Classes and Special Events - 2008
Healthy Whole Foods Cuisine - Newington Senior Center, 120 Cedar Street, Newington, CT
Wednesdays, May 14 and June 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
People who follow traditional plant-based diets consisting of whole grains, beans, vegetables and fruits have strikingly low rates of disease. This class will teach you how to nurture your body by providing maximum nutrients – “the good stuff” – (antioxidants, minerals, fiber, etc.) and minimizing "the bad stuff" (overly-processed foods, "bad" fat, refined sugar, etc.). Each session will include a different quick and healthy meal prepared for students. Recipes and food samples will be provided. For more information, please call Newington Parks & Rec. at (860) 665-8666.
Past Events - 2008
Ethical Eating - West Hartford Continuing Education, Conard High School, West Hartford, CT
Tuesdays, April 1-29, 2008, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Follow in the footsteps of Gandhi, Pythagoras and Albert Einstein who advocated the principal of “ahimsa,” or non-violence to all beings. This class will teach you how the foods we eat affect us, our fellow creatures (including other people), and the planet. You will learn the basics of a plant-based diet, the nutritional benefits of eating whole foods, common food production and agricultural practices, and how to choose products that minimally impact our environment. In each class meeting we will also prepare some simple yet creative recipes that support a journey toward ethical eating. Materials fee of $30 payable to the instructor at the first class. To register, call (860) 523-3535 of visit West Hartford Continuing Education.
Healthy Whole Foods Cuisine - Southbury Library, 100 Poverty Road, Southbury, CT
Thursday, April 24, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
People who follow traditional plant-based diets consisting of whole grains, beans, vegetables and fruits have strikingly low rates of disease. This class will teach you how to nurture your body by providing maximum nutrients – “the good stuff” – (antioxidants, minerals, fiber, etc.) and minimizing "the bad stuff" (overly-processed foods, "bad" fat, refined sugar, etc.). A quick and healthy recipe will be prepared for students. Food samples provided. For more info, please visit Southbury Library or call 203-262-0626.
Quick and Easy Superfoods - Connecticut Culinary Institute, 85 Sigourney Street, Hartford, CT
Sunday, April 27, 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Greens... grains... berries... beans... these are among the most nutritious of foods. Loaded with antioxidants, phytonutrients and flavonoids, these superfoods are as healthful as they are delicious. This class will teach you how to create a simple, yet satisfying, gourmet dinner that’s high in nutrients, yet low in stress. Learn techniques for preparing vegetables for optimal nutrition and balancing taste, color and texture. Recipes include: Mediterrannean kale salad, Savory tomatoes with white beans and sage, Wilted escarole with toasted pine nuts and garlic, Curried chick pea and quinoa pilaf, Coconut almond macaroons with jumble berry granita. To register call (860) 895-6100 or visit CT Culinary Institute.
Party for Life - A fundraiser for The Cancer Project, New Haven, CT
Saturday, April 12, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
I'm please to be hosting a fundraiser to support The Cancer Project and the work they do for cancer prevention and survival. Dr. Neal Barnard will welcome guests through a conference call, delicious food and refreshments will be served, and attendees will receive a beautiful set of recipe cards. A small donation is requested to support the free Food for Life nutrition and cooking classes and other services provided by The Cancer Project. Seating is limited. Please RSVP by April 7 by emailing wellonwheels@hotmail.com or calling 860-985-1645.
Earthstock Plainville - Norton Park, South Washington Street, Plainville, CT
Sunday, April 20, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The Plainville Conservation Commission will host its second annual Earth Day celebration featuring lots of cool things for the environment such as a biofuel demo, raptor care, a solar oven competition and test drives of the cute little SmartCar. I'll have a table with lots of literature, cookbooks and yummy vegan food. For more info, visit Earthstock.
Green on the Green- Shoreline Center for Wholistic Health, 35 Boston Road, Guilford, CT
2nd session begins Thursday, March 20, noon-1:00 p.m.
