Earth Day and Beyond
Rub-A-Dub In The Eco Tub
Strawberries: A Berry Good Superfood
Keeping Your Green In a Rough Economy
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CONTENTS THIS MONTH
E D I TO R ’ S L E T T E R I have been thinking about all of the ways that I’ve gone green this year. One theme emerges: I have simplified, taking inspiration from the way our great-grandparents
12 Going the Extra Mile Your green options are growing each day. Check out which local businesses are doing more than their share for the environment.
lived. I strive to conserve energy and resources and practice a more community-focused
16 K e e p i n g Yo u r G re e n i n t h e N ew E c o n o my Nine great ideas that help you to hold on to the money in your pockets while helping the environment.
I would love to say that all of these efforts were inspired by my going green. Sometimes
2 4 Earth Day and Beyond Our Earth Day calendar will keep you busy from now until summertime.
your lifestyle.
EVERY MONTH
life. I’ve shunned plastic bags and take my own bags just about everywhere I go. Most days my office lights stay off, and I have made a conscious effort to buy less stuff and reuse what I already have.
that was true, but it is also about conserving another kind of green: my dollars. In this issue we offer a simple look at “the glass half full”. Going green can be expensive, but it is also about making modest changes that help you to live a more sustainable life. The options abound for simple and free ways that you can save your green while greening
It is all about making an effort, and in the next couple of months our local communities are making it easy to take the first step, or the tenth step: Earth Day, Arbor Day, Music Festivals, Food Festivals, and just about every event taking place in April and May have eco-aware educational aspects to them. Going green has never been so easy.
3
Editor’s Letter
Even with the hectic life of a working mom, I have made a commitment to changing the
4
Green Pulse
way I do many of my daily acts. Sometimes, it is no simple task. We all get into habits
6 Eco-Fashion Mommy and Me Outfits 8 Health & Beauty T h e Berry Best Superfood 1 0 Kid Picks Earth Day Fun
that become hard to break - like sitting in carpool with my engine running - less of an issue now that I drive hybrid. I am still not sure why the checker behind the counter thinks that if I bring my own bags, it means that I want to pack my own groceries? But with my back-to-basics credo firmly set in my mind, body, and spirit, I’m ready to make this Earth Day my greenest one yet. I hope that you take the time to experience everything that the green world has to offer in this spring season. Take inspiration from the magazine, from your communities, from whatever speaks to you. Remember that your own experiences may be the flame that inspires greatness in someone else, so start talking
1 4 Eco Home Rub a Dub in the Green Tub
about what you are doing. In fact, tell us. E-mail me at hillary@ greenhomeandfamily.com or
2 0 Green Business Corner Small Business Green
Remember, all we are saying is give green a chance!
become our friend on facebook and let us know what you have learned.
2 2 Done With It! Strike Up the Rubber Band 2 4 Calendar 2 6
GreenSources
2 8
Final Thoughts
Green Home and Family is printed on recycled paper and with soy inks.We strive to be as carbon neutral as possible. Eventually (and hopefully sooner than later), everything will be made from recycled paper or other eco-friendly materials. But until then, we can still do something to make the world greener. Through Eco-Libris we plant trees to offset our paper use and we also offset almost 100% of the carbon emissions from our publishing of this magazine through the Carbonfund. We encourage you to support these and other organizations that can help you offset the global warming impact.
Mixed Sources
Product group from well-managed forests, controlled sources and recycled wood or fibre
APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
www.fsc.org Cert no. SW-COC-003115 © 1996 Forest Stewardship Council
The green world is constantly changing. New businesses are coming up with incredible ideas to help the planet, our cities, and our local economy. So, as we prepare this month’s issue, we are looking forward also.
a light+green lifestyle publication
PUBLISHER AND EDITOR Hillary Jiler hillary @ greenhomeandfamily.com
GRE E N P U L S E Say No to Idle – You have been there, school pick-ups and drop-offs, a huge line with all the moms, dads, and caregivers running their engines while going nowhere. If you reduce your daily idling by 10 minutes, you can save 550 pounds of CO2 per year! How about a no-idling policy? You start first and see who follows. See it if you can! — The Age of Stupid is an Indie film from Director Franny Armstrong and producer John Battsek. The story follows a
man living alone in the devastated future world of 2055, looking at old
footage from 2008 and asking: Why didn’t we stop climate change when we had the chance? A heavy subject and a heavy film, it was released in UK cinemas and will soon be in the states. www.ageofstupid.net Soon in San Diego — Actor, Richard Dreyfuss recently announced his plans to build a
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Margaret Miyuki margaret @ greenhomeandfamily.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Elizabeth Spencer elizabeth @ greenhomeandfamily.com GREEN SALES TEAM Rebecca Buel rebecca @ greenhomeandfamily.com Carol Henry carol @ greenhomeandfamily.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Bets Lirette bets @ greenhomeandfamily.com OFFICE MANAGER Tahly Megerdichian office @ greenhomeandfamily.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jessica Naomi, Carol Shirey
super-green home outside San Diego. One of the technologies being considered is a series of water wheels — to create and energy source from runoff and rainwater, and then channel the water into an underground cistern for irrigating the property. In addition to utilizing solar panels and geothermal energy, the Dreyfuss home will also have a low-cost, thin layer of reflective foil insulation to keep the property cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and will have landscaping with synthetic turf and drought-tolerant plants. Green Jobs Now founder, Van Jones has officially become the “Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation” at the White House’s Council on Environmental Quality. We are ready for green jobs and ready for Van. Disneynature, Disney’s new film label, has announced that it will plant a tree for every person who attends the premiere of their first film EARTH on opening weekend. EARTH is a new movie that gives moviegoers an
Green Home and Family is published monthly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission. All material is copyright 2009. Green Home and Family reserves the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. Although every precaution has been taken to insure accuracy of published material, Green Home and Family cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. The acceptance of advertisements by Green Home and Family is not to be construed as an endorsement of the products or services advertised. Green Home and Family 28348 Roadside Drive, Suite 202 Agoura Hills, CA 91301 Phone: (818) 874-9838 www.greenhomeandfamily.com
entertaining and unprecedented view of our planet, with astonishing imagery and exciting natural drama .Disney will oversee the planting of the trees in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, which is considered the most endangered rain forest in the world. Today, only 7 percent of the Atlantic Forest remains. Help get several hundred thousand (or million) trees planted. by watching when EARTH opens on Earth Day, April 22, 2009.
APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
On the second Wednesday of every month, Green Drinks in the Ventura County Area hosts lively networking events — it’s a chance to mix with other like-minded people, share info, make friends, and do business.
Get Involved With Green Drinks Sign-up online for e-mail updates at www.venturagreendrinks.co.nr
or look for us on facebook
April 2009 Wednesday, April 8 from
May 2009 Wednesday, May 13 from
www.carbonfund.org
5:30 to 7:30pm
5:30 to 7:30pm
www.ecolibris.net
Through our strategic partnerships and support of these organizations, we attempt to lessen the environmental mark that we make on our community.
for more information:
www.venturagreendrinks.co.nr Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
ECO FA S H I O N
30% off with this ad Nori’s Eco Salon “green hair salon” LA’s first “green” hair salon, Nori’s uses only non-toxic hair colors and products in an environmentally friendly space built with sustainable materials. Our mission is to provide excellent
Mommy and Me for Mothers Day This Mothers Day, original and organic do double duty with MamaOm clothing. Their special Mommy and Me collections offer environmentally-conscious options for dressing up with mom. www.mamaom.com
beauty services without compromising our collective
Delivering fresh, locally grown, organic and/or sustainably produced fruits, vegetables, olive oil and honey directly to your home or office.
farmer fresh
to you
health. If you are looking for a safe
This eco-friendly clutch makes the perfect match-up with it’s
alternative to
counterpart, little girl’s purse. Woven and embroidered by hand
traditional hair
by artisans in South Africa, it is 100% natural wool, fairly-traded
coloring, we
and a colorful, fun, trendy way to wear your green on your sleeve.
invite you to experience the difference at Nori’s!
Finding the perfect belt can be hard, no matter what age
15826 Ventura Blvd, Suite 224 Encino, CA 91436 (818) 995-6571 www.norisecosalon.com
Take fewer car trips to the store, and still eat fresh and locally grown food!
y Deliver Area All of Ventura County
Order on line at www.farmerfreshtoyou.net or call 805.469.7604
you are. These 100% natural belts are hand woven by artisans in remote regions of South America. All are handmade “waist art” that are an eco-friendly way
er est ew esign N s D ’ ke ry stla ora We temp tique o Con ale B Res
to bond with your little girl.
You know it’s true… why not promote it! 100% Organic Cotton with water based inks and completely PVC free for both you and your little one.
Natural Skin Care Products & Cosmetics Your online Guide to helping you choose safe, effective natural skin care products & cosmetics At BTrue Naturals we will:
The Bumble Dress and the Cindilina dress
• Bring you companies that use natural ingredients
make the perfect outfit for the family photos.
• Create higher standards for our company
Comfortable enough to wear around all day,
• Educate people on safe and effective products
trendy enough to go out on a date with Dad. Soft and pure it is made of 100% Organic Pima Cotton. The Cindilina dress is sized from 12
• Find companies who are environmentally aware • Have a user friendly website to easily navigate
months to 6 years To learn more please visit us at
www.BTrueNaturals.com
APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
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APRIL | MAY 2009
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HEALTH AND BEAUTY Super, Superfood Berry Best Facts about Strawberries Who can deny that the strawberry is one of the most delicious fruits in this world? But the goodness doesn’t stop there. Strawberries are what scientists call a ‘super-food’ -- because they’re rich in antioxidants that experts say might help to keep cancer cells from forming. Whether you pick your own or buy off the supermarket shelf, local strawberries are a bargain buy right now and absolutely jampacked with juicy goodness including vitamin C (more than oranges) B complex and folate. Eat them on their own or half an hour before the start of a meal to make the most of their internal cleansing qualities.
Vitamins & Minerals* Vitamin C - 136%
Vitamin K - 3%
Iodine - 8%
Vitamin B2 - 5%
Copper - 2%
Potassium - 6%
Vitamin B5 - 4%
Manganese - 20%
Folate - 5%
Vitamin B6 - 4%
Dietary fiber - 13%
* recommended daily allowance
Anti-Aging Properties The USDA human nutrition center on aging found that strawberries help slow the decline of age-related loss of cognitive and motor skills. The nutrients in strawberries nourish brain cells increasing brain health and function.
Fighting Diseases The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals of strawberries combine to form a powerful disease fighting mixture. Supplementing strawberries into your diet is recommended for rheumatism, gout and kidney stones. They are also recommended for high blood pressure, constipation, and the flu.
