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Surf’s Up Project BLUE

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:59:58 +0000

Anyone who has surfed or knows a surfer is privy to the unspoken surfers’ code to care for and respect the ocean-after all it is the source of such amazing waves. Well now some of the biggest names in the surf industry (who are normally competitors) have partnered to create an initiative called project BLUE in support of the Surfrider Foundation. And it’s not charity–it’s a plan of action.

The goal of project BLUE is to create an easy way for surf and beach lovers to “plug in” to Surfrider’s mission of protecting the world’s waters. The companies involved include Billabong, DAKINE, Electric, Famous Wax, Nixon, O’Neill and Reef. Each company has created co-branded limited edition product lines that contribute $2 to Surfrider for every item that is sold (ala motto of Project (Red).) The website also offers different ways to get involved and tips on things we can all do to keep our oceans clean

and true to blue.

Not only are they contributing to a good cause but they’re using more eco-minded materials in the project BLUE lines including organic cotton, soy based inks, petro-chemical-free surf wax, Eco Supreme Suede (a product that has thus far kept 3 million plastic water bottles out of the landfills), recycled packaging and more.

With the U.S. Open of Surfing happening this week down in Huntington Beach, it’s the perfect time to get on board. Learn more about project BLUE at http://www.betruetoblue.com/

ydt Giveaway: project BLUE is hooking us up with some amazing giveaways for surfer girls (sorry dudes.) Tell us how you’re are going to help keep the oceans blue and beautiful in the comments to win one of the following:

From Billabong – A pair of Billabong Peace board shorts, which are made using their Eco-Supreme Suede fabric. Eco-Supreme Suede is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles.

From DAKINE – An Oceana Recycled Surf Pack: The Oceana is a super cool multipurpose pack with a seam sealed wetsuit pocket (to keep things dry) a cooler pocket and an organizer pocket. It’s made from 100% PET fabric and lining which is made from plastic bottles. The pack uses recycled buckles and a non-toxic waterproof (TPE) fabric backing (see image above).

From O’Neill – A women’s project BLUE t-shirt made from organic cotton and printed with soy-based inks.

Images via project BLUE and Flickr bnSurf

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EcoAdventurer: Interview with JJ Yosh

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 18 May 2009 12:07:00 +0000

Sometimes it feels that the days of exploration and adventure are long gone in the modern world. There aren’t too many new frontiers that are left to explore ala Lewis and Clark style. Adventure seems in some ways to be a part of history. However, this fact doesn’t stop JJ Yosh, who’s about to embark on an EcoVenture to Bolivia’s 5 Peak Illimani Mountain. His group which includes mountaineer/expedition leader Nicholas Rice and film maker Dan Moses will be the first Americans to traverse the mountain (4th expedition ever) and will be using the latest in eco-friendly gear, technology and clothing throughout their journey-their goal is to prove that “you can be green at all extremes.”

I had an opportunity to sit down with JJ and learn a bit about him and the expedition that is leaving on June 8th. Back in college, JJ founded the Excursion Club at UC Santa Barbara. He found himself leading large groups of students out into the Santa Barbara Mountains to experience and connect with nature, rather than attend class. After graduation he continued following his passion in sustainability and the outdoors. He went on to create the web documentary “The North American Sustainability Journey,” a 60-day journey from Death Valley, California to Mt. Mckinely, Alaska. During the journey all of the gear, equipment and even the food had to had to have a sustainable element (there were many nights where locally grown food was not available so Clif Bars were the main cuisine.)

Now he’s preparing to go on his next great adventure. I asked JJ what inspires him to do the work that he does, he told me “you know the saying, one person can’t save the world, I’m out to prove them wrong.”

His non-profit organization Junto Ventures believes that “sustainability is about making conscious choices that sustain you and the planet, even at 20,000 ft.” Not only will the team be climbing the mountain, they are also going to be visiting the ancient Aymara in Altiplano, Bolivia “to experience a culture that utilizes ancient eco-friendly methods in their day-to-day lives.” The team will also be visiting the children of La Colonia Ecologia, a solar powered and environmentally friendly orphanage in Tiquipaya.

At the end of the interview, I asked JJ if he ever could see himself having a more normal lifestyle. He told me, “I enjoy the adventure, and love not knowing the crazy things that are going to happen – I like stable adventures.”

The ydt team wishes Junto Ventures all the luck on the expedition and is looking forward to seeing the documentary about this adventure on TV very soon!

For more information on this EcoVenture or to contribute to the non-profit please visit www.juntoventure.org/contribute

Angelenos can find JJ and their own adventures at the Hollywood Chapter of the Excursion Club.

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Full Moon Hikes

Tracy Hepler — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:04:21 +0000

On a clear day from the top of the Hollywood Hills you can see from the valley all the way to the sea (well, the ocean really.) At night, the view is not as clear but a new world comes alive that you don’t normally see. Once a month on the full moon, TreePeople open their doors and lead you into the park to experience how “everything changes after dark.” You’ll experience breathtaking views of the valley as the moon shines over the black walnut and coast live oak trees, see nocturnal animals like owls awaken and feel the serenity that takes over the park when the sun goes down.

The hikes are geared towards a variety of skill and energy levels. You can sign up for slow, moderate or fast-paced hikes (be sure to wear proper shoes, especially if you do fast-paced.) In the fast-paced hike you get to descend down a steep slope using nothing more than a “human chain” (talk about a trust building exercise.)