This ongoing weekly series will incorporate three modes of healing to assist participants on their journey transitioning toward a healthy lifestyle: meditation, mindful eating, and physical exercise. We will begin each hour-long session with quiet meditation over an antioxidant rich green smoothie. This will be followed by a raw salad of mixed greens and freshly prepared dressing loaded with live enzymes to aid in digestion. We will conclude each session with a brisk one-mile walk around the Guilford Green. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss diet, nutrition and food preparation techniques in a supportive environment that encourages healthful eating habits. The cost is $10 per session, or $50 for 6 weeks. Please register in advance by calling (203) 543-5520 or emailing wellonwheels@hotmail.com
The Great American Meatout!! - Four Seasons Market, 875 W. Main Street, Branford, CT
Tuesday, March 18, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Join thousands of caring people around the world in adopting a diet and lifestyle that is good for you, the animals and the planet. Since its inception in 1985 the Great American Meatout has become the world's largest grassroots diet education campaign. This cooking demonstration will teach you about the benefits of eating a plant-based diet and will provide plenty of recipes and food samples to help you on your way. For more information, please call (860) 985-1645 or visit FARM.
Gather the Women Conference - Green Street Arts Center, 51 Green Street, Middletown, CT
Saturday, March 8, noon-4:00 p.m.
Honor the spirit of women and connect with a supportive, empowering community. The event included speakers, vendors, dancing, a raffle and more. Refreshments – Coffee, Tea, Lemon & Cucumber water, home baked goods.
Vegan Valentine - Four Seasons Market, 875 W. Main Street, Branford, CT
Tuesday, February 12, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Celebrate this holiday of love with a (com)passionate chocolate dessert made without eggs, dairy or any animal products. This cooking class included a demonstration of a gluten-free Chocolate Molten Lava Tart with Raspberry Sauce.
Quick & Easy Vegan Cooking - Four Seasons Market, 875 W. Main Street, Branford, CT
Wednesday, January 16, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Have you made a New Year's resolution to start eating better? This cooking demonstration taught the basics of a whole foods vegan diet and how it can benefit your health for the coming new year and beyond.
Past Events - 2007
Making it Personal Conference - Connecticut Culinary Institute, 85 Sigourney Street, Hartford, CT
Thursday, November 1, 12:00-4:00 p.m.
I participated in a panel on "future trends in food" at this conference.
CT NOFA's Organic Harvest Conference - Jones Auditorium, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, 123 Huntington Street, New Haven, CT
Saturday, November 3, 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Celebrate the harvest at the Connectciut Northeast Organic Farming Association's annual conference. I will have a table with literature, free food samples and cookbooks for sale. This is a free event.
Raw Resolution! - Ashford Library, Ashford, CT, November 9, 7:00 p.m.
Learn the basics of the raw food diet and how it can benefit your health. This demo will provide instruction in simple raw recipes that will help you stay healthy for the coming new year. Free event.
Cooking Class: Quick & Easy Seasonal Foods - Four Seasons Market, 875 W. Main Street, Branford, CT
Wednesday, October 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The fall harvest is here and it's the perfect time to enjoy some warm and hearty soups. This cooking demonstration will teach you how to gear up for the cool weather ahead with some quick and easy seasonal recipes. Free samples provided.
Meatless Meals Around the World - (Part II)
Amity Adult Ed, Woodbridge, CT, Tuesdays, October 9- 30, 6:00-9:00 PM
Experience the unique flavors and aromas of cuisine from a variety of cultures, all without any animal products. These vegan meals have no cholesterol and are as healthy as they are delicious. Our culinary journey will explore tastes from Italy, Japan and Thailand and will culminate with a healthy twist on the traditional Thanksgiving feast. Students will assist in the preparation of the meals. Materials fee of $30 is payable to the instructor at the first class.
"Healthy Harvest" Fair - Saturday, October 13, 10:00a.m.-3:00p.m., Revive Wellness Center, 867 Whalley Ave., New Haven
I participated in Revive's all-day health fair with a table of literature, cookbooks and lots of goodies. Stop by, say hello, ask questions, and check out all the free classes and discounts on holistic health offerings.
Raw Zen - West Hartford Continuing Education, Conard High School, West Hartford, CT
Tuesdays, September 11-October 2, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Experience the health benefits and unique flavors of gourmet raw food. This class will teach you the basics of a raw vegan diet and how to prepare creative appetizers, entrees and desserts from a variety of cultures, including Mexican, Asian, Italian and American. From burritos to sushi, apple pie to tiramisu, all of these recipes have no cholesterol and are as healthy as they are delicious. To register, call (860) 523-3535.