Eating Strawberries Even Removes Tartar Strawberries can be used to remove tartar in two ways. You can eat them, which is what most people will do, or you can cut them in half and rub them across your teeth.The acid in strawberries is extremely effective at dissolving the tartar. Aside from removing the tartar on your teeth, the acids dramatically improve gum health.
Coolest Camp with
Classic Fun! A rushing 274-foot water slide, a rock wall, archery, zipping go carts, swimming, a state-of-art ropes course, 3 zip lines, horseback riding, the list goes on and on… Camp Keystone with it’s giant sycamores and oaks is beautifully landscaped with a natural creek running through its 30 acres. Our fully screened staff is led by educators and child care professionals who are nurturing and dedicated to lots of fun.
Transportation Available Open House Dates March 15, 22, 29 April 5, 19, 26 11:30 - 3:00
8 1 8 . 8 8 9 . 2 2 2 4 | campkeystone.com 2854 Triunfo Canyon Rd., Agoura Hills
APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
.....a store with heart
KID PICKS The very first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. This day was created by American Senator, Gaylord Nelson, to make people aware of the importance of keeping our planet healthy and clean. On that day,people made promises to help the environment and make positive changes in their community. Since then, more than 500 million people in over 180 countries have participated in Earth Day activities. Check out these great ideas for learning, and laughing!
www.ecokidsonline.com Started in 1994, the award-winning EcoKids web site is an interactive environmental web site for children, their families, and educators in Canada and around the world. It offers topical information about the environment through interactive, fun, educational games, and activities that utilize participants’ willingness to learn. Children are encouraged to form their own opinions, make decisions, get involved, and understand the impact their own actions have on the environment. Designed to inspire children to become life-long environmental stewards, EcoKids is an invaluable resource for educators, youth group leaders, and parents.
www.schoolhouserock.com Schoolhouse Rock is going green! Earth has all the heart and musical soul of the original Schoolhouse Rock, designed for a new generation of fans! Eleven all-new songs with all-new animation prove that caring about the environment can be rockin’ fun. The orignal Schoolhouse Rock masters have written all-new songs sung by beloved voices from timeless classics like I’m Just a Bill and Conjunction Junction. There couldn’t be a better time to be educated and entertained about water conservation, recycling, biodiversity, solar power, and the rainforest, the Schoolhouse Rock way!
www.eere.energy.gov/kids The United States Department of Energy’s mission is to advance the national, economic, and energy security of the United States and to promote scientific and technological innovation in support of that mission. Their kids’ site is full of great stuff for kids and adults interested in learning. In the game section, look at Roofus’s home section to follow Rufus and find out about his energy-efficient home. Don’t forget to check out the great Earth Day craft/science activities, like making your own pizza-box solar oven or sundial. You can download an energy-smart activity book at http://www.eere.energy.gov/kids/games.html APRIL | MAY 2009
46!
FEATURING:
EARTH DAY
10
Women’s and Baby Eco-Fashions
Green Home & Family
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Earth Shoes for Women
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Under the Nile for Baby
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Plastics are the fastest growing type of waste. In some areas of the Pacific Ocean plastic waste outweighs plankton by a factor of
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805 371 7878 | pizzasalad.com Dine-In | Carry-Out | Delivery | Catering
Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
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GOING THE EXTRA MILE Ouzel Outfitters Not your average vacation Feeling far away from nature? Since 1979 Ouzel Outfitters has been reminding families why they are protecting the earth. Their high-quality, whitewater rafting adventures in Oregon and Idaho are the perfect way to experience the great outdoors. Whether you are on a one-day quick trip or a five-day extravaganza with hiking and gourmet food, these trips provide real quality time for families with a wide range of activities that consider the interests of kids and parents alike. Time spent on the river away from phones, electronics, and the chaos of everyday life allow families to connect in a way not possible on other vacations. The staff at Ouzel provides everything necessary for you to enjoy your trip including gourmet meals, professional guides, and comfortable camping equipment. On longer trips, hors d’oeuvres are served nightly and dinner and
BTrue Naturals Not your average beauty routine
BTrue Naturals is an online resource guide to help you choose safe, effective, natural skin care products and cosmetics. More than 1/3 of all personal care products contain at least one ingredient linked to cancer. Research has shown there may be longterm, gradual effects linked to chemical ingredients used in beauty products and cosmetics. At BTrue Naturals they introduce you to companies that focus on using natural ingredients as well as being environmentally aware. BTrue Naturals knows that there are 10,500 chemical ingredients currently used in the cosmetics industry and 90% of these ingredients have not been tested or evaluated by any publicly accountable institution. Some of these synthetic chemicals are known or suspected of having carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxicants. BTrue Natural’s high standards keep your personal safety as their highest priority. Ingredients lists, full descriptions and even details about scents can be found at this site. They have done the research; you just need to log on to educate yourself on what skin care products and cosmetics are right for you and your family. www.btruenaturals.com
Doing it differently isn’t easy; often you can get a stuck in a rut. Using the same wasteful products, taking the same summer vacations, even eating in the same restaurants, can all become habits that keep you from experiencing something new. While many of us have been doing it the same way, these businesses have been doing it differently. They show us great ways that we too can become more aware in life.
