Yesterday’s Trib offers this travel feature on Washington Island, which is . . . a decent overview of island basics (ferry, lawyers, Iceland). But, based on the graf on the hotel, I wonder about the writer’s sources, as she repeats the weirdly ubiquitous misconception that the hotel staff are all “chefs in training” at the “culinary school.” I’m not sure where this meme comes from–take even a cursory look at the class schedule and it’s pretty clear that the classes and workshops are geared toward home cooks, not aspiring Iron Chefs. But everytime I put on an apron this summer someone would inevitably ask me if I was a student in the “school.” (No! I’m an unemployed journalist. Much more disreputable.)

Also, I’m not sure how anyone in their right mind could call the hotel “one of the least expensive lodging options on the island.” I guess it’s cheaper than renting a house?

Anyhow, I do kinda love that the comments manage to hit on three of this summer’s top talking points. To wit:

1) Burgers. I never did make it to burger night at Karly’s, but I’m pretty sure the beef comes from the same grass-fed island cattle that supply the hotel with the foundation for its own truly phenomenal burgers, touted by many as the best in town. Don’t believe me? Go ask Pastor Frank, who, heeding his calling, loudly spread the burger gospel all summer long.

2) Snakes. A recent communique from the island indicates they are getting bold. Leah found one IN HER BEDROOM.

3) FIBs. The joke of the summer, heard from multiple sources.  “Why is it so hard to get a blow job in Chicago in July? Because all the cocksuckers are up here.”