Salmon Four Ways

Yesterday was the highlight of the winter season for Mrs. BA - the Spaghetti Dinner at our local church, for which I currently serve as the President of the Men's Club.  We had a banner day - serving up spaghetti and all the trimmings to nearly 500 of our friends in town.  Tomorrow night, we will observe Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras) with the Annual Pancake Supper at the Methodist Church, also in town.  Then in March, we will dine at a Lenten Fish Fry, also at the church.

The dinner schedule at the Launchpad has been somewhat disruptive of late, with both LBA and SoBA out at basketball practice on several nights during the week and then basketball games on the weekend.  We haven't been eating very well - except when we manage to get out to organized events, so we need to try and get back on a better schedule with the end of basketball season this weekend (at least until baseball season starts).

We really should eat more fish too.  The whole clan likes salmon. Via BuzzFeed.

Poached Salmon
INGREDIENTS

• 6 ounces skinless salmon fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Peppercorns, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh thyme

PREPARATION

1. Fill a pan with enough water to submerge a fillet. Bring the water to a simmer.
2. Add salt, peppercorns, sliced lemon, and thyme to water.
3. Add salmon, cover the pan, and cook for 20 minutes.
4. Remove salmon from pan, and season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon.
5. Enjoy!

Pan Fried Salmon
INGREDIENTS

• 6 ounces skinless salmon fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh thyme

PREPARATION

1. Heat oil in a nonstick skillet.
2. Season salmon with salt and pepper.
3. Lay the salmon on the skillet and watch the color rise to about two-thirds of the way up the salmon. Flip the salmon once and cook until done to taste, roughly 2-4 minutes longer.
4. Serve with lemon and thyme (optional).
5. Enjoy!

Baked Salmon
INGREDIENTS

• 6 ounces skinless salmon fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh thyme

PREPARATION

1. Preheat the oven to 400˚F/200˚C.
2. Cover a sheet pan with foil or parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil on the salmon, then season with salt and pepper. Top with lemon slices and thyme.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes. (The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s ready.)
5. Enjoy!

Parchment Wrapped Salmon

INGREDIENTS

• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• 6 ounces skinless salmon fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh thyme

PREPARATION

1. Preheat the oven to 400˚F/200˚C.
2. Fold the parchment paper in half, then open up.
3. Lay down the salmon. Drizzle oil and sprinkle salt and pepper. Lay lemon slices and thyme on top of the salmon.
4. Fold the parchment paper over the salmon, and cinch the paper together by folding it over itself along the edges.
5. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until internal temperature of salmon reaches 145˚F/63˚C.
6. Enjoy!

Another Way for Salmon

Well, dear readers, if you were here last week, you saw my PSA for serving crepes on Candlemas / Groundhog Day.  Upon serving them up on Tuesday, LBA asked about how to make them.  I explained they are relatively easy to make, with just four ingredients in equal proportions.  SoBA contemplated this and quickly asked, "then why don't we have them more often?"  A fine question, indeed.  By virtue of the calendar, crepes will again be on the menu tomorrow night for Mardi Gras, the night before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent in the Catholic calendar.  But it would seem that crepes need to appear more than twice a year, in the same month.

For Ash Wednesday, Catholics are requested to abstain from meat (and also give something up for Lent), so maybe we will have salmon for dinner.  Here's a recipe for Salmon with Brussel Sprouts (which I think are coming in the box tomorrow - along with more snow overnight).  Recipe from Diethood via BuzzFeed.

One Sheet Pan Garlic Roasted Salmon with Brussels Sprouts
Serves: 6 Servings
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 30 mins

Ingredients 
FOR THE BRUSSELS SPROUTS

• 2 pounds brussel sprouts, ends trimmed 
• 3 tablespoons STAR Garlic Flavored Olive Oil
• ½ teaspoon salt 
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper

FOR THE SALMON
2 pounds salmon fillet, skinned and cut into 6 portions
1 tablespoon STAR Garlic Flavored Olive Oil
3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt fresh ground pepper, to taste

Instructions 

1. Preheat oven to 450F. 
2. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside. 
3. In a large mixing bowl combine trimmed brussel sprouts, olive oil, salt and pepper; mix until well combined. 
4. Transfer brussel sprouts to previously prepared baking sheet; arrange in a single layer and bake for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice during cooking. 
5. In the meantime, prepare the salmon. 
6. Drizzle salmon with olive oil. 
7. Evenly divide and press minced garlic on top of each fillet. 
8. Season with oregano, salt and pepper. 
9. Remove baking sheet from oven; move the brussel sprouts around, making 6 empty spots for the salmon fillets. 
10. Place salmon in empty spots and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through.
11. Remove from oven; let stand 2 minutes and serve.

Recipe Monday: Seared Salmon

My wife and I are big fans of Costco (I mean where else can you get a 80lb. bag of sugar and the kayak of your dreams in the same place?) and they have frozen salmon that is an excellent choice.

Seared Salmon with Horseradish Mustard Vinaigrette

• two 6-ounce pieces salmon fillet
• 1 tsp. coarse salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 tsp. white wine vinegar
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp. drained bottled horseradish

Pat salmon dry and coat with salt and pepper. In a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) heat 1 tbsp. of oil over high heat until hot but not smoking and sear salmon, skin side down, 5 minutes. Reduce heat to moderately low. Turn salmon and cook 4 minutes more or until it just flakes.

While salmon is cooking, in a small bowl whisk together vinegar, mustard, horseradish, remaining 2 tbsp. oil, and salt and pepper to taste until emulsified.

Serve vinaigrette over salmon (my wife often makes more vinaigrette and we serve the salmon over greens).

Salmon and Feta Quiche

Update: I know that you are all waiting with bated breath to hear how I made out at the dentist. It would seem that a crown I had put in back in June has gone to crap. The metal casing is still intact but the porcelain covering is what shattered in my mouth on Saturday. So I have an appointment for next week to pop off the old, busted crown. Then the tooth will be checked (in June there was some question if the tooth was still alive) for vitality. If it is still "alive" it will be recrowned. If the tooth has died, it's off for another root canal. Get your prayer books out, people, I need some divine intervention to save the tooth!

I made meatloaf for dinner tonight with some baked potatoes and a veggie, but I'm going to ask Mrs. BA to make quiche for us for this week. To that end, I've posted salmon recipes here before, including one with salmon and bacon. Now from one of my new friends across the sea comes a recipe to put those salmon into a quiche! Enjoy!

Here's my recipe for hot smoked salmon and feta quiche (I know it's not really quiche if it doesn't contain bacon and Gruyere for the purists out there, but it's delicious nonetheless). This fills a dish 28X18X5cm, but you can shrink or expand the quantities to fit your own dish without any harm, it's not an exact science:

• 2 fillets of hot smoked salmon
• 1 packet of feta cheese (I use organic)
• 6 large eggs
• 600ml of double cream (ish)
  

For the pastry

• 300g of Italian 00 flour (this doesn't need to be sifted like ordinary plain and is much lighter)
• 170g of unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon of yoghurt
• a few tablespoons of iced water with half a teaspoon of salt stirred into it
  

I make the pastry in my food processor a la Miss Lawson's recipe in How to Eat. Measure out the flour and butter, cut butter into small dice, put both in a bowl and stash in the freezer for ten minutes. Once they have had their chilling, put them in a food processor and whizz till they look like fine oatmeal (you can do the rubbing in by hand if you so wish). Add your teaspoon of yoghurt and pulse for a second, then with the machine running add the iced water very slowly through the funnel until the pastry is just about to come together but hasn't quite. Switch off and turn the dough onto a surface, squish it into a ball, wrap in plastic and put it in the fridge to rest for at least twenty minutes.

Once the pastry is rested bring it out, roll it to size and line your, buttered, dish. Put it back in the fridge, put the oven onto gas mark 6, and gather all the other ingredients. Flake the salmon, beat the eggs with the cream and crumble the feta. Bring the pastry lined dish out of the fridge once the oven is up to temperature and get on with building the quiche. Put the salmon in the dish, pour in the eggy cream, arrange the feta all over and put in the oven for about an hour. You may need to turn the temperature down after about forty five minutes, but ovens vary so much, so just have a look and see what you think: if it's getting rather brown but is still very wobbly turn it down a notch.

