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www.communityseeds.com

Vacation in Leed Luxury!

Tribesmen of Patalkot Unconventional Sustainablity?

Biodynamic vs. Organic vs. SustainableWhat To Know

Tribesmen of Patalkot Unconventional Sustainablity?

Eco-MagazineSummer 2011

Community Seeds

3 Year Anniversary Issue!

3 Year Anniversary Issue!

Community Seeds . Summer 20112

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May be printed for personal use only.

Editor-In-ChiefLorianne S. Riley

Staff WritersAshley Grebe

Lorianne S. RileyChelsey Edgington

Tara KilkennyKaylee Agaman

Staff PhotographersTracy Lynn Cahn of Tracy Lynn Photography

Lorianne S. RileyChelsey Edgington

Ashley Grebe

SALESLorianne RileyDwight Aitkens

Proof EditorsTara Kilkenny

Chelsey EdgingtonKaylee AgamanDeAnna Holman

ConsultantDeAnna Holman

On the CoverPhoto by Editor-In-Chief, Lorianne S. Riley

Welcome

All articles, photos, advertising, words, design and images are the property of Community Seeds and the individual contributor, as published, and may not be reproduced without permission from the contributor or Community Seeds. Community Seeds reserves the right to edit all content submitted. Although property of Community Seeds, no division of the company may be held liable for its specific content.

Promoting Sustainabilit y

TheCommunity Seeds Foundation

Promoting Sustainabilit ywww.communityseeds.org

CSF is managed, in part, by:

www.communityseeds.com 3

When we think of summer and what the meaning of summer entails, the word summer represents and evokes a lot of different feelings. What does Summer

mean to me? I think of physical awareness, cultivating the land and relationships, the knowledge a person possesses in the “summer of their life” and the beautiful ending life cycle of a flower while in full bloom.

This Issue has touched on all of these subjects plus some others:

Awareness

We have included articles that will touch on physical awareness through morning yoga (page 51) as well as maintaining optimal physical health by including herbs into your diet(page 12).

Cultivation

We have included articles regarding healthy, non-toxic pest control (page 23), a guide on caring for tomatoes (page 56) as well as the amazing value of communit y gardens (page 53) and local farmers markets.

Knowledge

We have included articles on the confusing issues regarding the meaning of organic vs Biodynamic vs sustainable (page 20) and how to define the difference between them. We also included recipes on sustainable cooking from the famed cook book, The Sustainable Kitchen (page 65).

And last but not least...

A Note From the EditorWhat Does Summer Mean To You?

From the Editor

Continued on Page 4

Editor-in-ChiefPublisher


www.TheChicoConnection.com

Your community site for local web links. All links are free to add to this site. Bookmark this site; it will be right at your fingertips to look up local restaurants, green living, local events, and more!

Full bloom

One of the most beautiful spectacles of summer is flowers coming into full bloom. Not unlike flowers, people and businesses can also come into full bloom. Although Community Seeds is not yet in full bloom, we have made a lot of changes. We now are including reviews on hotels that practice Green Incentives (page 10); previews of kitchen (page 63), beauty (page 74) and gearhead widgets (page 76); as well as a new section called, The Green Scene (page 35) that profiles sustainable events.

We hope that you are enjoying all of the additions we have added to the magazine and we appreciate your readership.

Please feel free to write in with your opinions, thoughts and photos. We love to hear from you!

From the Editor, Continued

VALCUCINEEnviroBroChico Chai

Find us at:http://twitter.com/#!/CSEcoMagazinehttp://www.facebook.com/CommunitySeedsEcoMagazinehttp://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/Communityseeds

Follow Us! Come join us on Facebook and Twitter along with Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Chico Bags,Humanwear tees, Jimmy Eat World,Valcucine Kitchens, EnviroBro, Chico Chai,and much, much more.....

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.Chico BagHUMANWEARJIMMY EAT WORLD Community Seeds Eco Magazine

would like to extend very a special thank you to Mediastar

Data Recovery in Chico for making this

3rd Anniversary issue possible. We cannot thank you enough!

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Eco-MagazineSummer 2011

Features10 Vacation in Leed Luxury! LV Mandarin Oriental Hotel Resort

12 Tribesmen of Patalkot Unconventional Sustainablity?

20 Biodynamic vs. Organic vs. Sustainable What you Should Know

True Life 12 Traditional Applications of Indian Herbs

In Every Issue

2 Magazine Information

3 Note From the Editor

8 Issue Contributors

35 Green Scene

26 Eco Kids Photos

80 Advertisers Index

Community Seeds


Easy Being Greener23 Natural Weed Killers

Family26 Eco Kids28 Things Are Warming Up (Refashioning)29 Kids Fashion

Making a Difference35 Green Scene43 Clothing Drive Strips Through Town42 Enviro Bro42 Eco Movie Review46 Ties That Matter48 SCOOP, What?

Healthy Living51 Morning Yoga53 Community Garden56 Caring For Tomatoes

Eco Friendly Crafts24 Egg Shell Mosaic

Cook’s Corner63 Kitchen Widgets65 Cooks Corner: The Sustainable Kitchen66 Summer Vegetable Slaw68 Grilled Rib-Eye of Beef70 Peach Upside-Down Polenta Cake

Natural Beauty72 Do It Yourself Sugar Scrubs 74 Earth Friendly Beauty Products

Gear Head76 Eco Toys For Boys 78 Electric Tractor

40Departments

40

2929

4646

5151


Lorianne S. Riley Editor-in-Chief, Owner, Publisher, Web Designer, Photographer & Wife. Lorianne holds a BS Degree in Business Administration from CSU, Chico, and is licensed as a Cosmetologist and Certified Massage Therapist.

Deanna Holman Web Designer, Graphic Artist and Mother of Three, DeAnna holds a BS Degree in Gerontology from USC, a California Teaching Credential and Science Supplement From CSU, Chico, and an AA Degree in Liberal Studies/Photo Journalism from Grossmont College in San Diego.

Kate Adams Kate Adams has lived in Hawaii for the past 3 years studying Digital Imaging and Art History at the University of Hawaii. Kate has recently moved back to the mainland to seek more photo opportunities and to finish getting her degree. Kate shot the catwalk photos on page 41.

Ken Hodge Husband, Father and Owner of Hodges Nursery and Gifts, Ken is a graduate of California State University, Chico and studied Ornamental Horticulture. Ken is also a hobbyist photographer of people and nature. See Ken’s photos on pages 35 and 40.

Tara Kilkenny Tara is graduating this May from California State University, Chico, with a BA in Communication Studies: Public Affairs and a minor in European Studies. She has lived in Japan and Ireland and is looking forward to future travels.

Steve Goto Steve Goto is an expert nurseryman and lecturer based in southern California. He uses organic gardening practices to grow over a 900 varieties of heirloom tomatoes and other vegetables. He gives seminars every spring and tomato tastings every summer all across the west coast.

Kaylee Agaman Kaylee is currently a student at Chico State University, pursuing a degree in Organizational Communication Studies with a minor in Public Relations. She will be graduating in May and looks forward to seeing the journey on which her education will take her.

Ashley Grebe Ashley is a student at CSU, Chico, majoring in Communication Studies with the option of Public Affairs and will be graduating this May. She works as an intern for Community Seeds Eco Magazine and is enjoying her last few months here in Chico.

Stuart Stein Graduate of the University of Illinois Business School and the Culinary Arts program at Chicago’s Kendall College, Stuart has worked as a cook, executive chef, culinary instructor and restaurateur all over the US and France. He has translated his dedication for local, eco-friendly ingredients into his book, The Sustainable Kitchen: Passionate Cooking Inspired by Farms, Forests, and Oceans.

Contributors

Contributors: Summer 2011


Contributors: Summer 2011

Chelsey Edgington Chelsey is currently at student at California State University, Chico. She is pursuing a degree in Organizational Communication with a minor in Marketing. Chelsey will finish her studies this fall in Torino, Italy, and will be graduating in Fall 2012.

Devang Patel He has worked with Abhumka Herbal Pvt. Ltd as a senior research fellow. He can be contacted via [email protected].

Dr Deepak Acharya A microbiologist turned ethnobotanist, a herbal hunter and Director of Abhumka Herbal Pvt Ltd (www.abhumka.com), Ahmedabad, India. He has been involved in scouting, documentation and validation of indigenous herbal practices of indigenous healers in Patalkot (www.patalkot.com) and Dangs. He can be contacted at [email protected].

Dr Garima Sancheti Acharya Garima is a doctorate from Rajasthan University, Jaipur. She is scientific content writer, educational counselor and author for many popular and research articles about herbs. She can be contacted at [email protected].

Dr Sanjay Pawar A Botanist involved in documentation of indigenous herbal practices in Patalkot. He has written several herb research based popular articles ([email protected]).

Manish Singh He is Director (Business Development) as Abhumka Herbal Pvt Ltd, he can be reached at [email protected].

Laura Martin, Elizabeth Chrane, Cameron McCord In 2008, three friends realized their shared passion for creativity, a d esire to help others and to produce Earth-friendly products. They became Founders and owners of Ties That Matter. They collected 1,500 ties, involved more than 100 volunteers, sold 1,000 reusable grocery bags and contributed proceed s from their sale to Central Presbyterian’s Outreach and Advocacy Cente r in downtown Atlanta.

Darci Crossin

Steven Lemos

Dr Anshu Shrivastava

Not Pictured:

If you would like to send an article, please include a short bio, along with your photo (and photos to go with your article). Send articles (doc) and photos (jpg) to [email protected].

For additional guidelines, please go to www.communityseeds.com or send us an email.

Contributors

All contributors are named on their corresponding articles.


Features

Vacation In

LEED Luxury By Lorianne S. Riley

For my 10th Wedding Anniversary, my husband and I wanted to stay somewhere special and that was memorable. As you all know

sustainability is an important part of my life and I try to practice it, as well as do business with companies that partake in some sort of a green initiative. With this in mind, my husband and I chose the Mandarin Oriental Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, as our getaway; which is 1 of 5 properties within the City Center that is LEED certified.

The Mandarin Oriental is a Luxury chain of Hotel Resorts. They have approximately 41 properties world wide. The Las Vegas Resort is the

organization’s first property that is LEED Complaint, scoring a Gold rating.

LEED certification is a rating system that is set by the U.S. Green Building Council. The stringent guidelines vary depending on if the project is

new or old construction. There are 7 topics that must be considered in order to become LEED certified and there are different levels of compliance to achieve the certification.

The certification levels are Silver, Gold or Platinum rating, which are determined by a point system. The topics considered are: Sustainable Site, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Innovation in Design and Regional Priority.

