tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30362006162526829072024-03-14T00:14:34.672-07:00Foodie4AccessA journey exploring my love of food while living within the culture of persons with disabilitiesfoodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-4640761409661389352013-05-09T07:51:00.000-07:002013-05-09T07:51:19.139-07:00Good Eats and Meets 4th Food Tour – Cotswold/Sherwood Forest <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6d4gQXBT-1s/UYuphPk6ScI/AAAAAAAAArQ/gCMqzPOWB2g/s1600/Meetand3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6d4gQXBT-1s/UYuphPk6ScI/AAAAAAAAArQ/gCMqzPOWB2g/s320/Meetand3.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
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Well, I admit it.</div>
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Even as a die-hard foodie and a Good Eats and Meets member for nearly three years, I missed the other three MeetAnd3 food tours.
Richard Gruica, founder and head foodie at <a href="http://www.meetup.com/geamclt/" target="_blank">GEAM </a>will have to forgive me for
that oversight. But I couldn't miss the one held this past Tuesday night in the
<a href="http://www.city-data.com/neighborhood/Cotswold-Charlotte-NC.html" target="_blank">Cotswold </a>(Sherwood Forest) area of Charlotte. First of all, the tour took place less than 15
minutes from my house. Secondly, for $20.00 (early bird RSVP charge), you couldn't beat that deal with a Groupon! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Seriously, you get to go to, eat in and experience the ambiance of three local food-related venues, mingle with other Charlotte
foodies while getting history, local lore and food trivia from Richard, our
resident Meetup.com wonder. After starting GEAM in 2007, his Meetup repertoire
has expanded over the years to include groups in Columbia, Atlanta and Miami to
name a few other hot spots. His Charlotte group has over 3500 members alone.
Adding Ciara Caron, formerly of <a href="http://www.dishcrawl.com/sf/?location-search=charlotte+nc" target="_blank">Dishcrawl</a>, to the food tour hosting team has only
enhanced what is already an innovative and cool idea.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Basically, MeetAnd3 involves picking a community where
three "hidden" spots are highlighted. Tuesday’s list served up <a href="http://leroyfox.com/" target="_blank">Leroy Fox</a>, <a href="http://www.thesecretchocolatier.com/" target="_blank">The SecretChocolatier</a>, and newbie, <a href="http://www.blockandgrinder.com/" target="_blank">Block and Grinder</a> who has already started building quite a bit
of buzz around town. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlgbKB98FWE/UYuqfEKhj4I/AAAAAAAAArc/oy5MGUAZfrs/s1600/photo+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="black plate with two mac and cheese bites, a chicken strip, fried zucchini, caprese salad and two dipping sauces." border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlgbKB98FWE/UYuqfEKhj4I/AAAAAAAAArc/oy5MGUAZfrs/s400/photo+(2).JPG" title="Sample plate from Leroy Fox" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sample plate from Leroy Fox. </td></tr>
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The night began with Leroy Fox, a neighborhood fave, which
is destined to become your favorite family pub if it isn't already. I showed up
with a friend and her six month old babe (new foodie being broken in as we
speak!) and we were welcomed and accommodated wonderfully! Hats off to Rich,
who kept the presentation brief and the craft beer samples flowing! I had to
write fast as he kept coming by with great offering after another.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I sampled everything from the heartier and darker <a href="http://www.oldemeckbrew.com/welcome.php" target="_blank">OldeMecklenburg Brewery</a>’s Copper to an almost fruity, sweet noted Jam Session from
<a href="http://www.nodabrewing.com/home" target="_blank">NODA</a>. My best bud who doesn't even like
beer drank that one, so chalk that up as a win! Other samples, like Bad Penny
from Raleigh's <a href="http://bigbossbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Big Boss</a> and Higher Ground from <a href="http://www.birdsongbrewing.com/default.htm" target="_blank">Birdsong </a>rounded out the tight delivery.
As a newbie to craft beer in a craft beer-laden town, I was in sample heaven,
especially grateful for Rich’s patient explanations. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our food sample included their famous fried chicken strips,
fried zucchini, mac and cheese bites, and a light caprese salad. I can’t tell
you which I loved more, but yes, the chicken is all that you hear it to be;
tender, juicy with a perfect crispy breading that left me definitely wanting
more. It was served with a creamy chicken gravy and a sharp and spicy dipping sauce that was easily my favorite. We will not even begin to say how perfect the mac and cheese bites were.
Where others versions of this I've had were either overdone on the breading or
lost the creaminess of the mac and cheese to overcooking, Leroy Fox found the perfect balance
and these were excellent. We also ordered a round of pretzel bites, which my
bestie devoured and said she would get again. All in all, a great time there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2UDXz4nz58/UYusnUMlGHI/AAAAAAAAAro/vSc9mAPffEo/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Round black place piled high with pieces of blueberry chili flavored chocolate bark." border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2UDXz4nz58/UYusnUMlGHI/AAAAAAAAAro/vSc9mAPffEo/s400/photo+(1).JPG" title="Blueberry Chili Chocolate Bark" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blueberry Chili Chocolate Bark</td></tr>
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Next up was The Secret Chocolatier. To my shame, I have
followed this choco-family on Facebook since they were still over in
<a href="http://athertonmarket.com/" target="_blank">Atherton’s Market</a> but had yet to visit their retail store located near Providence and Sharon Amity Roads. This was my loss, for once you get inside this
quaint but bright establishment set up by Bill and Karen Dietz, you may not want to leave. Why? Well, if you
look around, all you see is a dizzying array of confections that boggle the mind,
with names like Cardamon Crunch, Blueberry Chili Chocolate Bark and Dark
Chocolate Caramels with Sea Salt. I spied chocolate drizzled macaroons wrapped up sweetly on the counter
with bright ribbons near a smart row of jars filled with local and much loved <a href="http://cloisterhoney.myshopify.com/" target="_blank">Cloister Honey</a>.
Getting to go into the kitchen in the back and meet Robin Cordia, daughter of the creator of this chocolate oasis, was a special treat. There, we sipped on their
smooth and delicious liquid chocolate drink cooled down especially for us, as she narrated the history and love they all put into their creations. Her other half, Andy, who handles more of the business end, was quick to let me know that they are happy to accommodate their customers if there are special requests. And, please don’t compare their chocolate drink to any hot or cold chocolate drink you've ever had
previously. There is a richness here that speaks chiefly to the quality that they pour into all their confections, cakes and specialty candies every
day. You can guess where I will be going for Mother’s Day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNV82sMdWNc/UYuwAmC2xpI/AAAAAAAAAsE/pyLhKz9devM/s1600/bglogo1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Red circular postage stamp logo with the words Block & Grinder at the top of the circle and image of an old-fashioned meat grinder in a white circular center. The words butcher's shop - prime steaks-burgers & more are in the bottom half of the red circle." border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wNV82sMdWNc/UYuwAmC2xpI/AAAAAAAAAsE/pyLhKz9devM/s200/bglogo1.png" title="Block & Grinder logo" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Block & Grinder - did someone say pastrami? </td></tr>
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Now, this is where I have to disappoint. Baby Foodie Boy was
ready for bed by then and I missed walking the few extra yards over to Block
and Grinder, our latest darling in the fresh and local movement. YES, I know!
How can I leave you hanging like that? I’m sorry. Babies dictate schedules
sometimes. What I can tell you is that the guys at Block and Grinder believe in
keeping it all in “da house.” That means your pastrami has been “brined,
steamed, smoked, trimmed and cut in-house.” Your steak burger has been ground
in-house. This is your local butcher and a place to eat all in one. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While I can’t relate the tour’s experience at B & G,
which I am sure was superb, I am ready to hit them this weekend (must I mention
again it’s Mother’s Day?). I will talk about all the corned beef and pastrami goodness in my next blog post to make
up for my omission here.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Op3mYU2-xW4/UYutSxfZQnI/AAAAAAAAAr0/eLeaZtBZnBE/s1600/Meetup-Home-banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Banner logo for GEAM White rectangle with four circles of different colors with the letters G, E A, M with the words good eats and meets underneath. The circle with the letter G has a fork sticking out to the left. Below that is the words eat imbibe socialize" border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Op3mYU2-xW4/UYutSxfZQnI/AAAAAAAAAr0/eLeaZtBZnBE/s400/Meetup-Home-banner.png" title="GEAM - Good Eats and Meets - Find them on Meetup.com" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GEAM - Good Eats and Meets - Find them on Meetup.com</td></tr>
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Last words. Don’t forget to follow all these great places on
Facebook and if you are local, join the <a href="http://www.meetup.com/geamclt/" target="_blank">Good East and Meets </a>Meetup.com group . That way you will get
all their latest news and the announcement of the next MeetAnd3 Food Tour. Richard
has assured me more tours are on the way! Hope to see you next time! <o:p></o:p></div>
foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-30278030431878501982013-02-25T14:37:00.002-08:002013-02-25T14:37:56.587-08:00Coconut Oils - Is It all Good for You?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4p5xAfHgs0/USvT3PhVnJI/AAAAAAAAApg/-sicY9XJM-M/s1600/coconut_oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4p5xAfHgs0/USvT3PhVnJI/AAAAAAAAApg/-sicY9XJM-M/s400/coconut_oil.jpg" width="367" /></a></div>
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As I head into a better health and food-style, there is always the battle about how to eat on a limited budget, transitioning over to better food choices. It is great to want that exotic vegetable or the limited edition artisan oil, but what is in the kitchen on a regular basis really decides whether or not you stick to those 2013 resolutions about food and lifestyle changes.<br />
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One of the areas I reassessed recently was my cooking oils. I'd given up Crisco long ago. I hadn't seen lard in a long time, although there are <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/2012/02/03/146356117/who-killed-lard" target="_blank">those </a>out there who think lard has gotten a bad rap. My repertoire consisted mainly of canola and olive oil, and I was definitely looking to expand that. In my travels and research, another long maligned oil emerged, touting health and cooking benefits. It was coconut oil.<br />
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Some friends had already transitioned over and used it in cooking, since it has a low smoke point, and in it's unrefined state, adds a wonderful yet delicate coconut flavor and scent. They were talking about using less salt or less oil, while imparting a richness and depth not found in canola oil or even olive.<br />
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What I found out there was definitely a food public relations makeover!<br />
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Coconut Oil is extracted from the kernel or meat of matured coconuts harvested from the coconut palm (Cocus nucifera). It is usually harvested from tropical areas, and here in the US, you can find it at most grocery and health stores. Like I said before, it's low smoke point makes it perfect for cooking and due to its high saturated fats, it resists going rancid and can last (properly stored) for up to 12 months.<br />
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Now, that is where the PR has definitely changed. Weren't we all told to avoid saturated fats? But what has emerged is most of the studies leading us away from coconut oil were dealing with partially hydrogenated coconut oil, which we definitely know is not good. So, is it the saturated fats or the partially hydrogenated oil process?<br />
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Basically, it seems the hydrogenated oil process has to go. The saturated fat in coconut oil is mostly lauric acid (getting a little techie here for a sec). Lauric acid increases the good HDL cholesterol in the blood to help improve cholesterol ratio levels. So coconut oil may actually be healthy for you. Studies have shown that coconut oil can be beneficial in a diet that is geared toward weight loss and boosting the immune system.<br />
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Well, if that is what is going on, I am onboard!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgQdAMim0FY/USveWTmgjaI/AAAAAAAAAqo/OJN7OFz4EQM/s1600/coconut+oil-unrefined.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgQdAMim0FY/USveWTmgjaI/AAAAAAAAAqo/OJN7OFz4EQM/s400/coconut+oil-unrefined.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unrefined coconut oil</td></tr>
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Coconut oil is usually sold in its unrefined, flavorful state, which is solid at room temperature. But, there is also a type of coconut oil available called Fractionated Coconut Oil that is liquid and stays that way at room temperature. It loses the extra coconut aroma, but is perfect when you don't want to add any additional flavors/scents to your foods, and its shelf life extends out to 2 years. The process is NOT anything like hydrogenation. It is also extensively used in aromatherapy, massage therapy and other medicinal arenas due to low-staining ability, ease to mix with other carrier and essential oils, and the swiftness in which the skin absorbs it.<br />
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I use coconut oil often (both the solid and liquid) to moisturize my cuticles during the winter. And, if I don't have shea butter, I use it as a base on my lips before any lipstick or gloss, so that my lips are soft and protected from the cold winter elements. Especially if you are not using an organic or natural, plant-based beauty product, always protect your face and lips with a gentle, protecting oil like coconut.<br />
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BTW, the organic, unrefined coconut oil works wonderfully mixed together
with palm kernel oil and fragrant, essential oils, like lemon and
jasmine. These are called "butters," and are also great for
aromatherapy, soap-making and general body moisturizers. I routinely use
Vanilla Coconut "butter" as a morning lotion after the shower. This has
been a godsend during the colder months! (<i>In a future post, we will talk about Whipped Body Butters that combine shea butter, coconut oil and fragrance for a DIY body care product!)</i><br />
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The other type of coconut oil is RBD (refined, bleached and deodorized). It can be used for cooking and is used extensively in commercial food preparation. It has no flavor or aroma, either, and I would suggest to use organic, if you go that route, although it is not as easy to find as the unrefined.<br />
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Back in the kitchen, coconut oil is perfect for sauteing, frying and works equally well with meats and vegetables. In baking, it is known to create a flaky, delicate crust in pies and a tight density that is perfect for pound cakes and other confections. It is even good enough for the pooch!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m78CKrOS87U/USva4d5oFtI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/FoVF4zKo148/s1600/Doggie+Treats-coconut+oil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m78CKrOS87U/USva4d5oFtI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/FoVF4zKo148/s320/Doggie+Treats-coconut+oil.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade doggie treats using coconut oil. See 2nd recipe link for this!</td></tr>
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Coconut oil is available in stores, like <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/products/white-kernel-unrefined-coconut-oil" target="_blank">Whole Foods</a> and Trader Joe's, online outlets like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=coconut+oil" target="_blank">Amazon.com </a>and many other small purveyors. I don't offer it yet in <a href="http://www.ahromas.com/store" target="_blank">my online store</a>, but locally, here in Charlotte, North Carolina, I will have both organic, unrefined oil and fractionated coconut oil available in 1lb (16 oz) containers for sale, starting March 15th. And, if anyone wants to try them, I will also have various coconut butters to sample.<br />
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So, new PR, and more studies seem to have done the trick. Coconut oil is now considered safe for moderate consumption in a healthy foodstyle, even if you are looking to lose weight and reduce cholesterol. It is also perfect for body, massage and moisturizing products. Who can beat an oil that works in the kitchen, bedroom and bath?<br />
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<i><b>Readers, it's your turn! How are you using this versatile oil? </b></i><br />
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Links to more information on coconut oil:<br />
<a href="http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/surprising-health-benefits-coconut-oil" target="_blank">The Surprising Health Benefits of Coconut Oil - Dr. Oz Show</a><br />
<a href="http://healthyliving.msn.com/diseases/cholesterol/coconut-oil-1" target="_blank">Coconut Oil - MSN Healthy Living</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coconut_oil" target="_blank">Coconut Oil - Wikipedia</a> ( I don't love Wiki, but love to mine their references!<br />
<a href="http://coconutoil.com/peer_reviewed/" target="_blank">Coconut Oil - Peer Reviewed Research - CoconutOil.com</a><br />
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Recipes:<br />
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/02/dining/02Appe.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0" target="_blank">NYTimes article</a> - <i>Links for recipes are on the left side of the article.</i><br />
<a href="http://coconutoilcooking.com/coconut-oil-blog-posts/top-5-coconut-oil-recipes-of-2012/" target="_blank">Top 5 Recipes for Coconut Oil</a><i> - Coconut Oil Cooking.com</i><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-7752622407426290172013-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:002013-01-27T11:48:57.399-08:00In The Kitchen with Sidney Gaskin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_ZF2qz3BNM/UQWD_lLxDDI/AAAAAAAAAo8/co4lPO0d8Rs/s1600/Youtube+with+chef+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_ZF2qz3BNM/UQWD_lLxDDI/AAAAAAAAAo8/co4lPO0d8Rs/s400/Youtube+with+chef+hat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I couldn't help but get excited about my Facebook friend's Youtube videos! Sidney and I know each other from...well, I can't even remember where we first came across each other on the Net, but we are definitely good Facebook friends now.<br />
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Recently, we began talking about putting together a cookbook and shared ideas about food, cooking, recipes that were important to us. I was completely in awe. Not because she knew her way around the kitchen better than me (though, she probably does!), but because, within a short hour, we covered so many areas of cooking, from spice mixes to what to have on hand in the pantry. We traversed different cultures and cuisines, and I could feel myself become more excited about the cookbook idea.<br />
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Well, I guess Sidney couldn't wait for the cookbook to materialize, because just recently, I came across two videos, called "In the Kitchen." In a quick montage of still images, Sidney shows a quick and easy recipe that she and her handsome (if I may say so myself!) son make in their home kitchen. There is great music to accompany the assortment of images as you quickly learn how to make a simple, but very tasty meal that can readily satisfy you, your children or the whole family.<br />
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The first one up was the Bacon and Egg Bundle, a wonderful breakfast treat that can be popped into the toaster or regular oven in the morning, using up leftover silver dollar pancakes.<br />
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The second video was a little more ambitious, but is so versatile that I cannot wait to try not only the savory version, but a sweet one.<br />
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Chicken Broccoli Braided Bread is definitely something for the family, and I am already thinking of how to use this recipe and adapt it for the upcoming Super Bowl. Can't you just see a filling made of pepperoni, other sausage meat and cheeses? Or make a completely Veggie Braided Bread with other veggies along with the broccoli.<br />
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Well, I am putting Sidney on blast because I want her to be a part of Foodie4Access on a regular basis. You will see her videos here, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Foodie4Access?ref=hl" target="_blank">F4As Facebook page</a> and also <a href="http://foodie4access.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">F4A's Tumblr page</a>.<br />
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And, I will keep you up-to-date about the cookbook...after I make this bread!<br />
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<i><b>Now it's your turn, Readers:</b></i><br />
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<i>What do you think? Would you like to see more "In the Kitchen" videos?</i><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-6143640729500840402012-12-28T09:15:00.000-08:002012-12-28T09:44:33.262-08:00Turmeric Tea and the New YearMy decision to return to a more natural, less-processed life- and food-style is one that has been coming for a long time. I did this seven years ago with wonderful results (loss of 55lbs, cessation of diabetes symptoms and test results), but I slowly ebbed away from it. Not sure why. Just began to drift into the habits of others around me. This culminated this year with hanging around many smokers. Needless to say, there were many negative outcomes.<br />
