Bubbles from the Kettle

... otherwise known as a news roundup (thanks mostly to Engadget and Gizmodo).

I'm somewhat torn on this one -- the Teamsters local in Philadelphia has called for a boycott on Yuengling beers in support of negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement. I grew up in a union home, respect what they were able to accomplish in the past, and fear that we need some kind of worker's rights movement more now than ever... but I'm reluctant to join a boycott just because the Teamsters say so.  More information would definitely be welcomed.

Our friends in the land of the macrobrew, Miller Brewing, have licensed the technology to offer self-cooling beer cans -- opening the door to charging more for less liquid (16 oz. can, 10.5 oz beer).

Until that technology hits the streets, however, how about the portable chiller (with optional car lighter plug)?

Here's perhaps the strangest device I've seen in some time... place your freshly poured (but non-widgetted) pint of Guinness on the small disk and watch the magic of ultrasonic technology power bubbles through the stout just like a true nitrogenated, two-stage pour.  Unfortunately, Guinness claims you need to buy special beer (likely with saturated nitrogen activated by the ultrasonic waves).

For those who want to feel better about their consumption, look to Brooklyn Brewery or New Belgium Brewery who are finding ways to use (and generate) alternative energy sources. 

How to avoid the scourge of drinking alone? That's right... try the "lovers cups" and be connected to others around you. 

Finally, I've scored a few wacky soundbites from the world of malt and barley advertising.  There's obviously more to be unearthed, but for now I'll offer you the "Young Adults" (MP3) on the joys of Hamm's (from the land of sky blue waters) and WFMU's remembrance of Olde Frothingslosh.

Technorati: beer, environment, Guinness, Hamm's, Brooklyn Brewery, New Belgium, Olde Frothingslosh