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Readers Comments
I have to
say this is really a great newsletter, just so fascinated with the Castle and all! This was my first newsletter from you so looking forward to more!
Merry Christmas.
Cathie
Great job Stuart and Pam on the
newsletter this month! (and every month of course). It's really
a lot of work throwing those things together with all of the
information! (and useful information at that - avoiding travel
scams).
I enjoyed reading about Castle
Wedderburn! For non-history buffs, like myself, I have to get
some history somewhere!
Thanks!
Catina
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The Dark Castle Lords Newsletter
January
2008

Happy New Year and Welcome to this month's
edition
In this issue:
1. Castle
of the Month
–
Burghausen
Castle, Southern Germany. In 600 AD the first
building on the castle site was a wooden fortified house built by
Bavarian Dukes.
2. Book
Review -
Enchanted Castle
Reviewed by
Frost of
JLFoster.biz
3. Travel Tips - Romantic
Destinations in Ohio By Richard Rspad
4. Author Profile – Kadian
Tracey
5. News from the Romance Industry
–
Meet our Dark Lord -
CJ Hollenbach
6. Readers Corner –
Pam and Pat's New York Adventure 2007
7. Next Month's issue
****************************
1. Castle of the Month
****************************
Burghausen
Castle, Southern Germany.


Burghausen Castle
is located in Bavaria in southern Germany, east of Munich and is
situated on the west bank of the Salzach River, built atop a ridge.
The castle stretches for over a full kilometre and is divided into
six courtyards. It is also the longest castle in Germany and Europe.
In 600 AD the first
building on the castle site was a wooden fortified house built by
Bavarian Dukes. It served for general administration as well as for
the protection of the salt trade, shipped on the Salzach River.
The German King Konrad
II made Burghausen and the surrounding districts into an Earldom and
appointed Bailiffs to administer it.
The first expansion of
Burghausen castle was made by Count Sieghart X in 1090, but most of
the buildings have disappeared. It stayed the seat of the counts of
Burghausen until 1163. In that year Heinrich the Lion, took
possession of the castle and the Earldom until 1180.
Until 1918 the
Bavarian Dukes of Wittelsbach ruled Bavaria and extended Burghausen
castle further through the centuries. Duke Heinrich XIII built the
main castle in 1255, and much of it stands still today. The most
important building periods however were under the rule of the last
three Dukes (Heinrich, Ludwig and George) of Lower Bavaria. They
expanded and reinforced Burghausen castle to its present appearance
under the impression of the Turk danger (1480 - 1490).
In the 18th century
the castle underwent massive conversions and, as result of the
succession wars in the first half of the 18th century and the loss
of parts of the country to Austria, Burghausen became a border town.
The castle complex is
divided into six courtyards. Each courtyard had or has its own
fortified gate, moat and wooden drawbridge. Likewise each courtyard
was built at a different time and has its own history.
The Palace of the
Duke's Residence was located within the first courtyard, as well as
The Durnitz (Gothic Hall), the Kemenate, the Inner Castle Chapel and
the Treasury. The Chapel was built during the 13th century.
The second courtyard
is very large, but many of the original buildings are gone and have
not been rebuilt.
In the third courtyard
there was a smithy or forge. It also housed an arsenal with it's top
two floors allocated for grain storage. It contains one of finest
preserved bridge and gate of any castle of medieval times. It is
also the narrowest part of the castle and the wooden bridge spans 27
meters and covers a moat 8 meters deep.
The fourth courtyard
housed another stable with grain storage, the prison, Torture Tower
or Witches Tower and a deep dungeon.
The fifth courtyard
contained the main Tower and a small Gothic style chapel, which was
built between 1480 and 1490.
The sixth and largest
of the courtyards is also the most altered of the castle. In the
middle stands a Clock Tower. There was also a horse pond and a horse
drawn mill.
Today the castle is
home to two museums and a youth hostel.
****************************
2.
Book Review
****************************
Enchanted Castle
reviewed by
Frost of JLFoster.biz
Canadian architect Brett Richards has comfortably established
himself in home and business with his father, accomplished interior
designer Mark Richards. Serendipitously Brett discovers a rural
castle which needs only moderate renovation, and falls in love with
