site title
WILLIAM WORLD NEWS | PROFILE | PHOTOS | TRANSPORTATION | SEARCH | YURASKO.NET
About this site
v12

Welcome to the my Web site, v. XII. The blog is typically published Monday - Saturday. My primary topics tend to be the Nats, Penn State (esp. football), BeltwayLand, transportation, media, photos and more. The rest of the site gets updated as warranted and is noted on the blog.

Syndication
Add to Google
Add to My Yahoo!
Subscribe with Bloglines
Feedburner
XML
Topics
Alexandria
Arlington
Arts & Culture
Beano Watch
Best of WWN
BeltwayLand
Bicycling
Blogging/WWW
Blue White Roundtable
Capitals/NHL
DC United/MLS
Fairfax County
Family & Friends
Food & Drink
History
International
Interviews
Maryland
Media
Metro
Movies
Muppets
Music
Music Tuesday
Nats/MLB 2009
Nats/MLB 2008
Nats/MLB 2007
Nats/MLB 2006
Nats/MLB 2005
New Jersey
New York
Northeast Corridor
Observations
Pennsylvania
Photography
PSU Football/2009
PSU Football/2008
PSU Football/2007
PSU Football/2006
PSU Football/2005
PSU/Happy Valley
PSU Sports
Redskins/NFL
San Francisco
Silver Line
Skiing
Sports
Star Wars
Tabloids
The District
Transportation
Travel
Tysons Corner
Video
Virginia
Wagers
Weather
Whiskey-Tango-Foxtrot
Wizards/NBA
Yale
Yankees

Archives


Search

yurasko.net
WWW

That hockey blog

La Coupe Hauxer


My Flickr Stream
www.flickr.com
wfyurasko's photos More of wfyurasko's photos
WWN title

Joe Riley: The man, the cocktail - William World News

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

Joe Riley: The man, the cocktail

Spirits: How liquor wholesalers hobble consumer choice - The Post
I believe my friend Joe Riley (a former Nats blogger) is the first person I know who has a cocktail named after him. Why does he have a cocktail named after him? Because he's a frickin' American hero, pilgrim -- a single combat warrior against the liquor wholesalers who limit consumer choice.

In what Joe describes as "quite possibly the oddest segue in spirits-writing history" the author of the link above wonders aloud if Sarah Palin will call out the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America when she gives the keynote address at their convention in April. It is really an unnecessary setup for the main point -- Joe is relentless is finding that liquor you want. That dedication inspired The Passenger to name a cocktail after him. The cocktail is wheated bourbon with falernum, Domaine de Canton Ginger and elderflower liqueurs and lemon juice. Sounds interesting, I'll have to check it out soon.

COCKTAIL RECIPE:
Joe Riley - The Post

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Review: Yocco's - William World News
Tuesday, February 02, 2010

Review: Yocco's

yoccos1
ALLENTOWN, Pa. -- For several years now, I've been wanting to try Yocco's The Hot Dog King on the way back from my annual ski trip in the Poconos. Yocco's goes back to 1922 and is perhaps the best known Lehigh Valley eatery. We stopped by the location near Lehigh Valley International Airport, just off of the Airport Road exit of US 22-Lehigh Valley Thruway (or the Double-Duece according to my friend Tom).

Going in, I had heard mixed reviews of Yocco's. Tom said "really, Yocco's?" while another acquaintance gave it the thumbs up. Tom's contention was that Yocco's wasn't bad, but nothing special. After eating there, I have to agree with Tom.

yoccos2

My wife and I each ordered two hot dogs each with chili sauce, onions and mustard. She also added cheese; Kraft singles or something similar that is put in the bottom of the roll. The franks are Hatfield, a tasty brand that are the official hot dog of Citizen's Bank Park in Philadelphia. Ours were not very fresh though, having sat on the cooler side of the stove for an indeterminate amount of time. The chili sauce was fairly tasty, but not very hearty and overall nothing special. One cannot expect much for $1.24 each I suppose. I also ordered the crinkle cut french fries which were fine, but nothing special. Mrs. T's pierogies are also available as a side, but we did not order them.

Yocco's is so named because the indigenous Pennsylvania Dutch population had trouble pronouncing Iacocca, the family who opened the restaurant and runs it to this day. Yes, it is the same family as former Chrysler chairman and Snoop Dog pal Lee Iacocca -- he's the nephew of the founder. Know run by a fourth Iacocca generation Yocco's has six locations. They also have a great "hot dog king" logo that looks like the kind of sticker a pre-teen's skateboard might have on it.

Yocco's is cheap, decent and the backstory is good, but nothing really special. I may stop a Yocco's again some time if I'm in the Lehigh Valley, but I am not going out of my way to do it.

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:41 AM | |

So how do their chili dogs rate vs the Vienna Inn?

# posted by Anonymous TMBC : Tuesday, February 02, 2010 2:39:00 PM  

Yocco's chili dogs aren't as good as the Vienna Inn's by a long shot.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Tuesday, February 02, 2010 2:51:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Pepsi Throwback is back - William World News
Thursday, January 07, 2010

Pepsi Throwback is back

pepsithrowback
TYSONS CORNER, Va. -- This morning while going through Harris Teeter, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Pepsi Throwback is available again. This time around, the red, white and blue packaging from the early 1980s is being used. I will be stocking up. While it doesn't have quite the bite of regular Pepsi, any chance to consume less high fructose corn syrup is a good one -- take that subsidized corn farmers!

According the Pepsi Throwback Web site, the "real sugar" cola is available December 28, 2009 through February 22, 2010.

PREVIOUSLY: Review: Pepsi Throwback - 06.24.2009

, , ,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

A Scottish band at Murphy's? - William World News
Tuesday, December 08, 2009

A Scottish band at Murphy's?

The Scottish got bagpipes from Ireland. What we didn't tell them was that it was a joke.

- a friend from Belfast

Murphy's in Old Town Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- I don't get out much, so it figures that when I actually get an evening to hit Murphy's in Old Town for some Irish music they have...Scottish bagpipers. Now, I dont' feel the same way about pipers as my Northern Irish friend, but it was not what I was expecting. Just my luck right? Normally I'd get a photo of the band playing, but it turns out bagpipers sets are pretty short and I didn't have time, so I just went with the exterior of Murphy's. Also, I tried Bushmills while I was there and I won't bother again.

, , ,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Seems to me that anything Scottish would be an improvement over Murphy's.

# posted by Blogger A : Tuesday, December 08, 2009 11:16:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Vienna Inn's semicentennial nears - William World News
Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Vienna Inn's semicentennial nears

Vienna Inn prepares to turn 50 - The Fairfax Times
The beloved Vienna Inn is approaching 50 years in business. This is just a fairly standard article about the history of my hometown bar, but I quibble with this statement:
The walls, saturated with the smell and color of smoke...
Hardly -- at least compared to what it used to be. When Mike and Mollie Abraham still owned it, the ceiling was really dirty from all of the smoke. Now, it is nothing like that -- I suspect when it changed hands the health inspector said something along the lines of "we were letting Mike slide a little, but you are bringing this joint up to code!"

Also, some specifics to something I've been saying for years -- they used to sell more Budweiser than anybody:
"In 1979, when the drinking age in Virginia was still 18, the Vienna Inn sold more Budweiser beer that year than any other bar or sports stadium in the United States, except Yankee Stadium — over 10,000 kegs..."
This is why the Clydesdales used to show up in the Vienna Halloween Parade every year. Apparently, they don't just show up for everyone.

