In December 2019, the motion picture, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,” staring Tom Hanks as beloved television icon Fred Rogers made its debut. Rogers was the creator, showrunner, and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which ran from 1968-2001.
As a musician, puppeteer, writer, and producer, Fred Rogers’ gentle demeanor brought beautiful simplicity through nurturing interactions with young children to over 30 years of viewers. His enigmatic theme song, from which the motion picture takes its title, includes the following lines, which many adults can recall:
It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,
A beautiful day for a neighbor,
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?
Fred Rogers was also a Presbyterian minister, and it’s likely those lines were inspired by another story of a neighbor.
In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus asked the expert in law, in effect, “Who is your neighbor?”
It’s almost 2020, and the question remains, “Who is our neighbor?”
From the television neighborhoods of Beaver Cleaver and Andy Taylor, to Mr. Rogers, to Sam and Diane, to Jerry and Kramer, to Rachel and Monica and Phoebe and Chandler and Joey, to Phil and Claire, to Jack and Rebecca and Randall and Kate, it’s a question that mainly depicts an unfulfilled longing for a neighborhood that actually works.
It occurs to me that this is not a neighborhood;
It is only a collection of unconnected individuals.
Long gone are the days where kids played in the yards and streets all day “till the street lights came on” and where neighbors talked across fences or on front porches.
It seems as if the people we live closest to appear only briefly when the car leaves the garage in the morning and comes back in the evening.
It seems as if the idea of “neighborhood” has disappeared in reality if not actuality, and with it the idea of knowing for, and caring for, neighbors.
What does all this neighborhood business have to do with the gospel? As Jesus followers – people of the Good News – we follow the one who said the most important commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We have a tremendous opportunity before us: to take notice and help resurrect rich relationship in our neighborhoods.
If anyone should “neighbor” differently, it should be us.
According to Leonard Sweet, if we really want to learn someone’s story, sitting down at the table and breaking bread together is the best way to start.
This issue of SUMS Remix looks at solutions that will help you see the importance of your “table” as a place of disciplemaking. The solutions include:
Radical, ordinary hospitality brings the gospel to our lost friends and neighbors. Such hospitality sees our homes as not our own, but as God’s tools for the furtherance of his kingdom as we welcome those who look, think believe, and act differently from us into our everyday, sometimes messy lives – helping them see what true Christian faith really looks like.
In the culinary cosmos, where taste buds reign supreme and flavors dance on the palate, there exists a realm that has captured the hearts and appetites of millions: the world of hamburgers. The humble yet iconic burger, with its savory embrace of juicy patties, harmonious toppings, and snug bun, has transcended its fast-food origins to become a canvas of culinary creativity. As a seasoned burger consumer of six decades and an aficionado of all things patty-powered, I have embarked on a delectable journey to uncover the ultimate burger experience, armed with a finely-tuned palate and a discerning eye for detail.
Right.
I just love eating hamburgers and researching and writing about them!
In this pursuit of burger nirvana, I’ve devised a comprehensive rating scale that evaluates each element of this handheld masterpiece. Every bite counts, and it is this attention to every nuance that separates a forgettable burger from a memorable masterpiece. Let’s delve into the core components that contribute to the tantalizing symphony of flavors, textures, and aromas that define a truly remarkable burger.
The Burger Patty: Where Flavor Takes Center Stage
At the heart of every great burger lies the patty, a canvas for the culinary artist’s imagination. From flavor to juiciness and texture, this element sets the tone for the entire experience. A patty can transcend mere sustenance, evoking a culinary journey with every bite. A score of 1 to 5 in each category defines the patty’s prowess: Flavor, Juiciness, and Texture.
Crafting the Perfect Bun: A Gateway to Gastronomic Bliss
A bun might seem inconspicuous, but it serves as the vessel that holds the essence of a burger together. Freshness and Texture are key players in this symphony. A bun can either elevate the experience or become a dampener, and I rate these two qualities on a scale of 1 to 4.
Cheese and Toppings: Elevating the Burger Narrative
The choice of Cheese and Toppings isn’t just a garnish; it’s an opportunity to inject personality and creativity into the burger. A masterful combination can transform a burger into a multi-sensory delight. The artistry lies in balancing the familiar with the innovative, and I evaluate these two items with a scale of 0 to 2 for cheese and 0 to 3 for toppings.
Sides: Accompanying the Star with Panache
A burger’s company matters, and the sides it’s served with can make or break the overall experience. Be it classic fries or a more avant-garde accompaniment, sides should complement the burger’s charisma. I gauge this on a scale of 0 to 2.
