Grilling Time

May 9, 2008

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Profile America — Friday, May 9th. Winter is a rapidly fading memory, and many of us will be spending more time on our decks, balconies and backyards. Some have already set up their charcoal or gas grills. In fact, food is very much in the spotlight in May. This is not only National Barbecue Month, but hamburgers, salsa and salads also have their own celebration months. Outdoor grilling became popular in the 1920s. The first charcoal briquets were sold by Henry Ford, made from scrap wood left over from the body framing of his Model Ts. About one-in-three adults across the U.S. enjoys grilling food outside — contributing to the 62 pounds of beef we each consume every year, along with 74 pounds of poultry and 47 pounds of pork. You can find these and more facts about America from the U.S. Census Bureau online at <www.census.gov>.

Sources: Chase's Calendar of Events 2008, p. 247, 248
Statistical Abstract of the United States 2008, t. 1213, 205
http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2008edition.html