Here are some of the sustainable highlights Alyssa Bushey, Director of Communications, boasts about on the Mandarin Oriental Las

Vegas website;

• Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas will achieve approximately 34% more energy efficiency than required by local and national regulations.• The building’s thermal façade system, using sustainable building materials and incorporating day-lighting controls, produces low emissions and reduces solar heat gain. This system within the structure’s façade accounts for as much as 9 percent of the building’s total energy savings. • Water conservation technology and programs save an estimated 4.1 million gallons annually, equating to a 45% reduction in portable water


Vacation In LEED Luxury

use within the building through efficient showers, faucets and water closets.

• Floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the guest experience by providing abundant natural light and impressive views, while reducing the need for artificial lighting.• Non-toxic paints, sealants, adhesives, carpet and composite wood products have been used in Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas.• Energy Star appliances are installed in each residential unit.• Preferred parking is available for employees and guests, using alternative-fuel vehicles such as hybrids and electric cars; preferred parking also will be available for employees that carpool to work. You can read more about this at http://www.mandarinoriental.com/about_

mo/media/press_kits/las_vegas/leed.aspx.

I loved staying at the Mandarin Oriental. It was first class all the way. All of the front desk, door, and spa attendants knew our names and were extremely polite.

There are four restaurants within the resort. The choices are a casual restaurant, serving excellent Sushi or Indian cuisine; a 5 star French restaurant, if you want to titillate your taste buds with elegant food; a restaurant in the lounge that serves high tea for lunch and just drinks at night; and a pool side restaurant for more casual fare. Everywhere in the Resort there are ceiling to floor views of the strip including the spa! The guest rooms are all smart rooms, but I think the amenity I love the most is the complementary yoga mat and yoga DVD.


Traditional Applications Of Indian Herbs

Traditional Applications of Indian Herbs

Tribesmen of Patalkot: Unconventional Sustainablity?

By Deepak Acharya, Garima Sancheti Acharya, Sanjay Pawar, Devang Patel, Manish Singh and Anshu Shrivastava

View of Patalkot valley from top


Chhindwara, a forest district of Madhya Pradesh, is situated on Satpura plateau

at 473-1165 meters above the sea level. It is spread from 21° 28’ to 22° 49’ North latitude and 78° 40’ to 79° 24’ East longitude. Deep in the heart of Chhindwara, there is a wild forest surrounded by sheer, 915m cliffs known as Patalkot valley. Patalkot is situated 79 km away from the district headquarter. The Patalkot forest is so well hidden that people on the outside didn’t even know it existed. It is a very special place, rich with plants and animals. The natives who live there know how to collect and grow the plants they need for food, clothing and building their homes. They also have a special skill that has been passed down every generation. The local herbal healer is known as Bhumka. Bhumkas know the secrets of the medicine plants and they have cures for almost all human health ailments. Gonds and Bharias are the local tribe who are the main inhabitants of the area. The knowledge of these medicines is age old. For them, use of herbs is the cheapest way for curing various health

disorders. So far, there is no recognized and well equipped government health clinic in the area. Tribal folks have to depend only upon the natural resources for their primary health care need (Acharya and Shrivastava).

Periodical surveys were made for the search of new

traditional herbal medicines in villages of Patalkot valley by the authors during 1997-2010. The village chief and local healers were interviewed (Table 1) and the local uses of enigmatic specimens were confirmed by more than two senior people having knowledge of local herbs. A consent letter of knowledge

sharing was undersigned by the herbal healer and the interviewer. In the later stages, the herbal practices were cross-checked to get the full and authentic information and then the information was incorporated in the digital library of traditional herbal knowledge. The plant names in the present paper are

arranged alphabetically.

Herbs and their formulation in various practices

1. Acorus calamus L. (Family: Araceae) Vernacular names: Bach (Hindi); Calamus, Sweet Flag (English).Traditional Uses: The rhizome of this plant is used to cure stammering in children. For relieving pain during the delivery in ladies, rhizome is crushed in water and Ricinus communis (castor oil) is

added in it and applied over the navel region. Tribals of Harra ka Chhar village make a decoction of Coriandrum sativum (coriander) leaves, Cuminum cyminum (cumin) seeds and Calamus roots to cure cough. They put rhizome of this plant in mouth to get relieved from cough and cold. About 500 mg Calamus

Features

A herbal healer in Patalkot


Traditional Applications Of Indian Herbs, Continued

rhizome powder is mixed with Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin) fruit pulp and given for curing cough. Water or milk extract of Calamus is said to be good for the brain.

2. Argemone mexicana L. (Family: Papaveraceae) Vernacular names: Pili Kateri (Hindi); Maxican Poppy, Prickly Poppy (English).Traditional Uses: The plant root-powder is mixed with sugar and taken orally with water in the cases of skin diseases. Root powder mixed thoroughly in hot water is said to be purgative in nature. For curing impotency, bark of the Maxican Poppy and latex of Ficus benghalensis (Banyan

thrice a day for curing internal ulcers. Root powder boiled in Cow milk is very effective in acidity. In diabetes, 1 cup cow milk and 20 g root extract is said to be effective.

4. Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub. (Family: Fabaceae) Vernacular names: Palaas (Hindi); Bastard Teak, Flame of the Forest (English).Traditional Uses: Seed powder is employed to cure ringworm. Petioles are chewed in cases of heat or burning in urination. Seeds crushed in lime water and applied on infected skin. It cures the wound or infection rapidly. In arthritis, seeds are crushed in honey and

tree) is boiled together in a pot. About 2g of this mixture is given along with a fresh leaf of Piper betel (Betel leaves) for 14 consecutive days. Leaf extract is effective in eye disorders. Latex of this plant is effective against various skin infections.

3. Asparagus racemosus Willd. (Family: Liliaceae) Vernacular names: Naarbod, Satawar, Shatawari (Hindi); Indian Asparagus (English).Traditional Uses: Root powder is given for the promotion of vitality and vigor. Plant leaf extract helps in low sperm counts. Root powder is good in cough and cold. Root powder (5g) mixed in Goat milk (40 ml) is given

Author Dr Acharya during the documentation in Patalkot


Features

6. Cassia tora L. (Family: Caesalpiniaceae) Vernacular names: Panwar, Titi (Hindi); Foetid Cassia, Sickle Senna, Wild Senna (English).Traditional Uses: Powder of the dry seeds is used in Asthma. The powder is mixed with jaggery (unrefined sugar) and about 7 small balls are prepared. One ball is taken every day with water up to 7 days. Seed powder mixed in Citrus limon (lemon) juice is effective in ring worm. To relieve in boils, leaves should be crushed and tied over the affected body parts, it relieves and heals the wound quickly.

7. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. (Family: Cucurbitaceae) Vernacular names: Indrayan (Hindi); Bitter-apple, Colocynth (English).Traditional Uses: The fruits are used in stomachache. Pulp of the fruit is good in foul taste of the mouth. Colocynth fruit juice with salt and pinch of Trachyspermum ammi (Bishop’s weed) seed powder is given in stomachache, joint pains and typhoid. In snake bite, Colocynth root powder is taken with the Piper betel (betel leaf), it works amazingly. In case of pneumonia in children, 1g root powder with 0.25g black salt is stirred in luke warm water and given. Piper nigrum (Black Pepper) is put inside

the Colocyth fruit and taken orally to cure chronic cough.

8. Cocculus hirsutus (L.) Diels. (Family: Menispermaceae) Vernacular names: Jal Jamani (Hindi); Broom-creeper, Ink-berry (English).Traditional Uses: The leaves are useful to cure leucorrhea. Roots are crushed in water and given to the patients for 2-3 times a day at an average interval of 6 hours. The plant is considered as an antidote to snakebites and scorpion stings. A paste of root can be applied externally to treat painful joints, arthritis and rheumatism. The plant is also considered as an aphrodisiac. Fresh leaves are crushed in a glass of cold water and taken orally in night before sleep. It improves problems related to that of premature ejaculation.

9. Costus speciosus (Koenig.) Sm. (Family: Zingiberaceae) Vernacular names: Keokand (Hindi); Wild or Spiral Ginger, Canereed (English).Traditional Uses: The plant is basically used in skin and respiratory diseases. In dysentery, rhizome of the plant is mixed with Coriandrum sativum (Coriander) leaves and Zingiber officinalis (Ginger) rhizome and given to the patient. For improving appetite, combination of

applied over the painful body parts and joints. For delivering healthy babies, tribals prescribe cow milk and extract of fresh leaves of this plant. Seeds powder mixed in honey and clarified butter is applied over the vagina to avoid pregnancy.

5. Calotropis procera (Ait.) Ait. f. (Family: Asclepiadaceae) Vernacular names: Akada, Madaar (Hindi); Milkweed, Swallow-wort (English).Traditional Uses: Crushed leaves are applied over boils. Leaf extract mixed with rhizomes of Curcuma longa (Turmeric) and Brassica campestris (Mustard) oil is effective in curing skin problems. One leaf of each Milkweed and Piper betel (Betel leaf) is crushed together and given in the cases of malaria. In arthritis, Ricinus communis (Castor) seeds are crushed along with old leaves of this plant and applied over the painful body parts. It helps in getting rid of pain.

Calotropis procera


Colocynth rhizome powder, Coriandrum sativum, Elettaria cardamomum (Cardamom) and Piper nigrum (Black Pepper) is said to be effective. To prevent vomiting during the pregnancy, a mixture of rhizome of the plant, Zingiber officinalis, Cyperus rotundus (Nut Grass) and sugar is given. Rhizome powder mixed with Coriandrum sativum and sugar acts as a coolant and given in sun strokes.

10. Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. (Family: Cuscutaceae) Vernacular names: Amarbel (Hindi); Giant Dodder (English).Traditional Uses: The extract of the plant is applied over the scalp to get rid of dandruff. Whole plant is boiled in acetic acid and given to the patient suffering with severe joint pains. According to the

healers, patient should add Prunus amygdalus (Almond) with this decoction to get the better results. A paste of fresh aerial parts is applied over the skin for the treatment of itching and infection. Plant oil is said to effective in curing baldness.

11. Emblica officinalis Gaertn.(Family: Euphorbiaceae) Vernacular names: Aonla (Hindi); Emblic Myrobalan, Indian Gooseberry (English).Traditional Uses: Fruit powder and juice is effective in dandruff. Leaves are good in mouth ulcers. Fruit powder mixed with Curcuma longa (Turmeric) powder is given in diabetes. Fresh fruit juice and cow ghee supports the increasing of sperm count. Powder of dry fruit of this plant and Sesamum indicum (Sesame) seeds in equal amount should be taken for 20 days with honey or ghee, it is a wonderful tonic. In leucorrhea, fruit powder with sugar should be given.

12. Mangifera indica L. (Family: Anacardiaceae) Vernacular names: Aam (Hindi); Mango (English).Traditional Uses: The leaves are used in mouth ulcer. Seed kernel is grounded in water and applied over wounds,

sores, boils and a variety of skin infections. It is very effective. A decoction of unripe fruits is supposed to be the best remedy in sun and heat stroke. It is also helpful in diarrhea, dysentery and cholera. Seed powder, along with honey and water, works wonders in bleeding hemorrhoids.

