When all of the media frenzy began about this "minister" in Florida who was planning to burn the Quran on the anniversary of September 11, I made a conscious decision not to talk, post or tweet about it. I had no intention of giving this twisted, little freak and his ridiculous rants any of my time. However, after hearing and reading so many thoughts on this man, I feel compelled to share my perspective on this phenomenon. The reason for my (now broken) silence isn't because I don't find the idea of burning holy scripture outrageous and disgusting.
It's because I call bullshit.
I didn't believe that this "man of God" had the balls do something like burn the Quran. Quite frankly it doesn't shock me at all that in the 11th hour this "holy man" decided to change his mind. Maybe it's the jaded, conspiracy theorist in me that believes that everything these days is an orchestrated publicity stunt - though I must point out that I have rarely been proven wrong. I think this guy (sorry, I haven't taken the time to learn his name) saw an opportunity to sucker punch his way into fame.
The sad-but-true situation we find ourselves in today is that any regular person can induce their own 15 minutes of fame by making sure the media and/or some blogger get tipped off to whatever nonsense they have planned. Remember the boy in the runaway hot air balloon? The government got involved. What about Shirley Sherrod and Andrew Breitbart? The woman LOST HER JOB, but now the world knows both their names. Or more recently, the Mike Wise Washington Post hoax. He showed how fast misinformation can spread - and got suspended for a month in the process.
The point I'm making is that the digital world in which we live is amazing. We have the ability to connect to almost every person on the planet. The price we must pay for this is being a little more savvy about the information that is thrown in our faces. Know when you're being played. Hate is a very polarizing force. It invokes deep emotions. Unfortunately too many nefarious, untalented individuals have figured out how to use it for their financial gain. Would Rush Limbaugh or Glenn Beck be as rich and "successful" as they are now if they didn't spew a never-ending stream of weird/extreme/prejudiced hate speech? Not likely. I don't know if any of these people actually believe their own garbage. Not that I think deep down, they're nice, good or honest people. I just think they've realized that there is more money is starting sh*t than there is in fixing sh*t. But I digress.
This Florida minister situation reminds me of when the Klu Klux Klan would make appearances on Geraldo or Donahue. You get a few guys in white sheets talking crazy, saying that the Klan is on the rise. Then stories start popping up in the news about race wars an neo-Natzis, and every one would be in an uproar. And the reality was that there was no organized movement. It was just a bunch of slack-jawed idiots running around in sheets, talking trash about things that they're too cowardly, stupid or lazy to make happen. But we all fell for it. We gave it energy and life by repeating the story and getting angry.
That's what's happening here. With all the reports of this Quran burning nonsense, this no-name minister is now famous. He went from nobody to internationally-know somebody in ONE WEEK. And though all he did was talk about what he was going to do, he is going to make money off of this little stunt. Count on it. Even Donald Trump is going to make money off the Mosque at Ground Zero; and hopefully a little lingering publicity for the new season of his TV show. I think this is what it was really all about - money and fame. We've been bamboozled. Led astray. Run amuck.
Sadly, I feel certain that this trash talk will create a ripple effect of retribution. People are pissed, and those on the fringe of common sense and good judgment will do stupid things. The possibility of violence and vandalism is high. So in the future, let's not give our time, energy and emotions to ignorant people saying ridiculous things. Let's not allow someone become famous for letting his mouth write a check his ass can't cash. We're smarter than that. At least we should be.
Peace
Friday, September 10, 2010
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Shocklingly Sad But True
Recently I met with a friend of mine to talk about putting in a bid to make food for a local middle school's Free Breakfast/Lunch program. I was really excited about the opportunity to make delicious, healthy and affordable meals for these young kids. Cooking healthy, yummy food is my expertise. The idea that I could share that with kids who are fed crap all day was really cool. My excitement was quickly cooled when I learned that this program only budgets about $1.30 per meal. Obviously the only thing that $1.30 can buy is a bunch of sugar-laced, processed garbage.
I don't want to get on my soapbox, but I feel compelled to say, how the hell are these kids supposed to have a chance? Obviously they come from low income families, possibly with an absentee parent. This food is supposed to be their fuel to keep their brains engaged during school. How is a child (or an adult for that matter) supposed to be able to sit still and pay attention with a belly full of junk? It's a downward spiral. They're labeled as "problem kids", potentially placed in remedial classes, "diagnosed" with ADD or ADHD. How can the keep up? How can they compete? This initiative to get salad bars in school is one that we all need to support. If the salad bars are in the schools, then there's a better chance that the kids getting free lunches will have access to them. If the food is in the building, it will be more accessible to that ridiculous $1.30 per meal budget.I'm glad to see Whole Foods Market supporting this cause.
