E-Newsletter #14
Did you grow vegetable garden this year?
Would you like to learn more about organic gardening?
Learn how you can grow your own food - right here in Park Ridge!
The Park Ridge Garden Club will be hosting a presentation and book signing on
October 9, 2014
7:45 pm
Park Ridge Senior Center
100 S Western Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Don't miss Jeanne Pinsof Nolan's Book Talk and Signing.
"From the Ground Up: A Food Grower's Education in Life,
Love and the Movement That's Changing the Nation."
This is an engaging blend of how-to, manifesto and memoir.
Nolan shows us that it has never been easier to grow the
vegetables we eat. It would be a great gift for many
this holiday season. GGPR highly recommends it!
Would you like to learn more about organic gardening?
Learn how you can grow your own food - right here in Park Ridge!
The Park Ridge Garden Club will be hosting a presentation and book signing on
October 9, 2014
7:45 pm
Park Ridge Senior Center
100 S Western Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
Don't miss Jeanne Pinsof Nolan's Book Talk and Signing.
"From the Ground Up: A Food Grower's Education in Life,
Love and the Movement That's Changing the Nation."
This is an engaging blend of how-to, manifesto and memoir.
Nolan shows us that it has never been easier to grow the
vegetables we eat. It would be a great gift for many
this holiday season. GGPR highly recommends it!
e-newsletter #13
Go Green Park Ridge wishes everyone a happy and safe Mother's Day this weekend.
For the Go Green Park Ridge members and E- News recipients that are interested in making our town safe and healthy for everyone, please read on and ACT.
See how you can support, encourage, and ask.....Love Where You Live!
Our future Youth Campus park, soon to be provided by the Park Ridge Park District, offers a unique opportunity to implement natural lawn care practices from the very beginning to create the safest park possible for your family, your pets, and the environment. A sure gift to Mother Earth!
ASK OUR PARK RIDGE PARK DISTRICT TO MAINTAIN FIELDS AND PARK LANDS IN THE SAFEST WAY POSSIBLE!
Copy and Paste:
I support the Go Green Park Ridge effort to eliminate the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers whenever possible. I am encouraging the Park Ridge Park District to adopt a natural lawn care policy. I am asking the Park Ridge Park District to stop using Confront, an herbicide labeled by the US EPA as Level 1 acute toxicity, which is the EPA's most toxic rating.
Here's who to contact:
Mel Thillens, President
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Jim O'Brien, Vice President
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Mary Wynn Ryan, Secretary
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Jim Phillips, Treasurer
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Park District Phone #
847-692-5127
For the Go Green Park Ridge members and E- News recipients that are interested in making our town safe and healthy for everyone, please read on and ACT.
See how you can support, encourage, and ask.....Love Where You Live!
Our future Youth Campus park, soon to be provided by the Park Ridge Park District, offers a unique opportunity to implement natural lawn care practices from the very beginning to create the safest park possible for your family, your pets, and the environment. A sure gift to Mother Earth!
ASK OUR PARK RIDGE PARK DISTRICT TO MAINTAIN FIELDS AND PARK LANDS IN THE SAFEST WAY POSSIBLE!
Copy and Paste:
I support the Go Green Park Ridge effort to eliminate the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers whenever possible. I am encouraging the Park Ridge Park District to adopt a natural lawn care policy. I am asking the Park Ridge Park District to stop using Confront, an herbicide labeled by the US EPA as Level 1 acute toxicity, which is the EPA's most toxic rating.
Here's who to contact:
Mel Thillens, President
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Jim O'Brien, Vice President
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Mary Wynn Ryan, Secretary
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Jim Phillips, Treasurer
Park Board Commissioner
[email protected]
Park District Phone #
847-692-5127
e-newsletter #12
Go Green Park Ridge:
Please see the three offerings below bringing sustainability efforts to our town!
Also, please take part in
STYROFOAM COLLECTION
Maine Park Earth Day Celebration
11am - 3pm
White Block Styrofoam Only!
Packing Peanuts can be dropped off at UPS store on Northwest Highway at any time!
Join our very own Park Ridge Wildwood Nature Center for:
Earth Hour 2014
When: THIS Saturday, March 29, 2014, 8:30pm-9:30pm
Where: Anywhere
Join Wildwood Nature Center and millions of people around the world in switching lights off for one hour to help raise environmental and conservation awareness! Earth Hour is a global effort uniting people to protect the planet. By asking individuals, cities, landmarks and businesses to turn their non-essential lights off for one hour and commit to reducing their environmental impact, we are showing everyone that the world's environmental issues don't have to overwhelm us. Small things we do every day can make a difference!
Gather a group of friends, kids or community members and make it fun!
Try some of these Ideas:
* Candle-lit dinner
* Candle-lit game night
* Nighttime city walk
* Candle-lit yoga or exercise
https://worldwildlife.org/pages/earth-hour
Also, for those in the community that are supportive of our alternative lawn care initiative, please check out:
http://midwestpesticideaction.org/
Pesticide-Free Zone sign for $12 and display it in your yard.
Be a model for your community and show your neighbors that pesticide-free lawns and gardens are important for the health of children, families, pets, the environment and the community. At eight inches (8″) in diameter, these aluminum enameled signs will not rust and will retain their bright colors for years!
Each sign you purchase comes with our own Natural Lawn Care fact sheets on how to maintain your pesticide-free landscape and spread the word about the benefits of pesticide-free spaces.
Lastly, Check out the Friends of the Parks website where you can find details about the
100 Trees for 100 Years and
Pedals for the Parks (Bike and Trike Exchange)!
http://www.prfriendsoftheparks.org/
Please see the three offerings below bringing sustainability efforts to our town!
Also, please take part in
STYROFOAM COLLECTION
Maine Park Earth Day Celebration
11am - 3pm
White Block Styrofoam Only!
Packing Peanuts can be dropped off at UPS store on Northwest Highway at any time!
