Teens Say "Take a Stand, Don't Tan!" During Melanoma Awareness Month

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The Melanoma Research Foundation has launched a new campaign to educate teens about the dangers of tanning during the Melanoma Awareness month. The "Take a Stand, Don't Tan!" campaign provides teens with the facts about the health risks associated with tanning through media tools such as Facebook and YouTube.

Melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers worldwide, Exposure to UV radiation such as sunlight and indoor tanning beds, is one of the major risk factors for most melanomas.

“This isn’t a cancer that waits for people to grow old before it strikes and teens need to understand the health risks before they get in a tanning bed,” said Tim Turnham, executive director of the MRF. “Melanoma is the second most common type of cancer in teens and young adults and the leading cause of cancer death in women 25 to 30 years old.“

"Recent research has shown that using tanning beds before age 35 increases your risk of developing melanoma by 75 percent and occasionally using tanning beds can triple your chances. Last year, 69,000 Americans were diagnosed with the disease, resulting in one death every single hour."

The importance of addressing sun safety in the youth population was recently further reinforced by a new partnership between the MRF and "Cosmopolitan" magazine to raise awareness and funds for melanoma research. "Cosmo" readers will receive an awareness bracelet with a $10 donation to the MRF. The fundraising drive is part the magazine’s ongoing “Practice Safe Sun” campaign to combat the high rate of skin cancer among young women.

More information is available at www.melanoma.org.

Additional Links:


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Celebrate Earth Day With Tips From IKEA Canada On A More Sustainable Life At Home

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Just in time for Earth Day! IKEA has put a list together of their top 10 tips for living a more sustainable life.


Top 10 tips from IKEA to Live a More Sustainable Life at Home

1. Choose toys that are safe for kids and better for our planet. The MULA collection is a series of safe and durable wooden toys that stimulate children's creativity.

2. Opt for solar lighting, both indoors and out. The SUNNAN work lamp combines low-energy LED technology with solar panels. For every SUNNAN sold in IKEA stores worldwide, one will be donated through UNICEF to children in Pakistan. These lamps enable children to read, write and study in the evenings, even if their homes have no electricity.

3. Cut down on food waste by storing and using leftovers. Using food storage containers such as RARITET can help cut down on wasted CO2 emissions from food production, as well as waste.

4. Use less water. Make sure your faucets are using as little water as possible. The RINGSKÄR tap comes with a flow control function, which can adjust the water flow in two steps and reduce water use by 30 per cent.

5. Recycle at home. The RATIONELL easy-to-clean sorting bins help organize and recycle household waste simply and easily.

6. Dispose of batteries and compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in a responsible way. Since 2001, IKEA has offered a "Free Take Back" recycling program - even for non-IKEA brands.

7. Go organic whenever possible. Organic agriculture excludes the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and strives to maintain biodiversity and ecological balance. Organic SYLT jams are
one of the many organic food products sold in the Swedish Food Market at IKEA.

8. Buy furniture and accessories made from waste materials. The LUSY BLOM cushion is stuffed with leftover material from the production of other IKEA products.

9. Skip the dryer and let clothing air-dry. Instead of using an energy heavy dryer, hang laundry on the TVÄTTA drying rack instead.

10. Unplug computers and TVs when not in use. A power-strip that can be turned on and off, such as KOPPLA, prevents energy loss and can save up to 10 per cent on your electric bill.

IKEA has also recently launched the Never Ending List, a program that outlines the leading home furnishings retailer's commitment to taking social and environmental responsibility towards its customers, coworkers and suppliers.


Over 100 stories of IKEA's sustainable accomplishments and environmental tips can be found throughout thestore, and on-line at www.ikea.ca/theneverendinglist.

New From Soy Genius! Insect Repellent & Sun Protecting Clothing For Kids

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Child Mode reports: Soy Genius recently teamed up with Insect Shield to develop the first and only line of apparel for infants and toddlers which is insect-repellent!

Organic cotton and soy fibres make up the new Buggies Collection which is durable and naturally wicking. Not only does the fabric provide a UPF 30+ rating, it is also antimicrobial and features the innovative Insect Shield® Repellent Technology, providing protection from a variety of bugs – including those that can carry West Nile virus, Lyme disease, malaria and other insect-borne diseases!

