Referred to as the “hip coupon book” by those who are in the know, Blue Sky Guide—The Coupon Book for Healthy Living is a tool for positive change in the Twin Cities area.
“Through Blue Sky Guide, we’re encouraging Twin Citians to nurture their bodies, support our community, and love our earth,” explains Katherine Mullen, director of Blue Sky Guide.
For nearly five years, Blue Sky Guide has educated consumers and promoted earth-friendly business.
“We empower Minnesotans to make wiser choices that positively affect their health and impact on the environment. Our mission is realized by improving consumption, waste, recycling, and transportation decisions while driving growth in the local market for sustainable products and services,” Mullen comments.
The $20 guide has been a “feel–good” fundraising tool for over 200 schools and community groups. Since 2001, tens of thousands of copies have been distributed as gifts and utilized as money–saving tools that positively affect the environment. There is over $5,000 in coupons in Blue Sky Guide, ranging from health and style to travel and recreation, in addition to discounts on food.
A food–related element of the Blue Sky Guide is the Twin Cities Dining Guide, inserted inside the Blue Sky Guide. Sponsored by Food Alliance Midwest, the Twin Cities Dining Guide features over 50 metro area restaurants serving locally grown, sustainable and organic foods.
One of these restaurants is Birchwood Café in Minneapolis, owned and operated by Tracy Singleton. Those who dine at the Birchwood Café are supporting the local economy while enjoying fresh, quality cuisine from Riverbend Farm in Delano.
“Blue Sky Guide informs and educates people about the power that lies in the choice of where we spend our dollars, and how—by supporting businesses that value our environment and sustainability—we can all make a difference for ourselves, our communities, and the earth,” Singleton comments.
By using the Twin Cities Dining Guide, “You can enjoy a nice meal out and know you’re taking care of your body and our local community,” Mullen says.
You can purchase the Blue Sky Guide online at www.findbluesky.com or at various retailers listed on the Blue Sky website. For more information on how to use the Blue Sky Guide as a fundraising tool, call 651-291-1989.
Mighty Greens Egg Salad
If you’re looking for pure energy and supreme nutrition, look no further.
By Bea James
1/4 cup Full Circle© Organic Olive Oil
3 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 heads bitter greens (frisee, radicchio, endive, or dandelion) torn into bite-sized pieces
2 green onions, thinly sliced
3 organic eggs, hard-cooked, peeled and chopped
1 tbsp. drained capers
In a large bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, sugar, garlic, salt and peppers. Add greens and green onions and toss to coat. Top with eggs and capers. Serve with Lunds or Byerly’s Whole Wheat Artisan Bread.
Amount: 4 servings
Recipe provided by Lunds and Byerly’s
