text:
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Let's Get Ready to Rum Ball!
70 comments:
- Rita said...
the easiest rum ball recipe i've seen that i will just have to make! oh yeah.
love those "little feet," by the way. :D - December 7, 2011 at 1:09 PM
the ones with tiny feet are so cute!!))
- December 7, 2011 at 1:15 PM
AHHHHHH Thanks Chef John. I have been checking this site everyday for this recipe to be posted. Love your blog.
- December 7, 2011 at 2:15 PM
this is definitely the best title for a post you have thought of! .... yet
- December 7, 2011 at 2:40 PM
- Christie Farrar said...
Too bad I'm pregnant...... Maybe if I use rum flavoring? Haha or have family bring me rum balls as a congratulations when I deliver!
- December 7, 2011 at 2:46 PM
- Joanna K said...
Chef John, I just have to comment that you make me laugh with your commentary! I totally agree that rum balls shouldn't be made without rum!
I currently have a pot roast going in my slow cooker now using your recipe (and I literally laughed out loud when you said, "in fact those slow cooker recipes where you just throw everything into the crock pot and turn it on, those are not good. those are... what's the word for it, stupid!")!
Thanks for the laughs and smiles on a rainy Wednesday! - December 7, 2011 at 3:23 PM
- Joanna K said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- December 7, 2011 at 3:25 PM
- Michael said...
see the part where you add the last 25% unmelted chocolate to the melted stuff? is this what they call 'tempering'? i have read about this, but it seemed way more complicated than what you did. in fact this looks easy. :)
- December 7, 2011 at 3:35 PM
- Chef John said...
I believe so!
- December 7, 2011 at 3:40 PM
Chef John,
I am confused about chocolate bar sizes. Here, you use a 4oz bar but in your chocolate lava cake calls for 3.5oz, "this is one standard chocolate bar".
To add to my confusion, you use Ghirardelli chocolate in the lava cake video. I use this brand as well and it comes in 4oz bars.
I guess this is more of a question for the lava cake video but should I use a 4oz bar or 3.5oz for that recipe? Thanks! - December 7, 2011 at 5:33 PM
- Chef John said...
This was really 3.5. I just rounded up since there's going to be extra anyway. Doesn't matter here. 3.5 for lava is correct.
- December 7, 2011 at 5:40 PM
what would 8oz be in cups?
- December 7, 2011 at 6:09 PM
- Chef John said...
Couldn't say, since it would depend on how small you crumbled. It was like 3 large brownies. Don't worry, these are not an exact science. ;)
- December 7, 2011 at 6:14 PM
- Josh said...
What if we used like red wine?
- December 7, 2011 at 6:20 PM
- grumbleghoul said...
Ok, so I'm not a big fan of rum, but I love the idea of this. What other liqueurs or non alcoholic flavorings would go well with this chocolate coated brownie confection?? I'm thinking Grand Marnier, or Triple Sec. or maybe Kahlua. What about coffee or like a mint extract? (for the non drinking crowd)
- December 7, 2011 at 8:17 PM
- Berit said...
I've been haunting the blog waiting for this one--amazing! Somehow, our set can never find enough boozy chocolate during the holidays!
I've got some good valrhona, so I think I will use that. :D - December 7, 2011 at 10:54 PM
Chef John,
I guess this is as perfect a time as any to make a "wish." I've been addicted to your cooking videos for a while now, but I'm kind of afraid to go out and buy quality ingredients for fear of messing up. It's not that your videos aren't easy to follow and understand, (they are,) it's that I'm just one of those people that is prone to the "oops!" moment, especially in the kitchen. If I could make a food wish, it would be to see you take some time to make a "rescue" series of videos for people like myself. Perfect example would be: What to do if your chocolate seizes up?
I know you have a lot on your plate, so it's probably too much, but you already have too many delicious recipes on your site, I couldn't possibly have wished for another.
A hapless cook - December 8, 2011 at 12:48 AM
Where do all your play on words come from...seems like you have an infinite supply :)
- December 8, 2011 at 5:20 AM
I just stumbled upon your Youtube channel yesterday and I'm hooked! Yay for foodie ideas! I love how short/simple your instructions are. (and you're so humorous!)
I have two questions regarding the rum balls: after the chocolate coating hardened, can I keep them in a container under normal room temperature? Also, what would you say the expected shelf life is for these treats?
Thank you! - December 8, 2011 at 1:26 PM
- Tamar@StarvingofftheLand said...
A proper rum ball should indeed be a fire hazard.
I didn't taste a rum ball until I was an adult, and it instantly became one of my all-time favorite over-indulgences. This recipe just might give me the backbone to let a few brownies sit around long enough to get stale. - December 8, 2011 at 1:46 PM
- Chef John said...
Yes, the stale brownies are clearly the most challenging part of the recipe! ;)
- December 8, 2011 at 1:55 PM
I think my Secret Santa will be pleasantly surprised tomorrow when she opens her stocking and finds a jar of these waiting for her. Thank you for the fabulous recipe! They're chilling right now and I can't wait to start coating them!
- December 8, 2011 at 7:08 PM
so funny! read the comments! all 865 of them. nice one
- December 8, 2011 at 7:39 PM
- Livia said...
Ah...could you send me some of these? ;-)
- December 8, 2011 at 7:56 PM
- MoonFaCe said...
As soon as I saw the title I was going to ask if I can make these without rum because we don't consume alcohol...too bad you're not gonna answer my question :(
- December 8, 2011 at 8:02 PM
- Chef John said...
You can use any liquid that will moisten the crumbs! Just don't call them rum balls! ;)
- December 8, 2011 at 8:08 PM
- Unknown said...
These look unbelievably good!! We love your videos by the way.. easy to follow.. my boyfriend is going to make me lots of different chocolates from your recipes!
Thank you :) - December 8, 2011 at 8:49 PM
- Chris K. said...
I bet these would be great with a tiny sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Because nothing says "love" like a mouthful of salty, chocolate rum balls! - December 8, 2011 at 11:06 PM
- amazing blooger me said...
What a sweet way to celebrate our holiday season together with these rum chocolate balls. Hope my kids will like it too without getting drunk. Haha
- December 9, 2011 at 12:11 AM
- DianShan said...
I'm planning to make these for a party next saturaday. My question is, how do you define stale brownie? I'm planning to make the brownie (with the recipe link you provided) tomorrow, and keep them for 1 week. Is that too long or just right? I'm assuming the batch would be more than enough for your rum ball recipe.
Also, you mentioned dark rum. Would a light rum be ok? - December 9, 2011 at 5:05 AM
- Chef John said...
a week is fine! any rum will work, I just think dark works better.
- December 9, 2011 at 10:29 AM
I want to make these for an upcoming party where there will be a bunch of kiddies. What do you think about using a flavored Torani syrup for this instead of rum?
- December 9, 2011 at 10:58 AM
Argh, I wish I could do this but my lil brother is allergic to alcohol...
- December 9, 2011 at 12:01 PM
Now that we've had the rum balls.
Can we please have rum cake or any alcoholic cakes with or without fruits for Christmas? Pretty Please? - December 9, 2011 at 4:22 PM
Yeah, we all have stale brownies lying around, pfffffffft! Come on, seriously??? LOL, anyway, sounds like a fab recipe, but in my house there's no such thing as a stale brownie. Maybe I'll make some and then hide them away and let them go stale.... no.... couldn't do that. I'd be way too tempted to go drag them back out and eat them.
- December 12, 2011 at 9:14 PM
Thank you for this recipe! My moms biggest request for christmas is rum balls so I usually have to call multiple bakerys with little success to find them. Making them myself will add a nice sentiment. Thank you :)
- December 14, 2011 at 8:30 AM
Where can I find the "hard copy" for these rum balls.
- December 15, 2011 at 1:36 PM
- Chef John said...
I don't write recipes (i do the videos, and rely on my viewers to do their own notes. It's really the least you can do ;)
- December 15, 2011 at 1:58 PM
- 3bythesea said...
i am making these cookies based on the title of your post. let's getting ready to rum ball? love it.
i am using this recipe for a cookie swap in two days so i won't be able to get my brownies "stale". solution? baking up a fresh batch and then i am going to cut out half the pan into squares. then, i am going to "stale-lize" the squares by putting them on a cookie sheet on low heat (250)to dry 'em out. will let you know how it works!
(the upside: half a pan of fresh brownies!) - December 17, 2011 at 11:04 AM
- 3bythesea said...
success with the stale-lizing technique. box mix, used cake-like consistency recipe (gooey would work against me in this recipe, but for consuming out of the pan i'm a gooey gal all the way), 13x9 pan configuration. i cooked according to time on box because burnt won't work unless you don't want to be asked to do another insane cookie swap. your call.
anyway, cut up the pan. small squares hopped onto a cookie sheet on a 200 degree oven for an hour - flipping half way through. end result was a likeness of a stale brownie! great work-around.
fyi - used the whole pan (minus the two dried out brownies which my husband deemed fantastic, not knowing about my stale quest.)
used malibu rum, eye-balled a full cup, followed your freezer instructions but instead of chocolate (i have to transport in bags so i didnt want them to crack), i rolled them in table sugar, a bit of salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper. you get the sugar up front, salt with the chocolate brownie and rum and then your finish is an almost imperceptible tingle on your tongue. i bet these will be better by monday!
chef john, i will be one of your faithful. i love your sense of humor. i totally get it.
thanks for the direction! - December 17, 2011 at 7:21 PM
- teaishot said...
Chef John, since I got no rum at the moment, can I substitute it with vodka? My sister got some vodka left so I think I might use it for this.
- December 18, 2011 at 3:14 AM
- china said...
I'm a newby to your program and I too may become addicted! I just made three batches of cheep brownies so that I could end up with at least 3 stale ones for the Christmas Rum Balls I plan to make. I can hardly wait!
- December 19, 2011 at 1:17 AM
- DianShan said...
Made these on Sat and it was a party favourite!! Everyone loved it! It is best to let the rum ball sit for a while (i think make it the night before) so that the flavours are soaked through. Somehow I didn't get the same consistency of the dark chocolate when I melted them but still got the coating set..
- December 19, 2011 at 2:34 AM
- NoUseForAName said...
Anyone have experience making these in advance? How far in advance? Any storag advice? Fridge or Freezer?
Love to all our rumballs!
-E - December 19, 2011 at 10:16 AM
- Chef John said...
Yes keep in freezer or fridge. Never made more than the day before.
- December 19, 2011 at 11:21 AM
Hi Chef John, LOVE this recipe, and as my stove is currently on the bonk (talk about timing!) this is a fabulous recipe for me to contribute to holiday lunch dates.