The Final Verdict: An Odyssey of Senses
After meticulously scrutinizing each element, I render the overall impression of the burger – a synthesis of its parts and the magic they create together. On a scale of 1 to 5, I judge the level of satisfaction the burger imparts, encapsulating the joy, memories, and sense of fulfillment it brings.
Adding It All Up: The Numbers Don’t Lie
If you’ve been keeping score of the ratings above, you will find that they add up to a possible 35 points. With a bit of deft magic from a calculator, I’ve broken those total possible points into a scale of seven ratings.
Coincidentally, the USDA has seven ratings for it’s grading of beef. And since burgers are always beef (don’t bring me your platitudes of veggie burgers, tofu burgers, etc.), what better way to show the ratings?
I give you the BurgerQuest Rating Scale, top to bottom:
7 – Exceptional, a burger masterpiece. Prime
6 – Scrumptious, a flavor-filled burger. Choice
5 – Delicious, a memorable burger. Select
4 – Tasty, a go-to favorite. Standard
3 – Satisfying, an enjoyable burger. Commercial
2 – Adequate, but forgettable. Utility
1 – Disappointing in so many ways. Cutter/Canner
With these scoring criteria as my compass, I’m ready to begin listing the ratings as I traverse the diverse landscapes of the burger world. From quaint diners to more refined settings, each establishment’s interpretation of the quintessential burger offers a unique chapter in the ongoing story of culinary evolution. Through this gastronomic odyssey, I’ll unearth the exceptional, the innovative, and the unforgettable, sharing my discoveries with you in pursuit of the ultimate burger bliss.
So, fasten your seatbelts and ready your appetites, for we’re about to embark on a quest that will redefine the way you experience the humble yet extraordinary world of hamburgers. Get ready to savor each moment, one bite at a time, and discover the places where burger dreams become reality.
My ratings of burgers will primarily appear on my Facebook and Instagram accounts. I may, from time to time, post some unique burger ratings or summaries here.
The literary aspects of BurgerQuest will continue here, as I dive deeper into the literature of the world of burgers. Eventually, I will also begin to document my culinary adventures in replicating (or at least trying) some burger adventures in my home kitchen and deck.
Disclaimer: As I stated in the opening post of this series, this quest is being undertaken through the lens of a literary, culinary, and arbitrary journey. For the purposes of ratings, there will be an emphasis on arbitrary. Even the most disappointing burger – if there is such a thing – provides sustenance, dubious nutrition, and satisfies if only for a little while the basic needs of hunger. I am grateful that I am able to undertake such a quest, knowing that millions of people around the world would be grateful for even a bite of one of the burgers I’ve consumed.
In the wake of World War I, the hamburger was still considered a disreputable and undesirable food. Yet by 1930 Americans in every corner of the country accepted the hamburger as a mainstream meal and eventually made it a staple of their diet. The quintessential “American” food, hamburgers have by now spread to almost every country and culture in the world. But how did this fast food icon come to occupy so quickly such a singular role in American mass culture?
In Selling ‘em By the Sack, David Gerard Hogan traces the history of the hamburger’s rise as a distinctive American culinary and ethnic symbol through the prism of one of its earliest promoters. The first to market both the hamburger and the “to go” carry-out style to American consumers, White Castle quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the fast food industry. Its founder, Billy Ingram, shrewdly marketed his hamburgers in large quantities at five cents a piece, telling his customers to “Buy’em by the Sack.”
The years following World War II saw the rise of great franchised chains such as McDonald’s, which challenged and ultimately overshadowed the company that Billy Ingram founded. Yet White Castle stands as a charismatic pioneer in one of America’s most formidable industries, a company that drastically changed American eating patterns, and hence, American life. It could be argued that what Henry Ford did for the car and transportation, Billy Ingram did for the hamburger and eating.
As a food researcher and enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for captivating literature that delves into the intriguing world of the origins and history of food. With the advent of Burger Quest, even more so! Selling ’em by the Sack by David Gerard Hogan is one such remarkable piece of work that left a lasting impression on me.
In this thought-provoking book, Hogan takes readers on an enlightening journey through the fascinating history and evolution of the fast-food industry, focusing primarily on the iconic American chain, White Castle. The author skillfully unravels the secrets behind the success of this pioneering fast-food establishment, offering profound insights into the art of selling and consumer behavior.
