The VRG's Maryland Newsletter by Marcy Schveibinz
July, 2019

  1. VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP RESEARCH AND NEWS
  2. VRG BOOTHS AND EVENTS
  3. MARYLAND AREA EVENTS
  4. DOSHI OFFERS DISCOUNT ON VEGAN BAGS AND ACCESSORIES
  5. VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP VIDEO SCHOLARSHIPS
  6. THE VRG AT WAVERLY FARMER'S MARKET IN BALTIMORE
  7. COOKING A MEAL FOR OUR DAILY BREAD TO FEED THE HUNGRY
  8. MY TIME AND EXPERIENCES WORKING AS AN INTERN AT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP
  9. ILLINOIS STUDENT WINS $5,000 VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP
  10. TWENTY PERCENT OF U.S. ADULTS ALWAYS OR SOMETIMES EAT VEGAN MEALS WHEN EATING OUT
  11. VRG HIGHLIGHTS
  12. WISH LIST
  13. A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS
  14. A CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
  15. BECOME A MONTHLY VRG DONOR
  16. ABOUT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP

1) VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP RESEARCH AND NEWS

  • Vegan work boots
  • Vegan cooking class at Christopher's Place Employment Academy
  • Environmental information on VRG.ORG
  • Vegan ballet shoes
  • Vegan picnic dishes
  • Creative vegan sauces
  • Enter the VRG video contest
  • Creative vegan salad recipes
  • New VRG interns
  • New restaurants added to VRG guide
  • 2019 vegan poll results
  • New sodium and potassium recommendations
  • VRG sponsoring a vegan dinner in Philadelphia
  • Spanish materials
  • Vegan grilling ideas
  • Amount of water used to produce a bag of potato chips
  • And more!
THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP MAINTAINS AN ONLINE GUIDE TO VEGAN/VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTS IN THE USA AND CANADA: SEE [ HTTPS://WWW.VRG.ORG/RESTAURANT/INDEX.PHP ]
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/28/the-vegetarian-resource-group-maintains-an-online-guide-to-vegan-vegetarian-restaurants-in-the-usa-and-canada-see-http-www-vrg-org-restaurant-index-php/ ]
VEGAN NUTRITION IN PREGNANCY AND CHILDHOOD
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/28/vegan-nutrition-in-pregnancy-and-childhood/ ]
DOSHI OFFERS DISCOUNT ON FASHIONABLE VEGAN BAGS, BACKPACKS, BRIEFCASES, AND ACCESSORIES!
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/27/doshi-offers-discount-on-fashionable-vegan-bags-backpacks-briefcases-and-accessories/ ]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR VEGAN WORK BOOTS?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/27/are-you-looking-for-vegan-work-boots/ ]
VEGAN COOKING CLASS AT CHRISTOPHER'S PLACE EMPLOYMENT ACADEMY
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/27/vegan-cooking-class-at-christopher-place-employment-academy/ ]
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION ON VRG
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/26/environmental-information-on-vrg-org/ ]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR VEGAN BALLET SHOES?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/26/are-you-looking-for-vegan-ballet-shoes/ ]
JOIN THE VRG KIDS AND PARENTS FACEBOOK GROUP!
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/25/join-the-vegetarian-resource-groups-parents-and-kids-facebook-group-14/ ]
VEGAN DISHES YOU CAN PREPARE AND SERVE ON A PICNIC
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/25/vegan-dishes-you-can-prepare-and-serve-on-a-picnic/ ]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOME CREATIVE VEGAN SAUCES TO PUT ON PASTA, RICE, OR VEGGIES?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/24/are-you-looking-for-some-creative-sauces-to-put-on-pasta-rice-or-veggies/ ]
ENTER THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP VIDEO CONTEST! DEADLINE JULY 15, 2019
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/24/enter-the-vegetarian-resource-group-video-contest-deadline-is-july-15-2019/ ]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOME CREATIVE VEGAN SALAD RECIPES?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/21/are-you-looking-for-some-creative-vegan-salad-recipes/ ]
DIETETIC INTERN FROM THE COLLEGE OF ST. ELIZABETH AT VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/21/dietetic-intern-from-the-college-of-st-elizabeth-at-the-vegetarian-resource-group/ ]
VEGAN RESTAURANTS ADDED TO THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP'S GUIDE TO VEGGIE RESTAURANTS IN THE USA & CANADA
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/20/vegan-restaurants-added-to-the-vegetarian-resource-groups-guide-to-veggie-restaurants-in-the-usa-and-canada-16/ ]
SUPPORT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP YEAR-ROUND - BECOME A MONTHLY OR QUARTERLY DONOR!
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/05/28/support-the-vegetarian-resource-group-year-round-become-a-monthly-or-quarterly-donor-24/ ]
