tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54313462024-03-13T21:42:33.824-07:00The Cemetery Club blogThe official blog for TheCemeteryClub.com. Keep up with the latest in what's going on in my little cemetery world!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-22744224681102461182015-10-28T09:05:00.002-07:002015-10-28T09:05:39.797-07:00Where did I go?For anyone who has happened upon this blog ...<br />
<br />
First, thanks for stopping by!<br />
<br />
Second, sorry I wasn't here!<br />
<br />
I've been focusing my time and efforts on my <a href="http://www.thecemeteryclub.com/" target="_blank">website</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecemeteryclub/" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>, so please join me on those sites if you're interesting in cemeteries.<br />
<br />
Best to you!<br />
Minda<br />
www.TheCemeteryClub.com<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-1595230900412906122011-08-28T21:27:00.001-07:002011-08-28T21:27:08.266-07:00Just published a new book!
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
While it's not prosey, it is helpful. It's called the "Cemetery Journal," and it's a great tool for you to use to log your cemetery research in while you make your way through the graveyard.</p>
<p>
From the back cover: "If you spend your free time in cemeteries, you’re probably a taphophile (someone with a passion for cemeteries). And if you’re a taphophile, the odds are good that you enjoy researching them. From genealogists to historical researchers, this journal will help you keep track of all your cemetery information, grave by grave and cemetery by cemetery."</p>
<p>
Check it out at: <a href='http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/cemetery-journal/16691555'>http://www.lulu.com/product/paperback/cemetery-journal/16691555</a></p>
<p>
Let me know what you think!</p>
<p>
Minda</p>
<p>
www.TheCemeteryClub.com</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-69999724422415077642011-08-23T14:52:00.001-07:002011-08-23T14:52:16.263-07:00Another new video
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
This one is a commercial for one of the many presentations I give.</p>
<p>
Check this video out -- Cemetery Secrets - Presentations by Minda Powers-Douglas <a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynxTRFBCW5E&feature=share'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynxTRFBCW5E&feature=share</a></p>
<p>
Enjoy!</p>
<p>
Minda</p>
<p>
www.TheCemeteryClub.com</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-42881187221050873982011-08-22T21:40:00.001-07:002011-08-22T21:40:42.629-07:00Authors wanted!
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
Are you a non-fiction author of a cemetery book? TheCemeteryClub.com wants to review your book! Contact me to send a review copy. Non-fiction books relating to death or grieving are welcome, as well as poetry within this theme.</p>
<p>
-Minda</p>
<p>
minda.epitaphsmag@gmail.com</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-39122273654639569092011-08-22T21:19:00.001-07:002011-08-22T21:19:33.443-07:00Do you love cemeteries? Do you have a video camera?
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
If you answered "yes" to both these questions, then check out my video announcing the contest with <em>your</em> chance to have your own cemetery show hosted on www.TheCemeteryClub.com. And, yes, my spokesperson is a puppet (cemetery people have to have a sense of humor).</p>
<p>
<a href='http://youtu.be/nNVnwfnMDkY'>http://youtu.be/nNVnwfnMDkY</a></p>
<p>
I can't wait for the entries to start coming in!</p>
<p>
Happy cemetery haunting!</p>
<p>
Minda</p>
<p>
www.TheCemeteryClub.com</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-10715783261795995132011-08-22T20:52:00.001-07:002011-08-22T20:52:29.148-07:00New cemetery PSA
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
I just finished a public service announcement on cemeteries and posted it on YouTube. This is my first use of iMovie in a few years. I didn't forget everything!</p>
<p>
The cemetery featured in the video is Chippiannock Cemetery in Rock Island, Illinois. If you haven't visited it in person, you really should.</p>
<p>
Check it out and let me know what you think.</p>
<p>
<a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gw8ZV3RBgI'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gw8ZV3RBgI</a></p>
<p>
Happy cemetery haunting!</p>
<p>
-Minda</p>
<p>
www.TheCemeteryClub.com</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-1578866926215419132011-05-31T15:20:00.001-07:002011-05-31T15:20:48.271-07:00It's done!
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
My new version of www.thecemeteryclub.com is live! Epitaphs Magazine Online is finally launched!</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-82333346181425416912011-03-30T10:01:00.001-07:002011-03-30T10:01:07.854-07:00Laurel Hill Cemetery is recipient of a Preservation Achievement Award
for restoration of Old Mortality Sculptural Group
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
Laurel Hill Cemetery is recipient of a Preservation Achievement Award for restoration of Old Mortality Sculptural Group</p>
<p>
<a href='http://bit.ly/hPEmyd'>http://bit.ly/hPEmyd</a></p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-18900668392564613632011-03-03T07:59:00.001-08:002011-03-03T07:59:53.361-08:00Latest cemetery and related news
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
Last U.S. veteran of World War I passes away</p>
<p>
http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2011/02/28/us_obit_last_wwi_veteran_1/index.html</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
African-American Cemetery News - blog</p>
<p>
http://africanamericancemeteries.com/news/</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Poor stacked in mass graves in Illinois cemetery</p>
<p>
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/02/17/ap/national/main20033141.shtml</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
Westboro funeral pickets are protected speech, high court rules</p>
<p>
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/03/02/westboro-funeral-pickets-protected-speech-high-court-rules/</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>
</p></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-31109018988086339002010-09-14T21:01:00.001-07:002010-09-14T21:01:06.999-07:00Excellent article. 'The way we grieve now'
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
I just read an excellent article on grieving via Yahoo's Shine section. The examples it uses are celebrities, but there stories are no less touching than those of the average Jane's. Definitely worth a read.</p>
<p>
It's been more than 11 years since my grandfather died, and I still feel the heart-stinging grief occasionally. I miss him greatly and wish he'd had the chance to meet my husband and especially our daughter. He would have been over the moon about her. It amazes me that the two people in my life who mean so much to me--my husband and daughter--never knew my Grandpa. He played such an important role in my life growing up; it just doesn't make sense on that inside level of me.</p>
<p>
Wishing you love and joy,<br/>
Minda</p>
<p>
'The way we grieve now' <a href='http://www.shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/the-way-we-grieve-now-2389801/'>http://www.shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/the-way-we-grieve-now-2389801/</a></p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-83732583669633745322010-09-14T10:12:00.001-07:002010-09-14T10:12:00.758-07:00Green-Wood Cemetery - Artists of Permanent Residence - Sept. 17-19
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div style='padding-bottom: 7px;'>
<a target='_blank' style='font-weight: bold;' href='http://www.facebook.com/n/?greenwood.cemetery&mid=2f710d9G2d841117G7620e0cG0&n_m=minda.epitaphsmag%40gmail.com'>Green-Wood Cemetery</a></div>
<div style='padding-bottom: 7px;'>
Subject: Artists in Permanent Residence @ Green-Wood 9/17-9/19/10</div>
