PLEASE NOTE THAT MANY OF THESE POSTS ARE NOW OUTDATED. PLEASE NOTE THE DATES OF THESE POSTS. I HAVE SIMPLY TRANSFERRED OLD POSTINGS TO THIS NEW FORMAT!
WWW.GLUTENFREEFORTWAYNE.BLOGSPOT.COM
Please go to the new blog at www.glutenfreefortwayne.blogspot.com.
You can also join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com.glutenfreefortwayne.
You can still email at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com.
I will not be updating the myspace page.
Feb 20, 2011
It's still under construction, but go check it out at: http://glutenfreefortwayne.blogspot.com/.
Eventually I will have a section of links for favorite GF products, favorite Celiac/GF blogs, and favorite Celiac/GF websites.
I haven't updated my links here on myspace in some time, so once this is all put together, it may look quite different. So much has changed and I have learned so much since originally organizing this page. This is also why I will only be listing my favorites- in the beginning, I tried to list everything I could find on here, but if I did that now, there would just be too much to make sense of it all.
I do have local links posted and a few blog postings already.
Please check it out.
You can also email glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com with any questions.
Eventually I will have a section of links for favorite GF products, favorite Celiac/GF blogs, and favorite Celiac/GF websites.
I haven't updated my links here on myspace in some time, so once this is all put together, it may look quite different. So much has changed and I have learned so much since originally organizing this page. This is also why I will only be listing my favorites- in the beginning, I tried to list everything I could find on here, but if I did that now, there would just be too much to make sense of it all.
I do have local links posted and a few blog postings already.
Please check it out.
You can also email glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com with any questions.
Anybody been there before?
I have recently been contacted by them and intend to check them out soon. Some highlights of the correspondence include:
- all of their soups are gluten free except the chicken noodle
- all soups are homemade, made fresh daily; no flour is used as thickener
- they have an employee with Celiac, so this is real to them
- they are hoping to get a GF wrap soon
They are excited about working with us in offering GF foods and welcome input.
They are located on Jefferson in the same plaza as Chops- please give them a try.
Let me know about your experiences here or at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com
I have recently been contacted by them and intend to check them out soon. Some highlights of the correspondence include:
- all of their soups are gluten free except the chicken noodle
- all soups are homemade, made fresh daily; no flour is used as thickener
- they have an employee with Celiac, so this is real to them
- they are hoping to get a GF wrap soon
They are excited about working with us in offering GF foods and welcome input.
They are located on Jefferson in the same plaza as Chops- please give them a try.
Let me know about your experiences here or at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com
The Olive Twist is a new place in town that I think could be a great asset to those of us trying to keep things simple yet delicious in our home cooking due to food allergies or celiac disease. Their website is http://theolivetwist.com/index.html. They have a wide variety of extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars that are gluten free. I have been in contact with the owner and she has been very responsive to my questions- they now have an allergen information sheet available and gluten free crackers are available on request for sampling the oils. I haven't had the chance to check them out yet, but I welcome your thoughts and comments at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com or here on the blog. I'm excited to support a local business who supports our needs!
Jul 15, 2010
Has anybody tried out the new McAlister's Deli at Jefferson Pointe? From looking at their website, it seems like a good spot to check out: http://www.mcalistersdeli.com/nutrition/
Seriously... . it's great bread. I make PB&J, cheese toasties, etc.... it tastes good even if it's not toasted, which is exciting in our world! :)
Next door to the Health Food Shoppe, Firefly is now offering some GF items. Apparently the person who bakes them has a sister with Celiac Disease. They dedicate a day for the GF baking to avoid cross-contamination . It might not hurt to ask questions though..... they thought Rice Krispies were GF. But it's one more option, and if we keep shopping and keep talking, people are going to start to get it more and more.
Speaking of which..... I've been in contact with the owner of B. Antonio's about their GF pizza. He is really on top of things from the business end. I think there's a lot of potential for us there, but I would caution the more sensitive among us that the chance for cc is definitely still pretty strong. He's really open to feedback though, so don't be afraid to contact him on their website.
Okay, one more thing... Mocha Lounge. Have you tried their apple spice cake? YUM!!!! The only down side is that their stuff and Firefly's are a bit pricy.... not as good as Roasted Bean GF food and more expensive, but..... what can you do?
The crusts are made in a dedicated area and come to them on a special tray that follows the pizza through preparation, cooking, cutting, and serving so that contaminated surfaced and utensils do not come into contact with it. A new container of sauce and clean spoon are used for the GF pizzas to avoid cc with sauce and spoons that came into contact with regular gluten crusts. The same goes for utensils used to cut the pizza.
The only concern that is unavoidable in a facility such as this would be airborn flour. Having worked in the pizza business for many years prior to diagnosis, I am very aware of that danger.... though I personally will take my chances to at least give this pizza a try.
I feel from the email I received that they have put a lot of thought and effort into doing this right. What I have included here is just a summary.
Did I mention that I'm very excited to try this pizza?!!!! :)
Acme Bar is now serving New Grist and Redbridge Beers. If I'm not mistaken, this is the first place in Fort Wayne to serve gluten free beer. They are still working on a GF menu- they want to make sure they get it right. Please support this local business as they work to support us!!
May 19, 2010
I just wanted to share with everyone how awesome the food was at Dupont Hospital when I was there in March having a baby. When I did a tour of the hospital and asked about gluten free food, they said to mention it when I checked in and they'd have a dietician work with me and the kitchen staff. I went in there expecting to be disappointed, but right from the start got great treatment- while I was in labor and on a liquid diet, they sent someone out to buy GF broth just in case I wanted it (labor went on FOREVER, so I ended up ordering it more than once!). It was the GF menu that truly impressed me though. They brought me a separate menu to order from, and to be honest, I could've used another day in there to try out all the great options! Pizza, grilled cheese, quesadillas..... it was all DELICIOUS!
May 19, 2010
Have you tried Food Should Taste Good chips? They sell them at the Co-op, The Health Food Shoppe, and Scott's/Kroger. Yum!!!
BeFreeForMe.com is offering a giveaway of goodies from this brand. Check it out at http://www.befreeforme.com/blog/?p=2844#comment-13637. Woo-hoo! Also see the brand's website at http://www.foodshouldtastegood.com/#/home/.
BeFreeForMe.com is offering a giveaway of goodies from this brand. Check it out at http://www.befreeforme.com/blog/?p=2844#comment-13637. Woo-hoo! Also see the brand's website at http://www.foodshouldtastegood.com/#/home/.
I just found out they will be closing as of 5 p.m. on March 31st.
Sad times for the gluten free in the Fort...
Sad times for the gluten free in the Fort...
Are you on Facebook? You can find Roasted Bean on there. That's how I first found out they were closing. When I find anything out, I'll try to post it on here as soon as I can also, just like I did here.
It's a financial decision. She is taking email addresses so she can contact people when she is able to provide her goodies again. She's already had a few opportunities present themselves that she is taking into consideration, so there is still hope for being able to get our favorite GF treats in the future.
Feb 4, 2010
Trolley Bar is now offering GF items! I've always had success eating there in the past (and for the price, I better!)- I went in yesterday intending to just eat from the salad bar, but ended up with a bit more.... First, I noticed right away the sign on the salad bar stating that everything was GF (also no MSG) except for croutons, goldfish, etc. (the obvious glutens). It also said GF breadsticks are available on request. They use Schar breadsticks and keep them in the original plastic until serving them. ALSO on their weekly specials menu, they are making the effort to include at least one GF dish. The waitress also told me that if you call ahead and give them an hour's notice or so, they can prepare GF pasta for you anytime, even if it's not on the menu. I got a pretty awesome chicken pasta dish last night. I believe the pasta is probably Schar also. She said they've gotten so many GF requests lately that they're trying this out right now to see how well it goes over.... so if you can swing a trip to Trolley Bar (hmmm, Valentine's Day??), please do it and show your support and encouragement for GF menu items!!!
Acme will be reopening soon. Here's their website: http://www.theacmebarandgrill.com/
I sent a message asking if they would consider offering a gluten free menu, and this is the reply I received:
Ironically, I was discussing this yesterday with our new manager. We are planning on offering some gluten-free products especially since we intend to do some pasta specials.
We are also going to try to cater to some other special dietary needs as well. I sent a message asking if they would consider offering a gluten free menu, and this is the reply I received:
Ironically, I was discussing this yesterday with our new manager. We are planning on offering some gluten-free products especially since we intend to do some pasta specials.
Thank you for your inquiry..
We are still trying to finish up our kitchen. Hope to see you soon!
Woo-hoo!!!!! This is very exciting!
I'll let you know when I hear anything else.
Jun 24, 2009
Going out for pizza, PART ONE
6-25-09 I had a really great blog started and then it disappeared on me.... grrr.... I'll try again when I'm not mad.
Okay, here's my latest update:
I have found GF Corn, Honey Nut, and Cinnamon Chex (and of course Rice) at the Walmart at Lima & Dupont.
Meijer on Illinois Road has Honey Nut, Strawberry, and Chocolate. They don't have Cinnamon or Corn yet. This is the first location where I've found Strawberry and Chocolate.
None of these locations- or Southtown Walmart- have the Betty Crocker GF mixes yet. Have you seen them around here yet? I know they've been found in Indy and South Bend. Please let us know!! If you're not on myspace, email glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com and I'll post it on here.
Gluten Free Fort Wayne
I have found GF Corn, Honey Nut, and Cinnamon Chex (and of course Rice) at the Walmart at Lima & Dupont.
Meijer on Illinois Road has Honey Nut, Strawberry, and Chocolate. They don't have Cinnamon or Corn yet. This is the first location where I've found Strawberry and Chocolate.
