ecodeaf

Anna R. Schwartzbach

2012-01-30T13:11:00.005-05:00

Humboldt County, CA

about me Hello there! My name is Anna and I am a deaf eco-advocate! Born and raised in the Bay Area, California, to hearing parents, I have always been a part of both the deaf and the hearing world and proud to be so. I hail to you today from the foggy coast of Humboldt County where I am currently finishing my graduate degree where I am studying the relationships between increasing gasoline prices and alternate transportation.

ecoskills Skills… Not so much skills but a general awareness of how my actions, the products I buy, and the food I consume influence the environment as well as the socio-economic impacts that also result from my actions. A semi-vegetarian, I make a large effort to only eat local, wild and organic food when it is affordable (college student during an economic recession, hello!). I do the usual: compost, recycle, reuse, the metallic Kleen Kanteen water bottle, the nerdy right pant-let-roll-up for biking, printing dual-sided on scratch paper for paper editing, using eco-font to reduce ink usage, making candlesticks out of wine bottles… all of that in a nutshell.

ecointerests have always had a huge interest in a LARGE variety of eco-related issues, specifically that of climate change, energy policy (especially in California) local agriculture development, slow/local food, and waste and energy reduction. I am also a biker, and in relation to my graduate research, I am also an advocate for all modes of alternate transportation and encouraging the reduction of local commuting via automobile! (You don’t need it! Don’t get a car-ass! Get out and enjoy the fresh air!).

contact aaschwarzbach at gmail dot com

I have always wondered if there are any organizations (preferably on the west coast) out there that focuses on any of these topics/issues and targets the D/HH community?? I am very interested in taking a similar concept of the EcoDeaf blog and applying it in local organizations and/or nonprofits! If you are a part of something like that and you are out there, please contact me!!!

Marisa Soboleski

2012-01-03T21:44:00.004-05:00

Vermont

eco skills sustainable wildcrafting, birthwork, organic gardening/farming, cob and sustainable goods building, the three r's and repurposing, herbal healing, bartering and buying local/organic products

eco interests backpacking in the backcountry, rock climbing, sustainable agriculture, wild plants and food, homebirths and freebirths, yoga, land and forest restoration and preservation, raising earth-loving children, sustainability in mind/body/spirit and social interactions/exchange, and lots, lots more!

Contact marsiempre8 at gmail dot com

The Nest

2011-11-27T09:01:00.004-05:00

http://www.nest.com/

No more programming, no more constantly changing the temperature. The Nest Learning Thermostat programs itself in a week to keep you comfortable and save energy!

A friend shared this awesome find with me, and I'm hooked! There are many intelligent features in this "smart thermostat", and my favorite feature is that you can adjust the temperature at your home using your iPhone when you're thousand of miles away!

I'm thinking of getting one. Does anyone have this "smart" thermostat at their home? Share your reviews!

Raw Food for Cats

2011-11-18T00:30:00.002-05:00

Occupy Earth

2011-11-14T18:37:00.006-05:00

Why Should We Occupy Earth?

Occupy Wall Street is a spontaneous and organic movement that came out of the blue. Well, sort of. Many people across the nation and around the globe are not happy with economic inequality and how unfair business practices are hurting people's lives and our planet Earth for long enough. Now, more and more people are speaking up as if the kettle is releasing more steam. The fire is burning and the water is boiling above the point where people are getting themselves arrested to protest against the economic inequality. The Occupy Wall Street movement is growing into the new direction. It does not stop at evicting protesters from encampments like how we saw in the videos with Occupy Portland and Occupy Oakland. Time will tell.

Does the Occupy Wall Street movement has anything to do with protecting the environment? You bet! Bad business practices lead to the exploitation of workers and natural resources. No wonder why Occupiers are very displeased with giant corporations, such as with oil companies and factory farms, and how they are in solidarity with the 99%. What we're seeing in Zuccotti Park is an example of how people could work together and live together without making profits off of each other. Read the news articles and watch YouTube videos about Occupiers to learn what they have done so far. For instance, they're re-using grey water, recharging laptops and cell phones by pedal power and so on.

The article, "Occupy Earth, Nature is 99% too!" by Chip Ward is a very good piece to read to see how economic inequality has negative impacts on environmental quality. Please click the link below the picture to read the article.

In solidarity with the 99%
for fair economic equality and better environmental quality.

-Anthony

Occupy Earth: Nature Is the 99%, too!

Someone Got Rich and Someone Got Sick

By Chip Ward

Read the article "Occupy Earth, Nature is 99% too!"

here.

Two Deaf Wilderness Courses - Summer 2012!

2011-10-02T07:56:00.004-04:00

(click on image to enlarge)

No Thanksgiving Plans? Check This Out!

2011-09-24T15:31:00.002-04:00

To Drink or Not To Drink Bottled Water....

2011-08-28T11:41:00.004-04:00

THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK.

Video narrated by Justin Jackerson- many thanks for sharing!

Ye who trash, beware the Rubbish Monster!

2011-08-18T08:00:00.000-04:00

Braam Jordaan and The Rubbish Monster from Design Indaba on Vimeo.

the more you know, the less you need.

2011-07-04T09:50:00.003-04:00

Cassandra Perez gives reasons and examples of how to live on less.

Recycling Flashmob in Ontario, Canada

2011-05-02T21:42:00.005-04:00

An EcoDeaf reader shares a video clip that shows how much Canadians care about recycling:

Deaf-friendly Shamanic Healing and Training, Peru

2011-04-23T20:02:00.002-04:00

Deaf-friendly Shamanic Healing and Training - Summer Groups at Infinite Light Peru (Amazon Region)

June 12 - 21
June 26 - July 5
July 10 - 19
July 24 - Aug 2
Aug 7 - 16

Please visit the website at www.infinitelightperu.com, then contact Meghan Shannon via Facebook or email (infinitelightperu@gmail.com - use this email addy to find her on FB!)

To read more how Infinite Light embraces the Deaf community- click here.

More information about program dates, costs, and short description of the sessions- click here.

Where do we fit in?

2011-04-21T06:30:00.000-04:00

An EcoDeaf reader, Cassandra, asks: How many of us can relate to this?

Online Deaf Life Coaching: Diana Cho

2011-04-12T18:35:00.004-04:00

Have you looked into what your heart wishes to fulfill? Does it feel like you're moving closer towards what you want or drifting away? Is there something lingering in the back of your mind that may prevent you from moving forward? Are you ready for a change?

Tools for change lie within all of us, and through coaching assistance, you may uncover what is yours to shine and make headway!

Diana Cho offers online life coaching to deaf and hard of hearing people from her experience in the everyday world. Through online coaching, individuals can focus on their potential to undertake a journey of purpose and enhance their quality of life. Coaching is not teaching or counseling; it is an act of sharing and empowerment. Diana can help individuals in a variety of areas including, but not limited to, career development, leadership, relationships, facilitation, transitions, communication, time management, and prioritization.

visit dianacho.info

Awakening

2011-04-12T18:31:00.003-04:00

Thanks, Diana, for the beautiful video :)

VegFest Michigan 2011

2011-04-03T14:11:00.002-04:00

Sandy Graham went to VegFest Michigan and interviewed some people there.

NYT: A New Generation of Farmers

2011-03-22T20:09:00.002-04:00

This New York Times article is very interesting to read because it explains how the USA landscape is changing with more younger Americans becoming involved in starting their own sustainable farms. More independent farmers are motivated in using old farming techniques to grow their own organic vegetables and raise grass-fed meats. Read the NYT article and view the slide show below to learn why more Americans are interested in sustainable agriculture.

Tyler and Alicia Jones on their farm in Corvallis, Ore.

By ISOLDE RAFTERY
Published: March 5, 2011

CORVALLIS, Ore. — For years, Tyler Jones, a livestock farmer here, avoided telling his grandfather how disillusioned he had become with industrial farming.

After all, his grandfather had worked closely with Earl L. Butz, the former federal secretary of agriculture who was known for saying, “Get big or get out.”

But several weeks before his grandfather died, Mr. Jones broached the subject. His grandfather surprised him. “You have to fix what Earl and I messed up,” Mr. Jones said his grandfather told him.

Now, Mr. Jones, 30, and his wife, Alicia, 27, are among an emerging group of people in their 20s and 30s who have chosen farming as a career. Many shun industrial, mechanized farming and list punk rock, Karl Marx and the food journalist Michael Pollan as their influences. The Joneses say they and their peers are succeeding because of Oregon’s farmer-foodie culture, which demands grass-fed and pasture-raised meats....

Finish reading the article here:
New York Times In New Food Culture: A Young Generation of Farmers Emerges

and

View
The Slide Show of New Generation of Farmers

What do you think about the article and slide show?
Share comments.

Namaste!

Round the clock cycling in the Netherlands

2011-03-22T20:07:00.000-04:00

[The video above has English subtitles.]

It would be fantastic if we have bicycle traffics and rush hours in the cities of America just like how it is in Netherlands.

View the video and share comments!

Being Eco-Friendly vs. Buying Eco-Friendly by Cassandra Perez

2011-03-05T21:23:00.002-05:00

Cassandra Perez shares a perspective on what it means to be eco-friendly.

Rachel Berman Blythe

2011-02-28T15:02:00.003-05:00

Phoenix, AZ

ASL Instructor

ecointerests vegan, eco-living, CSA program, cooking, outdoors (running, hiking, camping, etc), vegan dining and traveling, Deaf Vegetarian Society in Phoenix

http://deafvegetariansociety.org

Global Warming: on OIC Films

2011-02-03T00:12:00.003-05:00

An EcoDeaf reader shares a link that connects you to an ASL video about climate change.
This video is posted on OIC Movies and requires logging into the website.

Climate Change Affects Animal Species - January 31, 2011

Composting in the Winter

2011-01-30T13:28:00.006-05:00

This is an addition to a series of vlogs that EcoDeaf members did on composting (see Composting tab for others), showing that this easy and fun hobby has numerous benefits: it is good for the earth and to our gardens which bear fruits for us to eat. In this post, Summer explains the process of composting- starting with her kitchen, bringing to compost tumbler, then ending up with a rich "compost" pile. She explains how composting is still do-able during winter months. We hope this vlog will help other EcoDeaf members will join us and start getting ready for the upcoming gardening season.

Jonathan Kessel

2011-01-27T18:00:00.000-05:00

Mountains

Full-time Adventurer

eco-interests & eco-skills Hiker trash. Snowboard bum.

contact jfkessel at gmail dot com

Feb 5th Event: Interpreted!

2011-01-24T12:10:00.001-05:00

Dr. Candace A. McCullough invites you all to:

Come join us for a 5-course gourmet raw dinner and ASL interpreted seminar at Elizabeth's Gone Raw in DC!

Saturday, February 5th, "Active Aging and Preventing Disease"

Seminar with Drs. Brian and Anna Maria Clement, Directors of Hippocrates Health Institute, 5-Course Dinner, $75 per person

6:00 – 9pm

Call 202-347-8349 or email reservations@elizabethsgoneraw.com. Call ahead with your credit card info to reserve a seat under Dr. Candace A. McCullough's name.

