By Special to the Town Crier

In today’s fast-paced society, millions of Americans don’t get a good start on the day. They either skip breakfast or hurriedly munch a toaster pastry.

A good breakfast that includes selections from the grain, fruit, meat and dairy groups can provide great mental and physical benefits for you throughout the day. In addition, breakfast can be a family social time.

To spread the good word about a good breakfast, Mrs. Butterworth’s pancake and waffle syrup has developed a 10-story tall hot air balloon in the shape of her famous bottle. The balloon will tour festivals across the country this summer to promote a healthy breakfast and quality time with family.

Whether or not you see Mrs. Butterworth floating by, you can enjoy the following recipe as you get your day off to a healthy start.

Healthy Pancakes

1 cup pancake mix

12 cup lowfat yogurt

14 cup skim milk

2 teaspoons unsweetened applesauce

14 teaspoon almond flavor extract

1 egg white

Preheat griddle to 325 degrees. Griddle is ready when small drops of water sizzle and disappear almost immediately.

Whip egg white until foamy. Stir in yogurt, milk, almond flavoring and applesauce with egg white.

Add pancake mix and stir until large lumps disappear (about 20 seconds).

Pour 14 cup batter for each pancake onto hot griddle (apply non-stick spray if necessary).

Turn pancakes when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look dry (about 2 minutes).

Turn only once and cook an additional 2 minutes. Makes 5-6 pancakes.