One thing though, the Lindt chocolate you used is a baking chocolate? I was wondering if I could substitute for semi sweet chocolate chips? I live in the West Indies and it's very difficult to find high quality baking chocolate, apart from Hersheys :( but we do have the Lindt truffles and Nestle toll house - December 19, 2011 at 1:57 PM
- Unknown said...
JUST made some. This is the first time that I did not fail a dessert!
- December 20, 2011 at 12:28 AM
Hi Chef John,
So I made your rum balls last night, one issue I had was my chocolate seemed thicker than yours.
Basically the first 10 got quite a thick coating of chocolate and then I ran out near the end.
I melted the chocolate according to your instructions, but used Cadbury 70% cocoa choc. Any ideas? - December 21, 2011 at 1:58 AM
- Chef John said...
not sure! maybe mine was hotter?
- December 21, 2011 at 2:13 AM
I tried to make these and they came out a gooey mess. But I want to try again! I'm wondering what I did wrong. My brownies weren't stale--so maybe that is a must instead of a "better" option than fresh? I also used a fudge brownies--perhaps that accounts for them not being able to hold a shape? Or maybe I put in too much rum--I used 1/2 cup per Chef John's recommendation. I see the post above about getting the brownies stale. I guess a non-fudgy type that are truly not fresh are a safer bet? The ones I have never lost their stickiness and are droopy, not like Chef John's.
- December 23, 2011 at 12:50 PM
@ HeatherB
Did you freeze the brownie mixture beforehand so they are harder? - December 23, 2011 at 9:44 PM
- CrazySaiko said...
Chef John,
Thank you for this recipe! They turned out great and SOOOO delicious! However my chocolate coating didn't come out so smooth like yours did! Maybe it was the chocolate I used or I have to fine tune my technique! :) Overall, it was an absolute delight!
~Desi - December 24, 2011 at 6:04 PM
- Unknown said...
Hi Chef John,
I'm new at cooking (and just recently is old enough to buy liquor) and was wondering what brand or type of rum do you recommend? I have no idea what to get, but I want to get good rum since my in-laws will definately be able to tell the difference and I want to surprise them!
~Jessie - January 20, 2012 at 2:53 AM
Hi Chef John ^^ I just wanted to pop in and let you know that I made these using (high quality, Belgian) milk chocolate, and I thought they turned out beautiful. I feared they would be too sweet, but they were like little explosions of rum, so everything I could ever want out of a rum ball. Thanks for this easy recipe!
- January 31, 2012 at 9:42 PM
I melted the chocolate for coating and it turned out really really thick, almost like peanut butter ;_; so I ended up using cocoa powder
can you tell me what I did wrong? Btw, I used 65% cocoa schogetten chocolate - February 15, 2012 at 1:53 AM
- Chef John said...
Not sure! Sounds like you let it cool down too much. Chocolate is very thin when hot.
- February 15, 2012 at 10:55 AM
actually it has been thick ever since it started to melt, maybe I'll give it another try. Thank you :D
- February 16, 2012 at 1:14 AM
- Unknown said...
My 2 cents. (1) Make sure you add the rum slowly. I added too much and they turned into mush! I had to add some flour to thicken. They still taste good, but it certainly wasn't ideal. (2) Buy a high quality chocolate! I'm not one of those "organic" people, in this case, something all natural without added wax / animal products will melt much, much better.
- July 5, 2012 at 9:01 AM
- Unknown said...
I just came across this recipe via Pinterest and I am so excited! I'm currently struggling to let the brownies get stale, lol. As long as the original works well, I plan on trying them with Jameson and a little cinnamon and then with Rumpleminz. My husband works at a bar and they can't get enough boozy chocolate treats! Thanks for the recipe!
- December 8, 2012 at 10:41 PM
- Trevor said...
I would like to mail these to a friend. Can you tell me if these would do ok going through the standard mailing process? Do you have any suggestions for packaging these rum balls? Thanks in advance!
- December 22, 2012 at 8:14 PM
- Chef John said...
best fresh! they don't travel well.
- December 23, 2012 at 1:20 AM
- Sanjana said...
Could I use a moist chocolate cake instead of brownies?
- October 16, 2013 at 11:35 AM
- Unknown said...
Chef John, would a stale version of your chocolate snow cap cookie batter work, or do you need something less fudgey? Either way I'll give it a shot, I just didn't want to ruin perfectly good cookie dough.
- February 6, 2015 at 11:29 AM
For those still interested in rum balls (why not?), I have a few tips for those who aren't as kitchen saavy.
Number 1: Don't use a brownie that has chocolate chips in it. The brownie and rum won't combine very well, and you'll have to leave them in the freezer for a bit before eating them.
Number 2: Good room temperature, great chilled! Leave these in the fridge for a while before serving them, they will be much much better.
Number 3: Do not - and I emphasize - DO NOT use milk chocolate to coat these! The high alcohol content combined with the milky chocolate will cause stomach aches beyond belief. Would it be good? Probably, but why would you want to put your toilet through such a horrible thing? - February 9, 2015 at 12:36 AM
- Unknown said...
Could these be made with a good cabernet? Ever tried?
- November 13, 2015 at 5:40 PM
- Unknown said...
I made these last night and found that my little balls were too wet. Perhaps I added too much rum or my brownies weren't stale enough? (I waited over a week, the agony was too much)
When I tried to roll the balls in my chocolate, it seized almost immediately. They were still delicious and boozy, but a huge pain to coat.
Next time I'm going to let the balls chill overnight before trying to coat them. I might also try coating them in caramel or white chocolate! - January 9, 2016 at 12:47 AM
- Peggy Johnson said...
Had a friend who made rum balls every Christmas. Now it's my turn. Thank you for the easiest recipe yet.
- December 19, 2016 at 11:04 AM
- Amethyst Samia said...
Lmao @ "I'm not responding to any comments asking about how to make these without using rum." I've been waiting a long time for you to say that.
A friend used to make rum balls with some sort of filling other than chocolate. Not sure what it was but it was delicious and you could get drunk in a hurry on them. They had tiny tiny pieces of walnut in them. I must admit I think this would be the greatest recipe ever. What's better than brownies...with Rum! Thanks as always, Chec John. - October 23, 2017 at 6:31 AM
- Unknown said...
The only complaint i get when i make these is why can't i make 6 dozen of them ���� ... Thanks so much Chef John!!
- Tommy from Tennessee - December 17, 2017 at 12:21 PM
- try to cook this said...
That gotdang brownie recipe you linked to has non optional walnuts mixed in it. #dobetter
- July 14, 2019 at 4:05 PM


text:
The Muskoka Bird Board
and other nature sightings
Posting Guidelines...Archived Reports
Nature Photos Board - How to Post Photos
To help control spam, you have to register before you can start posting. Only your name and a password are required. Enter your real name in the box for "username". This is exactly how your name will appear on the board every time you post a message. New registrations cannot include a space between names, so use a capital letter to start your first and last name. You can use your password to edit any posts you make. If you forget your password, send me an email. (more info)
The Muskoka Bird Board is a place to share reports of birds and other nature sightings in Muskoka and surrounding areas. You may also post a question about birds or birding in general. You don't have to include an email address in your post. Remember to include the location of your sightings - even the nearest town or major crossroads would be fine. See the Posting Guidelines for more information and helpful tips about using the Muskoka Bird Board.
Send comments or questions to Barbara Taylor, administrator of the Muskoka Bird Board

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Party Like It's 1999
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Ok, here's a dreaded CCC (cupcake cake) for the martini lover: definitely shaken, not stirred.
Uh, this looks more like a bottle of hair tonic than alcohol. (Not that I've ever *seen* a bottle of hair tonic, of course; I just imagine it would look like this.) Sorry, I'll keep looking.
Hm. Well, John and I are still debating just what the heck this is, but I think it might be an exploding champagne bottle. (John sees one of those holiday crackers that you pull open.) The one thing we both agree on is that it's butt-ugly. [evil grin]
Moving on...
Very, uh, "creative". Can you picture the conversation that led to this cake order?
"We need a cake for Bob."
"Ok, what does he like?"
I have a friend who used to drink orange juice with his chocolate cake, but I'm pretty sure even he would agree that drinking beer with cake is just wrong. Blech.
And while we're on the subject, let me wrap up with a little PSA: folks, tonight when you're out partying, please think of others. Please, don't drink and decorate. Don't let this happen to you or someone you love:
[shaking head sadly] Granted, it was considerate of the wreckerator to provide little bottles of "blur vision"for those unfortunate souls who will have to EAT the cake, but that hardly excuses the drunken airbrush weaving, the gold and purple shoelaces, or the [closing eyes] margarita candles. Not to mention the mystery foam, construction-paper lettering, or bizarre green-striped chocolate "ladies". Yikes. So remember: this New Year don't get mad, get C.L.A.D.D. (Cake Lovers Against Drunk Decorating).
By the by, I verified that this was indeed listed on a "professional" bakery's website. A website which, oddly enough, is no longer operational. Go fig.
Hey Jason T., Lynn B., Corianna L.,Kati B., and Marnie P.: if you didn't come to party, don't bother knockin' on my door.
132 comments | Post a Comment
I'm thinking the white on top is another female form?? The whole cake is a bit confusing for me.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:30 AM
I think that orange one is a bomb. Not da bomb..a bomb
- December 31, 2008 at 9:30 AM
On the last cake, is the "white foam" a lady or am I seeing something totally different?
- December 31, 2008 at 9:31 AM
I don't think that's mystery foam - I think it's a white chocolate naked lady laying on her back with one leg dangling over the side of the cake. Am I crazy or does anyone else see it?
-Christie - December 31, 2008 at 9:32 AM
- Cal said...
"mystery foam" = lounging naked lady (white chocolate mold?)
- December 31, 2008 at 9:33 AM
I think that mystery foam is in fact, another naked lady.
Sigh... I think I need a drink - December 31, 2008 at 9:35 AM
Did Cake Wrecks actually BRING DOWN a professional cake decorator's website? Because that would be awesome. Name 'em, shame 'em, close 'em down!
Happy 2009 to all Cake Wrecks lovers! - December 31, 2008 at 9:37 AM
I hate to say this but the "Mystery Foam" on the last cake is also in the shape of a... uh... lady (using that term loosely... heh... loose lady... I made a funny!).
Stressfactor - December 31, 2008 at 9:37 AM
Hi. Regarding that "mystery foam", I think if you look closely you'll begin to see what is (I think) the form of a woman, reclining, with one leg draped over the side of the cake, the other with knee bent (as if that foot were resting upon the edge of the cake). And then there are the two round "projections". Need I describe what they might be? "But," you say, "what about the head?" Well, apparently, that seems to have melted, or got bashed in by an errant finger. That someone actually had the cajones to publish this photo on their website speaks volumes about not only their talent but (more important) their taste. Hideous. Truly, deeply, painfully hideous.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:42 AM
- Logical Libby said...
