroom with Jacuzzi Tub, King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #5: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #6: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #7: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #8: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #9: King Bed
Bedroom #10: King Bed/Loft
Bedroom #11: King Bed
Bedroom #12: King Bed,
Bedroom #13: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Bedroom #14: King Bed, Private Deck, White Water View
Full Granite Bathrooms
Every room in the Villa encompasses a full granite bathroom. Each is oversized to give you freedom of space and complete privacy. Enjoy personal relaxation in a deep tub or rinse off in a separate walk-in shower.
Luxuriously Spacious
Spacious and invitingly styled with contemporary Cabo furnishings, the living and dining areas can be used to entertain all guests.
Unparalleled Amenities and Services
Reservations for this Villa include complimentary wireless Internet access. Enjoy state-of-the art amenities in a setting characterized by serenity, comfort and pleasure.
Resort Styled Luxury Pool Deck with Heated Infinity Pool
Large 12 Person Jacuzzi (The Casa Mega Point Jacuzzi has 10 massaging jets vs. a normal Jacuzzi of only 2 jets.)
Wet Bar includes refrigerator, ice maker, glassware for alcohol beverages such as martini, martini shaker, champagne, white & red wine, shot glasses, large beer mugs, decanter, and blender
Outdoor BBQ Gas Grills (4 burner on main propane gas grill)
Outdoor Gas Fire Pit w/seating for 12
Outdoor Heat Lamps perfect for Outdoor Dining for 19 (resort style)
Luxury Outdoor Marble Shower
2 King Size Tanning Beds & 9 Teak Designer Lounge Chairs
iPod docking stations in every room
Balcony Terraces with White Ocean Water Views in Each Bedroom
Ceiling Fans in every bedroom
1,200 Thread Count Designer Linens
In-Room Toiletries such as shower caps, shampoo, conditioner, and Q-tips available
Ion/Ceramic Hairdryers in every bathroom
Iron/Ironing Board in every bedroom
Shoe Rack in every bedroom
Extra Blankets in every bedroom
Extra Pillows (available upon request)
Safety Deposit Box
NOTE: Check out our other Villa on VRBO. Book both Villas and receive volume pricing discounts.
Casa Theodore, white water views with 9 bedrooms + Recreation Room, sleeps up to 22 guests, starting at $1,800/night...VRBO listing # 171676.
HOME PAGE: http://www.aaacabo.com
VIRTUAL TOUR:http://www.aaacabo.com/casa-w/index.html
- Suitability:
- Events Allowed
- alternative lifestyle
- children welcome
- non smoking only
- pets not allowed
- wheelchair accessible
About Michael Theodore
I originally came to Cabo in 1987 on a Fishing Trip, and fell in love with it. I looked for the perfect location, that had unobstructed white water views, and plenty of room to build my own custom home. I built my first house in Cabo, Casa Theodor vrbo.com listing number 171676, in 1993. My next door neighbor came to me in 2004, and asked if I wanted to purchase his Villa. It was only 3 bedrooms, but had plenty of room to expand. I purchased the Villa in 2005, and it took 18 months to remodel the Villa from the 3 bedrooms it had into the 14 bedrooms it has today. I hope that you will enjoy Villa Mega Point as much as my friends, family, and I have enjoyed it, and look forward to hosting you soon.
Michael Theodore purchased this villa in 2005
Why Michael Theodore chose Cabo San Lucas
I am a fisherman, and Cabo is still one of the best places in the world for fishing, and maybe the very best place to catch a marlin.


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Seven years after they met at an All-American showcase for high school players in California, Minnesota Lynx player Monica Wright and Kevin Durant are engaged, according to numerous reports.Durant, a three-time NBA scoring champion for the Oklahoma City Thunder, was spotted in May sitting courtside ... More >>
If Mitt Romney won't tell you which ones need to be closed, we will
With half-a-season in the net, a look at reasons for both hope and concern.
The Wolves play valiantly, but the Thunder are miles ahead.
1) There is no D in backcourt 2) Figuring how Blount fits 3) Quick hits
The Wolves' trade with the Boston Celtics pays immediate dividends. But will they last?
1. Eddie fits right in 2. Deck the boughs with hails of Wally 3. Quick takes on Marko and McCants
1. Wally's woes continue. 2. You can't preach defense and then play Troy Hudson over Jaric and Carter. 3. A grab bag of positives.
The Wolves muff a golden opportunity for a fast start
They might not be giants, but the 2005-'06 Timberwolves will be better than you think: An opening night FAQ
How can a coach promise high hopes and low expectations at the same time?
Why Ray Allen's playoff heroics makes it even more likely Szczerbiak will remain a Timberwolf
The first weekend of the NBA playoffs is more than half over and I still haven't put my virtual money or my mouth on the line as to who will advance past the first round. Thus, without getting into too many details (the round will be over if I start spouting; although I'll try to chime in here a few ... More >>
Everybody thought the Wolves would contend for an NBA crown this year, and some picked them to win it. Not anymore: how egos and contracts turned one of the league's highest-paid teams into middle-of-the-pack underachievers.
The early omens aren't good for Sam Cassell and the Wolves
Banged-up team meets brutal schedule
We used to be patient Wolves fans, but things have changed.
Maybe the Timberwolves can get closer to the promised land. Maybe.
Risks, rewards, and the future of the Wolves
The Wolves: Heroically mediocre, again
Some props before the playoffs
If the Wolves get past the first round of the playoffs, they...could...go...most of...the way!
Everything's going the Timberwolves' way. But is everything enough?