13. Moringa oleifera Lam. (Family: Moringaceae)Vernacular names: Munga, Sahjan (Hindi); Drumstick Tree, Horse Radish Tree (English).Traditional Uses: Root bark paste is applied over the skin in cases of infection and wounds. The juice of the leaves is effective in curing eye related various problems. Leaf extract is beneficial in respiratory diseases. Powder of dried flower is mixed in Cocos nucifera (Coconut) and put inside the ear in the cases of earache and infections. Drumstick pod curry acts as an anthelmintic agent. Tribals prepare curry from the pods and leaves of the plant and serve to the patient suffering from intestinal worm infection. Seed oil is applied externally in arthritis and joint pains.

14. Mucuna pruriens Baker (Family: Fabaceae)


Acorus calamus


Vernacular names: Kaunch, Kimaach (Hindi); Common Cowitch, Cowhage (English).Traditional Uses: Seeds are used as an aphrodisiac. They are added in cow milk along with wheat flour and a local dish ‘Kheer’ is prepared. It is said to be a good tonic and it also works as a wonderful rejuvenator. Root extract is applied in and around the vaginal walls, it is said that it adds to sexual pleasure.

15. Ocimum sanctum L. (Family: Lamiaceae) Vernacular names: Tulsi (Hindi); Sacred Basil, Holy Basil (English).Traditional Uses: The plant is traditionally used in cough, cold, asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism, diabetes, gastric disorders and earache. The leaves are found very effective against various skin diseases. Dried leaves are mixed with Piper nigrum (Black Pepper) powder and boiled for 15 minutes to prepare a decoction. The decoction is consumed to reduce cough and cold. It is also found effective in toothache. Seed powder is mixed with jaggery and consumed with milk twice a day to delay orgasm.

16. Semecarpus anacardium L. f. (Family:

Anacardiaceae) Vernacular names: Bhilwa, Bhilma (Hindi); Marking Nut Tree Oriental Cashew (English).Traditional Uses: The oil extracted from the seeds is applied on the painful body parts. Powder of the fruits is given orally with Tamarindus indica (Tamerind) fruit powder to kill intestinal worms. Plant leaves are dried under shade and powdered. It is used in fever and also considered diuretic. Powdered leaves are snuffed to control nasal bleeding. Fruits are used externally in rheumatism. In joint pain and arthritis, seed oil is applied topically on affected parts. Paste of the crushed fruits is externally applied over abscess.

17. Solanum virginianum L. (Family: Solanaceae) Vernacular names: Bhat-kataiya (Hindi); Yellow Berried Nightshade (English).Traditional Uses: The plant is used in the treatment of cough, asthma and pain in chest. The root powder is employed in stomach pain, toothache and as an expectorant. A decoction is prepared by mixing aerial parts of the plant, Adhatoda zeylanica (Malabar Nut) leaves, Tinospora cordifolia (Gulancha Tinospora) leaves

and honey. This decoction is given twice a day to cure fever. The plant is also found beneficial in relieving painful menstruation. Powdered roots are given with honey in heart disorders.

18. Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Family: Myrtaceae) Vernacular names: Jamun (Hindi); Jambolan, Black Plum, Java Plum (English).Traditional Uses: Bark is used in dysentery, diarrhea, diabetes, indigestion and as a blood purifier. Seed powder is useful in diarrhoea, dysentery and diabetes. Bark is used as mouth wash; it removes foul smell from the mouth. Seeds are dried and crushed to make powder. The powder is externally applied on pimples. Seed powder and Mangifera indica (Mango) is mixed and taken twice a day in hemorrhage. Black plum seeds, and powder obtained from Curcuma longa (Turmeric) rhizome, Swertia chirata (Chiretta) bark, Enicostema axillare (Indian Gentian) seeds, Terminalia chebula (Chebulic Myrobalan) bark and Azadirachta indica (Neem) bark is mixed thoroughly and given twice a day with water to cure diabetes.

19. Terminalia arjuna

Features


(Roxb.) Wight & Arn. (Family: Combretaceae) Vernacular names: Arjun, Kahuaa (Hindi); Arjun Tree (English).Traditional Uses: The decoction of the bark is used as a wash in ulcers. It is also given as tea in cardiac problems. The bark gives strength to the heart. It is a good stomachic. Bark powder is mixed in milk and given to the heart patient. Powder of the bark is also mixed in clarified butter, jaggery and milk, and given to the patients twice a day for treatment of various heart diseases. A decoction of bark serves good wound healer. It is considered good remedy for low blood pressure. Approximately 1-3g bark powder is given to cure spermatorrhea.

20. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Family: Solanaceae) Vernacular names: Asgandh, Ashwagandha (Hindi); Winter

Cherry, Indian Ginseng (English).Traditional Uses: Powder of roots is mixed with roots of Curculigo orchioides (Orchid Palm Grass) and Tribulus terrestris (Puncture-vine) and given with milk in arthritis.

To treat male sterility, semen count and early orgasm, roots of the plant, powder of Mucuna pruriens (Cow Hedge plant) seeds and Tribulus terrestris roots are mixed in equal proportion. The mixture is given with clarified butter, sugar or milk twice a day. In low sperm count and sterility, equal amount of roots of the plant, fruits of Trapa natans (Water Chestnut), Asparagus racemosus (Indian Asparagus) and Pueraria tuberosa (Indian Kudzu) are mixed and taken orally with sugar and milk. Roots of plant are powdered and mixed with Tinospora cordifolia (gulancha tinospora) plant, Emblica officinalis (emblic myrobalan) fruit, Zingiber officinale (Ginger) rhizome powder and Tribulus terrestris and a decoction is made. This is given orally in case of pain during urination.

The survey provides evidence that the Gond and Bharia tribes in Patalkot

use the above mentioned plants for curing various health ailments. There is need to conduct training about the traditional knowledge to the young generation in the valley as they seem to be less interested in learning it. Cultivation and conservation

of medicinal plants methods should be taught to the healers so that the valley remains green and unaffected by routinely removal of herbs and shrubs. It is, in fact, a need of the hour to establish a Traditional Medicine Centre in these areas as to monitor and promote the collection of herbs from the Bhumkas through the research agencies/companies or other institutions. The tribal people can also be encouraged to take up this job as an income generation activity. The information about medicinal uses and formulation are for information purposes. We have not conducted any clinical trials on practices mentioned in this article. The main aim of this study was to scout and document the indigenous knowledge.

Acknowledgement Authors are thankful to indigenous herbal healers for sharing their invaluable information with us. Special thanks are due to Dr Surendra Bhade, Munnalal Bharti, Mr Sanjay Pandre, Rural Resource Development Organization (RRDO), ECO-Campus and Friend’s Nature Club, Danielson College who supported the scouting and documentation activity in the Patalkot valley.



ReferencesAcharya, D. and Shrivastava, A. 2008. Indigenous Herbal Medicines: Tribal Formulations and Traditional Herbal Practices. Aavishkar Publishers Distributors, Jaipur. ISBN 978-81-7910-252-7. Table 1 Information about herbal healersNo. Healer’s Name Village Interviewed by1. Chaitram Sukhabhand DA2. Sarju Gond Gujja Dongri SP3. Fagulal Kavreti Dhurni Malni SP4. Munnalal Gond Chimtipur SP5. Pankhu Bharia Ghatlinga DA6. Chimmilal Kareyam SP7. Kohru Ghana DA8. Patiram Harra-ka-Char DA9. Mangat Bharti Jhiram DA10. Rajelal Palani Gaildubba DA11. Sukhram Bhalavi Sahra Pachgol DA12. Nathulal Gond Rated SP13. Kavaria Gudichattri SP14. Munnalal Bharia Ghana SP15. Bhurelal Gaildubba SP

DA- Deepak Acharya, SP- Sanjay Pawar

Features


Biodynamic Vs. Organic Vs. Sustainable

Biodynamic vs. Organic vs. Sustainable

What to Know? By Tara Kilkenny


Features

Within the last decade there has been a huge push to be healthier. With this health craze there are lots of terms flying around

that are describing what we are eating, and what critics are saying is better for us. But do you really know the difference between organic and traditional produce? What makes a company sustainable? Have you ever even heard of bio-dynamic practices? Let me help educate you to what you are really putting in your body and let you be the judge of how healthy it is.

First of all, let us start with the term, organic. When I think of this term, I think of the all

natural approaches to produce, no chemicals or genetically altered seeds. These are both true to some extent, but organic goes much further than that. Since 2000, the National Organic Program has been the organization that defines and regulates the production of “organic” goods. This office is an addition to the earlier Organic Food Production Act of 1990. These institutions also deem a product fully organic or some percentage thereof. In essence, these organizations set, maintain, and regulate the standards.

So what are these standards and what does that mean for our produce? The very first

standard is that the fields where this produce is grown has to be pesticide free for at least three years before the produce from it is considered organic. There are regulations on the types of seeds that can be planted. This means no genetically modified seeds. There is also a tight list of what types of pesticides, synthetic or chemical, can be used on the land. Also, only natural fertilizers can be used.

Organic does not stop when the produce leaves the farms. There are strict regulations

on where the produce is kept. “Comingling”, which refers to organic produce being near

traditional produce, is very regulated. They must be in separate bins and if cases like pallets or flats have been used previously for traditional produce, they may not be used to transport organic produce. All these regulations are there to insure that you receive truly organic produce.

Now what is the difference between organic and sustainable? By definition,

sustainability is just to support its own weight. In the produce world, this has come to mean that there is no negative effects on the surroundings and the production may even be putting something back into the system. Up until recently there have been no government regulated standards of sustainability. Late last year, a committee got together and decided that there should be legal regulation of sustainability. This year, there have been several meetings at the Leonardo Academy in Madison, Wisconsin to define, for each agricultural industry, the sustainable standards. For the moment, sustainable means that the production does not harm the produce or its surrounding and may add to the wellness of the area, but in the very near future there will be legal standards to this.

Finally, who has ever heard of biodynamic practices? They are a step farther than

organic. They have the same land and fertilizer regulations, but are a bit tighter on the types of pesticide use as well. The main difference, according to these farmers, is the way they think about the production. They are focused on forces and processes where they see organic and sustainable farmers focused on substances. A biodynamic farmer is aware of and uses earthly and cosmic rhythms to better their crops; an example of which would be the affects of full and new moons and their impact on plant growth. For a biodynamic farmer, the farm is a living organism and functions best when it sustains itself and replenishes the soil. The


final defining aspect is the use of small quantities of homeopathic treated compost, soil and plants. These things are made up of horn manure, horn silica, yarrow, chamomile, stinging nettles, oak bark, dandelion flowers, valerian, and horsetail. Biodynamic farmers add a completely different aspect and option when purchasing produce.