, ,

Labels: , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

More on Ben Ali, founder of Ben's Chili Bowl - William World News
Friday, October 09, 2009

More on Ben Ali, founder of Ben's Chili Bowl


He Added Spice to Our Lives - The Post
Death of a Washington legend - The Wash. Times
Ben Ali's Son: "We're All OK." - CityPaper
Ben Ali, founder of Ben's Chili Bowl, dies - AP/WTOP
Ben Ali obituaries from the two D.C. broadsheets, plus the alternate tabloid and AP. The great irony of his life -- he never had a half-smoke because his Muslim faith prohibits pork.

Despite Founder’s Death, It Was Business As Usual at Ben's - CityPaper
Life Goes On in Rhythm of Ben's - The Post
It was just a little busier at Ben's Chili Bowl yesterday -- Sounds like a good tribute to me.

For much of yesterday, "Ben's Chili Bowl" and later "Ben Ali" were trending on Twitter.

The Death of Ben Ali: What Others Had to Say - CityPaper
What others are saying about Ali. What are you saying?

PREVIOUSLY
Ben Ali of Ben's Chili Bowl dead at 82 - 10.08.2009
Fifty years of Ben's Chili Bowl - 04.21.2008

, , , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 7:45 AM | |

Ben Ali of Ben's Chili Bowl dead at 82 - William World News
Thursday, October 08, 2009

Ben Ali of Ben's Chili Bowl dead at 82

Ben Ali of Ben's Chili Bowl Dies - Port Mortem, The Post
Ben Ali, the 82 year old founder of Ben's Chili Bowl, the most prominent half-smoke restaurant and Washginton D.C. institution has died. Washington is a richer place for him being here.

I expect there will be a lot more coverage over the next few days. He

PREVIOUSLY
Fifty years of Ben's Chili Bowl - 04.21.2008

, , , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:36 PM | |

Now this is tragic. In his honor, I think a visit to Ben's is in order. What better way to honor Ben Ali's memory than to continue patronizing his business?

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Thursday, October 08, 2009 1:17:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Apple picking at Crooked Run Orchard - William World News
Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Apple picking at Crooked Run Orchard

Look for this sign from Business Route 7
PURCELLVILLE, Va. -- Last Sunday, we took my son apple-picking for the first time. In fact, it was my first time too. Based on my wife's research, we selected Crooked Run Orchard in Purcellville in Loudon County, the closest (45 miles away) to our home in Alexandria. We were pleased with what we found. The farm is located off of Business VA 7, just west of the intersection with VA 287. There was no admission to enter/park and there were scores of apple trees of several varieties, though we mostly stuck with the delicious ones, red and golden. Next time, we'll find the other varieties. Our son tried picking a few, but was mostly interested in picking up apples from the ground.

[flickr : Apple-picking at Crooked Run Orchard /slideshow]

We wound up with two buckets full and gallon of cider for under $30. We have a lot of apples to eat now, but that's the idea. We'll do it again next year.

, , , , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Why does New York get their own Pepsi cans? - William World News
Monday, August 31, 2009

Why does New York get their own Pepsi cans?

Why do Pepsi cans always say "NEW YORK"?
NEW YORK -- Since at least the mid 1990s, Pepsi cans sold by food carts in Manhattan have always said NEW YORK. I don't recall seeing this in any other city. Granted the other cities that tend to buy from food carts are Washington and Arlington (actually a county, of course) so I can't speak to say Boston or Chicago, but I have a feeling its just a New York thing. Why don't other cities do it?

By the way, a Sabrett and a can of Pepsi is a requirement of any trip to New York for me.

Lunch in New York

, , ,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Might it have something to do with the 5-cent (or whatever) deposit that (I'm guessing) you can get back for turning in your Pepsi can in New York for recycling? Again, I'm just groping here, but it would keep New York from shelling out money on out-of-state Pepsi cans.

Do Coke and other beverages do this, I wonder?

# posted by Blogger Hendo : Monday, August 31, 2009 6:58:00 PM  

That is a pretty strong theory Hendo. I believe other cans do have "NEW YORK" on them

# posted by Blogger WFY : Monday, August 31, 2009 8:23:00 PM  

I own a Pepsi Route in Lower East Side, and that is exactly right. The NYC on each can is so we can identify them easily when looking for product from other states...

# posted by Anonymous Anonymous : Saturday, September 12, 2009 11:57:00 PM  

The Pepsi-Cola bottling co. of NY puts that on all of their cans of Pepsi products. They also make Canada Dry products, but they don't put the "new york" on on those, only Pepsi products. Both say on the back "PREPARED BY PEPSI-COLA BOTTLING CO. OF NY, COLLEGE POINT, NY 11356", but only Pepsi products say "NEW YORK' over the logo. Strange how that works.

You probably don't see them anywhere else because they only have Pepsi bottling territory in the 5 boroughs and Westchester Co. They have Canada Dry territory as far south as Monmouth, NJ.

It has nothing to do with the refund. I buy drinks in NJ which are made by Pepsi Bottling Group and have no "NEW YORK" on top, but it still says "NY-5cent Refund" on the back.

# posted by Anonymous Araman Osama Muhammad : Monday, September 28, 2009 6:48:00 PM   Post a Comment

Doughnut Plant on the Lower East Side - William World News
Friday, August 28, 2009

Doughnut Plant on the Lower East Side

Doughnut Plant
NEW YORK -- I visited my friend David for six hours last Saturday. We wound up at the Lower East Side's Doughnut Plant after breakfast at a dive near his apartment in the East Village. Had I known beforehand about Doughnut Plant, I would have insisted we just go there for breakfast. The bakery, with its very small customer area, stays open until they run out of donuts.

David talked up the creme brulee donut and awful lot, so I went with that one. It met his high expectations. The standard yeast raised glazed was also quite good. I might even make a special trip the next time I'm in Manhattan.

, , , ,

Labels: , , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Glad you enjoyed it.

# posted by Anonymous Jim Jeffcoat : Friday, August 28, 2009 10:46:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Wawa vs. Sheetz: The point is moot - William World News
Thursday, August 27, 2009

Wawa vs. Sheetz: The point is moot

Wawa vs. Sheetz: Isn't That Convenient? - The Post
Hank Stuever has a long column comparing and contrasting two Pennsylvania based convenience stores, Wawa (of the Philadelphia suburbs) and Sheetz (of Altoona). The former tends to be found as your get closer to the ocean and the latter closer to the mountains. Basically, I-95/The Fall Line is the Wawa/Sheetz line and each represents the cultures of those living, vacationing on each side, according to Stuever.

Whatever -- it is a moot point as neither is has set up shop in any of the core Northern Virginia suburbs. Prince William County is the closest either of them has come and that probably the only place their footprints really overlap. I know Sheetz won't be coming any closer, since their business model doesn't believe in paying a lot for real estate. Wawa, I'm not so sure, but it looks like they may be following the Sheetz model -- around here at least.

I like both stores, they are each unique and way better than the local convenience market leader, 7-Eleven. I'd gladly stop by either one of them if it were available.

