Fast Food: the changing climate

The Fast food industry. Much has changed over the past 5-10 years.

I remember when I was little going out to eat wasn’t a difficult decision … usually it came down to either Burger King or McDonalds. After a careful deliberation, Micky Dees was the usual choice and we were treated with some extraordinary cuisine like smashed burgers, crappy fries and chicken ‘mc’nuggets (i still wonder what was in that ‘chicken’). Obviously times have changed and I’m actually very ecstatic at the sheer amount of selection available. You now have Wendys, Taco Bell, KFC, Long John Silvers (do people actually still eat there?), Jack in the Box, Quiznos, Subway and a few more smaller chains. Some of theses fast-food joints try to deceive their customers, with updated logos and interior renovations. Don’t let them fool you, the food quality hasn’t changed (this is coming from a 2 1/2 year BK veteran). Don't be dismayed however, there is still hope. By looking at a tier system one restaurant has risen above the rest: Chick-fil-A. They have a massive margin for the best quality food and least wait times of all the low to medium tier places. Chick-fil-A is still the pinnacle of great food and even greater service - up until recently.

Now there are some new front runners that have emerged. I believe they are actually changing the game … Chipotle and Jimmy Johns. 

 

If anyone has tried Chipotle you know where I’m coming from. The taste ecstasy that you experience is second to none. I’m certain they sprinkle crack or some type of drug on their food, though I could be mistaken (it’s that addictive). Some of you may declare, “well no problem I’ve been to Qdoba , that’s very similar” please don’t kid yourself … that’s like comparing lemonade to a well-aged wine. For another fun challenge once you’ve arrived at Chipotle is try and find at least 3 employees who have green cards – you may be there for a while.

The second newcomer is the edgy and hip Jimmy Johns.  The sandwiches and subs there are simply sublime. Not to mention their ’25 cent delivery’ up to 15 minutes away – what spectacular service! Once you walk in you should be greeted immediately by a smiling face and young workers making deliciousness right in front of you. The styling and design of the Jimmy Johns restaurants are very interesting. They definitely have a unique feel inside. From what I’ve heard they are still fairly new and not as flourishing as Chipotle, but still impressive.

In conclusion, please understand that not everyone has the opportunity to experience these amazing locales. Granted, they are still growing and expanding their franchises. This past year I’ve noticed two Chipotles and one Jimmy Johns open up around my area. So I would encourage you to go and seek these incredible restaurants out. It might be an easy drive or possibly take several hours, but the experience will be worth it!

- Cheers 

Shark Week Alternatives

So the time of annual shark lovers everywhere began this week - Discovery Channel showing their much anticipated 'Shark Week' ... such a great collection of epicness. Just the very thought of Shark Week can turn normal human beings into crazed lunatics. I find it interesting that many don't know when it starts or what time of the year to mark it on their proverbial calendars ... it simply surprises everyone and suddenly people begin to salivate at the very thought of watching great whites tear things limb from limb. I do thouroughly enjoy watching it. One part of me likes the educational aspect while the other part really wants to see these watery killers feast on helpless animals (of course seeing divers come inches away from death is equally enjoyable). 

They really are an astonishing creature. I find it interesting that Sharks are actually very misunderstood. Many of the fears people have resonate from movies, myth and legend. In fact they are just as curious and scared of us as we are of them. The majority of shark attacks occur with surf boarders and i can understand why. Sharks usually confuse them with seals looking 30 feet below in murky waters - makes sense.

Now I was curious about other species and how they would fare with an entire week dedicated in their honor. Sure some animals are pretty freakin' sweet and should merit 7 days worth of programming. Here are a few examples:

Platypus Week

Alright, this idea is more for comedy than anything else and might last 1 day, 2 at best. You must agree that the platypus is probably the most comical looking animal in the wild. Anybody wondering if God had a sense of humor - here is the proof !

  


Cheetah Week

 Moving on ... next we have Cheetah Week. Lets all be honest, cheetahs are pretty awesome. They simply look cool and have neat colors. I would honestly want one as a pet (if it were socially acceptable and domesticated). Cheetahs are insanely quick - with a top speed of almost 70 MPH. That is ridiculously fast, but keep in mind it comes in short bursts and they must rest frequently afterwards. Their tail is used like a rudder on a ship to help them 'steer' while they are running. Also they usually kill their prey from suffocation which isn't nearly as badass as a shark.

Manatee Week

 Lastly we have the all conquering manatee! Now before you judge, theses creatures are the most misunderstood of any sea beast. Manatees appear quiet, but in reality they are brutal man-eaters! Think about it, its the perfect disguise. They appear like a floating giant oaf, without a care in the world - and when nobody is looking they suddenly transform into the most terrifying vicious beast ever! Manatees are a formidable rival for sharks and should have their own week. Don't believe me? Here is an extremely rare picture of a manatee having his way with some little girl who got what she deserved! 

If I had my way, there would be a "Manatee Week" scheduled right after Shark Week !

Child vs. Sports Car - The Dilemma

Unbelievable … I can’t even enjoy a nice church service on Sundays without hearing a chorus full of annoying kids crying with high pitched screams. Babies are everywhere now, can’t the parents just leave them at home? Going to a movie theater, forget about it , because some genius had the brilliant notion to bring all their children into an R rated movie without considering the repercussions (hey it’s the cool thing to do right?) This simply surprises me how some families have the audacity to act that way … that is an EPIC FAIL for parenting. Don’t even begin to calculate how much money goes into raising that baby from a disobedient child to an angst-filled adolescent.

 

Studies have shown that the average child could cost around a quarter of a million dollars. Hold your breath, yes – the cost to raise a child from age 1 to 18 is $250,000. Sure you get to see your splitting image grow up and enjoy all those hundreds of hours of home movie footage. For a moment, think about what other options you could use that quarter of a million for. I’m proposing that there is a prominent alternative which many do not consider: Buying an exotic super car instead ! Think of all the wonderful experiences you would have with your exciting new Lamborghini Gallardo. Spend that $250k on something that you will enjoy beyond just a few years! It could truly be a relationship without altercations or disagreements. 

$250,000

$250,000

 

Below is a comparison chart :

                       Child                                  Exotic Sports Car

Endless doctor and medical bills	Dealer services and fees
Constantly changing diapers daily	Changing oil every 3 months
Expensive wardrobe and food costs	Auto Detailing equipment
Random events of puke at any moment	Difficult to avoid rain and bird droppings
Contagious baby laughter	Sound system that drowns out any noise
Annoying shrieks of crying	Loud thrilling exhaust sounds
Attention of mostly older women	Attention from younger, hotter women
Makes messes all over house	Occasional fluid leaks in garage
Babysitter required to go out anywhere	Go for an exciting ride any time
Results in emasculated feelings	Instant boost to confidence and ego

As you can see, the results are heavily favored towards the car  – which makes this a no-brainer

Which would you choose ? 

BABY --- OR --- LAMBORGHINI

OR

 * statistics taken from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32290704/ns/health-kids_and_parenting/t/cost-raise-kid-nearly-quarter-million/