PizzaSalad
You have to check out the amazing toppings that are
Not your average Pizza
vegan, and low-fat. Sustainable business choices such
PizzaSalad, brings you gourmet food
as earth-friendly restaurant furniture, bio-degradable
made with fresh, organic ingredients
food containers, organic cleaning solutions, and
and a respect for the environment. Their
hybrid delivery vehicles, in addition to their
approach to gourmet dining originated
organic menu, make this a must stop
from the desire and passion for an
next time you have a craving.
improved quality of life for their
Everything, and we mean every-
customers. They know we don’t always
thing, PizzaSalad offers is made with love
have time to cook an organic meal made
and a respect for both your family and
with fresh ingredients. By organic they
the environment. PizzaSalad is located at
mean food from a method of sustainable
1655 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks, 805-371-7878.
farming that works with nature to create
www.pizzasalad.com
organisms that coexist with them. Organic growing ensures food and beverage production or farming practices that do without the use of artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides with an overall approach to sustainable agriculture and fair trade. This also means better taste, and higher vitamin levels for your family. PizzaSalad’s menu is 95% or more comprised of USDA certified
breakfast are served on full-sized banquet tables
these guided adventure tours. Make your family vacation unique and memorable on a wilderness river journey guaranteed to soothe the urban soul and renew the spirit.. Check out their website for pictures and vivid descriptions of each fantastic adventure. www.oregonrafting.com
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APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
Diane Stapelton Not your average Real Estate Agent Knowing the green potential of a property is becoming an essential tool in real estate and Diane Stapelton, of Prudential California Realty in Thousand Oaks,is professionally certified to help you. As a Certified EcoBroker® she can assist you on green topics in real estate, money-saving energy efficiency ideas and a host of
so you won’t have to balance a plate on your lap. wheat allergies can all find fun and safe food on
offers special dietary options including gluten-free,
a balance between plants and the
organic ingredients.
Vegetarians, vegans, and people with nut and
not available at ordinary pizzerias. PizzaSalad also
iD Tech Camps Not your average camp. A decade ago, in a studio above a garage, iD Tech Camps began with a simple mission. Concerned with growing a better world for our children, they set out to ignite the internalDrive in their students.
other services that you may not have considered. “With they serve. iD carries out this
and environmentally friendly
initiative in many ways, including
policies at camp and in the of-
promoting carpooling to camp,
fice. iD Tech Camps is focused
recycling, printing marketing ma-
on their impact on the world
terial on recycled paper, reducing
around them as well as their
travel and energy consumption
impact on your children. Check
and establishing new outreach
out www.internalDrive.com
partnerships in the communities
or call 1-888-709-TECH (8324).
Technology and fun are at the core of everything they do. From
they serve. In addition, iD Tech
their signature week-long Tech Camps to intensive multi-week
Camps has created an incentive
Teen Academies, they specialize in the study of Film, Gaming,
program for employees to find
Programming and Graphic Arts.The Greening of iD is a major
creative ways to get to work,
company focus aimed at continually assessing and addressing
volunteer in our communities,
the company’s impact on the environment and the communities
recycle, and implement energy
Ecobroker® training, whether the transaction involves environmental assessment and mitigation (mold, radon, etc.) or the opportunity to reduce utility bills, I’m in a position to help”, explains Diane. Diane can show you simple and inexpensive ways to market your home as energy-efficient, sustainable and eco-considerate. What sets Diane apart from other realtors is the earnestness with which she approaches the green advantages in homes. Her genuine desire to assist her clients and the environment are evident in every conversation. To talk to Diane and find out more call (818) 912-2733 or e-mail her at at stapelton.diane@gmail.com.
Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
13
© 2008, PetNovations, Inc. USA
EC O HOM E
green hill where good things grow
Never touch, smell, breathe, buy, or carry cat litter again.
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Beautiful and eco-friendly You saw it in the HGTV Dream Home 2009 but did you know it was an Eco-Friendly Bathtub?
WASHES SANITIZES DRIES
The Victoria & Albert tub is created from ENGLISHCAST™, an exclusive blend of more than 50 percent naturally-occurring volcanic limestone. Subjected to extreme volcanic heat millions of years ago, volcanic limestone has needle-like strands with light-catching properties that, when ground into a powder and mixed with resin, form an incredibly strong “web”. It has a hard-wearing, renewable surface — scratches and stains inside the tub polish out easily. All Victoria & Albert bathtubs are more energy-efficient than cast iron or acrylic counterparts. ENGLISHCAST™ surrounds the heat of hot water and holds it. Cast iron absorbs heat before it
green identity design Introducing CatGenie, the only automatic cat box that flushes waste and, like a cat, washes itself clean.
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can contain it. A Victoria & Albert tub creates a hot bath faster and, like a thermos, holds it at a steady temperature for long soaks.
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The tub has the strength and rigidity of cast-iron without the extreme weight, so transportation and movement impact are minimal. These bathtubs are shipped in recycled, post-consumer
greening festivals and events
cardboard on pallets made of reclaimed wood, with strapping.
The World’s Only Self-Flushing, Self-Washing Cat Box™
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APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
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Green Steps that Cost Nothing Even staunch DIY folks probably have some things they haven’t thought of trying, to save money during hard times. Just the very suggestion of doing something new will have them going in a new direction — a strong DIY inclination is a joy and a blessing. You may
Keeping Your Green in the New Economy
not have grown up in a family of do-it-yourself-ers but you can still give it a try. It’s a wonderful way to feel a sense of accomplishment when the outside world is saying you don’t have value. Besides, almost anything you do yourself at home is greener than the alternative. Growing food is one of the most popular DIY areas on the internet. Start searching and begin the process.