I think the second one was most likely a very special order for a jug band party...
- December 31, 2008 at 9:44 AM
No beer with cake? Whaaaaa?
You clearly just haven't been introduced to the right beer. Certainly, serving Budweiser with cake would be filthy. But there are any number of chocolate/coffee based stouts and porters which would do a good job.
Dogfish Head, a smallish brewery based in Delaware, sells a barley wine which would probably go fabulously well with the right kind of cake.
It's just a matter of finding a drink rich enough to go with a food like cake. - December 31, 2008 at 9:47 AM
I must admit, as far as CCC's go, the martini glass really isn't that bad. In fact it's kind of cute.
Wait, what are you doing?! Don't take my Cakewreck Lover license away! No! Noooo! - December 31, 2008 at 9:48 AM
- Malibu Niki said...
Cupcakes decorated to look like cocktail olives. How, um, appetizing.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:48 AM
Hey - I don't think the cooler is all that bad (well, maybe if an amateur made it). It even has condensation!
- December 31, 2008 at 9:48 AM
The "mystery foam" is actually a lady in repose. Her legs are hanging over the edge of the top cake.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:49 AM
- Vashti said...
Ok so what the heck is number 3??? I just cant figure it out either....maybe its a firework??
it is so ugly its crazy.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! - December 31, 2008 at 9:49 AM
Annnnd the 'foam' on top appears to be a reclining, naked woman.
Ewwwwwww. - December 31, 2008 at 9:50 AM
Well, the "martini" might have looked decent with only 1 olive....
- December 31, 2008 at 9:51 AM
The first one is actually kind of cute!
Should I hang up my Wreckerator badge now? - December 31, 2008 at 9:51 AM
The "foam" is a white chocolate "lady" in repose...
- December 31, 2008 at 9:54 AM
- Beth said...
While the beer cake was definitely wierd, I think it was put together really well! Looks good! (on the surface anyway!)
- December 31, 2008 at 9:54 AM
- Unknown said...
The "mystery foam" on that last one appears to be another "lady"--albeit one with some anatomical issues.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:54 AM
- Kelli said...
I think the mystery foam on top is a chick. I see a leg dangling down the cake, another propped up and I think you might have missed the opportunity for a black bar where her boobies are. Although, it did take a few minutes for me to see that, so it might not exist...
- December 31, 2008 at 9:55 AM
- unmitigated me said...
That's not mystery foam, that's a white-chocolate naked lady!
- December 31, 2008 at 9:56 AM
I'm with you - the "champagne bottle" is just awful! As is the purple cake at the end - please tell me no one actually ate that! :)
- December 31, 2008 at 9:58 AM
- Rebecca said...
That last one is likely to only get eaten AFTER the celebrations are over, you need something, anything to get you going and you can't see straight.
Also, everything else in the room will look just like this by now so it will look much more appealing....unlike now where it just looks like throw up.
:) - December 31, 2008 at 9:58 AM
Uh... sadly I don't think that is "mystery foam"... unless my 9-month-pregnant-brain is making up for something by seeing inappropriate shapes... I *believe* that is a misshapen naked chick with one knee up and head thrown back. (Now I kind of want it to go back to being mystery foam!)
PS - love this blog... - December 31, 2008 at 9:59 AM
- knittinandnoodlin said...
Ever drank a Guinness with a slice of Guinness cake?
I think that is the one exception to the rule that beer and cake do not go together. I wouldn't have believed it...but there is something about the barely sweetened icing, the richness of the cake, and that beer that really works.
Also, I love the martini CCC. - December 31, 2008 at 10:02 AM
- Mella said...
I'm with John on the identification of the mysterious cake.
happy new year to all of you .
Still 8 hours left for me - December 31, 2008 at 10:08 AM
- AmyAnne said...
Good God, you make me laugh everyday! The last one was hilarious! I can't imagine why they weren't successful. Maybe they needed to have a location closer to one of the trailer parks I grew up in. Location, location, location...
I have forwarded your sight on to my friends and family. I have them all on the hunt for a wreck to send in.
I might have a few of my own if I took pictures...lol.
Thanks! - December 31, 2008 at 10:11 AM
I have to agree that the CCC looks better than most. At least the shape lends its self to olives and the piping looks like it was done with love.
- December 31, 2008 at 10:15 AM
all cakey carbs" diet
Carrot Cake IS a complete and balanced diet
carrot veg
raisin fruit
butter fat
cream cheese frosting dairy
walnuts legumes
flour grains
What is not to love??
babies optional - December 31, 2008 at 10:16 AM
Oh, yeah...that foam on top is definitely a female form in seductive pose...
Hair tonic? I thought it was a dreidel. - December 31, 2008 at 10:19 AM
- Feisty Irish Wench said...
I like for my food to resemble something edible and it's preferred that it be visually appealing. Those creations are very much a WTF?
word verf: funtede - the promise that fun will be guaranteed. You'll love partying with us here at Purple Haze, you have our FunTede! - December 31, 2008 at 10:22 AM
- Leslie said...
I think number 3 is a pineapple?!?
- December 31, 2008 at 10:23 AM
- Doc said...
The orange cake looks like a blast-ended skrewt to me.
- December 31, 2008 at 10:24 AM
Um...I think I kinda like that beer cake, too...something about it is kind of impressive...well done in its own weird way!
- December 31, 2008 at 10:24 AM
- Miss Lexiloo said...
I agree with one of the earlier commenters...the martini wouldn't be as bad with just one olive.
The last one, though...ugh. C'mon to the party palace! Throw up before you start drinking! - December 31, 2008 at 10:25 AM
- Jennifer Foster said...
Happy New Year Jen!
- December 31, 2008 at 10:25 AM
- www.AForestFrolic.typepad.com said...
Ha, these are GREAT! And yeah, I think that is a woman on top of that hideous cake :-)
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone...have lots of booze and cake and BE SAFE ;-) - December 31, 2008 at 10:35 AM
- Michelle said...
I saw a holiday cracker in that orange and poiple mess. I could be convinced it is exploding champagne.
As for the strip club cake? Suitably tacky for the venue?
VW: strina - as in I'll need some Li-strina after tasting any of those cakes! - December 31, 2008 at 10:35 AM
- queenb said...
Happy New Year everyone! While I'm glad we're shutting the door on 2008, I'll always be grateful to it for bringing me CAKE WRECKS!!!!
Remember, friends don't let friends decorate cakes after consuming great quantities of alcohol...at least, not without taking pictures of it afterwards...
Here's to a fantastic 2009 with the Wreckiest wrecks EVER!
~Bonnie B~
word verification: Jologro...The name of the 'hair tonic' in the second picture... - December 31, 2008 at 10:37 AM
- Quinn said...
I think the "cracker" might be a pineapple. Don't ask me why...it was just my knee-jerk reaction at first glance.
I mean it...don't ask me why! - December 31, 2008 at 10:39 AM
I actually kind of like #1. But make mine a cosmo.
Here's a song for #3 "Oh dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made you out of cake, and when you're old and moldy, oh dreidel I will scrape" (and turn into some monstrosity for New Year's)
And I'm perversely intrigued at the construction of the Bud cake. Do you glue sheet cake to the side of a cooler or dig out a big hole of a larger one?
@ Morkus, re: Dogfish - I went to HS with the guy who started it, until he got kicked out. And his dad, an oral surgeon, pulled out eight of my teeth. Thanks for bringing up some good memories. - December 31, 2008 at 10:39 AM
- gryphondear said...
There is just no reason for any of those cakes. Not even the three olive martini.
A number of years ago, the Yuppy rage was Harvey Wallbanger cakes. There's no reason for them either, but I don't remember them being produced commercially.
;^) Jan the Gryphon
wv: fingish - when one has minor issues, but is not truly finicky - December 31, 2008 at 10:43 AM
- The Courteous Chihuahua said...
You don't drink hair tonic on New Year's Eve? Don't knock it until you've tried it. Ironically, once you do drink the tonic, that last cake is one of your hallucinations.
- December 31, 2008 at 10:44 AM
- Becky said...
Wow...that exploding thing, whatever it may be, is horrible!
However, I do like the cooler one! It looks really good to me.
And UGH to that last one. - December 31, 2008 at 10:46 AM
- Unknown said...
Well personally, being a "New Yoiker" I think the A train cake is right on for the 'hood. Lots of bling and spray paint to boot! (I am, of course, assuming that someone made this as a joke, right? Otherwise it would just be too awful to contemplate)
Go, Cake Wrecks in 2009! - December 31, 2008 at 10:52 AM
I think that martini with the cupcake olives is pretty cute! and creative.
- December 31, 2008 at 10:54 AM
- Diana said...
I actually love the beer cake. I wish someone would make one for me! (I'd actually prefer a pear cider - hint, hint...) I agree with the mystery foam being a (horribly disfigured) naked lady *shudder*
Keep up the "good" work!!! - December 31, 2008 at 10:56 AM
I cannot figure out that beer cake. Is that cake constructed AROUND the beer??
- December 31, 2008 at 10:58 AM
I >like< the beer cooler one!
- December 31, 2008 at 11:00 AM
- Trish said...
My 5 yr old was looking at the cake pictures with me and when I got to the orange one, with the, um polka dots? She pointed and asked.. "Why does it have GRASS in it!? Is that a pinata?!" lol too funny
- December 31, 2008 at 11:01 AM
- Rima said...
I thought those were chocolate bunnies on the last one. It added to the WTF factor.
- December 31, 2008 at 11:06 AM
It's kind of sad to think about, but if that martini cake had been done as a regular cake it would probably have finished up really cute.
- December 31, 2008 at 11:11 AM
- bubbasmom said...
I have to disagree about the "no beer with cake" rule. Guiness is wonderful with chocolate cake!
Or does stout count as beer??? Hmmm... - December 31, 2008 at 11:23 AM
- Meg said...
Before reading a word of today's post I was completely puzzled by number one, I thought it was some sort of bizarre shark... then I read and obviously it does look like a martini glass. Though I agree that ONE olive would be much more appropriate.
Number Two. Moonshine all the way.
Number 3. Something about the way the end is "tied" makes me think of papier mache stuff we made in elementary school. When you'd blow up a balloon then papier mache, let that dry, then pop the balloon. Anyone? Anyone? Well, maybe they used a small regtangular mylar balloon and never popped it... - December 31, 2008 at 11:33 AM
- Heather, Neilson, Grace & Creighton said...
i think the green stripes on the chocolate ladies are supposed to be lasers. you know, like the laser lights at the clubs?
- December 31, 2008 at 11:43 AM
- Unknown said...
The first one looks like olives surrounded by blue cotton candy.