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With the latest illness that dampened my sense of taste and smell, I knew I had to change. The smokers are no longer in close proximity, and my desire to return to former good habits returned with a vengeance. But, there is always something new to learn! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v7sPG2QR8w8/UN3LpmPt5cI/AAAAAAAAAns/OlCgnxhnqR4/s1600/Turmeric+Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v7sPG2QR8w8/UN3LpmPt5cI/AAAAAAAAAns/OlCgnxhnqR4/s320/Turmeric+Tea.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turmeric Tea [light yellow milky tea in a white cup]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I discovered a tea that includes a ordinary spice in our cabinets that has been the subject of many studies and continues to be on the radar in health and wellness circles. That spice is turmeric. There are many versions of the tea, but the one I use is this:<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">8oz almond milk (I like Vanilla)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/2 tsp turmeric</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/2 inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> (I don't have fresh right now, but I have a jar of minced ginger that keeps forever in the refrigerator! I u<span style="font-size: small;">sed <span style="font-size: small;">1<span style="font-size: small;">/2 tsp</span></span></span>)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1/4 tsp cinnamon</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Dash of black pepper (I have a jar that grates it from peppercorns)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 tsp honey (or other sweetener) to taste </span></span></span><br />
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All you have to do is heat up the almond milk to near boiling, and mix in the other ingredients. I don't strain it, but if you don't like the feel of the spices, you could strain it for a smoother taste. Use the honey or other sweetener to your taste. This is as good as or better than a homemade chai to me!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nGlQDIUFa8/UN3Mcm_0O3I/AAAAAAAAAn0/YaSW-5zW4mk/s1600/turmeric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4nGlQDIUFa8/UN3Mcm_0O3I/AAAAAAAAAn0/YaSW-5zW4mk/s400/turmeric.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turmeric, both fresh and dried powder form</td></tr>
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There are many benefits to turmeric. A cousin of ginger, tt has been used for generations as a cooking spice companion to cumin in India, the West Indies and other locations. It is known in the Aurvedic and Chinese health and wellness circles as a potent anti-inflammatory and digestive aid. I am also studying aromatherapy, specifically essential oils and incense, but turmeric is often mentioned as a spice that can be used for its health properties.<br />
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But, I must discuss something that is very important. In my studies, I find so many different opinions on what works for different physical conditions. I can not give medical advice or even specific health and wellness advice. What I can do is point you toward established and well trusted links for information and remind everyone that they should always consult their doctor if they are going to add, subtract or change anything in their diet or lifestyle.<br />
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With that said, according to the <a href="http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm" target="_blank">University of Maryland Medical Center</a>, turmeric has been shown in studies to fight infections and some cancers, reduce inflammation and treat digestive problems. While this is encouraging, these studies have not been on humans and have concentrated on the main active substance in turmeric, curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin fights free radicals in the body as well as lowers the levels of two enzymes in the body that cause inflammation.<br />
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Safety concerns around turmeric center around pregnant or breastfeeding women, who should not use it. Also, anyone with a history of ulcers or kidney stones should avoid turmeric as a health/wellness option. It has not been studied in children, so therefore there are no recommendations for that group as well. As a cooking spice, it is safe, but anything other than that, should be avoided by the groups mentioned.<br />
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Other areas of concern are diabetics (turmeric may lower blood sugar levels) and anyone on blood thinners (turmeric may act like a blood thinner as well) and medications to reduce stomach acid.<br />
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I know that seems a lot, but the safety of my readers is so important to me. So far, I drink one cup of turmeric tea a day. I find that any mucus in my chest and feelings of inflammation in my joints decrease soon after drinking it. Since there is also cinnamon in this tea, the effect may be enhanced, as cinnamon is also known to be an anti-inflammatory spice.<br />
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In the upcoming year, I will write more about my journey. There is so much to share! Some upcoming topics include:<br />
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">No more flouride-laden toothpaste</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Face and skin care from the pantry</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Spice <span style="font-size: small;">m</span>ixes without the preservatives</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Natural eating on a budget </span></span></li>
</ul>
Let me know if you try turmeric tea. Here is also a link for <a href="http://foodie4access.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">homemade chai tea</a>. Enjoy!<br />
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<i><b>Links for your research: </b></i><br />
<a href="http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/complementaryandalternativemedicine/herbsvitaminsandminerals/turmeric" target="_blank">American Cancer Society - Turmeric</a><br />
<a href="http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/complementaryandalternativemedicine/herbsvitaminsandminerals/turmeric" target="_blank">University of Maryland Medical Center - Turmeric</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/662.html" target="_blank">Medline Plus - Turmeric </a><br />
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<i><b>Reader Feedback:</b></i><br />
<i><i>What are you doing to increase health and wellness while saving money? </i>And, if there is a food-related health and wellness subject you would like me to cover, let me know. </i><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-1771686347070383572012-12-19T14:53:00.001-08:002012-12-19T14:53:02.343-08:00Foodie Reborn: The New Normal and Loving It!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pG23Qkhz_3E/UMgJus1MzgI/AAAAAAAAAnI/iq1F4zx-Isw/s1600/breathe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pG23Qkhz_3E/UMgJus1MzgI/AAAAAAAAAnI/iq1F4zx-Isw/s400/breathe.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woman with eyes closed, breathing... </td></tr>
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Yesterday on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judielise" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, I wrote the following:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Eating
a bowl of chili for lunch. Man, it looks good! You know, losing most of
my sense of taste and smell makes me appreciate so much in life. I take
so much more time now to savor and experience food. I close my eyes and
try to catch the slightest aroma. I chew slower and relish textures,
putting the faintest tastes down to new memories. I have a new found
appreciation for everything I put in my mouth.</span></span></h5>
</blockquote>
It was a profound moment. One that at once acknowledged the changes in my life, and yet, pointed toward the future of how life is so much more interesting and precious.<br />
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Often throughout the last two months, I hesitated to write in this blog. I felt that I couldn't do anyone's restaurant or food creation justice, because of the changes I'd been through. I knew in my head that I needed to go on (see the last two entries <a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/10/two-weeks-of-highs-and-lows-and-new.html" target="_blank">here </a>and <a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/12/cooking-is-therapy.html" target="_blank">there</a>), but I just couldn't seem to convince my heart that anyone wanted to see me stumble through trying to describe things I could barely taste. I couldn't reconcile it until yesterday afternoon.<br />
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Yesterday, I sat down to a bowl of my quick chili, made from a recipe I've worked on for many years. This last creation contained three types of meat; ground turkey, ground beef (20/80) and a good portion of a leftover slow-cooker roast. After two days, I knew it would be perfectly blended and as I reheated a bowl, I performed the ritual that lately has become my norm. I lifted the bowl to my nose, closed my eyes, and breathed in; first the right side and then the left. With eyes closed, I concentrated on scent alone, and I inhaled through each side independently. <br />
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I know I can smell from the right side. It is the left side that is blunted and weak. Still, I inhaled, only now with purpose. I know I am training my mind to pick up on whatever it can catch. I am like a visually-impaired person, first learning to use a white cane; relying on other senses and even an inner sense to guide me.<br />
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Only after doing this for a couple of seconds, do I begin to taste the food. Again, one side is stronger than the other. I start with the strong side but quickly include the weaker side so that the participation is complete. Closing my eyes once again, I savored the taste of the rice against the longer grain of the roast. The smooth, silky slip of French Onion Dip - a last minute sub for sour cream (which turned out to be a hit!) - descends into and in between the spicy beans and granules of ground meats. As I chew, the mixture blends together, breaks apart into different sensations and melds back again.<br />
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It is glorious!<br />
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In the past, being a foodie was something I took for granted. I had a wonderful sense of smell, inherited from my mother (she was the type to smell the gas from the stove before you opened the door!) and I enjoyed everything new and different. Where friends hesitated, I dove right into different cuisines, dishes and ethnic treats. From my teen years on, sampling the new and revisiting the tried and true was a mainstay of my life, regardless of where I lived or jobs I held. Now, with my senses dulled, I'm forced to appreciate every....single...thing, every...single...bite. Things as simply as tomato soup or a cheddar multi-grain chip or liverwurst on swirl rye and pump; nothing is taken for granted.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s-VL8VZeCJ4/UMgKOlDi_2I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/KaeDNPbK56E/s1600/chips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s-VL8VZeCJ4/UMgKOlDi_2I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/KaeDNPbK56E/s400/chips.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pile of multi-grain chips. Savory bits of cheddar crunch!</td></tr>
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No longer do I rush any meal. No longer am I bored at repeats of any food. If it has spent a day or two blending flavors, I stop to notice it. I close my eyes and breathe in deeply at every plate and glass before even taking a bite or a sip.<br />
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The old adage is true. What was meant to destroy me has made me stronger. An illness I thought would destroy my desire for food and its aftermath is the driving force for how I enjoy food more and more.<br />
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In about two days, I will join the local advocacy group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WomenEmbracingAbilitiesNowCharlotte?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">W.E.A.N. - Charlotte</a> for a holiday get-together at disability-friendly <a href="http://www.cheddars.com/menus/greer-all-day-menu/" target="_blank">Cheddars </a>restaurant in the University area of Charlotte. It will be the first restaurant/food spot review since October. I can't wait! I intend to savor every dish...and maybe even those of my dining mates! I am a foodie reborn!<br />
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Stay tuned...<br />
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<i>Readers Turn to Share: </i><br />
<i><b>What has made you stronger though you were convinced at first it wouldn't? How has it changed your relationship to ordinary things in life or social interactions?</b></i><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-69890463618073701382012-12-05T10:40:00.003-08:002012-12-05T10:40:41.789-08:00Cooking Is Therapy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ys3ZmHOEc/UL-OAN6u5xI/AAAAAAAAAmU/5h5iFtLBMAs/s1600/cooking+therapy+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ys3ZmHOEc/UL-OAN6u5xI/AAAAAAAAAmU/5h5iFtLBMAs/s400/cooking+therapy+logo.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image created by Ops! Studio</td></tr>
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I am sure others could write more eloquently on this subject. There are <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Culinary-School-of-Charlotte/114546952576?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">programs </a>that use cooking as a rehabilitative program for people who are marginalized in society. There are <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AutisticKidsCookingClass" target="_blank">cooking classes</a> for children with autism. So, I know there are experts in the field of therapy who could take this and make it into a dissertation. But, my ability to focus has changed since I became ill over a month ago, so I am only going to write what I can.<br />
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Every day is a struggle for me lately. Not sure whether it was the original illness or the steroids that followed, but my cognitive skills have suffered. Not really complaining, but between that and the loss of the ability to smell and taste clearly, writing a blog about food has changed position on my priority list.<br />
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Until just about an hour ago.<br />
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Just about an hour ago, I took out all the ingredients for my <a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/the-best-pumpkin-bread-141955" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a> recipe. What started out as a simple recipe downloaded from a food site has turned into an annual ritual for my family, neighbors and friends. As I took everything out, I could feel my spirits rise just a bit. Then I went and sat down.<br />
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I am not one to linger on the negativity, but I felt overwhelmed. Just to do a simple recipe that I've done many times before seemed too much. After another 20 minutes went by, I returned to the kitchen and began to measure and mix my ingredients.<br />
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And, then it happened. I felt whole. Measuring the spices, mixing my dry and wet ingredients separately, pulling upon the knowledge I know is stored in my head; all this felt exhilarating!<br />
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As everything became incorporated and I poured the batter into two floured and greased glass loaf pans, the sense of accomplishment was almost palatable, and I heard the words in my mind: Cooking Is Therapy. that was all I needed to hear and know.<br />
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It may be that I will always need a taste-tester. And it is difficult to accept that for an indefinite period of time, I am without the ability to taste and smell clearly. It has rocked my little foodie world.<br />
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But, today, after sliding the pans into a 350 degree oven, I felt the desire and capacity to write about this experience; a capacity I haven't felt for nearly six weeks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qXfa3JdzRak/UL-U0RyQE1I/AAAAAAAAAms/NBZU0a3FXgU/s1600/IMG_20121205_120858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qXfa3JdzRak/UL-U0RyQE1I/AAAAAAAAAms/NBZU0a3FXgU/s400/IMG_20121205_120858.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two glass loaf pans in the oven!</td></tr>
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I can't say whether my writing will be the same. I know two of my sense are not. Just faintly, I caught the scent of nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon and clove as I added them to the dry ingredients. A little stronger was the sweetness of the batter (the sense of sweetness is the only one that has returned to a decent level) and I remembered how well it went with a Spiced Cream Cheese Dip. I may have to write from memory and share only the past. But, cooking is my therapy. It is my gateway to the world and a way to continue to share and connect.<br />
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As the holidays approach, I will continue to make sweet treats for my family (my sister is supposed to ship cinnamon baking chips next week!). It is okay to talk about sweet things this time of year and if it spurs my cooking and writing, all the better! If you are not into home baking or are just looking for good sweets around Charlotte, NC, please don't forget our local bakers and confectioners. Here are some of my favorites. Please feel free to list some of your local or online favorites! <br />
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Charlotte, NC<br />
- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nonassweets" target="_blank">Nona Sweets</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/southerncake.queen.5" target="_blank">Southern Cake Queen</a> (Mobile)<br />
- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Blushing-Bakeshop/193742282074" target="_blank">The Blushing Bakeshop</a><br />
- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Blushing-Bakeshop/193742282074" target="_blank">Suarez Bakery</a><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-40692150416668524652012-10-20T10:29:00.001-07:002012-10-20T10:29:54.375-07:00Two Weeks of Highs and Lows and a New ResolveRealizing that I have not posted in over two weeks, I have to bring you, my readers, up to date on where I am physically right now. It doesn't seem possible, and yet, so much has happened in 14-16 days. One of the most miraculous things has happen to me, and then another devastating physical setback has happened as well.<br />
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Roughly, just over two weeks, the miraculous happened. After thinking that I was completely deaf in my right ear for all of my life (I have no recollection of hearing in that ear from my childhood), I found out that while severely hard of hearing, I can hear and understand language using a hearing aid. This was a complete shock to me, because a hearing aid has never been offered as a option my whole life. I've seen specialists after specialist from New York to Baltimore and even two recommended audiologists here in Charlotte, NC, only to be turned away.<br />
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The angel in disguise of a doctor is Sean McCalvin of Beltone. He and his lovely wife, JoAnna, will never know the depths of admiration I feel for them. They run a compassionate, caring facility that is completely interested in honest, courteous service to those dealing with hearing issues. Please Google them if you are local, and feel free to tell them I recommended you. I feel as if I made friends, not just medical partners. As I told everyone who would sit still, the event changed my life.<br />
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But, isn't life interesting? We never know what is around the corner, because the next thing coming around the bend could make life better or just a little harder. Though I never run from a challenge, it is never easy to revisit a physical setback.<br />
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Starting October 10th and culminating by the 13th, I suffered my second bout of Bell's Palsy. A quick explanation of Bell's Palsy is facial paralysis that usually affects one side of the face, stemming from inflammation to the cranial nerves. Six years ago, I dealt with right-sided paralysis (that left me with lingering vertigo), this time it was my left side. Recognizing the symptoms right away, I avoided the ER and made an appointment with my wonderful general doctor, Gregory Collins, MD. He took one look at me, asked me to smile, then prescribed the usual regimen: steroids and anti-viral medication. I have also added essential B vitamins, biotin and other supplements that can promote healing.<br />
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At this point, how can I describe my feelings and position in life right now?<br />
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When all this happened, I was on my way to creating an accepted niche for this blog, and was about to embark on creating a new non-profit for the Charlotte, NC area called Celebrate Connections. My calendar was filling up with volunteer and networking opportunities. There were new speaking and panel discussion opportunities. I looked forward to more travel, interaction and advocacy. Establishing myself as a trusted and consistent local advocate was my first and foremost goal. And, giddy with the knowledge of my ability to hear, I immediately launched an online fundraiser campaign to help me cover the cost of the hearing aid. As my goal always includes awareness and advocacy, a good friend and I concocted hearing awareness and fundraising events that would gather friends and family, but also reach out to the public. <br />
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All of which has slowed down to a crawl.<br />
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Right now, I have to keep stress to a minimum. I have to concentrate on massages, exercises and rest to promote healing of the inflamed and damaged nerves in my face. And, I have to regain my shaken sense of self.<br />
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I have never been a vain person, but I am very aware of my frozen face. Eating is not a spectator sport. Having only one eye to rely on (and that being my weaker eye) and renewed disorientation and vertigo means that someone must drive me everywhere, and accompany me up steps and down inclines. I move slowly and very deliberately.<br />
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I can't imagine going out to sample any new food spot. Literally, I can barely taste or smell anything unless it is highly seasoned and it still tastes like a 9-volt battery with seasoning. How does a foodie survive this?<br />
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Dear readers, I realize that we don't have the answers to why we go through things. I will not try to answer that question. But I tell you this much I have come to understand in these last two weeks. I understand that if I allow this to stop me, I am not fit to be an advocate. If I don't continue to write this blog, go out and speak to people and make a difference, then I have no right to say I can support and empower anyone. If I do not try to experience all I love in life, culture and food, I need to stop right now.<br />
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All support and empowerment starts within ourselves. I know on what power I draw my strength, and I ask you to bear with me while I heal. Often, I am in my bed, typing with two fingers on a very slow tablet. Today, I set the alarm and allowed myself 20 minutes to write this blog post. There are no pictures and no links. That takes longer, but I will get back to supplying extra resources and links later.<br />