Credit Card Required Upon Reservation / Cancellations Received 14 Days Prior to Events will Receive a Full Refund / Pricing Does Not Include Tax and Gratuity

For payment, they accept Visa and Mastercard.

For more information about Elizabeth's Gone Raw, check www.elizabethsgoneraw.com

Eco-Reader shares Eco-websites

2011-01-21T08:55:00.003-05:00

An EcoDeaf reader shares these websites explaining that she appreciates the "hardcore holistic explanations and justifications toward countless of things health wise. There are so many web sites that I have been to and I have been studying holistic healing approaches for many, many years and I really appreciate these two web sites along with Shirley's Wellness Cafe website."

Shirley's Wellness Cafe: Holistic Care for People & Animals

Dr. Mercola: On Natural Health Products and Articles

Natural News.com: Natural Health, Natural Living, Natural News

Eco-Winter Tips: Warming up the car

2011-01-20T20:29:00.004-05:00

In this video, I explain the differences between old and new car engines and provide eco-winter tips on how to reduce the environmental impacts and gas money with warming up the car.

Natural Childbirth with Heather Kendrick

2011-01-06T23:50:00.002-05:00

See below for information shared by Heather Kendrick.

Pregnant? Want the best possible birth experience for you and your baby?

Come learn about natural childbirth using the Bradley Method.

Heather Kendrick, instructor, is a Deaf mother of 5 children, all born naturally.

She is the only Deaf AAHCC certified instructor in the nation.

If you are due in April or May this is the class for you!

The 12 week series of classes are Tuesday evenings at 6 PM beginning Tuesday January 11, 2011.

For more information contact Heather Kendrick: Heather @ thekendricks.org

EcoResolutions - 2011

2011-01-05T23:29:00.008-05:00

Anthony shares his Eco Resolutions for 2011.
Share your EcoResolutions after viewing this video.
Happy New Year!
Namaste

Celebrating the Holidays without hurting Mother Earth

2010-12-21T00:04:00.009-05:00

This holiday season has been the hardest time of the year for me to make environmentally conscious decisions on how to celebrate the traditional way without taking a toll on Mother Earth.

Beside the fact that many people are using their cars to attend Christmas parties, family gatherings, winter vacation, the most harmful action towards our planet during this season: Christmas shopping. And some statistics about Christmas packaging... Americans throw away 25% more trash during the Thanksgiving to New Year's holiday period than any other time of year.

But I digress a bit here... and focus on the green holiday symbol: the Christmas tree.

Christmas tree decorating is one of my most favorite things to do during the holidays, but this year, it was an challenge. After feeling guilty about discarding my artificial Christmas tree I bought a year ago from Target (there was not enough room in the moving truck), I did not have a Christmas tree last year.
But with a new home, I didn't want to go another year without a tree.
Should I buy another plastic one that I can use for (hopefully more than) 10+ years or should I buy a cut-down tree that would be recycled after the garbage truck picks it up off my curb? An wonderful eco-friend suggested neither. "Why not buy a real live tree in a pot and then plant in your backyard? Home Depot carries those kind of trees nowadays" she said.

So I went to Home Depot. I saw the $45 dollar artificial pre-lit trees, the $25 dollar fresh cut trees, or the $19.99 baby Leyland cypress tree that "sort-of -looked-like-a-Charlie-Brown-Christmas-tree-in-a-pot" tree.
After 30 minutes of debating, I decided to get the Christmas tree that would tread less on the environment during the holidays... so, it was the Charlie Brown tree. As I drove home, I looked at it in the rear view mirror and found myself already starting to feel intimate with this 3-feet tall plant in my backseat. It was not going to end up in some dusty attic or be shredded, recycled, and replanted, instead...it would find a home in my new garden. Another bonus: I can always decorate it anytime of the year.

Speaking of decorations... last weekend, I was invited to an ornament-making party. It was lovely to see everyone come together to share hand-made ornaments that they created. Many made theirs from the ornament making kits sold in Hobby Lobby or Michaels, or bought from a crafts fair... I decided not to purchase anything from the art store. Instead, I went to my art box and created a star-wreath out of old discarded business/credit/gift/debit cards. Decorated the middle with old hearing-aid batteries and hung it using the elastic strings that most clothes tags come in.
To my luck, I won the best Ornament prize that night for my recycled ornament. Hopefully more and more people will realize that recycled stuff does look awesome on your trees.

So, I've shared with you all my "eco-adventures". Have you done any? If so, please do share!

For those who are just learning to be eco... I decided to add some simple n' green holiday tips:

1. Only buy what you need. 2. Seek out handmade gift options and opt for “like new” items. 3. Carry reusable shopping bags (and use them). 4. Bundle your trips into fewer outings. 5. Resist the urge to “shop around”, instead...shop online. 6. Buy local.

Basic Craks Recipe~

2010-12-13T03:03:00.002-05:00

Many of you asked what is the basic raw-vegan craks (I call them craks instead of crackers... Just like when I make nut/seed/coco -short for coconut - mylk, I call it mylk instead of milk... I'm sure you catch my drift! *grins*) recipe. Once you have this recipe squared away, you can let your creative juices flow away and storm up ideas to throw in different, snazzy flavors to jazz it up!

BASIC CRAKERS (I make mine very thin like chips/crisps. When the mood hits, I thicken it up! Sometimes so thick that I could use as a dehydrated bread!)

2 1/2 c Filtered Water

1 1/2 c Golden Flaxseed, grounded

1 c Nuts/Seeds of your choice, soaked 2-4 hours - depending on what kind of nuts, except almonds which I don't include in my recipes for my own personal reasons - (drain & rinse with fresh water after soaking)

1/2 c Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 tbps Himalayan Sea Salt

1/2 tbps Cumin

Combine nuts/seeds, water, olive oil, salt & cumin in high-power blender. Mix throroughly and transfer to bowl. Stir in flaxseed slowly. Scoop about 1 cup of mixture onto Teflex (non-stick sheet for dehydrator) on each of 3 to 4 dehydrator trays and spread out to all corners evenly. Score cracker mixture using a spatula. Dehydrate at 115 degree for 6-8 hours (overnight) then flip the sheet over, peel off the sheet from the crackers and continue to dehydrate until desired crispness is obtained. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks.

To JAZZ it up, to SPAZZ it up, and to shake up your soul...

Add blended toms (short for tomatoes), red bell peppers, summer squash, diakon, greens, and/or MORE! Add basil, parsley, cilantro, dill, paprika, oregano... Oh!! My favorite... CAYENNE!!! Oh me, oh my! The spice! The FIRE! The passion! Can you feel it?! ooohhhhhhhhhhhh!

What's Wrong With Our Food System? And What We Can Do-

2010-12-08T19:35:00.002-05:00

11-year-old Birke Baehr presents his take on a major source of our food -- far-away and less-than-picturesque industrial farms. Keeping farms out of sight promotes a rosy, unreal picture of big-box agriculture, he argues, as he outlines the case to green and localize food production.

Make sure you click on subtitles below and watch away!

Knocking my Pretty Skull~

2010-12-06T19:18:00.000-05:00

Seriously... What is wrong with me?! I could never keep my word about posting on a daily basis! I can tell you this... that this does ring so very true.. that I do lead a very fulfilling, fun-filled life! I can't seem to get my tiny, pretty arse to sit in front of this screen and click-clack the keys away!

I recently posted this status on my FB and I love it! (It was posted yesterday)

Alynn Davis loves how words can crawl into our mouths and be blurted out! Sometimes words are not enough. Sometimes actions are not enough. Are you enough with yourself? In other words... Are you contented and at ease with yourself? Alynn knows she is!~

Hmm... Off the point here... I did say that I would... actually... I said that MAYBE I will post up a recipe and with a kind heart, I have decided to post one today. It is for those who already or aim to purchase an Excalibur Dehydrator -

Quinoa-Sesame Crackers

I don't consume quinoa myself, even if it is raw and sprouted, but I made this and it has been raved upon! You GOTTA give this a whirl and try!

Servings: makes about 3-4 dozen
Feel free to experiment with the flavours. Also, this makes a lot of crackers; If you're not sure you'll like them, it's easy to halve or quarter the recipe.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup quinoa seeds, sprouted* (that's one measured cup before sprouting. After sprouting you might end up with 2 or even 3 cups worth)
- 1 cup water
- 3-4 generous Tbs tahini (i.e. about as much as you can get onto your tablespoon!)
- 1 cup ground flax seeds
- 1 cup of sesame seeds - Yep!! LOTS OF IT!
- any flavouring you like: Coconut Amino's, Bragg's, fresh herbs, garlic/hing

Preparation:
*Quinoa is one of the easier seeds to sprout - it doesn't take too long & I've never yet had a batch spoil on me. Rinse the quinoa seeds well, then leave to soak 2 hours in plenty of water. Rinse well again, then place in a sprouting jar or tray, and sprout for 12 hours - rinse them well again about half way through this time. (Quinoa is coated in bitter saponins, & you need to make sure these are thoroughly washed off.) As long as they're completely dry, the sprouts should keep for up to two weeks in your fridge.

Place the quinoa sprouts, water and tahini, plus any liquid flavourings like amino's, in a powerful food processor or blender, and process until the quinoa is mostly broken down. If you're adding anything like fresh herbs, you might want to add these in next, & pulse briefly to break them down a little. If you're not using Amino's or Bragg's, you might also want to add a little salt to the mix.

Tip this mix into a bowl, & stir in the ground flax seeds, and any flavourings you haven't added yet. Then add lots of sesame seeds - I often almost double the volume with the amount of seeds I add. Amino flavoured ones taste great with black sesame seeds added!

Once they're dried though, they taste great, so don't let it put you off. :) Place a heaping spoonful of the mixture onto a teflex sheet on your dehydrator tray, & spread it out using the back of the spoon into a round 1/2 cm thick. (You could try making them thinner, but the mix is so sticky, I can never be bothered to fight it to get it thinner than this.) This is easier if you use two spoons - one to scoop, the other to scrape the mix off the first spoon.

Dehydrate your crackers at 115 degrees until the top is dry, then flip them over onto the trays & remove the teflex. Continue dehydrating until they're completely dried out, & store in an airtight container.

ENJOY!~

Property of Alynn Davis~
Please ask for permission to share (it may be in the book!)~

Giving Up My Car Was Best Decision Ever

2010-12-01T12:08:00.003-05:00

By Chris Hrubesh, CNN

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Chris Hrubesh says trading his car for a bike was one of the best decisions he's ever made
Hrubesh gets around Atlanta by cycling and taking public transport
He estimates he saves between $300 and $500 per month by not owning a car

Read the full CNN article here

J.J. Bechhold

2010-10-27T22:21:00.001-04:00

Cleveland, Ohio and Washington, DC/Alexandria, VA

Occupation University Student/ Capoeira Instructor

Eco-skills I wouldn't call them skills, but I try to reduce my carbon footprint by bicycling, rollerblading, running, or taking the metro to places.
Carpooling, recycling, reducing, reusing, repurposing (I try to convert the stuff I buy into stuff I would actually use instead of disposing of them).
Creating cardboard compartments/shelves/organizers.
I buy stuff from local stores and farmers markets. I'm growing some herbs and next summer I'm going to try to grow some vegetables.
I believe strongly in tea and their healing properties.
I try to not purchase commercial products, I try to buy organic or local products whenever possible.

