In-Person

Gut health is all about what goes in (food) and what gets eliminated... feeding the "good guys" and starving out the "bad guys." Your environment is vitally important also. We'll discuss what your microbiome is made up of and best practices for keeping it/you healthy and, of course, what foods and practices to avoid.

What leads to cravings? Who and what lives in and on my body?

Come get the scoop while enjoying a delicious plant-based recipe, prepared on the spot. A $5 fee, payable at the class, will cover the ingredients I provide. Please bring your own plate, bowl, and spoon.

Date: October 13, 2026

Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm

Location: Education Center, 012 lower level

Beth Perera oozes health and energy wherever she goes. Lumps in one breast paired with painful arthritic conditions in her feet prompted her to change to a plant-based diet. Within three weeks, the cysts were gone, and within seven months, her feet were fine.

Beth read every book on the subject, watched every documentary, and became a walking, talking billboard for plant-based dietary lifestyles. She earned her Certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition through Cornell University in February 2012. She earned several other instructor certifications through top plant-based physicians and researchers.

She is excited to teach about superior nutrition and is overjoyed with each new person who leaves animal products behind for a healthier body and a healthier world.

In-person

As part of Gold LEAF’s efforts to learn about and support local businesses, we will enjoy fall colors at The Farmhouse Beer Garden on Route 2.

Keeley Valverde will share her Herculean efforts in restoring the original 1850s horse barn and tell us what it took to turn it into a successful restaurant.

The impact of the coronavirus will play a role in the story, as will a current expansion into cow cuddling with Highland Cows. This is the restaurant's seventh season, and each new rehab effort is more exciting than the last.

There is plenty of parking. We can order food and drink at the end of Keeley's presentation if you plan to stay for an enjoyable early evening.

Date: October 15, 2026

Time: 3:30 pm

Location: 926 Farmington Falls Rd, Rte 2, Farmington, ME

Keeley Valverde is an inspirational entrepreneur, and, as with any business endeavor, she expands her offerings at every turn. Starting with the rehab of the 1850 farm and horse barn, she will take us to this seventh season. 

In-person

Participants will meet once a month for lunch at various restaurants in the Farmington area. Reservations will need to be firm one week prior to the date. Participants will order from the standard menu and receive separate checks.

The group meets on the first Thursday of the month at 11:30 am.

Dates:

November 5, 2026

December 3, 2026

January 7, 2027

February 4, 2027

Location: TBD

Patricia Overall has been a member of GLI for many years.  She is a retired high school mathematics teacher who later worked in hotel management and other occupations, including NACA, now NASA, and as a bartender. She has lived in 18 states and obviously enjoys eating out.