Join our very own Park Ridge Wildwood Nature Center for:
Earth Hour 2014
When: THIS Saturday, March 29, 2014, 8:30pm-9:30pm
Where: Anywhere
Join Wildwood Nature Center and millions of people around the world in switching lights off for one hour to help raise environmental and conservation awareness! Earth Hour is a global effort uniting people to protect the planet. By asking individuals, cities, landmarks and businesses to turn their non-essential lights off for one hour and commit to reducing their environmental impact, we are showing everyone that the world's environmental issues don't have to overwhelm us. Small things we do every day can make a difference!
Gather a group of friends, kids or community members and make it fun!
Try some of these Ideas:
* Candle-lit dinner
* Candle-lit game night
* Nighttime city walk
* Candle-lit yoga or exercise
https://worldwildlife.org/pages/earth-hour
Also, for those in the community that are supportive of our alternative lawn care initiative, please check out:
http://midwestpesticideaction.org/
Pesticide-Free Zone sign for $12 and display it in your yard.
Be a model for your community and show your neighbors that pesticide-free lawns and gardens are important for the health of children, families, pets, the environment and the community. At eight inches (8″) in diameter, these aluminum enameled signs will not rust and will retain their bright colors for years!
Each sign you purchase comes with our own Natural Lawn Care fact sheets on how to maintain your pesticide-free landscape and spread the word about the benefits of pesticide-free spaces.
Lastly, Check out the Friends of the Parks website where you can find details about the
100 Trees for 100 Years and
Pedals for the Parks (Bike and Trike Exchange)!
http://www.prfriendsoftheparks.org/
e-newsletter #11
Go Green Park Ridge:
Please remember that our Aldermen work daily to improve the quality of
life throughout our town and they want to hear from us about how to do it better.
Our Aldermen are the closest point of contact between our community and the city government. Our Voices Count!
Please:
1) determine your Alderman based on your ward
2) read the form letter below
3) copy and paste the letter in an email
4) remember to address and sign the letter
We are requesting that our city consider future sustainable flooding solutions for our town.
1st Ward: Joe Sweeney [email protected]
2nd Ward: Nick Milissis [email protected]
3rd Ward: Jim Smith [email protected]
4th Ward: Roger Shubert [email protected]
5th Ward: Daniel Knight [email protected]
6th Ward: Marc Mazzuca [email protected]
7th Ward: Marty Maloney [email protected]
The letter to copy and paste is under the tab: Letters to the Aldermen on this website!
Please remember that our Aldermen work daily to improve the quality of
life throughout our town and they want to hear from us about how to do it better.
Our Aldermen are the closest point of contact between our community and the city government. Our Voices Count!
Please:
1) determine your Alderman based on your ward
2) read the form letter below
3) copy and paste the letter in an email
4) remember to address and sign the letter
We are requesting that our city consider future sustainable flooding solutions for our town.
1st Ward: Joe Sweeney [email protected]
2nd Ward: Nick Milissis [email protected]
3rd Ward: Jim Smith [email protected]
4th Ward: Roger Shubert [email protected]
5th Ward: Daniel Knight [email protected]
6th Ward: Marc Mazzuca [email protected]
7th Ward: Marty Maloney [email protected]
The letter to copy and paste is under the tab: Letters to the Aldermen on this website!
E-newsletter #10
Hello Community of Go Green Park Ridge!
The topic of storm water management and flooding is never an easy one. Because of the widespread flooding in the Northwest Suburbs and Chicagoland area, many residents and city officials are frustrated finding solutions that serve the needs of the people and homes that are affected. Towns like Park Ridge are being faced with financial decisions to tackle storm water management and flooding issues in this time of increased climate change.
Go Green Park Ridge wants to make everyone aware that there are proposals being considered by the City of Park Ridge that include major flood relief projects in our town. Voting related to these proposals is set to occur during a special City Council meeting on March 8, 2014 at 9am. The city needs to gain the Park District's approval for one of the major proposed projects at Northwest Park. The city will also be voting on the possibility of an inter-governmental agreement with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District for another proposed project: the Mayfield Estates project.
Go Green Park Ridge encourages you to get informed about the matter of flooding in our town and attend the March 8th meeting. The city will be pursuing any and all funding avenues for these projects and any projects thereafter.
Here is a link to the study from our city's website under Flood Information:
http://www.parkridge.us/assets/1/Documents/Feasibility%20Studyddn.pdf
Pages 6 and 7 of The State of the City Address describe Mayor Schmidt's explanation of the issues at hand:
http://www.parkridge.us/assets/1/News/02172014STATE%20OF%20THE%20CITY%20ADDRESS.pdf
The city plans to eventually work towards a Comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan for Park Ridge that will lay out a roadmap of how to address water problems into the future. Please consider being an advocate for the earth and have your voices heard in future conversations that promote sustainability for our town. Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water and create healthier urban environments. Please take a look at this green infrastructure link from the EPA for future reference:
http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/gi_what.cfm
As always, feel free to forward this email to friends and neighbors who may be interested in learning more about the March 8th vote.
Thank you!
The topic of storm water management and flooding is never an easy one. Because of the widespread flooding in the Northwest Suburbs and Chicagoland area, many residents and city officials are frustrated finding solutions that serve the needs of the people and homes that are affected. Towns like Park Ridge are being faced with financial decisions to tackle storm water management and flooding issues in this time of increased climate change.
Go Green Park Ridge wants to make everyone aware that there are proposals being considered by the City of Park Ridge that include major flood relief projects in our town. Voting related to these proposals is set to occur during a special City Council meeting on March 8, 2014 at 9am. The city needs to gain the Park District's approval for one of the major proposed projects at Northwest Park. The city will also be voting on the possibility of an inter-governmental agreement with Metropolitan Water Reclamation District for another proposed project: the Mayfield Estates project.
Go Green Park Ridge encourages you to get informed about the matter of flooding in our town and attend the March 8th meeting. The city will be pursuing any and all funding avenues for these projects and any projects thereafter.
