The Lost Art

Of Canning

In this era of fast food and microwaving, preserving nature’s bounty through canning is considered a lost art.  But, it is a time-honored way of ensuring good, nutritious food on the dinner table. Blue-ribbon winning canner and gardener Mary Ann Novaco of Newtown and registered dietitian Muriel Schmitt of Ashlar of Newtown will present “Good Nutrition and the Lost Art of Canning” at the October 19 Lunch and Learn program sponsored by Ashlar.

A retired New York City fashion designer, Ms Novaco has always been a gardener. Canning the fruits of her labors was a natural extension of this hobby. Over the yers, she has won numerous blue ribbons in a range of categories, including best of  overall show, best blueberry jam, best blackberry sauce, and best blackberry brandy. She will demonstrate how to can by preparing a festive recipe, Calico Corn Relish.

To help overcome the fear of canning, Ms Schmitt will provide tips on proper techniques, as well as advice on how to customize recipes to suit your nutritional needs. The two women also will offer some simple recipes to take advantage of the fall harvest.

The program is part of the Lunch and Learn series of free seminars for mature adults on topics of living and aging well. It will take place from 12:30 to 1:30 pm, with doors opening at noon, at Lockwood Lodge, located at Ashlar of Newtown. Due to the presentation of the canning process, space is limited to the first 30 people. Those who want to participate are encouraged to make reservations early. To register or learn more about upcoming programs, call Hilda DeLucia at 426-5847.