Terrell Brandon isn't a great fit for the team--but that doesn't mean the Wolves can't make the best of it
The T-Wolves may well land in the playoffs again, but 2000's still a rebuilding year
The Wolves' round-one playoff ouster wasn't all bad news
While the Gophers struggle through a losing season, Sam Jacobson hopes to impress the scouts.


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Book Description:
Here's a complete, easy-to-grasp course in trigonometry that takes the form of a fantasy novel. The King of Carmorra and his subjects have many practical problems to solve, and their answers can be found by applying principles of trigonometry. Readers follow along and learn to solve many different problems that can be reduced to triangular diagrams. They learn the laws of sine and cosine, trigonometric functions and inverse functions, waves, conic sections, polynomial approximation, and much more. The book is filled with instructive exercises and their solutions, plus illustrative drawings, graphs, and diagrams. This new edition contains updated coverage on using graphing calculators and computer spreadsheets for solving trigonometric problems.
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It's not Iraq, immigration, or healthcare, but travel and tourism is a serious issue to presidential primary voters, according to a new survey, and one that voters would like to see the 2008 presidential candidates address on the campaign trail. Among the major findings in a survey of likely Republican and Democratic primary voters in South Carolina and Florida, about 50 percent of Democrats and 40 percent of Republicans in both states said they would be more likely to vote for a ...
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Photos and Description of this 2 bedroom holiday apartment in Castello - Biagio 2
Located on the 1st floor of a remodeled palazzina off Via Garibaldi in the Castello district of Venice, this apartment of abt 55 square meters is a few hundred meters walk to Giardini and Arsenale vaporetto station, convenient to get around city and in 5 minutes get to Lido Island beaches, which is great in the summer months. Supermarkets,shops, restaurants all in vicinity. Sleeps 5, 1 master bedroom includes bathroom w/stand-up shower, second bedrooom with 2 single beds, and sofabed (on request and upon payment) in living room area. Living room /kitchenette are homey and comfortable as well as well-equipped, wooden beams on ceiling give a warm feeling. Second bathroom with stand-up shower. Secluded in a garden-filled little street, this little place is a well kept secret. On request and upon payment on site: midweekly cleaning and linen change, baby bed, welcome basket with local products, baby sitter service.
PLEASE NOTE: Arrivals must take place between 3.00 p.m. and 7.30 p.m.. For late arrivals a 55 Euros fee will be applied for arrivals after 7.30 p.m. and 70 Euros after 11.30 p.m.. Possibility of 1 extra bed in a sofa bed in the living room (to be requested and to be paid when booking – euro 41/day/person). Rates vary for reservations of 3 until 5 nights.


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This is a delicious salad that has lovely colors, for a nice presentation line the serving bowl with whole lettuce leaves, plan ahead the pasta/veggie and Italian dressing mixture needs to chill for at least 6 hours --- the amounts I have listed are just a guideline you may adjust to taste, if you are serving a crowd I would suggest to double.
Units: US | Metric
Serving Size: 1 (201 g)
Servings Per Recipe: 8
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cubed ham
Every recipe, menu, tip and how-to is right here, at your service.


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text: Dear Triste- Did you get the new job? The one with human hours? I am now the happy possessor of *all* the Kathleen Epstein books, and even feel a twinge of temptation towards attempting double running. If I were not months behind starting lacis and reticella, that is..... I am currently tacking another motif for the "Goodwyn Hangings" -- at some point in the future to be a major motion picture...no, no, a minor pamphlet or article! I wish I knew why a designer would chose to include faded colors (I am not making this up). Sometimes I just get tired of working on my book and want to look at Future Stuff. I will probably end up re-charting some of these designs. I also hope to use some color pictures of some of the Oxburgh Hangings motifs to chart up and do for my own hangings. Alas, the new Tournaments Illuminated came and my Assissi article was not in it. Oh, well -- the editor did say probably by the end of the year, so maybe the Winter issue? Do you get to do your needlework at all, with such a schedule? Take care and keep in touch, Kathryn SCA: Kathryn Goodwyn "too many centuries..too little time" ============================================================================ To be removed from the Historic Needlework mailing list, please send a message to Majordomo at Ansteorra.ORG with the message body of "unsubscribe h-needlework".


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WESTWOOD, N.J. (AP) — Students who took part in a major food fight this week at a northern New Jersey high school are paying a price for their escapade.
Thirty students who hurled food in Westwood High School's cafeteria on Wednesday, the last day of classes, have received five-day suspensions. And for students who missed finals as a result, school officials say they'll have to wait until the last week of June or when school reopens in September to take them.
Superintendent Geoffrey Zoeller Jr. tells The Record of Woodland Park that some students targeted teachers and staff as well as fellow students.
Officials used surveillance footage to identify some of the students involved. Others came forward and fessed up.
© 2014 Sun-Times Media, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be copied or distributed without permission. For more information about reprints and permissions, visit www.suntimesreprints.com. To order a reprint of this article, click here.


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...This underwater journey has begun last October!... And finally, after getting wet A LOT and almost drowning (in some cases ;)), we are finally proud to present our newest music video "DIVE"! Check it out on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFnGkC1DPHM Or simply click on the video on our Reverbnation page!
August 6th 2014 Ivan Smirnov (Privet Earth) inks a deal with Spectra Music Group to promote and distribute Privet Earth's second studio album "Breaking the Ice" worldwide! Spectra Music Group is the largest independent music label in North America (possibly, in the world) with offices in New York, South Carolina, Canada, Germany and Australia. BLITZ!!!
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Privet Earth!