Here is a link to the study from our city's website under Flood Information:
http://www.parkridge.us/assets/1/Documents/Feasibility%20Studyddn.pdf
Pages 6 and 7 of The State of the City Address describe Mayor Schmidt's explanation of the issues at hand:
http://www.parkridge.us/assets/1/News/02172014STATE%20OF%20THE%20CITY%20ADDRESS.pdf
The city plans to eventually work towards a Comprehensive Stormwater Management Plan for Park Ridge that will lay out a roadmap of how to address water problems into the future. Please consider being an advocate for the earth and have your voices heard in future conversations that promote sustainability for our town. Green infrastructure uses vegetation, soils, and natural processes to manage water and create healthier urban environments. Please take a look at this green infrastructure link from the EPA for future reference:
http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/greeninfrastructure/gi_what.cfm
As always, feel free to forward this email to friends and neighbors who may be interested in learning more about the March 8th vote.
Thank you!
E-Newsletter #9
Hello Go Green Park Ridge:
Brrrrr....Amidst all the rain, snow, and ice these past few months, it is hard to believe that the
World Experienced The 4th Warmest January On Record
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/20/warmest-january-world-record_n_4823713.html?&ncid=tweetlnkushpmg00000048
Whether or not you believe the earth is warming, or you believe the earth is cooling, we can all agree that our community can make more sustainable choices.
The Park Ridge Library will be showing the documentary Chasing Ice this April. Acclaimed environmental photographer James Balog headed to Greenland, Iceland and Alaska in order to capture images that help convey the effects of recent climate change activity. Balog was initially skeptical about climate change when the issue entered scientific discussion, but after his first trip north, he becomes convinced of the impact that humans are making on the planet and becomes committed to bringing the story to the public.
Plan to see: CHASING ICE on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22 at 7 p.m.
Here is a link to the trailer for your information.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIZTMVNBjc4
If you are thinking ahead to SPRING and your 2014 gardening tasks are being formulated, here are a few links to articles and information you may be interested in on pesticides and sustainable, eco-friendly spaces:
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/20/pesticide-exposure-parkinsons-disease.aspx
http://m.thesouthern.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/gardening-trends-for-for-sustainable-eco-friendly-spaces/article_3e2f5880-84b9-11e3-9ba5-001a4bcf887a.html?mobile_touch=true
Come see us!
Maine Park Earth Day Celebration
May 3rd
11 - 3pm
Attention All Tree Lovers: Help celebrate the Park District's 100th Anniversary and invest in a lasting legacy by purchasing a tree! The parks are home to a variety of specimens of trees planted long ago. The goal is to plant 100 new trees to replenish those lost to age or disease, and continue the mission to support conservation and the environment. The Park District is joined by the Park Ridge Friends of the Parks Foundation to bring this important initiative.
This is your opportunity to honor a friend, family member or organization, as well as memorialize a loved one. Click here to download the "100 Trees for 100 Years" form. You may return your form with payment to any of the Park District facilities. In appreciation of your donation, you will be recognized on the Donor Tree for your generosity.
P.S. Attention All Butterfly Lovers: You are invited to attend a PowerPoint/video presentation titled "Raising Monarchs and Other Backyard Butterflies" at the Park Ridge Public Library Thursday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m. Call the library at 847-825-3123 to register for this free program. Come welcome spring with local author, Sue Fox McGovern!
Click link for article:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/park_ridge_niles/community/chi-ugc-article-butterfly-talk-set-at-park-ridge-public-libra-2014-02-08,0,2182546.story
As always, please forward this email to interested friends and neighbors. Have them check out & get signed up for the e-news:
www.gogreenparkridge.org
Or follow on twitter
@greenparkridge
Brrrrr....Amidst all the rain, snow, and ice these past few months, it is hard to believe that the
World Experienced The 4th Warmest January On Record
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/20/warmest-january-world-record_n_4823713.html?&ncid=tweetlnkushpmg00000048
Whether or not you believe the earth is warming, or you believe the earth is cooling, we can all agree that our community can make more sustainable choices.
The Park Ridge Library will be showing the documentary Chasing Ice this April. Acclaimed environmental photographer James Balog headed to Greenland, Iceland and Alaska in order to capture images that help convey the effects of recent climate change activity. Balog was initially skeptical about climate change when the issue entered scientific discussion, but after his first trip north, he becomes convinced of the impact that humans are making on the planet and becomes committed to bringing the story to the public.
Plan to see: CHASING ICE on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22 at 7 p.m.
Here is a link to the trailer for your information.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIZTMVNBjc4
If you are thinking ahead to SPRING and your 2014 gardening tasks are being formulated, here are a few links to articles and information you may be interested in on pesticides and sustainable, eco-friendly spaces:
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/20/pesticide-exposure-parkinsons-disease.aspx
http://m.thesouthern.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/gardening-trends-for-for-sustainable-eco-friendly-spaces/article_3e2f5880-84b9-11e3-9ba5-001a4bcf887a.html?mobile_touch=true
Come see us!
Maine Park Earth Day Celebration
May 3rd
11 - 3pm
Attention All Tree Lovers: Help celebrate the Park District's 100th Anniversary and invest in a lasting legacy by purchasing a tree! The parks are home to a variety of specimens of trees planted long ago. The goal is to plant 100 new trees to replenish those lost to age or disease, and continue the mission to support conservation and the environment. The Park District is joined by the Park Ridge Friends of the Parks Foundation to bring this important initiative.
This is your opportunity to honor a friend, family member or organization, as well as memorialize a loved one. Click here to download the "100 Trees for 100 Years" form. You may return your form with payment to any of the Park District facilities. In appreciation of your donation, you will be recognized on the Donor Tree for your generosity.
P.S. Attention All Butterfly Lovers: You are invited to attend a PowerPoint/video presentation titled "Raising Monarchs and Other Backyard Butterflies" at the Park Ridge Public Library Thursday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m. Call the library at 847-825-3123 to register for this free program. Come welcome spring with local author, Sue Fox McGovern!
Click link for article:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/park_ridge_niles/community/chi-ugc-article-butterfly-talk-set-at-park-ridge-public-libra-2014-02-08,0,2182546.story
As always, please forward this email to interested friends and neighbors. Have them check out & get signed up for the e-news:
www.gogreenparkridge.org
Or follow on twitter
@greenparkridge
E-Newsletter #8
Hello Park Ridge!