<div style='padding-bottom: 7px;'>
We have just added a spectacular new gallery exhibit, Artists of Permanent Residence, featuring select works of over 300 artists who call Green-Wood their final resting place.<br/>
<br/>
This is a FREE sneak peek into the art collection of The Green-Wood Historic Fund and is up for a very limited engagement:<br/>
<br/>
Friday, Sept. 17 through Sunday, Sept. 19, 2010––9 AM-7PM<br/>
at The Historic Chapel @ Green-Wood (500 25th St @ 5th Ave. in Brooklyn, NY) For more information and directions, visit <a target='_blank' href='http://www.facebook.com/l/28534hd8L9e3hqHT9e0GNIC6D3A;greenwoodcemetery.org'>http://www.facebook.com/l/28534hd8L9e3hqHT9e0GNIC6D3A;greenwoodcemetery.org</a></div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-50044024203035025222010-09-12T20:14:00.001-07:002010-09-12T20:14:51.802-07:00Upcoming cemetery-related events
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
You won't want to miss these upcoming events! And, if you go, <a href='mailto:minda.epitaphsmag@gmail.com?subject=I'm%20attending%20a%20cemetery%20event!'>e-mail</a> your experience to me for posting on my blog!</p>
<p>
• The 2010 Gravediggers' Ball - Oct. 15, Philadelphia, Pa. <a href='http://thelaurelhillcemetery.org/'>http://thelaurelhillcemetery.org/</a></p>
<p>
• Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow, New York - fall walking tours and photography workshops. <a href='http://sleepyhollowcemetery.org/news-events/'>http://sleepyhollowcemetery.org/news-events/</a></p>
<p>
• Historic Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta, Georgia<br/>
- Sunday in the Park, Oct. 3, noon to 6 p.m.<br/>
- Halloween Tour, Oct. 22, 23, 24<br/>
- Run Like Hell 5K (Heck for the kids) benefit run for the cemetery, Oct. 30, 9 a.m. - <a href='http://www.oaklandcemetery.com/run.html'>http://www.oaklandcemetery.com/run.html</a></p>
<p>
• 11th annual Dia de Los Muertos - Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Hollywood, Calif. - Oct. 30, 2 p.m. to midnight <a href='http://www.ladayofthedead.com/'>http://www.ladayofthedead.com/</a></p>
<p>
• 2010 Day of the Dead calendar - <a href='http://diadelosmuertos.us/article/2010-day-of-the-dead-calendar'>http://diadelosmuertos.us/article/2010-day-of-the-dead-calendar</a></p>
<p>
More events will be posted as I find them, receive them, etc.!</p>
<p>
Wishing you joy,<br/>
Minda<br/>
</p></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-55507061714428806362010-08-27T14:08:00.001-07:002010-08-27T14:08:14.285-07:00Sharon Creech is my new hero
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
This post is not necessarily cemetery-related, but, then again, just about everything is death-related if you think about it. So it is related in a way.</p>
<p>
I'm a big fan of books on CD. I'm also a big fan of books in general, and you will rarely find me without one. But books on CD (now that I have my own car again--hubby and I shared one while he was unemployed) are wonderful things I enjoy immensely while in my car. Recent favorites include "Curse Workers: The White Cat" by Holly Black and "The Opposite of Invisible" by Liz Gallagher.</p>
<p>
But my most favorite and treasured one is the one I just finished yesterday: "Walk Two Moons" by Sharon Creech. It is glorious and delicious.</p>
<p>
My current favorite books to listen to (and read) are from the young adult section. Just because they are written for younger people doesn't mean they lack in quality. In fact, I think that they can have more depth and insight to them than the average book written for an adult. Teens and younger people are constantly trying to figure themselves out. They know they are always in flux--that they are changing as much as the world around them. And they are working their way through it. There's a lot of introspection going on.</p>
<p>
We adults are more concerned with the day-to-day drudgery than a kid. How am I going to pay the bills? When am I going to get a job? What are we going to do when the baby comes? What groceries do I need to buy? Are we out of toilet paper? Did I leave the stove on?</p>
<p>
Kids, though, are thinking: Does he like me? Why did my best friend stop talking to me? Am I too ugly? Am I smart? Am I stupid? Will I get asked to the dance? Will she notice me? Does anybody notice me?</p>
<p>
Yes, adults think of some of these things, too. But think back to when you were a kid. These things weighed on your mind like crazy. It wasn't about taking care of everyone else or providing for them (though there are kids who have those worries piled on them, too: Will mom ever get better? What if I have to choose between my parents? What will happen to me?).</p>
<p>
This is one of the reasons why I like youth lit. Another is because there are a lot of cool ghost stories. Youth lit is all about the "what if" world. What if ghosts DO exist? What if vampires exist ... and I go to school with one and fall in love with one? What if I find out I'm a wizard?</p>
<p>
Oh, joy and rapture! How fantastic is that!</p>
<p>
I have read a lot of different genres of books. I dig non-fiction because I'm a life-learner. I dig Stephen King because he's my hero from way back. I like some chick lit ("Bridget Jones' Diary") and even some mysteries. Even some police detective mysteries, though I do veer away generally from descriptions like "a serial killer is on the loose, and Detective Holly Winters may be next on the list." I also stay away from descriptions including the word "grisly." I can handle some graphic stuff if it works with the story, but seriously. Grisly?</p>
<p>
So the next time you're at the library or your favorite bookstore, check out the young adult section. Really give the covers a look. You'll probably find something great. Then go to the "C" section and pick up Creech's "Walk Two Moons." You won't regret it.</p>
<p>
Huzza! Huzza!</p>
<p>
Wishing you inspiration and love,</p>
<p>
Minda<br/>
</p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-74895795681022180712010-08-25T06:10:00.001-07:002010-08-25T06:10:42.935-07:00Kelton Family to be Recognized at Green Lawn<br />
<br />
(Press release from Green Lawn Cemetery, Columbus, Ohio)<br />
<br />
The Kelton family, whose home on East Town Street is a local tourist<br />
attraction, will be featured at the Sept. 4 First Saturday at Green Lawn<br />
program.<br />
<br />
Georgeanne Reuter, director of the Kelton House, will present a slide<br />
lecture on the Kelton House Museum & Garden and talk about the Kelton<br />
family that is buried at Green Lawn. The family home in the East Town<br />
Street Historic District has been restored and is maintained by the<br />
Junior League of Columbus.<br />
<br />
The program, free and open to the public, will be held at 11 a.m. in the<br />
Huntington Chapel in the middle of Green Lawn, 1000 Greenlawn Ave<br />
<br />
Reuter’s presentation will trace the home’s history through the eyes of<br />
three generations who lived there, including the vision of Grace Kelton,<br />
the last Kelton in residence, who left her home to the Columbus<br />
Foundation with instructions to find an organization that would restore<br />
the home to its 1850s appearance and create a museum of local history and<br />
the decorative arts.<br />
<br />
The slide show will feature in-process photographs of the Museum’s<br />
restoration and the efforts of early volunteers to create a museum.<br />
Attendees will see photographs of the Museum’s carriage house before it<br />
was restored and the garden before its major revitalization. They will<br />
also see photographs of the restored interiors, selected from authentic<br />
styles of the mid-19th century and other components of the Museum’s<br />
collection.<br />
<br />
The presentation will also include discussions of the Museum’s<br />
educational offerings: tours, lectures, holiday presentations, and the<br />
programs offered by the Museum’s Underground Railroad Learning Station.<br />
<br />
First Saturday at Green Lawn is a presentation of the Green Lawn<br />