April 2013
"PRIVET EARTH!" keeps climbing up the Reverbnation charts, becoming # 2 rated band in Los Angeles (next only to Motley Crue!), entering the TOP 5 Nationally (USA) and the TOP 10 Globally (including ALL GENRES charts)! Thank you to all our Reverbnation fans!!!
March - April 2013
Yes, our band's new name is PRIVET EARTH! ( No longer SMIRNOV)
The band has also added new members to its line up, so now PRIVET EARTH! are:
Ivan Smirnov - vocals, guitars, piano. Megan Mullins - drums. Shannon Deane - bass. Chris Thornberry - keyboards.
Our web site has also undergone a major change and has become faster and easire to navigate. Thanks to our kick ass web designer Anton Chorny!
Check it out: http://www.privetearth.com
Thank you for support Reverbnation!!!
Shout out to all our fans in Italy!!!
- The second year in a row, SMIRNOV makes "Video Top 5" on Radiostar TV in Rome, Italy. This time it's the "Forest Queen" video. Watch and vote here! http://www.radiostar.it/watchva-it-6661
- PRIVET EARTH! cracks the TOP 10 rock bands in Los Angeles (reaching #7) and the Top 20 bands in USA (reaching #19), according Reverbnation!!!
Thank you for listening and watching! We rocking love you!
- Finally, A NEW VIDEO CLIP! "FOREST QUEEN" (directed by Matt Zane) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoXDMWKhA80 You can get this single now at http://www.reverbnation.com/store/store_for_song/6896461
- PRIVET EARTH! videos for "The Saddest boy in the world" and "A Phuken Angel" are #1 and #2 TOP RATED videos on Radiostar TV in Italy!!! Now going on their 11th week in "Video Top 5"! "The saddest boy in the world" single is featured on 100.5 FM in Rome and other Italian radio stations! Radiostar TV was awarded the most interactive web-tv-channel in Italy in 2011! - SMIRNOV is interviewed by Italy's Radiostar TV on Hollywood Walk of Fame!!!
WATCH HERE: http://www.radiostar.it/watcha-uk-58


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Bryan likes to tease me about my (in his opinion) way-too-wordy, overly long, and serialized blog posts. He has even started suggesting I join twitter to practice short-form writing styles (you can follow Bryan @TheGrok). But since I need a distraction like twitter like I need a crack cocaine addiction, this twitter-style post will have to suffice.
So here you have it, the 7 principles of Gr8t Web 2.0 (read short-form) copy:
1.   Brevity – Twitter = learn to say lots in 140 characters. What must you say in 140 characters? Can you say it powerfully, as well as quickly?
2.   Acknowledgement – Meaningful acknowledgement is often peer acknowledgement; what point is there to sharing photos on FB or FLICKR except peer acknowledgement?
3.   Participation – For shared platforms, more use = more value. Always entice people to take the next step, just like facebook gets you to load a photo.
4.   Sharing – Sharing has to start with YOU! Sharing = participation, acknowledgement, and authenticity. What real value are you sharing?
5.   Authenticity – Posing kills peer acknowledgment. Don't pose for it, show it through transparency. What can you put on the line to communicate credibility?
6.   Interaction – Can I talk to you, or only just listen? How long is the lag-time for feedback? Can I interact with others, or just you / the host?
7.   Speed – Kathy Sierra best explains Web 2.0-style speed. Participation, sharing and acknowledgment all require speed of interaction & feedback.
This is great practice. As marketers and writers we must learn to say more in fewer words these days. Feel free to take a shot at revising these 7 in the comments below, adding your own, or feel free to tweet them and link back here (http://tinyurl.com/twittercopy).
Jeff, if I understand your background correctly, your gift is in writing, right? So imagine a writer being way-too-wordy, overly long when they write something.
Makes sense to me.
Jeff – re. Point 1 – Twitter.
I find this to be a real challenge. I love Twitter and hope to someday be good at coming up with meaningful tweets that my followers will actually get something out of.
I don't follow a whole lot of people, but I can say that from what I've seen, tweets with substance are few and far between, but there are definitely some of those. I find tweeting to be a great excercise in content review.
What am I really trying to say and can I communicate it clearly in 140 Characters or less?
@Thorren Koopmans… "can I communicate it clearly in 140 Characters or less?" – not if you have to reiterate your point
I've been a Twitter user for 1.5 years now, and I can definitely see a difference in my writing/communication style. While I do get on my verbose kicks, my point-drive information otherwise is usually constrained to 140 characters or less out of habit. Phone, inter-personal, and internal conversations have been condensed and consolidated to make the point in just as many characters.
My thought about marketing since Twitter's release has been – "what happens to the 'elevator pitch' now? does it become a 'Twitter pitch'?"
I've tried and tried and finally realized 140 chars is too short for life.
Me = No Twitter
hey, that's within 140…may be i'll try hard this time
Twitter and Haiku.
Twaiku. Gets to the point fast.
Creates clarity.
Concise is always goog, but I don't think that less is always more with web copy. Yes, the headlines, summaries, and calls to action need to be clean, quick and understandable in about a three second scan of the page (the first eye pass). But after you take care of those very important quick things, having more content available for those that want it can enhance credibility and trust. Even if people don't read it, just knowing that is there still might help conversion. Kind of like putting the 800 number there to call for help. Even if people don't call it, having it there gives people the feeling that they are at a legit site. The trick in my opinion is getting a design which does not impede the flow along the cowpath, but still communicates that there is a rich pasture along the side to spend time in if desired.
It's not twitter. Or anything else.
It's understanding thoughts.
If you have more than one thought in a sentence, then you're creating confusion in my mind.
