Why Census Demographics and Commedia dell’Arte Masks Are Sexy

A decade-long source favorite of SeniorWomen.com, the Scout Report’s variety of sightings are demonstrated by the following examples just listed. Here are two contrasting items in culture, style, relevance and history:

County Business and Demographics

 The United States Census Bureau publishes hundreds of reports and statistical updates each year that are quite popular with public policy makers, researchers, and interested members of the public. This recent interactive map draws on data from the County Business Patterns program to highlight annual statistics for businesses with paid employees within the US and Puerto Rico. The business statistics here are viewable on the national, state, and county levels. It is worth noting, however, that the data does not include statistics on self-employed businesses or employees of private households. Visitors can use the novel icons on the map to learn about the states that have the most auto repair stores, electronics shops, and gas stations. Visitors can then click on each icon to look at a more detailed map. Additionally, when visitors click on “Explore the Map” they can even create their own customized map that displays a wealth of data culled from recent surveys, such as the American Community Survey. [KMG] © 2012 Internet Scout Project

Top 10

Counties with the most Residential Construction establishments; States with the most Electronics Stores establishments; States with the most Convenience Stores establishments; Counties with the most Gas Stations establishments; Counties with the most Real Estate Industries establishments; Counties with the most Day Care Centers establishments; States with the most Hotels & Motels establishments; Counties with the most Full-Service Restaurants establishments; Counties with the most Bars establishments; States with the most Auto Repair Shops establishments; States with the most Beauty, Nail & Barber Shops establishments

Commedia dell’Arte: The Masks of Antonio Fava

 Born amidst the tremendously productive cultural backdrop of the Italian Renaissance, Commedia dell’Arte is an art form that continues to inspire theatrical groups around the world. In the city of Chicago, it’s spirit is still an integral part of the city’s thriving improvisational comedy scene. It makes sense that Northwestern University would have a wonderful collection of masks created by Antonio Fava, the noted contemporary master of this art form. Visitors can click on the “Biography” tab to learn about Fava, and they will also want to peruse the “Commedia dell’Arte” section to learn more about how this art form was created by Carlo Goldoni. The collection was purchased with a grant from the estate of Dorothy Jean Adams, and this website presents photos and 3D molds that will allow a wider public to appreciate these masks. The “Masks” area is the signature aspect of the site, and it includes magnificent images of five masks, including those that represent the spirit of “pulcinella” (the chicken) and “pantaloon” (the foolish old man). [KMG] © 2012 Internet Scout Project