None of these locations- or Southtown Walmart- have the Betty Crocker GF mixes yet. Have you seen them around here yet? I know they've been found in Indy and South Bend. Please let us know!! If you're not on myspace, email glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com and I'll post it on here.
Gluten Free Fort Wayne
I found 3 Betty Crocker mixes at West State Scott's and just got the following message in an email today:
"Found three different Gluten Free Betty Crocker mixes today at the Maplecrest Scotts."
Anybody seen the devil's food cake mix?
"Found three different Gluten Free Betty Crocker mixes today at the Maplecrest Scotts."
Anybody seen the devil's food cake mix?
Jun 15, 2009
Email received Friday, June 12, 2009 in response to gluten inquiry:
June 12, 2009
Dear Rachael,
Thank you for your interest in Red Lobster; it is always a pleasure to hear from our guests.
We appreciate your interest in our menu and the availability of gluten-free items in our restaurants. While we cannot guarantee anything on our menu is gluten-free, we can suggest several menu selections with modifications you should request when ordering. Prior to placing your order, please let your server or the manager-on-duty know that you or someone in your party is gluten intolerant.
Suggested items with noted special preparation instructions:
Appetizer
Chilled Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail - without the cocktail sauce
Salad
Order without croutons and use oil and vinegar dressing
Entrees
North Pacific King Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Snow Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Live Maine Lobster - steamed and served with melted butter
Any "Today's Fresh Fish" - broiled without seasonings
Shrimp - broiled without seasonings or sauces
Chicken* - broiled without marinades, sauces, or seasonings
Steak* - broiled without marinades, sauces, or seasonings
Side-Items
Steamed broccoli - prepared without seasonings
Steamed asparagus - prepared without seasonings
Children's Entrees
Snow Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Broiled fish - broiled without seasonings
Chicken* - broiled without marinades, sauces, and/or seasonings
*Check with the manager-on-duty to ensure chicken or steak items have not been pre-marinated.
While Red Lobster has made diligent efforts to provide complete and current gluten-content information, our kitchens are not allergen-free environments. Changes in recipes, as well as the hand-crafted nature of our food, may result in variations in the ingredient profile of any item.
Red Lobster does not assume any liability for your use of this information. Guests with any special food sensitivities or dietary needs should not rely solely on this information as the basis for deciding whether to consume a particular menu item, and are individually responsible for ensuring that any such menu item meets their individual dietary requirements. Any medical concerns regarding the consumption of these items should be directed to your physician or other healthcare provider. If you would like to speak personally with a Red Lobster representative, please call us at 800-562-7837. Our representatives are available Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Again, thank you for taking the time to contact us.
Sincerely,
Shari
Guest Relations Representative
June 12, 2009
Dear Rachael,
Thank you for your interest in Red Lobster; it is always a pleasure to hear from our guests.
We appreciate your interest in our menu and the availability of gluten-free items in our restaurants. While we cannot guarantee anything on our menu is gluten-free, we can suggest several menu selections with modifications you should request when ordering. Prior to placing your order, please let your server or the manager-on-duty know that you or someone in your party is gluten intolerant.
Suggested items with noted special preparation instructions:
Appetizer
Chilled Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail - without the cocktail sauce
Salad
Order without croutons and use oil and vinegar dressing
Entrees
North Pacific King Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Snow Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Live Maine Lobster - steamed and served with melted butter
Any "Today's Fresh Fish" - broiled without seasonings
Shrimp - broiled without seasonings or sauces
Chicken* - broiled without marinades, sauces, or seasonings
Steak* - broiled without marinades, sauces, or seasonings
Side-Items
Steamed broccoli - prepared without seasonings
Steamed asparagus - prepared without seasonings
Children's Entrees
Snow Crab Legs - steamed and served with melted butter
Broiled fish - broiled without seasonings
Chicken* - broiled without marinades, sauces, and/or seasonings
*Check with the manager-on-duty to ensure chicken or steak items have not been pre-marinated.
While Red Lobster has made diligent efforts to provide complete and current gluten-content information, our kitchens are not allergen-free environments. Changes in recipes, as well as the hand-crafted nature of our food, may result in variations in the ingredient profile of any item.
Red Lobster does not assume any liability for your use of this information. Guests with any special food sensitivities or dietary needs should not rely solely on this information as the basis for deciding whether to consume a particular menu item, and are individually responsible for ensuring that any such menu item meets their individual dietary requirements. Any medical concerns regarding the consumption of these items should be directed to your physician or other healthcare provider. If you would like to speak personally with a Red Lobster representative, please call us at 800-562-7837. Our representatives are available Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Again, thank you for taking the time to contact us.
Sincerely,
Shari
Guest Relations Representative
I found a gluten free box at Meijer on Lima Road today! Except.... I got the last box. So obviously other people saw them before me, but I was excited- I ran over to them when I saw them! :) So they're in town- or at least they were. 
May 9, 2009
Look:
Don't forget your favorite local GF coffee shop, The Roasted Bean, but if you're stranded in a different part of town, these are about 2 bucks and are pretty tasty... although Roasted Bean goodies are fresh, cheaper, and bigger..... but it is another option available to us!
And the smell of orange was just overwhelming opening the package... yum!
Don't forget your favorite local GF coffee shop, The Roasted Bean, but if you're stranded in a different part of town, these are about 2 bucks and are pretty tasty... although Roasted Bean goodies are fresh, cheaper, and bigger..... but it is another option available to us!
And the smell of orange was just overwhelming opening the package... yum!
yay!! :) I LOVE THESE!! :) they are perfect! not too sweet... just right! i'm getting my Whole Family into them (and trust me i have a big one lol) I Can't wait to see what the have for us next! :)
It is important that we keep starbucks in mind...they have a whole line of products that they are going to put out if these go well!
Found at: http://www.palmbeachpost.com/localnews/content/local_news/epaper/2009/04/19/0419celiac.html
Delray Beach group helps celiacs who can't eat real bread, can't afford substitutes
Delray Beach group helps celiacs who can't eat real bread, can't afford substitutes
Sunday, April 19, 2009
When a $12 baguette tempted Phyllis Kessler in a grocery store aisle, she did not scoff at the price, but instead savored the anticipation of a piece of garlic toast.
After all, Kessler hadn't had a good piece of bread for about nine years.
She has celiac disease, and her body cannot tolerate the protein that hides in wheat, barley and rye. A decent gluten-free bread knockoff is hard to find.
But while she savored that loaf-cum-garlic toast, she felt a pang for others with celiac disease who cannot afford to shell out $12 for that baguette or the cheapest $5-a-loaf imitation.
She has celiac disease, and her body cannot tolerate the protein that hides in wheat, barley and rye. A decent gluten-free bread knockoff is hard to find.
But while she savored that loaf-cum-garlic toast, she felt a pang for others with celiac disease who cannot afford to shell out $12 for that baguette or the cheapest $5-a-loaf imitation.
Four months later, Kessler and her Delray Beach-based celiac support group have raised more than $9,000 to help those too poor to buy substitutes.
She and the folks at the Celiac Disease Foundation of South Florida call it their Gluten Free Food Assistance Program. They believe it's the only one like it in the country.
Researchers say one in 133 Americans suffers from celiac disease - once thought to be a rare childhood disorder - although many go undiagnosed because the ailment's symptoms parade as other illnesses or are silent.
The only treatment for the auto-immune disease is a diet devoid of even a crumb of gluten. Left untreated, the disease puts its targets at higher risk for cancer, malnutrition and other auto-immune diseases such as lupus.
Eating gluten-free is not just tricky (it can be found in soy sauce, for example), it's pretty darned expensive.
A study from one of the leading research centers for the disease, the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University, figures that gluten-free groceries cost about 79 percent more than their off-the-shelf counterparts.
That means that instead of paying a buck or two for hot dog buns, someone with celiac disease can throw down $6.39 for four buns. Instead of $2 for a loaf of bread at Publix, try $5.59 for the cheese-and-rice version at Publix GreenWise Market. Pasta? A generic box goes for $1.19 for 16 ounces. Twelve ounces of specialty penne costs $4.29.
Kessler says she spent not hundreds, but thousands of dollars in her first year in trying to find suitable substitutes that did not taste like sand grit or cardboard.
The gluten-free assistance program will offer to supplement family groceries for up to 30 families in Florida this year. The support group believes most of those families will be drawn from Miami to Vero Beach, Kessler said.
To receive aid, families must show that their income meets federal poverty guidelines by proving they live in public housing or receive food stamps, for example. Those who qualify will receive a $25 monthly allowance at one of several approved grocery stores that carry gluten-free foods.
The group's first family is on board: a mother and her daughter from Davie.
The daughter was diagnosed but, according to Kessler, the mother was struggling to feed her.
To contact Phyllis Kessler, call (561) 637-0396 or e-mail her at Pkessler23@aol. com.
She and the folks at the Celiac Disease Foundation of South Florida call it their Gluten Free Food Assistance Program. They believe it's the only one like it in the country.
Researchers say one in 133 Americans suffers from celiac disease - once thought to be a rare childhood disorder - although many go undiagnosed because the ailment's symptoms parade as other illnesses or are silent.
The only treatment for the auto-immune disease is a diet devoid of even a crumb of gluten. Left untreated, the disease puts its targets at higher risk for cancer, malnutrition and other auto-immune diseases such as lupus.
Eating gluten-free is not just tricky (it can be found in soy sauce, for example), it's pretty darned expensive.
A study from one of the leading research centers for the disease, the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University, figures that gluten-free groceries cost about 79 percent more than their off-the-shelf counterparts.
That means that instead of paying a buck or two for hot dog buns, someone with celiac disease can throw down $6.39 for four buns. Instead of $2 for a loaf of bread at Publix, try $5.59 for the cheese-and-rice version at Publix GreenWise Market. Pasta? A generic box goes for $1.19 for 16 ounces. Twelve ounces of specialty penne costs $4.29.