So if I have a sentence like: When we go to the supermarket, and then when we go to the hardware store…
Oops. Two thoughts. Now my brain in scrambling.
That's part of the problem. The second is the legendary Jeff's language (Yes, I've sat with Jeff over dinner). You tend to use words that are complex and very 'thesaurus-like.' This causes another problem. My brain freezes. Because when you speak or write, the brain is trying to work out what you're saying. If you use words that are complex e.g. transmogrification then you confuse me. My brain is in scramble mode once more.
Now combine the factor of:
1) Too many thoughts in one sentence
2) Too many complex words
And you have a recipe for confusion.
Confusion that Twitter won't solve.
These are great tips, but they are great in their own right for copywriting "in the now." I don't really see them as an antidote for long, wordy blog posts. You can fix that problem without these tips (except for brevity): Omit needless words.
Just wanted to point out that the subject/content of the post was on Web 2.0 principles, so the principles themselves were not meant as a counter to long wordy blog posts but as operating guidelines to success in a Web 2.0 world. It was simply Bryan's hope that my writing style might change due to twitter addiction. In other words, I might become habituated to omitting not only needless but all non-essential words.
I couldn't agree with you more. Over and over it has been shown that (well written) long copy tends to outsell short copy – especially for more considered purchases and/or complex sales. Also, some temperaments have more questions and need more (or different types of) information to feel comfortable buying. So, as you said, the trick really is to design one's link structure so that each visitor can move as quickly through their buying path as they want while also being able to drill down for information on things that matter to them. I think you'll find that Persuasion Architecture addresses that design issue perfectly.
But on Web 2.0 platforms brevity seems to rule more than in-depth content. Just check out most people's Facebook comments, updates, wall writing etc. Or Flickr photo explanations, or even the length of the average viral video – it aint the 30 minute films going viral.
I would always much prefer to read a detailed well written article rather than one which cut short. However, sometimes it isn't an article I'm looking for. Surely a balance of both is always good? Let the reader decide and from a writers point of view, it would be good to have good knowledge of writing both long and short articles.
I appreciate Brevity myself. I could use a lot more of it in my day to day interactions.
great article
The 140 limit is a good practice for writing ad campaigns as well, so practice this technique! You wouldn't want to write ad copy that is pages long, no one would read it, and you would most likely lose the sale.
Maybe I should open up a twitter account and see what this is all about.
well, couldn't get myself used to it yet…seems confusing all together for some reason..is it just me?
It is a time consuming 7 principles.How many medium stature websites follow those principles.
I think sharing would take a huge leap in the future. Nowadays the world is staring to be a huge shared network with people sharing all sorts of resources.


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Quality evaluation in broadcasting withTocade Audio Monitor
The use of data reduction codecs and sound processors in broadcast dosn't allow traditional quality measurement methods such as THD, signal to noise ratio. In order to find an efficient and cost effective quality evaluation method, Radio France's Value Department experimented a tool called Tocade Audio Monitor (from CCETT research center). This device indicates the sound quality of a signal without any reference. It was tested with a CD that gives an image of Radio France programs (music, speech, location reports...). This CD test was used as a reference. All kind of signal paths were simulated using actual sound processors and data rate reduction codecs encountered at Radio France.
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Alderman Greg Helding, Buffoon, Cemetery Commission, Democrat John Dickert, Ethics, First Nations, Fooling the People, Lying John, Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home, Mayor John Dickert, Native American Burial Grounds, Potawatomi, Racine City Hall, Racine County Democratic Party, Racine Democrats, Racine Parks and Cultural Services, Tom Meredith, Tom Molbeck, Tool
As was pointed out in the the previous post, Did Lying John Lie Again, the Meredith Family is being granted special favors from the City of Racine, such as tax-exempt status on their purchase of the former Woman's Club, and Mayor John Dickert (D) is also giving them preferential treatment in purchasing an ancient Native American Burial Mound.
NOW it is revealed that they are also being allowed to purchase the property at a price that is FAR BELOW ACTUAL MARKET VALUE!
A MUST SEE Video from Racine Community Media where it is explained to Mayor John Dickert (D) why the Cemetery Commission denied the Meredith family request to purchase the property. To visit Racine Community Media click HERE.
Featured Speakers:
Sharon Baldukas - Racine Cemetery Commission
Kristine Reisdorf - Racine Cemetery Commission
Sandy Weidner - City of Racine District 6 Alderman
Steve Bedard – Director Mound Cemetery
What is most revealing is watching the PRICELESS EXPRESSIONS of the Meredith family as the Director of Mound Cemetery, Steve Bedard, reveals that IF the land in question wasn't an unsaleable Native American Burial Mound, it's actual market value is $300,000! Not the
$30,000 16,000 that Mayor John Dickert (D) is giving it away for. Note also that the speakers state that the layout of the Meredith gravesite is: Unusual, not allowed at other facilities, and would create 20 spaces in an area that would normally create 40.
*UPDATE* I've been told that the actual sale price is $16,000!
No wonder the Meredith family is blind with rage.
*UPDATED* 20 reasons, taken from the Speakers on the video, about why the Meredith family request was denied by The Racine Cemetery Commission:
1. The Meredith proposal was outside the guidelines specified for Mound Cemetery.
2. Those areas not platted were known Indian burial grounds
3. The sale of the property from a Potawatomi family to the City of Racine was contingent upon the City of Racine promising to honor and respect the burial sites of their people.
4. The Meredith request for an unplatted area and unusual layout would be setting a dangerous precedent, opening the doors for others to make similar requests.
5. The Meredith request for this area to contain 20 graves is unusual because if this area was platted in the traditional manner – it would have produced 40 graves.
