A timely news release from an agency of the US federal government on an important or interesting topic. 

Released May 21, 2001

I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream 

USPTO Museum Opens Historical Exhibit on Ice Cream Inventions Museum Highlights Important Role of Patents and Trademarks in Our Nation's Social And Economic Health

On Tuesday, May 22, 2001, the Department of Commerce's United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will unveil its newest periodic exhibit, "Ice Cream: The Real Scoop," with a special opening reception and viewing.

The popularity of this cool confection was made possible by the intellectual property systems that protect the inventor and entrepreneur. From Nancy Johnson's 1843 invention of the paddle ice cream freezer to today's latest novelty treats, patents, trademarks, and copyrights have helped to make ice cream a multi-billion dollar industry.

America consumes more ice cream than any other nation-about 15 quarts per person each year. Thomas Jefferson was so taken by vanilla ice cream while in Paris that he brought back to the United States the recipe written in his own hand. Jefferson's recipe, along with various inventions related to ice cream will be on display. Visitors will learn such facts as why eating ice cream was considered a sin in the 1890's, and how the people behind the famous brands made their mark on the world.

Established in 1995, the Patent and Trademark Museum strives to educate the public about the patent and trademark systems and the important role intellectual property protection plays in our nation's social and economic health. The museum features a permanent exhibit that explains what intellectual property is and how it is protected. Also on display are some of the 250,000 patent models that were once displayed in the old Patent Office.

Now run by the National Inventor's Hall of Fame, the museum was recently redesigned to better showcase and highlight the nation's intellectual property history and creativity. A new museum shop will feature a selection of USPTO logo merchandise and other items.

"Ice Cream: The Real Scoop" runs through October 2001.

WHAT: "Ice Cream: The Real Scoop" Grand Opening Reception 

WHERE: Patent and Trademark Museum, United States Patent and Trademark Office 2121 Crystal Drive, Suite 0100 Arlington, Virginia 

WHEN: Tuesday, May 22, 2001 5:30 p.m.

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