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October, 2014 – Now You’re Cookin’…

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Cultural Corner

Now You’re Cookin’… in Harmony

By

Lori Hope Baumel

Creme Brule

Autumn is upon us. Hopefully, the stifling south Florida air will subside as the cold fronts from up north move toward us. From the end of October to New Years day we begin a series of festivities and celebrations. In the retail world it seems like we skip directly from Halloween to Christmas, but for those of us in charge of culinary delights at home we start planning the festive meals. From pumpkin pie and turkey to Crème Brule on January 1st, our family not only pairs our meals with accompanying wines, we also put together an unofficial musical playlist from the moment we start cooking to when the final dish is cleaned and wiped.

The process of preparing a festive meal should be as much fun as eating it! If you are doing most of the cooking alone, as a starter, I would recommend some upbeat music to help you keep your energy level high. Are you a jazz fan? Try some Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck or Puppini Sisters while you are chopping the vegetables for the soup. If you’re more of a “pop” kind of person try some Jay Z, Katy Perry, Timberlake or Taylor Swift while you peel those potatoes. If you’re more of a “classical” kind of cook, then a Beethoven, Mahler or Brahms Symphony will definitely get you going. Just be careful not to cut yourself if you find yourself conducting the music with a cutting utensil.

When the festive meal is all prepared, it’s time to compose yourself, shower and get dressed. Best to put on some “calming down” music. It can be lyrical, but perhaps with a slower pace. I don’t know about you, but my guests seem to arrive within minutes of my stepping out of the shower and sliding into my holiday attire. If you’re expecting guests that prefer music from an older generation, trying putting on some Streisand, Sinatra or Tony Bennett for when they step into your house as you warmly greet them with the usual kisses and hugs. They’ll get such a kick out of hearing music that once was playing on their old record player. Of course, if you’re the oldest in the group, pick “arrival” music that suits the tastes of the ages of your guests. But, like I said before, keep the tempo a little calmer. You don’t want to get distracted, a headache or burn the green bean casserole.

I adamantly believe that the actual dinner music should be instrumental only (no vocals or lyrics). You worked very hard on the festive meal. Conversation is an important aspect of the occasion – especially if many of you haven’t seen each other in a long time. You want to be able to hear what your guests are saying. Also, the instrumental music often fills in the lulls that occur when people start eating and prefer not to talk with their mouths full. The style of instrumental music, again, depends on the tastes of your guests. Although, I find classical music like Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” or something similar to be a perfect dinner music selection.

When the dinner is done, you want everyone to pitch in and help with the cleanup. That’s when it is time to pick up the pace again and play that “dinner prep” playlist one more time. It will get everyone’s dancing feet going – the table will be cleared, the pans will be washed and the dishes will be in the dishwasher in no time.

Now, if you don’t have time to even think of assembling a playlist or switching music gears as the day or evening progresses – plan ahead. Sit down with one of your children or grandchildren who will be attending and go over your music choices with them. Be specific about what to play and when to play it. I don’t know of one teen or “tween” who hasn’t dreamed of DJ’ing for a night. This will be their opportunity to shine.

The music that accompanies your meal may end up being the perfect ingredient to a successful evening. It will probably be the least expensive as well.

Live… Go… Do!

Top 5 List for October 2014

 1) Read:

Orange Is The New Black

Yes, it’s October and orange and black are the colors of Halloween, but that happens to be a coincidence this month. Piper Kerman’s autobiographical recollection of her time spent in a women’s prison is a wake up call for all who aren’t aware of what is going on in the American prison system today. This book is a page-turner (and in my case, an audible.com masterpiece read by Piper Kerman herself). Only slightly resembling the popular television show, this work is an immersive experience. Reader discretion is advised as the language and various situations require a mature audience. Advised for ages 21 and older.

2) See:

Boyhood

I was absolutely blown away by this film. It is surely going to be an Oscar contender. If it is no longer in theaters at the time of this printing then put it in your Netflix queue or search for opportunities to stream it.  The editing of this piece is pure cinematic genius. The movie is incredible as it seamlessly segues over a period of twelve years. Within the storyline I found myself seeing some of my own characteristics as well as biographical traces from the lives of so many others I know. It’s a cinematic first and tour de force that should not be missed if you are a true movie fan.

