Thursday, December 13, 2007

Record Attendance at Festive Dinner

Our annual Festive Dinner held at the new Satisfaction Feast on Friday December 7th was our biggest dinner to date with thirty members and guests filling the restaurant. The food was impressive thanks to Sarita and her staff, who managed to satisfy everyone. The choice of larger or smaller servings is rarely given in restaurants today, but was offered to us and provided savings in cost and waste. With the Satisfaction Feast stressing local and organic when possible, the dinner was an environmental, as well as a vegetarian success.

Dr. Anne Houstoun spoke to us on the health benefits of a vegetarian diet. The fact that vegetarians live longer healthier lives was documented in the Public Policy Statement of the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada Position on Vegetarian Diets. This report and a Vegetarian food guide rainbow was provided to each of us by Dr. Houstoun. We are in her debt for this report, as well as the time she gave us for her thoughtful presentation and individual discussions. If you missed the dinner, but would like to receive this printed information, please request it from our secretary.

I found it interesting that the policy statement indicated that 2.5% of adults in the USA and 4% of adults in Canada follow vegetarian diets. If this is the average for all of Canada, the average in Halifax would be much higher. Our current membership of just over fifty has considerable potential for growth.

We will be back to you in January with our 2008 events including a January dinner. In the meantime, use your membership cards over the holiday for discounts at the restaurants, cafes and other businesses in our discount program.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Annual Festive Dinner

Sunday, November 18, 2007

September and October Review

Wellness Expo
Our attendance at the Wellness Expo (previously NS Good Health Show) was the highlight of our fall activities. For a second year, Shivaraj and Kundalini (the owners of the show) made our booth possible by supporting our association. This enabled us to increase our membership and raise the profile of vegetarianism.
The show was held on the weekend of October 19-21 and attracted thousands of health conscious Maritimers. For a second year, thanks to Tarek, we awarded two dinners for two at Tarek's to visitors to our booth that entered our draw. In addition, thanks to Robert Webber, Director of the Yoga Loft, we awarded five yoga classes at the Yoga Loft to another lucky booth visitor.

Website

We launched our new website in May, but as our webmaster soon moved to Toronto, the site sat idle and in need of updating for several months. After posting a request on kijiji, we found two webmasters that are now sharing the responsibility. David Kristof, a Halifax native, and Sudhanshu Singh, a native of India that comes to us via Saskatchewan. Sudhanshu is a lifelong vegetarian. Both have now joined as directors of our association. The recommended restaurants with photos and maps, and an interactive element to our site are the first of many changes that will make the site essential viewing for the thousands of vegetarians living in Nova Scotia or visiting our area.

Membership and Discount Program
We now have a laminating machine, thanks to our treasurer, Jesslyn Fowlie, which enables us to provide laminated membership cards. This is increasingly necessary, as our discount program for members continues to expand to more veg-friendly restaurants (and other shops and services) in the Halifax area and across Nova Scotia.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Update

Over the next few days we will be updating this blog, and including the activities that have taken place, since Jessica (our secretary that created this blog) left on her travels. We'll also be adding information on our upcoming events, such as the upcoming festive dinner at the Satisfaction Feast's new location on Robie Street, and recent developments regarding our website and discount program.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Mid-East Food Centre Dinner

~~ Action Packed August ~~



Thank-you to all who made it out for the PICNIC/POTLUCK event this past Sunday at Point Pleasant Park! The weather was just perfect and the food was fabulous. I'm always amazed when there are never two of the same dishes!

Although it may seem like we are hosting two August events, in fact, the Picnic was held over from July! So, mark your calendars once again because on August 17th look forward to a devine dinner at the Mid-East Food Centre! A year ago to date we held the same event and it proved to be the most popular thus far! Even more popular than our Pyramid Cafe Brunch!

The Mid-East Food Centre has welcomed us back and we're hoping for repeat success! With an expanded dining area, maybe this will be our biggest event yet! The price is UNBEATABLE, the quality is EXCEPTIONAL, and the atmosphere is INVITING! Don't miss out!!! Furthermore, Mid-East has agreed to offer the same menu choices as last year, making it a nostalgic treat for those who were there and a new memory for those who weren't!



______________________________
_________________MENU__________________

Choose any 4 items for $8.00 per person!
- NO TAX -


1. Grape leaves (rice, oil, spices)
2. Mjadra (lentil, rice, onion)
3. Binjani Rice (Basmati rice, yogurt, eggplant, potato, onion, tomato, spices)
4. Tabouli Salad (Italian parsley, tomato, onion, cracked wheat, oil, spices)
5. Hummus (chick pea, salt, garlic, tahini)
6. Vegetarian Samosa {hot} (stuffing of potato, peas, spices)
7. Cracked wheat with tomato and onion


*Please note drinks are of extra cost and the restaurant is not licenced for alcoholic beverages.
** Also, CASH ONLY. Neither credit card or debit will be accepted.

___________________________________________________________
[I've made my 4 choices ... and I bet your deciding yours right now!]



