tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36028286134733915222024-03-12T20:02:44.540-07:00GOING GREEN! NewsletterGOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-74023085450343218502010-12-09T13:25:00.000-08:002010-12-29T11:51:37.944-08:00December Tip: Recycle your tree!As you take down your holiday decorations (sad times) and start to re-focus for a new, refreshing new year. Please remember to recycle your Christmas tree!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yep, that's our tip. Recycle, recycle, recycle your tree! Please. </span><br />Some may think leaving your tree on your curb is a sure way to be taken into the recycling truck "gods". But it's not. Research and find out what your city IS doing for recycling trees, where the nearest recycling center is, or if your city DOES do curb side recycling pick-up...make sure it's being recycled. These trees are grown all year and are only used for just one month. Let's give them a more of reusable life then just one month!<br /><a href="http://earth911.com/">Earth911</a> helps locate a recycling center in your area that you can take your Christmas tree too!<br />We sincerely hope this has encouraged you and we also hope you have a wonderful and greener New Year!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-77011989344900809832010-11-15T07:25:00.000-08:002010-11-15T09:11:59.271-08:00November Tip: "Greener" Plates<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE5BevYlU011kvVsFmHKo9X8KcP3bWlrr4OzyNbz9tFeudbFKYRAG_HYhehTJe02qUzClRV3UFXQmFRQnUGS6rSNXSvtialNVIFa56xk2TvOgLgdXHaJ9ymzFZynp-BQvBfcz31Cco0541/s1600/101_2748.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcODaslo8m4whN4AnuxEg0_5u68j3f1xNohppoKpvjmuisE1Gkn5wPXlRtSc9ysQNmfFUKJxwp_5xerzNKpAWJbXoYkLWS0xgGakftbJMNjtIfGAF4gVCtxjRhdUbOnd8bsrSak1QvC8c/s1600/021_4A.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcODaslo8m4whN4AnuxEg0_5u68j3f1xNohppoKpvjmuisE1Gkn5wPXlRtSc9ysQNmfFUKJxwp_5xerzNKpAWJbXoYkLWS0xgGakftbJMNjtIfGAF4gVCtxjRhdUbOnd8bsrSak1QvC8c/s320/021_4A.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539824603153041554" /></a><div>Thanksgiving is on it's way, just two weeks away actually. Ahhhhhhh the smells, the yummy dishes, the smells, the yummy dishes... but we digress. Here is a simple way to keep a wonderful, special, yummy, smelling SO good Thanksgiving day a bit more green:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><b>Green-up your plates!</b></span> Are you having 20+ people over? Do you NOT have nearly enough of your own plates for everyone? Well, below are some ideas to help you keep it green. Let's be honest, there's a lot of trash on Thanksgiving and purchasing MORE one use items just adds to the waste.</div><div><br /></div><div>-Use mismatched plates! Visit your local thrift store and load-up on cute mismatching plates. They almost always have sets. It's clever and an artist angle for your table setting. You could try: <a href="http://www.goodwill.org/">Goodwill</a>, <a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-local/Home">Salvation Army Store</a>, <a href="http://outofthecloset.org/">Out of the Closet</a>, or your local thrift stores.</div><div><br /></div><div>-If you love having Thanksgiving at your place every year consider investing in a cute Thanksgiving-inspired full plate setting. Some places to go: <a href="http://www.target.com/Harvest-Oval-Platter/dp/B002I21C50/ref=sc_qi_detailbutton">Target Oval platter</a>, <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/search/search.aspx/Thanksgiving/?sstr=Thanksgiving&dim=1&nty=1&">Bed, Bath, & Beyond: Thanksgiving reusable table decor.</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Churchill-China-Thanksgiving-Turkey-Dinner/dp/B0000VOP1O">Amazon: Thanksgiving China</a>, or go out and check your local department store. They almost always carry a Thanksgiving plate setting, and they're so cute!</div><div><br /></div><div>-If you don't have the money to buy new or old china, please, please use recycled paper plates. They are already recycled and will dissolve naturally into the Earth after usage. Try these: <a href="http://www.mychinet.com/products/family/2">Chinet biodegradable products</a> (Very durable!), <a href="http://www.partycity.com/category/shop+by+color/eco+friendly+tableware.do">Party City Eco-Friendly Tableware</a> (also durable & you get a ton for the $). Many grocery stores are carrying biodegradable flatware, look into yours. </div><div><br /></div><div>-Lastly, try something new like - <a href="http://bambootableware.com/">bamboo flatware</a>! We have a few bamboo plates and they are great! You just use them until they naturally dissolve. Simple. <a href="http://www.rossstores.com/">Ross</a> carries them often!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE5BevYlU011kvVsFmHKo9X8KcP3bWlrr4OzyNbz9tFeudbFKYRAG_HYhehTJe02qUzClRV3UFXQmFRQnUGS6rSNXSvtialNVIFa56xk2TvOgLgdXHaJ9ymzFZynp-BQvBfcz31Cco0541/s320/101_2748.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539825140604147186" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></div><div>We hope this tip has inspired you to be more green, simply. Especially on a day when you are enjoying time with family or friends.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a lovely "Green" Thanksgiving!!!!</div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-15534048257445818202010-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:002010-10-05T06:07:48.535-07:00October Tip: Being Green & Fighting Against Breast Cancer!If you are not aware, October is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC33CC;"><i>Breast Cancer Awareness Month</i></span>. <div>This month we wanted to bring to your attention how you can support a VERY important cause all while still being <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><i>Eco-Friendly</i></span>, simply. There's TONS of lovely reusable lunch, travel, grocery shopping, purse, and tote bags, reusable tumblers, mugs, and water bottles available, all Eco-Consciously designed. Please explore the sites below, there are many sites to view and support. It's a simple step to help fight this horrible disease, and all the while you are supporting the environment too!<div><br /><div><b>Some Facts on Breast Cancer:</b><br /><div>"One in eight women or 12.6% of all women will get breast cancer in her lifetime. Breast cancer risk increases with age and every woman is at risk. Every 13 minutes a woman dies of breast cancer." from: <a href="http://womenshealth.about.com/cs/breastcancer/a/breastcancfacts.htm">Women's Heath</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Not counting some kinds of skin cancer, breast cancer in the United States is---</div><div>- The most common cancer in women, no matter your race or ethnicity.</div><div>- The most common cause of death from cancer among Hispanic women.</div><div>- The second most common cause of death from cancer among white, black, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native Women. " </div><div>from: <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/fast_facts.htm">Centers of Disease Control and Prevention</a></div><div><div><br /></div><div><div>The links below we felt, are the specifically "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><i>green-focused</i></span>" sections of different organizations or groups sites that contribute to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC33CC;"><i>Fight Against Breast Cancer</i></span>. </div><div>(More descriptions below)</div><div><br /><a href="http://www.shopkomen.com/cart.php?m=product_list&c=339">ShopKomen.com</a> : Large & Small tote bags. Goes directly to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); "><i>Susan G. Komen for the Cure</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); "><i><br /></i></span></div><div><a href="http://www.shopkomen.com/cart.php?m=product_list&c=341">ShopKomen/Waters bottles, mugs, tumblers</a> : VERY Eco-Friendly<br /><br /><a href="http://www.shopwarriorsinpink.com/itemdetail.asp?item=WIP1034&category=accessories">Warriors In Pink, Warriors Getaway Tote Bag</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><i>Warriors In Pink </i></span> is supported by Ford and gives to <a href="http://ww5.komen.org/">Susan G. Komen for the Cure</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.shopwarriorsinpink.com/itemdetail.asp?item=WIP1030+PNK&category=accessories">Warriors In Pink, Warriors Back Pack</a><br /><br /><a href="https://shop.thebreastcancersite.com/store/category.do?category=Pink_Ribbon_Bags_Purses&site=The_Breast_Cancer_Site&context=breast-cancer-awareness&siteId=224&categoryId=2796&page=1&view=100">The Breast Cancer Site/Bags, Lunch bags, Tote, and Purses</a><br /><a href="http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=2&link=ctg_bcs_home_from_bcs_thankyou_leftnav_logo">The Breast Cancer Site</a> funds <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#993399;"><i>Mammograms</i></span> for women in need.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.reusablebagsdepot.com/breast-cancer-awareness-bag.html">Reusable Bag Depot/Breast Cancer Awareness Bags</a><br />Show your support while grocery shopping "Green"!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+fight_like_a_girl_tote_bag,338575427">CafePress/Fight Like a girl Tote Bag</a> or <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+breastcancerorg_tote_bag,285131575">try this one!