tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67985937156216323212024-03-05T05:44:27.781-05:00Striving for Greater GoodsAyalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-53248667871290104342008-10-15T12:40:00.003-04:002008-10-15T12:43:51.501-04:00Only 4 days left ...It's been a brutal couple of months. Retail-wise.<br />I'll be closing our doors on Saturday, October 18th.<br />Things will be on sale this week.<br />We'll be having a "wake" for this little dream of mine on Saturday evening from 6:00 to 9:00.<br /><br />Feel free to drop by ...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-16269135720935594362008-09-05T11:13:00.001-04:002008-09-05T11:14:49.901-04:00We'll be closed briefly this afternoon ...Just popping in to say that Greater Goods will be closed between 1:00 and 5:00 today. We apologize for any incovenience.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-59043163981908479842008-08-10T12:00:00.003-04:002008-08-14T14:10:06.888-04:00Visionary Investment Partner Program Details ...Okay, so I had the <em><strong>idea</strong></em>. And after much wrestling with it, we finalized exactly what the benefits to VIPS would be ... I was more than a bit intimidated, however, by the prospect of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">systematizing</span> it and describing it accurately enough that someone could actually participate. Now, after several days of research, writing, and revision, I have produced an official VIP Membership Program Agreement, and a brochure. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Yay</span> me! [And thanks to a certain national retailer whose website includes the full text of <em>their</em> paid membership "loyalty" program agreement.]<br /><br />As difficult as it is when I do force myself to write about Greater Goods, I am usually pleased with the result. And, I end up re-inspired. I've found that writing about the business [whether for the blog, website, an ad, press release or brochure] forwards an important and on-going process of clarifying my mission and goals. And from everything I read about innovative and [eventually] successful businesses, they consistently review and evaluate how they definte themselves, their purpose, and their vision. I find this process useful to remind myself <em>why</em> I am doing this [I'm certainly <em>not</em> taking a salary], and to make sure that the reality of Greater Goods does not diverge from the vision.<br /><br />From the [recently written] VIP Program brochure:<br /><blockquote>What is Greater Goods' mission, anyway?<br />Greater Goods is a “green” general store and “fair trade” art & craft gallery. We strive to be a globally-minded retail business that is deeply rooted in our local community. Our mission is to provide our customers with high quality merchandise that is ethically sourced and good for people and the planet. We hope that by doing so we contribute to a vibrant local community and a sustainable world for us all.<br /></blockquote>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-79556508069449528782008-08-07T19:11:00.005-04:002008-08-09T14:37:07.536-04:00Ch-ch-ch-changes ...We've been busy beavers over the last week getting the store re-organized and consolidated. As part of our 3 part strategy to save the store and stay in business, we have invited local antique dealer Kathy Myers to move in and share our space. So, in a win-win move that will keep two local women-owned businesses open and serving our community, Kathy's Keepsakes -- specializing in antique and vintage treasures -- will begin sharing space with Greater Goods in mid-August. To accommodate the change, we have been busy moving furniture and merchandise around in the shop -- and have slashed prices on goods we are discontinuing.<br /><br />When we took a hard look at the state of the business, I knew it would take 3 things to keep us viable through these lean times: a) re-energized sales, b) cutting our overhead and c) raising some capital. July sales soared in response to letting our customers and friends know about our cash crunch. [Thank you, thank you, thank you!] Michal leaving us to pursue a job that could actually afford to pay her wages, made a dent in the store expenses. Having Kathy's Keepsakes sublet 1/2 the store space has made it feasible for us to keep Greater Goods open! [<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Yay</span></span>!]<br /><br />Now, we just need to mobilize our core customers to join our <a href="http://forpeopleandplanet.blogspot.com/2008/08/vip-program-officially-open.html"><em><strong>V</strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">isionary</span></span> <strong>I</strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nvestment</span></span> <strong>P</strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">artner</span></span></em> Program </a>and we will raise the capital we need to re-stock the store with all kinds of wonderful and useful things that are good for people and good for the planet ...