Sustainable Saturday - 10 Tips for Transitioning Your Family to Locally Grown Real Food

I've talked a lot about food lately.  Whether it be fresh produce from a Farmer's Market, growing a garden or food preservation, it's been primarily about food.

There are two reasons for that.  One is that I feel that in our home we have made many changes or transitions over the last 7+ years towards living a more sustainable life.  We have focused on green cleaning products, remodeling our home in a environmentally friendly and energy efficient way and making smart choices for personal care products.  We have for many years focused on eating locally, primarily during the Farmer's Market season, but have still purchased processed foods and purchased produce out of season from our local grocery store.

This year we have focused heavily on transitioning to primarily locally grown real foods.

Here are Saving Family Green's 10 Tips for Transitioning Your Family to Locally Grown Real Food:

1.  Stay out of the grocery store!  No, seriously.  Challenge yourself to only go to the grocery store once every two weeks or once a month.  Yes, you may need to purchase dairy primarily from a grocery store if you don't have a local farmer who can provide you with fresh eggs, milk, cheese and yogurt.  Staying out of the store should greatly reduce the amount of processed food you purchase.

2.  When you do visit the grocery store, buy produce in season at the grocery store.  For example, resist buying strawberries in January because you are guaranteed that they are from a far away place and asparagus in July.

3.  Read labels.  Do you know how many processed food items contain high fructose corn syrup?

4.  Buy produce, meat and dairy from a local Farmer's Market.  You can find one local to your area by visiting Local Harvest.

5.  Grow a garden.

6.  Find a local produce auction.  I have written before about produce auctions.  What better way to create a Real Food stockpile for your family!

7.  Preserve food for the months when you cannot either grow a garden, shop at a local Farmer's Market or Produce Auction.

8.  Cook simple meals with local and fresh meat, vegetables and fruit.  There is nothing wrong with something simple and even better if it doesn't contain canned soup or vegetables.

9.  Find a local source for baking supplies.  In Ohio there are quite a few Amish Bulk Foods stores which have primarily baking supplies.

10.  Bake your own bread.  (This is on my list of things to do.)  We currently buy bread from the store that does not contain high-fructose corn syrup.

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

These prices are valid from October 26 thru November 1.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

UPDATE:  Whole Foods (Dublin) is no longer accepting stacked coupons due to a change in store management. 


One Day Deals!    

This Week's Hot Deals!

CALIFORNIA Pomegranates
Packed with delicious, sweet-tart seeds; rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Scatter in green salads or eat as is. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh about two months.
$1.99 ea
Reg. $2.99 ea

RED JACKET ORCHARDS GENEVA, NEW YORK Spiced Apple Cider
It’s the drink of the season, freshly pressed and so wonderfully spiced. Drink it cold, mix it with seltzer, or heat it up with a little rum.
(Half Gallon)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $3.99 ea

PERU Asparagus
$2.99 lb
Reg. $3.99 lb

CALIFORNIA Organic Red Seedless Grapes
$2.69 lb
Reg. $3.49 lb

Our Great Pumpkin Sale Is NOW!
2 for only $10!

FROM OUR BUTCHER Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
Air-chilled for best flavor and texture.
$4.99 lb
Reg. $6.49 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Boneless Sirloin Steak
One of the most tender and flavorful cuts, ready to be grilled or broiled. 100% vegetarian diet with no added hormones or antibiotics ever.
$7.99 lb
Reg. $9.99 lb

PRODUCT OF USA WILD-CAUGHT Raw, Shell-On Shrimp
Pick up some of these tender, succulent shrimp for your favorite soups, curries and pastas. Or wrap in bacon for outstanding party fare. Previously frozen. (U–15 count)
$14.99 lb
Reg. $18.99 lb

WELLSHIRE FARMS All-Natural Beef Bologna
Sliced to order in our Prepared Foods Department.
$6.99 lb
Reg. $8.99 lb

BLOUNT Soups, Stews & Chowders
NEW! In select meat varieties.
(16 oz)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea

