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Society Texas
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LET'S HAVE LUNCHEON: JOIN THE 178TH ANNIVERSARY OF ANGELINA EBERLY'S FAMOUS CANNON SHOT HEARD ALL AROUND TEXAS
by Lance | Jan 8, 2020 | Browse
By Lori Duran Photography of 2019 luncheon courtesy of Austin History Center Assn.
Charles Peveto, Luci Johnson, Nancy Toombs and Steve Manning
The philanthropic luncheon season begins soon. In fact, on Friday February 7th, 2020, the Austin Club will host the Angelina Eberly Luncheon that is the annual signature event of the Austin History Center Association (AHCA). The event brings together over 300 guests: business associates, coworkers and city leaders; as well as newcomers and longtime residents ‐ who share their love of Austin history. The theme of this year's upcoming luncheon will be the narrative, Our Austin Story, telling the beginning period of Austin's rich and diverse history, narrated by Ted Lee Eubanks, certified interpretive planner, with certain historical figures, developed by renowned playwright Paulette MacDougal and directed by well-known theatre director, Don Toner.
Bob Ward and Lynn Cooksey
The Austin Club will hold the luncheon at the historic Millett Opera House located at 110 E 9th street in downtown Austin where it opened in 1878. In its day, the opera house provided Austin with a world-class stage for performances for touring acts and various amusements including political conventions, inaugural balls and UT commencements. The luncheon is named after 1840s Austin innkeeper, Angelina Eberly, who fired the cannon that saved the Texas archives from being removed from the city in the capital of the Republic of Texas at the time. Charles Peveto, the Eberly luncheon chair, is most excited about the event's patrons dining on a menu, based on early foods of Austin that would have been available in the 1840s. Current AHCA president and past Austin mayor, Lee Cooke, will lead in celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Austin History Center Association.
Marcus McQuirter, Charlotte Canning and Andrew Carlson
The luncheon will kick off the festivities starting with a coffee reception and piano music. Once inside, guests can mingle in the lobby before ascending the staircase in the main foyer of the Austin Club where a well-crafted lunch will be served. The fun will continue as lunch guests gather in the main ballroom for an exciting program based on the history of Austin itself. The space is beautiful and adorned with massive chandeliers that illuminate the room and the guests in a warm glow.
Margaret Wright and Lee Cooke
The event raises essential funds to help support the organization, with a portion of the proceeds funding the Austin History Center of the Austin Public Library. Many of those who love Austin history consider this to the most important luncheon inthe city. The focus this year's Angelina Eberly Luncheon is on the origins of Austin and how Mirabeau Lamar envisioned it would become a seat of empire. Event tickets can be acquired at the Austin History Center http://austinhistory.net/eberlyluncheon/ and sponsorships for this event can be acquired at http://austinhistory.net/eberlyluncheon/eberly-luncheon-sponsorships/
CULTURE THAT CAPTIVATES
by societytexas | Dec 31, 2019 | 2020 January February, Exhibit, Culture
The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are being enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Claire-Lise Greve who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state in this issue.
A TALE OF PERSEVERANCE
Taking place the week after the tragic attacks of September 11th, Come From Away tells the true story of what happened to the 7,000 stranded passengers of the flights that were ordered to land in the aftermath of the attacks. Filled with life lessons about culture and perseverance, this is a wonderful musical for all to see. February 18 through 23. At TexasPerformingArts.org
photo courtesy of the West End production of Come From Away
AVANT-GARDE IN LATIN AMERICA
Coming to the Blanton Museum of Art this February, The Avant-garde Networks of Amauta explores the development of avant-garde art in Central and South America. Created by José Carlos Mariátegui, the Peruvian magazine known as Amauta was known for its political and cultural pieces throughout the 20th century. This must-see exhibit shows Latin American avant-garde art through its connection to Amauta. February 16 through May 17. At BlantonMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of The Blanton Museum
PEAKS AND TRAGEDIES
Continuing its 2019-20 season, Austin Opera presents Everest, the story of the infamous 1996 climbing season at Mount Everest, which notably took so many lives. Originated by the Dallas Opera in 2015, this production features three of the leads from the original. This is a wonderful show that runs about 75 minutes and is recommended for patrons above the age of 8 due to its dark subject matter. January 23, 25, & 26. At AustinOpera.org
Photo courtesy of The Austin Opera
MUSIC'S MAGIC
Winner of 10 Tony® Awards, The Band's Visit tells the story of a group of lost musicians who stumble upon a small town, and through music, they breathe new life into the town. Coming to the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas this February, this musical will make you laugh and cry all in the span of about two hours. February 18 through 23. At ATTPAC.org
Photo courtesy of original Broadway company of The Band's Visit
WHAT BEAUTIFUL BIRDS
Paving the way for nature photography as we know it, Eliott Porter was known for his polychromatic renderings of the fascinating marvels of nature. The Amon Carter Museum presents Eliot Porter's Birds this January to highlight his love for photographing birds. Spanning over 50-years, this exhibit shows some of the most stunning and unique examples of avian photography. January 4 through May 10. At CarterMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of The Amon Carter Museum
STRENGTH FOR THE AGES
Fort Worth's Bass Performance Hall presents The Color Purple as part of its Broadway Special Series. Running for only one night, this Tony award-winning revival tells the story of one of Broadway's most resilient characters, Celie, over a 35- year span of her life. Set in Georgia in the early 20th century, this drama with a Grammy® Award-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues, combined with exhilarating dance numbers is a joy to behold for the whole family. January 5. At the BassHall.com
Photo courtesy of Bass Performance Hall
A CLASSIC FAIRYTALE
For their 50th anniversary season, the Houston Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty choreographed by the iconic Ben Stevenson. This exquisite ballet takes inspiration from the famous French fairytale in which a young princess is fated to sleep for 100 years, but is saved by a magical kiss from her lover. Coming this February, this classic story is perfect for the whole family. February 27 through March 8. At HoustonBallet.org
Photo courtesy of the Houston Ballet
RADICAL & INVENTIVE
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Radical: Italian Design 1965-1985, The Dennis Freedman Collection, a new exhibit that examines the radical designs of Italy after World War II. Everything from furniture to architecture to even lighting designs are featured, with about half of the works being gifts from the Dennis Freedman Collection. February 14 through April 26. At MFAH.org
Photo courtesy of MFAH
This January, the Houston Grand Opera presents Verdi's Aida with new designs and enchanting choreography. Set in ancient Egypt, this opera tells the story of a captured princess and a general who fall into a forbidden romance. This epic tale of love and loyalty is a must-see for all opera aficionados. January 31 through February 16. At HoustonGrandOpera.org
Photo courtesy of Houston Grand Opera
COMPELLING WOMEN
Mary Cassatt's Women focuses on the artist's images of the ordinary and often intimate moments from the daily lives of upper-middle-class women like herself—as they care for children, ride the public omnibus, or enjoy the ritual of having tea. What makes Cassatt's work compelling is how she elevates what could be dismissed as mundane subject matter through her masterful approach to color and composition. Through February 9. At McNayArt..org
Courtesy of McNay Art Museum
From the creators of Les Miserables, Miss Saigon tells the dramatic story of a young Vietnamese woman who falls in love with an American G.I. but is torn by love, war, and family during the Vietnam War. Coming this January to San Antonio's Majestic Theatre, this is a heart-wrenching show for more mature audiences. January 7 through 12. At SanAntonio.Broadway.com
Photo courtesy of the North American Touring Company of Miss Saigon
A NEW HISTORY OF ABSTRACT ART
This February, the San Antonio Museum of Art presents Texas Women: A New History of Abstract Art, a new exhibition that explores female artist's exploration of abstract art in the 20th century. Featuring artists such as Dorthy Antoinette LaSelle, Susie Rosmarin, Terrel James, and many more, this exhibit incorporates a cultivated collection comprising a variety of materials, processes, and works. February 7 through May 3. At SAMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of The San Antonio Museum of Art and Terrell James
by societytexas | Dec 31, 2019 | 2020 January February, Culture, Present
As we begin the new decade ahead, we can all brush up on our skills to make every social situation as seamless as possible. Our Ms. Etiquette Expert, Sharon M. Schweitzer, J.D., is on the scene to lend sage wisdom for any modern conundrum that may arise.
Dear Ms. Etiquette Expert,
My fiancé and I just became engaged. My mother is insistent that I register for good china, and I know we'll never use it, making it seem like a waste. How should I proceed, since my parents are also paying for the wedding?
Dear Future Bride,
Best wishes and congratulations to you and your fiancé. Consider this advice:
Encourage open communication with both sides of the family early in the engagement, especially with your parents. Set a time to explore your mother's insistence on registering for china. Highlight the family customs you and your fiancé are honoring in your wedding, clearly explaining your thoughts. Showing parental respect goes a long way, especially when your family is paying for the wedding. Remember, you will be sharing holiday meals for years to come.
Compromise. Graciously coordinate with your family. Respectfully state that although this is your wedding, you plan to honor the important customs of your mother during the wedding. Summon up your best diplomacy skills, compromise, and remember, you can't please everyone, all of the time.