Volunteers and recognizes people buried at the state’s second-largest<br />
cemetery for their role in local history.<br />
<br />
The Keltons are among the 150,000 people buried at Green Lawn since it<br />
was established Aug. 2, 1848. The cemetery covers 360 acres, 80 of which<br />
are undeveloped.<br />
<br />
For further information on the cemetery, visit www.greenlawncolumbus.org<br />
or call the office at614-444-1123. Information about the Green Lawn<br />
Volunteers can also be found on the Web page, by calling 614-266-5218 or<br />
by e-mailing sandlot17@juno.com.<br />
<br />
Green Lawn Cemetery<br />
1000 Greenlawn Ave.<br />
Columbus, Ohio 43223<br />
<br />
www.greenlawncolumbus.org<br />
<br />
Linda Burkey, General Manager<br />
614-444-1123<br />
<br />
Sandi Latimer, Volunteer Coordinator<br />
614-878-4214 (home)<br />
614-255-4218 (cell)<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-74630037390532603422010-08-18T07:21:00.001-07:002010-08-18T07:21:15.199-07:00Philadelphia's Laurel Hill Cemetery: Classy Broads and Daring Dames:
Marking the 90th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
Laurel Hill Cemetery in Philadelphia is the cemetery I want to spend quality time in. Actually, I want to WORK there. They always have amazing programs going on. And tonight's is going to be fantastic. Unfortunately I'll be in Illinois and hundreds of miles away. But if you live in or near Philly, YOU can attend this great event.</p>
<p>
<b>Classy Broads and Daring Dames: Marking the 90th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment</b> *TWILIGHT TOUR* What do a ballerina, a sculptor, a maker of pyrotechnic devices, and a kindergarten leader have in common? First, they’re all buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery. Second, they all happen to be women whose accomplishments in life have been largely neglected, devalued and forgotten throughout history… But, we are now working to right this wrong, unearthing their stories, and ensuring that they are told for all to hear! </p>
<p>
Wednesday, Aug. 18 - 6 p.m. - $20</p>
<div class='contact first'>
<b>Laurel Hill Cemetery</b><br/>
tel. 215-228-8200<br/>
fax. 215-228-7940<br/>
3822 Ridge Avenue<br/>
Philadelphia, PA 19132</div>
<p>
<a href='http://www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org'>http://www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org</a></p>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-90596046078514160622010-08-16T19:49:00.001-07:002010-08-16T19:49:04.553-07:00NY Times: City Cemeteries Face Gridlock
<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><p>
(Special thanks to Catmoves, who posted this on my Yahoo group interview_taphophile@yahoogroups.com.)</p>
<div>
August 13, 2010</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The New York Times</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
By <a title='More Articles by Marc Santora' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/marc_santora/index.html?inline=nyt-per'><font color='#000066'>MARC SANTORA</font></a></div>
<p>
THOSE of us among the living all know <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for New York City' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/manhattan/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>New York City</font></a> can be maddeningly expensive, whether one is shopping for a $40 million mansion on Fifth Avenue or a $2,500 studio walk-up in a former tenement on the Lower East Side.</p>
<p>
For the dead, however, virtually no amount of money will secure a final resting place in the heart of a city that is fast running out of graveyard space.</p>
<p>
And in the parts of town where a burial plot is still available, the cost has in some cases more than tripled in less than a decade; aboveground mausoleums can fetch upward of $3 million. Cemeteries are scrambling to create more space, and as plot prices have soared, the number of cremations has also risen, with a quarter of New Yorkers choosing the less expensive alternative.</p>
<p>
Trinity Church Cemetery in Washington Heights, the last operating graveyard in <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for New York City' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/manhattan/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>Manhattan</font></a>, has stopped selling plots, offering burial only in the most &ldquo;extraordinary circumstances,&rdquo; or to people with long-held reservations.</p>
<p>
The largest Jewish graveyard in <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for Brooklyn' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/brooklyn/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>Brooklyn</font></a>, Washington Cemetery, ran out of land in the winter after tearing up roads and pathways to utilize every cubic inch of ground. Evergreens and Cypress Hills, also in Brooklyn, may sprawl, but not enough, and dozens of smaller cemeteries spread across the five boroughs are squeezed, too. The city&rsquo;s largest Catholic cemetery, Calvary in <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for Queens' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/queens/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>Queens</font></a>, is close to capacity. And even the most famous of them all, Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, has only about five more years before it will be forced to stop selling plots.</p>
<p>
More than 50 years have passed since a major cemetery was established within the city, and no new burial grounds are planned. But New Yorkers continue to die, some 60,000 a year.</p>
<p>
Accordingly, per square foot, burial plots in centrally located cemeteries rival the most expensive real <a title='More articles about estate planning.' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/your-money/planning/estate-planning/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier'><font color='#000066'>estate</font></a> in the city. A private mausoleum at Woodlawn Cemetery in the <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for the Bronx' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/bronx/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>Bronx</font></a> can easily cost more than $1,000 per square foot.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We have people who would like to disinter Mom and Dad and sell the graves back to make some money,&rdquo; said Richard Fishman, the director of the <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for New York State' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>New York State</font></a> Division of Cemeteries.</p>
<p>
There are state laws limiting the profits on resold graves, but the fact that people would be willing to go to such lengths, Mr. Fishman said, illustrates just how valuable burial plots have become.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;There is a serious shrinkage in the available grave space,&rdquo; Mr. Fishman said. &ldquo;How many years out for each individual cemetery depends on a number of factors, but space is definitely tight.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Other major urban areas have taken measures to alleviate similar space crunches. London allows people to be buried upright, while cemeteries in Singapore and Sydney, among others, offer &ldquo;limited tenure,&rdquo; cemetery-speak for digging up bodies after a certain amount of time so that the plot can be reused.</p>
<p>
New York City is not now contemplating graveyard evictions, although the state did pass a law several years ago that allows cemeteries to take over empty plots bought more than 75 years ago if the owner cannot be reached. Maple Grove in Queens has already reclaimed more than 150 graves, and many other cemeteries are taking similar action, state officials said.</p>
<p>