Kessler says she spent not hundreds, but thousands of dollars in her first year in trying to find suitable substitutes that did not taste like sand grit or cardboard.
The gluten-free assistance program will offer to supplement family groceries for up to 30 families in Florida this year. The support group believes most of those families will be drawn from Miami to Vero Beach, Kessler said.
To receive aid, families must show that their income meets federal poverty guidelines by proving they live in public housing or receive food stamps, for example. Those who qualify will receive a $25 monthly allowance at one of several approved grocery stores that carry gluten-free foods.
The group's first family is on board: a mother and her daughter from Davie.
The daughter was diagnosed but, according to Kessler, the mother was struggling to feed her.
To contact Phyllis Kessler, call (561) 637-0396 or e-mail her at Pkessler23@aol. com.
Found at: http://www.sacbee.com/education/story/1787203.html
Rules to protect allergic student upset some in Placer
Rules to protect allergic student upset some in Placer
Published: Friday, Apr. 17, 2009 - 12:00 am | Page 2B
Facing harsh criticism from parents, a Placer County school district is retooling policies it established to protect a kindergartner with severe food allergies.
Kindergarten students at H. Clarke Powers Elementary School in Loomis are required to wash their hands with an anti-microbial soap throughout the day to help prevent a fellow classmate from having an allergic reaction. But some students have developed dry, cracked hands – a few have reportedly suffered sores – from what their parents describe as an obsessive practice that detracts from their already-limited class time.
Parent Julie Kelly said her 5-year-old daughter's knuckles are cracked and the kindergartner is on doctor's orders to use only water while washing until the dry skin goes away.
"We're keeping one child safe at the expense of 39 children's health," she said.
Loomis Union School District officials, however, said the hand washing is not excessive.
While some parents have claimed the hand washing takes more than 40 minutes from instruction time during the kindergartners' day, Principal Glenn Lockwood said the hand washing is done before the school day starts as part of the children's morning routine, after snack or lunch time and as needed after bathroom breaks or messy lessons.
"This is not instruction time," he said.
The practice was implemented at the start of the school year, after the mother of the allergic child approached the district in August.
The mother, who requested her identity be kept anonymous to protect her child from further criticism, said the washing was among recommendations made by the child's allergist and given to school officials as part of her child's individual health plan.
Schools are required by law to make accommodations for children with disabilities or medical needs. Severe food allergies are considered a medical need, said Bonnie Branstrom, a nutrition education consultant for the state Department of Education.
A plan was devised and other parents were sent letters alerting them to the student's severe food allergies and the need to keep the kindergarten classroom a "peanut free, corn free, egg free zone," the document states. Parents also were asked to not pack certain foods in their children's lunches.
The mother said she only requested that hand washing occur when "hygienically necessary," which includes an initial washing before entering the classroom, in case breakfast residue was on a child's hands.
The soap in question is a gentle anti-microbial soap intended for doctor and nurses to use between seeing patients and safe for between 30 to 50 uses per day, according to its packaging.
"It just comes down to keeping a fellow classmate – a child – alive," the mother said. "It's not like we're asking them to do something dangerous."
Although some of the kindergartners' practices, such as where and what they can eat, were altered last month as part of a transition to first grade, hand washing will continue to be part of the students' day, officials said.
"If any parent comes to me with a health issue, we will take the plan and work it out for that parent and activity," Lockwood said, later adding that the school is "responsible for every child and making sure every child is safe and protected."
The district is drafting a comprehensive allergy response policy that it will discuss at its May board of trustees meeting, Superintendent Paul Johnson said.
It also plans to hire a medical allergist to provide advice and direction on the policy.
"This is an opportunity to take (the plan) and widen it to students, schools and the district," he said. "It will be a safer environment for all the students."
Christine Wunder, whose daughter attends kindergarten at the school, said parents have been asking the district to re-examine the allergy issues for several months and are frustrated that the district didn't develop a more inclusive plan sooner.
"Without education, without awareness, without a comprehensive program, everyone is being put at risk," she said.
Having an allergy plan in a school or district is very important and can help foster understanding among students, parents and staff, said Dr. Julie McNairn, a Middletown, Ohio-based allergist and member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
"If there can be education on both sides, there can be better understanding on both ends of the issue and a compromise can be generated," she said.
The Bee's Niesha Lofing can be reached at (916) 321-1270.
Kindergarten students at H. Clarke Powers Elementary School in Loomis are required to wash their hands with an anti-microbial soap throughout the day to help prevent a fellow classmate from having an allergic reaction. But some students have developed dry, cracked hands – a few have reportedly suffered sores – from what their parents describe as an obsessive practice that detracts from their already-limited class time.
Parent Julie Kelly said her 5-year-old daughter's knuckles are cracked and the kindergartner is on doctor's orders to use only water while washing until the dry skin goes away.
"We're keeping one child safe at the expense of 39 children's health," she said.
Loomis Union School District officials, however, said the hand washing is not excessive.
While some parents have claimed the hand washing takes more than 40 minutes from instruction time during the kindergartners' day, Principal Glenn Lockwood said the hand washing is done before the school day starts as part of the children's morning routine, after snack or lunch time and as needed after bathroom breaks or messy lessons.
"This is not instruction time," he said.
The practice was implemented at the start of the school year, after the mother of the allergic child approached the district in August.
The mother, who requested her identity be kept anonymous to protect her child from further criticism, said the washing was among recommendations made by the child's allergist and given to school officials as part of her child's individual health plan.
Schools are required by law to make accommodations for children with disabilities or medical needs. Severe food allergies are considered a medical need, said Bonnie Branstrom, a nutrition education consultant for the state Department of Education.
A plan was devised and other parents were sent letters alerting them to the student's severe food allergies and the need to keep the kindergarten classroom a "peanut free, corn free, egg free zone," the document states. Parents also were asked to not pack certain foods in their children's lunches.
The mother said she only requested that hand washing occur when "hygienically necessary," which includes an initial washing before entering the classroom, in case breakfast residue was on a child's hands.
The soap in question is a gentle anti-microbial soap intended for doctor and nurses to use between seeing patients and safe for between 30 to 50 uses per day, according to its packaging.
"It just comes down to keeping a fellow classmate – a child – alive," the mother said. "It's not like we're asking them to do something dangerous."
Although some of the kindergartners' practices, such as where and what they can eat, were altered last month as part of a transition to first grade, hand washing will continue to be part of the students' day, officials said.
"If any parent comes to me with a health issue, we will take the plan and work it out for that parent and activity," Lockwood said, later adding that the school is "responsible for every child and making sure every child is safe and protected."
The district is drafting a comprehensive allergy response policy that it will discuss at its May board of trustees meeting, Superintendent Paul Johnson said.
It also plans to hire a medical allergist to provide advice and direction on the policy.
"This is an opportunity to take (the plan) and widen it to students, schools and the district," he said. "It will be a safer environment for all the students."
Christine Wunder, whose daughter attends kindergarten at the school, said parents have been asking the district to re-examine the allergy issues for several months and are frustrated that the district didn't develop a more inclusive plan sooner.
"Without education, without awareness, without a comprehensive program, everyone is being put at risk," she said.
Having an allergy plan in a school or district is very important and can help foster understanding among students, parents and staff, said Dr. Julie McNairn, a Middletown, Ohio-based allergist and member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
"If there can be education on both sides, there can be better understanding on both ends of the issue and a compromise can be generated," she said.
The Bee's Niesha Lofing can be reached at (916) 321-1270.
Apr 20, 2009
I haven't seen anymore Honey Nut Chex since I cleared out the Meijer on Lima Road... though I haven't been back for a minute, so maybe they have more....? I don't know. Those are the ones I really want because they're great snacks; however, for now the Corn Chex will have to do. I know of gluten free Corn Chex sightings at West State Scott's and Apple Glen Walmart.
Has anybody seen any of the new GF Chex cereals anywhere else? Let us know!! If you're reading this and not on myspace, you can email me at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com and I'll post your responses on here.
One of these days (maybe this summer when I have time off from teaching...?), I'm thinking I'm going to have get a "regular" website. I keep hearing of people who come to Gluten Free Fort Wayne here on myspace who aren't even myspace users and are maybe a little weirded out or something.... I don't know. But perhaps it's getting to be time. But I'll definitely keep the myspace still.
Anyhow, let me know where you see Chex!
Oh, one more thing... I'll post more videos from the 2nd Annual Indiana Celiac Luncheon as soon as I have the time. I think I have 6. I posted 2 or 3 last night, but don't count on seeing the rest until at least next weekend. I'm so busy right now!!!! But once I have them all loaded on here, I'll post them, probably just right on the front of my page where people can find them easily or something.
Oh... and have you joined the yahoo group yet? http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/glutenfreefortwayne/
Has anybody seen any of the new GF Chex cereals anywhere else? Let us know!! If you're reading this and not on myspace, you can email me at glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com and I'll post your responses on here.
One of these days (maybe this summer when I have time off from teaching...?), I'm thinking I'm going to have get a "regular" website. I keep hearing of people who come to Gluten Free Fort Wayne here on myspace who aren't even myspace users and are maybe a little weirded out or something.... I don't know. But perhaps it's getting to be time. But I'll definitely keep the myspace still.
Anyhow, let me know where you see Chex!
Oh, one more thing... I'll post more videos from the 2nd Annual Indiana Celiac Luncheon as soon as I have the time. I think I have 6. I posted 2 or 3 last night, but don't count on seeing the rest until at least next weekend. I'm so busy right now!!!! But once I have them all loaded on here, I'll post them, probably just right on the front of my page where people can find them easily or something.
