Supporting Veg-Friendly Businesses

It was with sadness that I saw a letter earlier this week that the Detroit Zen Center's cafe is closing (hopefully temporarily) at the end of this month. They expanded their hours due to customers' requests, but then didn't have the attendance necessary to support themselves financially. Sadly, this story isn't unique. Earthen Jar is currently facing a similar situation due to construction of a new parking lot being built right next to their restaurant. Om Cafe has opened and closed several times. And I've even seen my favorite vegan foods disappear at Whole Foods because there wasn't enough demand. :(

I want to encourage the veg community to continue to support veg-friendly businesses even during these tough economic times. I know I have been guilty myself of not supporting restaurants and grocers as much as I'd like until I hear that something is amiss, and by then it's sometimes too late. So here is my plan of action I encourage everyone to adopt to help keep the veg-friendly businesses alive!

1. Try to eat at a veg-friendly restaurant at least once every other week.
2. At least once a month, make sure you bring a new veg customer or a non-veg friend to a veg-friendly restaurant.
3. When you've had a good experience, post it online! It only takes you a minute and it's good marketing for them.
4. When you've had a bad experience, let the business know first and give them a chance to correct the issue. Every business has little blips.
5. Make suggestions to let businesses know what new products/menu items they should consider - keeping things fresh keeps customers coming back for more! (But let them know what staples you couldn't live without, either!)

If you have any other tips you'd like to share on how to support veg-friendly businesses, please share them by posting!

Wishing you peas and good health,
VeggiePatti

Blog Do-Over, Changes, and New Events

Well it's been a busy summer and needless to say I've neglected my blog. :( Despite that little summer blip I'm now back on track and will start blogging in a more timely manner!

First, I am excited to say that I have launched a new website, www.veggiepatti.com! It's still in the sprouting stage right now, but it will be growing and blooming shortly! So eventually, this blog will migrate over to that page, but I'll keep you informed!

In the meantime, I wanted to inform you of my fall schedule with classes and potlucks! Please see the information below for more details. If you have any questions, my new email address is veggiepatti@gmail.com.

In peas and health,
VeggiePatti

A Bite with VeggiePatti:

Classes on Food Allergies and Specialized Diets

What to Eat When You're Allergic to (Almost) Everything

Wednesday, September 21, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, $10

Do you struggle with what to eat due to food allergies, food sensitivities, or other dietary restrictions? Come hear real-world advice from VeggiePatti, a gluten-free vegan whose diet is constantly evolving as new sensitivities are discovered. You'll learn how to listen to your body, deal with the social ramifications of your diet, and maintain a positive attitude during the process! You will also learn about food substitutions, reading labels, tips for dining out, hidden allergens, and supplements that help. Bonus: Bring an old favorite recipe that you can no longer eat and VeggiePatti will help you transform it so you can enjoy it once again!

A Green Smoothie a Day Keeps the Blues Away

Wednesday, October 19 – 6:30 – 8:00 pm, $15

Come learn about the benefits of greens and the power of green smoothies to help boost your overall health and improve your mood. Learn about supplements, herbs, and foods that you can add to your smoothies that are purported to help with different ailments. You will see a live demonstration and get to taste smoothie samples.

How to Survive the Holidays with Food Allergies

Wednesday, November 16, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, $10

For those suffering from food allergies, the holidays can be a very difficult time of year when it comes to social events that involve food. From dinner with the relatives, to social gatherings with friends, to the dreaded office party, the thought of being surrounded by food that you either do not wish to or can no longer eat can be intimidating, not to mention all of the questions you are asked! Come learn about preparing foods that everyone can enjoy, handling the conversation with the host about your diet, and taking the focus off of your food preferences so you can enjoy the holidays once again!

3-in-1 Potlucks: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Raw

Plus Game Night

Wednesday, September 28 & October 26

6:30 pm – 9 pm

Join Adventures in Veganland for a monthly 3-in-1 potluck featuring, vegan, vegan gluten-free, and raw food! All are welcome! Please bring a dish from one of the categories below that serves at least 8 and adheres to the guidelines. Also, bring along your favorite game to play after the potluck!

Vegan: No meat, fish, seafood, dairy, eggs, or honey please.

Vegan Gluten-Free: Please follow all vegan guidelines plus no wheat, oats, or other gluten-containing products.

Raw: Please follow guidelines above, plus all food should be raw, i.e., not cooked over 105 degrees.

If you are not sure what to bring, just ask! To be eco-friendly, please consider bringing your own non-disposal plates and utensils.

A Very Vegan Thanksgiving Potluck

Sunday, November 20

1 pm – 4 pm

Join Adventures in Veganland for a pre-Thanksgiving potluck featuring, vegan, vegan gluten-free, and raw food! All are welcome! Please bring a dish from one of the categories above that serves at least 8 and adheres to the guidelines. Also, please bring a copy of your recipe so people can recreate your dish at home on Thanksgiving!

All classes and potlucks held at Total Health Foods, 2938 Biddle, Wyandotte