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STAR-BULLETIN / 2004 Dale DeGroff will lead seminars at the Halekulani.

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Martini, anyone?

Dale DeGroff, author of "The Craft of the Cocktail," will lead a monthly series of cocktail seminars at the Halekulani.

His first, "Magnificent Martini," will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Garden Terrace.

He'll discuss the evolution of the martini from the mid-19th century to the "new wave" martinis of today. The class will include a tasting of six gin and vodka brands and instruction in the art of shaking or stirring a martini.

Cost is $40.

DeGroff, recently named Beverage Professional of the Year by Bon Appetit magazine, holds the title director of beverage arts for the Halekulani.

Subsequent seminars are "Rum Tropicals" on June 23 and "Tequila, South of the Border" on July 19. Those who register for all three classes will receive a signed copy of "The Craft of the Cocktail."

Classes are limited to 20. Call 931-5040.

DeGroff will also be mixing drinks at the renovated Lewers Lounge, Saturday through Tuesday.

Vegan eating

Kerrie Saunders, author of "The Vegan Diet as Chronic Disease Prevention," will speak at the May meeting of the Vegetarian Society of Hawaii, 7 p.m. next Wednesday at the Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse.

Saunders, a consultant to the McIntyre Health Center in Port Huron, Mich., also writes the advice column "Dear Dr. Kerrie," in VegNews magazine.

She will discuss how food and fitness can impact the risk of cancer, blood-sugar disorders, heart attack, stroke and obesity. Admission is free.

Saunders will also speak on at 7 p.m. May 12 at the Cameron Center, Wailuku, Maui.

Call 722-2557.

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