"Insect Shield apparel lasts through 70 launderings: the typical lifetime of a garment. Insect Shield’s EPA registration does not restrict use of the apparel. Products can be worn by infants, children of all ages, and women who are pregnant or nursing. Wearing Insect Shield apparel reduces the need for topical repellents. "

Buggies clothing collection consists of Bodysuits, Warmers, T-shirts, Shorts, Skorts, Capri Pants, Cargo Pants, Hats and Long-Sleeve Hooded T-Shirts with sizes for infants and toddlers up to 4T. They are available to purchase now in select REI stores, and at Buggies Clothing.

Amazing technology! Read the rest of the article here.

Burts Bees Introduces Innovative Line Of 6 Natural Toothpastes

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Burt’s Bees has proudly introduced a line of six natural*, effective toothpastes clinically proven to improve oral health. Burt’s Bees powerful natural formulas contain:
-   Real Cranberry Extract, known to block bacteria from adhering to teeth and  gums, helping prevent plaque formation before it starts
-   Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate to promote strong, healthy teeth
-   Xylitol to sweeten naturally without promoting tooth decay
-   Silica to whiten teeth by gently removing surface stains
All of the toothpastes are SLS-free and do not contain any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners. It’s the first and only natural toothpaste line of products to be certified by the Natural Products Association.
Burt’s Bees® Natural Toothpaste is available with and without fluoride so everyone can choose what’s right for their family from three unique product categories:
-   Adult Multicare Formulas ($4.99 SRP): Offers multiple benefits to naturally care for teeth and gums with a refreshing peppermint flavor.
-   Adult Whitening Formulas ($4.99 SRP): Provides added whitening power to naturally brighten teeth in just two weeks with a refreshing peppermint flavor.
-   Kids’ Formulas ($4.99 SRP): Offers fun natural berry and orange flavors and colors kids will love.
Burt’s Bees® Natural Toothpaste will be available in the toothpaste aisle at national retailers, including Target, Walmart, Rite Aid, CVS, and Whole Foods.

Top 10 Sustainable Wedding Trends for 2010 From Recycled Bride

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When it comes to weddings, most couples are reluctant to sacrifice anything short of the best for their special day. Shifts have since occurred in the wedding industry with couples becoming more interested in sustainable, practical and budget-friendly suggestions and ideas for their big day.  The world's first eco-chic wedding resale website, Recycled Bride has defined a "sustainable wedding" as an event that includes elements which encourage positive social, financial and environmental growth.

"We're seeing the emergence of so many exciting wedding trends that reflect the big cultural, political and economic shifts happening in the world today." says Tracy DiNunzio, Founder and CEO of Recycled Bride. "Couples are using their weddings as an opportunity to promote their personal and financial well-being, help the environment, and support their communities. Recycled Bride is proud to offer these insights and trend forecasts based on our unique position on the cutting edge of the sustainability movement in weddings.

Recycled Bride has put together a list of the Top 10 Sustainable Wedding Trends for 2010:
 
1. There's No Place Like Home - Local is the hot word for sustainable weddings in 2010. From venues to menus, couples are making efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and cut their budgets by keeping celebrations "all in the neighborhood". Backyard weddings are helping guests cut back on travel, and caterers are responding to clients' demands for more locally produced food. Even wedding favors and decorations will be sought out from local artisans and shops.

2. Alterna-florals  - The hippest weddings are in full bloom with flower alternatives like sustainable succulents and DIY paper flowers. Conventional cut flowers are expensive, plus they're grown with pesticides and have a huge carbon footprint, so couples are seeking alternative ways to decorate. Many will eschew the floral look altogether by using soy candles, fruit, and found objects for table centerpieces and bouquets.