Eco-interests EVERYTHING.
Off-the-Grid Living, Self-Sustainable/Self-Sufficient, Herbalism/herbology, Healing arts/Bodyways (Reiki, Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi, Shiatsu, whatever), Farming and Dining/Shopping Locally, Being politically involved to support Fair Trade and our economy. Holistic health, outdoors activities, you name it, I'll most likely be interested in it.
I am mainly interested in the physical healing arts, one of the reasons I play capoeira is because I feel that it heals me in a way other martial arts cannot.

Contact makacapoeira at gmail dot com
Facebook J.J. Corajoso Bechhold

Blog/Website:
blog http://deafcapoeira.wordpress.com/
website http://cdodc.weebly.com/
(Monthly/yearly updates/blogs)

Sandria Graham: vlog about reversing diabetes without the use of drugs

2010-10-10T22:33:00.016-04:00

Sandria Graham, a Deaf dietitian, submitted a video, sharing information about reversing diabetes without the use of drugs.

Nimli - Raw Bags Bamboo Handbag

2010-10-05T21:54:00.000-04:00

This is something I would love to have my hands on!!!!!!

Nimli - Raw Bags Bamboo Handbag

Be sure to check it out, kiddos!~

2nd Annual ASL Fall Yoga retreat in the Catskills

2010-09-02T15:09:00.002-04:00

Oct 8-10, 2010

Come enjoy delicious home cooked food, the brilliant fall colors, hiking, hot tub and weekend of Yoga in ASL!

Deepen your understanding of yoga or start your journey towards the benefits yoga can offer.

Take a glorious break from your life, quiet your mind, and let go!

"I feel so much calm and filled with serenity from the retreat"

Video and pictures from last year: www.jenkagan.net, www.heathenhillyoga.net

SCHEDULE (timing subject to change but 6 hours worth of class: Topics may include yoga asana, philosophy and pranayama)

Friday-arrive 7 pm
Saturday - 10-12 class, Lunch-Free time, 4-6 class, Dinner.
Sunday - 10-12, Lunch, 2 pm end of workshop.

REGISTRATION FORM

Please Fill out form completely and return with payment to

Jennifer Kagan

255 Eastern Parkway F12

Brooklyn, NY 11238

Name

Phone/VP

Email address

Check your choice (see the heathenhillyoga.net for pictures and descriptions.)

Rates are per person and are all inclusive (except for travel).

**12 places for lodging and 6 for Camping. Reserve your place early!

Check in time on Friday is after 6 pm (no dinner served on Friday)

www.heathenhillyoga.net----to see pics of accommodations.

_______Yoga House $355

N/A Honeymoon $355 (double)

_______Le Trailer $430- two single rooms It has one bath and a full kitchen.

_______Campground Basic $275

_______Campground Luxe $350

________Just coming for the day $215

*$150 non refundable deposit balance due Sept 25th.

*If you pay in full cancellation policy is as follows

100% 30 days Notice 50% 15 days notice

Arrangements can be made for Cash payment

Any Medical conditions or injuries?

Any special dietary requests? Meals are mainly vegetarian

All bed linens and bath towels are provided. DO bring your own beach towels.

This is going to fun!!! I look forward to seeing all of you at Heathen Hill

Yoga.kagan@gmail.com

Lawn Envy

2010-07-29T09:15:00.004-04:00

I have lawn envy. I look at my neighbor's lawn across from my home and I see a beautiful sunny green lawn.

My own yard has many mature trees and its hard to grow anything here other than moss. I have fantasies of going over to my neighbor and asking if I can at least plant a couple of peach trees or blueberry bushes.

This neighbor is the kind that still brings home food in plastic bags. I doubt the very idea of growing her own food has entered her mind. What to do...what to do...

Furoshiki: the Japanese art of cloth gift wrapping

2010-07-28T15:30:00.004-04:00

Here's a link to a cool instructional pdf by Japan's Ministry of the Environment on how to wrap gifts with cloth you can use again and again. Use this next time you give someone a wine bottle, book, or gift box!! Ditch the paper gift wrapper.

http://www.env.go.jp/en/focus/attach/060403-5.pdf

A Review of Gorilla Food

2010-07-23T14:02:00.009-04:00

Going to Vancouver on a business trip, I searched online for vegetarian friendly fare, and discovered a PETA recommendation - one of the top ten vegetarian restaurants in North America was in Vancouver! Off I went to Gorilla Food, a raw, organic, vegan cafe in British Columbia, Canada. This vlog depicts the food I ordered and the state of bliss I was in at that time :) I also discuss briefly the philosophy behind raw food eating. This cafe gets two gorilla thumbs up!

What I ate/drank:

Choco-Gorilla
almonds, cacao, bananas, hempseeds, date, coconut oil

Ahimsa Alfredo
Linguini “New”dles spun from zucchini then smothered in a rich white cashew cream.
Served a la carte or with your choice of dressings and a side Medicinal Mesclun Salad.

GO Veggie Burger
A stack of two veggie burger patties thickly topped with guacamole, fresh tomato slices, cucumber slices, shredded seasonal veggies and a ginger-tomato ketchup.
Served in a lettuce leaf bun.

Of course, the main reason why I went there - dessert!

Dark Raw Chocolate Fudge
Something that keeps gorillas coming to work even on days off!
Chocolate Truffles
Smooth creamy orbs of differing decadent delicious superfood pleasures!

Butterfly Bliss
Infused chocolate flowers topped with a fresh walnut and raw caramel.
Maca Choco-Roons
Cacao, coconut, maca root and dates - these are definitely the new jazz haystacks!
Chocolate Protein Orbs
Highly hemped and algae powered!
Sweet orbs made of cacao, seeds, nuts and body benefiting bounties!

And some cookies - chocolate almond pecan, orange walnut spice, etc.

Yes, I'm a big eater :) Hush! :)

Join the Kombucha Tea Party!

2010-07-05T22:12:00.002-04:00

Darla gives the basics on the "elixir" known as Kombucha Tea. Brewing your own is fun and doable!

Namaste!

2010-07-01T19:04:00.000-04:00

From my heart to yours~

Natural Calcium Supplements --- from Eggs!

2010-06-28T11:07:00.006-04:00

Before you toss your egg shells into the compost bin, remember there's another use for them!

Darla shares how to make your own natural calcium supplement using egg shells.

Reusable bags found to be dirty

2010-06-25T13:39:00.005-04:00

"A reminder to shoppers who use reusable grocery bags: Don't forget to wash them after you've emptied them... "

Why? Read more here

Maybe you don't need to wash your reusable bags after every time you use them but it is encouraged to wash them once in a while for health safety. If you carry raw meats in a reusable bag it is probably a good idea to wash that bag every time to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Facts on Food Labeling~

2010-06-24T06:56:00.004-04:00

Some parts below pasted from Bonnie Bucqueroux's Sustainable blog

GMO, as you probably know, refers to Genetically Modified Organisms, known in Europe as Frankenfoods because of fears that mad scientists may be unwittingly or uncaringly unleashing true monsters upon us.

Concerning food labeling, the issue is whether you can tell how the fruits and veggies for sale at the local grocery store were raised by deciphering the codes, and the answer is a resounding maybe. Here is the key as certified by the International Federation for Food Standards (note that the wording is mine, not theirs):

Four-digit code - A conventionally grown crop. Conventional could mean that the foodstuff has been repeatedly doused with one poison or another -- or not. But at least its genes should not have been artificially altered (though one wonders how many food execs are doing hard time in stir for violating the rules).

Five-digit code starting with the number 9 - Organically grown in compliance with the USDA standards.

Five-digit code starting with the number 8 - GMO foods. (Why didn't they just use 666?)

• Restricted FOR use on products grown in North America, East only (meaning these are codes that were originally assigned as East and were used on specific products grown East of the Mississippi in the United States and East of the Ontario/Manitoba border in Canada. These codes only apply in North America and should continue to be used for those specific products):
4318 – Melon, Cantaloupe/Muskmelon, Small
4319 – Melon, Cantaloupe/Muskmelon, Large

• Restricted FROM use on products grown in North America (meaning these are codes that were originally assigned for a specific region outside of North America and, although are now considered Global, are, for various reasons, impossible to incorporate in the North American market. The recommendation is to only use these codes for items grown and/ or sold outside of North America):
3425 – Tangerines/Mandarins, Ellendale, Small
3426 – Tangerines/Mandarins, Ellendale, Medium
3427 – Tangerines/Mandarins, Ellendale, Large

But before you think you can rely on the fact that foods without the dreaded "8" are not Frankenfoods, you should know that the labeling system in the United States is voluntary. And that means growers who want you to know they are doing good things - basically, the organic folks - are probably quick to slap a "9" on that rutabaga you are scrutinizing.

But I suspect only a truly dumb Frankenfood producer would be likely to warn you off with an "8" on that great-looking tomato. (The logic seems impeccable: "What they don't know might hurt them someday, but telling them would hurt our sales today.")

Eco-Friendly Gas Stations?

2010-06-20T08:34:00.007-04:00

What's the best way to protest BP's actions? The oil spill? By refusing to gas up at BP? Lieber with The New York Times say:

Advocacy organizations like Public Citizen urge consumers to stay away from BP stations. About 550,000 Facebook users have clicked the “Like” button on the Boycott BP page. And angry people have picketed at BP stations.
This doesn’t send a particularly powerful message to BP, though. After all, BP owns only a handful of the 11,000 stations that bear its brand and is trying to sell the few still on its books. So those who wish to inflict the maximum amount of pain on the company are instead putting much of the hurt on the family businesses that actually own the stations.

Umbra Fisk, the eco-queen of the universe, shares her thoughts:

There's no perfect choice, here's how I like to think about buying gasoline ... Every time we go to the pump, a pelican dies. It's a great motivator for using less gas. If we all drove a little less it could have a tremendous impact. If we all take the bus, bike, walk, telecommute or find some other carless way for just one day a week we could have a big impact with a small sacrifice. Even The New York Times concluded that "perhaps the best way for people to express outrage and inflict pain on oil companies is to use less fuel, thereby lowering overall demand."

For the full, informative article from Umbra regarding our gasoline choices, click here.

Greenpeace, instead of calling for a boycott, says in order for us to punish BP, we need to get 'Beyond Petroleum', in fact, 'Beyond Pollution' by boycotting ALL gas stations by using our vehicles less and less.

Beth Terry, author of Fake Plastic Fish argues that it's not just gas stations we need to boycott.

"Boycotting BP and simply going across town to buy our gas from the other guy does nothing to cut the demand for this terribly polluting substance in the first place."

The following suggestions were compiled by Beth on her blog:

1) Drive less or just stop driving,

2) Don't buy personal care products (most of them contain petroleum-based ingredients and come in plastic, which is made by petroleum),

3) Eat less meat and eat locally (petroleum is used to ship food over long distances),

4) Eat fresh foods! Don't eat processed foods (they contain petrochemical ingredients),

5) Stop buying new plastics altogether (Craig's list, Freecycle or get them from garage sales if you must).

