After I discovered that grilled cheese day was coming to Macon, I envisioned images of platters of grilled cheese, stacked so high you wondered at the practicality of it. I wanted, not just any grilled cheese sandwich… I wanted the perfect one. Could Society Garden do it for me?
What about this honored American tradition – the grilled cheese – makes people go wild? Crispy, chewy goodness, deliverable between two soft, perfectly thick pieces of white, fluffy bread. Is the temptation for such a tasty treat enough to throw any sense of humility and honor to the wind?
It seems as if more has been thrown for such a simple snack. Christian, a representative of the Charlotte grilled cheese festival reported to me in an email just how successful their grilled cheese festival was. Apparently, a young, loyal crowd flocks insolently and blindly to the annual grilled cheese festival there to guzzle and gulp as much grilled cheese as they can. Rain or shine, the patrons of Charlotte’s festival hold steadfast and consume these enticing treats until the festival ends.
Vigour. Passion. The absolute cheese of it all. Had I been graced by the idea to attend, lord knows I would not hesitate. As I contemplated Christian’s email, I also contemplated the regretful loss of my not having the opportunity to join those youth who so boldly, so bravely stood in the harsh rain and ate their grilled cheeses. Could I make up for this? Was there an opportunity for me to redeem my pitiful, guileful existence? I may not have a better opportunity than now.
Charlotteans may be able to wear their hats well, but lets face it: nothing yells cheese like a passionate Maconite.
Wisconsin’s “Cheese Day” is greeted with absolute unabated glee each year. The residents of humble Monroe, Wisconsin wince and complain. Over 100,000 people are slated to join them for the event of a lifetime – “Cheese Day.” Society Garden’s feelings may be hurt, but they’re pulling their weight. Macon needs this and Georgia…
Well, Georgia needs a Macon with a celebration of cheese that rivals Wisconsin’s. Macon, I implore you; these are dire times. Clear your schedule this weekend, pick out your favorite reusable mask – hell, maybe even try double masking – and brave the pandemic to join what may be the boldest move in recent national history.