I really like this eaten hot with salad and a baked spud, but it's great ice cold the next day too. This size will easily feed eight people but I like to make a lot so there is plenty left over, it freezes very well and it's great to have the odd wodge stashed in the freezer for unexpected feedings.

Salmon and Bacon

It's President's Day (or as the Office of Personnel Management knows it, Washington's Birthday (I know, don't get me started). But what it means is that I have the day off. I started my day at the dentist (the regular one) and he has determined that I need to go back and see the endodontist as Tooth No. 19 is acting up again. I am off to the chiropractor this afternoon so I can be well-adjusted for my return back to work tomorrow (how well adjusted will always remain to be seen). C in DC has tagged me with a meme, which I will get to after the weekly recipe and presidential homage.

So this week's recipe. Sure, I know those two look bad, together like that. Salmon recipes have appeared here before. And I have had bacon-wrapped scallops (this is but one of many recipes) so I am willing to try this one.

Bacon-Wrapped Broiled Salmon

• 3 to 4 tablespoons grainy mustard
• 1 to 2 tablespoon minced dill, plus a few sprigs for garnish (optional)
• Kosher or sea salt
• 1 tablespoon slightly crushed pink peppercorns
• 4 6-ounce boneless, skinless salmon fillets, preferably at least 3/4 inch thick, pin bones removed
• 4 slices streaky (fatty) bacon
  

Position an oven rack 4 to 5 inches from the broiling element; preheat the broiler. Have ready a broiler pan with a rack and 4 long metal skewers.

Combine the mustard, dill, salt and pink peppercorns in a small bowl, mixing well. Spread in equal amounts on the top (rounded) sides of the salmon fillets, pressing the mixture down slightly into the fish. Lay a slice of bacon across each fillet (fold into a V shape, if using center-cut fillets) and tuck the ends neatly underneath. Thread a skewer through the center of each fillet to secure the edges of the bacon. Place the fillets bacon side down on the broiler pan and broil for 4 minutes, until the salmon looks opaque, then use a spatula to carefully turn them over (leaving the skewers in place) and broil for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bacon is crisp. Remove the skewers and serve immediately.

Recipe Source: Adapted from Villas's "The Bacon Cookbook" (Wiley, 2007).

On dieting - Try this, It's good for you!

I know I should take better care of myself. My mother suffered from adult onset diabetes and it was that awful disease that took her. Of course, it is my right as a father to liberate certain pieces of candy from my son's Halloween stash, right? I've never truly tried dieting, I do try and cook meals that are better for all of the Brave Astronaut clan, and I read ingredient labels more than I used to. There's always that nagging idea in the back of my head that I should make use of the fitness center in my building (but it's so far from my office).

Perhaps there's hope. There's a new diet out there. I spotted a while back (on kottke) an article describing the Steve Ward diet, also called the Line Diet:

"All that you need for my diet is graph paper, a ruler, and a pencil," Steve would explain. "The horizontal axis is time, one line per day. The vertical axis is weight in lbs. You plot your current weight on the left side of the paper. You plot your desired weight on a desired date towards the right side, making sure that you've left the correct number of lines in between (one per day). You draw a line from the current weight/date to the desired weight/date. Every morning you weigh yourself and plot the result. If the point is below the line, you eat whatever you want all day. If the point is above the line, you eat nothing but broccoli or some other low-calorie food."

As a data geek and lover of spreadsheets, I could get behind this. Except perhaps for the low-calorie thing. I have started wearing a pedometer and it boggles my mind when I look down at it at the end of each day and see that I've walked nearly 5000 steps (or about 2 miles and only150 calories). Well, it's something.

Here's a recipe (from Eating Well) to help you get that waistline looking like you want it to. If you think you need to. I mean, not that you need - never mind, I'm shutting up now.

Grilled Salmon & Zucchini with Red Pepper Sauce
Jazz up simply grilled salmon and summer vegetables with a zesty sauce based on the classic Spanish romesco. Made with roasted red peppers, tomatoes and almonds, this sauce is a great match for any seafood, poultry or vegetables. Using smoked paprika brings out the flavors from the grill. Serve with: Grilled baguette.

4 servings
Active Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  
• 1/4 cup chopped jarred roasted red peppers
• 1/4 cup halved grape tomatoes , or cherry tomatoes
• 1 small clove garlic
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar , or red-wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon paprika, preferably smoked
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, divided
• 1 1/4 pounds wild-caught salmon fillet, skinned and cut crosswise into 4 portions
• 2 medium zucchini , or summer squash (or 1 of each), halved lengthwise
• Canola or olive oil cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley , for garnish
  

Preparation

1. Preheat grill to medium.
2. Process almonds, peppers, tomatoes, garlic, oil, vinegar, paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a food processor or blender until smooth; set aside.
3. Coat salmon and zucchini (and/or summer squash) on both sides with cooking spray, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Grill, turning once, until the salmon is just cooked through and the squash is soft and browned, about 3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the squash to a clean cutting board. When cool enough to handle, slice into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss in a bowl with half of the reserved sauce. Divide the squash among 4 plates along with a piece of salmon topped with some of the remaining sauce. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
   

Shuffle Up and Deal!

Tomorrow night the Brave Astronaut will be tending bar at LBA and SoBA's school fundraiser, Casino Night!  This is the fourth year I have been making drinks for parents, and this year the event has a Mardi Gras theme and one of the drinks that will be served up will be lots of Hurricanes.

So based on where you live, what should you be drinking (from BuzzFeed - where you can get all the recipes for the drinks below as well)?