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If you will bear with me, I will continue to take on my challenges. If I don't, how can I ask you to take on yours?<br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-22230722708705627092012-10-04T13:48:00.000-07:002012-10-04T13:48:00.489-07:00CaptionCall Phone - Call Me!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j4BvUatIG0/UG3v4x1kLSI/AAAAAAAAAl0/f-ZgpLT1t1g/s1600/CaptionCalllogoSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j4BvUatIG0/UG3v4x1kLSI/AAAAAAAAAl0/f-ZgpLT1t1g/s320/CaptionCalllogoSmall.jpg" width="320" /></a>Today is the day!<br />
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Today, James, my <a href="https://www.captioncall.com/captioncall" target="_blank">CaptionCall</a> representative, came to install a wonderful new captioning phone in my house. For some of you who have visited my home, you know I have four extensions spread out throughout the house, though you may not know why. For one, they are there so I don't have to run from any particular room to another to get the phone, but also, because I deal with <a href="http://www.healthyhearing.com/content/articles/Hearing-loss/Types/7803-Single-sided-deafness" target="_blank">SSD - Single Sided Deafness</a>. With multiple extensions, I don't have to guess or wonder if the phone is ringing.<br />
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I have dealt with SSD or unilateral hearing loss almost all of my life, but lately, it has become a frustration with which I have lost patience. To hear family members while at a get-together, to hear all of the conversation when out with friends at a neighborhood pub or restaurant, to attend a outdoor festival or exhibit opening; all these types of events have become harder and harder for me to enjoy. I find myself avoiding large gathering, even though my passion for disability awareness demands I deal with events. How I dealt with it as a child, I don't remember exactly, but I do know I avoided the lunch room at school and stayed with a small group of kids on the playground, choosing quieter games than the noisy, crowd-related ones. There wasn't very much volleyball or softball for me.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DuTkm6U5mPI/UG3wlfoi3bI/AAAAAAAAAl8/uSlTwcDVfoc/s1600/decoratedoffice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DuTkm6U5mPI/UG3wlfoi3bI/AAAAAAAAAl8/uSlTwcDVfoc/s320/decoratedoffice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Description: Cubicle with welcome mat, flowers and paper at the front]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As an adult, I chose jobs that didn't have a lot of background noise, favoring assignments and positions where I had my own cubicle or office. But, meetings were and are still hard. I am about to be fitted with a hearing device that may help me soon, but today, it was all about making phone usage easier.<br />
<br />
Two years ago, when I had a virtual contract job, as overjoyed as I was to work at home, I knew I needed a headset to make the experience of talking to our vendors and bankers easier. I bought a <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Plantronics-T10-Corded-Headset-Telephone/13221631" target="_blank">Plantronic T10 </a>and a <a href="http://www.101phones.com/details/0-7764/fanstel-st118b.html" target="_blank">Fanstel Amplified phone.</a> Both had their uses and I enjoyed using both. But, I quickly outgrew the Plantronic and accidentally dropped the Fanstel, which caused several features to stop working. So for the last year, I have been without a desk phone.<br />
<br />
Since the goal is to start a non-profit this year, I knew I had to change this situation. I believe I found out about the CaptionCall phone through an Facebook affiliate, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ccac.captioning?fref=ts" target="_blank">CCAC Captioning</a>. After filling out a form, James contacted me and set up an appointment to install the phone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlH8t19nrUk/UG3vdCxVGAI/AAAAAAAAAlk/-6Si6iL94vc/s1600/how_captioncall_works_dia_650x325_8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlH8t19nrUk/UG3vdCxVGAI/AAAAAAAAAlk/-6Si6iL94vc/s400/how_captioncall_works_dia_650x325_8.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The CaptionCall phone works by quickly relaying the voice of your caller through a voice-recognition and transcription service, sending back the written transcript of the conversation. I can scroll throughout the written part, while still hearing my caller. We have ATT U-Verse, so James connected the phone to our router and even though my router wanted to give him a hard time, the service was up and ready in a short time.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgtsT8c20Kg/UG3vVfS43lI/AAAAAAAAAlM/d2KpsCp8U4I/s1600/IMG_20121004_131135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgtsT8c20Kg/UG3vVfS43lI/AAAAAAAAAlM/d2KpsCp8U4I/s320/IMG_20121004_131135.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Description: CaptonCall Phone in black on desk]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-msOhOWqFmQY/UG3vaJ_iaqI/AAAAAAAAAlc/mgSuvleRItw/s1600/IMG_20121004_131347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-msOhOWqFmQY/UG3vaJ_iaqI/AAAAAAAAAlc/mgSuvleRItw/s320/IMG_20121004_131347.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Description: Lighted screen on phon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First off, I LOVE the screen! It is large enough that I don't have to squint or lean over to read it. The type is large and back-lit which works for me. I admit my visual impairment is not severe, so this may not work for everyone. The handset is comfortable and the stylish black unit fits in with my large flat-screen monitor and CCTV. It can hold 200 contacts and allows me to change speaker volume, switch ringer tones as well as amplify the ringer.<br />
<br />
I will let you know in a follow-up post if there are any complications, but so far, so good. When my youngest son called to tell me he was on his way home, the accuracy was above 90%, and I enjoyed being able to scroll back over our conversation. There is a momentary delay, but remember, the caller's voice is sent through voice recognition and a transcription service, and it is minimal.<br />
<br />
The CaptionCall phone will help me immensely to stay productive as my phone load increases. It will allow me to follow a conversation as well as clarify anything I may miss. I cannot tell you how much this phone will make a difference in my productivity!<br />
<br />
And, if that were not enough, right now, the phone and the service are FREE.<span style="font-size: small;"> <span>This is a limited time offer that
includes a free CaptionCall phone, free delivery and installation
assistance, and ongoing free captioning service funded by the FCC.
There are no hidden charges and no out of pocket expenses. And, the only requirement to participate in this offer is that you have difficulty
hearing on the phone due to hearing loss.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>So, if you think you can use this product or know someone else who can, please feel free to:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Use promo code: CBS67503</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Go to <a href="http://www.captioncall.com/">www.captioncall.com</a></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Click on green "Request Info" link at the top of the page</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span>Enter the promo code and your information.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Someone will get in touch with you, talk to you about the phone and set up a time for an installation. As long as you have a phone line and the Internet, you are good!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Now, it is your turn. Do you have the CaptionCall phone already? How is it working for you? Feel free to send in your experiences and suggestions. I am looking forward to "hearing" from you!</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-47857592760659780862012-09-30T13:12:00.001-07:002012-09-30T13:12:09.829-07:00Kitchen Skills, Gimmicks and Accessible TechnologyEvery day on FB, people post videos from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=separating+egg+yolk+with+a+water+bottle&oq=separating+egg+yo&gs_l=youtube.1.4.0l10.1024.8350.0.10177.23.15.2.5.5.0.207.1551.10j4j1.15.0...0.0...1ac.1.xm3pqdPCmvc" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. Some are cute, some are silly.<br />
<br />
Today, I came across this video that shows how to use a empty water bottle to separate egg yolks from the whites. My oldest son leaned over my shoulder as I watched it, and let me know he thought it was cool. I thought so, too! I mean, I sure didn't think to use the suction capability of an empty water bottle to suck the egg yolk up and deposit it in another container. Sounds simple and yet, I didn't think of it. Wow! Take a look and see for yourself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Uz2Vnp5ZW4c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
However, a very good FB friend and fellow disability advocate chimed in to say that she didn't like gimmicks like this, and that it would be better to teach good kitchen skills instead. Being an accomplished chef and former restaurant owner, she naturally leans toward good technique and skill in the kitchen.<br />
<br />
Although I agree with her for the most part, my son has autism and has never mastered the rocking the egg back and forth in the shell technique. I was happy he took such a liking to this. After all, in our house, we encourage cooking even if someone hasn't mastered all the traditional kitchen skills. Sometimes, it is more important to focus on making kitchen chores fun or learning how to be prepare a meal using a gadget or two rather than rely on Mom for food prep. <br />
<br />
My son at 20, loves to cook in the kitchen. He first became responsible for meals when he was 9 and his brother was 4 and 1/2. At the time, I was dealing with severely limited mobility and after losing my only set of contact lenses, was legally blind. As a single parent, I found myself leaving dinner up to him. Of course, in the beginning, I sat nearby as long as I could sit, but as he became more and more accomplished, I would only listen in and use my sense of smell to supervise. With the typical limited fine motor skills many children with autism deal with, he did what he could handle, and used gadgets where it saved time and avoided adding confusion and frustration.<br />
<br />
For example, he learned strong knife skills from making sure he had a sharp knife to how to hold a chef knife properly. Using the color-coded cutting board I had been given for my visual impairment, he learned how to cut onions, celery, etc. But, I also allowed him to use the food processor in order to speed up the dicing process or avoid dealing with knives if he felt uncomfortable or was excessively tired that day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RAVh0-czQzU/UGiToSsyn5I/AAAAAAAAAk4/6Xi-SBE7fbk/s1600/Egg+Separator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RAVh0-czQzU/UGiToSsyn5I/AAAAAAAAAk4/6Xi-SBE7fbk/s400/Egg+Separator.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
In fact, when it comes to separating egg yolks from whites, we already had a gadget. While strolling through one of my favorite kitchen accessory stores, <a href="http://www.surlatable.com/" target="_blank">Sur le Table</a>, I found the gadget pictured to the left. My son loves it! This item allowed him to separate many eggs quickly and put the covered whites in the fridge for another use. We use this at least once a week. My young son who deals with memory deficits and has yet to master many cooking techniques uses it as well. With its color-coded cups and lids (the cups are different sizes as well, so I can feel the difference if need be) and simple measurements, this has been well worth the purchase.<br />
<br />
I also thought about a recent Gadget Magic workshop I attended at <a href="http://www.mabnc.org/" target="_blank">Metrolina Association for the Blind</a>. Many gadgets that were meant for other reasons were re-purposed to assist people with visual impairments and other impairments remain active in their kitchen.<br />
<br />
So, in the end, I come away wanting to share with you ideas my friend had to help interest children in the cooking process while promoting good skills, but also want to remind you to have some fun! Do something unique! Look at the world a little differently and see how you can spark interest in the kitchen. Watch a video and experiment with gadgets with you children. Especially if you or your children are dealing with disabling conditions, getting comfortable in the kitchen is important, whether you can "rock the egg" or not.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Mia's suggestions</i>:</b><br />
<ol>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[0]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[0].[0]">Teach the shell method as a magic trick and give prize to the one w</span></span><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">ho
does it with out breaking the yoke and dropping it into the bowl.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">Teach all cooking to kids
as magic.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">Have toddlers dress up like the characters from <a href="http://disney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/ratatouille/main.html" target="_blank">Ratatouille</a> the Movie or Merlin the Magician.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">When they are older, use it a a science experiment.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">Have the little ones grow herbs in window boxes.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">Put seeds in
egg containers, on damp cotton balls or put seedlings in toilet roll centers
filled with soil. Teach them Seed to Plate Mentality. When you do, their IQ
goes up, their health is better, and you have peace at meal-time because
they are eating what they grew.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">Ask questions at the table (Q: What does
a scientist call a vinaigrette? A: an emulsion!) and let the first one who gets it
right choose what the family has for desert.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ol>
<i><b><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">A Closing Word from Mia:</span></span></span></span></span></b></i><br />
<ul>
<li><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]"><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]."><span id=".reactRoot[24].[1][2][1]{comment454098957966580_5095099}..[1]..[1]..[0].[2]..[3]..[0]">With morbid obesity killing
our country, we must make food interesting smart and part of every day
life.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
I second that thought!<br />
<br />
Now, it is your turn. Do you use gadgets or "gimmicks" in the kitchen? What are some of your favorites? What are some tips and suggestions you can give families to promote interest in the kitchen?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-19765426333719721532012-09-29T11:11:00.000-07:002012-10-05T07:49:17.024-07:00My Three Sons - New Flavor!While walking through my local Harris Teeter, I love to come across the display tables! There is always some delicious, delectable drop of goodness to be found and yesterday was no different.<br />
<br />
Right near the cheese and bread aisle was a table for My Three Sons (MTS). I was kind of surprised, because MTS has been a regular now for some time. If you read my<a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/07/pimiento-cheese-you-are-not-in-anymore.html" target="_blank"> blog post on pimiento cheese</a>, you know they are one of my favorites. But, to my greater surprise and happiness, there was a new flavor: Spicy White Cheddar.<br />
<br />
In fact, not only was there a new flavor, but a new product.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRRNTPuKP5Y/UGcznuTqJfI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/JGGSfH1OwGY/s1600/Palmetto+Cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRRNTPuKP5Y/UGcznuTqJfI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/JGGSfH1OwGY/s640/Palmetto+Cheese.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clear cups with covers, filled with pita chips on the bottom and a small container of pimiento cheese resting on top.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOC2m4LSJW0/UGc4V7tysiI/AAAAAAAAAkk/TOWo1R_QpbQ/s1600/My+personal+snack+cup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOC2m4LSJW0/UGc4V7tysiI/AAAAAAAAAkk/TOWo1R_QpbQ/s400/My+personal+snack+cup.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Had to bring one home for the family [Snack cup]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
New to the market are snack cups; a convenient travel up with pita chips on the bottom and a small container of pimiento cheese on top. Obviously made for those of us who can't wait to return home to get back to our pimiento cheese, these snack cup would easily fit in a lunch bag with a cooling gel pack. The snack cup come with Original flavor and Spicy White Cheddar.<br />
<br />
The new flavor, Spicy White Cheddar, was marvelous! A smoky and even cayenne pepper heat permeated the super flavorful white cheddar cheese spread. Not too hot, it was a perfect mix of Vermont cheddar cheese and warmth. I guess you can tell I love it.<br />
<br />
For now, the snack pack will be available in Original and the Spicy White Cheddar. I had to ask when a full tub of the new flavor would be available. With a secretive smile, our server murmured, "There is a tub, but right now, the snack cup will be available at Harris Teeter only. Oh, I just LOVE to be in on the special flavors and locations!! I couldn't worm any other secrets out of her, so for now, run, roll, stroll down to your nearest Harris Teeter and try Spicy White Cheddar.<br />
<br />
Leave me a comment when you have tried it, and let me know what you think. Hope the new tubs are out by the holidays! My Three Sons, are you listening?<br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-29100296953388309272012-09-26T13:13:00.000-07:002012-09-26T13:13:47.485-07:00The Cooking Without Looking Show<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc6tGl7MltM/UGNaq2H6fLI/AAAAAAAAAjs/OaAwPLBhuZI/s1600/Cooking+Without+Looking+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc6tGl7MltM/UGNaq2H6fLI/AAAAAAAAAjs/OaAwPLBhuZI/s400/Cooking+Without+Looking+logo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
More than a year ago, during my many perusals of FB, I came across a page about a cooking show called <a href="http://www.cookingwithoutlooking.net/" target="_blank"><b>Cooking Without Looking</b></a>. Now, I can't pass up any cooking/foodie-related show, so I clicked the link to check it out. What I thought was a simple click has turned into an online friendship with the creator and executive producer, Ren'ee Rentmeester, and a deep, loyal love for her show.<br />
<br />
Not too long ago, when I heard that the show's website was going through an overhaul, I reached out to Ren'ee and asked her if I could interview her in celebration of the new site. As a foodie, I felt honored to cross the geographical barriers of our locations, and "sit down" with a woman with a grand vision.<br />
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Ren'ee's bio reads like an intriguing journey of an unfolding focus. It begins with the early expression of her love with media and journalism at 17, when she went to work fo<span style="font-family: inherit;">r </span><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">WLUK-TV
in Green Bay, WI. And, with her degree in Journalism (minor in Political Science/International Relations), she began her career in full at an CBS-TV affiliate in Miami in a series of positions that range from Promotion/Ad Copywriter to Press/Community Relations Director/Producer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">A twice Emmy nominee, Ren'ee won an American Heart Association award for a series of PSA on people who experienced a stroke in middle-age. After opening her own Advertistin/Public/Media Relations company in 1996 to growing success, winning an award for volunteering for March of Dimes, and sitting on numerous boards, Ren'ee began researching the area that would lead to her ground-breaking series.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">In 2000, the non-profit Vision World Foundation was born, which is the parent company for the show, Cooking Without Looking. The show has rave reviews from people from it's immediate viewing area in South Florida to people who now have access to past show clips and recipes on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyS1QQOMbfc" target="_blank">Youtube</a>, <a href="http://vimeo.com/7899069" target="_blank">Vimeo </a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cooking-Without-Looking-TV-Show/282421244581" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI8r6wcjVpQ/UGNbQ51IaeI/AAAAAAAAAj0/dLSnjHHD4lk/s1600/cook_look_groupphoto.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZI8r6wcjVpQ/UGNbQ51IaeI/AAAAAAAAAj0/dLSnjHHD4lk/s400/cook_look_groupphoto.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cooking Without Looking Group (from left to right) Celia Chacon, Allen Preston, Ren'ee Rentmeester and Annette Watkins</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">The three hosts and guest chefs all deal with visual impairments of varying degrees. But, the show does more than just give quick tips and recipes for the visually impaired. There is a section where helpful kitchen items are discussed and awareness is given to different eye conditions and disorders. In the discussion, there is not the typical emphasis on "tragedy and inspirational characters," but on people who live real lives, love to cook and eat good food. That approach, I believe, is the reason for it's success. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Too often, stories, shows and the media make disability awareness and advocacy focus on the heroic character instead of the neighbor next door, who has a great recipe collection. On Cooking Without Looking, the emphasis is on adaptation so we all can enjoy a good meal. We hear about accommodations as the meat sizzles in the background, creating the perfect kitchen ambiance. We watch a tool being used to incorporate ingredients into a sauce as the hosts toss about humorous banter. For me, this show illustrates my approach to advocacy; let's enjoy each other's company and differences: let's focus on life and food! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Below is the complete interview with </span><i><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Ren'ee Rentmeester, </span></b></i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">creator of The Cooking Without Looking Show. Don't forget to sign up for the FREE Ebook at the new and improved <a href="http://www.cookingwithoutlooking.net/" target="_blank">website</a>, and share the site with others!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>F4A: What
made you start Cooking Without Looking? </b><br /> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">I had served on many boards of non-profits for most of my life because, as a
person in the media, you must reach out into the community, and this meant
lending my media expertise pro bono to both national and local non-profits.<br />
<br />
I wanted to start something where we could help people who, no matter what
their race, creed, ethnicity, financial situation, needed help. Blindness
worked, so, as I did my research (2001) I found that there were a multitude of blind people on
listservs who loved to cook. In fact, those were the most popular listservs.
