Latest news with #EasternEuropean
Chicago Tribune
7 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Chicago Tribune
From the Farm: Chef-turned-food columnist Barbara Rolek dead at age 75
In my 35 years (and plus) writing about recipes, I've shared the same newspaper page as a number of various food columnists, some of whom were desk neighbors beside me in the newsroom. Barbara Rolek, a trained and certified chef, worked as a columnist for The Post-Tribune and a three-year history timeline from 2004 to 2007 as the 'Restaurant Scene' columnist and food writer for The Times of Northwest Indiana. Barb, a longtime resident of Crown Point, died earlier this month on May 14 at age 75. She was born in Chicago and attended Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois, and was a graduate of Chicago's Washburne Culinary Institute. She worked as an executive chef and pastry chef for more than 15 years at fine dining restaurants and even some time at the commissary of a grocery store chain where she developed a customized home meal replacement program. She won awards as a food writer for the Chicago Tribune Media Company and her tenure at The Times of Northwest Indiana, including a 2007 win from the Hoosier State Press Association Award for a story on the Ketogenic diet in the treatment of childhood epilepsy. In 2008, as newspapers began one of the lagging economy-inspired downsizing chapters, Barb shifted to writing as a guide for heading her own website covering Eastern European foods and showcasing recipes, photos and cultural information connected with highlighted countries. She pivoted and accepted a new adventure as the lead writer and head creative force with an upscale online company 'Ann's Fabulous Finds.' 'Beyond her ace writing skills, Barb was an exceptional colleague and friend. She was compassionate, kind and always ready to offer support,' said the company's owner Troy Babcock and echoed by co-owner Ann Wzacny. Barb co-authored 'Tell Me How Long You Want to Live and I'll Tell You What to Eat to Get There' with writer Dr. William D. Stimack (2002 Authorhouse $19.95). Like myself, Barb was one of the food personalities to host cooking classes, including her homemade pastas and 'how to build a gingerbread house' at La Cucina Cooking School in Highland owned by Susan Dedelow. Barb, like so many chefs, was a hard worker and kitchen competitive, the latter of which fired her spirit and a heart of gold always willing to help others. I first met Barb long before we shared a newspaper page and newsroom desk landscape. For two brief years in 1998 and 1999, when I began working for the features section of The Times of Northwest Indiana, I rented a newly built duplex home in Crown Point where Barb and her mother Mary happened to live on the other side of the shared wall in the adjoining unit. Barb would often bring elaborate recipe sampling spreads to the newsroom for all to enjoy. Her recipe for 'Beer and Cheese Potato Soup' was so scrumptious, I was able to persuade her to allow me to publish her recipe in my second cookbook 'More From the Farm' (2007 Pediment Press $29.95). While we were neighbors, Barb and her mom would often compliment or fuss over our family's pet purebred Maine Coon cat Tracker, especially if he was spotted on our paired patios in the back of the homes. One funny story that I never revealed to Barb (or her mom) has to do with the front yard of our adjoined homes. The landscaping included a rather wide stretch of green lawn which served as the divide of the driveways to our attached garages. We each mowed, watered and manicured our own half using an imaginary 'line border' to represent each renter's grassy half. In the summer of 1998, I was leaving my home to attend a picnic, and my menu carry-in contribution was a large bowl of vinegar-based three-bean salad, a recipe specialty of a previous food editor, Sharon Rocchio, and also published in my 2007 cookbook. The large round bowl slipped from my hands, the plastic wrap blew off, and the contents fell into the middle of this aforementioned grassy knoll strip, landing face down with the salad submerged into the grass. I scooped up the mess and hosed away the strong scent of vinegar. The next day, I discovered (as did Barb and her mom) a large yellow nearly perfect circle shape burned into the grass from the strength of the acidic vinegar. I felt silly about my clumsiness so when Barb suggested I must have spilled fertilizer to cause the marred lawn, I simply agreed, and she insisted I buy a square of sod grass to cut to size and patch the gaffe. Barb was preceded in death by both her parents Walter Rolek and Mary Durski Rolek; and brother Wally Rolek. She is survived by her sister Janet Rolek, sister-in-law Camille Podalski Rolek, and many cousins in the area. Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 12, 2025, at St Mary's Catholic Church, 321 E. Joliet St, Crown Point with Rev. Peter Muha officiating. Burial is private at Holy Cross Cemetery, Calumet City. Barb also adored her cats Stella, Ruby and Maggie, a trio she would refer to as 'her primary recipe tasters.' In lieu of flowers, Barb's wishes are for donations to be made to any favorite charity, with funeral arrangements being led by Burns Funeral Home. One of Barb's most recent planned projects was a German recipe cookbook, a project which never came to be as she explained in her social media post in September 2022. 'The publishing industry has really taken a hit over the past 10 years,' Barb wrote. 