1. Alabama - The Alabama Slammer (Amaretto, Southern Comfort, Sloe Gin, and orange juice) Why?: Legend has it that the drink originated in the state in the 1970s and is known as the signature drink of the University of Alabama Crimson Tide.
2. Alaska - The Smoked Salmon Bloody Mary (Smoked Salmon Vodka, V-8 Juice, tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper) Why?: Alaska Distillery has recently produced a vodka made with a secret recipe of smoked salmon caught in the Gulf of Alaska.
3. Arizona - The High and Dry (Mandarin Vodka, Triple Sec) Why?: During the prohibition era, Phoenix featured a “secret bar” behind a bookshelf in the Arizona Biltmore, where “every self-respecting gentleman” had access to a decent highball.
4. Arkansas - The Arkansas Razorback (Rum, vodka, amaretto almond liqueur, Kahlua coffee liqueur) Why?: This popular cocktail shares its name with the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. You can even buy cocktail glasses embellished with the Razorback mascot! 
5. California - The Mai Tai (Light rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange curacao, orgeat syrup) Why?: This fruity beverage is said to have been created by Victor “Trader Vic” Buergon at his Polynesian-style restaurant in Oakland, Calif.
6. Colorado - The Snowball (Vodka, Fresca, and lime juice) Why?: The interesting combo of vodka and lemonade is also popular in the U.K., but this combo of Colorado Premium Vodka and Fresca makes this drink uniquely Coloradan.
7. Connecticut - The Limonata (Vodka, sparkling lemonade, blood-orange juice) Why?: Available exclusively at Ballo at the Mohegan Sun in Monteville, Conn., this drink features a sphere of frozen blood orange that adds sweet flavor to the cocktail as it melts.
8. Delaware - Blueberry Vodka Tonic (Vodka, blueberries, and lots of time) Why?: Unlike typical vodka tonics, Delaware’s blueberry version features a vodka infused with fresh blueberries for over a month.
9. Florida - The Rum Runner (Captain Morgan, blackberry liqueur, creme de bananes, and orange juice) Why?: Rum Runners are said to have been invented in the 1950s at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamorada, Fla.
10. Georgia - The Scarlet O’Hara (Southern Comfort, cranberry juice, and a lime wheel) Why?: There are several varieties to “The Scarlet O’Hara”, but in Georgia, they typically feature Southern Comfort.
11. Hawaii - The Blue Hawaiian (Light rum, vodka, Blue Curacao, pineapple juice, and sweet & sour mix) Why?: This tropical cocktail was invented by Harry Yee, a legendary bartender at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki.
12. Idaho - Spring Whiskey Sling (Blended whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and water) Why?: The Red Feather Lounge in Idaho features a famed Spring Whiskey Sling that was featured in the “Best of List” in The New York Times.
13. Illinois - The Chicago Fizz (Dark rum, ruby port, lemon juice, sugar, club soda, and egg whites) Why?: While New Orleans is credited with the origination of the fizz, the Chicago variation’s claim to fame was its popularity at the Waldorf-Astoria bar in New York during the pre-prohibition era.
14. Indiana - The Refined Janet Guthrie (Sweet Tea Vodka, Refined Mixers margarita mix) Why?: In honor of the Indy 500, this beverage was created to commemorate the first woman that qualified and drove in the race.
15. Iowa - The Iowa Sunrise (Bacardi white rum, vodka, lemonade, sprite, orange juice, and grenadine) Why?: While similar to many cocktails in composition, the Iowa version is said to represent the beautiful sunrise over Iowa in winter mornings.
16. Kansas - The Pendergast (Buffalo Trace Bourbon, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and Angostura bitters) Why?: This cocktail is named for Thomas Pendergast, a Kansas City politician famed for his populist touch and connections with the Mafia during the Prohibition. 
17. Kentucky - The Mint Julep (Bourbon, sugar, and water) Why?: The origins of the drink are murky, but the mint julep was introduced by US Senator Henry Clay during the 18th century.
18. Louisiana - The Sazerac (Rye whiskey, Peychaud’s bitters, sugar, and absinthe) Why?: In June 2008, the Louisiana Legislature proclaimed the Sazerac as New Orleans’ official cocktail.
19. Maine - Dust to Dust (Cold River Vodka, Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur, Aperol, and ginger syrup) Why?: The bar Grace, located in Portland, Maine, is famous for this unique ginger cocktail.
20. Maryland - The Black-Eyed Susan (42 Below Vodka, Early Times Kentucky Whiskey, sweet & sour mix, and orange juice) Why?: The cocktail, named after Maryland’s state flower, is the official drink of the Preakness Stakes. 
21. Massachusetts - The Cape Codder (Vodka and cranberry juice) Why?: The drink was conceived by the Ocean Spray cranberry growers under the name “Red Devil,” which was later changed to “The Cape Codder” in the 1960s.
22. Michigan - The Golden Cadillac (Creme de cacao (white), Vodka, Galliano, blueberries, water, sugar, and lemon juice) Why?: While the cocktail was created in California, it’s famed name (Cadillac, of the Motor City origin) and taste has made it a popular beverage in many bars in Michigan.
23. Minnesota - The Bootleg (Bootleg mix, gin, vodka/light rum, and club soda) Why?: Bootleg cocktails are made specifically from Bootleg Mix, which can only be purchased from the Woodhill Country Club in Wayzata, Minn.
24. Mississippi - Mississippi Punch (Dark rum, bourbon, brandy/cognac, fresh lemon juice, and sugar) Why?: This cocktail recipe was first printed in Jerry Thomas’ The Bon Vivant’s Companion, attributing its location in Mississippi.
25. Missouri - The Missouri Mule (Bourbon, Applejack, lemon juice, Campari, and Cointreau) Why?: The cocktail was created for President Harry S. Truman, with its name representing his home state of Missouri and the donkey mascot of the Democratic Party.
26. Montana - The Montana Tornado (Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey, gin, tequila, and 7 Up) Why?: Unlike other tornadoes, the Montana Tornado features 7 Up instead of the commonly used Coca-Cola. The drink is also served in a mason jar instead of the typical cocktail glass.
27. Nebraska - The Kool-Aid Caddy (Orange vodka and Kool-Aid) Why?: Kool-Aid was invented in Hastings, Neb, by Edwin Perkins. Naturally, the state boasts a beverage in his honor.
28. Nevada - The Nevada Cocktail (Light rum, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sugar) Why?: In honor of Nevada Day, which falls on the last Friday of October, many drink this cocktail to celebrate.
29. New Hampshire - The Gin-Esaisquoi (Lillet blanc, Velvet Falermum, egg whites, and orange bitters) Why?: This drink was originated at the White Mountain Cider Company in Glen, NH by bartender Jeff Grdinich for his friend Kevin Ginestet, who, ironically, is allergic to eggs and does not drink alcohol.
30. New Jersey - The Applejack (Applejack brandy, lemon juice, and grenadine) Why?: During the colonial period in New Jersey, the Applejack was used as currency to pay road construction crews. New Jersey also boasts the oldest licensed distillery, Laird & Company, which continues to produce applejack.
31. New Mexico - La Paloma (Tequila and grapefruit soda) Why?: This cocktail was first recognized in Evan Harrison’s Popular Cocktails of the Rio Grande. Known as “The Dove” in Spanish, it’s origins are claimed to be somewhere along the Rio Grande. 
32. New York - The Moscow Mule (Vodka, lime juice, ginger beer) Why?: The cocktail is said to have been invented in 1941 by John G. Martin of G.F. Heublein Brothers, Inc., an East Coast spirit producer and Jack Morgan, President of Cock ‘n’ Bull Products.
33. North Carolina - Dirty Beetz (Vodka, beet juice, lime juice, and orange juice) Why?: The Fiction Kitchen, a local Raleigh haunt, features this cocktail. Created by Christopher Tamplin, the use of beets creates a vibrantly colored cocktail when garnished with a lime and orange peel.
34. North Dakota - The Howlin’ Wolf (White Creme de Menthe, blue curacao, vodka, and Sprite) Why?: It’s no surprise that this drink is named after North Dakota’s state animal, the coyote (AKA prairie wolf).
35. Ohio - The Black Gold (Captain Morgans, Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila, Sierra Mist, and Grenadine) Why?: The Kentucky Derby, the Preakness, and the Belmont Stakes have specialty cocktails, naturally the folks in Thistledown wanted to create a drink to represent the Ohio Derby. The Black Gold is named after the only horse to win both the Kentucky Derby and the Ohio Derby.
36. Oklahoma - The Farmer’s Daughter (Vodka, fresh strawberries, basil leaves, and simple sugar) Why?: Lobby Bar, located in Oklahoma City, specializes in maintaining the tried-and-true nature of cocktails while adding an individual twist, crafting each individually with added, natural ingredients. Each of their Farmer’s Daughter cocktails is made with fresh fruit. 
37. Oregon - Flaming Ring of Fire (High proof rum, whiskey, and tabasco sauce) Why?: Named after Oregon’s location in “the Pacific Ring of Fire”, this shot turns up the heat with added Tabasco sauce.
38. Pennsylvania - The Bronx (Gin, Sweet red vermouth, dry vermouth, and orange juice) Why?: Strangely, this cocktail was created by Joseph S. Sormani in Philadelphia, a retired Bronx restaurateur. 
39. Rhode Island - Rhode Island Red (Partida Blanco tequila, chambord, lemon juice, agave nectar, orange bitters, and ginger beer) Why?: While hailing from California, this drink was created to salute the 350th anniversary of Rhode Island’s reception of a Colonial Charter. 
40. South Carolina - The Hemingway Mojito (Bacardi, sunset-red Italian Campari, muddled mint & grapefruit, soda water, and grapefruit juice) Why?: Amen Street’s, located in Charleston, mixologists created a cocktail to match the colorful like of Ernest Hemingway. The drink boasts beautiful colors to reflect Hemingway’s love for Key West’s sunsets.
41. South Dakota - The President (Light rum, grenadine, and orange juice) Why?: Over 2 million people visit South Dakota annually to visit this befitting cocktail’s dedication, the Presidents of Mount Rushmore.
42. Tennessee - Lynchburg Lemonade (Jack Daniel’s whiskey, Triple sec, sweet & sour, and Sprite) Why?: This famous cocktail got its name from the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Alabama restaurateur Tony Mason brought JD to court, alleging that the distillery stole his recipe, but a judge declined his request for $13 million in damages.
43. Texas - The Mexican Martini (Tequila, Cointreau orange liqueur, sweet & sour mix, lime juice, orange juice, and Sprite) Why?: This cocktail variation of a margarita is served straight up in a cocktail glass and can be served extra spicy. This drink was created and continues to be incredibly popular in Austin, TX.
44. Utah - The Mountain Derby (Woodford Reserve, grapefruit juice, honey, and lemon juice) Why?: This interesting cocktail was created by Dave Wallace and beat out other cocktails in a competition held in Park City, UT. As a result, his concoction is now featured on drink menus at bars and restaurants all over the city for six months.
45. Vermont - The Old Vermont (Gin, maple syrup, lemon juice, orange juice, and bitters) Why?: For a true version of an Old Vermont, a bartender needs to use Barr Hill Gin from Vermont.
46. Virginia - The Copper Barley (Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water) Why?: The Copper Barley is a cocktail that uses malt exclusively from the Virginia Highland Malt distillery.
47. Washington - The Washington Apple (Vodka, Sour Apple Schnapps, and apple juice) Why?: This can be served as a martini, a shooter, or on the rocks, but its main ingredient is Washington apples from, well, Washington.
48. West Virginia - The Persephone (Bourbon, whiskey, triple sec, lemon juice, and egg whites) Why?: This holiday inspired, champagne-based cocktail was featured in the West Virginia Gazette by its style team.
49. Wisconsin - The Tom and Jerry (Rum/brandy/whiskey, egg whites, vanilla extract, sugar, nutmeg, and powdered milk) Why?: This Christmastime cocktail was originally created by journalist Pierce Egan in the 1820s, but continues to be most popular in Wisconsin. 
50. Wyoming - The Boiler Maker (Light draft beer and whiskey) Why?: Similar to Old Faithful in Wyoming, The Boiler Maker is a geyser of sorts. To consume this cocktail, you first have to drop the shot of whiskey into the beer, then down the entire thing in one gulp.
51. Bonus: Washington D.C. - The Rickey (Gin, lime juice, and carbonated water) Why?: While the drink was created in the 1880’s, the drink maintains its popularity as one of the most popular gin cocktails in the area and even has a virgin version called the “lime rickey”.