Hogan’s narrative style is engaging and well-paced, making the book an easy and enjoyable read for both industry insiders and casual enthusiasts alike. He effortlessly weaves together historical anecdotes, cultural influences, and the innovative marketing strategies that have made White Castle a household name since its inception in 1921. The depth of research presented in “Selling ’em by the Sack” demonstrates Hogan’s dedication to understanding the industry’s past and its implications for the present.
One of the standout features of this book is Hogan’s ability to explore the often overlooked socio-cultural impact of fast food on society. He astutely examines how White Castle’s success shaped America’s eating habits, urban development, and consumer expectations. Moreover, he delves into the company’s pioneering techniques in food preparation, supply chain management, and brand building, setting the stage for the fast-food giants that followed in its footsteps.
I appreciate Hogan’s skillful use of language and storytelling techniques. He artfully captures the essence of White Castle’s brand identity and its role in shaping the larger fast-food culture. Throughout the book, Hogan demonstrates a keen understanding of how powerful marketing and advertising campaigns can influence consumer behavior and drive business success.
Selling ’em by the Sack is not just a book about White Castle; it is a story of entrepreneurship, innovation, and adaptability. Hogan masterfully paints the picture of how this modest hamburger stand evolved into a global fast-food phenomenon. The book imparts valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, marketers, and food industry professionals, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one’s vision while continually adapting to meet the changing needs and desires of customers.
While Hogan celebrates the successes of White Castle, he also confronts the controversies surrounding the fast-food industry, including issues related to health, labor practices, and sustainability. This balanced approach adds depth to the book and encourages readers to think critically about the broader implications of the fast-food culture in modern society.
In conclusion, Selling ’em by the Sack is a captivating and insightful exploration of the fast-food industry, with a focus on White Castle’s significant contributions to the field. David Gerard Hogan’s expertise as a food researcher shines through in every chapter, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of food, marketing, and culture. Whether you are a food enthusiast, a history buff, or a business professional, this book offers a satisfying and enlightening experience that will leave you hungry for more.
In the latest version of “Nina and GrandBob’s Summer Camp,” Anita and I recently spent a week in VA keeping our 3-year old grandson and 3-month old granddaughter while their daycare was closed for a couple of weeks. Our kids had planned one of the weeks as a vacation, but needed help for the other week – and of course we were very happy to do it!
Among many observations we made that week, one stands out:
Socrates and his method of questioning has nothing on a three-year old’s ability to ask “why.”
Each day began with me taking my grandson on a wagon ride/walk of about a mile or so, looping through all the streets in their neighborhood. The birds were out and about, pets greeted us with tail wags, cars and trucks needed explaining, and other neighbors out walking greeted us warmly.
All of the above, and much more, demonstrated the curiosity capacity of a three-year old. At the same time, it was a reminder that we’re never to old to ask “why” and learn more about what is going on around us.
Curiosity is a fundamental aspect of human nature, driving our pursuit of knowledge and understanding. Two notable expressions of curiosity are the Socratic Method and a three-year-old’s incessant questioning of “why.” While seemingly distinct, these two forms of inquiry share surprising similarities in their ability to ignite intellectual exploration and enhance learning. This article delves into the world of curiosity, comparing and contrasting the Socratic Method with a three-year-old’s relentless pursuit of “why.”
The Socratic Method: An Ancient Art of Inquiry
The Socratic Method, dating back to ancient Greece, is a philosophical approach that seeks to uncover truth through questioning. Inspired by the famous philosopher Socrates, this method involves a skilled interlocutor leading a discussion by asking thought-provoking questions. Through these inquiries, participants are encouraged to critically examine their beliefs, assumptions, and reasoning, arriving at deeper insights and understanding.
A Three-Year-Old’s “Why”: Unfiltered Curiosity
If you’ve ever spent time with a three-year-old, you’re likely familiar with their unyielding tendency to ask “why” about nearly everything they encounter. From mundane tasks to complex concepts, this simple question serves as their gateway to understanding the world around them. For a child at this age, “why” represents their innate curiosity and thirst for knowledge as they seek explanations and connections.
Comparing Curiosity in the Socratic Method and a Three-Year-Old
The Power of Inquiry
Both the Socratic Method and a three-year-old’s “why” share a profound reliance on inquiry to stimulate intellectual exploration. Both approaches aim to unearth deeper truths and insights, either within oneself (in the case of the Socratic Method) or about the external world (in the case of a child’s “why”). They demonstrate the inherent human desire to seek answers and understand the reasons behind various phenomena.