How should my younger children address new adults that they meet? By their last names, like Mr. Van Huntzel, or by their first name, using a prefix, like Miss Caroline?
Naming Honors
Dear Naming Necessity,
Younger children learn how to acknowledge and address all adults properly when they practice at home with you through role-playing. Use proper titles with your younger children, such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr., and first or last names. In the south and southwest regions, using the first name with a title is common. For example, Ms. Kristin or Mr. Jason. Pretend to be different people and ask your children to respond to an introduction with correct titles and pleasantries such as "Hello, Mr. Thompson. How are you, Ms. Aldrich?" The next time your children meet an adult, encourage them to use the greeting. Some children are hesitant near adults so gently prod with "Courtney, remember Ms. Kristin? Will you say hello, please?"
Can you please share your top three, interesting-as-heck, conversation starters that are appropriate for dinner with just-met dinner partners?
Budding Conversationalist
Dear Dining Companion,
A meal is such a wonderful way to spend an evening, and if we are seated next to someone we don't know, it's a terrific opportunity to learn more about the world. How about if we go with three categories from which to choose that will enable completely comfortable conversation with just about anyone…
What's your favorite travel destination?
If you could pick one country to travel to, which would you choose and why?
Do you have travel plans? Will you share your destination?
Would you rather travel during a vacation or have a staycation?
What's your favorite part about travel?
If you've traveled a lot, has it changed who you are? How?
Are you someone who likes group travel? Or, solo travel?
When you travel, do you follow guidebooks or blaze your own path?
Do you think we as humans will invent anything that makes time travel possible?
What do you think will be the greatest invention in the next 25 years? 10 years?
Do you think technology makes our lives simpler or more complicated?
What discovery do you think has transformed our world the most?
What's your favorite invention of all time?
What are you currently reading? Who is the author?
What's the last book that you read, and what did you think of it?
Who's your favorite author? Why?
Do you read fiction? Or do you prefer nonfiction?
Do you read paper books? Or, use an e-reader, or listen to audiobooks?
Have you built a library in your home? Do you gift books to friends and family?
NEIGHBORLY & NOTEWORTHY
by societytexas | Dec 31, 2019 | 2020 January February, Savor, Culture
In wintertime, our appetites change to embrace hardier fare. Our editors Lesa Rossick in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio share their stellar statewide recommendations that are must-dines as the weather remains cool.
ELEVATED, MEET CASUAL
A new restaurant where sports bar casual meets elevated American food that is served in a chic, cozy environment. Whether you're craving a shaved kale salad or a family-style steak meal, this chef-driven menu will make your taste buds dance. At ProvisionAustin
It might be the perfect meal in between flights. The Austin airport is hopping, with local restaurants opening everywhere. Chef Shawn Cirkiel recently launched airport locations of Jugo, a healthy juice bar along with their flagship restaurant, Parkside. You can begin your vacation before you even depart for your flight. At ParksideProjects.com
Photo by Richard Casteel
LET'S GO EAST
Oseyo, a modern Korean restaurant in East Austin, was a vision of owner, Lynn Miller, who dreamed of opening a restaurant where her gluten-free daughter could enjoy their traditional family meals. Vibrant and bright, these dishes will capture your heart. At OseyoAustin.com
Photo courtesy of Ink Fingers
With just 70 seats, Ebb & Flow's intimate interior features a garden of ivy and flowers, striking tile, velvet booths, brass snake accents, and eye-catching chandeliers. When there's a game on, you can be sure that Ebb & Flow will be showing it on one of six large-screen TVs. In the kitchen, consulting Chef Rodman Shields has created an eclectic menu, and behind the bar, Whitney Roushey has concocted a cocktail menu that is playful, colorful and draws inspiration from the garden patio. At EbbAndFlowTX.com
LET'S ENJOY THE CHINA
Located in The Statler Hotel, Fine China recently rolled out new menus broadly drawing on influences throughout Asia, along with a revamped vibe and chic new restaurant design enhancements. The restaurant now offers sushi and sashimi in addition to its variety of lunch and dinner offerings. In addition to new items across the board on the culinary side, there is a variety of new signature cocktails, sakes, and wines. At FineChinaDallas.com
RAT PACK FLASHBACK
Inspired by the old school, classic hangouts of Los Angeles, Drake's energetic, steak-forward concept offers a vintage Old Hollywood feel, where everything is centered around a large circular bar with dim mood lighting and red interiors. A stage hosts programming such as live jazz on Thursday nights, and a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. Along with great cocktails inspired by the Beverly Hills Hotel, Drake's menu purveys steakhouse vibes at neighborhood prices. At DrakesDallas.com
Swell and swanky, the new Safina restaurant in the Intercontinental Hotel – Medical Center, pays homage to the Mediterranean's rich history of mercantilism, craftsmanship, and innovation by creating wellness-driven food for today's mindful eater. From rich, creamy hummus to fresh, succulent fish prepared in true Mediterranean fashion, their chefs allow the amazing flavors of food and drink to sing. At SafinaHouston.com
LUXE MIXOLOGY
Hotel Alessandra is among the best hotels in the city with its elegant accommodations and modern amenities that offer a new level of luxury for discerning business and leisure travelers. While there, mix it up with friends and co-workers at Lucienne's, with regularly scheduled cocktail classes. The thematic offerings provide a fun, intimate, and hands-on opportunity to perfect bar skills while learning about the history of spirits and iconic special drinks. At Hotel Alessandra-Houston.com
Photo by Ralph Smith.
THAT ITALIAN SOUL
The hot, new 145-seat restaurant, Rosalie Italian Soul, is located in downtown's C. Baldwin Hotel, named after Charlotte Baldwin Allen, known as the "Mother of Houston." The menu features classic red-sauce dishes reminiscent of lessons Chef Chris Cosentino learned from his great-grandmother, as well as his own interpretations. The delectable pastas are made fresh daily, and a pizza oven is a focal point of the space. At RosalieItalianSoul.com
Photo by Julie Soefer.
SET TO JET
Jet-Setter, a new mid-century modern, international lounge, has opened its doors on Houston Street in the heart of downtown San Antonio, welcoming worldly jet-setters visiting the Alamo City and locals alike. Just across the street from the Majestic and Empire Theatres, this sleek new spot is the perfect perch for a pre or post-show sip. At Jet-SetterSa.com
Courtesy of Jet-Setter
EVENTFUL ENDEAVOR
Biga on the Banks, Chef/Owner Bruce Auden's familiar downtown dining staple that sits atop a historic stretch of the San Antonio River Walk, has opened a new addition to its revered restaurant and culinary experience. The event space is primed for hosting life's momentously memorable occasions. The River Terrace space is also available for bookings, with a beautiful view that's sure to enchant and entertain any guest. At Biga.com
Courtesy of Thrillist.
PARIS FOREVER
A tiny slice of Paris on San Antonio's near east side, Pastiche is a soigné cocktail lounge located in a cozy cottage that offers a refined and relaxed environment with humbling hospitality. Perfect for either a quiet date night or a group night on the town, this charmingly renovated abode has indoor and outdoor seating, encouraging convivial conversation no matter the occasion. At Pastiche.SA
Courtesy of SA Express News
CULTURAL ADVANTAGE
by kat | Oct 31, 2019 | 2019 November December, Exhibit, Culture
The best plays, musical performances and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Claire-Lise Greve who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.
STOP! IN THE NAME OF COOL
Motown: Sound of Young America is the exhibit that recalls the 1960s when the music label and its talents burst onto the music scene…and the world has continued to love it since. Take a trip into yesteryear with this fabulous look at sights, sounds and the costumes that changed pop culture. Through January 26, 2020. At LBJLibrary.org
The Supremes costumes, the 1960s. Photo courtesy of LBJ Presidential Library
Sister Suffragists is a centennial celebration exhibit of the movement that brought suffrage to the women of Texas and the nation. On June 28, 1919, Texas became the ninth state to ratify that amendment, which would later become the Nineteenth Amendment when women nationwide won the right to vote. See the era unfold in this can't-miss look into our past at the Bullock State History Museum. Through August 31, 2020. At TheStoryOfTexas
Photo courtesy of Bullock State History Museum
A CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC
With a story about life and how we choose to live it, Dear Evan Hansen portrays the tough social issues that many young Americans face today in a deeply moving and groundbreaking way. Coming this December to Austin's Bass Hall, this six-time Tony Award®-winning musical is one not to miss. December 10–15. At TexasPerformingArts.org
Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy, Dear Evan Hansen U.S. Tour
A SLEEPING BEAUTY
In a new exhibit at the Dallas Contemporary Museum, artist John Currin focuses on depictions of gender, the masculine identity, and the male gaze, as well as an analysis of his own masculinity as it is tracked through his art in My Life As A Man. Through December 22. At DallasContemporary.org.
John Currin. Detail of Fishermen, 2002. © John Currin. Photo by Rob McKeever. Courtesy of Gagosian and Dallas Contemporary
THE NEW TIDE
After a year-long renovation project, the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth reopens to the public with the first exhibit to feature the formative years of photographer Gordon Parks' career, a favorite of Vogue. In Gordon Parks: The New Tide, The Gordon Parks Foundation collaborated with the National Gallery of Art to conceive this inspiring collection displaying his photos of African American life in the middle of the 20th century. Through December 29. At CarterMuseum.org.
