13th Annual RAM/SWANA Conference
Over 300 attendees and 30 exhibitors will be taking part in the annual Recycling Association of Minnesota/Solid Waste Association of North America conference at The McNamara Alumni Center. Find a list of educational seminars and register online.
November 6
The McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Oak Street SE, Minneapolis
Go Greener: Bus Routes 16, 21, and 50 will get you there

Chris Dorsi discussion on The Homeowner's Handbook to Energy Efficiency
Chris Dorsi has over two-decades of experience in the energy conservation business and with his new book, The Homeowner's Handbook to Energy Efficiency, he is sharing his expertise with all of us.  His straightforward and informative book will teach readers simple ways to make their homes more efficient while also increasing their value (the two do go hand-in-hand!)
November 12, 7:30pm
Magers and Quinn Booksellers, 3038 Hennepin Avenue S, Minneapolis, 612-822-4611
Bring your 2009 coupon to browse the great used-book selection before and after the discussion.
Go Greener: Bus Route 6 will get you there

Author Steven Kazlowski on "Facing the Truth of a Warming World"
He brought worldwide awareness to the impact global warming is having on polar bears with his book The Last Polar Bear: Facing the Truth of a Warming World, and now wildlife photographer Steven Kazlowski will speak at the Bell Museum of Natural History about his time spent in the arctic.  Kazlowski will share images, observations and stories from the arctic, as well as ideas on how to fight global warming.
November 13, 7pm
Bell Museum of Natural History, 10 Church St SE, Minneapolis 612-624-7083
$7/$5 museum members
Use your coupon to explore the museum with a friend before the lecture.
Go Greener: Bus Routes 2B and C, 6, 16 and 52 will get you there

A Taste of Thanksgiving
Welcome Thanksgiving early this year and benefit the St Joseph Worker Program, which empowers young women to serve those in need through working with local organizations.  The event will feature organic wine and beer-tasting, delicious food and a silent auction.
Friday, November 14, 7pm to 10pm
Lumen Christi Great Room, 2055 Bohland Ave, St Paul
Tickets: $35/person ($25 is tax-deductible)
Go Greener: Bus Route 84 will get you there

The Green Goober Opening Celebration
Come celebrate the opening of the newest eco-business in the Twin Cities, Green Goober, a store offering children's toys that are eco-friendly as well as fun!  The weekend-long opening celebration will feature activities for the whole family and a special offer: 5% of your subtotal will be donated to the school of your choice.  
November, 14, 15 and 16 (see website for store hours)
5411 Nicollet Ave S, Minneapolis, 612-823-2222
Go Greener: Bus Route 18 will get you there

3rd Annual Green Gifts Fair
This holiday season give green and local.  Stock up on your green gifts at the 3rd Annual Green Gifts Fair with over forty local artists and retailers (including Blue Sky Guide) selling green, recycled and organic gifts. There will also be an eco-fashion show, local musicians and the official kick-off of the 2009 Do it Green! Magazine.
Saturday, November 15, 10am to 5pm
Midtown Global Market at Lake Street & 10th Ave, Minneapolis
Go Greener: the Midtown Global Market is at the Chicago/Lake Transfer Station and right off the bike greenway

Join the Mission of One Yoga: A Celebration Event
To celebrate it's new status and their increased ability to "reach out to individuals who traditionally lack access to the benefits of yoga," One Yoga is hosting a launch event!  The event will include information on their new community partnerships, yoga practice, refreshments, music and chanting.  Check out the website for schedule of events and more information about One Yoga, A Non-Profit Studio.
Saturday, November 15, 3:30pm to 8:30pm
2100 B Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis 612-872-6347
See their coupon.
Go Greener: Bus Route 4 will get you there

Book Arts Fest, Presented by the Minnesota Center for Book Arts
Browse a variety of handmade gifts and keepsakes by local artists including artist's books, handmade journals, prints and letterpress cards at the seventh annual Book Arts Fest.  Describing itself as "some of the most unique holiday shopping in the Twin Cities", this festival also features free holiday ornament-making activities, artist demos and special sales on merchandise in the The Shop at MCBA. Go Greener: Various routes will get you there, so check metrotransit.org to find your route!
Saturday, November 15, 10am-5pm and Sunday, November 16, 12pm to 4pm
MCBA Studios and The Shop at MCBA at Open Book, 1011 Washington Ave S, First Floor, Minneapolis
And don't forget your 2008 coupon, you'll have just enough time to use it.