3) Listen:

Partners

For that festive meal “guest arrival” music you might want to give this collection a try. It has a little bit of something for everyone. Barbra Streisand has assembled a new CD entitled Partners. A compilation of duets with such greats as John Legend, Stevie Wonder, John Mayor, Blake Shelton, Billie Joel, Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Michael Buble, Babyface, Lionel Richie, Jason Gould (Streisand’s son) and a virtual remix of “Love Me Tender” with Elvis Presley.  I heard about it on NPR’s “All Songs Considered.”

To hear a taste of it go to:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/allsongs/2014/09/08/346394576/song-premiere-barbra-streisand-and-john-legend-together

4) For the little Ones:

Preschool Story Time: Fire Prevention Day

Presented by Society of the Four Arts

Thursday, October 9, 2014 – 10:30 AM

Palm Beach Fire and Rescue will be on hand to show the children the fire trucks and what they do.

For more information go to:

http://palmbeachcounty.artscalendar.com/event/detail/441870073/Preschool_Story_Time_Fire_Prevention_Day

 

5) Fun FREE Concerts at: The Wellington Amphitheater

Chicago Tribute by The Brass Evolution

Saturday, October 11, 2014 at 6:30 PM

A Motown Tribute by Motown Magic

Saturday, October 25, 2014 at 6:30PM

12100 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington, FL. 33414

Contact: (561) 753-2484

Food Trucks will be on site from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, bring your own seating!

 For info about more Wellington Amphitheater events see:

http://www.wellingtonfl.gov/news/amphitheater-schedule/month.calendar/2014/10/15/32.html

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Lori Hope Baumel and her husband Eric live in Wellington and have three children.

Lori Baumel

Their eldest, Sam, 27, is a media producer and conceptual artist who currently resides in (extremely hipster) Brooklyn, NY. Her younger children, Evan and Rachel, wrote the Around Wellington “Teen Talk” column in previous years. Rachel, 24, lives and works in Boston, MA and Evan, 21, is a senior at American University in Washington DC. Eric has practiced radiology in Wellington since 1991. His many talents include artist, cook, photographer and, recently, medical app developer. You can learn more about Lori at www.loribaumel.com or read her blog:www.grownupcamp.tumblr.com

 

October, 2014 – What is Yoga?

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Health & FitnessSherri Mraz

What is Yoga, Really?

By Sherri Mraz

Most of us are used to looking for happiness outside of ourselves. We all want to be happy but what does that look like? Even after we attain a long held desire we end up with a deep longing within for “something more.”

Maybe when I get a new house, better job, new car, more money, or maybe even a different spouse I’ll finally be happy. Now I’m not going to deny that sometimes these things can make us happy, but it usually lasts for a short time and then the wanting starts over. So if we are always seeking how can we ever achieve happiness?

Most of us are so busy. We are constantly running and working toward our goals. All of this striving to achieve more puts us in a constant state of doing. It really goes against our true nature. We are always caught up in action rather than an inner awareness. Remember, we are human beings not merely human doings.

“The word yoga means, ‘Union,’ the yoking of body, mind and spirit. Yoga is a state of mind. It is not a religion, it is not a diet, it is not an exercise plan, although you do get stronger in all of those areas from practicing.”

Body ~ from practicing the asanas (postures) your body begins to develop strength. Your body also starts to crave clean food. You become more aware of how you feel and how food affects your body. It’s as if you become your own physician. You intuitively know what is right for yourself. I believe that everyone knows what is right for them already but it’s as if the curtains are drawn and you are disconnected to your own light. Following a regular practice, which includes meditation or just plain quiet time the curtains open and the light shines brighter.

Mind ~ you will begin to notice things just start to look different when you practice yoga. Did you get that? They look different! 90% of life and your happiness is based on your attitude. There is a saying,” You cannot change the landscape only the eyes you look at it with.” Your thinking and your attitude start to shift. This does not happen at first but over time you notice the changes starting to accumulate.

Spirit ~ be still and know that I am God.” The Bible teaches us to listen to our inner guide. I think this sums up what the science of yoga is. We simply learn to still.