</a><br />they donate to <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/">Breastcancer.org</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+breast_cancer_walks_sigg_water_bottle_10l,383899892">CafePress/Eco-Friendly Water Bottles</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+breast_cancer_walks_mug,128541666">CafePress/Coffee Mugs</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+breastcancerorg_beach_tote,454239140">CafePress/Large Beach Tote Bags</a><br /><br /></div><div>We sincerely hope this has inspired you to step out of your comfort-zone and support a cause ALL the while being "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><i>Green</i></span>"! </div><div><br /><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-35349059054577365372010-09-09T14:24:00.000-07:002010-09-14T18:14:37.522-07:00September Tip: Green Your Workout!It's September! Sweet, lovely, fall-itching-so-close September. GOING GREEN!'s favorite season is near! It's frankly a season to be outside. But first, let's assume you work out and that during the summer the phrase "It's just TOO hot" has been a repeating pattern. Well, let's step outside and try to embrace this lovely weather, all while greening-up your workout, simply! <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Here's a rough list of energy used while getting fit: </span><br />Using your car back & forth from the gym<br />ALL the electrical equipment you use at the gym to burn those cals!<br />Purchasing new gear for your cool new work out room<br />Grabbing a plastic water bottle (YIKES! & WHY?!) on your rush out the door to the gym.<br /><br />~Well, I think you get our idea. It's so simple to work out around your home and outside. Let's lay it out right here. Here are some key, simple, elements that will help you be more green in your daily/weekly work out routine.~<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">GO OUTSIDE</span>; instead of the gym. Walk, run, ride your bike, go for a hike. Enjoy the many state parks all around you. Make your daily dog walking part of your cardio routine. Embrace the sidewalk!<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">DVD's!</span> Don't want to go outside, it's raining, still TOO hot? You may be using energy with the DVD player, but you just saved some gas from driving to the gym and restrained from using the "energy sucking" exercise machines.<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">YOGA!</span> learn some basic yoga routines and practice in the comfort of your own home. A plus= if you mess up on upward dog or any position for that matter, no one will see! hehe! Another bonus to yoga besides the numerous<a href="http://www.yogasite.com/why.htm"> health benefits</a>, is it will give you more flexibility to go on longer walks, i.e. enjoying the outside.<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">CHEAP!</span> Let's just say it, you are not spending any money walking around in your neighborhood, are you? You may spend a few bucks on work out clothes here and there but it simply doesn't add up to the amount of money you spend for a membership at a gym.<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">"O.K., I get it, but I need a gym membership or some class for encouragement and/or flexibility."</span> We understand. But please just research the gyms in your area. Are they more Eco-conscious or community driven (ex. <a href="http://www.ymca.net/">the Y</a>)? Support those instead. Also, balance out your carbon foot print by still embracing the outdoors. Try to save your gym visits for mandatory after work or class visits.<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight: bold;">WATER BOTTLE.</span> It's simple, use your own and keep using it until it falls apart. Here's a great place to purchase one: <a href="http://www.rei.com/gear/feature/search/Yahoo/bpa%20free%20bottles/?cm_mmc=ps_yahoo_CH-_-Category%20-%20Camp_Gear-_-Camp_Gear_Non_Toxic_Hydration_General-_-eco%20water%20bottles&s_kwcid=TC-13017-484963461011-S-76969757511&mr:adGroup=30410950399&mr:ad=76969757511&mr:keyword=eco%20water%20bottle&mr:match=s&mr:referralID=NA">REI: Water Bottles</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">-SAFETY:</span> It's a legitimate concern. Grab a local or neighborhood map and layout where you think it's best to do your 30min. - 1hour cardio "burn". Still feel unsafe? Embrace <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=a9_sc_1?rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Apepper+spray+keychain&keywords=pepper+spray+keychain&ie=UTF8&qid=1284512384">pepper spray key chains</a> and ALWAYS bring your cell phone. If you're a dog owner try to bring them along. You'll feel immediately safer and your dog will forever love you (they say, taking your dog walking is the #1 love language you can show them.). Also, bring a friend or significant other if you can or if they are available. But don't be dependent on them coming along. Be able to do these things alone. Lastly, walk in the morning to late morning or mid afternoon to early evening. People are leaving/coming to work/school, it's the busiest time of day.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">We sincerely hope this has encouraged you to think twice about how your work out can have a positive effect on the environment, simply!!!!!</span>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-16551542694612308912010-08-05T17:01:00.000-07:002010-08-13T18:51:33.791-07:00August Tip: Two Grocery Stores!Hello fellow readers!<br />This month we <span style="font-weight: bold;">simply</span> wanted to highlight two large chain grocery stores that have taken the initiative and created a brand of Eco-conscious products. There are <span style="font-weight: bold;">many more</span> brands that are taking this same initiative in GOING GREEN and we will periodically be highlighting these companies too.<br />However, this month we want to encourage you to venture down the aisle's of <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Publix</span> and Safeway/Vons grocery store's and find their "green" brands. They are: <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51); font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Publix GreenWise Market</span> </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">and</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51); font-weight: bold;"> <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Safeway - Bright Green</span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">.</span> <div>Their links are below:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.publix.com/wellness/greenwise/Home.do">Publix GreenWise Market</a> - SouthEast of the country<br /><br /><a href="http://www.safeway.com/IFL/Grocery/TopCategoriesDisplay?identifier=BGBrightGreen">Safeway - Bright Green</a> - South & North West of the country<br /><br />Why, you ask does it matter if I buy these products? Well, you are supporting these companies initiative to make a more green choice. They made the effort to have in stock a green-line for the consumer, so we should do our part and buy them.<br />You can <span style="font-weight: bold;">simply</span> buy <span style="font-weight: bold;">recycled</span> paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, organic or locally grown food items, safe for the water-supply dishwashing detergent, laundry detergent, hand soap, bleach etc.. There are many options to choose from. So just go, walk down the aisle. Give it a look, that's all. A look. You'll realize that not only are the prices comparable or <span style="font-weight: bold;">LESS</span>, but the cleaning products are also much safer for your family; all while doing a <span style="font-weight: bold;">SIMPLE</span> deed for the environment.<br /><br />Take the plunge! Grocery shop more green!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">~A side note~ Please take a look around the blog! We've (obviously) redesigned it, added MANY new Eco-conscious sites, and a few advertisements that are green-minded.</span></div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-83684785466637312242010-07-03T15:24:00.000-07:002010-07-06T08:35:01.367-07:00July Tip: Green Car washing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl69PA89EuaUqm34HjgMuhsKtFFriMGIExRHF__k9375nDGIA86TF7vNkKdVwaLtZGYl-XRRpZFx6CWIObE3zNcy0GLPHiO3lbVUkCzEnAes538IAIe9xje-VHE4PNuofRLJ6d1CULJQX/s1600/P1010517.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl69PA89EuaUqm34HjgMuhsKtFFriMGIExRHF__k9375nDGIA86TF7vNkKdVwaLtZGYl-XRRpZFx6CWIObE3zNcy0GLPHiO3lbVUkCzEnAes538IAIe9xje-VHE4PNuofRLJ6d1CULJQX/s320/P1010517.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489830582017158994" /></a>We are in the middle of prime summer time! Yep, people are out swimming, children (& some eager adults) playing in the slip n slide, folks going on road trips, let's face it summer is the time to get out side! ONE of those lovely out door task we seem to do more often is washing our own car. <b>Saving mone</b><b>y</b>, getting a little tan (not too much, wear that sunscreen!), and squirting your doggies OR significant other with the hose is reason enough to wash your own car!<br /><br />However, when you wash your vehicle please do it the GREEN way. Here are some very simple tips for doing just that:<div><br />-For starters check out the brand <a href="http://www.simplegreen.com/products_car_wash.php">Simple Green</a>. They have a strong desire to keep their cleaning products as Eco-friendly and non-toxic as possible. We use their dog carpet cleaner and their auto degreaser, it works fabulously. Here is a <a href="http://www.simplegreen.com/products_family.php">direct link</a> to a chart showing their products, benefits, etc.. They're not over-priced and can be found almost anywhere, ie. Target, grocery stores, etc..<br /><br />-Grab a bucket instead of the hose. The average home car wash uses up to 110 gallons of clean drinking water, if you use a bucket instead you can save at least 80 gallons! Also, just washing the car less frequently or using an outdoor rainwater tank is a great SIMPLE alternative.