THE HEALTHY HOLIDAYS HANDBOOK
A TIP Less Toxic Living Guide
© 2008, Liberty Goodwin
NOTE: This Handbook Is Distributed Free By TIP To
Enhance The Health And Well-Being Of All Readers. Please Consider Helping Our Organization With Your Shopping, Web Surfing,
& Donations. See Back Cover, P. 2
& P. 9 for Ways to Support Our Efforts!
FINDING EVERYTHING YOU NEED
FOR HEALTHY CELEBRATION & GIFT-GIVING
TABLE
OF CONTENTS
P. 3 WHAT IS A LESS TOXIC HOLIDAY?
P. 5 GOOD
HEALTHY GIFT IDEAS
P. 9 GIFT
BOOKS FROM THE TIP BOOKSTORE
Less
Toxic Living & Landscaping Books & Materials
P. 10 SAFER TOYS &
CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS
P. 15 GREAT GIFT SOURCES IN RI
& NEARBY
P. 21 GETTING READY TO PARTY: Suggestions & sources for cleaning,
prettying up, clothing care, healthy food & dining out.
P. 29 PETS
& THE HOLIDAYS
COME
TO OUR GIFT IDEAS PARTY,
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2008
12 TO 3 P.M., AT THE
ROCHAMBEAU LIBRARY,
708
HOPE STREET, PROVIDENCE, RI
Help us pick the best gift ideas - and let us help
you figure out what to get for your loved ones! (If you can’t make the party, ask to be on our afterthoughts
E-List).
HELP US – AND HELP YOUR HEALTH
& PLANET AS WELL – JOIN US!
Support TIP’s
important research and education efforts on toxics in everyday products and healthier
alternatives! As a TIP member, you’ll
be part of a vital movement to create and sustain an earthly life support
system friendly to people and other living beings. You will receive our quarterly newsletter, “TIP TALKS”, with news
of TIP activities, info on research into toxic products and health effects, and
tips on healthy living. We welcome all
concerned people as TIP members.
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SPECIAL
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subscribers only) or a copy of “Safer for Your Baby”, a great guide to less
toxic living for all. NEW: With $30, get a sample issue of Mothering
Magazine, including Best Natural Toys of 2007.
WHAT’S A
LESS TOXIC HOLIDAY?
A less-toxic holiday is one which enhances health,
quality of life and the environment on which we all depend for sustenance. It’s one in which you are not rushing
around, harried and anxious because of the overload of chores and many
decisions needed – about entertaining, family visits or gift giving. Give yourself the gift of a more relaxed
holiday, one you enjoy by doing things in a responsible, earth &
people-friendly way.
THOUGHTS ON LESS TOXIC
GIFT GIVING
People are besieged with piles of THINGS at
holidays, and many homes become junk heaps of seldom-used items. Better gifts are practical gifts, gifts that
are less toxic and don’t take up too much space. Better gifts are fitted to the life style and needs of the
giftee, sometimes helping them toward a healthier modus vivendi, but not
aggressively. The ideal gift should be
something the giver would like the giftee to have - and something the giftee
would really appreciate. Concern is
needed too for the reduction in sheer trash from wrapping paper and boxes used
for a brief moment of glory.
WHAT TO AVOID WHEN CHOOSING GIFTS
1. Gifts
that pollute the environment & expose the giftee to unhealthy chemicals:
Fragranced items – as in cosmetics & candles and “air fresheners”. Toxic art materials,
including petroleum-based permanent markers.
Plastic items containing toxic chemicals such as phthalates.
2. Gifts that will give a one-time pleased
reaction – then never get used, or played with more than once or twice.
3. Gifts
that encourage unhealthy, non-life enhancing habits, like sitting all day in
front of the TV or computer playing games, overeating fatty and sweet
foods.
A CORNUCOPIA OF HEALTHY GIFT IDEAS
1. God bless gift certificates!
They can be very appropriate less-toxic gifts as long as the issuer is a
basically non-toxic and natural type retailer, or at least neutral. Examples:
Garden Grille or Whole Foods Market.
Besides local retailers, there are lots of on-line stores selling
natural products, who will be happy to provide such a certificate.
2. Think of giving a non-material gift such as a
boat ride, some time at a gym, a bowling alley; a course at a local
college?. You can give a membership to
an organization which interests the giftee.
One other often-welcome gift is a restaurant discount book (choose a
healthy one) You can even give a “Surprise Day” combining various kinds of fun!
3. Think of
giving services – we have several times given in-laws an evening of
baby-sitting as a gift. If you are
really dedicated, you could go in and give a thorough house cleaning (using
natural cleaners). Or, provide snow
removal for someone’s driveway and walk. Think of what services your giftee
could really use, that you can either do for them yourself or pay someone else
to do. One of our sons greatly enjoyed
a neck massage we gave him while visiting Newport.
4. Be
environmentally friendly. Think of
renewable-energy utilizing gifts like solar garden lights and solar
radios. Send E-Cards, instead of
paper. Available free or cheap with
animation and music at:
www.hallmark.com. Think
odor-eating plants such as those described in the book, “How to Grow Fresh Air”
– Areca palms, etc. Think chlorine and
chemical-removing faucet or shower filters, electronic air cleaners.
5. Think
gifts of healthy housewares, like Corning Ware, glass and ceramic casseroles,
stainless steel or cast iron cookware.
Think of a blender with a glass container instead of plastic.
6. Think books, which can educate on environmental
or health concerns; be entertaining or informative on other subjects. Think magazine subscriptions to alternative
publications such as E/The Environment Magazine, Utne Reader, Mothering,
Natural Health… If these wouldn’t
appeal to your giftee, seek those that address their interests & at least
don’t promote toxic stuff or violence.
Think videos –good & positive ones which would warm and uplift –
& maybe cause to laugh, learn - or exercise!
7. Think of a NO SURPRISE gift! Share your gift
ideas with the loved one to find out what they would prefer and will use. For some, getting a gift they really like is
better than being “surprised” with one they don’t.
9. Think
things made of natural materials that are a bit different, or fun, or
beautiful, to buy. Think of string
hammocks. Think of gift baskets, either assembled yourself or put together by a
retailer. Whole Foods Market, for
example, will sell a gift basket of selected unscented personal care products
(or other items).
SAMPLE GIFT IDEAS & SOME ONLINE SOURCES
HEALTH-ENHANCING GIFTS
**AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION OF RHODE ISLAND
Fight for healthy air (see www.lungne.org
or call 401-421-6487) Gift
certificate for Freedom From Smoking® classes $75.00
(8 sessions over 7 weeks. Next
program offered at Memorial Hospital in February). Radon test kit (including analysis) $12.00
Registration fee for Stair Climb event (in Providence on
Feb. 28 or elsewhere in New England) and/or promise of pledge for Stair
Climb event or Healthy Air Walk in May.
KEEPING
ACTIVE
**PEDOMETER.
OMRON HJ-151 HIP PEDOMETER FOR
AEROBIC ACTIVITY. Measures: steps and
minutes, calories and distance. Seven-day
history lets you review a full week of exercise. Resets at midnight automatically - ready to go every morning. Large
display and clock. AVAILABLE
AT ALONOVO.COM: $13.99 Go to: www.alonovo.com/community/affiliate/98 Enter “Pedometer” in the search engine.
$13.99. A percentage of the price will
benefit TIP.
**BADMINTON SET. Fun
for the whole family. Regulation set
includes 4 nylon-strung racquets and 2 shuttlecocks, mesh net with 1"-dia. powdercoat steel poles
for stability, instructions.