By doing these things, that how BP (and other similar companies) are forced to seek out other alternatives to meet customer demand to thrive as a company. By getting gas, buying new plastics, eating meat, eating fast food, buying shampoo, make-up, and so on, we are helping fund BP and other companies indirectly.

Hair Soaks Up Oil Spill

2010-06-18T14:16:00.002-04:00

The video above clearly demonstrates how different oil spills negatively impact our environment and how bundles of hair can clean up the oil spills.

Watch this video and discuss!

No Impact Man Movie

2010-06-11T07:47:00.006-04:00

In this movie, Colin Beaver decides he wants to make the least impact on earth, aptly titled "No Impact Man". This movie is a documentary of his one-year journey. He first started by refusing to buy anything with plastic, then buying only local/organic foods, walking, biking and taking the stairs (even if it means meeting on the 42nd floor), and eventually turning off the power to his apartment, along with his baby daughter and couture-wearing, reality show addict and coffee-loving wife!

Is it really possible to make no net impact on the environment while living in a high-rise condo in New York City? In other words, no trash, no elevators, no subway, no air-conditioning, no refrigerator, no television . . .? Go rent the movie and see for yourself!

Be forewarned - while the movie is subtitled, the special features section, apparently consisting of educational instructional videos how to do this and that... isn't. That's the only disappointment I had with the movie.

Here's Colin's blog if you'd like to read more about him and his experiences... and his book, No Impact Man.

A successful Eco-Deaf Clothes Swap!

2010-06-06T19:46:00.005-04:00

Many of the deaf women who showed up at this event discussed about how they benefited from the clothes exchange: They socialized, they met new people, they shared delicious food recipes and craft ideas, and their children made friends with and played with other children (and some even tried on clothes, see the little toddler trying on in front of mirror).

Not only did they get rid of unwanted clothes in their closet (Benefit #1), they went to a community event such as a clothing swap (Benefit #2), they find new items to bring back home without paying a penny (Benefit #3), and the pile of clothes that nobody takes--- are donated to charity (Benefit #4).

I decided to do a research about the difference between just going straight to the Thrift shop to drop/donate clothes and going to a clothes swap, here is what I found:

Only about one-fifth of the clothing donated to charities is directly used or sold in their thrift shops. “There are nowhere near enough people in America to absorb the mountains of castoffs, even if they were given away.”

That's why we all feel better that we've traded in almost half of the clothes we brought- so we can feel better about that 1/5th of the clothes that actually get re-used through thrift shops.

Another blog explains why the "consumerism of clothes buying" is hazardous to the environment:

1. Each time you rush to the shops to by a seasons worth of new clothes, that at the end of the season you will throw away because you are bored of them, you are creating damage to the environment.

2. Not only are you creating unnecessary waste which is likely to contribute to the growing problem of landfill but you are also increasing the environmental impact associated with clothing manufacture.

3. Synthetic textiles in landfill do not break down and so remain in the ecosystem.

4. Dyes and chemical finishes can also wash out with rain water into the water systems.

5. Even natural textiles cause environmental problems. When they break down they create methane which is a powerful green house gas.

6. There are a variety of other issues associated with the manufacture of new clothes including pesticide pollution and carbon footprints.

By swapping clothes you can help to reduce all of these. So EcoDeaf encourages you to do something like this in your home area!

Happy swapping (and hopefully, blogging about it!)

Going Green: Deaf Kids Share Ideas on How to Reduce Our Carbon Footprint

2010-06-05T17:28:00.005-04:00

Going Green! was the theme of an annual contest hosted by Gallaudet's Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center. Over 645 entries were submitted from all over the USA and Canada from deaf and hard of hearing children and this online magazine shows their essay, art and photos of their ASL video submissions.

Hosting a Green contest means they need to walk their talk. And they did! They used soy ink and paper from sustainably managed forests that conserve biodiversity... they plant over 650 million new trees per year to keep forests thriving.... You go, Gallaudet!

Some snapshots of the winners below. Go see the full magazine yourself at this link. Enjoy- these Green deaf kids are our future!

Seattle Green Festival: THIS Weekend! June 5-6

2010-06-04T21:21:00.002-04:00

THIS WEEKEND: Seattle Green Festival at the Washington State Convention Center,
June 5 - 6.

www.greenfestivals.org

Hundreds of exhibitors on
green living, purchasing, and investing, plus local/organic food court,
kids' activities, hands-on workshops, and more...

We have ASL interpreters scheduled for all mainstage speakers (including Amy
Goodman, David Korten, Adora Svitak, Bill Ayers, and more), plus
additional terps on-site for first-come/first-served interpretation at
the smaller stages, at the booths, etc.

Text Andrew at 202-321-1707
if you have any questions, and check in at the ASL table at the front of
the hall to schedule an interpreter for anything other than the
main-stage speakers.

Learn more at www.greenfestivals.org

Be Prepared to be RAWKED!~

2010-05-28T13:26:00.000-04:00

Opening 2nd week of June 2010!!

Rawk Star Cafe
32522 US Hwy 19N
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
727-772-7295
www.rawkstarcafe.com

Eat Like a “Rawk” Star

Come in a check out our Raw-to-Go selection of conveniently pre-packaged Organic RAW-VEGAN Food Items …for ANY time of the day! We also have Hand-Crafted Raw Chocolates, Desserts and Snacks…ALL freshly made in house!! We make GOING GREEN easy …from the inside out!!

I'm PROUD of them and honored to be part of this shining moment! We will RAWK you!!~

Let's RAWK on!~

Clothes Swap - A Smart Way to be Green and Glam!

2010-05-23T23:03:00.005-04:00

Old clothes shouldn't die. They should find new life with a proud new owner. How? By swapping clothes!

Clothes swap is a new eco-community trend that explores creative reuse through the recycling of used clothing.

Several of my friends and I are planning a Clothing Swap event next weekend in Austin, TX. We are hoping it will be successful. Planning to be in the area? Bring your unwanted clothes to Gateway Community Center on June 5th.

Not in the Lone Star state? Don't fret, there are many ways to become involved in this new trend:

One blog suggests how you can start doing this...

1. Declutter. Clean out your closet and find items to swap
2. Find. Find your buddies who are doing the same... and see if they all are interested in looking for events to swap clothes. Or create your own if you feel like you have enough buddies/people to attend. You can find through...
* View upcoming swaps in community bulletin boards
* Look up clothing swap in your area on this website
* Word of mouth (or hand)
* On Facebook or Twitter
3. Attend. Bring unwanted but fab items in great condition
4. Get pampered. Relax, mingle, and be creative which clothes would look good with those red shoes you just bought.
5. SWAP. Take home your favorites for FREE
6. Feel great. Relish new-to-you items and help a local charity
7. Share. Tell your story on EcoDeaf!

And, a video of what it looks like... (sorry, I tried to find captioned ones- but you can get basic idea from viewing this video).

Happy Swapping!

Fantasy Challenge! Show a Fantasy World at DeafNation World Expo

2010-05-21T19:06:00.000-04:00

During the DeafNation World Expo in Las Vegas (July 18-23, 2010) this summer there will be an ASL entertainment contest for "Fantasy Night."

Elise "Lisi" Whitworth invites EcoDeaf readers to submit a video showing a fantasy of a thoroughly sustainable and healthy world/lifestyle. Are you up for the challenge of creating a piece that attracts attention to this fantasy? Information about this contest is at Fantasy Night Contest. Click on the link to learn how you can 1) gain 15 minutes of fame, 2) win $500, and 3) increase awareness about issues important to you and our world.

She insists, "Even if the eco fantasy video doesn't win, this would gain a lot of good exposure to issues and spread awareness as we get our audience to vote for Fantasy Night winners. I really hope someone submits something!"

Deadline for submission is Monday 5/31/10

When you submit your piece, let EcoDeaf know!!

Toilet paper roll: A new use!

2010-05-17T09:15:00.000-04:00

Do you enjoy photography? Experimenting with new ways of taking pictures?

An EcoDeaf reader shares another use for an used toilet paper roll.

The toilet paper roll can be transformed into a photography tool by creating a pinhole in it and fastening it onto the lens of the camera. It can be taped onto the camera or held with your hand.

This will create a pinhole effect, focusing the viewer's attention to a specific element in the picture. It also can be used for vignetting by adjusting the image's brightness around the edges of the image

Experiment away!

Peak Oil - Visually Explained

2010-05-14T14:02:00.004-04:00

Decyhpersmc shared the video of excellent summary on oil dependency on YouTube. This video explains how the production of oil and plastic materials are connected.

decyphersmc — April 26, 2008

"A quick 3 minute video visually explaining Peak Oil, what oil is used for, and what the future may hold with regards to Peak Oil. This is the culmination of my year-long thesis project looking at how Graphic Design can help communicate a complex topic such as Peak Oil."

Peak Oil - How Will You Ride the Slide?

2010-05-14T13:46:00.005-04:00

I like this cartoon shared by Oilyboyd on YouTube. It is a very visual message. Are we ready to give up our oil dependency?

Oilyboyd — November 17, 2007

"We've already burned through almost half the world's supply of oil. How will we ride out the slide down the other side of Hubbert's Curve?"

What Can We Do to Reduce Our Oil Dependency?

2010-05-13T20:38:00.002-04:00

Tony Brucato explains in sign language about how the oil spill in Gulf of Mexico negatively impacts our ecosystem and suggests the four ways that we can do to reduce our oil dependency.

After watching the video, please share your ideas and suggestions of different ways in reducing our oil dependency for cleaner planet and better future.

Namaste!

Composting is so Easy, Deaf 1st Graders Show you How!

2010-05-09T07:43:00.007-04:00

Jarrod and Estelina, Deaf six-year-old 1st graders at the California school for the Deaf talk about composting in American Sig Language.

Many thanks, @yatesburns for permission to post on EcoDeaf!

Cutting your Hair? Reuse it for the Gulf Oil Spill!

2010-05-08T15:22:00.006-04:00

Watch this fascinating 3-minute educational video about how our hair collects oil quickly and can help lessen the impact of oil spills like the recent one in the Gulf of Mexico. Makes sense... you shampoo because hair collects oil! That means it can collect petroleum oil spills too.

Make sure when you have your hair cut, to combine your hair with others at the salon and have them mail hair to Matter Of Trust non-profit organization.

Going Green with MyPyramid

2010-05-01T14:48:00.004-04:00

Sandy Graham shares a fact sheet made by the United States Department of Agriculture's MyPyramid website.

The contents of that fact sheet are below. For direct access to the fact sheet go to www.mypyramid.gov/downloads/TenTips/GoingGreenTipsheet.pdf or http://goinggreenwithmypyramid.blogspot.com/2010/04/going-green-with-mypyramid.html

Did it ever occur to you that your daily food choices can impact the environment? Food has a lot to do with the environment—probably much more than you’d think. From farm to table, there are many points where green decisions can be made.

1. Buy directly from a farmer

Check out your local farmer’s market or join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). Look for local sources of fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, cheese, or eggs. They may have traveled fewer miles and contain less packaging, thereby saving energy.