Traditionally, there are eight limbs of yoga. Each limb is in essence a value. Compare them to any religion and you will see the similarities. It is true that if all people followed them correctly the world would be a much more peaceful place.

That is the beauty of yoga. It is a practice of peace, strength and good will. You learn the art of detachment to others drama and your own. You practice loving kindness to yourself and others.

***

Sherri Mraz also known as the Cookin’ Yogi, works with clients privately and in groups to improve their health. She teaches healthy cooking classes, yoga and is a public speaker. Sherri has trained at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in NYC and is certified through Teachers College Columbia University and by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP). She is also registered with the Yoga Alliance at the advanced teacher level, a member of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and studied at The Hippocrates Health Institute. She studied ancient nutritional wisdom, and the latest diet and healthy lifestyle trends with renowned experts such as Dr. Mehmet Oz, Deepak Chopra, Dr. Andrew Weil, Dr. Walter Willet, Dr. Anne Marie Colbin, and Dr. Neal Bernard. Sherri is the author of  the Cookbook “The Cookin’ Yogi’s, More Energy, Less Waist” and the “3 Day Bliss Detox” She is located at Keystone Chiropractic in Royal Palm Beach. Please contact her at Sherri@CookinYogi.com or visit her website at www.CookinYogi.com

October, 2014 – Nutrition for Senior Dogs

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Paws-itive Press

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SENIOR DOGS

By Mark Planco of Planco Veterinary Care

The nutritional requirements of older dogs differ in amount rather than in type from those of younger dogs.  The same nutrients are required, but in different amounts. One of the effects of aging is a slowing down in the metabolic rate, the speed at which the body “burns” food for energy. The older dog typically needs fewer calories due to a decrease in activity. During the last third of a dog’s life span, it usually requires 10-30% fewer calories.  The amount of reduction will be influenced by such variables as breed, living habits, and general physical condition.

Another change brought on by aging is a reduction of the functional capacity of body organs such as the heart, kidneys, and digestive system. As the digestive processes become less efficient, it is important that the ingredients in the older dog’s diet be of a high biological quality that is easily digested and utilized by the body.

This is the type of technical information known and used by scientists in the formulation of the higher quality pet foods.  With these foods, the products are backed and proven by many years of research and testing.  In pet foods, you really do usually get what you pay for.  Quality pet foods do NOT use cheap ingredients and therefore are more expensive to make than the generic foods available. Beware of the marketing schemes of poor quality food. Don’t buy food according to cost or what the bag says, looks like or compares itself to. Use a food your veterinarian recommends or approves. You can spend a lot of money on poor quality food.

It is best to feed a high quality food and nothing else unless recommended by your veterinarian because of special needs of the pet. There are circumstances that sometimes require a prescription diet to be recommended due to metabolic issues.  In some conditions, your veterinarian may recommend specific supplements for the diet.  Supplementation should be done under medical guidance only since adding supplements can create an unbalanced diet, which may be harmful to the dog.

WATER:

An essential nutrient, and your dog should have free access to water at all times. Change it often.  When you go on trips or outings with your dog, be sure to take a supply of water with you. Offer it frequently.

***

Dr. Mark Planco’s compassion for animals has been a lifelong labor of love. He earned both his undergraduate and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees at the University of Florida. Dr. Planco has treated small and large animals since 1991, and has been in Palm Beach County since 1994. Dr. Planco is a member of the Palm Beach Veterinary Society, American Veterinary Medical Association and the Florida Veterinary Medical Association.  Visit  for further information or call 561-795-9507.

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Note: Planco Veterinary Care is in need of an experienced Veterinary Technician. It could be part-time or possibly full time. Please post and repost. Anyone interested please send resume to Planco@

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Disclaimer: This column is not intended to provide information on which you should use to diagnose or treat a medical condition or delay seeking medical attention. This column is of no value with respect to any medical condition that needs prompt attention. If you have a question that needs an immediate answer, you should call your own veterinarian or emergency animal hospital, especially if you are confronting a medical emergency!

Furthermore, we urge you to always seek the advice of your own veterinarian, and you should not disregard, discount, or delay seeking the advice of your veterinarian because of any response posted in this column.

