Sunday, November 25, 2007

Slow Food International Congress



The food was great, and the setting was spectacular, but the real joy of attending the Slow Food International Congress was getting to know Slow Food leaders from around the world and being part of an amazing network which links producers and eaters of food that is good, clean, and fair. SF Maumee Valley leaders Paula Ross and Lucy Long returned from Puebla inspired, and look forward to sharing the ideas we gained from our trip.

Sandhill Cranes Winery



The Maumee Valley group that visited Sandhill Cranes on the Sunday before Thanksgiving was small, but we all enjoyed the trip and learning how a retired Detroit police officer, with his wife and two daughters, came to create a small commercial winery producing an amazing range of grape wines, fruit wines, and blends. This is one of the joys of Slow Food: getting to know the people who produce our food and wine. The scenery around the Jackson, Michigan winery is spectacular. On a future trip, we'll include visits to other wineries on the Pioneer Wine Trail.

Monday, November 5, 2007

Support Your Local Farmers


Summer fruits are mostly a memory, but local markets are still a great source for winter meals featuring apples, squash, and root vegetables. The Toledo Farmers Market (http://www.toledofarmersmarket.org/) now offers year-round shopping, thanks to new pull-down doors installed in a large section of the market.

All of the above will be available, plus honey, baked goods, and all-season greens and herbs from an area hydroponic greenhouse.

Kids’ Event: Celebrate Heritage Holiday Recipes


On Sunday, December 2, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, children are invited to a special cookie baking party at 2443 Pemberton Drive, Toledo, Ohio. Children should bring cookie dough made from a family recipe that they like the most. We will bake the cookies at the party. Children will also participate in other holiday activities including crafts and games.

Children of all ages, accompanied by their parents, are welcome. Cost: $5.00 per child. RSVP to 419 531-3809.