2. Buy in bulk

Shop in stores that sell foods in bulk bins to reduce solid waste and resource use. Food co-ops often offer many grains, flours, beans, nuts, dried fruit, soup mixes, and ready-to-eat cereals in bulk. Buying in bulk may be cheaper, too.

3. Reduce food package waste

Buy larger sizes. Omit single serve containers and juice boxes from your grocery list. Buy milk and yogurt in the largest container you will use. Recycle: take your own shopping bags to the store!

4. Look for the USDA Organic seal

When shopping, look for the USDA Organic seal. It assures you that the agricultural products marketed as organic meet strict standards. Organic crops are raised without using most conventional pesticides or petroleum-based fertilizer. Animals raised on an organic farm must be fed organic feed and given access to the outdoors. They are given no antibiotics or growth hormones.

5. Eat seasonally

Plan your meals around the vegetables and fruits that are in season in your growing area. Seasonal fruits and vegetables can be less expensive, too

6. Vary your choices in meat and beans

Sometimes use nuts or beans, such as kidney, pinto, or garbanzo beans, to vary the protein in your entrée. Less energy is used to produce them, compared to the energy used to produce meat or poultry.

7. Start a vegetable garden

When you grow your own food, you control the use of pesticides and omit the need for transportation or packaging. If you have a small space, try herbs on your windowsill or other vegetables in pots.

8. Think natural

Buy foods in their natural state or minimally processed, such as rolled oats instead of instant oatmeal, or fresh chicken instead of chicken nuggets. This reduces the fossil fuels needed for processing. It can lower your calories, too.

9. Drink tap water

Eliminate individual water bottles from your grocery list. Buy a reusable water bottle and fill it with tap water. Water from your tap is free. The processing, packaging, transportation, and storage of bottled water uses more fossil fuel and bottle disposal adds to household waste.

10. Cook at home

Cook at home more often rather than getting take-out

What is the Most Eco way to be Buried?

2010-04-26T18:05:00.005-04:00

I've always thought my grandparents were very eco for their time. When they passed away, they donated their bodies to teaching hospitals. The hospital picked up the bodies, had student doctors practice on them for a period of time, then cremated the bodies and sent us ashes along with an autopsy report. I thought this was the coolest way to say good-bye...!

but then, thanks to Dan Brubaker on Facebook, I came across his link - there is a much more eco-way to die! Giving your body back earth... without the use of fire (cremation) or wood (caskets) or tombstones (cement), etc. How?

I must warn you - the concept and pictures may be very graphic to some people. If you are sensitive to death and dead bodies, please, please do not click on these links.

Wikipedia: Sky Burial

Sky Burial Photos

I wonder if this can legally be done in the USA? Do you have other eco-options for burial? Share away.

TED - Earth Day Talks

2010-04-26T10:34:00.007-04:00

From TEDxIslay:

It’s Earth Day, so what better time to spotlight some of the smartest, most compelling thinking in sustainability from the past few years, and what better place for these ideas to manifest themselves than the TED stage? Today, we’re posting our five favorite sustainability-related TED talks of the past five years — from eye-opening revelations to ideological landmarks.

1) Michael Pollan Gives a Plant's-Eye View

2) William McDonough on Cradle to Cradle Design

3) Janine Benyus: Biomimicry in Action

4) Sylvia Earle's TED Prize Wish to Protect Our Oceans

5) Chris Jordan Pictures Some Shocking Stats

Join TEDxIslay on Facebook!

Gallaudet Goes Carbon-Neutral for Earth Day

2010-04-23T08:00:00.003-04:00

by Rhea Yablon Kennedy

Facilities administrators display a "C-Neutral Certificate" from energy supplier Hess declaring that Gallaudet went 100 percent carbon neutral on April 22 in honor of Earth Day. Pictured (from left) are William Banks, facilities project engineer; Meloyde Batten-Mickens, executive director of Facilities; and Stephen Kalmus, chief engineer in Utilities Services. Photo by Rhea Yablon Kennedy

Director of Sustainability for Green Gallaudet Rachel Benedict and student Michael Pachuilo work together to make an emission-free smoothie during a bake sale. The March 1 to 3 sale was one of the ways the student organization has connected with the community to urge greener practices and spread an eco-conscious message. Photo by José Garcia.

As part of an ongoing effort to make University operations more eco-friendly, the campus went carbon-neutral on April 22 in honor of Earth Day.

"The effect is as if we shut the boilers down for the day," said Stephen Kalmus, chief engineer in Utilities Services. Kalmus arranged to rely on natural gas for as much of the day's energy needs as possible, and he purchased carbon offsets for the remainder of the energy.

In recent years, the Facilities staff, led by Dr. Meloyde Batten-Mickens, executive director of the Facilities Department, worked in multiple ways to make Gallaudet more sustainable every day. Mickens credits her team, as well as the students, the Environmental Stewardship Committee, and the environmental intern positions in Administration and Finance, for making this happen. "It's like a handshake," said Mickens. "It's a community effort."

It was members of the growing three-year-old organization, Green Gallaudet, who first reached out a hand to bring about a day of energy savings in 2009. On March 28, Kendall Green went dark in honor of the organization WWF's Earth Hour. The effort called on both Facilities and individuals to turn off lights on that Saturday evening.

Making Kendall Green

This is all part of a raft of initiatives that have increased Gallaudet's annual carbon savings from about 35,000 to more than 38,600 tons from 2008 to 2009, and continue to lighten the University's impact on the environment.

Gallaudet has had some initiatives in place for years. The recycling program has collected discarded paper and bottles for processing, while the shuttle service reduces Gallaudet's carbon footprint by making Metro and commuter trains a viable option for student and employee commutes.

Recently, Facilities has converted to using virtually all organic products for grounds maintenance. It further reduced chemical usage with the new incarnation of Hotchkiss Field. The field, used for football, soccer, and other activities, is made with recycled rubber and synthetic materials. Because there is no soil or grass to maintain, the field also greatly reduces water usage. The Sorenson Language and Communication Center, which opened in 2007, attained LEED certification, as will all subsequent new buildings on campus.

In 2007, Gallaudet transitioned to single-stream recycling, commingling trash and recyclables and then sending them to an off-campus facility to be separated. Paper towels used in the bathrooms are 100 percent recycled material, while hand soap and cleaning products are Green Seal certified. Even the ice melting crystals used to clear walkways after the winter's major snows were eco-friendly.

In 2008, the Facilities Department began yearly evaluations through the Go-Green Project, using the company Sightlines to monitor and benchmark Gallaudet's carbon footprint. The project looks at all aspects of the University's environmental practices, from electricity usage on campus to the distance that each employee travels to get to work. Sightlines provides both a snapshot of Kendall Green's impact and trending in its results. For utilities usage, Gallaudet also performed an Industrial Grade Energy Performance Review with Johnson Controls, Inc.

Mickens and Kalmus expect the savings to continue to climb. The very next report should show improvement, thanks to an increased amount of energy bought with Renewable Energy Certificates (from seven to 10 percent over the past year). In addition, Facilities, Green Gallaudet, and Bon Appetit Management Company, which oversees food service, plan to establish a composting system that keeps food scraps out of the waste bins.

Rachel Benedict, sustainability director for the student organization Green Gallaudet, says her organization has worked closely with Facilities to push Gallaudet toward a greener future. Other groups seek to go green, too, including the Student Body Government, which has pledged to use only biodegradable food service items for its campus events.

The flavor of sustainability

Facilities administrators display a "C-Neutral Certificate" from energy supplier Hess declaring that Gallaudet went 100 percent carbon neutral on April 22 in honor of Earth Day. Pictured (from left) are William Banks, facilities project engineer; Meloyde Batten-Mickens, executive director of Facilities; and Stephen Kalmus, chief engineer in Utilities Services. Photo by Rhea Yablon Kennedy

Green Gallaudet also found a willing partner in Davina Kwong, general manager for Bon Appetit. Disposing of leftovers is just one of the ways that Gallaudet's cafeterias are doing their part. Kwong emphasizes not only waste reduction, but also the other side of the production process. "Yes it's true that recycling and compostables are important, but it's even more important to think about where our food comes from," she explains.

Kwong and Chef Manager Jay Keller focus on buying regional and seasonal produce and sustainably-produced meat, dairy, and fish. In the Hanson Plaza cafeteria, students eat with reusable plates and flatware; in the Jordan Student Academic Center's grab-and-go Marketplace, Keller purchases low-carbon packaging. Hot and cold beverage cups and napkins contain a minimum of 10 percent and 35 percent post consumer fiber (PCF), respectively, while the cup sleeves are 100 percent PCF. All cutlery is presented individually as opposed to in sets, reducing waste, and instead of individual condiment packets, diners take a dollop of ketchup or a cup of mustard from dispensers. As the composting program moves into place, Keller is set to phase in as much compostible packaging as possible. "Some believe that being 'green' is the cool new thing," said Kwong. "For us, it's at the root of what we do on a day-to-day basis."

Benedict and her Green Gallaudet team are reaching out to show what individuals can do to improve sustainability. Green Gallaudet has combined outreach with fundraising efforts by selling low-impact snacks, including fruit smoothies blended by a bicycle. The group also created a video explaining ways to reduce waste in the cafeteria.

Next steps toward a greener future

Director of Sustainability for Green Gallaudet Rachel Benedict and student Michael Pachuilo work together to make an emission-free smoothie during a bake sale. The March 1 to 3 sale was one of the ways the student organization has connected with the community to urge greener practices and spread an eco-conscious message. Photo by José Garcia.

Among Green Gallaudet's long-term goals are for the University to sign on to the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment. Kendall Green does not yet have the systems set up to satisfy all of the stipulations in the agreement, but Mickens says they have already made progress and hopes to see a presidential signature soon.

The Environmental Stewardship Committee, comprised of student, faculty, and staff representatives, will play a role in working toward that goal. Mickens appreciates the students' urging to make things happen. "I love it that the students were ahead of us," said Mickens. "That's one of the things that helped us come together and pushed us toward more sustainability priorities."

--Rhea Yablon Kennedy

GreenFestival this weekend in San Francisco!

2010-04-08T22:43:00.005-04:00

What are you Bay Area eco-folks doing this weekend?
Why not go to the Green Festival? Here's the info:

San Francisco Green Festival, April 10 - 11, at the Concourse at 8th and Brannon!

Organics, renewable energy, sweatshop-free clothing, socially responsible investing, community networking, and more, all at the nation's largest green event.

Andrew Korfhage, our deaf-friendly GreenFestival volunteer, will be present at the ASL Table at the front of the hall to answer any questions you may have about Green Festival.
ASL/English interpreting available for parts of the Festival on a first-come/first-served basis. Please see Andrew at the ASL table at the front of the hall to schedule an interpreter. (Unfortunately, their interpreter resources are limited at present, and we do not currently have full coverage, with interpreters on-site for the entire duration of the Festival. They're still recruiting, especially for Saturday afternoon, so if you are an interpeter, or you know of one who would be interested to be available as a volunteer at the Festival, please contact Andrew at 202-321-1707.) Thanks and enjoy!
http://www.greenfestivals.org/san-francisco-spring/

Can't make it? Don't worry, there will be two more Green Festivals this spring, Chicago in May, and Seattle in June.