In the end, the options are vast. Whether you are extremely health

conscious and want to be extremely sure that the produce you are eating has been grown in the proper cycle of the moon with these natural homeopathic elements, or you just want the peace of mind that you are not eating synthetic pesticide, there are farmers out there willing to meet your desires. Maybe it is time to put more stock in the adage, you are what you eat.

For more information, visit:http://www.leonardoacademy.org/programs/standards/agstandard/development.htmlhttp://www.ota.com/organic/us_standards.htmlhttp://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/nophttp://www.demeterbta.com/certification.htmlhttp://www.demeterbta.com/biodynamic.html

®

BECAUSE I DON’T JUST WEAR THE SHIRT, I LIVE IT.GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. LIVE UNITED®

BY GIVING JUST A FEW HOURS OF MY DAYI HELP CHILDREN PREPARE FORA LIFETIME OF LEARNING

Ruth Rusie is part of United Way’s ongoing work to improve the education, income, and health of our communities. To find out how you can help create opportunities for a better life for all, visit LIVEUNITED.ORG.

Biodynamic Vs. Organic Vs. Sustainable, Continued


Boiling Water: The boiling water will kill the weeds as well as any seeds. You can poor the water on weeds growing out of your walkways.

Vinegar: Yes, the vinegar you find in your kitchen! You can use the vinegar by itself or use it in a mixture of salt or soapy water, depending on the type of weeds you are trying to kill.

Alcohol: Combine1-2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol to 1 quart of water. You can also use other alcohols, such as gin or bourbon.

Citrus Oils: You can use oils such as orange or lemon oil. To use citrus oil as a natural weed killer, combine 1 cup of citrus oil, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, and one gallon of vinegar.

Salt: Add 3 pounds of salt with a gallon of soapy water mixture (suggested below). You can also add equal parts of salt and vinegar. It is not suggested to use salt mixtures on cement or near flowers. Also, be aware that salt is difficult to get rid of and will be in your soil for a long time. Salt mixtures are best used when using as spot treatments on weeds.

Soap: Use 2 tablespoons of dish soap to every gallon of your natural weed killer. The soap will allow you to see where you have sprayed and will also help the weeds absorb the weed killer. If the soap is strong enough it can be used with water.

Each of these mixtures are easy to use when put into spray bottles and directly sprayed onto the weeds. Be careful when spraying near certain

plants and flowers.

Easy Being Greener

Illus

tratio

n by

DeA

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Hol

man

These natural weed killers are better for the environment, more cost effective and safe for children and pets!

All Natural Weed KillersBy Chelsey Edgington


Egg Shell Mosaic


Creating crafts with your children using materials found in your home all ows for a wonderful surge of creativity from your little ones. This fun activity uses egg shells, paint and imagination to create a colorful mosaic image.

Materials:

At least 3 dozen clean dry egg shells •

Food coloring •

Brown grocery bags or a thick paper•

White liquid glue•

Instructions:

Mix food coloring according to the package instructions, just like you w ere dying Easter Eggs. Dye the shells in a variety of colors for your children to choose from. Let the shells dry completely. Break the shells up into small pieces of varying sizes.

Cut open a grocery store paper bag so it lays flat or lay out your paper of choice. This will be the canvas for their creation, and you can cut it to any size or shape t hey desire.

Use glue and the colored shells to create a design on the paper. You can draw a design then fill it in with colored shells or just glue shell pieces down in bunches, or one at time, to make free-form designs. Add more imagination and creativity by using paint, markers, or glitter to embellish your eggshell art.

Egg photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Egg Shell Mosaic By Ashley Grebe

Eco Friendly Crafts


Eco KidsFamily


Family

Eco Kids

Photo SubmissionIf you would like a photo of your child published, please email it to [email protected] along with our Photo

Release Form.


Summer is upon us, and what better way to get full use out of your preexisting wardrobe

than by reconstructing pieces you already own to compliment warmer temperatures? We have a few great ideas for you and your family to sustainably increase your wardrobe choices for summer.

Our kids grow up quickly, and one of the best ways to get use out of

jeans that have become too short, is to cut them into shorts! Doing so yourself gives you the freedom to choose the length appropriate for your family. This is a fun project for parents and kids when you consider adding embellishments like patches or colorful trim.

Another fabulous idea for updating your wardrobe is to break out the bleach for your old pairs of denim. This is an option I hadn’t necessarily considered for myself, but I took the challenge one Saturday afternoon and decided to bleach white an old pair of Levi’s shorts. I immersed the shorts in a tub of bleach for about six hours. You are able to control how light the denim gets, I opted for a totally white look. After rinsing, hang in the sun to complete the bleaching process. White denim is a great look for summer and easily obtained on a budget.

If you are skilled with a needle and thread, there are also great ways to reconstruct long sleeve tops and sweaters to better suit warmer weather.

Things Are Warming UpBy Ashley Grebe

Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Familiy

Reconstructing Winter Clothes for Summer Use


SummerTime AndThe Living Is Easy

Kids Eco FashionBy Lorianne S. Riley


Things Are Warming Up

And TheLiving Is

Easy

And TheLiving Is

Easy


Family

The Grass is high

The Grass is high


Oh your daddy’s rich

Oh your daddy’s rich


Your mama’s good looking

Your mama’s good looking


What You Need To Know to Achieve THe

Looks

Vintage Fabrics

Stitching Details

Cool Accessories

Where To Find

www.appleblossombaby.com

Designs by

Sue Sue VintageBaby’s Indulgeree

I said hush little baby Don’t you cry

I said hush little baby Don’t you cry


Green Scene-Philanthropy

Tomatofest

Hodges Nursery held their Annual Tomatofest in Durham, CA. The Guest of Honor was the famed

Tomato King himself, Steve Goto from Southern California. The Tomato King, known for his organic practices, talked about caring for, as well as how to reep great results organically in, your tomato and pepper gardens. Other speakers included: Tim Felegy, developer of Denali Gold & Happy Mediam Potting Soil, Joyce Jong of Jong’s Gro Better Fertilizer, Carole Rollins of Nature’s Solutions, and Remi Lohse of Serenade Organic Disease Control. - By Lorianne Riley

Springfest

Small businesses owned by local women in northern California came together at

Hodges Nursery in Durham, CA to show their goods and celebrate spring. The event benefited Relay For Life Teams: Durham Blossoms & Buds, who also served their tri-tip sandwiches at the event. Several speakers and local vendors, with booths and demonstrations, participated. A portion of the proceeds go to the Durham Blossoms & Buds. - By Lorianne Riley

Making A Difference


Green Scene-Culinary

Cooking Solutions

The Monterey Bay Aquarium was the setting for the 10th Annual Cooking Solutions Event.

Nathan Lyon was one of the many celebrity chefs that taught classes. Whole Foods was one of the sponsors and had booths available to visit with venders of various organic products. - By Lorianne Riley

Green Scene


Green Scene-Anniversaries

Kevin& LoriRiley’s10th

Anniversary

Publisher and Editor-in-chief, Lorianne Riley, celebrated her 10th Anniversary

with her husband Kevin Riley in Las Vegas, NV. They stayed at theMandarin Orient, a LEED Resort and saw the show Beetles Love. - By Lorianne Riley

Riley’s 25thAnniversary

Rileys Bar and Grill in Chico, CA, celebrated its 25th Anniversary. Chico State Alumni

came from all over the United States for this fun filled party, including a live band, DJ and 3 bars. Riley’s is know for its green initiatives and Community Support.. - By Lorianne Riley

Making A Difference


Green Scene-Festivals

California Nut Festival

Held at the Patrick Ranch in Durham, CA, this annual event is held to help consumers gain

awareness of the local farmers in Northern California. Live bands, food demonstrations and local artist where all featured at this fun filled event. All proceeds go the preservation of the Patrick Ranch Museum, a non-profit organization.-By Lorianne Riley

Eco Festival

Chico State held its Annual Eco Festival on the California State, Chico campus

where people enjoyed dancing and kids received free face painting.-By Lorianne Riley

Making A Difference


Green Scene-Parties

Dawn’s 40th Birthday

Dawn Geonichoni celebrated her 40th Birthday in style with a few of her closest

friends. The scene was a private garden party at 5th Street Steak House in Chico, CA. They all enjoyed 5th Street’s sustainable fare. -By Lorianne Riley

The 39th annual Chico Sports Hall of Fame and Senior Athletes Banquet

The four inductees into the Chico Sports Hall of Fame were: Jay Anderson, Armand Brett, Kirk Freitas and Sandy Goulart, as

selected by the Hall of Fame committee. Chico State, Butte College and nine Northern California high schools had students that were also awarded for their athletic excellence and abilities. Aaron Rodgers was honored as Sports Person of The Year. During the ceremony, Aaron Rodgers sat and ate dinner at the PV High School nominees’ table. What a thrill and memorable moment for these young talented athletes! - By Lorianne Riley

Green Scene


Making A Difference

Green Scene-Fashion

The Coup De Tat Fashion Show

Colorful artwork and fashion designs where featured by local artist and designers in Chico, CA. Clothing was reconstructed

and /or designed with vintage fabrics. Hair and makeup was done by eleMENts by Beaute and MPK Productions. Four design houses where involved in the showcase of eclectic fashion including, Shonna Frietas of Abigail’s Clothing, Micah Hankins of ...Iron and Ink, Natalie Hays of Natalie Hays and Marc Andrew Fitzgerald of Able Abe Clothing. -By Lorianne Riley


Green Scene- Making A DifferenceEdited By Lorianne S. Riley

Lori Riley recently spoke on 97.7 FM KDEE, Sacramento’s #1 Community Radio about Community Seeds Eco Magazine. “Going Green

with Envirobro” is a radio show hosted by Leonard Robinson on Thursdays at 10 am and Saturdays at 8 am: http://envirobro.com. The California Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation, a non profit organization, aims to educate and empower the listeners through radio programs that will help influence the hearts and minds of the community. -By Kaylee Agaman EnviroBro

The award winning film, Under Rich Earth, is a captivating and inspiring story about courage and determination. The story of hardworking farmers in a remote mountain valley in Ecuador, Under Rich Earth depicts the gripping hardships the people of Intag Valley face when a Canadian mining company threatens to invade their land in pursuit of copper.

In the Intag valley of Ecuador, lush and fertile land has been peacefully nurtured for decades. The locals there have become resourceful inhabitants with a small group of f amilies that have honed their crafts as coffee and sugarcane farmers. Three generations have protected and cultivated this land. Their means of survival is threatened by the aggressive invasion of the mining company. After miners determine the land to be rich in copper, they will stop at nothing to acquire it. In an effort to protect their livelihood, the farmers and their families are willing to risk their lives standing up to the company. With no protection from the police and no support from their government, the farmers take matters in to their own hands, leading to a standoff between farmers and armed para militaries deep in the forest. This film shows the hopeful journey of the Ecuadorian underdogs, and serves as a reminder to all of determination and optimism. Community Seeds staffer, Chelsey Edgington, viewed the film in Chico and found herself stirred by this heartbreaking story. Chelsey had this to say about Under Rich Earth, “This film was an eye-opener for me in terms of the devastation of mining and the lack of support from the government in other parts of the world.” Chelsey went on to give her recommendation of this critically acclaimed film, ensuring the satisfaction of those who view it. - Ashley Grebe

Movie ReviewUnder Rich Earth

With Chelsey Edgington

Green Scene


Dead week for Chico State students is not always so dead. For the past few years, Chico State students have taken over the downtown

City Plaza to take part in a clothing drive the Friday before finals.