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-73445122732232863142008-08-03T12:51:00.003-04:002008-08-03T13:07:17.718-04:00"VIP" Program Officially Open!It's an idea we've been flirting with all year, tweaking and re-thinking. Now, the need to raise some immediate working capital finally convinced us to move foreward with our "VIP" program. We played with a lot of possible names for the program [Greater Goods' Groupies? Very Important Patrons?] and we settled on "Visionary Investment Partners." No, we are <em>not</em> selling stock in Greater Goods, and we 're <em>not</em> a member-owned coop. But, for a $100 "investment" in the continued growth of Greater Goods, VIPs will receive:<br /><ul><li>5% off EVERY regularly priced purchase for 12 months. [That's like paying no sales tax for a full year!]</li><li>ability to pre-order regularly stocked merchandise at discount prices. [Never run out of your favorite soap, kitchen cleaner, or coffee! And get it at a discount!] </li><li>invitations to preview-purchase sales to custom order what we normally don't keep in stock. [Perfect for those special gifts, or locating hard-to-find essentials.]</li><li>invitations to a special VIP appreciation event this fall.</li></ul><p>Our goal is to inspire at least 5o folks to join the VIP program by August 30th. We hope you'll consider it!</p>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-31234318646973692942008-07-20T13:18:00.004-04:002008-07-20T13:26:35.767-04:00my heart is full ...and there are tears in my eyes. We have the <strong><em>greatest</em></strong> customers in the world -- and we live in a wonderful community. In the few days since I sent an e-mail out to our newsletter list, letting folks know that we couldn't pay the rent and the future of the shop was uncertain, sales have skyrocketed. In addition to spending hard-earned dollars with us, people have shared ideas, hugs, wisdom, prayers, suggestions and even donations. I simply cannot express how humbled and moved and inspired I am. It is deeply gratifying to know that people appreciate our vision and feel we are making a contribution to the community that they value. <br /><br />I am currently exploring many options to keep the business afloat and operational during these lean times. I am open to all kinds of ideas. And I will keep everyone posted as things unfold ...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-82007358199257971852008-07-12T15:00:00.002-04:002008-07-12T15:07:40.604-04:00where to begin?If I sit here staring at the computer screen long enough, I'm bound to come up with something witty and/or insightful and/or optimistic, right? That was the theory anyway, though it's not yet working...<br /><br />I <em>was</em> trying to write the monthly store newsletter, but I couldn't seem to find my mojo. To be honest, things look a little bleak around here friends. The economy is kicking our rears -- quite thoroughly. Michal has had to leave the store to find a job with a company that can actually afford to pay her salary, so it's just Karen and I holding down the fort. We have such a wonderful cadre of loyal customers. They still come in to say hello -- and even bring their friends and visiting relations -- but paying $4/gallon of gasoline seems to be taking a huge chomp out of everyone's budgets. No one seems to be buying anything but the necessities. I am still hoping against hope that we'll be able to stick it out ... but I really don't know. If anyone has any brilliant ideas [or any capital they'd like to invest in a much-loved, values-driven retail shop with great vision and big plans], please drop me a line. Or just come by and say hello. We'll give you an organic, all natural lollipop on the house...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-33229828708155166732008-05-24T18:11:00.003-04:002008-05-24T18:12:47.291-04:00Closed Memorial DayJust a quick note to let folks know that we will be closed on Monday, Memorial Day. We'll be hanging out with family and friends and enjoying the beautiful weather. Hope you are having a great weekend.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-19222227780905913112008-05-24T17:53:00.003-04:002008-05-24T17:55:11.713-04:00"Staying Local"Although our store's website has been up for a couple of months -- I haven't yet completed the content for all its pages. I did finally add content to the "<a href="http://www.forpeopleandplanet.com/staying_local.asp">staying local</a>" page -- so please check it out and let me know what you think.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-58956696545766894972008-05-24T16:48:00.003-04:002008-05-24T16:51:19.374-04:00World Record!The final results have been tabulated and the Fair Trade Coffee Break held on May 10th around the country was a huge success!<br /><br />According to the folks at the Fair Trade Resource Network, "12,128 people in more than 150 communities nationwide together raised their mugs/cups/glasses to Fair Trade. "<br /><br />30 of those folks were in Lovettsville, VA at Greater Goods. It may have been small, but it was a start and we played our part!