Monday's Recipe on Wednesday

I hope that all of you aren't too hungry. I know that you all wait with bated breath for the Monday recipe, which wasn't available (that is, I didn't get to it). Luckily today's Washington Post Food Section had a number of good recipes in it, so I'm ready and stocked for the next few weeks.

Last night, dinner came together in a hurry (again). I had some time to run home and decide what to make before heading off to get the Brave Astronaut family from the Metro. The boys have decided they like fish sticks (something I didn't get a lot during my own childhood), so they had those and Mrs. BA and I had salmon fillets, which defrosted quickly and then got grilled on the BBQ with some honey and spices.

In today's Post was a recipe for Balsamic-Glazed Fish Fillets, which might make it into the rotation.

Balsamic-Glazed Fish Fillets
The Washington Post, May 12, 2010

Summary:
Here's a recipe that works equally well when made using a grill pan indoors or an outdoor grill. I've had fish that's balsamic-glazed or honey-glazed or mustard-glazed, but this recipe combines all three - with garlic and lemon juice - to great effect. No salt is needed.

The fish stays moist and easy to handle because it is cooked in 1-pound pieces instead of individual fillets. If you cook this on an outdoor grill, preheat to medium-high (400 degrees) and place the fillets over direct heat.

A slotted, flexible metal fish spatula with rounded edges is invaluable for handling large or small fillets. I recommend a LamsonSharp, which is pricier than other spatulas but long-lasting and worth the cost.

Any leftover fish would be great the next day, flaked over a green salad.

Serve with mashed skin-on fingerlings; the small potatoes take no more than 20 minutes to cook.

4 to 5 servings
Ingredients:

• 2 medium cloves garlic
• 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon canola or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon-style mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Two 1-pound pieces skin-on salmon or halibut fillets, preferably center-cut and about 1 inch thick, pin bones removed
  

Directions:
Mince the garlic to yield about 2 teaspoons. Squeeze the lemon half to yield 1 tablespoon of juice.

Combine the oil and garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 2 minutes, until the garlic has softened.

Add the mustard, honey, lemon juice, vinegar and pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to form a slightly thickened sauce. Transfer to a wide, shallow dish and cool for 5 minutes, then place the fillets skin side up in the dish; let them sit for about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, use nonstick cooking oil spray to grease a ridged grill pan. Heat over medium-high heat.

Place the fillets skin side down in the pan; use the sauce in the dish to evenly coat the top of the fish, making sure plenty of the garlic is there. Discard any remaining sauce.

Cook the fish without turning for about 10 minutes or until it is opaque and fairly firm to the touch. (Use the tip of a thin, sharp knife to make a slit in the center of the fish to check doneness, if necessary.) The skin will be quite crisp and dark.

Use a fish spatula to transfer to the fillets to a cutting board, divide them into equal portions and transfer to individual plates. Serve immediately.
Recipe Source:

Adapted from "All Fired Up! 250 Fresh and Flavorful Grilling Recipes," by Margaret Howard (Firefly, 2010).

Happy Thanksgiving!

Today is the day we set aside for giving thanks for what we have.  There are many who don't have a lot to be thankful for - so let's keep that in mind today.  For the past few weeks, LBA and SoBA's school has been collecting canned goods on "Two for Tuesday" to donate to a local food bank to help those in need.

A few weeks ago, I spotted this list on Buzzfeed with the items that food banks need most.

Thanksgiving rocks. It’s a long holiday weekend to spend with family and friends and a chance to give thanks for a life that’s good. Of course, it’s also a great time to think about helping people who might not have enough to eat by donating to a canned food drive that benefits your local food bank. 

Silvia Davi, chief marketing officer of Food Bank For New York City, told BuzzFeed Life that donations to area food banks, which help feed millions of Americans, are more important than ever because of cuts to federal funding of food assistance programs. Davi adds, “Part of what Food Bank prides itself on is nutrition education and offering healthy foods to those we serve. We welcome food donations low in fat and sodium, high in protein, and rich in all the kinds of good ingredients that you would find in your own homes.” 

She stresses that food banks in New York and around the country are looking for healthy options to make sure individuals and families who need assistance are getting nutritious meals, so we asked nutritionists to weigh in on the best foods you can donate. And don’t forget, their tips for making healthy eating choices around the holidays can apply to you too. 

1.  100% Juice Drinks - Food banks like to have juices on hand, especially for kids, but juices with high fructose corn syrup can be harmful for kids who are struggling to get proper nutrition. Nutrition consultant Keri Gans, MS, RDN, CDN, told BuzzFeed Life, “As long as it is 100% fruit juice it is a healthy choice,” so just make sure that percentage checks out before you donate. 
2. Holiday Foods - Food banks face high traffic around the holidays and need lots of these seasonal staples. Holiday foods aren’t always the most healthy; Gans recommends looking for stuffing mix that’s low in sodium and notes that cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes can be “packed with antioxidants which help strengthen your immune system during cold and flu season.” 
3. Low-Sodium Vegetables - Mixed vegetables are also a good option because they make for more colorful and well-rounded meals. Nutritionist Brooke Alpert, MS, RD, CDN, told BuzzFeed Life, “These are a great donation because of all the vitamins and fiber that vegetables offer!” She recommends anyone using canned vegetables to wash the veggies under cold water to reduce excess sodium, even if the can says “no salt added.” 
4. Canned Tuna, Canned Chicken, and Canned Salmon - Gans and Alpert recommend canned tuna, chicken, and salmon because they’re non-perishable and can be added to many meals for a much-needed protein boost. These are three of the most useful items you can give to a food bank. 
5. Unsalted Nuts - According to Alpert, mixed nuts are a great and highly needed source of protein and vitamins. They tend to be more expensive and hard to keep stocked at food banks, which makes them a welcome donation. Unsalted nuts are the healthiest option for your donation (or your own snacking). 
6. No Sugar Added Fruits - Canned fruits and fruit cups are good snacks for kids, high in Vitamin C and nutrients, and keep well on food bank shelves. Gans recommends donating fruits packed in water or fruit juice rather than heavy syrup. 
7. Shelf-Stable Milk - Milk is a great source of calcium and protein, Alpert says, but it’s hard for food banks to buy and manage fresh milk that will go bad in a week or two. Food banks are always in need of shelf-stable and powdered milk that will last a long time. 
8. Whole Grain Pasta - Pasta is a filling non-perishable good that goes a long way, but white pasta doesn’t have a high nutritional value, so try to donate whole grain varieties if you can. Alpert says whole grain pasta is a great way to promote fiber intake. It’s also easy to turn into a meal without too many extra ingredients, so this is a food bank staple. 
9. Canned Beef Stew - Canned beef stew is an all-purpose, non-perishable good. It’s a warming meal full of meats, veggies, and complex carbohydrates. It’s also really helpful if the can doesn’t require a can opener, like this one. Alpert cautions, however, that canned stews tend to be high in sodium, so be sure to also include more nutritious foods in your donation.
10. Brown Rice - Like whole grain pasta, brown rice is a filling and versatile base for many meals, high in fiber and Vitamin B. Boxed rices like this one are easy to store, easy to distribute, and help make meals go further. Alpert also recommends other easy-to-store grains like quinoa, which is “super high in protein, so it makes a great meal option.”
11. Oatmeal - Oatmeal is a healthy and filling breakfast. Because you don’t need a bunch of other ingredients to make oatmeal, it’s a great thing for food banks to keep stocked. “[This is] one of my favorite foods to donate because it is a good source of protein and fiber, leaving one full and satiated for a longer period of time,” Alpert says. “Donate the plain/original flavor to avoid any added sugars. The instant packets are the perfect individual portion size.”
12. Canola and Olive Oil - Canola and olive oils are highly sought after by most food banks. Gans and Alpert note that oil is important for cooking, and these oils provide relatively healthy calories thanks to their mono-unsaturated fats. Because oil tends to be on the expensive side, food banks often depend on them being donated.
13. Peanut Butter - Peanut butter is yet another protein-rich food that’s always in high demand. Just because it’s not in a can doesn’t mean it’s not a great thing to donate to your food drive.
14. Low-Sodium Soups - Like stews, soups are a great way to get all of the food groups together in one hearty bowl. Again, most food banks prefer lower-sodium soups to make sure people seeking assistance are getting healthy meals as often as possible. Alpert says it’s best to “choose soups with a lot of vegetables, as they are higher in fiber which will keep one feeling fuller for longer.”
15. Beans - This is a good high-protein staple that food banks can keep on their shelves for ages. Beans also have the benefits of being filling and maintaining most of their nutrients even when canned. Gans calls them “nutrition powerhouses” full of fiber, protein, and Vitamin B.
16. Low-Sugar Cereals - Gans and Alpert recommend cereals like Cheerios and Fiber One. These are good donations to food banks because they’re high in healthy whole grains and low in sugar, with only about 1 g per serving.
17. Granola Bars and Popcorn - Food banks are always looking for healthy snacks to give out, especially to families with kids. Granola bars are a good choice because they keep well and they’re healthy, as long as you choose brands that aren’t packed with sugar. Gans also recommends popcorn, which is a filling, whole grain snack.