HOW MANY VEGANS ARE THERE IN THE USA?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/19/how-many-vegans-are-there-in-the-usa/ ]
SUPPORT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP THROUGH AMAZON SMILE
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/05/27/support-the-vegetarian-resource-group-through-amazon-smile-12/ ]
ADDITION TO VRG'S LIST OF VEGGIE OPTIONS IN SENIOR INDEPENDENT LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING, NURSING HOME, AND OTHER SENIOR FACILITIES IN THE USA
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/19/addition-to-vrgs-list-of-veggie-options-in-senior-independent-living-assisted-living-nursing-home-and-other-senior-facilities-in-the-usa/ ]
NEW SODIUM AND POTASSIUM RECOMMENDATIONS AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR YOU
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/18/the-new-sodium-and-potassium-recommendations-and-what-they-mean-for-you/ ]
VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP IS SPONSORING A VEGAN DINNER IN PHILADELPHIA - JOIN US!
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/18/the-vegetarian-resource-group-is-sponsoring-a-vegan-dinner-in-philadelphia-pa-join-us/ ]
INFORMACION EN ESPANOL - SPANISH MATERIALS
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/17/informacion-en-espanol-spanish-materials/ ]
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOME VEGAN GRILLING IDEAS?
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/14/are-you-looking-for-some-vegan-grilling-ideas-for-fathers-day/ ]
HOW MUCH WATER IS USED TO PRODUCE A BAG OF POTATO CHIPS? THE ANSWER IS NOT SO SIMPLE!
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/14/how-much-water-is-used-to-produce-a-bag-of-potato-chips-the-answer-is-not-so-simple/ ]
VEGETARIAN JOURNAL FEATURES VEGAN COOKING TIPS COLUMN ON QUICK AND EASY DISHES USING WATERMELON
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/13/vegetarian-journal-features-vegan-cooking-tips-column-on-quick-and-easy-dishes-using-watermelon/ ]
VITAMIN B-12 FOR A ONE-YEAR-OLD
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/13/vitamin-b12-for-a-one-year-old/ ]
DEFINITION OF PLANT-BASED
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/12/definition-of-plant-based/ ]
WE COMPILED A LIST OF VEGGIE BED & BREAKFASTS AND RETREATS
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/12/we-compiled-a-list-of-veggie-bed-breakfasts-and-retreats/ ]
VEGETARIAN JOURNAL FEATURES ARTICLE ON VEGAN FRENCH FARE
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/11/vegetarian-journal-features-article-on-vegan-french-fare/ ]
EATING TIPS FOR THE HOMEBOUND VEGAN
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/11/eating-tips-for-the-homebound-vegan/ ]
LATEST VEGETARIAN JOURNAL FEATURES BOOK REVIEWS OF PLANT-BASED MEATS, THE KICK DIABETES COOKBOOK, VEGAN YACK ATTACK ON THE GO, AND MORE
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/10/latest-vegetarian-journal-features-book-reviews-of-plant-based-meats-the-kick-diabetes-cookbook-vegan-yack-attack-on-the-go-and-more/ ]
NEVADA STUDENT WINS $10,000 VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP SCHOLARSHIP
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/10/nevada-student-wins-10000-vegetarian-resource-group-scholarship/ ]
LANCASTER VEGFEST 2019 ROUNDUP
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/07/lancaster-vegfest-2019-round-up/ ]
THE LATEST VEGGIE ACTION COLUMN FROM VEGETARIAN JOURNAL FEATURES MARCY SCHVEIBINZ, A CERTIFIED HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH (NBC-HWC)
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/06/the-latest-veggie-action-column-from-vegetarian-journal-features-marcy-schveibinz-a-certified-health-and-wellness-coach-nbc-hwc/ ]
BOOK REVIEWS FROM THE VEGETARIAN JOURNAL-VEGAN RICHA'S INDIAN KITCHEN AND THE ULTIMATE VEGAN BREAKFAST
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/05/book-reviews-from-vegetarian-journal-vegan-richas-indian-kitchen-and-the-ultimate-vegan-breakfast/ ]
VEGGIE BURGERS AND GRUBHUB
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/05/veggie-burgers-and-grubhub/ ]
VEGAN PRODUCT REVIEWS FROM VEGETARIAN JOURNAL - CHOCOLATE PROTEIN BITES AND DAILY KNEADS SLICES AND FLATBREADS
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/04/vegan-product-reviews-from-vegetarian-journal-chocolate-protein-bites-and-daily-kneads-slices-and-flatbreads/ ]
SUSCRIBE TO VEGETARIAN JOURNAL ON KINDLE
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/05/07/subscribe-to-vegetarian-journal-on-kindle/ ]
MY TIME AND EXPERIENCES BEING AN INTERN AT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP
[ https://www.vrg.org/blog/2019/06/04/my-time-and-experiences-being-an-intern-at-the-vegetarian-resource-group/ ]