 

 

 

October, 2014 – Exercise Benefits the Brain

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Exercise Better than Mental or Social Activity to Protect Brain from Shrinkage, Study Finds

By Editor of HelpingYouCare.com

Older Adults Participate in Exercise Class (Image courtesy of CDC Public Health Image Library)

A new study published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Association of Neurology, has found that among older adults, regular exercise was more effective in protecting against brain shrinkage than were either mental or social activities.

Some brain shrinkage normally accompanies aging, but research has found that more severe brain shrinkage or atrophy is associated with memory problems and cognitive decline, according to a news release issued by the American Association of Neurology.

The new study, conducted by Alan J. Gow, PhD, of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, and colleagues, was published in the October 23, 2012 issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

The Study; Methodology

The researchers examined medical records of 638 people in Scotland who were born in 1936.

At Age 70 the participants answered questions about their physical and leisure activities. Among the information gathered were self-reported details about the participants’ exercise habits, including extent of participation in fitness exercise or competitive sports as well as movement in connection with household chores and every day activities. The participants also reported details about their engagement in mentally stimulating activities and social activities.

At Age 73, the participants underwent MRI scans to measure for various markers of brain volume or brain atrophy. Scientifically, the authors explained their examination procedures as follows:

“For white matter integrity, principal components analysis of 12 major tracts produced general factors for fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity. Atrophy, gray and normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) volumes, and WML [white matter lesion] load were assessed using computational image processing methods; atrophy and WML [white matter lesion] were also assessed visually. “

Scientific literature indicates that “fractional anisotropy (FA)” is a widely used measure of the integrity of white matter in the brain, which is thought to be an indicator of brain integrity or brain shrinkage or atrophy.

White matter lesions (WML)” is a term that refers to small areas of dead cells found in parts of the brain consisting of white matter that act as connectors. Studies indicate that while white matter lesions are commonly found in MRI scans of older person’s brains, and may to some extent occur normally with aging, nevertheless, the extensive presence of “White matter lesions tended to be associated with lower scores on tests of cognitive function and were significantly associated with subjective mental decline.”

Findings

The new study found that after three years, people who participated in more physical activity experienced less brain shrinkage or atrophy, as measured by the indicators mentioned above, than those who exercised minimally.

“A higher level of physical activity was associated with higher FA, larger gray and NAWM volumes, less atrophy, and lower WML load,” the authors wrote.

“The physical activity associations with atrophy, gray matter, and WML remained significant after adjustment for covariates, including age, social class, and health status,” they found.

However, they also found that “Leisure activity [other than exercise — such as mental or social acticvities] was associated with NAWM volume, but was nonsignificant after including covariates.”

“People in their seventies who participated in more physical exercise, including walking several times a week, had less brain shrinkage and other signs of aging in the brain than those who were less physically active,” the study author, Alan J. Gow, PhD., said in a news release issued by the American Academy of Neurology.

“On the other hand, our study showed no real benefit to participating in mentally and socially stimulating activities on brain size, as seen on MRI scans, over the three-year time frame,” said Dr. Gow.

Conclusions; Implications

In conclusion, the authors wrote, “In this large, narrow-age sample of adults in their 70s, physical activity was associated with less atrophy and WML [white matter lesions]. Its role as a potential neuroprotective factor is supported; however, the direction of causation is unclear from this observational study.”

“Our results show that regularly exercising in old age is potentially important to protecting the brain as we age,” concluded Dr. Gow, the study author.

More Information

The complete report of the new study is available online in the October 23, 2012 issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

See related HelpingYouCare® reports on:

Decline in Physical Abilities Linked to Increased Risk for Dementia Among 90 Year Olds, Study Finds

Omega-3 in Fish & Other Foods May Keep Your Brain Sharper, New Study Finds

Fruits, Vegetables & Fish May Keep Brain from Shrinking, New Study Finds

Strength Training & Walking Improve Brain & Memory, New Studies Find

Weight Loss and Walking Exercise Improve Memory, Studies Find

Physical Inactivity May Cause as Many Deaths as Smoking, New Study Calculates

Experts Advocate Dancing for Health

For more information on dementia/ Alzheimer’s Disease and memory problems, see the HelpingYouCare®resource pages on Alzheimer’s/ Dementia, including:

For further information on dementia, see the website of the American Academy of Neurology. According to their news release, “The American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 25,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, migraine, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy.”

