What’s more Jersey Fresh than people choosing to eat nothing but the stuff?
A Vegetarian Society of South Jersey display is pictured in this provided photo.
We’re talking about the Vegetarian Society of South Jersey (VSSJ), a hundreds-strong group whose objectives include enlightenment and camaraderie when it comes to cutting meat, fish, chicken and other once-living beings out of one’s diet.
“Reach out to us. We would be glad to help you in any way. We’re here for support,” said Steve Fenster, vice president of operations for the all-volunteer non-profit group that will mark its 30th anniversary later this year.
Fenster, who has been a vegetarian for 14 years, said there’s no single approach to — if you’ll excuse the pun — going cold turkey and ceasing to eat meat.
“Everybody has to do it at their own pace. Some people to do it gradually,” he said, adding approaches like “meat-less Mondays” is one such way to tackle the topic.
According to a 2015 national survey of adults conducted by The Vegetarian Resource Group, approximately six to 10 million Americans reporting adhering to a vegetarian diet. Vegans — who do not consume any foods that include ingredients sourced from an animal — include about 1.6 million Americans.
Some make the leap for the health benefits. Others opt out for environmental concerns. Plenty more disagree with factory farming and the conditions livestock live under. If you’re on the fence or have been on the wagon for years, VSSJ is ready to welcome you with open arms.
Child who offended vegetarian can be punished
Fenster said his organization, which is working to merge with a similar central New Jersey group, primarily hosts potlucks, educational seminars, public outreach and a free lecture series at vegetarian-friendly restaurants.
He estimated that between 100 and 150 people and families belong to the VSSJ. If vegetarianism is something that speaks to you, but didn’t know where to turn, a handful of events that are open to the public are scheduled for the rest of this year.
The group will have a potluck picnic at Smithville Park, in Eastampton, on Sept. 3 at 1 p.m. The family-friendly event is open to the public and costs $3 for individuals to attend or $8 for a family. Discounts are also available for guests who bring reusable table settings.
VSSJ will also be at the second annual Vegstock, in Millville, on Sept. 10. The event will offer educational opportunities to tout the benefits of a vegan lifestyle as well as information on how to stay healthy and active.
The VSSJ’s 30th Anniversary gala will be held on Nov. 19 at Medford Leas, in Medford. The event will feature a vegan menu, keynote speakers, cooking demonstrations, book signings and more.
A complete list of upcoming events and other vegetarian-friendly resources can be found on VSSJ’s website at www.vssj.com where, Fenster said, the group provides “support for people in transition.”
Greg Adomaitis may be reached at gadomaitis@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregAdomaitis. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
No comments:
Post a Comment