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2) VRG BOOTHS AND EVENTS

Come visit us at these VRG booths!

Clarksville Vegan Fest
Saturday July 20, 2019
Roots Market
Clarksville, MD
Animal Rights National Conference
Thursday to Sunday, July 25-28, 2019
Hilton Alexandria Mark Center
Alexandria, VA
Vegan SoulFest
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Clifton Park
Baltimore, MD
DC VegFest
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Nationals Park, Washington DC
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics FNCE
Sunday to Tuesday, October 27-29, 2019
Pennsylvania Convention Center
Philadelphia, PA
VRG Annual Vegan Dinner
Chinese meal to be hosted during FNCE
Sunday, October 27, 2019, 6 pm
Philadelphia, PA
VRG Pre-Thanksgiving Vegan Potluck
North Baltimore Mennonite Church
Sunday, November 24, 2019
Baltimore, MD

Please contact [email protected] if you want to help with promotion, planning, or set up.

If you are interested in helping us at one of our booths, contact Gene Slothour-Hudnall at [email protected].

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3) MARYLAND AREA EVENTS

MARYLAND VEGAN RESTAURANT WEEK - August 16, 2019 through August 30, 2019

The mission of Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week is to bridge the gap by increasing the awareness, benefits and accessibility of a plant-based diet through a fun, innovative and community-based experience. See: [ https://www.facebook.com/events/845962549078957/ ]

BALTIMORE VEGAN DRINKS

JULY 22, 2019
Vegan Drinks at SweetSide Cafe with a Movie!
Monday 6:00 pm
SweetSide Cafe
Baltimore, MD
AUGUST 10, 2019
Ten Year Anniversary Party for Bmore Vegan Drinks
Saturday 5:00 pm
Sandlot
Baltimore, MD
SEPTEMBER 23, 2019
More Vegan Drinks at Tiny Brick Oven
Monday 6:00 pm
Baltimore, MD

For Vegan Drinks events see [ https://www.facebook.com/pg/BaltimoreVeganDrinks/events/?ref=page_internal ]

DINEKIND

Dinekind Harford meets monthly to share information on the benefits of a plant-based diet. For more information, visit: [ http://www.dinekindharford.com/ ]

VEGEVENTS

Maryland and DC veg events can be found at [ https://www.vegevents.com ]

WHOLE FOOD FOR OPTIMAL HEALTH - BALTIMORE SUPPORT GROUP

They typically show one or more short educational videos, often a cooking demonstration of something delicious and easy. And of course, support, discussion, advice, and recipes. Beginners are welcome. Please bring a vegan dish to share if you can.

Please RSVP and visit at [ https://www.meetup.com/whole-food-for-optimal-health-potluck/ ]
If you have any questions, contact: Margie (mobile: 410-375-5803, [email protected])

EARTHSAVE

Earthsave's veg/vegan dinner series meets on the last Saturday each month at Govan's Presbyterian Church, next to the historic Senator Theater. Earthsave's mission is to help people learn a healthier and more peaceful way of eating and living. We also host two monthly groups/meetups that meet in restaurants. See: [ http://earthsavebaltimore.org/ ]

For details about monthly vegan Meetup
[ https://www.meetup.com/The-Baltimore-Vegan-Meetup-Group/ ]
[ https://www.meetup.com/The-Baltimore-Vegan-Meetup-Group/events/phwfgqyzjbmb/ ]

FORKS OVER KNIVES MONTHLY POTLUCKS

This group is for those interested in trying a whole food plant-based diet or for those who already eat this way. This is a diet with none to very little oil, salt, or refined sugar. Sample delicious and healthy dishes, share recipes, learn, and connect with like-minded individuals.