Photo courtesy of The Gordan Parks Foundation
Spain's most celebrated artists are presented like never before at the Meadows Museum in the exhibit El Greco, Goya, and a Taste for Spain. On loan from the Bowes Museum in the United Kingdom, these paintings represent a vast scope of history ranging from the 15th to 19th centuries as well as Josephine Bowes' role in collecting these works of art. Through January 2020. At the MeadowsMuseumDallas.org.
The Repentant St. Peter by El Greco. Photo courtesy of The Meadows Museum.
SPANISH FLAIR
The Houston Grand Opera presents the world premiere of El Milagro del Recuerdo/The Miracle of Remembering, the prequel to Cruzar la Cara de la Luna. Perfect for all ages, this opera explores family dynamics while dealing with life-altering changes. Dec. 5–22. At HoustonGrandOpera.org
PIVOTAL ARTISTS
Monet to Picasso: A Very Private Collection showcases paintings from some of the world's most renowned artists including Pissaro, Renoir, Picasso and many more at pivotal moments in their careers. This never before seen collection is at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. September 10–Jan. 12, 2020. At MFAH.org
Woman Seated in an Armchair (Femme assise dans un fauteuil), 1941, oil on canvas, private collection. © Estate of Pablo Picasso/Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Courtesy of MFAH.
HOLIDAY'S TRADITION
The Houston Ballet presents Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, the holiday story about a young girl and her Nutcracker as they venture to the land of Sweets where they encounter the mystical Sugar Plum Fairy. Featuring stunning choreography and an iconic score this is a must-see for the whole family this holiday season. November 29–December 29. At HoustonBallet.org
BEYOND THE CATHEDRAL
Paris: Notre Dame and Beyond, a new exhibit by the McNay Museum, sparked by the recent fire at the Notre-Dame Cathedral this year, features several lithographs depicting some of the most architecturally stunning aspects about Paris' famed Cathedral. December 5–February 23. At McNayArt.org
Henri Rivière, Du Haut des Tours Notre-Dame from Les Paysages Parisiens, 1900.
Lithograph from the collection of the McNay Museum.
CITY CELEBRATION
With a tripartite presentation entitled Waking Dream, Isaac Julien: Playtime and Jewels in the Concrete, the inaugural opening of the new Ruby City will feature seminal works by contemporary artists including Do Ho Suh, Teresita Fernández, Ana Fernandez and Chuck Ramirez. At RubyCity.org
Photo of Teresita Fernández Silver Screen (30 Dissolves), 2011, courtesy of Ruby City
VICTORIAN RADICALS
British art had a dynamic period of growth in the late 19th century and was revolutionized by new avant-garde techniques of the Victorian era. The San Antonio Museum of Art's upcoming exhibit Victorian Radicals: From the Pre-Raphaelites to the Arts and Crafts Movement highlights this time period with various paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. Through January 5. At SAMuseum.org
Photo courtesy of The American Federation of Arts and SAMA
FAN FAVORITE
by kat | Oct 31, 2019 | 2019 November December, Savor, Culture
How to cool things down this winter? Our editors Lesa Rossick in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio share their favorite statewide recommendations that are must-dines as the season becomes merrier.
ROSEDALE RENDEZVOUS
Two words. Simply Genius. Executive Chef Janelle Reynolds takes fresh ingredients and makes elevated healthy forward dishes. Combined with some of the best service in the city, this brainchild of owner Stuart Thomajan will quickly become an Austin institution.
At RosedaleKB.com
Photo courtesy of Rosedale Kitchen
LOVE ON THE HILL
Chef Page Pressley takes the helm at Swedish Hill, the newly renovated restaurant that offers everything from fresh pastries and customized cakes to Rotisserie Chicken. It's a pure delight to experience this Austin tradition that's been so reinvigorated.
At SwedishHillAustin.com
Photo courtesy of Swedish Hill
Portuguese-infused creativity combined with a Texas flare is a match made in heaven at Vixens Wedding. From the creators of Lenoir, this new spot in the ARRIVE East Austin Hotel serves delicious small plates and shareable dishes along with creative cocktails in a charming, bright spot in the city.
At VixensWeddingATX.com
Photo courtesy of Vixen Wedding
Deep Ellum hotspot, LOCAL, was conceptualized in 1998 by owner Chef Tracy Miller in the historic century-old Boyd Hotel. In fact, this popular eatery is the closest thing to a NYC bistro this side of the Mason-Dixon line. It continues to be a favorite amongst Dallas foodies by serving a modern American menu with the vision to create beautiful, delicious dishes while using the simplest, most honest ingredients.
At LocalDallas.com
Photo courtesy of Local
YO QUIERO TE DESEO
Te Deseo features Latin American-inspired (Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Peru) cuisine and cocktails in a stunning environment of multiple social and dining spaces, each with differing personalities and design. With a series of unique dining rooms, tiled courtyard, and four bars, it also provides a stunning rooftop view overlooking the city. The new venue also offers over 100 specialty tequilas and mezcals along with inspired cocktails that highlight Latin American spirits.
At TeDeseoDallas.com
Photo by Rob Underwood
BEYOND CORNY
Brothers Neil and Carl Fletcher started this country's obsession with fried foods when they invented the corny dog in Dallas in 1938. It was introduced at the State Fair of Texas in 1942 and has become an iconic part of the State Fair-attending experience. The secret to the famous Fletcher's Corny Dog crunch is not only the trademarked batter, but also the water temperature and how the batter is mixed. The Fletcher family recently purchased a food trailer to allow them to cater off-site events throughout Texas.
At FletchersCornyDogs.com
Photo courtesy of Fletchers
HOTEL REDUX
Baldwin, the latest and coolest addition to Houston's downtown hotel scene, has opened its doors wide open to both locals and the city's visitors. Named for Charlotte Baldwin Allen, who in 1836, helped fund the Allen Brothers real estate opportunities that affect the city to this day. Rosalie is just one of the many restaurants, salon, and retail offerings in this sleek hotel.
At CBaldwinHotel.com
Photo courtesy of C. Baldwin Hotel
New to the Allen Center development, Guard and Grace is a modern American steakhouse that features everything from prime, certified Angus and local grass-fed cuts of beef to fresh seafood, charcuterie, artisanal cheeses and vegetarian selections in a bright, airy atmosphere. It even boasts a temperature-controlled wine cellar complete with wine lockers where guests can store some of their own "reserve" bottles.
At GuardAndGrace.com
Photo courtesy of Guard And Grace
POSITIVELY ITALIAN
Located in the heart of Montrose, Postino Wine Café offers an all-day wine program best described as sophisticated-meets-approachable. Coupled with its crave-able bruschetta offerings, shareable charcuterie and cheese boards, hand-pressed paninis, mix-and-match sandwiches, salads, and scratch soup combinations, it's becoming a new favorite.
At PostinoWineCafe.com
Photo courtesy of Postino
BAKERY'S BEST
Founded in Brooklyn by Lauren O'Connor, Cake Thieves is a vegan pop-up bakery and caterer that has been serving up sweets to San Antonio dessert lovers since 2009. Amassing a devoted social media following on Instagram that scrolls for their fans' sweet tooth, Cake Thieves' imaginative flavors change seasonally and are available for custom orders if you can't catch one of their popular pop-up appearances around town.
At CakeTheives.com
Photo courtesy of Cake Theives
For foodies who have flocked to favorite eatery Southerleigh inside of Hotel Emma at Pearl, devotees are abuzz about the restaurant group's newest concept, Bird & Biscuit, opening at the RIM in early 2020. A fine casual restaurant concept that will provide brunch, lunch, dinner, take-out and delivery, Bird & Biscuit will feature a menu based on southern style food including fried chicken, biscuits, and an oyster bar, paired with local Southerleigh micro-brew beers. Plus, the restaurant will also feature a full bar.
At Southerleigh.com
Photo courtesy of Southerleigh
BURGER HEAVEN
A favorite burger spot for San Antonio locals since 1977, Chris Madrids has now reopened after nearly two years of renovations due to a fire that damaged the historic building. The iconic restaurant, nestled in the Alta Vista neighborhood, is just north of downtown. It has welcomed generations of San Antonians to gather, feast, play, and make cherished family memories. Now with a new party room and patio, the hotspot hopes to host greater gatherings than ever before.
At ChrisMadrids.com
Photo courtesy of Chris Madrids
EXPLORE THE ISSUE
I WANT CANDY
THE VERVE OF VICTOR
© Society Texas 2019 | Crafted by Beast Creative Agency


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← Dendrites in rock: Getting a microscopic view
Posted on May 1, 2019	by Marie-Hélène Hubert
Bones and skeletons are key parts of a natural history collection, used by researchers from archaeologists to zoologists. Usually, preparing these osteological specimens starts with removing the flesh. No big deal for small animals.
But, a couple of years ago, Canadian Museum of Nature collections staff faced a whale-sized specimen preparation challenge.
We wanted to deflesh hundreds of kilograms of preserved whale specimens. They had been collected during commercial whaling off the coast of Newfoundland from the late 1960s until 1972, when commercial whaling in Canada was ended.
