A note from George
I knew I had passed my first cooking assignment at the age of six, when my parents allowed
me to prepare the family burgers on the grill (with supervision of course). I thought this
assignment was all too simple. I had seen one of my friend’s mothers adding onion soup mix
and Worcestershire sauce to the burger meat. Maybe I could use her secret recipe? Not an
option with an Italian mother who believed in keeping-it-simple, fresh, with lots of planning and
preparation as a prerequisite. Little did I know that just by preparing that simple patty of beef it
would be the start of learning timing while cooking. Is there is nothing worse than a cold dense
burger on a hard-over-toasted bun or searching for the ketchup and fixins while the burger is
getting cold?
On page 12, I walk you through the simplicity of a well-prepared and tasty burger. Follow my
easy steps and you’ll be well on your way to be a Super Burger Chef; along with many other
recipes for successful summer entertaining.
In Travel, I share my experiences on an area I’ve been to many times, but now see it in a all
new way. On a recent trip to Northern California it reminded me just how close the Napa and
Sonoma region is to Tuscany. I know the Silverado Trail cannot be confused with whipping
along the Autostrada through Tuscany, but if looking for a quick get-away and in search of a
convenient alternative, then I offer you this option.
This photo was taken at one of my favorite restaurants in Napa, Bistro Don Giovanni. I am
hugging a huge rosemary hedge. The fragrance was incredible and puts an instant smile on
your face. I am still trying to figure out how to get that gigantic hedge back to my garden in
New York.
It’s time to get out the hammock and practice up for the lazy hazy days of summer.
Have a great summer at home or where your travels take you.
Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37