Welcome to Pilot Light’s Feeding Minds blog! Here, we get to tell the story of Food Education through in-depth stories from our classrooms, partnership spotlights, new program announcements, and opinion pieces from guest authors and the Pilot Light team. Join us in exploring the power of food to connect, excite, and empower us to build a better future together.
September 26, 2016
By PilotLight
Teaching, Tasting & Telling Stories: One Lovely Day in August
By Brenna O’Dea A few weeks ago we wrapped up our summer with a special event honoring our teachers and chefs. Some of the hardest working people around, these members of our Pilot Light family bring our vision to life with every lesson they teach and every child they inspire. Imagine walking into a classroom.
Read More >>September 17, 2016
By PilotLight
Battle of the Booch
By Brenna O’Dea Are you part of the fermenting frenzy sweeping the nation? From pickles to sauerkraut to kimchi to KOMBUCHA, more and more people are munching and sipping on fermented foods to aid in overall health and digestion. Now what exactly is kombucha? Maybe you’ve never even heard of this wacky word before. Look no
Read More >>September 7, 2016
By PilotLight
Chow Down Chi Town: Outdoor Eats
September is still young and we want to help you squeeze every last drop out of summer. Dine out(side) at one of these lovely local eateries to enjoy the sweet sunshine and some savory bites that will leave your cheeks pink with glee and bellies full with warmth. Big Star: It’s Taco Time. Chipotle. Chorizo.
Read More >>August 27, 2016
By PilotLight
Chow Down Chi Town: Kid Friendly Eats
We’ve got some good news and some bad news…let’s rip the bandaid off first…the babysitter canceled. You FINALLY decided on which sandals to wear for date night, you opted for flats over heels because hey, summer is almost over and you feel like dancing in the dark while you’ve still got the chance. IT WILL
Read More >>August 18, 2016
By PilotLight
Keep Calm and Cook with Your Kids
By Brenna O’Dea The time has come for your little helpers to do more than just set the table. They have started asking questions about what you are making for dinner each night…they almost seem suspicious. What are the gross green flecks in my tomato sauce, mama? (It’s basil). Why are my pasta noodles so
Read More >>August 10, 2016
By PilotLight
Kava Kraze
By Brenna O’Dea 3pm rolls around again…you are headed for the nearby coffee cart, café, or just the abandoned half empty cup o’ Joe you spotted at the conference table mid morning. DESPERATION CALLS OKAY? This time, don’t answer. Swap in your usual afternoon pick me up for a new and exciting herbal boost that
Read More >>August 2, 2016
By PilotLight
August in Chicago: Food Festival Frenzy
By Brenna O’Dea Feeling antsy about August? Summer camp is over…school starts soon…but wait! Don’t get ahead of yourselves! You still have one whole magnificent month to run, swim, play, dance, and most importantly EAT all the summer foodies you can get your fingers on! If you feel stuck in a rut this time of
Read More >>July 28, 2016
By PilotLight
Spice Up Your S’mores: 10 Variations
By Brenna O’Dea Gather round the campfire! The sun has set. The fireflies are buzzing. The wood is burning and waiting for you…to roast your marshmallows. But are you feeling bored and blasé about the usual marshmallow+chocolate+graham cracker creation? Well I’ve got 10 ideas that are sure to push your s’more making abilities to the
Read More >>July 21, 2016
By PilotLight
Ideas That Extend From Classrooms to Dinner Tables
With August right around the corner…school is almost back in session! The kiddos might feel bummed out at first, and don’t worry, there is still PLENTY of time to soak up the summer sun and spend time grilling and chilling by the beach. But parents and kids alike will be thrilled with Pilot Light programming
Read More >>July 13, 2016
By PilotLight
Hidden Gems: Farmer’s Markets Found
By Brenna O’Dea One of my all time favorite memories from my childhood is spending Saturday morning at the farmer’s market. My tiny feet dangling from the stroller as my mom rolled me up and down the street, surrounded by more fruits and vegetables than I had ever seen before. I ate fresh blueberries until
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