Three years ago, Blake Levingston and myself, Kaylee Agaman. decided we

wanted to bring “The Undie Run” to Chico State. We were high school friends and some of our friends from UC campus’ and out of state schools had told us about The Undie Run at their school. We knew that this had to happen in Chico. So here is our thought process.

Blake decided to start this up in 2009 and asked for my help as the event got closer.

Most of the planning for this event took place via Facebook. We had no idea what to expect

going into the evening of the event. To our surprise, as Blake and I turned the corner of 4th and Broadway, we were shocked to see over 150 people. We simply made a pile of clothes in the Plaza and went on a mile jog through downtown Chico. Once we made it to the finish line, many people had worked up a sweat and decided to dance in the fountain to cool off.

In the end, Blake and I collected the clothes in trash bags and threw them in our cars to

donate to The Salvation Army. We were proud of what we had done but we knew we could

Clothing Drive Strips through Downtown Chico

By Kaylee Agaman

Making A Difference


Clothing Drive Strips Through Downtown Chico

make it better in the future.

Going into the 2nd Annual Chico State Undie Run, we decided to plan a little

further in advance. The Facebook group was created at the end of the fall semester and we brought a few more helpers on board. With the help of our committee, we were able to borrow orange buckets from Home Depot to collect the clothes in and then U-Haul allowed us to borrow a truck to store the hundreds of clothes we collected.

The second year was a great success with over 2200 people confirmed to attend

on Facebook and over 4000 others that were notified of the event. People showed up early and gathered around the fountain. A local pedi-cab driver, Mike G-Ride provided some tunes to pump people up for the run. Blake and I brought a mega phone to lead cheers and direct people what was going on.

Our planning and hard work resulted in over 600 people actually showing up and

running through downtown for the cause of donating clothes and relieving stress before finals week. Almost the entire back of the U-Haul was full of clothes to donate. A few of us went the following day to The Salvation Army to make our contribution. It was an amazing feeling to see the reactions of those helping us unload the truck. They were all so

grateful and I wish every runner would have been able to see how genuinely grateful they were for all of the donations. As I approach graduation this year I

decided this had to be the biggest Undie Run we’ve had thus far. Word has spread the last few years and I even heard freshman talking about it before the Facebook page was even created. Within the first 24 hours of making this year’s event, there was 500+ people confirmed to attend. Two weeks away from the event there was 1680 people Attending, 375 Maybe Attending, 1670 Awaiting Reply and only 355 Not Attending. With the help of a little social networking, the word of the event had spread to over 4080 people!!! Blake and I were ecstatic to see the success that this year’s event turned out to be.

The 3rd Annual Chico State Undie Run was held on Friday, May 13th, 2011 at 7 pm at

the Downtown Plaza on 5th and Broadway in Chico, CA and had an amazing turn out from both students and community members.

We are proud to be a part of this green event. By publicizing for the Undie

Run virtually via Facebook along with making the physical donation of the clothing we feel that our efforts to give back to the Chico community in a healthy manner have been successful these past three years. We look


forward to keeping this Chico Tradition going for years to come.

Granted Blake will be here one more year to keep things going,

we are always looking for committee members to help out and eventually take things over for us as we graduate and unfortunately leave Chico. You can find the Facebook event listed as: 3rd Annual Chico State Undie Run!!! Or can contact either of us on Facebook: Blake Levingston or Kaylee Agaman.

Making A Difference

506 Ivy StreetChico, CA 95928

Take Out: 530-898-9947Reservation: 530-898-9948

www.frankyschico.com

Restaurant Hours: Mon - Fri 11:30 AM to 9:00 PMFriday and Saturday Open til 10 PMSunday Open till 9 PMLate Night Hours: Thursday - Saturday Open til 2 AM


Ties That Matter, www.tiesthatmatter.com, is an Atlanta company that uses recycled neckties to create beautiful fashion and home accessories. They hire low income women to

do the sewing and donate 10% of their profits to help support services for the homeless. It all began with a slightly frayed, but still beautiful, necktie. My husband, who along with most men in America, is downsizing his tie collection. He tossed an old tie into the trash can and I fished it out. All silky and swirly, the tie was bursting with potential. At that point, I wasn’t sure just what it was going to become and I certainly did not have a clue that it was the first of approximately 10,000 ties (to date) that would end up in my studio; I just knew that it was pretty and it was a shame to throw it away. I was on the prowl for cheap (and preferably free) art materials as I had recently started an art program at Central’s Outreach and Advocacy Center (OAC) in downtown Atlanta. The OAC provides services for the homeless and there were dozens of men and women who came each day and sat for hours waiting for an appointment. My idea was to give them something to do that would stimulate their

creativity. After a few weeks, I realized that people on the street are already extremely creative. They have to be, their survival depends on it. What they really loved was a project – something to do that involved directions and instructions and a finished product at the end, things that their lives were woefully lacking. I came up with the idea of making small, reusable grocery bags, but knew that the group lacked sewing skills. I was trying to figure out how they could easily and quickly make handles for the bag, when my eye fell on my husband’s swirly, silky tie. Voila! A tie, with it’s nice, smooth edges, would make perfect handles. With only a moment’s hesitation, I grabbed a pair of scissors and cut the tie to make two handles just the right length and stitched them onto a simple polyester bag. Then I noticed the wide end of the tie lying on the cutting table and it dawned on me that folded up and stitched, it would make a perfect little stuff pouch for the polyester bag. The OAC folks made a few and we sold them for $6.00 each and gave the money back to the OAC. People loved them and I soon found myself taking orders for dozens more. I sent out a plea for used neckties, corralled volunteers from the American Sewing Guild and

Making A Difference

Ties That

Matter By Laura Martin


together, we made 1000 of these small bags in 2008, sold them and were able to donate $6,000.00 to the OAC to support their programs. The problem was, people were so generous in giving us neckties that we had several hundred leftover when we finished the grocery bag project. It seemed wasteful not to use them. I stayed up nights trying to figure out what to do with them. One night, over dinner, I discussed this with my daughter, Cameron McCord, and another friend, Elizabeth Chrane. Both had been intimately involved with the grocery bag project and both wanted to do something to continue to help make change for the better in our community. We began to brainstorm and came up with the idea of using the ties, not only to make small grocery bags, but to use them to cover fabric to make larger purses and bags. I left the restaurant on fire with ideas and enthusiasm and quickly designed a series of travel bags, small cosmetic bags and purses – all covered with beautiful ties and in 2009, the three of us started Ties That Matter. We created an LLC and wrote a mission statement that included a pledge to do three things: (1) use recycled materials (2) create jobs for low income women who would do the sewing and (3) give back 10% of our profits to continue to support the OAC. We have been thrilled with the results! We have added to our product line and have included special occasion bags made from ruffled tie pieces and small necktie “flowers,” hats and belts. We were asked to be a part of the 2010 American Craft Council Show and have done a series of juried art shows since. We are on socially innovative online shops, such as Global Girlfriend and, of course, have our own website store (www.tiesthatmatter.com). To date, we have been able to pay our sewers over $10,000. 00 and have donated a total of $8,000.00 to the OAC; success by any standard. Like most business owners, we found that most of our time, effort and money goes to marketing and sales. We realized that we were spending so much time selling our products that we were no longer in contact with the people we were trying to help and we were not sure we were happy about that. After seemingly endless discussions, Cameron, Elizabeth and I decided that our hearts are with the people we are trying to help and we want to increase that number. We decided that instead of just employing a small number of women to sew the products, we were going to give away all our designs

and instructions, put them into a book and encourage as many women as we possibly could to make and sell these products themselves. We would still collect ties and would distribute them to women who are interested in making and selling these products to provide, or supplement, an income for themselves. We would do everything we could to help them be successful. Once the decision was made, the opportunities began to open up almost immediately. I designed several tie products that can be quickly sewn by hand (no electricity needed) and I will be going to Haiti in October to teach a week long class to women there, in the hopes that they can make these products and earn some much needed income.

I hope to do the same in my own city, teaching at women’s shelters, churches and schools. Our idea is to help empower women and facilitate their efforts to use their time and talents to earn income wherever they may be. It is our hope that we will continue to have enough ties donated that we can offer a “starter kit” to individual women that includes a bag of ties and instructions for making products. We will still continue to make and sell our products and hope for continued success in doing this. But our greater efforts will be in helping everyone we can to realize the joy and satisfaction of transforming their own skills and talents into a profit. It is our greater dream that this is an idea that will spread. Our particular materials happen to be ties because we get them in quantities large enough to share and because they are beautiful materials to work with, but there are all kinds of found materials that can be salvaged to be used for a similar purpose and there are unemployed people everywhere with skills to share. For us, the idea of “zero waste” goes far beyond recycling and composting. For us, not wasting means helping people recognize the beauty and potential in everything, whether it be a tossed out necktie or a homeless person on the street. Truly, these are the ties that matter.

How can you help?Buy a product at www.tiesthatmatter.com!

Collect ties. Contact us at [email protected].

Host a workshop for women in need in your own area. For more information, contact

[email protected].

Ties That Matter


The

Scoop By Ashley Grebe

“Think globally, act locally.” This statement resonates with many people, especially when it comes to encouraging others to adopt an environmentally conscious, sustainable lifestyle. Extending the behavioral changes we have already made in our immediate environment to our offices is another way to greatly improve the world in which we live.

Students at California State University, Chico are working together to educate

offices in the area about how they can work efficiently while using their energy wisely. The group known as SCOOP, Sustainable Consultations of Office Practices, performs free consultations of all campus department offices. Using energy auditing tools, the trained students and employees audit the energy an office uses and offer sustainable recommendations for behavior change. The teams focus on an offices use of computers, fax machines, copiers, lighting, electrical equipment, paper and recycling, and purchasing.

Considering some spend as much time in their offices as they do in their homes,

monitoring the amount of energy used is a good idea. Although SCOOP is currently only auditing offices on Chico State’s campus you can monitor the same focus areas in your place of work. Switching desk lights to LED bulbs can significantly reduce energy. Closing windows while heating or air systems are in use conserves energy as well. Using power strips for your appliances and being sure to switch them off by the end of the day will immensely reduce overnight energy output.

Many of us may overlook the way energy is spent in the offices we work in daily.

