Memorial Hospital’s Health & Wellness Center is kicking off the new year with two engaging and educational classes in the Teaching Kitchen this January. Designed to inspire healthier habits and culinary confidence, these hands-on classes will focus on practical meal planning and emerging food trends for the year ahead.
The first class, “The Art of Meal Planning”, will be held on January 17 at 10:00 AM and will be led by Chef Amber Clark, alongside Registered Dietitian, Ashlyn Housewright. This interactive session will guide participants 18 and older through simple, stress-free strategies for planning and preparing three nutritious, flavorful meals. Attendees will learn how to organize their week, shop smarter with minimal yet versatile ingredients, and build flexible meals that accommodate a variety of tastes and eating styles. Participants will leave with practical planning templates, fresh inspiration for weeknight cooking, and two prepared meals to take home. The cost of this class is $50.
The second offering, “New Food, New Flavors for 2026”, will take place on January 21 at 10:00 AM, led by Registered Dietitian Jennifer Soucie. This class invites participants 18 and older to explore what’s trending in the food and beverage world for the new year. Attendees will sample trendy beverages and prepare recipes featuring popular concepts such as protein on the go, “swicy” (sweet-and-spicy) flavor combinations, alternative sweeteners, and emerging beverage trends. This class is designed to be both informative and fun, offering fresh and nutritious ideas to bring into everyday cooking. The cost to attend is $15.
For more information or to register for either event, please visit MHTLC.ORG or contact Memorial Hospital’s Health & Wellness Center at 217-357-6540.
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Pictured: Teaching Kitchen Class Participants Taylor Combites and Jordan Squier
Registration Link: https://www.mhtlc.org/services/health-wellness-center/teaching-kitchen/