The next full moon hike is happening on Saturday May 9th at 8 p.m. Please arrive a few minutes early so that the hikes can leave on time. Because of the popularity of these hikes, reservations are required (walk ins will not be accepted.) If you’re interested in attending be sure to RSVP to Fullmoon@treepeople.org soon to insure you have a spot. Be sure to bring a flashlight, layered clothes and water.

If you can’t attend this hike, please visit treepeople.org to see the complete schedule.

Hikes are free for TreePeople members (and you can bring up to three guests), for non members the cost is $5 per hiker.

…

Learn More About TreePeople:

TreePeople is one of Los Angeles’ oldest nonprofit organizations, serving the community for over three decades. In their own words, their work “is about helping nature heal cities.” If you can’t attend the hike, check out the variety of volunteer activities and tree plantings happening all year round by visiting TreePeople’s Get Involved Section.

To see their Earth Day activities and event view here.

Continue the Conversation on the *New* Forum:

Have you been on a Full Moon hike with TreePeople or a night time hike in general? Share your nighttime hiking tips on the forum.

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Pot Luck Day

Tracy Hepler — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 02:00:46 +0000

If you’re one of the few (and lucky) not driving around this holiday, head over to Pharmaka Gallery this Wednesday for a Pre-Turkey day Pot luck.

Why? Meet fellow “Green” minded Angelenos for delicious food (From Tofurkey to the Real Thing) paired with Parducci wines, New Belgium (Fat Tire) Beers, and other delicious Thanksgiving treats that people will bring.

Where? Pharmaka Gallery is a Non Profit Organization and is one of L.A.’s leading pioneers in redeveloping Downtown. They feature socially and culturally relevant artwork that wouldn’t be featured at “traditional” galleries. Plus, this past year Pharmaka Greened itself up with eco friendly renovations that reduced their energy usage by 90%, installed LED lights, and is furnished by 100% sustainable materials. (Check them out with Planet Green’s Alter Eco here).

What Do I Bring: Whatever you want (corn bread, mash potatoes, pies, stuffing etc). If you don’t want to bring anything except yourself that’s fine too. If you do decide to bring something, please email Laura Beatty at lbeatty@gmail.com

**Also, if you want to eat please bring plate and utensils from home as so minimize waste from papers products.

A Suggested donation of $5 (that goes towards Pharmaka) is asked.

Please RSVP at http://potlucktday.eventbrite.com/ and for more information check out http://www.lagreendrinks.org

Location: Pharmaka Gallery, 101 West 5th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013 at Main Street
Date/Time: Wednesday November 26, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Web: www.pharmaka-art.org
Parking: Street parking is available after 6pm. Additional parking at Joe’s parking lot on Main Street between 4th and 6th for a $6 dollar charge.

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Eco Hot Jack Johnson

Elena Crevello — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:00:47 +0000

Go Green with Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson stops by UCLA this Sunday (8/31) evening for a show, and one that he has worked hard to make eco-friendly. So get there ahead of time to get your “Green Passport” stamped and check out the different tents set up that will keep you informed on how to live in a more environmentally friendly way! Jack Johnson will be matching every dollar contributed to non-profit organizations, like Health the Bay. If you visit three different stands and get your “Passport” stamped you are automatically entered to win the chance to watch the show from the stage… eeeeek! Plus, learn more about Jack’s All At Once project, a new social action network where you can discuss issues and events, explore non-profit groups, and take action to make positive change in your local and world community. And click here to learn how you can be a “green fan.” For more info, visit jackjohnsonmusic.com. Tickets sold at Ticketmaster.com (act fast, they’re nearly sold out).

Open Up your Ears in Echo

The F Yeah Fest, which is in its fifth year, is going strong once again this Friday (8/29) thru Sunday (8/31). With a plethora of performances by bands and comedians like Jeff Garlin (Curb Your Enthusiasm), there is so much to do and see at our own little local music festival I could just cry. Most of the festival is held at the Echoplex and on Sunday there is a five hour scavenger hunt that will take you all over Los Angeles and the winning team gets $500. So come support this local festival and help it grow. For more info, visit fyeahfest.net.

Puttin’ on the Ritz for Fat Sam’s Grand Slam Jazz Band

Danny Masterson, the That 70′s Show guy and mind behind Jazz Nights at Guy’s, has brought back this unique evening of jazz and drinks. Teddy’s at The Roosevelt is now the home of this Jazz night, which will make you feel like you are taking a step into a 1920s speakeasy, well at least that’s what it’s supposed to feel like. Men aren’t allowed in without a tie and jacket and ladies must be in dresses–this strict dress code is enforced so no showing up in those hoochie jeans and a tank top, ya hurd! The Roosevelt is located at 7000 Hollywood Blvd. West Hollywood, 90028. Music starts at 11 p.m. every Thursday night.

Hunt for Vintage Treasures

Vintage designer genius, Shareen Mitchell, has opened up a new store in Venice adding to her already bustling downtown warehouse. If you have not visited her Downtown store, you must make it a priority to go. Her pieces are all one of a kind and truly inspiring, not to mention well-priced! The new shop in Venice is homey and delightful, and just like the downtown store – NO BOYS ALLOWED. XOXO. New location at 1641 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, 90291. Hours: Wed., Sat., Sun 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. Thurs. 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Web: ShareenVintage.com.

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