There are only a few new items to communicate. As always, please provide feedback and questions in regards to Sustainability in Park Ridge.
For those who are interested in an INDOOR farmers market, you are IN luck! There is one in Park Ridge this Saturday!
Details:
Farmers Market
St Luke's Lutheran Church
205 N. Prospect
from 9 am - 1 pm
It is sponsored by Faith in Place
http://www.faithinplace.org/events.php?ID=418
Mark Your Calendars!
Go Green Wilmette has some great offerings and a new website. The website has an event calendar that offers area GREEN EVENTS.
Go Green Park Ridge would love to utilize this calendar for green events in our future.
The website is really worth a look! The website is FULL of ideas for greening your home, etc. (Check out the tab What Can I Do?)
GGW has worked very hard, and it shows!
Their big event is called Going Green Matters, held every March.
THIS YEAR THE THEME IS WATER: there will be an area called "Talk It Up"
See Below!
TALK IT UP 2014: CONVERSATIONS ABOUT WATER.*
Building on the great conversations with policymakers last year at Going Green Matters, Go Green Wilmette has once again set aside space for open discussions. Come, talk to other policymakers, experts, and interested fair-goers about water problems and potential solutions here in Wilmette and neighboring communities. Then stay and spend time enjoying the fair.
* Stormwater flooding - What steps can residents and our Engineering & Public Works Departments take to minimize the risk of flooding during our frequent, intense storms? How can we best utilize our parkland, residential, and municipal space to slow the flow of stormwater and reduce the volume that passes through our municipal sewer system?
Please consider attending this fair on March 9th from 1 - 5pm
It is family friendly and offers many opportunities to learn about and raise environmental awareness in our communities.
Here is a link to Go Green Wilmette
http://www.gogreenwilmette.org/
Here is a link to Going Green Matters
http://www.goinggreenmatters.org/
Calling all offices, schools, and homes!
Rexam holds a Recycling Drive to help the environment and support the community!
Earn $$$ for your aluminum beverage cans!
See attachment and start saving cans NOW!
There are only a few new items to communicate. As always, please provide feedback and questions in regards to Sustainability in Park Ridge.
For those who are interested in an INDOOR farmers market, you are IN luck! There is one in Park Ridge this Saturday!
Details:
Farmers Market
St Luke's Lutheran Church
205 N. Prospect
from 9 am - 1 pm
It is sponsored by Faith in Place
http://www.faithinplace.org/events.php?ID=418
Mark Your Calendars!
Go Green Wilmette has some great offerings and a new website. The website has an event calendar that offers area GREEN EVENTS.
Go Green Park Ridge would love to utilize this calendar for green events in our future.
The website is really worth a look! The website is FULL of ideas for greening your home, etc. (Check out the tab What Can I Do?)
GGW has worked very hard, and it shows!
Their big event is called Going Green Matters, held every March.
THIS YEAR THE THEME IS WATER: there will be an area called "Talk It Up"
See Below!
TALK IT UP 2014: CONVERSATIONS ABOUT WATER.*
Building on the great conversations with policymakers last year at Going Green Matters, Go Green Wilmette has once again set aside space for open discussions. Come, talk to other policymakers, experts, and interested fair-goers about water problems and potential solutions here in Wilmette and neighboring communities. Then stay and spend time enjoying the fair.
* Stormwater flooding - What steps can residents and our Engineering & Public Works Departments take to minimize the risk of flooding during our frequent, intense storms? How can we best utilize our parkland, residential, and municipal space to slow the flow of stormwater and reduce the volume that passes through our municipal sewer system?
Please consider attending this fair on March 9th from 1 - 5pm
It is family friendly and offers many opportunities to learn about and raise environmental awareness in our communities.
Here is a link to Go Green Wilmette
http://www.gogreenwilmette.org/
Here is a link to Going Green Matters
http://www.goinggreenmatters.org/
Calling all offices, schools, and homes!
Rexam holds a Recycling Drive to help the environment and support the community!
Earn $$$ for your aluminum beverage cans!
See attachment and start saving cans NOW!
e-newsletter #7
A Holiday Greeting from Go Green Park Ridge - December 2013
GREEN is many things: it is respect for the Earth and our place on it. It's a sense of wonder for the world around us. It's realizing that everything is connected. It's saying no to the status quo and yes to creating possibilities. It's giving our children's children something to work with. It's reverance for life. It is preserving and protecting what cannot be replaced. It's enjoying the world gently and living with good intention. GREEN is a thousand conscious choices every day. It's not just a philosophy, it's a commitment and a away of life. It is being part of the solution. It's getting more out of life but taking less. It's pulling together with our community, our country, and our world. It's knowing that the countless little things you do today will matter tomorrow. GREEN is rising to the occasion. It is facing the big challenges with even bigger ideas. It is turning "What if...?" into "We will..." It is sustainability and caring about a future world you may never see. It is knowing in your heart that what you do does make a difference. It is hope, it is action, it is positive change. GREEN is caring about the world we live in - not just for today, but for tomorrow. It's looking at the future with fresh eyes, an open mind and a willing heart. It's thoroughly analyzing the way we've always done things and finding better ways of doing them/ It is spirited debate and concerted action. It's standing up for what's right and setting a good example. It's quite possibly our last opportunity to restore the world and remake the future.
From ONE: Life By Number Series
The 1 Book (live-inspired.com)
GREEN is many things: it is respect for the Earth and our place on it. It's a sense of wonder for the world around us. It's realizing that everything is connected. It's saying no to the status quo and yes to creating possibilities. It's giving our children's children something to work with. It's reverance for life. It is preserving and protecting what cannot be replaced. It's enjoying the world gently and living with good intention. GREEN is a thousand conscious choices every day. It's not just a philosophy, it's a commitment and a away of life. It is being part of the solution. It's getting more out of life but taking less. It's pulling together with our community, our country, and our world. It's knowing that the countless little things you do today will matter tomorrow. GREEN is rising to the occasion. It is facing the big challenges with even bigger ideas. It is turning "What if...?" into "We will..." It is sustainability and caring about a future world you may never see. It is knowing in your heart that what you do does make a difference. It is hope, it is action, it is positive change. GREEN is caring about the world we live in - not just for today, but for tomorrow. It's looking at the future with fresh eyes, an open mind and a willing heart. It's thoroughly analyzing the way we've always done things and finding better ways of doing them/ It is spirited debate and concerted action. It's standing up for what's right and setting a good example. It's quite possibly our last opportunity to restore the world and remake the future.
