[MR] 5%

[Tom Rettie & Heather Bryden]

Hey Falcone:

Of all the skills I've learned in the SCA, proper use of a plunger may be
the one that is most transferable to modern life.  So if you are willing
to take on parking mean people at 2:00 AM, I'll keep unstopping
overflowing toilets and papering porta-potties. <g>

I did a little research, though, and I'm not sure I'm comfortable with
your assessment of the cost of events.  According to the Bureau of the
Census, median household income in the United States was $44,389 in 2004. 
Assuming a 20% tax bracket to cover federal and state taxes, that leaves a
net of $35,511, or $17.07/hour.  So two days worth of the average
American's household income is somewhere around $273, rather than the $35
you imply.

I do agree that everything is getting more expensive.  Around here, pizza
and a movie for four will set you back close to $70.  As will a round of
golf for one person, or two discounted passes to a local amusement park. 
By comparison, $70 for a whole day's entertainment for four people,
including a 3+ course dinner and maybe lunch, is a pretty good deal.  Even
if you have to add a little sweat equity to the price.

Elisabeth MacAlester, OP, OL

-- 
Tom Rettie            tom at his.com
Heather Bryden        bryden at hers.com