Glass

When Glass Goes Swimming: Pool Closures, Vintage Dangers, and Glassmakers Uniting!

A swimming pool closes over glass pieces, employees take over a glassmaker, and vintage whiskey glass dangers revealed! Dive in!

Berlin has made quite a splash lately, but not in the way you'd think! The famous Percival Pool on Highland Avenue was abruptly closed over the weekend due to a concerning discovery of glass pieces floating in the water. Local officials acted swiftly, marking the closure to ensure the safety of all swimmers. While the exact circumstances surrounding the glass find remain shrouded in mystery, it surely left many locals feeling a bit ‘shattered’ at the thought of missing out on their weekend pool plans. Have we finally found out why they say not to ‘dive in headfirst’?

In a twist of fate reminiscent of fairy tales, Duralex employees have stepped up to take the reins of the iconic French glass manufacturer after a recent court ruling. Known for their sturdy and stylish tempered glassware, Duralex has weathered many storms since they first opened their doors. Employees now have the opportunity to steer the company into a new era; let’s raise a glass to their entrepreneurial spirit! One hopes they don’t find any glass splinters along the way!

But speaking of glass, would you be surprised to learn that your vintage whiskey glass might be packed with dangerous chemicals? Many antique and vintage whiskey glasses contain lead, a notorious health hazard that can seep into your cherished dram. Yes, those beauties could be more toxic than they look! Experts suggest limiting usage of such vintage glass when drinking, which is probably good advice unless you fancy a trip to the emergency room alongside your whiskey tasting.

While it may seem like glasses have taken center stage in this whirlwind of news, we can’t forget the rich history that glassmaking has! For over 2,000 years, glass has been treasured by cultures all over the globe. Did you know that the revered French glassmaker, Duralex, produced its first glassware in 1945? And as for lead in glassware, it’s interesting to note that modern manufacturers have developed ways to create lead-free crystal that ensures a safer sipping experience. So next time you raise a glass, make sure it's safe, sturdy, and maybe even a bit scandalous!