3. The Hourglass Bride - String beans in sheath dresses are so yesterday. Inspired by voluptuous newlyweds like Christina Hendricks of Mad Men, Salma Hayek, and Beyonce, brides are embracing their curves in wedding dresses that emphasize a well-rounded figure. Many are even flaunting -- or creating -- an hourglass silhouette with gowns that sport belted waists, peplums, and plunging necklines. This is the year that women will ditch their grueling "Buff Bride" workouts in favor of kinder, gentler activities like yoga, and celebrate their naturally feminine shapes.

4. Wedding Planning Goes Digital - From blogger brides to Facebook-ing florists, wedding planning has become an online community affair. "More and more, brides are turning to wedding forums to look for fresh wedding ideas and the latest wedding trends. Together, brides and vendors make these forums an incredible wedding planning resource to connect with others who are passionate about weddings." says Christine Dyer, Founder of BridalTweet.com. Brides increasingly connect with each other for advice, support, and even labor trades on community-based social networks like Give Get Nation and BrideShare.

5. Not-So-Mellow Yellow - The hottest color of 2010 is also the warmest. Sunshine-y yellow pairs beautifully with cobalt blue and violet for an electrifying palette that's bright and bold. Or combine pale yellows with white, ivory, and fresh green tones for a sunny and natural color theme. Many succulents bear yellow blossoms, making this cheerful color an easy choice for sustainable bouquets and centerpieces.

6. The Times Are A-Changing - Saturday night weddings aren't the only game in town. Brides and grooms are scheduling their nuptials on weeknights, Sundays, and even early mornings in 2010. It's less expensive to book  a venue or caterer on "off days", and as telecommuting becomes more popular, guests are gaining flexibility in their schedules. Weddings we'll see this year will include sunrise affairs followed by romantic brunches, and chic mid-week dinner parties.

7. Bright Bridal Shoes - Forget the white and ivory satin slippers and "dyeable" sandals of wedding days gone by. Bridal shoes in bright and bold hues like fuschia, emerald green and electric blue are hot hot hot in 2010. Colored shoes are a chic and stylish surprise under a white wedding gown, plus they're more versatile than white satin and can be worn again with a little black dress.

8. Flexible Registries  - The registry has been reinvented by sites like www.AlternativeGiftRegistry.org, and this year we'll see many brides and grooms skipping the Stepford registries in favor of more flexible options. More couples will opt for "open" online registries where they can request everything from charitable donations to eco-friendly housewares to cash for a down payment on a home.

9. Unexpected Seating - At both receptions and ceremonies, seating arrangements are being switched up. Think scattered chairs and benches for ceremonies, and long communal tables, clustered couches, and bar tables with stools for receptions. No more will the family and friends of the bride and groom be kept apart by rigid seating assignments at separate tables. This year's seating arrangements will encourage guests to mix, mingle, dine and dance.  

10. Something Old, Something New - The hottest sustainable trend for 2010 (and our personal favorite, of course!) is incorporating recycled elements like gently used wedding dresses and bridesmaids dresses, pre-owned wedding decorations, and vintage bridal jewelry into weddings. Sites like RecycledBride.com connect buyers and sellers for free, so they can reduce their wedding budgets and their carbon footprints. More and more brides are joining the wedding resale revolution, discovering how easy it is to save money and be a little greener by buying and selling their gently used wedding items.

Photo: Davids Bridal from Recycled Bride

Organic Cotton & Hemp Dresses For Girls

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How cute! These dresses from ecoLoveOrganics's on Etsy are handmade from organic cotton and hemp blend jersey and also hand dyed with low impact dyes. The cute dragonfly print is screen printed on to the fabric.

I love how the dress will become a shirt as they "grow into" their clothes allowing for years of use.

The listing is for a Sage Green dress in size 5 however the dresses are available in different sizes (just convo the seller).

Price: $50.00

TED: Jamie Oliver Speaks On Our Diets & Child Obesity

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Jamie Oliver spoke at TED earlier this month talking about obesity in our society and the lack of proper nutrition and poor diet. It is evident throughout this talk that Jamie is extremely passionate about teaching and informing others on the importance of healthy living.

During a recent trip to an elementary school, Jamie asked the kids to identify vegetables and the scary part? Most of them couldn't!
I found his talk to be very informative and hope it is a wake up call to us all. Do you think he was able to get his message across?

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