2.8Hx9.8Wx26.5L" Target, $29.99, Free Shipping
Go to: www.target.com & search badminton sets. Also browse:
Lawn
Games, All
Racquet Sports,
GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTHY WATER
FAUCET FILTER/SHOWER FILTER: In 2007, Environmental Working Group (EWG) in 2007, found tap water samples in the Washington, DC area contained toxic chlorination by-products at levels above federal health limits. Some turn to bottled water. But, there's a cheaper, more environmentally-friendly way, says EWG, to dramatically lower levels of these toxic byproducts: carbon filtration. In fact, it's 10 to 20 times less expensive than bottled water ($100 vs. nearly $2,000 annually) AND doesn't produce the waste and pollution bottled water does. Choose a faucet-mount, under-sink or whole-house model. Also, avoid absorbing chemicals such as chlorine byproducts while bathing, with an inexpensive shower filter.
HOW
ABOUT THE GIFT OF “LIFE & BREATH”:
AIR FRESHENERS?
(NOT THE
STINKY KIND - SEE THE ”WHAT TO AVOID” SECTION.) Try two electronic fresh air devices used by Liberty
Goodwin, Tip Director:
**SLANT FIN PURI-CLEAN 55 AIR PURIFIER PC-55
This desktop air purifier provides quality
multi-stage air purification with a pre-filter, activated carbon filter, 3M
Filtrete electrostatic filter and a negative ion generator. Price varies - shop around online. We found it for a “sale” price of $63.99 at
one site, but then for $49.99 on sale elsewhere.
NOTE: Comes with a “fragrance dispenser” - Ignore
that! It uses a RFP-55 Replacement
Filter: $8.99.
**WEIN AS-250 SANI-MATE IONIZER/ SANITIZER.
Destroy airborne odors, bacteria, viruses, molds,
chemicals, smoke and allergens pennies a month. Using corona-discharge
technology to neutralize air pollutants, Sani-Mate draws air inside at
the rate of 70 feet per minute, then cleans & refreshes it using bursts of
electricity - simulating the air-purifying effects of a lightning storm. Use in
bathrooms, sick rooms and more. Maintenance free with no parts to replace or
filters to change. USA. Retail is
$49. We found sales online for $44 and
$33.33. Liberty tested this on nasty
bathroom smells - and it worked!
STILL
SEEKING A HEALTHY BREATHING GIFT? Get them
the book “How to Grown Fresh Air”, on plants that absorb chemicals
naturally. Buy it at the TIP Book
Store! (See P. 9.)
CUT FLOWERS CAN BE UNHEALTHY - OR SUMPTUOUSLY
ORGANIC
Because flowers are not food, the USDA doesn't regulate
them or inspect them for pesticide residues.
Yet, cut flowers are one of the most pesticide-intensive crops, causing
compromised worker health & flowers laden with pesticide residues. Alternatives: Organic Bouquet flowers are sold at Whole
Foods, Wild Oats, Trader Joe’s other natural foods chains, and on the web. Two online purveyors of organic flowers are
Manic Organics of Lawrenceville, Georgia, specializing in roses, and Seabreeze
Organic Farm in San Diego. Local
Harvest has an online store which helps small farms find markets for their
products beyond local areas. Contacts:
Organic Bouquet, (877) 899-2468, www.organicbouquet.com
; Manic Organics Flowers, (678) 377-8258, www.manicorganicsflowers.com;
SeaBreeze Organic Farm, (858) 481-0209, www.seabreezed.com;
Local Harvest, (831) 475-8150, www.localharvest.org/organic-flowers.jsp.
USE PHOTOS FOR PERSONALIZED GIFTS
What would they really like? Everyone loves
pictures of themselves or family members.
These can be applied to a wide variety of useful gifts for kids or
adults! AVAILABLE FROM SNAPFISH: www.snapfish.com/store EXAMPLES: Notebook or Mug, $9.99, T-Shirts,
$12.99, Apron: $14.99, Pillowcase, Playing
Cards or Teddy Bear: $19.99 , Tote Bag or Coasters
(Set Of 6): $24.99 Desk Organizer: $26.99
Keepsake Box: $29.99 Calendars: Range From $18.99 To $27.99, By Size.
BOOKS & GAMES FOR PARENTS
“Just
A Stage” (humorous parenting
columns)
Jan Butsch, Price: $12.95. www.schroderpr.com/schrodermedia/parenting_doorway.html
“The Secret of Parenting:
How to Be in Charge of Today's Kids-from Toddlers to Preteens - Without Threats
or Punishment”, by Anthony E. Wolf, Price $9.75
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0374527083/102-7338075-9666553?v=glance
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Dads $9.95
Chicken Soup for the Mother
& Daughter Soul: Stories to Warm the
Heart and Honor the Relationship - Jack Canfield $9.72
Good Grief, It's Mother's Day! (Peanuts) - Alice Alfonsi $3.99
Chicken Soup for the Couple's
Soul - Jack Canfield $3.79
MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS
THE
FUNNY TIMES: A monthly forum for humor
- funny jokes, political cartoons, news & columns - in a world totally
insane. No matter what has you down: The War on Terror, HMO Waiting Rooms or Family Stress, FT’s
cartoonists and columnists will fill you with inspiration instead of despair.
They read 1,000s of the funniest cartoons in order to find & collect the
Best of the Best each month in their tabloid newspaper. To cheer someone with a gift subscription,
you can go to: www.funnytimes.com/subscriptions.php
or call 216-371-8600. The
price is $25 for a one-year (12 monthly issues).
SEE SPECIAL OFFERS FOR E/THE ENVIRONMENT MAGAZINE
& OTHER USEFUL PUBLICATIONS ON THE
TIP MEMBERSHIP PAGE, P. 2.
FOR THE HOME OFFICE
SOLAR CALCULATOR: Most basic calculators today combine solar
and battery power. But Casio and Texas Instruments offer all-solar models that
never need batteries. These can be found at selected office supply or
electronics stores, or online.
CALENDAR: Close to Home: 2009 Day-to-Day Calendar Humor is
healthy - lots here: inspired by the woman who throws herself onto a seafood
case to relieve her hot flashes, the nurse offering to turn the surgical lamps
to "tanning mode" for $25, or the two men from Al's Car Wash who
place bird poop decals on clean cars. Whatever the subject--John McPherson finds
the humor in it.. List Price: $12.99
Amazon Price: $10.39
FOR SCHOOL
**LUNCHBOX. Vinyl
shows up in most soft insulated lunch boxes for kids, and independent tests
found some of them contained high levels of lead. The greenest approach: Avoid vinyl. Lunchboxes.com carries dozens of metal lunch boxes, including
some you may remember fondly from your youth.
**DRINK CONTAINER
Unfortunately, many reusable water bottles are made of polycarbonate plastic
(look for #7 recycling symbol on the bottom).
Bisphenol-A, an endocrine disruptor, could leach into liquids in these
bottles, says the Institute for Children's Environmental Health. Avoid plastic, buy stainless steel.
See:, www.kleankanteen.com, www.healthykitchenware.com, or www.taraluna.com/garden/picnic.htm
Try local stores as well. Second-best:
non-leaching plastics such as high density polyethylene (HDPE, #2) or low
density polyethylene (LDPE, #4). REI
and Reusablebags.com offer many choices.
LESS-TOXIC ARTIST SUPPLIES:
Water Miscible Oils. Like regular oil
colors, but with a modified oil binder you can thin & clean with water.
Drying time is faster, clean-up easier. Once dry, the paint resists water like
other oils. Users report fewer problems
with odors & allergies.