<br /><br />-Wash your car on the lawn! The waste water can contain oil, degreaser's, residue, etc.. IF your using "Simple Green products" this will help tremendously but you still want to prevent the water run off as much as possible which will eventually go into rivers, streams, lakes and the ocean. Especially with the current oil spill, let's try to reduce the pollutants we put in the water around us as much as possible. The lawn will be able to contain and help prevent them from reaching these water sources.<br /><br />-If you must go to a commercial car-wash, examine to see if they treat their waste water before they dispose it. A lot of new companies recycle and reuse the water, so supporting them is a great thing, but please check, they are all around the same price. You, the environment, your car, and the ocean are better off supporting an Environmentally friendly Commercial car wash company.<div><br />(The above tips are from this <a href="http://www.sustainability.govt.nz/water/saving-water-when-washing-car">awesome site</a>!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Also, please make sure to read June's Tip on how YOU can help with the Gulf Oil Spill!<br /><br />Have fun this summer and remember to keep it simple and keep you car washing simply green!<br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-67020885336589944642010-06-17T12:50:00.000-07:002010-06-22T07:42:42.254-07:00June Tip: Helping with the Gulf Oil Spill<div>Hello our wonderful readers! It is mid-June and we have been pondering what would be a simple tip that could be immediately helpful.<br /><div>As most of you know on April 20th there was a horrible oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. It has yet to be capped, fixed, or sealed. Many wild life are being very negatively effected by this unfortunate insistent. This is an immediate problem that is effecting our natural resources and more so the wildlife. </div><div>Choosing to be more GREEN sometimes means helping the natural habit around you and contributing to help keep the environment sustainable.</div><div>Our tip this month: Help this cause if you can. You can donate, volunteer, or even seek out new ways to contribute. It really is simple.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>To Donate:</div><div><a href="http://no-hunger.org/News/Gulf%20Oil%20Spill.aspx">http://no-hunger.org/News/Gulf%20Oil%20Spill.aspx</a> </div><div>Help and buy a shirt to contribute! A GREAT, LOCAL, GROUP!</div><div><a href="http://www.ccstb.org/">http://www.ccstb.org/</a></div><div>Another local charity, helping fishermen:</div><div><a href="http://www.ccano.org/">http://www.ccano.org/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>This link shares some QUICK ways you can help with the oil spill, VERY USEFUL!</div></div><div><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5479734/top_five_ways_to_help_in_the_gulf_of.html">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5479734/top_five_ways_to_help_in_the_gulf_of.html</a></div><div><div><br /></div><div>To Volunteer:</div><div>~Same groups from above, just their volunteer section~</div><div><a href="http://www.ccano.org/?p=662">http://www.ccano.org/?p=662</a></div><div><a href="http://www.ccano.org/?p=662"></a><a href="http://no-hunger.org/Donate/Give%20Time.aspx">http://no-hunger.org/Donate/Give%20Time.aspx</a></div><div>Also, we found this group on Facebook. It had the most members and looked the most legit. The group is called "Golf Coast Oil Spill Volunteers":</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-weight: bold;font-family:'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal;font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><a href="http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=121928837818541&ref=search">http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=121928837818541&ref=search</a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>We hope at least ONE of the links above will motivate you to help. You'll be green while giving and feel good about it too. </div><div><br /></div></div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-66073112519922233192010-05-06T16:19:00.000-07:002010-05-12T19:00:53.858-07:00May Tip: Green Traveling<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8p0GbAfYptErv07v123WEN1PIdq37Vgh2xwHQ_CemWGjx0-ZvlBmSTBWTpw2ushCl0-9LBQWsjT8p4kDb52s_DlDdpeERgNItifwfhexxcfIJTf9lCQi4C3zpnCujqoLlqoOcDHuVNHza/s1600/1796773000_99fb167353.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8p0GbAfYptErv07v123WEN1PIdq37Vgh2xwHQ_CemWGjx0-ZvlBmSTBWTpw2ushCl0-9LBQWsjT8p4kDb52s_DlDdpeERgNItifwfhexxcfIJTf9lCQi4C3zpnCujqoLlqoOcDHuVNHza/s400/1796773000_99fb167353.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470565386795594722" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="mainwordsmall">Green Traveling you say?!<br /><br />Yes, starting this month, folks will be setting out on 4 months of vacationing, visiting family, mini weekend trips, etc.. When we travel we often forget things like: deodorant, toothpaste, a pair of jeans, a dressy outfit. We also often forget to be more green when living beyond the comforts of home. There are many <span style="font-weight: bold;">simple</span> ways you can "go green" while still relaxing on a beach or canoeing on a gorgeous lake.<br /><br />Below are some <span style="font-weight: bold;">simple</span> tips to help guide you in planning your trip and while your experiencing it!<br /><br />-Bring reusable hot/cold bottle containers and extra shopping/grocery tote bags along with you.<br /><br />-When searching for a hotel, check out <a href="http://greenhotels.com/index.php">greenhotels.org</a> to find eco-friendly accommodations. Also, Hertz is offering a <a href="https://www.hertz.com/rentacar/byr/index.jsp?targetPage=USgreencollection.jsp&leftNavUserSelection=globNav_3_5_1&region=United+States">Green Line </a>of rental cars. Honor corporations who are trying to reduce their Eco-footprint with your business.<br /><br />-When you check-in to your hotel ask where the recycling is located, if they don't provide any recycling options, save your materials to put in your car to take home to recycle or find a recycling center close by.<br /><br />-Remember when you shop, <span style="font-weight: bold;">simply</span> go local. Consider green, fair trade, slave-free, and local products, just like you do at home. We promise the locals of wherever your staying will VERY much appreciate you boosting their economy.<br /><br />-Ever heard of the new trendy term, "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Eco-cation</span>"?! Well, this is <span style="font-weight: bold;">simply</span> saying your going to vacation with the mind-set of allowing the nature around you to be the highlight of your trip.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For example:</span> using the local canoeing or kayak rentals, go on a guided nature tour or just wander in the natural habitats around you, a hike at the local state or National parks, or a Hedrick personal favorite: camping at a state park! The community will appreciate your investment in keeping it preserved. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Simply</span> search around the area your visiting for it's "natural" high-lights and visit it!<br /><br />-Lastly, are you staying with family or friends? Use this opportunity to inform and educate by example. Don't be difficult, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">simply</span> continue your green habits and hope that it rubs off on those around you. Be a good guest though!<br /><br />We hope you have relaxing, fun, <span style="font-weight: bold;">simple</span>, and green-focused traveling these next few months!<br /><br /></span>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-71153406616712379072010-04-21T18:39:00.000-07:002010-04-24T23:37:01.144-07:00April Tip: Going Green & the Small Things<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqngddNUgVgKgSQxnU4fgfT2zUEqwhW0FaNiq3kcEf6tH8goig6Za6jjEmlsq63kjeGQ5Fc28nEHX9GPAbT2A7Zg1adFB0tWKkBYHMXffZ2yblBW7cc03HYs6D3xrKfZFxOKttk39RD4jm/s1600/3774464484_79e4c43934.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqngddNUgVgKgSQxnU4fgfT2zUEqwhW0FaNiq3kcEf6tH8goig6Za6jjEmlsq63kjeGQ5Fc28nEHX9GPAbT2A7Zg1adFB0tWKkBYHMXffZ2yblBW7cc03HYs6D3xrKfZFxOKttk39RD4jm/s320/3774464484_79e4c43934.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462796655627350834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Going green IS<span style="font-weight: bold;"> simple</span>, but hard. It's about intentionally avoiding certain efficiencies and shortcuts that damage our environment and create unnecessary waste because it's the right thing to do. It's about giving something, your time or energy, for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">good of your community</span> and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">long term health</span> of the planet. We're all working to make the planet a greener place, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">going green</span> is about the incremental, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">small things</span>.<br /><br />Yes, that's a little bit of a preachy statement, but it's also very true. Recycling means taking the extra moment to set up a sortable trash recycling system, and it might mean an extra errand to take some bottles and cans to a recycling center. But you're <span style="font-weight: bold;">lessening</span> the volume of garbage in landfills and you're <span style="font-weight: bold;">reducing</span> the demand for raw materials in new goods.