50th Anniversary of Bert's Burger Bowl

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BERT'S BURGER BOWL -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 09, 2004)

Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a true Santa Fe landmark: Bert's Burger Bowl. Last month I joined with thousands of New Mexicans to celebrate this milestone as well as their claim to fame-the invention and commercial serving of one of New Mexico's famous foods, the green chile cheeseburger.

Staff t-shirts at Bert's boast, "Since 1954: One Location Worldwide." To stay in business that long, Bert's is doing something right. This is the home of the greatest green chile cheeseburger in the world-a claim that is not easily contested-perhaps best known for allowing their customers to have a burger their way or not at all.

The current owners of Bert's Burger, Fernando and Debra Olea, decided to change their prices on August 17 to 1950s prices as a way to thank their loyal customers. By the time the day was done, thousands of New Mexicans had lined up for 35-cent green chile burgers, 19-cent crinkle cut fries and 10-cent soft drinks. Incredibly, between 10:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m., Bert's served 2,000 burgers with only eight people working.

Bert's Burger Bowl, one of the last independently owned drive-in restaurants, was founded in 1954 by Bert Burtram, a World War II veteran, who operated the business 11 years before selling it to Fred and Barbara DeCastro. The Oleas bought Bert's in 1991 on the condition nothing be changed.

The most popular item on the menu has been and will remain No. 6--a chile/cheese burger. The eatery also serves burritos, Frito pies, fried chicken, chicken gizzards and chicken livers. Bert's is also known for its freshly made lemonade and limeade, as well as the cherry-lime drink and French Coke made with a dash of vanilla. Loyal customers, who dine under umbrellas on a sun-drenched patio overlooking Guadalupe Street, have kept Bert's in business all these years.

For the last half century, Bert's Burger Bowl has held a special place in the hearts of northern New Mexico residents and tourists. During the recent celebration, I met scores of people who told me their first job was at Bert's. Santa Fe Mayor Larry Delgado and his lovely wife Angie recalled how their very first date was at Bert's. Another customer reminded me that the establishment served as a backdrop for the 1971 movie "Two Lane Blacktop." For 50 years, Bert's has meant so much to so many.

As the only member of the New Mexico congressional delegation to serve on the House Small Business Committee, I know the important contribution enterprises like Bert's make to our economy. I salute Fernando and Debra and their employees for their hard work and dedication. It was truly my honor to join with them on this milestone. My best wishes for another 50 years of success.