Van Gogh
H2Oil Colors Gift Sets:
Water-soluble oil colors that need no solvents, are thinned with water,
environmentally friendly, with the look & intensity of oil color. Basic
Set of 10 Colors — The perfect introduction! Basic mixing colors in 20 ml tubes, in
a covered box. 01537-1029
Basic Set of 6, $19.95 01537-1039
Basic Set of 10, $31.05. Dick Blick, (800)-828-4548
or www.dickblick.com/categories/watermiscibleoils/
THE TIP BOOK STORE: BUY THEM FROM US!
www.toxicsinfo.org/tipstore.htm
Exciting and Useful Books for Exciting Winter Reading & Gift-Giving
GARDENING
BOOKS
NEW! Easy Care Guide to
Houseplants, $20
NEW! From Grass To Gardens,
How to Reap Bounty
from A Small Yard, $17
NEW! Getting Started in
Permaculture, $15
NEW! Small Space Gardening,
$15
NEW! The War on Bugs, $35
Building a Healthy Lawn, $15
The Gardener’s Guide to Plant Diseases, $15
The Gardener’s Weed Book, $13
Massachusetts Gardener’s Companion, $15
Organic Lawn Care Manual, $20
The Permaculture Garden, $25
Rhode Island Gardener’s Companion, $15
Safe & Easy Lawn Care, The Complete Guide to
Organic, Low-Maintenance Lawns, $13
Solar
Gardening: Growing Vegetables Year-Round
the
American Intensive Way, $40
OTHER
TOPICS:
(Environmental Action, Natural
Healing, Food, Healthy Homes)
Green-Up
Your Cleanup, $17
The
Organic Food Guide, $9
How to Grow Fresh Air (50 Houseplants that Purify
Your Home or Office) $17
Safe Passage on City Streets, $10
Victories Without Violence, $6
DON’T FORGET ALL THE OTHER
WAYS TIP IS THERE TO HELP YOU WITH A HEALTHIER, ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LIFE
STYLE!
Call or
E-Mail us with a query, check out all the great info on our website at www.toxicsinfo.org, Buy interesting and
useful books there at: www.toxicsinfo.org/tipstore.htm
Sign up
to receive information about our doings, publications, our toxic toys research
& the legislation on green cleaning in schools we are supporting this
year. CONTACT: Liberty Goodwin, TIP Director, Tel.
401-351-9193 or E-Mail: liberty@toxicsinfo.org
KIDS & TOYS
CAN KIDS PLAY IT SAFE WITH PLASTIC? A PUZZLE FOR
PARENTS
Being
a parent is challenging. The world we
live in offers many and confusing choices.
Being informed is key to protecting your family and keeping them
healthy. Yet, just as the scare about
lead paint and toys from China fades from headlines, another worry
appears. Endocrine-disrupting
chemicals in baby bottles and other children’s products? What’s a mother to do? Fortunately, some great non-profit groups
are providing info on how to choose safer plastic products for your youngsters
and your home. Below, some ways to
protect your family:
WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
THE VILLAINS:
PHTHALATES & BISPHENOL-A
Phthalates and
Bisphenol-A (BP-A) are chemicals known to be in many toys and products used by
children. Studies show that these
chemicals leach out of products during use, especially when heated. Young children are exposed by inhalation of
fumes by mouthing and chewing toys and drinking from baby bottles and sippy
cups. Research has also indicated that
these chemicals are endocrine disrupters associated, even at extremely low
doses, with a variety of reproductive and other health effects in animals. These include obesity, diabetes, thyroid
disease, autism, breast cancer, prostate cancer and other illnesses. See: www.ehponline.org/members/2003/6601/6601.html
Possible effects of BP-A in humans, as an estrogen mimic, include early puberty
and possible later breast cancer in girls & other reproductive
abnormalities in boys, such as possible low testosterone levels. Phthalates (pronounced “thal-ates”) have been
connected with liver and hormonal damage.
QUICK TIPS ON HOW TO IDENTIFY AND AVOID THE “BAD
GUYS”
AND ADOPT SAFER ALTERNATIVES
SEE THE ANIMATED “SAM SUDS” CARTOON ON AVOIDING PVC, at www.samsuds.org
or www.besafe.org Poly Vinyl Chloride - PVC - is highly
toxic, found in many household products, and
contains phthalates.) This is a
funny, short, informative video also available as a DVD for showing to groups.
CHECK OUT RECYCLING SYMBOLS: On the
bottom of plastic 
items you will find a triangle with a number inside
it. This is an indicator of the type
and toxicity of the plastic. DON’T BUY
PLASTIC WITH RECYCLING NUMBERS 3, 6 OR
7.
DO
LOOK FOR AND BUY TOYS & CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS WITH THE SYMBOL, “CE” ON THE
BOX OR ITEM. That
means compliance with the tougher European Union standards, with restrictions
on phthalates, lead, & other chemicals.
SOURCES OF INFORMATION ABOUT
TOXIC TOYS & PRODUCTS
TIME MAGAZINE: “Tips for Safe
Toys and Other Household Products”, by Margot Roosevelt. "Virtually all of us are regularly
exposed to low levels of phthalates and BPA," says Shanna Swan, a Univ. of
Rochester epidemiologist & expert on endocrine disruptors. "But there
are measures we can take, until use of these chemicals in everyday materials
& products is more aggressively restricted."
www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1566958,00.html
GREENPEACE: INFO ON INFANT TOYS CONTAINING PVC AND THOSE WITHOUT PVC Usually toys are NOT labeled as PVC or
“vinyl”, or marked with the PVC symbol. Similar products are made by the same
company with and without PVC. For a
list of both kinds, go to: http://archive.greenpeace.org/comms/97/pvctoys/documents/list.html
ECOLOGY CENTER: Confronting Toxic Toys: It's not just imported toys that carry harmful chemicals,
but brand-name, U.S.-manufactured ones too. Now, a coalition of public interest groups led by the
Ecology Center has made public a database showing how some 1,200 popular
children’s toys stack up in terms of lead content and other harmful
chemicals. See “All I Want for Christmas
Are Some Lead-Free Toys, By
Mike Shriberg, Ecology Center, www.alternet.org/healthwellness/69272. Also see www.healthytoys.org, and www.healthytoys.org/chemicals.chlorine.php
MOTHERING MAGAZINE: PVC Update, By Lois Gibbs
www.mothering.com/sections/action_alerts/december2007.html#pvc
With all the toxic toy recalls, more and more
parents feel like they're rolling the dice with their children's health when
they go shopping. One thing to avoid is
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl, the worst type of plastic for the environment
& our health. While regulations
limit lead in paint on toys, there is no standard for lead in PVC. Also, children who play with some vinyl toys
such as rubber duckies & bath books are exposed to lead, and phthalates as
well, When a child puts a PVC toy in his or her mouth, it's like sucking on a
toxic lollipop. Last month, California joined the European Union & 14 countries in
banning the use of phthalates in children's & infant's products.
MORE NEWS, ACTION & INFO
ON TOXIC TOYS & PRODUCTS
1. CENTER
FOR HEALTH, ENVIRONMENT & JUSTICE: www.chej.org and the Be Safe PVC Campaign: www.besafenet.com/pvc/
2. CONSUMERS UNION: Not in My Cart, www.notinmycart.org Includes
recall information.
3. FOR MORE INFORMATION &
RESOURCES ON SAFER CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS,
GO TO: www.toxicsinfo.org/tips_kids.htm
SOURCES FOR SAFER TOYS & SAMPLE GIFT
IDEAS FOR KIDS
LOCAL SOURCE FOR TOYS
Creatoyvity (Has many CE approved and
safer plastic toys)
Providence: 808 Hope Street, Providence. RI, 401-351-5718
Wickford Village, 68 Brown Street, N. Kingstown, RI, -294-9011
Store Hours: 10 am -6 pm Mon. - Sat.; 11:30
am – 3:30 pm Sun. Email: sales@creatoyvity.com, Website: www.creatoyvity.com
CREATIVE, HEALTHY TOYS ONLINE
WILLOW TREE TOYS
All Willow Tree Toys products are lead-free, non-toxic,
and have passed European and American safety tests, including EC Toy Safety
Directive European Standard EN71 and ASTM (American) International Standards.
They purchase from smaller companies who personally implement and oversee a
structured safety program.
Wooden Paddle Boat: Perfect for the bathtub.