This is a good time to quit smoking, or lose weight, or get more fit by walking.
The state of the economy is having an effect on
You might decide to eat less meat or to improve your diet in other ways. There are many ways to achieve these, of course. One person will buy new walking
everyone. Some people have been caught by
shoes and an electric treadmill, while another will just go walking. One person will buy new cookbooks, a food processor, and expensive groceries, while an-
surprise, and they now have more potential to
other will enjoy a peanut butter sandwich for lunch and bean tacos for supper.
change their lifestyle than they realize. Others
Obviously, to be green, and to be good advice for hard times, we advocate the no cost/lower cost option.
were just getting by, and now having even less creates real hardship. No matter which group you fall into, green steps can help you to take charge of your finances. Happiness and security
If we think about the resources we
are states of mind, and security is a larger
still have, we see that we can conKnowledge is an extremely useful tool, and it can be
tribute to the well-being of others,
acquired in a great many ways, many of them free.
just as they contribute to ours. You
Choose a topic you are highly motivated to learn
may have specialized knowledge or
friends, and community, all matter. The world is
more about. Don’t want to search the web? Then
skills to share, or you have retained
go to your public library to start finding the resources
your health and vigor, or you have
full of opportunities and unexpected pleasures.
you need. Remember, knowledge is power.
some possession (spare furniture, a
concept than just financial security. Knowledge, life skills, self-reliance, strong ties of family,
big sunny backyard, garden or woodworking tools) that could be shared,
When change is forced upon us, that is when
loaned or donated.
real personal growth can occur. No matter how old we may be, we can keep growing in love, wisdom, and charity towards others. Those virtues are the very foundation of living Green.
Reduced buying power forces people to do what they could have done all along — stop the endless cycle of buying, using carelessly, and throwing away. The value of an object is not its cost in money, but its cost in a degraded and polluted environment.
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APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
17
TECH CAMPS
If you choose ground shipping rather than air
internalDrive.com
(express) for your online purchase, you will have a significantly lower carbon footprint for
1-888-709-TECH (8324)
America’s #1 Tech Camp for ages 7-18 held at:
the transaction than if you bought it at a tradi-
UCLA Cal Lutheran Pepperdine
tional bricks and mortar store. The difference is in the number of times the object is
Stanford University UC Irvine UC San Diego Columbia MIT & more!
shipped before it gets to the local store…more times than if you bought it online. The one caveat is that if you choose express shipping, the carbon impact gets closer to that of a retail store purchase.
Hot water heaters are huge energy and dollar guzzlers. Lowering the temperature on yours from 140 to 120 degrees will reduce your water heating costs by 6 to 10%. Give it a try. Many people find that tweaking the dial to save energy and money can become addictive.
The act of walking a labyrinth is a metaphor for life, as each person alternately follows, passes, and leads the way, turning toward and away from others on the path.
Game Design 3D Modeling Surf & Tech Web Design
Filmmaking Programming Sports & Tech Robotics & more!
REGISTER TODAY! Save with Code CA39
Support your local farmers and economy by shopping at farmers’ markets and picking your own fruits and veggies. Local produce is fresh and healthy, and it leaves a smaller carbon footprint since it’s transported less. Plus, prices are low (and often negotiable), and it’s more family fun than a trip to supermarket.
Prepare for Earth Day this year by joining Green Home and Family Magazine and Integrative Insight as they gather to walk the Labyrinth in Westlake Village. The
Shop for groceries no
intent of this guided meditation is to help heal
more than once every
the earth and the world we live in.
Banana peels being
two weeks, but the
high in potash and
key is to shop smart in
phosphoric acid make
order to avoid spoil-
excellent fertilizer for
age. Cook two or three
roses, vegetables and
meals’ worth of each
most houseplants. Just let
recipe at the beginning of the two-week period, and immedi-
the peels air dry until crisp,
ately freeze the extra portions for the second week. Freeze
then crumble and store in
any meat that you won’t be eating within the next 48 hours.
sealed envelops at room
Use up fresh fruits and vegetables first, and then supplement
temperature. Add the
them with just-as-healthy frozen as you get into the sec-
pieces to planting holes or
ond week. Check expiration dates on dairy products before
your potting soil; for large plants, about three peels can
you buy them; in most cases you can find products that will
be used and for miniature roses, one small crumbled
remain fresh for two weeks or longer. The idea is to always
peel works wonders.
USE UP what you buy before you shop again.
Remember the new morality of Thrift. Thrift is suddenly respectable again. But, thrift today is not just a matter of living
Sunday, april 12, 2009
Our roadside market offers organic, sustainable, fresh picked daily fruits, flowers and vegetables. We offer a CSA Program (Community Sustained Agriculture)
5:00 P.m.–6:00 P.M. St.Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church 5801 N. Kanan Road. This is a quiet, reflective, outdoor activity for more information check the light+green calendar on-line or THE calendar of this magazine WWW.GREENHOME ANDFAMILY.COM
1012 West Ventura Blvd. in Camarillo (101 FWY exit Central) 805-983-0333 www.mcgrathfamilyfarm.com
within one’s financial means. It’s a matter of living within the earth’s means. 18
APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
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The Business of a Conscious California greencorner
Small Business Green The greening of small businesses across the country is a movement all its own.