What's more is you can also anticipate an informative talk by a guest speaker from the Ecology Action Centre's Food Miles Committee who will be speaking on the ecological benefits of vegetarianism!!!

Simply reply to this email to reserve your spot for this exciting event as it will only go ahead if reservations are received.

As always, feel free to email with any questions, concerns, or comments!



For now,

Cheers and Happy Eating,
the HAV team


Saturday, August 04, 2007

Picnic/Potluck TOMORROW!

Join us as Point Pleasant Park Tomorrow at 1pm for a fun PICNIC/POTLUCK!

The event, originally scheduled for last Sunday has be rescheduled for TOMORROW, SUNDAY, AUGUST 5th!

Please join us - we look forward to seeing you there!

For more information see previous posts or email halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com

___________________________________________________________

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Postponed Picnic/Potluck

Hello Veggie Friends!

Regretfully, due to weather, we have made the decision to postpone the Picnic/Potluck event planned for today at Point Pleasant Park. I apologize for the short notice and anticipate seeing each of you on our alternative date, Sunday, August 4th with picnic dishes in hand!

Until then,

Cheers and Happy Eating,
t h e HAV t e a m

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS OR EMAIL halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

PICNIC/POTLUCK

PICNIC & POTLUCK
-TWO IN ONE EVENT-



WHAT? A Sunday Brunch Picnic/Potluck
WHERE?
Point Pleasant Park (by the lower Parking Lot)
WHEN? This Sunday - July 29th at 1pm
DETAILS? Plates,cutlery and cups made from recycled paper will be
available for those who do not bring their own.



Along with many others, HAV has been anticipating this fun filled event! We look forward to sharing food, ideas, stories, recipes, and more with you, your families, friends, and maybe even your dog?!?!

What if rain spoils our plans?! No problem, we'll just hold the same event at the same time on the following Sunday, August 5th.

We apologize for the late notice. Have you any questions, please feel free to email halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com

We look forward to this great opportunity to enjoy fresh veggie food and friendly company by the ocean's breeze and the sun's warmth.


Until Sunday,


Cheers and Happy Eating,
t h e HAV t e a m

Tuesday, July 03, 2007

Announcements!!!

Our last event on Sunday, June 24th, 2007 at the PaperChase Cafe was another great success!


The PaperChase provided us with a DELICIOUS specialty menu offering a wide selection of vegan food (minus the carrot cake!) all at AMAZING prices. I didn't hear a single complaint! A special thank-you to everyone who came out! For those of you who couldn't attend - we look forward to seeing you at next month's event - a PICNIC/POTLUCK!!! This will be a great event to get out and enjoy the nice weather while endulging in delicious vegetarian foods and good company!

Also, we have an IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT concerning HAV's membership rates. It has very recently been decided that the current yearly membership rates are increasing as of August 1st, 2007 due to the membership cards doubling as a Discount Cards.

- Student/Senior: from $5 to $15
- Individual: from $10 to $20
- Family: from $15 to $25

Therefore, this is a prime time to become a HAV member!

We have other things under works, so keep checking back for updates and details about the Discount Card and Events!!!

until then,
Cheers and Happy Eating!
t h e HAVt e a m

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

PaperChase Details

Hello Veggie Friends!

Just so you know ...

Everyone attending the PaperChase dinner on Sunday, June 24th, will get the discount - members and non-members alike!!! BUT, if you return to the Paperchase (which you know you will after trying their delicious dishes!) a discount will only be received by showing your fabulous Halifax Association of Vegetarians membership/discount card when ordering.

Also, the usual PaperChase system calls for making payment when ordering and the food is brought to your table, but not for the dinner. We will have table service and pay when leaving! How's that for HAV prestige?!?!

Cheers for now and we look forward to seeing you all there!!!

T H E HAV T E A M

Saturday, June 16, 2007

Event Details!

The details you have all been awaiting!



What: A Delicious Discounted Dinner
Where: Paperchase Cafe
above the Paperchase News Kiosk
5228 Blowers Street, Halifax.
Date: Sunday, June 24th
Time: 6:30pm



I hope you are looking forward to this event because it is sure to be a success!

You can anticipate a specially designed menu just for the evening in addition to a 10% discount for all HAV members! :D

We have listed below your mouth-watering choices for you to ponder and plan in advance! (Try not to get to hungry just thinking about it!)


Soups (all vegan)
$3.49 regular or $2.00 small

sweet potato, squash and apple
curried zucchini
garlic, spinach and chick pea


Salads (all vegan)
$3.49 regular, $2.00 small
except greens salad:
$3.99 regular or $2.50 small:

organic greens with basil dressing
couscous with citrus basil dressing
three bean with balsamic & dill dressing

Main Courses
curry veggie burger, with small three bean or couscous salad - $5.99
dhal with curried veggies on basmati rice - $5.25


Desserts
carrot cake $3.45 regular or $1.95 small (not vegan)
3 tiger balls ... peanut butter and chocolate (vegan) [ Known as "devil balls" by staff as they are so irresistible!]
smoothies $3.79 (vegan)


YUMMMMMMMMMMY!!!
For those of you with nut allergies, please note that only the couscous and the tiger balls contain nuts!