Alaska - #49, January 3, 1959

Alaska was purchased from Russia in March 1867, for the bargain price of $7.2 million equaling approximately two cents per acre, the sale negotiated by Secretary of State William Seward (and called Seward's Folly).  The first official census (1880) conducted after the purchase of Alaska reported a total of 33,426 Alaskans, all but 430 being of aboriginal stock. The Gold Rush of 1898 resulted in a mass influx of more than 30,000 people.

Our 49th State is also the largest of all of the states (twice the size of Texas, the #2 state in size) and one of the most least populated (ranking 47th in people).  Most of the state's residents live in the Anchorage metropolitan area.  The state has the longest coastline of all of the other states combined (it is surrounded by water on three sides).

The current Governor of Alaska is Steve Parnell (R). The Alaska Senators are split by the ideological aisle, Mark Begich is a Democrat and Lisa Murkowski is a Republican.  Begich won his seat from longtime Alaska Senator Ted Stevens, who later died in a plane crash in the state. Murkowski's father, Frank, was Governor of the state and also served as Senator.  Alaska has only one at-Large Congress Member, Don Young (R).

Facts

• State Capital - Juneau
• Largest city - Anchorage
• Date of Admission - January 3, 1959
• Area - 663,268 sq mi (1st) 
• Population (2011 est.) - 722,718 (47th) 
• State Motto - "North to the Future" 
• State Nickname - The Last Frontier / Land of the Midnight Sun
  
• State bird - Willow Ptarmigan
• State fish - king salmon
• State flower - the Forget-me-not
• State gem - jade
• State mineral - gold (duh)
• State sport - dog mushing (duh)
• State tree - Sitka spruce
  
• State University - The University of Alaska
• Alaska State Archives
• Alaska Historical Society 

Links

• alaska.gov - the Official Website of the State of Alaska
• The Alaska Tourism site - Travel Alaska
• Wikipedia 
• 50states.com entry for Alaska
• InfoPlease entry for Alaska
• Alaska Statehood Documents from the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library
• USDA Fact Sheet for Alaska
• Alaska State Guide from the Library of Congress

Prominent Alaskans - (here's a few lists to peruse, one and two - as one might expect, very few people are from Alaska)

• Author Clarence L. Andrews (born in Ohio)
• Fur trader Aleksandr Baranov, born in Russia 
• Author Margaret Elizabeth Bell 
• Designer of the state flag (at age 13) Benny Benson
• Danish explorer Vitus Bering 
• "Father of the University of Alaska Charles E. Bunnell 
• Champion dog musher Susan Butcher
• First state governor William A. Egan
• Pioneering pilot Carl Ben Eielson
• Territorial governor B. Frank Heintzleman
• Former Governor and former Secretary of the Interior Walter J. Hickel
• Missionary, educator Sheldon Jackson
• Prospector Joe Juneau
• Industrialist Austin Lathrop, whose biography (click link) ends with the line, "On July 26, 1950 he fell beneath the wheels of a railroad car at his Healy coal plant, which killed him. He was 84."
• Artist Sydney Laurence
• Actor Ray Mala
• Cartoonist Virgil F. Partch
• Joe Redington, Sr. - you may recall a week or so ago, I mentioned Dorothy Page, the "Mother of the Iditarod"? - this guy was known as the "Father of the Iditarod"
• Episcopal Bishop and Missionary Peter Trimble Rowe

Oregon - #33, February 14, 1859

For the Beaver State - you get two flag images - because Oregon is the only state in the union that has something different on the reverse - an image of the beaver, the state animal!

They say that Virginia is for lovers - but Oregon was actually admitted to the Union on Valentine's Day, it must have been really loved by the US!

The state of Oregon was "discovered" by Spanish and English explorers in the 1500s and 1600s. Captain James Cook, while looking for the Northwest Passage charted some of the Oregon coastline in 1778. The Lewis and Clark expedition reached the Pacific Ocean from the Columbia River which traverses Oregon. Now, c'mon raise your hand if you have spent more time than you care to admit playing the Oregon Trail, which was one of the primary pioneer routes to the West. The state became prominent in the fur trade and John Jacob Astor's fur trading post, Astoria, was established in 1811. Today, Oregon is the leading producer of grass (the kind you walk on - not the kind you smoke), peppermint oil, and Christmas trees.  If one travels to Portland, you will find yourself in the US city with the most breweries in the country.

Oregon is a popular destination for Hollywood filmmakers as well - some of the movies filmed in Oregon include: Animal House, Free Willy, The General, The Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, and Stand By Me.

The current Governor of Oregon is Democrat John Kitzhaber. Both Senators for the state of Oregon are Democrats, Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley. The Congressional delegation has five members, all of which are Democrats but one.

• 1st District - Suzanne Bonamici (D)
• 2nd District - Greg Walden (R)
• 3rd District - Earl Blumenauer (D)
• 4th District - Peter DeFazio (D)
• 5th District - Kurt Schrader (D)

Facts

• State Capital - Salem
• Largest city - Portland
• Date of Admission - February 14, 1859
• Area - 98,381 sq mi (9th) 
• Population (2011 est.) - 3,871,859 (27th) 
• State Motto - "Alis Volat Propiis" "She Flies With Her Own Wings" 
• State Nickname - The Beaver State
• State animal - beaver
• State bird - Western meadowlark
• State fish - Chinook salmon
• State flower - Oregon grape
• State nut - hazelnut
• State tree - Douglas fir
• State University - The University of Oregon is the state's flagship liberal arts university, while Oregon State University is the state's leading research institution.  The state's largest enrollment is at Portland State University.
• Oregon State Archives 
• The Oregon Historical Society 

Links

• oregon.gov - the Official Website of the State of Oregon
• The Oregon Tourism site - Travel Oregon
• Wikipedia 
• 50states.com entry for Oregon
• InfoPlease entry for Oregon
• The Oregon Blue Book (official government manual)
• Census Quick facts on Oregon
• USDA Fact Sheet for Oregon

Prominent Oregonians - (here's a few lists to peruse, one and two)

