The VRG's Maryland Newsletter by Mary H. March 2013 ********************************************************************* 1) VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE VRG 2) LOCAL AND NATIONAL TABLING AND OUTREACH 3) CELEBRATE PASSOVER - VEGAN STYLE 4) VRG'S FOOD INGREDIENT GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE 5) TIPS FOR OBTAINING INGREDIENT INFORMATION FROM FOOD COMPANIES 6) PLEASE REVIEW VRG BOOKS AND VEGETARIAN JOURNAL ON AMAZON 7) GET YOUR OUTREACH MATERIALS FOR WORLD WATER DAY FROM THE VRG 8) AT THE END OF MY VRG INTERNSHIP BY GIANNA MAUTONE 9) BALTIMORE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ALLOW STUDENTS TO OPT OUT OF DISSECTIONS 10) MARYLAND TOT IS FINALIST IN PETA'S CUTEST KID CONTEST 11) UPCOMING LOCAL VEG HAPPENINGS ********************************************************************* 1) VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE VRG Spring and summer tabling events are around the corner. The Vegetarian Resource Group has registered for numerous events and we invite you to learn more about our organization while helping out alongside like-minded volunteers. To get involved with tabling, please email [email protected] The VRG's Annual $10,000 College Scholarship contest for 2013 has come to a close and we are busy reviewing essays from the high school seniors who have applied. If you are interested in helping with this task, please email [email protected] VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT! The VRG is thrilled to welcome Nancy B. to our office and we want to thank her for her help with reviewing scholarship entries. -One day Nancy, a local member stopped by the office with interest in checking out our catalog of books and by the end of her visit she had signed up to volunteer. We are looking forward to putting Nancy's skills towards further projects! Thank you Nancy!! To support The VRG's outreach, donate here: [ http://www.vrg.org/donate ] ********************************************************************* 2) LOCAL AND NATIONAL TABLING AND OUTREACH MARYLAND AREA April 11, Thursday from 11:00 - 2:00 Loyola University Health Fair, on Loyola campus in Baltimore April 20, Saturday from 11:00 - 5:00 First Annual Kale-a-Rama Vegan Festival, in Greenbelt, MD [ https://www.facebook.com/kalearama?ref=stream ] April 27, Saturday from 11:00 - 4:00 3rd Annual Baltimore VegFest, at UMBC in Arbutus, MD [ http://www.thehumaneleague.com/BaltimoreVegFest/index.htm ] May 19th, Sunday from 7:00 - 12:00 Baltimore Farmers Market & Bazaar, under I-83 in Downtown Baltimore [ http://www.facebook.com/BmoreFarmersMarket ] June 1-2, Saturday - Sunday from 11:00 - 6:00 Charles Village Fest in Charles Village neighborhood, Baltimore [ http://www.charlesvillagefestival.com/ ] June 27-29, Thursday - Saturday, from 10:00 - 5:00 Animal Rights Conference in Washington, D.C. [ http://www.arconference.org/ ] NATIONAL March 24th, Sunday from 10:30 - 4:00 NYC's Veggie Pride Parade, Union Square Park in NYC [ http://www.veggieprideparade.org/ ] April 14, Sunday 11:00 - 5:00 Worcester Veg Fest, Worchester MA [ http://www.worcestervegfest.com ] April 27, Saturday 11:00 - 8:00 PIFA Street Fair in Philadelphia [ http://www.pifa.org/streetfair ] May 18-19th, Saturday - Sunday Chicago Green Festival, at Chicago's Navy Pier [ http://www.greenfestivals.org/chi/updates/ ] June 15th, Saturday from 12:00 - 6:00 Richmond Vegetarian Festival, Richmond, VA [ http://www.veggiefest.org/ ] October 19-22, Saturday - Tuesday Annual Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics [ http://www.eatright.org/fnce/ ] To support The VRG's local and national outreach, donate here: [ http://www.vrg.org/donate ] To volunteer and table for The VRG, email: [email protected] ********************************************************************* 3) CELEBRATE PASSOVER - VEGAN STYLE Passover arrives in late March this year and vegans may be looking for some great recipes to share with their friends and family. The Vegetarian Resource Group has a number of books that have vegan Passover recipes. Go to: [ http://www.vrg.org/catalog/ ] Also, you can call (410) 366-8343 (Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM) to order books with a credit card. Matzo Meal Pancakes From No Cholesterol Passover Recipes by Debra Wasserman Pear and Apple Slaw From Vegan Passover Recipes by Nancy Berkoff Syrian-Style Okra with Dried Fruit From The Lowfat Jewish Vegetarian Cookbook by Debra Wasserman Click below for the above recipes: [ http://www.vrg.org/blog/2013/02/25/getting-ready-for-a-vegan-passover/ ] To order our Passover cookbooks, go to: [ http://www.vrg.org/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=1&sort=20a&page=2 ] Or call (410) 366-8343 (Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM) ********************************************************************* 4) VRG'S FOOD INGREDIENT GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Food Ingredients is now available on Amazon Kindle! [ http://www.amazon.com/Vegetarian-Journals-Guide-Ingredients-ebook/dp/B004TNIK06/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1308058968&sr=1-1 ] The Guide to Food Ingredients is indispensable in deciphering ingredient labels. It lists the uses, sources, and definitions of over 200 common food ingredients. This easy-to-read list of ingredients commonly found in many foods and beverages indicates whether they are vegetarian, vegan, typically vegetarian, typically vegan, may be non-vegetarian, or non-vegetarian. The emphasis is on commercial sources of ingredients most commonly used today. Each entry lists commercial sources, alternative names (if any), foods or beverages containing the ingredient, and in some cases manufacturer's information about current supply sourcing. Print copies of Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Food Ingredients are available for $6 from our online catalog [ http://www.vrg.org/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=8 ] and can also be ordered by calling us at (410) 366-8343, M-F, 9-5. ********************************************************************* 5) TIPS FOR OBTAINING INGREDIENT INFORMATION FROM FOOD COMPANIES by Jeanne Yacoubou, MS VRG Research Director The VRG received a request from an online reader who was experiencing difficulty getting ingredient information from a large beverage corporation. He asked us to "...give advice about getting answers from corporations like this." Here are some suggestions: See full report and blog entry on our website at: [ http://www.vrg.org/blog/2013/02/11/tips-for-obtaining-ingredient-information-from-food-companies/#sthash.53lAztUE.dpuf ] Support VRG Ingredient Research: [ http://www.vrg.org/donate ] ********************************************************************* 6) PLEASE REVIEW VRG BOOKS AND VEGETARIAN JOURNAL ON AMAZON The Vegetarian Resource Group is asking our members and supporters to please log into Amazon and write a review of our books and Vegetarian Journal. Having reviews will give insight to other shoppers on which books are right for them. Any purchases of VRG books and supscriptions to Vegetarian Journal support VRG outreach and promote vegetarian diets in a totally positive and healthy way. To write a review you will have to log into your Amazon account or take the quick steps to create an account: [ http://www.amazon.com ] Then search any of the titles at the end of this entry and click on the Customer Reviews for the specific title and on the following page you will see a button that says "Create your own review". Titles by The Vegetarian Resource Group: Vegetarian Journal, Vegans Know How to Party, Meatless Meals for Working People, Simply Vegan, Vegan Handbook, Vegan Meals for 1 or 2, Conveniently Vegan, Vegan Menu for People with Diabetes, Vegan Seafood: Beyond the Fish Shtick for Vegetarians, Lowfat Vegetarian Cookbook, No Cholesterol Vegan Passover Recipes, Vegan Microwave Cookbook, Vegan in Volume, The Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Food Ingredients, Leprechaun Cake and Other Tales Thank you!! ********************************************************************* 7) GET YOUR OUTREACH MATERIALS FOR WORLD WATER DAY FROM THE VRG World Water Day is held annually on March 22nd as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. Vegetarians and vegans are likely aware that one solution to cut back on individual water use is easy and close at hand. It all starts with your fork! The Vegetarian Resource Group offers the "Save Our Water" brochure for activists, environmentalists and anyone wanting to learn more about preserving this precious resource. See the brochure in .pdf format here: [ http://www.vrg.org/environment/water_brochure.php ] For brochures to distribute to your family, friends, classmates, students, co-workers, or community members please email [email protected] or call (410) 366-8343 with your request. Brochures are free but donations are gratefully accepted, here: [ http://www.vrg.org/donate ] For more information on World Water Day and the environment: [ http://www.vrg.org/environment ] [ http://www.unwater.org/water-cooperation-2013/events/world-water-day/en/ ] ********************************************************************* 8) AT THE END OF MY VRG INTERNSHIP BY GIANNA MAUTONE By Gianna Mautone At the end of my three month internship at The Vegetarian Resource Group, I remember my first days here very clearly. I remember my online internship search prior to returning to Loyola University this fall, when I discovered that there was an opportunity available at the VRG, just minutes from my school. I had learned about the VRG from a professor, and upon searching the website and blog, reading articles and descriptions, I began to realize just how fitting his internship would be for me. My passion for health, vegetarianism, writing and activism fueled my interest in continuing to learn more about these topics while applying my skills to the organization. I came into the internship comfortable with the fact that there was a