<br /><br />It takes effort to repair leaky faucet heads, or to adjust your sprinkler system to use less water. But your effort is rewarded by <span style="font-weight: bold;">saving money</span>.<br /><br />It might be walking back to the car because you forgot your reusable bags. It might be adding a reusable mug to the array of items you take to work everyday. But you're <span style="font-weight: bold;">trimming</span> just a few of the billions of plastic bags and cups that end up in landfills. It's the <span style="font-weight: bold;">little</span> things that count when you're going green.<br /><br />On this <span style="font-weight: bold;">Earth Day</span>, we want to encourage everyone (and ourselves) to embrace the small things, embrace the extra few seconds or minute, to build in the extra few moments in your day to make the environmentally conscious choice. So, remember to keep it<span style="font-weight: bold;"> simple</span> but also to keep it green.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Happy Earth Day! </span>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-84551489013832403022010-03-25T13:12:00.000-07:002010-03-25T20:38:51.634-07:00March Tip: Green-Up Your Work-SpaceHello fellow readers! First, let us quickly say, as always, we will have a TIP posted. But it will be at some point during the month not only at the beginning. Oh hail! the anticipation!<br /><br />Alright, now for your Going Green! Newsletter tip:<br /><br />Green-Up Your Work-Space!<br /><br />This may seem out of your hands, but this is not the case. If you work in corporate America, a hospital, or any large working environment walk around your office building and take note.<br />Ask:<br />-Are we using 100% post-consumer recycled print paper?<br />-Do we have recycling options? ie. plastic bottles, cans, paper, card-board<br />-What kind of light-installation are they using? Are LED light bulbs installed or equivalent too?<br />-How is the companies daily energy used? Do they reuse the air, heat, have they installed solar-panels?<br />-Check your buildings cafe, do they offer 100% post-consumer recycled coffee cups, "for here" mugs, plates, and silverware? More importantly, For your "to-go" needs, are they using Styrofoam?! Yikes!<br /><br />The above questions can be asked for anyone working in the Public or Private school system too. You can also add to the above questions:<br />-Is the cafeteria using trays or Styrofoam carriers?<br />-Do they encourage a Car-pooling system with-in faculty/staff, parents, and if it's high school the students?<br />-Do they encourage faculty, staff, and students to ride their bikes safely to and from school?<br />(The above two can obviously be used in the Corp. world too!)<br /><br />This may seem like a "not so" simple task. But when you take note and write down some greener options, then give it to your boss, human resources dept., or principal, people will listen because believe it or not others want to be a little greener too! Take leadership in your office to lead efforts to increase Car-pooling, recycling, etc.. It's a move, if you handle it right, you might actually cause someone in management to recognize your ability!<br /><br />We sincerely hope you have been encouraged to make a step, any step. We support you and remember it's truly simple to be green, even at work!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-12794270197840728492010-02-16T17:35:00.000-08:002012-01-17T06:09:47.773-08:00Donate your BLUE JEANS!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4J4JGQb5QP4ozP_PxBlk15UT9lQrfB8ZChz6U7Ts37vf5RXkvgQhurb4W-vB9mlnSN5MKYlcS8lPJ4ZkA92ftD4ruU2mlCattFXbF-GL8DvdWOHinDZkA1AOgcsujfKefa-nPBn5ncz5/s1600-h/893398704_17ca3b04c0_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4J4JGQb5QP4ozP_PxBlk15UT9lQrfB8ZChz6U7Ts37vf5RXkvgQhurb4W-vB9mlnSN5MKYlcS8lPJ4ZkA92ftD4ruU2mlCattFXbF-GL8DvdWOHinDZkA1AOgcsujfKefa-nPBn5ncz5/s200/893398704_17ca3b04c0_m.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439030402167216322" border="0" /></a><br />Hello!<br /><br />We've been studying up on different ways to help our community with effective green choices. Besides the conservation impact we automatically make with living with a green conscience. It's often nice to see an immediate, physical impact. So this month, or at least the rest of it, we challenge you to simply click on the link below and think about how you can take action.<br /><br />YOU, your family, you child's school (pubic or private), church, synagogue, mosque, or even just your local community center can create a group and donate...yes YOUR JEANS! We ALL have old jeans laying around and donating them is really the simplest task ever. When you donate your jeans to the organization below they recycle them into "UltraTouch" Natural Cotton Fiber Insulation and donate them to communities in need of new homes. Beautiful.<br /><br />We have seen many families loose their homes these past few years. We can be an integral part in helping our community, still being Eco-friendly, and supporting a new beginning in people's lives. Please give it a click, it really is quite simple!<br /><br />Where to donate:<br /><a href="http://www.cottonfrombluetogreen.org/">http://www.cottonfrombluetogreen.org/</a><br /><br />More about blue jean insulation:<br /><a href="http://www.green-talk.com/2009/01/02/recycle-your-old-blue-jeans/">http://www.green-talk.com/2009/01/02/recycle-your-old-blue-jeans/</a><br /><a href="http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/blue-jean-insulationhttp://">http://www.buildinggreentv.com/keywords/blue-jean-insulation</a><a href="http://planetgreen.discovery.com/fashion-beauty/donate-blue-jeans.htmlhttp://"><br />http://planetgreen.discovery.com/fashion-beauty/donate-blue-jeans.html</a>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-46321553877152899362010-01-08T17:36:00.000-08:002010-01-11T19:58:22.363-08:00JANUARY TIP: Carpooling<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KaAfehEKjgFu9f3cmX2aXVJaRjsrt4nGrjh51Ra5d5wlpRDViicSjSqJT4RQ6vYbUfosUC9qmQ6DQyLuN_G9QL4TqgPtIOs963fG0jxmUGAqlElqbZdVm-4wn3tZKMCaDOm8DjkACpPT/s1600-h/3427711340_d6899d9606_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KaAfehEKjgFu9f3cmX2aXVJaRjsrt4nGrjh51Ra5d5wlpRDViicSjSqJT4RQ6vYbUfosUC9qmQ6DQyLuN_G9QL4TqgPtIOs963fG0jxmUGAqlElqbZdVm-4wn3tZKMCaDOm8DjkACpPT/s320/3427711340_d6899d9606_m.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425662441709647010" border="0" /></a>First, let us say we are sorry for the late post. It has been a busy beginning to the new year for us and we feel terrible just now getting to our lovely, simple, green tip for the month!<br /><br />With that said: Let's talk being "GREEN" in this new year! Now in passing, we have mentioned the word..."Car-pooling". But this month, or the rest of the year for that lovely matter, we REALLY want you to re-consider your driving options.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />The Benefits of Carpooling:</span><br /><ul><li>Save money on gas!</li><li>Make new friends, or grow in relationships you already have at work, school, church, etc..</li><li>Keep the mileage, and the cost of maintenance, low on your car.</li><li>Lower the population of traffic during rush hour.</li><li>Less exhaust in the air=less pollution that you and your little ones have to inhale.</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Facts on Carpooling:</span><br /><ul class="list"><li>A small car with a 1.6 liter engine <a itxtdid="16614874" target="_blank" href="http://www.ehow.com/facts_5783807_car-pooling.html#" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted darkgreen ! important; font-weight: normal ! important; font-size: 100% ! important; text-decoration: none ! important; padding-bottom: 0px ! important; color: darkgreen ! important; background-color: transparent ! important; background-image: none; padding-top: 0pt; padding-right: 0pt; padding-left: 0pt;" classname="iAs" class="iAs"><nobr style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; color: darkgreen;" id="itxt_nobr_3_0"></nobr></a>creates almost 1/2 pound of carbon dioxide for every 1/2 mile it travels. </li><li><p>Cutting a 20 mile trip out of your schedule each week can reduce your global warming pollution by more than 1,200 pounds a year and save you over $100 in gas expenses.</p> <p> </p></li><li><p>A regular rush-hour driver wastes an average of 99 gallons of gasoline a year due to traffic. The average cost of the time lost in rush hour traffic is $1,160 per person.</p></li><li><p>100 carpooling people can prevent 1,320 pounds of carbon monoxide and 2,376,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere in a single year. </p></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />How to get connected with your local Carpool group:</span><br />a. Ask around at work, church, neighbors, and see if there is a group already set-up.<br />b. Create a group if there is not one.<br />c. See the links below!<br />This article gives numerous links to different Carpooling groups in Los Angeles, CA<a href="http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/business/25__Resources_for_Carpooling_LA.htmlhttp://"><br />http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/business/25__Resources_for_Carpooling_LA.html</a><br /><br />A link specifically for Atlanta, Ga natives:<a href="https://www.myridesmart.com/html/index.htm"><br />https://www.myridesmart.com/html/index.htm</a><br /><br />For many other cities, states, and counties:<br /><a href="http://www.roadsharing.com/">http://www.roadsharing.com/</a><br /><br />We hope this has encouraged you to revisit the world of Car-pooling! We promise it want disappoint! Have a happy GREEN month!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-90588293815402352612009-12-07T17:13:00.000-08:002009-12-07T21:22:39.551-08:00December Tip: Reusable Wrapping!