6. Other cemeteries were contacted by the Racine Cemetery Commission – none of the cemeteries contacted would allow the Meredith family design.
7. Potential lawsuits from families that have been denied space in Mound Cemetery.
8. Mound Cemetery is a 163 year old cemetery of great National historical significance.
9. The Meredith family design is inconsistent with the plan created in 1850 by Dr. Hoy.
10. There are still traditional blocks of graves available in Mound Cemetery.
11. Individuals, such as the Meredith family, must not be allowed to redesign the cemetery to fit their personal preferences.
12. This issue sets a precedent
13. The Racine Cemetery Commission believes that the unplatted area IS an Indian burial ground – especially due to the circular design
14. Maps from the 1850's show many more mounds were originally located in the Cemetery than are currently registered.
15. If the Meredith family is allowed to build on an unplatted area that is an Indian burial mound – what will stop other families from requesting other Mound areas?
16. Dr. Hoy identified 138 Indian burial mounds in Racine – most have been lost – those that remain must be preserved.
17. Members of the Cemetery Commission were denied the opportunity to speak by Mayor John Dickert when the motion was made to approve the sale.
18. To preserve, for future generations the sanctity of the Cemetery.
19. Mayor John Dickert (D) wants to sell the unplatted Indian burial ground to the Merediths for
$30,000 $16,000 with 20 gravesites – the actual values of the land is $300,000 and would yield 40 gravesites.
20. The Potawatomi have a say in the matter – as it is recognized as their ancient burial mounds – Mayor John Dickert (D) has disrespected their Nation and has tried to silence their voice
WATCH THE ANGRY EXPRESSIONS OF THE MEREDITH FAMILY AS THE TRUTH IS REVEALED! Looks like Mayor John Dickert (D) forgot to send Steve Bedard "The Memo!" On the video – Steve Bedard 's remarks begin at the 7:00min mark.
Truth and honesty is not welcome at Mayor John Dickert's (D) City Hall!
In this newly released video at Racine Community Media – watch the reaction of the Merediths in response to Mound Cemetery Director Steve Bedard's assertion that the "Citizens of Racine deserve a fair shake". Click HERE to go to Racine Community Media
How about the ancient burial grounds of the Potawatomi? Does "Cowboy" John Dickert (D) allow their voice in the decision – or does he just shoot them down?
City Parks Director Tom Molbeck – what a shameless BUFFOON and TOOL of Lying' John! Get on your knees TOM!
Every single day the corruption grows in Racine! Should this come as a surprise to residents who are concerned and honest? NO!
John Dickerts (D) accomplishments:
- Poverty level has increased to make Racine one of the most impoverished cities in America while the mayor assumes no responsibility
- Substantial increase in local burglaries in both residential and commercial areas
- Creating new ordinances to specifically deter public comments and feedback
- Allowing friends to get another backdoor deal for half price grave sites on sacred Indian Burial Grounds (despite the cemetery commission saying no)
- Giving those same friends a real estate deal on a building downtown when a minority-owned business was discriminated against when they tried to buy it
- Competing as a city, connected to mayor's best friend's business no doubt, in headstone sales against long-standing local businesses
- Highest unemployment in the state for years running with no change in sight
- Bid rigging, discrimination and unfair business practices
- Unfair property taxes and assessments (and resulting lawsuits)
- Removing streetlights (still going through despite all the opposition)
- Cutting bus schedules and services to an absolute minimum
- Increased recycling and service fees (still going up despite promising it would not)
- Unnecessary cuts to essential services like Police & Fire (despite all the opposition)
- Porters $1.2 Million Giveaway (nothing to show for it)
- Giving more money to Porters without informing the community
- Delta Hawk Giveaway (nothing to show for it)
- CAR25 Giveaway and increased spending (see bid rigging)
- Giving friends that run CAR25 even more money than promised (another 30k)
- Uptown demolition and wasteful spending (more bid rigging)
- Unnecessary City Hall Bathrooms & Renovation (paying friends)
- Excessive Zoo subsidies while still increasing fees (paying more friends)
- Unnecessary City Hall roundabout (paying friends yet again)
- Excessive charges to residents for streets, sidewalks, and landscaping
- Failing school system (and failing school board)
- Suing local nonprofit organization Project New Life for issues created by the city
- Changing the rules for zoning and blight to rig real estate deals
- Unnecessary cuts to public transportation (where are bus ad revenues going?)
- Mass exodus of residents and businesses (with outdated population signs)
- Elitism and special rules to favor Aldermen (including guns in Council Chambers)
- Censorship, slander and libel against community members
- Suing our own city to cover personal legal expenses for the mayor
- Begging local churches and nonprofits to donate money to the city
- Excessive cronyism, favoritism, and back room deals
- No real plan for recovery (see bond rating downgrade)
- Hiring consultants for jobs that should be done by staff
- Incompetent City Administrator and Finance Director
- Pushed through union contracts (plus legal fees) without waiting for Act 10
- Lost potential contracts for water service due to arrogance
- Unnecessary hurdles for local businesses
- Violation of open meeting laws
- Violation of city ordinances and state statutes
- Complete lack of ethics, even by the Ethics Board itself
- Overpaid positions and benefits for City Staff, Mayor & Aldermen
- Continuous and excessive debt service (over 25 cents of every dollar)
- Excessive tax rates to deter any new residents and businesses
- No new development (besides liquor stores and discount shops)
- Massive amounts of foreclosures and pending foreclosures
- Free fall of home and property values toward ZERO for those that remain
- Rampant corruption and disregard for the community
- Lies
*UPDATE* Lying John's Fix is In!