lot I did not know about these topics, but was excited to learn more from the VRG staff and community. To read Gianna's full report, go to our blog: [ http://www.vrg.org/blog/?s=gianna ] For information about Vegetarian Resource Group internships, see: [ http://www.vrg.org/student/index.php ] Support VRG internships and other projects by donating at: [ http://www.vrg.org/donate ] ********************************************************************* 9) BALTIMORE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ALLOW STUDENTS TO OPT OUT OF DISSECTIONS Baltimore City Public Schools has voluntarily adopted a progressive dissection-choice policy that allows compassionate students to opt out of classroom animal dissection and learn using modern computer software and other humane methods instead. Baltimore City joins many districts around the country--including almost every other district in Maryland--and its neighbors in Virginia and D.C. that already have similar policies. Please help spread the news about this new policy to any students, parents, and educators you may know in Baltimore. For information on raising vegetarian and vegan kids see the links below and consider joining our Parents ListServe: [ http://www.vrg.org/family/kidsindex.htm ] [ http://groups.yahoo.com/group/vrgparents/ ] ********************************************************************* 10) MARYLAND TOT IS FINALIST IN PETA'S CUTEST KID CONTEST A 5-year-old from Lutherville, a tot who campaigns for animal rights and says animals are friends not food, was a contestant in PETA's 2013 Cutest Vegan Kid contest. Maya Parker-Rollins, who's been vegan her whole life, was one of five girls featured and nominated for the title. On February 27th one girl and one boy were announced as winner, and though Maya was not one of them she is still a winner in our eyes! "Maya is living proof that you're never too young to help make a difference for the billions of animals who are cruelly raised for food every year," PETA Youth Marketing Manager Emily Rodriguez said in a statement. "And because healthier vegan kids, such as Maya, are generally happier kids, that makes them cuter, too." [ http://www.petakids.com/contestcutestvegkid-finalists.asp ] ********************************************************************* 11) UPCOMING LOCAL VEG HAPPENINGS A rotating vegan potluck in the greater Baltimore area is happy to open their doors to families who are interested in a brunch or late afternoon gathering to allow kids, parents, and peers to share info, ideas, and support. To be added to the monthly potluck announcement email Dana Shaw: [email protected] Bethesda Maryland hosts The Sophisticated Vegan Meetup, a friendly get together over veg meals in a non-judgmental environment. Upcoming events include: 'Vegan Brunch Cooking Class' on March 9th, 'Paws in the Park' on April 28th. Specific information regarding events is for members only. Sign up at: [ http://www.meetup.com/TheSophisticatedVegan/ ] Hagerstown, Maryland has the Western Maryland Veg Life Meetup, a forum to meet fellow health-seekers, environmentalists, vegans, vegetarians, raw food enthusiasts, backyard organic gardeners, etc. and to learn more about alternative health lifestyles. This group is also seeking out new Coordinators and organizers. For more info: [ http://www.westmdveg.org/ ] March 2, Saturday 10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M., Meat-down ~ a Vegan & Vegetarian Meet-up. It does not matter if you are vegan, vegetarian, or veg curious, you are welcome and encouraged to bring a friend to this low key, pressure-free social gathering. Bring an open mind and any ideas you have to share. RSVP to Natalie, [email protected] or (301) 481-2741. Location: LaPlata Library 2 Garrett Avenue, La Plata, MD 20646. March 2, Saturday 2:00 P.M. Co-Creating Community Vegan Potluck hosted by Western Maryland Veg Meet-Up Group. This group is nearing its five year anniversary. It will be a family-friendly gathering with no agenda! Please bring along a vegan dish to serve 8-10 people. If possible, bring a list of ingredients to help those with allergies or food sensitivities. Also bring reusable utensils/plate cup! RSVP: [ http://www.westmdveg.org/events/103634522/ ] March 2, Saturday 3:00 - 5:00 P.M. Cooking with Tofu and Seitan, demo hosted by Open The Cages Alliances directors at Gallery 778, 218 W. Saratoga Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. $5 suggested donation. RSVP: [email protected] or call (443) 478-3074. March 3, Sunday 12:30 P.M. Baltimore Veg Meetup Discussion at Cafe Zen, Belvedere Square in Baltimore hosted by EarthSave. This casual gathering and lifestyle discussion over great food takes place on the first Sunday of every month. Address: 438 E Belvedere Ave, Baltimore, MD 21212. RSVP: [ http://vegetarian.meetup.com/9/ ] Contact organizer Don Robertson at [email protected] or (410) 252-3043. March 16 - April 13: 2013 Vegan Living Program hosted by Open the Cages Alliance. This education program is open for registration