Cultivating Critical Thinking
Both the Socratic Method and a three-year-old’s “why” contribute to the development of critical thinking skills. The Socratic Method encourages individuals to question their assumptions, consider various perspectives, and evaluate the logic of their beliefs. Similarly, when a child asks “why,” they engage in basic critical thinking by seeking explanations and connections, fostering their cognitive development.
Contrasting Curiosity in the Socratic Method and a Three-Year-Old
Guided vs. Unstructured Inquiry
The Socratic Method involves a guided and intentional approach to questioning, with an interlocutor leading the dialogue strategically. On the other hand, a three-year-old’s “why” is often unstructured and free-flowing, following their natural inquisitiveness without any predefined agenda. This distinction highlights the difference in purpose between adult-led and child-driven curiosity.
Complexity of Questions
The Socratic Method typically involves complex and profound questions designed to provoke thoughtful responses and insights. In contrast, a three-year-old’s “why” often involves simple and straightforward questions driven by their immediate curiosity about their environment and experiences.
Social Context
The Socratic Method usually occurs in formal settings like educational institutions or philosophical discussions, involving adults or intellectually developed peers. In contrast, a three-year-old’s “why” is predominantly a social interaction between the child and their caregivers, teachers, or peers, occurring in informal daily settings.
Harnessing the Power of Curiosity
The Socratic Method and a three-year-old’s “why” demonstrate the inherent human drive to seek understanding and knowledge. While they differ in structure and complexity, both approaches showcase the power of curiosity as a catalyst for learning and growth.
For educators and leaders, understanding the significance of curiosity is essential in fostering a culture of inquiry and intellectual development. Encouraging critical thinking and open dialogue, inspired by the principles of the Socratic Method, can lead to profound insights and transformative learning experiences, not just for adults but also for the young minds who constantly ask “why.”
Curiosity is a timeless force that transcends age and time. The Socratic Method, with its guided approach to questioning, and a three-year-old’s relentless “why,” exemplify the power of inquiry in stimulating intellectual exploration and fostering critical thinking. By embracing curiosity and promoting thoughtful questioning, we can create a culture that values learning, encourages open dialogue, and nurtures intellectual curiosity in both adults and children alike. As we harness the potential of curiosity, we unlock the door to a world of knowledge and understanding, propelling us on an endless journey of discovery and growth.
August 9 is birthdate of my father, H.D. “Doc” Adams, who was born in 1927.
It’s also Book Lover’s Day.
Those two seemingly incongruent circumstances actually have a powerful connection for me.
After suffering a major stroke on February 10, 2012, my father passed away on February 25. By the time I was able to get back to Tennessee to see him, he had lost motor functions and speech capacity. Over the few days I was there, the slow but steady decline continued.
I had last seen him during the previous Christmas holidays. While there, I spent some time alone at home with him. After suffering a series of strokes over the past several years, he could no longer read – but the legacy of his reading lined the bookshelves all over my boyhood home. In the quiet hours when everyone was asleep, I scanned the shelves and remembered hearing him talk about this book or that one. I pulled a few off the shelf, and opening them, was instantly transported back in time to a conversation about the subject, or to memories of the event itself.
I’ve been a reader of books since, well, before I can remember. My father was an avid reader, and he passed that passion along to me at an early age. Even though he worked 6 days a week, 12 hours a day as a gas station owner, he often spent several hours reading each night. A recent revelation from a book brought his actions sharply into focus:
The manual labor of the past that allowed a human being to work in an embodied way, and to contemplate in heart and mind while working with one’s hands, encouraged the desire for reading after the physical exertions were completed. One can imagine why a farmer might kick off his boots after a day of sweat and dirt to read a good book.
Reading for the Love of God, Jessica Hooten Wilson
That was my father.
He insisted my mother take my brother and me to the library in the next town and check out books – every two weeks. I would get the maximum number of books, take them home, and read them – usually in the first day or two. Then it would be an impatient wait till the next library trip.
Reading is a passion I treasure, and one that I am thankful my father instilled in me.
The library habit of my boyhood stuck with me through elementary, junior, and high school; it remained in college and graduate school and post-graduate specialized studies. Each of my vocational roles since school “ended” have included reading as a part of what I brought to the task. It continues to this day, with a weekly visit to my local library to drop off books read and pick up books on hold – usually three or four in each category.
Wednesday August 9 is Book Lover’s Day – not an official holiday but one I eagerly celebrate. Book reading is a great hobby. It’s an important one, too. Employers look for it on resumes. Reading is educational, informative, and relaxing. It makes us both smarter and happier people.