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Copyright © 2012 Care-Help LLC, publisher of HelpingYouCare®. All rights reserved.  Posted with permission from HelpingYouCare.com.

 

October, 2014 – Jackie’s Poem

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Jackie’s Poem David Plumb
By David Plumb 
I was going to stop by the porch
To see if you are still around
But they tell me you are not
No one even knows who
You are, though the family name
Is faded paint at the Rug and Cider Mill
I still feel your thin neck
I see your long legs in jeans
But I’m sure the pony tail is gone
We stood in shadows and I’m not clear
What we were doing then
It was more heat and wish
The next day I got the flu
And never saw you again
 
Fall arrives breast up red and yellow
And I’m not looking for what wasn’t
Might have been in the orchard
Or the porch, or whose dream is who’s
You are gone, the house is gone
The moon, oh I see it
Your blue eyes, your small face
Your chin close to mine
Somewhere in the mix of things I see
A silence of sorts, a wish
Running off toward spring
Where the boys and girls are new 
See how they dance oh
See them leap and sing
***
David Plumb’s writing has appeared in the Healing Muse, The  Washington Post, the Miami Herald, Gargoyle, and Outlaw Poetry Network,. The author of ten books, Will Rogers said, “Live in such a way that you would not be ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip. David Plumb says, “It depends upon the parrot.”
 

October, 2014 – The Most Boo-tiful Time of Year

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Teen TalkGabi Harris

The Most BOO-Tiful Time of the Year

By Gabrielle Harris

Crinkled leaves, huge sweaters that engulf your whole body, and pumpkin flavors at every turn; it’s the time before the most wonderful time of year. It’s finally fall and I am definitely in the spirit! I’m long awaiting cold fronts and bonfire-filled nights with my friends and the month has just begun. In all honesty, I did start drinking pumpkin drinks back in September while it was still summer and it didn’t particularly feel right. Now that it’s actually autumn time, it feels a bit better allowing the pumpkin and whipped cream flavors to go down my throat. Just typing about it gets me excited to go run outside in my boots and beanie and cannon ball jump right into a giant pile of leaves. But, then I’m brought back to reality and remember that we live in Florida, and there are no giant piles of leaves awaiting my arrival outdoors. It’s a sad but sure realization. Even if there are no orange and red leaves or absolute “cold” weather, there are still many things to be excited about.

Cold fronts are going to be coming our way and scarves and boots can finally be worn without the scare of having a heat stroke. My closet has a whole side just filled with my various oversized knitted sweaters that have been bought from multiple thrift stores. Different fashions and makeup styles come back from the depths of the closets and finally get to be worn after an eight-month wait. Dark lipsticks are back on the shelves and the bikinis are now stored in the back until next time. Halloween stores are rising back to life as mothers and anxious children prepare to purchase costumes for the big day. Bonfires with friends, full of laughter and tons of calories due to the excessive amounts of s’mores and other items you might regret later. I’ve thrown my share of bonfires in my life and I truly recommend them during October and November. Everyone loves a good enclosed fire, along with good food and people.

This time of year for high school seniors also marks another strike on the calendar besides just Halloween. Here it comes…early application deadlines. It’s a very frightful time of year for us, speaking on behalf of most seniors in the U.S.

This time of the year can be very stressful, but also one of the greatest times of the year! Drink a drink full of sugar and artificial pumpkin flavors, feel the non-90 degree weather and just enjoy the next three months to the fullest!

 

October, 2014 – Boo!

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Mommy MomentsMelanie Lewis

BOO!

By Melanie Lewis

HEY,  moms and dads.  Here’s my fall challenge: To see if you can get your kids to “fall for it” with practical jokes.  I was watching Ellen and her guest star Julia Roberts.  In the show Julia regaled tales of “pranking” her kids.  She laughed giddily as she spoke of sneaking out from behind something and startling them with a “boo.”   I tried sneaking up on my kids and saying “boo!”  It was one score for mom, especially since they didn’t wet their pants.  Of course, you must expect retaliation.  Here’s where you get to see how clever you little ghouls are at catching you off guard.  In addition to Ellen’s show, America’s Funniest Videos has many examples of good practical jokes to make your own.