E3 2008 Conference- The Midwest's Premier Energy, Economic and Environmental Conference
Presented by the University of Minnesota's Initiative for Renewable Energy and the Environment, this year's E3 conference features breakout sessions and research posters along five different tracks: Renewable and Sustainable Fuels and Products; Renewable and Sustainable Electricity; The Nexus of Energy, the Environment and the Economy; Conservation and Energy Efficiency; and Special Topics.  The sessions will highlight leaders in wind and solar energy, biofuels, green marketing and much more. Read all the details at the conference website.
November 18
St Paul RiverCentre, 199 Kellogg Blvd W
Go Greener: Bus Routes 21A, 53A, 64 and 65 will get you there

MCAD Art Sale
The Minneapolis College of Art and Design opens its doors on November 21st and 22nd, offering Twin Cities residents the chance to purchase thousands of unique pieces of work by students and alumni.  The items for purchase range from paintings and prints to toys and jewelry, and each purchase directly supports the artist who made it. The MCAD Art Sale is known for being affordable and forward-thinking, so it's the perfect place to add to your local art collection or find that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift.  
Friday, November 21, 6pm-9pm ($35-$40) and Saturday, November 22, 9am-5pm (FREE)
MCAD Main Building, 1st and 2nd Floors, 2501 Stevens Ave, Minneapolis
Go Greener: Routes 11 and 18 will get you there

MN Waldorf School Holiday Fair & Artisan Marketplace
Around forty vendors will be showing their wares at the annual Holiday Fair and Artisan Marketplace at MN Waldorf School.  There will be unique clothing, jewelry, dolls and toys, books, paper goods, and eco-friendly products to boot.  Other highlights of the fair: live music, puppet shows, gourmet food and even a "mysterious gnome cave."  
November 21st, 5:30 to 9:30pm, Adults-only shopping and social time
November 22, 10am to 4pm, Fun for the whole family
Minnesota Waldorf School, 70 East County Road B, St Paul
Go Greener: Carpool to get there!

On-Going Green Events:

Eco-Tuesday
Fourth Tuesday of the month.  A forum to network and engage with socially responsible business leaders.

Green Drinks
Second Wednesday of every month at 6pm to 7:30ish.  Recharge your eco-spirit with other local folks!

Walker Art Center, Free Thursdays
Free Admission to the Walker Art Center every Thursday More...

Coupon: http://www.ecometro.com/twincities/location/Minnesota-Landscape-Arboretum/1432/ More...

Live: Bryant Lake Bowl Rock for Democracy Block Party
Live music, organic foods & drink, and flea market.  Featuring music by: Brass Messengers, 1st Communion Afterparty, Revolver Modele, Maria Isa, Prairie Sons, & Now and Now Every Children.
September 13, 4pm-10pm
All ages, FREE
810 W Lake Street, Minneapolis 

Play: Tour de Chaska: 13th Annual Tour de Sprawl
Explore first hand the history, bike trails and new developments of Chaska, MN, named "8th Best Small Town in America" by Money Magazine. The ride highlights include: food, speakers,  and post-ride music and also promises to be a zero waste event.
September 13
Registration at 9:15am, Ride begins at 10am

Go: Urban Assault Ride
Part bike ride, part scavenger hunt, part obstacle course, this hugely entertaining bike ride promises to be "a pedal-powered urban adventure."  Teams choose their own course in checkpoints throughout the city where they have to complete obstacles courses before moving on.  Just a few teasers: Big Wheels, Bike Jousting and slides are in store.  The first team to go to all the checkpoints and cross the finish line wins the races!
September 21
Freewheel Midtown Bike Center, 2834 10th Ave South

Live: Buy Recycled: 100% Postconsumer Recycled Copy Paper
Eureka Recycling’s Recycled Paper Co-op allows individuals, businesses, and organizations in the Twin Cities area to purchase recycled paper at a reduced cost. By combining smaller orders, we get a bulk discount from the supplier and pass the savings on to you. Buying through our co-op is the easiest and most affordable way for you to purchase environmentally friendly copy paper for yourself or your office. Place your order by Tuesday, October 14th. More...

EcoMetro Green Events

Live: Parade of Community Gardens
In it's third year, this metrowide event features 45 community gardens across the Twin Cities, Stillwater, Mankato and Northfield.  Participants can take a self-guided tour (download the brochure from www.gardenworksmn.org to map your route) or hang around their neighborhood garden to acquaint themselves with the people who make these community spaces happen.  The parade will feature a variety of attractions including: "music, labyrinth, cool treats, massage, chickens, heirloom tomato festival, a beehive" and much more!  Check out www.gardenworksmn.org for all the details.