Oh... and have you joined the yahoo group yet? http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/glutenfreefortwayne/
Walmart at Lima & Dupont has plenty of Rice, Corn, Honey Nut, and Cinammon Chex- this is the first place I've seen all four in one place.
From an email response:
"Found Corn,Rice, and Honey Nut Chex at the Maysville Wal Mart. All boxes were marked gluten free."
"Found Corn,Rice, and Honey Nut Chex at the Maysville Wal Mart. All boxes were marked gluten free."
I have seen the GF Honey Nut Chex at Walmart. I guess they just have to work through the backlog of old chex before people have the new stuff, so big chain stores should have them first.
Apr 4, 2009
I went back to Mejier on Lima Road tonight to get more Honey Nut Chex.... and there was only 1 box left of the new gluten free version! There were a few other boxes left on the shelf, but they were the old version made with barley malt.
Sooo... we're definitely flexing our gluten-free muscle at the grocery. That stuff disappeared quicker than if it were on sale for a dollar a box! Just a word to the wise: make sure you're checking the box to be sure that you're getting the new gluten free formula. It proclaims it right there on the front of the box, as well as under the ingredients list. And if it has barley malt as an ingredient, you know it's no good!
Anybody try the Schar's Italian breadsticks? They're on sale at Meijer right now, and they're awesome! I had them with some cheese dip. Yum!
Ooh, and one more thing: calzones. I had one from The Roasted Bean yesterday. It was great!! And I'm loving the new lemon bars and almond jam cookies. Mmm-mmm-mmm! :)
Sooo... we're definitely flexing our gluten-free muscle at the grocery. That stuff disappeared quicker than if it were on sale for a dollar a box! Just a word to the wise: make sure you're checking the box to be sure that you're getting the new gluten free formula. It proclaims it right there on the front of the box, as well as under the ingredients list. And if it has barley malt as an ingredient, you know it's no good!
Anybody try the Schar's Italian breadsticks? They're on sale at Meijer right now, and they're awesome! I had them with some cheese dip. Yum!
Ooh, and one more thing: calzones. I had one from The Roasted Bean yesterday. It was great!! And I'm loving the new lemon bars and almond jam cookies. Mmm-mmm-mmm! :)
Apr 3, 2009
I will be attending the 2nd Annual Indiana Celiac Luncheon in Lafayette in two weeks. We're going down the night before since it's such a long drive from Fort Wayne, and now I'm starting to wonder what I can do with my time while we're down there. Does anybody have any suggestions of places to go for dinner in Lafayette, or things to do on a Saturday night or Sunday? We have to check out of our hotel at 11, and the lunch isn't until 1:30, so I'll definitely have some time to kill on Sunday... help!
Thanks,
Rachael
Thanks,
Rachael
Mar 30, 2009
I DID!!! I really did hug my box of Honey Nut Chex today right there in the cereal aisle at Meijer on Lima Rd. I was so excited at the chance to have options that are "normal" food. I plan to keep these around for snacking- maybe at work. I'm happy with my breakfast of yogurt and a LaraBar, and this cereal is just sweet enough to make a yummy midday snack. How can a girl ever lose weight with great food out there like this? 
I know there are more Chex varieties on their way... let me know when you see them!
I know there are more Chex varieties on their way... let me know when you see them!
When I spoke with general millls, they said the other flavors are stawberry and cinamon.
Hey Hey Rock n Roll!
My son will totally appreciate this one!
I love Honey Nut...another option for our whole family.
Thanks for the heads-up!
My son will totally appreciate this one!
I love Honey Nut...another option for our whole family.
Thanks for the heads-up!
Okay, I bought a can of the Orgran spaghetti at The Roasted Bean yesterday. Looking at the label, it evokes memories of the good ol' days of Chef Boyardee. I left it sitting on the kitchen counter for lunch today.
It was great!
I dumped the can in a bowl to microwave; it took about a minute and a half. It didn't even really splatter. It was so tasty, I was surprised when it was gone. The sauce isn't as thick as Chef Boyardee- honestly, the taste reminded me of Spaghetti-O's. I could tell the noodles were a little different, but really, canned pasta has kind of mushy noodles anyhow. I don't think we'll be finding it at Scott's on sale 10 for 10 anytime soon like the "normal" stuff, but it was definitely good.
And if you have more intolerances than just gluten, this spaghetti is also dairy free, egg free, and free of any animal derivatives. Just tasted like a can of spaghetti though. :)
It was great!
I dumped the can in a bowl to microwave; it took about a minute and a half. It didn't even really splatter. It was so tasty, I was surprised when it was gone. The sauce isn't as thick as Chef Boyardee- honestly, the taste reminded me of Spaghetti-O's. I could tell the noodles were a little different, but really, canned pasta has kind of mushy noodles anyhow. I don't think we'll be finding it at Scott's on sale 10 for 10 anytime soon like the "normal" stuff, but it was definitely good.
And if you have more intolerances than just gluten, this spaghetti is also dairy free, egg free, and free of any animal derivatives. Just tasted like a can of spaghetti though. :)
Larabars are on sale at Scott's this week- they're 4 for $5 with a Kroger card. Woo-hoo! I just hope we can get the peanut butter ones back soon after the recall...
Chex also should be coming out with several more GF cereals soon- I know it's been released in some places already, but I don't know if it's around here. It should be clearly labeled on the front. Let me know when you see them!
Betty Crocker should also be releasing some GF mixes this summer. Can't wait!
Chex also should be coming out with several more GF cereals soon- I know it's been released in some places already, but I don't know if it's around here. It should be clearly labeled on the front. Let me know when you see them!
Betty Crocker should also be releasing some GF mixes this summer. Can't wait!
I thought this was pretty good: http://www.thebostonchannel.com/bethisrael/18793578/detail.html
Tips For Dining Out On The Gluten-Free Diet
Tips For Dining Out On The Gluten-Free Diet
By Melinda Dennis, MS, RD, LDN
Nutrition Coordinator, Celiac Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Nutrition Coordinator, Celiac Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Avoid ordering fried foods, such as French fries or taco “basket” shells at a Mexican restaurant, which are fried in the same oil as battered foods or coated fries.
- Check to make sure that liquid eggs held in a buffet line for eggs-to-order are not mixed with wheat flour (to keep them from separating).
- Ask your server to request that the cooks change their gloves and use a clean skillet and utensils to prepare your food.
- If you don’t feel that your needs are being met, ask to speak with the chef or the manager. Carry a restaurant card (available from several of the national celiac support groups and online) that lists safe and prohibited food.
- Rice and corn-based cuisines, such as Japanese, Thai, Indian or Mexican, usually have many more naturally gluten free items available than American fast food or standard fare.
- If you are with a large group and you prefer not to draw attention to your special diet, order your meal last so that table conversation is flowing and you can take your time. Or excuse yourself and have your conversation with the chef or your server near the kitchen.
- If you’ve had a wonderful meal, tip generously, thank the chef and server personally, and tell the restaurant you plan to share your good experience with fellow diners, the local celiac support group and your clinicians. As restaurants are alerted to the needs of those with celiac disease, gluten-free dining out will be more and more enjoyable.
For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.
Posted March 2009 ..
Mar 4, 2009
This is from a comment posted on my page from a friend of mine:
Anybody know where I can find recipes that do not include all of the following: gluten, dairy, and egg. Those are all of my food allergies. I am trying and working really hard to stay away from the allergen foods. However, I have been trying lots of items and am not liking many things. Mainly the rice bread. Help Help Help. Please add me as a friend if you want. Thanks.
Please help her!!! I know the gluten stuff, but I looove my eggs, and I'm eating more dairy than I used to because my lactose intolerance isn't so bad now that my villi are healing. Can you please suggest yummy foods, normal foods, good recipes, anything? Post anything that can help!
I'll admit, I have a personal investment in this too. I have to work with her! I want to keep her healthy and happy!!!
I just wanted to update you on a few things that are going on with me. Anybody know where I can find recipes that do not include all of the following: gluten, dairy, and egg. Those are all of my food allergies. I am trying and working really hard to stay away from the allergen foods. However, I have been trying lots of items and am not liking many things. Mainly the rice bread. Help Help Help. Please add me as a friend if you want. Thanks.
Please help her!!! I know the gluten stuff, but I looove my eggs, and I'm eating more dairy than I used to because my lactose intolerance isn't so bad now that my villi are healing. Can you please suggest yummy foods, normal foods, good recipes, anything? Post anything that can help!
I'll admit, I have a personal investment in this too. I have to work with her! I want to keep her healthy and happy!!!
I have now added a group on Facebook. If you're on FB,just look up "Gluten Free Fort Wayne," and it should show up.
ALSO, I have started a yahoo group. This is like an email list that you can send messages to and have conversations with all of the other members of the group on your email. I'm a member of the Gluten Free Indy google group and the Michiana yahoo group, and they have been great supports and sources of information. The website for that is http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/glutenfreefortwayne/.
Here are a few things coming up that I know of:
Tuesday, March 3 at 6:15- Gluten Free Support Group at the Center for Integrative Medicine. This is located on Illinois Road just west of Scott Road. These meeting probably average about 30 people in attendance, so it's a great opportunity to meet and share with other celiacs.
Saturday, March 14 at 3:00- The Fort Wayne Celiac Support Group will be meeting at The Roasted Bean coffee shop at 5129 Illinois Road. This is in a little strip of shops between Meijer and Jefferson Pointe.