I wish more large companies would use their power and influence to make healthy food available to everyone, because it affects our entire community. Healthy food cannot become something that's accessible to the "haves" while elusive to the "have nots". We're already one foot in that pool. But thankfully it's not too late make things right. It only takes $2,500 to get a salad bar in a school. Even your pocket change will really help this cause. So get to Whole Foods and make a donation or go the website http://saladbarproject.org/ and make a donation. Okay, I'm off my soapbox. But seriously, go donate. Now.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Rebirth of Cool
Wow. I just realized that my last post, was so heartbreaking ... and it was the day before my birthday! Sheesh. So now that the harsh winter has passed, the Spring is here and it's time for the rebirth. I won't get into all the gory details of all that's happened. I'll just say that I did what needed to be done for myself, my family and for my brand. I've rested and regrouped. Now I feel rejuvenated; ready for what's new. It's gonna be cool. So very very cool. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Goodnight Austin
It saddens me to post that Baby Greens is now closed.
We have had an amazing year; celebrating so many milestones that I’m sure many of you are wondering what happened. The store closings are a result of a variety of factors. Like many other restaurants and local businesses, Baby Greens’ sales have slowed at various times throughout the year. Additionally, the commitment to opening our new locations was made prior to the severe downturn our economy suffered over the past year. I chose to honor those commitments in the spirit of growth and expansion of Baby Greens. Delays and disagreements associated with the opening of our Downtown store resulted in the store opening more than a year behind schedule and too close to the opening of the North Austin store. Though it was a long-shot that we would prevail, I hoped that our summer sales would keep the store afloat. Unfortunately this past summer was one of the slowest in Baby Greens history.
In addition to the struggles that Baby Greens has faced this year, I have also been dealing with many family issues. My father, who is confined to a wheelchair, spent weeks in the hospital this summer. A recent death in my paternal grandfather’s family has created family crisis that requires my immediate and full attention. Though I love Baby Greens and remain devoted to the expansion of the company, my family is my first priority. Throughout the history of Baby Greens, even when it was just this “crazy idea” that I had, my parents stood behind me and have supported me and Baby Greens 100%. In fact there wouldn’t be a Baby Greens without the never-ending support of my mother. That being the case, it’s now time for me to be there for my family. I am in the middle of what could be a life changing family crisis. So for now, everything else in my life must be put on pause.
When I opened the doors to our South First Street store almost 6 years ago, I had no idea how people would respond. I have been truly touched at the response and support that Baby Greens’ customers have given. With all things in life, it is always about timing. I feel that there is a silver lining to this cloud. Though this news is sad to give, and I’m sure upsetting to read, I haven’t given up on Baby Greens. This is only the end of THIS CHAPTER. One never knows what the future may bring. Until then, thank you Austin for supporting Baby Greens. Thank you for helping to make one of my dreams come true. I will truly miss seeing your faces at the drive thru window. Stay healthy!
Truly,
Sharon E Mays
Owner, Baby Greens
We have had an amazing year; celebrating so many milestones that I’m sure many of you are wondering what happened. The store closings are a result of a variety of factors. Like many other restaurants and local businesses, Baby Greens’ sales have slowed at various times throughout the year. Additionally, the commitment to opening our new locations was made prior to the severe downturn our economy suffered over the past year. I chose to honor those commitments in the spirit of growth and expansion of Baby Greens. Delays and disagreements associated with the opening of our Downtown store resulted in the store opening more than a year behind schedule and too close to the opening of the North Austin store. Though it was a long-shot that we would prevail, I hoped that our summer sales would keep the store afloat. Unfortunately this past summer was one of the slowest in Baby Greens history.
In addition to the struggles that Baby Greens has faced this year, I have also been dealing with many family issues. My father, who is confined to a wheelchair, spent weeks in the hospital this summer. A recent death in my paternal grandfather’s family has created family crisis that requires my immediate and full attention. Though I love Baby Greens and remain devoted to the expansion of the company, my family is my first priority. Throughout the history of Baby Greens, even when it was just this “crazy idea” that I had, my parents stood behind me and have supported me and Baby Greens 100%. In fact there wouldn’t be a Baby Greens without the never-ending support of my mother. That being the case, it’s now time for me to be there for my family. I am in the middle of what could be a life changing family crisis. So for now, everything else in my life must be put on pause.
When I opened the doors to our South First Street store almost 6 years ago, I had no idea how people would respond. I have been truly touched at the response and support that Baby Greens’ customers have given. With all things in life, it is always about timing. I feel that there is a silver lining to this cloud. Though this news is sad to give, and I’m sure upsetting to read, I haven’t given up on Baby Greens. This is only the end of THIS CHAPTER. One never knows what the future may bring. Until then, thank you Austin for supporting Baby Greens. Thank you for helping to make one of my dreams come true. I will truly miss seeing your faces at the drive thru window. Stay healthy!
Truly,
Sharon E Mays
Owner, Baby Greens
Friday, September 4, 2009
The big O
Welcome to my blog! This is my first entry, so hopefully it doesn’t suck. In this inaugural blog, I thought I would address a question that I have been asked over the years.
“Does Baby Greens serve organic food?”
At present date, Baby Greens does not serve organic food. The reason why is quite simple – cost. When I developed the concept for Baby Greens, I wanted the food to be affordable to the “average Joe/Jane”.