"What's Really in the Food You Eat?" - Blackstone Library, 758 Main Street, Branford, CT
Thursday, September 27, 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Chemical preservatives… artificial color… hidden ingredients… ever wonder what those labels are really saying? From trans fats to sugar, this workshop will teach you how to take the mystery out of food labels and deconstruct the Standard American Diet (SAD). Learn to establish healthy eating habits for you and your family by following some simple nutrition guidelines. FREE Event!
Quick and Easy Vegan Cooking: SUPERFOODS! – Edge of the Woods, 379 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT, Saturday, July 14, 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Greens... grains... herbs... beans... This class will teach you how to create a simple, yet satisfying, dinner that’s loaded with nutrients to keep you healthy. Learn how to prepare savory tomatoes with white beans and sage and wilted escarole with pine nuts on polenta. Recipes and food samples provided. Register in advance by calling (203) 787-1055. Cost: $10
Revitalize and Refresh with Raw Foods - Connecticut Culinary Institute, 85 Sigourney St., Hartford, CT
Sunday, July 22, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
This class will teach you the basics of a raw food diet and how to prepare some simple gourmet recipes using fresh organic produce. By leaving fruits and vegetables in their natural state, you will enjoy not only their delicious and satisfying flavors, but also the health benefits of live enzymes which aid in digestion and are key factors in fighting disease. The menu features Jicama and Fennel Citrus Salad with Mango Lime Vinaigrette, Red Pepper Marinara on Spiralized Summer Squash and Strawberry Crème Pie with Sweet Nut Crust.
Spring Health Fair - Saturday, May 12, 10:00a.m.-3:00p.m., Revive Wellness Center, 867 Whalley Ave., New Haven
I participated in Revive's all-day health fair with a table of literature and lots of free goodies.
Meatless Meals Around the World - (Part II)
Amity Adult Ed, Woodbridge, CT, Thursdays, March 29-April 19 6:00-9:00 PM
This is a continuiation of the Meatless Meals series with all new recipes! Hands-on instruction in preparation of all meals. Our culinary journey will explore tastes from Italy, Asia, India and Ireland.
Revitalize and Refresh with Raw Food - Amity Adult Ed, Woodbridge, CT, Tuesday, April 3 7:00-9:00 PM
West Hartford Adult Ed, West Hartford, CT, Tuesday, April 10 6:00-9:00 PM - CLASS IS FULL!
The latest trend in cooking is not to cook... hence, “raw foods.” By leaving fruits and vegetables in their natural state, you will enjoy not only the delicious and satisfying flavors, but also the health benefits of enzymes which aid in digestion and are key factors in fighting disease. This class will teach you the basics of a raw food diet and how to prepare recipes such as avocado nut pate, jicama and fennel salad with mango lime dressing, and coco-date truffles.
Quick and Easy Vegan Cooking – Edge of the Woods, 379 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT, Sunday, March 25, 3:00 p.m.
Do you want to eat healthier but lack the time or energy to cook after a long day at work? This class will teach you how to create a simple, yet satisfying, dinner that’s high in calcium, protein and iron and low in stress. Learn techniques for preparing vegetables for optimal nutrition and balancing taste, color and texture. Recipes and food samples provided. Cost: $10
Meatless Meals Around the World - (Part I) Hamden Adult Education, Hamden, CT, Mondays, March 5-26 6:30-9:30 PM
Experience the unique flavors and aromas of cuisine from a variety of cultures, all without any animal products. These vegetarian meals have no cholesterol and are as healthy as they are delicious. Our culinary journey will include a Mexican fiesta, heart-healthy Mediterranean, Caribbean getaway, and St. Patrick's Day feast. Students will assist in the preparation of the meals.
Touchstones - An Eclectic Guide to Health - Thursday, February 15, 7:00 p.m.
Touchstones is a cable access television program on holistic health hosted by Don Levy, president of the Connecticut Holistic Health Association. Touchstones airs weekly on Ch. 26 at 7:00 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays for cable subscribers in New Haven, Hamden and West Haven, and Ch. 77 at 10:30 Friday evening for cable subscribers in Milford, Orange, Bridgeport, and Stratford. For more information, contact Don Levy.