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYk9QGh_yJduKaFRb78UtO1mHEhrHA5ZNIpFV9KwHrCJ12m1ySzErHPJ5dejDH1I0TltY5eYP5ZsUOy_t4_Ne_DeYaK2_63YLRxLUe5oYdB3ZHMCvBjySw3Wrk4hQ0cYF3iLcihf1tK_Pi/s1600-h/ReusableWrapping.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYk9QGh_yJduKaFRb78UtO1mHEhrHA5ZNIpFV9KwHrCJ12m1ySzErHPJ5dejDH1I0TltY5eYP5ZsUOy_t4_Ne_DeYaK2_63YLRxLUe5oYdB3ZHMCvBjySw3Wrk4hQ0cYF3iLcihf1tK_Pi/s320/ReusableWrapping.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412728313675488354" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Happy Holidays everyone!<br /><br />We had the delightful experience of participating, first-hand, with our church's "Alternative Christmas Market" this past Sunday. The Green Team hosted a free, reusable material wrapping table. We had a blast! People really gravitated to the reusable and cute options we provided.<br />I was inspired (and motivated) to put away any other tip this month and encourage you to do this simple, and very economically sound wrapping choice!<br /><br />Here are some tips on how YOU can be more Eco-friendly with your wrapping choice this season!<br /><br />-Looking around your home, do you have extra fabric laying around? Use it for a more unique ribbon choice. Just cut, rip, and wrap.<br /><br />-Do you have brown bags or extra gift bags laying around? Cut them out until they are flat and use them as your wrapping paper. Make sure to use strong tape; those bags can be pretty tough.<br /><br />-This is my favorite part, decorating! Do you have stamps, markers, crayons, stickers? Really anything you want to decorate the wrapping paper with use it. It's fun and personable.<br />Here's a fun idea: <a href="http://www.adelle.com.au/potato-stamp-christmas-cards/http://">http://www.adelle.com.au/potato-stamp-christmas-cards/</a><br /><br />-Make sure to use your extra tissue paper for those delicate gifts (i.e. jewelry). Simply wrap the tissue around and use the fabric you cut and, poof, you have a unique wrapping design!<br /><br />There really are TONS of options to use for your gifting wrapping adventures. The key is to use what you already have! Having fun with, and remember, you don't have to use traditional Christmas colors. Keep it simple! Being "green" is often times just conserving and using what you have, what better time to do this then the holidays?<br /><br />We really hope this has inspired you to be more innovative with your gift wrapping!<br /><br />Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Kwanzaa!!!!!<br />and....have a Happy "GREEN" New Year!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-52533119362389171162009-11-02T11:45:00.000-08:002009-11-04T19:32:52.631-08:00November Tip: Composting!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHn-oo2GBfydM5fVWRxpOxBQZthpW4L1oifndTPZN975Te6btNQ-zRtrlnEI5s_RphjjL_-SXq3bzfSw5myH8iSRLn02IRXG7wDZnXcfm_swq5ArNvqtKSY_uAavUxjTzkrII7oEObLDHB/s1600-h/1220490391_b3f09a4e78.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHn-oo2GBfydM5fVWRxpOxBQZthpW4L1oifndTPZN975Te6btNQ-zRtrlnEI5s_RphjjL_-SXq3bzfSw5myH8iSRLn02IRXG7wDZnXcfm_swq5ArNvqtKSY_uAavUxjTzkrII7oEObLDHB/s320/1220490391_b3f09a4e78.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400431128597981618" border="0" /></a>Yep, it's a notion at GOING GREEN! we haven't really touched on much. But composting your organic waste can be just as important as recycling other products. We go through so much food in ONE DAY. It is quite bizarre how much food we, as Americans, use. So why not make good use of what's left? We feel this topic is even more crucial with all the excess food our holiday dinners consist of, and a simple step with some benefits to try out as we enter this chaotic season.<br /><br />Below is a link to an article that shares how San Fransisco has made Food Recycling a law and how the community has embraced it with open arms. A very encouraging read.<br /><a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=113969321">http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=113969321</a><br /><br />*So how about all of us who don't live in San Fransisco? (Well, kind-of bummed since it's such a beautiful city!). Here are some tips, also from the article, that can shed some light on this mysterious "Composting Tip". Much simpler then it may seem!*<br /><br /><strong>Bin:</strong> Keep food waste in a bin with a ventilated lid in your kitchen; then mix it with yard waste and soil in a compost bin outside. After several months, the broken-down concoction can be returned to the garden or the ground.<br /><br /><strong>Foods:</strong> First-time composters should stick to innocuous items such as coffee grounds, tea bags, vegetable and fruit scraps and corn husks. Greasy foods, dairy products, meat scraps and bones will make the pile stink and could attract critters.<br /><br /><strong>Non-foods:</strong> Incorporate yard waste into the pile; grass clippings, leaves, shrub waste and wood chips work well. A mixture of wet and dry items will help the pile break down faster.<br /><br /><strong>Maintenance:</strong> To thrive and decompose, a compost pile requires oxygen and a good carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Periodically mixing up the compost with a shovel, adding shredded cardboard to the pile and making sure the bin gets adequate ventilation can help in these two areas.<br /><br /><strong>Temperature:</strong> Compost decomposes best when it's between 90 and 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Retain heat by keeping your pile in the sun. Purchase a black compost bin or buy an insulation jacket for your bin.<br /><br />Some communities, maybe yours, have systems like San Francisco's. Visit <a href="http://www.findacomposter.com/">http://www.findacomposter.com/</a> to find service providers in your area.<br /><br />Enjoy and have a Happy "green" Thanksgiving! We're very thankful for YOU!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-40756025989589248022009-10-05T21:19:00.000-07:002009-10-05T21:44:10.666-07:00October Tip: Wide Open Spaces<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWb44Z6XAwyEGtbEUKXHxrLnByf-5Eymf44W0PsT5bsX6AsUbfgSMGYSLuzJaLqaTrdhqsgFNPOGlAqUx9phhDnSxpyl9TOLarjaV4P7RnAPzI5oH3fw7N9hqqxEsjLjaXKfEHFZ_khw3/s1600-h/1801745620_e8a5090fe5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWb44Z6XAwyEGtbEUKXHxrLnByf-5Eymf44W0PsT5bsX6AsUbfgSMGYSLuzJaLqaTrdhqsgFNPOGlAqUx9phhDnSxpyl9TOLarjaV4P7RnAPzI5oH3fw7N9hqqxEsjLjaXKfEHFZ_khw3/s320/1801745620_e8a5090fe5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389341177410490530" border="0" /></a>As Ken Burns reminded us with his<a href="http://www.pbs.org/nationalparks/"> latest documentary</a> (watch it <a href="http://www.pbs.org/nationalparks/watch-video/#872">here</a> until October 9th!), America is unique. We invented the idea that we should set aside large tracts of beautiful wilderness, entrust this land into the public trust for, as the gate at Yellowstone National Park says, "<span style="font-weight: bold;">The Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.</span>" It's something we take for granted now, but the efforts of our forefathers to set aside millions of acres of land for the enjoyment of the people and the protection of the natural resources and wildlife in the park can't be honored enough. And part of going green is contributing to the preservation of our wild spaces. It's time to get involved in protecting the undeveloped places in your area.<br /><br />There are two pain-free ways you can help:<br /><ul><li>Visit the parks. Pay the entrance fees. Buy the season passes for state and city parks. These funds keep the parks running, give the park managers budget flexibility to make improvements to the parks. And the investment is a small one that will revive and enrich your life.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpd6Xc0L4K7OcZI3V8_VGpVrzFyPGEBuuF2dDyvA_yblF3I349Gs7m2Cj3nHRpEiNHYPQTWSgGNvk3cetssCYxtH4kljSEjj_PIvqtFOLIokT8FuUdhhSbMt1iWVgdp00-N0PeEdy998mR/s1600-h/2977442015_50bb57240e.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpd6Xc0L4K7OcZI3V8_VGpVrzFyPGEBuuF2dDyvA_yblF3I349Gs7m2Cj3nHRpEiNHYPQTWSgGNvk3cetssCYxtH4kljSEjj_PIvqtFOLIokT8FuUdhhSbMt1iWVgdp00-N0PeEdy998mR/s320/2977442015_50bb57240e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5389338187766511826" border="0" /></a></li></ul><ul><li>Donate your time and energy to the parks. Groups like the Sierra Club, the <a href="http://www.yosemitefund.org/nationalparks/index.cfm">Yosemite Fund</a> (which fights to preserve what could be America's most majestic park) and others work to protect the green places. Consider <a href="http://action.sierraclub.org/site/PageServer?pagename=WildPlaces&JServSessionIdr002=n2htfwe1q1.app225a">Sponsoring a Wild Place</a> with the Sierra Club. Or visit your <span style="font-weight: bold;">local </span>or<span style="font-weight: bold;"> state</span> park and volunteer some time for a trail clean-up or some other preservation activity.</li></ul><br />As you take the steps to lend greater support to the wild places in your area, allow the words of John Muir to encourage your effort: "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul alike</span>."GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-34365120705738241572009-09-01T08:57:00.000-07:002009-09-01T12:26:47.154-07:00September Tip - 3 Random Items to Recycle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawh3Q3V5OJT2IfovqFsfIWoIUXOjABnYRV-tb9tBVdO-UaX8mnsxjgO7od7YrUsLyssrzY4NhCwk7C6lwDgGMKa7o91wF9WsOFSC38sTHqP02fjpi8mqjuQzUYjBYRuJjosOLFFFwc2qI/s1600-h/2071722268_569cecac79_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawh3Q3V5OJT2IfovqFsfIWoIUXOjABnYRV-tb9tBVdO-UaX8mnsxjgO7od7YrUsLyssrzY4NhCwk7C6lwDgGMKa7o91wF9WsOFSC38sTHqP02fjpi8mqjuQzUYjBYRuJjosOLFFFwc2qI/s200/2071722268_569cecac79_m.