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/MzB7C9IsFI8&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/MzB7C9IsFI8&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-22472647372266068832008-05-22T12:35:00.007-04:002008-05-22T13:10:44.723-04:00Thursdayand that means that it's my turn for a day-time shift at the store. Which I really enjoy, by the way. The only reason I work evenings rather than days is because Michal's mom watches her kids during the day time. And my babysitter's hours are more flexible.<br /><br />Today's already been a bit busy. Not so many sales yet, but some interesting folks have come by. Two lovely women from Waterford who had never been in the store before and seemed to like it quite a bit and will hopefully be back. I told them to spread the word! Word-of-mouth advertising is really the best kind, in our experience. The women particularly enjoyed reading the <a href="http://www.tree-free.com/front/thumb_overview.php?keyword=pig">"Pigs in a Poke"</a> line of cards from <a href="http://www.tree-free.com/front/index.php">Tree Free Greetings</a>. I am <strong><em>such</em></strong> a fan of TFG. They are one of the companies I am most proud to represent. The cards, note card sets, and gift bag sets are absolutely gorgeous, high quality, <em>very</em> reasonably priced, and very "green." NO new trees are ever harvested for their products.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote><p><a href="http://www.tree-free.com/front/about_custom_content.php?id=13">The production of Tree-Free paper</a> uses less water, no chlorine or harmful chemicals, & requires less energy. Tree-Free uses paper from sustainably harvested sources like kenaf, sugar cane, and bamboo, as well as from post-consumer recycled paper.</p></blockquote>That it's "post-consumer" recycled is key. As TFG's website states:<br /><br /><blockquote>Unless it says post-consumer recycled or Tree-Free, "recycled" paper may legally contain a high content of wood fiber from virgin forests and/or unsold "pre-consumer" waste. Such paper is bad for the environment. </blockquote>When you buy anything that says "recycled" on it -- look for the PCW%. That's the percentage that truly reflects how "earth-friendly" the product is.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-80979141343662714322008-05-16T17:25:00.002-04:002008-05-16T17:31:39.495-04:00Probably silly of me ...but it's such a great deal -- I kind of feel obligated to pass it on. Especially since it's a product we're not currently carrying.<br /><br />OHGEEZ Organic Cotton Baby Clothes is having a <a href="http://ohgeezorganic.com/closeouts.html">closeout sale </a>with savings up to 70% off. If you've wanted to purchase some organic clothes for a loved little-one, you will not find better prices.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-249916196958857042008-05-15T13:39:00.007-04:002008-05-15T15:48:45.414-04:00Mark Your Calendar!A smattering of upcoming local events that we think you might be interested in:<br /><br />This weekend, May 17th and 18th:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.loudounfarms.org/default.asp?contentID=125"><strong>2008 Loudoun County Farm Color Tour</strong> </a>- 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, both Sat. and Sun. Drop by Greater Goods for a free brochure and map to the more than dozen area farms that will be open for visitors. Most farms have special activities and demonstrations. A great family activity.<br /><br /><strong>1st Annual Taylorstown Spring Fling Sale</strong> - Sat. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sun. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. At the Old Taylorstown Country Store, 13068 Taylorstown Rd, Taylorstown, VA. Featuring arts, crafts, vintage items, baked goods, silent auction, live music.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.loudoun.gov/Default.aspx?tabid=755#next"><strong>Computer and Electronic Recycling</strong></a> - Sat. in Ashburn. Loudoun County sponsors this event twice a year. A great opportunity to responsibly rid yourselves of all kinds of e-waste.<br /><br />Save the Date:<br /><br /><strong>Used Book Sale</strong>: Sat., May 31st, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Lovettsville Community Center gym. Book donations accepted until May 28th at the community center or library. All proceeds benefit the Lovettsville Library Advisory Board and the Lovettsville Community Center Advisory Board.<br /><br /><a href="http://loudounwildlife.org/Loudoun_Wildlife_Fest_2008.html"><strong>Loudoun Wildlife Festival</strong></a>: Sat., June 7th, 4:30 pm - ? at the Blueridge <a href="http://www.blueridgecenter.org/index.html">Center for Environmental Stewardship</a>. Live Reptile Show, Live Music, Food and Drink. Proceeds benefit the <a href="http://loudounwildlife.org/index.htm">Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.emmasrevolution.com/"><strong>Emma's Revolution</strong></a>, in concert, June 21st at the <a href="http://www.stjamesucc-love.org/?page_id=17">St. James United Church of Christ </a>in Lovettsville. Tickets available at Greater Goods.