One may choose to see it as the employers responsibility, but simply introducing the issue to your employer has the potential to significantly reduce your offices energy output and cost. Collectively offices have the option to greatly reduce the energy consumed. Taking the suggestions offered by SCOOP serve as a further extension of conscious living.

Making A Difference

Get the SCOOP on Chico State’s Effort to Regulate Office Energy Use

Image: Pixomar / FreeDigitalPhotos.net


...We do it for their future

Build it GREEN (BIG) Member

New • Construction

Remodels•

Additions•

Kitchens•

Baths•

Decks•

...No job too big or small...

Why build green?...

License # 930420

35 Years Of

ExperienceCounts!


Morning Yoga By Ashley Grebe

Healthy Living

We all need a little help getting going in the morning. This sequence of yoga moves is designed to give your body an energizing stretch, awakening the body and assisting you in greeting the sun!

Do this sequence of poses 1-5 times, finishing with five minutes of still meditation to calm you before you begin another busy day.

Continued on Page 52


D3. ownward Facing Dog: Hold this pose for three breaths. Focus on

pushing the heel of your foot towards the ground and keeping a straight back. This pose invigorates the spine.

C4. obra Pose: Push up from your arms and arch your back as much as

your comfort will allow. This is a great stretch for the abdomen.

C5. hild’s Pose: This is a great move to end a yoga sequence. Push your

bottom back to allow for a great stretch of the spine.

Morning Yoga

R1. aised Hands: Hold this pose for three deep breaths, being sure to

expand your rib cage as you inhale.

F2. orward Bend: Hold this pose for three breaths. Curve your spine and

allow your body to hang above your toes. This move allows blood to travel to the brain and is a great stretch for the spine.

2

3

4

5


Every Town Needs At Least One Community Garden

By Chelsey Edgington

In the past decade, community gardens have been pooping up everywhere from parks in New York City to schools in rural areas. They are a great way to be

active outside, promote healthy eating, and help reduce our carbon foot print; all while bringing local communities together.

There are all types community gardens. Some gardens will charge for the produce and others will not. You can find community gardens at homeless

shelters, churches, schools, and retirement homes. Community gardens can be anywhere

there is dirt and sun. It is becoming more and more popular for schools to have community gardens to promote healthy eating and to teach kids ways of cooking healthier meals.

Community Seeds recently interviewed a local sustainable activist in Chico, California. Richard Roth, who participates in two farmers markets,

started one community garden at a Chico School and is the executive director of cChaos, a non-profit organization (One the many things he involved with). We had the opportunity to sit down with Richard and ask him some

Healthy Living


questions about community gardens and get some of his gardening tips.

Richard was raised around farming and has continued his family values of farming through out his adult life. Richard finds having community

gardens to be very rewarding. He loves getting his hands in the dirt and teaching younger children about healthier food. Richard says participating in community gardens is also a great way to become one with the earth. Some may think it is much more difficult to manage a community garden than your own at home, but Richard told us this is far from the truth. Community gardens are just like gardens at home, but on a larger scale. The biggest struggles are the dreadful weeds and

the creatures that like to come for a free lunch. Richard is proud to say that all of his solutions to fight the weeds and creatures are always all natural and he never uses pesticides in his gardens. For example, he is fighting weeds in his community garden now with cardboard, mulch, and newspaper. Richard’s number one gardening tip is: “If you plant things alive they tend to stay that way.”

There are many ways you can become involved in community garden. One option is to start volunteering at your local garden. Or you can start up your

own local community garden. Another great

place to become involved with community gardens is through American Community Garden Association. You can check their website at communitygarden.org to discover ways to become involved in areas around you. If you are having trouble locating community gardens, Roth suggests to “Check around at local schools, churches and retirement homes. If you don’t have any luck there, you can of course, check on Google.” If you are one of our more courageous readers and interested in starting up your own community garden, Roth says, “You just need soil, air, water and sun, but if you gather with any of your local groups and have a good amount of people interested and committed, you can have your own community garden anywhere. Even if

Community Garden


you live in a area that does not have rich soil, you can still have a community garden by having soil beds and compost. Also, research and see what types of grants your state offers for community gardens. Many times grants are given to community gardens because they promote healthy eating.”

Community gardens are a great way to become involved with your community. Community

gardens have been bringing generations together and getting the younger generations off the couch and back outside.

Healthy Living


ExposureFull sun is best, but some of us are not that lucky. The amount of sunlight a tomato variety requires can depend on the variety you choose. A simple rule of thumb is: The larger the tomato, the more sunlight it will need. At least 8 to 10 hours is good. Remember that 6 hours of sunlight is the minimum amount required to produce some fruit.

Organic Soil AmendmentsAlways amend your soil. Amending the soil helps to break up compacted soils. It helps oxygenate and aid in water percolation and water retention. Amendments also become nutrients for the micro organisms to feed on after it is finally decomposed. Yes, add your compost. Your fully decomposed compost is

Caring For Tomatoes

Caring For Tomatoes Everything You Need To Know

By Steve Goto

excellent as an amendment. I recommend adding no more than 50% compost 50% amendments.

Soil PreparationCurrently, I recommend preparing the soil using the “Lasagna method.” This is a very easy and less time consuming way to amend your soil. This method first incorporates compost, soil amendments, fertilizer and soil conditioners. Till and mix together. Thereafter, this method does not recommend you to ever till the soil again. All fertilizers, compost/castings/soil conditioners are “layered” over the planting area. Finally, your choice of amendment is used to cover the entire garden. Add an ample amount of water to compact and moisten the soil. You can immediately plant


your starts through the layers, only removing enough soil to accommodate the new seedling. The idea behind this method is not to disturb the established bio-mass already living in the soil. Tilling disrupts these established communities which will need time to rebuild to become an effective unit.

Organic Potting Soil for Containers

Current organic potting mixes are teaming with everything you need to successfully plant tomatoes in containers. When planting “indeterminate varieties,” I suggest using a container or pot that is a minimum 15 gallon,

a standard size nursery container or larger. It should hold a 2 cu ft bag of potting soil. Determinate varieties will do fine in a 5 gallon size nursery container or larger. This container should hold just short of 1 cu ft of potting soil. Add worm castings, John and Bob’s Soil Optimizer, and your

choice of organic fertilizer and mix everything together to complete the potting mix.

Selecting Tomato StartsMost people spend too much energy selecting the perfect plant. I’m not that picky about how a tomato plant looks. “Too small or too big.” “Does it have flowers?” “Does it have fruit?” “Is the foliage a little yellow on the bottom?” These questions never play in my decision to select a plant. Remember tomatoes grow like weeds. With the proper nutrition, your plant will grow strong and healthy.

Planting Tomato Starts Remove your plant from its container. Save

the TAG! If the plant is 4 inches or smaller, just plant it into the ground as you would any bedding plant with the top of the root ball equal to the soil line. Taller plants, maybe older plants, need a little extra attention. Prepare the plant my removing all the foliage on the stem, leaving only the top three leaves or 4 to 6 inches at the tip. Bury the plants stem all the way except exposing the top three leave or 4 to 6 inches exposed above the soil line. Tomato plants are amazing this way. The buried stems will turn into roots in 5 days, creating a much more organized system where your plant will be able to absorb more nutrients from the larger established root system. Remember to always remove the flowers and any forming fruit!

TrellisIndeterminate plants can grow 6 to 20 feet long or more. This means that some sort of support is necessary to keep your vines and tomatoes off the ground. A 2”x 2” stake 8’ or 10’ is very effective. Select a heavy mesh wire cage to support larger plants. If you use a wire cage, buy the largest cage available. Determinate plants grow much smaller. A medium sized wire cage is enough for these plants. Stake the same day you plant! If you come back a week or two later, you may damage the new roots that are growing away from the main root mass. Waiting too long can injure these roots as you push the stake through the root and into the soil.

FertilizingUsing organic fertilizers is simple to do. There are extremely important products to supplement soil amendments and compost. Most organic fertilizers are made from recycled animal parts and/or plant

Images on this page: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Healthy Living


parts; over application will never be harmful to the soil or damage plant roots. Organic fertilizers are slow-release, and are a complete source on nutrition that keeps the plant and soil healthy. Most are applied every 30 days up to 180 days. Make sure you read the applications rates on each label you use.

Soil ConditionersJohn and Bob’s Soil Optimizer is a Humic Acid product that creates sustainable life in the soil. It’s the third part of the soil chain, often overlooked. It is used to create true bio-mass sustainability as it feeds the beneficial bacteria into the soil. These highly active beneficial bacteria provide complete nutrient availability to your plant. This complete nutrition availability provides your plant with the ability resist insect and disease pressures and from hot and cold temperature stress. Starches/sugars are the results of this interaction and flow throughout the vascular system of the plant and end up in the fruit you are harvesting. Ever wonder why vine ripen is so sweet? A side benefit of Humic Acid is its ability stimulates the plant to create sugars as food which is eventually formed in the fruit. As a soil conditioner, it will permanently change the tilth of clay or sandy soil over time.

WateringHow much? How Often? I found that a deep watering at intervals is the best way to water. A rule of thumb is: deep water once every 7 days for the first 4 weeks. Watch the foliage in the coolest part of the morning after sunrise and check to see if the foliage is drooping. If the foliage is drooping in the cool morning air, then that’s the best time to water. Do not be fooled by a plant’s foliage drooping as needing water. This is natural for the foliage to droop in the mid-morning or afternoon heat. Deep watering is key. A slow drip from the hose for at least 45 minutes is advised. Apply water

again when the foliage is drooping only in the cool early morning. Count the intervals between waterings. That will determine your interval. You will know about when the plant will need water again.

PruningPruning is a method of removing side branches from the main stem. Most times tomato plants can get out of hand and should be pruned to keep the plant orderly. Another reason is to enhance the growth of the remaining fruit by channeling the plants growth energy to only the fruit on the main stem. This causes the fruit to grow to its maximum flavor and size. This method also produces less fruit. Pruning side branches decreases where fruit is born. All side branches on the plant will produce fruit. Many are confused about the need to prune or even what to prune. I find that this answer lies with the grower. Pruning is directly related to what the grower wants to accomplish. The rule of thumb is: Do you want maximum size and flavor? Yes, then prune all side branches. Do you want a large crop of fruit but don’t especially care about size? Then do not prune. I have a plant that is too thick/wide/tall or blocking my door! Yes, prune only the branches necessary to clear access or prune some branches that will aid in better air

Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Caring For Tomatoes, Continued


circulation and light penetration through the plant.