Farmers, Mechanics and Babysitters

2010-04-07T10:45:00.001-04:00

"Why don't we pay more attention to who are farmers are? We would never be as careless choosing an auto mechanic or babysitter as we are about who grows our food."

— Michael Pollan,
The Botany of Desire: A Plant's-Eye View of the World

How to Fight Fire with Fire

2010-04-06T19:36:00.000-04:00

by Eric Kaika

David and Goliath happened in the biblical era. To say that it could easily happen today, drop me line, I have a invisible money-making machine I want to sell you.

Wars are won by who has the most money, machines, technology and power. So when you go up against conglomerates and try to bring them down, you need to fight them on their level to be successful.

I care about our environment and the food I put in my body. I recycle and reuse, I pick up litter, I give smokers the evil eye (cigarette butts are the highest form of litter). I try to do my part in making this world a better place.

There's nothing that pisses me off faster than companies with total disregard for this planet, its animals and plants (sorry humans, you're not on the list). I have ill will towards companies like ConAgra, DuPont, Microsoft, Electric companies, etc.

Unfortunately no one man can go up against these companies and coerce them into dropping their bad habits and becoming a greener company. These companies care about only 1 kind of green, the US Mint.

The question remains: how can consumers, who are often struggling to make ends meet yet deeply care about the environment have such a tremendous impact on these corporate polluters and make them change their ways? My thinking: Wal-Mart.

When Wal-Mart places an order... its huge. Huge enough to make a small company become an overnight sensation. And for those big corporate bullies? Well, all Wal-Mart needs to tell them is: "Hey, our consumers want greener products that are healthy to the environment and free from animal cruelty." You can believe that those companies will heed to the request of Wal-Mart.

Consumers are the most powerful entity. We have pocked lined with cash that we want to spend, and we go to Wal-Mart to spend our money. That's why Wal-Mart is the largest retailer on this planet. Because they want us to continue to spend our money at their stores, they sell affordable products we want. It's not surprising that because so many Americans are now shifting towards organic foods, you can now find numerous of organic products at Wal-Mart.

I'm not saying we should all disband Whole Foods and other grocery chains, but if you want to take a bite out of corporate America, you need to fight them on their ground with the same amount of money and power, which is... Wal-Mart.

As for its "destruction" towards the environment, I haven't been able to find Wal-Mart on any list that states they are destructive to our green earth. Of course I haven't seen one on McDonald's either, but I know they are a huge contributor to unsanitary practices of our food industry. Why does anyone eat at McDonald's, I don't know... lack of values & principles perhaps.

reprinted with permission from Eric Kaika - Thanks Eric!

Greening my laundry

2010-04-04T21:36:00.013-04:00

For laundry, I used to use Seventh Generation's Chlorine-free detergent:

But that was way too much plastic for me, and recycling is not enough for me anymore. After becoming an avid reader of Fake Plastic Fish, I've become much more conscious of plastic. I prefer to focus on the first "r" which is reduce. I switched over to the Seventh Generation powder laundry:

Plastic free packaging. Great. However, when you open it up, there's a plastic scooper. Drats. Also, there's a lot of stuff listed in the ingredients list. I'm not too sure about that. Then I found this:

From Laundry Tree. They are shipped to your home and do not contain any plastic, and soap nuts is just dried fruit. I'm thinking about trying this next when my powder laundry runs out.

Gallaudet Cafeteria becomes more Green-er

2010-03-25T15:33:00.003-04:00

Members of Green Gallaudet environmental organization shares how the Gallaudet cafeteria has gone green-er!

Book Review: Skinny Bitch

2010-03-18T10:44:00.002-04:00

The book Skinny Bitch covers the convincing reasons in starting and maintaining the vegan lifestyle with tons of animal rights information included. Skinny Bitch has the radical tone in its prose so it may not be for the people with language sensitivity.

Read Skinny Bitch Review

Join Skinny Bitch group on Facebook

Thank you Katherine for sharing this book with EcoDeaf.

Order Living Food Farm DVDs!

2010-03-03T09:34:00.006-05:00

We, Ron & Shirley Johnson wanted to let you all know that we accomplished our first DeafNation Expo at Tampa, FL. Now we are enroute to Phoenix, Arizona for the second DeafNation Expo. If you are nearby Phoenix, stop by and see us.

We also are pleased to announce that our LFF's DVD is READY for you to watch and learn about our farming methods, about our history, and health topics! Our DVDs are only for people who use American Sign Language (ASL). It will only costs you $6.00 - you can click the link below and order today!

ORDER LIVING FOOD FARM DVD HERE

Stay warm and healthy,

Living Food Farm

To Ron and Shirley Johnson,
thank you for sharing this information with EcoDeaf!
We wish you good luck! Namaste!

Reviewing Natural Cat Litter: Pros and Cons

2010-02-10T21:17:00.014-05:00

I review four different cat litter brands: Feline Pine, Swheat Scoop, Yesterday's News and World's Best Cat Litter and discusses pros and cons for each, and I announce the winner!

In the video, I did not discuss the impact of mass producing each brand (pine, wheat, newspaper and corn) in detail. If you know more about how the company collects and processes each type of litter, please share.

Out of the four, it appears old newspapers makes the least (possibly zero?) impact, however it is known that the company, Purina, that produces Yesterday's News is owned by Nestle, one of the worst companies when it comes to the environment.

Another topic I did not discuss in my vlog: Packaging is also important. Swheat Scoop, Yesterday's News and Feline Pine usually comes in paper (with plastic inner sheath) bags, while World's Best Cat Litter comes in a 100% plastic bag. Since they are natural cat litter companies, I find it very ironic that none of them package their litter in biodegradable paper printed with alternative/natural inks to lessen their impact on earth.

Of course, the best type of litter may simply just be the outdoors. That in itself opens up another package of eco-dilemmas (e.g. impact of cats on bird/reptile/amphibian populations and the food chain).

I think the most ideal solution would be to toilet train cats. This way you cut down on the transportation and manufacturing impact of shipping the litter to the store to your home. You also save a good 5 minutes per day cleaning litter. You also save the little bags that you use to put soiled litter in. You also save your time cleaning the litter boxes out every month or so. The downside is the discussion that bacteria from cat feces can contaminate and kill sea otters!

Stepping off my box. Your thoughts?

P.s. The software I used to edit this movie is called ScreenFlow 2.0. This is my first attempt (not a very good one at that, I haven't learned how to use transitions/action video). User friendly software with plenty of possibilities! Hat tip to Matthew Malzkuhn.

EarCandling ASL Vlog by Rachel

2010-02-09T14:10:00.000-05:00

Rachel describes the process of earcandling and shares some personal stories about earcandling. Check the video out!

In Honor of SuperBowl: Surprising Stats!

2010-02-07T15:27:00.003-05:00

From TreeHugger - Click here to go to the full article...

HOW MUCH FOOD WILL BE CONSUMED?

8 million: Total pounds of popcorn consumed on Super Bowl Sunday.

28 million: Pounds of potato chips consumed.

53.5 million: Pounds of avocados consumed.

222,792: Number of football fields worth of farmland to grow all that
corn, potatoes, and avocados.

11.8: Depth, in feet, of guacamole consumed if it were spread across the football field.

293,000: Number of miles of potato chips, laid end to end, consumed during the game.

1 billion: Number of chicken wings consumed on Super Bowl Sunday.

325.5 million: Gallons of beer drank by Americans that day.

493: Number of Olympic-sized swimming pools that could be filled with all that beer.

20%: Increase in ant-acid sales the Monday after the game.

7 million: Number of employees who will not show up to work Monday.

Are you going to work tomorrow? I am :)

From TreeHugger - Click here to go to the full article...

GROWH- A eco-lifestyle coaching firm run by a Deaf woman

2010-02-06T09:30:00.008-05:00

http://growh.com/

While checking out Kiss-Fist, an online magazine for the signing community, I came across an article about Shanada Schwartz, a Deaf woman who has set up her own lifestyle coaching firm called "Grow Holistically". I watched her video...

This is the first and only one of its kind to provide consultations in American Sign Language via videophone. Aside from this unique feature, they can also connect you through other methods to provide continuous support as you learn about the nature of your well-being, improve your health, and grow holistically.
She grew up on "Living Food Farm", which is a organic food business operated by a Deaf family in Minnesota.

On her website, Shanada answers the question:

What is the holistic approach to health all about?
And expands on the 5 Holistic Areas:

Nutrition
Fitness
Relationship
Spiritual
Green Living
An example of her eco-advice: Green Living embraces the goodness and healthfulness of natural things and products. Doing so will help you avoid harmful chemicals and toxins that many people use for their hygiene, cleaning supplies, clothes, toys, and food. While it is impossible to avoid all toxic and chemical things, the greener your life is, the better! We offer a wealth of easy and affordable ideas for improving the quality and safety of everything you need to live with!

For some eco-consultation, contact Shanada.

StillTasty?

2010-02-04T08:44:00.010-05:00

Common Questions:

Is it okay to store hot soup in the fridge?

How to defrost fish safely?

How long will homemade lasagna last in the freezer?

How long will turmeric powder stay fresh?

Visit www.StillTasty.com

"Your Ultimate Shelf Life Guide
Save Money, Eat Better, Help The Environment"

iPhone users can download StillTasty App.

Thank you Laura for sharing this website with EcoDeaf.

Recycle 3D Glasses

2010-01-30T13:30:00.010-05:00

At theaters people use 3D Glasses to watch special effect movies like Avatar and Alice in Wonderland. More movie theaters are placing recycle bins (like the picture above) in the hallway for people to recycle their 3D glasses after they are finished with their movies.

Why Recycle 3D Glasses?

Special 3D glasses work with certain movies at theaters and it will not work with TVs and computers at home.

Saving 3D glasses for the next 3D movie will not get you a discount.

You will still have to pay the "fee" for the 3D glasses. Even it cost extra to see a 3D movie, there is a good chance that your 3D glasses will not work with newer movies due to the improvement of 3D glasses.

Reduce the junk pile at home by recycling 3D glasses so movie goers will reuse them.

Dark 3D glasses are not sunglasses and it will not protect your eyes from ultraviolet sun rays.

If you cannot find a recycle bin to toss out your 3D glasses after the movie, see the manager and recommend their movie theater to go green. Then mail your 3D glasses to this address:

RealD
100 North Crescent Dr., Suite 120
Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Read this interesting blog written by Beth Terry
Avatar in 3D: What About the Plastic Glasses?
Thank you Keri for sharing the blog with EcoDeaf.

and

Recycle Avatar 3D Glasses
by easyecoblog.

Permission was granted to use the image of 3D Glasses Recycle Bin copied from
Fake Plastic Fish.

Anthony talks about Avatar and Environmental Issues

2010-01-26T22:03:00.007-05:00

Anthony explores the relationship between the fictional movie Avatar (2009) and real life environmental issues. He gives three examples of how economic expansions destroy cultures and lands around the world.

Please share your comments.

Namaste

Raychelle Prepares Her Garden

2010-01-18T10:06:00.001-05:00

Raychelle shows her very first compost from her fruit, veggie, eggshell, coffee grinds, tea bags leftover through the year, mixed in with leaves and hay. Considering this is her first batch, any tips from composters and gardeners out there will be very much appreciated!

