Carl Crossman

In 1849, the famous poet Edger Allen Poe died in a Baltimore tavern. He was known for such works as “The Tell-Tale Heart”, “The Pit and the Pendulum” and “The Murders in the Rue Morgue”. Poe was buried at the Westminster Hall and Buying Ground in Baltimore. That’s where the tradition comes in.

Every year since around 1949, a mysterious figure in black dress, white scarf, and wide brimmed hat would leave a half empty bottle of cognac and three roses on the stone that marks his grave. The problem is that this year, the person did not show and has left people who are interested in this mystery bewildered. Many believe the person responsible for this long time tradition was a man named David Franks who died last week.

While the tradition is in jeopardy, there is hope that someone new will pick up the torch and continue to honor the great poet far into the future.

One popular show that I do like to watch on TV is American Idol. I like to see all the people who try out for the show and are especially terrible. I love to hear people who think they can sing but really can’t! The show has been a favorite of mine for years but it seems that it will soon take a turn.

Popular show host Simon Cowell is retiring from the show next year. He will be moving on to host and produce his own British show “The X Factor”. There is much debate on who will replace the star of the show and it will be interesting to see who gets the job. As for me, I just hope the show goes on!

It’s a rare thing when someone finds a true treasure. It happened recently when the Very Rev. David M. O’Connell found one. After becoming the Catholic University president, he found a picture in his bathroom that is reported to be a Rembrandt. The etching turned out to be created by the famous 17th century artist Rembrandt Van Rijn.

While the jury is still out on whether the picture is an original, it could still be worth thousands of dollars. The painting will soon be reviewed by appraisers to see whether or not it is authentic. I hope the world will gain another great work from this exceedingly talented man!

This year’s holiday season has been very busy for us. We were able to accommodate all our family and guests at our blowout dinner. It seems that every member of the family dropped by at some point, and they are still coming strong. The best part is that we still have this weekend to celebrate until we all have to go back to work. Even so, it’s been a wonderful few days off and I am ready to face the world again!