~Amy B. - December 31, 2008 at 11:47 AM
A couple months back I was watching Amazing Wedding Cakes show where a cake was ordered with beer flavor. The couple's favorite holliday was Halloween so it was a spider web cake (red velvet) with beer flavored buttercream filling.
- December 31, 2008 at 11:54 AM
For a CCC, I don't think the martini cake is all that bad.
- December 31, 2008 at 12:03 PM
Dear Jen,
Actually a nice dark beer with very rich chocolate cake is incredibly awesome. Give it a try someday or even a Lambic raspberry beer with chocolate is divine! Happy New Year! Anabelle - December 31, 2008 at 12:03 PM
- Tori said...
#3 looks like a peeled, moldy pineapple. :D
- December 31, 2008 at 12:04 PM
- HorribleLicensePlates said...
That 3rd cake looks like giardia (for all of you microbiology nerds). It's an intestinal parasite. Happy New Year!!!
- December 31, 2008 at 12:08 PM
- Adele said...
Yup, white foam female (bet she's not a lady). Now as for the middle cake WTF IS IT????????
Adele - December 31, 2008 at 12:09 PM
- Juliet said...
"Well, it's New Year's Eve, and that means you've got two things on the brain right now: dieting and booze."
I nearly spit out my tea when I read that! #3 is a pineapple, with tinsel leaves and a few pieces of giant confetti. Or colourful tropical mold.
The beer bottles in the beer cooler cake look empty. Come on, if you're going to spring for a fancy cake, you can afford a six-pack of 'Bud' to put in it. Or... stay with me... a higher quality beer. That someone went to all that trouble for Budweiser is entertaining. - December 31, 2008 at 12:27 PM
- Saara said...
What do you mean cake and beer don't mix? In one otherwise bland business meeting, we had both beer and cake. Chocolate raspberry cake. Plus, we were allowed to consume the cake and the beer before and during the presentations and such. Relaxed the atmosphere quite a bit ;)
- December 31, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Along with the other approx. thirty-five people who obviously do not read the responses before posting their own, I say that the white "foam" is a white chocolate "lady." I can post this again if this addition to the dozens of other posts that say the same thing aren't enough. Sheesh.
- December 31, 2008 at 12:43 PM
About the 'alcohol/hair tonic' bottle cake -- I think I recognise the hair tonic you see in it. It looks like it could be Pirelli's Miracle Elixir...
(I was Toby in a production of Sweeney Todd. I sold the stuff. For the uninitiated, Pirelli's Miracle Elixir is "piss, piss with ink".) - December 31, 2008 at 12:45 PM
I agree with commenters above. The cooler is a bit of a wreck, but it's a loveable wreck. I, too, think the beads of condensation are a nice touch.
- December 31, 2008 at 12:54 PM
couple things here, first to "anonymous" fussing about all the reposts..before they are moderated you cant see the others and then when there are several maybe you dont have the time to read every one.
Next, i really do like the beer cooler cake. i think new years i think football...not diet and booze, i know SEVERAL peps who would love a tailgating beer cake! - December 31, 2008 at 1:14 PM
- Bri said...
Are we sure the bottles on the 5th cake aren't empty?
Cuz I'm certain their contents contributed to the fright that is that cake.
WV: flacrody...oh, the possibilities!
--Brianna McCarthy - December 31, 2008 at 1:22 PM
I have to agree that the martini glass isn't too bad, and would move right into mildly acceptable if it only had one olive.
And the beer cake is downright well done! The concept is weird, but the execution is very professional.
Word verification: ingal. Oddly appropriate for that last, hideous cake, but I shall leave it at that. - December 31, 2008 at 1:30 PM
- Boozy Tooth said...
Very nice Jen (golf clap), but where is the simple moonshine jug with the cork top and triple Xs? We Floridians demand the highest echelon of booze cakes, please!
- December 31, 2008 at 1:40 PM
- Mrs Redboots (Annabel Smyth) said...
Definitely a reclining nude. And I, too, thought a pineapple, but a blast-ended skrewt is MUCH better!
The cup-cake martini is crude, but rather fun. And I positively like the beer cooler - a weird idea, but done well. And I dare say the cake was eaten first and the beer drunk later. - December 31, 2008 at 1:44 PM
- binks said...
ROFL - that last one was made for a strip club. I don't think anyone was really *ahem* "looking" at the cake.
I'm sure it probably wasn't eaten, either. *wink*wink* - December 31, 2008 at 1:54 PM
Ok, I stand firm with Jen on the CCC issue. And in a way, this one just makes my point. It's kind of cute, and almost not a wreck, but it is going to be just as messy and over-frosted as every other CCC. The irony is, most of the justifications for CCCs (which I don't buy anyway) DO NOT APPLY to people who are old enough to be served cakes shaped like alcoholic beverages! So why not make a proper cake, which would be even cuter?
As for the last two, I suspect they're both just painted styrofoam. Seriously, is there any cake under there at all? - December 31, 2008 at 1:56 PM
- Unknown said...
Wow!! The Mystery foam lady scares me! I don't ever wanna go to a strip club where the dancing ladies look that tore up!
As for the Christmas Cracker/ Champagne bottle..to me it looks like a Puffer fish who has had a really rough day! - December 31, 2008 at 2:00 PM
- andie said...
I really like the martini CCC, and the beer cooler too. The orange one, I really have no idea, and the purple one gives me a hangover.
Thanks, Jen, and Happy New Year!
WV: levid. Sick and angry. "Sherry was just levid when John brought that nasty New Year's nightclub cake to her party." - December 31, 2008 at 2:02 PM
I really hope those aren't real ice cubes in the beer cake.
And yes, the white thing on the final, um, cake is a naked lady. White chocolate, maybe? - December 31, 2008 at 2:11 PM
- The Dirty Business Bath Co. said...
I have to argue that beer with chocolate cake is good. I come from a German family and it's just what you do.
- December 31, 2008 at 2:21 PM
- Brianna T said...
I don't see the wreckiness of the martini cake or the beer cooler cake. And as for the last one, if you're going to do gaudy, go all the way! :)
- December 31, 2008 at 2:28 PM
- Debbi said...
In reference to Jen's friend who likes orange juice with chocolate cake ... if you mix dark creme de cocoa liqueur with orange juice, it tastes EXACTLY like a tootsie roll! Swear!
WV ~ adope. OMG! I can't even go there! - December 31, 2008 at 2:33 PM
- Donna said...
I think the 4th cake is just klassy enough for a strip club...um, I mean "Gentleman's club".
- December 31, 2008 at 2:44 PM
Being that the last cake says "A Train", I think the drunken airbrushing is meant to look like a subway car bombed out with spray paint. (Though I'm on the A train line and the only grafitti these days is done with acid or scratched on the surface. Not very colorful at all.)
Actually a cake that looked like a grafitti covered subway car would be kind of cool, IF someone could actually make it look like one! - December 31, 2008 at 3:10 PM
Oh wow.
I LIKE the martini CCC.
I like it ALOT.
I'd like it even better with only one or two olives but daymn...
... How-ev-ar...
I've been hitting the bubbly early. I'll check later to see if I still like it when I've sobered up. - December 31, 2008 at 3:17 PM
Well, assuming the beer-cooler cake was made to order, it's kinda hard to blame the decorator; after all, in the end they're being paid to produce what the customer asks for, even if it's dorky. The end result looks passable to me, considering it's a cake that also has to be a cooler.
- December 31, 2008 at 3:20 PM
- Twolls said...
Like Anonymous pointed out, I'm surprised you didn't mention the white female figure on the top with the misshapen boobs and no neck.
- December 31, 2008 at 3:38 PM
- Cloth by Kim said...
The holiday crackers have things to pull at both ends. So I think that I'll have to go with the champagne bottle. Or something like that anyway....
- December 31, 2008 at 3:53 PM
- Tatersmama said...
I think that thing with "Celebrate" on it is actually supposed to be a party popper and not any type of booze. (google Party Poppers photos)
It's a little plastic bottle thing that goes "bang" and spews streamers and confetti when you pull the "cork". - December 31, 2008 at 4:13 PM
I know, I know...it's a CCC, but I totally love the martini cake! I so wish I had that at my house tonight!
- December 31, 2008 at 4:13 PM
- Angie McCullagh said...
I actually like cake with beer. And with cookies. I'm an odd duck, I know!
Angie (from over at www.HalfAssedKitchen.com) - December 31, 2008 at 4:21 PM
My 11 yr old DD had to point out the white ... um.... person?? on the top. So yeah I think it is a womans form laying on her back! lol!!
- December 31, 2008 at 4:21 PM
- Tatersmama said...
Oops... on 2nd thought, I think the blasted pineapple and hair tonic bottles are BOTH supposed to be party poppers.
Last night was New Years Eve here in Oz, and I saw more than my fair share of 'em.
I hate the things.
And the way I feel this morning. - December 31, 2008 at 4:25 PM
- Bedlam said...
these are so beautiful, happy new year !!
- December 31, 2008 at 4:34 PM
- Das Mutter said...
Okay, I'm sorry but I love the beer cake, and the martini CCC is pretty darn cute, I have to say, as CCC's go. Can't wait to see what lies in store for next year. Happy NY!
- December 31, 2008 at 4:35 PM
- Unknown said...
Just adding another voice to the "chocolate cake goes very well with dark beer" choir.
Come to the dark (beer) side, we've got cake....
P.S: WV - nousn. Not really a noun, but almost. - December 31, 2008 at 4:37 PM
- FreedomFirst said...
Okay, don't hit me - I actually think the CCC martini wasn't too bad. It was nicely decorated at least, and they had the good sense to frost each one separately.
The sprouting bottle of something - I don't get that at all. - December 31, 2008 at 4:39 PM
- WM said...
I'm with Rima on that chocolate bunny/bondage thing. That was my first take...then I finished reading what Jen wrote. But what is that purple curtain thing? A window...a door to the club? These are the kind of wreckerators that need to have their airbrushes disconnected from the compressors.
Did kind of like the CCC...definitely one olive.
My husband agrees that the orange thingie is a party cracker.
The beer cake is kind of cool...but why? When you cut the cake do the ice cubes/water run all over the table or is the beer in a rigid container? Way too many questions.
Love this website! - December 31, 2008 at 4:53 PM
- Elana said...
I think the "cracker" is a pineapple too! I thought that's for sure what it was when I first saw it (it's the green stuff coming out of the top--or what I have deemed the top, it's actually the bottom in this picture--that does it for me) and the more I looked at it the more i doubted myself (WTF is that grey swirly stuff on it? Why are there random bits of neon orange marshmallow looking things?)...but I'm glad to know I'm not alone!
- December 31, 2008 at 5:14 PM
I definitely see the nekid lady on top of the fourth cake, but the decor on the around the bottom looks like chocolate covered dog biscuits to me! Guess I've spent too much holiday time handing out treats to my pooch. Happy New Year everyone!