DISEASESMost Heirloom Tomato varieties generally have poor disease resistance; however, disease is not usually a problem until mid-season. Leaf blight diseases such as early blight and alternaria begin to appear about mid-April, and are more susceptible once fruit production begins. To reduce disease problems, use disease resistant or tolerant varieties and use organic sprays. Fusarium wilt (race 1), a disease caused by a soil fungus, is common when soil temperatures approach 60 degrees. Fusarium races 1 and 2 are present in southern areas. Where Fusarium wilt is present, use resistant varieties, but remember that getting these varieties is not a complete cure for the problem. They will succumb to the disease later in the season. Compost teas have recently been quite effective in combating soil and leaf infections, insects, while aiding the plant by gathering nutrients and conditioning the soil. Blossom-end rot (a hard dark patch that develops at the blossom end of the fruit) is prevented by ensuring an adequate level of soil calcium, and steady moisture. Temperature is usually a major factor of the cause of Blossom End Rot. When soil temperatures rise, calcium is locked up in the soil. These nutrients are released by using organic gardening methods.

PESTSAphids, White flies, mites and Little Green Worms (Loopers) are common invaders on our plants. Spray with a fast jet of water or use organic products containing Spinosad or herb oils such as garlic, cinnamon, thyme, clove or citrus. Using organic fertilizers aid in repelling invaders that are sizing your tomato plants for dinner. Tomato hornworms can best be controlled by just picking them off your plant with a pair of tongs but it is best to spray

first then hand control. Hornworms with the white egg cases of parasitic wasps should not be destroyed because the wasps will hatch out and destroy other hornworms in the garden. Organic controls such as Spinosad or B.T. are safe for people but deadly for insects.

FLAVORComplete plant nutrition has a great effect on how a tomato tastes. Plant stress such as insect or disease pressures, and adverse weather lead to “off flavors.” Avoid placing freshly harvested tomatoes in the refrigerator. Refrigeration will destroy much of the delicate flavor by turning the sugar to starch. Tomatoes are best stored at a temperature above 50 degrees F (10°C) to maximize vine ripen tomato flavors. It is also best to watch your cultural practices. Over watering is a common mistake that leads to “Watery Tasting Fruit” Liquid dilutes the sugars in the plants vascular system, making them bland. A rule of thumb is to harvest your fruit 24 to 48 hours after watering. This allows a more concentrated stream of sugars to be stored in the fruit which will then be trapped when you harvest it.

ACIDITYMany ask which tomatoes are low in acid. Yellow and white tomatoes are assumed to be low acid. Alas, this rumor is false. There is no such thing as a low acid tomato. Yellow and white varieties have the same acid pH as red, pink and black varieties, but have a higher sugar content that masks the acidity.

For more information:Gotomato 951-813-9953

www.gotomato.us.comwww.johnandbobs.com

[email protected]

Healthy Living


byBeaute’eleMENts Unisex Spa, Salon, Boutique, Wine Bar & Wellness Center

1035 Village Lane, CA 95926 1-877-345-3430 www.elementsbybeaute.com

Nail SalonOnly beautifully crafted organic products are used for our nail services. Nothing but the best!

*******************Full Service Hair SalonThe salon is completely full service. Hair cuts, color, color correction, texturizing perms, relaxers, braiding, hair extensions, clipper cuts and old fashion hot shaves, as well as specializing in ethnic hair is what the talented hair styling team thrives at doing. All hair care products contain

organic botanicals and use sustainable practices while producing their products.

*******************Online StoreEverything in the boutique is available for sale online. Including makeup, hair care,skin care, nail care,vitamins, candles, one-of-a-kind art, artisan jewelry, home goods, and luxury bedding, plus much, much, more...

*******************Giving BackWe believe in giving back by re-using our industry by-products to make the world a better place to live. We donate hair to:

Matter of Trust- Hair is used for nets to clean up oil spills.Locks of Love - Hair cuts are free to anyone that donates hair over ten inches long. The hair is used to make wigs for children that have lost their hair due to illness.

Upon EntryUpon arrival savor the aromatherapy of elegant spices, hear the trickling water from a fountain, and dare to enjoy 9 varietals of organic wines or a selection of Sierra Nevada beers. If an alcoholic beverage is not what you desire we also have a complementary tea bar and fruit infused water.

*******************SpaRelax in the restful zen inspired spa adorned with aroma -therapeutic candles, chiming Tibetan Bells, and soothing background music. All facial, massage and body treatments are preformed with only the �nest certi�ed organic products. Each treatment begins with a cup of tea or fruit infused water, a botanical and healing salt foot bath, as well as a heated �ax seed neck cozy.

We also o�er a wide variety of waxing services.

*****************BoutiqueThe on premise boutique encompasses every product used during the salon and spa services, even the one -of-a kind art is available to take home.

Meet The OwnerLorianne S. Riley, CMT

Artistic Director, Cosmetologist, Makeup Artist

Lori is a business major that has been working in the beauty industry for

approximately ten years. She has and will continue to combed the United

States to �nd only the best organic and / or sustainable products available.

What’s Good For The Earth Is Great For Your BodyOnly Organic and / or Sustainable Products Are Used!

Hours of OperationTuesday through Thursday 9am to 5pm

Friday through Saturday 10am to 5pmBy Appointment Only

6am to 10am & 5pm to 9pm

ADVETORIAL


Moving is the best medicine. Keeping active and losing weight are just two of the ways that you can fight osteoarthritis pain. In fact, for every pound you lose, that’s four pounds less pressure on each knee. For information on managing pain, go to fightarthritispain.org.


Composting is great for the garden and great for the environment, but sometimes not so

great for the kitchen. Let’s face it, little bowls of peels and fruit bits waiting to go out to the main compost bin get smelly pretty quickly, especially in the summer. They soon start to attract fruit flies and other bugs. The answer is to have a mini compost bin in the kitchen to collect the bits in so that you do not have to run out to the main bin in the back yard every time you peel a potato. This affordable lidded compost bucket has a carbon filter in the lid which allows ventilation, but prevents odors. Because the air can get in, things can start the compost process without getting stinky and the flies don’t even know it’s there! The carbon filter lasts for 8 months or so and is replaceable (a pack of three filters costs $5.99).Costs $19.95 at Amazon.com.

Kitchen Widgets By Lorianne S. Riley

Concerns over the health hazards of Teflon non-stick coatings have given birth to a

whole range of new Eco-friendly cookware. Cuisinart has risen to the challenge with their Green Gourmet range of non-stick cookware. They use a hard anodized pan construction for heat conductivity and a natural petroleum-free ceramic coating to create a functional non-stick surface. The stainless steel handles are made from 70 percent recycled steel and even the packaging is recycled, so they really are making an effort to be genuinely green. As with all non-stick surfaces, they have not managed to make the surfaces tough enough to resist scratching from metal objects, so you need to treat them with care to get the best from them. Maybe you can get yourself some bamboo cooking implements for a truly green kitchen!Currently Costs $224.99 for a 12 piece set at Sears.com.

The best rated brands of paper towels include Seventh Generation paper products which use 100%

total recycled paper and 90% post-consumer content. Other good brands include Planet (100% / 80%), Green Forest (100% / 40%) and Marcal (100% / 40-60%).


Cook’s Corner

Cook’s Corner

Today, all across America, more and more chefs are doing as Stu and Mary do, forging mutually rewarding relationships with growers and purveyors in their communities to create food that is fresh, seasonal and full of vitality. In the process, they are preserving small-scale agriculture, local economies and healthy regional food supplies.


This dish has become a July Fourth tradition at the Peerless. It’s a perfect side dish for summer picnics since it’s an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats. The slightly acidic mustard dressing is a refreshing contrast to crunchy, colorful vegetables like red and yellow peppers, radishes, fennel, onion and cabb age.

Change the vegetables based on the season, keeping in mind that it is best to have a variety of colors, textures and flavors. Avoid any vegetable that will blend, such as red beets, or that will overpower the other flavors. Avoid any vegetable that will bleed, such as red beets, or that will overpower any other flavors in the dish. The key is to cut the vegetables in roughly the same size and shape.

Summer Vegetable Slawby Stu Stein

Photo courtesy of The Sustainable Kitchen

Healthy Eating


Healthy Eating

VEGETABLE SLAW:You will need approximately 1 pound of any combination of the following vegetables:

1 red bell pepper, seeds • removed and julienned1 yellow bell pepper, seeds • removed and julienned 1 head radicchio, core • removed and cut into chiffonage½ small head of Napa • cabbage, core removed and cut into chiffonade1 green zucchini, cut in half, • seeds removed and julienned1 yellow squash, cut in half, • seeds removed and julienned1 bulb fennel, core removed • and julienned1/2 daikon radish, julienned• 1 large red onion, cut into half • moons1 bunch green onions, cut on • bias about 1 inch long1/4 cup mint leaves, cut into • chiffonade1/4 cup basil leaves, cut into • chiffonade1 tablespoon cilantro leaves, • finely chopped Mustard dressing• Kosher salt and white pepper, • to taste.

MUSTARD DRESSING: Makes 2 1/2 cups

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons honey1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil1/4 cup vegetable oilKosher salt and white pepper, to taste

TO PREPARE THE SLAW:

In a large stainless steel bowl, combine vegetables, herbs and enough mustard dressing to lightly coat the vegetables. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Taste and adjust seasoning.

TO PREPARE THE DRESSING:

Place mustard, honey, vinegar, salt and pepper in a small stainless steel bowl. Slowly drizzle in both oils, whisking constantly, until ingredients are combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.


Healthy Eating

Grass-fed beef is better for you, but it is the taste that matters to us. It has been our experience that you will have a passionate response: either you love it or you hate it. Grass-fed is leaner, gamier and will be together if cooked all the way through. The fat in grass-fed beef tastes lighter and does not coat your

mouth like corn-fed beef; you will not get that heavy feeling after eati ng.

Grass-fed beef requires a few cooking tips. In general, grass-fed beef will cook more quickly than other beef. When grilling, first sear the meat over high heat, then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. Be careful not to pierce the meat when turning or moving it, or the beef will lose some moisture.

Grilled Rib-Eye of Beefw/ Balsamic Glazed Onions & Grilled Summer Vegetables

by Stu Stein


Remove the vegetables from the grill and set aside. Place peppers in a paper bag, close the top and let steam for 10 minutes to loosen their skins, then scrape the charred skin from the roasted peppers. Slice peppers in half. Remove the seeds and cut into ½ inch wide strips.

Brush remaining oil mixture on steaks with a basting brush. Sprinkle steaks with cracked black peppercorns and salt. Lay steaks on grill at a 45-degree angle. Cook 3 to 4 minutes and then turn 90 degrees to create crosshatching. After 3 to 4 minutes, flip steaks to other side, and repeat process. Grill until desired doneness.

TO PREPARE THE BALSAMIC ONIONS: In a medium-size sauté pan, over low to medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and golden brown, approximately 20 minutes. Add vinegar. Bring to a boil and cook until the volume is reduced by one third. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and reserve.

TO SERVE: Arrange the grilled vegetables on a warm plate. Place steaks next to vegetables and top with balsamic onions.

ADVANCE PREPARATION: The onions can be made a day head and reheated in a sauté pan. The vegetables can be grilled a day ahead and reheated at 350-degree oven just prior to serving.