From ONE: Life By Number Series
The 1 Book (live-inspired.com)
December Newsletter Update to members
Hello Go Green Park Ridge!
Here is a recent update about one of our subcommittees that has been hard at work:
On November 21, 2013 a subcommittee of Go Green Park Ridge attended the Park Ridge Park Board meeting. This subcommittee formed in order to raise awareness in our town in regards to Sustainable Lawn Care. In an effort to introduce ourselves and our mission, we started conversations and the Youth Campus project became the focus of our intentions. The Park District is currently experiencing zoning issues in regards to the space and is dealing with logistics under the City's requirements. However, Go Green Park Ridge still recommended that that Park District highly consider the Youth Campus project being maintained with sustainable practices in mind and commented that the health and well being of our town is first and foremost. On this evening, the Park District shared details with Go Green Park Ridge about the products that are currently being used on park spaces in Park Ridge and how often they are being applied. Additionally, the Maine East Lyceum was in attendance and gave a proposal that explained their recently approved service project. The name of their project is“Generation Green,” and their mission statement is, “to encourage a community wide effort in creating a sustainable, healthy, and eco-friendly environment.”
Notes can be easily emailed to any members in regards to both of these presentations upon request.
For more information about an organization that recognizes the problem with pesticides, please see Midwest Pesticide Action Center:
http://midwestpesticideaction.org/
To sign up for their informational newsletter:
http://midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&id=345915055b
Lastly, please help communicate efforts about the Styrofoam Collection that runs from December 18th through January 8th at Public Works. (See & post attachment if possible)
Thanks! Hope everyone enjoys this season of hope for our earth and a very Happy New Year!
Here is a recent update about one of our subcommittees that has been hard at work:
On November 21, 2013 a subcommittee of Go Green Park Ridge attended the Park Ridge Park Board meeting. This subcommittee formed in order to raise awareness in our town in regards to Sustainable Lawn Care. In an effort to introduce ourselves and our mission, we started conversations and the Youth Campus project became the focus of our intentions. The Park District is currently experiencing zoning issues in regards to the space and is dealing with logistics under the City's requirements. However, Go Green Park Ridge still recommended that that Park District highly consider the Youth Campus project being maintained with sustainable practices in mind and commented that the health and well being of our town is first and foremost. On this evening, the Park District shared details with Go Green Park Ridge about the products that are currently being used on park spaces in Park Ridge and how often they are being applied. Additionally, the Maine East Lyceum was in attendance and gave a proposal that explained their recently approved service project. The name of their project is“Generation Green,” and their mission statement is, “to encourage a community wide effort in creating a sustainable, healthy, and eco-friendly environment.”
Notes can be easily emailed to any members in regards to both of these presentations upon request.
For more information about an organization that recognizes the problem with pesticides, please see Midwest Pesticide Action Center:
http://midwestpesticideaction.org/
To sign up for their informational newsletter:
http://midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&id=345915055b
Lastly, please help communicate efforts about the Styrofoam Collection that runs from December 18th through January 8th at Public Works. (See & post attachment if possible)
Thanks! Hope everyone enjoys this season of hope for our earth and a very Happy New Year!
E-Newsletter #6
Do One Thing (DOT)
This holiday season promises to be a special one! In order to make this holiday season the best ever, why not make this season a season with a DOT.
Do One Thing: This little slogan means just that, DO ONE THING. But, it doesn’t mean to choose something to do and do it only once. Make this season a DOT season and pick something to do that makes this planet a better place to live - and do it well. Pick something to do that helps both the earth and all people living on it. Make your DOT stick!
Here are some ideas for your DOT:
1) Reuseable Tumblers – you have them, now think of using them! Not just once, but each time you get a drink on the go. Instead of buying a coffee, tea, or soda at a restaurant and depositing the paper cup, straw, and sleeve into the trash, why not make this planet a better place to live and remember your DOT. Bring your own reuseable tumblers when getting hot and cold drinks on the go!
2) Reuseable Bags – you have them, now remember to use them! Not just once, but each time you head to the store. Instead of getting plastic bags for your items, remember your DOT and grab that reuseable bag for your groceries, retail, and supplies.
3) Wrapping Gifts – you have gifts to give, just think of your DOT and choose an alternate medium for wrapping them: you may use artwork from school, a hand towel, newspaper, fabric, etc. At the very least, grab a gift bag that you have already used and insert your item. This DOT would be exceptionally green if you did away with wrapping paper altogether. Think about how pretty a large reuseable bow might be on that gift and/or colored raffia which is both recyclable and biodegradable.
4) Remember the 5 W’s when shopping: Don’t only think of Who the items are for, try to remember Who made the item, What they used to make it, Where the item was made as well as Where it will go when someone is done with it, When the item was made, and Why and How your purchase can make an impact. Every dollar you spend is a vote for a company; telling them, make more of this, I like it!. Try to come up with a better understanding of fair trade, for the sake of the people who spend time making beautiful items as well as for the sake of the same people who are trying to live a better life because of your purchase. Get connected with items you plan to purchase this holiday season and make great decisions. Don’t just do it once, think of making an effort to consistently support Fair Trade. Be Inspired. Leave your DOT on this earth (at least it’s not a footprint!).
5) Give the Gift of Non-Toxic: Proudly choose gifts made from natural materials such as wood, bamboo, stainless steel, and organic cotton for this last DOT of the season. Non-toxic gifts tell your loved ones you care about them and this planet we all live on. Checking labels on clothing, toys, food, cosmetics, and more can really raise your awareness. Make this DOT count because aren’t we all worth it?
As the Lorax once said, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.”
Be smart. Be green. Be joyful.
DOT (Do One Thing) and make it count for life!