These specimens weren't just big (up to 25 kilograms) they had also been changed by the preservation process.
Before being transferred into ethanol in the late 1990s, the whale parts had been stored in formalin which hardens animal tissues. This meant they'd require additional preparation, such as ammonia soaks or peroxide treatments, to break down the tissues so that they could be physically removed.
We calculated that manually removing the skin, blubber and muscle to preserve the bones would take years.
Our short-cut alternative? Compost the whale pieces and let bacteria and fungi do the hard work of defleshing.
Whale specimens in the museum's special compost bin prior to being covered with sawdust and manure. Image: Shalini Chaudhary © Canadian Museum of Nature.
So, in the summer of 2017 we created a compost station on the grounds of the museum's research and collections facility in Gatineau.
Efficiently composting large whale pieces requires creating a compost pile with the right mix of carbon (sawdust) and nitrogen (manure) to achieve the ideal temperature for microorganisms, and then giving it time.
During the summer, we did five 18-day composting cycles. During each cycle, we adjusted the sawdust to manure ratio to try and achieve the ideal temperature, which varied between 27°C and 43°C. Sometimes we added water to optimize the humidity levels for the microorganisms. After the last cycle, we removed the largely defleshed whale pieces from the compost pile and moved them into the collections lab.
The compost-based defleshing process did not go as quickly, or work as completely, as we'd anticipated. This was in part because we'd struggled at times to reach optimal composting temperatures. So, to get rid of the remaining flesh we simmered the bones in almost-boiling water, a technique called hot macerating. Then, residual oil was removed by soaking in ammonia. Finally, a peroxide soak bleached the bones which had darkened in the composting process.
A chart of ambient air temperature vs. the internal compost temperatures over three months during whale specimen composting. The most efficient composting occurred when there was the largest gap between the two temperatures. Image: Marie-Hélène Hubert © Canadian Museum of Nature
This combination of multiple preparation techniques worked well and saved the museum time, money and effort. Osteological, or bone, specimens are important components of natural history collections. They are used by many researchers, from archaeologists and palaeontologists to comparative anatomists and zoologists. So, there will always be work preparing these specimens.
Our whale composting experiment has led us to think that we might well be heading back to the compost heap for the preparation of future zoological specimens.
Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) skull bones before (left) and after (right) composting. The initial weight was 25 kg; after composting and cleaning, 18.7 kg. Image: Marie-Hélène Hubert © Canadian Museum of Nature.
This entry was posted in Animals, Collections, Tools of the trade and tagged Collections, composting, Marie-Hélène Hubert, whales. Bookmark the permalink.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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American Savings Statistics: How Much Should You Have in Your Savings Account?
Americans are having an increasingly tough time squirrelling money away. For many, debt is a way of life. Others are simply living paycheck to paycheck, or are highly dependent on welfare.
American savings statistics show that Millennials start saving for their retirement earlier than previous generations. But they still end up with less money than what people their age had 10 or 20 years ago.
Experts recommend having twice your annual salary in savings by the age of 40. However, statistics on American household savings reveal that all age groups are falling short of their benchmarks.
• 21% of Americans have no retirement savings, and 55% of the population believes they will have to work past 65.
• Millennials are doing a better job saving than older generations.
• Median household retirement savings for those aged 35 to 44 is around $40,000.
• Only 45% of women are saving more than 5% every month compared to 57% of men.
• The average American household, which doesn't have a mortgage, is $132,529 in debt.
• Recent studies show that Afro-American wealth is around 7% that of whites.
A sizable portion of the US population is likely to face some sort of financial emergency at one time or another. Unfortunately, most American savings accounts are not equipped to deal with these financial shocks, which often plunge people deeper into debt.
The number of Americans with less than $1,000 in their bank account rose significantly between 2018 and 2019. Meanwhile, the amounts owed by indebted American households are continually soaring.
1. 60% of American households experienced a financial emergency with a median cost of $2,000.
A survey of over 7,800 households found that Americans of all colors and creeds endured financial setbacks at similar rates. The median cost of the households' most expensive shocks stood at $2,000. According to American family savings statistics, those costs drove many families further into debt.
So, how much should you have in savings? Although it's impossible to predict the cost of an emergency, most financial experts recommend having enough money to live on for about three to six months.
That's in addition to a prepared retirement plan. Bear in mind that this sum is calculated based on essential expenses that you would have in times of hardship: housing costs, food, utilities, insurance, transportation, debt payments and personal expenses.
That brings us to our next set of questions. How much does the average American have in savings? And what is the average level of indebtedness?
2. The average indebted American household owes $132,529.
This staggering figure includes everything from credit card and medical debt to car and student loans. Meanwhile, the average household with a mortgage carries a debt of over $172,800.
But that's not all. There are a number of other factors that are making a dent in the average bank account balance.
3. The average household with a car loan is $28,535 in debt.
Many Americans take out car loans that are equivalent to half their annual salaries, and some go even higher. According to financial experts, this is a costly miscalculation often found among people in the 30-40 age group.
Personal loans often decimate the household budget, leaving little to cover credit card debt, potential financial emergencies or a retirement plan.
4. How much money we keep in the bank? GOBankingRates asked over 5,000 adults the same question, and here's what they found:
American savings statistics for 2020 show that nearly 70% of Americans have less than $1,000 stashed away in their bank accounts. That number rose from 58% in 2018. Meanwhile, the number of those with savings between $1,000 and $5,000 stands at roughly 12%. Only 5% of Americans have savings accounts that range between $10,000 and $20,000.
How much money do you have saved in your savings account? (Percentage of respondents)
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The Median Savings Balance By Age
It goes without saying that low salaries and living paycheck to paycheck make it difficult to set anything aside. But are there any other factors impacting American savings accounts?
The following statistics about American savings offer an overview of what the various age groups are saving and how it stacks up against recommendations from experts.
Twentysomethings
The average savings by age 25 are relatively low in the US. There are a variety of economic forces at play that make it difficult to have any considerable chunk of money tucked away this early on in life. The weight of student-loan debt and the average millennial income are just some of the obstacles.
5. The average student loan debt is $32,731, while the median debt amounts to $17,000.
High levels of debt combined with an entry level salary often lead to people in the 20-30 age group struggling financially. But the future isn't entirely bleak. Statistics on average retirement savings by age reveal that young people are still managing to contribute to their retirement account.
6. Millennials are doing a better job saving than older generations.
Recent studies show that Millennials started saving for retirement earlier than Gen Xers and baby boomers. The latest Better Money Habits report from Bank of America surveyed over 1,900 people and found that 73% of millennial respondents were saving.
Of those, 75% were saving for retirement. But the head start has not translated into tangible wealth building, and millennials have less money than the same age group had over ten or twenty years ago.
Thirtysomethings
People in this age group have likely moved up the ranks in their jobs and past the entry-level paychecks. But the growing list of expenses at this age, which includes a mortgage and the cost of starting a family, might make it difficult to think about a financial cushion for retirement. Keep reading to find out more about the average savings by age.
7. Adults aged 35 to 44 said the biggest obstacle to saving was living paycheck to paycheck.
Financial experts recommend that people in this age group have an equivalent of an annual salary in their savings by the age of 30. The savings should be double that amount at 35 and three as high by the time they are 40. Let's take a look at the average retirement savings for this age group.
8. Median household retirement savings for the 35-44 age group is around $40,000.
The Center for Retirement Research at Boston College concluded that these figures are well below the recommended retirement savings by this age group. According to experts, median retirement savings by that age should be 18-23% of the annual salary.
Experts are advising Americans to tighten the family budget and increase the percentage of the salary allocated for the savings account in order to attain those targets.
Fortysomethings
Ideally, this is the prime of one's professional career, and their salary should reflect that. With any luck, people in this age group managed to pay off most of their debt and can look forward to freeing up more money. However, the house got bigger, and the kids are older.
People in this age group might also be in need for another student or car loan. Check out the data on the average American savings by this age.
At first glance, this might seem like a solid sum of money for a retirement plan. But this age group appears to be blowing way too much money on things they could do without while ignoring their median retirement income.
10. The 45-54 age group spends an average of $7,230 on food away from home, which accounts for 40% of their food expenditures.
An American's savings in the bank should be equivalent to four annual salaries by the time he is 45 years old. Although this age group does well when it comes to their retirement plan savings, it's vulnerable to irrational spending and new expenses such as student and car loans.
At this stage, some might still be struggling to understand from what part of income should someone take savings. But things seem to improve as they get older.
Fiftysomethings
People in their 50s are nearing retirement. But helping with college tuition, car payments and covering a stack of different bills are still hurting the household budget. The following is an overview of the average retirement savings by the age of 50.
11. The average retirement savings balance for those in the 55-64 age group is around $135,000.
Although this might sound like a lot of money, it's an awfully small amount to retire on. Most pensioners withdraw roughly 4% of their savings each year. With a retirement account of $135,000 that equals to $5,400 annually or $450 each month. Even with Social Security benefits, making ends meet with that sum of money would be extremely difficult.
That figure also falls short of the recommended retirement savings for this age group, which should be equivalent to at least six annual salaries.