That's how I began my research since I had never met anyone who was blind. I
could get an honest assessment since people where just writing about their
experiences as people who were blind.<br />
<br />
That intrigued me, so I began looking around Miami blind chefs, and I found
one. We shot a pilot for PBS, and it got picked up. As it went on, many people
wanted just regular, everyday people who were blind, and that's when I started to
speak to groups and there was an amazing number of people without eyesight who
told me<br />
they always wanted to be cooking on TV.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Can you tell me a little bit about each host and what they bring to the show? </b><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">
Annette Watkins: She has been with us from the very beginning. She does the
Food for Thought Segment where we feature what's new in accessibility, doctors,
research, etc. She also gives us the 'healthy' recipes for improved eyesight.
Annette has Stargaardt's.<br />
<br />
Allen Preston: He's also been with us from the beginning. He talks about tips
and keeping it clean, and some of the simpler recipes.<br />
<br />
Chef Don White: Our classically trained chef, Don gives us food history, tips, and some of the most amazingly delicious recipes that you can cook on a budget.<br />
<br />
Sabrina Deaton and Dr. Marc Gannon: present 'Macular Moment' and discuss
research for the number one eye disease, Macular Degeneration. Dr. Gannon is
director of the <a href="http://www.lowvisioninstitute.com/" target="_blank">Low Vision Institute</a> and has been a long time supporter (right from the beginning) of the Cooking
Without Looking TV Show.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: What are the challenges in producing a show like this?</b> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Actually, I had to think about this because we have so much fun, that I haven't stopped to think about the challenges. Mostly, it's getting advertisers to understand that if you have a show with people who are blind in it, that that means you will have your regular viewers, plus the blind folks. They think that only blind people will watch.<br />
<br />
We've found that to be incorrect. In the 11 years we've been producing the
show, it's really about 50/50 blind to sighted. The fact of the matter is that anyone
who cooks can use all of these tips. It's just that if you're blind or have a
visual impairment, they make it easier for you.<br />
<br />
Other people who are especially attracted to the show:<br />
- Beginner cooks;<br />
- Bachelors/Bachelorettes;<br />
- College students;<br />
- Newlyweds;<br />
- The self-admitted “cooking impaired”; <br />
- People who like to cook, and would like some new, out-of-the-box tips;<br />
- People who eat…<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Do you have any difficulty getting guests to be on the show? </b><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">No, as a matter of fact, they call us and invite themselves, lol!<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Do you have difficulty getting sponsors? What is the response of the
corporate/entertainment world? </b><br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">The response has changed throughout the years. But, it's a constant educational
process. We are always fighting off the old stereotypes of what people believe blind people are or what they do.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Who comes up with the recipes? </b><br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Everyone brings their own recipes. To help them make their choices, I tell them
to imagine that they want to impress company which is coming over. What would<br />
they like to make?<br />
<b><br />
F4A: Are there bloopers? What are they like?</b> <br />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">
Yes, there are bloopers, but not as many as you would think. On some shows, we do outtakes at the end of the show. One of our famous ones was when a blind chef with macular degeneration grabbed for what he thought was a white
towel. It was really a bowl of whipped cream.<br />
<br />
When I edit, I leave those in because people have told me that when they see
someone on TV make a mistake, it empowers them to go back into the kitchen and cook fearlessly.<br />
<b><br />
F4A: What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in producing this show?</b> <br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">I've learned not to fear blindness because I've met so many people who have gone blind and just used it as a challenge which they have to overcome. <br />
<br />
Also, it's not about the disability...it's about the ability we all possess.
When I counsel people who call in telling me that they've lost their eyesight, I try
to help them understand that there's so much more to them than their eyesight.
There's so much more life to be lived beyond what we see.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Is there anything the community of PwDs can do to support the show? </b><br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Glad you asked. We see how excited people get about Christine, the blind chef on the Masters. We are trying to get The Food Network, namely their sister station, The Cooking Channel to understand the necessity for this show. We want them to know with the Baby Boomer population, the blind/visually impaired/low vision community is growing by leaps and bounds. Also, this will add to the number of people watching the network, not limit it to
people with limited eyesight.<br />
<br />
Here are the contact names and numbers to call in your support:<br />
<br />
Food Network General Manager: Bob Tuschman<br />
</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Vice President of Programming for the Cooking Channel: </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Jen Quainton (</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Jquainton@FoodNetwork.com)</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Food Network Main Line: <span class="skypepnhcontainer"></span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span class="skypepnhtextspan">212.398.8836</span><span class="skypepnhcontainer"> </span><br />
Just ask for <i>Bob Tuschman</i> or <i>Jen Quainton</i></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Lauren, his assistant: <span class="skypepnhcontainer"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span class="skypepnhtextspan">212.401.5360</span><span class="skypepnhcontainer"> </span><br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Are there any future plans, additions or changes for the show? </b>
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We are shooting on location and out of the studio. We are building a new <a href="http://www.cookingwithoutlooking.net%20/" target="_blank">website</a>. People will be able to become one of our club members for a $27 fee.<br />
<br />
Scott Treeman is a pianist who is blind and he scores the original music for our show. Our announcer is a young blind broadcaster by the name of Brian Macko.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Will there be a cook book/dvd released?<i> I want one!</i></b><br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">We have a Cooking Without Looking TV Show Cookbook with recipes from<br />
the first three seasons. It comes with a descriptive CD.<br />
<br />
We also have OFFICIAL Cooking Without Looking TV Show Aprons just like the
hosts wear. <br />
<br />
<b>F4A: Are there plans to close caption the segments?</b> <i>I want to share this with everyone in
my network, and I have several friends who will tune in if there is captioning.</i>
<br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">All shows are closed captioned.<br />
<br />
<b>F4A: What do you want people to remember about you and the show? </b><br />
<br />
</span><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><i>Ren'ee</i>:</span></b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">I want people to remember that we were the first TV show to illustrate that
just because you don't have eye sight doesn't mean that you have to give up on
your hopes and dreams for a meaningful life. That, there's a place for you to
exhibit your own special skills; and that no matter what life hands us, there's
a way around our challenges. <br />
<br />
Our show is about inclusion, and not exclusion. There's room for everyone at
this party we call, 'life.'<br />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-28948524665878887112012-09-19T19:41:00.001-07:002012-09-19T19:41:50.740-07:00Get Creative! Make Your Own Seasoning Mix!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7z8lQX7sgjE/UFp3aKTztLI/AAAAAAAAAjI/6vT9GtFC6so/s1600/seasonings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7z8lQX7sgjE/UFp3aKTztLI/AAAAAAAAAjI/6vT9GtFC6so/s400/seasonings.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seasonings [Description: Round white bowls full of different seasonings]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now that I have recovered from the <a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/08/come-out-dnc-wants-to-see-you-part-i.html" target="_blank">DNC</a> and all the visitors have gone home, it is time to get back to my main love; food. Well, I guess I shouldn't say my main love, but it ranks up there, sometimes edging the children down the list. <br />
<br />
Part of the reason I created this blog was to give a platform for topics as simple as seasonings. When I was growing up, it was the period of Julia Child and French cooking, which seems to consist of taking any meat, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper and spending the next half-hour on the sauce or sides. Well, growing up in a house with a West Indian-born Mom and going to a church full of southern-born men, that was what we called "naked meat."<br />
<br />
How could it possibly have any flavor with just salt and pepper? In fact, until the Louisiana and Southern cooks began to break into television, I didn't see anyone cooking the way my Mother taught me, and how I saw the men season the piles of meat before laying them on huge home-made grills.<br />
<br />
As a child, we had a cabinet full of seasoning, dried mostly, but occasionally fresh were bought for a special occasion dinner or event. I was taught early on how to rub, poke, lift the skin and hide seasonings on various kinds of meat.Vegetables also were seasoned, not as heavily as meat of course, but there was no dropping veggies in a salt bath and leaving it at that.<br />
<br />
Today, we have the benefit of many ethnic groups contributing to our seasoning IQ. Indian seasonings can be found on grocery store shelves and ethnic stores abound, where you can wander down aisles perusing seasoning additions. Right here in Charlotte, where food entrepreneurs abound, we have a shop dedicated to nothing but seasonings, called <a href="http://www.savoryspiceshop.com/index.html" target="_blank">The Savory Spice Shop</a>. Classes are held and dishes prepared showing locals how to sharpen their seasoning sense.<br />
<br />
So, you know as a grown person who finally sees seasoning on television the way I learned, I have to have a slew of seasonings in the house. I don't have a spice rack, not even a shelf. I re-purposed an old bookshelf/CD Rack into a SpiceCase. Yep, that's what I call it: The SpiceCase. Here is a picture:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zi5WtsTAzUk/UFp4ACOxllI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/T5Y_7CVn3w8/s1600/IMG_20120919_210952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zi5WtsTAzUk/UFp4ACOxllI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/T5Y_7CVn3w8/s640/IMG_20120919_210952.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Spice Case [Description: Six-shelved black bookcase filled with spice bottles]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now, I am also a collector of recipes. As usual, I print out more than I can use, but I have created a book of <i><b>Tried and True</b></i> recipes that have stood the taste tests of my children and were deemed worthy to repeat. I also have a book that has nothing in it but condiment, seasoning and clone recipes.<br />
<br />
<br />
These are great when you are living on a budget (most people with disabilities that I know are living on a pretty stringent one), and you want to be able to whip up something without spending a lot of money or deal with pre-processed, pre-packaged foods. Also, if you are dealing with sodium restrictions, you can alter the mix as you please, leaving out any ingredient that doesn't fit in with your dietary needs. I have been making my own fajita, taco and chili seasoning mix without store-bought packets for years now. <br />
<br />
Recently, I came across three meat rubs, and realized I hadn't tried any of them. Well, we had just bought two packs of ribs (end of season nostalgia) and I thought, hmmm....what a great way to have end of summer ribs and see if this rub mix would pass inspection to be save in the Tried and True book for next summer!<br />
<br />
So, true to my nature, I didn't try one or two, but combined the ingredients for all three and came up with my own. After mixing, mostly by eye (though I did make a mental note of which measuring spoon I used), I came up with "<b>Aunt Judi's Master Rub</b>!" Well, that's what I called it when I finished mixing it all up. Right now, it is the only rub I'll use. Why?<br />
<br />
Because the ribs came out fantastic BEFORE I put a drop of BBQ sauce on them! Couldn't snap a picture. As I told friends on FB, they were gone before I could blink!<br />
<br />
There was an underlying sweetness from the brown sugar, but not overbearingly so. The pepper, which tasted so strong when I first tasted the dry ingredients had softened to the tenderest of heat and smoke. The rest of the ingredients became one cohesive taste that reminded me of church outings along the Hudson River near Bear Mountain in New York State.<br />
<br />
I was flabbergasted! Instead of mixing together just a bunch of seasonings, I had recreated my childhood summers!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0MsXj6j9OPY/UFp4GBkQhLI/AAAAAAAAAjY/SMbsUGGnc70/s1600/IMG_20120919_211023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0MsXj6j9OPY/UFp4GBkQhLI/AAAAAAAAAjY/SMbsUGGnc70/s400/IMG_20120919_211023.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Master Rub [Description: Seasonings in a round plastic container]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, I share with you the rub recipe. I can't rightly call it mine, since many an old deacon has obviously mixed up the same thing, but I don't mind. If you and your kids get to taste a bit of what my childhood was like, it is worth it! Enjoy!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: #4c1130;">Aunt Judi's Master Rub</b></span> (<span style="font-size: x-small;"> I couldn't help it! Love the way it sounds</span>!)<br />
<br />
<i>It is pictured in a plastic bowl, but if you can, store the rub in a recycled glass jar, which is better for herbs and spices.</i><br />
<br />
3 TB brown sugar<br />
2 tsp paprika (smoked if you can get it)<br />
1 tsp onion powder<br />
1 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp black pepper<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
1 tsp celery salt<br />
1 tsp kosher salt (or as needed) <br />
1/2 tsp dried basil<br />
1/2 tsp dried oregano<br />
1/2 tsp dried thyme<br />
1/4 tsp dried sage<br />
1/4 tsp powdered ginger<br />
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (My mother would have grated it from whole)<br />
1/4 tsp powdered cumin<br />
1/4 tsp dried rosemary<br />
1/4 tsp mustard powder<br />
<br />
Combine all ingredients and mix until incorporated with a fork.<br />
<br />
Rub generously on ribs, chicken, pork chops, turkey or steaks for barbecuing.<br />
<br />
Wrap meat in wax paper or foil and let marinate for at least 4-5 hours (overnight is best!) before cooking or grilling.<br />
<br />
For my ribs, they went into the oven at 250 degrees for 6 hours. Perfectly tender! Slather with sauce and let warm as you please, but can be eaten "dry." <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-33207037757401682432012-09-10T10:14:00.001-07:002012-09-10T10:31:09.529-07:00We, the People, Have So Far To Go<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MhYFpVCOc0s/UE4fpDtc6iI/AAAAAAAAAiw/JRlYfD3AxFk/s1600/No+Freedom+book-Amazon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MhYFpVCOc0s/UE4fpDtc6iI/AAAAAAAAAiw/JRlYfD3AxFk/s320/No+Freedom+book-Amazon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Book Cover: In Search of Freedom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Below is a copy of a message left on the <a href="https://dashboard.barackobama.com/" target="_blank">Obama/Biden People With Disabilities Dashboard</a> message board. I will not post her name because I
have not spoke with her directly, but this is horrendous! It is so hard
to read this and usually I would apologize for the length of a post, but this time I refuse to do so. It is important that you hear the anguish of this woman, someone who has volunteered her time and given unselfishly to this campaign. Also, I will not shorten it, because I hear it over and over again; how someone with a
disabilities is disrespected and treated so hatefully. And in this case,
by team members of the Democratic Party, who were supposed to represent
the most "open and accessible" administration in history.<br />
<br />
I am appalled at her treatment, and I ask the people of Florida and this
campaign office to answer to these allegations! I ask you to apologize
to the people along with this woman who were treated this way. I demand
that someone with a disability or proper disability training be a part
of future event planning and logistics. And, this office owes all those people
an apology!<br />
<br />
Just last week, I got the chance to meet with Patrick Kennedy during the Disability Caucus at the DNC in Charlotte, NC, and he talked about how the Disability Vote was growing and how important it was to this election. If you are going to represent the President, represent him
right...to everyone!<br />
<br />
Message on People with Disabilities
Obama/Biden DASHBOARD Message Board
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
I
am a Data Captain, Team Member for X19 Clearwater, FL. Campaign
Office. I was so thankful to the staff at the office when they gave me 2
extra tickets so I could take my 2 teenage boys to the speech with me.
I was told BLUE meant I had (Priority Tickets) It was supposed to
have been a very exciting, chance of a lifetime that my boys could tell
their future grandchildren about. Instead it was a horrifying disaster
for them and for me. Single, Disabled Mother of Two, Full-Time
Student.<br />
<br />
I have volunteered almost all of my free time to the campaign. Sometimes 12 hours a day.<br />
<br />
The
planners for these events do not seem to consider or think about the
obstacles and or limitations of the handicap. They did not designate
parking for the handicap at the charter bus area. I and other handicap
in wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches had to walk all the way around a
very large shopping mall to get to where the buses were picking up the
attendee's. Walking that alone was very painful and I struggled. Then
we had to STAND and wait for the special (handicap accessible) bus to
come. That may be fine for people in wheelchairs. It was not fine for
people like ME. Anyone with a cane, walker, crutches, were struggling
to stand. Once we finally got on the bus. The trip was fast and easy.
We all thought the hardest part was behind us. We were very wrong!<br />
<br />
Once
we were off the bus we were told where to go by what colors our
tickets were. My tickets were blue. I was being directed towards a very
long line. Up and over curbs! Curbs! How are people with wheelchairs
and walkers supposed to be able to handle this if they don’t have anyone
with them to help? There were plenty of volunteers! But, not one of
them was willing to help any of the handicaps through this “impossible
obstacle course” we had to go through to get to the back of the line.
This line seemed to have more people without a handicap that people that
did.<br />
<br />
<br />
I was in pain and really struggling to get
to the back of the line. I found a fellow volunteer in the line and
asked him if my kids and I could cut in line with them. I was verbally
and almost physically attacked by a non-handicap older female in the
line screaming “ Line Cutter!” I was then being screamed at by the
entire crowd around me. So I got moving toward the back of the line
which was so far away. I needed to go through hilly grass, more curbs,
as I am trying to get to the back of the line. More buses are dropping
off more Non-handicaps who can move much faster than I can. So the back
of the line was continuing to become further and further away. I
couldn’t take anymore I needed to rest.<br />
<br />
I saw a volunteer
I knew from my Clearwater office. I told them I needed help! She went
down the line to find someone she knew to see if they minded us cutting
in line with them. She did! I was able to get a chair to sit on. We
were in line for over 2 hours. How are the handicap/elderly, which
can’t stand or walk at all or for very long supposed to handle this?
