The VRG's Maryland Newsletter by Mary H.
March 2013 
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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

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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 ]

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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]

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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)

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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. 

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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 ]

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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!!

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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/ ]

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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 ]

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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/ ]

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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 ]

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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/ ]

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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".