Sat Nov 21 2009
Tuesday marked a great American tradition which a multitude of people take for granted.
Unfortunately, this is much too important to be taken lightly.
I'm talking, of course, about National Sandwich Day.
Much like our great republic itself, its roots can be traced to England.
During a marathon 24-hour card game in 1762, English nobleman John Montagu instructed his servants to bring him a piece of meat between two slices of bread so he could he eat with one hand.
Montagu was the Earl of Sandwich, a historic town in Kent County in southeastern England. Sandwich was once a major port during medieval times.
Back to Montagu, who became known as the father of the sandwich. His Nov. 3 birthday is now celebrated at National Sandwich Day.
Whether it's a Big Bud at Bud's Restaurant, a hot beef at Jimmy's (formerly Maag's) Cafe, or "two on rye" at Spenglers in Napoleon, sandwiches remain an important slice of life around northwest Ohio.
The sandwich is convenient, compact and easy to eat. That's why it remains so appealing.
According to the National Restaurant Association, the hamburger is the most popular type of sandwich in America. It's offered on 75 percent of menus listing sandwiches. Second is the chicken sandwich, a favorite of many culinary connoisseurs including cows in the Chick-fil-A commercials.
Americans eating at home have always relished sandwiches, including such classics as peanut butter and jelly, grilled cheese, bologna (nothing beats Dinner Bell) and sloppy joes.
A sandwich can be as healthy or unhealthy as you want it. You just have to use your head and refrain from adding double cheese or three pounds of mayonnaise.
Many restaurants sell club sandwiches on wheat or rye bread. By loading up on tomatoes and lettuce and holding or going light on the mayo, it's actually pretty healthy.
One of my least favorite destinations is Ann Arbor, Mich., but there's no disputing that the BLT at Zingerman's Delicatessen should be hailed as a victor. Ohio State football fans heading in that direction in two weeks should check it out.
A recommended choice for area high school state playoff aficionados is the "Sloppy Irishman" at The Irish Pub in Massillon. For trips to see the Cleveland Clowns (formerly Browns) or Cavs, I highly recommend a stop at the Melt Bar and Grilled in Lakewood for the "Parmageddon."
For the breakfast crowd, a variety of sandwiches served on English muffins, bagels and croissants are available. It's more than just convenience. They taste good, too.
One of the recent additions to the sandwich family is the wrap. People like the concept because it holds together easily. And, make no mistake about it, we're a society that demands convenience.
So, the next time you make a sandwich, think of Montagu.
He's probably basking in his glory while seated at a heavenly card game, looking down with approval at his immeasurable contribution to society.
Something to eat that won't mess up the cards.
* * * * *
Clarification: After discussions and e-mail exchanges with a few area township trustees, I want to clarify something I wrote in Sunday's column.
Although some trustees receive health insurance, many others do not. As for their salary, it is dependent upon the township budget. Trustees in townships with higher budgets receive higher pay.
Like any elected position, there are many hard-working and conscientious trustees and some who put in as little time as possible. Here in the six-county area, the vast majority work very hard.
I still believe that township government may not be the most efficient use of taxpayer funds. There was a time when it was necessary, but those days are long gone.
Comments
By Posting to this site, you agree to our Terms of Service Be polite.
Inappropriate posts may be removed.
Crescent-News.com doesn't necessarily condone the comments here, nor does it review every post.
Login above or Register to comment.
0 Total Comments Home | Back
Copyright Defiance Publishing, LLC 1995-2009. All Rights Reserved.
Content may not be republished without the expresse written consent of the publisher.
Content may not be republished without the expresse written consent of the publisher.
Dix Communications