YOGAVIVE Apple Chips
(1.76 oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.99 ea

DESERT PEPPER Salsa
In select varieties.
(16 fl oz)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

ETHNIC GOURMET FOODS Frozen Entrées
In select varieties.
(10–11 oz)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

ENDANGERED SPECIES Chocolate Bars
In select varieties.
(3 oz)
2 for $4
Reg. $2.99 ea

FROM OUR CHEESEMONGERS CRAVE BROTHERS Mozzarella Log
(16 oz)
2 for $7.99
Reg. $7.99 ea

WHOLE FOODS MARKET™ Vitamin D 2000 IU
(250 caps)
$9.99 ea
Reg. $11.99 ea

MANITOBA HARVEST Hemp Seeds
(12 oz)
$8.99 ea

Reg. $11.99 ea 

Valid in our Washington, D.C.; Marlton and Princeton, New Jersey; Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia stores. Certain items may not be available in all stores.

Check out even more Whole Foods Market deals by visiting Healthy Life Deals. 

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

DIY: Preserving Green Beans

This is yet another effort to preserve food for the coming winter months. We purchased lots of green beans at our local Farmer's Market with the intention of blanching and freezing the beans.

This is probably one of the easiest vegetables to preserve for the freezer.  You simply wash the beans, place them whole in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and then place them in ice water (this is what I chose to do anyways) to stop the cooking process.  Then place them in quart size freezer bags and place in the freezer.

It's really that easy and you will have fresh green beans (these were picked the morning we preserved them) for months to come.

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

These prices are valid from October 19 thru October 25.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

UPDATE:  Whole Foods (Dublin) is no longer accepting stacked coupons due to a change in store management. 


One Day Deals!    

Come to Applefest!

Saturday, October 22nd

Celebrate all things apple with us during our big harvest tasting of heirloom varieties and other  favorites from local growers. We’ve planned a lot of fun family activities and tasty apple treats too.
For more details, check your store’s events calendar or Facebook page.

This Week's Hot Deals!

WASHINGTON STATE Organic Asian Pears
Firm, sweet and juicy. Enjoy raw as a snack or shredded for a crisp apple slaw. And they’re absolutely satisfying baked too.
2 for $4
Reg. $2.99 ea

CALIFORNIA  Holiday Seedless Red Grapes
$2.49 lb
Reg. $3.49 lb

CALIFORNIA  Organic Garnet or Jewel Yams
$1.49 lb
Reg. $1.99 lb

PRODUCT OF USA WILD-CAUGHT West Coast Dover Sole Fillet
Fish lover’s favorite: pearly white fillets with a mild, sweet flavor. Just bake, broil or poach. Fresh, never frozen.
$8.99 lb
Reg. $11.99 lb

FARM RAISED IN GREECE Whole Branzini Sea Bass
$8.99 lb
Reg. $10.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
Bone-In Beef Rib Steak & Roast
Robust flavor, excellent marbling; cooks up tender and juicy. Raised on a vegetarian diet with no antibiotics or added hormones.
$10.99 lb
Reg. $13.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
Bone-In
Pork Chops
In Regular or Quick-Fry.
$5.49 lb
Reg. $6.99 lb

KOCH Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast
Sliced to order in our Prepared Foods Department.
$7.99 lb
Reg. $9.99 lb

FROM OUR BAKERY Pumpkin Roll
Such a treat! Fresh pumpkin sponge cake rolled around a rich cream cheese frosting. Excellent with coffee.
$8.99 ea
Reg. $15.99 ea

LAKEWOOD ORGANIC Juices
In select varieties.
(32 fl oz)
$3.39 ea
Reg. $4.49 ea

MIGHTY LEAF TEA Boxed Tea
In select varieties.
(15 count)
$4.99 ea
Reg. $7.99 ea
$1.75/1 Manuf. Coupon available here

ZEVIA Diet Soda
In select varieties.
(6 pack x 12 fl oz)
$4.39 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea
$1/1 Manuf. Coupon available here (IE) and here (FF)
$5/4 Manuf. Coupon available here

