The True Champion of the People: Ultra runner Karl Meltzer set a new speed record for running the Appalachian Trail this week, covering 2,190 miles and 14 states in just 45 days, 22 hours and 38 minutes. His fuel for the run was not the chalky protein supplements of most runners or the all-vegan diet of the previous record holder. Instead, Meltzer threw back a few beers each night, regularly ran with bacon and candy in his pockets, and occasionally took in a pick-me-up of an entire pint of ice cream. He celebrated completing the run by eating an entire pepperoni pizza with a beer or two. We stand in awe of Meltzer’s commitment to both running and a diet straight out of a college dorm, and wish him many more beery runs to come.
Bruges Beer Pipeline Opens: The celebrated beer pipeline in Bruges went into operation this week, moving 1,000 gallons of beer each hour. This also kicks off the beginning of the free beer for life perks for their investors, ranging from the occasional case for small investments to “a bottle a day” for heftier contributors. No word on if those lucky folks will also receive celebratory koozies, but we can’t imagine they’re too concerned.
Your Friends Are Jerks, Vol. 1: According to a study released this week, people in social groups will change their beer orders when with a group to avoid the misguided “shame” of copying someone else’s order. The study revealed that people who changed their beer order thusly often regretted the decision. This seems like a real no-brainer to us: drink what you like. If your friend likes it too, capital work on finding someone else with impeccable taste. Next question.
Your Friends Are Jerks, Vol. 2: In another study burdening your simple brain with the burden of your social life, scientists claimed that being around noticeably drunker peers caused people to underestimate their actual level of intoxication. The reverse also held true: if you’re the only one drinking in a group of teetotalers, you’re more likely to report feeling more drunk. We’re not sure how much money this study cost, but you can prove this hypothesis with a single trip to any karaoke bar. Have fun and be careful!
Head Brewer Jane Austen: Has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? Based on letters from the famous author to her sister Cassandra, Austen was a prolific homebrewer who specialized in spruce beer. During Austen’s life in the late 1700′s and early 1800s, women were primarily responsible for making beer at home, earning the title “brewsters.” Once beer moved to a factory setting, men muscled the women aside. Next time you crack a beer or a book, toast to Jane, the great lady brewers of history and the women of the modern beer industry as they continue to change the game.
While We’re On History: Your Friday slacking material is here: take a look inside the long-abandoned Yuengling steam brewing facility in Richmond, Virginia. The history is terrific, but the real fodder is imagining a supervillain taking up residence in those gloomy brick tunnels. The place looks tailor-made for maniacal laughter, sinister machines, and maybe a musical number or two. The story is yours to write– it’s not like the rest of your office is focusing right now. Have fun!