Merle's Whirls

STREETCAR...COULDN'T RESIST THIS ONE

2012-02-09T10:55:00.000-08:00

With more Broadway and Off-Broadway shows opening, I recently received an email about one coming up in April. I called the office of the public relations group handling it and asked to speak with the person that is publicizes this one.

"I couldn't resist", I said. "Do you remember years ago when guys were running across the college campuses naked? There was this one guy who had the word, 'DESIRE' written across his chest. He was a Streaker Named Desire.

NEWSICAL THE MUSICAL: END OF THE WORLD EDITION

2012-02-05T11:30:00.000-08:00

I attended the opening night of Newsical The Musical: End of the World Edition. It was all about the attendees. Broadway stars and some from the cast of One Life To Live as the show is being spoofed about it's leaving the airwaves. They do mention All My Children, but nobody from that cast. Eve Plumb (Jan Brady) was there. Afterwards, a party was held across the street with drinks and finger food.

I'm not going to review as yet but tell you that it's a revue and three of the four cast members are from Forbidden Broadway. Off-Broadway. Character changes. Topical, with song and hilarious!!

APPLEBEES BITES YOU

2012-02-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

I went to Queens Theatre (formerly Queens Theatre in the Park) last night to see Cocktails With Larry Miller. The show was quite funny and Larry is quite talented.

Afterwards my friends and I went to Applebees. It wasn't that we necessarily wanted to eat there, but one of a few restaurants located in a new shopping mall in downtown Flushing that is celebrating the Lunar New Year...year of the dragon.

I will begin with the specially priced meals of either "2 for $20" or "2 for $26". You get an appetizer to share and two entrees. Sounds like a bargain? The difference on the price has to do with the entrees, which are NOT the same portion as if you ordered the same entree separately. I ordered a regular entree of rib ends that came with a baked potato and cole slaw. My friend, who went in with the other person, got a smaller portion of ribs and no cole slaw. Mine was a bit more than $10 but the portion size was enough for me to bring home leftovers for another meal as I only ate half.

Drinks. Now here is where they get you. Both the alcoholic and soft drinks have a full page listing on the first page of the menu. You'll get the description and caloric content, but NOT the price. What's with this? It's not as if the waiter will let you know beforehand unless you ask. I requested to have the manager come over and explain. She told me that due to the cost of alcohol fluctuating they can't keep changing the menus. What a hunk of bull!! Wait, it gets better. I asked if the soft drinks with no price fluctuate. She told me that they are all $2.99. So why can't they list that? Soda, iced tea, etc. A flavored iced tea is ordered. There is an extra 80 cent charge on the check for the flavor. Did the waiter reveal this information when the drink was ordered?

A separate menu is given that contains drinks and desserts. Same as listed on the first page and still no price. Desserts do have a price. So, is there some ruling that says that restaurants must list the price for food but not for beverages?

We're not looking at fine dining here and I would describe the food as being no more than "okay". Think of a family coming in and the first thing that the waiter asks is "what would you like to drink?" You go around the table for requests without thinking about or even knowing the price and have already spent $3 per kid without even realizing. Oh yeah, ask for a soft drink with no ice and then ask for a glass of ice. I'll bet that soft drink will be enough for two kids.

UPDATE: The District Manager, Sharon V. called. She was apologetic. She defended all. Even said that the waitstaff is instructed to tell you the there is an additional charge for a flavor. I told her that the waiter didn't even know the one price of $2.99 for all soft drinks and insisted that this was a ploy to raise the bill amount and get a higher tip. She defended her length of time working for Applebees and getting the position she has as well as the integrity of the company.

The first thing she said was that the waiter can't be expected to know the price of the all of the drinks, since there are so many. I had to stop her to talk about the soft drinks. She went back to the alcohol saying that the prices were different depending upon for instance the brand of vodka used.

Hey, I just wanted the server to do his job and be open about the lousy soft drinks!!! I told her that based upon my experience this server represented all servers. She didn't think it was fair. I asked, "So why is it that when I talked the manager at this location, she didn't say that the servers are instructed on the price of soft drinks and the added 80 cents for a flavor." Another apology.

They all want to get back to the company "and make suggestions". I suggest you don't eat at Applebees.

INTERESTING PRODUCTS

2012-02-05T09:47:00.000-08:00

Products. I'll begin with some products. The thing about getting new products is that I don't have to feel guilty about throwing out the old stuff...except perhaps cleaning products. Mr. Clean rubber gloves and wipes. There are actually a couple of pairs that you would find on the hands of Desperate Housewives with pretty cuffs. I suppose that if you happen to be dressed up and having a sort of formal dinner party, you don't want to clash with your outfit by wearing a pair of generic rubbers.

I liked the wipes. Much better than a paper tower for cleaning and absorbent enough for spills. You can put them in the washing machine and reuse. Haven't done that as yet. I did dust with one. Great for that!

Just when I thought that Hearthware, the makers of the NuWave Oven, did their line to now include the Pro and the Mini (I has been easily 4 years and I still haven't used the oven of my range) another product has emerged. It's called the Precision Induction Cooktop. The unit, which can be placed on your counter top, contains hidden coils that heat the pot or pan that you are cooking in, but the unit itself is cool to the touch no matter how high you program the heat.

It can replace the stove top of your range. When I'm cooking on my stove top, things seem to take a longer time than I expect. I found out that the reason is that the flames never seem to center on the bottom of the pan or pot on a higher temperature as the flames go outward. I don't know about you but I don't want to have to spend any time deciding which of the four to use. Forget about my wok. Couldn't get the correct heat, etc. I'm told that it will work on the PIC.

Not all cookware will work on the PIC. The bottom, at least, has to contain metal that a magnet can stick to. I have pots (cheap) made of stainless steel but a magnet won't stick. I have a few "green" pans, two that are magnetic and one that isn't. Hearthware sells cookware if you want to add to your order. So, at this point I don't have a pot to cook with but do have a pot to piss in. Incidentally, I've already tossed out cookware with Teflon.

The PIC is light weight and you can cook on your dinner table. Great for a dinner party making fondue or a family dinner having your offspring do some of the cooking while you watch. You, of course, have to keep in mind that the cookware itself will get hot.

Ceramic knives are the thing these days. You never have to sharpen them. zx Kitchen produces them in black, each of which comes with a rubber "cover" to store. I received the starter set with a paring knife and 6 inch chef knife. Cuts wonderfully. So out went the old knives (I have others that are not ceramic, some serrated). I realized that I don't need a set of steak knives for company. Not that they were great, either. A set of the, what I call serrate butter knives, works well and if I serve up food that requires more than that, I'll simply cut it up before serving. Check it out on www.zxkitchen.com

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA WILL HIT 10,000

2012-01-27T20:28:00.000-08:00

Would you believe that Phantom of the Opera, the longest running musical on Broadway, will hit its 10,000th performance in a few weeks? The 24th Anniversary occurred on January 26. I attended the day before, a matinee, with my Aunt Gertie.

I was surprised when Christine (performed by Marni Raab)did not get a standing ovation hearing some news about who was to be portraying her. Afterwards, I looked in the Playbill to see that Trista Moldovan was the hype and Raab was doing alternate shows on Wednesday and Saturday matinees. Personally I thought that Raab gave an excellent performance. It was Hugh Panaro (the Phantom) who got the standing ovation and much deserving of. I recalled the last time I say the show and went back stage to meet Hugh. He has such an amazing voice and his acting is to be as much commended.

What is it that draws so many people to see Phantom? Let's begin with the score. The plot isn't one that you have to strain to follow. Then there is the score. Although there is much drama, there are some amusing spots as well due to the characters. Then there is the score. Talent is wonderful, sets are fabulous, effects are great and did I mention the score?

BOB'S RED MILL ROCKS

2012-01-27T19:39:00.000-08:00

While I was shopping at Fairway Market, I noticed a line of grain products that almost had as much variety as their coffee beans. The thing about Bob’s Red Mill is that most of the products are non-gluten. I am sensitive to wheat and also know that wheat breaks down to sugar in the body. I selected a bunch and now I’m experimenting.

I enjoy a hot cereal during the winter months choosing an 8-grain of stone ground corn, oats, brown rice, soy beans, oat bran, millet, barley, sunflower seeds and flaxseed. When I cook it up I add sea salt, butter and milk. Loved it!

Most curious about a chocolate cake mix with the ingredients of: evaporated can juice, unsweetened cocoa, garbanzo bean flour, potato starch, tapioca starch, whole grain white sorghum flour, fava bean flour, baking soda, xanthan gum, sea salt and cream of tartar. Being a chocoholic I added more cocoa, a bit more sugar and sour cream having already added milk, butter and eggs. Tasted just great!

When my mom made split pea soup I didn’t care for the texture as it was more like chicken soup with split peas. I like a thick pea soup. I had gotten a quart of Fairway’s ready-made matzoh ball soup having half to taste the matzoh balls (excellent consistency) and chicken. Since the soup already had carrots and onions, I added Pea Flour. It’s like buying instant pea soup without the flavor.

My next adventure is concocting gnocchi using their organic unbleached white flour with their potato flour (great for thickening soups as well) and topping it off with Fairway’s tomato sauce (which turns out to be a great salsa as well).

I have a new bread machine and Bob’s has loads of bread mixes. Haven’t made any as yet, but looking forward to the cinnamon raisin. I see that they have a mix for pizza crust. Another experiment as I will use a combo of their white flour and beer. Bake the crust and when almost done add the toppings and put it back in my NuWave Oven.

PORGY AND BESS BETWEEN OPERA AND THEATRE

2012-01-27T19:27:00.000-08:00

There’s another revival on Broadway with a newer title: The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and it ain’t necessarily “theatre” or “opera”. It’s a combination of both with the famous opening number, “Summertime”, sung in operatic tone by (Clara) Nikki Renee Daniels.

I am too young to have seen the original Broadway musical, opera versions in New York, nor the movie. In fact I went into the theatre without the knowledge of the plot. So, let’s get to that. The play is set in Charleston, South Carolina, in a small black enclave known as Catfish Row. It tells about Porgy (Norm Lewis), a crippled beggar who (originally) travels about in a goat-drawn cart and falls in love with Bess (Audra McDonald), a woman of some negative reputation who is under the domination of a man named Crown (Phillip Boykin). Crown murders a Catfish Row inhabitant in a craps game and takes a hike. Bess falls in love with Porgy. When Crown returns for Bess, Porgy kills him. Porgy goes to jail, and Bess is enticed to go to New York by, Sportin' Life (David Alan Grier), a flashy gambler and provider of cocaine. At the play’s end, Porgy is headed to New York to search for her.

There have been all sorts of revisions regarding Porgy and Bess. This one has little dialogue. No matter. It’s this performance that I’m experiencing so let’s talk about what counts. In case you are not familiar with the score, there were specific numbers that become popular including “I Got Plenty of Nothing”, sung by Porgy; “I Loves You Porgy”, sung by Porgy and Bess and “It Ain’t Necessarily So”, sung by Sportin’ Life.

As The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess is not a huge production like Les Miz or Phantom, what it does have works well. The cast is adequate enough to enjoy the ensemble numbers in both voice and movement and they all stand out in the way of talent.
Audra McDonald gives a wonderfully moving performance with barely enough time to not be on the stage. From the first time she sings you know that she has a background in opera. I thought that she appeared glassy eyed until it occurred to me that Bess is snorting.

As Norm Lewis was not in a goat cart, he did a remarkable job of walking about with the foot of his left leg pointed towards the middle of his body. His singing voice is in between operatic and theatre. However, it doesn’t blend as well when he and Audra do a duet not both having the same “tone”. But who cares?

David Alan Grier has a noticeable role. The Sportin’ Life character allows him to show off his voice (we already know that he acts well) with his solo. Nikki Renee Daniels made her NYC Opera debut as Clara in the operatic version…no surprise.

Well, they didn’t throw in a token gay guy but I am now noticing that there seems to be a token “fat black woman” going on. I had remarked to my friend Renee, a fellow writer about this. We had all to do but laugh when the actor appeared…complete with what seemed to be an extra added butt shelf, if you know what I mean.

All in all, I highly recommend The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess as a dramatic musical and good entertainment.

ACCESS-A-BASH

2012-01-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

New York City has something called Access-A-Ride that entitles to people with physical disabilities to use MTA vehicles vs the bus and/or subway. For the price of public transportation ($2.25) you can be transported to any place within the five boroughs. The MTA employs what looks like shuttle buses and taxis that bear the name Access-A-Ride. However, with the number of people needing the use, the MTA run Access-A-Ride opts for private taxi companies as well. Due to a physical condition, I was able to get this. They have "vouchers" and may give me two car services to choose from of which I call directly. If they are choosing a car service, they go through a service which does the choosing. Another words, I may be getting picked up by a shuttle (which most likely has other passengers), taxi (which may also be picking up other passengers)or a car service.

This day my pick up time was 10:19 a.m. I got a phone call at 9:35 from the driver asking if I could be ready in a few minutes as he first had to pick up a passenger in Brooklyn who was also going to Manhattan. I was not ready and said that I could be ready in 15 minutes.

We agreed on 9:55 and I walked out of my house to see a car service with no logo. The driver did open the door, but did not make any attempt to ask if I required assistance or wait until I got in to close the door. He didn't say anything (they are supposed to ask for your $2.25 (exact) and give you a receipt either before the drive or at the destination. Once my door was closed he just took off.