Book Lover’s Day is a great day to celebrate. Just grab an interesting book, find a quiet, cozy place, and crack open the cover. Celebrating Book Lover’s Day in August is pleasurable on the deck, under a shady tree, poolside, or in a cozy hammock. If you fall asleep while reading, that’s okay. It’s all part of the relaxing benefits of being a book lover.
I love (and practice) the 4 different levels of reading as espoused by Mortimer Adler in his great book, How to Read a Book, but I really like to latch onto a topic and practice synoptical reading. Also known as comparative reading, it is where many books are read, and placed in relation to one another and to a subject about which they all revolve.
For many years, an ongoing topic of synoptical reading has been about Walt Disney and the “kingdom” he founded. My current Disney library is over 450 books, dating from 1939 to current releases – and I’m still actively researching the subject, and discovering new authors and books regularly. Here’s a few of my latest acquisitions:
In addition to the pure enjoyment of reading on the subject, these books provide a constant reference for illustrations when I’m writing about hospitality, planning, vision, and other topics that Walt Disney lived out – and to some extent – the Disney organization still practices. With 2023 being the 100th anniversary of the founding of the company, there’s a lot to choose from!
In addition to Disney synoptical reading, I’ve always got small threads of other, diverse, synoptical reading going on, often spurred by long-running interests and subsequent book searches. Here’s a current one, entitled #BurgerQuest: a literary, culinary, and arbitrary journey in pursuit of America’s iconic delight. True to my nature, over the years I’ve built up a research library on the burger; here’s just a sampling of the texts dealing with the history of the hamburger:
As I continue to develop #BurgerQuest, I will be diving into the history of the restaurants who have brought the burger from the lunch wagons of the 1890s to today’s wide range of options.
One of the greatest contributors to my synoptical reading was an Auxano project, 8+ years in the running, that ended in 2021. It involved researching 574 books to produce 227 issues of a book excerpt project. For those of you who are curious, that’s a book stack over five stories high. You can read about it here.
Even with that big change in my reading habit, there’s always a book at hand!
There’s current reading for Auxano social media (Tweets, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook posts), other internal Auxano writing projects, and believe it or not, reading just for the pleasure of reading – a nightly occurrence.
Currently a few topics I’ve read for pleasure in the past few months include: ongoing research into the concepts of hospitality in the home (what I’ve termed,”First Place Hospitality”); tracking the development of hospitality in the U.S; exploring the idea of the “modern elder”; select works about small town America, both past and present; the friendship of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Harvey Firestone and their contribution to America’s development in the early 20th century; and shepherd leadership (biblical concepts relevant for the 21st century).
Of course, there’s always some Disney history coming off the presses that I include in the mix!
So, on Book Lover’s Day, and in memory of my father, I’m trying to emulate Thomas Edison, who believed that voracious reading was the key to self-improvement. He read books on a remarkable range of subjects to address his endless queries.
As Edison noted, “I didn’t read a few books, I read the library.”
Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader
During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based, current events.
It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.
The heart of God’s purpose for humankind is relationships – first, with God Himself; then, with one another. Arguably, there is no better place to build relationships than at the table with good food and great conversation.
Len Sweet, in his book From Tablet to Table states it eloquently:
Remember God’s first command in the Bible? Eat.
Remember God’s last command in the Bible? Drink.
And everything in between is a table – a life-course meal on which is served the very bread of life and cup of salvation.
It’s time to bring back the table to our homes, to our churches, and to our neighborhoods and the world.
The table is a recurring biblical theme, one that our fast-paced, drive-through, Instant Pot culture finds unfamiliar.
What would happen if we brought back the table as a sacred object of furniture in every home, church, and community?
Are we truly hungry to accept Jesus’ invitation – “Come and follow” – and to go wherever He leads, even if it means next door?
Especially if it means following Him next door!
What would it take for the table to return to the center of our family lives – and by extension, to those God has placed in our circle and situations?
This issue of SUMS Remix looks at solutions that will help you learn how to engage with your neighbors, establishing and deepening your relationships through hospitality. The solutions include:
While fast-food chains like McDonald’s and White Castle played a significant role in popularizing hamburgers, and other national chains like Burger King and Wendy’s followed their lead, the culinary landscape of America is also rich with regional icons and innovators who have added their own unique flavors and twists to this beloved dish. From coast to coast, a flavorful mosaic of regional specialties and gourmet creations has emerged, contributing to the diverse tapestry of the American burger experience.