• WWII Aviator Rex T. Barber, who shot down the plane carrying Admiral Yamamoto
• James Beard
• The Beaver Archivist and all around great guy - he works at a county archives in the Beaver State
• Author Raymond Carver
• Children's writer Beverly Cleary
• Progressive Era political cartoonist Homer Davenport
• Botanist (and individual for whom the state tree is named) David Douglas (Scottish by birth - but was on the Lewis and Clark expedition)
• Suffragist Abigail Scott Duniway
• Scientist and inventor Douglas Engelbart
• Matt Groening
• Oregon Political Pioneer LaFayette Grover (served as first Governor, Representative and Senator)
• Tonya Harding (wouldn't you have expected here to be from New Jersey?)
• Senator Mark O. Hatfield (trivia note - when in high school, acting out a mock Congress, I played Mark Hatfield)
• Actor Howard Hesseman (Dr. Johnny Fever!)
• Olympian Joni Huntley
• Nez Perce leader Chief Joseph
• Photojournalist David Kennerly
• Dave Kingman, baseball player
• Poet Edwin Markham (poet laureate of Oregon, 1923-1931)
• Author Phyllis McGinley
• Linus Pauling, the only individual to win two Nobel Prizes outright
• River Phoenix
• Actress Jane Powell
• NFL player and TV commentator Ahmad Rashad
• Journalist John Reed - you may have seen the Warren Beatty movie, Reds? That's the guy
• Although elected to Congress from Colorado, Pat Schroeder was born in Portland
• Tonight Show band leader Doc Severinsen
• Madam (yes, that kind of Madam) and Mayor (of Sausalito, CA) Sally Stanford
• Sally Struthers
• Dave Wiegand, professional Scrabble player & winner of the 2005 and 2009 National Scrabble championship

New Hampshire - #9, June 21, 1788

Our ninth state (and the third New England state) in our series is the Granite State, New Hampshire. I fully expect that Anna will have something to say here (I probably should have asked her to write this post), as she is a native of the state. Before Mrs. BA and I were married, we traveled to New Hampshire for Anna's wedding, traveling throughout New England and New York. Some day, I might tell you about Mrs. BA being kidnapped by nuns when we checked into the hotel for the wedding.

Most summers, the Brave Astronaut's family would travel to my grandmother's summer home in Maine. One highlight (?) of the trip was upon reaching New Hampshire was to count the bridges (overpasses, underpasses, etc.) on the New Hampshire Turnpike. The fine folks at the NH DOT were kind enough to number them. My mother always threatened to write the Governor, because for a few years the numbers were out of sync. There are also no rest areas on the short Turnpike. But there's something even better. State-run liquor stores.

New Hampshire holds the records for several "firsts":

• It was the first state to adopt its own state Constitution
• June 12, 1800 - Fernald's Island (now the site of the Portsmouth Naval Yard) became the first government-sanctioned US Navy shipyard
• Founded in 1833 - the Peterborough Town Library was the first public library, supported with public funds, in the world.
• In July 1944, at the Mount Washington Hotel, The Bretton Woods Agreement, the first fully negotiated system intended to govern monetary relations among independent nation-states was negotiated, resulting in the creation of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
• On May 31, 2007, the State of New Hampshire became the first state to recognize same sex unions.
  

New Hampshire holds a significant place in American politics. In case you hadn't noticed, the Granite State holds the nation's first presidential primary every four years. The state also has produced one President of the United States, Franklin Pierce, although Jed Bartlet is from New Hampshire, too. Democrat John Lynch is the current governor of New Hampshire. The two Senators for the Granite State are split ideologically, but both of them are women - Kelly Ayotte (R) and Jeanne Shaheen (D). The popular Shaheen is the only women in US History to be elected both as a Governor and a Senator. There are two House Members for New Hampshire and both are Republican.

• 1st District - Frank Guinta (R)
• 2nd District - Charles Bass (R)

Facts

• State Capital - Concord
• Date of Admission - June 21, 1788
• Area - 9,304 sq mi (46th)
• State Motto - "Live Free or Die" (no foolin' around with them New Hamshirites)
  
• State Nickname - the Granite State
• State Bird - Purple Finch
  
• State Wildflower - Purple Lilac
  
• State University - The University of New Hampshire
• State Archives - The N.H. Department of State, Division of Archives and Records Management
• The New Hampshire Historical Society
• Population (2011 est.) - 1,318,194
  
• Signers of the Declaration of Independence - Josiah Bartlett, Matthew Thornton (I had a teacher in junior high school that was related to him), William Whipple
  

Links

• nh.gov - the Official Website of the State of New Hampshire
• Open Up New Hampshire - Entertainment and Travel in the Granite State
  
• The New Hampshire Tourism site - visitnh.gov
• The Encyclopedia Britannic entry for New Hampshire
  
• Wikpedia
• 50states.com entry for New Hampshire
  
• InfoPlease entry for New Hampshire
• The New Hampshire Almanac
  
• New Hampshire state guide from the Library of Congress
  
• IMDb list of films and TV shows shot in New Hampshire
  

Prominent New Hampshirites (here's one list and another)

• Brooke Astor
• Dan Brown
• Salmon P. Chase - former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court (presided over the Impeachment Trial of Andrew Johnson)
• Mary Baker Eddy
• Daniel Chester French
• Robert Frost - quite possibly my most favorite poet
• Horace Greeley
• John Irving - the author of Hotel New Hampshire, among many others
• Christa McAuliffe - killed in the Shuttle Challenger explosion
• Augustus Saint-Gaudens - (Mrs. BA and I went to his house on the wedding trip noted above)
• Alan Shepard - astronaut
• Harlan Fiske Stone - also a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
• The Sununus (John E. and John H.)
  
• Daniel Webster - The Great Compromiser

#29 - Warren G. Harding, 1921-1923

Our 29th President, Warren Gamaliel Harding is one of those that is consistently found at the bottom of the presidential pile, despite his enormous popularity while in office. However, there are several things about Harding that will keep people talking about him for some time. First, there is the whole mysterious death thing, there is speculation that his wife may have poisoned him because he was having an affair. Then there is the possibility that the United States may have already elected our first black president. In the April 6, 2008 issue of the New York Times Magazine, there is an article about Harding's lineage. The historian William Estabrook Chancellor assembled a family tree for Harding that shows Harding to be the great-grandson of a black woman.

Harding's election may be well due to the efforts of his wife Florence. Florence stood behind her husband propelling him higher and higher. A divorcee, she pursued Harding until he reluctantly proposed marriage. Florence's father forbid his wife to attend the wedding and did not speak to Harding or Florence for several months.

Harding's time in office was marked by some successes, but also scandal. Harding signed several of the peace treaties that formally ended World War I, but kept the United States out of the League of Nations. He oversaw the Washington Naval Conference, the first disarmament conference ever held. The Teapot Dome Scandal is what many will remember about the Harding Presidency, however. The scandal was named for an oil field in Wyoming that was under public control and funding was diverted into the wrong pockets (wait, that's illegal?).

Harding's death in San Francisco came after he contracted pneumonia on the train ride down from Alaska through Canada. Here's a picture from the National Archives showing him receiving a salmon. He gave a speech in Washington and then arrived in San Francisco. When he died, doctors believed it was a heart attack or stroke that killed him. Florence Harding refused to let an autopsy be performed, leading to the speculation that Harding had been the victim of a plot. Harding was known as somewhat of a ladies man, reputed to have had several affairs with women in Ohio. Given Florence's reputation, the speculation may not be that far off.

The Facts

• born November 2, 1865 in Marion, Ohio (now Blooming Grove, Ohio)
• died August 2, 1923 in San Francisco, California (age 57)
• Party: Republican
  

The Election of 1920
Harding was another "dark horse" candidate who was not well known outside of his home state. The election of 1920 also marked the first election where the power of "Hollywood" became a factor. Stars like Al Jolson, Mary Pickford, and Douglas Fairbanks all traveled to campaign with Harding. The election of 1920 was also the first one where women were allowed to vote nationally.

