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  Murder & Mayhem in Mendon and...

  Diane Ham, Lynne Menz

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  The notorious history of two nineteenth-century hamlets in western New York, famous for an era of bustling commerce—and criminality.   The Town of Mendon and the Village of Honeoye Falls are today quiet western New York suburbs, but they weren't always so idyllic. In years past, the village was a center of commerce, manufacturing and railroads, and by the mid-nineteenth century, this prosperity brought with it an element of mayhem. Horse stealing was commonplace. Saloons and taverns were abundant. Street scuffles and barroom brawls were regular, especially on Saturday nights, after the laborers were paid. By Sunday morning, numerous drunks—like Manley Locke, who would eventually go on to kill another man in a fight—were confined to the lockup in the village hall. It was at this time that the Village of Honeoye Falls earned the name “Murderville.” As the town and village turn two hundred, join local historians Diane Ham and Lynne Menz as they explore the peaceful region’s vicious history.   Includes photos!

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  All One Universe

  Poul Anderson

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  “Themes of a colorful assortment of stories range from life on other planets to alternative history . . . a perfect introduction to his perennial genius.” —Booklist 
   
  Poul Anderson himself has put together a retrospective collection of his recent writings, fiction and nonfiction, under the title All One Universe. This is the first major Poul Anderson collection in a decade. It encompasses all his strengths as a teller of tales and, in addition, provides a running commentary in the story notes and in the essays on other literary figures such as Rudyard Kipling, Johannes B. Jensen, and John W. Campbell, Jr., commentary that illuminates the fiction, gives personal insight into the mind of this fine writer, and provides a unifying personality for All One Universe. All One Universe, then, represents the new best of Poul Anderson. It is a rich, varied selection of quintessential science fiction as well as four essays, mostly from recent years, by one of the great science fiction writers of the century. His stories are filled with roaring energy, the soul of poetry, and dark imaginings. 
   
  “A fine introduction to one of SF’s masters.” —Starlog 
   
  “Fact and fiction, shaped by one of SF’s keenest minds, are mingled in this collection . . . On the whole, All One Universe is a collection which does its creator proud while delighting his fans.” —Rapport 
   
  “Poul Anderson’s writings have been at a remarkably high, consistent level of quality for nearly fifty years, now. All One Universe is a book for anyone interested in either SF or in craftsmanship.” —David Drake

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  Underground Worlds

  Logan Bell

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  Underground Worlds unearths the hidden history beneath our feet, exploring subterranean cities, tunnels, and bunkers that reveal human resilience. These aren't just holes in the ground; they're testaments to survival strategies, like the ancient city of Derinkuyu, built to withstand external threats, and Cold War bunkers, reflecting anxieties of a nuclear age. From architecture to history, the book examines the motivations and ingenuity behind these constructions, showcasing how societies have adapted to adversity throughout time.
  
   
  The book's approach bridges history, archaeology, and architecture to understand human motivations, rather than simply cataloging structures. Examining wartime tunnel systems like the Cu Chi tunnels, the book analyzes their strategic role in military campaigns.
  
   
  Progressing chapter by chapter, the book moves from ancient cities to modern survival bunkers, revealing how underground spaces reflect broader societal trends and anxieties.

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  Boat Building Skills

  Logan Bell

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  Boat Building Skills explores the rich history and craftsmanship of wooden boat construction in coastal communities, highlighting its vital role in providing fishing jobs and preserving maritime traditions. This book delves into how boat building was more than just a technical skill; it was a cornerstone of family enterprise and cultural identity. Readers will discover the intricate techniques involved, from selecting wood to mastering caulking, and how these skills were passed down through generations.
  
   
  The book examines the social structures and economic ecosystems surrounding boat building during the 19th and 20th centuries, a period when wooden boats were fundamental to nearshore fishing industries. It reveals how this traditional craft supported local economies and shaped coastal life. Through historical shipbuilding manuals, oral histories, and archival photographs, the book presents a ground-level perspective that emphasizes the lived experiences of boat builders.
  
   
  Structured as a comprehensive journey, the book progresses from defining key terms and historical context to detailed case studies of coastal families and an analysis of the economic impact of boat building. It concludes by discussing the challenges facing these traditions in the modern era and offering suggestions for preserving and revitalizing these essential skills.

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  Grass Crafts Endure

  Logan Bell

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  Grass Crafts Endure explores the survival and evolution of Shona grass crafts within Zimbabwe's urban landscape, revealing how these traditions persist amidst rapid urbanization. This book examines the economic significance of these crafts, noting how they provide crucial income for urban Shona communities. Moreover, it highlights the fascinating adaptation of traditional techniques to suit modern tastes, demonstrating the dynamic nature of cultural preservation in a globalized world.
  
   
  The study begins by establishing the historical roots of Shona grass crafts and then progresses to analyze their economic impact, adaptations in design, and role in maintaining cultural identity. It employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating ethnographic research with market analysis to uncover the intricate balance between tradition and modernity.
  
   
  These crafts, traditionally passed down through families, now serve as both a source of livelihood and a powerful symbol of cultural heritage, challenging assumptions about the decline of traditions in urban settings.

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  Ocean Nets Modernize

  Logan Bell

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  Ocean Nets Modernize delves into the transformation of Polynesian fishing practices, examining the shift from traditional, sustainable methods to motorized fishing driven by the rise of tourism. This evolution significantly impacts both the marine ecosystems and the cultural fabric of Polynesian communities. The book unveils how the introduction of motorized vessels, while initially boosting fish yields, has created complex challenges for these island societies. For instance, traditional Polynesian fishing was deeply interwoven with their cultural beliefs, a stark contrast to the increasingly commercialized practices of today.
  
   
  The book progresses by first exploring pre-colonial Polynesian fishing techniques, emphasizing sustainability, then examining the adoption of motorized vessels and the growth of tourism. A key focus is the demand for specific fish species to cater to tourist consumption. This comprehensive approach highlights how external economic pressures and technological advancements have altered traditional ways of life, influencing everything from economic development to environmental conservation.
  
   
  Ultimately, the study connects to environmental science, anthropology, and economics, providing a holistic view of the challenges facing Polynesian communities as they navigate globalization.

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