He had started a conversation on his hand held cellphone and continued to do so as he drove off. I could tell that it was a person call as he was speaking in a foreign language. I wanted him to get off the phone since the Taxi and Limousine Commission had published a "passengers rights" list that included the driver not talking on the any cellphone. The law in New York is that drivers cannot talk on a hand held cellphone when driving. I interrupted by saying, "Don't you want my money"? He continued to talk, put his hand out and as I placed a bunch of change in his hand, just dropped it in between the two front seats and continued to talk. I then said, "You're not supposed to talk on a cellphone".

Well, the man went berserk! "WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? LET THE COPS CATCH ME. I DON'T FUCKING HAVE TO LISTEN TO YOU...." and further use of the word "fuck" continued. He then pulled over to the side of the street (where he would be blocking traffic) and said, "GET OUT OF THE CAR!" He later told me that if I called to complain that he would "hunt me down". He then at one point says that I need to walk up straight and that if I weren't no nasty my problem wouldn't exist. At one point he was speeding at 70 mph on the highway (50 speed limit)

I requested his identification and name. He told me to tell the person I complained to that his name is "Trouble".

When the other two people came in the car, he was suddenly so nice to them. I did voice as to what happened just in case there was a problem prior to getting to my destination and someone would have at least heard about it.

Once I got home (I didn't have the time or opportunity to call the correct persons to complain to) I called Access-A-Ride who gave me a company and phone number. I not only gave them the info but asked the guy's name. I mean, after all, he has my name and address. Mooteram Lalbachan.

Now, according to the person I complained to, he is to have his license pulled and will file a complaint to the Taxi and Limo Commission on my behalf. He will get back with me on this. I will follow up on this.

Here are the rights

*
Ride in a car that is clean, in good condition, and has passed all required inspections;
*
Be driven by a TLC-licensed driver in good standing whose license is clearly displayed;
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A safe and courteous driver who obeys all traffic laws;
*
A quiet trip, free of horn-honking and audio/radio noise;
*
Receive a fare quote from the dispatcher and pay that amount for your ride (unless the trip changes);
*
A driver who does not use a cell phone while driving (hands-free phones are not permitted);
*
A smoke and scent free ride;
*
Air-conditioning or heat on request;
*
Working seatbelts for all passengers – please use them!
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Not share a ride, unless you want to;
*
Be accompanied by a service animal;
*
Decline to tip for poor service.

WINNING A QUARTER HIND OF BEEF AT FAIRWAY

2012-01-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

Imagine that your raffle ticket was chosen and you are the winner of a 230 lb. quarter hind of beef. What do you do other than claim it? Elizabeth Dusman of Manhasset Hills, NY, had the winning ticket due to the celebration of Fairway Market's grand opening of their store in Douglaston (Queens), New York. Fortunately Fairway Market's head butcher Ray Venezia was there not only to present the hind but to cut it up for her and her husband, Frank.

The demo was open to the public as Ray explained what types of cuts she could choose from each part of the quarter that had a retail price of about $1200. The Dusman's intended to borrow someone's freezer as well as sharing with family and perhaps a friend or two. Frank's mother, Maria, was also present for the present. With 12-year old son Eli and 14-year old Errol who both love beef, I don't think there will be problem. Perhaps her long time friend Paula, who attended, may be enjoying some of the beef as well.

I asked Elizabeth why she came to the store in Queens, living in Long Island's Nassau County, considering that there is a Fairway Market in Plainview. She said that the distance from Manhasset Hills is much shorter and was pleased as punch to find that a Fairway Market opened so much closer to her home.

I later followed up by asking about her first meat meal. Here is what she said. "The evening that you called we were eating the sirloin steak. It was marinating for a couple of days in a mixture of equal parts soy sauce and olive oil. For every cup of liquid, throw in 2 or 3 whole cloves of garlic and a teaspoon of sugar. Mix it in the blender- you'll see that it whips up nicely. It is a tasty and simple marinade. Frank and I set up a whole wrapping station when we got home. Most of it was wrapped in freezer paper and then either plastic wrap or the ziploc bags. Altogether it was an exhausting day.

OVERSTICK DOT COM

2012-01-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

I decided that I needed a good ergonomic chair as I sit at my computer. With all of the online stores, I just went for Overstock dot com. The big "O" should now stand for "odorous" as far as I'm concerned. I had to ask a friend to put the chair together and I detected an odor from it. At first I thought that it was just a "new chair" odor until I got just what the smell was...mildew and mold.

I called the company to get some "nice" customer service person who had a list of what to do. She offered a 20 percent discount but agreed that having the smell of mold around me wasn't good. They want me to return the chair. They want me to take the chair apart. They will have UPS pick it up. I'm not in any shape these days to either take it apart or put one together. It's one of the things that require your sitting down the floor. I explained this. They would send me another chair and wait until I had it put together and then get the one that I have taken apart and put into the box that the second chair came with.

They suggested that I find a box big enough to put the entire chair into and then have UPS pick it up. It has all become my responsibility when they are sending a piece of furniture that shouldn't have been sent to me in the first place. Why is this thing smelling of mold? Are they so overstocked that it is in a part of a warehouse that perhaps got flooded a bit?

Then they asked if I wanted to get a credit. I asked, "Why would I take a chance on buying from a company that would send me such a disgusting item?"

I asked to speak with the Corporate office and she connected me with her supervisor, who, of course couldn't make any more decisions that she. I have the phone number of the corporate office, which I will call. I'm interested to hear if the office wants negative feedback all over the place, let alone sending me a moldy chair.

CAWFEE TAWK AT FAIRWAY MARKET

2012-01-07T16:12:00.000-08:00

Having noticed the information from the signs around the coffee and tea section of Fairway Market in Douglaston, Queens, I figured that I could get much information about coffee on beans and brewing. I met with Fairway Market's Director of Coffee, Benny Lanfranco and certainly got a fill of information.

While Benny was preparing his own cup of coffee floor manager Jerry Seybert had stopped by. He's been around Fairway since 1979 and was the first "coffee guy" when they started with only 7 bins of coffee.

I then approached Benny who explains why he likes to make one cup of coffee at a time.

We finally get an introduction from Benny who had prepared various small portable methods of brewing coffee, all of which either use hot water or can be done on a stove top. Benny then spoke about Turkish coffee, a method of drinking and not that any beans are actually grown in Turkey. It requires coffee being ground to a powdery substance.

Espresso means "fast" and is just a bit more coarser than the Turkish. One shot take about 22 seconds using 2 oz. of coffee. I love the little stove top gadget, so very Italian.

Next in coarseness if for drip coffee. Rather than using a machine, Benny prepared a special elegant glass drip using a paper filter. Coffee has to be ground specifically for the brewing method you are using. I'm getting that water will go faster through a more coarse grind.

Here is an old fashioned Napolitan Italian stove top brewer that uses a drip grind. It brought up images of my trip to Naples as it can be done right at your table.

We're on to the French Press which is coarser than the drip. Depending upon the size of the press, it is another facility that can be prepared at your table and brewed for 4 minutes. Some French presses can also be used to brew loose tea.

The last method is using a percolator. Do your remember those? Now, they are most used at catered functions.

All of the coffee beans are roasted at Fairway. I was able to watch the "green beans" roasted. A chart is given to the person doing the roasting that will determine whether it will be light, medium or dark roast. Benny showed me samples of the various roasted beans noting how much oil is present in the dark roast.

We then talked about acidity in coffee saying that it has to be balanced and is pre-determined by the soil of where it is grown. He tells me that there is a lower acidity in places such as Costa Rica and Guatamala vs. coffee from Africa like the Ethiopian.

My batteries ran low before we could chat about the peaberry coffee. I had heard that the one from Tanzania was delicious although a bit high prices. When you see the roasted coffee beans they are "halved". The plant produces a "twin" bean whereas the peaberry, a single bean.

Now that I have that Italian single cup espresso do-hicky, I bought a coffee grinder from Krups. It says here: "Coffee that is ground too fine for a particular brewing process - (fine espresso grind used in an automatic drip coffee machine) will result in over-extraction and bitter, pungent tasting coffee. Conversely, coffee that is too coarse for a particular brew method will result in under-extraction and weak, watery coffee. It the correct grind is used, adding more coffee simply makes a brew stronger without making it bitter".

There seems to be more settings than just the ones we talked about. Has something to do with ones taste. I will ask Krups for further assistance on this.

ST. PAUL ENDING

2012-01-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

I could see the St. Paul Cathedral from my window. I'm certain that the architect is just fabulous both on the outside and inside. I wanted to view a synagogue that had a history. It was Mount Zion Temple on Summit Avenue that drew me. As it turns out Mount Zion Hebrew Congregation is the first Jewish temple in all of Minnesota and established even before Minnesota became part of the United States. It was designed by Erich Mendelsohn. The Reform Synagogue does not look as if it were built and founded in 1856. "A first glance at the bold sweep of the building and its irregular outlines, at the austere towers, and another at the simplicity of glass, brick and wood of the interior, speak of today rather than of the past."

My tour involved a description of the architecture as well as historic pieces and art in the forms of paintings and glass stained windows that were placed in front of rather than in the window itself.

The day continued with lunch at another historic site, the Lexington Restaurant at Grand Avenue. An original pub from the 1930's, I was able to detect the elegance and sophistication. Chicken and Wild Rice Soup preceded my entree of Walleye with asparagus.

I have a 2 p.m. showing of the Omnivision of Amazon set at the Science Museum of Minnesota. I love watching just about anything in Omnivision. Skipped a tour of the museum for a tour of Wabasha Street Caves, located at 215 Wabasha Street South.

These caves are above ground and said to be haunted. They used to grow mushrooms here so they have one entranceway to a room in the shape of a mushroom. Site of former St. Paul gangsters, tours are offered to include another about the hauntings.

A second evening was spent at Covington Inn, a bed a breakfast on Harriet Island. What makes this b&b different is that it is a buoyed and buffered floating boat on the Mississippi River with a view of the skyline of downtown St. Paul. The boat is trimmed stem to stern in mahogany, brass and bronze. I bedded down in the Masters Quarters, a suite on the second floor accessible by spiral stairs. Three sides of windows and a terrace. "Lobby" has the dining area and living room.

I was hoping to take a boat ride thinking that the Padelford Packet Boat Company was going afloat while seeing a play called Escanaba in da Moonlight put on by Flying Pig Productions using local talent. Cute show and an ending to my days in St. Paul.

For more information, go to www.visitsaintpaul.com

ST. PAUL CONTINUED

2012-01-02T18:44:00.001-08:00

Check in time! Going to the Saint Paul Hotel in the downtown area,known for its old-world charm and European inspired elegance, and accommodating the most discerning business and leisure travelers every day. I believe that the hotel is turning 101 years old. Great location as they have complimentary local transportation that will take you to such attractions as the Science Museum of Minnesota, St. Paul Cathedral and Minnesota State Capitol crowned by the largest unsupported marble dome in the world. I suggest they get an 18-hour Z-bra.

There are parks located just outside the hotel of which have Peanuts character sculptures. I am told that Charles M. Schulz, the creator, was born in St. Paul and wish to gain their claim to fame.

Across the street is the Landmark Center that serves as a cultural center for music, dance, theater, exhibitions, public forums, and hosts countless special events. There was no particular event going on, but went upstairs to see two of the galleries. One was American Association of Woodturners Gallerie, of art that offers a view of contemporary works created in wood and also features educational exhibits, a display of vintage lathes.

On the opposite side is the Schubert Club Museum which houses an educational exhibit of musical instruments, music boxes and more. It happened to be closed when I was there. Peeking in I could see this massive sculpture of instruments.

The dinner hour has arrived. Found this Russian restaurant called Moscow On The Hill, located at 371 Selby Avenue that features both the authenticity and flavored vodkas. Shot down a few like horseradish, honey, and Chateau Marusya (cherry). Some of the vodkas are topped with a skewer of gherkin.

Onto the food commencing with appetizers. Russian Herring - cured herring filet, onion, olives, pickled beets, baby potatoes, dill, cold-pressed sunflower oil. Had to have Borscht, the classic Russian beet soup with cabbage and potatoes garnished with sour cream and fresh dill. That was followed by Blini with Caviar, a crepe blini filled with salmon roe, with dill, scallions, and sour cream.

Hand-made Dumplings are a must. There are two kinds. Pelmeni are traditionally filled with meat, while Vareniki being meatless. For instance, I had the Siberian Pelmeni with beef and pork brushed with butter and garnished with sour cream, served with vinegar. The Vareniki, a Ukrainian ilk was filled with potato and caramelized onion, garnished with sour cream and fresh dill.

I chose the Babushka Stew for an entree, a pork shoulder stew in a clay pot, sauteed vegetables, parsley and mashed potatoes.

Chef Gary Krasner was called to my table when I sampled the "White Russian" Tiramisu. I could not imagine why a Russian restaurant would offer tiramisu. I dare any Italian restaurant to compare their version to the one here! It was exactly the way I expect tiramisu to be. Espresso and Kahlua macerated lady fingers, Mascarpone cream (not that whipped cream kind that cheats on the Mascarpone content), dusted with cocoa powder. OMG! Since I am a chocoholic, I also had two Belgian dark chocolate cocoa dusted truffles.

