December 2006

December 2006

December 2006 Volume 31 Number 12   Features Crazy Kitchens The Food Network makes everyone want to be Emeril Lagasse. Imagine it: the fame, the glory, the rock-star life. Hmm… The reality is far different. By Ann Christenson   The Magic Kingdom Inspired by Walt Disney and the American Dream, homebuilder Tom Hignite created a bizarre empire. Learn about Hignites quest to build a “Miracle Village” and an animation business worthy of old Walt. By Daniel Libit   The Gated Community As more organizations receive property tax exemptions, the city’s tax burden is falling elsewhere. Any guesses where that responsibility…

December 2006

Volume 31

Number 12

 

Features

Crazy Kitchens

The Food Network makes everyone want to be Emeril Lagasse. Imagine it: the fame, the glory, the rock-star life. Hmm… The reality is far different.

By Ann Christenson

 

The Magic Kingdom

Inspired by Walt Disney and the American Dream, homebuilder Tom Hignite created a bizarre empire. Learn about Hignites quest to build a “Miracle Village” and an animation business worthy of old Walt.

By Daniel Libit

 

The Gated Community

As more organizations receive property tax exemptions, the city’s tax burden is falling elsewhere. Any guesses where that responsibility is going?

By Barbara Miner

 

Departments

Outfront

An appetizer to get you warmed up for the entrée.

By Bruce Murphy

 

Mail

A good use of your stationery.

 

Events

Holiday humor and homage, cosmic canvases, a classic comedy.

 

Insider

We have Curves (and then some), muskrats and a not-so-hot line.

Pressroom

Homogenized suburban coverage.

First Person

He explored the North Pole. (Bud did he meet Santa?)

The Mil

People who need people.

Reviews

Paddle tennis, ear candy, cinema paradise and more.

 

Savvy City

Home

Decking your halls.

Where to Shop

For pretty packaging.

Real Estate

A battle in the burbs.

 

Arts

What is there about Skylight Opera Artistic Director Bill Theisen besides a big laugh? Quite a lot, actually.

By Paul Kosidowski

 

Health

“Oh, my neck.” Does that sound familiar? Here’s help for that tender area.

By Julie Sensat Waldren

 

Dining

Delafield’s lush Andrew’s, plus the Fantastic Four (a quartet of mini reviews). Tired of dining in a haze? Check out the new smoke-free choices in our restaurant listings.

 

Endgame

Imagine a poem that keeps its rhythm despite mentioning Sykes, McGee, Falk and the Public Museum.

By Rick Horowitz