- December 31, 2008 at 5:42 PM
- Hyena Overlord said...
One olive would suffice. It's still ugly. The orange thing. My cat ate tinsel at Christmas. I changed their food. I found an sparkly orangish thing in the litter box. Now we know what the orange cake commemorates.
The beer coolers is actually pretty neat. Hubby would like it.
The other monstrosity looks like a pimps birthday cake. A Train, the pimp in his party palace with da ladezz.
wvotd shuto..."A Train hustled his way through the party. His flared pants and platform shoes making a shu to, shu sound as they brushed the 2 inch long nap on the shag carpet" - December 31, 2008 at 6:03 PM
- sendingtheclowns said...
Here I am again, in my own little world...
What I *saw* when gazing upon the martini cake (for that magical first moment) was a scan of some very unfortunate person's lower gastrointestinal tract. One with some serious-looking growths crowding into the abdominal cavity, at that.
Cake diagnosis: terminal.
As for the "celebrate" bottle cake--it brings me in mind of an old-fashioned, glass, hospital urinal for the bedridden. A full one, too!
=^()()^= - December 31, 2008 at 6:12 PM
- Lara said...
OMG - I just tried to post a link to the Cake Wrecks blog on a friend's Facebook wall and it was marked as 'abusive content' and I couldn't post the link!!
Facebook then logged me out of my account saying there was suspicious activity going on.
Might want to look into that.
Love this blog :) - December 31, 2008 at 6:38 PM
- fuzzandfuzzlet said...
We seem to have a cheap beer theme going.... Miller Lite... Bud ick.....
- December 31, 2008 at 7:09 PM
- Scritzy said...
Quoting Simon Cowell here ...
What the bloody hell?
I am wondering just what sort of gathering would require a CCC made to look like a martini??? Is it James Bond Jr.'s birthday?
I don't drink, but dang, those whatever they are make me want to.
Happy New Year, and may many more wrecks come your way! - December 31, 2008 at 7:55 PM
- WriterGirl17 said...
I've seen a few people's comments that are exactly along my thought line: the orange cake is a pineapple.
But the ordinary pineapple does not usually include pineapple. So here's my theory: Spongebob Squarepants decorated his house for Christmas and someone has captured that in cake form. - December 31, 2008 at 8:20 PM
While not arguing about the supposed tastefulness of beer on a cake, I do know that the beer bottles are made from sugar (toffee) and are shaped in a food safe latex mould. The ice is also made from sugar.
- December 31, 2008 at 8:20 PM
My first comment ever on this blog - but I've been following it for a while and love your work!
@ Tatersmama's party popper suggestion - having seen a few of them last night myself, the streamer bits come from the other end... so the "Celebrate" one would be upside down in that case too. Re the "pineapple" LOL, maybe if there was *one* string from the narrow end (but the "bubbles" at the other end are still mysterious)...
Weirdly, I found the martini and beer ones kinda cute ;-)
@ Anonymous complaint - I would have thought anybody submitting a comment would realise they're moderated and note the time stamps on all the "copycat" ones???
And finally, WV: swelsib - What a swell sib for buying me such a "groovy" cake? - December 31, 2008 at 8:26 PM
The hair tonic one made me think of the musical Sweeney Todd when Toby is selling Pirelli's Miracle Elixer, Sweeney Todd says it's "nothing but an errant fraud, concocted from piss and ink." Or in this case, piss and food coloring.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:08 PM
- Alberta Art Classes said...
I thought they were chocolate bunnies. Whew! The fact that they are chocolate ladies actually makes me feel better.
- December 31, 2008 at 9:10 PM
We're sure that third one isn't some kind of a mutant radioactive pineapple?
- December 31, 2008 at 11:24 PM
- E.A.D. said...
That last one is just an eyesore! Like, Grand Canyon or Empire State Building-caliber EYESORE, it's obnoxiousness is on such a grand scale!
Happy New year to you and yours, Jen, and to all Cake Wrecks readers! - January 1, 2009 at 12:25 AM
- Donna M. said...
The first one looks like there were some left over monster eyes from halloween and somebody said "Let's make them into martini olives"...the third one, I was thinking carrot.
- January 1, 2009 at 1:53 AM
Wait, those things on the last cake are in the form of women? W...wow. I was wondering what in the name of time those were...
- January 1, 2009 at 2:15 AM
- sunshyne said...
That last cake was obviously distressing. I had to look twice to see the naked foam lady.
I'm sad that the creator of the martini cake thought cupcakes were the way to go, especially for the martini glass. Not mad...just sad.
I love this blog. - January 1, 2009 at 5:17 AM
- Eric said...
I have identified the mysterious orange "cake." It's actually an alien dung beatle.
- January 1, 2009 at 5:30 AM
I think that the beer bottles on the cooler cake are actually made of sugar.
- January 1, 2009 at 10:53 AM
I think the "joystick" is a toilet plunger.
- January 1, 2009 at 11:11 AM
Ok, I know it's not for everyone, but my hubby would absolutely love that beer cooler cake. I'm actually considering ordering one for his next birthday! Hey, it's a guy thing...
- January 1, 2009 at 3:47 PM
- Shavon said...
Actually, in my sorority days, we used to order a white cake and a pony keg of some cheap light beer for every occasion...it's not a bad combo.
-Shavon - January 2, 2009 at 12:11 AM
- Inky said...
I can't believe no one's mentioned the purple lepord print curtains on the last cake. They're so deliciously tacky!
- January 2, 2009 at 7:57 AM
- Amy in StL said...
Sorry to correct you but beer and chocolate cake are a great combination. A stronger beer tends to go better with the chocolate, but don't knock it until you've tried it.
- January 2, 2009 at 4:26 PM
I kinda liked the beer one. I'm thinking of getting one made now, for my boyfriend's 40th later this year!
- January 4, 2009 at 7:01 PM
- Hunter said...
For some help overcoming the "no beer with cake" thing, this might help give some ideas beyond the obvious stout connection (and people, please, "Guinness" isn't a style, and it's by no means the be-all and end-all of cream stouts). I can personally lend a big thumbs-up to the double IPA/carrot cake connection. Actually the only way I can stomach carrot cake (the stuff's just too sweet on its own).
- January 9, 2009 at 11:08 PM
For dieting cakes: How about the "One Bon-Bon is poison"?
Gah! You've ruined my mind! All I saw was mystery foam. I saw this cake one day and went to comment about a week later about the dieting cakes, and then I saw the comments. - January 12, 2009 at 11:48 AM
- Unknown said...
I am sorry but i LOVE the Beer cooler cake (although I would never drink the CRAP BEER they have in it- some good imported AlE... oh yeah)!!! I have two Beer lover friends and this would be the perfect cake for thier birthdays. Jessica M
- January 14, 2009 at 6:12 AM
Beer with cake, blech? No way! Especially beer with CHOCOLATE CAKE! I am a baker and I adore beer with cake. But, you pretty much have to love beer and cake to enjoy them together. If you only tolerate beer, chances are you'll be grossed out at the thought of them together.
- February 12, 2009 at 9:49 PM
that white lump (with lumps) on top IS a woman's form! huzzah! she's laying on her back with one knee up.
- October 27, 2009 at 10:59 AM
- Cupcakes Lady said...
I think my husband would appreciate the Bud beer cake. Is there actually real ice in with the bottles? I think that could get messy...as well a bit soggy cake though! Thanks Suzanne xx
- October 7, 2010 at 11:32 AM
- ali love said...
hmmm its great :)
- December 26, 2010 at 4:31 PM
beer and cake is perfect, beer and anything is perfect sheesh
- August 2, 2011 at 5:12 AM
Search This Blog
Wreck the Halls
NEW! Pre-Order Today!
Barnes & Noble
Borders |
Buy the Book
Buy the NYT Bestseller
What's a Wreck?
What's a Wreck?
A Cake Wreck is any cake that is unintentionally sad, silly, creepy, inappropriate - you name it. A Wreck is not necessarily a poorly-made cake; it's simply one I find funny, for any of a number of reasons. Anyone who has ever smeared frosting on a baked good has made a Wreck at one time or another, so I'm not here to vilify decorators: Cake Wrecks is just about finding the funny in unexpected, sugar-filled places.
Now, don't you have a photo you want to send me? ;)
- Fan Faves
- The Classics
The Classics
Praise for the Book
- "Will have you laughing so hard you'll forget to eat!"— Washington Post
- "a hilarious winner" — The Oregonian
- "a fantastically gut-busting book"— NPR
- "It's all here, each wreck a disaster of hilarity." — BookPage.com
- "Hysterically funny!"— Epinions.com
- "laugh-out-loud funny"— The Times
- "Yates' sharp humor makes the funny even funnier." — The Dallas Morning News
- "an amazing laugh-out-loud book"— The Book Triblog
What the fans are saying
- "I was laughing so hard, I couldn't catch my breath."
- "As funny as the blog that started it."
- "WAY better than I expected!"
- "Cake Wreckery at its best!"
- "Wrecktastic!"
- American Mensa:Top 50 Websites of 2010
- Amazon: Top 10 gift books of 2009
- The Orlando Sentinal "Orbbies": Winner Humor
- 2009 BlogLuxe Awards: Funniest Blog
- 2009 Bloggies: Best Writing of a Weblog, Best New Weblog, Best Food Blog
- The 2008 Weblog Awards: Best Food Blog
- Blogger's Choice 2008 Awards: Best Humor Blog
Where's the book?
We don't have any copies of Cake Wrecks for sale here, autographed or otherwise. We decided the shipping and handling costs would be too high to make it worth your while. So instead, buy your copies locally or online and then order personalized bookplates: it's cheaper, easier, and I think even looks a bit nicer.
Ordering Info
Payments must be made through Paypal, which accepts all major credit cards. Sorry, but that means no checks or MOs or barter-based chickens.
We ship everything first class USPS, and will do our best to have your package in the mail within 2 days of your order.
Popular This Month
Popular This Month
- Party Like It's 1999
- Why You Don't Raid Other People's Refrigerators
- Grandpa's Order
- Sunday Sweets Assignment
- Winter Wonderland Sweets Continued
- Goy Gaffes
- Kwanzaa Will Not Be Spared
- In So Many Words...
- Santa Gets the Shaft
- Yes, Let's!
- Totally Cheating
- Sunday Sweets: Winter Wonderland
- Ye Olde Yuletide Ax
- When Gangsters Go "PC"
- Cheery O's
- Whirled Peas
- Seasonal Non Sequiturs
- But Where are the Blue Birds?
- You Just Can't Buy That Kind of Advertising
- Dino-Mite!
- Sunday Sweets Assignment
- Sunday Sweets: Cake Nouveau
- What Makes Jen Happy?