Some handicap didn’t! They left in ambulances because of the whole
ordeal!<br />
<br />
It was hot and they were passing out water. I
can’t drink the water! I am in line and have no access to a handicap
bathroom! Since it took 2 hours for each handicap person to get inside,
I am glad I didn’t drink anything!<br />
Now I am inside but they are
still directing the handicap up impossible curbs and grassy hills! My
knees and legs are shaking like wet noodles. I can barely keep standing
never mind walking up the hill.<br />
<br />
I am now crying trying to
struggle and not make a scene. I don’t want to worry or embarrass
myself or my children. After a few moments I fell to the ground. My
legs couldn’t carry my weight anymore. I sat on the grass trying to
figure out how I was going to make it the rest of the way. After about
20 minutes a golf cart came by and asked if I needed help. I thought to
myself. This is a godsend for me BUT! What about the other handicap
and elderly? He put my walker in the back and brought me to the
handicap section of the event. I thought…. Finally the worst is over!
But, when I looked around the handicap section, I felt so let down.<br />
<br />
The
scene was like something from the 1960’s. I imagined that this is
where the Black’s would have been seated, hidden, out of the way as not
to be seen by cameras. Behind a line of trees and bushes that made it
impossible to see the podium where the president would speak. I felt
insulted.<br />
<br />
I felt like a second class citizen. Planners had
placed plywood on the grass to make sure the wheelchairs and walkers
etc. would have a flat surface. The handicap section was over crowded
with non-handicap people. So the area of plywood was all taken by the
time I got there. They gave us folding chairs but, they ran out of them
quickly and asked the non-handicap people to please give up their
chairs for the handicap and elderly.<br />
<br />
Most refused saying
they deserve better than to sit on the ground. Doesn’t the handicap and
elderly deserve better as well? I was given a chair that if I had sat
in it the legs of the chair would just go all the way into the ground.
Instead, I sat on my walker and gave the chair to my children to take
turns sitting on. One child sitting on the wet ground, the other in a
chair that’s legs were half in the ground. Looking around at this area
was disgraceful. We all talked about how this could be possible in this
day and age. Especially from someone who is looking for our vote. Some
of the crowd knew I was a Team Member. We couldn’t believe their
volunteers and supporters were being treated so horribly. It was a very
depressing sight!<br />
<br />
<br />
I sat there waiting for the
event to begin. I had to time 5 minutes for my teenagers to take turns
on the chair so they didn’t fight about it. I then saw one of my Field
Organizers in a blocked off area. I walked over there to try to yell to
her to come to the fence line to speak with me. I explained to her the
insufficient and deplorable situation. She apologized and tried to
explain why we were segregated from the rest of the public. She didn’t
say anything that justified the placement or treatment we were
enduring. I told her that I didn’t work hard for the campaign to be
treated like trash. If the campaign thinks it’s ok to treat people like
this they do not only lose the support I have been giving them but
they will lose my vote.<br />
<br />
I walked back to the handicap
area, I looked toward the podium and realized not only could we not see
the president. If the trees weren’t there we would still only see the
back of the president’s head!<br />
<br />
As I timed the 5 minutes for
my kids, someone was speaking at the podium but none of us could hear
what they were saying. We began to yell. “We Can’t Hear You!” But it
seemed useless. We asked the volunteers to let them know we couldn’t
hear. We were actually told to “Shut Up!” by two different volunteers
assigned to the area.<br />
<br />
The way I saw these volunteers treat
the elderly and handicap was deplorable! Our section that was closed
off visually from the event also couldn’t hear the event either. We all
sat there disgusted! Who planned this event? Who thought so less of us
that they thought this kind of treatment to the disabled were
acceptable? I sent my son to go in front of the trees with my camera.
He came back saying a lady grabbed his phone, closed it and handed it
back to him and told him to go sit back down in a very mean way. I was
beyond angry! You treat me like trash and you now dare to treat my son
that way? We can’t see or hear the President. You won’t even allow us
to take pictures like the other guests? At one point my other son
worked his way past the trees and got a few pictures. The elderly and
other handicap were now begging my son to take their phones and video
cameras down there so he could take pictures for them! I felt so sad
for all of them that I began to cry. Why were we being treated like we
are trash? Why are we not equal to the rest of the guests? My son did
his best to take as many pictures has he could for the other handicap
while being screamed at by the volunteers to go back to his place. (His
Place) as in the hidden section! It was awful!<br />
I tried to text
anyone I knew at the Clearwater office. 2 Field Officers to let them
know we couldn’t hear the people speaking. It was no use I didn’t
receive a reply to 1 the other, not until after the event. We all just
gave up and just sat there talking amongst ourselves at what a sad
situation this was. Many of them came to this event full supporters of
the President but, left with mental and emotional scars that the Man
they supported did not treat them as equals as he has said in many
speeches and policies. We were obviously 2nd class. We left knowing we
were now NOT voting for Obama. How could we when we were just treated
so horrendously.<br />
<br />
We then had to fight to receive the free”
FORWARD” signs that were being handed out. Yet another insult to us,
it seemed we didn’t deserve those either. We at this point all felt so
defeated that we just didn’t have enough energy or self-worth to try
to fight another battle. We were all trying to prepare for the
impossible struggle of the obstacle course again to get to the bus’s
and then walking that far walk to our cars.<br />
<br />
The speech is
now over, we didn’t hear a word Obama said. I tell my kids we will
sit and wait a while and not try to fight through the huge crowds. I
sat there trying to prepare myself and my legs for this horrible
journey to the buses.<br />
I ran into a Field Organizer from my office.
She had obviously heard what I had said to the other Organizer
earlier. She tried to apologize that I had a bad experience. I tried to
explain it wasn’t just me! It was how they treated all of us as a
group! I told her a handicap person needs to be part of the planning
process for these events! It seems that only a handicap person can see
the obstacles and struggles that healthy people obviously DO NOT SEE!<br />
<br />
She
asked me to wait a moment so she could find a golf cart to take me the
rest of the way to the buses. I waited for 10 minutes and they still
couldn’t find one so I said never mind and I walked away. I then ran
into my Field Organizer for my Team. When I turned around I could see
that the other Field Organizer was following me. I told My Org, that
She wants to talk to him and I walked past him. I began crying, so hurt
I was treated this way. How could they treat me this way after the
hours of work I put into the campaign? As I walked up a bit of a hill I
could feel my tendon clinch and I couldn’t put any wait on it anymore. I
was in so much pain and had so much further to walk to those buses. I
had to make it there! I was about to collapse! I sat on my walker in
the middle of the parking lot. My children having to see me like this
was very traumatic for me and for the. They were worried how they were
going to get their mother to the buses then to the car to drive them
home. My children were traumatized!!! They will never be the same! I
won’t either but, for different reasons.<br />
<br />
After about 20
minutes a golf cart came along and they had to almost lift me into the
cart. My legs had nothing left in them to get me anywhere. I got off
the cart the rest of the elderly and handicap waited in the sun for
about 45 minutes waiting for a handicap accessible bus to come. I sat
there embarrassed balling my eyes out. Everyone was asking me if I’m
ok. Well…… everyone except the actual volunteers and bus drivers. When a
bus finally came everyone was asking if we could get me on the bus
right away. They told them no, that it was wheelchairs first etc. The
people in the wheelchairs started yelling and swearing at the
volunteers to GET AMIEE ON THE FUZCKING BUS! They fought and fought
them. Finally they got me on the bus. I sat there in the bus seat
crying and crying. They were filling the bus. My children telling them
that their mom is on the bus and they need to get on this one. They were
told it was only for the handicap. The Bus driver got in his seat and
was closing the door. I got up from the seat yelling and screaming
about my children and telling them if they don’t let my children on to
get me off!<br />
<br />
I then fell in the bus isle and down part of the stairs. That is when he finally let my 2 children on the bus.<br />
When
we got off the bus Members of the Largo Office, Diane and Milly, told
me to stay there, they would get their car, pick us up and take me to
my car so I wouldn’t have to walk to it. What wonderful people Diane
and Milly are! Thank you again!<br />
<br />
No apology is enough for
the trauma and deplorable treatment I went thru on Aug 8,2012. I can’t
continue to support a campaign that treats the disabled and elderly in
this way.<br />
<br />
WE ARE NOT 2ND CLASS! WE DESERVE TO BE TREATED
WITH RESPECT! NO CONSIDERATION WAS GIVEN TO OUR LIMITATIONS ETC. I
DIDN’T DONATE HRS AND HRS OF MY TIME TO BE THEN TREATED LIKE TRASH! NO
HUMAN BEING SHOULD BE TREATED HOW WE WERE! SET ASIDE, HIDDEN AWAY, NOT
TO BE SEEN. HORRENDOUS!foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-5022269916591826352012-09-04T17:43:00.000-07:002012-09-04T17:53:19.654-07:00DNC News - Volunteering and ADA Support<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PzAlPlOmk9Y/UEad3T5yNcI/AAAAAAAAAic/R390ej6YusM/s1600/DNC_2012_6_27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PzAlPlOmk9Y/UEad3T5yNcI/AAAAAAAAAic/R390ej6YusM/s400/DNC_2012_6_27.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DNC 2012 logo [Description: Circle with blue arch over red-silhouetted group of people with waves and stars behind it]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well! There was supposed to be a blog post yesterday, but after attending the CarolinaFest for nearly seven hours, I was completely beat, and spent the night stretched out, trying to feel my feet and calve muscles again. If you haven't had enough from the news, here are some <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.393567014044265.92269.389261601141473&type=3" target="_blank">pictures </a>and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Foodie4Access/videos" target="_blank">videos </a>I captured in between standing at the Delegate Park area and Voter Registration with <a href="http://www.discoverthenetworks.org/printgroupProfile.asp?grpid=7465" target="_blank">OFA</a>. With more than 30,000 attendees, it was as thick as pea soup, but a lot of fun. I got to meet the fun folks, like Laura from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Eventbrite" target="_blank">Eventbrite</a>, who let me know all about their non-profit discounts, and a cameraman from <a href="http://www.economist.com/" target="_blank">The Economist</a>. I listened to Janelle Monae and James Taylor, but left before Jeff Bridges and the rest of CarolinaFest got rained out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8t8MyemMbgI/UEabZ5HDXzI/AAAAAAAAAiU/y_BNpTmOvK0/s1600/Light+Rail-Stonewall+station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8t8MyemMbgI/UEabZ5HDXzI/AAAAAAAAAiU/y_BNpTmOvK0/s400/Light+Rail-Stonewall+station.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light Rail/Lynx train pulling into Stonewall Street Station [Description: Lynx train arriving at station with people standing on platform]<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="name" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1510"><b class="username" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1509">By <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bz3rk/" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1508">Willamor Media</a></b> <span class="realname no-realname" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1515">
</span>
</span></span>
<br />
<div id="photo-story-story">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">
This photo was taken on <a class="ywa-track" data-ywa-name="Date, Taken on" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bz3rk/archives/date-taken/2012/04/21/" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1526" title="Uploaded April 24, 2012. ">April 21, 2012</a> in <a class="photo-story-geopanel-trigger ywa-track" data-ywa-name="Location, Taken in, Map" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bz3rk/map/?photo=7110737275" id="photoGeolocation-storylink">
Second Ward, Charlotte, NC, US</a>, using a <a class="ywa-track" data-ywa-name="Camera, Taken with" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bz3rk/7110737275/meta/" id="yui_3_5_1_3_1346804504368_1528">Nikon D90</a>. </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some transportation advice for my readers. Take the <a href="http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/cats/lynx/pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">Light Rail/Lynx train</a> into town. The last stop is Stonewall, which literally puts you a block away from the Convention Center. Look for blue shirted or even yellow shirted volunteers with lanyards around their necks. Blue shirts are Volunteers and Yellow shirts are Security. For my visually impaired friends, just ask anyone to direct you to the Volunteers or the many Police Officers standing around, many who are from as far away as Virginia, Canada and other parts of North Carolina. Volunteers have maps that can direct you to the main Convention locations. If anyone needs mobility assistance, again please let someone know. The ADA escorts from the Convention Center are there with more than 30 wheelchairs to get people to their Council and Caucus meetings. Cabs are hard to come by, but if you need one, check the hotels first. There are buses along Stonewall that have up to 10 routes to return people to local hotels, but I know that service was interrupted this evening due to protestors and new security measures.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XdAmDq402Q/UEaab8b6svI/AAAAAAAAAiM/OhJWRdsyoEo/s1600/Outside+CC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6XdAmDq402Q/UEaab8b6svI/AAAAAAAAAiM/OhJWRdsyoEo/s400/Outside+CC.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside Convention Center [Description: Double row of bicycle police in front of Convention Center]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today, I was at the Convention Center. Now, I am not going to say everything went perfectly. The logistics on having this many people come in from out of town to volunteer is tremendous. So, I was not surprised they lost my itinerary. Unperturbed, I waited, because I was determined to be a part of volunteer efforts that day. Sure enough, here came a Team Leader asking for four volunteers to relieve the morning crew. We stood at the front, meeting delegates, visitors and the press. I learned more in two hours about the surrounding area than I knew for the past two years!<br />
<br />
Will be out there again tomorrow, meeting and greeting as well as attending the 2nd Disability Caucus. I am eager to hear what the topics of the day will be, and I am also will bring the Mission and Goals of Celebrate Connections, the non-profit some local friends and I will start this month (more on this later).<br />
<br />
The DNC is a fabulous event for Charlotte. Despite the crowds, high security presence and slow traffic, people are in high spirits and there is a feeling of community and helpfulness I hope will continue long after the speeches are done.<br />
<br />
Next up: The Disability Caucus at the DNC!foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-14621684262682714702012-08-31T04:32:00.000-07:002012-08-31T04:32:46.736-07:00Come Out! The DNC Wants to See You! Part II<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RunYpue1NiA/UD_r06Ykg1I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/ZLOAZmc6heg/s1600/Charlotte-In-2012-DNC-Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The skyline of Charlotte made up of words with "Charlotte in 2012 and four stars underneath the skyline" border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RunYpue1NiA/UD_r06Ykg1I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/ZLOAZmc6heg/s400/Charlotte-In-2012-DNC-Logo.jpg" title="Charlotte in 2012 logo" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlotte in 2012 logo </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well, if you made it through the last <a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/08/come-out-dnc-wants-to-see-you-part-i.html" target="_blank">post</a>, congratulations! This time around, I am going to post links and pics to save time and let you click where you want to go!<br />
<br />
<h3>
All Things DNC and Charlotte:</h3>
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1494974894" target="_blank">Charlotte in 201</a><a href="http://charlottein2012.com/" target="_blank">2</a></b>: FAQs for <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/security/" target="_blank">Security</a>, <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/transportation/" target="_blank">Transportation</a>, and enough <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/experience/" target="_blank">events </a>around town to last you until the kids go back to school</li>
</ul>
<h3>
All Thing DNC and Charlotte In Spanish: </h3>
Looking for Spanish versions of everything? <b>Ahora,</b> <b>L</b><b>a Página de Web en Español de la Convención Nacional Demócrata 2012 Está Vivo!</b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTKnYJNrw-A/UD_nagTGX1I/AAAAAAAAAg0/xeF6Hi_JPao/s1600/latinos-for-obama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="A line of smiling Latino women holding signs that read "Latinos for Obama."" border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTKnYJNrw-A/UD_nagTGX1I/AAAAAAAAAg0/xeF6Hi_JPao/s320/latinos-for-obama.jpg" title="Latinos for Obama image" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">They are ready to vote!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://ncdp.ngpvanhost.com/content/democrats-en-espa%C3%B1ol" target="_blank">DNC2012 in Spanish</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.demconvention.com/bienvenidos/" target="_blank">DemConvention</a> </b></li>
</ul>
<h3>
Watch It on YouTube</h3>
I mentioned apps in the last blog post, but what about You Tube? I am sure hundreds of delegates, visitors and family are putting up videos. Type in "dnc 2012," and you will get a plethora of digital action. Here is the main Channel for Charlotte in 2012:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/charlottein2012" target="_blank">Charlotte in 2012 on YouTube</a></b></li>
</ul>
<h3>
The Charlotte Stories Series</h3>
I would be remiss if I didn't talk about this wonderful collection of docu-shorts; films produced by local videographers, including my dear friend, LaShawnda Becoats of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Darlingmediagroup" target="_blank">Darling Media Group</a>. Over 30 stories illustrating the strength, vision and innovative spirit of Charlotte, Carolina Stories were aired earlier in the year at local eateries, but now can be seen here:<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://charlottein2012.com/charlotte/stories/" target="_blank">Charlotte 2012</a> Charlotte Stories</b> </li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBB93DD444EFCCE73&feature=plcp" target="_blank">Charlotte Stories on YouTube</a></b></li>
</ul>
<h3>
I'm The Map!</h3>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Omsa6YmyQIw/UD_yU28BSkI/AAAAAAAAAhk/8LkoDszXz18/s1600/dnc_protest_route_sept2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Image of Uptown Charlotte's main DNC area with circular path for protesters" border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Omsa6YmyQIw/UD_yU28BSkI/AAAAAAAAAhk/8LkoDszXz18/s320/dnc_protest_route_sept2.jpg" title="CATS map of protest route for September 2nd" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CATS Map of protest rout</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Where are you going? When can you get there? Check out these great interactive locators. The second one breaks down what streets are accessible by the day! And, please use <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/transportation/" target="_blank">public transport</a>!</span> </h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.ncdp.org/content/dnc-maps-and-points-interest" target="_blank"><b></b></a><b><a href="http://charlotte.bcycle.com/" target="_blank">Charlotte BCycle</a> </b></li>
<li><b> </b><b><a href="http://www.ncdp.org/content/dnc-maps-and-points-interest" target="_blank">NCDP Locator </a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://maps.charlottenc.gov/templates/storytelling/?appid=30836516f6fe4d39807c3bfb96aab661" target="_blank">Uptown Access Map</a> </b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/dncinfo/Pages/Printableuptownaccessmaps.aspx" target="_blank">Uptown Access Map-Printable</a> </b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/08/16/3459590/free-gold-rush-bus-service-to.html" target="_blank">Gold Rush Line</a> </b>- No service Sept. 3rd<b> </b></li>
</ul>
<b></b><br />
<ul><ul>
<li><b><a href="http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/cats/documents/dnc/DNC-GRtue_wed.pdf" target="_blank"> September 4-5th</a></b> </li>