'As reading materials increasingly become digitized and more reliance is placed on trends, the printed word, i.e., books and newspapers, is feeling the death knell. And, in its infinite wisdom, my publisher has decided to put a hold on my German baking book because computer data show it's 'not the right time.' Fifty of my recipes will disappear into the ether (contractually, I can't publish on my own even though they are my intellectual property), but I would like to share my recipe for German Black Forest cake with you. By the way, I still get paid, so I know you will be delighted to hear I'm crying all the way to the bank. The real pity of it is the phenomenal tasting experiences and touchstones to their omas (grandmas) so many people could have had. I can't let that happen.' One of Barb's prized Polish recipes is her kolaczki. 'There is some debate as to who invented kolaczki (plural for kolaczek),' Barb wrote in 2008. 'Poles claim it and call it 'kolachy,' but the Croatians claim it too, as do Czechs and others. Kolaczki can be round, square or diamond shaped, and the dough can be flaky or yeast-risen, and the spelling varies widely. My family always preferred the flaky kind made with a cream cheese dough, and apricot, raspberry, prune and sweet cheese were our fillings of choice. Nowadays, anything goes — almond, poppyseed, strawberry, blueberry, even pineapple. This is a great kids project.' 1 (8-ounce) cream cheese, softened 2 ounces (3 sticks) butter, softened 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 (14-ounce) cans fillings of choice (apricot, prune, raspberry, etc.) Confectioners' sugar Directions: Mix cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Add flour 1 cup at a time and mix well. Wrap dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Roll out dough 1/4-inch on a surface that has been dusted with equal parts confectioners' and granulated sugars (not flour). Cut into 2-inch squares. Place 1/2 to 1 teaspoon filling on center of each square. Overlap opposite corners of dough to the center over filling. Bake for 15 minutes or when corners start to brown. Cool and dust with confectioners' sugar. These tend to become soggy if held for several days, so store them tightly covered (or freeze) without the confectioners' sugar. Dust with confectioners' sugar just before serving.
Axios
8 hours ago
- Business
- Axios
How Minneapolis' Cultural Districts tell their stories through food
From golden raisin lattes to shawarma, the many restaurants of Minneapolis' seven Cultural Districts serve up more than meals — they're an invitation to connect with the history, culture and community that have shaped the city across generations. The background: Each Cultural District reflects a distinct identity shaped by generations of Indigenous, immigrant and BIPOC communities. Some districts began as industrial or transit corridors; others were built through necessity as communities of color were denied access to housing and commercial opportunities elsewhere. Over time, Minneapolis' neighborhoods became home to a layered mix of cultures, from Dakota and other Indigenous nations to Scandinavian, Eastern European and Middle Eastern immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries. In more recent decades, Latinx, Somali and Hmong communities have added new voices, flavors and traditions to the city's cultural fabric The impact: That cultural vibrancy comes to life in the restaurants, cafes and markets that anchor each district. Here are just a few spots where you can eat well and learn more about the communities that make each district unique. 🫓 Maria's Café (Franklin Avenue East) Located inside the Ancient Traders Market, Maria's is beloved for its Colombian-style sweet corn pancakes and breakfast burritos. About Franklin Avenue East: This district is home to a thriving Indigenous community. It's a hub for Native-led organizations, artists and food entrepreneurs working to preserve — and evolve — cultural presence. Plus, plus, plus: Check out All My Relations Arts or take the "Unholy Tour," a guided group tour of the origins of the American Indian Movement and the Indigenous history of the area. ☕️ Bichota Coffee (38th Street District) Just a short walk from George Floyd Square, this Black- and woman-owned café is known for ethically sourced beans and Capriotadas, or sweet, spicy golden raisin lattes. Community events and craft nights make it a gathering space as much as a coffee stop. About 38th Street: The café sits in a district shaped by Black entrepreneurship and resilience — and continues to anchor conversations around justice and healing. Here's what else: Swing by Listen2Us Studio, a living photographic archive of the 2020 protests, or catch a show at Pillsbury House & Theatre. 🥙 Holy Land (Central Avenue District) Originally a deli, Holy Land has now grown into a full-service restaurant and market, known for its shawarma, hummus and fresh pita made in-house. About Central Avenue: Shaped by a working-class population of Lebanese, German, Polish and Eastern European communities brought to the city in the 1930s to work in Northeast's railways, the district has long been a hub for immigrant entrepreneurship and heritage. 🍦 La Michoacana Purepecha (East Lake Street) A colorful ice cream shop serving mangonadas, paletas and bubblegum-pink piñon (pine nut) ice cream. About East Lake Street: Surrounded by mercados and murals, this district is a cultural and commercial center for Minneapolis' Latinx and Somali communities. The takeaway: Across Minneapolis' Cultural Districts, restaurants are more than just places to eat — they're places to linger, to learn and to connect more deeply with the stories rooted in each neighborhood.