The boat is "fueled" by a replaceable rubber band, which will enable
the boat to race all the way around the bathtub. A simple and fun toy. Ages 3+. Price: $7.95
www.willowtreetoys.com/product/DDW100/Wooden_Paddle_Boat.html
Magnifying
Glass in a Tin Has an
attached cord, so can be worn as a necklace during exploring adventures! No
worries about losing it. Stores in a tin container 3" square. Magnifying
glass measures approximately 2" in diameter. Imported from Germany. Ages 3 and up. Price: $11.95
www.willowtreetoys.com/product/HB1694/Magnifying_Glass_in_a_Tin.html
Watery Blue Silk
Parachute.
This pure
silk parachute is easy to throw & doesn’t tangle as the chute opens and
glides down. Attached pouch contains a bouncy ball for weight. The ball can be
swapped out for a small doll or figure to ride in the pouch. Ages 3+. Silk
fabric from China; parachute dyed & made in the U.S.A. by work-at-home
moms. $24.95
www.willowtreetoys.com/product/SS1003/Watery_Blue_Silk_Parachute.html
Haba Wooden
Compass in a Tin. A real working compass with a North marker, disk with cardinal
points, a magnetic needle, and an instruction booklet explaining how to use the
compass and how a compass works. Great
fun for your little explorer. Comes on a sturdy cord and stores neatly in a tin
container. Disk measures 2.7" diameter. Metal tin measures 3" square.
Made in China under the close supervision of Haba of Germany. Ages 3+. Price:
14.95.
www.willowtreetoys.com/product/HB1728/Haba_Wooden_Compass_in_a_Tin.html
A PHYSICALLY ACTIVE BOARD
GAME? (Find it at
multiple websites).
Scavenger Hunt For Kids Board Game #01427
University
Games Sale Price:
$14.98 Take the Hunt inside with this
indoor search board game. Can you find a tape measure, an ugly shirt, something
beginning with the letter C - all somewhere in your house? In each round, 6 cards show objects to be
found. The timer is set, & each player has 2 minutes to find
everything. When time’s up, players
move their pawns 1 space for each object found. First to reach the "You Win" space, wins the game. Worried about a messy house? After the 4th Round is a Captain Cleanup
round. Players race to return all items
to where found, & when done, spin for a chance to move ahead. For 2 - 4 players, Ages 6 & Up.
BACK
TO BASICS TOYS
Rubber Horse Shoe Set, Item #: 6297, Price: $10.99
www.backtobasicstoys.com/item/productid/6297/txt/Rubber_Horse_Shoe_Set
It’s a Ringer! Soft rubber horseshoes and pins keep floors
and kids safe indoors, & outdoor play portable and convenient. Includes 2
sets of lightweight horseshoes & 2 pins. Box size 7½"l x 12¼"w.
(Age 3+)
Animal Croquet Set, Item #: 5012, Price: $30.99
www.backtobasicstoys.com/item/productid/5012/txt/Animal_Croquet_Set
A Favorite Family
Game Now Sized for Younger Players. This brightly-colored wooden Animal Croquet Set can be played
indoors or out. Charming animal theme. Comes with 6 oversized animal wickets, 4
wooden mallets, 4 wooden balls, and 12 wooden wicket stands. Size of mallets
19½"h. (Age 3+)
QUINCY SHOP
Classic Plan Toys Wooden Rocking Horse The
classic fun toy for children ages 2
to 3 to develop balance and strengthen
their arm & leg muscles. Safely
made of pesticide free rubberwood and natural dyes.
www.quincyshop.com/wooden-rocking-horse.html
***************************************************************
Metal Music Boxes With Crank
www.quincyshop.com/musicbox.html
These
hip little (3 x 1.5 x 1) music boxes are the original crank version. Very popular novelties. Perfect desk-top toys. Choose songs: Happy
Birthday, Beatles-Let It Be, Hey Jude, Imagine, Yesterday, Yellow Submarine, La
Vie En Rose, If I Had A Brain, Love Me Tender, Fur Elise, What a Wonderful
World, , Sound of Music, Here Comes the Sun.
Fun musical toys for ages 6 to adults.
Price: $8.95. See more gift items $10 and
Under!.
**************************************************************
COTTON ORGANIC BABY CLOTHES
Greenbabies. Made in the USA
www.cottonorganicbabyclothes.com/organicbabyclothes
GreenBabies
Give Peas a Chance Long Sleeve Romper,
Sale
Price: $30.00 And Give Peas a Chance
Romper Topper! , Sale Price: $9.95
Veggie Hats/Kelly Green or Veggie Hats/Orange or Veggie Hats/Red Sale Price:
$9.95 or Dragonflies Pull On Hat Sale Price:
$11.00 or Chili Peppers Pull On Hat: Price: $14.00
Pumpkin Ls Lap-Over T-Shirt/Long Sleeve
Sale Price: $13.50
Cranberry Kensington
Tapestry Day Hat Picture perfect when matched with the romper! Sale Price: $15.50
Carrot Baby Bag
or Chili Pepper Baby Bag Our most
popular and currently in stock in limited supply. or Cranberry Tapestry Bootleg Romper, Sale Price: $32.00
FITNESS, SPORTS,
DANCING
FITNESS BEGINNINGS: FITNESS VIDEOS FOR KIDS
Range
around $15 to $25
www.fitnessbeginnings.com/everybody-dance-dvd.html
Kids Fitness Videos: Kids Exercise
Videos, Kids
Yoga Videos, Kids Pilates Videos, Kids Rope Jumping
Kids Dance
Videos: Kids Hip Hop Dance, Kids Dance Party
Videos, Kids Ballet Videos, Kids Tap Videos, Kids Jazz Dance, Dance and Sing Along Videos,
The Wiggles Videos, Kids Hula Videos
Kids Yoga Mats &
Kits
Instructional
Sports Videos, Kids Baseball
Videos, Kids Soccer Videos,
Kids
Basketball Videos, Kids Rope Jumping,
Toddler
Swimming Instruction, Other Kids Sports
Videos
Good Sportsmanship
Videos
Infant
Fitness Videos: Infant Development
Videos, Infant
Massage Videos, Infant Calming
Videos, Infant Swimming
Videos
Kids Fitness CDs: Musical Play
Activities, Aerobics /
Fitness, Dances The Learning
Station, Greg and
Steve - Music CDs, Rhythm Stick
Activity
FOR
MOMS: Pregnancy
Fitness Videos & Prenatal
Exercise Videos
RHODE
ISLAND RESOURCES
Where To Get Gifts Locally
ACTIVITIES
BOWLING
Bowling gift
certificates are usually available in any amount. Check with lanes near your giftee for rates, to see how
much bowling they can receive for the amount you want to spend. Rates vary with time and day: Examples from a brief survey: $3.95
per game per person; Sun. to Thurs. $1.99 each
per game. M-F before 5 p.m. $3.25 or $3.50 per person per
game.. By the lane:
$10 per 1/2 hour for a lane, up to five persons. $25 for a lane for an hour. Shoe rental ranges from $2 to
$4.50. Figure out whether Ten Pin or
Duckpin Bowling might be preferred. Ask
a spouse!
AMF Cranston Lanes, 1450
Elmwood Ave.
Cranston, RI 02910, (401) 467-8850
AMF Lang’s Lanes, 225 Niantic Ave.,
Cranston, RI 02907, (401) 944-0500
Legion Bowl & Billiards, 661 Park Ave, Cranston, RI
(401) 781-8888
East Providence Lanes., 80 Newport Ave., East
Providence, RI
Tel. 401-438-2300, Contact:
Maggie Curvelo, Assistant Manager,
E-Mail: info@eastprovidencelanes.com
60 Lanes, Billiards
Sand Bagger’s Lounge, 6125 Post Rd
North Kingstown, RI 02852 (401) 884-4450
Old Mountain Bowling Lanes, 756
Kingstown Rd
Wakefield, RI 02879 - (401) 783-5511 3
DUCKPIN LANES
Bowling Academy, Inc., 354 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 (401) 434-5839, http://bowlingacademy.2gobowl.com
Offers Duckpin & Ten Pin
Bowling. bowlingacademy@yahoo.com
10-28-08
Spoke to male, they have gift certificates
Town Hall Bowling Lanes, 1463 Atwood Ave, Johnston RI 02919
(401)
831-6940, E-Mail: THLBowl@aol.com
Website: www.townhalllanes.com Duckpin Bowling.