- The Easiest Cake Theme EVER
- Keith and What's-Her-Name
- The World's Most Cheerful Hanging
- Suite Interview
- More Wreckwear!
- The Cutest Misspellings of "Happy Birthday" I Have...
- The Haunted Holidays
- Artistic License
- "Cleuless" is Right
- Too Hot to Handle, Too Cold to Hold
- Sunday Sweets: Off-the-Shelf Cuteness
- How Many Blogs Have Tribute Parties?
- What Do You Get for an Investment Banker?
- Guest Blogging at Cupcakes Take the Cake
- The Cupcakes Were Made of Irony
- The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
- Wedding Wrecks
- Calling All Wreckporters!
- Fetal Bites
- Because Every Blog Needs a Jingle


text:
Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream & Strawberry Thyme Shortbreads
We have a winner! Beside the winning combination of Strawberry Ice Cream and Strawberry Thyme Shortbreads Cookies, I am happy to announce that Maryann from Finding La Dolce Vita is the winner of The Baker's Odyssey! Congrats Maryann! Shoot me an email with your address and the book is on it way!
I realized last evening when someone called to hire B's band at the last minute for today that it was Mardi Gras! Ah! As a kid it was one of my favorite celebration in the year because I'd get to dress up and I loved to play dress up…ask my mother. I think I just about drove her crazy most years but she knew how much I loved becoming someone completely different even for just a day. So "Bon Mardis Gras" to anybody celebrating!
This past weekend I had the opportunity to play dress up. A different kind though. I played the adult, hardcore. I held the hand of a person in pain and massaged her back. I read her stories and cooked dinner. I did someone else's laundry and folded someone else's socks and underwear. For a weekend, I was mother, sister, friend and everything in between. I was the cold cloth girl, the cook, the story teller. We spent the weekend with friends who needed us for one last round of chemo aftermath. Hear that…last one…Hooray! Go life!!
M. was not up to much fun but she was a trooper and when she saw me unpack the groceries for the weekend, she got that little twinkle in her eyes. "Did you bring dessert? I wonder if I'll have enough of an appetite for it…". Yes, I had brought dessert, a freshly made batch of strawberry and vanilla bean ice cream and planned to bake some cookies at their house. Yes, one more strawberry post but when they are this fresh and this gorgeous in their shiny red coat, I can't help it…I am weak. What better combination than fresh vanilla, cream and strawberry?
I know how much they like a good cookie with their ice cream and I had planned to make shortbread cookies but the idea was still in progress in my head though. Sometimes, if you leave me too think to long, it ends up in a little frenzy. This time however, everything came together in a very fun way, blending and talking, chopping and talking.
I just did not want they plain and that is when I decided to dry some strawberry slices and add them to the dough along with some fresh chopped thyme. Yep, thyme. If rosemary and plums can be so good together, why not thyme and strawberries? It was perfect with the tart bits of the strawberries and the crumbly, sweet dough and it was delicious with the ice cream. Makes me want to try them with some lemon thyme once I get my herbs growing again. Strawberry heaven….Now I think I am done for a while with them…or am I?
Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe:
Kitchen Notes: I made one batch with all the juices and the ice cream turned a very pretty pink but there were virtually no swirl left after trying to get the perfect scoop for a photo op!
I made another batch where I just used diced strawberries thrown in the vanilla ice cream base. Plenty of vanilla color to go around this time! (used in the pics here)
4 egg yolks
1/2 cup (100gr) + 2 tablespoons (25gr) sugar
2 cups half and half
1 vanilla bean, split open
1 cup strawberries, hulled and quartered
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks and one cup of sugar until pale and thick. In a saucepan set over medium heat, bring the half and half and vanilla bean to a simmer, without letting it come to a full boil. Slowly pour the hot cream over the egg yolks mixture while whisking to temper the egg yolks. Pour the whole mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream coats the back of spoon. It should register 170F on a candy thermometer. At this point you have made a custard sauce, also known as "creme anglaise". Let cool completely, strain and refrigerate until cold.
While the custard cool, prepare the strawberries. Place the quartered strawberries and the remaining measurement of sugar into a small heavy saucepan over medium heat and cook just long enough for the strawberries to soften and to release some juice. Remove from the heat and let cool. Once both the fruit and the custard are cold, process the custard first according to your ice cream maker manufacturer's instructions and toward the end of the churning period, throw in the strawberries.
Dried Strawberries and Thyme Shortbread Cookies Recipe:
Makes about 2 dozen cookies, depending on the size of your cutters.
1 cup strawberries, hulled and thinly sliced
1 stick butter (113gr) butter at room temperature
1/4 cup (50gr) sugar
2 egg yolks
1 1/2 cups (188gr) all purpose flour
2 teaspoons fresh chopped thyme
pinch of salt
1/2 tablespoon of milk
Preheat your oven to 250F.
Place the strawberry slices in one single layer on a parchment paper line baking sheet and let them dry in the oven for about one hour. Let them cool completely. Chop the dried slices in small pieces and set aside.
Turn the oven to 350F.
In a stand mixer, beat together the butter and sugar until pale and creamy. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the flour, thyme, dried strawberries, pinch of salt and the milk and beat until the ingredients are just started to come together. Stop the mixer and finish mixing the dough with yout hands on a work surface. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 30 minutes. On a lightly floured surface roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out cookies with your desired cookie cutter and place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before baking the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until just golden brown around the edges.


text:
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Repair
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Repair
Taylors Service Center is here to to help you keep your hybrid or electric vehicle running efficiently and Eco-friendly. Contact us today at 717-456-5576 to set up a time for us to service your vehicle.
At Taylors Service Center you'll find the expertise and premium parts needed to get your hybrid or electric vehicle back on the road in no time. The days of being stuck with dealer repairs, and the sky high bills that come with them, are over. At Taylors Service Center you'll find highly trained and qualified mechanics with expertise in every area that makes your hybrid or EV different from everyday vehicles, such as electric drivetrain components and regenerative braking systems.
Your hybrid car's electric motor allows it to save gas when driving around in stop and go traffic. Getting your car rolling strains your engine much more than cruising along at a steady pace. This is where the torque of an electric motor comes into the hybrid drive system, and where your gas savings come from. At Taylors Service Center, our experts are trained to keep those savings coming, by ensuring that the electric motors in your hybrid or EV are in optimal working condition. We provide diagnostic testing, repairs, and preventative maintenance for drivers near Delta to make sure your hybrid or EV remains at peak performance.
Without your vehicle's battery and charging systems, those fuel-saving electric motors will have no power to turn. The specialized batteries in hybrid and electric vehicles are the costliest part of the entire system, so they should be serviced by mechanics that have expert training in the field. At Taylors Service Center we ensure that only certified technicians, fully trained across all major manufacturers' power systems, will service your vehicle's battery and charging systems. As with your vehicle's electric motors, we can diagnose and repair issues, as well as sourcing and installing quality replacement parts should the job require it.
The capacity for regenerative braking is another clever feature of your hybrid or EV. This kind of braking essentially puts the electric motor(s) into reverse, assisting the mechanical brake pads and slowing the vehicle while generating electricity to charge the battery. A beneficial side effect of this system is the longevity that drivers see in the life of their brake system. At Taylors Service Center we carefully monitor your vehicle's brake pads to ensure the pads last as long as possible, saving you even more money in the process. When it's finally time to replace the pads, we'll have you back on the road within a matter of hours.
If you are looking for great service for your hybrid car or electric vehicle in the Delta PA area call Taylors Service Center today at 717-456-5576.
To learn more about our Electric Hybrid Repair services, call us at 717-456-5576 or request a quote by clicking below:
Request Quote
Discover More About Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Repair At Taylors Service Center in Delta
Electrical Repair Services
Auto Electronics Repair
Matt & Kelly Gilley, 01/03/2024Brian always does a great job in diagnosing our vehicle needs and helping address and fix them quickly. Customer Service is what he does best. He always prioritizes his customer's needs and does it with the utmost integrity. We will only take our vehicles to Taylor's and cannot highly recommend them enough. If you want to know your vehicle is in good hands, with an honest, hardworking team, go to Taylor's!!


text:
Headlights run together in a pale yellow stream as commuters make their way through the morning fog. A school bus stops and everybody waits. Children in thick coats sprint from dark houses and clammer onto the bus. Flecks of ice swirl through the billowing plumes of exhaust - frost or flurries, I'm not sure which. I'm taking a gamble that somewhere beyond the fog, it's a nice day. But the morning is kind of ugly, thick and gray, and grumpy because I couldn't sleep, so here I am, joining the pre-dawn commute. They'll go to work and school, and I'll go to Thunder Mountain.
(It's been a tough week. A relationship I had been cautiously optimistic about hit a dead end. These things happen. Nothing I can do about it, but it's hard not to feel frustrated and wonder what's wrong with me. I gave myself some time to feel bad about it and haven't been able to sleep much, but the weather's been gorgeous, as ideal as December weather can be, sunny, just below freezing, and no wind. That's the formula for stunning winter beauty, and spending as much time as I can afford to spend out in it really does keep me grounded, comfortably, somewhere between mania and depression.)
I'm dripping sweat all over the freshly frosted trail when Geoff calls, somewhat randomly, at 8:18 in the morning. He's been in San Francisco all week for a big race, a big race that went well, and he placed second, still ahead of the old course record, and won $4,000. I had decided earlier in the week that I was hurt that he hadn't called me about it, but that emotion didn't stick. It's hard for me to believe it's been eight months since we broke up. It does not seem like that long. I burned through my anger on the Great Divide, made my peace, and came home knowing he was right about the whole thing. Since then, we've had an amicable if somewhat distant friendship, based on reserved kindness and a whole lot of honesty. On the phone, we talk about his race, about our old friends, about his girlfriend. I'm sleep-deprived and gasping up a virtual wall of roots and frozen mud, so I don't feel a whole lot, but I'm glad he called.
Very slowly, I start to climb out of the fog. At first I see streaks of brighter light through the gray, and then the ice-glazed snow starts to sparkle. It's still early enough for orange light, burning hot through a hole in the clouds, and then I push through the hole, and there's nothing beyond but blue sky. The snow-coated mountain ridge is surrounded by a sea of clouds, everything shimmering gold beneath a low winter sun. Beauty like this brings me instant joy, no matter how ugly I feel inside, every time.
I reach the ridge and strap on my crampons. I weave up and down the slope so I can practice spike-walking in places where the consequences of falling aren't too disastrous. Learning the daunting art of mountaineering is something I really want right now. I'm not even sure where this desire came from. I've never felt this way about it before. I always saw mountaineering as this highly risky sport that required more skills and guts than I could ever possess. But now I see mountaineering for what it is at its surface - a way to go farther into these places I truly love, the mountains.