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

2012-01-02T16:05:00.000-08:00

St. Paul, Minnesota, tended to be the "quieter" city than was Minneapolis. It did not lack for ways to occupy myself, taking in many attractions and dining spots.

It was in the morning that I landed at the St. Paul/Minneapolis airport, too early to check into my hotel. Tour time! One area, not totally in the downtown area, are the main streets of Summit Avenue and Grand Avenue. Summit Avenue is said to be the country's longest span of preserved residential Victorian architecture. Lined with Victorian homes converted into boutique shops, Grand Avenue is considered to be both an historic residential and "hip" commercial neighborhood.

Since I was unable to do more than look at homes on Summit Avenue, I stopped in some of the stores on Grand. Always thinking of food. Penseys Spices and Seasonings. What a fabulous array to cook with!

Not far away, on 7th Street West, Cosetta's Italian Market caught my attention. Cheeses, meats, deli and a cafe. I heard that they are noted for their pizza. I was saving my appetite for lunch at Saji-Ya at 695 Grand Avenue. Need I say what type of cuisine? I read, "Long-time sushi lovers know that Saji-Ya serves only the freshest fish and has an experienced team of chefs lead by our executive sushi chef 'Manny' Ortega. Yet this destination hot spot, located on St. Paul's Grand Avenue, serves more than sensational sushi,fabulous lunches, excellent Teppanyaki (grilled Japanese cuisine) and Japanese entrees grace Saji-Ya's exotic menu." I naturally engaged in some sushi and maki rolls.

Passed on dessert as Grand Ole Creamery was just down the block. This old fashioned ice cream parlor serves up super-premium ice cream and lots of flavors.

Back on Summit Avenue to tour the James J. Hill House. "Rugged stone, massive scale, fine detail, and ingenious mechanical systems recall the powerful presence of James J. Hill, builder of the Great Northern Railway. Guides lead tours that help you imagine family and servant life in the Gilded Age mansion. Completed in 1891, the red sandstone residence was the setting of the public and private lives of the Hill family."

Heading in to the downtown area, there was an exhibit at the Minnesota History Center about the year 1968. "The social forces that swirled through the turbulent 1960s crested in 1968. It was a turning point for a generation coming of age and a nation at war. The year saw the peak of the Vietnam War, the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, riots at the Democratic National Convention, assertions of Black Power at the Olympic Games and feminist demonstrations at the Miss America pageant. Hair opened on Broadway, Laugh-In debuted and became the number-one show on TV, Bonnie and Clyde and The Graduate picked up Oscars and Johnny Cash gave a legendary performance at Folsom Prison. President Lyndon Johnson spoke of a country “challenged, at home and abroad” in his State of the Union address; his successor, Richard Nixon, promised in his nomination acceptance speech that 'the long, dark night for America is about to end.' In the closing days of the year, we saw Earth in its entirety for the first time from the window of the Apollo 8 space capsule." The exhibit goes until February 20th, then tours other cities.

ON A CLEAR GAY ON BROADWAY

2012-01-01T01:07:00.000-08:00

Dr. Mark Bruckner (Harry Connick, Jr.) approaches the lip of the stage introducing himself to the 1974 Annual Winter Meetings of the American Psychoanalytic Association about his unusual case. “The subject”, he says, “is a 29 year old homosexual male who lives in a rental apartment in Greenwich Village, and works as an assistant in a neighborhood flower shop”. The doctor also tells us that the story isn’t only about the patient but what happened to him, an experience which transformed his way of thinking about time, love, death and big band music.

On A Clear Day You Can See Forever recently opened on Broadway as being a “newly imagined production”. I had not seen the original Broadway version (which I understood ran a total of 280 performances in 1965) or the movie that starred Barbra Streisand.

Here’s the thing. Bruckner teaches a class on hypnosis. One of his students, Muriel (Sarah Stiles) brings her best friend, David (David Turner), who is trying to quit his five-pack-a day cigarette habit. David is quite susceptible to hypnosis as well as being undecided about whether he should move in with Warren (Drew Gehling), boyfriend and lawyer.

During the hypnosis David begins talking and singing like a woman. This woman, Melinda (Jessie Mueller) was a singer in the 1940’s and dead. Nevertheless, the doc, who seems to be still mourning his wife, falls in love with her. So, he is communicating with David’s past life while David is under hypnosis. I hope you’re still with me on this.

In stage reality, the doc is falling in love with David although you do see Melinda’s life. In fact, each time David is awakened he gets the feeling that the doc is falling in love with him, which makes it more complicated regarding his beau.

Let’s now get to the nitty gritty of it all with what irks me. The draw is Harry Connick, Jr. Yes, he is charming, handsome and is a fabulous singer. If you enjoy watching a piece of wood, then you’ll appreciate his one note expressions. I know that there would not have been a homosexual character on stage in 1965 and frankly, it doesn’t really work, considering that the lead is supposed to be an intelligent shrink. I have noticed many Broadway shows sporting a token gay male (hardly ever a lesbian). Are we still with the stereotype gay male/Broadway musical? Is this in hopes to draw out the gay community who will hear that act one ends with Harry Connick, Jr. kissing “a boy”?

On the positive side, it may be worth it to experience Jessie Mueller and David Turner. Mueller, who is making her Broadway debut, far surpasses the acting ability and, I’m afraid, singing ability of Connick. In case the show doesn’t do well I hope that Mueller will come back to us.

The three recognizable songs. “Come Back To Me” (sung by Connick and Gehling) showed off Gehling’s talent. “What Did I Have That I Don’t Have” and “On A Clear Day”, were the other two. Loved the rest of the score. Credit is given to Burton Lane for the music and Alan Jay Lerner for the lyrics. Small production with no elaborate production numbers. Good choreography. On A Clear Day You Can See Forever is a thumbs up and thumbs down for me.

HISTORIC STILLWATER

2011-12-22T21:39:00.000-08:00

Stillwater, located on St. Croix River, is Minnesota's birthplace with a history of lumberjacks. I flew into the St. Paul/Minnesota airport to get here. Like many other cities, Main Street is the heart of it, full of art galleries, antique stores, restaurants and specialty shops.

I met up with Kit Shoop, one of the artists that shows her wares at the Art Guild Gallery. She's noted for miniature water colors that focus on birds and cats. At her home, she has dogs, a horse, and her studio. It's the bird feeders that assists in inspiring her. Her husband, Wally, does bronze sculptures and most noted for his eagles. He also plays the guitar and composes as a hobby.

Kit and I ate at a restaurant called Green Room. I had a Minnesota Salad of mixed and dandelion greens, blueberries, hazelnuts and turkey confit with a maple syrup vinaigrette and wild rice waffle. Had to have wild rice, being in Minnesota.

Walleye being another "must" I chose their Manchengo Almond Walleye. The native fish was covered with manchengo and almond, oven roasted and served with lemon and thyme Beuree Blanc.

Kit went for the Indian Seafood Congee of mussels, shrimp, scallops and some other fish with rice and vegetables in a vegetable ginger stock. I did taste it and was just a bit spicy but good. In fact the food at Green Room is quite delicious.

Their pastry chef presented our dessert, which I just remember it to be a chocolate lovers decadence!

Kit and I then walked across the street at 208 Main Street South to check out Stillwater Olive Oil Company. They have several oils and vinegars and you can taste all of them if you so desire. I particularly love the flavored oils and tasted basil, lemon, cilantro with roasted onion, blood orange, butter flavored (great for popcorn)amongst others. They have an authentic balsamic vinegar that is aged and not mixed with a wine vinegar, which you would tend to get at your grocery store. Choose what you want and they bottle it right there.

Kit had to head home so I took a trolley tour to hear about the history and view some of the old homes and museums. Didn't really like the tour as the guy running it told us all not to talk or ask questions as well as seeming to put on some sort of character and sounded as if it was all memorized. He didn't seem to have a problem telling us about his personal life prior to departing. If you don't have a walking issue, grab info from tourism and go to it!

You could see the historic Lift Bridge on the St. Croix River, one of only three in the United States.

Due to the season and time constraint I missed the gondola ride, hot air balloon, paddlewheel excursion and LumberJack Days as well as the Joseph Wolf Brewery Cave Tour and Northern Vineyards Winery. www.discoverstillwater.com.

ROSA MEXICANO

2011-12-20T17:33:00.000-08:00

An architecture of bright colors, a waterfalls and tall windows span the walls of Rosa Mexicano, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The location at 609 Hennepin Avenue, in the Minneapolis' entertainment district, is one of twelve in the United States where you can expect true Mexican fare that is far from Tex-Mex. I was looking forward to partaking.

Behind the waterfalls was a lounge that had a bar as well as tables and chairs. Abutting one side was another room which I understood used for the overflow of customers or private events. I was seated in the main dining room.

Although a Frozen Pomegranate Margarita is their signature drink, I opted to save my alcoholic intake for after dinner. The menu gave a detailed description of the food along with a marking so that I would get the caliber of the heat. "Mild" is my choice!.

Guacamole en Molcajete is prepared dinnerside. Since 1984 they have been serving freshly made guacamole with avocado, jalepeno, tomato, onion and cilantro. If there is an ingredient that you are not particularly fond of and want eliminated, do not hesitate to share this. Warm corn tortillas, tortilla chips, salsa pasilla de Oaxaca and salsa de tomatilla y habanero accompanies this appetizer.

Well, let's call it a pre-appetizer as I had another one. Tartar de Serviola. Pacific Yellowtail aka Hamachi Tartare composed of diced yellowtail, watermelon, cucumber and jicama served with a tomato habanero sauce and jalpeno ice.

Next course. Filete Con Hongos, a sliced up filet mignon covered with a wild mushroom, tequila cream sauce and sauteed red and green peppers. Black beans and yellow rice accompanied this savory delight.

It was quite difficult choosing a dessert and the one that won out was the Tres Leches de Zarzamoras and Blackberry Three Milk Cake. The sour cream pound cake is soaked in three milks, lemon and lime,topped with an assortment of berries as well as an hibiscus glaze and toasted meringue.

Having chatted with Ryan, one of the managers, he had suggested the after drink. It was a shot of tequila with a chaser of Sangrita, made with a fresh tomato juice, worchestire suace and chaula. Totally tasty. www.rosamexicano.com

CHANUKAH

2011-12-19T00:08:00.000-08:00

Chanukah is only a day away as the celebration begins at sundown on December 20th. I came across a song by Peter Paul and Mary that Peter Narrow composed in 1988. It's called, Light One Candle.

IT'S A CONFUSING LIFE

2011-12-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

Queens Theatre, formerly known as Queens Theatre in the Park, is now presenting a staged radio version of It's A Wonderful Life. There's are five actors and one sound man doing all of the work as one actor may be portraying more than one of the famous characters.

It is clear that you are part of the studio audience including the "applause" sign and each of the actors is talking into a stand up radio mike as they read from a script. The show, It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, is being directed by Ray Cullom, the newly appointed executive director of the theatre.

All seemed fine with the acting and staging until about the time that George gets rescued by Clarence. I see the actor's script on the floor in front of the mike. It looks as if he is about to pick it up but then "goes off book". At first I thought that being the first performance that the stage manager goofed up. The actor continues with the lines and I'm thinking how smart that he memorized the script just in case. He continues and walks about the stage as if the show was now a staged production. Every other actor is walking up to the "mike" and reading from the script. Then he talks with Mary and she is "off book" and joining him at one point.

Now, here's the thing. If they are doing a radio show with sounds and all how would people be able to hear the dialogue listening to the radio if they are not talking into the microphones regardless of that the radio cast gets that there is an audience in the room. Then during this period (they later go back to the radio vs stage version after Clarence leaves George), there are special lighting affects...for who? Did the director take these things into consideration or did he just think that the audience would just be happy with the acting, etc.?

The actors do a wonderful job. Now, I will be curious as to whether any of the reviewers catch this.

BROADWAY: BONNIE AND FLOP

2011-12-18T09:37:00.000-08:00

Despite the December 30, 2011 closing, I thought I'd speak my mind. When I attended a performance of the musical Bonnie & Clyde,at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre,I heard much of the audience giving positive feedback to what turned out to be a romanticized view of the infamous Bonnie and Clyde.

The show is based on the movie and gave more detail to the lives of the leads from when they were children in a poor area of Texas, when and how they met, and why they stayed together through it all. I don't have to relate the plot as I'm sure you've seen the movie version.

Laura Osnes and Jeremy Jordan head the show with music by Frank Wildhorn and lyrics by Don Black. I had no problem with the score, in fact it's now a waste unless you can get a cd somewhere of when it was performed in La Jolla, or on youtube.

There were no huge production numbers since it was not a huge cast. The talent was fine and many of the actors even looked like the historic Bonnie & Clyde folks. At times, movies or photos of the reality version flashed on screens and a half car was on the stage.

I guess I did have a concern that Broadway is making historic killers look good and sitting near the front got a more detail view of the blood and gory. I didn't really think about that as I watched, rather was I enjoying a piece of entertainment and I did. Heck, go get a half price ticket and see it.

FESTA DEI SETTE PESCI

2011-12-16T16:47:00.000-08:00

The Feast of the Seven Fishes (festa dei sette pesci), celebrated on Christmas Eve, also known as The Vigil (La Vigilia), is believed to have originated in Southern Italy and is not a known tradition in many parts of Italy. Today, it is a feast that typically consists of seven different seafood dishes. Some Italian American families have been known to celebrate with 9, 11 or 13 different seafood dishes. The celebration is a commemoration of the wait, Vigilia di Natale, for the midnight birth of the baby Jesus.