Dudek Lanes, 409 Child Street, Warren, R.I., 401 - 245 - 9471
Mac's Bowlaway, 890
Main Street, W. Warwick, R.I. 401-828-3279
CONTRA DANCE IN RI & NEARBY
(Group
dancing that welcomes Beginners of all ages,
singles,
couples, & families. Partners not necessary.)
Free Sunday Night
Jammers' Dances!
One Sunday each month:
Potluck Supper: 6 p.m.
Dancing (with teaching,
as needed): 7 to 9 p.m.
Waltz, Polka, Contradance
Israeli, English, Scandinavian, Italian...
Goff Hall, 124 Bay
State Road, Rehoboth, MA
Nov. 23, Dec. 21
2009 dates to be announced
Brown
University, Sayles Hall, 79-81 Waterman Street on the Green, Providence,
RI. Usually held the 1st & 3rd Fridays when Brown is in session. Time: 8pm - 11pm, Price: $7.00 general, $5
students. Email: contradance@brown.edu. Website: Brown Contra
Dance
Rehoboth, Massachusetts, 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Goff Hall, Bay State
Road, Rehoboth General admission: $7.00; $4 for ages 16 and under; $15 for
families with children under 16.. All dances taught. Call Shawn at 508-252-6375
or E-Mail: shawnkendrick@comcast.net.
Rehoboth, Massachusetts.
Musicians play every Sunday. Once a month, usually on Second Sundays, a potluck
at 6 pm precedes a "Community Dance", at which dances are taught.
Admission is free. For schedule & information, call Bob Elliott, at 508-669-5656,
Website: www.contradancelinks.com/jammers.html
YMCA FACILITIES (Ask re: Gift Certificates)
YMCA
OF PAWTUCKET, 660 Roosevelt Ave. - Level 2, Pawtucket, RI Tel.
401-727-7900, Contact: David Souza or
Belen Velasquez, bvelasquez@ymcapawt.org
YMCA
OF GREATER PROVIDENCE, 222 Richmond St. Suite 302, Providence, RI Tel. 401-521-9622, Fax: 401-421-6431
Contact: Hugh Minor, hminor@gpymca.org
EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL FUN
**SAVE THE BAY SEAL WATCH TOUR
These one-hour cruises depart Newport November – early April. $20 for adults; $15 for seniors and children 5-12. Get Seal Watch details and more at http://www.newportseals.org. To purchase gift certificates, call Save The Bay at 401-324-6020.
Roger
Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue. Providence, RI Consider giving a Gift Membership -- the Fun
will last all year. Contact membership@rwpzoo.org or call (401) 941-3910, X 375 . Grandparent
& Family: $79 (2 adults and 4
kids) Individual Membership: $49.
Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence, RI membership@childrenmuseum.org,
273-5437, Ext. 221. Interactive activities: learning about pets, people, teeth, a
walk-in kaleidoscope, RI historical displays, woodlands environment, waterways
room.
AS 220, 115
Empire St., Providence, RI. Give a
Membership or a Gift Certificate for classes in the AS220 Print Shop (non-toxic
solvents used) or buy local artwork at the on- line store or galleries. For more info visit the website, www.as220.org or call AS220 at 401.831.9327.
MUSIC
LESSONS
**FISHEL BRESLER’S MUSIC
LESSONS:
Clarinet,
Flute, Guitar, Mandolin,
Harmonica,
Ukulele, Saxophone.
Children,
adults, beginners, advanced.
Basics,
Klezmer, Bluegrass.
East
Side, Providence. For details, call
401-273-9814.
Private Lessons.com Connects the public with independent music
teachers across the U.S. & Canada.
For some in Rhode Island: go to www.privatelessons.com
and select the state, then Music Lessons.
Play An
Instrument? Read Music?
Join the Sunday Night
Jammers!
Every Sunday evening from
7 to 9 p.m.,
we play dance music
from around the world.
Not good enough for us?
Too good for us?
Just try us once, and
decide!
Goff Hall, 124 Bay
State Road, Rehoboth, MA
See www.contradancelinks.com/jammers.html
for details
or contact Judith 401-751-4554; schrierwilde@gmail.com
RETAIL
SOURCES FOR CREATIVE GIFTS
**SEVEN
STORY MARKET
Shop with a conscience?
Then explore Seven Story Market. Owner Susan Letendre travels to Guatemala and returns with
beautiful & elegant beaded jewelry, shawls, table-runners, sustainable-wood
puzzle boxes, & more… all hand-made, all fair trade, each purchase
means Mayan women are building better lives. E-Mail: Susan@SevenStoryMarket.com,
call 401-268-9810, or visit the website: www.sevenstorymarket.com Based in
Rhode Island, offering online, personal, or group sales.
**PSYCHIC KITTY
The
Village at South County Commons, Rte. 1, South Kingstown, Rhode Island. Tel.
401-284-0660, Web: www.psychic-kitty.com,
Hours: Mon-Fri 10 am - 7 pm, Sat. 10 am - 5 pm, Sunday Closed. A unique source for
holistic pet care to help your
dogs and cats thrive. They welcome you to learn about their many offerings including certified organic food &
treats, herbal & natural options, collars/harnesses, beds
& bowls, toys, coats & sweaters and much more plus gifts for the discriminating pet lover.
**THE DID YOU KNOW? STORE,
www.thedidyouknowstore.com 326
Main Street, Wakefield, RI, 401-284-1109 & 533 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI, 398-7444. Claire
Hall, Owner. E-Mail; TheDidYouKnowStore@gmail.com,
Environmentally conscious alternatives to everyday products; support recycling
& re-use, organic farming, fair trade, offer affordable eco-friendly
products and focusing on educating the
consumer on ways to be more eco-conscious in everyday choices.
******************************************************************************************************************************
Wholy
Earth, Franklin, MA (508) 520-0064, Natural pet foods, books on
natural health, teas, homeopathic remedies for pets.
24A
Pier Marketplace, Narragansett, RI
02882
401-788-9077 www.mostnaturally.com
•Bamboo and Organic
Cotton Clothing for Babies, Children, and Adults
•Organic Cotton
Linens •Natural Skincare
•Recycled
Jewelry
•Soy Candles •Natural
Pet Products •Organic Tea •Recycled
Glassware
Most
Naturally supports products made in the U.S.A.,
as
well as Fair Trade Certified merchandise.
**RED
HORSE FARM, Exeter, RI 401-439-1047
Raise Shetland Sheep, offer homespun yarn,
handcrafted wooly sheep ornaments, wool for spinning or felting, hand-made dog
toys with wool stuffing & sheep skins.
The Adopt-A-Sheep program makes a great $60 gift! The sheep stays at the farm. You get an
adoption certificate, picture of and letter from the sheep, a wooly ornament
& monthly farm visits by appointment. The “Spinners” adoption adds an
invitation to shearing day & raw fleece.
Also, Fresh Christmas wreaths & arrangements.