List Your Business for a year in GreenSources.
only $199 Reach 50,000 light+green people throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties
While it may be easy to dismiss the impact of small companies when compared to the big guys, consider the following stats from GreenBiz.com: “Small Businesses (defined as firms with less than 500 employees) employ half of the private sector workforce and use half of the electricity and natural gas consumed by the commercial and industrial sectors. In 2006, small businesses accounted for 99.9 percent of the 26.8 million businesses in the country.” Imagine the impact small businesses can have by collectively adopting eco-efficient technology and sustainable business practices. But how does a company start on this track, considering that most small business owners can’t afford to hire a “Green CEO” or “Director of Sustainability Initiatives”? How about a consultant? Hiring a professional or an expert to come to your business and assist you in your efforts is not only a smart idea, but one that can pay for itself. Professionals charge a fee to assess and then prepare a plan of action for your business. You then follow the plan and promote your own efforts. What about updating your customers on your progress so they can green their own business? Wouldn’t that be an added bonus of doing business with your company? Something that separated you from the crowd? A general consumer insight is that with all other attributes being equal, we will pick the product with an increase in a given attribute, especially if we value that attribute. Designing products with the right mix of attributes to appeal to a group of consumers is an essential part of marketing. There is no doubt that there are people who are conscious of the environment and willing to base some of their purchase decision on how the product or service will impact the environment. The important thing is that you are always thinking and keeping up with trends in the green market. Luckily, the green small-biz movement is comprised of several networks and organizations that provide resources tailored for this sector of the economy. Among the most prominent organizations include The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), Co-Op America’s Green Business Network, and now B Corporation (www.bcorporation.net) has developed a free online survey that business owners can use to assess how they currently rate on a green biz scale. The survey is comprehensive in scope. It looks not only at how a business fares from an environmental perspective, but also from a social perspective as well. Best of all, the survey includes links to a “best practices”
contact us at: info@greenhomeandfamily.com
or 818.874.9838
section with useful information about how to implement various sustainability initiatives. It is written in a clear and concise manner to optimally help the concerned small biz owner with limited time and resources.
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DONE W I T H I T ? STRIKE UP THE BAND They come on everything from your mail to your organic asparagus, and they just keep multiplying. Rubber bands are everywhere, but what should you do when they are taking over your home? Reuse! Try these ideas or come up with some of your own, and tell us about your inventions. Send them to us via facebook or hillary@greenhomeandfamily.com Pop Goes the Lid! Perfect for the asparagus bands, wrap one of the thicker ones around a lid to get a good handle on it! No Drips! Wrap a rubber band across the middle of the opening on a paint can. Wipe your brush against the rubber band instead of against the side of the can. The paint will fall back into the can and the outside will stay clean. Tax Assistance! Thumbing through the papers in your tax file can be rough on your fingers. Wrap a rubber band loosely around your index finger and you will not be licking your finger to separate and sort your paperwork. Save Soap! wrap a rubber band around the neck of a soap or lotion dispenser to limit how much is dispensed with each pump. No more sink-filled bubble explosions from your kids. Find Your Remote! If the remote control keeps sliding off the coffee table, wrap a band around the edge and in will stay on the furniture when tossed down. Fix a Leak! Another great use for the larger bands that you get on your produce, rap a rubber band around the leak in a pipe or hose for a temporary fix to your problem. Perfect Candles! Stop dripping wax from ruining the table or table cloth by wrapping a rubber band around a candle to stop wax from dripping onto the table. If your candle leans, wrap one around the bottom of the candle to secure it in the holder. Back In Time! Tie dye your own fabric; Wrap rubber bands tightly around each piece of cut cloth or part of your clothing. Bunch it up and tie it or roll up the cloth and tie off in sections. If you feel the urge to be more creative, find different sized rocks. Tie the cloth around a pebble. You can repeat the process with more pebbles, depending upon the size of the pebbles and how much work you want to put in it. Then dye!‌
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APRIL | MAY 2009
Green Home & Family
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CALENDAR
Our guide to light+green events making the connection with your world, your neighbors, and yourself
all around town
celebrate earth day earth day is on wednesday, april 22, 2009, this year, that means two different weekends of family fun. look for events the weekend of the 18th and the 25th Saturday, april 18 | 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. ventura Earth Day Every Day Ventura Beachfront Promenade at Surfer’s Point This fun and informative event is being sponsored by Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education Music, entertainment, activities, environmental exhibits, and workshops for the whole family. Come down and join in the celebration, and discover ways you and your family can take small steps toward big environmental solutions. www.venturacharterschool.org/earthday _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Saturday, april 18 | Sunday, april 19 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. LOS ANGELES NBC4/Telemundo 52 Health and Fitness Expo Los Angeles Convention Center This free two-day event is designed to educate and entertain health conscious consumers offering free health tests and screenings. A special green pavillion offers fun for all ages and there are lively stages programmed all weekend long. Meet NBC and Telemundo celebrities and make sure to stop by and listen to Green Home and Family founder, Hillary Jiler at 2pm on Saturday . Hillary will show you the simple steps you can take to green your nursery, your home, your office and your eating habits. From super fruits to super tips at the supermarket, you will learn just how easy it is to be green! www.knbc.com ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Sunday, april 19 | 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. SANTA BARBARA South Coast Earth Day Festival
