Veronica Mars
Part Nancy Drew, part Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Veronica Mars may be set in a high school but typical high school drama it definitely is not. I’ll admit that I’m partial to strong female characters, but if she isn’t set in a well-written plot, or at least given biting, witty dialogue then you can count me out. Thank goodness Veronica Mars has all of these elements.

The wealthy town of Neptune, California is a haven for crime and corruption, the perfect place for the skills of seventeen year-old amateur private investigator Veronica Mars. During the first season we follow Veronica as she solves weekly mysteries and ultimately reveals her best friend Lily Kane’s murderer. The second season brings another season-long local tragedy that is more than it seems. The beauty of show is how the mysteries and plot points connect, as well as what viewers personally discover about Veronica and other characters in the process. Tragedy drives Veronica and gives her purpose and strength. Filled to the brim with twists and turns, Veronica Mars is a must see for those who want dense, tightly woven, smart television. Sites of interest:

Rob Thomas Productions
Mars Investigations

Fondue
Fondue is of French Swiss origin and the term “fondue” is derived from the French term “fondre,” which means “to melt.” Originally, fondue was a communal dish, developed out of necessity during frigid Swiss winters when fresh food was scarce. It was the ideal way to make stale cheese and bread palatable. Today, although cheese fondues are still most common, other fondue recipes have developed to include broths, shrimp, scallops, chicken breast, beef tenderloin and even chocolate.

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A Brush with Disney: An Artist’s Journey, Told through the words and works of Herbert Dickens Ryman by Herbert Dickens Ryman
Seven Lady Godivas: The True Facts Concerning History’s Barest Family by Dr. Seuss
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Interviews with American Artists by David Sylvester