**THE
GOOD EARTH ORGANIC GARDENING CENTER,
Joyce
& John Holscher 1800 Scituate Ave., Hope, RI
401-826-3130
E-Mail: info@goodearthorganicgardencenter.com
RI's only certified organic gardening center. Premium grade cut & Live Christmas Trees, Wreaths &
Roping, Poinsettias & other plants to beautify your home for the
holidays. Special Gourmet
Delights. Gift baskets ready made or
made to order. Unscented Beeswax
Candles. other Local & Fair Trade
gifts that celebrate the art of gardening.
www.goodearthorganicgardencenter.com
**THE WORM LADIES OF CHARLESTOWN,
Lois Fulton, PO Box 397,
Charlestown, RI (401)
364-9673 or Nancy Warner, 161 East Beach Road, Charlestown, RI, 322-7675. Teach children the
importance of “living green” with their very own Worm Kit, just $40 (2009 price). Find books on vermiculture for children and
adults as well as hand-made Angora gifts & wool. Red Wiggler Worms “Our Green Friends” for
Vermicomposting. Nutrient rich castings
(soil enhancer) make a terrific gift for the avid gardener. Custom-made gifts for any budget. www.wormladies.com
Seven Arrows Herb Farm, 346 Oakhill Avenue, Attleboro, MA, www.sevenarrowsfarm.com, 508-399-7860
Gardening services, certified organic &
chemical-free flowering plants & shrubs.
Organic honey.
Broadview Garden & Gift Floral Center, Sherry & Mark Koswaski, Owners,
5 Langworthy Road, Westerly, RI broadview@gardener.com
Website: www.broadviewgardencenter.com
Tel. 401-322-0390. Potted plants & herbs, poinsettias. Organically grown plants bought wholesale.
********************************************************
BREAKING THE “PREVIOUSLY OWNED” BARRIER
Thrift Shops Thrive Amid Economic Downturn
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081007/ap_on_bi_ge/uneasy_economy_thrift_shops_2;_ylt=AuHCAX8mK93.YNSX52BXFlxv24cA Forget about the outdated notion of thrift shops as the refuge of the working poor, the down and out or the vintage fashion hipster. In these troubled times, the powerful lure of a secondhand retail bargain is attracting a whole new breed of customer. Consumers "can't change the price of gas. They can't change the price of food. They can't make the stock market go up again," said Adele Meyer, executive director of the National Association of Resale & Thrift Shops. "But they can control the price of clothes and furniture by being a savvy shopper.”
WHAT KIND OF GIFT CAN BE PURCHASED “USED”?
The short answer - any that’s usable, works well,
looks good, & is sanitary. Jewelry
& knickknacks. Wood, metal, glass,
ceramic, small appliances, sports equipment.
Avoid: clothing and
stuffed furniture.
**ZACKS
CAMERA REPAIR
791 Hope Street, Providence, RI
02906, 401‑273-7247, www.zackscamerarepair.com
Zacks sells (starting at $50) and repairs used digital & film cameras and
accessories. They also transfer 8mm, Super 8, VHS, DV, & Hi-8 to DVD, as
well as LPs and audio tape to CD. A
gift certificate for any of their products or services would make a truly
unique holiday present for your loved one.
TIP heard about Zacks from an enthusiastic customer.
2ND TIME AROUND SPORTS,
328 Atwood
Ave. Cranston, RI
Tel. 401-944-9380,
E-mail 2ndtime@cox.net.
Great
Gifts for the Holidays.
Save 40-80 percent.
All
used equipment sanitized with an eco-friendly process using ozone and tea tree
oil.
PREPARING FOR PARTYING
Food
& Dining, Household, Clothes, Personal Care
Points To Consider, If Entertaining at Home
CLEAN YOUR HOME WITH NATURAL, NON-TOXIC
CLEANERS.
USE LESS-TOXIC COOKWARE AND TABLEWARE – stainless steel, ceramic, cast iron or glass
instead of aluminum or non-stick pans, plastic dishes and drinkware.
AVOID “AIR FRESHENERS”, that only hide odors with artificial scents laced
with toxic chemicals, that offend or even sicken many people.
AVOID HOT PLASTIC! Don’t microwave in plastic -
chemicals leach out when heated. Don’t
pour hot liquid or food into plastic containers.
DO WARM FOOD IN GLASS OR CERAMIC. You can even do so on your plate, bowl or glass,
with or without a cover.
LIMIT PURCHASE OF CANNED GOODS.
Bisphenol-A is used in the lining of most food cans.
Serve healthy, natural food, & don’t overload
guests with rich foods & sweets.
Moderation, and creative cooking & seasoning, will leave them
happier than excesses that lead to indigestion! If going somewhere as a guest, don’t douse yourself with
perfume. Those with asthma will
appreciate it - as well as the many other people offended by fragrance
chemicals - even if they are too polite to tell you so.
LOCAL
& ORGANIC FARM FOOD SOURCES
NEW! Trader
Joe's 1000 Bald Hill Rd, Warwick, RI
(401) 821-5368, Trading Hours: 9 am - 9 pm Long-awaited competition to Whole Foods Market! www.traderjoes.com
Whole Food Market, Providence: North Main St.& Waterman St. stores, Garden City,
Cranston. www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Providence
Wintertime Farmers’ Market! Saturday: 12-3 PM December 1 to May 31, 2008. Call for location. Organizer: Sheri Griffin,
Farm Fresh Rhode Island, (401) 480-0102
Little Rhody Foods Customer List – Rhode Island. Locally produced,
hormone-free milk and eggs, found in many markets statewide! For a list of stores that carry Little Rhody
see: www.rhodyfresh.com/storelist.htu.
Eastern Fish Farm (Hydroponic lettuce, not fish) 401-419-4800 E-Mail: easternfish@surfglobal.net , Call to buy year-round.
Produce is free from toxins. www.hydroboston.com
**LOCAL 121
121 Washington Street, Providence, RI Tel.: (401) 274-2121
A restaurant that strives to be ecologically, culturally, and agriculturally sustainable, serving locally-raised foods - vegetables harvested by local farmers who care about the health of their land & your food. Meats raised with no inhumane confinement, antibiotics or growth hormones. Local 121 prioritizes purchasing to avoid serving anything genetically modified, packaged in a factory, or transported very far. They seek out small New England farmers, cheese makers, and other food artisans.
Garden
Grille: 727 East Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860 (401) 726-2826 www.gardengrillecafe.com Full
service vegetarian, entrees, fresh juice bar, whole wheat tortilla roll-ups,
soups, salads & sandwiches. Many
vegan options, including desserts! Open
7 days a week.
Chipotle,
969 Bald Hill Road, Warwick, RI 821-3007 Open 11am-10pm. Serves some
naturally raised meat, no longer serves cheese made with rBgh treated milk It
also has organic milk at some of its locations.
Meeting Street Cafe *220 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 273-1066 Open 8 Am To 11 Pm, 7 Days A Week. Serves only 100% natural chicken, turkey & Angus beef raised without hormones & antibiotics.
Whole
Foods Market: Pleasant tables
for meeting & eating take-out food.
Also think of a WFM gift certificate for someone. No
antibiotics or hormones, pesticide residue limits.
IN DEFENSE OF PIZZA!
Pizza is commonly lumped in with various “junk” foods in
diet talk - & we think it’s gotten a bad rap. True, it is rare to find it organic & whole grain. But, realistically, one can only REDUCE intake
of less healthy stuff, not escape it.
And pizza has many pluses.
It has tomato sauce - and remember - Ronald Reagan
decreed catsup was a vegetable! Which
it actually is - a healthy one at that.
It seems that the lycopene in tomatoes is more available when heated
& accompanied by fat. And some
studies indicate this can prevent various cancers. Also, pizza can be topped with green peppers, onions and/or
mushrooms instead of meat - better for you than a Big
Mac with french fries! So,
eat up - in moderation! As for where to
buy it - seek out a place with whole wheat crust - they’re out there!