Sixtysomethings
Now that the finish line is in sight, individuals in this group should be preparing to dig into their hard-earned savings. At this point, it is becoming increasingly difficult to save enough money to make up for any shortfalls. Let's see what are the numbers when it comes to average savings in the age of 65.
12. Americans in their 60s have a median savings balance of $172,000.
The most recent data shows that the average American net worth at retirement for homeowners is $201,500. The median savings balance is slightly lower. But this age group still ranks highest when it comes to savings. Naturally, these are the people that have been working the longest and by extension should have the largest nest egg.
However, American retirement savings statistics reveal that many people plan to keep working into their 70s.
13. 21% of Americans have no retirement savings, and 55% of the population believe they will have to work past age 65.
Unfortunately, many believe they will work past the age of 65, and many think there is a possibility they will outlive their retirement savings. In these situations, Americans are advised to consult with financial experts in order to salvage their golden years.
14. The average monthly benefit for a retired worker is $1,471.
An estimated 64 million Americans received more than one trillion dollars in Social Security benefits throughout last year. Of those, 44.5 million were retired workers who collected an estimated $65.4 billion per month.
Although benefits vary depending on the person's work history, the monthly average stood at just over $1,470. Americans can boost their Social Security benefits by asking for a raise at work.
Median Savings Balance By Gender
Wage inequality continues to play a role in determining the amount that women are able to secure for their retirement. Creating a suitable savings account is challenging for every American. But statistics on American savings show that the road to retirement is even more complicated if you are a woman.
15. Women are 27% more likely to have no retirement savings.
A study conducted by the nonprofit National Institute on Retirement Security found that women 65 and older had an average income that was below that of men from the same age group. Consequently, women are 80% more likely to be impoverished than men. The chances of life in poverty during retirement are even higher among single women and minorities.
An online poll tracking more than 88,000 people found that women are less likely to have retirement funds. Check out the following statistics on American retirees' savings.
16. 66% of adult women have an IRA, pension plan, or other retirement funds, while 30% have no funds at all.
The number of women who lack funds for retirement is noticeably higher than that of men. This is a direct consequence of the gender pay gap. Women are continuing to grapple with lower paychecks, and consequently, cannot afford to save as much. Let's check out more numbers on American savings statistics about the male population.
17. In comparison, 72% of adult men have an IRA, pension plan, or other retirement funds, while about one quarter don't have any funds.
The collected data shows that women are 13% more likely not to have any retirement funds.
The simple fact is that women are saving less, and the following US savings rate graph crystallizes the problem.
Women (%)
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Men (%)
Do you currently have an IRA, pension plan, or other retirement fund?
This simple survey paints a disturbing picture, while other research studies suggest that women are investing 43% less into retirement plans as opposed to men.
The following average American savings account statistics highlight the existing gender gap.
18. Only 45% of women are saving more than 5% every month, compared to 57% of men.
Part of the problem is that women are earning less than men. Recent data shows that women earn roughly 80% of what men earn in full-time jobs. One aspect driving the income gap is the low ratio of women working in the highest-paid fields, including engineering and tech jobs.
At the same time, there are fewer women employed than men. According to the average American savings statistics, this employment gap is only fueling the savings gap.
Meanwhile, a Senate hearing several years ago noted that company policies prohibiting employees from discussing their salaries with co-workers help keep women in the dark about wage discrimination. The American Savings Bank was named as one of the companies enforcing this rule.
19. Women make $0.79 on average for every dollar earned by their male counterparts.
Therefore, women need to work longer and have more prominent careers to be able to address the pay disparity. Also, lower earnings can result in lower Social Security checks since the latter is based on average indexed monthly earnings.
This can lead to medical debt and lower credit scores during a women's retirement. Women tend to live longer, which is an additional issue if they struggle with lower earnings and smaller savings.
Median Savings Balance By Race
The racial wealth gap in the US is generally defined as the disparity in wealth holdings between the median household among populations grouped by race or ethnicity. According to American savings statistics, this gap is clearest when comparing white households with those of racial minorities.
According to a Yale study conducted in 2018, white Americans severely underestimate the existing racial wealth gap. The respondents stated they believe that Afro-American wealth is about 80% that of whites. However, the reality is far more disturbing.
20. Data from the US Census Bureau shows that Afro-American wealth is around 7% that of whites.
In the period between 1983 and 2013, white households experienced a 14% increase in wealth. Meanwhile, Afro-American and Hispanic households saw a serious decline of 75% and 50% respectively.
One of the reasons behind such a drastic wealth gap is the number of extremely poor black families. Meanwhile, only 10% of white households live in that level of poverty. American statistics on savings expose more alarming figures.
21. The Economic Policy Institute reported that 25% of Afro-American households have zero or negative net worth.
Since so many black families have nothing in their savings account or are in debt, the average wealth of the entire racial group plummets.
22. Afro-American families have a net worth of $5.04 for every $100 held by white families.
In contrast, Asian American households have more wealth when compared to the total credit score of white households. Even though this appears to be a success story for a minority group, the Asian American community suffers from an internal wealth gap. Statistics on the American people's savings give further insight into these disparities.
23. The richest Asian American held 168 times more wealth than the poorest Asian Americans.
Such disparities are also common among other racial groups. For example, the richest 10% of white households own almost 121 times more than the poorest 10%.
When it comes to Native American wealth, there are obvious shortcomings in the amount of available data, including the fact that the community's wealth hasn't been measured since 2000.
24. At that time, the median net worth of Native American households was just $5,700.
Due to the fact that data on Native Americans is outdated or insufficient for reaching proper conclusions, the economic conditions of these communities tend to be overlooked. But in many instances these conditions are worse than those of Latino or Black households.
American family savings statistics show that the average net worth of Hispanic households is significantly higher.
25. The median household net worth of Hispanic households is $17,530.
There are many factors contributing to the wealth gap in the United States. One of those is education, which improves economic mobility and increases American savings. Educated minorities help to drive up the average income.
Numerous studies say that Americans with a college degree earn over 84% more than the ones with a high school education. However, the racial gap also exists in the education sector and is having an impact on average American savings.
26. According to a McKinsey study, the average score of black and Latino students on standardized tests was two to three years behind that of white students of the same age.
Even after graduation, the racial gap still exists between black and white graduates. The debate on how much does the average American make is quite pointless when these racial inequalities spill over into the workplace. This gap affects job opportunities for minorities and later their financial success. Check out how the racial wealth gap affects the average millennial income.
27. A black family with a graduate has $200,000 less wealth than a comparable white family.
This underscores the fact that educational upgrading does little to alter conditions for wealth building. Black families where the head of the household holds a college degree only have one-eighth the wealth of a white family with the same circumstances.
When gender disparities are taken into consideration, the numbers are even more disturbing as the average of American minorities with higher education decreases further.
28. White males earn a bachelor's degree in engineering at roughly six times the rate of Hispanic women and more than 11 times the rate of black women.
These figures underscore the dramatic underrepresentation of black and Latino women in the field of engineering. Unless these gaps are addressed, they will continue to grow and constrain the US economy.
One of the first steps toward change should be an accurate diagnosis and a framework to address the challenge comprehensively. American savings statistics show that the country has over a trillion dollars to gain from improving the situation.
1. How much savings should you have at 30?
Financial experts advise you to save at least half of your annual salary by the time you are 30.
2. How much does the average American have in emergency savings?
The typical American household has an average of $8,863 in their bank account.
3. What percent of Americans have less than $1000 in savings?
A recent survey found that 70% of Americans have less than $1000 in savings, which marked a significant increase from 2018 when the number stood at 58%.
4. What is the average retirement savings for a 60 year old?
The median savings and retirement account balance for Americans in their 60s is around $172,000.
5. How much should I have in savings at 50?
Financial experts recommend having the equivalent of six to eight times your annual salary in savings by the age of 50.
6. How much do I need to save to retire at 40?
Experts recommend having twice your annual salary in savings by the age of 40. But that applies to those planning to retire in their late 60s. If you want to retire at 40, you are gonna need to save more aggressively. Some studies put the average retirement costs at over $700,000.
7. How long will 500k last in retirement?
If you saved $500,000 for your retirement and withdraw $20,000 annually, it will last you 25 years.
8. What is a reasonable amount of money to retire with?
A growing number of Americans think they need a nest egg of $1 million to $1.5 million for a comfortable retirement.
9. What is the 4 rule of retirement?
This is a rule of thumb used to determine the amount a retiree should withdraw from a retirement account every year. American savings statistics show that this method is effective in providing a steady source of revenue throughout retirement.
National Institute on Retirement Security
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Making Sense of Cents


North Georgia has come to resemble Constantinople in at least one regard: no Episcopalian goes anywhere without being asked for his or her position on homosexuality. While no physical assaults have yet been reported, the debate has split churches and threatened budgets. It has also involved heated references to scripture.
The full text is reproduced below, with permission of The Christian Century as the original will disappear from the web soon.