At New York City based Fairway Market, the fishmonger, Tony Maltese, reigns over the fish market area with a multitude of seafood to chose from. A sign above reads, "Festa dei Sette Pesci" and lists seven suggestions: Baccala (Dried Cod) Fritte; Fried or Boiled Calamari; Baked Flounder; Boiled Whole Crab or Lobster; Sauteed Shrimp; Steamed Mussels; A Classic Spaghetti with Clams.

I met Tony to inquire about the various seafood offerings. Baccala is quite common in Italian cuisine. Perhaps you may not want to settle for the dried ilk an opt for fresh cod. For years I did not know that Calamari was squid. My Italian friend used the term "calamar" and only saw it cut up. Here, the squid is all cleaned up and ready to go.

Tony gets the fresh flounder from fishing boats on Long Island. In fact, Tony never buys seafood from Fulton Fish Market. Crab, mussels, clams and a variety of shrimp are also offered for the feast.

Go after more than seven! Have pasta with salmon. Go wild or farm raised. The difference is in the "marbling". Get both and taste the difference.

What may bring you back to Italy is the fresh sardines from Sardinia. If you wish, they will clean them up and all you have to do is deep fry them. For those who have never viewed fresh sardines, they are much larger than the size you see in a can! You know you're making a tomato sauce (gravy) so use some over the sardines or simply add a bit of sea salt and lemon juice.

Pick up some "dry scallops". It means that the scallops haven't been sitting in liquid and getting puffed up. They are not actually "dry" like baccali and you will certainly taste the difference if you usually get the ones from a grocery store or perhaps many fish markets. Keep in mind that water not only puffs them up but makes them heavier.

Perhaps you may not have the time to prepare many of the "fishes dishes". Fairway has a fresh Seafood Salad, that is filled with taste and texture. This will take care of: mussels, scallops, shrimp, squid, and baby octopus.

Head over to the cheese department for some freshly made mozzarella. Pick up some meyer lemons in the produce section and make your own limoncello. As for dessert, you and your loved ones can indulge in a box of holiday cookies. Five different flavors and shapes including chocolate, ones with pecans, and a butter cookie shaped like a Christmans tree with green "sprinkles".

Fairway presently has nine markets in the Tri-State area. www.fairwaymarket.com

GOOD COOKIES

2011-12-13T16:13:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not talking about cookies as in computer cookies. I bought a container of cookies that looked like the tri-colored sort. It read, "Rainbow Marzipan". They are "tri-color" but with an added layer of marzipan on top and on the bottom. It came from a kosher bakery called Continental Cookies in New Jersey. The "kosher" only means that there are no meat by products used. However, they do use dairy products, which only means that for those who keep kosher at home...no mixing of meat and milk...you have to wait hours before eating a dairy product after having a meat product. I don't keep kosher. For me, I happen to love the chocolate used in the kosher bakeries. They tend to use a dark chocolate.

Back to the Rainbow Marzipan. I want to have almond paste in my tri-color cookies...not a flavor of almond paste or a hint of almond paste. Here are the choices to buying them. Go to there company in Hackensack, New Jersey. Find their products at a store. Go online and order them. www.continentalcookies.com under "gourmet cookies".

ST. LOUIS THE FINALE

2011-12-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

It's the final evening in St. Louis and having had great weather it did not lack experiencing a 360 degree view while meeting with members of the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission. If it weren't for people such as Donna Andrews, Nancy Milton and Mary Hendron, I would have never gotten all of the information that I needed to take this all in. Here we are having cocktails at 360, the bar at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark on South Broadway. The location is near the Mississippi River. Great for a photo op.

Dinner was at Mike Shannon's Steaks and Seafood owned by retired St. Louis Cardinal player and long-time radio "voice" of the team. I sampled the beef carpaccio, shrimp cocktail, a steak and side of creamed spinach.

Picture it. The Peabody Opera House (formerly the historic Kiel Opera House)is holding its grand re-opening. This 3,100-seat theater in the heart of downtown St. Louis had undergone a $78.7 million renovation. Cameras and spotlights are focused on the entrance as we make our way to the orchestra seats.

Pure elegance! Speeches, bands and vocalists warmed up the gala as we had the pleasure of seeing comedian Jay Leno and singer Aretha Franklin perform. As a souvenir, we received a switch of the original curtain from back in 1933.

EVEN MORE ST. LOUIS ART AND CULTURE

2011-12-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

We're outdoors for awhile as we ride through the Missouri Botanical Garden said to be the oldest public garden in the United State and founded by English immigrant Henry Shay. It's also considered as on of the top three public gardens in the world. The New York Botanic Gardens is one of the other three. The landscape houses a collection of important sculptures from around the world. Highlights of this 79-acre-Eden include: a tropical rain forest inside the Climatron geodesic dome that features endangered plant species: a Victorian garden; Chinese garden; Seiwa-En, the largest authentic Japanese garden in North America and an elaborate Missouri Adventure-themed Children's Garden.

Laumeier Sculpture Park is a 98-acre park containing a collection of more than 80 contemporary sculptures in internationally acclaimed artists. It specializes in interpretive exhibitions and education programs. Hiking trails will take you to many of the works. As for me, I toured areas around the main entrance.

One more art museum, the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, located near the Fox Theatre. On the first Saturday of every month they host, "Feast Your Eyes", to combine art and food that features creative, art-inspired tastings by a local chef. Then we got to view the connection between the culinary dishes and works by CAM's current exhibiting artists.

Then there was this movable chess board with white pieces having something to do with Yoko Ono.

The night that I dined at The Hill, I went to see Victor/Victoria at a theatre company called Stages, in the Chesterfield area of St. Louis. The show itself is entertaining in regards to the book and music. I mean you have the music by Henry Mancini and Frank Wildhorn with lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Frank Wildhorn. However, I can't say that the performance lived up to my expectations in regards to talent. Many were good but the leading lady ruined it for me.

One other side trip was a quick view of the LGBT area known as The Grove. For those who are couch potatoes, it's also the locale for a show called Sweeties, a soul food restaurant. I'll be back next year to take in the Pride Parade.

ST. LOUIS ART AND CULTURE, CONTINUED

2011-12-10T16:38:00.000-08:00

I believe we are in downtown St. Louis at Lindell Blvd. and Newstead Avenue in front an ornate cathedral. My notes say, "The life of Saint Louis IX, crusader King of France and the city's namesake and patron saint, is vividly portrayed in the vestibule of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. Built in 1907, this incredible structure combines Byzantine and Romanesque architecture styles with the largest collection of mosaics in the world. More than 41 million pieces of tesserae in 8,000 fill more than 83,000 square feet. The west chapels are the work of Tiffany and Company and the main altar and another chapel feature the work of Gorham." I went inside to view the impressive and intricate artwork.

At home I live across the street from Forest Park, where they have a golf course, tennis courts, ball fields, a bandstand, horseback riding and various trails. Here in St. Louis, there is also a Forest Park. This one has similar amenities as well as various attractions such as the Saint Louis Art Museum. This day they were presenting Monet's Water Lillies, which will run through January 22, 1012.

The museum has two floors of art that include Oceanic art, pre-Columbian art, ancient Chinese bronzes and European and American art of the late 19th and 20th centuries, with particular strength in 20th-century German art. One thing that I noticed was that there was a space adding a new exhibit. Not only did they ask that you be patient and wait for it, but they provided a few couches to sleep on until the date arrived. Free admission, too.

I was going to do a segway tour of the park, but found it just a bit too much on my feet and leg. This 1,300-acre park served as the main fairground for the 1904 "Meet Me in St. Louis" World's Fair, just as the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park held both the 1939 and 1964 World's Fair. This park is about twice the size of New York's Central Park and houses the St. Louis Zoo, Science Center, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Art Museum and The Muny Theatre.

Can't take them all in but did manage one more; the Missouri History Museum, which displays the contributions and artifacts of St. Louisans who have contributed to American and world culture including musicians Miles Davis and Chuck Berry, writer T.S. Eliot and designer Charles Eames. I yeah, I also took in lunch to talk with Everett Dietle who told us about the museum's unique acting troupe and upcoming major exhibitions.

A tour of an area known as The Loop, renowned for its nightlife. "On one Wednesday every month, at 9 p.m. sharp, a white Cadillac pulls into the parking lot of St. Louis' Blueberry Hill club. Chuck Berry, 83, pulls his guitar case from the trunk and descends a deep set of stairs to the Duck Room, ready to prove yet again that rock & roll isn't dead as long as the man most credited with inventing it is still picking and screaming"...from the May 2010 issue of Rolling Stone. Chuck Berry's star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame sits at the entrance to Blueberry Hill as well as a new statue of "Father of Rock'n'Roll". We later got to see him make an quick appearance at the Kiel Opera House.

ST. LOUIS ART AND CULTURE

2011-12-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

Arriving in St. Louis, MO, I checked into Hotel Ignacio (see the blog)and then took a tour of the area known as The Hill (see the blog) and continued the art and culture with what dominates the St. Louis skyline; the magnificent Gateway Arch, the iconic symbol of the city. Sculptured of stainless steel and concrete, it stretches 630 feet high and wide along a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. Last time that I was here I took in the Journey To The Top in an enclosed tram.

St. Louis' Citygarden, a 2-year-old attraction is a blend of lush plantings and sculptures with water, stone, architecture and landscape design, located in the Downtown area. Open to the public all year there are no fences, gates or admission fee. This is one of those places to hang out on a nice day as well as just simply walking through and taking in the art.

Just a few blocks away is art that's so totally different from Citygarden, City Museum, a museum made entirely from recycled pieces. The museum building started as a shoe manufacturing factory and warehouse. The owner took items that would have become landfill and filled the floors of quirky and innovative artistic fun.

You can certainly spot the museum by a bus that appears to be looking as if it is just about to fall off the roof as well as a real ferris wheel nearby. This place is just perfect for kids to explore and get in and out of areas, go down slides and check out the in-house circus troupe.

It's time for dinner at Triumph Grill, a restaurant that abuts the hotel and adjacent to the Moto Museum where vintage European motocycles from 1900 to the present are displayed. I sampled Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms: Creamy spinach and artichoke dip stuffed mushroom caps, lightly breaded and topped with reduced balsamic and parmesan; Chipotle Molasses Chicken Wings: Maple marinated jumbo wings fried crispy and tossed in chipotle molasses sauce; and Monza Shrimp And Crab Risotto: Blue crabmeat and jumbo shrimp simmered in a rich seafood stock with basil and vine-ripened tomatoes.

Off to the Fabulous Fox Fox Theatre to see The Addams Family. This 1929 movie palace located in the Grand Center Arts and Entertainment District is one of the first theatres built for "talkies" my movie mogul William Fox. It's quite a showy place with a style described as Siamese-Byzantine and a 90-foot lobby and Buddhist monastery halls. It's worth a separate tour, which I did later in the week. I got to hear some songs being played on the organ as well as having brunch to discuss an upcoming event involving The Titanic.

On Saturday, April 14, 2012 the Fox Theatre is having A Taste of History, Last Dinner On The Atlantic, to celebrate the Titanic Centennial Weekend. The historic first class menu recreates the famously sumptuous elven course meal with accompanying wines that were actually served to first class passengers on the fateful night. When guests arrive at the theatre they will be give a boarding pass and an envelope containing the name and historical biography of an actual First Class Passenger. You can check it out on their website...just google.

As for the production, it went off quite well...touring company...no stars but good talent and funny show.

Night cap and sleep.

THE HILL, ST. LOUIS, “BIG” ITALY

2011-12-06T18:45:00.000-08:00

There are two cuisines that tourists seek out in the United States for authenticity. Does a city have a "Chinatown" or "Little Italy"? In St. Louis, Missouri I encountered what I would term "Big Italy" and area known as The Hill, with the colors of the Italian flag as the background of the title.

Aside from the dozens of great Italian restaurants the Hill is also one of the city's most tightly-knit Italian-American communities. I visit to the are revealed a sense of people who greeted each other and most likely attend church together for both worship and social meetings as well as a number of Italian societies.

For instance, there is The Fratellanza, the oldest Italian American organization in the United States. The Fratellanza Society was organized on November 11, 1866 and was incorporated on December 6, 1866 as a fraternal and benevolent society under the Societá Unione e Fratellanza Italiana (Italian Fraternal Union).

Of course, what truly counts to a visitor is the Italian specialties available as I began my tour with Volpi's to sample the salami and prosciutto. I sampled the prosciutto to compare with what they produce with the imported Parma from Italy finding it to be a little less salty and just as good.

Onto Di Gregorio's Market feeling lie a "kid in a candy store". We are looking at groceries that are imported from Italy. Wines, olive oils, vinegars, canned tomatoes, cheeses, and more. They have kitchenware and cookware. Head to the deli counter for salads and a variety of their store made sausage. I met with manager Toni Ribaudo for a tour of the store.

Larry Fuse, Jr. is the owner of both Gelato di Riso and Lorenzo's Trattoria. Gelato drew me as I wanted to see how authentic it was. A glorious variety of flavors; no disappointment.

Off to Missouri Baking Company as Mimi Lordo gave me a view of the kitchen as well as a taste of a cannoli, biscotti, cupcake, cookies and cinnamon raisin bread. Unfortunately they were out of sforgiatellis.

