Happy Memorial Day

Friday Happy Hour: Bacardi

We're definately getting into the season of rummy, refreshing drinks. Let's have a Bacardi!

It's actually almost a Daiquiri -- practically kissing cousins. Here's an authentic recipe from "back in the day:"

Happy Memorial Day, and cheers!

This week's Friday Happy Hour is brought to you by ...

Wednesday's Food Section: Pancakes and Waffles

This will be ideal for your Memorial Day brunch! And, you'll be surprised at how versatile pancakes and waffles can be! Here's the basic recipe:

And here are some suggestions on how you can dress them up:

Onion? Spicy? See what we were talking about! Here are some more surprising variations:

Interesting -- you'll be the talk of the Lady's Auxiliary when you serve these! Here are some additional ways to impress:

So, you really can't go wrong -- so may options! Bon appetit!

And now, a word from our sponsor

Friday Happy Hour: Collins (Tom Collins, John Collins, et al.)

There's your classic Tom Collins! (and it's going to hit the spot!) The Tom Collins is the chairman of the board of a group of Collins drinks. Let's learn a little of the history of the Collins:

Here are some of the clan members by name:

So, you can see how versatile the Collins is. Start with lemon juice, add sugar, some ice, a booze of choice, and soda -- and some colorful garnishes! Here are some vintage takes on the Collins:

Looks like the whole family is listed there -- Daddy, Mickey, Sandy, Joseph (he's the stuffy one), and Johnny. Where's Mommy? Here are more:

So, you can run with this formula and make a Collins to your taste. We should also notice how refreshing they are -- just look:

Indeed, effervescent, bubbling and alive!

Cheers!

This week's Friday Happy Hour is brought to you by ...

Wednesday's Food Section: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Does the picture do this dish justice? Let your mouth decide!

Thanks Quaker Oats! Bon appetit!

May 18 in Chicago history

Abraham Lincoln is nominated by the Republican Party for president at its convention in Chicago on May 18, 1860.

May 15 in Rogers Park history

Germania -- the area of Rogers Park north of Howard, east of the L, and south of Calvary Cemetery -- is annexed from Evanston to Chicago on May 15, 1915.