Friday, March 27 to Sunday, March 29- Celiac's Weekend at Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, MI. Details here: http://www.bavarianinn.com/Home/PlayHome/CalendarofEvents/CalendarofEventsDetail/tabid/162/ModuleID/505/ItemID/201/mctl/EventDetails/Default.aspx?selecteddate=3%2f27%2f2009
Sunday, April 19: The Second Annual Indiana Celiac Luncheon will be held on Sunday, April 19th, 2009, beginning at 1:30 pm. The guest speaker is Dr. Alessio Fasano, Medical Director of the Center for Celiac Research at the University of Maryland, and one of the most-respected Celiac researchers in the world! The luncheon will be at the Best Western Lafayette Executive Plaza and Conference Center, 4343 State Rd. 26 E, Lafayette, Indiana 47905. A completely gluten-free lunch will be served that is also corn and soy-free, with dairy-free options. The cost is $15 per person. For reservations, send your check (made out to Nancy) to:
Nancy Linnemann
2635 North 400 West
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Reservations must be received by April 6th.
For more information, contact Nancy at n.linnemann@comcast.ne
Please join my new yahoo group and join my FB group if you're on there. Pass this on to anyone who might appreciate it!t
Nancy Linnemann
2635 North 400 West
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Reservations must be received by April 6th.
For more information, contact Nancy at n.linnemann@comcast.ne
Please join my new yahoo group and join my FB group if you're on there. Pass this on to anyone who might appreciate it!t
Check it out:
http://www.delightgfmagazine.com/index.php
http://www.delightgfmagazine.com/index.php
This was posted to the GF Indy google group:
Nancy Linnemann is taking reservations now for Dr. Fasano's talk and the GF luncheon in Lafayette in April. Here's the announcement:The Second Annual Indiana Celiac Luncheon will be held on Sunday, April 19th, 2009, beginning at 1:30 pm. The guest speaker is Dr. Alessio Fasano, Medical Director of the Center for Celiac Research at the University of Maryland, and one of the most-respected Celiac researchers in the world! The luncheon will be at the Best Western Lafayette Executive Plaza and Conference Center, 4343 State Rd. 26 E, Lafayette, Indiana 47905. A completely gluten-free lunch will be served that is also corn and soy-free, with dairy-free options. The cost is $15 per person. For reservations, send your check (made out to Nancy) to:
Nancy Linnemann
2635 North 400 West
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Reservations must be received by April 6th.
For more information, contact Nancy at n.linnemann@comcast.ne t
Feb 3, 2009
What's your favorite GF bread?
I posted this as a bulletin yesterday, but now I realize this may be better posted as a blog so everyone can see the responses and reference back to it.
Here's the bulletin I posted:
One of my friends has asked me a question, but I honestly have no clue how to answer. I don't eat gf bread, just because I don't really feel like that is something missing from my life (saving the dollars for gf cookies, I guess).What is your favorite gf bread?? Below is her message to me:
I have a question maybe someone can help me out, my 8 yr old has celiac and LOVES bread was the hardest thing for her to give up, we are having a problem finding one she will eat, any suggestions? Has to be a white bread she will not even try one that is brown.
KIDS!
Here are the responses I've received:
"I have always ate the Kinnikinnick white sandwich bread and the Tapico Raisin bread. It tastes better when toasted and stays together better, also."
"Hi there! I haven't found ANY ready made loafs that are any good! My favorite GF bread is;
by Gluten-Free Pantry
favorite sandwich bread mix (its actual name)
I hope one of those tags worked! haha! wasn't sure what code to endter! Anyways I hope this helps the lady! Good Luck!"
"I love Bobs redmill GF Homemade wonderful bread. It has a great flavor and it rises really big so it looks like real bread, not gf sandwich crackers. (THat is what most gf bread looks like to me)"
"Kinkkinick (may be spelled wrong) white sandwich bread is my favorite, or the wholefoods sandwich bread (gluten free of course)"
"i like the kinninkini (you know what ones right? i cant spell it) anyways they have some english muffins. soooo good and fluffy! just thaw one in the microwave for a few seconds then toast it, then load it up with sandwich stuff!
i also like the bobs red mill sandwich bread. it comes in a bag, and is super easy to mix up. the trick is to slice it up after it has cooled off. then put all the slices in the freezer two slices in each ziplock. then thaw when needed."
Soo... this is what I have so far. Sounds like Kinnikinnick and Bob's Red Mill are the favorites right now. I know Sami's Bakery is a brand that's been discussed at my gf groups before too. Leave a comment to share your favorites, too!
Chell
I have found Gluten Free Pantry to be the better tasting bread in my area as well, but I live in a smaller populated area so there is not a lot readily available for us here.
Check out the article from this morning's Journal-Gazette:
Gluten-free for all
Meal options spiking at shops, city restaurantsStefanie Scarlett
The Journal Gazette
Those who follow a gluten-free diet are finding it much easier these days.
Once found only in health food stores as specialty products, gluten-free options are now sold by many retailers and include everything from bread and pasta to baking mixes and frozen entrées.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Gluten-free products typically are made with nuts and grains such as rice, millet, flax, quinoa or corn, or some combination of them.
"Some are very good and in some ways taste better than wheat products. We have a gluten-free bread here that we can hardly keep on the shelves," says Molly Bassett, point-of-sale coordinator at Three Rivers Co-Op Natural Foods & Deli, 1612 Sherman Blvd.
"Most people would say the gluten-free products are more crumbly. … After a while of eating it, you don't notice it anymore," Bassett says.
At the Health Food Shoppe, 3515 N. Anthony Blvd., deli cooks prepare a variety of gluten-free items including pizza, lasagna and baked goods. Some products are slightly different in taste and texture, such as the rice-flour wraps that are a bit chewier, cook Amy Pinckney says. Others, like the brownies, have no difference.
More eateries, including Outback Steakhouse, Chili's and Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano, have seen increased demand for such products as well and offer gluten-free dishes on their menus.
At Casa restaurants, sales from the gluten-free menu have tripled since it was launched 10 months ago at customers' requests.
"We thought it was very surprising. It's worked out very well," director of operations Tom Parisi says.
Some regular (and wheat-free) Casa menu items were added to the special menu, while others, like the brown rice pasta, are new.
Those with gluten sensitivity are so careful because eating anything with the protein can cause digestive problems. Cases range from intolerance to celiac disease, a disorder that prevents food from being properly absorbed by your body and can damage the small intestine.
"They have to be very careful, even to the point where if there is a trace of gluten in something, they can end up with really bad symptoms," says Jean Wyss, a registered dietitian and certified specialist in pediatric nutrition at Lutheran Hospital and Lutheran Children's Hospital.
"I think people with celiac disease are getting diagnosed a lot quicker than they used to be. Some of these people would just struggle for years with symptoms. … They're (also) doing research on the Web and becoming knowledgeable quite early in the process," she says, adding that more physicians are aware of the disease these days.
Terry Traub, a registered dental hygienist in California, also has found awareness has grown over the years.
Because she has three family members with celiac disease, she spent years perfecting dishes they could eat. That led her to write "Food to Some, Poison to Others: The Food Allergy Detection Program."
The book, at eatallergy-free.com, includes an elimination diet plan (where certain foods are excluded, then reintroduced), plus plenty of recipes and other tips.
She wonders whether the incidence of gluten sensitivity is related to the fact that gluten is now found in so many processed foods, which we are eating more of. Or maybe a lifetime of eating gluten eventually leads to some degree of intolerance for more people.
"It's what we're eating and the way we're eating," she says.
Jan 22, 2009
12-6-08
It's been a long, long time since I've eaten at Bandido's. Personally, I prefer Kaysan's. I did, however, inquire on their website about what might be safe to eat at Bandido's. This is the response I have received so far:
Thanks for contacting me at our bandidos.com website....we are currently working to get you a complete list together as quick as we can. Just wanted to let ya know we will not forget about you! Happy Holidays & we look forward to taking care of you in the near future!
Brian Graham
Director Of Operations
Bandidos, Inc. 6060 E. State Blvd
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46815
(260)493-0607 Corporate Officewww.bandidos.com (our NEW website)
I will pass on whatever information I receive when I receive it. More than once I have gotten responses like this from other companies who have never followed up. Hopefully I get a quick response- my birthday is coming up, and we all know your meal is free there on your birthday (although...... I don't know how they handle Christmas birthdays, since I'm sure they're not open then. I might just be out of luck!).
1-22-09
Following is the email I received today:
I just wanted to give you an update on the gluten free items. The wheels are turning (very slowly) but turning none the less. Our distributor is getting me a list of the products that we purchase that are gluten free. From there we will break down our gluten free menu items. You should see the items labeled in our next menu release. Thanks for you time and interest.
Jimmie Schindler II
Bandidos Inc.
6060 East State Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
(260) 493-0607
http://www.bandidos.com
It's been a long, long time since I've eaten at Bandido's. Personally, I prefer Kaysan's. I did, however, inquire on their website about what might be safe to eat at Bandido's. This is the response I have received so far:
Thanks for contacting me at our bandidos.com website....we are currently working to get you a complete list together as quick as we can. Just wanted to let ya know we will not forget about you! Happy Holidays & we look forward to taking care of you in the near future!
Brian Graham
Director Of Operations
Bandidos, Inc. 6060 E. State Blvd
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46815
(260)493-0607 Corporate Officewww.bandidos.com (our NEW website)
I will pass on whatever information I receive when I receive it. More than once I have gotten responses like this from other companies who have never followed up. Hopefully I get a quick response- my birthday is coming up, and we all know your meal is free there on your birthday (although...... I don't know how they handle Christmas birthdays, since I'm sure they're not open then. I might just be out of luck!).
1-22-09
Following is the email I received today:
I just wanted to give you an update on the gluten free items. The wheels are turning (very slowly) but turning none the less. Our distributor is getting me a list of the products that we purchase that are gluten free. From there we will break down our gluten free menu items. You should see the items labeled in our next menu release. Thanks for you time and interest.
Jimmie Schindler II
Bandidos Inc.