PREVIOUSLY

Gotta have a Wawa? - 03.06.2008
Sammichs - 12.13.2006

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:37 PM | |

You are incorrect. Sheetz is vastly superior when it comes to food. Not only can you get sandwhiches, hot dogs etc. But also, french fries, pizza, good burgers, nachos, salads, and pizza. At the anchor store on 17th street in Altoona they have pasta, gelatto, and gourmet coffee. I love Sheetz. (But their gas is crap)

# posted by Blogger The Yurasko Family : Thursday, August 27, 2009 2:38:00 PM  

Both great companies focusing on the customer in the Grocerant niche! I hope they both continue to do well. But I sure wish that either would open units on the West Coast.

# posted by Blogger grocerant : Thursday, August 27, 2009 4:45:00 PM  

TYF: I've eaten well at Wawa, just not lately. I spend a lot more time in Sheetz's footprint than Wawa's these days.

Grocerant: How about we let you have one of them and we get In-N-Out?

# posted by Blogger WFY : Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:49:00 PM   Post a Comment

This almost makes it okay to get McDonald's on a boardwalk - William World News
Friday, August 21, 2009

This almost makes it okay to get McDonald's on a boardwalk

Speedee
WILDWOOD, N.J. -- This retro neon Speedee sign on the Wildwood boardwalk may have been there from before it could be considered retro. That almost makes it okay in my mind to get McDonald's on a boardwalk. When on a boardwalk, support the indigenous grease merchants, mmmkay? You can still stop for McDonald's on the way home.

, , , , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

We have been going to Springer's for five generations - William World News
Wednesday, August 19, 2009

We have been going to Springer's for five generations

Springer's with lens flare
STONE HARBOR, NJ -- I have mentioned Springer's before, but I'll do it again. The place has great ice cream and is a Seven Mile Beach institution. By my calculations, my son and his cousin, became the fifth generation of my family to enjoy ice cream there. Will had chocolate and banana on separate visits. My dad had rum raisin as always and my mom had lemon. I don't know what the rest of us had, but I went with my usual. We went there only three times during our visit, though it'd be pretty fun to go nightly.

Springer's has been owned by Barbara and Neil Humphreys of central Virginia since 1975. He took the famed Penn State Ice Cream Short Course. Next year, they are inviting back anybody whoever worked at Springer's since they bought it for a reunion.

P8150711

[flickr : Photos tagged with springers/slideshow]

, , , , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:06 PM | |

The Joe Paterno Debate: Whiskey - William World News
Monday, August 03, 2009

The Joe Paterno Debate: Whiskey

This is the kind of game you love. I'm going to go home and get in trouble with a good stiff bourbon. Then I'm going to take a nap and get out some Ohio State tapes.

-- Joe Paterno, October 20, 2001
The origin of the tradition of post-game bourbon toasts to celebrate Penn State wins is oft told by me, but for the uninitiated, here is the story. Penn State started the 2001 season 0-4 with Paterno one game behind Bear Byrant for the all time major college football wins record. After a thrilling last second win, Paterno uttered the quote above. The following week, the Nittany Lions behind freshmen QB Zack Mills came back from 22 down in the second half to beat Ohio State. Following the game, I established the tradition and have toasted to many Nittany Lions triumphs responsibly.

Over the years, the tradition has continued and is enjoyed by several of my friends whether we are together at the time or not. However, one friend, The Maryland Bureau Chief, has on occasion suggested he would rather do it differently. TMBC prefers Jack Daniel's, which is Tennessee Sipping Whiskey. Though it is similar to bourbon, Jack Daniel's adds a filtering process that bourbon does not. I prefer the unfiltered Kentucky spirit over the Tennessee one. We are a little uncertain about what Coach Paterno's preference is though.

From time to time, Paterno is linked to Jack Daniel's rather than bourbon. I recall when I was an undergraduate, his son Scott mentioned Jim Beam in a Collegian column. However, The Lion in Autumn, Frank Fitzpatrick's book about the end of the Paterno era (except it wasn't! JoePa was right, he just needed a few more players like Derrick Williams, who was mentioned at the end of the book, to show up) in the early 2000s mentioned Jack Daniel's. So, in short we don't know his preference, but with a week before practice and over a month before kickoff, I decided to see if I could solve the mystery. Perhaps @JayPaterno can be of help.

UPDATE 6:45 a.m. Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Jay Paterno followed up on my tweet about his father's choice of whiskey:
JayPaterno @doubleuefwhy It is neither Jack nor Jim for Joe--given his choice it is Old Granddad with lots of ice. Fitting for a guy with 17 grandkids.
So, it is official, bourbon is Joe Paterno's preferred whiskey, not Jack Daniel's. The great debate has at last been settled. Thank you Jay, you are a scholar and a gentleman. Also, glad you liked the "This Game is Fixed" poster at the 1999 Blue White Game. I really need to find that photo and rescan it.

Oh and as a Maker's Mark Ambassador, I'll put in the good word for that fine bourbon, an excellent choice for post-game victory toasts.

, , , , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 12:46 PM | |

I have to second the JD preference.

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Monday, August 03, 2009 1:11:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Today is National Chili Dog Day: Free Coney at Hard Times - William World News
Thursday, July 30, 2009

Today is National Chili Dog Day: Free Coney at Hard Times

Today is National Chili Dog Day and Hard Times Café is celebrating by offering a free Coney Chili Dog (Cincinnati style) with a purchase. I'm not big on Cincy style, but who knows I may take them up on this one anyway. July is National Hot Dog Month, but you knew that right?

Hard Times Café has locations throughout Virginia, Maryland and even one in Raleigh, N.C. Tell them I sent you.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 9:30 AM | |

National Chili Dog Day 07.30.2009: Free Coney at Hard Times Cafe with purchase - William World News
Wednesday, July 29, 2009

National Chili Dog Day 07.30.2009: Free Coney at Hard Times Cafe with purchase

I got tipped off by an email from the Nationals that tomorrow is National Chili Dog Day and Hard Times Café is celebrating by offering a free Coney Chili Dog (Cincinnati style) with a purchase. I'm not big on Cincy style, but who knows I may take them up on this one anyway. July is National Hot Dog Month, but you knew that right?

Hard Times Café has locations throughout Virginia, Maryland and even one in Raleigh, N.C. Tell them I sent you.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 5:47 PM | |

State College: Tony's Big Easy, Lulu's lose liquor license - William World News
Friday, July 17, 2009

State College: Tony's Big Easy, Lulu's lose liquor license

Tony's license taken - The Collegian
Court closes troubled taverns - CDT
The once great Tony's Big Easy and associated bars are probably done for good:
Tony’s Big Easy, Lulu’s Nightspot, and Candy Bar and Lounge, were notified by the state Liquor Control Board on Thursday that they no longer have a valid license to sell liquor because their attorney never filed the papers required for their appeal to move onto a higher court.
Sounds like the owner just threw in the towel, probably a wise move.

I think this will be the last I blog about these bars.

-
, , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 2:30 PM | |

Decent D.C. area cheesesteaks - William World News
Friday, July 10, 2009

Decent D.C. area cheesesteaks

philly cheesesteak factory cheesesteak, whiz wit onions (raw)
Stealing Home: A Philly Love Song - CityPaper
I am not a Philadelphia expatriate, but I do love a good Philly cheesesteak wit whiz. I don't tend to even try getting them around here because I don't want to eat all of that fat, calories, salt, etc. for an inferior product. This article suggests I can come close at a few locations.
In our area, you can eat a cheese steak on genuine Amoroso rolls at Philadelphia Water Ice Factory, at Philadelphia Cheesesteak Factory, and at South Street Steaks. The bread, in fact, is often a selling point for these shops. Why? Because the only cheese steak ingredient that can't be fudged is the roll, says Peter Mossaidis, a Philly native and owner of the small Cheesesteak Factory chain. South Street's owner Danny Uhr agrees.
I'll second the Amoroso roll statement, they make a big difference. I have been to Philadelphia Cheesesteak Factory and found the steak (pictured above) I got there okay -- they use a little too much whiz that might be watered down. I am disappointed that one place I had been interested in, Al's Steaks in Del Ray, Alexandria gets the "no whiz" rating. I may try it anyway someday.