During the fourth century, at the height of the Arian controversy in Constantinople, one Christian wrote that it was impossible to go into a bakery for a loaf of bread without debating the nature of Christ. Was he the eternal Son of the eternal Father or was there a time when he was not? With bishops physically assaulting other bishops over this question and emperors changing sides on a regular basis, the debate spilled out of the church into the streets, where the Athanasians favored passages from John's Gospel and the Arians shot back with passages from Mark.
When I read this chapter of early church history, I thanked God for letting me live in a later one. Then I got back to planning classes and grading papers. That was before the 2003 General Convention of the Episcopal Church, however, when a majority of delegates from across the United States confirmed the election of the Rev. Gene Robinson as the first openly gay bishop in the Anglican Communion.
Since then, North Georgia has come to resemble Constantinople in at least one regard: no Episcopalian goes anywhere without being asked for his or her position on homosexuality. While no physical assaults have yet been reported, the debate has split churches and threatened budgets. It has also involved heated references to scripture. Robinson fans tend to favor passages from the Gospels, while Robinson foes shoot back with passages from Paul. In the crossfire, it is not hard to understand why Anthony the Great fled civilization for the desert in the middle of the fourth century. Depending on who your neighbors are, snakes and hyenas can look like pretty good company.
The problem I run into at the bakery is that I do not have a position on homosexuality. What I have, instead, is a life. I have a history, in which many people have played vital parts. When I am presented with the issue of homosexuality, I experience temporary blindness. Something like scales fall over my eyes, because I cannot visualize an issue. Instead, I visualize the homeroom teacher who seemed actually to care whether I showed up at school or not. I see the priest who taught me everything I know about priesthood, and the professor who roasted whole chickens for me when my food money ran out before the end of the month. I see the faces of dozens of young men who died of AIDS, but not before they had shown me how brightly they could burn with nothing left but the love of God to live on. I see the face of my 16-year-old friend, still waiting for his first true love, who says that if he found out he was gay, he would kill himself. Other people have other stories, I know, but these are the stories that have given me my sight. To reduce them to a position seems irreverent somehow, like operating on someone's body without looking him in the face.
I used to believe that swapping stories was one way to get closer to people who see things differently than I do, so that both of our truths get stretched, but I have almost given up on that. Where I live, at least, there is little sense that life stories can be "true." Only scripture is true, so that the debate about the place of homosexual Christians in the church today hangs on what various biblical writers did or did not mean by one of five passages that were written at least 1,950 years ago.
I love the Bible. I have spent more than half of my life reading it, studying it, teaching and preaching it. While I do not find every word of it as inspiring (or inspired) as some of my fellow Christians do, I encounter God in it reliably enough to commit myself on a daily basis to practicing the core teachings of both testaments. When I do this, however, a peculiar thing happens. As I practice what I learn in the Bible, the Bible turns its back on me. Like some parent intent on my getting my own place, the Bible won't let me set up house in its pages. It gives me a kiss and boots me into the world, promising me that I have everything I need to find God not only on the page but also in the flesh. Whether I am reading Torah or the Gospels, the written word keeps evicting me, to go embody the word by living in peace and justice with my neighbors on this earth, whatever amount of confrontation, struggle, recognition and surrender that may involve.
In this way, I have arrived at a different understanding of what it means to follow the Word of God. The phrase has become a double entendre for me, meaning not only the Word on the page but also (and more crucially) the Word made flesh. If Jesus' own example is to be trusted, then following the Word of God may not always mean doing what is in the book. Instead, it may mean deviating from what is in the book in order to risk bringing the Word to life, and then facing the dreadful consequences of loving the wrong people even after you have been warned time and again to stop.
These days I guess everything sounds like a position, even a confession like this one. I do not know what is right. All I know is whom I love, and how far I have to go before there is no one left whom I do not love. If I am wrong, then I figure that the Word of God will know what to do with me. I am betting my life on that.
Barbara Brown Taylor teaches at Piedmont College and Columbia Theological Seminary.
All material copyright 2002 the Christian Century Foundation.
Copyright 2003 Christian Century. Reproduced by permission from the 20 October 2003 issue of the Christian Century. Subscriptions: $49/year from P.O. Box 378, Mt. Morris, IL 61054. 1-800-208-4097.


1492 Columbus receives popcorn from the Native Americans.
1620 The first Thanksgiving includes bowlfuls of popped popcorn brought by Native Americans.
1700s Colonial women from Boston to the Carolinas make the first breakfast cereal by pouring milk and sugar over popped popcorn.
1885 Popcorn is introduced to Sac County, Iowa, farmers. Because of the area's ideal growing conditions, Sac County quickly gains the reputation as the "popcorn capital of the world." Yet consistency is a problem - you have to pop a lot to enjoy just a few tasty morsels.
1914 The American Pop Corn Company, makers of JOLLY TIME® Pop Corn, is born. Cloid H. Smith creates America's first branded popcorn and the first popcorn available on the grocer's shelf.
1920s The majority of popcorn is sold in bulk. Local vendors operate popcorn wagons on busy corners. Nearly all popcorn grown is of the white variety.
1930s JOLLY TIME®'s radio program, "General Jolly Time and his Pop Corn Colonels," makes popcorn poppers available by mail for just one dollar. Though money is tight during the Depression, a 10-ounce tin of JOLLY TIME® pops enough popcorn for an entire family and costs as little as a dime.
As more and more movie theaters add popcorn machines, popcorn's popularity also grows.
1939 On its 25th birthday, JOLLY TIME® is named the "World's Largest Popcorn Producer."
American Pop Corn Company sells 75,000 cases of JOLLY TIME® cans.
1949 Within one decade, the number of cases sold of JOLLY TIME® cans increases more than six-fold to 500,000.
1956 - 1957 Arthur Godfrey, on his popular CBS radio show, broadcast nationwide, personally endorses JOLLY TIME® as "the world's best popcorn."
1968 JOLLY TIME® enters the realm of national network television advertising with spots on the popular game show "Let's Make A Deal.
1976 Over the past decade, JOLLY TIME® sales in pounds more than double and quadruple in dollars.
1972 Wrede Smith, Cloid's grandson, serves as The Popcorn Institute President.
1980 The nationally known weight loss franchise, Weight Watchers®, embraces popcorn as an accepted Weight Watchers® program snack. Later, medical experts endorse popcorn as a high-fiber food and recommend it to diet-conscious consumers.
1983 JOLLY TIME®'s first microwave popcorn launches and takes the country by storm. JOLLY TIME® Natural Butter Flavored and Natural Flavor are introduced first, followed by Cheddar Cheese Flavor in 1988.
1986 Popcorn ranks in the top 5% of the fastest growing snack food categories.
1988 Americans eat 12.9 billion quarts of popcorn annually, or 52 quarts per person, 70% of which is eaten at home.
1991 JOLLY TIME® introduces American's Best®, the first nationally distributed popcorn to display the Better-Life® grains seal on its label. The seal guarantees the popcorn has been grown without chemical pesticides.
Also that same year, 100% All Natural Butter Flavored and Natural Flavor Microwave Pop Corn become the first national varieties of microwave popcorn to be packaged without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Present Day JOLLY TIME® continues to develop as many as 500 hybrids each year in its ongoing effort to produce the highest quality popping and best tasting popcorn.
JOLLY TIME® is the only brand to give the choice of both golden, fluffy yellow and tender, tasty white popcorn.
JOLLY TIME® is now run by the fourth generation of Smiths - Carlton and Garrett Smith (a.k.a. Garry) - first cousins and great-grandsons of Cloid H. Smith, company founder.


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North Korea's Nuclear Tantrum
Our Correspondent May 30, 2009
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il is no stranger to brinkmanship but his latest series of actions is qualitatively different. With North Korea's second underground nuclear test conducted on May 25, and simultaneous test-firing of a series of short-range missiles in the direction of Japan over the following two days, Kim seems to be betting all his chips to get direct dialogue with the US. His failing health and uncertain succession may have added urgency to his drive to get US recognition as a nuclear power and to leave a stable legacy. He may soon discover that he has seriously miscalculated; instead of frightening the US and its South Korean and Japanese allies into a new round of talks, his gamble has pushed them into an even stronger resolve against the North's proliferation drive.
Kim is fighting for a place in the nuclear club, and by doing so, will have the power to demand the withdrawal of American troops from the South. North Korea has not given up the ambition of reunifying the peninsula under its dominance, just as Vietnam was reunified under Hanoi's control. Through repeated nuclear tests, the North seeks to make its nuclear weapons program a fait accompli. Kim believes that getting admitted to the nuclear club is the only guarantee to keep his economically crumbling regime from being taken over by the vastly more powerful South Korea. A nuclear weapon, to him, is a ticket to survival.
While analysts speculate as to the reason for the second test, there seems to be no doubt that this time the blast was far more powerful in strength than the last one conducted in 2006. According to South Korean seismologists, the nuclear blast inside the Kilju mountains produced an earthquake scale of 4.5. But a Russian defense ministry official was quoted as saying the blast's explosive power was between 10 to 20 kilotons, or ten or 20 times more powerful than the 1 kiloton strength of the first test three years ago.