6060 East State Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46815
(260) 493-0607
http://www.bandidos.com
Qdoba is one of those places like Chipotle that I had heard of before they ever came to town. They recently opened out by the new Target, and I checked them out tonight before the Parkview gluten free group.
"Like Chipotle" is a phrase I could repeat often when describing this place. They have very similar atmosphere, very similar food, and very similar prices. It is different, though. Not better, not worse, just different. It didn't feel as fresh and tasty as Chipotle, yet the hard taco shells seemed like they'll travel better. Get hard tacos for carryout from Chipotle, and you'll certainly need a fork for it by the time you get home. The chips are pretty much the same, though. Could've been the same chips- eh, maybe not quite as salty as Chipotle. They didn't have the great fruit drinks I always get at Chipotle, though.
So I guess maybe my conclusion is that if I'm dining in, I'll stick with Chipotle, but for carry out, I may start going for Qdoba.
I linked their allergen list on the left side of my page. Not too bad for the gluten-free diner...
Aboite Grill is kind of far though, which is why I don't make my way out there often. They're at the intersection of Illinois and Scott, on the side with Burger King. The cool thing? It's RIGHT by the location of the new Parkview Gluten Free Support Group. Perfect! I may just make this my spot before meetings!!
Check out this website: http://befreeforme.com/
BeFreeForMe.com was started by a celiac and offer opportunities for free coupons or samples of products, along with blogs, recipes, and support. It's free (as the name suggests!) and very user-friendly.
I signed up today and am looking forward to the emails and coupons. 
Nov 5, 2008
Tonight was the first meeting of a new group in town. There were I think around 30 people there, which was very, very exciting. It was so great to talk to people with common experiences and needs. And I learned that Redbridge IS still lurking here in town- it's just a matter of getting to it before someone else snatches it up.
This new group meets at the Parkview Center for Integrative Medicine at 10515 Illinois Road, just west of Scott Road. They will be meeting on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:15. The group is being led by Registered Dietician Meghann Whetstone, and she's hoping to start some smaller break-off groups too. I can't wait to see where this goes. Check out their website here: http://www.purehealthmd.com/pmg.
I also learned today of a gluten free cooking demo that will be on November 20th. This will be at the Parkview North Women's Health Center from 6:30-8:00. From what I gather, you need to be a member of the group that this demo is for, but it's only $10 annually to be part of the group. For more information on this, go to http://www.parkview.com/women/WCprograms.html. You can scroll down on the right side for a phone number.
ALSO- I met some people in the Celiac group in Decatur. They meet on the first Thursday of every month at the public library on Third Street down there in Decatur from 6:30 to 8:00.
I'm very excited about all these great things that are starting to come together!!!
Oct 28, 2008
Life without gluten
The Parkview Medical Group Center for Integrative Medicine will host a free Gluten Free Support Group meeting at 6:15 p.m. Nov. 4, at the Center for Integrative Medicine office, 10515 Illinois Road. The presenter will be Meghann Whetstone. Recipes and meal planning tips will be shared. For information or to register, call 373-9233.
Spread the word!!!
Incredible! A year ago, I swore there had to be a celiac group out there in the Fort somewhere, but I found nothing. Yet it's been here all along...
Yesterday, I went into The Roasted Bean for my Friday cookies and noticed on the white board that a celiac support group would be meeting there today at 3:30. I cannot even explain my excitement to hear this news, that a group was out there just waiting for me to join up!
I had no idea what to expect, but I knew it would be good.
I was not disappointed.
HOWEVER... they have 35 people on the list as members. How many were there today? Four members, two spouses, and myself and one other first-timer who discovered it through the coffee shop. This was the first time they had met there- an attempt to find someplace a little more economical than Biaggi's and more centrally located than the Dupont library- two other places they have met previously.
PLEASE HELP US BREATHE SOME LIFE INTO THIS GROUP!!!
Today was a late October monthly meeting; November's will be Nov. 1, next Saturday, at Casa's on West Jefferson at 2:00.
December will be on the 6th at Outback in the Village of Coventry- we decided today that we ought to go there one last time before they close in January. The time is yet to be finalized.
CELIACS, PLEASE JOIN US!!!!
Non-celiacs, please spread the word!!!
Now that I'm in the group, I'll post info about meetings and stuff here on this page. Please message me on myspace or email glutenfreefortwayne@yahoo.com for more information.
I've seen this link twice now- on CeliacChicks.com, and also on Digestive Health Smartbriefs. I thought it was a great story, and agree with what others have been saying about the positive image it conveys about individuals with Celiac Disease. Check it out: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/10/sports/othersports/10celiac.html?_r=2&ei=5070&emc=eta1&oref=slogin&oref=slogin
How did I miss this place???
Tucked away in Time Corners, there it is, plain as day. Apparently it's been there for 20-some years, and it didn't catch my attention until today.
I guess road construction CAN be good- it slowed me down to notice this little treasure!
It's smaller than the Health Food store on Anthony, but I was excited to find a few GF products there that I've never noticed before on Anthony or at the co-op. Maybe they have them, but I just never noticed them. Perhaps this is a benefit to a smaller store.
It was pretty exciting to have my choice of animal crackers to buy- EnviroKids or Kinnikinnick. I opted for the KinniKritters for no reason in particular except to move myself along down the aisle. I also got a box of Annie's mac & cheese, Ener-G Sesame Pretzel Rings, some Lundberg pasta, and a flavor of Lundberg Risotto that I'm pretty sure I haven't noticed at Meijer or Kroger. Again, maybe I've just overlooked these goodies before because I had more choices at the other stores...
They had a pretty good collection of herbal medicines and that sort of stuff, too. I don't know enough about all that to really comment, but there were familiar bottles and boxes in there. My probiotics and cranberry are both sold there... well, except right before that, I bought a different brand of probiotic from Walgreens because I was sick of going to Walmart for my pearls. Now I know a new place to get them if I need to go back to them. I didn't compare any prices; I was too excited about finding new GF goodies. 
I don't know about you, but my last blog got me a tad hungry for GF goodies. My current favorite? The peanut butter Snickers cookies at The Roasted Bean on Illinois Road (http://www.myspace.com/theroastedbean01).
What? You haven't tried them??? Well get off your myspace and go get some! I seriously get cravings for these, they're that good. I feel bad that when she puts out something new, I don't always try it right away because I'm so addicted to these cookies!
Ooh, and check this out: bread. Yup, I said it. Bread. I tried some there. DEEEEE-LISH-OUS!!! Someday, I believe we'll be seeing sandwiches there. How cool is that? Before you know it, I'll be spending my whole paycheck there on cookies and muffins and even lunch!
And I don't care if you're GF or not, you have to try this place out. I have never been disappointed.
Well... I'm going to brave it.
They don't just have it ready to go, but you can order GF cakes and cookies there; they're even hoping to have a good pie someday soon.
As you can tell from my previous blog post, I can be a bit of a skeptic. Just because someone (even a large company like Kroger!) says that something is GF, doesn't mean you should blindly start eating it. But in conversations here on myspace (http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=192514632), I've learned about how Celebrations keeps the GF ingredients separate, makes the GF products first, and cleans and sanitizes everything(a self-professed "total psycho about cleanliness").
Clean freaks are my friends!
Sooo... I haven't tried it out yet, buuuut you know I'll tell you all about it after I do. I'm pretty optimistic (and hungry). My mom's birthday is coming up.... do I smell GF cake that I didn't have to make??
Anyone on here ever try anything from Celebrations? I'd love to hear about it!
Aug 18, 2008
BEWARE THE MISLEADING OATMEAL
Okay seriously, how many times does a celiac recite the whole "wheat, barley, rye, and oats" line, fully including oats in the category of forbidden foods, even though technically, oats in and of themselves are safe? It's too much to explain, and being that most oats are contaminated somewhere along the way, it's just easier to lump them in with all the poisonous grains for the sake of explanation.
Personally, I don't even try to mess with the certified GF oats because I'm scared it'll be too confusing to me.
Yet.... I was drawn in when I got word that Kroger had labeled its store brand blueberry instant oatmeal as being GF. I bought a box. I was too chicken to actually try to eat it, but I bought it. It says right on the front: "A gluten free food. This product has never contained gluten."
Wow. Their website is quite thorough, so I can trust this label, right?
Right???
I couldn't bring myself to try to eat it. I got on their website and sent the following message to Kroger:
"I recently found that on your blueberry instant oatmeal, the package states that it is gluten free. I am concerned about the gluten contamination that so often occurs with oats. Before attempting to eat this oatmeal, I would like to know if Kroger is confident in stating that these indeed are oats that have not been contaminated by wheat, barley, or rye at any stage in their harvesting and production. Thank you for your consideration."
The first reply came a few days later:
"Thank you for contacting The Kroger Co. A Customer Service Representative has received your comments. We have forwarded your message to a Registered Dietitian who will research your inquiry and reply as soon as possible.
Also, please feel free to call our toll-free number (1-866-632-6900) with nutritional inquiries concerning our products; our representatives will be happy to assist you and provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Thanks again for your inquiry, and we look forward to helping you in the future.
Sincerely,
Russ Taylor
Consumer Affairs"
Also, please feel free to call our toll-free number (1-866-632-6900) with nutritional inquiries concerning our products; our representatives will be happy to assist you and provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Thanks again for your inquiry, and we look forward to helping you in the future.
Sincerely,
Russ Taylor
Consumer Affairs"
Ooookay..... I am now concerned at the fact that they do not have a reply to such an inquiry already prepared. Most of the time when I contact a company online about the GF status of their products, I get the same response that anyone else would get when they ask. Apparently this question has not yet made it to "FAQ" status.