if you are interested in living vegan for 5 weeks with the support of Vegan Coaches and information sessions. Schedule and more information on OTCA website: [ http://www.openthecages.org/events/index.html ] March 20, Wednesday 7:00 - 9:00 P.M. Baltimore Vegan Meetup Discussion Group in Pikesville at Mr. Chan's Szechuan Restaurant hosted by EarthSave. A supportive group that can help with questions and challenges over great tasting vegan food options. Address: 1000 Reisterstown Rd in Pikesville. Contact: Don Robertson at [email protected] or (410) 252-3043. RSVP: [ http://vegan.meetup.com/29/ ] March 24, Sunday 1:00 P.M. Veggie Gourmet Cooking Class with Mimi Clark. Learn the cuisine of other cultures without leaving home. Past classes have included: Sushi, Chana Masala, Saag, Moong Dal, Sweet & Sour Meatballs, Pesto Pizza, Baked Ziti, Lasagna, General Tso's Chicken and more! $55/person; $100/two people; $50/VSDC, VRG, COK members. Gift certificates available. Make checks payable to Mimi Clark, 9302 Hallston Ct., Fairfax Station, VA 22039. Email: [email protected] or call 703.643.2713 for space availability. Coming in April: Soy foods 101[ http://veggourmet.wordpress.com/ ] March 29, Friday 6:00 - 8:00 P.M. Juicy Happy Hour hosted by Open the Cages Alliance at Grind House Juice Bar, 2441 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 for a juicy vegan happy hour social! Grind House is a 100% vegan juice bar, cafe, and market, so come hungry! This social is held in conjunction with the 2013 Vegan Living Program. RSVP on Facebook: [ http://www.facebook.com/events/409059365841635/ ] March 30, Saturday 5:30 - 7:00 P.M. Vegan Men's Roundtable hosted by Open the Cages Alliance Discussion. Join facilitators Ben Shaberman (author of The Vegan Monologues) and Demosthenes Maratos (Communications Director, Sustainability Institute at Molloy College) for a guided discussion of these issues at Gallery 788, 218 W. Saratoga Street (between Park Ave and Howard Street), Baltimore, MD 21201. This discussion is open to all male-identified vegans and male-identified aspiring vegans. RSVP on Facebook: [ http://www.facebook.com/events/469288499796172/ ] April 21, Sunday, 6:00-8:00 P.M. Cooking Demonstration at The Land Of Kush hosted by Open the Cages Alliance. Chef Greg Brown will demonstrate preparation of local, seasonal produce in this vegan cooking demonstration at The Land Of Kush, 840 N. Eutaw Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. Come early for the cafe's delicious offerings such as vegan BBQ ribs, mac n cheese, and collard greens. RSVP on Facebook: [ http://www.facebook.com/events/519345631419210/ ] ********************************************************************* ABOUT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP Our health professionals, activists, and educators work with businesses and individuals to bring about healthful changes in your school, workplace, and community. Registered dietitians and physicians aid in the development of nutrition-related publications and answer member and media questions about vegetarian diets. The Vegetarian Resource Group is a non-profit organization. Financial support comes primarily from memberships, donations, bequests and book sales. The VEGETARIAN JOURNAL, a print magazine, is a benefit of membership in The VRG. (For more information, please see the VEGETARIAN JOURNAL online at [ http://www.vrg.org/journal/ ] ) To sign up for The Vegetarian Resource Group national email newsletter, please visit: [ http://www.vrg.org/vrgnews/ ] To sign up for The VRG's Maryland Email Newsletter, please visit: [ http://www.vrg.org/local/ ] We are also on Facebook and Twitter!! [ http://www.facebook.com/thevegetarianresourcegroup ] [ http://www.twitter.com/VegResourceGrp ] If you would like to make a donation, become a member, volunteer, or find out more about The VRG, contact us at: The Vegetarian Resource Group P.O. Box 1463 Baltimore, MD 21203 Phone: (410) 366-8343 Fax: (410) 366-8804 E-mail: [email protected], Website: [ http://www.vrg.org ] To donate: [ https://www.givedirect.org/give/givefrm.asp?Action=GC&CID=1565 ] Copyright The Vegetarian Resource Group 2013 The contents of this newsletter, and our other publications, including Vegetarian Journal, are not intended to provide personal medical advice. Medical advice should be obtained from a qualified health professional. We often depend on product and ingredient information from company statements. It is impossible to be 100% sure about a statement, info can change, people have different views, and mistakes can be made. Please use your own best judgment about whether a product is suitable for you. To be sure, do further research or confirmation on your own. If you were forwarded this message and would like to sign up for our monthly local email newsletter please see our website: [ http://www.vrg.org/local/ ] If you wish to not receive the Local Email Newsletter, send an e-mail message to [email protected] with the phrase "remove me from local email newsletter".