Jimmy Carbone is keeping it local on this week's episode of Beer Sessions Radio. June Russell of GrowNYC is in the studio talking about Greenmarket's 'Regional Grains' program, and how she promotes the products from local farmers for brewing. Jennifer Grossman of the Natural Resources Defense Council is talking about New York State's water supply, and how protecting and securing clean water ensures quality beer in the future. Kelly Taylor, brewer at Kelso, joins the crew to talk about brewing with local malt! What kinds of grains does Kelly use from locals like Valley Malt? How do regional malting facilities create jobs and promote sustainability? What types of grains are suitable for the Northeast climate? Later, Kate Stamps from Ommegang calls in to talk about the Hop Chef competition, which involves celebrity chefs cooking with Ommegang beers. Also, hear from Michael Kinstlick of Coppersea Distilling about his upcoming line of spirits that uses local grain! Thanks to our sponsor, GreatBrewers.com, and thanks to Pamela Royal for today's music.

"The number one ingredient in beer is water. New York State is blessed with the largest source of unfiltered, natural water in the world." [9:20] -- Jennifer Grossman on Beer Sessions Radio

On this week's episode of A Taste of the Past, Linda Pelaccio is talking about ancient and whole grains with Maria Speck, IACP award winning author of the NYTimes notable book Ancient Grains for Modern Meals. Topics include Maria's upbringing with whole grains, the health benefits of eating grains, and why ancient grains have become fashionable in the food world. Quinoa has been back on the scene for a while, but learn about some lesser known grains such as emmer, kamut- and the most ancient of them all- einkorn. Maria's book includes grain dishes for all of your courses- appetizers, meals, and deserts! Listen to this episode, and you will be an ancient grain expert. This episode is sponsored by Cain Vineyard and Winery.

"The key and my passion is to tell people that whole grains can taste really good."

"In average supermarkets, grain selections are becoming bigger and bigger."

"A big trend in baking is that bakers are looking for local grains and freshly-milled flour."

-- Maria Speck on A Taste of the Past

Grains take center stage on this week's episode of A Taste of the Past as host Linda Pelaccio is joined by Bruce Weinstein, cooking instructor and author of "Grain Mains: 101 Surprising and Satisfying Whole Grain Recipes for Every Meal of the Day". Tune in for a lively discussion on grains and their place in culinary history. From quinoa to millet, learn about how whole grains were essential in early China and how they differ from refined grains. From health benefits to culinary applications, Bruce gives listeners plenty to digest on this week's episode of A Taste of the Past. This program was sponsored by White Oak Pastures.

"Millet was the grain of China before rice. Some of the oldest pastas found in China were made of millet flour."

"If you eat whole grain cereal for breakfast you'll be less hungry later than you would if you ate regular sugary cereal."

"Seasonings and flavors have been dumbed down across the board. As a society - we've grown accustomed to more tasteless food that's been over-processed."

"Grains are for everybody - they're not just for the vegans and vegetarians among us!"

--author Bruce Weinstein on A Taste of the Past