I later dined at Lorenzo's Trattoria where mostly Northern Italian is featured. What did I eat? Appetizer of fried shrimp and calamari. Carpaccio with watercress, truffle oil and shaved parmesan cheese. Ossobuco, braised with saffron risotto and orange gremolata. Was simply in the mood for a good carrot cake and more gelato.

If you would like to experience the Hill, check out Joe DeGregorio Guided Tours of The Hill, which provides an opportunity to learn about the neighborhood lasting from 2 to 6 hours to include:

• A lecture at St. Ambrose Church on the colorful history of the Italian immigration to the area, why they came and stayed, plus a primer on local Italian-American culture and customs, with highlights of the significant differences between the Northern and Southern Italian immigrants.

The culinary, architectural and religious aspects of the neighborhood will be covered plus the current climate and challenges of continuing time honored traditions. The presentation, as with featured stops listed below, will include numerous colorful stories of the hardworking and proud families-and celebrities- who have made the Hill so remarkable.
• A ravioli making demonstration at Mama Toscano's. This third generation run store is one of the few markets remaining in the US that make commercial ravioli by hand. The visitors will see for themselves this ancient and meticulous process.
• A visit to wonderful Italian markets such as DiGregorio's, Viviano's, Volpi's and Urzi's is almost a must during your sojourn. Savor and sample delicious wine, tasty cheeses, unique imported and locally made delicacies; learn the history of these stores and of course feel free to browse or purchase some of these epicurean delights. You will find an array of Italian made crafts and souvenirs awaiting you as well.
• A tour Wednesday through Saturday can include a stroll through Girasole', an Italian craft store that besides jewelry, offers cook books and literature.

For further information go to www.explorestlouis.com

SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE THEATRE

2011-12-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

I usually don't blog about my personal life, but I had a most interesting and joyous evening at Queens Theatre (formerly Queens Theatre in the Park). I was able to secure a number of tickets to see Paula Poundstone to include both the 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. performances.

I had decided to share most of the tickets with people that I don't see often, the majority of which chose the 7 p.m. performance. Since I am no longer working with the New York Sharks, my basic contact with some of the staff is via phone or email. I asked owner Andra Douglas if she would like to go and bring some of her friends as well. I also asked if Dana...who I have referred to as "second in command" would be willing to schlep from somewhere in New Jersey. Not that Dana isn't one of Andra's close friends...

Second "group". I asked my chiropractor, Dr. Joan Jacobs if she wished to attend. Being both dedicated and excellent at what she does, I felt that I needed to contribute to her empowerment with both entertainment and socializing. I don't assume that she doesn't fulfill her own opportunities, mind you. She brought had adult daughter and her friend Lois...who happened to be the person that started the chain of clients...one friend who told another friend, etc.

Third "group". Jacki sets up and emails out a list of freebies as a hobby. They are free events in New York City that usually include drinks and or food as well. She resides in Queens. I don't necessarily tend the events but look as what she volunteers to do. Oh, it's not as if I haven't been friends with Jacki and her partner for several years. Once or twice I have met her in "the city" to take in some event. But this time it was for her and her partner. The down side of this was that there was so much going on in the lobby and my mingling with group one, that I only had an opportunity to say hello to Jacki and didn't even get to talk with her partner. Next time....

Group one. Totally enjoyed being with them for the amount of time spent. Would have loved to have spent a bit more time chatting and getting to know Andra's friends. I did get to chat with Dana about what she's been in to, being retired from the Sharks. Seems like she just couldn't get away from football and although in her late forties, is still in great shape to play flag football...good for her!!!

Having attended this theatre since it first opened, I had gotten familiar with the old and new staff. I greet them with hugs and kisses and they are more than happy to call to me. Funny that the members of my group were impressed that I knew everyone...it didn't occur to me until afterward that the encounter warm greetings added to both of our lives...like the gladness of seeing your family.

Now to the show. Paula Poundstone was quite funny. I hope someone was video taping it for her. She certainly took the opportunity to make fun of the location of the theatre...in Flushing Meadow (-Corona Park). She is not a New York person. It appears that one of Paula's "things" is that when people talk to her, she finds something about her life to inject that somewhat relates. Another is that she can't stop talking...which turned out to make this performance even more hilarious.

This was the first time that I saw Paula perform. I found stuff on youtube to get an idea of her style. The early performance had her doing perhaps about half of her "routine" material, with the rest working with the audience asking a person what they did for a living and making fun of them...but not in a derogatory manner.

I had interviewed Paula on my radio show just days prior to the performances. I wondered how she was going to perform a 7 and 9 p.m. show asking her how long her show was. She told me that it was about and hour and 45 minutes long. Hmmmm...that doesn't give much time to get people out, have her sign cds and books and begin at 9.

So, the show is going and someone is signaling to her that she needs to end soon. Forget that...Paula is telling us that she can't stop talking and trying to figure out how she can make the 9 p.m. people go away and being concerned that the she will miss the people that she "picked on". She has a stool on the stage to keep a bottle of soda that contains aspertame...telling us that she drinks this just for the aspertame and that you can't get it separately.

Now, she lies down on the stage and props her feet up on the top of the stool. You can see her white shoes. Realizing her position she goes into a whole adlibbed routine using her shoes as a "puppet show". It was 8:55 when we exited the theatre and into the lobby. Great show!

As I am departing into the lobby, I am now seeing Bob and Sandy, the two friends and fellow writers that I haven't spent time with in years. Not much time to socialize before getting to our seats. Needless to say, the 9 p.m. show did not begin on time.

I had an expectation that since the show was at a later time, Paula would let go even more (language and subject wise) and experience an even funnier performance. I was also looking to observe whether she would use the same material for both shows.

As a comedian, myself, I did mostly single performances. On nights requiring a second, I would use perhaps a shortened version of my scenes from the Wizard of Oz, and a few different songs considering that the audience of the second show might have been around for the first. In the case of Paula's second show, material from prior performances were utilized, very little was a repeat of the earlier show and audience participation was quite funny.

Although I found the earlier show to be funnier, it did not lack in laughter and surprisingly, this audience was smaller.

Show ending, Bob, Sandy and I sought a diner to nosh and talk. In Manhattan it's easier to find a place that's open late than in Queens. Rather than put some heavy thought into it...off to Howard Beach to a diner.

WHIRL WITH MERLE AT FAIRWAY MARKET

2011-12-01T21:15:00.000-08:00

A new Fairway Market opened in Douglaston, New York, an area in Queens. I was really happy as it is a cross between a big supermarket chain and Whole Foods. They have the best of the best here. There's a butcher station in the meat department as well as items prepacked from the butcher department.

I met with Ray Venezia, the butcher maven. He must be third generation of butchers and more than knowledgeable about the various cuts of meats. He's been on television a few times as well.

He's of the old school of devoted butchers like they had years ago. We had a great chat as we talked not only about the cuts, but also, where the meat comes from. I had never heard of Hereford, Wagyu or Obe beef and organic one.

One of the meats that I got was a piece of pork belly to make my own bacon using my Cameron Smoker, which cooks on the top of the stove. I'm not sure which chips to use so I'll ask. Not that Fairway doesn't have their own smoked bacon.

Anyway, I took several videos.

HOTEL IGNACIO, ST. LOUIS' BEST KEPT SECRET

2011-11-26T22:48:00.000-08:00

John Dalton had done a great deal of traveling, staying in numerous hotels, motels, and just about any type of accommodations. Having been told about the nasty sides of rooms, he really wasn’t up to bringing his own set of disinfectants. Another major annoyance was forgetting important items, such as toiletries and then with time being an issue having to walk a few blocks to get them, if the hotel didn’t have an overpriced “gift shop”.

Then, of course there is the service. The hotel is too busy or not enough staff to truly tend to your needs like that shirt that you want to use again but requiring a bit of laundering. The hotel can send it out, but time is of the essence, again. Oh, sure, you can bring it all on the airplane and have to pay the extra costs of checking your luggage.

John got the perfect job as the General Manager of Hotel Ignacio in St. Louis; a boutique hotel with 49 guest rooms and two suites. Here he could create the smoke-free, and pretty much germ-free hotel of his dreams while sharing it with the public.

Hotel Ignacio resides at 3411 Olive in the midst of St. Louis’ Grand Center Arts & Entertainment District and across the street from Saint Louis University. This would determine the décor of the rooms and hallways with a gallery of sorts for contemporary works of art from Saint Louis University’s vast collection as well as themes of the guest rooms: Fine Art, Performing Arts, Architecture, and Music.

I checked in at a desk of young smiling faces more than eager to be of assistance: Emily Sieb, Shannon Thomas and Assistant Manager Nick Palank were just some of the staff of mostly Saint Louis University students or graduate students. My room “card” was handed to me while asked if I needed help with my luggage. There is no bell stand here, so someone from behind the desk will be of aid. I didn’t have as much to tote as I did when I left. A box of various fruit was for the taking with a sign that asked if you would sample and comment on this local area produce.

Off the elevator to find that there was no “slot” on my door. It was a circular sensor just above the doorknob. Touch it with the key card or wave it a few inches away and the door unlocks. Not only does this help if you’re imbibed, it’s knowing that the bathroom is so near and yet so far, if you get the drift.

After placing my luggage in the room, I looked around to see what appeared to be a framed mirror on the wall. It was a plasma tv. Having chosen the décor of Performing Arts, there were paintings depicting ballerinas. Having traveled myself numerous times I hear about certain things to check for, as in the bathroom which appeared to be quite clean. I noticed that glasses on the shelf wondering if they really clean them. No spots, or smudges. Well, that’s good. Hey, wait! The day of the week is etched into it. Coincidence? Day of the week was correct the next day, too.

A very large digital clock turned out to be an ipad type of instrument called an Avaya media hub used by one of only six hotels in the country. Touch the screen and get the weather, stock quotes, local attractions as well as “frequently requested items”. My curiosity got to me as I expected the minimum “freebies”. The first to take me back was, Socks (regular and knee high). Socks? They’ll give you socks? The long list went on to include: undies (men’s), pantyhose, cough drops, tweezers, bug spray, lint remover, chapstick and mints. Perhaps you want a refrigerator in your room and a sleep machine. I certainly needed both.

I needed to call a local restaurant, not having the phone number. This system becomes a speakerphone, so you just have to touch the “make a phone call” app and dial out. I called the front desk to get the phone number. Not only did the person retrieve it, but dialed the number.

Sitting on the bed I continued to view some other amenities. You can borrow a bicycle or “3-wheel taxi”, exercise in a fitness room. Oops! I needed to check my email. Back to the lobby to a business center at no charge. Just off the elevator was a table with coffee and espresso as well as a rack with various newspapers.

The lobby leads into the “living room” complete with a fireplace and couches. Beyond that was a cafe. I ate bagels and lox while perusing my itinerary.

Going back to my room I noticed a ledge that had two musical instruments with an opening above it. Behind the opening were three adjoining bathrooms. The ledge was the back of the sinks.

Day one of my itinerary, I woke up the next morning having had a much needed rest, giving credit to the sleep machine. I was sleeping on a Tempur-Pedic mattress! Hotel Ignacio is the only hotel in Missouri to feature this. Comfy pillows. Were they filled with down, foam? How about recycled plastic bottles! Bamboo sheets and towels, too.

Could it get any better? I wanted to get some clothes laundered, not sent to the cleaners. I called the front desk to inquire. “Just bring it to us and we’ll have it back for you in about 3 hours”. There is no charge for the service. I later returned to my room to find a shirt and pants hung up in the closet, the rest folded in the laundry bag.

Now, picture this. The airline lost your luggage. More than likely it will be delivered to you within 48 hours. However, here you are with just the clothes on your back! Not only will they provide the toiletries, whatever you are wearing can be laundered for the next day! Slippers, loaned robe and underwear in a pinch! Knowing about all of the above, you can spend a week bringing only a carry-on.

ALTON, THE FINALE

2011-11-25T17:31:00.000-08:00

Lunch Time! We're back to Downtown Alton to chow down at State Street Market. The entrance opens to the market itself with European-style fresh gourmet food & home goods market and selling imported wines & beers, home & garden gifts & décor. Go passed the market itself into the restaurant for local food and home style cooking. My host ordered the soup and salad. The soup was a tomato basil. I ordered a wild mushroom soup and turkey panini. Warm and friendly place and good food.

Now for some history. Sites along the new Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail led by historian Len Adams. Sites included: Lincoln-Douglas Square, Lovejoy Monument, Confederate Monument, Ryder Building and Trumbull House.

Afterward we stopped to see a statue of Robert Wadlow, the tallest man in history standing at 8 feet 11.1 inches. Standing next to it you can see just how short you are compared to him as well as a replica of his chair.

Now we are on the road to experience the scenic byway, better known as the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, a really beautiful drive. On the way out town we stopped to see the legendary Piasa (pronounced Pie-a-saw) Bird, a Native American dragon depicted in one of two murals painted by Native Americans on bluffs (cliffsides) above the Mississippi River.

On to the Village of Elsah to see the campus at Principia College, a National Historic Landmark and only Christian Science college in the world. Then to Grafton for a scenic tour of the Mississippi & Illinois Rivers from the Tara Point Inn.

Back on the byway through Grafton en route to Pere Marquette State Park, the largest state park in Illinois. It features 22 cabins and 50 guest rooms in a secluded environment.