MUIR GLEN ORGANIC Pasta Sauce
In select varieties.
(25.5 fl oz)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.49 ea
$1/2 Manuf. Coupon available here (IE) and here (FF)

ALLEGRO African Blend Coffee
In whole bean or ground.
(12 oz)
$9.99 ea
Reg. $13.99 ea

SHIKAI Borage Dry Skin Therapy
(8 oz)
$7.99 ea
Reg. $13.69 ea

RENEW LIFE Ultimate Flora Probiotics Bonus Pack
(30 caps) Comes with a free bottle of Super Critical Omega.
$33.99 ea
Reg. $49.99 ea


Valid in our Washington, D.C.; Marlton and Princeton, New Jersey; Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia stores. Certain items may not be available in all stores.

Check out even more Whole Foods Market deals by visiting Healthy Life Deals. 

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

DIY: Crockpot Applesauce vs. Stove Top Applesauce

Each fall we make lots of homemade applesauce at our house for both enjoying in the moment and for the winter months that lie ahead. In past years I have made applesauce in both the Crockpot and in my stock pots, however I have never done both simultaneously to observe if one method is truly better than the other from the perspective of time, consistency and taste. This year, we did exactly that, cooked applesauce in both the Crockpot and the stock pot(s) to create a side-by-side comparison.

We first purchased two large boxes of apples from a local vendor at our local Farmer's Market.  We purchased a variety of apples as I believe this makes for the best tasting sauce and they were considered apple "seconds".  We paid $7 for all of the apples pictured below.

We washed, peeled and cut the apples.

Then we placed apples in the Crockpot with a little more than 1/2 cup of water.

And then in two large stock pots with a little more than 1/2 cup of water.

The Crockpot Applesauce took approximately 4 hours on high and then an additional 2 hours on low.  We added 1/4 cup raw sugar and organic cinnamon 3 hours into the cooking process.  The overall consistency of the applesauce was chunky and the taste was excellent!

The Stove Top Applesauce took approximately 2 hours to cook down.  We also added 1/4 cup raw sugar and organic cinnamon to each pot and allowed to simmer.  The overall consistency was smoother than the Crockpot Applesauce, obviously took less time and was equally as delicious!

Overall the Stove Top Applesauce took less time, however I will say that the Crockpot Applesauce allows you to turn it on and basically forget it until it is done.  As far as consistency and taste goes, both methods lead to the same result, Delicious!

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

These prices are valid from October 12 thru October 18.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

UPDATE:  Whole Foods (Dublin) is no longer accepting stacked coupons due to a change in store management. 


One Day Deals!    

One Day Only! Friday, October 14th
USA WILD-CAUGHT  Atlantic White Shrimp Only $7.99 lb
Sweet, tender and ready for stir-fries and your favorite pasta dishes. No preservatives ever. 26–30 count. Reg. $12.99 lb.

This Week's Hot Deals!

WHOLE TRADE™ Alstroemeria Bouquet
$5.00 ea
Reg. $7.99 ea

PENNSYLVANIA Organic Acorn Squash
Freshly harvested! Simply halve and roast with maple syrup and brown sugar for a delicious
autumn treat.
99¢ lb
Reg. $1.69 lb

MEXICO Avocados
Deliciously ripe and recipe-ready within days. Stock up for salads, sandwiches and everyone’s favorite game-day dip.
4 for $5
Reg. $2.50 ea

EARTHBOUND FARM CALIFORNIA Organic Arugula
(5 oz)
$2.99 ea
Reg. $3.99 ea

PRODUCT OF USA Wild-Caught Fresh Hake Fillet
Similar to cod, this delicious, flaky white fillet cooks up fast and flavorful. It’s a great choice for stews and chowders, or coat in breadcrumbs and bake or pan-sear.
$6.99 lb
Reg. $9.99 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER
Split Chicken Breast
Quick, satisfying meals begin with our chicken. Raised on a vegetarian diet with no antibiotics ever, and air-chilled for best flavor and texture.
$2.99 lb
Reg. $4.49 lb