This holiday season promises to be a special one! In order to make this holiday season the best ever, why not make this season a season with a DOT.
Do One Thing: This little slogan means just that, DO ONE THING. But, it doesn’t mean to choose something to do and do it only once. Make this season a DOT season and pick something to do that makes this planet a better place to live - and do it well. Pick something to do that helps both the earth and all people living on it. Make your DOT stick!
Here are some ideas for your DOT:
1) Reuseable Tumblers – you have them, now think of using them! Not just once, but each time you get a drink on the go. Instead of buying a coffee, tea, or soda at a restaurant and depositing the paper cup, straw, and sleeve into the trash, why not make this planet a better place to live and remember your DOT. Bring your own reuseable tumblers when getting hot and cold drinks on the go!
2) Reuseable Bags – you have them, now remember to use them! Not just once, but each time you head to the store. Instead of getting plastic bags for your items, remember your DOT and grab that reuseable bag for your groceries, retail, and supplies.
3) Wrapping Gifts – you have gifts to give, just think of your DOT and choose an alternate medium for wrapping them: you may use artwork from school, a hand towel, newspaper, fabric, etc. At the very least, grab a gift bag that you have already used and insert your item. This DOT would be exceptionally green if you did away with wrapping paper altogether. Think about how pretty a large reuseable bow might be on that gift and/or colored raffia which is both recyclable and biodegradable.
4) Remember the 5 W’s when shopping: Don’t only think of Who the items are for, try to remember Who made the item, What they used to make it, Where the item was made as well as Where it will go when someone is done with it, When the item was made, and Why and How your purchase can make an impact. Every dollar you spend is a vote for a company; telling them, make more of this, I like it!. Try to come up with a better understanding of fair trade, for the sake of the people who spend time making beautiful items as well as for the sake of the same people who are trying to live a better life because of your purchase. Get connected with items you plan to purchase this holiday season and make great decisions. Don’t just do it once, think of making an effort to consistently support Fair Trade. Be Inspired. Leave your DOT on this earth (at least it’s not a footprint!).
5) Give the Gift of Non-Toxic: Proudly choose gifts made from natural materials such as wood, bamboo, stainless steel, and organic cotton for this last DOT of the season. Non-toxic gifts tell your loved ones you care about them and this planet we all live on. Checking labels on clothing, toys, food, cosmetics, and more can really raise your awareness. Make this DOT count because aren’t we all worth it?
As the Lorax once said, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.”
Be smart. Be green. Be joyful.
DOT (Do One Thing) and make it count for life!
e-newsletter #5
Go Green Park Ridge is looking into hosting a documentary this Spring. The documentary, A Chemical Reaction, produced by Paul Tukey, an international leader of the green movement, is an award winning film that tackles the dangers of yard pesticides. The film was created with the intent to eliminate the usage of harmful pesticides and other chemicals commonly used to treat and maintain lawns. The film highlights what is accepted as normal practice for lawn care as actually harmful to the environment, particularly families and pets.
If you are interested in helping our Park Ridge community raise awareness of this documentary and/or know of a business who would like to help sponsor this viewing, please contact us:
[email protected]
CHECK OUT the award winning visual guide and "how-to" videos here:
http://www.safelawns.org/blog/resources/how-to-videos/
"It does not matter whether you are a homeowner or not. If you have stepped on a lawn at any point in your life, you should be concerned at the effects of these pesticides and take the time to watch this documentary. It will open your eyes to an issue that most probably never even knew existed, but you will find yourself very concerned right after." A Movie Review/A Chemical Reaction Guest Blog
Fall and Winter are great seasons to read up on lawn care, reconsider your current lawn care practices, and get the facts straight about safe lawns.
If you are interested in helping our Park Ridge community raise awareness of this documentary and/or know of a business who would like to help sponsor this viewing, please contact us:
[email protected]
CHECK OUT the award winning visual guide and "how-to" videos here:
http://www.safelawns.org/blog/resources/how-to-videos/
"It does not matter whether you are a homeowner or not. If you have stepped on a lawn at any point in your life, you should be concerned at the effects of these pesticides and take the time to watch this documentary. It will open your eyes to an issue that most probably never even knew existed, but you will find yourself very concerned right after." A Movie Review/A Chemical Reaction Guest Blog
Fall and Winter are great seasons to read up on lawn care, reconsider your current lawn care practices, and get the facts straight about safe lawns.
e-newsletter #4
Hello and Happy Fall!
Go Green Park Ridge has had some busy conversations and meetings lately. We would like to provide some useful information to help us all lead more sustainable lives and achieve environmental successes in our town.
Most importantly to note is that we are proud that we are creating a platform for people to raise environmental concerns and offer feedback in our town. The city and the park district have reported hearing more input from residents and citizens that have not reflected sustainability and environmental stewardship as the focus. Go Green Park Ridge would like to garner more support for our future and be increasingly involved in and instrumental in making our town more eco-friendly. It is important that we spread the word about our list of newsletter and member recipients! Please help us by forwarding this email and/or having any like-minded friends or neighbors send an email to [email protected] so we can keep our energies focused on vision and progress for this town!
The group is making headway and is going to have two subcommittees formed. One subcommittee will be working on a possible recycling initiative for our Uptown area and the other committee will be pulling together an event for this April that supports our alternative lawncare initiative. If you are interested and able to serve on either of these subcommittees and/or would like to provide input, please let us know! Both projects are important steps for Go Green Park Ridge to live out its Mission Statement.
The mission of Go Green Park Ridge is to raise environmental awareness
in Park Ridge and to inspire people to take action to make a
difference.
We are making a commitment together to cut our community's carbon
footprint in a variety of ways.
The concept is that we are all in this together. Every step taken by
each person in our community is a step closer to making our
environment a cleaner, healthier place to live.
If your lawn care methods are currently sustainable, we encourage you to show our town that you care! One suggestion that has worked a wee bit on a small scale has been to post a sign that communicates to passers by that your lawn is safe! If you're interested in purchasing a metal sign from Midwest Pesticide Action Center, please see the link below.
http://www.spcpweb.org/factsheets/YardSignOrderForm.pdf
Again, our city & park district are asking for more proof that our town cares about sustainability. Actions can speak louder than words sometimes, so help us make a difference if you are making a difference on your own lawns! Go Green Park Ridge is open to suggestions as to how we can show our collective support for alternative lawncare in different ways.