Back to Grafton to check out the Grafton Winery and Brewhaus. I later indulged in their apple wine that was truly flavorful and not heavy on the alcoholic content. They have a restaurant upstairs as well as a bar/restaurant on the downstairs level. Good place for local entertainment as well.

Dinner was the ending to my Alton days as we dined at Mississippi Half Step in Grafton. Chef/owner Jim Newton uses local food when possible. It's a basic, steaks, chops, pasta bill of fare. I had an appetizer of the stuffed mushrooms using button mushroom filled with homemade crab, tomato and green onion cream cheese.

I chose a strip steak for my entree with a baked sweet potato and asparagus. They have several sauces to go with your steak. Although I did try one of them, I found that the steak, cooked perfectly and full of flavor, did not require it to be more than simply grilled.

Bye, bye Alton. We're on our way to St. Louis

ALTON CONTINUED

2011-11-25T15:07:00.000-08:00

This first night, we dined at Gentelin's on Broadway owned and operated by Sarah and Ryan Gentelin (the chef). This restaurant is a fine dining genre with a beautiful view of the Clark Bridge, which is lit up at night to define the multitude of cables.

So what did we sample from their eclectic menu? An appetizer described the Toasted Wild Mushroom Ravioli as, "House made ravioli stuffed with wild mushrooms, wilted spinach and boursin cheese. Served crisp with a drizzle of white truffle oil, parmesan cheese and fresh herbs." Had to taste this one! I love wild mushrooms and didn't expect two large ravioli's...I guess you have to make them bigger than the usual to put that amount of "stuff".

The soup of the day was one with smoked pork and veggies. You won't find soup listed on their online menu as they make two soups each day; one meat and one vegetable.

I would have had a regular salad until I saw this one. "Goat Cheese – Panko breadcrumb and herb encrusted goat cheese tokens served with mixed greens tossed with spiced walnuts, poached pears, and dried cranberries in white balsamic vinaigrette. Garnished with cracked pepper and sea-salt crackers" on the bill of fare. What a great combo and quite tasty, too.

Entree choice was the half roasted duck, slightly smoked with a savoy cabbage and bacon potato puree in a light natural jus with fresh asparagus. Umm Umm good!

One of my group had the Black Bean Cakes served over a southwestern cilantro and roasted red pepper sauce with house made guacamole, fire roasted corn relish, drizzled with chipoltle sour cream and garnished with tempura fried avocados and crisp tortilla strips. I tasted. Pretty good for no meat.

We left room for dessert. It's off the present menu but...give me chocolate. Chocolate and Chambord mousse in a chocolate cup and a brownie topped with vanilla bean ice cream.

The next morning we were out for a Segway Tour for a view of the river starting at the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center. This particular operation comes out of St. Louis' Science Center where an equipped truck is hauled to the segway site. It's mostly bicycle path. I would have taken the entire tour but it is difficult for me to stand for such a long period of time. I'm getting out of shape the more I age. Besides, the tour also goes into downtown Alton and I had already took in the area.

Having experienced the Lewis & Clark Trial tour a few years ago, it was the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower that hadn't been built. The structure allows you to see the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers from platforms at 50, 100 and 150 feet. Between a tour guide and signs you can learn about the history of nearby Hartford, the Industrial Revolution, Lewis & Clark and the scenic byway. Yes, they have an elevator.

ALTON, ILLINOIS IN TWO DAYS

2011-11-21T20:18:00.000-08:00

It was September 27, 2011 when I landed at the St. Louis airport. The first part of my trip was spending two days in Alton, Illinois, about 25 miles away from St. Louis, Missouri.

I first checked into my hotel, a Holiday Inn (Lewis & Clark Trail Site), noticing that the lobby was one big atrium. It was nice to see that it differed from other Holiday Inns. I always like to find out as to whether a hotel has laundry facilities as the trip would continue on to St. Louis. No coins....free! And just happened to be located around the bend from my room...how convenient.

Off to lunch at My Just Desserts in Downtown Alton. They are famous for their homemade pies and 1/2 pound chicken salad sandwiches. Owner Ann Badasch had was not there when we ate, but left me a cook book, which did not divulge the secret to the chicken salad. I had the chicken salad sandwich and a slice of the cherry/almond pie. As it turned out, Esther and Eunice showed up.

Just across the Clark Bridge is an escape to nature; the Riverlands Migratory Bird SanctuAuduary, the only Audubon Center in the Midwest and located right on the Mississippi River.They were just completing the Audubon Center at the Riverlands, where you can sit and watch the birds and find loads of information. I would love to see the trumpeter swans. They have trails but I'm not up for hiking.

We then made a stop on Small Pox Island, the site of the Lincoln-Shields Duel and the final resting place for soldiers and citizens who succumbed to small pox during the Civil War Era.

Alton is known for hauntings, so I got my first taste at the notorious Alton Prison, where I met Len Adams, who conducts these tours. What you get to see is what was left of the prison.

We later went to the Enos Apartments, to see the tunnels that were part of the Underground Railroad. The tunnel was actually located just below the sidewalk. This way the sounds of walking about would cover up the sounds below.

ON THE STAGE IN QUEENS

2011-11-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was filled with performances at both Queens Theatre and Queensborough Performing Arts Center experiencing a most fabulous Melissa Manchester in concert, the not Blood Sweat & Tears, and the very funny Forbidden Broadway.

I first had the pleasure of interviewing Melissa Manchester on my internet radio show, Whirl With Merle on www.blogtalkradio.com. We talked about her career much of which was composing songs for both herself and other artists as well as co-compositions. It seems that she has also co-written an entire musical called, “I Sent A Letter To My Love”, which I suggested that Queens Theatre might want to feature in the near future. I got how personable she is and wondered how she would be in concert, having taken a 10-year break.

Let me say that she is just as personable on stage giving a perfect performance that flowed with both talk and songs. We heard, “Through The Eyes of Love” from the hit movie, Ice Castles and others that hit the charts such as: “Midnight Blue” (her first big hit); “Don’t Cry Out Loud”; and “You Should Hear How She Talks About You” mouthed in sync with a video of when she sang it in 1982.
Then there was another video of Barry Manilow singing “You’ve Got A Friend” where Barry seems as if he is being “skyped”, acknowledging Melissa as she performs the duet.

One more video. Her latest composition, “Rainbird” from the movie “Dirty Girl”, in which she co-wrote the song with star Mary Steenburgen. The movie’s trailer was shown while Melissa sang “Rainbird”.

After the show she came out to meet her fans, take photos and autograph her CD. Keep it up Melissa….you still got it!!!

I was planning on enjoying the “Blood, Sweat & Tears Concert”. Okay, I did realize that none of the performers were from the original group. “You’ve Made Me So Happy” would have gotten the title, “You’ve Made Me So Annoyed”. The lead singer Jason Paige is so too full of himself. His vocals were screechy and raspy and was much more concerned about that the show was being filmed making it a point, many times, to play to the camera. There were some seats on the side of the stage reserved for VIP, which looked like five or six young women “groupies”. I thought that he was going to do a lap dance for one of them. It’s not as if there weren’t any VIP of the male persuasion. They were seated behind the women. Hey, BS and T, if you want to create a movie concert for yourself, then don’t use an audience to pay for it!!!!

Then there was the concert itself, which could have also gotten the title of “Blood, Sweat & Jazz”. I have a particular annoyance when it comes to a jazz band. It tends to look like a showcase for each of the members. You know what I mean. They somehow make it a point to have each one do a “show off” solo.
The venue itself is fine. I love that there is enough room in front of your seat for people to walk by without your having to rise and that there are “no bad seats”.

I had seen Forbidden Broadway three times, each a different show…as it was being updated to include what was present on Broadway. This one was a whole new ballgame as one being “taken on the road”. Although I loved the talent, the show just wasn’t as hilarious. I guess when you have to choose a one time as to what you want to present…Okay, I’ll explain. After the introduction number by the cast of four, there was a takeoff on Chicago in which they poked fun of Fosse singing a parody of “Razzle Dazzle”, a song from the show. Having seen the show a few times, I found it hilarious. Next was “Andrea McCardle” at the age of 30, complaining about her career with a takeoff on “Tomorrow”.

How much you laugh is based on: if you saw the show and totally realize why what they are singing is funny; if you’ve never seen the show but know what it’s about and heard reviews and get it; you don’t know a damn thing about the show.
Take their spoof on Jersey Boys, for instance. They sang about the fact that there was too much info as well as singing, “Walk Like A Man; Sing Like A Girl”. Phantom of the Opera had a few with the Phantom complaining, “this song’s too high”.
Those not familiar enough with Sarah Brightman may not have gotten why she sang a takeoff of “Time To Say Goodbye”, when Phantom was the show that she was in and that the song was not from that show.

I absolutely love their spoof of Les Miserable. If you have seen the show, you would get how funny “circular moving of the platform” is and why the performer playing the young girl sings “On My Phone” since she does not appear in the show too often.

The Liza Minelli spoof was done quite well and the Fiddler On The Roof takeoff on “Tradition” was quite funny. Let’s also not forget, “Can You Feel My Pain Tonight” dealing with The Lion King’s heavy headed costumes.
On the down side…the microphone setup. Using one mike for four people didn’t work much. Too many times that you couldn’t hear the words at a distance due to one or more being “mikeless”. Check out what’s coming up at Queensborough Performance Arts Center!

JETBLUEING TO PORTLAND, MAINE

2011-11-13T16:37:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist a bargain with Jet Blue airlines' $49 one way from New York's JFK to Portland, Maine. Not that it's Jet Blue's fault, but it appears that my plane always winds up at the furthest gate from the baggage claim.

Staying at the Portland Harbor Hotel on Fore Street. Amongst other amenities is their car service that will not only take you to and from the airport, they will drop you off and pick you up anywhere in the downtown area.

Norman Forgey of Maine Day Trips was showing me the area for most of the trip. We coordinated the itinerary prior to my arriving and decided to make our way to Kennebunkport first touring some of the port area, where my hotel is located.

Rather than going straight to Kennebunkport's downtown area, we veered off to a resort called Hidden Pond to have lunch at their restaurant, Earth, located at Goose Rock Road in a birch forest with balsam trees along a pond.

There are several areas to dine. The main building reveals a rustic atmosphere with a first view of a working fireplace on the right and a huge bar on the left. The wall of the bar is decorated in bottles of liquor and "top shelf" goes no far than about the 3rd shelf. Tables and chairs are not on top of each other and there is a partial open kitchen on one end, where you can see some of the cooking and especially the preparation and baking of the pizzas in the wood fired oven.

Another area, enclosed, gives you a view of the gardens and pond. Outside you can either sit at tables amongst the vegetable garden, at a separate area with umbrellas, or a private dining room that is a converted shed. That is where I dined. It has a long table and wonderfully full of decorations.

Now that I've told you about all of the ambiance, what truly counts is the food. You know the expression "farm to table"? This is "farm to fork" since much is taken directly from the garden. Yes, as I dined in the shed I could see different chefs picking the ingredients. If it doesn't come from the gardens, most likely the cheeses, meats, lobster, etc. are local.

Famed chef Ken Oringer is the consultant, Kevin Walsh is the Executive Chef and Meghann is the Sous Chef. It was Meghann who determined the tasting and was wise.

Oysters: Pemaquid oysters with fresh coriander and cucumber topped with bachelor button flowers. Best raw oyster topping I've come across. Blue edible flowers from the garden.

Tomato Salad: Heirloom tomato salad with lovage (a flowery herb), perslane, (another tasty herb that a bit more leafy), black garlic, (a sweeter garlic with an almost jelly-like texture), and sweet Maine fried clams.

Gazpacho: Cucumber, melon, almond, garden herbs, topped with yogurt foam and chili oil. Certainly far from the usual gazpacho, both inventive and savory.

Margherita Pizza: Hand stretched dough topped with san morzano tomatoes, Flore di Nonno's daily hand-made mozzarella cheese, grated parm, basil and arugula(from the garden). Thin crust, just the way I like it.

Bigoli: House made bigoli (a fat spaghetti) with spicy lobster and lobster mushrooms with nepitalla (a wild herb in the mint family). It was the first time that I saw lobster mushrooms. They are hearty and bright orange in color.

Monkfish: Wood oven seared monkfish, red quinoa, garden beans, olives and crushed hazelnuts. Monkfish prepared correctly is wonderful in itself. The additions bring out the entree.

Fried Chicken: Buttermilk soaked, pasture raised, fried chicken with bacon braised chard and sweet potato cornbread. Had to taste the fried chicken! Yummy!

After departing, we went into downtown Kennebunkport. I was told to see Steve, the owner of the Clam Shack. I did taste a clam or two and had the lobster roll and New England clam chowder to go. I wanted to compare lobster rolls during my trip. This one had about a half pound of lobster meat, the amount that would come out of a 1 lb. lobster. No additions, just some mayo on the roll. Good clam chowder. Not salty or too full of potatoes.

Touring around we could only view Bush's summer home from a distance. It was then back to Portland where some sights and a bit of history were pointed out.

Finally got a chance to check into my room. I had requested a refrigerator and microwave as I knew there would be leftovers and other food purchased. Learned to ask to have the filter on the air conditioner changed. Although the hotel was pretty good, overall, I did have some problems. How do you shut down an elevator without informing the guests? I'm on the 4th floor and was planning to take a sunrise cruise the next morning and it was not to be completed until just about the time I would depart. No one was able to give me an answer until days after I got back to New York and after leaving several messages with the General Manager of the hotel. Other problems but will leave it for now.