Does anyone think that the answer is in doubt?
Democrat Cowboy/Indian Killer Mayor Dickert Rides Again! For link click HERE:
For those who want to investigate more about Wisconsin's Mounds – here is a great site!
Wisconsin Mounds click HERE for link.
*UPDATE* The historic maps of Mound Cemetery are now available for viewing at Racine Community Media. Click HERE for link.
From the misconduct of Mayor John Dickert in rigging the vote to the contempt and anger shown by the Meredith family when Cemetery Commission members spoke against the purchase, to the disrespect shown by Mayor John Dickert and Parks and Rec Director Tom Molbeck directed against Native Americans:
Please don't patronize MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM Funeral Home. Since they see no problem in ripping off the taxpayers of Racine and using the dirty and underhanded tactics of Lying John DIckert (D) to get their way — it's likely that they treat their customers with contempt and disrespect.
This is also a social conscience issue — and people of good character who believe in the Golden Rule — One should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself, should refuse to do business with them. Be sociable — as that is civilized — but don't spend one penny with them — there are other fine funeral homes available that do not behave as the Meredith's have.
The Meredith disrespect and contempt for the members of the Cemetery Board needs not be answered with disrespect and contempt in return — just a polite refusal to do business with them.
TO: People with a social conscience – Please DO NOT PATRONIZE MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM Funeral Home.


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SapuraKencana Petroleum Berhad today announced that it has entered into Sale and Purchase Agreements to acquire the entire interest of PETRONAS in 3 blocks offshore
Wood Group announced following changes to its senior management team.
Alan Semple, chief financial officer (CFO) has advised the board that he intends to
Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering) today announced the appointment of senior management personnel to new key management positions in the
The shipping season on the upper Mississippi River will end on Thursday as ice surrounding locks and dams near Minnesota's Twin Cities forced the earliest winter
East Africa's biggest port, Mombasa, expects to handle at least 14 percent more cargo this year, helped by its expanded capacity and a marketing drive, its management said on Thursday.
Shipments from Lake Erie nearly double that of a year ago
Coal shipments on the Great Lakes topped 3 million tons in October, an increase of 9 percent compared to a year ago,


text:
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text:
The Honda Brio was always a fun little car to drive, and its size made it the perfect car to take into the city. But with traffic in the city being as horrible as it is, an automatic transmission would have made driving it in the city that much more pleasurable.
Text: Business Standard
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Seattle PI Sports Blog
Seattle sports news, covering the Seattle Sounders, Washington Huskies, college football, college basketball, NBA and other sports topics. View the Seahawks and Mariners blogs for NFL and MLB news.
Posts filtered on Category
Report: NBA to take over Hornets; Seattle on horizon?
According to a report from ESPN.com, the NBA is set to assume control of the New Orleans Hornets. Is Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer in line to take over the team? [Read More]
What should Ballmer do with all that money? A few suggestions
What is Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer he doing with all that money? He's not saying, but the guys at 206 Hoops (where hoops talent reigns) has a few suggestions. [Read More]
Ex-Sonics guard Quintin Daily, 49, dies
Fomer Sonics guard Quintin Daily has died of heart disease in Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. He was 49. [Read More]
Kings owner denies Ballmer might buy, move team
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer sold $1.3 billion in Microsoft stock last week, but speculation that he planned to buy the Sacramento Kings and move the team to Seattle was apparently just that – speculation. [Read More]
Campaign hopes to send Squatch to OKC
Friends of a Seattle man who attended an Oklahoma City Thunder game in Portland dressed as Squatch are trying to raise enough money to send him to Oklahoma City. [Read More]
Homeless Squatch at Thunder game: 'I miss the Sonics'
Squatch made an appearance in Portland on Thursday as the Trail Blazers took on the Thunder at the Rose Garden. [Read More]
NBA player Reggie Evans: 'I miss Seattle'
Toronto Raptors forward Reggie Evans was in Vancouver this week, training with the NBA team for the upcoming season. Evans still misses Seattle, where he played for the Sonics from 2002-2006. [Read More]
Blazers to hold scrimmage at Garfield High
The Portland Trail Blazers will hold a scrimmage at Garfield High School on Oct. 14. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the scrimmage will start at 7 p.m. [Read More]
Roy apologizes for rap video appearance
Former University of Washington and Garfield High star Brandon Roy has apologized for appearing in the video for Cali & Cavalli's "What They Want." [Read More]
Kings owner denies team is considering move to Seattle
George Maloof, the owner of the Sacramento Kings, denied last week that the team is considering a move to Seattle. Sports Illustrated reported on its website that Maloof met with former Sonics minority owner Wally Walker and others recently. [Read More]
Show More


text:
[XSL-LIST Mailing List Archive Home] [By Thread] [By Date] [Recent Entries] [Reply To This Message]
Re: Friday challenge: XSLT thats creates XPaths for m
I really thought Schematron was something special, but then I found out it was just creating an XSLT 1.0 and I was really disappointed. Sorry if I'm wrong here, please point it out because I'm genuinely interested rather than being negative.
> Also, (and don't flame me if I'm too wide of the mark here) the assert > statements in XML Schema 1.1 will effectively make Schematron > redundant.
> I'm planning on taking mappings from the xml... I know this may not be > the "correct" way, but I really think "/a:b/a:b" is an acceptable > xpath when applied against an XML document where the user has supplied > both the xpath and the xml document...
As I say its an open source project, so if anyone feels like contributing just email me.
cheers andrew
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November 26, 2014
MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The quarterly deadline to place a telephone number on Wisconsin's no-call list is approaching.