Morocco World
15 hours ago
- Business
- Morocco World
Moldova, Morocco Abolish Visas for Diplomatic Passport Holders
Doha – Moldova and Morocco have eliminated visa requirements for holders of diplomatic, service, and special passports, following the Moldovan Parliament's ratification of a reciprocal agreement. According to Moldovan news agency IPN, the agreement was signed in Chisinau on April 15. The newly ratified accord allows diplomatic, service, and special passport holders to enter, exit, or transit through either country without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This calculation takes into account the previous 180 days before each day of stay. Family members of eligible individuals will also benefit from the visa exemption. This includes spouses, children, parents, and other dependents who live together during their official stay and hold valid diplomatic, service, or special passports. The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the agreement aims to develop and strengthen collaborative and friendly relations between the two countries by enabling visa-free travel for holders of these specific passport types. Read also: Morocco Lifts Visa Requirements for Albanian Citizens, Not Vice Versa This visa agreement comes on the heels of Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita's diplomatic tour in Europe in mid-April, which included a stop in Moldova. During this visit, Moldova recognized Morocco's Autonomy Plan for the Sahara as 'the most serious and credible basis' for resolving the regional dispute. Meanwhile, high-level talks between Bourita and Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi resulted in five cooperation accords, including the visa exemption agreement. The other agreements focused on establishing political consultations between the two countries' foreign ministries, promoting economic diplomacy, facilitating exchanges between diplomatic institutes, and enhancing cultural cooperation. Both ministers expressed satisfaction with 'the excellence of relations between the two countries' and committed to intensifying political dialogue across all sectors. They agreed to organize a comprehensive business forum targeting specific sectors with high partnership potential, including agriculture, fertilizers, energy, industrial outsourcing, digital technology, and cybersecurity. During their meeting, Popșoi voiced Moldova's 'full support for the sincere efforts' deployed by Morocco to resolve the Sahara issue. The Eastern European country reiterated its backing for the UN-led process aimed at reaching a 'just, pragmatic, durable and mutually acceptable' political solution. The Moldovan minister described Morocco as 'a regional stability hub and growth catalyst in Africa,' while Bourita expressed support for Moldova's EU accession negotiations and ongoing reform efforts. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regional stability, security, and peace. Tags: Abolition of Visa requirementsMoldovaMorocco
Yahoo
15 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Ukraine's memorandum proposes ceasefire across land, air, and sea, NYT reports
Ukraine's proposed memorandum to Russia includes provisions for a ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea, to be monitored by international partners, the New York Times (NYT) reported on May 30, citing an unnamed senior Ukrainian official. Ukraine has submitted its document to the Russian side ahead of a second round of peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow that may take place in Istanbul on June 2, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on May 28. The points reported by NYT echo Ukraine's and its partners' long-standing call for a comprehensive, unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days — a proposal Russia has consistently ignored. The peace talks in Istanbul also concluded on May 16 with no agreement between the two sides on a ceasefire. Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Serhii Kyslytsia, who was present at the Istanbul talks, said that Russia's negotiating team in Istanbul has repeatedly stated that "an unconditional ceasefire is categorically unacceptable." Moscow has proposed June 2 as the date for the next round of talks with Ukraine, despite escalating its attacks on the country. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on May 29 that the Russian delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, is prepared to present the ceasefire memorandum to the Ukrainian side and provide necessary clarifications during the next Istanbul meeting. Presidential Office Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak said that Ukraine is ready to hold the new round of talks next week but insists on receiving the memorandum in advance. Reuters reported that Putin's conditions for ending Russia's war against Ukraine include a written pledge by NATO not to accept more Eastern European members, lifting of some sanctions, and Ukraine's neutral status, among other demands. Read also: Infighting around EU rearmament undermines grand ambitions for European defense We've been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Ukraine ready for 2nd round of Istanbul talks but seeks Russian draft memo in advance, Yermak says
Ukraine is ready to attend the second round of peace talks with the Russian delegation in Istanbul on June 2, but seeks to receive a draft of Russia's proposed ceasefire memorandum before the meeting, said Presidential Office Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak on May 29. Ukraine and Russia held peace talks in Istanbul on May 16, where both sides agreed to a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange. The peace negotiations were largely inconclusive, with Moscow reiterating maximalist demands and sending a delegation of lower-level officials. Moscow has proposed June 2 as the date for the next round of talks with Ukraine, despite escalating its attacks on the country. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on May 29 that the Russian delegation, led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, is prepared to present the memorandum to the Ukrainian side and provide necessary clarifications during the next Istanbul meeting. Kyiv insists on receiving the memorandum ahead of the new round of talks in order to understand Russia's proposed steps toward a ceasefire. Ukraine has already submitted its own document to the Russian side. "Ukraine is ready to attend the next meeting, but we want to engage in a constructive discussion. This means it is important to receive Russia's draft. There is enough time – four days are sufficient for preparing and sending the documents," Yermak said during a conversation with advisors to the leaders of the U.K., Germany, France, and Italy. Security advisors from the four countries are expected to attend the second round of peace talks in Istanbul, U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy Keith Kellogg said. Russia vowed to present its peace memorandum but has yet to deliver, drawing rebuke from Ukrainian, European, and U.S. officials. Trump has also repeatedly signaled he would exit the peace efforts unless progress is achieved soon. Reuters reported that Putin's conditions for ending Russia's war against Ukraine include a written pledge by NATO not to accept more Eastern European members, lifting of some sanctions, and Ukraine's neutral status, among other demands. Read also: Infighting around EU rearmament undermines grand ambitions for European defense We've been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