<li><b><a href="http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/cats/documents/dnc/DNC-GRthur.pdf" target="_blank"> September 6th</a></b></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NVMhSL2-4c/UEAOjIHH4QI/AAAAAAAAAh4/zAK1bFNciWg/s1600/slide351.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="[Description: Hand holding a cellphone with following words: "We're the bloggers, artists, filmmakers, photographers, and journalists participating in the #DNC2012" border="0" height="253" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0NVMhSL2-4c/UEAOjIHH4QI/AAAAAAAAAh4/zAK1bFNciWg/s400/slide351.png" title="Image from the PPL website" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image from PPL website</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Online Media and Blogger Space</h3>
One of the most eclectic scenes to happen in Charlotte is the <a href="http://theppl.us/" target="_blank">PPL</a>. A innovative media space for the rest of us; bloggers, vloggers, artists and other media resources outside the mainstream. The concept is so unique, that I signed up to participate. Will post pics at a later date, but go ahead and check out the video and events planned.<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://theppl.us/about" target="_blank">PPL Video</a></b></li>
<li><b><a href="http://theppl.us/schedule" target="_blank">PPL Schedule of Events</a></b></li>
</ul>
There are the usual concerns on whether Charlotte is ready for this influx of people, traffic and attention. From what I have seen and researched, as well as the amount of information available to the public, I believe Charlotte has prepared the best they can. If you or someone you know as a person with a disability has any issue, please let me know, but don't stay home. Come on out. Celebrate a historic moment in Charlotte's cultural history! And, if you intend to be in town, let me know!<br />
<b><br /></b>foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-76462937541970211592012-08-30T04:54:00.000-07:002012-08-30T04:54:03.276-07:00Come Out! The DNC Wants to See You! Part I<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_YkyQlf8Vk/UD7Pv5Od5LI/AAAAAAAAAfw/8s8j-Fk4ICY/s1600/dnc-chlt-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_YkyQlf8Vk/UD7Pv5Od5LI/AAAAAAAAAfw/8s8j-Fk4ICY/s320/dnc-chlt-logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Description: Words reading "The Democratic National Convention chose us. And you should too!"]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Unless you have been under a rock, you know the <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/splash/2011_11_1/index.pl" target="_blank">DNC</a> (Democratic National Convention) will convene in Charlotte, NC. While the <a href="http://www.gopconvention2012.com/" target="_blank">RNC (Republican National Convention)</a> started with a little concern over Hurricane Isaac's approach near the Gulf region, the opening speeches went well with much respect being given to Ann Romney. The RNC runs through August 30th. I wish I could have traveled to this as I would love to be able to compare notes and observations as well as hear the many speakers. <br />
<br />
I do not use F4A as a political platform, but as an advocacy and awareness arena. In that arena, I cover disability issues along with my love affair with food, eateries, restaurants and local culture. So, with that said, there is no way I could allow the DNC, an event of humongous magnitude for the local area, to come so close to home (Yay! I don't have to travel!) and not be a part of it! I will try to cover some of the major items here, but this is so much going on that it would take several blog posts to cover it all in depth.<br />
<br />
First up, there were volunteer opportunities for <a href="http://www.ncsbe.gov/items.aspx?id=1&s=1" target="_blank">voter registration</a>. I attended one in my community near <a href="http://www.hemarket.com/retailer/store_templates/shell_id_1.asp?storeID=9E2183FD37B644688460B56FF8928F28" target="_blank">Home Healthy Market</a> on Independence Boulevard, HHM is a homegrown health food store with staff who are always friendly and accommodating. There has never been a time that someone has not been willing to help me with anything I need. I will be on hand for another registration drive during CarolinaFest (more about this in the next paragraph). There were also volunteer activities centered around meeting the neighbors-going door-to-door, calling from phone banks and personal homes, and filling goodie bags for the delegates.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymGxAtpQws0/UD7QUzylZHI/AAAAAAAAAf4/1UASXgyRNjU/s1600/CarolinaFest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ymGxAtpQws0/UD7QUzylZHI/AAAAAAAAAf4/1UASXgyRNjU/s400/CarolinaFest.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logo for CarolinaFest 20102 [Description: A ray of stars at the top of a flame of a flag with the words CarolinaFest - An American Celebration 2012 underneath]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
An event of large magnitude during the DNC will be <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/carolinafest2012/" target="_blank">CarolinaFest</a>. Get ready to party like Charlotte loves to party with guest stars like Jeff Bridges, James Taylor and <a href="http://www.jmonae.com/" target="_blank">Janelle Monae</a>! Janelle is one cool, eclectic singer who I know would fit in perfectly in <a href="http://www.noda.org/" target="_blank">Noda </a>or <a href="http://plazamidwood.org/" target="_blank">Plaza Midwood</a>, while I can't wait to hear Jeff Bridges strum that guitar. Check <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/schedule_carolinafest2012/" target="_blank">here </a>for a list of entertainers and <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/security/" target="_blank">here </a>for security, if you are traveling into town. I will be there most of the day. And, for an ever-expanding list of event near the DNC and around town, click <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/events/#0905" target="_blank">here</a>. But, be prepared. This list is almost overwhelming in scope, diversity and interest. There is everything from <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/events/nuns_on_the_bus" target="_blank">Nuns on the Bus</a>, a discussion from Catholic Sisters about budget cuts to <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/events/dnc_formal_dining_etiquette_" target="_blank">DNC etiquette classes</a>, brought to you by a very dear colleague, LaShaune Tisdale, owner of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/etiquetteandcharmschool" target="_blank">The Academy of Etiquette and Charm</a>.<br />
<br />
Don't forget to look in at <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/legacy/" target="_blank">Legacy Village</a>, a representation of Mayor Foxx's <a href="http://charlottein2012.com/legacy/" target="_blank">Legacy Project</a> that hopes to leave a lasting impression in many ways after the DNC has left town. The Village involves our youth and many local organizations and agencies, so take a tour to see what people are doing here in Charlotte, always with an eye on the future of this booming town.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZvT0fmybpI/UD7Rooz7nMI/AAAAAAAAAgA/pwuXxiBlNOE/s1600/McCormickSouth_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZvT0fmybpI/UD7Rooz7nMI/AAAAAAAAAgA/pwuXxiBlNOE/s400/McCormickSouth_01.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Convention Center [Description: Outside image of the Convention Center with fountains out front]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Determined to see how the DNC included the community of pwds (persons/people with disabilities), I signed up to be an ADA escort for the Convention Center on September 5th and 6th. An ADA escort is a person whose primary goal is to make anyone dealing with a disabling condition feel at home, respected and excited to be at the Convention. Now, that is not the official definition. It's mine, and I have every intention to make it happen! I am also touring the podium and stadium on August 31st in order to see how everyone will arrive at the Stadium and where pwds will be seated. This will be a first public viewing and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Will post a follow up over the weekend, but with <a href="http://www.wcnc.com/news/dnc-charlotte-2012/Becky-Ogle-joins-DNC-as-senior-advisor-on-disability-and-access-163545896.html" target="_blank">Becky Ogle</a> on-board as Senior Advisor on Disability and Access, I look forward to more thought being given to accessibility in this convention than any convention before it in history. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_KyYwZsK3g/UD7SQyM0pBI/AAAAAAAAAgI/oNw9sm1iLVo/s1600/dncmakeit-android+app.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_KyYwZsK3g/UD7SQyM0pBI/AAAAAAAAAgI/oNw9sm1iLVo/s400/dncmakeit-android+app.gif" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DNC2012 Android app screen shot</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Also, even though I have posted these links on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Foodie4Access?ref=hl" target="_blank">Foodie4Access </a>Facebook page, here are links for the official DNC <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dnc-2012-from-charlotte-observer/id550235682?mt=8" target="_blank">iPad </a>and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dnc.android" target="_blank">Android </a>app. There will be various <a href="http://www.demconvention.com/speakers/caucuses-and-councils/" target="_blank">Caucuses and Councils</a> meeting during the DNC. If you want to attend any of these, you will need to sign up and receive ticket acknowledgment. Hope to meet several of the online participants in the <a href="http://www.barackobama.com/people-with-disabilities/home" target="_blank">People with Disabilities for Obama</a> site when I attend the September 5th Disability Caucus. I will do my best to get personal stories for you.<br />
<br />
The New York Times paid homage to our <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/29/dining/in-charlotte-nc-democrats-will-find-a-growing-food-scene.html" target="_blank">food scene</a> with a great article, though our local paper, the Charlotte Observer, covered the <a href="http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/08/23/3474124/more-food-coming-for-dnc-uptown.html" target="_blank">mobile food attractions</a> coming to uptown. In addition, pay especially close attention to the restaurants listed in the <i>Experience and See Charlotte</i> menu tab on the apps, as they give greater detail of our diverse palette of culinary offerings beyond what the news articles could cover.<br />
<br />
Wow! I am going to have to do a Part II of this blog post, because I still want to talk about the Charlotte Stories videos, the many bloggers and new media sources, who have their own media/press space uptown right in the zone, and of course, the before-, during-, and after-parties!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for some more news. And, if you are coming to Charlotte as a delegate, a visitor or just a curious Democrat, let me welcome you to our town! Please let me know if you will be here!<br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-24759575514606322782012-08-22T06:25:00.000-07:002012-08-22T06:25:03.922-07:00You Cooked Dinner For Us - Time For You To Get Your Own PlaceI know the title is a little silly, but it was the first thing that popped into my mind. Bear with me.<br />
<br />
My son has autism, specifically, he is now considered to have Asperger's, which is on the higher functioning end of the spectrum. In the past 20 years of his life, I've seen him change and mature by leaps and bounds. He is in college and also part of a advocacy training program called <a href="http://www.nc-ddc.org/partners/index.html" target="_blank">Partners in Policymaking</a>. For that, he travels (with me) to Raleigh once a month for intense training on how to advocate for change in his community. He doesn't see himself as an advocate nor does he see how getting on a train and checking into a hotel are major milestones, even though they would have been completely unthinkable a few years ago. But, they are milestone and he is an advocate, albeit a quiet one.<br />
<br />
A few nights ago, he walked up to my Honey and I late one afternoon, and with his usual calm aplomb, announced he was cooking dinner for the family. Both of us were shocked into silence, but I quickly recovered, and told him we would look forward to his creation, while internally, my mind filled with emotion, memories and joy.<br />
<br />
Other mothers who are raising children with autism will understand. When our children make that milestone that looked like it would never come, it is a momentous occasion. We don't get the chance to shrug off these kinds of events. We learn to celebrate EVERYTHING that leads toward independence and self-reliance.<br />
<br />
We waited while warm smells of grilled veggies and meats began to fill the air. He informed us that he was making a pizza from his latest favorite book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/American-Pie-Search-Perfect-Pizza/dp/1580084222" target="_blank">American Pie: My Search for the Perfect Pizza</a> by <a href="http://www.jwu.edu/content.aspx?id=7218" target="_blank">Chef Peter Rhinehart</a>, a renowned local chef here in Charlotte. He told us he was trying a Mediterranean-style pizza dough and would improvise on toppings, using what we had in the fridge.<br />
<br />
Again, Moms with children with autism, smile with me! Improvisation, adaptation, CHANGE! These are words that we usually do not hear associated with the behavior of our children.<br />
<br />
So, what does this have to do with the title of this blog? EVERYTHING!<br />
<br />
My son at 20 is as far along as I can take him. He still doesn't make friends easily, but has a few online and as well as one or two from his college classes. During dinner, he began to talk about internships with local animation/digital graphics companies, and maybe one day having his own studio. He asked how to hire voice actors as he is now coordinating sound into his animated shorts instead of captions, a style he preferred in the beginning of his artistic journey. Again, improvisation, adaptation, change.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPPVsXEstec/UDTbCuCxvFI/AAAAAAAAAfY/ayqW6tti84E/s1600/MediterraneanPizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPPVsXEstec/UDTbCuCxvFI/AAAAAAAAAfY/ayqW6tti84E/s400/MediterraneanPizza.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of a Mediterranean style pizza [Description: Round pizza loaded with mushrooms, artichokes, feta cheese, tomatoes on a thick sauce]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Half-way through what turned out to be a very filling culinary journey into the Mediterranean, complete with snippets discussed from the cookbook, I realized that this could have been a dinner thrown at his own place where we were invited over. The thought was chilling and exhilarating at the same time. Could my son live on his own?<br />
<br />
I know some of you may say, Judi, one dinner doesn't prove he could pay bills, manage his money, cook, clean and go to school simultaneously without help. Well, when I moved out, my parents didn't think I could do that either! They were sure I would be back in less than six months. And, then it hit me.<br />
<br />
I was in the same position my parents and thousands of other parents were when their child has grown up and is about to leave the nest. I felt the same rush of emotions they felt. As thousands of <strike>children </strike>young adults go off to college dorms this month, I realized my son was there; so close to doing that independent leap.<br />
<br />
He noticed my silence and wondered if I liked the pizza. I assured him I loved it. I told him, I was sure he could have done the same thing in his own place. He paused, considered the idea, and said in his quiet, stoic style, "Yep, I could." With that, he rose from the table and began to clear the dishes away.<br />
<br />
We are here, folks. We are at the point of apartment searches, dealing with neighborhoods and working with waiting lists. A pizza dinner started the conversation and planning for my son to have an apartment on his own.<br />
<br />
I cannot say that every parent will reach this milestone with their child. Autism and Asperger's are not the same for everyone. It still may take us some years as we work through waiting lists and funding. But, again, my son has reached a point that no one thought to discuss even five years ago. And, with that one pizza dinner, adult life begins for him...and us.<br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-10871962761238644472012-07-25T13:21:00.002-07:002012-07-25T13:21:46.360-07:00Swiss Farms: A Grocery with Universal Access and AppealFor an idea that has been around since 1968, it was still a surprise how few people knew about Swiss Farm, a drive-thru grocery. When a location opened here in Charlotte in March of this year, a friend and I were there Opening Day, and have continued to shop there regularly.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uTnxeMB91Fc/T-nJosgSrsI/AAAAAAAAAac/reblmM7QaVw/s1600/swisslogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uTnxeMB91Fc/T-nJosgSrsI/AAAAAAAAAac/reblmM7QaVw/s400/swisslogo.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logo for Swiss Farms [Description: White rectangle with a rooster sitting on the letter 'I" in the word "Swiss" with the word "Farms" in green below it. Tag line "America's Drive-Thru Grocer" below that in red.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When you drive up, you spy a quaint brightly-painted barn-like building that doesn't look like very much at first, sitting between two newly-painted drive-thru lanes. Getting closer, you see rows and rows of products through clear glass walls and displays outside overflowing with impulse items, like chips and cold juices. What you can't see deeper into the store is the dairy case full of milk and other dairy products from a local farm in Asheville and the fully stocked kitchen run by a local chef. Hard to imagine that so much fits into so small a space, but Swiss Farms aims to please. The concept is simple. You don't have to get out of your car. Someone comes out to you with the latest circular, and with a smile, takes your order. Simple concept, and yet, Swiss Farms does this with such warmth and enthusiasm that I usually end up sitting in the car, chatting with everyone, hoping there is no one behind me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIUN-uQQIjk/T-oXdI8NBrI/AAAAAAAAAao/taK6nSfYXmE/s1600/Mike+Lang-owner+Swiss+Farms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eIUN-uQQIjk/T-oXdI8NBrI/AAAAAAAAAao/taK6nSfYXmE/s320/Mike+Lang-owner+Swiss+Farms.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike Lang, President of Swiss Farms Charlotte and head of Lang Family Farm [Description: Smiling gentleman standing in front of Swiss Farm building, located on Sardis Road, Charlotte, NC]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When the store first hit Charlotte, some people complained about how the store would encourage a tendency toward laziness. It was written that this was a store for busy professionals and families on the go. But, Swiss Farms does more than just fill the need to shop quickly. Swiss Farms runs an efficient store without a large land acquisition, a larger carbon footprint and wasted resources. With competitive pricing and the ability to accept food stamps (a major coup for all those who may experience <a href="http://foodie4access.blogspot.com/2012/06/food-lack-in-community.html" target="_blank">food insecurity</a>), Swiss Farms brings down-home neighborliness to your local community; without the need to go into a big box store for a gallon of milk.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i-YAQWoH_Zc/T-oZ3XFY8mI/AAAAAAAAAa0/Y6Fltm0uYEs/s1600/flip+flop+wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i-YAQWoH_Zc/T-oZ3XFY8mI/AAAAAAAAAa0/Y6Fltm0uYEs/s400/flip+flop+wine.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flip Flop Wine - nicely priced at Swiss Farms [Description: Seven bottles of different wines from the Flip Flop Wine Company]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For many in the community of PwDs (persons with disabilities), this is a god-send. The thoughts from someone in that community could sound like this: "No, I don't have to hope the accessible parking spots are free. No, I don't have to hope the public scooters are working. No, I don't have to deal with trying to find what I'm looking for in this huge building with <a href="http://disabledinaction.org/news_20060420_nydn.html" target="_blank">blocked aisles</a> and deal with people who don't like their job. I can have a great food shopping experience. I can get to know my local grocer (and his family!) on a first-name basis. I can make a late-night run for milk, munchies and wine (not necessarily in that order), and zip in and out...like everyone else."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xcIm6FH4I9Q/T-oc-2AJ9ZI/AAAAAAAAAbA/O9Q9vYqYrI4/s1600/Taylor+PR-Jenkins+LM-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="389" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xcIm6FH4I9Q/T-oc-2AJ9ZI/AAAAAAAAAbA/O9Q9vYqYrI4/s400/Taylor+PR-Jenkins+LM-food.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two items certain people in my family cannot live without! Thank you, Doreen, for letting us know about them! [Description: Package of Jenkins Livermush and Taylor Pork Roll]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Media releases from the <a href="http://swissfarmsclt.com/news-events/charlotte%E2%80%99s-first-drive-thru-grocery-store-opens" target="_blank">company website</a> talk of more locations to come and the desire to work with each neighborhood to become part of the community. Mike Lang, president and head of Lang Family Farms, confirmed that each store was to have a local feeling, supporting the needs of the customers.<br />