By the way, if I ever move away from the D.C. area the first thing I am going to do is complain about how you can't get a decent half-smoke around my new home.

Also, the story opens up by saying "you can't get an authentic cheese steak an hour outside (of Philly)." Circa 1995, there was a place in Bloomsburg, Pa. that advertised on the radio that they served the "best cheesesteaks north of Allentown" which I thought was one of the weakest advertising slogans I had ever heard.

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Tony's Big Easy not playing by the rules - William World News
Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Tony's Big Easy not playing by the rules

Police: Bars ignore court order - CDT
Since I still get a fair number of searches for Tony's Big Easy which was once a great State College bar, I feel like I should post this link about them ignoring court orders:
But now Tony’s Big Easy has again been cited by the state police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement.

Police said they found on seven different occasions that the bar wasn’t complying with terms Grine put in place in March that allowed the bars to stay open until the appeal is decided.

“It didn’t appear to us that (Sapia) was even making an effort to comply with the provisions of the court order,” said district office commander Sgt. Wayne A. Bush.
I haven't been there in exactly four years, one day and I don't plan on going back. It used to be such a good bar.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 12:20 PM | |

Review: Pepsi Throwback - William World News
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Review: Pepsi Throwback

Pepsi Throwback can
A while back my brother told me about a version of Pepsi flavored with sugar instead of corn syrup. Last week, I saw that version, Pepsi Throwback, in the stores for the first time and I picked up several packs. Part of me was hoping it would be better than regular Pepsi, but since it has a limited release, I was worried that if it was I would be spoiled by something that would soon go away. Having now had 3 or 4 cans, I can say that I do taste a bit of a difference. Throwback is not quite as sweet as regular Pepsi -- it is a little more nuanced, if that is even possible in carbonated sugar water. I've gone back and forth between Throwback and the regular stuff and not had a strong reaction either way, so I say the difference is not very significant. That being said, I'll probably stock up on the Throwback just because regular sugar isn't as bad for you as corn syrup.

I think I'm going to have to do the Pepsi Throwback Challenge though and blog the results.

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

National Donut Day means free Krispy Kreme - William World News
Friday, June 05, 2009

National Donut Day means free Krispy Kreme

Free food alert: Friday is National Donut Day - Pop Candy, USA Today
Krispy Kreme is giving out donuts today. Find a location near you.

I won't be making it out to any of them, but hopefully this week's department breakfast will observe National Doughnut Day (Holiday Insights).

What is your preferred spelling, donut or doughnut? I prefer the former.

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 6:00 AM | |

Hail 2thelion tailgate - William World News
Monday, April 27, 2009

Hail 2thelion tailgate

P4250240
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- For a few years know, I've been reading PSUGirl's football blog and hearing about the 2thelion tailgate. I've been intrigued, but since I stopped going to Penn State football games other than the Blue White game for the most part, this was my first opportunity to see it for myself.

I counted four canopies, two grills, two stoves, one oven and one turkey fryer. I did not even try to count the number of coolers. Among the offerings were ginger chicken wings, french toast sticks, pierogies, meatballs, pork sandwiches, deep fried turkey (wasn't there for that though), fried shrimp and other stuff I cannot remember two days after the fact. I am probably missing a lot. This was just spring practice for them too.

Thanks for the invitation Maddy, I enjoyed meeting you and the other tailgaters. I'll be back, someday.

[flickr : Photos tagged wtih 2thelion/slideshow]

, , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

we all really enjoyed meeting you. It was a great day , and a great tailgate. You are always welcome and we look forward to seeing you again!

# posted by Blogger PSUgirl : Monday, April 27, 2009 11:57:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Happy Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day 2009 - William World News
Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Happy Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day 2009

Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day is today -- find a location near you.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:00 AM | |

Ben & Jerrry's Free Cone Day 2009 is tomorrow - William World News
Monday, April 20, 2009

Ben & Jerrry's Free Cone Day 2009 is tomorrow

Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day is tomorrow -- find a location near you. I am not sure we'll bother, could be a bit of trouble with a stroller, but you never know.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 9:30 AM | |

George Washington, master distiller - William World News
Friday, April 17, 2009

George Washington, master distiller

Washington's whiskey hits the barrel after 200 year hiatus - USA Today
I have been hearing about plans to distill whiskey according to George Washington's recipe for several years.
In April, the Mount Vernon distillery and adjacent gristmill will open to the public for the season. And for the first time in nearly 200 years, liquor fans will soon be able to purchase whiskey made in the distillery, following Washington's own recipe.

"There's nowhere else in the country you can see what a distillery was like in the 18th century," said Dennis Pogue, Mount Vernon's associate director of preservation who oversaw the distillery's reconstruction. And the experience shows visitors an intriguing side of George Washington. "It's an opportunity to talk about different aspects of Washington's career that most people don't know about," he said.
I am quite interested to check out the distillery, though when I learned in the article that the whiskey was not barrel aged, I became less enthusiastic for actual product. Nevertheless, I'll be happy to give it a try.

, , ,

Labels: , , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:11 PM | |

Maggie Moo's giving out free scoops of ice cream - William World News
Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Maggie Moo's giving out free scoops of ice cream

Maggie Moo's iis giving out a free scoop of ice cream today for Tax Day, April 15. Locations

H/T We Love DC

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:00 AM | |

Free MaggieMoo's ice cream tomorrow - William World News
Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Free MaggieMoo's ice cream tomorrow

Maggie Moo's iis giving out a free scoop of ice cream tomorrow in honor of Tax Day, April 15. Locations

H/T We Love DC

, , ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:06 PM | |

Nationals Park area bar scene still lacking, but hope on the way - William World News
Friday, April 10, 2009

Nationals Park area bar scene still lacking, but hope on the way

A Game Plan for Beers and Ball - The Post
Following up on yesterday's Marc Fisher column about the fledgling neighborhood around Nationals Park, a look at the bar scene that is coming for late this season or next season.
Some relief may be on the way later this year: The Velocity Capitol Riverfront condominiums, slated to open at First and L streets SE in the fall, will have a sports bar as part of its ground floor retail space.

And the real estate firm Akridge, which plans to eventually turn the space of a former Metrobus garage at Half and M streets into shops, offices and residential units, is hoping to convert the now-empty lot across from the centerfield gate on N Street into something of a block party this season. "The concept is a tented event space -- partially tented, mostly open -- with live entertainment, food and beverages," says Akridge Development Manager Adam Gooch. "Half Street is supposed to be the entertainment area. . . . We're trying to get some life down here."

Permits, schedules and most of the details of the project have yet to be finalized, but, well, the idea is promising
Right now, Capital Hill and 8th Street (Barracks Row) seem to be as close as you can get to Nationals Park.

JD Land if the place to go to keep up with the growth of the Nationals Park neighborhood.