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376544788556557170" border="0" /></a>Well HELLO and welcome to September! September ... where the fall air teases us, the seasonal drinks are showing up on coffee shop menus, and the thoughts of camping fills the air! Yes fall is slowly approaching. This is your favorite (not to boast) blogger's, favorite time of the year! It is also a season of change. The color, the weather, switching from shorts to pants. Well, why not make another change in your fall list. Let's continue in our endeavor to recycle MORE.<br /><br />We have 3, yes 3 simple items you CAN recycle. Let's pin the category of "Oh, I totally forgot about those", scenario.<br /><br />1. Did you know: Your card board rolls from your toilet paper can be recycled? But of course! They are cardboard! So instead of tossing the roll into your bathroom trash. Put them aside and toss them into your recycling bin.<br /><br />2. Did you know: Your cereal boxes, breakfast bar boxes, and pretty much ANY thing that comes in a nice packaged box, can, but of course be recycled. The dye from the color on the boxes does not matter. Instead of seeing your lovely Cheerios come to an end, and sadly tossing them into your trash. Simply break the box down, and toss them in your recycling bin.<br /><br />3. Did you know: Your empty egg cartons can be recycled. This may not be new information to most of you. But it is one of those items we toss in the trash often with out remembering, "Oh yeah, I should recycle this?!".<br /><br />3 simple items helping you get the ball rolling on recycling more, we think that's manageable. Once you start recycling, you'll never want to go back. It really is simple to start recycling!<br />Here are some links to guide you to the closest recycling center:<br /><a href="http://earth911.com/">http://earth911.com/</a><br /><a href="http://www.nrc-recycle.org/">http://www.nrc-recycle.org/</a><br /><a href="http://myecoville.com/us/ga/home">http://myecoville.com/us/ga/home</a> (For our Georgia readers!)<br /><br />Have a refreshingly GREEN month!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-64277550380224010182009-07-30T11:41:00.000-07:002009-07-30T18:41:59.208-07:00"Why so sad VHS tapes?"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfdg13fuOEWJlj2zytYH264z1TiL2lkSgcnbCu9PVDat9n6KKQIoBZC6gAoYzrTrJN0z2h7ZfJ7rvKxQEdNDAqVGxNW-wGuxlgT1LKG52BwWJKUHDHyiUuaAVB5X3tvrLU35DTYPqBbb0/s1600-h/2610652339_8d56893dd1_m-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfdg13fuOEWJlj2zytYH264z1TiL2lkSgcnbCu9PVDat9n6KKQIoBZC6gAoYzrTrJN0z2h7ZfJ7rvKxQEdNDAqVGxNW-wGuxlgT1LKG52BwWJKUHDHyiUuaAVB5X3tvrLU35DTYPqBbb0/s320/2610652339_8d56893dd1_m-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364430764745459474" border="0" /></a>We are sure many of you, may be faced with the same dilemma: What am I going to do with my VHS tapes?!!!! We are in the same boat. We actually have one storage container filled to the rim with sad VHS tapes, that will probably never be watched again. But we are not going to throw them away! So they just sit there, starring at us.<br /><br />Well, we have a few new and probably older tips they may help you separate yourself from your beloved tapes once and for all.<br /><br />These ideas are <span style="font-weight: bold;">simple</span>, easy, fun, and of course recyclable!<br /><br />- There are few new companies that will be happy to take your VHS and either convert it to a DVD, recycle the tape/plastic/etc., or use the actual tape for another resource. This is the best way of knowing your tapes will be recycled! Here's their links:<br /><a href="http://www.greendisk.com/gdsite/Default.aspx">http://www.greendisk.com/gdsite/Default.aspx</a><br /><a href="http://www.actrecycling.org/donations/tapes.asp">http://www.actrecycling.org/donations/tapes.asp</a><br /><br />- Remember the Library?! Yep, your local free, book, book on tape, VHS, and DVD source that unfortunately many of us don't use as often. They gladly take donated tapes to use and check-out to people...for FREE.<br /><br />- Have a good educational film, documentary, and/or historical film (i.e. JFK, Schindler's List, The Story of Anne Frank, Saving Private Ryan, The Last of the Mohicans (I watched that film a ton in 11th grade!) etc.? Many pubic High Schools are more then happy to take a look at your films for donation. History teachers love this stuff!<br /><br />- Don't forget your local Salvation Army, Goodwill, or any other thrift store. They are always there for your donation.<br /><br />* Remember not everyone has a DVD player, some folks can't afford it and go to the public library and/or thrift stores for a good deal. So help them out with your awesome collection of let's say maybe Rocky.*<br /><br />Remember, less is more! Giving back will also help your sad but unwanted cluttered area of VHS tapes go to a good home. It's a simple step!<br /><br />Have a great, simple, GREEN month!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-50569381263680874202009-07-06T09:40:00.000-07:002009-07-06T13:25:40.823-07:00JULY TIP: Green Up Your Trash!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbeaUgHQnrIo29e5XmKbQoxt8GrMcniCebKRatC_bp2NMLAgunuzhe40rIRsR_2sYwwqg0Hl7fGnXIl6022axH8agWb9hDomO3YOnKNzZOZVj8kEfVzvS5xOKTyQqLjwmS6dfs15YoM8A/s1600-h/402857934_dd26d9a715.jpg"><img style="margin: 2pt 2pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 221px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIbeaUgHQnrIo29e5XmKbQoxt8GrMcniCebKRatC_bp2NMLAgunuzhe40rIRsR_2sYwwqg0Hl7fGnXIl6022axH8agWb9hDomO3YOnKNzZOZVj8kEfVzvS5xOKTyQqLjwmS6dfs15YoM8A/s320/402857934_dd26d9a715.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355441013324292562" border="0" /></a><br />So, you've taken the step to eliminate plastic shopping bags (YAY you!) and have a new found love for reusable bags. Now it's time to take an important next step in reducing your plastic bag usage: your trash can liners.<br /><br />Reducing the number of plastic bags we use within the average American household is between 300 to 700 plastic bags a year. And these bags are essentially new plastic pouring into our waste management system.<br /><br />Why not make the switch to bags made of plastic already in the waste cycle? Most recycled trash bags are also<span style="font-weight: bold;"> bio-degradable</span> and will decompose in a landfill within 2 years. For comparison, a trash bag can often take decades to break down if it's not constructed with bio-degradable materials.<br /><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5wC1A9MUmle2xtr5TY6Vu3UlMpKMlD7Zdqq1RKq99bYqrq5DrHy2ravyJdBPKr12a7j7uhfp5kKjk3DaJRL1remQzW1pJUsqMxY979URU_R4FVBBnJ4srN_KRJlHUKRgLKUiGrAIJIxa/s1600-h/GoGreen+Bags.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5wC1A9MUmle2xtr5TY6Vu3UlMpKMlD7Zdqq1RKq99bYqrq5DrHy2ravyJdBPKr12a7j7uhfp5kKjk3DaJRL1remQzW1pJUsqMxY979URU_R4FVBBnJ4srN_KRJlHUKRgLKUiGrAIJIxa/s320/GoGreen+Bags.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355441697466344674" border="0" /></a>It's a<span style="font-weight: bold;"> simple</span> switch that will pay big dividends in the landfill.<br /><br />Here are some brands to look out for:<br /><a href="http://www.perfgogreen.com/products.html">http://www.perfgogreen.com/products.html</a> - You can currently find these in any CVS Store, Walgreens, amazon.com, drugstore.com, Sprouts Farmer's Market (see site for other locations) This brand also carries mini-doggie bags too!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/search/search_results.jsp?oss=1&removeAllFacets=true&addFacet=SRCH:Earth%20Essentials">http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/search/search_results.jsp?oss=1&removeAllFacets=true&addFacet=SRCH:Earth%20Essential</a><a href="http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/search/search_results.jsp?oss=1&removeAllFacets=true&addFacet=SRCH:Earth%20Essentials">s</a> - A big "shout out" to CVS for creating a new line called Earth Essentials. Many new, earth-friendly, recycled material, products. Including TRASH BAGS!, as well as plates, paper towels, etc..<br /><a href="http://www.seventhgeneration.com/Recycled-Garbage-Bags"><br />http://www.seventhgeneration.com/Recycled-Garbage-Bags</a> - You find this brand in some Targets, Whole foods, etc.. See site for other locations.<br /><br />-Please search your local grocery stores, pharmacy's, etc. for these products or others that are similar that they may carry.<br /><br />*Most importantly, please think before you actually throw-away. Ask yourself..."Can this be recycled?" The answer is probably yes! Recycling your trash is always the first priority.<br />BUT if it needs to be thrown away, have a good recycled, bio-degradable bag to make-up for the waste!*<br /><br />We hope this tip helps you stay a little more GREEN SIMPLY!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-82203385568832495702009-05-31T18:34:00.002-07:002009-06-01T21:04:38.372-07:00JUNE TIP: A Myth Buster - Recycled Toilet Paper<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd8yVGOm6MQtfgLLHuXZ0zbiuhPjh0G6tuvwtCJlaSprcy-Rm4rSTbVdTTftn-zt_06qI0mLvd59SStegPsaUzrUlvRj1e1XkK6G02p9U7JIf33EITSqjk5MQAWroCMxXzMgx-n4I7tI4V/s1600-h/toilet_paper_1_142319.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd8yVGOm6MQtfgLLHuXZ0zbiuhPjh0G6tuvwtCJlaSprcy-Rm4rSTbVdTTftn-zt_06qI0mLvd59SStegPsaUzrUlvRj1e1XkK6G02p9U7JIf33EITSqjk5MQAWroCMxXzMgx-n4I7tI4V/s320/toilet_paper_1_142319.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342571476387033410" border="0" /></a><br />There seems to be a silly notion going around that recycled toilet paper is made from well...recycled toilet paper. This is VERY far from the truth. It is, in fact, just reused paper of a non-toilet origin.