September 3, 2024

Ann Vargo makes Sweet Potato Fries!

Our Food Demonstrations take place on Tuesdays at the Petersburg Public Library!!

Food is Medicine – Funded by the Cameron Foundation

The Food is Medicine program is a Produce Rx initiative. Dr. Clifford Morris of the Morris Cardiovascular and Risk Reduction Clinic refers his patients who are Petersburg residents and may be at risk of developing cardiovascular disease to participate in this program.

Our second cohort of 25 participants, started on August 6 and will run through October 22. For 12 weeks, participants receive a free bag of fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables from local farmers’ markets.

At the beginning of the program, participants receive a free blood pressure cuff and scale. For the remaining 11 weeks, they receive various kitchen utensils such as cutting boards, peelers, spices, and recently, a blender.

When participants come to pick up their produce bags, they can also enjoy free healthy food demonstrations, get free blood pressure screenings, and receive assistance from the Department of Social Services, which is available to answer questions and provide support for their programs.

For more information, reach out to Lenice Sudds, BHS, LPN,QMHP-A

Program Coordinator

Healthy Living and Learning Center

Petersburg Public Library

201 W. Washington Street

Petersburg, VA 23804

Phone: 804.733.2387 ext. 6302

Email: [email protected]

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August 9, 2024

A Successful S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy at Petersburg Public Library

This summer, the Petersburg Public Library was buzzing with excitement and discovery as we hosted the 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy. Designed for 7–9-year-old students recommended by Petersburg Public Schools, the program combined innovative lessons with the engaging atmosphere of a summer camp. The S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy was more than just a summer program; it was a hub of learning, creativity, and fun that left a lasting impact on our young participants.

What is the S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy?

The S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Math) Academy is a unique literacy program that integrates the Virginia Standards of Learning in Reading and Math into daily activities. With the support of certified teachers and our Youth Services Librarian, the Academy focused on delivering an interactive and educational experience that fostered both academic and personal growth.

Highlights of the Summer Program

The 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy was packed with activities that not only stimulated the minds of our students but also equipped them with valuable life skills. Here are some of the key activities and events that took place:

  • Lunch and Learn Presentations: Students enjoyed engaging presentations during lunch, where professionals from various fields shared their experiences and insights into S.T.R.E.A.M.-related careers.
  • S.T.R.E.A.M Career Information Sessions: These sessions provided students with a glimpse into a wide range of careers, from veterinarians and engineers to artists and software developers.
  • Daily Living Skills: The Academy emphasized practical skills, teaching students essential daily living activities that they can carry forward into their lives.
  • Financial Literacy Sessions: Understanding money management is crucial, and our financial literacy sessions introduced students to basic concepts of saving, budgeting, and financial planning.
  • Daily Journal Writing: Encouraging creativity and reflection, students kept daily journals, allowing them to express their thoughts and track their learning progress throughout the program.
  • Book Writing and Publishing Project: One of the standout projects was our book writing and publishing initiative, where students collaborated to create and publish their own stories.
  • Field Trips: Fridays were dedicated to field trips, where students could explore the world outside the classroom and see real-world applications of what they learned during the week.
  • Vocabulary “Word of the Day” Activities: Every day, students expanded their vocabulary with fun and interactive “Word of the Day” activities, enhancing their language skills.

A Bright Future Ahead

The success of the 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy at Petersburg Public Library is a testament to the power of innovative education and community support. We are proud of the achievements of our young participants and look forward to seeing how they apply the knowledge and skills they’ve gained in the years to come.

Thank you to our certified teachers, the Youth Services Librarian, and everyone who contributed to making this summer one to remember. We also extend our gratitude to the parents and families for their support and to the students for their enthusiasm and dedication.

As we look ahead to next summer, we are excited to continue offering enriching programs like the S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy. Stay tuned for more information on our upcoming events and how you can get involved.

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July 31, 2024

Exclusive Food Demo with Dr. Auntie (Dr. Christin D. Haynes, MSW)

Our Food Demonstrations take place on Tuesdays at the Petersburg Public Library!!

We are thrilled to share the recipe and inspiration behind our latest YouTube video with Dr. Christin D. Haynes, MSW, where we demonstrate how to create a fresh and vibrant Nectarine Salad. This dish is not only bursting with flavors but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your summer meals. Let’s dive into the details and explore how you can easily recreate this delightful salad at home.

The Recipe: Nectarine Salad with Curly Kale, Avocado, and Chickpeas

Ingredients

Dressing:

  • 1 Nectarine
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Water
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Salad:

  • 1 bunch of Curly Kale
  • 1 ripe Nectarine
  • 1/2 Avocado
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Red Onion
  • 1/4 cup Zucchini
  • 1/4 cup Cooked Low Sodium Chickpeas (canned is okay)
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds

Preparation

For the Dressing:

  1. Slice the nectarine and remove the pit.
  2. Add all ingredients (except water) into a blender and blend for 30 seconds.
  3. If the dressing is too thick, gradually add water until the desired consistency is reached.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

For the Salad:

  1. Rinse the kale and remove the stems.
  2. Open and drain the chickpeas, then set them aside.
  3. Slice the avocado, red onion, zucchini, and nectarine.
  4. Toss all the ingredients together with the chickpeas and dressing. Top with sliced almonds.

Nutritional Highlights

This Nectarine Salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition. With 859 calories, it offers a good balance of 20g of protein, 22g of fiber, and a healthy mix of fats, including 33g of monounsaturated fats. The salad is also rich in potassium and relatively low in sodium, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Health Benefits

As highlighted in the video, incorporating non-starchy vegetables, fruits, and fiber into your diet can significantly lower your risk for colorectal cancer. The combination of kale, avocado, nectarines, and chickpeas provides a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being.

Bringing the Recipe to Life

In our food demo with Dr. Auntie, we walk you through each step of the process, offering tips and tricks to make this recipe even more delightful. Watching the video, you can see how the fresh ingredients come together to create a visually appealing and delicious dish. It’s a simple yet elegant salad perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for your next dinner party.

Final Thoughts

We hope this recipe inspires you to try something new in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Nectarine Salad is easy to make and full of fresh flavors that will brighten up your day. Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for more recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

Stay connected with us at our Health Living and Learning Center for more updates and delicious recipes!

 

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