, , ,

Labels: , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

How Yuengling became one of the largest American owned brewers - William World News
Monday, March 30, 2009

How Yuengling became one of the largest American owned brewers

Yuengling poised to become largest American-owned brewer - Patriot-News
When Dick Yuengling bought the Yuengling Brewery from his father, it was a small, dying business. He revitalized it and now only Boston Beer Co. (Samuel Adams) is a larger American-owned brewer. Previously owned American breweries, Miller and Busch, have since been purchased by foreign conglomerates.

I do not feel as strongly about Yuengling Lager as some of my friends, but generally speaking, if I have beer in the house or at a tailgate, it is Yuengling. The quality to price ratio is quite good and I find Nittany Lion beef franks taste pretty good when they have "marinated" in it.

Oh and sorry, Matthew, Yuengling does not appear to be heading to Massachusetts anytime soon.

, ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

If you ever have the chance, tour the Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville.

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Monday, March 30, 2009 2:30:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Tony's Big Easy still fighting for liquor license - William World News
Tuesday, March 03, 2009

Tony's Big Easy still fighting for liquor license

No decision in case of local bars - The Collegian
Sammark Inc., owners of the once great Tony's Big Easy and two other bars, will continue its battle to retain its liquor license at a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court hearing in Harrisburg, date to be determined.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 8:14 PM | |

National Chili Day is TODAY -- free bowl of chili at Hard Times - William World News
Thursday, February 26, 2009

National Chili Day is TODAY -- free bowl of chili at Hard Times

Judging by the traffic I got yesterday, a lot of you are very happy that today is National Chili Day. I am afraid my wait will be considerably longer to get served my free bowl of Hard Times Café chili (with any purchase) now.



Hard Times Café has locations throughout Virginia, Maryland and even one in Raleigh, N.C. Tell them I sent you.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:00 AM | |

FYI, the free bowl of chili does not apply to carry-out orders. I learned this when I ordered lunch from the Bethesda Hard Times today.

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Thursday, February 26, 2009 2:44:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Free Hard Times tomorrow to celebrate National Chili Day - William World News
Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Free Hard Times tomorrow to celebrate National Chili Day

National Chili Day means a free bowl of chili tomorrow, February 26, 2009, at Hard Times Cafe with any other purchase.



They have locations throughout Virginia, Maryland and even one in Raleigh, N.C.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:30 AM | |

Now if only Ben's could jump on that bandwagon, with a free half-smoke.

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Wednesday, February 25, 2009 8:54:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Happy Fat Tuesday -- Free pancakes today at IHOP today - William World News
Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Happy Fat Tuesday -- Free pancakes today at IHOP today

Remember, IHOP is giving away a short stack of pancakes between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Find an IHOP near you -- Virginia | D.C. | Maryland or use the store locater

HEY KIDS! WE EATIN DINNER TONIGHT! CMON!

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 6:00 AM | |

Free IHOP tomorrow - William World News
Monday, February 23, 2009

Free IHOP tomorrow

In addition to being Fat Tuesday, tomorrow is National Pancake Day. Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler probably want you to know that IHOP is giving away a short stack of pancakes between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Find an IHOP near you -- Virginia | D.C. | Maryland or use the store locater

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Are Fajita Wars the new Cola Wars? - William World News

Are Fajita Wars the new Cola Wars?

fajitarevolution
TYSON'S CORNER, Va. -- On a recent excusion to one of Tysons Corner's casual dining restaurants, On the Border, I learned that it is home to the FAJITA REVOLUTION. Apparently, they are revolutionizing the way I enjoy fajitas. I disagree as I had brisket tacos instead. That is not the point though, apparently fajitas are much more serious than I could have possibly imagined. You may recall that On the Border's neighbor, Chili's, told me I could control my own Fajita Destiny. Are fajitas the next conflict in foodstuff marketing, like the Cola Wars* of the late 1980s?

I wonder how much further marketers will take this trend. Will be seeing things like Fajita Century, Generation Fajita, or Fajita Reich?

*My Advertising 320 professor told the class a couple of times, in muted tones, that he was a "veteran of the Cola Wars."

, , ,

Labels: , , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Strange for positing that question, especially since On the Border and Chili's are owned by the same company.

# posted by Anonymous Muha : Monday, February 23, 2009 2:23:00 PM  

So, it is a civil war?

# posted by Blogger WFY : Tuesday, February 24, 2009 8:18:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Another food service vendor for Nationals Park - William World News
Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Another food service vendor for Nationals Park

Washington Nationals Introduce Levy Restaurants as restaurant partner at Nationals Park - The Post
Centerplate is out as concessionaire after one year in Nationals Park by what appears to be mutual agreement. They lost money on the deal and the front office wants better service. Don't we all. Levy Restaurants becomes the third vendor in as many years for the Nationals. In the end, if they cannot find employees dedicated to more than sloth, the concessionaire will be a moot point. Seriously, the inefficiency of concession stand staff makes my head hurt. Why is it that I get better, more efficient service from student volunteers at Penn State games than professionals at Nats games?

An aside, I'm dreaming of a half-smoke, I assume Ben's Chili Bowl will still be featured with Levy on board.

, , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

At this rate, anything is an improvement over Aramark.

And don't forget cheaper-priced items at Beaver Stadium! After acclimating to an $8 chicken wing basket at RFK, I about fainted when I found nachos for $2 at a Penn State game.

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:02:00 PM  

I think Centerplate was a slight improvement over Aramark, but not enough. Hopefully, Levy will be better, but realistically, I am not expecting much.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:34:00 PM  

The problem isn't Aramark or Centerplate. The problem is the people that they hire to run the stands and quite frankly, unless Levy Restaurants, the Nationals, and WSEC decide to use non-profit groups to staff the concession stands, nothing in terms of service is going to change.

# posted by Blogger Caps Nut : Thursday, February 19, 2009 6:22:00 PM   Post a Comment

Change we can all believe in: free Krispy Kremes today - William World News
Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Change we can all believe in: free Krispy Kremes today

Pop Candy says Krispy Kreme is giving out free donuts today. Store locator -- I wonder if the Dupont Circle location is participating. They could have a very long day...

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:00 AM | |

Pepsi fixes what wasn't broken - William World News
Tuesday, January 06, 2009

Pepsi fixes what wasn't broken

Old logo, new logo
My favorite soft drink, Pepsi Cola just changed their logo. Why, I cannot say. Looking at them side-to-side, it is clear to me the old "Pepsi ball" is better and the new one is just weird. I do like the new script though, especially the "e" which has a wave like the old Pepsi logo, but that reinforces that I don't like the new Pepsi ball. Why "fix" was is not broken?*

Pepsi has a flash presentation about the new and old designs on their Web site.

At least the product still tastes good. I might have to save an old can.

*Of course, by blogging about the change, I fell into the trap they set by creating a new logo.

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:54 AM | |

Bad, but pales in comparison to those wretched Tony-Romo-themed ads. Tough times for we Pepsi apologists.

# posted by Blogger DC Optimist : Tuesday, January 06, 2009 11:29:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Cooking with William & Erica: Pigs 'n blankets - William World News
Friday, December 19, 2008

Cooking with William & Erica: Pigs 'n blankets

While we could argue semantics about what pig 'n blankets are I am going simply say that little sausages wrapped in dough are what we call pigs 'n blankets. Now that this is established, I'll talk about making these simple hors d'œuvres.

Ingredients

1 package Hillshire Farms Lit'l Beef Smokies
2 tubes of crescent rolls (store brand works fine)
1 cookie sheet
preheat the oven to 375° F.