In fact, cemetery operators have begun to resort to the kind of creative use of space that many a Manhattan landlord might envy &mdash; squeezing coffins into every barren inch, narrowing paths, stacking coffins nine-deep.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We are apparently one of the first that ran out of burial space,&rdquo; said Dominick Tarantino, who runs Washington Cemetery in Brooklyn, &ldquo;but the other ones, I don&rsquo;t think they are too far behind me.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
From his office, the rumble of the F train can be heard as it slices through the graveyard. Look in any direction from the elevated platform at the Bay Parkway stop, and the crowding is evident, with graves pushing up against auto-body shops, apartment buildings and busy intersections. The paths are just wide enough for a <a title='' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/great-homes-and-destinations/lifestyles/golf/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier'><font color='#000066'>golf</font></a> cart; the old roads were sacrificed to tombstones. Coffins have to be unloaded from hearses outside the gate.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We have had bribes offered, sure,&rdquo; Mr. Tarantino said. &ldquo;But we have nothing to be bribed for. We have no room.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Just as the architecture on a city street reveals the history of the time, so do the headstones in the graveyard, which was established in 1841. There are the extravagant monuments favored in the 1920s, reminders of the boom before the Depression. Tiny white sandstone markers &mdash; the &ldquo;baby graves,&rdquo; as the head groundskeeper, Charlie Anderson, calls them &mdash; pop up in clusters, their fading dates coinciding with various epidemics.</p>
<p>
On newer headstones, almost uniformly made of black marble, etched portraits of the deceased stare out at visitors. This is the style favored by the Russian Jews from neighboring Brighton Beach, who have been pleading for more room to bury their dead.</p>
<p>
The cemetery has made a bid on an adjacent house. Even though the owner is asking a hefty sum &mdash; $1.4 million, down from $1.8 million &mdash; for a small house that sits on less than an acre of land, it makes economic sense for the cemetery to buy it.</p>
<p>
But before Washington acquires more turf, Mr. Tarantino has quite a few bureaucratic hurdles to clear, including securing the approval of the City Council.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;The city does not make it too easy for us to buy land for cemetery use,&rdquo; he said one recent afternoon before heading off to meet with political leaders. If the cemetery does get the property, there is little doubt the plots will go quickly.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;Even if he could only make 400 new plots, they would sell in a week,&rdquo; said Mr. Fishman of the Division of Cemeteries.</p>
<p>
The price for a plot before the cemetery ran out of them was $12,000. New plots would very likely be even more expensive.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;Any little piece of land, we are really getting a premium for,&rdquo; Mr. Tarantino said. And when he says little piece of land, he means that literally.</p>
<p>
Despite the bulging waistlines that have necessitated bigger casket sizes across the country, Washington Cemetery is strict: no caskets more than 26 inches wide.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;They got to squeeze them into the box,&rdquo; Mr. Anderson said.</p>
<p>
The plots themselves are 30 inches wide, 7 feet long and 6 feet deep. They are so close to one another that as workers prepared a site for a burial earlier this month, they had to make sure that the coffins buried in neighboring plots did not tumble into the new grave.</p>
<p>
It might seem that an enterprising developer could find a way to make a lucrative business out of providing burial space.</p>
<p>
But that has not happened.</p>
<p>
First, by law, cemeteries in New York State must be nonprofit institutions. There are<a target='_blank' href='http://www.tinyurl.com/23qckoj'><font color='#000066'> 35 privately owned cemeteries</font></a> in the city and several dozen with religious affiliations. The closer to Manhattan and major transportation, the more crowded and expensive a burial ground will be. Farther away, particularly in <a title='Find Real Estate listings and community news for Staten Island' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/classifieds/realestate/locations/newyork/newyorkcity/statenisland/?inline=nyt-geo'><font color='#000066'>Staten Island</font></a> and parts of the Bronx, space is available. The indigent of New York City are buried on Hart Island in Long Island Sound.</p>
<p>
Woodlawn, which was part of Westchester County when it was founded in 1863 but was later incorporated into the Bronx, still has burial room. It hopes to be able to offer graves for another 40 to 50 years, but that relative abundance hasn&rsquo;t kept its prices down.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We want to have enough saved so that the income from the trust, once we are closed and have nothing left to sell, is enough to maintain the cemetery,&rdquo; said John P. Toale Jr., the president of Woodlawn.</p>
<p>
While there is a space crunch in the city, there is more space in the suburbs, and cemeteries in upstate New York can barely give away plots, state officials said. Many New Yorkers who struggled and saved to live in the city end up buried elsewhere.</p>
<p>
Even as the broader real estate market languished in the recession, prices for graves in the city continued skyward. The state regulates the fees a cemetery can charge for services like excavation, but graves sell at market price. So burial plots are a cemetery&rsquo;s revenue-generator.</p>
<p>
However, the trust funds set up by cemeteries to provide income for operating costs have taken a hit, just as other institutional investments have. The number of people buying graves as part of estate planning has also dropped significantly, cemetery officials said. One reason for the decline is that 25 percent of all those who die in the city are opting to be cremated, up from 10 percent a little over a decade ago.</p>
<p>
Prices vary from cemetery to cemetery. At land-rich Woodlawn, a single-depth grave for one starts at $6,995. A double-depth plot begins at $7,995, and a family plot ranges from $64,995 to $1.575 million.</p>
<p>
At Green-Wood, the sprawling cemetery in Brooklyn, space is harder to come by, and entry-level prices for in-ground burial reflect this, starting at $11,000.</p>
<p>
At Trinity&rsquo;s graveyard in Washington Heights, in-ground plots are sold only in extraordinary circumstances, as when former Mayor <a title='More articles about Edward I. Koch.' target='_blank' href='http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/k/edward_i_koch/index.html?inline=nyt-per'><font color='#000066'>Edward I. Koch</font></a> asked that a special Jewish enclave be created in the Episcopal cemetery so that he could be laid to rest in the heart of the city he once ran. He paid $20,000 for the privilege.</p>
<p>
Like other cemeteries short on space, Trinity has resorted to aboveground crypts, which start at $9,000.</p>
<p>
Now that an end to plot sales is in sight, Green-Wood is seeking to transform its image, according to Richard J. Moylan, its president. The graveyard charges admission for guided tours, giving people a chance to saunter through time among the tombstones of the notable and the notorious. The hope is that it will become much like Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris, a magnet for tourists.</p>
<p>
For now, though, most city cemeteries are not so much concerned with drawing the living as finding room for the dead.</p>
<p>
And as is true in all real estate, it&rsquo;s about location. Just as the apartment-hunter pays more to be near a park or to secure a sweeping view, the address within the cemetery often affects the price tag.</p>
<p>
Being buried under a tree is more desirable than being out in the open. A plot that is easy to get to can be more valuable than one in the back 40. A neighborhood of ornate Victorian marble can cost more than an avenue of flat, mowable markers. And then there are the specific needs and wants of different cultural groups.</p>