<br />
This is the essence of universal accessibility. Not catering to one group at the expense of another, Swiss Farms serves everyone.foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-84556955579854697562012-07-19T17:41:00.001-07:002012-07-20T05:59:53.279-07:00Self-Acceptance and Chair Yoga<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TtM2IDcrh70/UAhcHhbZToI/AAAAAAAAAes/OoXr0wWEKaQ/s1600/yogahands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TtM2IDcrh70/UAhcHhbZToI/AAAAAAAAAes/OoXr0wWEKaQ/s400/yogahands.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palms up resting pose [Description: Hand palm up with</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> thumb and forefinger touching]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was not really athletic as a child.<br />
<br />
Dealing with visual and hearing issues as a young child, I was not the most welcome sight coming out to the playground or field. Having an older brother didn't help, since he was a bookworm/smarty-pants and spent most of his time buried in studies.<br />
<br />
But, I loved movement! Not the dancing or ballet kind, but the simple, free movement of the body. I rode my bicycle as a child with the wind against my face. I roller-skated to the corner back and forth until nightfall. Later in life, I would partake in every walk- and bike-a-thon I could. Living in NYC, there was always Central Park, which I knew like the back of my hand by the time I graduated high school. In my 20s, I would hike into the mountains of upstate New York, camp out by Silver Lake and traverse the trails of Bear Mountain. Then I turned 30, and life changed.<br />
<br />
In my 30s, my body began to betray me. An unknown fatigue and flu-like symptoms drained me of any extra energy before the work week was over. Migraines drove me into darkness several times a month. Chronic back pains eventually put me in a wheelchair before surgery restored my ability to walk and stand. And, at a too young age, I found myself out of the workforce, on disability, yet still raising two young sons.<br />
<br />
It was the mental challenge that took its toll. And, honestly, it was fear. Movement no longer brought joy and thankfulness. It bought debilitating pain and weakness. After awhile, I avoided any idea of sport or physical fun. This stretched on into years of barely exerting any additional energy beyond that of taking care of the boys and our small home.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zfB2JJ6SiMU/UAha8EMbp_I/AAAAAAAAAek/AWe5PRu4EKE/s1600/Vertigo+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zfB2JJ6SiMU/UAha8EMbp_I/AAAAAAAAAek/AWe5PRu4EKE/s400/Vertigo+image.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How movement is supposed to stimulate cells in our inner ear. [Description: Medical image of hair cells with and without movement]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then in 2006, I lost my ability to balance my body on the right side. After a particularly bad flu-like episode, complete with severe inflammation on the right-side of my head, vertigo set in like an new roommate. For months, just getting out of a car after a short drive meant being helped into the house and three hours of complete and utter rest.<br />
<br />
In all that time, I missed movement. I missed having control over my body and feeling the stress relieving properties of exercise. Even as friends, like <a href="https://disabledaccessdenied.wordpress.com/2011/08/29/mia-g-vayner-of-www-disabledaccessdenied-com-called-by-australian-radio-for-opinions-on-hurricane-irene/" target="_blank">Mia Vayner</a>, who use wheelchairs on a full-time basis, encouraged me to try something, and not give up, I hesitated. I didn't want to go back to a life of pills for everything. The vicious cycle of my life was that if I moved less, I needed less meds, but since I moved less, tension in the muscles and joints built up.<br />
<br />
Not qualifying for any rehabilitation programs and having used up all of my real need for physical therapy, it was up to me to find something I could do. I tried different exercise classes only to create more issues than enjoyment due to one physical condition or another. But, today, I finally found something that works! I started Chair Yoga at my local <a href="https://www.facebook.com/charlotteseniors" target="_blank">Senior Center</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--XINu4qFz0U/UAhZPaph8II/AAAAAAAAAec/hJ6LxBILo6Q/s1600/Chair+Yoga+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--XINu4qFz0U/UAhZPaph8II/AAAAAAAAAec/hJ6LxBILo6Q/s400/Chair+Yoga+class.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example of chair yoga. [Description: Row of ladies in simple green lawn chairs performing a yoga pose]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What an absolute joy! Siting squarely balanced in a level chair, I followed our instructor, Hampton, as he used subtle movements, gentle rhythms and meditative sounds to coax my classmates and I into a wonderfully releasing session of yoga. Calm and comforted in this quiet environment, I closed my eyes, and for the first time in many years, I listened for my body; the body below the pain, inflammation and stiffness. As I breathed, I concentrated more on release than the thought of herniated disks, balance issues and stiff joints. Moving to my own pace (which Hampton noticed and later commented on my self-awareness), I felt a connection to my inner self that had been disconnected for years.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2CWWnjnoMk/UAixIuV6q_I/AAAAAAAAAe4/W60NK0DIdAM/s1600/AS+woman+doing+yoga.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C2CWWnjnoMk/UAixIuV6q_I/AAAAAAAAAe4/W60NK0DIdAM/s320/AS+woman+doing+yoga.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of resting position [Description: Woman with her back facing the camera with arms resting on her thighs with palms facing upward]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hampton talked to us about "prana," the vital life energy of our bodies. He expounded on how important it was to allow this energy to flow in order to deal with long-term health issues and/or chronic pain. During that class, while coordinating my breathing to the movements, I felt the vital energy spread throughout my mind, and for the first time in years, the pressure changes in my ears that I deal with daily (like those experienced when riding an elevator or a plane) slowly dissipated. I didn't clear my ears for the whole class.<br />
<br />
At the end, he closed with "Om, santi, santi," while greeting each student with direct eye contact and a smile. I returned the greeting with a deep bow from the waist. The movement felt wonderful! I felt connected again to that child who jumped, ran and knew she was alive by virtue of being able to move freely and joyously.<br />
<br />
Yes, I will be there next month. In August, they begin a modified Tai Chi class, and I will be there as well. It feels good to move and enjoy the moving.<br />
<br />
Om santi, santi, my friends. Inner peace to you all.<br />
<br />
Local Links for chair yoga:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Yoga-Center-at-8th-Street-Studio/289757204400078" target="_blank">The Yoga Center on 8th Street Studio</a><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/charlotteseniors" target="_blank">Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Center</a><br />
<br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-46029950199399661282012-07-11T13:24:00.001-07:002012-07-11T13:24:11.197-07:00Pimiento Cheese - You Are Not in _______ Anymore!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpCAr6EMnRU/T-4Mrtr5boI/AAAAAAAAAbY/m5nrd6r3khw/s1600/crab+cake+picturebig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpCAr6EMnRU/T-4Mrtr5boI/AAAAAAAAAbY/m5nrd6r3khw/s320/crab+cake+picturebig.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lump crab cake from <a href="http://crabcakesexpress.com/">crabcakesexpress.com</a>, a must have when<br />
living in/visiting Maryland. And, this has nothing to do with pimento cheese. <br />
[Description: a high domed crab cake]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I moved from my birth state, New York, to Baltimore, it was part of my acclimation to eat a crab cake. You couldn't possibly move near the Chesapeake Bay with their legendary <a href="https://www.google.com/search?num=10&hl=en&site=&tbm=isch&source=hp&q=blue+crab&oq=blue+crab&gs_l=img.3..0l10.1866.3541.0.4064.9.7.0.1.1.0.250.737.4j2j1.7.0...0.0.B-PDlwk3hXk&biw=1440&bih=709&sei=XQL5T462FKfY0QGzqM3NBg" target="_blank">Blue crabs</a> without sampling a crab cake. If you didn't eat one, it was pure disrespect on your part, and if you turned your nose up at the delicacy, you risked life and limb in some neighborhoods. On top of that, you had to have one from the neighborhood dive as well as one from a high-end restaurant, because EVERYONE knew of a place that made the best crab cake "eva!"<br />
<br />
Well, now that I've moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, part of becoming a native is to have some pimento cheese. And, just as Baltimoreans could argue over whether there should be more or less breading, how much oil should be in the pan when frying, and whether any other lump meat should be used besides Colossal or Jumbo, the die-hard advocates for pimento cheese are everywhere with their strong opinions (more like catechisms!) about what goes into making the "perfect pimento cheese." They are staunch in their beliefs, and are willing to go beyond the thought that pimento cheese is a nice spread. They are ready to tell you what makes it a delicacy bordering on manna from heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekXEHzPOrtY/T-4Nzad4zjI/AAAAAAAAAbo/IANbAwU50NM/s1600/1-ChixCheeseTostitos2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ekXEHzPOrtY/T-4Nzad4zjI/AAAAAAAAAbo/IANbAwU50NM/s400/1-ChixCheeseTostitos2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken & Pimento Cheese Tostitos (courtesy of My Three Sons)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First up, even though pimento cheese has origins <a href="http://www.robertfmoss.com/2011/02/creating-new-southern-icon-curious.html" target="_blank">outside of the South</a>,
I truly believe after doing a little research that our Southern cooks
made this a native child. No one talks about the dubious parentage. Obviously, this dish has found its home, is welcome, and never has to roam
again.<br />
<br />
Funny thing, before I tasted it, I kept thinking, "What could be so fantastic about a mound of cheddar cheese spread?" That was my first mistake, but fortunately, I didn't utter this sacrilege out loud. I had no idea that when mixed with a small amount of mayonnaise, roasted red peppers and allowed to chill that cheddar cheese becomes transformed to a type of holy food.<br />
<br />
So, I bought a tub of the stuff...from a grocery store. Big mistake, I was told by purists. If you are not going to make it yourself, then at least have the decency to buy from someone who cares! "Alright, alright!" I exclaimed, somewhat embarrassed at my cheesy (<i><b>pun intended</b></i>) attempt.<br />
<br />
My next foray was into a <a href="http://www.harristeeter.com/" target="_blank">Harris Teeter,</a> where they had their own brand and several others jockeying for my attention. I picked out two brands and had an epiphany! Definitely, here were people who cared! OMGoodness! Here is the reason this deliciousness has survived throughout the generations and only continues to get better and better.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9mtqAotWZw/T-4NOnRuxJI/AAAAAAAAAbg/LAkDIzBoc6A/s1600/My-Three-Sons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9mtqAotWZw/T-4NOnRuxJI/AAAAAAAAAbg/LAkDIzBoc6A/s400/My-Three-Sons.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Three Sons Original pimento cheese [Description: Tub of pimento cheese]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first brand I picked out was <a href="http://www.mtsgourmet.com/" target="_blank">My Three Sons</a> (MTS) out of Greensboro, NC. That week, they were on sale. The 10 oz tub of goodness, produced by Cheryl and the Barnett/Trentini Family, sported a cheery orange label that was nostalgic and catchy at the same time. Once I opened the lid, I no longer wanted to even try and make pimento cheese on my own! Why mess with such perfect goodness!?!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZxPnolyR1w/T-4PFn03AuI/AAAAAAAAAbw/IDBm63RPpXE/s1600/three-flavors-may12-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="115" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZxPnolyR1w/T-4PFn03AuI/AAAAAAAAAbw/IDBm63RPpXE/s400/three-flavors-may12-image.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three flavors currently on the market from My Three Sons [Description: Emmy's Original, Fire Roasted Jalapeno and Spicy White Cheedar pimento cheese]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
MTS is a chunky version that simply bursts with the tang of high quality cheddar. Nothing much else gets in the way of that taste, and I finished the contents of the generous 10 oz. tub in one short sitting. Based on a family recipe, it retains the feeling of a homemade treasure, something difficult to do once commercial. I decided this brand was a delicacy for me in my stingier moods. I mean, I could try to share it, but more likely, I will point you to the nearest Whole Foods or Fresh Market. No disrespect to any of my BFFs, but it is that good. This tub is mine, get your own. If you are looking for recipes from My Three Sons, please go <a href="http://www.mtsgourmet.com/servingsuggestions.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
Next up was Palmetto Pimento Cheese in a slightly larger tub of 12 oz. Manufactured out of Pawley's Island, South Carolina by Sea View Inn owners, Sassy and Brian, this version piles on the flavor as well with just a little heat in both of the flavors I tried. I bought a Jalepeno and a Bacon, and while the Jalepeno was pleasantly mild enough to eat with crackers, tortilla chips and my personal favorite, BBQ potato chips, the Bacon has become a household mainstay.The minute you peel back the cover, the smoky bacon aroma hits you, and the combination of cheese and bacon comes together so smoothly, your mind will automatically begin to think "How many different ways can I use this?"<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjeJ-Hw8mi8/T_jjGBDGbRI/AAAAAAAAAeE/S3CwTKs_TxI/s1600/palmettocheese-tub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjeJ-Hw8mi8/T_jjGBDGbRI/AAAAAAAAAeE/S3CwTKs_TxI/s400/palmettocheese-tub.jpg" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palmetto Cheese. Go to the website to read the story about the woman featured on the lid.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">[Description: Three tubs of Palmetto Pimento cheese stacked on top of each other: Jalapenos, Original, Bacon]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At a Palmetto Cheese demo in Harris Teeter, I picked up recipes for a Sausage Dip and Deviled Eggs. But, please, go to the <a href="http://www.pimentocheese.com/servingtips.php" target="_blank">website </a>and look through all their recipes. We have already made the Cheesy Grits, and I have eaten this stuff on everything from ice-cold celery sticks to whole wheat toasted tortilla triangles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
So, as you have probably guessed by now, I am a convert. There will be a tub of pimento cheese in my fridge at any given time of the year. I am stuck on these two brands, but please feel free to let me know of a favorite brand where you live. Also, if you have a favorite recipe (possibly passed down from a past generation?), and you feel like sharing, please feel free to post a link or the whole recipe!<br />
<br />
Pimento Cheese. You don't have to be southern to love it, but realize if you live anywhere near the south, you are going to have someone tell you about "the best pimento cheese in town!" And, I will be in line!<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-32352662419377985452012-07-10T11:19:00.000-07:002012-07-11T13:24:26.674-07:00A Two Hour Visit to the White House is Worth 24 Hours of TravelI was all set to release a post on one of my new favorite foods sampled here in Charlotte, North Carolina, when I received an invitation from the White House <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/about/internships/departments" target="_blank">Office of Digital Strategy</a> to be present at remarks by President Obama in Washington, D.C. Now, I am not going to get into a political tizzy with anyone on my blog or on my Facebook page over how others would have responded to this invitation. I have followers of all political persuasions and I promote debate, not derision of parties, people or causes. But, I could not pass up the opportunity to see our President in person and up close. Whatever you may think, and I have always been open to opposing ideas and comments, I would have traveled across the continent to be able to sit near this historic president. <br />
<br />
After RSVP'ing for that event, I was then asked if I would like to sit in on
an intimate conversation with a member of the President's <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/nec" target="_blank">National Economic Council</a>. The session entailed a more personal conversation; talking to real homeowners who need help keeping their homes and understanding the updated refinance initiative called <a href="http://www.makinghomeaffordable.gov/programs/lower-rates/Pages/harp.aspx/" target="_blank">HARP 2.0</a> (Home Affordable Refinance Program). Of course, I said yes.<br />
<br />
What I thought would be a short trip turned into a 24-hour arduous jaunt complete with sleeping in a Greyhound bus station in the wee hours of Monday morning along with stranded Russian hostel students and homeless people. It involved me packing so lightly that I did not take even a camera (though there were smartphones everywhere snapping pictures I would love to have!). It involved me thinking deeply about what I wanted to do with my new-found life of disability awareness and advocacy.<br />
<br />
After that lengthy and painful travel time with true representations of Americans on those Greyhound buses. my mind began to see just how difficult it is to lead a group of people toward change. Everyone comes with their own experiences and mindsets. And, everyone has a different view of their life and final destination. I marvel at the ability of our leaders, on any level, to affect change; in systems, in attitudes, in lifestyles and in civil rights. <br />
<br />
You see, regardless of your political position, to become part of the real process of change, it is important to engage in conversation with the current participants. It is easy to armchair run a country or a board meeting or a business, but when you sit in a room with 20 other citizens, hear their stories, and converse on the merits of bills, initiatives, and future laws, it becomes more important and farther reaching than a 160 character tweet. When you get to weigh in with a question and a comment on real life experiences in an advocacy training program, it has far more impact than a Facebook link and clicking a toggle Like button.<br />
<br />
It was my first time in the White House. My body rebelled on me several times with legs cramps, fatigue and dizziness along the way, but I was determined to be there. I met a wonderful husband and wife, <a href="https://plus.google.com/107977841885787413038/posts" target="_blank">Reverend Bruce S. Jones and his wife, Letha</a>, who talked with me with excitement about this event; their first visit as well. We all felt a part of something important, even if it was just for us. Ushered into the room full of news cameras and bright lights made me realize the nature of true engagement. It can never truly be captured on television or experienced through a screen. It has to be up close, personal. You have to show up.<br />
<br />
When the president walked in the room behind a group of Americans, I was struck again how real life is so different from media driven sound bites. He is taller, leaner and so much more handsome in person. I understand the charisma and charm associated with him. His words were not canned or intellectual as he is often portrayed, but very understandable and down to earth. I found myself liking this person even if I still had issues with parts of his policy and how to pay for them. And, he didn't shy away from difference or debate. He welcomed it. So, I understand real leaders are not afraid of difference. They realize difference creates that cohesive glue toward a common future for all. It is the "stuff" of true and lasting change.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Video of President Obama's speech given July 9th, 2012</span></i></div>
<br />
You may not like everyone you meet along the road of life. In advocacy, I have seen disparate groups band together for a common cause. In travel, I saw people form loose cooperatives on a cross country bus in order to keep everyone safe. So, we may not like who we have to negotiate with, but we do it for a common good and a common goal.<br />
<br />
I want to close with something I wrote on Facebook some days ago that seemed to touch a tender spot for so many in the advocacy world. If you've read it before, sorry for the repeat, but after this trip, I feel it bears repeating.They are words that just flew off my keyboard as if they existed already, and they spoke to a deeper part of all of us. It has become my mantra; my mission and guiding principle in this advocacy world. I have to thank <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/author/Erin%20Lindsay" target="_blank">Erin Lindsay</a>, Deputy Director of Online Engagement for her invitation. Little did she know it would cement my dreams and goals.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><b>Collaboration among people with different disabilities is so important.
