Hello everyone!  Next week I get back to posting recipes and pictures and such.  I’ve got a doozy of a screw up to tell you all about, but before I get to my failure, here are some interesting things to read from around the ‘ole series of tubes.

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First and foremost, Bob Del Grosso shot me an e-mail this week about the fact Hudson Valley Farms–one of two US producers of foie gras–is being pummeled by litigation initiated by the Humane Society of the United States (HUSUS).

He linked to this story at Salon by Thomas Rogers that talks about the whole ordeal. It all boils down to the fact that HUSUS is a well heeled fund raising operation for fringe animal rights causes. They’re doing some rather underhanded things that might very well end with the closing of Hudson Valley Farms.

I’ve never been in favor of mistreating animals or mass-produced food, but this attack on Hudson Valley Farms is totally unwarranted.  Hudson is well known for it’s excellent treatment of their ducks, and I purchase all of my foie solely from them.

I know I don’t hold any real sway with helping them out, but I’d like to do anything I possibly can.  If you happen to know who I can call or write to defend Hudson Valley Farms, please let me know and I’ll make sure to pass that info on to as many people as possible.

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Share Our Strength: Cilantro from Carol Blymire. Head on over and donate!  I’m working on a good tripe soup recipe to send Carol for when she hits $5000!

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Over at the Belm Blog, David has been ultra-busy posting (unlike me) and it’s all fantastic stuff.  Like his birthday visit to Per Se, and this post about him making Momofuku’s Chicken and Egg recipe, or how his Guanciale turned out.  I love reading his blog!

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My friend April over at The Hungry Engineer has a new post up about pickled shallots.  I’m happy to say I introduced her to them, and it looks like she’s started making her own.  There is even a recipe at the bottom of the page so head on over!

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And finally, Michael Ruhlman has a very cool post up about gift ideas for the culinary person in your life.  Hrm, maybe a new pepper grinder would look great in my kitchen this Christmas?

I hope you’re having a great weekend, and I’ll be back next week!