jack-o’-lantern effect
n.— «The plan’s gradual morphing reflects a desire to avoid what planners refer to as the “jack-o’-lantern” effect—sparse redevelopment in a sea of abandoned properties—while still allowing homeowners and residents to directly influence the course of rebuilding through their own actions.» —“Proposal: Let residents decide” by Gordon Russell, Frank Donze Times-Picayune (New Orleans, La.) Dec. 19, 2005. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
Further reading
Book recommendations and the art of apology. Martha and Grant share some good reads, including an opinionated romp through English grammar, a Spanish-language adventure novel, an account of 19th-century dictionary wars, and a gorgeously illustrated...
Secret signals on the job: Waitresses at some 19th-century restaurants ensured speedy drink service by communicating with a non-verbal code. One server took orders, then placed each customer’s cup to indicate exactly what the customer wanted...