<br /><br />Tissue paper is big business: The global tissue industry is worth over $30 billion dollars annually, and has grown by nearly 4% per year in the past decade. Since about 270,000 trees are flushed down the drain or end up as garbage all over the world, we can take the simple step of using recycled tissue paper and do our part to cut down on the environmental impact.<br /><br />There are many varieties of recycled paper our there and you can try different brands to discover which you like most. You can review the different brands and their recycled content <a href="http://www.nrdc.org/land/forests/gtissue.asp">here. </a><br /><br />This is a small change that can make a huge difference in your environmental footprint. Take the extra step, make a small change and it will be a painless transition.GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-24539434898881334882009-05-05T10:48:00.000-07:002009-05-11T10:56:34.731-07:00MAY TIP: Building Your Own Herb Garden<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZlU91STFpPOsCYaXwc5gUPZJu9S3rrRvnqTv3qxWt9yiwiza3OMu1aUtVy6oY2nSNOtmzeTUw2pq2Ad7s8LkdpqzyYc_ilVSfsqBfxuvsFegdstivrGqK8s1qLWaF4eTojAzmhVZlrbR/s1600-h/006_19A.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZlU91STFpPOsCYaXwc5gUPZJu9S3rrRvnqTv3qxWt9yiwiza3OMu1aUtVy6oY2nSNOtmzeTUw2pq2Ad7s8LkdpqzyYc_ilVSfsqBfxuvsFegdstivrGqK8s1qLWaF4eTojAzmhVZlrbR/s320/006_19A.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332404926750450578" border="0" /></a>Spring is here and this is the prime time to plant, sow, or seed. It's also a timely occasion to plant your very own herb garden! There are many reasons why having an herb garden is Eco-friendly, but it is also an economically sound endeavor as well. Having your own herb garden saves you from having to buy random fresh herbs for that one dish (an expensive add-on to any grocery trip), and then have them go bad just before you need them again. Not having a green thumb is no excuse for not having a simple, beautiful herb garden. We can guarantee that it will be easy, fun, and satisfying.<br /><br />Below is the play-by-play on how to start one:<br /><br />1. Make a list of what herbs you use the most and pick one vegetable or fruit to go along with it.<br />2. Go to your balcony, backyard, or porch and scope out the best spots for your pots. Nothing super-shady and super-sunny either. You'll need a spot that gets at least 5 hours of sunlight a day.<br />3. Go to a Home Depot, Lowe's, or any garden supply store and head over to the garden area. They usually have huge sections devoted to herbs, especially in the spring. Load up on what you'll actually use. Make sure to read the planting directions for each herb so you get the proper planters or pots.<br />4. Head to the pot section, and depending on your living arrangements, buy the pots or planters that best fit your growing space and the herbs you've chosen.<br />5. Get some organic soil, available in most garden departments. Ask an employee to help you decide what best soil fits your growing space.<br />6. Go home and start planting. Be sure to follow the spacing instructions or you could be in for an unwieldy herb forest.<br />7.Make sure to regularly water your herbs. You'll be amazed how much these little plants will yield. You can package them up for neighbors and friends when they visit and you'll be surprised how much more flavor they add to the simplest dishes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBduh3rs8BwFJXZC7FtQApHwfGdcMm9H1kPAyo-KfbdVApJt_Ddlf-bw-r2vLV8VcVWh2kiqRvJvs__hFSfJnsL7SlWQxe3RNOPJWiozdpqf4iixQqx3d0vwh54ba1gWlFXzHH5Np0rG5G/s1600-h/002_23A.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBduh3rs8BwFJXZC7FtQApHwfGdcMm9H1kPAyo-KfbdVApJt_Ddlf-bw-r2vLV8VcVWh2kiqRvJvs__hFSfJnsL7SlWQxe3RNOPJWiozdpqf4iixQqx3d0vwh54ba1gWlFXzHH5Np0rG5G/s200/002_23A.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332487675931024386" border="0" /></a>We hope you enjoy this simple tip! Have a great green May month!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-47221040902740490422009-04-01T15:39:00.000-07:002009-04-04T18:48:34.149-07:00APRIL TIP: A "Green" Lunch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuFPzhKVNVwX_MVvTG7ti4oMiinOAPCWCEhytu2E2XSryM9KSKKitvYtkx5uAcIV0E5NtgC-CdesrgXdS5lIRUenYAWUsPUxFAs06ZGf_C1I8VLGITkKFjs9m53SJolJon4A14fbcxczH/s1600-h/447631042_7c964fd389.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimuFPzhKVNVwX_MVvTG7ti4oMiinOAPCWCEhytu2E2XSryM9KSKKitvYtkx5uAcIV0E5NtgC-CdesrgXdS5lIRUenYAWUsPUxFAs06ZGf_C1I8VLGITkKFjs9m53SJolJon4A14fbcxczH/s320/447631042_7c964fd389.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320910031705746978" border="0" /></a>When you're at work, school, or even meeting a friend for lunch, have you ever thought: "How can I make this meal more 'green'?" Not literally, well unless your'e enjoying a nice salad. But there are very easy, practical ways you can be more green with your daily lunch - simply.<br /><br />Below are <span style="font-weight: bold;">simple tips</span> on how you can make a change in your daily routine that can be a positive effect on the environment around you.<br /><br /><ul><li>Use a reusable lunch carrier (cloth bag, lunchbox), not disposable bags</li><li>Plan ahead and use reusable containers, not plastic wrap, foil or Styrofoam</li><li>Buy a reusable mug or glass for drinks NO single-use cartons or cans</li><li>CLOTH NAPKIN to wash and re-use. Skip the paper napkins</li><li>Bring a set of silverware to work to wash and re-use and pass on the plastic forks and spoons.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">*A Few Extra Tips*</span><br /><br />If your meeting a friend for lunch try bringing your lunch from home and doing a picnic using the tips above.<br /><br />Consider buying a <a href="http://bentolunchbox.com/">Bento Box</a>, a Japanese-style lunch box that has great compartments in which you can make a healthy meal every day and build some dietary consistency into your life. Plus, it's a fun, relaxing, economically sound alternative to the cafe and fast food lunches and a lot more friendly to the environment.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lunch Waste Facts:</span><br /><ul><li>ALUMINUM FOIL: More than 20 million Hershey's kisses are wrapped with 133 square miles of foil every day.</li><li>ALUMINUM AND TIN CANS: In the time it takes you to read this sentence, more than 50,000 12-oz. aluminum cans were made.</li><li>BANANA AND ORANGE PEELS: Food debris in a landfill decompose only 25% in the first 15 years (try composting or vermi-culture!)</li><li>JUICE BOXES: Most inorganic trash retains its weight, volume, and form for at least four decades.</li><li>PAPER BAGS AND NAPKINS: It is estimated that 17 trees are cut down for every ton of non-recycled paper.</li><li>PLASTIC BOTTLES, FORKS, WRAP: U.S. citizens discard 2-1/2 million plastic bottles every hour.</li><li>STYROFOAM: U.S. citizens throw away 25 billion Styrofoam cups every year.</li></ul>*Also, see our September 2008 tip: Say No to Styrofoam*<br /><br /><br />Hope this encourages you to think about what your packing for lunch and making it a little more GREEN, simply!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-21259518278492901062009-03-02T15:12:00.000-08:002009-03-03T10:24:35.524-08:00MARCH TIP: Plant a Tree!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTmSGkdPcGyqAMSMcV4y20PqmmMMVykq-bvs5mdV7bKsRHOL8HDT9J5wautw6IF49iGL_iC2Bt6md1H-9gVyXKw1Gkhi1e0oD3KAbEQ2TLENt5wZaVUqDcOLwWfpK_0WkYfeoUeSb-s-o/s1600-h/March09+TREE.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTmSGkdPcGyqAMSMcV4y20PqmmMMVykq-bvs5mdV7bKsRHOL8HDT9J5wautw6IF49iGL_iC2Bt6md1H-9gVyXKw1Gkhi1e0oD3KAbEQ2TLENt5wZaVUqDcOLwWfpK_0WkYfeoUeSb-s-o/s200/March09+TREE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309026568520252754" border="0" /></a>It is March and the first sitings of planting in your yard, garden, or flower bed are on the horizon.<br />With that said we are going to encourage you to plant a TREE!<br />A very simple step to helping our planet.<br /><br />Here are some reasons why planting a tree is a GREAT idea:<br /><br />-Trees can increase your property value, aka they look pretty.<br />-They create a sound barrier<br />-It's a free way to cool your home. Thus reducing your need for air-conditioning and more so your demand on pollution-causing power plants.<br />-Trees eat carbon dioxide, a huge greenhouse gas. The American Forestry Association states if every American family planted a single new tree, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere would be reduced by as much as a billion pounds a year.<br />-If you live in L.A. you can even get a FREE tree to plant from the city of Los Angeles. Just email with your name, address, and phone number with the subject line "Request for a tree" to:<br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/milliontrees@hbteam.com">milliontrees@hbteam.com</a> also for you L.A. folks see <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.lawp.com">www.lawp.com</a>.<br /><br />So give it a shot, and if you rent look into your local community, public, state, or even National parks for planting opportunities. You often can have it dedicated in your name or a loved one. They would love your help!<br /><br />A TREE, what a simple step to help the environment!