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Health & Fitness

Would you like food with your napkins?

Fast food dining establishments give away the store. What does one do with the questionable largess?

Often, I have wondered how fast food enterprises their annual profits when I witness the excessive exuberance of their employees.  Like a dripping faucet, over time the constant loss of water it adds up to thousands of gallons lost in a year.  Same is true with the collateral items associated with eating out (of a bag or from a tray) that are foisted upon us.

I was at McDonalds recently.  I ordered the sausage biscuit and a cup for some water.  (Yes, I am cheap).  I told the counter person that I would eat inside.  My food was placed into a bag.  I was given seven napkins.  That is the truth; seven.  There is a napkin dispenser near the ice and water dispenser.  Exactly what should I do with the bag?

A while back I ordered a coffee to go in a drive-thru.   I asked for 'a' cream.  I was given four creams.  In addition, they tossed in four stir sticks, and a wad of napkins. 

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Like you, I have order fries along with a fast-food sandwich and been given so many catsup packages that I nearly had one for each french-fry.  I also asked for 'a' salt and pepper for the sandwich.  There must have been close to a dozen mixed together in the bottom of the bag.  (Yes, I know that the average American eats too much salt.)

 So, right now I have about a dozen napkins in the glove box.  They are too good to toss away.  I also have lots of packets of seasonings in there, as well.   You never know when you will be at a picnic and if asked by someone in a non-differentiating manner if you are aware of the whereabout of the salt and pepper for the hard boiled eggs, you will be able to say, "Look in my golove box."  Like a scout, you could say that I am prepared.

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I guess I am loading up on napkins so that I am ready for a drink to cascade into my lap when I suddenly hit the brakes.  If that happens, I will be able to reach over and grab enough napkins to save the day.  Maybe if I throw them away instead of saving those napkins I will not spill my drink. That’s altered logic but seemingly worth contemplation.  Same with the salt and pepper - I might not be invited to the picnic.

 Excuse me for ranting.  I guess this casual attitude to giving away the store is more the fault of the owner and managers.  They should teach the employess some frugality.

On a differnet note, if you have not signed up for season tickets to the Theatre of Western Springs – you should.  The actors and management deliver distinguishing performances throughout the year and fulfill the dreams and aspirations of students and adults alike.  Right now they are giving a huge discount on ticket packages until June 30th.  I encourage you to go to www.theatrewesternspings.com for dates, prices and related contact information.  Live theater is terrific and this great theater is probably ten minutes from your front door.  They also serve cider and coffee and cookies at intermission! 

If you want some of your questions answered on most any subject, please contact the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and Industry.  Go to www.wscci.org, visit us on Facebook, or call the Chamber staff at 7085-387-7550.  We will do the best we can for you.  If you would, please 'like us".   It is good for business.

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