SUBSTITUTIONS AND OPTIONS: Mix and match whichever seasonal vegetables are the best and suite your taste. The balsamic onion mixture is also a wonderful accompaniment for stronger game meats such as grilled venison or buffalo.

WINE NOTES: A well-balanced, not over the top, not overly fruity red wine will work with the slightly sweeter and gamier flavor of the grass-fed beef and the reduced balsamic vinegar. Recommended: 2000 Troon Vineyard, Druid Fluid, Applegate Valley is a sub-appellation within the Rogue Valley in southern Oregon, and is home to the most unusual acre of Zinfandel grapes named the “Druid Fluid Factory” in honor of winemaker Dick Troon’s Scottish heritage.

Makes 4 entrée serving

Healthy Eating

BEEF AND VEGETABLES1 cup extra virgin olive oil2 Tablespoons garlic, finely chopped1 large eggplant, cut in half and then cut into 1/4-inch thick slices1 medium green zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices1 medium yellow squash, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices1 red pepper1 yellow pepperKosher salt and cracked pepper, to taste4 10-ounce beef rib-eye steaks, trimmed of excess fatKosher salt and cracked pepper, to taste

BALSAMIC ONIONS 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced1 Tablespoon butter4 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar

TO PREPARE THE RIB EYE: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Combine oil and garlic. Set half of the oil mixture aside for the steaks and half for the vegetables.

Place eggplant in a large colander set over large bowl. Sprinkle salt over eggplant. Allow eggplant to sit and give off moisture for 45 minutes to an hour. Wash salt off of eggplant and pat dry with a towel.

In a large bowl, toss all the vegetables with half of the oil mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange eggplant, zucchini, squash and peppers on grill at a 45-degree angle. Cook 3 to 4 minutes and then turn vegetables 90 degrees to create crosshatching marks. After 3 to 4 minutes, flip to other side and repeat process. Make sure the peppers are charred evenly on all sides.

Photo courtesy of The Sustainable Kitchen


Peach Upside-Down Polenta Cake w/ Peach Syrup

by Stu Stein

The peach is a member of the rose family, a cousin to apricots, cherries, plums and almonds. Peaches are usually classified as clingstone (the fruit of the peach clings to the stone or pit), semi-freestone (the fruit pulls away from the stone when the peach is fully ripened) and freestone, the most popular, where the fruit

of the peach readily pulls away from the stone. July and August are peak months for fresh peaches. The fruit is extremely perishable, so buy only the amount you intend to use or eat within a few days. Choose peaches that are firm to the touch, but whose flesh yields with gentle pressure. The fruits should be free of bruises with a warm, fragrant aroma.

www.communityseeds.com 71Photo courtesy of The Sustainable Kitchen

PEACH-POLENTA CAKE½ cup blanched almonds, peeled¼ cup granulated sugar½ cup of polenta or cornmeal8 Tablespoons soft butter½ cup granulated sugar2 eggs5 peaches, peeled, cut in half, (we recommend Red Haven or Suncrest varieties, both freestone varieties) 1 cup all-purpose flour1 teaspoon kosher salt1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract1 teaspoon peach schnapps (optional)

PEACH SYRUP½ pound peaches, peeled, cut in half and roughly chopped, approximately 2 peaches1 cup granulated sugar½ cup dry white wine½ cup water1 teaspoon peach schnapps (optional)1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise, seeds scraped

NOTE: To remove the skins, blanch the peaches in boiling water for one to two minutes and then immediately plunge fruit into ice water to cease the cooking process. The skin should easily slip off. Do not let the peaches soak in the water.

TO PREPARE THE PEACH-POLENTA CAKE: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.Place the almonds and sugar in food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the almond/sugar mixture, polenta, flour and salt.

Place the butter and sugar in a bowl of an electric mixer. Beat with paddle, using medium speed, until the butter is creamy and smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and peach schnapps. Turn the mixer to low and add the dry ingredients a little at a time.

Cut the peach halves into ¼-inch wedges. In the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, arrange the peaches in concentric circles, starting in the center of the pan, forming spiral pattern. Spoon the batter over the peaches. Bake 30 to 40 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes clean. Remove the sides from the pan and allow the cake to cool on rack.

TO PREPARE THE PEACH SYRUP: In small stainless steal saucepan, combine the peaches, sugar, wine, water and vanilla bean and seeds. Set over low to medium heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is slightly syrupy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat. Allow syrup to cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 2 hours or overnight.

Remove the vanilla bean pieces from the syrup. Place syrup in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.

TO SERVE: Turn cake over onto a serving plate and remove the bottom of the pan. Cut into 6 to 8 wedges and serve with peach vanilla syrup.

ADVANCED PREPARATION: The cake can be made several days ahead of time and refrigerated. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

SUBSTITUTIONS AND OPTIONS: In place of peaches, substitute other stone fruit, such as plums or apricots, or substitute tree fruit such as apples, figs or pears. Make sure the fruit is thinly sliced so that it will be cooked through when the cake is baked.

WINE NOTES: A slightly sweet dessert wine with peach overtones will put you over the top. Recommended: 2001 Casta Diva, Alicante Muscat, Bodegas, Spain.

Makes one 9-inche cake or ten 3 ½ -inch individual cakes

Healthy Eating


Do It Yourself Sugar Scrubs By Ashley Grebe

Do It Yourself Sugar Scrubs

As the weather warms up, its important to keep skin supple and exfoliated. Creating a facial or body scrub at home is an

inexpensive way to pamper yourself and take care of your skin. There are several recipes you can use to cater to your individual needs. Scrubs are great for all skin types and are amazing for summer skin. Keep your scrubs fresh in a sealed jar. These scrubs make a wonderful gift. Tie a festive ribbon around your container of choice to personalize your gift. Here are a few of my favorites!

Brown Sugar Scrub1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup sweet almond oil

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 tablespoon ground oatmeal

1 teaspoon nutmegLarge pinch of calendula petals

Citrus Scrub1 Tbsp. dried citrus peel of your choice,

chopped and finely ground in a food processor1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 tsp. pure honey1/4 cup vitamin E oil

2 Tbsp. cornmeal

Simply mix ingredients together until blended to create your scrub of choice. Gently rub the mixture on your skin in a circular motion for one to two minutes. Rinse off in warm water and follow up with your favorite moisturizer to lock in moisture.

Image by africa / FreeDigitalPhotos.netmanostphoto / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Paul / FreeDigitalPhotos.net


Indulge your favorite pregnant mama (Yes, even if that’s you!) with dreamy products

now until after the baby arrives. This collection includes Belly Balm, Mama Massage Oil, Labor Massage Oil, Small Lavender Sugar Scrub, Postpartum Herbs, Relaxing Essential Oil Blend, and Healing Lip Balm. Can be found at http://www.lusaorganics.com

Earth Friendly Beauty Products

By Lorianne S. Riley

Quickly calm and help heal superficial cuts, grazes and irritation with this lightweight

gel. Perfect for all skin types, the fast-absorbing formula especially helps calm and aid blemish prone skin. It rescues skin with native New Zealand ingredients that nourish, calm and heal with manuka oil and manuka honey. Available in two sizes. Has a light earthy and green tea scent. Can be found atwww.saffronrouge.com

Powerful enough to give your hair hold, but gentle enough to leave it silky, shiny

and flexible, this USDA Certified Organic spray gets its staying power from natural acacia gum. The all-natural formula contains none of the harmful petrochemicals found in most hair sprays that get released into the air, coating your lungs with toxic ingredients. Bergamot, aloe vera and the antioxidant-rich Intellimune Seed Oil Complex help keep hair healthy-looking and soft. It has a light scent and is safe for color-treated hair. Can be found atwww.saffronrouge.com

Mineral Radiance Crème Powder Foundation:

This long-wearing, lightweight 2-in-1 cream-to-powder foundation provides buildable, effortless coverage. Glides on smoothly with a creamy feel and sets to a luminous, powdery finish. The nutrient-rich formula helps soothe redness and keeps skin hydrated and supple. Oil-free. Non-caking. Suitable for all skin types; ideal for combination skin or those with rosacea. Can be found at www.elementsbybeaute.com/store

Earth Friendly Products

Happy Aging Face Cleanser and body wash contains natural vitamins,

anti-oxidants, and other skin-nourishing substances that are particularly beneficial for aging skin. The product is formulated without the use of soaps and detergents and is therefore very mild that works with the skin’s natural self-cleansing processes to keep skin clear, smooth, and supple. Can be found at www.eco-beauty.com


Live The Lifestyle of... Sustainable Wishes... and Organic Dreams... @ www.elementsbybeaute.com/store

Coming Soonto a webstore accessible to you!

Coming Soonto a webstore accessible to you!

skincare . house goods . candles . bedding . jewelry . bedding . haircare . art . clothing . nailcareskincare . house goods . candles . bedding . jewelry . bedding . haircare . art . clothing . nailcare


Eco Toys For Boys

By Lorianne S. Riley

Gearhead

An Affordable Electric Vehicle? The $30K ZAP Alias

Dodge Zeo Goes 250 Miles On One Charge

Be Seen And Be Green With Puma’s Glow In

The Dark Bike


Electric TractorBy Steven Lemos

I met with Richard Roth around November of last year, in an inquiry to an ad to build an electric tractor; I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. His friend David Grau

(who is still a very active participant in the project) had bought the tractor we are working on, without letting it slip to Richard, who most likely would have been overwhelmed with excitement; which in fact he was, upon setting eyes on the tractor. We talked, went over initial ideas and I made notes about what he wanted and what he did not. Around January I had

a list of parts to order for the tractor, which I would order from www.EVAmerica.com, and by January 15, 2011, the parts showed up and build had started. Things progressed slower than Richard or I had hoped, I am/was attending my final Junior year of Mechanical Engineering at CSUC, and I was very busy with school as well as building the electric tractor. The working situation did not help as I did not have that much room to work with, and basically no tools besides the mechanics set I had already owned.

Gearhead


The actual project consisted of removing all the internal combustion parts from the tractor and determining what we needed to

keep or modify to make everything work. We started with laying out the general location of everything and did measurements to make sure everything would fit. Richard’s friend, Rafael, did much of the welding of the frame

for the battery box. Another friend, David, helped out immensely with the machining of certain parts, as well as allowing access to his machine shop for various jobs. As of now, the tractor is running and I am driving it everyday to break in the batteries for their intended use. We finished up some of the last details, like a hydraulic pump to power the attachments, and

we showed the tractor on May 8, 2011.

The tractor’s main purpose is for organic farming where you do not want any chemicals that can drop on your plants while you are doing

work (gas, oil, etc.). Ideally, I would like to hook it up to a solar panel for power; that way we are truly being “green” instead of relying on the power grid, but that is more of a future project than primary concern.

For pictures and a little more information on each sub division of the tractor visit http://www.evtractor.blogspot.com/

Electric Tractor

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