Here are the best-known:
In-N-Out Burger, a West Coast legend, has become an icon in the world of fast food. Known for their simple yet delicious menu, In-N-Out delivers classic burgers with fresh ingredients, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and their famous secret sauce. The burgers are cooked to perfection, and the patties boast that irresistible, slightly crispy exterior. With a loyal fan base and a commitment to quality, In-N-Out Burger continues to uphold its reputation as a regional favorite, offering a taste of California’s sun-kissed flavors.
Whataburger, a beloved Texan institution, has garnered a dedicated following for its hearty and flavorful burgers. What sets Whataburger apart is their commitment to customization, offering a range of toppings and condiments to create a burger that suits every individual’s taste. From their signature Whataburger with its perfectly grilled beef patty to the famous Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, Whataburger serves up comfort food with a Texas-sized twist. With a focus on quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, Whataburger is a cherished symbol of Lone Star State pride.
Shake Shack, born in New York City, has garnered a cult-like following for its gourmet take on the classic burger. With a focus on quality and sustainability, Shake Shack sources premium ingredients, serving up burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and made to order. Their ShackBurger, topped with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and their special ShackSauce, is a crowd favorite. Beyond burgers, Shake Shack offers indulgent milkshakes, crinkle-cut fries, and a range of creative menu items. With a commitment to excellence and a modern, inviting atmosphere, Shake Shack has become a global sensation, redefining the fast-food burger experience.
Culver’s is a Midwestern gem, known for its delicious ButterBurgers and frozen custard. With a focus on quality and freshness, Culver’s crafts their burgers using Midwest-raised beef, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. The ButterBurger, with its lightly buttered bun and perfectly seasoned patty, is a testament to Culver’s commitment to a satisfying, indulgent experience. Pair that with their famous frozen custard, available in a variety of flavors and served in delectable sundaes, and you have a winning combination that has captured the hearts of Midwesterners and beyond.
Krystal, a Southern institution, has been serving up iconic square-shaped sliders since 1932. Known for their affordability and distinct flavor, Krystal’s burgers offer a unique take on the traditional hamburger. The small, steam-grilled patties are topped with diced onions and served on soft, warm buns, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Krystal’s history and longevity have made it a beloved fixture in the South, where generations have enjoyed these bite-sized treasures.
Cook Out, a regional favorite mainly found in the Southeast, has gained a cult-like following for its extensive menu and affordable prices. Cook Out’s burgers are flame-grilled to perfection, offering a smoky and flavorful experience. What makes Cook Out truly special is the incredible variety of options, from classic cheeseburgers to more adventurous creations like the BBQ Bacon Ranch burger. With an abundance of sides and milkshake flavors, Cook Out ensures a complete and satisfying meal for burger enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and generous portions.
Steak n’ Shake, a classic American diner, has been delighting customers since 1934. Known for their steakburgers, which are made with a blend of sirloin and round steak, Steak n’ Shake offers a burger experience that combines quality ingredients with traditional diner charm. The burgers are cooked to order and served on a toasted bun, providing that nostalgic taste and texture that keeps customers coming back for more. With a menu that also includes hand-dipped milkshakes and a 24/7 dining experience, Steak n’ Shake remains a go-to destination for those seeking a taste of American diner nostalgia.
Freddy’s, named after co-founder Freddy Simon, has captured the hearts of burger enthusiasts with its throwback to the classic, all-American diner experience. Known for their thin, crispy-edged patties, Freddy’s burgers offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. Their signature steakburgers are complemented by a range of toppings, including onions, pickles, and Freddy’s sauce, all served on a buttery toasted bun. With a focus on quality, friendly service, and a nod to the nostalgia of the past, Freddy’s delivers a burger experience that feels timeless and comforting.
I know, just the action of making the above list will undoubtably leave someone’s favorite regional chain out! If you’ve got a favorite, give it a shout out in the comments!
The history of America’s sandwich is filled with unbelievable journeys and larger-than-life characters. All About the Burger by the Burger Beast, Sef Gonzalez, takes you on the road as he explores the fascinating backstory behind the burger.
From White Castle to Shake Shack, to Bell’s Burger (yes, Taco Bell started as a burger joint, too) and KFC, the entire Americana food landscape has influenced the burgers you enjoy today.
The contributions burgers have made to food culture
The evolution of the burger from carnival treat to an American staple
Where to go to find your next favorite burger and much more!
In All About the Burger, Sef Gonzalez takes readers on an extraordinary culinary adventure, diving headfirst into the heart and soul of burger culture. With passion and expertise, Gonzalez celebrates the iconic hamburger’s impact on society while exploring the diverse and fascinating world of burger variations.