FROM OUR BUTCHER Top Round Steak or Roast
Perfect for London broil.
$5.99 lb
Reg. $7.99 lb

R.W. KNUDSEN Crisp Apple Sparkling Juice
(750 ml)
$2.79 ea
Reg. $3.49 ea

STORE-MADE Meatloaf or Meatballs
Choose Traditional or Italian.
$4.49 lb
Reg. $5.99 lb

KITCHEN BASICS Stock
In select varieties.
(32 fl oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.49 ea

EROS Organic Greek Yogurt
In select varieties (6 oz)
4 for $5
Reg. $1.99 ea

ARROWHEAD MILLS Organic Cereal
In select varieties.
(10–13 oz)
2 for $7
Reg. $4.49–$4.99 ea

WELLSHIRE FARMS Baked Virginia Ham
Sliced to order in our Prepared Foods Department.
$8.49 lb
Reg. $10.99 lb

GREENS+Food Bars
In Natural, Chocolate or Wild Berry flavors.
(59 g)
$1.99 ea
Reg. $2.89 ea

NEW CHAPTER Zyflamend Easy Caps
(180 caps)
$23.99 ea
Reg. $31.99 ea

LIVING HARVEST Aseptic Hempmilk
In select varieties.
(32 fl oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.99 ea

These Hot Deals! are local to Whole Foods Market - Ohio locations.


Check out even more Whole Foods Market deals by visiting Healthy Life Deals. 

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.
 

Sustainable Saturday - Produce Auctions

There are somewhere between 45-50 Produce Auctions that take place in the United States.  With a little online searching, I have found 32 of them that take place across the Country. 

I previously posted about Ohio Produce Auctions, but wanted to provide more information about what to expect when you attend a Produce Auction and resources to find one locally.  Many of the Produce Auctions that I have come across may have little information available online.

Produce Auctions many times take place in the country.  The auction sites that I have seen either in person or online, look much like a metal building or barn that has overhead doors that open and maybe even a dock area for loading and unloading.  There usually is an office inside where the business of the auction is conducted (registering to bid, paying, etc.)

Produce Auctions are attended by individuals or families, people who re-sell the products at a Farm Stand and buyers for various retailers.  The lots of products (produce, plants, etc.) are organized into various sizes to accommodate the variety of bidders.  This is great if you are a family and may only want to purchase a few melons vs. an entire crate or large box containing fifty melons!  You may pay slightly more for the smaller quantities on a per item or pound basis, but that is may not always be the case.  It will generally depend on what you are buying and the quantity of that item that is available.  For example, I paid $2/ dozen ears of corn buying in the "Family-size portions" while an acquaintance purchased 80 dozen ears of corn for $3/ dozen ears in the "Retailer-size portions".

Bidding takes place just like it does at a typical auction.  You must register for a number to be able to bid.  You will need to show the number to the auctioneer so that one, they know who is bidding on the item, two, so they can mark the item with your bid number and three, so that they can total all your purchases for the day.  The important thing to pay attention to is the quantity of the item you are bidding on.  For instance, there may be two boxes of tomatoes in a "lot".  The auctioneer should specify whether you are bidding on one or both.  Usually you are bidding on a price for one and then once a final price is achieved, the auctioneer will ask if you want one box or two.  I cannot stress enough that you must pay attention to the quantity or you very well may overpay for a particular item.

It's also important to know what items you are bidding on may sell for at a typical Farmer's Market or Farm Stand that you frequent (this may even apply to the grocery store).  At a recent auction I attended, for whatever reason, green beans were selling for a ridiculous amount of money.  A medium-size box of green beans was selling for $11.  I know that at my local Farmer's Market, I could purchase these for much less, so I did not even bid on the item.  On the other hand, I was able to purchase Roma Tomatoes for $0.50/ pound which I know at my Local Market I would pay probably $1/ pound on a good day.  For me, this was a terrific deal.