Some people are fun to “mess” with.  Move the socks to where the underwear is supposed to be one day and move it back the next for example.  How about some fake plastic bugs in the refrigerator produce drawer.  As you mull over the possibilities, you’re challenging your brain into new avenues which will help stave off dementia.  Prank your trick-or-treaters by greeting them with stalks of celery and carrots.  After a few minutes, finally reveal the fun-size Snickers bars.  It could be funny to see their horror, followed by sighs of relief.

The stores are carrying more and more animated Halloween gags these days – like giant spiders that jump out, candy bowls with a moving hand inside and scary dolls that pop out at you.  You can really add to the creepy factor at your front door by just playing some scary music too.

Scary stuff, available at Spirit Halloween store this month
Scary stuff, available at Spirit Halloween store this month

So parents, put on your thinking caps, be creative and sneaky.  You may fall down with laughter this Halloween season!

Game on!

***

Melanie Lewis is the mother of 2 active young boys. She is married and works part-time as a Silpada representative and a weight loss consultant. She enjoys book club, and playing with her Blue-mitted Ragdoll, Percy and Golden Retriever, Rosie. She can be reached atmelaniewlewis@yahoo.com.

October, 2014 – Baton Rouge…C’est Si Bon

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Travel with TerriTerri Marshall

Baton Rouge: C’est Si Bon…It’s So Good!

Story and Photos By Terri Marshall

There’s no question, Louisianans know how to party.  And that partying has as much to do with Cajun cuisine as it does with Mardi Gras.   Although New Orleans may be known as the partying capital, it isn’t the only place for food and fun on the Bayou.   Just 80 miles northwest of New Orleans, Louisiana’s capital city is a bit more genteel than its partying neighbor, but every bit as delicious.

Located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is a delightful city with an intriguing history and some of the best food around.  There are plenty of ways to explore the city of Baton Rouge, but I can’t think of one more delicious than the C’est Si Bon Food Tour founded by Kim Harper.

culinaryinstitute
Dinner at the Louisiana Culinary Institute

Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Kim, is passionate about Louisiana cuisine as well as the history and character of Baton Rouge.  She comes by this honestly.  When she was growing up her mother created a cookbook as a fundraiser for Kim’s school.  Each recipe was kitchen tested.  “We had cast iron pots all over the place,” she recalls.  Kim’s C’est Si Bon Food Tour is a walking, guided tour in downtown Baton Rouge that perfectly melds food sampling with entertaining historical, cultural and architectural details.

LloydsPoBoys

The tour kicks off at Lloyd’s Poor Boy, a Baton Rouge institution that has been serving up a bucket list of Louisiana cuisine for half a century to everyone from blue collar workers to lawyers in seersucker suits with bow ties.  Proprietor Fred Taylor was ready for us with samples of hot roast beef Po Boys.

In 1929 when the trolley car workers’ union went on a lengthy strike, money grew tight for the workers. Bennie and Clovis Martin started serving sandwiches to workers free of charge in New Orleans.  The practice spread to other areas of Louisiana including Baton Rouge.  “Here comes another poor boy” was often heard as the striking workers would show up for their sandwiches.  The nickname stuck and eventually shortened to “Po Boy” – sandwiches that have been a delicious part of Louisiana cuisine ever since.

Lloyd’s offers several varieties of Po Boys.  They come “dressed” with lettuce, tomato and pickle or “undressed.”  But they always come with plenty of napkins.  As Fred says, “If you don’t use three to four napkins it just ain’t right!”

StroubesChopHouseIn stark contrast to the “diner” feel of Lloyd’s, Stroubes Chophouse provides an upscale down south dining experience.  At Stroubes Kim introduced the holy trinity of gumbo – onions, bell pepper and celery.  A sampling of the trinity paired with duck and Andouille sausage was gumbo heaven.  The divine experience continued with a sampling of the rich, creamy corn, crab and brie bisque.  It was an ascent into culinary heaven.