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-51351275460178659572008-05-10T18:01:00.004-04:002008-05-10T18:29:49.355-04:00Happy World Fair Trade Day!Doing a bit of a happy dance today, myself. The sun came out and so did some people. Some from as far away as Ashburn -- specifically for the Fair Trade Coffee Break. Officially we are counting 30 folks for the coffee break -- though we did serve others before 3:00 and are continuing to do so all evening. We have Peace Coffee, an assortment of Fair Trade teas, and chocolate chip cookies, brownies and chocolate muffins - all baked from scratch with fair trade sugar and chocolate. The <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/11/dining/111brex.html?_r=4&pagewanted=print&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin">brownie recipe</a> was from the NY Times and is definitely a keeper.<br /><br />Business is *finally* picking up again. May is looking good. Was able to write some checks today and that felt wonderful! Might actually have some money to spend on advertising again soon. Three [of five] local papers printed today's event in the calendar section and quite a few folks today showed up because of those notices. One woman lives just a couple of miles down the road and didn't even know the store was here. I hear that a lot. I've been meaning to do a postcard campaign for months and months. It's just a matter of me deciding to spend the money that way. [As opposed to buying more inventory.] And given that I am constantly finding such wonderful things to stock in the store -- well, it's hard to make that call. I have this strange fear that I'll spend a bunch of money on advertising and then when crowds of people come in, I won't have enough merchandise for them to buy! That's what comes from kind of bootstrapping yourself and not starting out with an abundant budget, I suppose. I need to constantly remind myself to shift my state of mind and plan for the store out of a vision of plenty instead of scarcity.<br /><br />Ok, off to do some more work. But before I go, I wanted to share: I finally got around to watching <a href="http://www.comedycentral.com/videos/index.jhtml?videoId=165955&title=john-oliver-unfair-trade">this bit about Fair Trade from John Oliver's stand-up routine</a>. I thought it was amusing and today seemed like the right day to share the link.<br /><br />later luvies...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-38377982444631489052008-05-08T21:51:00.003-04:002008-05-08T22:22:52.716-04:00CAFOs Uncovered<a href="http://ucsusa.org/food_and_environment/sustainable_food/cafos-uncovered.html">CAFOs Uncovered</a><br /><br />"Confined Animal Feeding Operations" is the industry term for the way the vast majority of food animals are raised in the US today. The <a href="http://www.ucsusa.org/">Union of Concerned Scientists </a>has recently published a report demonstrating that "the crowded conditions in these facilites have increased water and air pollution and other types of harm to public health and rural communities."<br /><br />To read the report, or its executive summary, click on the links under "related links" in the middle of the <a href="http://ucsusa.org/food_and_environment/sustainable_food/cafos-uncovered.html">article</a>. Also, there is a <a href="http://ucsaction.org/campaign/5_1_08_cafos_uncovered">petition </a>to the Secretary of the US Department of Agriculture that you can sign on-line, urging the USDA to level the playing field so that small farms using sustainable agriculture practices get a fair shake.<br /><br />In western Loudoun County we are lucky to have the choice to support alternative and more sustainable agricultural methods by purchasing food produced on local farms. I am working toward the day when Greater Goods will play a part on this effort by providing a venue for local producers to sell their food goods!Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-55082051924738455092008-05-05T22:47:00.006-04:002008-05-05T22:57:46.904-04:00Five reasons why Fair Trade is good for the environmentFrom the <a href="http://www.fairtraderesource.org/">Fair Trade Resource Network</a>:<br /><blockquote><ul><li>One of Fair Trade’s six principles is environmental sustainability. Companies that fail to uphold this principle in their supply chain will not be admitted into the <a title="Fair Trade Federation" href="http://www.fairtradefederation.org/" target="_blank">Fair Trade Federation</a> and are refused certification by <a title="Trans Fair USA" href="http://www.transfairusa.org/" target="_blank">TransFair USA</a></li><li>During the production process of Fair Trade products harmful agrochemicals and fertilizers are often now allowed to be used, sold, handled or distributed by producer organizations. When they are used, they are done so in minimal quantities with strict regulations and guidelines on their usage.