Easter Candy

The “G-Free foodie” blogger has done quite a bit of research about GF Easter Candy.  Thanks for all the information!

April Meeting

We are less than one week away from our April meeting!  Remember to bring your favorite (shelf-stable) gluten-free product(s) to show attendees.  If you have a favorite refrigerated or frozen product, you can either bring the label or just write down the product information.  We will compile a list of all your favorites and send that out to members via email.  Let’s share, learn, and make life a little easier for everyone.

Thinking about coming for the first time?  Know someone who has to avoid gluten but has not come to a meeting?  Tell them that memberships are a bargain at $10/year.  Besides the discount at Health Wise Foods, many companies are eager to send samples of their products to our group members.  Remember that we will be treated to gluten free fare from Jason’s Deli at next week’s meeting, 4/28 (6-7 p.m.).

Over 60?

The Gluten Intolerance Group of North America, in cooperation with the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, has compiled a brochure specifically for those over age 60.  Here is the direct link: http://www.gluten.net/downloads/print/Over60brochure.pdf

Health Wise Foods

Have you been to Health Wise Foods lately?  The gluten free products section has been greatly expanded and Steve has plans for even more offerings.  I love that our membership card means 10 percent savings every time!  As I shopped today, the IRS tax filing deadline day, I was struck by the thought that the GIG-Montgomery membership card basically paid for the taxes on my purchase!

Jason’s Deli

So encouraging to have positive interactions with the Montgomery restaurant community.  I have already bragged on Zoe’s Kitchen; now let me tell you about Jason’s Deli.  The manager is doing a great job of training his staff about cross-contamination.  Some who must avoid gluten have passed up Jason’s Deli due to this concern.  I have always been a “vocal” customer, ensuring that any restaurant takes great care in preparing my son’s food.  I was so pleasantly surprised by a recent visit, as the manager on duty was on top of everything.  I ordered a made-to-order sandwich (which comes on the larger Udi’s bread) and chips as the side.  The manager said that he would open a new bag.   The GF sandwich was made in a separate area and then delivered on a separate tray from the rest of our party’s food.

Jason’s Deli will be providing samples for our next meeting on Thursday, April 28^th.  Beyond a tray of GF sandwiches, the manager has offered a sampling of their GF soups and salads.  Just like Zoe’s, Jason’s has a separate GF Menu, which also includes some baked potato options.  Just having a GF menu does not guarantee attention to cross-contamination so I am thrilled with the training at Jason’s.

Wall Street Journal Article

Speaking of Dr. Fasano…a more recent article.  What I appreciate most about this interview is the validation of gluten sensitivity/intolerance when the celiac serology is negative.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704893604576200393522456636.html

Interview with Dr. Fasano

I came across this article recently.  Even though it is almost a year old, I always love to read what Dr. Fasano has to say and thought perhaps someone else would as well.

http://www.glutenfreeliving.com/Browse/file/GFL_Fasano_interview.pdf

Many Thanks to Zoe’s Kitchen

Many thanks to Zoe’s Kitchen for providing such generous samples of its famous chicken salad.  Not only has it always been gluten free, but now the menu item has been included as part of a separate GF menu.  We passed out sample menus at the last meeting, but you can also view it here: Zoe's Kitchen GF Menu

Zoe’s managers have been some of the friendliest in town and most willing to listen to suggestions.  While GIG-Montgomery would not receive any tangible benefit from you doing so, I would love to hear that our members sent a note of thanks.  I am sure that any comments you post on the corporate website feedback link (http://www.zoeskitchen.com/feedback.asp) would eventually reach Montgomery’s management, but you can also contact the store directly:  334-270-9115.

Finally, congratulations to John & Mary Ficzere for winning the Zoe’s gift card for a dinner for 4.  As you can see on Zoe’s website, there are several yummy options to use that card!