it. Employing his best friend Jake, construction company
entrepreneur, to fix it up, Brett happily installs himself. In the
process of acclimation he meets Victoria, a part-time hostess at a
small Italian ristorante.
Under somewhat unexpressed pressure from Mark to settle down after a
year and a half without his beloved Katya, who accepted a contract
in New York City and has not communicated in the past year, Brett
dates Victoria and soon they are in the midst of a somewhat
half-hearted affair. Drawn to her innocent sensuality, Brett is
turned away by Victoria’s emotional ingenuousness and almost
welcomes the opportunity to leave for a time, when Mark’s chest
pains must be addressed by his family friend/physician.
During the geographical and emotional separation from Victoria,
Brett is forced to recognize his lack of feelings toward her. In a
true series of acts of fate, Victoria is taken off his hands, and
Katya reappears with the intention of taking up where they left off.
Brett, a man of integrity, this time holds off on emotional and
physical commitment until he is certain of both Katya’s feelings and
his.
As with all Kate Hofman’s novels, Enchanted Castle is
a book to curl up with in a comfortable armchair, cool beverage near
at hand. A relaxing read and a satisfying love story, with
well-delineated characters, Enchanted Castle will beckon the
reader to return for another round of visits with Brett, Mark, Jake,
Katya, Victoria, and the illustrious housekeeper and comic relief
Mrs. T.
4 Swords
****************************
3. Travel Tips
**************************** Rhodes Island, Greece: A Pinch of Rhodes Town HistoryRomantic Destinations Can Be Found In A Variety Of Ideal Locations
Romantic Destinations in Ohio
Romantic Destinations in Ohio by Richard Rspad
Ohio is a state of rolling hills and Midwestern values. Romantic destinations in Ohio are plentiful and here are some highlights for those looking for some intimate time together.
Romantic Destinations in Ohio
Located between the coastal states of the Mid Atlantic region and the Midwest, Ohio is a state that is influenced by many cultures and ideas. With diverse attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and many different amusement parks and indoor waterparks, Ohio has been a family destination for years. This doesn't mean, however, that Ohio is not a great place for a romantic retreat. Romantic destinations in Ohio can be fun and seductive at the same time.
The town of Berlin, Ohio is located in Holmes County, which is the largest Amish settlement area in the world. Many people journey here to see an alternative way of life, free of the encumbrances of the modern world such as telephones, computers and television. Most Amish families do not even use electricity or cars for transportation. While staying in this area, you can truly enjoy the experience of spending some solitary quiet time together as a couple, while you enjoy such activities as touring a true Amish home and farm, and shopping at the many quaint Amish stores.
One place to stay that is perfect for your romantic destinations in Ohio is the Greystone Cottages, located right within Berlin, Ohio. These four separate guest cottages, each with their own private entrance, were built in the New England style and are filled with comfortable country furnishings. Each cottage has many amenities, including a two person Jacuzzi and a living room with fireplace, as well as its own kitchenette. Perfect for a romantic stay for just a night or even longer, there are also additional packages that can make your stay special – including the “I Love You” package, which puts sparkling cider and chocolates in your room upon arrival, as well as a gift certificate for dinner.
Donna's Premier Bed and Breakfast Cabin Lodging is an establishment that is also located in Berlin, Ohio, and offers lovers a romantic retreat for their stay. With villas, honeymoon and anniversary suites and honeymoon/anniversary cottages all available for your vacation here, you can be sure that you will find a spot that will suit your romance needs. Amenities include fireplaces, Jacuzzis, complimentary snacks and fruit platters, beverages and more, depending on your choice of room. Make your stay really special by adding a “sweetheart” package, which includes chocolates, champagne, roses and a massage.
There are many places to take trips as a couple, but romantic destinations in Ohio are special times you will always remember and enjoy.
Richard Rspad is with Resort Spa Destinations - reviews and articles on romantic weekend getaways.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Rspad http://EzineArticles.com/?Romantic-Destinations-in-Ohio&id=380704