Furthermore, your meal is entirely up to you - It is possible to have a soup and salad, without a main course, or combine in any way you wish!!! The cost of drinks, tax, and gratuity are not included in the above amounts. However, this is not surprising given their very reasonable prices. In fact, their prices have not increased in 5 years!!! WOW

After this delightful evening the Paperchase Cafe has even agreed to be part of our Discount Program! By presenting your card when ordering, members will receive a 10% discount on food purchases anytime after June 24th!

Finally, there is limited seating to this great affair so we request that you reserve your spot in advance by simply replying to this email!



We look forward to seeing you all soon!



Cheers and Happy Eating,
t h e HAV t e a m

Saturday, May 26, 2007

Official Website Now Available

It's finally here!!!
check out our NEW official website today
Also, stay tuned for upcoming events! Our next event will be in JUNE.

Friday, April 13, 2007

Potluck Announcement

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming POTLUCK on April, 22nd!

In addition, we would like to announce that we will be holding our first annual general meeting (AGM) at the end of the potluck. This will be a very informal and short meeting but crucial to registering HAV as an official not-for-profit organization.

Also, please let us know by emailing halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com if you have any allergies you would like announced to potluck attendees. As of now, we ask people to refrain from bringing dishes containing nuts. If you do choose to make a dish with nuts, please ensure that you provide a little sign to place next to your dish announcing its contents. Sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation.

We look forward to seeing you all at 1545 Southpark St. between the Lord Nelson and the YMCA (you will need to walk underneath the building directly next to the Lord Nelson to enter 1545) at 6:30pm for delectable vegetarian dishes!



Cheers and Happy Eating,

t h e H A V t e a m

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

PotLUCK

Interested in a POTLUCK ???


I AM!
but then again . . . who isn't?

Let us know if you would like to join us for a vegetarian potluck in April?!

It's going to be FUN! Do you really want to miss out on FUN?

...

I didn't think so.

Drop us a line anytime at halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com for more details or even if you just want to chat veggie!


Cheers and Happy Eating!
the HAV team

Thursday, March 08, 2007

Reminder!

DINNER at HEARTWOOD CAFE


For those of you who reserved, we look forward to seeing you tonight

Friday, March 9th at
6:30pm

for a delicious dinner at the Heartwood Cafe on Quinpool Road.

_____________________________


For those of you who haven't yet reserved, it is'nt too late! :)

We still have a few spots left so reply today and join us for a fabulous discounted meal and a guest speaker from the Herbalist Association of Nova Scotia !


Cheers and Happy Eating,
the HAV team

Wednesday, February 28, 2007


It's That Time Again!


Join the Halifax Association of Vegetarians for a discounted dinner at the

Heartwood Cafe
6250 Quinpool Road
Friday, March 9
6:30 PM

One of only two vegetarian cafes in Halifax, the Heartwood is unique in selling their food by weight. The self serve setup is very accomodating, allowing you to choose your own menu items and portion. The cost will then reflect your serving size. Furthermore, they use organic ingredients of local origin whenever possible and all of their desserts are vegan! Although not yet part of our discount program, they have agreed to give everyone attending the dinner a
10% discount!
If great food, a great discount, and great company hasn't already drawn you in, The Herbalist Association of Nova Scotia has agreed to supply a guest speaker!
Reserve early for this great event. Seating is limited to 25!
________________________________________________________________________


Also, please join us for an Organizational Meeting
at

DIO MIO on
SATURDAY, MARCH 3rd
5670 Spring Garden Rd.
1PM

There are many exciting things to discuss!
We'd love to hear your freah ideas, suggestions, and input -
so please don't hesitate to join us for some gelato!!



Cheers and Happy Eating,
the HAV team
Richard, Jesslyn, & Jessica


* As a final note we would just like to mention the success that was the Brunch at the Pyramid Cafe! Thanks to all who came out and we look forward to your attendance at future events!

Saturday, February 10, 2007

Sunday . February 18th . 1:00pm
Join us @
.
The Pyramid Cafe
2196 Windsor Street
.
for a delightful vegan brunch!
.
To find out more or reserve your seat email Jessica at halifaxvegetarians@gmail.com !
.
We look forward to seeing you there!
.
Until then, Happy Eating from HAV :)
.

Saturday, January 27, 2007

And the NEWS is....

HelloHelloHello!

I have just returned from the HAV booth at Mountain Equipment Co-op. A number of people have expressed interest in our group and hopefully we can expect to see some new faces at next month's dinner! It was a great opportunity for us to draw attention to vegetarianism and specifically the Association.

It appears that our upcoming dinner is going to be exciting! The word on the street is that Heartwood is eager to host our next gathering. Once the details have been finialized you can expect an announcement from us via email and the blog also revealing our guest speaker!

Many Cheers and Happy Eating,
the HAV team