What's a reasonable price for a dog through a breeder?

So, we're onto the next exciting stage - looking for a golden retriever puppy. One of the questions we have is breeder versus shelter versus random family in classifieds. (We're scared of pet stores, even fairly reliable ones.) I'd be very interested in hearing arguments on both sides.

I just got a quote for a litter of pups (medium gold) that will be available September 3rd, $500 for the males, $600 for the females. Does this seem reasonable? And what else do we want to do before actually getting the dog?

High School Writing

So, I'm a much, much better writer than I was in high school, or at the end of college. Sometimes, though, I look at my writing, particularly in these final stages of dissertation revision, and shake my head at how easy it is to fall into bad habits.

In particular, I have the horrible habit of often using two adjectives where one would do. I like very precise, comprehensible sentences (there I did it again!), and I worry that with only one adjective, I can't convey my exact meaning with its full nuances.

But really, more adjectives are just clutter. Along with However, Although, Clearly, and Certainly.

It is Time For the Purging. Everything that isn't a Noun or Verb must demonstrate the need for its existence to the Republic.

Adverbs will be first against the wall when the Revolution comes.

Hey Musical Folks

Classical Music, in this case.

How much is it worth it to go see the New York Philharmonic performing for free in Central Park tomorrow night, with the following program:
"Xian Zhang conducts the philharmonic in Wagner’s Flying Dutchman Overture, Lalo’s Symphonie espagnole, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, with Karen Gomyo featured on violin."

Obviously, it's free, but would be a hassle and a lot of time. Thoughts?