For more information about the next event, visit: [ http://www.meetup.com/columbia-md-forks-over-knives-meetup/ ]

EAT WELL STAY WELL 2019 ONE-DAY IMMERSION

Sharon McRae organizes the annual One Day Immersion event, with a lineup of health and nutrition professionals. The event fills up completely every year. This year's event will happen on Sept 15th. Sharon writes: We are so grateful to welcome back Dr. Joel Fuhrman, who will be discussing prevention of heart disease, eating for longevity, and food addiction; Dr. Brooke Goldner, who will teach us about diet and prevention of autoimmune disease; Dr. Cyrus Khambatta, who will share about insulin resistance and the dangers of the popular ketogenic diet; Dr. Frank Sabatino, who will discuss how lifestyle changes can affect expression of our genes; and my co-host, Dr. Dana Simpler, who will share frequently asked questions from her patients who are following a plant-based diet.

Our cooking demonstration this year is something I'm really excited about because I get to be ìin the kitchenî with Dr. Joel Fuhrma We'll be sharing how to create easy, quick, and delicious nutrient-dense dishes that are sure to win over your palate. Once again, our fabulous plant-based lunch will be provided by GreenFare Organic Cafe in Herndon VA, and we'll have yoga/stretching/meditation breaks throughout the day to teach you some strategies for sneaking in movement and moderating stress. We'll also have book sales and vendors for you to visit, along with some amazing door prizes! There's a nice discount for those who register early[ https://tinyurl.com/y2ay8e/ ]

MONTHLY COOKING CLASSES

No meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, or honey. $55/person; $100/two people; $50/VSDC, VRG, or COK members. Demonstration classes include recipes, organic food samples, manufacturers' samples coupons. Gift certificates are available for purchase.

Email [email protected] or call 703-643-2713 for space availability. Make checks payable to Mimi Clark and mail to 9302 Hallston Ct., Fairfax Station, VA 22039. Sorry, no phone or e-mail reservations and no walk-ins. Seventy-two hour cancellation policy for refund or credit. Class subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not met.

Check website for monthly class updates: [ http://www.veggourmet.wordpress.com ]

VEGEVENTS

Maryland and DC veg events can be found at [ https://www.vegevents.com ]

VSDC THANKSGIVING GALA

Thursday, November 28, 2019
12-4 PM
Grand Hyatt, Washington, DC

The all-vegan Thanksgiving feast will be held at the Grand Hyatt in downtown D.C. on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019, from 12-4 pm. Event programming also includes door prizes, a silent auction fundraiser, exhibitors, an all-ages kids activity, and live music. We have a delicious and abundant menu planned. The buffet is all-vegan, with non-GMO ingredients, and many gluten-free options. So mark your calendars to join us to celebrate with hundreds of people! See: [ https://www.vsdc.org/Thanksgiving-2019 ]

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4) DOSHI OFFERS DISCOUNT ON VEGAN BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Doshi was founded to provide smart, fashionable, and quality vegan bags and accessories. They meet the needs of ethically and environmentally conscious professionals and fashionistas.See more at: [ https://doshi.shop ] For a 15% discount on your first order over $50, use discount code vrg15

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5) VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP VIDEO SCHOLARSHIPS

ONE $200 SCHOLARSHIP PLUS TWO $100 AWARDS

Create and submit a video relating what you want to tell others about vegetarianism and/or veganism.

Some possible topics: food, nutrition, your feelings about veganism and/or vegetarianism, water usage and vegetarianism, vegetarianism and animal rights, or other vegetarian topics which appeal to you. Humor and feelings are appreciated. All videos should be positive, not be critical of anyone, and not include any footage of animal cruelty. You may submit a video you have already made.

Aspects of judging include accuracy and judges wanting to share the video with others. Entrants give permission to The Vegetarian Resource Group to post and share the video, to link to and from the video, and share the video with the media.

DEADLINE: July 15, 2019

For information: [ https://www.vrg.org/videoscholarship.php ]

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6) THE VRG AT WAVERLY FARMER'S MARKET IN BALTIMORE

By Emily Carter, VRG Intern from Oklahoma

Smells of Zeke's coffee and freshly baked bread waft through the aisles of the 32nd Street Farmers Market, which is open every Saturday 7AM - noon! Bright colored vegetables and fruits make the perfect background to present resources for a vegan diet, which is exactly what two VRG interns, Amy Dell and myself, did this past weekend at the market.