The deadline to be added to the list is May 31. Any number put on the list then will be protected from unwanted phone solicitations and text messages starting July 1.
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Numbers can be added to the list at http://nocall.wisconsin.gov or by calling 1-866-966-2255.
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New content
Victoria County History
A History of the County of Cambridge and the Isle of Ely: Volume 9: Chesterton, Northstowe, and Papworth Hundreds
A. P. M. Wright & C. P. Lewis (Editors)
Year published
Supporting documents
Note of abbreviations
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'Elsworth: Introduction', A History of the County of Cambridge and the Isle of Ely: Volume 9: Chesterton, Northstowe, and Papworth Hundreds (1989), pp. 304-307. URL: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/report.aspx?compid=15455 Date accessed: 27 November 2014.
(Min 3 characters)
Figure 18:
Elsworth c. 1790
The extensive parish of Elsworth, covering 1,554 ha. (3,839 a.),
(fn. 76) lies 14 km. (9 miles) west of Cambridge. In shape an irregular hexagon, with an average length and breadth of c. 4 km. (2½ miles),
(fn. 77) it is bounded to the south by the road from Cambridge to St. Neots, a turnpike between 1772
(fn. 78) and 1876,
(fn. 79) to the east, towards its formerly dependent vill of Knapwell, by irregular field boundaries and further north by a stream flowing north towards the Ouse, and on the north and west by field boundaries. Its north-western boundary was from c. 1000 or earlier
(fn. 80) until 1974 also the county boundary with Huntingdonshire.
The land lies mostly upon Ampthill clays, overlaid over most of the southern two thirds of the parish by glacial boulder clays,
(fn. 81) and surrounding north of the village a substantial bed of Elsworth Rock, from which flints for muskets were formerly mined.
(fn. 82) The ground slopes downward from a wide plateau at c. 65 m. beside the St. Neots road to c. 30 m. near the village and barely 15 m. at the nearly flat northeast angle of the parish. From springs near the northern edge of the plateau a brook runs along a depression through the village.
Elsworth wood stands near one source of that brook. In 1086 Ramsey abbey had a grove adequate for repairs to its manorial buildings.
(fn. 83) In 1279 the wood covered 12 a.,
(fn. 84) but in 1800 at inclosure 41 a. Adjoining it lay the Grove or Wood closes, then covering 43 a.,
(fn. 85) whose shape suggests that they were created by assarting. By 1900 the wood's central section had been cleared, and trees covered only 34 a.
(fn. 86) Small scattered 19th-century plantations raised the area of woodland c. 1905 to 48 a.
(fn. 87) Under a charter of 1251 Ramsey abbey and its successors enjoyed free warren over the parish,
(fn. 88) and in the 14th century a warrener was appointed.
(fn. 89) Elsworth has since the Middle Ages been mainly devoted to agriculture. Its arable was cultivated latterly on a triennial rotation until its inclosure in 1801.
Elsworth was one of the most populous villages in the neighbourhood from the Middle Ages. In 1086 it contained 44 peasant households and 4 servi.
(fn. 90) There were c. 90 landholders in 1279
(fn. 91) and 64 taxpayers in 1327.
(fn. 92) In 1315 c. 200 people turned out for a great harvest boon,
(fn. 93) and 209 paid the poll tax in 1377.
(fn. 94) Following a decline only 27 paid the subsidy in 1524,
(fn. 95) but from the 1550s the population rose steadily, there being 53 households by 1563
(fn. 96) and perhaps c. 500 people by 1620, and probably then remained within the range of 450-500, despite occasional drops, as c. 1680 and c. 1725, until the mid 18th century.
(fn. 97) In 1676 250 adults were recorded,
(fn. 98) and there were c. 100 dwellings occupied in 1674
(fn. 99) and 100 in 1728.
(fn. 1) Numbers grew more rapidly from the 1760s, possibly dropping c. 1800 from well over 600 to c. 585, divided among 125 households,
(fn. 2) and rising again from 1811
(fn. 3) to a peak of 878 in 1841.
(fn. 4) Thereafter partly through emigration, c. 50 people leaving for America and Australia between 1850 and 1853,
(fn. 5) it fell slowly to just over 800 by 1871, then more rapidly to under 640 in the 1880s,
(fn. 6)
c. 560 after 1900, and 441 in 1931. From 525 after the Second World War it fell again to 476 in 1961, but recovered to 566 by 1971 and 637 in 1981.
(fn. 7)
The village stands in the centre of the parish.
(fn. 8) A minor road, leading west from Boxworth towards the Old North Road, crosses the parish and in the village was by 1840 called Cambridge Street.
(fn. 9) From it the wide main street, recorded by 1450 as Brook End,
(fn. 10) later Brook Street, runs south. The brook, flowing along that street, could still flood the centre of Elsworth after heavy rain in the 19th and 20th centuries.
(fn. 11) The manor house stands amid large closes opposite the street's northern end, the church on rising ground to the north-east. A back lane, once Workhouse Lane
(fn. 12) but by the 1880s Church Lane, runs east of the street. Cowdell End, so named by 1567 and formerly Cawdell or c. 1300 Caldewell End,
(fn. 13) was perhaps the East End recorded in 1375;
(fn. 14) Broad and Brockley Ends lay to the west.
By the late 13th century there was also a hamlet called Grave, sufficiently separate from Elsworth village to be styled a vill c. 1290
(fn. 15) and to have its own aletaster in 1321.
(fn. 16) It was said after 1400 to have stood in the closes by the wood.