August 16, 10am-2pm

Live: Minnesota Garlic Festival
The summer event for garlic lovers!  This family friendly, "fragrant" festival is the place to stock up on local, gourmet garlic--the fest features Minnesota garlic growers with over 100 varieties available. The festival also features music, artisans, games, local food and cooking demos.  Most importantly though, the Garlic Festival supports "a healthy environment, sustainable farms and vital rural communities in Minnesota."
August 16, 10am-7pm, $5 for adults, $3 for kids under 12
Wright County Fairgrounds, Howard Lake, MN (About one hour west from Minneapolis)

August Fashion Special

Local Fashion Merchants in Blue Sky Guide

• Arc's Value Village ($10 OFF)
• Bibelot (20% OFF)
• Birch ($10 OFF)
• Everyday People (25% OFF)
• Fast & Furless ($10 OFF)
• Heavenly Soles ($10 OFF)
• HempQueen ($5 OFF)
• Lula ($5 OFF)
• My Sisters' Closet ($5 OFF)
• The Nest ($5 OFF)
• Nu Look (10% OFF)
• Once Upon a Child ($5 OFF)
• Pacifier ($5 OFF)
• Patina (UP TO $20 OFF)
• Peapods ($10 OFF)
• Prestige Cleaning Center, Uptown Cleaners ($5 OFF)
• Ragstock ($5 OFF)
• Rewind (20% OFF)
• Tatters (25% OFF)
• Trade Winds (20% OFF)
• Treadle Yard Goods (10% OFF)
• Via's Vintage (20% OFF)

 More...

On Earth Day, the Seattle Mariners are set to host the first carbon-neutral baseball game in major league history.

The Mariners are working with Seattle City Light-- and the utility’s Green Up program to power Safeco Field with wind energy all day April 22. Additionally, the team is purchasing carbon offsets for all its travel and operations that day while also promoting waste reduction and recycling. More...

EcoMetro April Calendar

The Commuter Challenge Begins!

Take the Commuter Challenge! Between April 1 and June 30, pledge to take the bus or train, carpool, vanpool, telework, bike or walk — anything except drive alone on trips to work, school or for errands.  See www.metrotransit.org for more information!

April 1- June 30

Green Drinks

Special Guests are the always-fun Ryan & Tina North of TC Green and Re-Gifts! Join our Blue Sky Guide staff for an eco-friendly social gathering at Red Stag Supper Club (Minnesota's first LEED certified restaurant). Charge your eco-spirit, make some new connections,a nd learn a thing or two. Red Stag offers a wide variety of organic/locally-sourced dishes, fine wines and local brews. ALL ages are welcome.
April 9th, 6-7:30ish

Red Stag Supper Club, 509 1st Ave NE, Minneapolis

*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon at Red Stag for buy 1 get 1 free lunch specials. More...

The dark of night has an incredible impact on humans. It limits our vision and heightens our sense of vulnerability. Neighborhoods that are friendly, bustling or eclectic during the day become vacant no-walk zones after sundown. More...

EcoMetro Calendar

Sustainability Conference
Learn about many different project grant opportunities to fund grassroots projects in the areas of energy, water quality, waste reduction, graffiti prevention, transportation and Climate. Free! Please preregister at www.afors.org.
March 8, 8:30am to 4:40pm
Augsburg College

Lure of Shoes Exhibit
The exhibition will showcase a spectacular collection of vintage wedding shoes, slippers, carriage boots, stiletto pumps, clogs, wedges, sandals, platforms, hiking boots, and a superb collection of children’s and infants shoes. Vintage handbags, purses, and a few suitably chosen hats will tastefully accessorize the show. $5 adult admission.
Now through Summer 2008
Hennepin History Museum, 2303 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis

Omnifest 2008
Omnifest brings six films to the Omnitheater for one month. Film’s showing this year are Everest, Cowboys: Ride Around the World, Roar: Lions of the Kalahari, Indonesia: Dance of Life, Amazon, and The Alps.
Begins today, March 7
Science Museum of Minnesota
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon for 2 for 1 admission or $10 off a dual membership.

Locals Night at Trotter’s Café
Receive 10% off your meal if you live within 2 miles. Another 5% off if you walk, bike or bus to Trotter’s.  Local Musicians.
Dinner starts at 5, music starts at 6
March 8, PapaJohn & Hot Club
March 15, Nick Robin
March 22, Dunquin
March 29, Chris Wilson
Trotter’s Café, 232 North Cleveland Ave. (at Marshall), St. Paul
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon for 25% off any menu item.