Go Green Park Ridge has Junior Advisory positions available. If you know of teen(s) that are passionate about this town , the environment, and our future, please see the attachment for further info.
It was great getting out at the Farmers Market this past season. We are happy to have met many of you and look forward to future communications and possibly mini victories in the weeks and months ahead.
Go Green Park Ridge meets monthly on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Locations vary between St Mary's Episcopal Church on Prospect as well as our very own Park Ridge Pubic Library. Please let us know if you're interested in joining our enthusiastic, hard working group.
Go Green Park Ridge has had some busy conversations and meetings lately. We would like to provide some useful information to help us all lead more sustainable lives and achieve environmental successes in our town.
Most importantly to note is that we are proud that we are creating a platform for people to raise environmental concerns and offer feedback in our town. The city and the park district have reported hearing more input from residents and citizens that have not reflected sustainability and environmental stewardship as the focus. Go Green Park Ridge would like to garner more support for our future and be increasingly involved in and instrumental in making our town more eco-friendly. It is important that we spread the word about our list of newsletter and member recipients! Please help us by forwarding this email and/or having any like-minded friends or neighbors send an email to [email protected] so we can keep our energies focused on vision and progress for this town!
The group is making headway and is going to have two subcommittees formed. One subcommittee will be working on a possible recycling initiative for our Uptown area and the other committee will be pulling together an event for this April that supports our alternative lawncare initiative. If you are interested and able to serve on either of these subcommittees and/or would like to provide input, please let us know! Both projects are important steps for Go Green Park Ridge to live out its Mission Statement.
The mission of Go Green Park Ridge is to raise environmental awareness
in Park Ridge and to inspire people to take action to make a
difference.
We are making a commitment together to cut our community's carbon
footprint in a variety of ways.
The concept is that we are all in this together. Every step taken by
each person in our community is a step closer to making our
environment a cleaner, healthier place to live.
If your lawn care methods are currently sustainable, we encourage you to show our town that you care! One suggestion that has worked a wee bit on a small scale has been to post a sign that communicates to passers by that your lawn is safe! If you're interested in purchasing a metal sign from Midwest Pesticide Action Center, please see the link below.
http://www.spcpweb.org/factsheets/YardSignOrderForm.pdf
Again, our city & park district are asking for more proof that our town cares about sustainability. Actions can speak louder than words sometimes, so help us make a difference if you are making a difference on your own lawns! Go Green Park Ridge is open to suggestions as to how we can show our collective support for alternative lawncare in different ways.
Go Green Park Ridge has Junior Advisory positions available. If you know of teen(s) that are passionate about this town , the environment, and our future, please see the attachment for further info.
It was great getting out at the Farmers Market this past season. We are happy to have met many of you and look forward to future communications and possibly mini victories in the weeks and months ahead.
Go Green Park Ridge meets monthly on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Locations vary between St Mary's Episcopal Church on Prospect as well as our very own Park Ridge Pubic Library. Please let us know if you're interested in joining our enthusiastic, hard working group.
e-newsletter #3
Hello Go Green Park Ridge!
Our community is a member of the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), a non-profit intergovernmental agency comprised of 23 member communities. SWANCC provides residents with programs to recycle special materials; conducts waste and recycling education and outreach; and owns the Glenview Transfer Station, where waste is delivered before going to a landfill.
SWANCC is currently updating its Solid Waste Management Plan, to guide the Agency and members in future waste management practices. As part of this process, SWANCC is seeking input from elected officials, municipal staff, and the public. The Agency will host a series of meetings to discuss current community and Agency programs, satisfaction with existing services, and interest in future programs.(The three sessions will be an identical format – just at different locations.)
· Tuesday September 10, 2013, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Oakton Community College Skokie Campus (7701 North Lincoln Avenue, Skokie, IL 60077)
· Wednesday September 11, 2013, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Oakton Community College Des Plaines Campus (1600 East Golf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016)
· Thursday September 12, 2013, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Arlington Heights Village Hall Board Room (33 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005)
If you would like to keep up-to-date on the planning process, you can sign up for SWANCC’s Elist at www.swancc.org.
Please visit www.swancc.org or contact SWANCC at (847) 724-9205 for additional details.
The attachment will provide insight into what SWANCC is and what programs it currently offers! It offers so many helpful hints about sustainable living and is a very valuable resource to so many citizens already! Join their Elist today!
Our community is a member of the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), a non-profit intergovernmental agency comprised of 23 member communities. SWANCC provides residents with programs to recycle special materials; conducts waste and recycling education and outreach; and owns the Glenview Transfer Station, where waste is delivered before going to a landfill.
SWANCC is currently updating its Solid Waste Management Plan, to guide the Agency and members in future waste management practices. As part of this process, SWANCC is seeking input from elected officials, municipal staff, and the public. The Agency will host a series of meetings to discuss current community and Agency programs, satisfaction with existing services, and interest in future programs.(The three sessions will be an identical format – just at different locations.)
· Tuesday September 10, 2013, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Oakton Community College Skokie Campus (7701 North Lincoln Avenue, Skokie, IL 60077)
· Wednesday September 11, 2013, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Oakton Community College Des Plaines Campus (1600 East Golf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016)
· Thursday September 12, 2013, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Arlington Heights Village Hall Board Room (33 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005)
If you would like to keep up-to-date on the planning process, you can sign up for SWANCC’s Elist at www.swancc.org.
Please visit www.swancc.org or contact SWANCC at (847) 724-9205 for additional details.
The attachment will provide insight into what SWANCC is and what programs it currently offers! It offers so many helpful hints about sustainable living and is a very valuable resource to so many citizens already! Join their Elist today!
e-newsletter #2
Hello Park Ridge!