For future reference, Produce Auctions will be listed here on Saving Family Green for quick reference to what may be available in your area.  I always recommend confirming the days and times of the Produce Auction before you plan on attending.

Iowa Produce Auctions

Farmsong Produce Auction
16340 Farm Song Road
Lamoni, IA. 50140
www.farmsongproduceauction.com
Managers: Darryl & Karin Parkes
641-784-6591
During auctions call the auction house at:
641-784-6340
Auctioneer: Crist Beachy
641-745-9091  

Kentucky Produce Auctions

Bath County Produce Auction
2914 East Highway 60, Owingsville, KY 40360
Directions: The auction is held at the Agricultural Education and Marketing Center at the intersection of I-64 Exit 123 and U.S. 60.
Contact: Les Marksberry
Phones: (606) 674-9104 or (606) 336-0031
Auction managers: Joe Girod Family and Les Marksberry Family
Auctioneer: Bobby Rogers

Capstone Produce Market (Henry County)
7432 Carrollton Rd., Campbellsburg, KY 40011
Directions: Located at the intersection of U.S. 41 and KY 55. From I-71 take Exit 34, go east on U.S. 421 for about 2.5 miles, then north on KY 55 for approximately 200 feet; market is on the right.
Owner/Operator/Auctioneer: David Neville
Phone: (502) 330-3027 (cell)
Market phone: (502) 532-7045
e-mail: info@capstoneproducemarket.com

Casey County Produce Auction
524 South Fork Creek Rd., Liberty, KY 42539
Directions: From Liberty, take U.S. 127 south for approximately 8 miles; turn left onto KY 910 and travel about 1.8 miles; take a left on to South Fork Creek Road; the auction will be about 1 mile down this road, on the right.
Auction Manager: Milton Brubacker
Assistant Manager: Paul Hoover
Phone: (606) 787-5158
Market report recorded message: (606) 787-0570

Fairview Produce Auction (Christian County)
10292 U.S. Highway 68E, Pembroke, KY
Directions: Auction is located 10 miles east of Hopkinsville, KY on U.S. 68/KY 80, one-half mile west of Jefferson Davis State Historic Site (monument park).
Auction Manager: Ralph Burkeholder
Phone: (270) 887-0053
Fax: (270) 887-0475

Hart County Produce Auction
6880 Cub Run Highway, Munfordville, KY
Directions: From I-65 take Exit 65, turn left onto Hwy 31W, drive 1.7 miles, go right on Hwy 88 (4th Street), and continue on Hwy 88 (right on North West Street) and go 5.7 miles to the auction.
Auction Manager: Wilmer Yoder
Phone: (270) 524-0005

Fax: (270) 524-7812 

Lincoln County Produce Auction
2896 KY 39 North, Crab Orchard, KY 40419
Directions: Located on KY 39 approximately 8 miles south of Lancaster; auction is on the left.
Auction Manager: Lloyd Schrock
Phone: (606) 355-0030
Market report recorded message: (606) 355-0001
Auctioneers: Billy Bryant and Ford Bros. 

Missouri Produce Auctions

Four County Produce Auction
Located one mile North of Windsor, MO on WW Highway  

Central Missouri Produce Auction, Inc.   
37808 Highway E
Fortuna, MO 65034
Auction Facility - 660-337-6227 (Auction days only)
Residence - 660-4580-6655 (No Sunday call please.

Clark Produce Auction LLC
For more information, contact:   Elmer Gingerich Or Leo Kempf
1966 Highway Y
Clark, MO 65243 

North Missouri Produce Auction LLC
State Highway F
Jamesport, MO 64648
For more information, contact:
Auctioneer: Jared Miller - Cell: 816-261-6365
Manager: Atlee Stutzman - Voice Mail 660-684-6092
Auction Market: Phone - 660-684-6844
Market Report Update Line – 660-684-6700 

New Jersey Produce Auctions 

Vineland Produce Auction Association, Inc.
Vineland, New Jersey 08360
Phone: 856-691-0721
Fax: 856-794-2301
Email: info@vinelandproduce.com