As the United Nations Security Council once again began discussing a new resolution against the North, the Obama administration began mulling the possibility of reinstating North Korea on the list of nations sponsoring terrorism. Pyongyang was dropped last year in exchange for the promise of dismantling its nuclear facilities. Shortly after the nuclear test, the South Korean government announced it was now fully participating in the US-led Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI). This participation would require South Korean anti-terrorist forces to board North Korean vessels suspected of carrying missile or other weapons of mass destruction if such vessels were sailing along South Korea's coastal sea. The North has declared that this would amount to a declaration of war and if attempts were made to board North Korean ships on a "peaceful mission" North Korea would strike against the South.
Kim's nuclear brinkmanship comes against the backdrop of the collapse of South Korea's "sunshine" policy of accommodation under the new administration of conservative President Lee Myung Bak. Lee came to office 15 months ago on a promise to review the past ten years of engagement with the Pyongyang regime with plenty of cash and food aid.
In reversal of a decade of liberal policy under former presidents Kim Dae Jung and the late Roh Moo Hyun, President Lee placed denuclearization above reconciliation. That implies using economic aid not only to dismantle the nuclear program, but also Lee's openly stated desire to trigger economic and political reform in the North.
The Kim regime is adamantly set against this policy change. But Kim also faces internal challenges in the form of his ailing health and uncertainty surrounding his succession. As the military and party officials jockey for position, the army establishment is said to have ascended in power. According to a recent report circulating in Seoul, the military faction ordered the execution of a party official in charge of negotiations with the South. This official was reportedly blamed for causing the situation in which the North now finds itself dependent on the South for economic survival.
In light of the latest military escalation, earlier moves by North Korea can now be seen as first steps leading up to an all round challenge to the world. It perhaps explains why the North's powerful National Defense Commission headed by Kim Jong Il disrupted the normal operation of the Kaesong Industrial Park just above the military demarcation line separating North and South Korea.
The Kaesong Industrial Park combines South Korean investment and skills with low-cost North Korean labor. But while a boon for hunger-stricken North Koreans, it is also seen as a political liability. Some one hundred South Korean companies inside Kaesong complex today hire a staggering 39,000 North Korean workers, a steep climb from a few thousand workers five years ago. This very success may have endangered those officials who worked to make it happen and now stand accused of making North Korea far removed from its vaunted principle of Juche – self reliance.
The move on Kaesong formed a link in the overall chain of events encompassing the April 5 rocket launch in defiance of international protests. The North's foreign ministry declared that the UN condemnation was unjust, and North Korea was just in leaving the six-nation nuclear disarmament talks in Beijing.
Growing increasingly wary of the North's bellicosity, Seoul has quietly hardened its position. Now the nuclear weapon and missile tests have pushed Lee to embrace the Proliferation Security Initiative aimed at stopping North Korea's nuclear business.
In a phone conversation with President Obama, the South Korean president reportedly urged him not to reward North Korea by pushing for talks. By joining the long-postponed adherence to the PSI, which is already signed by 92 countries, South Korea is signaling its resolve not to be cowed by North Korean moves.
Outside the peninsula, Kim's latest provocations have also left his erstwhile allies China and Russia embarrassed. Russia indicates it will cooperate with the US in adopting a new UN resolution, calling for stronger sanction on the North. But the recent tensions have heightened China's policy dilemma regarding Pyongyang. China's past position of asking "all concerned parties" to "calm down" now looks quixotic in the face of North Korea's one-sided provocations. The question of whether to go on supporting Pyongyang or exercise influence to moderate it has begun to divide China's policy establishment. On one hand lie "traditionalists" calling for continued support and on the other, "internationalists" asking for a "re-examination" of its past policy, according to Suh Jae Jean, a top North Korea watcher in Seoul. While policy change seems unlikely, any sign of China seriously reconsidering its policy of all-out protection of the Kim regime would have a crucial bearing on the future of the North Korean government.
All this makes Kim's chances of emerging from this crisis richly rewarded, as has been the case so far, looking positively small. His gamble to get recognition as a nuclear power and be invited to the table by throwing a nuclear tantrum may have brought the peninsula to an unprecedented crisis. How he will resolve the crisis may have far reaching effects for the region and the world.
Shim Jae Hoon is a Seoul-based columnist. This originally appeared in Yale Global Magazine. Reprinted with permisssion,
© Copyright 2009 Yale Center for the Study of Globalization


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Understanding the Relationship between Blockchain and Web3.
Relationship Between Blockchain and Web3
The internet has progressed from "read-only" Web 1.0 to the current level of Web 2.0, which is frequently described as participatory and socially driven. Now, we are progressively approaching the next phase of the internet, Web 3.0, often known as Web3 in the digital asset world. Web3 promises to enable people to own things digitally, transact conveniently online, and have more control over their data. Web3 products are already available in the blockchain and crypto ecosystems. Users, for example, can utilize crypto wallets to make peer-to-peer (P2P) payments and collect digital objects. Many blockchain-based applications are designed to be decentralized and accessible to everybody.
Digital assets have the potential to become an integral part of Web3, a new internet that is projected to address the present Web's flaws, such as the concentration of power in the hands of a few centralized social media platforms and the exploitation of users' data. Blockchains' decentralized and permissionless nature is useful in dispersing communication power rather than granting it to the central authority.
While digital assets enable native digital payments on Web3, they can also serve as tokens programmed to perform a variety of functions in digital economic systems. Blockchain and cryptocurrency could help make Web3 more community-focused by enabling decentralized autonomous groups (DAOs).
What distinguishes Web3 from Web2?
The primary stages of the internet's history are sometimes depicted as qualitatively distinct phases termed Web1, Web2, and Web3. Users could not update online data or contribute their material to the websites with which they interacted in the Web1 era. Back then, the internet was made up of static HTML pages that allowed for rudimentary, one-way interactions, such as reading information forums.
Web2 enabled content consumption as well as simple interactivity. Then, over time, Web2 evolved into a more participatory internet in which users were increasingly involved in creating their content. Web2 saw the birth of new types of centralized tech giants since these modes of online interactions were primarily facilitated by social media platforms. The present Web2 ecology is changing once more as new flaws are revealed.
Internet users, for example, have been increasingly concerned about data tracking and ownership, as well as censorship difficulties.
The power of centralized firms became more apparent when they began to utilize it to remove certain people and organizations from their platforms. Web2 firms also utilize the data to keep people on their websites and to develop targeted adverts for the benefit of third parties. Such economic incentives may cause such companies to operate in ways that are not in the best interests of their customers.
Web3's vision is of the next step toward a better internet. Its primary promises include decentralized, trustless, and permissionless internet platforms. It might also usher in a new era of digital ownership, digital-native payments, and censorship resistance in Web products and services.
Because blockchain and crypto are fundamentally decentralized, anybody may record information on-chain, tokenize assets, and create digital identities, they are perfectly positioned to become critical Web3 technologies.
How do blockchain and cryptocurrency fit into the Web3 philosophy?
Decentralization. As previously stated, one of the primary issues with Web2 is the concentration of power and data in the hands of a few significant corporations. Blockchain and cryptocurrency have the potential to decentralize Web3 by promoting a more equitable allocation of information and power. Web3 may use blockchain-powered public distributed ledgers to increase transparency and decentralization.
Permissionlessness: Blockchain-based projects replace traditional corporations' proprietary systems with publicly available code. Because blockchain applications are permissionless, everyone in the world can access and interact with them without restrictions.
Trustlessness: Blockchain and cryptocurrency remove the need to rely on a third party, such as a bank or an individual intermediary. Web3 users can transact without putting their trust in anyone other than the network itself.
Payment rails: Cryptocurrencies have the potential to act as Web3's digitally native payment infrastructure. Because digital assets are truly borderless and do not require middlemen, they have the potential to improve Web2's expensive and unwieldy payment infrastructure.
Ownership: Crypto already provides solutions such as self-custodial crypto wallets, which allow users to keep funds without the involvement of middlemen. Users can also connect their wallets to decentralized apps in order to use their funds in a variety of ways or to display their digital things.
Using a transparent public ledger, anyone can verify ownership of these monies and goods.
Censorship resistance: Blockchains are supposed to be censorship-resistant, which means that no party may unilaterally change the transaction record. It is nearly hard to erase a record after it has been uploaded to the blockchain. This feature could aid in the protection of all forms of speech against the government and corporate suppression.
Are blockchain and cryptocurrency required for Web3?
Web3 could rely on technology unrelated to blockchain or cryptocurrencies. Technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), the internet of things (IoT), and the metaverse, for example, may become indispensable in the new internet era.
While blockchain may function more on the infrastructure side of Web3, these technologies and solutions have the potential to make the internet more immersive and connected to the real world.
IoT could connect numerous devices over the internet, while AR could embed digital visual aspects into the actual world and VR could create computer-generated settings populated by digital assets. Finally, expanding and integrating these technologies might make a unified metaverse a Web3 reality.
Cryptocurrency has the potential to create digital-native payment rails and much more. Utility tokens have the potential to open up a new world of Web3 application cases. Nonfungible tokens (NFTs) could also be used to validate identity and ownership in the digital environment in a way that does not jeopardize users' sovereignty over their data.
What would Web3 look like with cryptocurrency and blockchain?