California Strawberry Festival Saturday, may 16 | Sunday, may 17 | 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. College Park 3250 South Rose Avenue An estimated 1.5 million strawberries will be consumed Festival weekend, and the best part is that the multitude of non-profit groups hosting food booths benefit with every bite from 100 percent of the proceeds. Taking the new “Green Path” at the festival gives you access to resources to help you “grow in a green fashion”. The festival has taken a true leadership role in striving to become a sustainable event. An extensive outreach campaign encourages attendees to carpool and use the free shuttles in order to reduce the carbon footprint on our local community. This year there is even more incentive with a $5 parking fee for vehicles. In 2008, the City of Oxnard, awarded the Festival with the WasteWatch award for their remarkable green efforts. With live entertainment, an award-winning Fine Arts & Crafts showcase with over 300 artisans, contests, free attractions, and more, the heralded weekend event has something special for everyone. Check out the newly designed website for more information at www.strawberry-fest.org ______________________________________________________________________
Sunday, may 3 | 5:00 P.m. –6:00 P.M. Loving Kindness Meditation — Celebrating Mother’s Day Camarillo Center for Spiritual Living, 340 Mobil Avenue, Camarillo resident, Meenal Kelkar, CYT, CPRYT, CTYT, MBA, founded Integrative InSight and is the guide for this meditation. Loving kindness (or compassion) is a value common to all spiritual traditions. It is the love that a mother gives a newborn child … an encompassing, deep feeling that is boundless, nurturing, and most importantly, unconditional.This meditation will be guided … all you need to do it show up, follow the instructions, and open your heart. Bring your friends and loved ones to be touched by the collective, transformative energy of loving kindness. Please RSVP through the calendar on www.integrative-insight.com or by calling Meenal at 805504-6640. Donations will be appreciatively accepted for Lighthouse Women’s & Children’s Mission ______________________________________________________________________
santa monica
bring back the beach thursday, may 28 | 5:00PM Barker Hangar in Santa Monica
mindful of the earth Sunday, april 12 | 5:00 P.m. –6:00 P.M.
The City of Thousand Oaks and Conejo Recreation and Park District present the 12th Annual Arbor Earth Day Festival. Free fun for the whole family to learn how to “go green”, see wild animals, make eco-friendly crafts, pick up free plants and trees, and hear great entertainment. Visit www.toaks.org/arbor for more information.
labyrinth walk St.Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church
AltBuild Expo
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
topanga
topanga children’s festival saturday, may 9
| 11 a.m. to 4 p.m
will geer theatricum botanicum A perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend. The festival has two stages providing Green Home & Family
oxnard
mindful of mom
Saturday, april 25 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. THOUSAND OAKS 12th Annual Arbor Earth Day 1379 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks
Organized by the Community Environmental Council, this event has music booths and lots of outdoor fun and education. For more information check out the calendar at www.communityenvironmentalcouncil.org _____________________________________________________________________________________________
APRIL | MAY 2009
www.topangachildrensfestival.com ______________________________________________________________________
CAMARILLO
Heal the Bay holds their 18th annual Bring Back the Beach benefit dinner on May 28, 2009 at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. A unique event connecting Southern California’s environmental, political, business, and entertainment communities. Bring Back the Beach is a wonderful opportunity to meet and mix with environmental leaders in various sectors as well as the annual fund raiser for Heal the Bay. This exclusive event to celebrate Heal the Bay and their honorees has sold out for each of the last four years. So grab your beach-chic attire and check out more at www.healthebay.org
Alameda Park 1400 Santa Barbara St , Santa Barbara
24
non-stop world-class music, theater, dance, storytelling and circus performers from nearby and across the globe. Stop by the children’s area with face painting, a “Recycling Sculpture”, and craft activities where kids can make a handmade gift for mom. This is always a green event, with all wastes recycled or composted. A fund raiser for the the Topanga Co-op Preschool, find out more at
Westlake Village
5801 N. Kanan Road, Prepare for Earth Day this year by joining Green Home and Family Magazine and Integrative Insight as they gather to walk the Labyrinth in Westlake Village. The intent of this guided meditation is to help heal the earth and the world we live in. Living in the now and appreciating the many wondrous gifts we receive each day is essential in the transformation of the world we know. Is this your first walk? There is no wrong way to walk a labyrinth. This is a quiet, reflective, outdoor activity, and open to anyone that would like to jointly meditate on the intention that they have this Earth Day.
friDAY, may 8 | SatURDAY, may 9 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. santa monica civic auditorium 1855 main st. The 6th annual Alternative Building Materials & Design Expo has more than 150 carefully selected exhibitors with information and seminars about everything you have ever wanted to know about building or decorating green. The halls are packed and the energy is exciting in this remarkable event that will prove to be a highlight in your greening adventure. For more information: www.altbuildexpo.com Green Home & Family
APRIL | MAY 2009
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Over 100 vendors/exhibitors
GRE E NS O U R C E S our light+green directory
Food and Drink Homemade Baby 310-559-2300 www.homemadebaby.com Organic baby food
Apparel and Accessories Mixed Baby Greens 818-454-0194 www.mixedbabygreens.com Organic baby clothing Korazon Organics 805-652-0899 www.mykorazon.com Earth Friendly Apparel and Accessories 671 E Main Street Ventura.
Automotive Casa Barranca 805-646-7114 www.organic-wine.com Organic vineyard and retreat center. Children’s Cancer Fund of America, Inc. 1-800-469-8593 www.ccfoa.org Donate A Car Today To Help Children And Their Families Suffering From Cancer. Free Towing. Tax Deductible.
