Instructor Bios A-M
Amber Belt is a registered Naturopathic Doctor in the state of Kansas. She practices naturopathic medicine which is a unique profession of health care that emphasizes the use of prevention and promotion of optimal health through the use of natural therapeutics. Naturopathic medicine encourages the self-healing process and blends centuries-old knowledge of natural therapies with current advances in the understanding of health and human systems. Amber has offices in Lawrence and Overland Park. Her website is www.wholebodyhealth.com.
Marybeth Bethel M.S. is a psychotherapist/ personal coach, and an adjunct professor for an online university. With seventeen years experience using positive psychology in her private practice, she views life as an adventure, and enjoys teaching others how to manage difficult life transitions and create more effective, satisfying lives. To learn more, check out her website at www.becomemore.net.
Debjani Bhaduri holds a Masters in Mathematics from India and a MS in Education from KU. Debjani developed her culinary skills under the tutelage of her mother from who she learned recipes of authentic Bengali cuisine. She is the chef-owner of Tripti, a company whose motto is to create a "Symphony of flavors with a flourish of taste."
Jayni Carey is the host of the weekly cooking show "Jayni's Kitchen," sponsored by the Merc. She is the author of three cookbooks. Her latest is titled "Kitchen Magic: The Secrets of Elevating Ordinary Foods to Extraordinary Heights." Jayni co-authored 2 cookbooks with her husband Frank. Jayni's interest in food and wine has taken her on culinary adventures around the world. We're happy to host Jayni and bring her great TV personality to the Merc!
Connie Detweiler, MS.Ed is a Certified Health Education Specialist. She teaches nutrition education through hands-on cooking classes in Lawrence. Connie's goal is to make cooking and healthy eating easy and fun for everyone.
Microbiologist and educator JoAnn Farb is the author of two books, Her first book Compassionate Souls describes how to raise healthy, think-for-themselves children. Her most recent book, Get Off Gluten is filled with recipes and information to guide people in going gluten-free, and unlike most gluten-free books - her's is based upon whole foods and uses no meat, eggs or dairy. Her website has more information www.getoffgluten.com.
Hilary Kass is a nutrition educator and cook. She enjoys sharing ideas to inspire happy and healthy eating. Hilary is the owner and head cook at Ancient Grains, a local whole-grains baking company specializing in gluten, dairy and egg-free baked goods. You can learn more about Ancient Grains at www.ancientgrainsbakery.com.
Thom began baking in 1971 and was baking professionally by 1973. He was a founder of WheatFields, serving as Head Baker and General Manager. Thom currently maintains an advisory relationship with the bakery. Thom has also worked with the farmer-owned Heartland Mill for the last decade, and is currently reviving heirloom wheat varieties through a new local company, Heritage Grain and Seed. Thom has taught bread baking for the Bread Bakers' Guild of America, San Francisco Baking Institute, and the Culinary Institute of America. He wrote The Bread Book and has penned numerous articles for Fine Cooking, Organic Gardening, East West Journal, Natural Health, and various baking trade publications.
Jim Lewis & Nancy O'Connor have been hitting the trail together for the past 28 years. They have hiked down into grand canyons, up into high mountains, and along great coasts with their two sons Gabe and Isaac, laughing most of the way, and eating the very best camp and trail food.
Ocoee Miller is a longtime co-op member. She is an herbalist and medicine maker. Ocoee has been studying herbs for over 15 years. She lives an earth-friendly lifestyle in the boonies outside Lawrence. Ocoee conducts regular workshops on her farm - we feel fortunate to be able to host her at the Merc.
