It is a quiet day on the Havana Road. We have a few friends in for lunch, and we're expecting a birthday party group soon, so while people are scurrying around behind me, in that way that restaurant people do, I thought that I'd conjure up a relevant thought or two. Marta is busy making her famous Brandy/Rum sauce reduction that tops off some of our desserts. Speaking of desserts, Ines will be adding some of her hand made ice creams to our menu. They will be a refreshing compliment to any dessert, or as a dessert itself! We can't wait!!
The day started early with a trip to the warehouse and the Fruit Guy. He's funny and has really nice fresh, all-natural products, but he has a way of leering at Marta that I find uncomplimentary; you know how some guys seem to be able to look down a turtle-neck sweater? Well, he's like that, so I go alone. I know how much Marta likes to pick out produce, and now, when things are not screaming at the speed of light, it would be possible, but to paraphrase the great Clint Westwood, 'A girl's gotta know her limitations...'
On that happy note, we are looking forward to a bus-load of young people from The Park School any minute. The success of the previous Park School diners has inspired others to try our menu. Marta comes out and speaks to them in Spanish and in English, shares her memories of Cuba,and speaks to them about the importance of freedom. A spendid luncheon experience is to be had by all. I remember similar experiences 45 years ago when I was their age, and the effect that horizon-expanding experiences meant, and to my fortune, I still, because of those early moments, seek them out. I am sure that we are planting good seeds with these young people.
We took a very interesting meeting with our associate Samad yesterday. We drove over to Mercy High School and met with Sisters Mary Anne and Tess. They are working on a program to enhance the Latina peresence at Mercy, and have sought our help. Marta will be leading the girls to form a Latino Chamber of Commerce to include all the Latin American countries that are represented by different students attending Mercy High School. Marta hopes that this program will expand into a global Chamber of Commerce at the school. Marta and I felt their sincerity, and look at this as a huge opportunity for the company as a whole, as well as for the community.
The bus is here. I gotta go. A couple of dates to remember, first:
June 5, The Marta is on WJZ Morning Show at 7:30 until 8:00.
June 12, The Marta in on WBAL at 7:40 for a Cuban Breakfast, and at 9:40 with Great Cuban Barbeque Recipes.
June 19 Father's Day Brunch. Here. It's gonna be great. Make your reservations early early early. I won't be here. I mean, if I were entitled to any day off, it should be Father's Day, right?