<p>
For instance, many Asians prefer to be buried on hilltops.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;The Chinese especially, they will literally buy the whole mountaintop,&rdquo; Mr. Fishman said. &ldquo;They would pay a fortune for that.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Even a fortune, however, cannot buy a hilltop once there are no more hilltops to be bought.</p>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-7575831744344455492010-08-09T14:49:00.001-07:002010-08-09T14:49:19.336-07:00Spirits in October - Riverside Cemetery, Macon, GA
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Oh, how I wish I lived closer to Macon, Georgia. I would love to take part in their Spirits in October events! I'm on their e-mail list, so I get the latest and greatest news about Riverside Cemetery in Macon. The text links probably won't work, but this one will take you to the site: <b><a target='_blank' href='http://bit.ly/cOw1vH'>http://bit.ly/cOw1vH</a></b></p>
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Here's the scoop:</p>
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<font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#333333'><font><font style='font-size: 12pt;'><span style='font-weight: bold;'>Help us bring history to life...</span><br/>
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...during guided tours of Riverside Cemetery's premiere event, Spirits in October! Past participants have reported "finding a deeper connection to the past...and stories I will not forget."</font><br/>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;'>This event is produced by a partnership of <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb_s6dI3lrR6hgq0YEHboHT9PKx7dCFfLcAotCNVLWrnon0H38ItPSAFR_NT0L9AOxsXE3kBAHW4uWN8_nlAqp-lgJrmKcRtEMohnIEaiGRYY0C-Ng3wDAOPWSJ055Jw-Ig='>Historic Riverside Cemetery Conservancy</a>, <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb9Ui9KexVxr6duJq6qwxWAd-tco7-MSH8Jjz53uhavLB8aAmnD2I-0QFAIYcTO-D4pEdbZrByl3T_el9w8_jyWEXxCYA7Hma5X9mwHAFHQAmg=='>Historic Macon</a> and <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb8m19MSps-hZKyky-ZchgoQpvccSWcUvfocsVboabP8YImoIRmlVDCpWZ1a9QY-KhnyWaUzh-4Y2BHdfvtV4N4EULr2f2XA3UyRhjWzP4Ho_vA1frlGX9l3'>Cox Capitol Theatre</a>. Proceeds from the event benefit these three non-profit organizations.<br/>
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For more information, visit our <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb9IGjHSsXtPZmWC0FCzNrLp5eLFN0dNKb4fMYMlc3nxRwKrbCf7R1_U4Nv8E4qIv_fLgcCkIhdxfRy0X3UN4lG_ShJtwXsGpAQM7pc8ulSOaA5Sy0aHleypEIBQ5JGvpbjvbDFbhztWw7aYh4KKUdkiAqFTWHbMaIpqUMiu2anwNDx6PfTBBvyjEtRH78bLd0N1JonDViOgMw=='>website</a> or the <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb9Uq04kWmZAkFYZyC3uhTLb98ifoUzv_ZnsSwfDBegLtZ_Mf-gOsQqlpCQMVrL5E40RirInebex91GTaMD1Lid4Zyjvs6VoXVbK29JiCtj3koJreH_bOmK-7GA4AjRMkzn8qITIfx9DHPOq4WURK2GTRx_lS5cPr2vwplVTG3BmY3LMik7eR2-T'>Spirits in October Facebook page</a>, <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='mailto:conservancy@riversidecemetery.com'>email us</a>, or contact us at (478) 742-5328.</font></font></font></p>
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<font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif' color='#333333'><span style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Palatino Linotype,Book Antiqua,Palatino,Times New Roman,Times,serif; font-size: 14pt;'><font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Palatino Linotype,Book Antiqua,Palatino,Times New Roman,Times,serif; font-size: 14pt;' size='4' face='Palatino Linotype,Book Antiqua,Palatino,Times New Roman,Times,serif' color='#333333'>Spirits in October needs YOUR help!!!</font></span></font><br/>
</p>
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<font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif' color='#333333'>Sister Mary Edward (Katie Manning) hands out candy to good girls and boys</font></caption>
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<font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif' color='#333333'><a target='_blank' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb9Xl9eUNilHinFe_fNT-XSRZpJOVhhbGDBQEwzsjOramB83Lm7iLYVmXLT2MDWjYzHyO-Se-4oqJMi0v9QbAICkB2lSrhhI7IUBX4IP9-eLTDJKf5j41qhOrnI65PK9Y5fVJldng7X04YIq0bQK2QG7q4fsNmWx_cHhzEycHjB_nw7rirqJ4LdbRNjdzQLaccQLArbS5j-jzg=='><img width='199' vspace='5' src='http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs063/1102633916781/img/50.jpg' name='ACCOUNT.IMAGE.50' hspace='5' height='132' border='0' alt='George Stallings with tour group'/></a></font></td>
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<font style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Tahoma,Arial,sans-serif' color='#333333'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'><span style='font-weight: bold;'>We need volunteers for our third annual <a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(51, 51, 51); text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103581379920&s=691&e=001zhLcrnmuIb9Xl9eUNilHinFe_fNT-XSRZpJOVhhbGDBQEwzsjOramB83Lm7iLYVmXLT2MDWjYzHyO-Se-4oqJMi0v9QbAICkB2lSrhhI7IUBX4IP9-eLTDJKf5j41qhOrnI65PK9Y5fVJldng7X04YIq0bQK2QG7q4fsNmWx_cHhzEycHjB_nw7rirqJ4LdbRNjdzQLaccQLArbS5j-jzg=='>Spirits in October</a> event. </span><font style='font-size: 10pt;'>If you enjoy history, speak well in public, can be a gracious host, or just appreciate the intangible benefit that comes from helping to preserve one of our community's most treasured landmarks, then, one (or all) of the areas below might be perfect for you!</font></font></font></p>
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</p>
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<b>Live in or near Macon, GA? Volunteer for Spirits in October at Riverside Cemetery! <a target='_blank' href='http://bit.ly/cOw1vH'>http://bit.ly/cOw1vH</a></b></p>
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</p>
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If you participate, let me know how it goes!</p>
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</p>
<p>
Minda</p>
<p>
minda.epitaphsmag@gmail.com</p>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-32880874990492213662010-07-27T11:30:00.001-07:002010-07-27T11:30:43.067-07:00Cemeteries and events in the news
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Check out the latest stories about cemeteries and cemetery events in the news:</p>
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&bull; NPR story: Scientists Stalk Cemeteries For Signs Of Wildlife http://n.pr/awKpqH http://n.pr/awKpqH</p>
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&bull; Lauren Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia - Wednesday, July 28, 6 p.m. - "A Twilight Tour & Toast to Our Famous Fishtowners" - cost is $20 for public, $17 for members, $15 for seniors/students - <font><font><font face='Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif'><font style='font-size: 8pt;'><a target='_blank' style='color: rgb(102, 153, 51) ! important;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103585516653&s=1661&e=001pfL09IozJJadHgb9FDx0T3I8VD_zb4KrAQBf_oTdSLkRXPLHy6sshY4WYrQUp_FC2ZHQkVLbt_CXyHEqx4QUnbJc6KqAClLmeNrWTGA5hasvJqb2Sz6tO230EOm0p-X_' color='#66cc33'>www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org</a></font></font></font></font></p>
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<font><font><font face='Verdana, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif'><font style='font-size: 8pt;'>&bull; Catholic Cemeteries Archdiocese of Chicago: </font></font></font></font>http://www.catholiccemeterieschicago.org/cemeterynews.php</p>
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&bull; Problems of neglect, ownership confusion linger at historic Lincoln Cemetery - Montgomery, Ala. -<br/>
http://africanamericancemeteries.com/news/</p>