Tri-County Cooperative Auction Market
619 Route 33 West
East Windsor, NJ 08520
609-448-0193
TriCountyCoop@Verizon.net

New York Produce Auctions

Chautauqua Produce Auction
P.O. Box 222, 7844 Rt. 474
Clymer, NY 14724
Phone: 716-355-6500 or 716-355-6391
Email Address:nwesterberg@stny.rr.com

Finger Lakes Produce Auction, Inc.
3691 State Route 14A (Penn Yan-Dundee Road)
Penn Yan (Yates County), New York 14527
Office Phone 315-531-8446
James Lightfoote, Office Manager

Ohio Produce Auctions

Middlefield Produce Auction
Geauga Growers Association
14575 Madison Rd.
Rte. 528, Middlefield, Ohio 44062
440.632.0499

Farmers Produce Auction (Mount Hope Produce Auction)
Mailing address: P.O. Box 101, Mt. Hope, Ohio 44660
Location: 7701 State Rte 241, Millersburg, Ohio 44654
Mgr. Jim Mullet
330.674.7661

The Owl Creek Produce Auction
20999 Waterford Rd.
Fredericktown, Ohio 43019
Kelly Brown 740.694.7140
waterfordgang@yahoo.com

Blooming Grove Auction Inc.
1091 Free Road
Shiloh, Ohio 44878
419.896.2775

Homerville Wholesale Produce Auction
9430 Spencer Road
Homerville, Ohio 44235
1 mile south of Homerville on State Route 301.
Mgr. F.W. Owen, 330-625-2369, fwo@bright.net

Captina Produce Auction
39050 West Captina Highway
Barnesville, Ohio 43713
740.425.4495
For more information, contact Monroe County OSU Extension @ 740.472.0810

Chesterhill Produce Auction
8380 Wagoner Rd.
Chesterhill, Ohio 43728
Contct Tom Redfern or Bob Fedyski at Rural Action: 740.767.4938
tomr@ruralaction.org
bob@ruralaction.org

Bainbridge Produce Auction
State Route 41 South 5 miles south of Bainbridge Ohio
Mgr. Is Ernest Martin, 740.634.3451, leave a message.
For more information contact Brad Bergefurd, OSU Extension, bergefurd.1@osu.edu 

Pennsylvania Produce Auctions

New Wilmington Produce Auction Inc
(724) 946-2034
3238 State Route 208
New Wilmington, PA 16142

Oxford Produce Auctions, LLC
200 Union School Rd.
Oxford, PA 19363
(610) 932-2722

Tennessee Produce Auctions

Plowboy Produce Auction & Wholesale Farmers Market
469 South Brace Road
Ethridge, TN 38456
(931) 829-1114
Email: info at plowboyproduceauction dot com

Wisconsin Produce Auctions

Badgerland Produce Auction
N2954 State Hwy 22, Montello (2 miles south of Montello)
Mailing address and contact information:
PO Box 128
Montello, WI 53949
(608) 697-8989
Established 2002
Days / Hours of Operation:
10:00am Tuesday and Friday April 28th thru July 7th
10:00am Monday, Wednesday and Friday July 10th thru Sept. 15th
10:00am Tuesday and Friday Sept 19th thru Oct 20th

Central Wisconsin Produce Auction
N14676 County Highway O
Withee WI 54498
(715) 229-4838

Fennimore Produce Auction
Address: 14800 Cty Hwy T, Fennimore, WI
For Info Call: Phone on grounds-(608)822-3854 or Brian cell-(608)386-6058 or Tim cell-(608)988-6464
Location: 4 miles North of Fennimore, Wi on Hwy 61 to Cty Hwy T then East 1/2 mile to Auction Building.

Tim Slack Auction and Realty, LLC
525 Lincoln Ave. Box 211
Fennimore, Wisconsin 53809,
Toll Free 1-800-820-3454
Phone: 608-822-3454   Fax: 608-822-4454
E-mail: slackauc@tds.net

Growers Produce Auction
2347 Dell Road
Cashton, Wisconsin
Just off County Hwy D
(608) 654-7880
Brian Nelson, Order Buyer 

Virginia Produce Auctions

Shenandoah Valley Produce Auction, LLC
2839 Lumber Mill Rd.
Dayton, VA 22821
(540) 879-2211

If you missed my previous Sustainable Saturday:  Ohio Produce Auctions, you can read that here. 