Nature's Gate Shampoo & Conditioner

2010-01-15T13:28:00.004-05:00

Do you remember these products? Heavenly scent and works beautifully.

The formula for these products changed in 2006 to something commonplace.

Its a sad story, but very common. Ownership of the company changed hands, so things that did not need changing were changed.

Does anyone have any recommendations for natural shampoo and conditioner similar to what Nature's Gate offered before they were sold?

Great Way to Start off the Year, Washington DC!

2010-01-01T14:28:00.004-05:00

D.C. First to Impose Fee to Use Disposable Plastic, Paper Bags

Washington, D.C. Consumers Forced to Go Green or Pay 5 Cents Per Bag

By DEVIN DWYER
WASHINGTON, Jan. 1, 2010

A man leaves with a bag of groceries in a plastic bag made of recyclable material at the Nature Shop on this file photo in San Francisco, California. Starting today, the District of Columbia becomes the first in the nation to impose a surcharge on disposable paper and plastic bags commonly used at grocery and retail stores everywhere.

(David Paul Morris/Getty Images)

Residents and visitors to the nation's capital are about to find new meaning in what it means to "go green." Customers who tote their food or liquor purchases home in the ubiquitous bags will now be required to pay 5 cents for each one they use. The fees will go to a fund for cleaning up the city's Anacostia River. Starting today, the District of Columbia becomes the first major city in the nation to impose a surcharge on disposable paper and plastic bags commonly used at grocery and retail stores everywhere.

"I signed this law in July to cut down on the disposable bags that foul our waterways," D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty said last month. "We want everyone to know that you can save the river, and 5 cents, if you bring your own reusable bag to the store instead."

Many retailers are expected to offer a credit to customers who bring their own bags. Grocer Whole Foods, for example, already gives shoppers a nickel for each bag they bring in and has discontinued use of plastic bags.

While the District's bag tax law is the first of its kind, other states and municipalities have imposed outright bans on plastic bags or mandated that retailers collect them for recycling.

San Francisco, Calif., became the first U.S. city to impose an outright ban on plastic bags in 2007, and Oakland and Malibu soon followed suit. In June 2009, the North Carolina legislature banned their use in the Outer Banks.

China banned plastic bags in January 2008 and Bangladesh has outlawed them since 2002, which might come as a surprise, given that neither country is known for its progressive environmental policies.

FOR THE REST OF THE ARTICLE, CLICK HERE

Eco-lunches for kids!

2009-12-22T15:39:00.005-05:00

Instead of using disposable plastic ziploc bags that leach chemicals and last forever in the landfill, consider switching to an eco-lunch for yourself and your children! This is what an ecodeaf reader uses for herself and her family- Lunch bag made from recycled plastic bottles, aluminum boxes for meals such as pasta, etc. Aluminum bottle for water (avoid plastic containers or juice boxes!). Cloth napkins and cloth placemats, washable and use again, and again! Lunch skins for PBJs and carrots or grapes.

Why not juice boxes? Many of them, even organic ones, contain sugar which you or your children do not need. Water is the best! Let them eat whole fruits instead of juice.

Infinite Light: Interpreter Position Available

2009-12-20T22:59:00.002-05:00

Interpreter Position Available at Infinite Light
(Ayahuasca Shamanic Healing, Deaf-Friendly) Summer 2010

Hey guys, we have an amazing opportunity for an ASL interpreter who is interested in a potentially life-changing experience!

Who we are looking for:

Our intention is to bring in an interpreter who is also interested in working with the Shamanic Ayahuasca Medicine themselves (during the actual healing ceremonies, the interpreters are not working and are able to have their own experience). The first step would be to visit the Infinite Light website and read through it, including the article 'What is Ayahuasca Really' on the front page, as well as watching the YouTube video linked to the site. If the interpreter has a personal draw towards this kind of work, the energetic match is much better. Being in a small village, the interpreter needs to be a relatively laid-back, flexible person, who is willing to step out of their comfort zone and experience a whole other world.

Logistics:

Location: Jenaro Herrera, small village outside of Iquitos, Peru (Amazon region)
Dates (to be in Peru): May 15th - August 4th, 2010
Compensation: Airfare covered, even trade on participation of six Infinite Light programs ($2500 value), food stipend for in-between group stay in the village
Interpreting Expectations: During each 10-day group session (with five days off in between each) the interpreters will be supporting communication during set meeting times (no more than one per day) and available for chatting between the Deaf and hearing group members as needed. During the first two groups, there will be only one Deaf person (a return guest who is very self-sufficient) and the final four groups at least three (or more) Deaf (plus a co interpreter, and a third for backup).

If you or someone you know is interested or would like more information after going through the website www.infinitelightperu.com), please contact Meghan at infinitelightperu@gmail.com (feel free to forward this email appropriately). Also any Deaf who are interested in attending the program, contact us as well. This work can change lives:)

The Beautiful Blogger Award

2009-12-20T11:53:00.010-05:00

1) Thank the person who nominated me for this award.

2) Copy the award and place it on my blog.

3) Link to the person who nominated me for this award.

4) Tell us seven interesting things about yourself.

5) Nominate seven bloggers.

6) Post links to the seven blogs I nominate.

Thank you to Kim from Face me, I Read Lips for nominating us the beautiful blogger award. We are flattered and feeling eco-preciated for making positive environmental impacts on our planet Earth and in peoples' lives.

The Seven Interesting Facts about EcoDeaf

1) EcoDeaf is a community-based blog for everyone and written/vlogged by YOU!

2) EcoDeaf was founded in 2007 by Raychelle Harris, Shira Grabelsky, and Summer Crider.

3) We currently have eight writers on board. The regular contributors are Raychelle Harris, Shira Grabelsky, Summer Crider, and Anthony Brucato and the people who have volunteered their time for EcoDeaf are Alynn, Rhea, P, and Deaf258. If you're interested in writing for EcoDeaf, please send us an email at ecodeaf@gmail.com to express your interest and we'll get you on board. All you need is a Gmail account to join!

4) Approximately half of the post ideas on Ecodeaf are actually reader submissions via email. If you see or read something you think should be posted on Ecodeaf, write up something about it with sources provided then e-mail it over to ecodeaf@gmail.com .

5) EcoDeaf was mentioned in the NADmag in the July-August 2008 Vol. 8 No. 4 issue!

6) In the month of November 15 - December 15, we've had 2,483 visits. Of those visitors, 43% find us through search engines. 34% from referring sites, and Deafread tops the list with 20%! And 22% from direct traffic!

7) Our EcoDeaf visitors are primarily from USA and Canada but we have visitors from around the globe! California wins with the most visits, New York comes in second, Pennsylvania in third, DC in fourth, and Maryland in 5th. Curious for more? Washington State came in sixth, Texas in seventh, Florida in eighth, Massachusetts in ninth, and New Mexico in tenth.

Bonus: Our most popular post for this month was "Breast is Best" with 271 hits!

The Seven Blog sites that
EcoDeaf Nominates for the Beautiful Blogger Award!

In no particular order, they are:

1) Jenny Miers Henry at Mountain Momma for sharing her life stories and experiences as well as her concerns over different environmental issues.

2) Sharon Duchesneau and Candace Mccullough at Alternative Solutions Center for the Deaf for publishing excellent thought-provoking, insightful blogs and vlogs for the Deaf community.

3) Katherine Feldmann at Deaf Animals for promoting awareness of deaf animals' existences as well as share information and resources.

4) Sina McCarthy and Judi Fruge at Deaf Natural Living Newsletter for sharing different topics on natural living and raw food diets.

5) May Wille at Soothing Waves for providing services and sharing information on different massaging, healing techniques and raw food recipes and tips.

6) Rev. Jill Lestina at Change Your Thinking, Shift Your Perception, And the World Will Change for sharing many useful tips, advises, and suggestions through v-logs on how to turn your life around and appreciate the world!

7) Rachel Benedict, Leala Holcomb, and Clara Baldwin at Green Gallaudet for making Gallaudet a greener campus by raising awarenesses, setting up events, and sharing important environmental issues with Gally students and staff. Gallaudet is going greener and greener every year!

*Hands Waving To Everyone For Your Eco-Participation*

THANK YOU AND NAMASTE!!

Take the Plunge!

2009-12-16T16:34:00.013-05:00

It's that time of the year again!
You can get cold to keep winter cold for years to come!

Take the Polar Bear Plunge to fight global warming.

There is one planned for the Chesapeake Bay, MD area on January 23, 2010.
Go to http://www.keepwintercold.org to read more about this project, find a plunge near you, or to organize one!

If you organize or take part in a plunge, be sure to post here so others can join as well!

See the links below to read about EcoDeaf taking part in Polar Plunges of years past!

Plunges from 2007:
Into Icy Waters We Went
Brave EcoDeaf members jump into Chesapeake Bay

Information about 2009's Plunge:
Take Polar Bear Plunge

Vegetarian / Leather-free Shoes

2009-12-11T16:50:00.000-05:00

Not all shoes are made equal.

In the image above, Natalie Portman is shown wearing a vegan shoes from her Natalie Portman Collection shoe line.
(image from http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/04/13/natalie-portman-vegan-shoes/)

Wearing your beliefs on your feet is quite a statement.

A reader submitted this About.com site that gives a list of where you can buy non-animal products footwear. There are vegan shoes for everyone in the family and not all vegan shoes are canvas-like.

http://shoes.about.com/od/vegancrueltyfreeshoes/Vegetarian_LeatherFree.htm

Deaf Breastfeeding Symbol Found in Various Places

2009-12-05T11:42:00.006-05:00

Earlier, there was a post on EcoDeaf about Breast is Best, which shared that Matt Daigle, a Deaf man, designed the now international symbol for breastfeeding.

I read that post, and then the very next day, I went to a DC coffeeshop on H street Northeast, and saw a thick stack of postcards with Daigle's Breastfeeding symbol and some information about DC laws related to breast feeding! Here are the photos:

Where else have you seen Daigle's symbol?

Climategate??

2009-12-04T14:48:00.006-05:00

Remember the Watergate scandal that led to the resignation of Richard Nixon from the White House seat during the 1970s? Now, due to the leak of e-mails from the University of East Anglia, some people are saying similar things about lies, frauds, and selfish motivations behind Global Warming. Is Global Warming real? Are certain scientists pushing the Anthropogenic Global Warming (AGW) myth?

Read the articles:

1) Science, facts, fraud, and "Climategate" written by Edmond Jenks

and

2) Climategate? What Climategate? written by John Fund.

Edmond Jenks believes that certain affluent scientists, politicians, and people of interests are involved in the scandal by saying Global Warming is real while it is not at all. John Fund investigated there might be a worldwide conspiracy going on under our nose to exaggerate the effects of Global Warming. Countless of news articles on Climategate are emerging and the Climategate debate is not going away anytime soon.

The question is Global Warming real? Perhaps instead of debating about whether Global Warming is real or a stack of myths, shouldn't we all share responsibilities in reducing our environmental impacts as much as we can?

Share comments and discuss!

Breast is Best!

