The Fall of Constantinople refers to the capture of the Byzantine Empire's capital by the Ottoman Empire on Tuesday, May 29, 1453 (Julian Calendar). The event marked the end of the political independence of the millennium-old Byzantine Empire, which was by then already fragmented into several Greek monarchies. Most importantly, the fall of Constantinople accelerated the scholarly exodus of Byzantine Greeks which caused the influx of Classical Greek Studies into the European Renaissance. In addition, it played a crucial role in Ottoman political stability and its subsequent expansion in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Balkans. The date of the event is one of the frequently proposed events marking the end of the Middle Ages as a historical period.

After the huge snow fall that hit us, Michelle put together a great article on driving safety."Well, it’s the winter season and we all know what that means! No, not just Christmas and presents and a sweet ham and turkey dinner, but a reason for an increase in car accidents."

Are your pirates falling asleep after eating the foul Thanksgiving bird? It might be dangerous! Here are seven ways to keep your shipmates on their feet, even *after* the turkey scourge. Includes a picture of pirate ducks, which just might be better than the article itself.

Some might argue that Thanksgiving shares the same “stuffing yourself stupid” rational that Christmas has. But it’s really the only positive thing Thanksgiving has going for it. Everything else falls firmly into the negative category.

It might be scant reward when so many of their brethren will fall, but two turkeys are heading to Disney World to live out their days in peace. President Bush pardoned the two birds on Tuesday.

FREE Thanksgiving Postcard. I've downloaded it and send to my friends. Nise design on fall themes.Good work!Happy Thanksgiving evening!