I stop for a moment at the edge of the ridge and look out over the shrouded city. A roar of sound fills the white spaces as though there were three feet of vertical space between us instead of 3,000. I hear vehicles streaming down the highway. I hear planes taking off. I hear machinery moving earth. I hear trucks backing up. I hear everything as though I were down there, among the din of traffic, but all I see is a wilderness of mountains and clouds.
As I work my way down the ridge, I see small tracks from a mountain goat, so I follow them. The goat went where I want to go, following the friendly side of a cornice, all the way to the edge of a knife ridge. I work my way up to my point of no return. There is an exposed traverse on this ridge that involves a scramble up loose talus. It frightens me even in the summer, when it's warm and dry. No way am I going up that section through the snow, with my limited skills, alone, unroped, in the winter. I notice the mountain goat didn't go that way, either. It turned right, scrambled along an even more exposed edge, skittered across a wall of barren, icy rock, and rounded the next corner out of sight.
I turn and look back at my own tracks - big, awkward, not at all like the goat's. I can't remember the last time I felt so much envy toward another creature. Mountain goat didn't need crampons. It didn't need an ice ax. It didn't need to spend years trying to figure out what it was doing. Mountain goat didn't traverse this ridge because it was restless, or wandering, or searching for clear answers to foggy questions. Mountain goat traversed this ridge because it was the most natural thing for it to be doing. Somehow, in this frozen wasteland, it had access to food, it had a home, it had a life. I wish I could be like mountain goat.
I glance at my watch and yelp. I am spending far too much time on this mountain. I reluctantly start making my way back down. The sun blazes, bright and warm. It's probably close to freezing up here. It may even be above. I feel cozy and comfortable. I have a down coat in my backpack, and a bivy sack. My cell phone has full reception. I wonder what my boss would say if I called him up, told him that I wouldn't be coming to work any more, that I would be moving to the top of Thunder Mountain, to become like mountain goat.
He would probably just laugh. I reluctantly follow my tracks back, thinking about freedom and happiness. Up in the open air, it's very easy to believe that I can just "follow my bliss," if only I knew what that was. Travel around on my bicycle? Find a better-paying job, acquire a house? Give away all of my possessions save for my bicycles and my hiking gear and move to a small cabin and become a starving writer? Work for a struggling newspaper and find freedom in my surroundings, these beautiful, incredible surroundings? It's a moot thought exercise because the only place I truly believe in change is up here, and when I return to life below, the fog always seems to fill in these hollow hopes.
I reach the junction of the ridge, where the route drops back into the murky grayness. Traffic is still roaring. I frown, because I am not ready to go back. Sweat pours from my forehead. The temperature is rising. It feels like it's 80 degrees. I dump by backpack with the snowshoes and coat dangling off of it; I fling away my ax and my trekking pole. I strip off my gloves and fleece, and I take off up the other side of the ridge, running, as fast as my crampon-weighted feet will carry me, running into the calm winter air and white, bright snow. I run until I can not breathe, and still I keep running. I get carried away with the emotion of it; it feels like strong happiness, happiness as strong as love. I feel like I'm in love, but only with Thunder Mountain. Again, just Thunder Mountain.
And I wonder, I wonder about that emotion. If a person is in love with cold and desolate places, does that make them a cold and desolate person? I think it's a valid question.
Support this blog by buying my book! Signed copies only $11.95 plus shipping.


text:
Arctic Armor
Mesh Safety Pool Cover -Pool Size: 15' x 30' Blue Rectangle Center End Step Arctic Armor Gold 15 Yr Warranty
»» Description: | |||
Arctic Armor Super Mesh™ is the finest mesh safety cover you can buy – period! While functioning as a traditional safety cover, it will protect your family and pets from accidental drowning while improving the appearance of your pool in the off-season .Super Mesh™'s fabric is made from very tough strands, making it stronger than standard mesh material and better able to withstand heavy snow loads and extreme wind, Rugged stainless steel dual springs provide added strength and will not become "sprung" under the weight of snow and ice. Super Mesh™'s tightly woven fabric provides two levels of protection. Since this tight weave provides almost total shade, the sun's algae producing rays do not enter the water, leaving your pool virtually algae-free in the spring. This super tight weave allows water to seep through the cover, but filters out all but the finest debris. Since almost no dirt or debris gets into your pool, spring opening is quicker, easier and requires fewer chemicals. Arctic Armor Super Mesh™ Gold safety cover uses brass anchors that recess flush with your deck when not in use. It installs using a special installation tool that prevents removal without it. The cover comes complete with brass anchors, stainless steel dual springs, installation tool, storage bag and complete installation instructions. Available in Green or Blue (see title for color selection) This cover is backed by a 15 year Warranty *NOTE* If you have anything with in 14" of your pool's edge that can not be removed, you will require a custom safety cover. Trees, handrails, ladders, fencing, attached spa, diving bases are all items that may not be movable. If you have rounded pool edges, cut out seating area, or offset steps, you will also need to get a custom cover. We specialize in custom covers and we would be happy to get you a quote.
Click here for Custom Safety Cover Info Click here for Other Items in your size Click here for 110% Price Guarantee info | |||
»» Application: | |||
| |||
»» Features: | |||
| |||
»» Product Notes / Warranty / Manufactures Website: | |||
15 year warranty |


text:
CDT files brief urging privacy safeguards for Google Books
CDT has filed an amicus brief in the Google Books copyright lawsuit, asking for the judge to approve the proposed settlement in the case, but also to ensure that reader privacy is protected as Google implements the expanded services envisioned in the settlement. The settlement would dramatically transform Google Books from an index and finding aid into a resource for users to browse, preview, and purchase full-text access to the millions of books Google has scanned from libraries around the world. Such increased access to knowledge will certainly be of great benefit to scholarship and education, but CDT and several other information privacy advocates have identified serious potential threats to reader privacy and intellectual freedom-values that have for many years been taken seriously and highly protected by libraries.
1) CDT files brief urging privacy safeguards for Google Books
2) Privacy Concerns and CDT's Recommendations
3) The Larger Picture of Privacy Online
1) CDT files brief urging privacy safeguards for Google Books
CDT has filed an amicus brief in the Google Books copyright lawsuit, asking for the judge to approve the proposed settlement in the case, but also to ensure that reader privacy is protected as Google implements the expanded services envisioned in the settlement. The settlement would dramatically transform Google Books from an index and finding aid into a resource for users to browse, preview, and purchase full-text access to the millions of books Google has scanned from libraries around the world. Such increased access to knowledge will certainly be of great benefit to scholarship and education, but CDT and several other information privacy advocates have identified serious potential threats to reader privacy and intellectual freedom – values that have for many years been taken seriously and highly protected by libraries. We believe that these concerns demand attention as part of the settlement approval. The brief is a follow-up to our July report on the privacy implications of the groundbreaking settlement and recommends specific commitments Google should agree to in order to protect reader privacy as the company takes on the roles of a library and a bookstore. While Google has voluntarily agreed to some of these recommendations, its privacy policy does not go far enough – nor is it adequately enforceable given the potentially sensitive nature of reading and research – so the responsibility falls to the court to establish binding safeguards as the settlement moves forward.
As a general matter, CDT supports approval of the settlement because the array of services described will greatly benefit the public by enabling unprecedented digital access to millions of books. Google will gain the right to offer expanded previews of books returned in search results ("Previews"); to sell online access to books in their entirety ("Consumer Purchases"); to sell subscriptions to the entire database of books for institutions ("Institutional Subscriptions"); and to offer free access to the entire database via terminals in public libraries ("Public Access Service"). In exchange, Google will provide ongoing compensation to rightsholders, in addition to a one-time payment for books already scanned. These payments to copyright holders will be coordinated and distributed by a newly established "Books Rights Registry." These valuable new services, and the accompanying compensation to rightsholders, would not have been possible even if Google had won a fair-use victory in the lawsuit.
However, these services also give rise to serious privacy risks. Managing and differentiating among the services will require extensive data collection on Google's part, including the collection of sensitive personal information about which books people are reading. In addition, Google will need to share some information about usage of the services with the Registry so that it can administer payments to rightsholders. However, the settlement agreement does little to describe what specific information will be collected, how it will be secured, and what limitations will be placed on Google in terms of how it will be used and shared. Because readers' privacy rights were not a central issue in the copyright dispute being settled, it is understandable that these issues were not considered in the agreement. Nevertheless, they need to be addressed.
To its credit, Google has clearly recognized that there are significant privacy concerns here, and has taken important steps that address some – but not all – of these concerns. Just before the court filing deadline for commenters and objectors, Google posted a privacy policy for Google Books, in which it commits to only share aggregate, non-identifying information with the Registry; to allow users to delete information they store in association with their Google Accounts; to allow Institutional Subscribers to authenticate their own constituents without transmitting identifying information to Google; not to require users of the Public Access Service to register with Google; to post detailed privacy policies in connection with the new book services; and to secure user data against unauthorized access.
Google's commitments are a good first step, but they do not go far enough. Additionally, promises made in a privacy policy are subject to change at any time. Consequently, CDT's brief asks the court to use its ongoing jurisdiction over the settlement to hold Google both to the commitments the company has made, and to require additional commitments to protect reader privacy.
CDT "friend of the court" brief
CDT report on Google Book Service (July 2009)
2) Privacy concerns and CDT's recommendations
Both as a legal and policy matter, readers have long enjoyed a high level of anonymity and privacy with respect to their reading habits. The First Amendment arguably protects the right to receive information anonymously. Accordingly, the American Library Association Code of Ethics has a longstanding commitment to intellectual freedom and patron privacy, stating, "We protect each library user's right to privacy and confidentiality with respect to information sought or received and resources consulted, borrowed, acquired, or transmitted." Forty-eight states have reinforced individuals' right to privacy with respect to what they read by enacting statutes that either expressly protect these records or exempt them from public disclosure rules. With respect to book purchases, courts have likewise been generally been reluctant to compel bookstore owners to reveal information about their customers' purchases.
In this context, the settlement represents a sea change with respect to the treatment of material that has historically been highly protected, and presents a unique opportunity to ensure that strong protections remain in place as 'the library' moves online. Google is in many ways taking on the role of the public library as a gateway to information, only on a much larger and more comprehensive scale. By hosting the scans of the books and closely managing user access, Google will have the capability to collect data about individual users' searches, preview pages visited, books purchased, and even time spent reading particular pages. Whereas in the offline world such data collection is either impossible or widely distributed among libraries and bookstores, Google will hold a massive centralized repository of books and of information about how people access and read books online.