Vegan Valentine - Northeastern Connecticut Vegetarian Society, Storrs, CT, Saturday, February 24, 4:00 p.m.
Celebrate this holiday of love with (com)passionate chocolate desserts made without eggs, dairy or any animal products. This cooking demo included vegan chocolate raspberry decadence cake with chocolate ganache. For more info, visit NECVS.
Raw Resolution! - Saxon B. Little Library, Columbia, CT, Tuesday, February 6, 7:00 p.m.
This demo taught the basics of raw foods including simple raw recipes to help stay healthy for the new year. Visit Saxon B. Little Library.
Healthy Snacks for the New Year - UCONN Health Center, Farmington, Wednesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.
As part of an "Introduction to Nutrition and Self-Empowerment" series, this segment discussed how to eat healthy for the new year. This educational workshop was presented by Kimberly Lawrence, a holistic health counselor. It featured information on "super foods" and offered suggestions for getting all the iron, calcium, and protein you need on a vegan diet. For more information, visit www.integrativenutrition.com/graduates/KLawrence.aspx.
Raw Resolution! - Southern Connecticut Vegetarian Society, New Haven, CT, Sunday, January 14, 4:00 p.m.
The latest trend in “cooking” is not to cook... hence, “raw foods.” By leaving fruits and vegetables in their natural state, you will enjoy not only the delicious and satisfying flavors, but also the health benefits of enzymes which aid in digestion and are key factors in fighting disease. This demo provided simple raw recipes to help you stay healthy for the new year. For more info, visit: www.southctveg.org
Past Events - 2005
On Saturday, November 26, 2005, Well on Wheels hosted a Gentle Thanksgiving fundraising dinner to benefit Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary in Woodstock, NY. Thanks to the generosity of many caring friends, we raised $400 for the sanctuary! The potluck dinner featured menu items prepared by Chef Mary Lawrence, including a tofu roast with wild rice stuffing, vegan caviar on baguette toast, spiced pumpkin cream with pecan praline, and date nut truffles. Thank you to all who attended! Happy holidays!
Vegan Food Pyramid - Calvary Episcopal Church, 145 Bridge St. Suffield, CT
Sunday, January 29, 5:30 p.m.
Want to know how to be a healthy vegan? This educational cooking demo is sponsored by the Northern Connecticut Vegetarian Society. It will feature information on "super foods" and offer suggestions for getting all the iron, calcium, and protein you need on a vegan diet. Cost is $5. For more information, visit www.northctveg.org
Dairy-Free Desserts - Stony Hill School, 1195 Windsor Avenue, Windsor, CT
Monday, February 27, 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Allergic to milk or lactose intolerant, but still craving those delicious desserts? Don’t despair! This class will teach you how to make creamy, buttery treats with no dairy. Pure decadence…without the guilt. Come sample such recipes as chocolate peanut butter truffles and key lime pie. Cost: $15 For info: http://www.willswebs.com/windsoryoga/index.html
Dairy-Free Desserts - St. Francis Care, 9 Cranbrook Blvd., Suite 103, Enfield, CT
Tuesday November 29 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Allergic to milk or lactose intolerant, but still craving those delicious desserts? Don’t despair! This class will teach you how to make creamy, buttery treats with no dairy. Pure decadence…without the guilt. Come sample such recipes as carrot cake with caramel buttercream frosting, banana cream pie and chocolate pudding. Cost: $5 Sponsored by Hope's Place Cancer Support Center, Inc. To register: ctyler@stfranciscare.org or call 1-877- STFRANCIS (1-877-783-7262)
Meatless Meals Around the World - West Hartford Adult Education, begins Thursday, October 20 (4 weeks) 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Experience the unique flavors and aromas of cuisine from a variety of cultures, all without animal products. These vegetarian meals have no cholesterol and are as healthy as they are delicious. Our culinary journey will explore tastes from Italy, Asia and India, and will culminate with a vegan twist on the traditional Thanksgiving feast. Students will assist in the preparation of meals, so please bring a chef's knife to class. Materials fee of $30 payable to the instructor at the first class. (Residents: $59; non-residents: $69) http://www.whps.org/whce/index.htm
Picnic in the Raw - Northeastern Connecticut Vegetarian Society, Storrs, CT, Thursday, August 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Take full advantage of fresh seasonal vegetables by eating them in their natural state. This demonstration will provide tips on how to get the most from local produce with cool cucumber gazpacho, nut pate on zucchini chips and blueberry soup.