Booths of all kinds framed walkways for locals to browse farm fresh produce, aromatic breads, pies (yes, even vegan ones!), and many other local goodies. Situated in between a composting service booth and a farm stand, was a green tent sporting The Vegetarian Resource Group signs visible from any direction. We stood inside the tent alongside books, pamphlets, journals, and other informational materials. When children would pass by, we offered them I Love Animals and Broccoli coloring books, which always brought happiness, both to the kids and Amy! The adults who walked by had quizzical looks, which usually turned into smiles when we would offer free recipes. Many people accepted the Vegetarian Journal recipes and went on their way, but some also stopped to engage and learn more. We met doctors and professors who advocated for veganism and were looking for additional resources to share with their institution. People were excited to see us and learn additional information.

Many who stopped to engage were already vegetarian or vegan, or had experimented with the lifestyle at some point in their past. Numerous people who came to the booth were vegan for health reasons, and a fraction of them were prescribed the diet by their doctors. This was refreshing to me, because the emphasis on a plant-based diet is not always the case (especially when you are from the rural South, like me).

The most surprising and uplifting part of the whole experience was that no one was against what we were doing. My favorite part about being vegan in Baltimore is that a lot of people are educated about the subject to some degree, and they agree it is a good choice to make. Many of the people we met were still battling with their love for meats and cheeses; however, I think the resources we gave will provide a stepping stone for people to eventually give up those products, be it for their health, the environment, or animals!

For more information about VRG internships, see: [ https://www.vrg.org/student/index.php ]

To support The Vegetarian Resource Group outreach, donate at [ https://www.vrg.org/donate ]

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7) COOKING A MEAL FOR OUR DAILY BREAD TO FEED THE HUNGRY

By Emily Carter, VRG Intern

Our Daily Bread, a meal program hosted by Catholic Charities, serves more than a quarter of a million meals to people experiencing hunger across Baltimore. They serve hot lunch 365 days a year to anywhere between 500 and 1000+ people. Additionally, they offer breakfast to seniors and people with disabilities and dinner to men enrolled in the Christopher Place Employment Academy. The organization relies on volunteers to make and serve food everyday, with a greater need for volunteers to serve breakfast from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and dinner for Christopher Place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

There is opportunity for people who want to get involved in a more indirect and possibly less time-consuming way by cooking and donating meals. Our Daily Bread has a casserole program that is the backbone of the entire initiative. Anyone can make and donate a casserole! Casserole recipes can be found on the Our Daily Bread's website.

[ https://www.catholiccharities-md.org/services/our-daily-bread-hot-meal-program/#790c890569b87ce66 ]

On the list of recipes one can make, 3 are vegan, and were created by the VRG's food service advisor Chef Nancy Berkoff, RD! They are all fairly quick to make, depending on how many casseroles you wish to donate.

Last weekend, VRG intern Amy Dell and myself made two sweet potato and black bean casseroles using a recipe on the Our Daily Bread website. It was very simple and only took us about an hour and a half to chop all the peppers, onions, and garlic and get the sweet potatoes fork-tender. (The time would have been shorter had we had a bigger pot to combine both batches). The meal smelled delicious, and inspired me to make something similar for myself!

Homelessness and hunger linger everywhere as a silent enemy. Philanthropy may not be the best way towards food equality, but it is one of the tools we have as individuals to help create a world that aligns a little more with our philosophies. So if you are feeling inspired or have no evening/weekend plans, get some ingredients and casserole dishes and cook up a storm! Even if you are not in Baltimore you can still participate by donating to your local feeding site.

For another example of vegan cooking for the needy, see [ https://www.vrg.org/journal/vj2015issue4/2015_issue4_vegetarian_action.php ]

For information on interning at The Vegetarian Resource Group, go to [ https://www.vrg.org/student/index.php ]

To support The Vegetarian Resource Group outreach, donate at [ https://www.vrg.org/donate ]

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8) MY TIME AND EXPERIENCES WORKING AS AN INTERN AT THE VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP

By Taylor Gale, Loyola University Intern

I have had the most amazing opportunity - working at The Vegetarian Resource Group. I have been involved in so many projects, there has never been a dull moment! For the most part, I wrote about my experiences as a vegan - traveling as vegan, being vegan on a college campus, how to teach a vegan cooking class, and the list goes on. These writings were my favorite because I was able to share my knowledge about veganism to all of you. Hopefully, my writings have helped out in one way or another. Another exciting part of this internship, has been being able to try new veggie products and restaurants! I tasted so many vegan snacks, drinks, and desserts. Not only did I have the chance to describe and recommend these foods and drinks to the rest of the vegetarian/ vegan community, I was able to try new items, which I may have overlooked if I had seen them in stores.

