Over the past few months, I have had the pleasure of frequently indulging in the scrumptious offerings from the red Halal Platter food truck on my way to classes. This food truck has rapidly become my top choice for a delicious meal on campus. Usually stationed outside the Wildcat Food Pantry and in close proximity to the Meriam Library and Student Success Center, it offers a surprisingly extensive menu featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern delights at affordable prices.

Uncover the Culinary Treasures of the Red Halal Platter

The Falafel Gyro - A Greek Twist with a Halal Touch

When you unwrap the warm and somewhat messy falafel gyro in the Bell Memorial Union, it presents a delightful take on the classic Greek gyro. I usually shy away from the strong, distinct yogurt sauce that many Mediterranean places use, but Halal Platter's white sauce, a blend of mayo, yogurt, and vinegar, is a safe addition to most of its meals. This gyro earns an 8 out of 10 from me, and I slightly prefer lamb. It's a tasty yet simple version that satisfies when you're really hungry. The freshness of the lettuce and the sauces contrasts nicely with the slightly dry-tasting bread, so it's advisable to have some water on hand while enjoying it.The contrast between the fresh ingredients and the unique sauce makes this gyro a standout. It's a must-try for those seeking a flavorful Mediterranean experience.

The Lamb over Rice - A Familiar Taste with a Halal Twist

When I decided to step out of my comfort zone and order the lamb over rice, I was pleasantly surprised. It has a very familiar taste, similar to the gyro, but instead of being wrapped in bread, it's served over brown rice in a to-go box. I would give this dish an 8 out of 10 as well. I love how the meat and the freshness of the lettuce create a great contrast. It's a comforting and satisfying option that showcases the versatility of Halal Platter's menu.This dish offers a different take on Middle Eastern cuisine, providing a nice change from the traditional gyro.

The Chicken Tikka - A Sauce Lover's Dream

The chicken tikka is a treat with a lot of warm and delicious sauce. Served in a cardboard to-go box along with rice and lettuce, it combines the flavors of tikka sauce, sriracha, and the white sauce in a perfect harmony. To me, it's slightly better than the meat with rice as I am a big fan of the sauce. I would give it a 9 out of 10. Even with three sauces, it doesn't feel overly wet. This is truly their best dish in my opinion. Maybe next time I'll pair it with some pita bread as bread on the side of Indian-based dishes is amazing.The combination of flavors in the chicken tikka makes it a standout among the offerings, leaving a lasting impression on the taste buds.Interested in learning more about the Red Halal Platter Food Truck? I had the opportunity to speak with Ahmad Ghous, the owner of the business. He came to the U.S. from Afghanistan in 2017 and noticed that Chico didn't have much Middle Eastern food. He said, "Chico people like our food. New customers bring two or three more people and they are so excited." Ghous also explained that some people are initially hesitant to try it but end up falling in love with it once they start eating. This was relatable to me as I didn't used to like gyros but now I'm a regular customer.Ahmad further informed me that his food truck is approved by Dining Services of Associated Students, which is why it accepts Flex Cash, Retail Dining Dollar Program, and Wildcat Dollars.While I was chatting with Ahmad, Pavan Kasukurti, a graduate student from Hyderabad, India, couldn't stop raving about how much he loves Halal Platter. He said, "This is the best food in Chico. To be honest, I come here like three times a day." He explained how the spiciness of Halal Platter's food is similar to the food in India.Overall, the Red Halal Platter Food Truck is easily my favorite on-campus food spot. The menu is diverse, yet it has a distinct identity and does an excellent job of blending different cultures into something that Americans can easily enjoy. I can't wait to try the Super Fries and other items I haven't ordered yet. It's reasonably priced and gives you a good amount of quality food.To read a previous review of Halal Platter, go here.Dominic Curcuro can be reached at [email protected].

Alaska's National Guardsmen have been actively involved in providing crucial assistance to the communities affected by Typhoon Merbok. This month, they delivered a significant amount of frozen beef, chicken, and pork to Toksook Bay, helping the residents in their recovery process.

"Alaska National Guard's Lifeline Aid in the Face of Disaster"

Typhoon Merbok's Devastating Impact

The Typhoon Merbok in September 2022 caused extensive flooding in thousands of communities across Alaska. The impact was severe, with vital meat stores spoiling due to the ensuing power outages. This led to a critical need for food supplies in Toksook Bay.

Federal Emergency Management Agency representatives and the rural Alaska community action program worked closely with the Nunakauyarmiut Tribe to secure funding for the recovery process. This collaborative effort was crucial in ensuring that the residents received the necessary support.

The delivery of thousands of pounds of meat was a significant step in the recovery journey. It provided much-needed sustenance to the affected communities and gave them hope during a difficult time.

The Defense Department's Innovative Readiness Training Program

The delivery of the frozen meat is part of the Defense Department's innovative readiness training program. This program connects U.S. communities in need with military units that can provide services and apply training to real-world situations.

The Alaska Air National Guard played a vital role in transporting the frozen meat from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson to Bethel, Alaska, using an HC-130J Combat King II aircraft. This same aircraft is routinely involved in civil search and rescue missions across the state, highlighting the military's multi-faceted capabilities.

Army Maj. James Goddard, the innovative readiness training program manager, emphasized the Alaska National Guard's suitability for providing assistance of this kind. With fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, they can deliver in a timely manner to meet the needs of communities in distress.

Other Successful Deliveries by DOD's Program

This was not the only successful delivery in Alaska by DOD's innovative readiness training program. National Guardsmen have also provided aid in the form of medical services, construction, cybersecurity, and transportation.

These diverse forms of assistance demonstrate the military's ability to adapt and provide comprehensive support in various areas. It shows that the Defense Department is committed to helping communities recover and thrive.

The Alaska National Guard's efforts in Toksook Bay and other parts of Alaska are a testament to their dedication and readiness. Their actions have made a significant impact on the lives of the residents and have helped them move forward in the aftermath of the typhoon.