</li><li>Many Fair Trade products are made by hand, often in producers’ homes or villages. Choosing hand production over mechanized production significantly reduces CO² emissions that are often omitted from big factories. Since Fair Trade producers are often based in remote rural areas, where resources and infrastructure are scarce, they are provided with income earning opportunities that they otherwise would not have had. What little energy is needed in the production process is often produced through alternative energy sources.</li><li>Fair Trade products are often made from materials that are locally and abundantly available.</li><li>The majority of Fair Trade products are transported to consumer countries by boat. This significantly reduces CO² omissions created by air travel.</li></ul></blockquote>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-23520279820363735062008-05-05T22:39:00.002-04:002008-05-05T22:43:35.018-04:00Join us Sat., May 10 for Fair Trade Coffee Break<div align="left">A press release I e-mailed widely this evening:<br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">May 10: World’s Biggest Fair Trade Coffee Break Comes to Lovettsville, VA</span></strong><br /><br /><strong>For World Fair Trade Day, Greater Goods, Loudoun’s Green General Store and Fair Trade Art & Craft Gallery Hosts Coffee Break for Fair Trade</strong><br /><br /><em><strong>Fair Trade Products Better for Farmers, the Environment, And You, Organizers Say</strong><br /></em><br />Lovettsville, VA – Aiming to help set a world record for the biggest ever coffee break, Greater Goods is hosting a “Fair Trade Coffee Break” on May 10, World Fair Trade Day. It will be one of scores of Fair Trade coffee breaks held simultaneously around the country, and will focus on the benefits of Fair Trade for farmers, artisans, consumers, and the environment. Visitors to Greater Goods will be offered complementary cups of Fair Trade coffee and tea – as well as sweets baked with Fair Trade chocolate and sugar.<br /><br />In order to set the world record, the events will have to draw thousands of people throughout the U.S. participating at the same time.<br /><br />Greater Goods owner, Ayala Sherbow, said, “In a global economy the way each of us chooses to spend our money is at least as powerful as the way we choose to vote. The products each of us buys and the companies we choose to support have a direct impact on the health of the planet and the quality of life of our fellow humans. We urge people to discover the pleasures and benefits of purchasing high quality and ethically-sourced fair trade products.”<br /><br />WHAT: “Fair Trade Coffee Break” to Help Set World Record;<br />Simultaneous Events in Towns and Cities throughout the U.S.<br /><br />WHEN: Saturday, May 10, 2008 – World Fair Trade Day – 3:00 to 5:00 pm<br /><br />WHERE: Greater Goods<br />1 South Loudoun Street<br />Lovettsville, VA 20180<br />540-822-4653<br /><a href="http://www.forpeopleandplanet.com/">http://www.forpeopleandplanet.com/</a><br /><a href="http://forpeopleandplanet.blogspot.com/">http://forpeopleandplanet.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />###<br /><br /></div>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-85624109604174808682008-05-04T23:37:00.006-04:002008-05-05T00:10:28.297-04:00quick update, more on BPAJust dashing by before bed to share two things:<br /><ol><li>Absolutely lovely couple hours hosting a fair trade tea at the store for the ladies of <a href="http://www.uccwebsites.net/stjamesucclovettsvilleva.html">St. James <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">UCC</span></a>. We served a variety of fair trade teas and <a href="http://www.peacecoffee.com/home.htm">Peace Coffee</a> [organic, fair trade and shade-grown]. I baked a <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/234442">chocolate torte</a> [using fair trade chocolate and sugar of course], and <a href="http://www.familycorner.com/family/kids/recipes/coconut-macaroons.shtml">coconut macaroon meringue cookies</a>. Karen and I made tea sandwiches [cucumber-mint, salmon-cream cheese-dill, and apricot-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">dijon</span> mustard-ham]. Another local baker prepared some yummy shortbread and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">biscotti</span> [and I will post a link to her biz as soon as I get back to the store and get her card.] Karen and I did the math afterwards. Even offering a 10% discount to the ladies while they shopped, the event covered its expenses and made a few dollars for the store. And it was fun. Preparing for it, setting a nice table, and of course, meeting the women and talking about Fair Trade. Of course I was completely wiped out afterwards. [I was up to midnight last night baking, and then again at 8:00 am today.] When I got home, I crawled in bed and took a nap with the baby. I think it was a successful event all the way around. And I think we'd like to try it again with other groups.