PERSONAL CARE & CLOTHING
RESOURCES FOR CHOOSING SAFER
COSMETICS
FOR YOUR PERSONAL CARE & AS
GIFTS
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
CHEMICALS IN YOUR COSMETICS: Consumer
Reports Shopsmart(Sm), Winter 2007 Article:
www.safecosmetics.org/newsroom/consumer_repts_1_07.cfm
More
Information From This Issue: Smarter Cosmetic Shopping
Take
a Whiff of This, Q&A
With a Scientist,
*******************************************************************************
ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING GROUP (EWG)SKIN DEEP LESS TOXIC COSMETICS DATABASEwww.cosmeticsdatabase.com/index.php?nothanks=1 The Skin Deep product safety database provides safety ratings for nearly 25,000 personal care products - almost a quarter of all products on the market - and the 7,000 ingredients they contain. Due to gaping loopholes in federal law, companies can put virtually any ingredient into personal care products. Even worse, the government does not require pre-market safety tests for any of them. EWG’s aim is to fill in where companies and the government left off. Skin Deep is the only tool available to consumers to assess and compare the safety of personal care products. Also visit the EWG site: www.ewg.org
**************************************************
ORGANIC CONSUMERS ASSOCIATION: 20 Ways to Reduce Your Intake of
Chemicals in Body Care Products
www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/reduce052104.cfm
Excerpts
NAIL CARE:
If you can't give up nail varnish, protect the cuticles with oil. Although the part of the nail you see is
dead, it is still porous and can absorb the chemicals used in varnish and
remover, such as toluene, acetone and formaldehyde.
SHAVING: A
thick coating of aloe vera gel is a good alternative to shaving foams and gels. It has natural anti-inflammatory and
skin-softening properties, without all the chemicals.
LIPSTICK: The average make-up wearing woman will eat
two pounds of lipstick in her life-time.
Most lipsticks contain petroleum
derivatives. Try brands based on
beeswax, plant oils or vitamin E instead.
Greenpeace
(greenpeace.org.uk) and Women's Environmental Network (wen.org.uk) both
have useful lists of products to avoid, as well as companies with good track
records.
********************************************************
TO DYE OR NOT TO DYE? PERMANENT HAIR DYES,
www.care2.com/greenliving/permanent-hair-dye-dangers.html
by Annie B. Bond. If you use permanent hair dyes at least once
a month you should know about a 2001 study from researchers at the University
of Southern California that analyzed the association between hair dying
activity and bladder cancer. There
wasn’t an association between semi-permanent or temporary hair dyes & the
cancer. For info on Safer Ways to Color
Your Hair, see: www.care2.com/greenliving/safer-ways-to-color-your-hair.html
HEALTHIER DRY
CLEANING
IMPORTANT WARNING WHEN
YOU BUY NEW CLOTHING & LINENS: Newly purchased garments & sheets come treated
with chemicals for permanent press wrinkle resistance. To limit your children’s exposure to these
chemicals, WASH NEW CLOTHES BEFORE WEARING.
Note that 100 per cent cotton flannel sheets are naturally
wrinkle-resistant, so are less likely to have toxic residues in them.
FROM: ARTICLE ON HEALTHIER DRY CLEANING
ALTERNATIVES: YES! MAGAZINE, FALL, 2003 www.yesmagazine.org/article.asp?ID=628
(NOTE: Consider Yes! Magazine as a gift
subscription option)
The best alternative is to buy clothes
that do not require dry cleaning. That
said, many things labeled “dry clean only” can be washed by hand. Natural fabrics, such as linen, silk, and
wool, have been around much longer than dry cleaning & careful hand-washing
will keep them in fine shape. Use a
gentle, low-alkaline detergent such as Ecover Laundry Liquid Wash. Roll wet clothes in a clean towel to absorb
excess water and then allow them to air dry.
Never wring or twist delicate items.
If you want a clean, pressed appearance, you can take your clean clothes
to the dry cleaners & ask to have them pressed only.
If you do use a dry cleaner, three
different technologies are emerging as substitutes to perc. About 30 percent of clothes labeled “dry
clean only” can be cleaned using the Wet Cleaning method, using water in
computer-controlled machines. The second alternative uses a silicone-based solvent
in conventional dry-cleaning machines. The
third choice is submerses clothing in liquid carbon dioxide. Krista Camenzind
LOCAL ALTERNATIVE DRY CLEANING RESOURCES
ZOOTS DRY CLEANING, WWW.ZOOTS.COM
ZOOTS uses a non-toxic, odorless cleaning process that has been
thoroughly tested and proven to cause no short or long term health risks.
Their cleaning agent is 100% biodegradable so it’s completely safe for the
environment. The perc-free cleaning
process is gentler on your clothes and leaves them without that “dry cleaning”
smell.
RHODE ISLAND
ZOOTS (0065), 3803 Post
Road, Warwick, RI, 401-885-5513
Hours: M-F: 7:30 AM-7 PM, Sat: 9 AM-5 PM, Sun: 11 AM-3
PM
MASSACHUSETTS
ZOOTS: 266
Washington Street, Attleboro, MA, Lisa Gecer, lisa_gecer@zoots.com 508-399-7011 or 877-558-9666,
Hours: M- F 7:30 AM-8 PM, Sat. 9 AM-5 PM, Sun : 11 AM-4
PM
ZOOTS: 288 Hartford Avenue, Bellingham,
MA 508-966-2245,
Hours: M - F., 7:30 AM – 7 PM, Sat.,
9:– 5 PM, Sun., 11 AM – 3 PM
GREEN EARTH DRY CLEANING
www.greenearthcleaning.com/default.asp
The GreenEarth Cleaning environmentally
friendly, silicone-based, dry-cleaning solvent is chemically inert, does not
chemically interact with your clothes in any way. Rather, it carries
detergent to clothes & rinses away suspended dirt & oils trapped by
detergent. It is odorless, biodegradable, does not irritate skin. It can clean
clothes that are marked do not dry clean, like leather, vinyl and items with
beading and sequins.
RHODE ISLAND:
HUDSON SERVICES,
101 Cranston St., Providence, RI 401-521-6767, x102
MASSACHUSETTS: BUSH
QUALITY CLEANERS, 800-BCLEAN9 (225-3269).
Free Pickup & Delivery. VIP XPRESS SERVICE. www.bushqualitycleaners.com
NORTH DARTMOUTH, 23 Faunce Corner Rd, Best Buy/Super Stop
& Shop Plaza, 508-993-1771, M-F 7:00am 7:00pm, Sat. 7 am–5 pm. 24-Hour VIP Xpress Drop Box.
FAIRHAVEN, 173 Spring Street, Tel. 508-993-0934, M–F,
7 AM – 6:30 PM, Sat: 7 AM–5PM, 24-Hour VIP Xpress Drop Box.
NEW BEDFORD, 518 County Street, Tel. 508-992-7622
M – F: 7 AM – 6:30 PM, Sat: 7AM
NEW
BEDFORD, 446 Dartmouth St., 508-992-8537,
Sun–Sat: 7 AM – 10 PM Fully Attended Laundromat
NATURAL DRY CLEANERS, RHODE
ISLAND
NATURAL DRY CLEANERS
LLC, 147 Elmgrove Ave, Providence, RI 02906, (401) 334-1840
NATURAL DRY CLEANERS, 616 George Washington Hwy, Lincoln, RI 02865, (401) 334-1840
YOUR HOME
CLEANERS & DETERGENTS
THE BASICS:
Cleaning. Vinegar &
Baking Soda will handle 90% of your home cleaning, inexpensively and
effectively. Laundry. Use fragrance-free, dye free detergents to
avoid harmful chemicals and allergic reactions. Don’t use bleach or fabric
softener. See: for more information. Note:
Target has started carrying the Seventh
Generation cleaning supply line, which will reach a wider market. Also try Shaklee’s products. RI Distributor Jeff Whittaker is a fine TIP
supporter: www.OurHealthierWorld.com and www.CleanSaferUSA.com
CLEANING SERVICES ADVERTISED AT WHOLE
FOODS MARKET
Consider these for your own holiday
cleaning - or as a gift of services to someone else. There are usually several ads by natural cleaning persons on the
boards at WFMs. TIP can’t vouch for the
work of any, but we’ve talked with several that seemed experienced in natural
cleaning methods and materials. Always
ask for and check references!