Here is the last of our summer series of E-News! because our focus has been raising awareness of Organic Lawncare, please be aware of the following News You Can Use! Go Green Park Ridge will be meeting at the Park Ridge Library (3rd floor) this Thursday at 6pm. There will be a documentary shown afterwards at 7pm called The City Dark: A search for dark on a planet that never sleeps!
News You Can Use
The following article highlights how many people are finding that "We don’t need dangerous chemicals that put the health of our families and environment at risk to have healthy lawns and gardens." Check it out!
http://greenactioncentre.ca/living-green-living-well/myth-busted-we-dont-need-pesticides/
You can check out the following "free" workshop if you are interested in learning more about composting at home:
Composting at Home
Free Workshop
Thur September 5
1:00-2:30pm
OR
7:00-8:30pm
Join us for a free food scrap and yard waste outdoor composting workshop. Learn step by step instruction for successful composting. See examples of backyard compost bins. Drawings for counter top food scrap collection containers for attendees. Save money and help the environment at the same time.
SCARCE
799 Roosevelt Road., Building 2, Suite 108
Glen Ellyn
The following infographic gives tips about how you can have a natural eco-friendly lawn without the need for synthetic products!
http://www.eco-mothering.com/2013/07/infographic-benefits-of-organic-lawn-care.html
Please open the attachment for more info on the
Electronics/Textile Recycling
hosted by our
Park Ridge Public Works department & Chamber of Commerce.
It will take place on October 19th from 9 am til Noon.
Please forward this email to interested Park Ridge residents to help Go Green Park Ridge GROW!
Ask them to request getting on our e-list for future newsletters and events.
Here is the last of our summer series of E-News! because our focus has been raising awareness of Organic Lawncare, please be aware of the following News You Can Use! Go Green Park Ridge will be meeting at the Park Ridge Library (3rd floor) this Thursday at 6pm. There will be a documentary shown afterwards at 7pm called The City Dark: A search for dark on a planet that never sleeps!
News You Can Use
The following article highlights how many people are finding that "We don’t need dangerous chemicals that put the health of our families and environment at risk to have healthy lawns and gardens." Check it out!
http://greenactioncentre.ca/living-green-living-well/myth-busted-we-dont-need-pesticides/
You can check out the following "free" workshop if you are interested in learning more about composting at home:
Composting at Home
Free Workshop
Thur September 5
1:00-2:30pm
OR
7:00-8:30pm
Join us for a free food scrap and yard waste outdoor composting workshop. Learn step by step instruction for successful composting. See examples of backyard compost bins. Drawings for counter top food scrap collection containers for attendees. Save money and help the environment at the same time.
SCARCE
799 Roosevelt Road., Building 2, Suite 108
Glen Ellyn
The following infographic gives tips about how you can have a natural eco-friendly lawn without the need for synthetic products!
http://www.eco-mothering.com/2013/07/infographic-benefits-of-organic-lawn-care.html
Please open the attachment for more info on the
Electronics/Textile Recycling
hosted by our
Park Ridge Public Works department & Chamber of Commerce.
It will take place on October 19th from 9 am til Noon.
Please forward this email to interested Park Ridge residents to help Go Green Park Ridge GROW!
Ask them to request getting on our e-list for future newsletters and events.
e-Newsletter #1
Hello Park Ridge!
Please read the following eco-friendly news and links to helpful environmental information for our town. If you have friends or neighbors that are also eco-curious, please forward this email to them! They can send us an email to get placed on the e-list for upcoming news & events!
[email protected]
Or you can follow us on twitter @greenparkridge!
Go Green Park Ridge plans to be at the Park Ridge Farmers Market the first Saturday of each month this summer. Members of the group will be available to promote organic lawncare techniques as well as answer questions you may have about our mission. The market is located at Prairie Avenue just south of the Metra Station.
Here is a link to download a guide that SWANCC (Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County) created. It gives very knowledgeable lawncare information as well as tips on how to get your lawns healthy & safe for your whole family to enjoy. It thoroughly educates citizens about alternate lawn care techniques for maintaining outdoor green spaces.
http://swancc.org/index.php/resources/eco-landscaping-guide
SWANCC is hosting composting workshops this summer. Check out the dates and times and please be aware the workshops are FREE! Registration is necessary, check this link:
http://swancc.org/index.php/programs/composting-workshops
The Park Ridge Public Library will be hosting a Shorts Film Festival for Children of all ages this summer. The films will be environmentally themed! Take some time if you can to check out these films that highlight our big, beautiful planet!
July 26th from 2pm - 4pm
Again, Please forward this email to friends and neighbors to help get the word out about Go Green Park Ridge and upcoming news and events that pertain to our town and our environment.
Thanks!
Please read the following eco-friendly news and links to helpful environmental information for our town. If you have friends or neighbors that are also eco-curious, please forward this email to them! They can send us an email to get placed on the e-list for upcoming news & events!
[email protected]
Or you can follow us on twitter @greenparkridge!
Go Green Park Ridge plans to be at the Park Ridge Farmers Market the first Saturday of each month this summer. Members of the group will be available to promote organic lawncare techniques as well as answer questions you may have about our mission. The market is located at Prairie Avenue just south of the Metra Station.
Here is a link to download a guide that SWANCC (Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County) created. It gives very knowledgeable lawncare information as well as tips on how to get your lawns healthy & safe for your whole family to enjoy. It thoroughly educates citizens about alternate lawn care techniques for maintaining outdoor green spaces.
http://swancc.org/index.php/resources/eco-landscaping-guide
SWANCC is hosting composting workshops this summer. Check out the dates and times and please be aware the workshops are FREE! Registration is necessary, check this link:
http://swancc.org/index.php/programs/composting-workshops
- Thursday, July 18
10:00 am to 11:00 am - Thursday, August 15
6:15 pm to 7:15 pm
The Park Ridge Public Library will be hosting a Shorts Film Festival for Children of all ages this summer. The films will be environmentally themed! Take some time if you can to check out these films that highlight our big, beautiful planet!
July 26th from 2pm - 4pm
Again, Please forward this email to friends and neighbors to help get the word out about Go Green Park Ridge and upcoming news and events that pertain to our town and our environment.
Thanks!