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&bull; McCaskill: Arlington Cemetery grave gaffe growing - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38419873/ns/us_news/</p>
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&bull; Historic spotlight: Forest Llewellyn Cemetery - http://www.heartlandconnection.com/news/story.aspx?id=480329</p>
<p>
&bull; Skokie Cemetery tells father of Iraq war veteran Albert Bitton to take down flags - http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/metro/skokie-cemetery-albert-bitton-war-veteran-flags-20100726</p>
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</p></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-58772174073017919272010-07-13T11:16:00.001-07:002010-07-13T11:16:48.676-07:00The latest: Philadelphia's Laurel Hill Cemetery records now online
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(info from their e-newsletter)</p>
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<font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><font color='#669933'><font color='#000000'><strong>Laurel Hill Cemetery's Interment Records Are Now Available Online!</strong></font></font></font></font></p>
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<font><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><font color='#669933'><font color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'>In the spirit of Independence Day, Laurel Hill Cemetery hereby declares our freedom from paper burial records! After years of planning, fundraising and hard work, our record of interments is finally available online! </font></font></font></font></font></font></div>
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<font><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><font color='#669933'><font color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'> </font></font></font></font></font></font></div>
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<font><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'>Though our burial records are now digitized, our work is far from complete. We are in fact currently in the process of raising funds for the second phase of records digitization. The successful completion of this forthcoming phase will result in a digital copy of every lot file and interment record contained in Laurel Hill's Archives, from 1836 to the present day.</font></font></font></font></div>
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<font><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'> </font></font></font></font></div>
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<font><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'>We now seek the support of our patrons, friends, lot holders, and the many genealogists and researchers who have used our Archives over the years. Please help us to realize the completion of our records digitization through a fully tax-deductible, charitable donation.</font></font></font></font></div>
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<font><strong><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><strong><font style='font-size: 12pt;'><span style='color: rgb(0, 0, 0);'>Final Submissions Deadline</span> for</font><em><font style='font-size: 12pt;'> 175 Years of Reflections</font></em><font style='font-size: 12pt;'> booklet</font></strong></font></font></strong></font><font><strong><font style='color: rgb(85, 85, 85); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;' size='1' face='Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif' color='#555555'><font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><strong><font style='font-size: 12pt;'> is approaching - July 30th</font></strong></font></font></strong></font>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' face='Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif' color='#000000'>The Friends are in the process of preparing a commemorative booklet to mark Laurel Hill's 175th anniversary in 2011. Tentatively titled</font><font face='Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'><font color='#000000'><b><i> 175 Years of Reflections, Laurel Hill Cemetery, 1836-2011</i></b>, this pocket-sized text will include personal recollections and artistic representations - both historic and contemporary - on or about our famed National Historic Landmark site. <strong>We welcome your submissions!</strong> They can include a piece of original, creative text about the Cemetery, such as a poem, the recounting of a personal experience had while here, or a meditation on what Laurel Hill means to you. Reflections can also include original renderings of the site, ranging from charcoal sketches, oil paintings, sculpture, collage, photography and mixed media. Visit the website for details: </font></font></font>http://thelaurelhillcemetery.org/index.php?m=6&id=7</div>
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JULY EVENTS</div>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><strong>Sat. July 24, 7pm</strong> </font>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><em><a target='_blank' style='color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103544715358&s=1661&e=001jA7REa-gWoRgo_sEoVAW2X8kDWD9MZtdYNDmEz6qIPtR8mXm9X9KUhyshbsvszMbS2Xlwu6pl7_bvtBelcymNrgcHMzE7R6LC2eW9Sb9hBlkzhPDAHz2ZCr-8N3Fm6MuHYYGw8rVTW3tQNmr-xzKXERRoKlibwAi'>The Ghosts Among Our Graves: </a></em></font>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><em><a target='_blank' style='color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103544715358&s=1661&e=001jA7REa-gWoRgo_sEoVAW2X8kDWD9MZtdYNDmEz6qIPtR8mXm9X9KUhyshbsvszMbS2Xlwu6pl7_bvtBelcymNrgcHMzE7R6LC2eW9Sb9hBlkzhPDAHz2ZCr-8N3Fm6MuHYYGw8rVTW3tQNmr-xzKXERRoKlibwAi'>A Paranormal Investigation of Laurel Hill</a></em></font></div>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'>$30/per, $27/members, $25 seniors+students</font></div>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><strong>Wed. July 28, 6pm</strong></font></div>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><em><a target='_blank' style='color: blue; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;' shape='rect' href='http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103544715358&s=1661&e=001jA7REa-gWoTJgiAGebMyD3_s0OQJl5aevPVV0DNRwF5OOXsQxba90Iup2UcXxn5nKmdi4O01-fES8Oqvq12R7DiytSAKEtXN8vTo-r9d6v0fWZtRLMdBYv2jTKM7jyxs9mABZrcN_mQBgMsbvwCUluxE7N3aDaDt0g6GIssGEeU='>A Twilight Tour and Toast to Our Famous Fishtowners</a> </em></font>
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<font style='font-size: 10pt;' color='#000000'><font color='#000000'>$20/per, $17/members; $15 seniors+students</font></font></div>
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<font style='font-size: 12pt;' color='#000000'><font style='font-size: 10pt;'><strong>To register for any of our July events, please call (215) 228-8200 or email </strong><a target='_blank' style='text-decoration: none;' shape='rect' href='mailto:tours@thelaurelhillcemetery.org'><font color='#0000ff'><strong>tours@thelaurelhillcemetery.<wbr>org</wbr></strong></font></a></font>.</font></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-8523670456084751202010-07-13T09:09:00.001-07:002010-07-13T09:09:27.797-07:00Riverside Cemetery event in Denver, CO
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<span>Walk-A-Bout: "The Other Side of Riverside"<br/>
</span><strong>Saturday, July 17th at 9:00am.</strong></p>
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<img width='332' vspace='5' hspace='5' height='500' align='right'/>Due to popular demand for this tour we are doing it again, this time with even more unusual people and monuments! And, to help celebrate <strong>Old Globeville Days</strong> there will be special emphasis on Globeville stories and the orthodox section of the cemetery.</p>
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Tour guide <strong>Jeff Stoffel</strong> will highlight some of Riverside's unsung and colorful residents. We'll also discuss the symbolism and materials of the monuments and art as well as some info on the flora and fauna of the park.</p>
