RFK Pennies, Garbage Disposals, and Fried Chicken Skin: An Unlikely Trio
This seemingly random collection of terms – RFK pennies, garbage disposals, and fried chicken skin – presents a fascinating opportunity to explore some unexpected connections. While they might not seem related at first glance, each item holds a unique place in American culture and history, and delving into them individually reveals intriguing stories. Let's break down each element and see where the conversation leads.
What are RFK Pennies?
"RFK pennies" refers to wheat pennies minted during the presidency of John F. Kennedy's brother, Robert F. Kennedy (RFK). While RFK himself wasn't president, the wheat penny design, produced from 1909 to 1958, often gets associated with this era due to its proximity to his time in public life. Collectors are particularly interested in specific mint marks and condition, making these pennies a sought-after item for numismatists. The value of an RFK penny depends heavily on its condition, rarity, and mint mark. While many are common and only worth their face value, some rare variations can fetch significantly higher prices.
Can you put fried chicken skin down the garbage disposal?
This is a question frequently asked by home cooks. The short answer is: it's generally not recommended. While some small, crispy bits might pass through without issue, larger pieces of fried chicken skin, particularly those with excess grease, can clog your garbage disposal. The grease can solidify, sticking to the disposal's inner workings and potentially causing damage or a complete blockage. Furthermore, the skin itself can get tangled in the blades, leading to unpleasant odors and the need for expensive repairs. It's always best to dispose of fried chicken skin in the trash.
What's the best way to dispose of fried chicken skin?
This depends on your personal preferences and local waste management options. Here are a few suggestions:
- Trash: The easiest and safest method is to wrap the fried chicken skin in a paper towel or other suitable material before throwing it away in the trash.
- Composting (if applicable): If you compost food waste, fried chicken skin can be added to your compost pile. However, make sure it's not excessively greasy. Excess grease can hinder the decomposition process and create odor issues.
Why are some pennies more valuable than others?
Penny value is determined by several factors, including:
- Year and Mint Mark: Certain years and mint marks are rarer than others, driving up their value.
- Condition: Uncirculated or near-uncirculated pennies are much more valuable than heavily worn ones. Collectors grade pennies based on their condition, using standardized scales.
- Errors: Pennies with errors in their minting process are often highly sought after by collectors. These errors can range from minor misstrikes to significant anomalies.
Are there any other foods I shouldn't put down the garbage disposal?
Yes, many food items are unsuitable for garbage disposals. These include:
- Fibrous foods: Things like celery, corn husks, and artichoke hearts can clog the blades.
- Starchy foods: Large amounts of potatoes or rice can create a sticky paste that clogs the drain.
- Oils and Fats: As mentioned with fried chicken skin, grease solidifies and causes blockages.
- Bones: Bones can damage the blades of your garbage disposal.
In conclusion, while seemingly disparate, RFK pennies, garbage disposals, and fried chicken skin offer glimpses into diverse aspects of everyday life, from numismatics and collecting to kitchen chores and waste management. Understanding these seemingly simple things can lead to deeper appreciation for the details that make up our world.