Today I received the promised reply that could truly address my concerns. This is what it said:
Thank you for contacting The Kroger Co. We are always happy to provide additional information for our products. You inquired about the gluten free icon on the label of the blueberry instant oatmeal. We do not recommend our oats on a gluten free diet for the exact reasons you noted in your original e-mail. I have notified our corporate food technologist who is responsible for the product and we have agreed that we should remove the icon from the label. I apologize for the inconvenience this causes you and for our oversight in this matter. Please feel free to return the product to the store. Thank you for bringing this issue to our attention so that we can get it resolved. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any additional questions.
Maggie Gough RD LD
Corporate Dietitian
The Kroger Company
1014 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202-1141
Fax: 513-762-4763
1-800-632-6900
Maggie Gough RD LD
Corporate Dietitian
The Kroger Company
1014 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202-1141
Fax: 513-762-4763
1-800-632-6900
No further comment from me on this one!
Changes in FDA labeling law for gluten-free items begin in August
Use of label voluntary; does not include meat, fish, poultry, some oils
Use of label voluntary; does not include meat, fish, poultry, some oils
The Kogan Celiac Center of the Saint Barnabas Health Care System reminds the public of changes in labeling regulations from the FDA due out this August. These labeling changes are intended to help individuals with celiac disease, who must eat gluten-free products.
Celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune disorder characterized by an inflammatory reaction to the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. There is no cure for this disease, with the only known treatment to remove gluten from the diet. Upcoming changes in food-labeling laws will provide new and helpful information for individuals who follow a gluten-free diet, but are complicated and require some explanation.
Currently, U.S. food-labeling laws require that the eight most allergenic foods (milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, wheat, peanuts and soybeans) be listed by their commonly recognized name on ingredient labels of packaged foods sold in the United States. The labeling requirement, which took effect in 2006 under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act, helped consumers identify ingredients they needed to avoid as a result of various allergies and intolerances; however, for individualswith celiac disease, the labeling requirement was only partly helpful.
A definition of "gluten-free" has been developed for voluntary use on product labels, effective in August. Meat, fish, poultry, eggs and highly refined oils are not included, but any other processed food may put "glutenfree" on its label if it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. There will also be new retail labeling guidelines in the fall regarding the country of origin of beef, lamb, pork, fish, shellfish, fruits, vegetables and peanuts. The information must state whether a product comes from the United States only, foreign sources only or is of mixed origin. Restaurants, cafeterias, food stands, and a few other small entities are exempt from this regulation.
Foods not governed by these guidelines may result in misleading labels that do not accurately reflect where individual ingredients are grown and processed. For example, a candy bar that is labeled "Product of France" may actually contain peanuts from Argentina.
The labeling information is extremely critical for individuals following a glutenfree diet, and the laws may make purchasing decisions easier and more difficult at the same time. For example, products labeled "gluten-free" may actually have small quantities of gluten that are less than the established threshold - individuals must make purchasing decisions based on individual sensitivity and risk tolerance.
Processed foods are not formally covered under the country of origin labeling guidelines and may show informal labels that don't completely reveal the sources of all ingredients that may be harmful to celiacs. Prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are not governed by the regulations, but work on these regulations is in progress.
Margaret Masiello, clinical coordinator of the Kogan Center, urges those diagnosed with celiac disease to visit specialized celiac centers throughout the country to take take full advantage of the support services offered.
For more information, call the Kogan Center at 973-322-7272 or visit www.koganceliaccenter. com
Jul 16, 2008
Celiac or not, I want to know...
What is your favorite place to eat in the Fort Wayne area, and why?
But I'll admit, I don't go there often. I like to do my gf shopping at the same place as all of my other grocery shopping. You know, saving things like gas and time and whatnot... but don't forget the co-op. I almost did, and then I went in there and rediscovered my Glutino mushroom penne pasta microwaveable meal. I'd tell you what it's called, but I ate it as soon as I got it home.
Anybody do any gf shopping at the store on North Anthony? It's not convenient to anywhere I ever go, so somehow I haven't made my way over there since going gf. Need to rectify that situation...
Then there's Walmart. I hate Walmart. However, Walmart does have a policy of labeling all of its Great Value brand foods as being gluten free if indeed they are gluten free. That can be quite the lifesaver at times.
While I'm on my negativity rant, I guess I'll mention Kroger. When they started their deal with the Kroger card (tracking your purchases....), I vowed to not shop there again.
I shop there again.
Their natural/organic section has a great selection of gf goodies. I got a pizza and cookies there just today. Gotta love that! But as for the Kroger card... I still don't have one, though I thought about it.... until I made a large purchase of gf goodies (like $80 or something) and the cashier tried to entice me into getting a Kroger card by saying that I "could have saved... well, nothing." Ooookay, so the Kroger card doesn't give you discounts on Amy's and Pamela's and Bob's. Whatever.
I wasn't too happy about Kroger buying Scott's either (you know, that dang card), but the cool thing about that is that now Scott's has the gf foods too. I don't know if they all have it yet- West State added it after the last remodel (and how many times have they rearranged that store in the past 10 years??). I assume all the Kroger stores have it- the ones on Dupont, St. Joe Center Rd., and the one in Auburn all do.
Meijer is my most frequent stop for gf groceries. They don't own small towns or track your purchases, so I'm still happy with them.
The gf specialty items aren't all concentrated in one place like at Kroger or Scott's- there are two or three spots in each store where you can find stuff. Be careful, though- each location is arranged differently, so on your first couple of trips, you might have to look around a little. The Illinois Road location doesn't have quite as broad of a selection, either- I get frustrated every time I go in there hoping to get my Glutino granola-like bars. Back to Walmart real quick- the new location at Dupont and Lima has some Pamela's cookies.
Southtown doesn't have them. 
When I bought them, the cashier acted disgusted when she looked at the package and saw that it was- ugh- gluten free! Bet she doesn't even know what that means. She's lucky I was in a good mood. Okay, I think that's about it on my grocery shopping ramblings. Let me know if I've missed something.
 | |
| Washington State University researcher Diter von Wettstein has been awarded a four-year, $837,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health to further work on development of wheat varieties safe to eat for those suffering from Celiac disease. Celiac disease is a disorder of the digestive system that damages the intestine and interferes with nutrient absorption from food. Symptoms range from cramping to malnutrition. The malady can be triggered by eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Currently, only a gluten-free diet is prescribed for treatment, but since gluten is also a filler for many other foods, life for patients is difficult. "Medical experts at the NIH have declared urgency in dealing with the most food-sensitive intestinal condition in humans," notes von Wettstein. He has discovered a fully-viable, lysine-rich mutant which lacks gliadin-type proteins in barley, showing the way to make Celiac-safe wheat. Lysine is an amino acid essential for optimum diet, but typically is deficient in wheat. His team has partnered with Arcadia Biosciences, a Seattle, Wash., biotech firm, to identify specific mutations in genes affecting gliadin-type prolamids in gluten protein. Specifically, it is the gliadins that cannot be ingested and eventually cross the intestinal wall, causing damage to T-cells in the lining. "Creating new cultivars of wheat, arguable the most important crop grown, having increased lysine and lacking gliadins will be of tremendous benefit not only to suffers of Celiac disease, but for all consumers of wheat and wheat products," says von Wettstein. For more information on Celiac disease, visit www.celiac.org, the Web site of the Celiac Disease Foundation. |
Printed in Monday's Journal-Gazette (Click here and scroll to the last letter):
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. These grains are used in such obvious foods as bread and pasta, but they are also hidden in many sauces and other processed foods. Damage caused by gluten can lead to gastrointestinal, nerve and skin problems, to name just a few. The widespread use of wheat alone makes dining out a challenging task. This is further complicated by the risk of cross-contamination with other foods containing gluten.
Two Fort Wayne businesses have recently risen above the rest in providing gluten-free menu items prepared by well-educated individuals who understand – sometimes personally – the problems that gluten can cause. I encourage everyone to try the gluten-free offerings at any of the Casa restaurants as well at the Roasted Bean coffee shop on Illinois Road. While about 1 percent of the population has a gluten intolerance or Celiac disease, I would venture to say that nearly 100 percent will enjoy the gluten-free foods provided by these eateries. Please support local businesses that work as hard as they do to support all members of their community.
Now back to food. I didn't go to the dinner with everyone at The Blue Gate. I thought about going there, but just not with the group, but that felt weird somehow. Maybe I'll go there tomorrow. I tried to go to Wana Cup, but a good look at the menu and the kitchen made me too nervous to try it. I just left. I went to Das Dutchman Essenhaus, just 7 miles down 20 in Middlebury. As with my trip up this way 9 years ago, I spent more money there than at the shops in Shipshewana. I even bought food items there. Yay, honey!
Yay, honey! As for dining at the Essenhaus, I enjoyed the experience. I was hoping that the simplicity of the Amish would benefit me in eating up here. My waitress was very kind, full of smiles. When she asked if I wanted a white or wheat roll, I told her neither because I'm "allergic to bread". She remembered this throughout my meal, and as soon as she started to ask if I'd like dessert, she caught herself. Dessert is pie. Pie is bad. I loved how what I ordered is what I got. I'm sure you've all had the experience where there are "surprise" side items or sauces on the plate not mentioned on the menu that suddenly make your safe meal poison- not the case here. I ordered the grilled chicken. The menu stated that it comes with mushrooms, bacon, and swiss cheese. When I got my plate, the only thing on it was my chicken (I already had my side salad), and all it had on it were mushrooms, bacon, and swiss cheese. It was nothing exciting, but that made it very exciting! No surprises! 
Click the link to see the story copied below: Untreated Celiac Disease May Impede Immune Response to Hepatitis B Vaccine
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) Jun 03 - An inadequate antibody response to hepatitis B (HBV) vaccination may be a sign of undiagnosed celiac disease, according to a Hungarian study. However, immune response to the vaccine is near normal in patients compliant with a gluten-free diet, the research team reports in the June issue of Pediatrics.