No, you may not understand what it is like to use a wheelchair when you
have a hearing impairment. Or you may not understand why captioning is
so important when you deal with a child with autism. But, if you take
the time to listen and lend support, you now have an ally. One that will
listen and be there when you need assistance. Collaboration builds
strong bridges made up of committed overachievers, ready to focus their
energies against your foe, our foe, any foe that diminishes our quality
of life and our pursuit of success; whatever we define that to be.</b></i></blockquote>
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<br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-18214459453605870422012-06-27T10:04:00.003-07:002012-06-27T10:26:50.780-07:00Food Trucks in Charlotte and the Triangle<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mmXBXgN5ywQ/T-s8QfwUN0I/AAAAAAAAAbM/DqNeE3CaIjs/s1600/Food+Trucks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mmXBXgN5ywQ/T-s8QfwUN0I/AAAAAAAAAbM/DqNeE3CaIjs/s400/Food+Trucks.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food Trucks [Description: Row of brightly colored food trucks lined up]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The great thing about writing a blog is how many people you connect to who also write blogs. When it comes to food blogs, there are so many of us out there, and I love it when we end up having the same train of thought.<br />
<br />
Recently this happened when I came across <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/kathleenpurvis" target="_blank">Kathleen Purvis</a>' blog <a href="http://obsbite.blogspot.com/2012/06/serious-eats-loves-food-trucks-in.html" target="_blank">I'll Bite</a>. Her post today showcased <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/#" target="_blank">Serious Eats</a> beautifully photographed <a href="http://www.seriouseats.com/2012/06/our-8-favorite-food-trucks-in-the-triangle-north-carolina-raleigh-durham-nc.html?ref=pop_serious_eats" target="_blank">slideshow of Food Trucks</a> in the Triangle. <br />
<br />
I love food trucks. The ones here in Charlotte have so much personality and variety. The chefs are as interesting as the menus. Most of them are in parking lots on level ground suitable for walkers and wheelchairs. Everyone is usually friendly and eager to explain the menu options and their ingredients.<br />
<br />
There is a Charlotte Observer's interactive <a href="http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/03/15/3099423/interactive-map-charlotte-food.html" target="_blank">list </a>of Charlotte's regular and up and coming trucks, but here is a <a href="http://www.charlottemagazine.com/Charlotte-Magazine/April-2012/Local-Flavor-Food-Trucks/" target="_blank">list</a> of a few food trucks for those with screen readers.<br />
<br />
Here are some tips for enjoying our local food trucks: <br />
<ol>
<li>Check their websites, FB or Twitter accounts to keep up the ever-changing menus and location sites that can change due to private party rentals and bad weather.</li>
<li>Go early. Many food trucks can and will sell out. Make sure you don't miss out!</li>
<li>Support food trucks laws that keep vendors clean, safe and providing the best quality fare.</li>
<li>Share the bounty with others, especially those who may not be able to get to a location.</li>
<li>Look out for rallies where food trucks gather together. This is usually a great place to relax, stay for awhile and listen to local bands or performers.</li>
</ol>
Enjoy! <br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-18550721410041789342012-06-25T16:28:00.001-07:002012-06-25T16:28:43.483-07:00The Internet - The Circle of Food...and LifeInterestingly enough, the Internet brings us more information than we want or even need. But, like it or not, it has changed the way we find information and connect with people.<br />
<br />
While some decry its affect to keep people from going out of their homes and link it to <a href="http://www.netaddictionrecovery.com/the-problem/internet-addiction/research/146-internet-use-and-its-relationship-to-loneliness.html" target="_blank">loneliness</a>, it has been and will continue to be an excellent tool to connect those who can not leave their living spaces. Friends now stretch across miles and continents, and every evening can be spent interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds. It doesn't matter if the person is living in a nursing home, a group home or their own home.<br />
<br />
When I spent a year in a wheelchair due to back problems (spinal stenosis) and nerve damage (RSD), being able to connect to others through the Internet helped with everything from diagnoses, treatment and camaraderie. It kept information and entertainment coming into the house, so my children and I could feel less isolated and open to depression.<br />
<br />
I have tried to explain my connection to people whom I've never met to people I see regularly in life, and some get it, others don't. Those who get it go on to have a double rich friendship due to the fact that we will "see" each other online as well as later on in the week.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;">My favorite spot right now is <a href="http://www.facebook.com/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. Yes, I know there are
other communities, but it is like the difference between an major city
and a rural dot on the map of information. </span></blockquote>
In our home, the technology of this world-wide network has enabled us to connect with others dealing with similar disabling conditions, consult with doctors who would not normally be accessible and make friends with folks that know exactly what we are facing in our day to day life. The best part of this is how much we can share! Now, you know where I am going with this!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hV0F4jD4TMQ/T6hipBAWL1I/AAAAAAAAAXA/gvcfLHJTo2o/s1600/Thanksgiving+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dinner table with food" border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hV0F4jD4TMQ/T6hipBAWL1I/AAAAAAAAAXA/gvcfLHJTo2o/s400/Thanksgiving+2010.jpg" title="Dinner table with food" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our 1st Thanksgiving Dinner in Charlotte, NC- 2010 [Description: Long table with red tablecloth covered with brimming serving dishes, fine china and crystal glasses, long red taper candles and containers of eggnog and cranberry Ginger Ale. Serving dishes filled with roasted chicken, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, giblet and sausage stuffing and green beans. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love to share food pics, interesting recipes and my latest creations! Now, I will never tell you I am a food critic or food connoisseur, but I know what I like when I see it. And, so do a bunch of my friends apparently. We all have <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judielise" target="_blank">Facebook pages</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/judielise/photos" target="_blank">albums</a>. You can learn to make a new dish every night just through <a href="http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=cooking&oq=cooking&aq=f&aqi=g10&aql=&gs_l=youtube-psuggest.3..0l10.672.1426.0.1597.7.6.0.1.1.0.79.373.6.6.0...0.0." target="_blank">YouTube </a><span id="goog_588802449"></span><span id="goog_588802450"></span>videos. Food blogs abound and email newsletters go a long way as well. One of the latest ones I love is <a href="http://crockingirls.com/" target="_blank">Crockin' Girls</a>. Two new feathers in the digital image cap has been <a href="http://instagr.am/" target="_blank">Instagram </a>and <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest </a>(a site I cannot stay on long without creating ingredient shopping lists!) which provide space to post pics and pin even more items culinar-ily (not sure this is a word, but hey, it's my blog. I like it!) rich to the eye.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/155349_1760242087232_1274441548_32047455_2840801_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Thanksgiving plate: Chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, string beans, mac and cheese with whole berry cranberry sauce" border="0" height="300" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/155349_1760242087232_1274441548_32047455_2840801_n.jpg" title="Thanksgiving plate: Chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, string beans, mac and cheese with whole berry cranberry sauce" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Thanksgiving plate! Yum! [Description: China plate filled with stuffing, green bean, macaroni and cheese, chicken, whole cranberry sauce. Behind plate is crystal glasses filled with Cranberry Ginger Ale and perfectly chilled Moscato wine]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, if you are a foodie on a fixed income, use the Internet to its fullest capacity. I have visited Japan to see how Takoyaki and Gyoza are made. I have learned step-by-step instructions for vegan sausage. After buying a cast iron pan at a yard sale, I've discovered how to make aebleskiver from the Solvang Restaurant in Denmark. The sites I've linked below are a great way to get started! Here is another good plan:<br />
<br />
1. Pick one recipe that you can create that does not create a financial dent in the budget.<br />
2. Make your signature dish and snap a picture of it with a cellphone or webcam. Don't have one?<br />
Borrow one from someone around you (friend, family or counselor) and ask them to email it to<br />
you. <br />
3. Share it in an album and let the comments begin!<br />
4. When asked (and you will get asked!), share the recipe! Notes are perfect for this in Facebook.<br />
<br />
As my life changes now, I find we entertain more and more people, and the joy of having someone at the dinner table is still a great rush. But, I never forget my virtual dinner guests waiting to share and enjoy!<br />
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Do you have some sites that you would like to share with me? Post them below in the comments!<br />
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More foodie links I love:<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Food-So-Good-Mall/197663920257181" target="_blank">Food So Good Mall</a><br />
<a href="http://food.com/">Food.com</a><span id="goog_588802465"></span><span id="goog_588802466"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a> (formerly Recipezaar.com)<br />
<a href="http://veganlunchbox.blogspot.com/">Vegan Lunch Box</a><br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-89575765567939582902012-06-21T16:24:00.000-07:002012-06-23T14:45:48.548-07:00Community Gardening and Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/SKbRfPZkjVE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Video from community gardening tour 2010. To view with closed captioning, please open video in Youtube.</span></div>
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Had the chance to attend a local event showcasing community gardening. <a href="http://canyoudigitcharlotte.org/" target="_blank"><b>Can You Dig It</b>, </a>a community garden tour promoted by the <span id="goog_575266473"></span><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_575266476">Mecklenburg County Fruit & Vegetable<span id="goog_575266474"></span></a><a href="http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/MCFVC/Pages/Default.aspx" target="_blank"> Coalition</a> (MCFVC)</b> was the second community garden tour put on by the group since the first one in 2010 (<i>video above is from 2010</i>). It was set up as a self-guided tour, which was wonderful because it allowed you to take your time or pick which locations you want to visit.<br />
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Inherent to gardens, accessibility is not easy. Out of the five locations, I can only think of two, <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/athertonmillandmarket" target="_blank">Atherton Mill Farmer's Market</a></b> and the garden at <b><a href="http://www.cumccharlotte.com/" target="_blank">Central United Methodist</a></b> that were arranged near a large parking lot with handicapped parking spaces and on level ground that would support a wheelchair or someone with mobility/balance issues. Although Central UM did not have a ramp into the garden when I was there, I am sure they would accommodate if needed.<br />
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The other gardens were wonderful with beautiful examples of everything from social, communal gardening to intensive gardening where plants are grouped close together to promote insect control and water conservation. There were plenty of free plants to take home and presentations at each garden that truly gave a personal touch. But, I realized that I could not enjoy these gems with any of my friends who need wheelchair access without risking them becoming stuck in the dirt, mud or uneven ground or having a difficult ascent to the actual location of the garden.<br />
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While I understand this didn't cross anyone's mind when the gardens were conceived or built, it created a conundrum for me. Out of all the locations where actual gardening took place, only one; Central UM, was conceived and built with accessibility in mind. In fact, one of the speakers, Jackson, met us in his wheelchair to show off his raised bed and how he had a part in building the woodwork around the site.<br />
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Far from being only an inspirational character, he showed how accessibility to communal gardening benefited him in simple, practical ways. It was a place where he could show his talents with woodwork, grow his own produce to supplement his food-style, and make sure others had what they needed. Before the tour was over, he and I exchanged phone numbers so he could help me with a raised bed plan for my own garden as well as possibly building a picnic table for my backyard.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.meetup.com/Charlotte-Gardeners-and-Permacultureist/photos/7971472/#116424132" target="_blank">Slideshow of the 2012 Can You Dig It Garden Tour </a></span></div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">[Slideshow does not have captions or descriptions. Will try to get site to update images. </span>]</div>
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I came home still wondering if more people with disabilities would participate if they were involved in the planning of these gardens from the "ground up." Even at the Winterfield Garden that has the great distinction of being the only Parks and Recs garden working with a public school, there wasn't a designated accessible path to get to the garden beyond trekking up an incline. I also didn't see any raised beds. <br />
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I hope to be involved with MCFVC in the future as a volunteer, and as the hope is that there will be gardens across Mecklenburg County, especially on the grounds of public schools, I hope to bring the idea of accessibility to the proverbial table, along with the conversation of how to bring fresh, local fruits and vegetables to more people in our communities.<br />
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How about where you live? Are the community gardens, which receive funds, materials and assistance from your local governments, accessible to all? Is it openly promoted to local groups dealing with persons with disabilities so that they are aware of these resources and social activities? Drop a line and let me know.<br />
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<b><i>Resources for the Greater Charlotte area:</i></b><br />
<i><a href="http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/05/15/3241916/interactive-map-2012-farmers-markets.html" target="_blank">Interactive Map of Charlotte's Farmer's Markets</a></i><br />
<a href="http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/parkandrec/facilities/pages/community%20gardens.aspx" target="_blank"><i>List of County Community Gardens</i></a><br />
<i><a href="http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/MCFVC/Pages/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Mecklenburg County Fruits & Vegetables Coalition (MCFVC)</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://www.sowmuchgood.org/" target="_blank">Sow Much Good</a></i><br />
<i><a href="http://charmeck.org/mecklenburg/county/HealthDepartment/MCFVC/Pages/fieldtofork.aspx" target="_blank">Field To Fork Program</a></i><br />
<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3036200616252682907.post-55009231017273849562012-06-19T17:19:00.002-07:002012-06-23T14:42:59.783-07:00Accessible Parking, the ADA and You<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Nzq6B6bYtg/T-EAX1mCsGI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/3_beiJKPtbU/s1600/chap9-9_figure12.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Nzq6B6bYtg/T-EAX1mCsGI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/3_beiJKPtbU/s400/chap9-9_figure12.gif" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grid and layout of accessible parking spaces and access aisles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Went to a meeting with Disability Rights and Resources today to listen to a conference call about Accessible Parking and the ADA.<br />
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First of all, I am happy it is called Accessible Parking now. Never liked Handicapped Parking. Many people who are not in wheelchairs also need to be closer to their destination when they travel. My children and I all have invisible disabilities that interfere with our endurance, especially in hot weather. Often, I see people look at me when I emerge from my car without getting a wheelchair. I often want to tell them, I may look good going in, but most times, I look very tired and stressed by the time I come out. But, I digress.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<h3>
While the ADA is a wide-sweeping civil rights document, often it is
almost too broad and can be interpreted differently by each city, town
or locale. In fact, the speaker mentioned that an establishment does not
have a specific blueprint on how it lays out its parking spots. </h3>
</blockquote>
Today's call covered how accessible parking relates to the Title II and III sections of the ADA. I am the first to admit that most of these calls leave me a little dry. While the ADA is a wide-sweeping civil rights document, often it is almost too broad and can be interpreted differently by each city, town or locale. In fact, the speaker mentioned that an establishment does not have a specific blueprint on how it lays out its parking spots.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7dCdjS7zuc/T-EAwUReEFI/AAAAAAAAAaE/nMX4m7QAPQ8/s1600/43-lower-acc-pkng-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7dCdjS7zuc/T-EAwUReEFI/AAAAAAAAAaE/nMX4m7QAPQ8/s400/43-lower-acc-pkng-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's the front door? [Description: Accessible parking space next to woods]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That would explain why some restaurants or convenience stores have the accessible spots so far away from the front door.<br />
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Other things I learned:<br />
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1. All religious entities are exempt. Even if they own a day-care center on or off the property they own. They do not have to comply to the ADA when it comes to parking. That was news to me and made me feel grateful for the churches I've attended where there was ample and easily identifiable accessible parking.<br />
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2. Under the Title 1 section of the ADA, the business must have at least 15 employees to come under the ADA. guidelines. And, for every four spots, one has to be accessible. But, the more important point for me is that many small businesses would be exempt from the ADA, but would probably benefit from hiring workers with disabilities. This made me think that as we network small businesses, there needs to be a discussion on how to make sure they are welcoming to employees with disabilities.<br />
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3. Valet parking (with the new 2010 standards) has to have accessible spaces. Yaaay! I mean, I don't get out all the time, but in my mind, I always want to be able to do anything anyone else wants to do and not become restricted based on my or my children's need for accessibility.<br />
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There were more items and I will post them when the entire presentation is uploaded (in about 2 weeks), but for now, I just want to touch upon some of the problems brought up by attendees.<br />
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One had to do with accessible parking being on a street where no parking was allowed after 11pm, while establishments in the neighborhood stayed open until 2am. This sounded like a bar/restaurant and so it immediately peaked my interest. Unfortunately, there was no perfect answer for the person asking. Since no one could park on the street after 11pm, it was not discriminatory, but someone using a wheelchair did not have safe access if they parked on another street. The ADA couldn't help anyone in that situation.<br />
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This is where I know if the establishment knew the problem, perhaps a safe accessible place could be created. I would approach the business and let them know they are losing some customers. In this case, ignorance costs.<br />
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Another problem was a parking space that was accessible to wheelchairs and scooters, but the meter for the space was not.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOMzXUKiC-Q/T-EWageMrdI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/w0UUqqJB8ns/s1600/400073-elderly-man-buying-a-car-parking-ticket-for-a-car-park-from-a-solar-powered-ticket-machine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vOMzXUKiC-Q/T-EWageMrdI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/w0UUqqJB8ns/s400/400073-elderly-man-buying-a-car-parking-ticket-for-a-car-park-from-a-solar-powered-ticket-machine.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solar powered parking meter- Good for the environment, but are they accessible?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
WTHeck! Who came up with that bright one!?! And, the guy got a ticket while trying to figure it out! Of course, I hope he was going to fight it. Before a judge that ticket could barely stand up. But, who designs these things? Why aren't they field-tested for everyone? Who makes a space accessible and forgets that someone using a wheelchair may have to deposit the fare?<br />
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At the end of the meeting, there wasn't much conversation, but I felt energized. Even as a user of accessible parking, I looked at the entire thing with new eyes. I am now looking out to see how to educate the community about the accessible parking. I am hoping to help others understand the nuances of these spaces.<br />
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Like the access space between cars. Do not park there! It is not a space. It is illegal and even the police need to understand that the car should be issued a ticket for illegal parking.<br />
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Now, let me know what accessible parking looks like where you live. Do you have problems using the spaces to dine out or work? Do you run into a lot of violators? Are there enough spaces or are they too far way from the front doors of the business or building?<br />
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Let me know how you protect our accessible parking.<br />
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<br />foodie4accesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18330907602345940970noreply@blogger.com2