(fn. 17) It was not recorded as inhabited after 1349. The main village also began to shrink from the late 14th century. The house of one large holding had fallen down by 1381,
(fn. 18) and, although Ramsey abbey could still let some newly built cottages in the 1390s,
(fn. 19) ruinous dwellings were often presented from the 1360s,
(fn. 20) four in 1402 and five c. 1430.
(fn. 21) About 1450 the tofts of 7 out of c. 36 messuages and 4 out of 24 cottages were empty.
(fn. 22)
The village retained c. 1950 seven or eight timber-framed houses, their fabric dating mainly from 16th- or 17th-century rebuilding; a few had been demolished by 1982. Dears Farm is a jettied house of 1611 north of the manor house, and Low Farm of 1595 at the south end of Brook Street has a large central chimney and a twostoreyed projecting porch. Twelve other timberframed cottages, all standing c. 1950, probably dated from the late 17th or early 18th century.
(fn. 23) The village suffered from two severe fires, in 1691, when property worth £1,650 was lost, and 1740.
(fn. 24)
Substantial 18th-century brick houses include Brockley Farm and the remodelled Brown's Farm at Cowdell End. In the mid 19th century the more prosperous farmers built themselves plain, large, square houses, plastered over timber framing, with doors and windows of almost identical design, such as the adjoining Child's and Meadow Farms at Broad End. Dales Farm at Cowdell End has a front with pilaster strips. After inclosure other farmsteads, not all with farmhouses, were built out in the fields: south of the village stood Common Farm, demolished by 1980, and Rectory Farm, and to the northwest North Meadow, Pitt Dean, and Rogues Lane Farms. Avenue Farm, in the village, also 19th-century, has lost since the 1950s a large timber-framed storehouse of c. 1700 but retains a long range of 19th-century stabling on castiron supports.
(fn. 25)
At inclosure in 1800 the village included, besides the manor house and rectory, two public houses, 19 farmhouses, 19 other houses, and c. 52 cottages.
(fn. 26) The number of dwellings had grown to over 150 by the 1830s and c. 180 by the 1860s.
(fn. 27) There were then c. 45 along Brook Street, c. 20 on its back lane, and c. 30 each at Broad and Cowdell Ends. The remainder lay mostly in groups of 6 or 7 on various minor lanes, often named from the farmers who had built the cottages, as with Fardell's and Cotterill's Lanes.
(fn. 28) By the 1880s the number of occupied dwellings had fallen to c. 155; 15 houses were vacant in 1881, 17 more in 1901, and by the 1920s barely 125 were inhabited.
(fn. 29) Council houses were built at Elsworth from the 1930s, when a row of eight pairs was erected south-east of the manor house.
(fn. 30) Others went up later south of Brockley End. There were 160 houses by the 1950s and 195 in 1971, even though the village had no mains sewerage until the mid 1970s.
(fn. 31) In the 1960s and 1970s there was much infilling among the older houses, many of which were refurbished by newcomers,
(fn. 32) and one on Brook Street was thoroughly restored by the Cambridgeshire Cottage Improvement Society.
(fn. 33) Private estates were laid out around closes east of the old village, one north of the Cambridge road of 30 houses.
(fn. 34)
Elsworth was linked with the road west from Cambridge by two ways leading south. One ran through Knapwell from a crossroads east of the village, where the Boxworth road met one from Conington. Of the other, called c. 1800 the Brockley Haden road, starting from the west end of the village, the straight southern section was set out only at inclosure, when the parish's other roads were largely left to follow their previous tracks.
(fn. 35) Elsworth was close enough to the Old North Road to suffer in the Middle Ages visitations from the king's purveyors and other servants: in 1314 the reeve had to furnish hospitality to 23 of Edward II's household, probably on the return from Bannockburn.
(fn. 36)
The village had several alehouses in the 14th century, as later.
(fn. 37) In 1532 its alehouse keepers were forbidden to lodge strangers for more than one night.
(fn. 38) The five public houses recorded c. 1770 included the Plough on Brook Street and the Three Horseshoes, both open by 1765, and the Fox and Hounds, a timber-framed house of c. 1700, at the northern end of the Brockley road. All were still open in the 1820s.
(fn. 39) The George and Dragon at Cowdell End was opened by 1851
(fn. 40) and was rebuilt after a fire in 1880. It was from 1854 to the 1880s the seat of a benefit society with c. 50 members, which had succeeded, perhaps c. 1834,
(fn. 41) a friendly society with 23 members recorded c. 1815.
(fn. 42) The Three Horseshoes closed c. 1915 and the Plough by 1961.
(fn. 43) The George and Dragon, with a restaurant added in 1975, and the Fox were still open in 1982.
(fn. 44) A beerhouse recorded by the 1850s by the crossroads at Caxton Gibbet, just inside Elsworth's south-western angle, was promoted in the 1930s into the Caxton Gibbet Hotel,
(fn. 45) still open in 1982.
The village Feast was held until c. 1900 in June for a week beginning on Trinity Sunday, and was marked by cricket matches.
(fn. 46) A cricket club, founded by 1891,
(fn. 47) was amalgamated with others including a football club of c. 1904 into a general sports club in the 1960s.
(fn. 48) By then F. W. Davison was letting a 7-a. field west of the manor house to the village as a sports field, where he had helped to build a pavilion. Otherwise Elsworth had few societies, depending for social facilities largely on the recently built Swavesey village college.
(fn. 49) In 1982 the parish council, having no village hall, was planning to buy the lately disused British Legion hut.
(fn. 50) By 1965 part of Elsworth wood had been cleared for motor cycle scrambles.
(fn. 51)
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