Business and Money Planet Earth Financial 805-955-0199 www.planetearthfinancial.com Casa Barranca 805-646-7114 www.organic-wine.com Organic vineyard and retreat center.
Entertainment Santa Barbara Water Taxi, LLC 805-896-6900 www.sbwatertaxi.com Bio-diesel water taxi takes passengers between S.B. Harbor and Stearns Wharf as well as private charters and dinner cruises. The Reptile Family 805-498-8788 www.reptilefamily.com Parties, classrooms, library programs,we bring the safari to you. Gullwings Children’s Museum 805-483-3005 www.gullwings.org A place for children and their families to explore and discover together the wonders of the world around us.
Fresh Lunches 818-904-3478 www.freshlunches.com Organic lunches delivered to your child’s school. Casa Barranca 805-646-7114 www.organic-wine.com Organic vineyard and retreat center. Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards 805.688.9090 www.almarosawinery.com “Nature & agriculture in sustainable harmony!”
Home and Garden Bright Ideas 818.823.7692 Interior Decorating and Organizing for your home & office. Green and so much more. colleen.brightideas@gmail.com Beeler Healthy Gardens 805-652-1456 beelergardendsgn@aol.com Organic Garden Design Terramor Organic Home 147 W El Roblar Dr in Ojai, CA 93023 805-640-3699 Open: Wed - Sat 10 - 5, Sun 11 - 4 Natural mattresses-all sizes, organic cotton & wool bedding, organic cotton baby & yoga wear. Good for you & the earth! Team Global Green (805)290-6540 www.teamglobalgreen.com www.teamglobalgreen.com Non-toxic concentrated green cleaning & laundry products
Learn Centura On-line 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Computers, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial aid if qualified.
Pets Cleo and Patra Canine Cuisine 310-857-8700 Organic homemade dog food, delivered to your home.
wild animals crafts
Services
workshops
Raul & Eva Alonso, Prudential CA Realty (805)290-6540 evaluvsrlty@sbcglobal.net 5 trees are planted & you receive a green home care kit when you buy or sell with us. Bright Ideas 818.823.7692 Interior Decorating and Organizing for your home & office. Green and so much more. colleen.brightideas@gmail.com
entertainment free trees-plants/mulch refreshments
Lanai Construction 805-523-8695 janseth@lanaiconstruction.com The “Mint” Condition Construction Co.
arborists
Jeremy Anseth 805-750-8358 jeremyanseth@gmail.com “The Green Soul Consultant” for Lanai Construction
park rangers and much more
Diane Stapleton, Prudential CA Realty (8is)912-2733 diane@gmail.com Certified EcoBroker for all your home buying or selling needs.
Travel Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards 805.688.9090 www.almarosawinery.com “Nature & agriculture in sustainable harmony!” Holiday Group 1-800-639-5319 www.holidaygroup.com/flier Buy timeshare resales. Save 60-80% off retail. Best resorts and seasons. Call for free timeshare magazine. Sustainable Vine Wine Tours 805.698.3911 Ongoing and by appointment www.sustainablevine.com
Work Assembling Information Packets 1-888-222-0833 (Dept.75) $1,200-$4,400 Weekly Working from Home. No Experience Necessary! Environmental Career Opportunities, Inc. 800-315-9777 www.ecojobs.com/statejobs.htm Employers and jobseekers search our database. Secret Shopper 1-800-585-9024 ext. 6262 Secret shoppers for store evaluations. Local Stores, Restaurants, & Theaters. Training Provided, Flexible Hours. Assignments Available NOW!!
ARBOR EARTH DAY
12th Annual Learn to Go GREEN in a FUN, FAMILY FESTIVAL! SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2009 11AM – 4 PM Conejo Creek Park North 1379 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks
www.toaks.org/arbor Presented by City of Thousand Oaks and Conejo Recreation and Park District
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FI N A L THOUGHTS When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world
— John Muir
earth day every day three great ways to celebrate earth day
april 18 & 19, 2009 Earth Day Beach Cleanup
saturday 9 -11 am
hosted by the city’s volunteer program — Volunteer Ventura!
NEW LOCATION: Surfers’ Point
Families, community groups, and students welcome! Community service hours available. Just show up – but groups of 20 or more are encouraged to pre-register. Contact Rosie Ornelas at 805-652-4555 or rornelas@cityofventura.net or visit www.cityofventura.net/volunteercalendar
Earth Day Eco Festival – A fun day for the whole family!
saturday 11 am-7 pm
sponsored by Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education and the City of Ventura
LOCATION: Promenade Park next to Surfers’ Point
Free admission, live music & entertainment, children’s activities, educational green workshops, vendor expo, food, raffle prizes and a silent auction. Please consider riding your bike, carpooling or taking the train to the event. Bring your reusable water bottle for free water refills. Contact 805-648-5503 or visit www.venturacharterschool.org/earthday
Midtown Green Home & Garden Tour and Expo
sunday 11 am-4 pm
presented by the Midtown Ventura Community Council and the City of Ventura
LOCATION: Former car lot at Sanjon Rd. & Thompson Blvd.
Free Green Expo featuring Home & Garden design professionals, services & merchandise. Selfguided Midtown Home & Garden Tour, $10, tickets & maps available on the day of the event. Contact Dan Long 805-653-6573 or sandmand@pacbell.net or visit www.midtownventura.org
www.cityofventura.net
ventura charter school of arts and global education