• Warren G. Harding / Calvin Coolidge [next week] (R) - 16,144,093 (60%) / 404 EVs
  
• James Cox / Franklin Roosevelt [next month] (D) - 9,139,661 (34%) / 127 EVs
  

Trivia

• In 1889, at age 24, Harding suffered from fatigue and exhaustion. He spent several weeks at the Battle Creek Sanitarium, founded by the Kelloggs (yes, those Kelloggs).
• Harding was the first person to be elected to the presidency from the Senate. John Kennedy was the second, and in November, we will elect the third sitting senator to the presidency.
• Harding is the only president to appoint a former president to the Supreme Court, when he appointed William Howard Taft to be Chief Justice in 1921.
• Harding became the first president to visit Alaska and Canada, on his ill-fated trip to the West (Harding died in San Francisco).
• Harding and John Kennedy are also linked in that (in addition to the sitting Senator issue) they both predeceased their fathers.
• Harding was the first president to ride to his inauguration in an automobile.
• Herbert Hoover was in Harding's cabinet, as Commerce Secretary, the position from which he would run and win the Presidency in 1928.
• Harding's sister was a Washington, DC policewoman.
• Harding wore size fourteen shoes, the largest of all the presidents.
• Some additional trivia from the New York Times.
  

Links

• Britannica
• White House biography
• Miller Center biography
• Internet Public Library biography
  
• Congressional Biographical Dictionary biography
• C-SPAN biography
• Wikipedia
  
• Guide to the Harding papers
• The Harding Home in Ohio (I guess I need to make a trip to hit all the Ohio Presidents)
  

Recipe (for Success)

I'm still drained from watching the Ranger's double overtime win last night and while I am cooking dinner tonight (salmon on the grill, some rice), I encourage everyone to order in tomorrow night so as to not miss a moment of when the Rangers pull even in their series against the Buffalo Sabres. I am sure that C in DC will be happy to share with me her wing recipe, which can certainly be next Monday's recipe (if necessary :), of course).

My recollection of going to Ranger games involves food however. There were the meals either beforehand or post-game at Charley O's (if you have to ask, you've never been there). Then there were the snack grabs in Penn Station waiting for the LIRR to take us home. That usually consisted of perhaps soft-serve or maybe a good NYC pretzel (with mustard, of course).

At the games, I have fond memories of sitting in the blue seats (again, if you have to ask, you've never sat there - it's where the real fans sit), where my fellow Ranger fans would enjoy Italian pastries and whiskey (from a flask). But they made sure not to yell "Potvin Sucks" with their mouths full.

Let's Go Rangers!

100 Southern Foods to try Before You Die

But that assumes you can get through the entire list without needing the paddles . . .

From Garden and Gun Magazine (really?). And there's an interactive map. OSG, the floor is yours. Christmas is around the corner so no recipe this week, just the list, enjoy! OSG is traveling to his people's land for Christmas, let's see if he can knock a few of these off on the trip.

MEAT

• Beef Jerky, Bourgeois Meat Market, Thibodaux, Louisiana
• Burger with Gin Sauce, Pirate’s Cove, Josephine, Alabama
• Catfish of Pork, B.E. Scott’s Bar-B-Que, Lexington, Tennessee
• Cheesy Western, Texas Tavern, Roanoke, Virginia
• Chicken Liver Pâté, FIG, Charleston, South Carolina
  
• Chicken Salad and Saltines, James Food Center, Oxford, Mississippi
• Chicken Stew, Midway BBQ, Buffalo, South Carolina
• Chili-Slaw Dog, Nu-Way Weiners, Macon, Georgia
• Conecuh Sausage Dog, Conecuh Factory and Retail Store, Evergreen, Alabama
• Cornish Game Hen, Cozy Corner, Memphis, Tennessee
• Cuban Sandwich, Kool Korners Grocery, Atlanta, Georgia
• Fried Chicken, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Fried Rabbit Livers with Pepper Jelly, Cochon, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Hash and Rice, Neal’s Barbecue, Thomson, Georgia
• Hot Fried Chicken, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, Nashville, Tennessee
• Hot Sausage Wrap, Southside Market, Elgin, Texas
• Hot Tamales, White Front Café, aka Joe’s Hot Tamale Place, Rosedale, Mississippi
• Inside-Out Hot Brown, Wallace Station, Versailles, Kentucky
• Mutton Sandwich, George’s Bar-B-Q, Owensboro, Kentucky
• Pig Ear Sandwich, Big Apple Inn, Jackson, Mississippi
• Pimento Burger, Kingsman Restaurant, Cayce, South Carolina
• Pork Chop Sandwich, Snappy Lunch, Mt. Airy, North Carolina
• Pork Neck Bones and Rice, The Sands, Nashville, Tennessee
• Pork Rinds, Kim’s Processing Plant, Clarksdale, Mississippi
• Porterhouse Steak, Doe’s Eat Place, Greenville, Mississippi
• Redneck Taco, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, Nolensville, Tennessee
• Ribs, Archibald’s Bar-B-Q, Northport, Alabama
• Roast Beef Po’boy, Parasol’s Restaurant & Bar, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Scrambled Hot Dog, Dinglewood Pharmacy, Columbus, Georgia
• Slaw Burger, R.O.’s Bar-B-Cue, Gastonia, North Carolina
• Sliced Pork Sandwich with Slaw, Craig’s Bar-B-Q, De Valls Bluff, Arkansas
• Soul Spaghetti, Collins Dream Kitchen, Jackson, Mississippi
• Spread, McClard’s Bar-B-Q, Hot Springs, Arkansas
• Stew Dog, Harold’s Barbecue, Atlanta, Georgia
• Stewed Oxtails, McKinley’s Bar-B-Que & Soul Food, Ensley, Alabama
• Whole Hog Plate, Scott’s Variety Store, Hemingway, South Carolina
  

SEAFOOD

• BBQ Crabs, Sartin’s Seafood, Nederland, Texas
• Boiled Crawfish, Hawk’s Restaurant, Rayne, Louisiana
• Campechana Extra, Goode Company Seafood 1, Houston, Texas
• Crawfish Fried Rice, Hank’s Cajun Crawfish, Houston, Texas
• Deviled Crabs, Wall’s Bar-B-Que Restaurant, Savannah, Georgia
• Fish and Chips, Avenue Sea, Apalachicola, Florida
• Fried Mullet Gizzards, Chet’s Catering and Seafood Restaurant, Pensacola, Florida
• Fried Red Snapper Throats, The Bright Star, Bessemer, Alabama
• Fried Shrimp, O’Steen’s Restaurant, St. Augustine, Florida
• Grouper Sandwich, Seagrove Village Market Café, Seagrove Beach, Florida
• Hot Fish Sandwich, Bolton’s Spicy Chicken and Fish, Nashville, Tennessee
• Oyster Po’Boy, Bozo’s Seafood Restaurant, Metairie, Louisiana
• Oyster Stew, Speed’s Kitchen, Shellman Bluff, Georgia
• Pan-Fried Trout and Scrambled Eggs, The Greenbrier, Main Dining Room, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
• Roasted Oysters, Bowens Island, Charleston, South Carolina
• Rolled Oysters, Mazzoni’s Café, Louisville, Kentucky
• Salmon Croquettes, Watershed, Decatur, Georgia
• Shrimp Buster, Herby-K’s, Shreveport, Louisiana
• Smoked Mullet Dip, The Wheelhouse Café, Apalachicola, Florida
• Thick Fried Catfish, Taylor Grocery & Restaurant, Taylor, Mississippi
• Thin Fried Catfish, Middendorf’s, Manchac, Louisiana
• Trout Caviar, Sunburst Trout Farm, Canton, North Carolina
  

SIDES & SUCH

• Beans All the Way, The Bean Barn, Greeneville, Tennessee
• Deviled Eggs, Sally Bell’s Kitchen, Richmond, Virginia
• Egg and Green Olive Sandwich, Trowbridge’s, Florence, Alabama
• Fried Black-Eyed Peas, Ashley’s, Capital Hotel, Little Rock, Arkansas
• Fried Green Tomatoes, Arnold’s Country Kitchen, Nashville, Tennessee
• Grits with Butter, Zada Jane’s Corner Café, Charlotte, North Carolina
• House Salad with Comeback Dressing, Mayflower, Jackson, Mississippi
• Italian Salad, Mary Maestri’s, Tontitown, Arkansas
• Kool-Aid Pickles, Eastend Grocery, Cleveland, Mississippi
• Krinkle Kut Fries with Milo’s Sauce, Milo’s Hamburgers, Birmingham, Alabama
• Macaroni and Cheese, L.D.’s Kitchen, Vicksburg, Mississippi
• Okra Soup, Bertha’s Kitchen, North Charleston, South Carolina
• Pimento Cheese and Crackers, Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee
• Pot Likker Soup, Mary Mac’s Tea Room, Atlanta, Georgia
• Red Beans (and Drumsticks), Frenchy’s Chicken, Houston, Texas
• Red Rice, Hominy Grill, Charleston, South Carolina
• Soufflé Potatoes with Béarnaise, Galatoire’s, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Sriracha Remoulade, Reef, Houston, Texas
• Stewed Tomatoes, Niki’s West, Birmingham, Alabama
• Sweet Potato Casserole, Weaver D’s, Athens, Georgia
• Turnip Greens, Taqueria del Sol, Atlanta, Georgia
  