***************************************************************
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
An
environmentally friendly service in London, England reported: "We use the hot water extraction method
also known as steam cleaning. This is the best and the most efficient
upholstery cleaning method."
So,
one option I'd suggest considering is getting a Scunci or other steamer and
just doing it yourself with plain water.
(The high heat of the steam has a sanitizing effect). Or, hire any
cleaning person to do it with your Steamer (which has many other uses). Or, hire an upholstery cleaning company to
do it with just steam and no chemicals. (Only caution - be sure to follow
instructions to ensure proper drying)
The problem with the latter is chemical residue in their equipment. However, a hopefully less toxic option is to
call one of the companies that is a franchise using the Carbonated (Chem-dry)
Cleaning Process.
They
say: 'The Natural(R)', a patented general cleaner, combines ingredients copied
from Mother Nature to produce millions of carbonating bubbles that clean
carpets thoroughly, quickly and safely.
Uses a fraction of the water of steam cleaning, & contains no soaps,
detergents, solvents, enzymes, or other harsh chemicals. Can be used around your entire family,
including your pets. That's why
Chem-Dry is healthier.
TIP found one ChemDry in Rhode Island - serving the
entire state:
Lil Rhody Chem Dry, 3964 South County Train, Rte. 2,
Charlestown, RI 02813. Tel. (401)
351-9220. When called, they said that every ingredient used is on the FDA GRAS
list (Generally Recognized As Safe).
WHAT
YOU DON’T NEED AT A HOLIDAY
GATHERING: ROWDY, REVVED UP KIDS!
“Scents Kids
Go Wild For”
By Wendy
Busfield, medical reporter, www.wannabee.org.au/
Simple
things such as perfume can trigger hyperactivity in children, a recent study
has found. Researchers say mothers
splashing on a fragrance can cause hyperactivity in their children. Toiletries and air fresheners can have the
same effect, with possible links to attention deficit hyperactive disorder. A study of about 400 British families with
hyperactive children showed perfume was one of the biggest triggers. More than 7-per cent of children reacted
strongly to perfume worn by their mothers and scent in household products.
The
researchers were surprised by the result, expecting more reaction from food coloring. But Melbourne ADHD researcher Peggy Brunet
said she had already seen evidence linking perfume to ADHD. The Swinburne University PhD student works
with children diagnosed with ADHD, autism and speech disorders. "I've seen the effect of perfume with
my own eyes", she said.
"Babies have developed ticks and twitches & all sorts of
mannerisms as a result of perfume.
"It can be really dangerous".
Herald Sun, 23 August, 2000
SOLID AIR FRESHENERS MAY CAUSE LUNG DAMAGE
\
The
American Lung Association of California helped raise awareness about the
potential health hazard posed by solid air fresheners in an August 7 Los
Angeles Times article. A study released in May by the California Air
Resources Board warned that several compounds found in air fresheners and
household cleansers can reach harmful concentrations inside homes, with paradichlorobenzene from slow-dissolving air
fresheners and toilet-bowl deodorizers posing a particular problem because it
releases a chemical (dichlorobenzene or 1,4-DCB) into the air over a long
period.
American
Lung Association of California spokesperson John Balmes, MD, said
the study was in line with several studies that have warned of the respiratory
dangers of many household cleaners. He told the reporter that when
his patients ask about air fresheners, "I'd say if you can avoid it, not
to use them. I don't see the need to
introduce other chemicals into our environment when there're already so many
bad actors."
ANOTHER THING THAT
COULD SPOIL YOUR HOLIDAY - BUGS!
NOT TO WORRY - CALL
THE LOCAL RI NON-TOXIC BUG EXPERT
(Treatments That Are
Safer for You, Your Family & The Environment).
BioTechPestControls, David Jones, 42 Canal
St., Westerly, RI
Tel. 401-315-2400,
E-Mail: bugs@biotechpestcontrols.com
Web:www.biopestcontrol.com.
Bio-Tech Services and advice have actually been used by Liberty G. They’re very committed to environmentally
and people-friendly pest management!
HOLIDAY
TIPS FOR HEALTHY PETS
BIRD SAFETY:
Excerpts From the Long Island Parrot Society
Website
www.liparrotsociety.org/dangerous.htm
Susan Chamberlain, President, Long Island Parrot Society of NY, Inc. (3/01), P.O. Box 2754, North Babylon, NY 11703, Tel. (631)
957-1100 For a free copy of The Inside Story A Guide
to Indoor Air Quality (Publication #450), send your name, address and request
to: Publication Request, Office of
Information & Public Affairs, US Consumer Product Safety Commission,
Washington DC 20207. Website: www.cpsc.gov
PRODUCT: SCENTED
CANDLES
According to the Indoor Air Quality Review, problems
associated with scented candles may result from minute particulate matter
dispersed by the candles. Essential oils & chemicals are added to
these candles to create the scents, then dispersed into the air as the candles
burn. The inhaled particles are small enough to pass through the human
body's 'filter system' (lungs) & become lodged in the tissues. Grey marks called 'ghosting' may appear on
interior walls when scented candles are used.
UC Berkeley Wellness Letter (Feb. 2001) says,"Few studies have been
done on whether burning or incense have any effect on human health.
Most studies have looked at compounds released into the
air, including potent pollutants like benzene, toluene, formaldehyde,
polyaromatic hydrocarbons. Nitrogen dioxide & carbon monoxide are
also by-products of combustion.
Burning candles can release fine particles as well as soot & even
heavy metals from certain cores and pigments. Avoid candles with metal
core wicks - they release lead. Keep rooms well ventilated. Because birds
have complex and sensitive respiratory systems, don’t use scented candles in
closed areas where birds are present. There have been reports of birds dying
after exposure to scented or 'room freshening' candles. Household products are not routinely tested
on birds, so manufacturers can’t certify that they are harmless to birds. If
you err, do so on the side of caution.
PRODUCT:
TEFLON®
Teflon® on non-stick pans and self cleaning
ovens is DEADLY! It does NOT have to be
burned to emit toxic fumes - overheating them kills! Opening windows when using Teflon® pans could cause fumes to waft
through the house affecting birds in far off rooms so opening windows does not
help. More Teflon info at: www.ewg.org/reports/toxicteflon/toxictemps.php
PRODUCT: CARPET DEODORIZER
Note from someone who had a BAD
experience with Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh carpet deodorizer: "My cockatiel died after I used
it. The company admitted it's not recommended for use around birds. They said they didn't need to put a warning
on the product. I'm just broken
hearted, and her mate is just lost without her."
***************************************************************************
FELINE SAFETY
Holiday Safety Tips for Small Pets, www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=18&cat=1914&articleid=3031
Excerpted From:: Christmas Safety Tips for Cat Owners
www.cat-world.com.au/XmasSafety.htm
Pine needles can puncture
internal organs if eaten, & are also toxic to cats. If you have a real tree, make sure it has
plenty of water to prevent drying out & losing needles. It is important that your cat isn't able to
get to this water & drink it as it could result in poisoning. The
tree may also be coated with potentially harmful fire retardant, fertilizer, or
insecticide. Tinsel, garland, flocking, and artificial snow can be
dangerous. Never allow your pet access
to poinsettia, holly (leaves and berries), mistletoe, or other plants holiday
decorative plants. Perfumes, potpourri,
adhesives, glues, aerosol sprays, and cleaning products can all be toxic.
NOTES
(A
PLACE FOR YOUR OWN GREAT
GIFT
IDEAS AND GIFT RECIPIENTS!)
http://www.igive.com/welcome/warmwelcome.cfm?c=38382&m=0
TELL THEM YOU SAW IT IN THE HEALTHY HOLIDAYS
HANDBOOK!