A customer once told me that people who eat organic food are used to paying more money for their food, and usually don’t mind the extra expense. I’m sure that is true. The goal of Baby Greens is to provide a healthy option for fast food customers. The average fast food meal costs between 5 – 7 dollars. The prices I was quoted for organic produce would not have allowed us to offer any options in that price range, so we offer menu items that our customers can easily afford.
Most Americans eat a fast food meal at least once a week; for many, fast food is a part of their daily routine. With these statistics, it’s no surprise that we are such an unhealthy nation. I didn’t want a trip to Baby Greens to have to be something that people had to save up to do or make a special occasion of it because of the price. Eating a healthy meal should be the great thing you do for yourself everyday, not the special treat you give yourself a few times a month.
Providing a fast food option that would be affordable, healthy and delicious was my goal. In fact all things that we do at Baby Greens come back to those three priorities: affordable, healthy, delicious. It is a large part of the foundation upon which the company was built.
But even beyond pricing, there is another issue at hand. Though I do believe that organic produce has nutritional and environmental benefits, I don’t think it’s an all or nothing situation. By that I mean, that non-organic produce is still good for you.
I created Baby Greens because I truly believe that healthy fast food needs to be an option in the marketplace. A salad or wrap from Baby Greens is a healthier option that a burger and fries combo, oversized burrito, sandwich and chips or most other typical fast food meal options.
Baby Greens’ non-organic menu options result in more people eating fresh vegetables and lean proteins, dressings and soups that don’t have added sugars or flavor enhancers. More people drinking fresh brewed iced tea and fresh lemonade, less high fructose corn syrup sodas. I think that what we are doing at Baby Greens is important. We provide another option. A healthy option that the average customer can afford. And the American consumer economy is supposed to be based on options.
And the bonus to it all is that we’re doing something positive in the community. I truly believe that healthy food makes you happy. It may sound cheesy, but it’s true. I love working the window at Baby Greens, because I see smiling, happy faces all day long. The food tastes great, and our customers don’t have the sick feeling that typical comes after most fast food meals. It’s a beautiful thing. It’s the best part of my job. I get to help people be happy for a living. And I don’t have to drive around looking for something good for lunch or dinner anymore. Not too shabby.
Will Baby Greens ever serve organic produce? Potentially. If it’s something that could be done while still providing affordable meals to our customers. At the end of the day, it’s all about making great fast food experiences for Baby Greens’ customers.
Thanks for checking out my blog. More posts to come ....
“Does Baby Greens serve organic food?”
At present date, Baby Greens does not serve organic food. The reason why is quite simple – cost. When I developed the concept for Baby Greens, I wanted the food to be affordable to the “average Joe/Jane”.
A customer once told me that people who eat organic food are used to paying more money for their food, and usually don’t mind the extra expense. I’m sure that is true. The goal of Baby Greens is to provide a healthy option for fast food customers. The average fast food meal costs between 5 – 7 dollars. The prices I was quoted for organic produce would not have allowed us to offer any options in that price range, so we offer menu items that our customers can easily afford.
Most Americans eat a fast food meal at least once a week; for many, fast food is a part of their daily routine. With these statistics, it’s no surprise that we are such an unhealthy nation. I didn’t want a trip to Baby Greens to have to be something that people had to save up to do or make a special occasion of it because of the price. Eating a healthy meal should be the great thing you do for yourself everyday, not the special treat you give yourself a few times a month.
Providing a fast food option that would be affordable, healthy and delicious was my goal. In fact all things that we do at Baby Greens come back to those three priorities: affordable, healthy, delicious. It is a large part of the foundation upon which the company was built.
But even beyond pricing, there is another issue at hand. Though I do believe that organic produce has nutritional and environmental benefits, I don’t think it’s an all or nothing situation. By that I mean, that non-organic produce is still good for you.
I created Baby Greens because I truly believe that healthy fast food needs to be an option in the marketplace. A salad or wrap from Baby Greens is a healthier option that a burger and fries combo, oversized burrito, sandwich and chips or most other typical fast food meal options.
Baby Greens’ non-organic menu options result in more people eating fresh vegetables and lean proteins, dressings and soups that don’t have added sugars or flavor enhancers. More people drinking fresh brewed iced tea and fresh lemonade, less high fructose corn syrup sodas. I think that what we are doing at Baby Greens is important. We provide another option. A healthy option that the average customer can afford. And the American consumer economy is supposed to be based on options.
And the bonus to it all is that we’re doing something positive in the community. I truly believe that healthy food makes you happy. It may sound cheesy, but it’s true. I love working the window at Baby Greens, because I see smiling, happy faces all day long. The food tastes great, and our customers don’t have the sick feeling that typical comes after most fast food meals. It’s a beautiful thing. It’s the best part of my job. I get to help people be happy for a living. And I don’t have to drive around looking for something good for lunch or dinner anymore. Not too shabby.
Will Baby Greens ever serve organic produce? Potentially. If it’s something that could be done while still providing affordable meals to our customers. At the end of the day, it’s all about making great fast food experiences for Baby Greens’ customers.
Thanks for checking out my blog. More posts to come ....
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