Dr. Eva Nemes, at the University of Debrecen, and colleagues compared immune response among 128 patients with celiac disease and 113 age-matched controls who were given 2 or 3 doses of recombinant HBV vaccine within a 6-month period.
Twenty-two of the patients with celiac disease were prospectively vaccinated after diagnosis while they were on a gluten-free diet. Blood samples collected 4 weeks after the third HBV vaccination to check for anti-HBV antibodies showed a seroconversion rate of 95.5%.
The other 106 patients with celiac disease, as well as the control group, were vaccinated at age 14 years, and anti-HBV titers were measured roughly 2 years later. Seventy of the celiac patients were diagnosed and following a strict gluten-free diet at the time of vaccination, 27 were undiagnosed and untreated, and nine were diagnosed but not compliant with the diet.
The seroconversion rate was 61.4% among celiac patients who were diagnosed and treated, the authors report, not a significant difference from the 75.2% rate in the control group.
In the undiagnosed patients, the response rate of 25.9% was significantly lower than among controls (p < 0.001). The nine noncompliant patients with diagnosed, active celiac disease had a response rate of 44.4%.
Thirty-seven nonresponders in the celiac disease group received a booster dose during a gluten-free diet, and 36 (97.3%) had seroconverted 4 weeks later.
"Success with repeated vaccinations after controlled diet and correlation of nonresponse with celiac autoantibody positivity and diet transgressions suggest that disease activity may play a primary role in vaccination failure," Dr. Nemes and her associates conclude.
They recommend that antibody response to HBV vaccination be determined in newly diagnosed patients with celiac disease, and that nonresponders be revaccinated after treatment with a gluten-free diet.
Pediatrics 2008;121:e1570-e1576.
May 15, 2008
I was extra excited then to see a news link in the latest Digestive Health Smartbrief a story about none other than Heavenly Fodder. Check it out HERE.
Are you friends with Heavenly Fodder yet?
Ah, quite the topic for conversation!
Ladies, you are safe to unbloat... I contacted the company today regarding this product's gluten-free status. He told me that all Diurex products meet the government's standards for being considered gluten free.
Of course, such a carefully phrased statement does leave some "wiggle room"... but I am going to take my chances on this one. I hope it helps!
May 13, 2008
I was excited this morning on the radio to hear the words "gluten-free"- it was in a news story about Holiday World in southern Indiana. They now offer several pre-packaged () food items to meet the needs of those allergic to the "Big 8" food allergens- plus gluten! Here's a link: http://www.holidayworld.com/food.html.
) food items to meet the needs of those allergic to the "Big 8" food allergens- plus gluten! Here's a link: http://www.holidayworld.com/food.html.I've never been there before, so I have no clue what this place is like. If you've been there, especially gluten-free, I'd love to hear about your experiences!
I've been there once before, but that was before the celiac disease diagnosis, but I have plans to go there in June so I'll let you know how it is. ttyl
Eat some GF goodies for me! :)
I would love to see more companies offer websites like this! You have to check it out. You can search Edy's products by flavor, ingredients, dietary preferences, and more!
As you know, I was very excited to see in the paper that a new coffee shop that opened in town was offering some gluten-free goodies. Well, I went there yesterday, and I am very excited.
I don't know anything about coffee because I don't drink much more than just water, but I can tell you that the gf food they had was wonderful! Apparently the owner- who baked the brownies and pumpkin muffins that I bought- has a wheat allergy. This was exciting to me because I know that this isn't just a marketing ploy (but please, market away!), and most importantly, if she is sensitive to wheat, I know and trust that she will take special care to prevent and avoid cross-contamination.
Halleluiah!
I know that so far, most of my myspace friends from Fort Wayne are not gluten-free, but I encourage you to try this place out- and the gf goodies. I shared these treats with gluten gluttons who enjoyed them just as much, and couldn't tell the difference from regular baked goods. Having a gluten-free snack won't hurt you (as opposed to me having a gluten snack), and if enough people support businesses like this, those of us who are more limited in our diet will be able to maintain more options for where we can eat.
Please support businesses that provide gluten free products!!!
The Roasted Bean is on Illinois between Thomas and Getz- between Walmart and Meijer.
Apr 30, 2008
Or just keep reading. I'll do the ol' cut-n-paste (color, size, and bolding added for emphasis):
Published: April 30, 2008 6:00 a.m.
Thank Mom with buffet, wine, 4-course meal
By Stefanie Scarlett
The Journal Gazette
In honor of the woman who seems to do everything effortlessly, here are a few local places that will be open for Mother's Day on May 11:
• Don Hall's Guesthouse, 1313 W. Washington Center Road, will have a buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will feature a carving station with prime rib, turkey, broiled haddock and chicken Cordon Bleu. There also will be a pasta station with crab, shrimp, beef and chicken cooked to order with your choice of marinara or Alfredo sauce, plus a salad bar, side dish table and desserts.
It's $22.95 for adults and $7.95 for ages 3 to 10. Children ages 2 and younger eat free. Reservations are required; call 489-2524, ext. 413.
• Vigneto in Covington Plaza will extend its Sunday brunch hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offer all moms a free glass of wine. Reservations are required; call 459-6215.
• Joseph Decuis in Roanoke will serve a four-course meal for $35 (or $49 paired with wine), plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required; call 672-1715.
Coffee shop opens on Illinois Road
The Roasted Bean has opened at 5129 Illinois Road in the new, still signless plaza called The Shoppes at Illinois Road.
The menu includes coffee drinks and pastries, including some gluten-free options. There is also Cheesecake Factory-brand cheesecake.
For $3.50, you can order the soup of the day and a muffin, a special that's available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Hours are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
For information, call 432-5748.
Espresso Gallery takes over Aspen
The former Aspen Coffee locations have become Espresso Galleries. (But the location at Marketplace at Canterbury is still closed.)
The décor has changed, but the menus are similar, with coffee, pastries, quiche and some Mill Bread Co. products.
Hours are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
The mini-chain is locally owned and the original Espresso Gallery at 10357 Illinois Road is still open.
Barbecue pizza at B. Antonio's
B. Antonio's Pizza, 5417 Meijer Drive, is offering a "Summer BBQ" pizza in May, with barbecue sauce, ham, salami, Italian sausage and bacon.
Or you can order a 12-inch specialty pizza and a cake for $17.95. Cake flavors are double chocolate, red velvet, carrot and banana nut.
Call 485-2400 to order.
Tidbits
• Chappell's Fish House & Seafood Market, 493 E. Dupont Road, has closed.
• Baskin Robbins will have its second annual "31-cent Scoop Night" from 5 to 10 p.m. today. Fort Wayne locations are at 6747 Jefferson Blvd. and 603 Coliseum Blvd. E. in Northcrest Shopping Center.
The Dish features restaurant news and appears every Wednesday. Fax news items to 461-8893, email sscarlett@jg.net or call 461-8313. To discuss this column, visit "The Dish" topic of "The Board" at www.journalgazette.net .
Apr 16, 2008
Nature’s Gate Products
I nervously bought a new shampoo and conditioner at the co-op back in October. It was this herbal stuff with what seemed to be very clear ingredient labeling.
I soon discovered that not only my skin, but also my hair seemed to become healthier. Perhaps it was simply because I was looking for it, but perhaps not.
After finding that Meijer now stocks this shampoo as well as many other products from this company, I had to find out what products of theirs I could use.
Below is the reply I received from Nature's Gate (www.natures-gate.com):
Rachael,
Attached is a list of Nature's Gate products that DO CONTAIN GLUTEN. All
other products not on the list are gluten free.
Best regards,
Natalie Wallach
Nature's Gate
That list follows here, as printed in the email attachment. Please note that this is a list of products that CONTAIN GLUTEN. And of course, always double-check labels of any products because formulas do change from time to time.
Apr 10, 2008
WOW! I love Casa!!
Okay, I tried some pasta from the new gluten free menu. I loved it.
But as someone whose sensitivity to gluten is ever-increasing since quitting the poison, there’s always that nagging question of cross-contamination.
I emailed an inquiry about staff training and education regarding cc, and below is the response that I received THE SAME AFTERNOON:
Dear Rachael,
Thank you for your e-mail and kind words. We had worked on this menu and training for over three months. The importance obviously focused on the training and the importance of cross-contamination. The pasta product is purchased through Glutino. When prepared a fresh pot and fresh water is used for each dish. We are happy we can serve guest with CD and meet your needs. We look forward to serving you soon.................
Thank You!
Tom Parisi
Director of Operations
Casa Ristoranti Italiano7539 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804
Ph: 260-399-2455
Fax: 260-745-5503
Email: tparisi@casarestaurants.net
Website: www.casarestaurants.net
Director of Operations
Casa Ristoranti Italiano7539 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804
Ph: 260-399-2455
Fax: 260-745-5503
Email: tparisi@casarestaurants.net
Website: www.casarestaurants.net
Mar 23, 2008
Rice Chex are now gluten-free!!!If you go out to buy them, make sure to check the package so you don’t accidentally get one made with the old recipe that included malt flavoring (a.k.a. BARLEY), but when I bought some today, it said "gluten free" right on the front of the box, so it was pretty obvious that it was a newer box.
I’m excited to have an affordable cereal available to me that isn’t sugary- and that actually has as much food in it as the size of the box would imply!
Now it’s time to start checking out Chex Mix recipes (http://www.chex.com/Recipes/RecipeIndex.aspx)... they list several recipes that only call for Rice Chex (the others all still have gluten), and most of those recipes are gluten-free or wouldn’t be difficult to make gluten-free. Woo-hoo!