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The walk starts at the office at 9 am and we'll wrap up by 11 am. Bring sunscreen, sun umbrella's, water and your walking shoes. Please keep in mind there are no facilities at Riverside.</p>
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After the tour take a short drive to the <strong>Orthodox Food Festival & Old Globeville Days</strong> for a cold drink and a plate of the best ethnic festival food in Denver.</p>
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Enjoy authentic food, entertainment and live music from Russia, Romania, Serbia, Ukraine, Eritrea, Greece & Mexico. Also enjoy a look at the historical landmark church with it's beautiful iconography. Co-presented by Holy Transfiguration Cathedral and the Globeville Civic Assn. more information, <a target='_blank' href='http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1059200310&msgid=31212303&act=9WQN&c=96049&destination=http%3A%2F%2Forthodoxfoodfestival.wetpaint.com%2F'>http://orthodoxfoodfestival.<wbr>wetpaint.com/</wbr></a></p>
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The Event is held at Argo Park, right across the street Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Cathedral at 47th and Logan St. in Denver.</p>
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Both these events are free. We'll keep the tour to 20 people, please drop an email if you plan to attend the 9 am tour to <a target='_blank' href='mailto:events@friendsofriversidecemetery.org'>events@<wbr>friendsofriversidecemetery.org</wbr></a><wbr><wbr><wbr>.</wbr></wbr></wbr></p>
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Learn More About the Globeville Story</p>
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Interested in learning more about Globeville? Check out the <a target='_blank' href='http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1059200310&msgid=31212303&act=9WQN&c=96049&destination=http%3A%2F%2Fglobevillestory.blogspot.com%2F'>Globeville Story</a> blog website written by Mary Lou Egan to find out more about the history of the area.</p>
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<span>Contribute to The Riverside Scout: Stories and Ephemera of Denver's Oldest Cemetery</span></p>
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Board member Dave Cass sends word that he is looking for more stories about Riverside to post on our new website, <a target='_blank' href='http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1059200310&msgid=31212303&act=9WQN&c=96049&destination=http%3A%2F%2F1876.friendsofriversidecemetery.org%2F'>The Riverside Scout</a>. <strong>The Riverside Scout</strong> is dedicated to presenting stories and ephemera of Denver's Oldest Cemetery. Have a story you want to tell? Let Dave know by emailing him at <a target='_blank' href='mailto:history@friendsofriversidecemetery.org'>history@<wbr>friendsofriversidecemetery.org</wbr></a><wbr><wbr><wbr>. Otherwise, check it out at <a target='_blank' href='http://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=1059200310&msgid=31212303&act=9WQN&c=96049&destination=http%3A%2F%2F1876.friendsofriversidecemetery.org'>1876.<wbr>friendsofriversidecemetery.org</wbr></a><wbr><wbr><wbr>.</wbr></wbr></wbr></wbr></wbr></wbr></p>
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Contact Information</p>
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If you have an idea or suggestion we encourage you to get in touch with us:</p>
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<strong>Friends of Historic Riverside Cemetery</strong><br/>
PO Box 16712<br/>
Denver CO 80216<br/>
<a target='_blank' href='mailto:friends@friendsofriversidecemetery.org'>friends@<wbr>friendsofriversidecemetery.org</wbr></a></p>
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The <strong>Friends of Historic Riverside Cemetery</strong> is a volunteer-run 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness and promoting preservation of Denver's oldest cemetery.</p>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-32419503868745725912010-07-08T11:42:00.001-07:002010-07-08T11:42:13.857-07:00So what's next?
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In March 2010, my latest book came out, "Images of America: Chippiannock Cemetery." We had a wonderful book launch party at the Hauberg Civic Center in Rock Island, Illinois. The Center was originally John and Suzanne Hauberg's mansion. The Haubergs were major philanthropists in the area and are featured in the book.</p>
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Since then, I did a book signing tour of the Quad Cities. Borders, Barnes & Noble, the Village of East Davenport, Sam's Club ... I was a veritable Stephen King! Of cemetery books. LOL Maybe my books haven't sold millions (yet!), but I'm pretty happy.</p>
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The response I've received from people has been great. So many people who grew up around the cemetery bought the book and told me how much they learned about the monuments they used to play around as kids.</p>
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What means the most to me about writing is being able to share what I've learned with other people. It's actually an honor.</p>
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So what's next? What cemetery will I write about? What tales will I tell? Who or what will they be about?</p>
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In the works is a book about Oakdale Memorial Gardens in Davenport, Iowa. I'm also talking with some fellow taphophile friends about a book of cemetery photography by The Ladies of Cemetery Photography. I'd love to write a book about my favorite cemetery in New Orleans.</p>
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And don't forget that I'm working on getting the next issue of Epitaphs Magazine out. Yes, I'm starting to sound like a broken record about that! We've had a number of health issues, etc., in the family, and family comes first. So I am far from shouting about a deadline for it. But I will keep you posted. It's going to have some good stuff in it.</p>
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I can say that it felt really good a couple of weekends ago to get out in the cemetery and take photos. It had been a while.</p>
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As far as this weekend, I won't be hitting the cemetery. What I will be doing this weekend is performing the wedding ceremony for my cousin and his fiance. That's an honor for me, too.</p>
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Peace to all of you,</p>
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Minda</p>
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www.TheCemeteryClub.com</p>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-67151152057719569402007-10-28T21:36:00.000-07:002007-10-28T22:02:13.327-07:00The Effects of Full Moons on Lulu.com<br /><br />Okay, so it's one full moon, and it most likely has nothing to do with my problems with Lulu.com. But ARGH! anyway.<br /><br />I have been busting my butt, straining my eyes, wracking my brain, beating my head against the wall and all the other cliched things that people do out of frustration for the past three weeks. Issue 5 of Epitaphs is done. I finished designing it, edited it, proofed it, redid the photos a few times, adjusted things, saved and resaved. Taught myself all sorts of tricks I hope I will remember for the next issue. Crazy me, I thought it would be smooth sailing from here on. But no. No no no. Uploading PDFs, embedding fonts, resizing, making things right, making things more right ... oh my gosh the list goes on ... is taking forever and driving me nuts!