Earthsave potluck

The local chapter of Earthsave will hold its next potluck at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 30 at the Clifton United Methodist Church at 3416 Clifton Ave.

For those of you unfamiliar with the group, Earthsave is an international non-profit organization dedicated to educating people about the benefits of a plant-based diet. The local group holds a monthly potluck, which usually includes a presentation by a guest speaker. But you don't have to be vegetarian to attend and enjoy great food while meeting new people.

This month Freeman Wicklund and Christy Thompson of the group Mercy for Animals will speak about the animal rights organization's start-up in Cincinnati. Founded in 1999, the Columbus-based group boasts more than 12,000 members committed to ending animal cruelty by promoting a vegan diet. I became involved with this group several years ago when they first tried to start a Cincinnati chapter and for folks who dislike the sensationalism of PeTA, MFA may be for you. The organization distributes literature at community events, peacefully protests and sponsors presentations from authors, activists and other experts.

Potluck attendees are asked to bring a vegan dish to share, along with your own plates, utensils and cups. For more information, call 513-929-2500 or e-mail earthsave@fuse.net.