Monday, August 25, 2014

August 2014 Meeting Summary

The Prescott Area Celiac and Gluten Free Support Group experienced excellent attendance for the August meeting on Tuesday the 19th at the Prescott Public Library.  Several new members joined in as a result of the article that ran in the Prescott Courier on June 1st about celiac disease and gluten sensitivities.
 
Discussion at this month's meeting included information about the new FDA law in regard to gluten free labeling that was passed in August 2013. Compliance officially started in August 2014.  
 
Members attending the August meeting were made aware of the three main national Celiac organizations: CDF/CSA/GIG. The cost to belong to these national organizations is the primary reason the Prescott Area Group will remain local and not affiliated with a national group.  Renee R. did encourage those in attendance to check out the Phoenix support group: phoenixceliac.org.
 
There was much discussion about new products available at Costco (i.e., Wild Rice Crackers and Luke's GF crackers) and  also at other local grocery stores. Note: Diane J has added that VitaCost.com carries several GF products that are not available at any of the stores/retail outlets in our community. Examples are: Van's Crackers, Orgran GF toasted buckwheat crisp breads (perfect with lox and cream cheese), plus Majan's "Bhuja" snacks cracker mix, and another item now at Natural Grocers: Jovial's Tagliatelle, or traditional flat noodle egg pasta...pricey, but a real time saver vs. making your own... and great for Fall and Winter chicken soups and stews.
 
As usual, during the meeting each individual was given an opportunity to share their gluten free journey. 
 
Linda C. and Renee R. mentioned eating at Wildflower Bread Company and meeting the manager, Karrigan George.  Although it is not a gluten free restaurant, they ate safely after reading their gluten free menu online.  This info was also shared at the meeting. They indicated that their lunch was delicious.

Everyone in attendance received a copy of Living Without's current issue of Gluten Free & More, compliments of the publisher.
 
And lastly, don't forget Tammy Kastanas and her "That's It! Gluten Free Home Bakery". Tammy is at the Farmer's Market @ Yavapai College Saturday mornings from 7:30AM til noon. She has wonderful GF bakery items and also provides catering.
 
The next meeting will be held once again at the Prescott Public Library Founder's Room "A" downstairs, on Tuesday, September 16th at 12:00PM.
 
DJ

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