To comply with the terms of the settlement, Google will collect detailed user information to authenticate users, to differentiate among the services offered, to calculate payments to rightsholders, and to prevent fraud and unauthorized access to the scanned books. (For a fuller discussion of the data collection the settlement necessitates, see CDT's July report.) Additionally, Google will have to share data with the Registry. Some collection and sharing is of course necessary to effectuate the settlement, but while the agreement does state that Google cannot be forced to disclose "confidential or personally identifiable information except as compelled by law or valid legal process" in the case of a security breach, it does not place any limitations on voluntary disclosure by Google.
More generally, the agreement also does not address Google's collection, use, retention, and sharing of user data outside a few narrow contexts. The fact that Google offers dozens of information services and maintains rich profiles on users' use of Google's services only compounds the privacy risk. In the absence of binding limits on what Google can do with the data it collects about readers through GBS, Google would remain free to combine that data with other data that Google collects, adding a rich and personal dimension to user profiles and making them more attractive for a variety of uses, from marketing to litigation.
Google's increasingly comprehensive stores of user data will likely be a tempting information source for government surveillance as well. Law enforcement has already shown considerable interest in search engine data and other kinds of records showing Internet usage. As Google's data collection capability grows, it is imperative that its thresholds for governmental disclosure are adequate to ensure user privacy and due process.
With such potential for data collection and surveillance, formal privacy safeguards are necessary to ensure that readers maintain the privacy they have traditionally enjoyed, thus preserving the right to read anonymously. To this end, CDT has recommended, both in our report and in our brief to the court, specific protections based on Fair Information Practices that Google should abide by as it implements the services outlined in the Settlement. If adopted, the recommendations would ensure that Google limit its collection and retention of data to that which is necessary to effectuate the terms of the settlement; guarantee that Google share only aggregate and non-identifiable data with the Registry; set a high standard for disclosure of user data to third parties, including law enforcement; and provide users adequate notice and control over what information is collected and stored.
CDT strongly believes that these recommendations offer Google and the court a concrete way to address the privacy risks incumbent with the otherwise valuable settlement. In response to CDT's July report, as well as pressure from other advocates and the Federal Trade Commission, Google has published a privacy policy for Google Books that addresses some, but not all of the concerns. To ensure that reader privacy is adequately protected as the settlement moves forward, we have presented the full list to the judge presiding over the case, urging that they guide Google's implementation of the settlement.
3) The Larger Picture of Privacy Online
The Google Books settlement represents a sweeping change to the publishing industry and the role of libraries, and as such deserves the scrutiny it has gotten in the ten months since it was announced. We strongly believe that the settlement should be approved, and that privacy must be a part of that approval.
But Google will not be alone in the market for electronic books, nor is the company alone in providing electronic access to information more generally. Viewed in this broader context, Google Book Search is just the latest example of how innovative online approaches to communication and information dissemination can strain and reshape existing privacy laws and norms.
Because of the enormous scale and great potential value of the Google Books project – and since it will be operating with the blessing of a court – CDT feels it is crucial that longstanding privacy norms be carried over into the new services. The settlement presents a unique opportunity to ensure that the important public interest in reader privacy is built in from the start. The safeguards we recommend, however, should not be unique to Google, and we would recommend similar practices to any provider of similar online information services.
Consequently, CDT continues to work towards and support general legislation establishing technology-neutral baseline consumer privacy protections. One of the key aspects to our argument for privacy safeguards in Google Books is the ongoing enforcement oversight of the judge presiding over the case. At the same time, however, the legislative nature of many of the issues implicated in this settlement – copyright licensing, orphan works, consumer privacy, antitrust – suggest that the right place to address these questions is in Congress. Rather than working on a one-off basis as new and potentially disruptive projects emerge, well-written consumer-focused baseline privacy legislation would ensure that privacy is protected no matter where users go online or with whom they communicate. With Google Books as the most recent and highest profile example of the need to protect privacy online in mind, CDT will continue to advocate such legislation.


text:
Last week was busy with constituent contact as well as my regular legislative duties.
A group of citizens participating in the Montrose Chamber's leadership program came to Denver to spend some time at the Capitol, observing the legislative process and meeting with elected officials. It was a great opportunity for me to hear their thoughts and concerns and to do my best to explain what it's like to be their state senator.
Then, on the weekend, I participated in the Ag Summit in Cortez at the 4 Corners Ag Expo with Representative Don Coram, who, after redistricting, now represents all of Montezuma County with me. Not surprisingly, the gun control bills were on the minds of many who attended there for the reasons that I often raised when we were debating the bills on the senate floor.
Guns are a tool of the farmer and rancher just like a shovel or a wire cutter and many of my ag producers were very upset with the bills that passed affecting their constitutional rights as well as their personal safety. Given the proximity of those in Montezuma and Dolores Counties to three other states in the Four Corners region, there were also serious questions raised regarding enforceability and jurisdictional challenges. Again, these were topics I brought up in the senate debates that went unanswered and unaddressed by the bill sponsors.
Even if the governor signs the gun control bills, I'm guessing that at least some of the bills will be challenged in court, so it will likely be a while before the dust settles on this new legislation.
Another topic raised at the Ag Summit was the federal government's possible listing of the Gunnison sage grouse as an endangered species, which would seriously impact the farmers and ranchers in their ability to continue production in the area. There are families with deep roots in agriculture in the Cortez and Dove Creek areas and people are already struggling with high unemployment.
While this is a federal decision, as the state senator for the area, I've received many letters from deeply concerned residents. I've been in touch with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources to learn more about their perspective and to see what can be done to assist in this. I'll continue to follow this closely and I appreciate the letters and conversation I've received on the issue.
At the Ag Summit, many common sense ideas were presented regarding why the sage grouse numbers have diminished and, in particular, what can be done about the effects of natural predators. After the legislative session is over in May and I'm back home more than on the weekends, I'll be visiting the Dove Creek area to talk with residents further on this.
This next week, I'll be presenting a number of bills in committees and on the Senate floor. A couple of the bills focus on reducing Medicaid fraud and another will facilitate loan repayment for health care providers practicing primary care in the rural areas of Colorado like my district.
My bill increasing access to supplemental online courses for high school students is moving along with great collaboration among the stakeholders who are also committed to seeing this learning opportunity further expanded to all of Colorado's students, regardless of their zip code.


text:
Creator: Universiteit Leiden
Category: Software > Computer Software > Educational Software
Topic: Governance and Society, Social Sciences
Tag: global, organization, organizations, power, security
Availability: In stock
Price: USD 49.00
How are international power relations changing and how can global peace and stability be maintained? This course familiarizes you with some main theories of international relations, shows how the global order is gradually changing and discusses how selected international and regional organizations contribute to the maintenance of global peace and security. You learn what research findings tell us in terms of the capacity of international organizations and actors to help prevent or stop violent conflict, what tools are used to negotiate agreements and how foundations for sustainable peace are best created. We will also focus on the role of the European Union in terms of diplomacy and efforts to prevent conflict, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the contribution of organizations such as the African Union to the prevention of conflict and war.
Interested in what the future will bring? Download our 2024 Technology Trends eBook for free.
We will study the United Nations Security Council and see in which ways its membership could be adapted to more accurately reflect the power relations of the current global order. Through quizzes and exercises testing your knowledge of these subjects, you will understand crucial concepts and get insights into how the academic study of international relations and international organization contributes to the search for global stability and peace in practice.


text:
Collapsible content
The Big Bucks Margin is a classic plain toe men's dress casual shoe and is a staple in any closet. Dress this up for the casual office or wear it on the weekend for a more casual look. Either way you will be comfortable all day thanks to ADIPRENE® by adidas sport technology for all day comfort, anti-microbial lining and breathable polyurethane footbeds that help keep feet fresh all-day long. These shoes offer a comfortable alternative for your day.
- ADIPRENE® by adidas sport technology for all day comfort with shock absorption in the heel
- Full grain leather is easy to clean, maintain, and extends product life
- Padded collar and tongue help prevent blisters and lace bruising
- EVA footbed conforms to the shape of the foot for a personalized fit
- Dual Density polyurethane outsole helps provide durable shock absorption to help reduce foot fatigue


text:
If you're in the market for some pre-season, yet-to-be-explained ridicularity, just hang tight, something is on the way. Post a comment on this post saying you want to participate, and you'll be registered for 2010's first reader competition. For those who haven't guessed what it is from the above visual, here's all you need to know:
- It is a friendly competition.
- It will take place over a two week period starting next week.
- Neeebs is pretty good at it.
More will be explained tomorrow. For now, just worry about signing up, because when the fun starts, you don't want to be on the outside looking in.


text:
Is the "Cinnamon Challenge" Dangerous?
Cinnamon is a food, so why is the "cinnamon challenge" considered harmful?
- Kelly
You may have heard your kids talking about the so-called "cinnamon challenge," a prank that's often showcased in YouTube videos and is popular on the Web. It involves trying to eat a spoonful of ground cinnamon in 60 seconds without water. It may seem simple enough, but it's almost impossible to do. Not only that, it can be extremely dangerous and lead to long-term or life-threatening health problems. So it's important that kids know that the cinnamon challenge is no joke.
Cinnamon is made from tree bark and contains cellulose, a substance that doesn't break down easily. While tolerable in very small amounts, in larger concentrated amounts cinnamon can cause kids to gag, cough, choke, and have a burning sensation in the mouth, nose, and throat. More serious reactions include vomiting, nosebleeds, and tightness in the chest.
It's also possible for someone to inhale cinnamon while choking or gagging on it, which can cause inflammation in the lungs, a thickening of lung tissue, and scarring. This can lead to pneumonia, a collapsed lung, and/or permanent lung damage. And kids with asthma or other respiratory problems are at risk for severe breathing difficulties while attempting this challenge.
Talk to your kids about the dangers of ingesting large amounts of cinnamon and encourage them to say "no" to this unfortunate trend. And encourage them to share the truth about this risky prank with any friends who might be tempted to try it.
Reviewed by: Kate M. Cronan, MD
Date reviewed: May 2013
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2024 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com


text:
#4402 - SUPER DRIFT TIRE 26mm RADIAL (TYPE A/2pcs)
For 1/10th on-road cars/Type A/26mm width/2pcs
These treaded Super Drift Tyres will give your drift car a cool
realistic look. They are moulded from hard compound rubber that has
been developed purely for drifting.
They have two opposite drift characteristics balanced at a high
level: great drift quality in low speed for underpowered electric
cars for drift beginners and excellent controllability in high
speed for expert drivers.
The HPI Japan drift team has done extensive testing to find a hard
compound that allows high revving nitro drifting on paved surfaces,
with extreme durability for hours and hours of drift action.
These are made from a hard rubber compound that is designed more
for intermediate and advanced drift drivers. If you're just
starting to learn how to drift, use a set of T-Drift tyres
(#4406) or Stage-D tyres (#35401) to get used to drift driving
Sold in pairs. Drift tires do not require foam inserts.