Hi Bacon-nation,

As we ramp up towards the big ticket-release day tomorrow, I just wanted to post a rebuke to some food journalist named David Tamarkin who got me all riled up last year when he wrote some article in Time-Out Chicago claiming bacon was over.  He’s a nice guy, I don’t mean to slam him.  I know he’s just trying to make his way as are we all.  But I was reminded of his article by a friend today and it made me dig out this:

Dear Mr. Tamarkin -

In response to your article anti the holiest of meats, I must say this:

Whilst dismissing the nation’s bacon-zeal as a mere “fad”, please remember, the Beatles too were a “fad”.  But their essence, versatility and joy will outlive us all.  Though Beatlemania has receded, new generations of music-lovers still continue to discover their genius.  So too will new generations of food-lovers continue to discover and to relish the endless flavorful wonders inherent in the very essence of Bacon.  During these halcyon days of Baconmania, do not let cynicism mute love.  For to us and to many, Bacon IS Love.  And Love, in all forms of expression, should be encouraged to flourish.

Just as the Beatles once sang “All you need is love” as a palliative to the darkening global landscape around them, we at Baconfest, joined by our amazing Chefs from some of the best restaurants in Chicago, as well as a chorus of bacon-loving attendees, sing loudly and proudly: “All you need is Bacon!”

-Andre VonBaconvitch Pluess

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Bacon-nation, on a separate note, we’ve been getting some truly unbelievably great and high-larious poems (and a few songs) in for the ticket give away contest.  Keep them coming.  We’re choosing a winner in the a.m.  The winner will be announced here by 9am Thursday March 4th – so if you don’t see your name – get ready to buy tickets at noon if you want to come!!  But we’ll listen to/read stuff until 8:55am.