<br /><br />I am no techie, my friends. I glean what I can from people and then search like hell all over the Internet to teach myself how things work. My gosh, I searched and searched until I located Swift Publisher (which I do recommend for the non designers like myself). Then I worked my way through that software, figuring it out along the way. Then I researched Lulu.com. Decided to go with it, and struggled through that learning process. After THINKING I had loaded everything properly, I ordered my first "proof" copy. I waited impatiently for it to arrive. Only to find that I had loaded it IMPROPERLY and then paid $10 for two sheets of paper with my cover on it!<br /><br />I was so proud of myself for finishing the magazine and having it available in the month I said it would be (and even the year, too!). Things aren't perfect, and I'm still working through them. Like links for the subscribers, breaking the news to subscribers that the magazine went bankrupt and has no money to send them printed issues anymore. (But, hey, they are receiving one free electronic issue for every paid for issue they have yet to receive, and that's a pretty sweet deal.) Some people are happy with the situation (hey, neither am I!), but most have been great about it and very understanding. Let's say that my dream of being able to quit my day job to do Epitaphs Magazine has blown away like so much smoke from the neighbors burning leaves. Oh, well. I'll keep doing Epitaphs until I can't do it no more. I'm stubborn like that.<br /><br />I'm a little distracted right now. Bella is sick with a nasty head cold. She's my priority. And I'm taking off work to take care of her tomorrow, so Daddy's off night duty. Gotta run.<br /><br />M.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-43424962953911710642007-10-18T13:25:00.000-07:002007-10-18T13:36:47.241-07:00I blogged too soon<br /><br />Okay, so I blogged to soon in my excitement (didn't I tell you I was like that?). I thought the mag was really for real ready to go this time, but nope. I'm still trying to get the cover figured out. Argh. Foiled again!<br /><br />More later ...<br /><br />-M.<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-69533388623438148852007-10-18T07:28:00.000-07:002007-10-18T07:40:30.457-07:00Epitaphs Magazine #5 is here and fabulous!<br /><br />Everyone, I am so very flippin' proud to announce that Epitaphs Magazine #5 is ready and waiting for you to buy it! I'm doing the Snoopy dance as we speak!<br /><br />And not only is it available, it is in COLOR! You can also either buy a print copy or download it in PDF format right on your own little computer. Keep in mind, though, that the file is pretty big and takes a while to download, but it's a lot cheaper.<br /><br />Since the mag is in color, it's more expensive this time. I'm also working with a new publisher--Lulu.com. They make books, magazines and other publications available. I'm also working on putting out a black and white version of this issue, too, which will cost less. But that one will take a while as I have to reconfigure it to make sure the photos still look great.<br /><br />For those of you keeping score, you know that this is the first issue I not only edited as usual but also designed. It has a brand new look (a little more journal like) and a new layout. But it still has the same high quality of articles and interesting stuff.<br /><br />Our last issue was the "spooky" issue, which by the way is selling like crazy this month. I may even sell out soon! This issue is back to the cemeteries without the spooky stuff. There are tons of gorgeous photos (in color!) and great articles, including one on how to adopt a cemetery. The cover story features amazing photographer Jeffrey Netz. You will love his work. His photography was also featured in issue #2, the New Orleans issue.<br /><br />When you get your copy of the new mag, please drop me a line to let me know what you think. I'm already starting on issue #6. Stories and photos are due in by Dec. 1 to make the submission deadline. So start sending your stuff in! My goal, now that I have full reign on everything, is to get the magazine out more often.<br /><br />Thank you for your continued support of Epitaphs Magazine, TheCemeteryClub.com, "Cemetery Walk," and me! YOU are the reason I do all this crazy stuff that I do!<br /><br />Yours in taphophilia,<br />Minda<br /><br />www.TheCemeteryClub.com<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5431346.post-27468338614986423752007-10-11T20:20:00.000-07:002007-10-11T20:40:06.079-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E3oSsGX633I/Rw7sj03aETI/AAAAAAAAAHo/9ebiq-OxI20/s1600-h/Nola-in-cave.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E3oSsGX633I/Rw7sj03aETI/AAAAAAAAAHo/9ebiq-OxI20/s320/Nola-in-cave.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120289926597447986" /></a><br />Farewell, Sweet Nola<br /><br />This past Sunday our little Nola died. This is the first time I've actually said it, and really I'm just typing it. I've told people we put her to sleep, we put her down (which sounds terrible) or that we lost her. But to say she "died" is so harsh sounding. Of course, it is harsh. Humane, but harsh. <br /><br />We adopted Nola at the very end of 2005. She was one when we got her at the animal shelter. She had traveled three hours from Fayette, Iowa, under the hood of a truck. She wasn't injured at all; she'd just taken a very long ride in a weird place. Even at the time, it made us tear up to think of what she went through to find us.<br /><br />We had a pretty good couple of years (almost) with her. She was a fantastic cat. Everyone who knew her thought so. She'd play fetch with a ball up and down the basement stairs. She'd even give the ball to different people each time so everyone could have a turn tossing it down the stairs for her to run after. She was incredibly good natured. She loved to play and be a wacky cat.<br /><br />Her favorite place in the world was on our screened in front porch. She always wanted out there. Unfortunately over the summer it was too hot most of the time, but we let her out as often as we could. Especially since she was sick for so many months. The doctor didn't know what her ailment was, so we weren't sure how to help her. We did what we could to make her happy and comfortable. It's so hard, though, because most cats don't show pain that much.<br /><br />This past weekend, though, it was quite obvious she was very, very ill. She could keep nothing down and was barely eating. And she loved to eat. Even when it kept coming up, the poor girl still had her appetite. And no wonder, she was so thin. She must have been hungry all the time. Our once robust girl was skin and bones.<br /><br />There is much less chaos in our house now. We've gone from three crazy cats to two. One stays mostly in the basement, and the other is back to her old princess self. The Nola chaos had been missing for a while since she was feeling so poorly, but there's a big hole in our hearts and our lives.<br /><br />I know we did the right thing. We took her to the Animal Emergency Center to some of the most wonderful and caring people in the business. They made her last moments as peaceful as possible. The doctor administered the medication as I held our Nola and Bill and I were petting her. Her last moments were filled with love, as was her life with us. It's an almost physical pain in my chest just to write all of this. I thought we'd have her for a long time. She seemed to strong for so long. But we lost her and we miss her. I miss her. <br /><br />I want to think that she is somewhere sitting in a window and snacking on some bread (she loved bread and would rip into any package of it if you turned your head away for five seconds). I want to think she had plenty of bouncy balls to toss around whenever she wants. I want to know for sure that she is happy and knows that we love her and miss her and that her mom feels awful about letting her down and not being able to make it all better.<br /><br />Good night, sweet Nola. You brought us so much joy.<br /><br />Love,<br />Your mom<div class="blogger-post-footer">For cemetery lovers everywhere ... learn about "Epitaphs" magazine and the book by Minda Powers-Douglas "Cemetery Walk."</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09861807638565770228noreply@blogger.com1