Another favorite experience of mine was being able to teach a vegan cooking class to the men from Christopher's Place at Our Daily Bread. Although, I only taught one class, I was able to help out when other classes were taught by one of our own, Marcy Schveibinz. It was an awesome experience to be able to share nutritious and delicious recipes with men who have not necessarily had access to these types of food.

This internship has been very unconventional, but in the best ways possible. I was granted freedom to write on topics that I am interested in, I created my own schedule for due dates (which was super helpful, since I am still an undergraduate student), I was given time to work on projects without a constant heckle from my bosses, which is typical for other internships. The whole time at VRG, I felt like I was not just an intern, but someone who was a part of the team to further compassion and express my knowledge on veganism to others.

The VRG group became like a family to me. Everyone is so welcoming and truly excited to hear about the intern's days and experiences, each time we walk through the front door. Not only has The VRG group taught me important writing and workforce skills, they have taught me to go out and grab what I want from life. Thank you Debra, Charles, Gene, Marcy, and Rissa for all of the support and guidance you have all given to me! Although, my official internship has come to an end, I know my writings and I will always be welcome at VRG. This internship has been unlike any other, and I will cherish my time spent at VRG forever. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

For information about The Vegetarian Resource Group internships, see [ https://www.vrg.org/student/index.php ]

To support The Vegetarian Resource Group outreach, donate at [ https://www.vrg.org/donate ]

Or join at [ https://www.vrg.org/member/2013sv.php ]

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9) ILLINOIS STUDENT WINS $5,000 VEGETARIAN RESOURCE GROUP COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP

Bianca Schramm said, "In fifth grade, a fellow student criticized my lunch, complaining that my avocado tofu sandwich looked weird and asked why I didn't have the ever-popular ham and cheese sandwich ... She told me, 'God created animals to be eaten.' ... Do you have a dog? I asked her ... Well, you would never eat a dog, right? ... "

Bianca reported, "I have been involved with volunteering projects with the Science of Spirituality Meditation Center since the beginning of Middle School. As a member of their youth services program, I helped cook vegetarian meals and organized field trips every month."... "During the summers of 2015 and 2016 I gave discourses at Veggie Fest (Naperville, Illinois) in the Learn To Be Vegetarian booth."

"As a passionate teenage vegetarian, I still wanted to do more... One of my biggest hobbies is photography, and I also volunteer at the Science of Spirituality every Saturday for two hours at their vegetarian cooking classes to take pictures of their vegetarian meals for social media."

Bianca also said, "I work in the Manna Organics booth June through August every Saturday at the Naperville Farmer's Market (2015-2018). I help sell vegan nut butters and sprouted organic breads. While working there, I had the pleasure of engaging in many insightful conversations with customers about their dietary choices, and I would regularly explain my belief and support of the vegan lifestyle." Bianca continued, "As a life-long vegetarian, I have combined my passion for the vegan diet with my passion for creative writing.... Many of these short stories from my childhood related to my experiences of being a 5th generation vegetarian."

Bianca also wrote,"I am happy to report that I am indeed still vegan!... The treatment of animals in America is very disheartening, and the more I learn about this inhumane and unsustainable treatment, the more passionate and motivated I become to encourage others to try veganism." Bianca will be attending Davidson College as a communication studies major.

To see additional scholarship winners, go to [ https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar.htm ]

The deadline for the next Vegetarian Resource Group scholarship is February 20, 2019. Applicants should be graduating high school in spring of 2020. For details, see: [ https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar.htm ]

To support additional scholarships and internships, donate at [ https://www.vrg.org/donate ] Call (410) 366-8343, or mail a check to The Vegetarian Resource Group, P.O. Box 1463, Baltimore, MD 21203.

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10) TWENTY PERCENT OF U.S. ADULTS ALWAYS OR SOMETIMES EAT VEGAN MEALS WHEN EATING OUT

With Target selling almond and soy milk, Chipotle carrying Sofritas as well as listing it as vegan bowl on their website, Carl's Junior offering the Beyond Burger, and Burger King adding a vegan burger, it seems there is an explosion of interest in vegan foods. However, The Vegetarian Resource Group wanted to know how many vegans there are.