</li><li>Surfing the web, I came across <a href="http://zrecs.blogspot.com/2008/05/amazoncom-launches-bpa-free-baby-shop.html">this post</a> cautioning folks to be very careful in searching out <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">BPA</span>-free products for babies and little ones. It's a good reminder that one needs to read the fine print -- even when dealing with reputable retailers. </li></ol><p>Given that dear hubby left this afternoon for 4 days of business travel, and my to-do list for home and the store is several pages long - I really need to be head to bed. </p><p>more tomorrow. [probably...] </p>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-13203285518579556152008-05-02T22:41:00.007-04:002008-05-03T13:32:14.668-04:00Mothers and Fair TradeIn our most recent <a href="http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs083/1101646656271/archive/1102080783630.html">newsletter</a>, I write that May has 2 days honoring mothers -- Sunday May 11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> [Mother's Day] and Saturday, May 11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> [World Fair Trade Day.] There is quite a bit that could be said about Fair Trade and I hope to be writing more about it [and pointing you to other resources to learn more] as May progresses. Right now, I want to share why I feel the cause of Fair Trade is so connected with the well-being of women -- and particularly mothers -- around the world.<br /><br />Women make up some 60% of the world’s working poor, defined as people who work but do not earn enough to lift themselves above the $1 per day global poverty line. And yet, in some regions of the world, women provide 70% of agricultural labor and produce over 90% of food.* Evidence shows that when women in impoverished communities do earn money, they are more likely to invest it in the well-being and education of their children than men are. And when women earn money it has other benefits as well:<br /><blockquote><p align="left"><em>When people become economically empowered, they gain political and social power. Many of the groups that we work with do more than just produce crafts; they're involved in community development, health and education. For the women we work with, the effect is even greater. As they gain employment, they become able to leave abusive situations, to seek legal assistance, to acquire education, to become independent. Their work allows them to be economically significant in the family and gives them leverage to be considered an equal .</em></p><p align="right">Bob Chase, Executive Director, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">SERRV</span> International</p></blockquote><p align="left"></p><p align="left"></p><p align="left">To me, the connection between the economic empowerment of women and the well-being of children is on its face obvious. That is, in my mind, the connection between Fair Trade and Mother's Day. I could not say it any better than the <a href="http://www.womensedge.org/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1">Women Thrive Worldwide</a> website does: "...economic opportunity for women is so important to ending the extreme poverty that cripples communities in the developing world: because when you teach a woman to fish, everybody eats." </p><p align="left">Except in many cases, there is no need to teach at all. Women around the world already have marketable skills in agriculture and in the handiwork they do to provide for their families. What they need is a level playing field and a fair wage for their labor. Which is what Fair Trade is about. </p><p align="left">I hope to have time to write more about this later in the week.</p><p align="left">Until then, I hope you are enjoying the wonderful weekend weather!</p><p align="left"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">*stats from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">UNIFEM</span></span></em></p>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-80007175849905732952008-05-02T12:58:00.013-04:002008-05-02T14:09:11.099-04:00Things I've been meaning to tell you ...<em>Note to self: If I wait until I have the "perfect" slice of time to write a blog entry [quiet, kid-free, uninterrupted, at least 30 mins.], then I never get around to posting.</em><br /><br />Hence, despite the fact that I am smack dab in the middle of multi-tasking, I am determined to share a few things:<br /><br /><p>(1) A blog I was delighted to find and happy to share with you: <a href="http://greenerloudoun.wordpress.com/">Greener Loudoun</a>, written by a Bluemont local who used to work as an Environmental Manager for Loudoun County. He updates regularly on a wide variety on environmental topics -- both local and those relevant everywhere.