Mixology comes with a language all its own

August 16 is National Rum Day! Rum is the spirit of the Caribbean, where the people of the islands have enjoyed this sweet libation for centuries. It’s all made from sugar cane, or the molasses made from sugar cane, but each island puts its own distinctive personal touch to the brew.

If we haven’t done it, we’ve seen it. It’s somebody who’s become sloppy, falling-down drunk. Alcohol certainly throws off one’s coordination but the neurological reason behind the symptom has been a mystery until now. The alcohol brain disconnect is a measurable neurological reaction.

When you shovel that snow from your own driveway or sidewalk, why not uncover the nearest fire hydrant, too? Adopt a fire hydrant near you for a winter-long project. Keep it clear and it will keep you and everyone you love much safer during this (and every) brutally cold, treacherous winter.

Ayyyy, mateys, September 19 is International Talk Like a Pirate Day and, in 2010, we can celebrate all weekend long!! What kind of grog will you be servin’ up?