Vegan Picnic - Wild Oats Market, West Hartford, Monday, August 15, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
The warm weather is here, which means it’s time to spread out the blanket and have a picnic! Get ready for summer with these portable soups, salads and pasta dishes that everyone will enjoy. Recipes include cool watermelon and strawberry soup, seven seas salad, and nut pate on zucchini chips. Cost: $10.
Revitalize and Refresh with Raw Foods! - Hope's Place, Wednesday, June 8, 7:00-8:00 p.m.
The latest trend in “cooking” is not to cook... hence, “raw foods.” By leaving fruits and vegetables in their natural state, you will enjoy not only the delicious and satisfying flavors, but also the health benefits of enzymes which aid in digestion and are key factors in fighting disease. This class will teach you the basics of a raw food diet and how to prepare some simple recipes such as avocado nori maki, ume cabbage salad, creamy winter bisque and date nut truffles. Cost: $5.
Gluten-Free Vegan - Wild Oats Market, West Hartford, Monday, May 16, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Learn how to make delicious desserts and entres without eggs, butter or gluten. If you have a wheat or gluten intolerance, this is the class for you. Cost: $10.
NBC-TV Morning Show - On Thursday, September 13, Chef Mary Lawrence was the featured guest chef on NBC-TV Channel 30's morning show with Janet Peckinpaugh. The live program included a demonstration of raw vegan nut pate. Tune in and send a "thank you" to the show's producer! http://www.nbc30.com/health/4967171/detail.html
Fundraising Dinner to Benefit Animal Sanctuary - On May 21, Chef Lawrence hosted a vegan fundraising dinner to benefit Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuaryin Bloomfield, CT. This rescue organization is in the process of raising capital to construct an animal sanctuary in Ashford, CT. Due to the generosity of the guests who attended this event, over $500 was raised for the sanctuary. Thank you to all who participated in this effort!!
On the Menu! On May 9, Chef Lawrence participated as a guest chef for WGBY's "On the Menu" fundraiser featuring celebrity chefs Christina Pirello, Joanne Weir, Lidia Bastianich and Ming Tsai. In January, 2005 Chef Lawrence appeared as a guest chef on WGBY's "On the Menu" television program. Hosted by Roy Scott, the show will feature a "Vegan Fiesta" cooking demonstration with recipes such as Calabacitas, Black Bean and Garnet Yam Enchiladas with Nacho "Cheese" Sauce, Heirloom Tomato Salsa and Mango Tango Flan. For recipes: www.wgby.org/localprograms/onthemenu/
In association with Animal Voices of Southern Connecticut, Well on Wheels hosted two screenings of Tribe of Heart's outstanding documentary about the factory farming industry, "Peaceable Kingdom." On March 19, the film screened at West Hartford Public Library in recognition of The Great American Meat Out. A month later, in honor of Earth Day, Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, CT hosted the movie to an audience populated largely by interested students. Both screenings received positive responses with audience members consistently stating that it changed their life dramatically. One viewer commented, "As effective as it gets! Thank goodness this film exists to open people's eyes." Indeed.
On Saturday, February 19, Well on Wheels hosted a fundraising dinner to benefit Food for Life, a non-profit relief organization which provides vegetarian food to individuals around the world. The Tsunami in December, 2004, killed nearly 200,000 people and left thousands in need of emergency care. This dinner raised funds to help Food for Life feed survivers of this natural disaster.
On Sunday, November 21, Well on Wheels hosted a Gentle Thanksgiving fundraising dinner to benefit AWARE in Tolland, CT and Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen, NY. Thanks to the tremendous support of many compassionate guests, over $500 was raised for these two wonderful animal rescue organizations. I am grateful for your generosity and hope to sponsor similar dinner events in the future. Please check the Classes and Events page for details.