FINAL DAY IN PORTLAND

2011-11-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

I was going to take a lobster boat cruise but the weather didn't seem best for it. I had asked Norm if they had Segway tours. He checked it out and it seemed that we could get one for the final day. Norm had never gone on a Segway before. I wondered how long it would take for him to learn and he appeared to have gotten the hang of it with the one lesson. People who run segway tours will always make sure that you know how to use it before riding off...no matter how long it takes...or unless you decide that it is just something you can't do.

Segway Tours of Portland's tour was an historic one of the downtown area. We found a bicycle path near the ocean and did much "riding". It's really a great way to get a sense of a city. I call it, "the lazy person's walking tour". www.portlandsegway.com or 207-619-7610. I love their slogan of "2Feet.2Wheels.2Go.

Our last attraction was the Portland Headlight at Cape Elizabeth. Situated along the spectacular shores of Fort Williams Park, at 1000 Shore Road, the popular landmark is owned and managed by the Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine and said to be the most photographed lighthouse in the country. The 90+acre park offers picturesque views of Ram Island Ledge Light and the islands of Casco Bay as well as areas for runners and picnicking.

Due to the lack of time at this point, I was unable to go inside the Maine Museum of Jewish Art and History. The Tree of Life Foundation reflects the contributions and accomplishments made by Maine's original Jewish immigrants and their families. They showcase current art and changing exhibits by Maine's Jewish artists, including photography and historical presentations among other displays.

Our final stop was having lunch. Yes, I had to have my final lobster session. What better place of viewing than at the port. Portland Lobster Company is all about dining outdoors and the only lobster restaurant on the port. Nothing fancy. Picnic table atmosphere. I did try their lobster roll and it was great. We also got to sample the New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Stew, and even a whole lobster. I skipped the fries and let Norm indulge. Check this place out at www.portlandlobstercompany.com or call them at 207-775-2112

Time to Jetblue home, Norm dropped me off at the hotel and the hotel shuttle took me to the airport.

PORTLAND'S ITALIAN HERITAGE

2011-11-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

There is a large Italian population in Portland, but not necessarily a "Little Italy". I missed the Italian Expo but got a taste with a restaurant and dessert. So I dined at Cinque Terre, one of the restaurants that provided the food.

“Fresh fish, rocky harbors and the sights and sounds of a vibrant port city.” Cinque Terre Ristorante, is located in Portland’s historic Old Port district at 36 Wharf Street. It is a restaurant “where dining in the Italian tradition is encouraged. Fresh herbs, organic vegetables, local mushrooms, freshly made pastas, and meat and fish dishes are carefully and tastefully prepared. Cinque Terre’s pace and its location, in an old ship chandlery building, invite guests to linger and enjoy wines from their Wine Spectator award winning selection and sample traditional desserts, bold espresso drinks and Italian aperitifs.”

I sampled Lee Skawinski, Executive Chef and Co-Owner’s tasting menu. Three Amuses: Amuse of Raw Winter Point Oyster, Prosecco Mignonette, Sun Gold Tomato and Ricotta Sforniato; and Heirloom Tomato Arancini. Antipasti : Prime Beef Tartare, Asiago Bruscetta, Sunny Side Quail Egg, Olivia’s Garden Organic Greens. Primi: Alto Asiago Speck Risotto, Black Trumpet and Shitake Mushrooms, Parmigiano Reggiano. Secondi: Zuppa de Pesce, Local Cod and Mussels, Gulf Shrimp, Fennel, Spicy Tomato Brodo, Anchovy Crostini; Cast Iron Duck Breast, Itlaian Farro, Roasted Root Vegetables, Fig Mostarda. Fromaggio: Vermont Burrata, Wild Maine Honey, Spiced Walnuts. Dolci: Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta, Strawberry Semifreddo, Maine Blueberry Crisp.

It’s tough enough to get authentic gelato in New York. “ In the short time they have been in Portland, Donato Giovine and Mariagrazia Zanardi’s Gorgeous Gelato has become a ‘must-visit’ stop in the heart of the Old Port; known for the velvety texture and the intense flavor of their Gelato, which contains the finest local whole milk and the best heavy cream and sugars. They use no artificial sweeteners or flavors, no hydrogenated fats and no emulsifiers. Instead their Pistachios comes from Sicily, their Hazelnuts are imported from the Piedmont region of Italy and they use the best available selections of cocoa and coffee. All this makes their Gelato a healthy product, made daily with fresh and all-natural ingredients and containing 70% less fat and fewer calories than American premium ice cream.”

I sampled the chocolate and hazelnut to get the best idea of how the gelato tastes. They also sell gelato pops, complete with the hard chocolate shell and stick.

During my short stay in Portland and with a full itinerary I managed to visit and sample many of the gelatos in two visits, which was most likely due to its location on Fore Street, just down the block from the Portland Harbor Hotel.

WHEN IN MAINE EAT LOBSTER

2011-11-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

The next morning Norm and I were off to Richmond about an hour north of Portland. John Hathaway is the President of a Shucks, a company that shucks lobsters. He takes the live lobsters and puts them in a machine that uses water pressure to separate the meat from the shell. It's probably the most humane way of killing a lobster.

You now have the raw meat to remove from the shell and ship it to restaurants. Many chefs, especially from overseas, don't want frozen cooked meat. In other words, when you order a lobster tail, you are not getting a fresh lobster, unless the restaurant has live lobsters floating in a tank. The same goes for dishes such as lobster macaroni and cheese or lobster Thermidor.

So, for instance, the restaurant will purchase frozen raw lobster tails in the shell that will cook easily (best poached at a low temperature in butter). I watched the process and engaged in removing the shell to get the raw meat. You can easily view the assembly line of packing the lobster tails...or as I named it, the Retail area.

Lobsters can be gotten whole, or halved as well as buying a one pound package of meat from the claws and knuckles. Think lobster tacos and lobster bisque.

I used the meat to make a lobster mac and cheese. I purchased a box of organic semolina macaroni, then went into the deli section for a container of various cheese snack cubes. I had found the lobster meat to be sweet with just a hint of saltiness and with the cheeses didn't need any further herbs or spices. The website is www.shucksmaine.com

If you are up in the Richmond area, John will be able to give you a tour if available. Be ready to don yourself in boots, white coat, gloves and a hair net.

I had trouble donning the boots and had to substitute with plastic bags....good idea to carry with you in case it precipitates.

You can't dine there so we were off to a restaurant called Reds Eats located on Water Street in Wiscasset, a town noted for antiquing. It's a corner shack with tables and chairs to eat outside or take it to go. Upon arriving I saw a very long line of people. This place is just over a bridge and draws most of the attention due to what has to be the best lobster roll going! I think the hot dog type roll is just a vehicle for what has to be a minimum of a pound and a half of lobster meat with no fillers. You get the mayo or whatever you want to put on it on the side. The price that day was about $18 and varies by market price just as most places that sell lobster rolls. Think about the what size lobster you would have to order and the price to get that amount of meat.

They do not cook lobsters or get the raw meat. It is coming from a local place and fresh.

That's not to say that you can't get clams, a crabmeat roll or even a hamburger. I would suggest a side of Deep Fried Zucchini. They don't have a website. The phone number is 207-882-6128.

YOLO COUNTY: ON THE ROAD TO WOODLAND

2011-10-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

We're leaving Davis for Woodland with the Heidrick Ag History Center as the first stop. The Center is dedicated to enhancing people’s education, understanding and appreciation of the rich heritage of agriculture and transportation.

The Heidrick Ag History Center introduces visitors to the marvels of agriculture, and commercial trucking through 130,000 square feet of interactive, one-of-a-kind exhibits. The cornerstones of these exhibits are the Fred C. Heidrick Antique Ag Collection, the world’s largest and most unique collection of one-of-a-kind antique agricultural equipment, and the abutting Hays Antique Truck Museum, also recognized as the largest of its kind in the world.

History Center exhibits tractors and harvesting machinery from the late 1800s through the middle of the last century. Mr. Heidrick collected rare, unusual, and historic farm machinery over the course of his lifetime. The $8 admission price gets you both museums.

We took a quick ride through downtown Woodland with a detour to Reiff's Gas Station. It appears that this guy Mark Reiff started his collection with the purchase of a 1930s Wayne Gas Pump at a neighborhood garage sale. Since then he has added a diner, gas station, general store and old time movie theater. The entire house has become an automotive museum of retro 1950s nostalgia, antiques and car culture.

Reiff's Gas Station collection includes 40 antique gas pumps that were used in various time periods from 1909 to the 1960s. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some have been restored, some not.

Reiff's Automotive Museum also has a large collection of over 200 antique gas station signs and logos. They are displayed throughout the museum, both indoors and outside. The garage and back yard are full of old time automotive signs in all shape's and sizes. The Bob's Big Boy statue is on the roof, standing up there looking over everything.

Too bad it was closed, otherwise we would have gotten a tour of the house and diner as well. Oh well. Esther and Eunice got a kick checking it out.

Time for dinner, we went to Tazzina Bistro.

YOLO COUNTY: THE OTHER RESTAURANTS IN DAVIS

2011-10-08T17:40:00.001-07:00

Aside from Seasons Restaurant, we had our palates satiated at three other venues in Davis.

Seasonal cuisine is the fare at Monticello at 630 G Street in Davis. Brunch, lunch and dinner menus showcase seasonal appropriateness, regional resources, freshness, and minimal interference between source and plate. Rhonda Gruska and her husband Tony are the owners, while Tony is the Executive Chef. A third co-owner is Jim Eldon, "the farmer".

Lunch commenced with their seasonal soup, this one full of the fresh vegetables and a variety of beans. More of the produce as we indulged in a salad of the local greens with walnuts and bleu cheese. Needed to have some meat so we ordered the Carolina Style Pulled Bledsoe Pork sandwich with horseradish slaw. Cheated with their seasonal vegetable sandwich by added bacon. Bacon with anything tastes great!

Couldn't skip dessert with having a yummy cheesecake and I think it was called a Pot au Chocolat...a very rich and creamy chocolate pudding.

Tucos Wine Market and Cafe was just down the street from the Hallmark Inn. Pru Mendez is the owner and Executive Chef. The menu is a bit worldly but with many Spanish influences and using local producers. We shared many dishes to get an idea of the style and spices beginning with a Smoked Fish Spread acme bread followed by a spicy Grass-Fed Lamb Meatballs in a cuban mojo sauce. The Undeviled Eggs with Shrimp house-made thousand island, arugula, and tobiko caviar was quite tasty. A few other entree samplings to bring out the Latin flavor followed by some scrumptios desserts. You can check out the menu and news on their blog of www.tucos.org.

Ciocolat,at 301 B Street(530.753.3088) was the place for High Tea and you don't necessarily have to indulge at 3 p.m. I'm sure that you can get coffee, but hot tea should be part of this meal. Food is meant to be bites as you sip your tea and chat with your friends. First course included: Sundried tomato pesto in a cucumber cup; Basil, parsley, herb cream cheese with strawberries on bread; Roast beef with rosemary brie.

Second course: Cranberry and white chocolate scones served with lemon curd and red currant raspberry jam. Scones are a must with high tea.

Third course: chocolate tulip cup with white chocolate mousse; chocolate tulip cup with milk chocolate mousse; white chocolate mousse eggs on a bed of white chocolate cake; chocolate decadent cake on a bed of chocolate cake.

Fourth course: Fresh berries with chantilly cream. Viva la sugar shock!

YOLO COUNTY: THE FARMS

2011-10-08T15:22:00.000-07:00

"Farm to table" has become a cuisine in some parts of the country and with a state like California growing grapes,olives, artichokes, avocados and rice, just to name a few, Nancy, Barb and I were off to visit some of their birth places.

Capay Organic is a second-generation, organic farm that got its start in the Coastal Range's Capay Valley, 90 miles northeast of San Francisco. The initial 20-acres grew to its current size of 400 acres. Cherry tomatoes, sweet pea flowers, ambrosia melons and heirloom tomatoes are just a few of the crops pioneered at this farm. I was not able to tour all 400 acres, but did check out some of the produce being boxed as well as the peach trees.

The nearby city of Esparto is the locale of the Haag Family Farm where walnuts are their thing. We met co-owner Claire J. Haag, who gave us the 101 on walnuts and to check out the growth at the early part of June.

There are a dozen sates of these English walnuts. Flower - small green ovoid with two little oppositely curved receptors; Prayer - at tips of branches, first leaves unfold from a praying position; Catkin - 1/4 to 4" long pollen-containing structures elongate and unfold; Pollinated - Wind-borne pollen grains from catkins "adhere" to the flower; Green Pea - Unpollinated "green peas" fall of the tree, leaving the good ones; Ping Pong - Green walnut's soft internal structures delineate and enlarge; Immature Green - Almost full size (May) liquid interiors inside of soft structures.

From this point on, they can be sold. Mature Green - sold (June) full size for pickling beverage-making, food, etc.; Fresh Walnuts - sold September for eating of tasty white nutmeat inside; Wet Walnut - sold (late September)for eating of the moist tasty nutmeat inside; Inshell - sold (October) for cracking and eating the crunchy nutmeat inside; Shelled - sold (November) for baking, decorating, eating, salads, snacks, etc. Their website is www.walnuts.US.