From the moment you crack open the book, it’s evident that Gonzalez has poured his heart into this comprehensive ode to burgers. As a seasoned burger blogger and self-proclaimed “Burger Beast,” Gonzalez brings a wealth of knowledge and a contagious enthusiasm to every page. The book is an exquisite blend of historical tidbits, personal anecdotes, and tantalizing descriptions that will leave your taste buds yearning for a juicy burger.
One of the standout features of All About the Burger is its meticulous research. Gonzalez delves deep into the burger’s past, tracing its origins from humble beginnings to its widespread popularity in modern times. He unravels the evolution of burger joints, the fast-food revolution, and the rise of gourmet burgers, offering readers a fascinating glimpse into the burger’s journey through history.
Gonzalez also showcases his globe-trotting adventures in search of the perfect burger. From hidden local gems to world-renowned establishments, his mouthwatering tales of burger expeditions leave readers eager to embark on their culinary pilgrimages. The book is peppered with vivid descriptions of unique burger creations, tempting readers to try new flavors and combinations beyond the traditional beef patty.
All About the Burger is much more than just a food guide; it’s an exploration of the cultural significance of this beloved dish. Gonzalez brilliantly captures how the burger has become a symbol of community, bringing people together to bond over their shared love of this simple yet satisfying meal. He highlights how burgers transcend borders, unifying people from various backgrounds and cultures.
While All About the Burger is undoubtedly a captivating and immersive read, it does have a few minor drawbacks. Some readers may find the sheer volume of information overwhelming, as the book covers an extensive range of topics related to burgers. That being said, burger lovers will want even more!
In conclusion, All About the Burger is a delightful and informative read for anyone with a penchant for this quintessential American delicacy. Gonzalez’s infectious passion for burgers shines through in every sentence, making this book a savory delight that captures the essence of burger culture. Whether you’re a seasoned burger aficionado or a curious foodie, this book will undoubtedly whet your appetite for exploration and appreciation of the burger’s enduring legacy.
Simply stated, Neighborhood Initiative is the body of Christ at work in neighborhoods where God has placed us to bring about the transformation that comes through the power of His kingdom.
Lynn Cory
According to founder Lynn Cory, Neighborhood Initiative (NI) is not a program, but a work that God is introducing to bring revival in His church and transformation to our cities. It’s encouraging people to go out into their own neighborhoods to befriend neighbors, open their homes, and lend a hand.
Here are a few highlights of NI:
Jesus’ Plan for Home-Centered Ministry
Look for “people who welcome you”
Look for “a worthy person”
Look for people of peace
If they are not responsive, move on
Stay with the person of peace
The Five Essentials of Neighborhood Initiative
Loving your neighbor starts with the love of God
Reinhabit your neighborhood missionally and emotionally
Redeem the kairos
Have an exponential perspective
Recognize that you are authorized and commissioned by the Lord
Be sure to go the the NI website to review and download a wealth of resources available there, including a handbook, leader’s guide, and ideas for practical ministry in your neighborhood.
My last post was the first part of a personal application to the concept of place attachment.
It’s all about loving where you live…
…starting with your home.
That post provided the context and brief story of why Anita and I made the decision 3+ years ago to stay put in our home of 28+ years, embarking on a renovation process which was recently completed.
In the spirit of the How It Started and How It’s Going craze of the past few years, I present to you a pictorial rendition of “The Project” with minimal comments. Be sure to look at the acknowledgments at the end for the great people who envisioned and pulled it off!
MASTER BATH
Almost ashamedly, the master bath had stayed the same since a few years after we moved in – in 1995!
Is there a better definition of How It Started and How It’s Going or what?
In addition to providing a walk-in shower with bench, there is much more storage space, brighter lighting, a heated floor, and a tankless water heater for the whole house.
DISNEY ROOM
Our three original kids’ bedrooms became multifunctional, while still keeping the ability to provide beds. Here’s our daughter Amy’s bedroom – pretty much the same through high school, college, and graduate school.
Now, it’s the “Disney Room” for our grandchildren’s enjoyment, completed with a LEGO Disney castle, two bookshelves, a reading nook, an enchanted rose, and even a “magic mirror.”
MY OFFICE
The upstairs bedroom suite, originally home to two of our boys, began to transition into my office in 2007. Needless to say, over the next few years, things got a little out of hand. Anita says the only way to truly appreciate the chaos of my office back then is via a panoramic image.