2009-12-01T20:36:00.004-05:00

Did you know that the international breastfeeding symbol was designed by a deaf person? Matt Daigle created this icon which is now used worldwide.

Theres even a facebook group for deaf breastfeeding moms as well for information and support.

"Going Green": How is it conveyed in ASL?

2009-11-18T17:13:00.000-05:00

----> GOING GREEN <----

Larry Gray posits an interesting question in his vlog, creating space to discuss how we convey the idea of "going green" in ASL.

He writes:

This particular vlog inquires about the sign, GREEN, which is generally understood for the color. However, we have used it to also mean being environmentally-conscious. I pose a question which I'm sure the Deaf community would like to discuss.

Let us know what you think!

Freecycle Your Stuff!

2009-11-10T17:40:00.004-05:00

OFFER stuff thats been sitting in your attic for too many years. Post a WANTED ad for materials that you need for your art project. RECEIVE or TAKE stuff off other people's hands. Keep trash out of landfills, free up space in your storage area, and save $$. It doesn't get better than FREECYCLE. Check their website for freecycle listservs in your area. www.freecycle.org

Just for Babies

2009-11-10T16:46:00.002-05:00

I found this cool baby teether at Whole Foods the other day.. made of corn starch, biodegradable and best of all- no weird chemicals!

Yoga Classes in NYC... offered in ASL!

2009-11-05T23:51:00.004-05:00

For those who live in or near the NYC area and are interested in Iyengar yoga, there are several Yoga classes offered in ASL. Jen Kagan, a certified Iyengar teacher, who teaches in ASL explains about the method that she teaches: "We learn most through visual access therefore all poses and actions are demonstrated and sequenced in such a way that students gain better understanding of themselves."

YOGA CLASSES are offered on:
Mondays 6-7:15
@ Three Jewels, Union Square

Wed 6-7:30
@ La Guardia Community College

There are some video descriptions of yoga and recent photos of ASL Yoga Retreat on her website (Click on the Yoga in ASL links).
Thanks to Jen Kagan for informing EcoDeaf about this!

http://www.jenkagan.net/

Photos from jenkagan.net.

Article: I Live Without Cash – And I Manage Just Fine.

2009-11-02T13:42:00.008-05:00

"Armed with a caravan, solar laptop and toothpaste made from washed-up cuttlefish bones, Mark Boyle gave up using cash."
Read more here

Can you give up cash and live in the wild?

Read the article, share comments, and discuss!

Less Waste to Zero Waste

2009-10-20T09:54:00.003-04:00

New York Times, October 20, 2009

At Yellowstone National Park, the clear soda cups and white utensils are not your typical cafe-counter garbage. Made of plant-based plastics, they dissolve magically when heated for more than a few minutes.

Multimedia
Slide Show
Zero Waste
Graphic
Brimming Landfills
At Ecco, a popular restaurant in Atlanta, waiters no longer scrape food scraps into the trash bin. Uneaten morsels are dumped into five-gallon pails and taken to a compost heap out back.
And at eight of its North American plants, Honda is recycling so diligently that the factories have gotten rid of their trash Dumpsters altogether.
Across the nation, an antigarbage strategy known as “zero waste” is moving from the fringes to the mainstream, taking hold in school cafeterias, national parks, restaurants, stadiums and corporations.
The movement is simple in concept if not always in execution: Produce less waste. Shun polystyrene foam containers or any other packaging that is not biodegradable. Recycle or compost whatever you can.
Though born of idealism, the zero-waste philosophy is now propelled by sobering realities, like the growing difficulty of securing permits for new landfills and an awareness that organic decay in landfills releases methane that helps warm the earth’s atmosphere.
“Nobody wants a landfill sited anywhere near them, including in rural areas,” said Jon D. Johnston, a materials management branch chief for the Environmental Protection Agencywho is helping to lead the zero-waste movement in the Southeast. “We’ve come to this realization that landfill is valuable and we can’t bury things that don’t need to be buried.”
For the full article, click here.

Becoming an eco-conscious ASL Teacher

2009-10-10T12:03:00.001-04:00

One of the best things about ASL in the academic environment is that it requires less paper. Becoming an ASL teacher has helped me realize how eco-friendly this type of class can become...

By using ASL in the classroom...

-We reduce the use of paper and ink...
-We reduce noise pollution...
-We bring a sense of community with our ASL stories...
-And... we can use the language to bring knowledge about ecosystem and ecological conservatism to our future generations. Earlier this year, for example, the Gallaudet National Essay, Art, and ASL contest theme was "Going Green: What I'm Doing to Help Save the Environment" and deaf students from all over the nation participated in the ASL contest, signing their eco-messages.

Since becoming an ASL teacher, I've discovered that it is pretty easy to modify the classroom and teaching environment into a eco-one. Here are some examples of what I've done:

Instead of copying papers or printing text to give to students, I have them read their instructions on the projector screen and answer in ASL.
Instead of giving paper quizzes, I have them sign the answers (which I think makes them think constructively and remember more) on VoiceThread, a web-based interactive classroom where students comments are recorded into video through their iSight/webcam on their Macbook.
Most of the classroom decorations were gathered from other classroom's discarded pile of last year's decorations. My hallway passes are laminated so students use it over and over.
And the paper ones I must use, I reuse as scrap paper.
If I must print, I figure out how to double-side print things.
And, I try to bike to work everyday... being an eco-conscious and health-conscious role model for the students and staff. Many of my students have told me they thought it was "super cool" that I biked to work, which boosted my eco-ego. I love how eco-supportive our young generation is.

But... We also live in a world that's becoming more and more dominated by technology- I cringe just thinking about the amount of energy that my projector use to operate. The lights that we use in the classroom. The TV we use to watch ASL videos. The student's laptops. But I remind myself that these laptops are made by the eco-conscious Apple, and can be recycled into new ones. Can't always win with everything, but at least I try to use less energy.

And, the coolest thing?
A teacher found my email address through the EcoDeaf bio/profiles and encouraged me to apply for this job-- had EcoDeaf not existed, I would probably not have been so lucky to get a job like this one. Not only has EcoDeaf served as an information center for the ASL community, it brings people of similiar interests many opportunities!
Thank you, EcoDeaf!

One World, Two Hands

2009-10-07T17:31:00.002-04:00

Found this fabulous ASL song about our Earth on YouTube -

ASL Signer: Jesse Jones III

Background Signers: Julie Fisher & Bethany Hooten

English to ASL translation: Bethany Hooten

Camera Operator/Editor: Eric Calbert

New Pizza Box

2009-10-06T22:48:00.005-04:00

Pizza Box of the Future

Remember Raychelle's November 2007 vlog about bringing her own pan when picking up pizza orders? Pizza Goes in Pans not Boxes!

Thanks to Vee Koz, we see that there is another way to reduce waste when eating pizza!

Pizza Box of the Future

Pizza Box Of The Future
Introducing an environmentally friendly pizza box. Do you think this will ever catch on in the USA? I don't think so!

Regular Beef or Organic Beef?

2009-10-06T18:35:00.003-04:00

Any thoughts on this "Growth Hormone Free Beef" commercial? I'm just thankful I'm a vegetarian :) But yes, that's how cattle, chickens, pigs, are treated - with growth hormones - capitalism at it's best.

Title: Birth
Director: Jeff Aron Lable
Production Company: Go Film
Contact: jlable@gmail.com
Producer: Marcus Cano
Director of Photography: Damian Acevedo
Client/Product: Naturalmarket.com/Hormone-free beef

My First Experience in Foraging for Edible Mushrooms

2009-10-02T08:52:00.022-04:00

Unidentified Mushrooms
Exploring the mushroom pile.

On Wednesday afternoon of September 30th 2009, it was my very first experience foraging for edible mushrooms with a friend who has experience in identifying different fungi. On the night before our mushroom hunt, my friend Potter gave me a batch of hen of the woods mushrooms (Grifola frondosa) also known as maitake to bring home and cook for dinner.

My very first question was, "How do you know if this mushroom is not poison?" Potter assured me that maitake mushrooms are not poison. He showed me the the information in the book entitled The Mushroom Book : How to Identify, Gather and Cook Wild Mushrooms and Other Fungi written by Thomas Laessoe, Anne Del Conte, and Gary Lincoff.

So, I went home and cooked maitake mushrooms.

I battered maitake mushrooms in olive oil, salt, and a lot of pepper.

I prepared food for stir fry: Cabbage, hot pepper, green pepper, onion, ginger, and fried maitake mushrooms. I wish I had some fresh garlic cloves at that time.

This is what my dinner looked like after I finished cooking it.
It was so delicious!

After I cooked and ate wild maitake mushrooms discovered by Potter, I felt the spirits of ancestors awakening within me. It was the new sense of connection with Earth that I never felt before. I looked forward to foraging for edible mushrooms.

In the next day, I picked up Potter and we went to the Forest Lawn Cemetery and Richardson Complex in the city of Buffalo. The Forest Lawn Cemetery is a famous graveyard site in Western New York. A well known singer named Ricky James is buried there. Tourists from around the world visit the Forest Lawn to see his tombstone. The Forest Lawn Cemetery is known as the "old soil" which means their ground is virtually untouched for hundreds of years. We gathered some thyme from the ground while we hunted for mushrooms. We found maitake mushrooms, the same kind that I cooked on the night before, growing next to an oak tree. Potter was delighted that it weighed about five pounds. We put it in a bag and hunted for more mushrooms. We found several more mushrooms at the Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Then we went to the Richardson Complex ground that is not too far away from the cemetery. Richardson Complex is an abandoned "asylum for the insane" located right by Buffalo Psychiatric Center and Buffalo State College. Again, the ground around the buildings is very old so mushrooms are found everywhere. We gathered a few more mushrooms there. I also saw a ginkgo tree for the first time. I was really astonished when I saw a ginkgo tree growing in Buffalo because I thought they only grow in the land of China. I was told that Ginkgo fruits can be harvested in the beginning of the winter season. We foraged for mushrooms in the total of two and a half hours. I was really amazed to see how many mushrooms we found in such a little time. Potter brought home many mushrooms that we gathered to be studied and identified in his lab.

Here is a couple pictures of different mushrooms below. Some of the mushrooms in this post are not yet identified by Potter. Once I learn the names of the unidentified mushrooms, I will come back to this post and name them.

Hen of the Woods (Maitake) Mushrooms.
Found at the Forest Lawn Cementary

Unidentitifed mushrooms
Found at the Richardson Complex site.

Disclaimers and Warnings:

If you do not have an experience in foraging for edible mushrooms, please do not attempt to eat any of it until you consult a mushroom expert. Some mushrooms are poisonous that can make you very sick, hallucinate, or die from eating it.

If you are very interested in foraging for edible mushrooms, please find a mushroom expert in your area to go on a few field trips together before going on your own. Most mushroom experts do spore testings and rely on books for references to identify their fungi before consuming them. On the other hand, if you are planning not to consume any wild mushrooms, it is fun to drift around to discover mushroom piles and take pictures of them. It is a fun hobby to get down to Earth and appreciate what the nature has to offer.

I am very interested to hear about your experience in foraging for wild mushrooms if you have a tale to share.

Namaste!

Written by Anthony Brucato