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0n24n_uMzBO83wLjfw400DTDLuyRScsG4DxQwZwtloGLRhRwGJTSLtu2gjKnVtYwQZasKTNlswjzj7UmKivMwovb8Pqi5FE1uhuyyNY2Le1uGq9bQHWxkD_MQAcjr6NZhJ0IuHw_0Y2n/s1600-h/treesbig3.09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0n24n_uMzBO83wLjfw400DTDLuyRScsG4DxQwZwtloGLRhRwGJTSLtu2gjKnVtYwQZasKTNlswjzj7UmKivMwovb8Pqi5FE1uhuyyNY2Le1uGq9bQHWxkD_MQAcjr6NZhJ0IuHw_0Y2n/s320/treesbig3.09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309027142140836882" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(36, 36, 36);font-family:Arial;font-size:9;" > </span>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-41238737053466602282009-02-03T15:20:00.000-08:002009-02-04T08:02:58.244-08:00FEBRUARY TIP: Green Candlelight<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1WRLk69_Kh-9iwYV8aKxFfBZyDGPARMW7v6RCSN-I3uMnOfwfXZsYYRx7xkp-fTeShhT9DpNX6aG7AuaDVZ3KrGMNjurcaKXhsLMUgq6SU3ifnJkF7ijPW-sYE1WEgStThRT9fhIgCNeJ/s1600-h/soy+candle+2.09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1WRLk69_Kh-9iwYV8aKxFfBZyDGPARMW7v6RCSN-I3uMnOfwfXZsYYRx7xkp-fTeShhT9DpNX6aG7AuaDVZ3KrGMNjurcaKXhsLMUgq6SU3ifnJkF7ijPW-sYE1WEgStThRT9fhIgCNeJ/s200/soy+candle+2.09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298965994951907250" border="0" /></a>We love candles, the warm light, the fragrance, and the fact that they don't require flipping a switch. Candles are the ultimate green light source. But there are some features in the candles many of us own that you should be aware of.<br /><br />First, many candles are made with paraffin, a petroleum by-product that creates the black soot in the smoke when you blow a candle out. Second, many candle wicks contain metals in the wicks such as lead and aluminum, though the EPA outlawed most lead content in candles a few years ago, many candles still carry the lead in the wick.<br /><br />So what should you look for when you're candle shopping?<br />Soy Candles are a great option, first because they're made with a renewable resource and burn more cleanly, but also because soybeans are a major crop in the US and any time you buy Soy, you're most likely supporting an American farmer, and reducing yet another source of income for petrol companies. You should also look for candles that have metal-free wicks to protect your family and the air in your home from toxins.<br /><br />Some stores that carry Eco-friendly candles: Target, <a href="http://newportcandles.com/">http://newportcandles.com/</a>, Yankee Candle's New brand "Beanswax" 100% soy wax, and many others are starting to produce soy candles.<br /><br />So during Valentines Day, make sure your romancing with an more Eco-friendly candle. It's a small, simple, smelling-good green choice.<br /><br /> Have a Happy Green Valentine's Day!!!!<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSf-Cx1vQ36_PfRXsu9NPhOqgCpNa-Cc0AUyx0gJyNnpfd-QFLCRI8TfSBkSObF-7cWejFtlw4tGB8JAT0xRo3j9yyFndnkl5KimwuO1OR7-pdv23258TwqxiVGxQjyxCf64TIvXIMrVM/s1600-h/soy+heart+candle2.09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSf-Cx1vQ36_PfRXsu9NPhOqgCpNa-Cc0AUyx0gJyNnpfd-QFLCRI8TfSBkSObF-7cWejFtlw4tGB8JAT0xRo3j9yyFndnkl5KimwuO1OR7-pdv23258TwqxiVGxQjyxCf64TIvXIMrVM/s200/soy+heart+candle2.09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298965464069157282" border="0" /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></a></div>GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-34412921114048126802009-01-06T13:39:00.000-08:002009-01-07T07:53:03.145-08:00JANUARY TIP: "For Here Please"Happy New Year! It's 2009, the beginning of a brand spanking new year. It's always a little exciting to know you can renew a vision, start a new goal, or refocus on a current one all over again with out restrictions. We are going to be doing the same. As our blog states "A quick monthly read that helps you take small steps to lessen your environmental impact-...SIMPLY," with "simply" being the operative word, we are going to strive to stay in the spirit of our theme. Some may sound like "recycled" tips, but sometimes being given so many tips at once can get overwhelming and/or brushed to the side. We are hoping to bring that romance of each tip back into your lives.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyNDs79l3EilFtEBmKgqEqoSlVJqu5ih1sBgf-etxoQMvVKMf492_oy3fkVv14swGZdKdIpqDRC9RETQnYhyphenhyphenp8VUrwnJPFl45uhxGDT2j4z3L7_SDYpDdtg_CO-nsgHitzhGE_hdzNPYm/s1600-h/Jan.Tip+09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyNDs79l3EilFtEBmKgqEqoSlVJqu5ih1sBgf-etxoQMvVKMf492_oy3fkVv14swGZdKdIpqDRC9RETQnYhyphenhyphenp8VUrwnJPFl45uhxGDT2j4z3L7_SDYpDdtg_CO-nsgHitzhGE_hdzNPYm/s320/Jan.Tip+09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288310389309714738" border="0" /></a>TIP:<br />This tip is for the almost 90% of our readers whom are current coffee house patrons, us included. While visiting your local coffee establishment is just dandy, it CAN be wasteful. Remember this saying: "for here please". For example, are you bringing along your laptop, book, a pen/pencil and pad ready for amazing artistic inspiration to come into play? Or are you visiting a friend for a long overdue conversation, or some other reason?.... Please remember to ask for your drink to be "for here please". They will use there in-house mugs, AND plates for your beloved pastry. You usually save about 10% off your bill because more and more places are encouraging this and give discounts. Just think of it as a sales-tax discount. Not too shabby. So whether your in a coffee house or tea house, don't be afraid to say "for here please". You are saving waste, and a little bit of cash!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBu09q_vjoG1jF2iRzDb5jA61SFmGHbeuUrMY2ED9zpGHl4D7t6-1rcnEEo6sXJya1qs_8CiCP3tuqBGJRQ1QfSeMzUwpf4_vhAtmsqmSJvAy3Gd-1l7N2KCkALfYjvRqd4LckwAcdRnH/s1600-h/paper+cups+jantip09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioBu09q_vjoG1jF2iRzDb5jA61SFmGHbeuUrMY2ED9zpGHl4D7t6-1rcnEEo6sXJya1qs_8CiCP3tuqBGJRQ1QfSeMzUwpf4_vhAtmsqmSJvAy3Gd-1l7N2KCkALfYjvRqd4LckwAcdRnH/s320/paper+cups+jantip09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288311313188900626" border="0" /></a><br />Side note: We obviously encourage you to recycle your paper cup or use your own mug while visiting the drive-thru or making a quick "pit stop" at any of these fine establishments.<br /><br />Here is a link to read the facts on why not only Styrofoam cups, but paper cups as well are negatively effecting the environment.<a href="http://www.sustainabilityissexy.com/facts.html"> http://www.sustainabilityissexy.com/facts.html</a><br /><br />Happy New Year and let's try to be GREEN simply!GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602828613473391522.post-15206328841749241152008-12-07T07:41:00.000-08:002008-12-07T21:06:42.153-08:00December 2008 Tip - LESS IS MORE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHlKqTiYaeOE58uILBY9xC3Vje4tL5cruIMfqI8xLzsW5TDZVR4ZcFeW0i0dfXnn4wKxFBeNy7m8YZx-lJQ4xc6g_H5SleLOS40kSlu5Ikrx489JSZhOQpcIg9kYQ628D_2WMg4DZdYCP/s1600-h/jolly+coffee+mug.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 278px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHlKqTiYaeOE58uILBY9xC3Vje4tL5cruIMfqI8xLzsW5TDZVR4ZcFeW0i0dfXnn4wKxFBeNy7m8YZx-lJQ4xc6g_H5SleLOS40kSlu5Ikrx489JSZhOQpcIg9kYQ628D_2WMg4DZdYCP/s320/jolly+coffee+mug.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277277095601627538" border="0" /></a><br />Tis’ the Season to consume. More than any time of year, we use and consume massive amounts of disposable items, from party supplies to wrapping paper, to buying the take-out meal for the family on the way home from the mall. This is the time to party and celebrate, but it’s also a time for making resolutions for the future. And with tough economic times, it’s a great time to look at ways we can consume less and save the environment at the same time.<br /><br />This December, think ahead and pick a green resolution to go after in the New Year. Here is a quick list of a some small changes that might get you thinking.<br /><br />1. Change your trip to the coffee bar by bringing your own mug or using an in-house mug. If you make 3-4 trips to the coffee shop a week, you’re saving 200 cups and lids a year. It’s a small change that makes a difference (and Starbucks gives a nice little discount for bringing your own mug!).<br /><br />2. Refuse to use the disposable cups, bowls and utensils at your place of business. Buy a cheap set of dishes at the grocery store and use them again and again instead of the paper plates, cups and utensils provided for you. You’ll save your company money in the process.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHm_kwFmSvXIQUgTY5PTfifckQaQXzZ4OfAdUXI5zKgvN7nlq_qVpiNp8zfdEPeOG9qRBeDmw1jWetl3DR_hxvk7zFxmzTHDPy1pHv37GIC8ciI9Zgll9-pDBPaUKc-_hU_XgV3ZBBgcQ/s1600-h/bike.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHm_kwFmSvXIQUgTY5PTfifckQaQXzZ4OfAdUXI5zKgvN7nlq_qVpiNp8zfdEPeOG9qRBeDmw1jWetl3DR_hxvk7zFxmzTHDPy1pHv37GIC8ciI9Zgll9-pDBPaUKc-_hU_XgV3ZBBgcQ/s320/bike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277279853556758082" border="0" /></a><br />3. Cut down on drives around town. Buy a bike if you live in a bike-friendly community and refuse to drive anywhere that is closer than 2 or 3 miles. It’s a fact that a bike ride within such distances is nearly as fast as driving your car. And check out <a href="http://www.walkscore.com/">www.walkscore.com</a> to see how walk-friendly your community is.<br /><br />4. Turn off your lights when you’re not in the room and unplug appliances and electronics that aren’t in use. Nearly half the nation’s CO2 emissions come from the energy we consume at home and work (via our power plant system), so wasting less unnecessary electricity at home is a tiny change that can have a massive effect.<br /><br /><br />Thanks again for reading and have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope you’ve enjoyed the 2008 collection of green tips and that 2009 is your greenest year ever.GOING GREEN! Newsletterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03866125852071305857noreply@blogger.com0