Yeah… As the picture indicates, I’m a horizontal organizer. Anyway, after over ten years of growing more chaotic, I saw the light, and agreed with Anita’s idea of the perfect office for me.
Not pictured is a futon that can sleep two. Also not pictured – the several thousand books relocated to my “library annex” for eventual disposition.
FAMILY ROOM
Not a lot to say here; while the kids were home, most evenings everyone who was home ended up here watching TV, reading, or something similar. We’ve hosted birthday parties, small groups, family gatherings of all types, and many other events here.
All of that still happens, but as you get a hint of above, and will see more clearly below, the location of many of those events has shifted. The biggest change here was the design and installation of the feature wall around and above the fireplace.
KITCHEN
Our kitchen has always played an important role beyond the preparation of food. From various tables at the rear window to hanging around the island, our family has spent many hours prepping meals, talking, laughing, occasionally crying, but always enjoying our connections.
Again, this is a great demonstration of How It Started and How It’s Going…
As you can tell, this is the heart of our renovation project. For over a year, Anita and I couldn’t figure out how to lay out what we were thinking of. We were comfortable designing the fireplace feature, and Anita did an amazing job on the design of the Master Bath and my office, but when it came to the kitchen, we were stumped. Through the connection of a neighbor, we met Tiffany Bray, an interior designer, and after initially spending a few hours with her, the result was the design you see above. With input from our two chef sons, she truly captured – and our contractor Todd Haudek delivered – what we were trying to come up with: a family gathering space, centered around food preparation, but with lots of space to involve as many people as possible. The island is massive – at least in our experience – but also seems quite comfy when family or friends are gathered around it to help with final food prep or circling around the buffet line. Built around a 36″ dual fuel range that Anita and I are still getting used to, the island is truly the center of the gathering space. Storage is located mostly along one wall, extending all the way to the top of 9′ ceilings and anchored on one end by an enlarged walk-in pantry and the other by a unique feature Anita came up with: a floor to ceiling storage cabinet that opens up to the hall, but is easily accessible to the kitchen. The rear wall has a long counter with seating, with a sliding window opening to the deck with a counter on the exterior. The coffee station – a must for all of our kids – has proven to be a natural go-to spot in the mornings. And finally – and most notably – removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room really opened up the space. It’s not so much a kitchen and open dining room as it is a true gathering space.
DINING ROOM
The space you see below has had multiple functions over the years – built and used as a dining room, it has also been a music room, an office for me, and work space for numerous school projects over the years.
That changed! In addition to removing the wall as noted above, we pushed the rear wall back 5 feet, aligning it with the rest of the house. It was only a few dozen square feet of new space, but combined with the wall removal, created a whole different feel. Additionally, we replaced the window with an 8′ door with sidelights – not only providing plenty of natural light but drawing the eye upward.
DECK
As you see below, the original rear of the house had a small concrete patio extending under the overhang. There was an exterior paver patio at the other end of the house, but it wasn’t used much.
We wanted to create an outdoor space with lots of gathering options, and once again, Tiffany came up with a great design.
The result? A deck extending 12 feet out, the length of our house. On the dining room end, it extends 15 feet, with a covered porch above it. For safety, railings extend all around, with an opening onto steps leading to the backyard. In the middle of this very hot summer, the shade of the trees, the porch, and a fan make it bearable. In the evenings, it’s downright delightful! Even with the great gathering space inside, in just a few weeks, we’ve found that our guests naturally migrate to the deck, enjoying the outside views of our own 100 Acre Wood.
PROJECT ACKNOWLDEGEMENTS
Fireplace Wall Feature and Master Bath
Contractor – Joel Presson, J-KAP Construction
Electric – Jeff DeMeo, JD Electric
Plumbing – Jeff Tadlock, Harold Ellis Plumbing
Kitchen, Dining Room, Deck
Design – Tiffany Bray, TBD Tiffany Bray Designs
Contractor – Todd Haudek, Haudek Homes
Electric – Jeff DeMeo, JD Electric
Plumbing – Jeff Tadlock , Harold Ellis Plumbing
The individuals noted above provided excellent craftsmanship for our projects over the last few years. I wholeheartedly recommend each of them in their respective area of expertise, and would be happy to talk with anyone who wants to know more about what they do and how to contact them.
In closing, Anita and I want to again provide all the thanks to God for providing for our work, and reiterate that these spaces are not for just our enjoyment, but to extend the extraordinary hospitality God has shown us to family, neighbors, friends, and “friends we haven’t met yet”!
27gen.com 