BREADS

• Buttermilk Biscuits, Biscuitville, Greensboro, North Carolina
• Cathead Biscuit with Tabasco Bacon, Big Bad Breakfast, Oxford, Mississippi
• Cheese Straws, McEntyre’s Bakery, Smyrna, Georgia
  
• Cornbread, Highlands Bar and Grill, Birmingham, Alabama
• Corn Muffins, Martin’s, Montgomery, Alabama
• Cracklin’ Hoe Cake, Brooks Shaw’s Old Country Store, Jackson, Tennessee
• Pigfat Cornbread, Skylight Inn, Ayden, North Carolina
• Praise the Lard Biscuits, Beacon Light Tea Room, Bon Aqua, Tennessee

SWEETS

• Boiled Peanut Cotton Candy, McCrady’s, Charleston, South Carolina
• Caramel Cake, Buck’s One Stop, Calhoun City, Mississippi
• Chocolate Peanut Brittle, Good Earth Peanut Company, Skippers, Virginia
• Coconut Pie, Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Birmingham, Alabama
• Devil’s Food Donut, Spalding’s Bakery, Lexington, Kentucky
• Fried Coconut Pie, Mrs. Armstrong’s Fried Pies, Centerville, Tennessee
• Fried Peach Pie, The Varsity, Atlanta, Georgia
• Modjeska, Muth’s Candy Store, Louisville, Kentucky
• Muscadine Meringue Tartlette, Carrboro Farmers’ Market, Carrboro, North Carolina
• Pecan Pie, Brigtsen’s, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Pecan Waffle, Waffle House, Avondale Estates, Georgia
• Pink Velvet Salad, Crystal Grill, Greenwood, Mississippi
• Strawberry Cake, Westside Bar-B-Que, New Albany, Mississippi
  

Arizona - #48, February 14, 1912

The 13 rays of red and gold on the top portion of the Arizona state represent both the 13 original colonies and the rays of the Western setting sun.  The bottom half of the flag is in the same liberty blue color as the United States flag.  Arizona was once the largest producer of copper in the nation so a copper star was placed in the flag's center.  Arizona was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted to the Union.

A Spanish Franciscan friar, Marcos de Niza, was the first European to explore Arizona. He entered the area in 1539 in search of the mythical Seven Cities of Gold. Following the end of the Mexican War, most of the Arizona territory became part of the U.S., and the southern portion of the territory was added by the Gadsden Purchase in 1853.

Arizona history is rich with legends of the Old West. The great Indian chiefs Geronimo and Cochise led their people against the frontiersmen in Arizona.  Tombstone featured the West's most famous shoot-out, the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.  Arizona has one of the largest U.S. Indian populations; more than 14 tribes are represented on 20 reservations.

Arizona is a recognized center of Native American art, with a number of galleries showcasing historical and contemporary works. The Heard Museum, located in Phoenix, is a major repository of Native American art. The Heard Museum has about 250,000 visitors a year.

The current Governor of Arizona is Jan Brewer, a Republican. Both Senators for Arizona are also Republicans - 2008 Presidential Candidate John McCain and John Kyl, although Kyl is leaving the Senate at the end of this year - the new Senator will be Congressman Jeff Flake (R). As a result of the 2010 decennial census, the Arizona Congressional delegation grew from eight to nine.

• 1st District - Ann Kirkpatrick (D) (Representative-elect)
• 2nd District - Ron Barber (D) (Barber is a former staff member of  Representative Gabrielle Gifford and was also injured in the attack that killed six and severely wounded Representative Gifford.
• 3rd District - Raul Grijalva (D)
• 4th District - Paul Gosar (R)
• 5th District - Matt Salmon (R) (Representative-elect)
• 6th District - Dave Schweikert (R)
• 7th District - Ed Pastor (D)
• 8th District - Trent Franks (R)
• 9th District - Krysten Sinema (D) (Representative-elect) (Once seated, Sinema will become the first openly bi-sexual member of Congress)

Facts

• State Capital and largest city - Phoenix
• Date of Admission - February 14, 1912
• Area - 113,990 sq mi (6th) 
• Population (2011 est.) - 6,482,505 (16th) 
• State Motto - "Ditat Deus" "God enriches"
• State Nickname - The Grand Canyon State
• State mammal - ringtail
• State bird - cactus wren
• State fish - Arizona trout
• State flower - saguaro cactus
• State reptile - Arizona ridgenose rattlesnake
• State gem - turquoise
• State fossil - petrified wood
• State neckwear - the bolo tie
• State tree - palo verde
  
• State University - The University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University are the three main public schools in Arizona
• State Archives - the History and Archives Division is a unit of the Arizona Secretary of State
• Arizona Historical Society 

Links

• az.gov - the Official Website of the State of Arizona
• The Arizona Tourism site - Arizona Guide
• Wikipedia 
• 50states.com entry for Arizona
• InfoPlease entry for Arizona
• USDA Fact Sheet for Arizona
• Arizona State Guide from the Library of Congress

Prominent Arizonans - (here's a few lists to peruse, one and two)

• Actor Rex Allen
• The Apache Kid, Old West Outlaw
• Wonder Woman herself, Lynda Carter
• Cesar Chavez
• Presidential Candidate and Senator Barry Goldwater
• Politician Carl Hayden
• First Governor of the State, George W. P. Hunt
• World War I Flying Ace Frank Luke, Jr.
• Musician Charles Mingus
• Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor
• Former Chief Justice William Rehnquist
• Musician Linda Ronstadt
• Olympic gymnast Kerri Strug
• The Udalls, Stewart and Morris
• Frontierman Pauline Weaver

Signers: New York and Maryland

This week's post concerns the state of my birth and the state where I live now.

New York

• William Floyd (1734-1821), was a successful Long Island farmer at the beginning and end of his life.  He served in the Continental Congress as well as the New York militia and was later elected to Congress.  In Suffolk County, there is a William Floyd School District as well as a Parkway named for Floyd.
• Francis Lewis (1713-1802), was a merchant, who lost all his property on Long Island when it was destroyed by the British. A resident of Queens, his legacy may be found in Francis Lewis Park, located under the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge; Francis Lewis High School, home of the Patriots; and Francis Lewis Boulevard, known by NYC commuters as the "Franky Lew."
• Philip Livingston (1716-1778), a successful merchant was elected to the Continental Congress and then to the State Senate, but died suddenly in 1778.
• Lewis Morris (1726-1798), was a farmer in Harlem before becoming involved in politics.  After the Revolution, he was appointed to the first Board of Regents for the University of New York.  He also abstains, courteously. The Lewis Morris Pizza at Declaration contains chive crème fraiche, capers, house cured salmon, shaved onion, arugula, tomato confit.

 Maryland

• Charles Carroll (1737-1782), served in the Continental Congress and was an early advocate of independence.  While in Congress, he was also creating a framework for the state government of Maryland.  He holds the distinction of the last signer of the Declaration to die, passing away at the age of 95 in 1832.  Carroll is also depicted in the film National Treasure.
• Samuel Chase (1741-1811), was a prominent judge at the time of his election to the Congress.  In 1796, he was appointed to the United States Supreme Court. The Declaration pizza dedicated to Samuel Chase has winter butternut squash, brown butter ricotta, crispy sage, truffle honey (but no kidney).
• William Paca (1740-1799), was elected to the Congress while serving as a Representative in the Colonial Assembly.  In 1779, he was appointed Chief Justice of Maryland and later served as Governor of the State.
• Thomas Stone (1743-1787), is the mystery delegate to the Congress.  He was known to be there, his name is on the Declaration and he was involved in the drafting of the Articles of Confederation.  He is reputed to have died of a "broken heart" in 1787, following the death of his wife.