Blockchain technology has the potential to become one of the pillars of Web3, but users may be unaware of it. If the applications developed on blockchains are user-friendly and straightforward, consumers will not think twice about the underlying infrastructure, much as we rarely think about the data servers and internet protocols that underpin the social media sites we use every day.
NFTs could allow users to display digital collectible things to other users while also assisting them in creating and maintaining their unique digital identities. They may also be used for other applications, such as supporting several critical procedures in online gaming.
Blockchain and cryptocurrency have the potential to change the way Web3 users coordinate and enforce collective action via decentralized autonomous groups (DAOs). DAOs enable people to unite around a common interest without the need for a centralized decision-making body. Instead, token holders vote collectively to select the best course of action. Furthermore, all activity and votes are recorded on a blockchain. As a result, DAOs can push Web3 to become more decentralized, transparent, and community-focused.
Web3 may fix today's major internet problems while limiting the influence of the tech titans. However, it remains an ideal concept rather than a realistic reality. Nonetheless, the technologies that will most likely undergird the future generation of the Web are already in the works.
Because they are meant to promote decentralized, permissionless, and trustless interactions, blockchain and cryptocurrency are frequently regarded as among the technologies most likely to usher in the Web3 revolution. Furthermore, blockchain technology and digital assets do not compete with other major components of the Web, such as AR, VR, and the internet of things, as they are expected to provide the most promising solutions when combined.
Naveen C
Co- founder at Ecosleek Tech Research and Branding at MythX. Talks about #gaming, #metaverse, #blockchain, and #softwaredevelopment


You would be forgiven for assuming that the Italians would be the least likely nation to embrace a gluten-free approach, given that worshipping the holy trinity of pasta, bread and pizza is the draw for food pilgrimages in their millions every year. However, an iconic Italian brand is on a mission to prove this assumption to be entirely false, in the most delicious of ways.
A Rome which embraces gluten free wasn't built in a day, but believe it or not, a recent trip revealed that the home of all things pasta and pizza is a beacon of inclusion for those who avoid the oft demonised gluten. Coeliacs in Italy receive a monthly allowance in order to purchase gluten-free products, but the widespread social phenomenon of gluten avoidance – elective or due to intolerance – has also started to play a role in shaping Italian restaurant menus and customs.
Senza glutine? No problemo, says legendary Italian beer Peroni Nastro Azzuro, which has just launched Peroni Gluten Free, a beer which claims to preserve all the attributes of the original despite the absence of the troublesome grain-based protein. As 'free from' items so often also fall into the 'free from' flavour category, living up to this claim would be a challenge.
Italians are passionate about two things – appearance and taste – and in this regard Peroni is a red blooded Roman. The epitome of slick Italian style, established in 1963 by Carlo Peroni, it is a testament to the Italian core principles of sourcing exceptional raw materials – be they ingredients with which to cook or cloth to cut garments from – and utilising them with skill, care and craftsmanship. From the eye-catching green bottle to elegant, designer-like draught taps, The House of Peroni is far from your run of the mill beer brand and it's latest release is set to disprove the Italian stodge stereotype. With a Peroni gluten free in hand we set out to discover what a Rome without gluten could offer.
Italian culinary ethos dictates that every dish is usually hand-crafted in house, which translates to the ability to say with confidence that dishes contain no trace of gluten. If anything, this commitment to tradition and adulation of raw materials of the highest quality gives the Italians the killer advantage over other culinary cultures in the art of gluten free gastronomy. Peroni's approach to crafting their gluten free beer would prove to be no different, as our Roman guide Simone Corporale, Peroni Master of Taste would demonstrate.
Our first port of call, Aroma, a slick penthouse eatery, should rank highly on any culinary traveler's bucket list. As well as a claim to the best dining room view in Rome, Aroma is a Michelin starred property serving some of the city's finest cuisine. The magnificent setting, with breathtaking views of the Colosseum could have been designed to distract attention from the missing ingredient, but instead we were treated to course after course composed with grace and without a trace of gluten with each dish chosen to accentuate the subtle flavour notes of Peroni Gluten Free.
Black truffle filled the air and generous shavings of the prized ingredient topped a first course of Ricotta and Asparagus Flan. As with our accompanying Peroni Gluten Free, there is no imitation here. Pillow-like soufflé alongside precision poached quail eggs served as a reminder that flavour must be accompanied by the right textures in order to achieve perfection.
In the case of Peroni Gluten Free, Simone explained, it is brewed blending the finest hops with two-row spring-planted barley and the essential addition of a quarter of Italian maize to achieve the perfect balance of bitterness and citrus notes. Fermentation is followed by the use of a natural enzyme to remove the gluten enzyme – fermentation gives the flavour. Peroni is all about taste, both in presentation and on the palate, and the commitment to preserving the fermentation process and the exact same ingredients as original Peroni to develop this is the key to the signature taste in its gluten free offering.
The addition of the all important – and top secret – enzyme is strategically timed after the slow fermentation of the original components, as adding it too soon in the brewing process results in the loss of the crisp mouth-feel as well as the distinct Peroni flavour. Simone speaks of the long process of experimentation endured to perfect Peroni Gluten Free, two years of trial and error to overcome the inadequacies of rival brands' offering using Peroni's signature ingredients. A well known competitor, he reveals, banked on rice being the holy grail of gluten free beer making, only to discover their brew fell completely flat upon pouring.
Knowing it has no place in beer, Peroni left rice to our second course of Saffron Risotto with Braised Beef and Powdered Black Olive. An unctuous risotto is the perfect example of naturally gluten-free Italian indulgence, with all the richness we associate with cuisine from the terra madre. Simple ingredients, handled with expert care, producing an end result more than the sum of its parts seemed to be the order of the day on both the food and drink front.
Next, perfectly caramelized scallops, deep fried artichokes and velvet fennel puree – a tri-colore of tantalizing flavours and textures, married beautifully with the citrus effervescence of Peroni. Bronte Sicilian pistachio Semifreddo rounded out a memorable lunch, a showcase of Italian emeralds and proof of the authentic gems that can be created senza glutine.
Having sampled how haute Italian cuisine lends itself to the gluten-free treatment, we had to question if the most quintessential Roman delicacy, an authentic plateful of pasta, could factor into a GF gastronomic tour. Learning the ropes of gluten-free Italian cookery with guidance from top Italian chefs Fabio Bongianni and Igor Ferraro gave me a new found respect for the commitment it takes to slow, purposeful work to create a product which is not just gluten-free, but imperceptibly so. After two years of intensive research, this is the essence of Peroni Gluten Free – the end result is not a compromise.
This masterclass mirrored the Peroni philosophy of using the finest raw materials, treating them with care and creating a product that isn't just a a passable alternative but a plausible contender for the real thing. Spinach, lemons and ricotta, all sourced from the Market Square upstairs, embodied the Italian ethos. I can confirm, the finished cavatelli, bound in Amatriciana, would pass a blind test with flying colours. Crisp, dry Peroni Gluten Free was the perfect foil for the richness of ricotta stuffed ravioli and lashings of Parmaggiano – gluten who?
A whistle stop tour of the city – The Pantheon and the stunning Trevi Fountain (where we each tossed a coin, wishing our flights home to be cancelled indefinitely) revealed the inspiration behind Peroni's creation and design. Rome's classic elegance and rich cultural heritage, combined with the triumph of Italy's SS Rex in the 1933 'Blue Riband' sparked Carlo Peroni's vision. The goal of honouring and celebrating superior Italian craftsmanship and skill with the creation of a premium Italian beer was achieved in 1963, and with the addition of Peroni Gluten Free, Italian excellence has once again been demonstrated by Peroni.
A feast for the eyes, the senses and the taste buds, our last supper in Casina Valadier was ushered in with a tantalizing take on Peroni Gluten Free – The Aperitivo Romana cocktail designed by Simone. The aperitivo acts as a bitter prelude to a meal to entice the tastebuds, and this concoction of Peroni Gluten Free, Italicus bergamot liquer, Drago Rosso Vermouth, Tuvé bitter and orange proved that Peroni's Master of Taste has well and truly earned his title. I do hope to see this crave-worthy cocktail make its way to Dublin, perfectly paired with unrivalled views of Rome and a host of gluten-free antipasti.
The standout from Casina Valadier, a seamless Giancuale and Ricotta Pasta, encapsulated perfectly how traditional Italian cuisine is in no way dependent on gluten and can shine entirely without it. I would defy the most ardent connoisseur to identify it as an imposter for the real deal and we agreed the same rang true for Peroni Gluten Free. The stereotype of gluten-free being inferior was on its last legs and with this, fell like the Empire before it.
Rather than leaving Rome bloated, feeling the size of the colossal Victor Emanuel Monument, I left jubilant having celebrated the unification of Italian deliciousness with gluten free virtue. Peroni isn't the first brand to attempt a beer without gluten, but true to its Italian heritage it is blazing a trail, employing excellence and crafting a world class product with no compromise. They say Italians do it better – and I for one cannot disagree.
For more information on Peroni Gluten Free click here.


Following this morning's events, this evening's Christmas activities at the food court have been cancelled.
While we would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused, we'd like to inform you that activities will resume tomorrow morning, as planned.
May we take this opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas.