Save the Corti Bros.

Now, here's the thing, I'm not a social protestor. I'm not the type to walk the picket line with a sign. I'm not into those kitchy little chants or rhymes or songs that get shouted out with a blowhorn for hours on end. The one time I did do a protest walk in college about halfway through I decided it was lame and went to Baskin Robbins. I had mint chip. It was delicious.

I'm more of a write your congressman type of guy, or the person in the background doing the planning and organizing, or at the very least a quartermaster of the lowest standards. It's just how I roll with political activity and fighting social injustice and all the jazz. I guess in some respects that makes me a bad rebel, or maybe just a lazy one or one that doesn't like to be seen. And while I may appear not to care, I actually do and have a good sense of what screwy s*** is going down in the world. (Otherwise having that other degree in Social Ethnic Relations is just a total waste.)

Still, I hold a few things close. I won't go into them, because 1) my own politics don't need to be aired here, though 10-1 you can prolly guess where I stand on most things, and 2) this is a food blog, so if we do talk politics, it will be food politics.

And that, my readers, will lead us to my emerging point.

Many of you ardent food freaks out there know the name Darrell Corti. The man pioneered much of the modern wine and food industry here in the U.S., and is a leading expert in Italian wines and balsamic vinegars (the real stuff, not Safeway crap like I buy). Ruth Reichl mentioned him in her books, and he's been a part of almost every major food event in America. He's basically one of the top authorities on food in the country, though you may not know it as he doesn't have a show on Food Network, but trust me the man knows way more about everything than every single toothsome host and hostess on TV combined.

Anywhose, Darrell owns a place called Corti Bros. a great grocery store that's been in place here in Sacramento for over 60 years. It's a cornerstone of Sacramento, California, and of America's culinary heritage. However, their lease has recently been swiped out from under them to make room for Michael Teel, grandson of Tom Raley, so he can get a shot of going back into the market business and with a store called Good Eats. The landlord has given Corti 60 days to get out.

So not cool. In fact I would call that downright sketchy.

So back to my point. I encourage you to please take a quick second and sign this petition to protest how much this seriously sucks balls. Even if you don't know Corti, or have never shopped there, this is also a fight for the Mom & Pop store, a fight against giant business putting local small businesses out. It will only take a moment of your time, and it would be very much appreciated.

If you live in Sac, there is a protest going on Sept. 3rd. All major chefs, local food people, ardent cooks, and just people who like good food in the Sacramento area will be there. Hope you will be too. For more information please go to the Save the Corti Bros. website.

~Garrett