Learn How to Pair Great Food with Great Tea!
Expand your knowledge of fine food and tea! Sample some of our great food and deserts. Come for dinner – stay for the class! Class Location: Trotter’s, 232 Cleveland Av, N, St Paul, MN 55104; 651-645-8950. Limit 20 per class. Class is $10.00 per attendee.  Must be pre-paid by cash, check or credit card. Registration fees are non-refundable within 72 hours of the class date. Sign up at Trotter’s or TeaSource
March 11, 7-9:00 pm
Trotter’s Café, 232 North Cleveland Ave. (at Marshall), St. Paul
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon for 25% off any menu item.

Blue Sky Guide and o2 host Green Drinks: Park Your Car!
Join our Blue Sky Guide staff for an eco-friendly social gathering at the Red Stag Supper Club (Minnesota's first LEED certified restaurant). Charge your eco-spirit, make some new connections, and learn a thing or two. Red Stag offers a wide variety of organic/locally-sourced dishes, fine wines and local brews.  ALL ages are welcome. Theme: Park your car! Get the latest on car-sharing, mass transit, bikeways and alternatives to car ownership in the Twin Cities. Beer specials too!
March 12, 6-7:30ish
Red Stag Supper Club, 509 1st Ave NE, Minneapolis
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon at Red Stag for buy 1 get 1 free lunch specials.

ReUse Center Expands into the East Metro
Join us for the Grand Opening of our new Maplewood store.  We will have refreshments from 12pm to 4pm (store open from 10am to 7pm). For more information contact Brandon Christiansen at 612 -278 -7160.
March 22, 12-4pm
1723 Hwy 36 East (NW corner of Hwy 36 & White Bear Ave.) Maplewood
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon at the Minneapolis ReUse center for 20% off any item.

Celebrate American Indians in Science
Celebrate the 8th Annual American Indians in Science. This event introduces visitors to individuals from the Twin Cities' American Indian community who have made significant contributions to science, engineering, and education. Meet presenters from a wide variety of disciplines who will share their areas of expertise through hands-on activities and dynamic displays.
March 29, 1-4 pm
Science Museum of Minnesota
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon for 2 for 1 admission or $10 off a dual membership.

Find a Green Career
Green career opportunities are unlimited, but where are they and how do you snag one? What action can you take now to get on your green career track and work for a sustainable world? Barbara Parks from Green Career Tracks will help you answer these questions and get you started on creating your own green careers customized plan. Register online at www.doitgreen.org or RSVP with Ami Voeltz at 612-345-7973 or ami.voeltz@doitgreen.org. Workshops are $5 each, payable online or at the event.
March 13, 6-8pm Nokomis Public Library, 5100 34th Ave S., Minneapolis
March 15, 2-4pm Washburn Public Library, 5244 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis
March 20, 6-8pm North Regional Public Library, 1315 Lowry Ave. N., Minneapolis

Common Roots Food and Wine Tasting
Locally produced, organic, fairly traded, sustainable, AND delicious….never thought these words would be used to describe the next food/wine tasting you’ll be attending? Then let Etica Fair Trade wine, PastureLand dairy Co-op ($1 off butter or cheese), Peace Coffee ($2 off a pound) and Common Roots surprise you with an expertly-paired spread of Minnesota-made cheeses and desserts, and fairly traded wines and coffees. Members of these companies will be on hand to share the stories behind these ethically produced and purchased treats. Free and open to the public!
March 20, 5:30–7:30pm
2558 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis
*Use your Blue Sky Guide coupon for free coffee or tea with purchase of a bagel.

Community Garden Spring Resource Fair
Will Allen from Growing Power in Milwaukee is kicking off the Spring Resource Fair, highlighting his organization’s innovative work on bridging cultures through gardening. Activities for the kids, workshops, and engaging educational displays during the day. Raffle prizes, music and food top off the fun! Free parking and free entry. Come see what community gardening resources are available for you! Go to www.gardenworksMN.org or call GardenWorks at 612-278-7123 for more details.
March 29, 9am-2:30pm
First Christian Church, 2201 1st Ave S, Minneapolis

Metro CERTs Network Kick-Off
Interested in localizing your energy? Join community, business and non-profit leaders, elected officials, students, state agency staff, and congregations as they kick-off the new Metro CERTs (Clean Energy Resource Team) Network.  Come and network, see old friends, meet new ones, enjoy local and organic refreshments and hear about exciting community-based energy projects happening in the Twin Cities.  There will be a very short program at 6:30pm.  Get your taxes done early, so you can attend!
RSVP’s and Questions contact Diana McKeown at the Green Institute 612-278-7125 or dmckeown@greeninstitute.org.
April 15, 5-8pm
Landmark Center, 75 West 5th Street, St. Paul

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