Here are two articles that further explains Produce Auctions:

Regional Wholesaling of Vegetables:  Wholesale Produce Cooperative Auctions

New York Times: A Produce Auction With an Eye to Survival


Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.Tweet

National Costume Swap Day is Saturday, October 8th!

National Costume Swap Day is Saturday, October 8th!

This event is brought to you by Green Halloween®, KIWI magazine & Swap.com

A costume swap is a great first step in greening Halloween.

Costume Swap How-To's
Steps to creating an eek-o-fabulous event

• A costume swap can be as simple as getting together with a few neighbors or as large as a citywide event.
• Either way, you'll be making a difference in your community by saving resources (and money, too!).
• Costume swaps not only mean less resources are used to make new product, it also means less packaging, less transportation of the product and less waste (from products being trashed as they sadly often are!).
• Swaps are also a lot of fun and can be a great way to kick off the Green Halloween® season!
• For events of any size, here are some tips on how to organize and set it up. And here's how to spread the word.

You can check out the National Costume Swap website for a listing of locations by State.

There are several taking place around Ohio:

Ohio
Bryan, OH
Columbus, OH
Liberty Township, OH
Middletown, OH
Portsmouth, OH
Shaker Heights, OH

There are also online swaps available from websites such as thredUP! You can find a listing of those here.

Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies

For those who know me personally, you know that a great cookie is the key to my heart and stomach.  This is a great way to use some of the abundance of zucchini that the summer garden produces.  

This recipe is from Animal, Vegetable, Miracle's website. 

Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies
(Makes about two dozen)

1 egg, beaten
½ cup butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar
1/3 cup honey
1 tbsp. vanilla extract
Combine in large bowl.
1 cup white flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg

Combine in a separate, small bowl and blend into liquid mixture

1 cup finely shredded zucchini
12 oz chocolate chips

Stir these into other ingredients, mix well. Drop by spoonful onto greased baking sheet, and flatten with the back of a spoon. Bake at 350°, 10 to 15 minutes.

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.

Whole Foods Market® - This Week's Hot Deals (Ohio)

These prices are valid from October 5 thru October 11.

You can read all about the current coupon deals available in both the whole deal and available to print online here.

Sales appear to be regional or even by State. Please confirm with your store their coupon policy as some stores will allow you to use one manufacturer coupon + one Whole Foods coupon per item.

UPDATE:  Whole Foods (Dublin) is no longer accepting stacked coupons due to a change in store management. 


One Day Deals!    

One Day Only! Friday, October 7thFill Your Bucket with Chicken Wings Sale
Only $6.99, Reg. $14

1. Go to our Prepared Foods Department.
2. Find the buckets marked Bucket of Wings.
3. Stuff your bucket full of chicken wings.
4. Make sure the lid closes completely for the price to apply.

Makes a perfect tailgating partner, and it goes great with Cindy’s Kitchen Blue Cheese Dressing (found in our Produce Department).

This Week's Hot Deals!

CALIFORNIA Organic Red Seedless Grapes
$2.49 lb
Reg. $3.49 lb

HUNTSINGER FARMS HEGINS, PENNSYLVANIA Gold Potatoes
Also known as a Yukon Gold, these potatoes are fresh in from the fields, and they’re one of our favorites for serving boiled, baked or mashed. (3-lb bag)
$1.99 ea
Reg. $3.99 ea

PENNSYLVANIA Organic Pie Pumpkins
99¢ lb
Reg. $1.69 lb

LANSDALE, PENNSYLVANIA ZEIGLER’S Organic Apple Cider
(½ gallon)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