PC170065

Directions

Open up the crescent rolls and unwrap them. For each triangle, halve or third it, depending on dough-to-sausage preference. Wrap cut triangle around each sausage. Place wrapped sausages onto ungreased pan in preheated oven. Cook for 10 - 12 minutes.

PC170067

The finished product

PC170070

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM | |

Olga's closed for good - William World News
Saturday, December 13, 2008

Olga's closed for good

2005: Olga's Diner
Olga's Diner in Marlton closes for good - Courier-Post, Cherry Hill
Olga's, a staple of the NJ 70/73 circle in Marlton, N.J., is closed for good. There were several shutdowns over the past year.
The diner was shut down Oct. 17 because, Stavros said, he owed nearly $17,000 to PSE&G for gas and electric service.

It was the fourth time this year the diner closed because of financial trouble. Olga's closed July 2-4, also because of a PSE&G bill; and July 24-29 because of $37,000 in delinquent state taxes. That closure was extended until Aug. 1 because of yet another PSE&G suspension.
I might have eaten at Olga's two or three times in all the years I passed it on the way to Grandma's and Long Beach Island.

It's goodbye, this time for good, to Olga's Diner - The Inky

PREVIOUSLY:
Wait, I thought Olga's was going to be gone by now - 08.05.2008
OLGA'S DINER UP FOR SALE - 04.15.2005

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 6:34 AM | |

Monkey its what's for dinner - William World News
Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Monkey its what's for dinner

Monkey Meat Is Confiscated at Dulles - The Post
Customs officials searching the bags of an African man who flew into Dulles International Airport on Friday discovered three charred monkeys in his luggage, as well as deer meat and dried beef, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials said yesterday.
While it is very odd and possibly concerning, the monkey meat found in someone's luggage at Dulles Aiport means at least one thing -- a replay of Mike O'Meara's classic "Monkey, its what's for dinner" ad.

I still miss Monkey Tuesday.

Labels: , , ,

posted by WFY @ 1:30 PM | |

75 years since the end of Prohibition - William World News
Friday, December 05, 2008

75 years since the end of Prohibition

ON THIS DAY - Prohibition Repeal Is Ratified at 5:32 P.M.; Roosevelt Asks Nation to Bar the Saloon; New York Celebrates With Quiet Restraint - The Times
Prohibition ended 75 years ago today. If you are so inclined, enjoy a drink, just don't be irresponsible about it like James D. Sheep.

,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 12:23 PM | |

Last week we went to Harrisburg, but it was closed* - William World News
Monday, December 01, 2008

Last week we went to Harrisburg, but it was closed*

Celota's window
The best part of Celota's -- sun shining through their sign

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- On Black Friday, The Ombudsman, aka Cliff/Matthew/Matt came to visit while I up at my in-laws and we decided to go to Harrisburg for a drink. I had inquired with several people on where to go and got a list of places in the so-called "Restaurant Row." We figured that would be a safe bet for a place to find a decent selection of bourbons. Wrong! The places I had selected were closed, though their Web sites said there were open.

We wound up going to Ceoltas Irish Pub which had the apparently unique distinction of being open. It also had a waitress who knew nothing of whiskey such as the difference between Irish whiskey, Scotch and bourbon. Oh well, at least the company was good, but when it comes to Harrisburg, color me unimpressed. If there is a next time, we'll wait until after 4 p.m. and try the Iberian Lounge in Hershey.

*With apologies to W.C. Fields

,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM | |

Serves you right for trying to find something classy and interesting to do here. Next time, I'll just have you guys over at my place for some homebrew and Senape's pizza.

# posted by Blogger Run Up The Score : Tuesday, December 02, 2008 9:17:00 AM  

Perhaps after a day of skiing.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Tuesday, December 02, 2008 9:53:00 AM  

Post a Comment

Final week of Henny's - William World News
Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Final week of Henny's

025
Seven Mile Beach Landmark, Henny's Prepares Benefit for Last Call Nov. 30 - Cape May County Herald
Do you like Stone Harbor's venerable Henny's restaurant? You have four more days to visit it as Nov. 30 is the final day it will be open. The property was sold to build a new resort.

PREVIOUSLY: Overheard: Henny's to be sold, demolished

H/T: Down the Shore with Jen

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 6:59 AM | |

Oh non! Les Halles est fermé - William World News
Thursday, November 20, 2008

Oh non! Les Halles est fermé

On Tuesday, I got word from We Love DC and Fritz that one of my favorite places to eat in D.C., Les Halles, has closed. Erica and I loved their frites, martinis and the atmosphere. I also loved the arguments over the correct pronunciation of Les Halles. Maybe we will hit one in New York sometime. I am really mad we kept missing the Bastille Day waiter race too.

Babblefish might have helped with the headline.

, , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Election day free food alert - William World News
Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Election day free food alert

With Election Day comes free food - WTOP
Several establishments like The Daily Grill, Krispy Kreme and Starbucks are giving away free food today.

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:10 PM | |

Free Taco Bell today, but who cares? - William World News
Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Free Taco Bell today, but who cares?

Rather than give customers free tacos just because, Taco Bell came up with a contrived World Series tie-in -- Steal A Base, Steal a Taco. Yes, because someone stole a base during one of the early games of this year's World Series, Taco Bell is giving out free tacos for four hours starting at 2 p.m. today. Frankly, I think that is a really weak criterion since there is not much risk that a base won't be stolen in the World Series. They out to make it something like an outfield assist, triple or infield fly rule occurrence -- that would be much more interesting.

Of course, as I proved last year, a free Taco Bell taco is still overpriced.

Free taco from Taco Bell
I almost swallowed some of the juice!
Soggy, shreaded cardboard flavored with MSG


,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Just think of the advertising. "Speaking of runs, Taco Bell has something they want to give you!"

# posted by Anonymous Cris Cohen : Tuesday, October 28, 2008 8:22:00 PM  

Post a Comment

Penn State finally beats Michigan - William World News
Saturday, October 18, 2008

Penn State finally beats Michigan

At last the streak of losing to Michigan is over. The last time Penn State had beaten Michigan was in 1996, my sophomore year. That is way too long -- now let us never speak of it again. From now on, Michigan is just another game on the schedule and not a black cloud flying over our heads.

After A.Q. Shipley snapped the ball over Daryll Clark's head on the first play of the game, I got madder than I had been about sports in a many years. It wasn't until the Penn State safety in the second half that I began to calm down. All's well that ends well I suppose.

Victory bourbon

In the end Penn State beat a 2-4 team at home, let's not get too carried away. I did not even reach for the top shelf for the victory bourbon, Jim Beam is good enough. I'll have some premium stuff if Penn State wins next week.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 9:48 PM | |

Another Bourbon Trail article - William World News
Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Another Bourbon Trail article

Driven to Drink in Kentucky - The Post
I really need to do this someday. Like I said, Sideways II. Come on Ombudsman, you've even got the convertible.

,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 8:05 AM | |

Ben's Chili Bowl at 50 chat right now - William World News
Monday, August 25, 2008

Ben's Chili Bowl at 50 chat right now

Ben's Chili Bowl Turns 50 - The Post
"D.C. culinary institution Ben's Chili Bowl turned 50 this month. Nizam Ali, son of founders Ben and Virginia, who runs the family business with his brother Kamal, will be online Monday, Aug. 25 at 11:30 a.m. ET to take your questions about the restaurant's past, present and future."