</p><p>(2) More on Bisphenol A [BPA]: I have been <a href="http://forpeopleandplanet.blogspot.com/search/label/plastic">blogging </a>about the multiple evils of conventional plastics and I wanted to keep folks updated on info as I found it. These links from <a href="http://www.enviroblog.org/">Enviroblog</a>, a project of the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/about">Environmental Working Group</a> give a helpful overview of the topic:</p><li><a href="http://www.enviroblog.org/2008/04/cheatsheet-bisphenol-a-bpa.htm">BPA Cheatsheet</a></li><li><a href="htthttp://www.enviroblog.org/2008/03/bpa-questions-answered.htmp://">BPA Q&A</a></li><p>I was at a major home goods retailer today to buy some thermal carafes for serving hot coffee. Featured prominently in bright summer colors were all kinds of pitchers and glassware for poolside and backyard entertaining. The vast majority of these were made out of Polycarbonate. Below, is the EWG on this kind of plastic. Please note the last line [emphasis theirs] which brings a whole other problem to light.</p><blockquote><p><em>Polycarbonate bottles: As the original post mentioned, studies show low levels of BPA leach out of polycarbonate bottles (like Nalgene and other hard, colored water bottles) at room temperature. More BPA leaches when the bottles are filled with hot liquid. Generally these bottles will be marked with recycling number seven. Polycarbonate is hard, translucent or clear plastic.These bottles may be marked with the number 7. If you're going to use a polycarbonate bottle, be aware that it's likely that higher amounts of BPA leach out of older and damaged bottles. Although we recommend that you avoid drinking from polycarbonate bottles,<strong> it's important to note that your potential exposure to BPA through canned food is considerably higher.</strong></em></p></blockquote><p>Our neighbors to the North are a bit ahead of us. In April, <a href="http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/nr-cp/2008/2008_59_e.html">Canada became the first country to ban the use of BPA in baby bottles</a>. Immediately after this announcement:<br /></p><blockquote><p><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/04/18/ST2008041803545.html" target="">Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.</a><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/04/18/ST2008041803545.html" target="">) said he will file a bill to ban BPA from all baby products as well as dental sealants and any bottle or container that holds food and drink. "It's better to be safe than sorry," Schumer said. </a></p><p></p></blockquote>A news analyst on NPR this morning noted that it's unlikely that any such legislation will gain much immediate traction in the US because of the economic ramifications of banning BPA. It's in many consumer products and manufacturers do not have a good [for them] alternative readily at hand.<br /><br />So, for the foreseeable future, we are stuck with it in our bottled water. Does that mean I'll never buy another bottle of Dasani at the 7-11 when I'm running late to little league practice with the kids? No. I did it yesterday, actually. It does mean that I am doing my best to limit my family's exposure. I would add that if you are buying and using conventional water bottles this summer -- try to avoid letting the bottles get overheated. There is evidence that more BPA leaches out at higher temps. So if you have a 36 ct pack of bottled water sitting in your garage or the trunk of your car, well, at this point, I probably wouldn't let my kids drink it. [Nor my 80+ year old grandma.]<br /><br />Well, I have more to share, but the baby is soaked from splashing in backyard puddles, and my pygmy goats are trying to get in the house by climbing in my open dining room windows. Yes. Really.<br /><br />until later...<br /><br />ETA: This <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/22/health/22well.html?_r=2&oref=slogin">NYT article </a>is another good overview of the BPA issue.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-61377140008631025062008-04-29T12:53:00.003-04:002008-04-29T12:56:51.471-04:00Watch this now.Really. <a href="http://www.storyofstuff.com/">It's an important 20 mins</a>. If everyone watches it, our collective literacy on critical issues facing us as a species will increase.Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-78297511192809431062008-04-28T15:19:00.003-04:002008-04-28T15:23:49.152-04:00Goodness! It's been a week since my last post!How did that happen? And it's yet another rainy Monday. I'm at the store because Michal slipped and sprained her ankle this morning. Happy to be working the day shift; sad that she is hurt and needs to be off her feet. I have about 8 gazillion things I need to be doing right at this very moment [correspondence that is overdue, orders to place, new jewelry to display, a newsletter to write, an ad to design]. But I did want to just pop in here and say hello. I've actually heard from some folks in the last week who have been reading here and who gave me some positive feedback. Which is very much appreciated, 'cause I rather felt like I was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sittin</span>' around talking to myself. So if you do drop by -- do leave a comment. Even just a "hello out there" would be wonderful. <br /><br />I have several post brewing. So it ought to be well less than a week before I'm back again.