In a national Harris survey, The Vegetarian Resource Group asked the following question in 2016 and 2019 - To see question and rest of article, go to [ https://www.vrg.org/nutshell/Polls/2019_adults_veg.htm ]

For more polls, see: [ https://www.vrg.org/nutshell/faq.htm#poll ]

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11) VRG HIGHLIGHTS

We enjoyed working for two weeks with a dietetic student from the College of St. Elizabeth, who did her last rotation with us to complete her year internship towards becoming a registered dietitian. Lauren worked on vegan SNAP (food stamp) menus, a blog posting on potassium and sodium, Eating Tips for the Homebound Vegan and a scientific review of a study on vegan athletes.

Welcome to our summer interns: Amy (going to school in Maine); Emily (from Oklahoma); and Autumn (doing Stem in Maryland). They will be helping with booths, articles, research, and more!

We sent three of our books to be raffled off at VegFest Kansas City 2019.

We handed out copies of Vegetarian Journal at the Lancaster VegFest in Lancaster, PA.

We've also awarded $20,000 in scholarships this year to graduating high school seniors! To see the winners of our annual scholarship, or to learn more about the requirements for applying for next year, go to: [ https://www.vrg.org/student/scholar.htm ]

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12) WISH LIST

As a non-profit, we can only take on new projects when we are able to get support from donors and our dedicated volunteers. Right now, we are seeking your support for the following:

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13) A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS

Thanks to the following VRG volunteers for all your hard work with The Vegetarian Resource Group, including, posting to social media, writing blog posts, research, presentations, restaurant research, clerical work, writing HTML, contributing to our vegan parents group, doing media interviews, editing, performing nutrition analysis, helping with our newsletters, and more!

  • Nancy Berkoff, EdD, RD
  • Whitney Blomquist
  • Casey Brown, RD
  • Emily Carter
  • Cathy Conway, MS, RD
  • Nathaniel Corn
  • Anne Custer
  • Amy Dell
  • Natalie Evans
  • Autumn Hengen
  • Suzanne Hengen
  • Reed Mangels, PhD, RD
  • Julia Mathew
  • Rissa Miller
  • David Milner
  • Mark Rifkin, MS, RD
  • Bryan Schroeder, RN
  • Marcy Schveibinz
  • Brad Scott
  • Stuart Stahler

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14) A CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

We could use help developing our vegetarian senior guide. If you know of any senior living facilities that are accommodating to vegetarian or vegan seniors, especially by regularly offering vegetarian or vegan meals, please let us know! If you're willing to do some research on this, please reach out as well. We are looking for people in various areas who can reach out to facilities via phone, e-mail, or even in-person.

You can see our current senior guide here: [ https://www.vrg.org/seniors/senior_vegan.php ]

We could use help with promoting our Pre-Thanksgiving Vegan Potluck in the fall. We’ll also need help setting up and cleaning up on the day of the event. Please e-mail Gene at [email protected] if you're interested in assisting.

To volunteer at VRG, please contact Gene at [email protected]

To support The Vegetarian Resource Group's outreach, donate at [ https://www.vrg.org/donate ]

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15) BECOME A MONTHLY VRG DONOR

Support Vegan Education and become a monthly donor!

[ https://www.givedirect.org/donate/?cid=1565 ]

To join VRG, go to [ https://www.vrg.org/member/2013sv.php ]

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16) 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:

[ https://www.vrg.org/journal/ ] )

To sign up for the The Vegetarian Resource Group national email newsletter, please visit:

[ http://lists.vrg.org/mailman/listinfo/vrg-news_lists.vrg.org ]

We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!!

Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
VRG Parents and Kids

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: [ https://www.vrg.org/ ]
To donate: [ https://www.givedirect.org/donate/?cid=1565 ]

Copyright The Vegetarian Resource Group 2019 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 go to

[ http://lists.vrg.org/mailman/listinfo/vrg-maryland_lists.vrg.org ]
If you do not wish to receive the Local Email Newsletter, visit
[ http://lists.vrg.org/mailman/listinfo/vrg-maryland_lists.vrg.org ]
Instructions for unsubscribing will appear at the bottom of the page. See Unsubscribe or edit options. (You do not need a password).

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