FROM OUR BUTCHERS Boneless, Center-Cut Pork Loin Roast or Chops
Makes a great autumn dinner, whether broiled or pan-seared, and paired with apples and potatoes.
$15.99 lb
Reg. $19.99 lb

PRODUCT OF USA Fresh, Wild-Caught Rockfish Fillets
Fry some up for a quick and satisfying fish-and-chips dinner. It’s also tasty steamed and served Asian-style, slathered with a good sweet-and-sour sauce.
$5.99 lb
Reg. $7.99 lb

ANNIE’S NATURALS Dressings and Vinaigrettes
Stock up at this great price! Perfect for drizzling over fresh greens, crudités, stir-fries, sandwiches and more. Great for marinating too.
Select varieties. (8 fl oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.49 ea

BRAT HANS Pork Sausages or German Weiners
(12-oz)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $5.99 ea

WELLSHIRE FARMS Roast Beef
Sliced to order in our Prepared Foods Department.
$9.99 lb
Reg. $12.99 lb

FROM OUR CHEESEMONGERS WOOLRICH Goat Cheddar
Great for snacking! (7 oz)
2 for $7.99
Reg. $7.99 ea

EARTH BALANCE  Organic Soymilk
In select varieties.
(64 fl oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.29 ea

SIGGI’S Skyr Yogurt
In select varieties.
(5.3 oz)
4 for $5
Reg. $2.19 ea

EVOL. Flatbread Pizza
In select varieties.
(8 oz)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $4.99 ea

ORGANIQUE Neem & Pomegranate Toothpaste
(150 g)
$3.99 ea
Reg. $5.49 ea

GARDEN OF LIFE Perfect Food
Gluten free, vegan and raw.
(140 g)
$19.99 ea
Reg. $24.99 ea

JYOTI Indian Entrées
In select varieties.
(15 oz)
2 for $5
Reg. $3.49 ea

These Hot Deals! are local to Whole Foods Market - Ohio locations.

Check out even more Whole Foods Market deals by visiting Healthy Life Deals.



Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here. Tweet

Sustainable Saturday - Organic Lawn Care

 In this picture you will notice a Scotts spreader.  We are not promoting the use of Scotts, it just happens to be that we have a Scotts spreader that we acquired on Pre-Cycle Day in our local community (for free).

Sunday morning at church I noticed in the raised garden beds there were carrots growing and surrounding the carrots were lawn clippings and leaves.  I was concerned at first at the thought of placing potentially chemical laden lawn clippings around carrots that were meant for the local food pantry.  Then I looked around and observed that the lawn appeared as though it was not treated with chemical lawn products as there were clovers and other plant species growing amongst the grass much like our own lawn.

One, this is a great idea for keeping carrots warm during these unpredictable weather days of fall.  Two, this reminds me all of the reason why I am grateful that we treat our own lawn with Natural or Organic Lawn Care concepts.  We don't have to worry about our children rolling in the grass or placing lawn clipping in our compost pile.  In the past we have used a local Organic Lawn Care company, Good Nature, but as of more recently we have been treating the lawn ourselves (or should I say my husband has been treating the lawn).

Organic Lawn Care concepts at the Saving Family Green household consists of Corn Gluten.  Until last Spring I was unfamiliar with Corn Gluten except for my obvious assumptions that it was made of corn.

"Corn Gluten Meal is a powdery byproduct of the corn milling process.  Used for years as a supplement in hog feed, this natural protein is very effective for lawns and gardens as a plant food as well as a week suppressor.  Corn gluten meal products offer a non-toxic, yet effective alternative to traditional, chemical-based weed and feed products for weed control in gardens and lawns, paths and driveways.  - An excerpt from Corn Gluten Meal - A natural alternative for lawn and garden weed control.

Lawn Prep and Corn Gluten Application:

Learn more about Corn Gluten:

Corn Gluten Meal - A natural alternative for lawn and garden weed control

Corn Gluten Meal as an Organic, Pre-Emergent Herbicide 

Note:  Some of the links referenced in this post are my referral links.  You can read Saving Family Green's Material Connection Disclosure Policy here.