Resolve — Share in a 75-minute "evolutionary yoga" session led by Gregg Newsom, appropriate for those new to yoga and seasoned veterans, with musical accompaniment from violinist Dixon. After the session, enjoy a local and organic raw foods feast prepared by Angela Newsom, and a discussion on the benefits of a healthy and humane diet. It happens 9:30 a.m. to noon on Friday, Jan. 1; $40; at the Detroit Flyhouse in Eastern Market; in the FD Loft Building behind Sala Thai, 3434 Russell St., Loft #302, Detroit; register via [email protected] or 313-316-1411.
Go slow — Ann Arbor's Eve restaurant, our local outpost of the slow food movement, is open for lunch Tuesdays through Saturdays, serving simple, fresh, seasonal repasts from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. What's more, they'll have an introduction to wine tasting at 7 p.m. Jan. 13; $35 per person plus tax and tip; 415 N. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor; 734-222-0711
FOOD/THOUGHT
Grits, once considered a proprietary food by Southerners, are out of the culinary closet. In Glorious Grits: America's Favorite Comfort Food (Oxmoor House, $22.95), Susan McEwen McIntosh illustrates how an ingredient once thought to be a stand-alone side has now gone mainstream, becoming part of myriad dishes from appetizers to desserts. Tasty recipes, including shrimp and grits" and smoked grits, will expand your repertoire. The book includes cornmeal and polenta recipes using healthy whole grains.
BOTTOMS UP
Stores fill their end caps with heaps of cheap and nasty bubbly wine for the holidays. Do yourself and the Michigan economy a favor by buying a bottle or two of estate grown and bottled sparkling wine from the Leelanau Peninsula. L. Mawby wines are made using the traditional methode Champenoise, and some are aged more than three years before being sold. If you're a frugal shopper, try their M. Lawrence brand of sparkling wine produced by a faster fermentation method and with less aging but still delicious.
THE WORKS
Now is the time to make a resolution to reduce your carbon footprint. Every step , however small, helps. Scotch Brite Greener Cleaners are made of ecologically sound materials. Scrubbers are made from 50 percent natural scrubbing fibers from the agave plant. Soap pad fibers are made completely from recycled plastic. Biodegradable sponges are made from all-natural fibers. Wipes are made with natural fibers derived from bamboo. All of the products are reusable, economical replacements for disposable products.
Know of any upcoming food events? Special meals? One-time deals? Let us know! Please send information to [email protected].