PREVIOUSLY: Fifty years of Ben's Chili Bowl

, , , ,

Labels: , , ,

posted by WFY @ 11:30 AM | |

Fifty years of Ben's Chili Bowl - William World News
Thursday, August 21, 2008

Fifty years of Ben's Chili Bowl

Half-smoke
Ben's Celebrates Chili Power - The Post
This week is the 50th anniversary of Ben's Chili Bowl*, the venerable U Street institution. Bill Cosby loves it more than Jello pudding:
By far, Ben's biggest celebrity fan is Cosby, who will serve as master of ceremonies for tonight's Lincoln Theatre event. The comic helped propel Ben's to the national spotlight in 1985 when he held a news conference there to talk about his No. 1 television program, "The Cosby Show."

Cosby became a fan when he was in the Navy and stationed in Bethesda in 1958. During that time, he was a regular at jazz clubs on U Street. And he also took his soon-to-be wife, Camille, who was a student at the University of Maryland, to Ben's on late-night dates, where he would eat as many as six half-smokes at a time. Cosby likens a Ben's half-smoke, a plump beef and pork sausage, to a fine wine.

"You can describe it the same way a wine connoisseur would be able to tell difference between a pinot noir and a merlot," Cosby said in a telephone interview. "When you bite into a half-smoke, the skin and the way the texture and firmness and the toppings you can get on it . . . "

His voice trailed off, as if he was caught in the memory of the taste.
Six?! The man had a stomach of steel. By the way, that is not recommended date behavior.

More: 50 Years of Friends and Chili - The Post

Oh and it looks like I will be taking Cliff there real soon -- his Phillies beat the Nats for the eighth time in eleven games. The Phillies need two more victories over the Nats to clinch a Ben's half-smoke for Cliff. The Nats need to win every remaining game against Philadelphia to win me a cheesesteak. Given that the Nats haven't won in 13 games overall, I am not feeling too good about this one.

*The bandwidth limit was exceeded earlier this morning.

, , , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 9:30 AM | |

S. Van Dorn Wendy's reopened - William World News
Thursday, August 14, 2008

S. Van Dorn Wendy's reopened

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- The Wendy's on S. Van Dorn Street between Edsall Road and Duke Street has reopened. You may remember that it burnt down last year.

I was going to have photos, but I did not get a chance and besides, I think we know what a Wendy's looks like.

, , , ,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:50 PM | |

More details on the end of Henny's - William World News
Thursday, August 07, 2008

More details on the end of Henny's

I searched for Henny's news, but only found out about this when my dad mentioned that he saw something in the Cape May News Herald:
The vacant lot on the corner of 96th Street and Third Avenue will soon host the highly anticipated resort, as will the current Henny’s Restaurant property on the corner of 97th Street and Third Avenue; this will be its last season open. The resort will gain the Henny’s liquor license once the sale is finalized.

The reconstructed Henny’s property will include a large day spa, cafe, wine bar, and restaurant with 12 bi-level suites in a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building, an environmental standard in creating eco-friendly buildings.
Construction will not begin until next winter, Architect Richard Stokes said.
Long Awaited Shelter Haven Resort Wins Zoners' Nod, Hearts of People

The folks who run the Cape May News Herald really need to improve their SEO.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 12:04 PM | |

I don't care whether its called pork roll or Taylor ham - William World News
Wednesday, August 06, 2008

I don't care whether its called pork roll or Taylor ham

Taylor Pork Roll on the grill
STONE HARBOR, N.J. -- I am a late adopter when it comes to pork roll, but better late than never, right? This processed meat could probably qualify as N.J.'s state foodstuff, provided you are not including Jersey fresh produce like tomatoes, corn (soooo good), peaches or blueberries (Hammonton boasts being the blueberry capital of the world). Taylor, of Trenton is probably the best known variety although there are a few others.

I like my pork roll grilled with the traditional four cuts to keep it from curling up. I eat them on a hamburger roll, no condiments, but many people have mustard and/or relish or have it on an english muffin with an egg.

Mmmm, pork roll

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 10:15 AM | |

Why not call them steamed hams?

# posted by Blogger Fritz : Wednesday, August 06, 2008 12:07:00 PM  

You want to call them steamed hams, despite the fact that they clearly are not burgers? Does the dateline indicate it was from upstate N.Y.? Now, if you'll excuse me I'm watching aurora borealis in my kitchen.

# posted by Blogger WFY : Thursday, August 07, 2008 8:31:00 AM  

Love pork roll. I also love the Simpsons. Makes me want to watch that episode right now...or when I get home.

# posted by Blogger Kevin McGuire : Friday, August 08, 2008 9:32:00 AM   Post a Comment

Wait, I thought Olga's was going to be gone by now - William World News
Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Wait, I thought Olga's was going to be gone by now

2005: Olga's Diner
Only customers missing as Olga’s Diner reopens - The Inky
While I was on vacation, I read in the Inky that Olga's, a venerable diner at the 70/73 circle in Marlton, had been closed down due to a tax problem. It has since reopened, but I thought Olga's was going to be sold. I guess owner John Stavros could not find someone offering $10 million for it.

By the way, for my dad's birthday, we gave him the book Jersey Diners by Peter Genovese, now of the Star-Ledger who runs the Munchmobile blog. Check out the Munch Map. Anyway, my dad is really enjoying the book. I took at a look at it; Olga's is in there.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 8:30 AM | |

Overheard: Henny's to be sold, demolished - William World News
Monday, August 04, 2008

Overheard: Henny's to be sold, demolished

024
STONE HARBOR, N.J. -- I was surprised to hear the rumor that Henny's, now in its 77th summer, may not see a 78th. Apparently, the land is for sale and a potential buyer has been found. The new buyer would knock the venerable Stone Harbor institution down and replace it with a hotel.

When I was a kid Henny's had honey-dipped fried chicken that I thought was out of this world. When I started going back to Avalon/Stone Harbor, I was kind of disappointed they did not have it. Henny's has been Yurasko favorite for most of those 77 years, it will be sad to see it go if this rumor is accurate.

UPDATE: Some specifics from Cape Cuisine, courtesy of Jen Miller of Down the Shore with Jen.

, , ,

Labels: , ,

posted by WFY @ 9:30 AM | |

Tony's Big Easy in big trouble with liquor board - William World News
Thursday, July 17, 2008

Tony's Big Easy in big trouble with liquor board

Bars fight to regain licenses - The Collegian
Three State College bars, including my former favorite Tony's Big Easy, might be losing their liquor licenses.
The future of Tony's Big Easy and two accompanying bars is uncertain after the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) declined to renew their parent company's liquor license last week.

After multiple incidents and violations on the premises -- including a murder in 2006 and a February fight which saw four arrests and a crowd of 200 surge into the street -- the board voted against renewing the license for Sammark Inc., owner of Tony's Big Easy, Lulu's Nightspot and Candy Bar & Lounge, all located at 129 1/2 S. Pugh St.
The Big Easy, circa 1998-99 was one of my favorite bars ever. It had good background music -- jazz, salsa, swing, big band, and great martinis. That Penn State's sweet young things thought the bar was worthy of little black dresses also had something going for it too. However, in the years after I graduated, the bar went downhill. The music was changed the same thing in every other bar in town and the service went downhill. After a lackluster evening their the night before I got married, I decided I would not bother going back, it was merely a shell of the bar it used to be.