<br /><br />Later <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">luvies</span>...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-68233886710487953262008-04-21T17:23:00.004-04:002008-04-21T17:54:17.016-04:00Rain, rain ...I don't want it to go away, necessarily. But it does put me in a rather indolent mood. I have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">beaucoup</span> I could be doing, of course. But very little motivation.<br /><br />Tomorrow is officially <a href="http://ww2.earthday.net/">Earth Day</a>. We will have a little free gift for everyone who comes by the store tomorrow [and for the rest of the week, until we run out.] Tomorrow is also, incidentally, the 1 year anniversary of Greater Goods' opening. [Not exactly a coincidence.]<br /><br />On Wednesday, Michal and I will have a table at the <a href="http://www.loudounchamber.org/CWT/External/WCPages/WCEvents/EventDetail.aspx?EventID=40"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Loudoun</span> County Chamber of Commerce Annual <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Leadshare</span> Luncheon</a>. The event is sold out, and the <a href="http://www.marketingbydelight.com/">speaker</a> is one I am eager to hear, so I am looking forward to the event. Both as a marketing opportunity for the store, and in terms of my own personal edification. And, bonus[!], the luncheon is at one of my favorite <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Loudoun</span> restaurants, <a href="http://www.lightfootrestaurant.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Lightfoot</span></a>. I have <strong><em>got</em></strong> to have produced some kind of reasonably nice-looking flier before then! I have several designed if I can just stop playing with them and actually print them out in sufficient quantity.<br /><br />And then I could of course be working on my <a href="http://www.forpeopleandplanet.com/">website </a>content... Oh! and I found a handful of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Loudoun</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">bloggers</span> that I want to connect with and see if we can't help each other with some cross-promotions... I have ideas! <br /><br />Off to implement ...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-37471363162004243952008-04-17T17:51:00.003-04:002008-04-17T18:05:02.941-04:00What I'm thinking ...Quiet afternoon in the store. Just dropped my son off at Little League practice [I was so ridiculously full of goofy joy and pride seeing him in his uniform] and am now back for the evening shift. Spent a good chunk of the day getting organized professionally and personally. Our life is fairly hectic right now in general, and we are hosting our extended family for a Passover <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">seder</span> on Saturday evening. Which requires almost as much shopping and cleaning and cooking and baking as <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Christmas</span> does in many folks' homes. <br /><br />Trying to keep my spirits up. Business is <em>so</em> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sssslllloooowwww</span>. Folks are just not shopping. I hear it from most of the other local businesses as well. I know that stocking grocery and food is the way to go. Making that happen is a bit more complicated though. There are so many wonderful products I'd love to stock! I recently got wholesale buying information from 3 reusable water bottle companies. I am hoping to be able to choose between them and place an order in the next 2 weeks or so. I'm also a big believer in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rain_barrel">rain barrels</a>, and am trying to find a cost-effective way to supply them to local folks. Last summer was so dry that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Purcellville</span> was on mandatory water restrictions for most of the season. <br /><br />Well ... I'm off to make some more progress on the <a href="http://www.forpeopleandplanet.com/">website</a>.<br /><br />Later, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">luvies</span>...Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6798593715621632321.post-38108172875290142422008-04-17T15:10:00.001-04:002008-04-17T15:38:03.832-04:00More on plastic and bisphenol A<blockquote><p>Based on draft findings by the National Toxicology Program, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, senior congressional Democrats asked the Food and Drug Administration to reconsider its view that the chemical bisphenol A is safe in products for use by infants and children.</p></blockquote><p>From a <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/scienceNews/idUSN1513929320080415?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0">Rueters' wire store </a>on Tuesday.</p>Ayalahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01331013645992055279noreply@blogger.com0