****************************
4. Author Profile
****************************
Kadian Tracey

I
was born in Kingston, Jamaica and at the tender age of ten I began
high school. At thirteen I was adopted and moved to Toronto Canada
where I continued my education and delved deeper into my love of
reading and acting. At the age of eighteen, since reading romance
for ten years, I decided to try my hand at writing my on story. I
succeeded and years later finally had the courage to send it off to
publishers, put it out but under a pseudonym. It has gotten some
wonderful reviews and has been a bestseller since it's release April
1, 2007 (really...no fooling!). That pushed me to keep going and I
have three stories released under the pseudonym. I currently have
one story "African Chocolate" under my real name.
I have an associates degree in Radio Broadcasting and is currently
in university for my Bachelor's degree in Communication with a minor
in dramatic arts (I am thinking of taking a double major but I am a
little chicken of all the work). I am a happy participant of
Nanorwrimo and I love reading, writing/researching, singing,
cultures, acting, trying to dance, movies, music and cooking.
****************************************

5. Romance Industry News
****************************************
Meet
our latest Dark Lord:
CJ Hollenbach

CJ
Hollenbach has been a familiar face in the romance industry for over
15 years. He was a contestant in the first ever "Mr. Romance"
contest sponsored by Romantic Times magazine. Since then his
trademark long, blonde mane and chiselled featured have graced the
covers of countless romance novels and calendars.
CJ
has been modelling for over 25 years and has also appeared in
several magazine layouts including Playgirl, Self and Allure. He
has also been seen on numerous TV shows such as Entertainment
Tonight, The TODAY Show, The Jerry Springer Show, The Joan Rivers
Show just to name a few. He is a frequent guest on TV and radio
shows throughout the country promoting the romance industry.
CJ is also a
talented writer and has written for several newspapers and magazines. He can be
seen at
www.cjcovermodel.com
****************************************
6. Readers
Corner
****************************************
Pam and Pat's New York Adventure 2007
The day starts out by Pam and I getting lost on the way to Bill
Freda's house. I had never been there and Pam sorta
remembers...Operative word
SORTA.
But we eventually get there and cook up a few snacks to share with
Bill. Ladies, Bill Freda is a rising star in the TV industry and
established star in the Romance industry. (He had some ripe
banana's in the kitchen and I seriously considered eating one just
so that I could say I ate Bill's banana, but I will be content with
saying that he ate my eggs*snicker*)
After a late lunch, Pam and I decided
to head off to the city of New York. As We sped along the New
Jersey Turnpike laughing at the traffic congestion on the other side
only to be dismayed as we were caught in the congestion of the
people waiting for the Lincoln Tunnel. *sigh*.
We make it through the Tunnel and try and follow
our hastily scribbled directions. We were to make a turn on W 32nd st, but Pam
turned too early and we wound up on 10th street. After driving aimlessly
looking for our street we decide to reverse our driving and start over by the
Lincoln Tunnel...that isn't as easy as it seems, as the parallel streets going
in the other direction don't always empty out onto another street our luck was
that it ended in a dead end usually in a mean looking alley. But eventually we
did make it back to the tunnel and tried following the directions. Well we
messed up again! I am no use since I know NOTHING about Manhattan except that
the Indians sold it to us at a bargain price and that my husband promised the
Dark Lords they could do anything with me so long as they kept me and my Credit
Cards off of 5th Avenue...but I digress. Well Pam hit on the idea that we
should park the car and get a cab. Seemed like a plan, we ditched the car in a
parking garage near Broadway and flagged a cab.
The end of our trek was scribbled at the bottom of
a piece of notepaper, (I have to take ownership of this one) we managed to find
a cabbie finishing his Hallal goat dinner next to a cart (I really wanted a
dirty water dog, just the goat was there) we told him we wanted to go to the
corner of 49th and 39th street. No there is no such corner! But Pam remembered
that the oriental bath spa was next to a Ramada and to our relief the cabbie
knew of a Ramada on 49th and took us there...Our relief was short lived and
Pam's memory was faulty...there was no Oriental Bath spa next to the
Ramada.--just a coffee shop. Pam says we need to get on the internet and find
the spa--She remembers the name I say we call information...I turn the paper
over to write the address but what do I find but the address for the Spadium
49 W 39th St. *shaking head* We go back to the taxi plan and give the man the
address for the Spadium and finally we arrive.
IT WAS NEXT TO A RADISSON!!!
The excitement is not over yet! We go
into the spa and the only other customers seemed to be women who had
no inclination to date men. I guess they thought we were of the
same persuasion ‘cause they sure checked us out. Finally prepped
and scrubbed, hair washed, face finished off with cucumber cream we
dressed and left the spa.
We score a taxi but not before some dude thinks we
need a date (we did manage to blow him off). The cabbie however can't take us
to the garage but lets us off on the street, but as you might have guessed we
walked the wrong way...We did manage to turn back find our car and bail the
sucker out of the garage(25bucks) Then we needed to find our way back to New
Jersey.
Simple right? Nooooooo you would not be a good
candidate for the psychic detectives if you thought our return trip was also
fraught with peril. Anybody could see this coming! Well since we came one
way on a one way street we figure just get on the street going in the other
direction...Yep we found another blind alley and got turned around and went
through the financial district. Somehow we wound up by the former site of the
twin towers. Yes we are on the other side of the island. Pam is starting to
worry about our gas situation. There aren't that many gas stations in
Manhattan! Pam suggests I get into the vacant cab next to us and have him take
us to a gas station...I suggest we ask the nice policemen on our left...The
dolt snarls "I dunno" but later his partner must have told him there was one
ahead. He flashes that we should follow him, so we did. And we stayed behind
him as we passed a station we could not get to because of traffic. I lean over
and check the gauge "Pam we have a whole 1/4 tank it will wait until we get to
New Jersey!"
We are by the water so I suggest we stay in sight
of the water and we will eventually get to the tunnel. Which anticlimactically
we did and made our way back to our hotel in New Jersey. Only to get lost once
more on the next night trying to head to a party in Queens but that is a story
for another day...
*********************************
7. Next Month's Issue
*********************************
1. Castle
of the Month
–
Criccieth
Castle, Wales, has a history that stretches back in the mists of
time, to the medieval conflicts between Wales and England.
2. Book
Review -
A
Stroll in the Park by
Little
Sunshine at
Night Owl Romance
3. Travel Tips - Valentines
Day - Flirting With Your Spouse? By Angie Lewis
4. Author Profile – S.J.
Ronayne
5. News from the Romance Industry
–
Meet our Dark Lord -
Christian Pullano
6. Readers Corner –
***Editors
Note***
If you have a joke, story or tale you want to share with our readers
then please send it in
We hope you have enjoyed reading January's edition and if you have any suggestions
or comments about any
part of the newsletter then please feel free to contact us.
Happy New Year from all of us here at The Dark Castle Lords
Best Wishes
Stuart and Pam
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