SEARHC dietitian Kate Fossman helps Bruce Gilbert (left) and Doris Peck (right) prepare food during an adaptive cooking class at Haines Senior Center.
Steve Sykes, who also volunteers his culinary training and experience to Haines Senior Center, gives thumbs up to cooking class.
In addition to salmon en papillote -- Alaskan salmon in a pouch -- cooks also made artisan bread, vegetarian chili, flourless brownies, appetizers, and a favorite chicken-avocado salad sandwich.
Margaret Sebens selects appetizers – apples and cheese.
Kate Fossman demonstrates healthy portions.
Haines seniors and those with disabilities prepared meals in adaptive cooking classes in the model kitchen of Veterans Village in March, and will complete the free sessions in April. The classes are being sponsored by Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) and Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC). Haines Care-A-Van provided rides.
Food safety, meal planning, and new recipes were among discussions. Margaret Sebens, SAIL advocate, demonstrated adaptive utensils and the model kitchen's drawers and shelves that adjust to challenged cooks. The class welcomed unexpected guests Joan O'Keefe, Juneau SAIL executive director, and Sierra Jimenez, Haines SAIL assistant director, to sample vegetarian chili being prepared for the SAIL Community Appreciation Dinner at Haines Senior Center on St. Patrick's Day.
New menus will be offered in coming sessions.