Wanting to do a "pick your own" and one close to Davis. Impossible Acres is the name and just west of Davis (37945 Rd. 31 - Covell). I never knew how many varieties of blackberries existed! Loads of raspberries and cherries to chose from. The bing cherries get more picking than the rainier because they don't appear as ripe, but in most cases are sweeter. They also had apricots and peaches. It's a great place to bring your young offsprings as they can pick the produce that's lower to the ground while you get the higher ups in both the bushes and trees.

YOLO COUNTY

2011-10-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

The last leg of our California trip was Yolo County, the heart of Sacramento Valley, of which the city of Davis is the hubbub of the county and Woodland, the county seat. Nancy, Barb and I stayed in Davis at the Hallmark Inn at 110 F Street. Great hotel and great location for all we needed to do. We had adjoining rooms with mine provided with a small refrigerator as requested...for leftovers and any other goodies we picked up along the route. We later found the buffet breakfast was above and beyond a continental with an added omelet station.

Since much of the day had been spent completing Santa Rosa and traveling to Davis, we relaxed a bit before going to dinner at Seasons Restaurant, abutting the hotel. Seasons Restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine and utilizes fresh, local products. The restaurant features a wood burning oven, open kitchen, a Chef's table, and private dining facilities. Most important to me as that they use locally grown ingredients, which is perfect, considering the number of farms in the county.

Trying to get enough sampling of the menu we decided to choose a bunch of appetizers and had: Ricotta Gnocchi with butternut squash, green apple, marcona almond and crisp sage; Rock Shrimp Fritters with chili aioli,tiny basil and lime squeeze; Lobster Deviled Eggs, with caviar and chives; Warm California Olives in a house marinade; and Free-Range Duck Enchiladas with marinated cabbage,feta and salsa verde.

Dessert, of course. Double Chocolate Brownie with vanilla ice cream and Scharffen Berger cacao nibs; and Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee with strawberries and cream.

The Executive Chef is Cullen Newhoff and the owner is Tamas Torok, pictured in front of the huge wine room.

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLES M. SCHULZ

2011-09-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

Nancy, Barb and I decided to explore the Charles M. Schulz Museum here in Santa Rosa. Yes, they have an entire museum dedicated to that famous Peanuts cartoonist. It is composed of three buildings and gardens.

The main building houses the museum itself. Enter to see the famous Lucy psychiatrist stand. Although they show a movie in the entrance lobby area, we passed on this to give us more time to take in the museum.

Into the museum, our eyes looked ahead to view a mural of the famous Lucy holding the football for Charlie Brown to kick. When we got up close to it we realized that the mural is composed of 3,588 Peanuts comic strip images printed on individual 2- by 8-inch ceramic tiles. We asked. We didn't count them.

Looking up towards the side, we saw a replica of Snoopy's home wrapped in fabric.

The main exhibit is located in the Strip Rotation Gallery where we were able to view strips of Peanuts cartoons grouped in particular subjects. It's easy to spend an hour enjoying this gallery, especially viewing a lot of the oldies. There is only one area where you can use your camera to get a photo of you and the gang.

Upstairs is Sparky's Studio. This permanent installation is a re-creation of Schulz’s working area in his studio at One Snoopy Place in Santa Rosa, California. It contains the drawing board he used almost from the beginning of his career and his desk. The shelves and walls in the exhibition include his personal books, gifts, photos, and memorabilia.

We walked outside of the building where there were various Peanuts sculptures and the second building that houses a skating rink and cafe.

The third building is the gift shop with a second floor of more Peanuts exhibits that do not require a ticket to view. You can check it all out on www.schulzmuseum.org.

Photos by Nancy Kozicki

2011-09-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

We checked in at a more than delightful place called Melitta Station Inn that has an interesting history. "Melitta Station Inn originated as an inn owned by the Wiseman family around 1880. Situated along the County road between Santa Rosa and Sonoma, the property was a stage-coach stop before the coming of the Southern Pacific railroad in 1887. This rail line was used to transport basalt paving slabs to San Francisco from quarries owned by the Wymore and Violetti families. The quarries were up on the hill to the south-west side of the inn situated in what is now Annadel State Park.

In the 1890's Melitta was one of the most active train stations for such shipments, and drew on a steady stream of skilled Italian immigrant stone-masons to hew the rock. These workers lodged at Melitta Station Inn until they were able to rent their own accommodation.

At one time there were reputed to be 35 folks in residence! Through the years, Melitta Station was used as a general store and post office for the small town of Melitta. Melitta (or Melita) is derived from the the native-American word for "poppy"- which grew in abundance on the valley floor. Later it became a feed store owned by the Hefti family in the 40's and 50's before becoming an antique store and "hippy" commune in the seventies.

The Inn was renovated as a bed and breakfast and opened again as an inn in 1985. The five rooms are tastefully furnished with antiques and comfortable queen beds, and each has its own private bath. There is also a beautiful two-bedroom suite. We feature fine English linens and cozy comforters and each room has its own individual heating.

Our Inn is located in an area rich with history, where you can visit the Jack London home and ranch, Luther Burbank's home and gardens where many heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables were hybridized, and the historic town of Sonoma.

Sonoma was the original site of the founding of the Bear Flag Republic of California in 1846. The briefly independent (10 days!) state soon was persuaded to join Abe Lincoln's Union to secure the recently discover silver supplies for the Union Treasury against the looming Confederacy revolt."

As for the accommodations, the word, "charm" best fits it. The Inn is owned by Jackie and Tim Thresh, who haul from the UK. Jackie is the chef and she shared one of her recipes.

Swedish Egg Cake with Seasonal Fruits

Ingredients to serve: 6

10 ounces of any stale cake (provided it has no butter-cream or frosting and is not strong flavored)
7 ounces of cream cheese (must be Philadelphia brand)
2 ounces sugar
1 cup of half and half
4 eggs
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Blend together all ingredients except cake crumbs. Place cake crumbs in a mixing bowl and pour the blended mixture over the crumbs. Cover and refrigerate to soak overnight.

In the morning, preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mash the soaked crumb mixture with a potato masher and pour into a really well-greased 10 inch ceramic flan dish. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown. Allow cake to cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Prepare fresh seasonal fruits according to availability and preference. Hint: use apple juice to avoid color deterioration in apple, pear, banana and other sensitive fruits.

Cut wedge-shaped portions of the cake and serve with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Garnish plates artistically with the fruits and a sprig of mint.

Oh, yeah...they even have spa facilities including getting a massage. www.melittastationinn.com For reservations call: (800) 504-3099 or (707) 538-7712.

Photos by Nancy Kozicki

DINNER AT BISTRO 29

2011-09-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

Nancy, Barb and I are off to dinner in downtown Santa Rosa. There is this wonderful French type bistro called Bistro 29. Here is what I read on their website before checking out the menu. "Bistro 29 is a traditional bistro specializing in “Breton” regional cuisine. The number 29 comes from the department of Finistère (end of the earth) located in the upper tip of north-west France. Known for the Galette de blé noir (traditional buckwheat crêpe) and sweet crêpes, Bretagne also uses a variety of local seafood and produce that can easily be found in and around northern California.

At Bistro 29 we strive to make traditional and nontraditional dishes using these ingredients and old world techniques. If there are any questions with the menu please feel free to ask your server for any help."

Keep in mind that we were there in early June and thus the menu has changed since our visit. What did we eat? All at the suggestion of Executive Chef Brian Anderson.

Soupe des Johnnies: onion cider soup with buckwheat crepe dentelle and gruyere cheese. In other words, their take on a French Onion Soup. We loved it!

Seared Goat Cheese Crottin: endive, grilled pears and hazelnut salad with banyuls vinaigrette.

Buckwheat crepe with wild mushrooms. Had to have a savory crepe.

Daube of Beef: red wine braised beef with fromage blanc and Sierra Rose potato puree caramelized baby turnips and grilled spring onions.

Seared Duck Breast: with rye spatzle, cherry-rye whiskey reduction and wild arugula-almond salad (Doesn't this make your mouth water?)

Brick Roasted "Spring" Chicken: with Brussels sprouts, tarragon jus and truffle pommes frites.

Because it was my birthday, we had a piece of chocolate cake, a few beignets and a buckwheat crepe with a scoop of ice cream that the chef makes.

We all agreed that the food here was more than yummy.

I took these photos, and I have to say that they are not the best...but you get the drift.

TURFIN' SAFARI

2011-09-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

Safari West was the next stop on our Santa Rosa itinerary. This is probably the next best thing to going to Africa and doing a game drive. It's not one of those places that you drive your car and the animals come up to you to possibly pee on your vehicle.

When Nancy, Barbara and I arrived at the front area (that also houses the gift shop) we were directed down a path passing a cage if some species of monkeys to where the tours begin. While waiting, we noticed the food facilities, mostly used for special events or those staying overnight. A bbq meal was set up for those wishing to purchase lunch.

During the first part of the tour we walked to a section that would be more characterized as a zoo showcasing caged animals including marsupials, and reptiles and some birds. However, there was another separate aviary, where we walked around while the these large birds did as they pleased. One seemed to be the greeter and would escort our little group for awhile.

It was then onto the jeep, just as if you were on the African safari. We drove to different sections as the driver would have to unlock and lock gates in order to view the various species. It is rare for an animal to approach the jeep...except for the giraffes and we are told that even if they take the glasses off of our face, not to touch them. Many of the animals are either extinct in the wild, threatened, or near threatened.

As for lodging, there is a choice of Safari Tents where you can choose from one king size bed, king size bed with double size bunk beds, or two double beds. Ensuite bathroom with shower. Outdoor sitting area, or Cottage: If canvas isn't your style, suitable for up to six guests, the two-bedroom cottage is equipped with a king bed and a double bunk bed. Private bathroom, kitchenette (mini-fridge, sink, microwave and coffeemaker) and outdoor sitting area. You can even get a massage.

Since the list of animals is much to long, I'll direct you to their website of www.safariwest.com

Photos by Nancy Kozicki

THE BIRDS AT BODEGA BAY

2011-09-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

Leaving Mendocino County we are off to Santa Rosa, specifically Bodega Bay, where Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds" was filmed. We arrived at The Inn at the Tides located at 800 Pacific Coast Highway One to have lunch. I was intent on having dungess crab. To me it is by far the best crab as it seems the least salty, very large (you can easily get a two-pounder)and have the most meat (both the body and the legs). But you can only get it fresh on the Pacific Coast of the US. Nancy and Barbara had some other items that came with steak fries...I believe that one was fried oysters and chips.

The restaurants feature is not only the food but the panoramic views.

Dessert is best gotten at their bakery that included many Italian goodies, especially since Carlo Galazzo is the GM.

As you enter the restaurant you could see this large marketplace selling meats, seafood and products to add to your cooking.

We then stepped outside on the wharf to see some fishing boats when lo and behold we were attacked by birds! But not just any bird...it was Esther and Eunice trying to their impression of the movie. Poor Nancy. They got her in the ass. Poor Barbara. They were trying to eat her eyeballs!

Nancy took photos of the signs that talk about the movie.

MY OWN PRIVATE ZOO

2011-08-29T22:12:00.001-07:00

It is the seventh of June. A baby sable is one day ago and this adorable animal, in the family of antelopes, has to be vaccinated and tagged. Frank Mello, co-owner of B. Bryan Preserve drives his truck into the gated field to spot the newborn. The adults are far away and do not appear upset with Frank picking up the calf, bringing it into the truck and returning it back to the where it hid itself. I was in the truck to see it all and sneak in a petting.

The B. Bryan Preserve is what I would term as a “private zoo”. He and his wife, Judy is into breeding and preservation of African Hoof Stock for the last 5 years. Animals, ranging from endangered to critically endangered, include various species of zebra and antelope. Thus you have: roan antelope; greater kudo; sable antelope; Grevy’s Zebra; and Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra.

Open to the public for tours and overnight stays, the animals are fenced in within their specific species. Frank feeds his “friends” but not close enough for contact as well as naming each one of them (suggested by the guests). They are wild animals and not a petting zoo.

He can only hold, vaccinate and tag a newborn a day or two after their birth and that’s his greatest pleasure. Frank will even kiss the baby on its head. That’s good because housing is being prepared for giraffes.

Cottages are fully furnished and the only food on the premises is fresh eggs from the hen house. Breakfast and off to Santa Rosa. For further information go to www.visitmendocino.com.

photos by Nancy Kozicki

B.BRYAN PRESERVE

2011-08-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to hear that the B. Bryan Preserve was not far from the Lighthouse in Point Arena. We continued driving along the road that overlooked the Pacific Ocean to 130 Riverside Drive. There were no tourist signs but still easy enough to get to via directions given by owners Frank and Judy Mello.

Nancy, Barb and I checked into the two bedroom, fully furnished Carriage House, located above the garage and near both the main house and hen house. The house had one double bed, one single bed, and full bath, 60’s Rock Posters and local collections.

The den was furnished with a satellite TV, DVD player (with some DVD's) a comfortable couch, coffee table and chair with ottoman. A fully equipped kitchen gave as a refrigerator, electric stove, microwave and dishwasher. Frank would get the fresh laid eggs from the hens and place them in a container for easy access. Judy had set up a garden with seasonal vegetables for the picking to have with your eggs or dinner, if you wished to cook.