The tour includes several other scrumptious stops including Zolia Bistro – an Italian bistro and wine bar where the warmth and comfort of Italian dining blends effortlessly with the contemporary design elements of II City Plaza, one of Baton Rouge’s most prestigious properties.  An expo kitchen provides an opportunity to experience the bustling energy put into each decadent entrée.

TheLobbyCafe
The Lobby Café

At the Lobby Café located in the Historic Varsity Shop, Tiffany Terrell serves breakfast and lunch favorites as she continues a 4th generation family food tradition in Downtown Baton Rouge.  Miss Corrinne Mansur, Tiffany’s great aunt, began a small wholesale seafood company, C.C. Fish Market on Europe Street, in 1932, not realizing 82 years and four generations of women later her legacy of quality service to the Baton Rouge community would continue to flourish.   Try the muffaletta…trust me.

BaconCaramelPopcorn
Bacon caramel popcorn

Another tour highlight was a stop at Restaurant IPO where Chef Scott Varnedoe serves his bacon caramel popcorn at every table.   “We replaced the butter with bacon fat,” said Chef Scott.  “We can always hook people with bacon!”  The hand-crafted cocktails at IPO are not to be missed – my personal favorite was the Cajun Lemonade- a sinful blend of white rum and Pimm’s No.1 with fresh lemonade and a dash of Tabasco!  No need to drink in a hurry, you can ask for a “to go” cup and continue your cocktail sipping as you stroll to your next destination.

No self-respecting food tour would skip dessert so for the grand finale we ventured to The Kingfish restaurant located in the former Hunt Room at the Heidelberg Hotel – an exclusive meeting spot for Louisiana’s power brokers known as the “Hunt Room Alumni-dedicated to the Good Life.”  One bite of the ridiculously delicious Bananas Foster Cheesecake Beignets (fried Cheesecake Beignets served with homemade banana caramel sauce) and we too were dedicated to the Good Life.

BananasFosterCheesecakeBeignets
Bananas Foster Cheesecake Beignets

C’est Si Bon…It’s so good!

www.batonrougefoodtours.com

***

Terri is a freelance writer with regular columns on travel, chocolate and bar reviews. She is busy each month visiting new places to bring unique travel destinations and events to you. Yes, it is a sacrifice – but she is willing to do that for her readers! You can see more of Terri’s writing at www.examiner.com where she is the National Chocolate Examiner and at www.barzz.net. Also, check out her blog at www.trippingwithterri.comYou can contact Terri at terri.marshall60@gmail.com.

October, 2014 – Sculptor Norman Gitzen

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October, 2014 – Sculptor Norman Gitzen

NormGitzen1

October, 2014 – AW in Pics

Just a few highlights of happenings Around Wellington. For many more photos, visit the link “Photo Galleries” on this site! For recent videos, click on our “Videos” link.

IMG_4234-CAFCI
Jess, Michelle and Chris Santamaria at the CAFCI Friendship Ball. Photo by Carol Porter.
The Palm Beach County Democratic Party’s 2014 Truman Kennedy Johnson Annual Dinner on Saturday evening, September 20 featured speakers Governor Jennifer Granholm, FDP Chair Allison Tant., Governor Charlie Crist, special Reception guest Governor Martin O'Malley, incumbent legislators and other speakers with an attendance of over 500. The event was held at the West Palm Beach Marriott. Photo by Carol Porter.
The Palm Beach County Democratic Party’s 2014 Truman Kennedy Johnson Annual Dinner on Saturday evening, September 20 featured speakers Governor Jennifer Granholm, FDP Chair Allison Tant., Governor Charlie Crist, special Reception guest Governor Martin O’Malley, incumbent legislators and other speakers with an attendance of over 500. The event was held at the West Palm Beach Marriott. Photo by Carol Porter.
Silvia Garcia at "Stars Behind the Bar," a fundraiser held last month at Jordan's Steak Bistro. Photo by Carol Porter.
Silvia Garcia at “Stars Behind the Bar,” a fundraiser held last month at Jordan’s Steak Bistro. Photo by Carol Porter.
MolecuBar, a fun event at the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium last month. Photo by Krista Martinelli.
MolecuBar, a fun event at the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium last month. Photo by Krista Martinelli.