Three Pugh St. bars face dry times - CDT

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 2:00 PM | |

Dress like a cow, get free Chick-fil-A - William World News
Friday, July 11, 2008

Dress like a cow, get free Chick-fil-A

I don't think I am going out on a limb when I say that dressing like a cow to get a free Chick-fil-A combo meal makes more sense than getting a free Slurpee for doing nothing. Chick-fil-A is pretty good stuff, so if you have a cow costume lying around, I say go for it, celebrate "Cow Appreciation Day" with them and get some free food.

You can download official Chick-fil-A "cow parts" too.

RESTAURANT LOCATOR

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Free slurpees are probably overpriced - William World News

Free slurpees are probably overpriced


Since today is 07.11, 7-Eleven is giving out free Slurpees, if you are into that kind of thing. I have had about four1 in my life and after having one last year2. I remembered why pretty quickly.

I will not think less of you if you get one though, honestly.

I don't think I even need to post a store locater.

There is even better free food news coming up at 10:00.

1One of them came in a Fernando Valenzuela cup that is probably still in a cabinet in my parents' basement. For some reason, he had something that looked like a tear near one of his eyes.

2Actually, a Squishee

,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 9:00 AM | |

Fajita destiny? - William World News
Wednesday, July 09, 2008

Fajita destiny?

TYSON'S CORNER, Va. -- A recent excusion to the Tyson's Chili's with co-workers revealed this unusual marketing campaign for fajitas.

Fajita destiny?

I did not get the fajitas for three reasons:

Economical: When dining at Chili's, Friday's, Flingers, etc. I find the best way to handle the situation is order the least expensive tolerable food possible. Fajita's were something like $15 I think. I wound getting some sort of chicken fingers selection for something like $8. Think of it as damage control.

Gastronomical: I am not a big fan of fajitas and all those peppers don't work too well for me.

Semantic: I'm no Calvinist, but isn't destiny preordained? Fajita destiny is just a bit over the top, no?

,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

July is National Hot Dog month - William World News
Tuesday, July 08, 2008

July is National Hot Dog month

The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council has a good video on hot dog etiquette, but I'll use ketchup (and prepositions at the end of sentences) if I want to!



Last year for National Hog Dog Month, I reviewed area chili dogs.

, ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 9:30 AM | |

Bull market for bourbon - William World News
Monday, July 07, 2008

Bull market for bourbon

Bourbon producers see amber-colored future - AP/MSNBC
Lionel Hutz must be pleased to know that the "brownest of the brown liquors" is so popular at home and abroad. Bourbon distilleries Wild Turkey, Maker's Mark, Jim Beam and others are all expanding to meet increasing demand. Sales are robust enough for the distilleries that they won't be passing along the rising cost of corn onto consumers for some time too.

One pet peeve about the article though, it mentions Jack Daniel's, a Tennessee sipping whiskey. Bourbon does not need to be charcoal filtered like Jack.

H/T: Ombudsman

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Dining Review: Eammon's - William World News
Thursday, July 03, 2008

Dining Review: Eammon's

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- Eammon's bills itself as a Dublin Chipper, but having never been to that Irish city, I cannot validate the claim. I can say that it is a hole in the wall that is tastefully done. The interior is dark stained wood with big windows facing the corner of King and Columbus. The tables are wooden with benches along with a small counter with stools. If the seating capacity exceeds 25, I would be quite surprised. It is a pleasant place to have a meal. Diners order from the front and take what ever seats are available, so be prepared for a little jockeying.

As for the meal, the cod is breaded and fried and is fairly unremarkable – it is cod after all. It comes in two sizes, small which a bit wider and deeper than a deck of cards and large, which is double the small size. The chips (french fries to the rest of the English speaking world) are quite attractive to the eye -- thick and golden brown. They are not that flavorful though, so plenty of ketchup is required which is fine if you like ketchup. Malt vinegar is also on the table if that is how go like your potatoes. All in all, okay but nothing special.

Beverage-wise everything is in bottles except for Guinesss which is on tap. I ordered a bottle of Harp, since that compliments fish and chips better in my mind.

Our final bill came to $32 with a tip that was overly generous. It struck me as a little pricey. For that reason, plus the limited space, I would only recommend Eammons as a impulse decision if you are in the mood for fish n' chips while walking around Old Town.

, , ,

Labels: , , , ,

posted by WFY @ 12:15 PM | |

LaVar turning Sports Cafe into Linebacker U. bar - William World News
Tuesday, July 01, 2008

LaVar turning Sports Cafe into Linebacker U. bar

LaVar eyes 'Linebacker U' bar - CDT
LaVar Arrington is one of the investors in "Linebacker U." the new bar that is coming to the old Sports Cafe location on W. College Ave. in State College.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 1:00 PM | |

Actually, I was right about Cereality - William World News
Thursday, June 26, 2008

Actually, I was right about Cereality

Downtown cereal spot closes shop - The Collegian
I did not need to backtrack from my "not enough for a successful business model" comment about the State College Cereality after all. The store on W. College Ave. has closed.

, ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 8:42 PM | |

Ballparks food tour omits half-smoke - William World News
Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Ballparks food tour omits half-smoke

Buy Me Some Sushi and Baby Back Ribs - The Times
A Travel writer samples food at all MLB ballparks and comes up with hits and misses. For some reason, he does not sample a Ben's Half-Smoke all the way, getting the curly W pretzel instead. Endless Simmer has a great follow-up post that wonders how that could happen.

I still have to get a curly W pretzel. It was a concept I endorsed in the Nationals Instant Tradition contest back in 2006. I also submitted "Heart," thereby disqualifying myself by entering twice. By the way, was there ever an actual winner of that contest?

I will concur avoiding the Geno's cheesesteak in Philly's Citizen's Bank Park too, the one I had on Opening Day 2005 was disappointing.

, , ,

Labels: ,

posted by WFY @ 10:00 AM | |

Free A&W Root Beer floats today - William World News
Monday, June 16, 2008

Free A&W Root Beer floats today

A&W is giving away free root beer floats (Business Wire), no purchase necessary, today. There are not that many locations on my side of the Potomac (Chantilly and Woodbridge), but Maryland has a few.

Truth be told, I don't like floats that much (despite liking ice cream and root beer in frosty mugs, individually), but I bet a number of you do.

H/T: Pop Candy

, ,

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:04 PM | |

Free Doughnut Day 2008! - William World News
Friday, June 06, 2008

Free Doughnut Day 2008!

Today is free doughnut day at Krispy Kreme! Hyperglycemic shock time!

Locations (including Dupont Circle, US 1 south of Alexandria, Rockville and Columbia)

Thanks to Melissa and Sam for reminding me.

Labels:

posted by WFY @ 12:33 PM | |

R.I.P. J.R. Simplot - William World News
Friday, May 30, 2008

R.I.P. J.R. Simplot

J. R. Simplot, Farmer Who Developed First Frozen French Fries, Dies at 99 - The Times
J. R. Simplot, a billionaire who grew up in a sod-roofed log cabin and dropped out of school at 14, then marshaled luck, spunk and inventiveness to fashion an entrepreneurial career that included developing the first commercial frozen French fry, died on Sunday at his home in Boise, Idaho. He was 99.
I paid tribute this American hero last night with some tasty Ore Idas. If he only knew how much I appreciate his innovations.

A tribute to J.R. Simplot
Rest in peace Mr. Spud

, , , ,

Labels: