California Green Pages

About the Burbank Green Alliance

2010-04-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

Burbank, CA- Since 2008, the Burbank Green Alliance has been the leading private organization assisting the City of Burbank in promoting sustainability and achieving the City’s goal of Zero Waste. The Burbank Green Alliance (BGA) has been dedicated to promoting effective sustainable practices and building a network of resources to support the Burbank Community.

To enter a world of green click on the following link and it will provide you with upcoming Green events and workshops. Happy Earth Day!
http://www.burbankgreenalliance.org/events.html

Sources: Burbank Green Alliance
www.burbankgreenalliance.org

The Benefits of Green Cleaning

2010-03-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

You can find cleaning products everywhere in the home and the office. Most of the conventional cleaning products we all grew up with are petroleum-based products. Petroleum based chemicals are known to cause significant attritional effects to the nervous system and immune system after prolonged exposure. Not only are these chemicals hazardous to our health but our environment as well.

Green cleaning is not only a refreshing alternative to toxic cleaning products, but it also saves you money. Instead of buying toxic chemicals from the store you can have spotless floors, countertops, porcelain and more the old-fashioned way, with vinegar, baking soda, borax and a little elbow grease. Not only will you breathe in clean air but you avoid poisoning your children and/or pets. Make the change and clean Green!

Sources: The Daily Green

More Green Tips

2010-03-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

Want to make the office more Green and don't know how?

If you have read our previous entry then you’ll learn that plants are not only visually attracted but will increase air quality in the office. It’s important to be aware that the major energy users and greenhouse gas emitters both at home and in your office are lights and computers?

Cell phone chargers, TVs, DVD players, stereos, microwaves and other electronics with transformers continue to draw power, even when they’re off or not charging anything, as long as they’re plugged in. In the U.S., such “phantom electricity” emits about 12 million tons of carbon into the atmosphere a year.

Computers in sleep mode usually use less than 10% of the energy they do when they're sitting around waiting for you or hard at work. Switching them off when they’re not needed will save more than all your other actions put together.

Sources: The Los Angeles Times, and Conservation International

Plant a Little Indoor Green

2010-02-15T11:32:00.000-08:00

Green Plants are a wonderful decorating touch but more important, they make a considerable contribution to the air in a healthy home, and can help us keep the office environment more cheerful throughout the year.

The facts are that, carpets, paints, adhesives, upholstery fabrics and fillings all give off chemical gasses and, as we build houses- and our office buldings- tighter and insulate better, these gasses build up in interior spaces where they can cause a number of sensitivity reactions such as watery eyes, irritation of nose and lungs, nausea and various allergic responses.

A few plants in the office or at home will increase air quality as well as make the space more visually attractive. House plants are cheap and good for the environment.

Essentials from Louie at Green Planet.

Hey all! Super cool Green vendor...

2010-01-28T17:43:00.000-08:00

Hey all! So, we've found a super cool vendor courtesy of Josh Mark over at Fox.

Global Inheritance - www.globalinheritance.org

Global Inheritance was born in 2002, Global Inheritance is a 501c3 non-profit organization working to empower individuals worldwide to think and act creatively in solving global imbalances. Our unique initiatives focus onthe power of creativity to communicate andpush for progressive social change.

Through technology, the arts and interactivity, Global Inheritance reinvents activism to a new generation looking to make a difference in their communities and beyond. With each step forward, Global Inheritance will continue to build bridges uniting individuals with the causes that need their help the most.

CAL-Green Pages wishes you a Happy Holidays!

2009-12-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

The CAL-Green Pages wishes you and yours a very Happy Holidays! We've been on a "hold" per the economy the past six months, but as everything is picking up - so are we! We are very excited about the upcoming months.

Please stay tuned as we will be planning our series of breakfast meetings - aka a Distinguished Speakers Series - all Green of course. If you would like to submit a topic or to be a speaker, please email us - joella@cal-greenpages.com.

We are also pleased to announce that we've extended evreyone's membership til December 31, 2010. Please watch your emails as we will be sending out your rating logos for you to post.

Again, here's to an exciting and prosperous 2010!

Sneak Peek - June 09 Showcased Vendor! HARTNELL

2009-06-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hartnell is our June 2009 Showcase Vendor. You will soon be able to see her profile on our website - http://www.cal-greenpages.com/. But, here's a sneak peek!

HARTNELL is a fine gown studio/salon in Santa Monica. Designer Hanna Hartnell launched her couture gown collection five years ago after years of experience designing for Oscar nominees and fashion connoisseurs. This outstanding designer’s uniquely beautiful Bridal creations: silk charmeuse confections that flatter the feminine form, fluttery chiffons perfect for daytime weddings, and luxuriously crafted evening gowns that add grace and originality to formal events are produced in her Santa Monica Certified Green studio. HARTNELL creates for Mothers with fresh styling and contemporary elegance, with endless color options and Hartnell’s trademark made to measure fit. Each gown from the collection is cut and sewn to order in the warm, professional environment of Hanna’s studio/salon. HARTNELL, known for designing the most daring and glamorous bridal gowns, had a design epiphany as she focused on her 2009 collection and the challenge of the three R’s –Reuse, Recycle and Reduce. The Double Dare Gown allows brides to wear their wedding gown many times beyond their wedding day. An avowed “greenie” this collection was not only recyclable, but cost effective as well. Here’s how it works....

CAL-Green Pages / Burbank Green Alliance - Reel Green Workship

2009-06-10T19:04:00.000-07:00

We are excited to support the Burbank Green Alliance - above please find their A Reel Green Workshop flyer - it's going to be a great meeting on July 11th discussing topics of the Film Industry - fostering greener productions. For more information, www.burbankgreen.com.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at info@cal-greenpages.com.

Spring Greening Tips

2009-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

SPRING GREENING

Spring is here and it's time for some green cleaning! Before you go through your belongings and decide to throw away them in the garbage can, be sure to sort out the contents in your pile.

Used clothing can be donated to local charities and organizations for reuse and distribution amongst those less fortunate than we are. The same should be done with old toys and board games.

Outdated electronic equipment should also be disposed of properly. You can go to your local post office and ask for a specific envelop used to mail away your old electronics such as cell phones, ink cartridges, and music players for recycle. Companies like Sony will be conducting large scale ‘throw your old electronics' days in select locations and give away new electronic gifts in exchange as an incentive.

Be sure to also sort out paper, plastics and other materials that can be placed in the recycling bin instead of the trash can. Minimizing waste will certainly help the environment and keep landfills to a minimum. Don't forget about expired foods as well as these can be composted and used to fertilize your garden. Remember, recycle and reuse your belongings. Don't just throw them in the trash!

Bought to you by - Green1Planet. Green1Planetwould like to encourage the world to live green, be environmental friendly and to use products that contribute to a safe and healthy built environment on human and our natural environment. We need to efficiently use energy, water, and other resources to protect our health and to reduce waste and pollution

TIP: Return on Green

2009-05-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

RETURN ON GREEN

The economy has not been the best in the past few months. Stocks are down, retirement accounts are depleting, and returns on investments are not as it once was. Gold and government bond investing is on the rise as these are one of the safest investments; however, considering another strategy: investing in energy efficiency.

You can get a better return on investment than many stock bets if you invest your dollars in saving energy, even when the market is bullish. Some of you might already have this, but installing solar panelsis one form of long-term investment that can yield a much better rate of return than most stock investments. This may not work for everyone, but if your house has a south-facing roof that gets sun, then this is a worthwhile investment, especially with all of the U.S. government incentives and rebates being formed by the new administration. In addition, you make up the investment in savings on your energy bill. As temperature variations are more prevalent now, it certainly is a good idea to be energy independent.

Perhaps you've considered leaving your car in your garage and investing in subway or bus passes because public transit is a bargain for many commuters. But if you love to drive and public transportation is not an option depending on where you live, considering buying a fuel-efficient model. For example, if you're driving an SUV, the average driver pays about $4K. Replace your current car for a hybrid and you're paying just $1000 per year, a savings of $3K. You'd be paying off your investment in the seventh year, and see a 13% return in the eighth year. To get more accurate comparison of models, go to www.fueleconomy.gov.

And lastly, get a home energy audit. Many Americans can cut their bill in half by taking the advice of a home energy auditor. Some utilities even offer home energy audits for free. Fee-based professional services are also available or you can do it yourself. The cost of implementing the recommendations, such as re-insulating to installing new windows, and the savings will provide an impressive return on investment.

So take some of these considerations when you consider investing in something that will enhance your lifestyle as well as becoming energy efficient and saving money.

Blog Content Provided By: Green1planet would like to encourage the world to live green, be environmental friendly and to use products that contribute to a safe and healthy built environment on human and our natural environment. We need to efficiently use energy, water, and other resources to protect our health and to reduce waste and pollution.

STRATEGIC PARTNER - Keynote at WIPA event

2009-05-03T21:52:00.001-07:00

Our strategic partner's Simply Mumtaz Events, Special Events Director, Karli Tanner, CMP will be serving at WIPA's keynote speaker - Shades of Green. If you are interested, please visit http://www.wipausa.org/.

TIP: Travel Green

2009-04-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

TRAVEL GREEN

Now that you've booked your Green Hotel, it's time to think about how you'll be traveling green on your trip. Besides a green hotel, green travel has become very popular for vacation such as going to sustainable countries, traveling within those countries using public transportation, and buying only eco-friendly souvenirs and products. Thinking about your impact on the environment when you travel is extremely important not only for you but for the residents of the area. Being socially responsible and minimizing your impact on the environment will help maintain that destination for future tourism. Consciously making those eco-friendly choices is certainly a great way to save money by making those low-impact choices.

There are several ways you can travel green during your next trip. Packing light is one way to start traveling green. Consider purchasing luggage from companies that are socially responsible and donate part of their proceeds to an environmental organization. Storing your liquids in clear biodegradable bottles and using products that are natural or organic is also a great way to be more environmentally friendly. Minimizing your impact on the environment especially during your travels should be kept in mind. Make sure that your recycled products are indeed placed in recycle bins and not in the trash during your travels. This includes water bottles, especially during your foreign travels.

During your trip, dining at organic or farmed restaurants supports those businesses that are dedicated to making the environment better. Fair-trade souvenirs are also better alternatives to traditional ones. While sightseeing or traveling within your destination, consider walking, bicycling, or taking public transportation bus or train. If you must drive, rent hybrid vehicles for minimal environmental impact. Green hotels give incentives and discounts for guests who drive hybrid cars. So, the next time you travel, consider your impact on the environment. If you're traveling to foreign countries, it's your moment to truly show your social responsibility and that you care about the world by caring about the people in that particular destination.

I was just in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. The entire island is pro-GREEN. They are very much concerned about protecting their environment. In fact, they are one of the resorts I've been into that do not allow motor sports to avoid fuel mixture into the water. Its resorts give handbags to everyone so that they can pick up wastes seen anywhere. Additionally, they go under water with the use of scuba to pick up waste under the sea. Moreover, El Nido use recyclable materials and they recycle water for toilet use. They also use solar system for cleaner energy. I was very impressed with El Nido. They are one of the most diverse ecosystem in the world.

Stay tuned next week for more green tips.

Green Tip Provided By - louie@green1planet.com.

POSTPONED: Green Day on Earth Day Conference & Trade Show

2009-04-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

It is with a heavy and sad heart that we have to announce that the Green Day on Earth Day Conference & Trade Show is postponed.

We will be announcing its newly scheduled date as soon as possible.

If you have any questions, please email us at info@cal-greenpages.com.

5 Ways To Green Your Event - Green Day on Earth Day Speakers Highlighted on Event Solutions Magazine Website

2009-04-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

Check Out Event Solutions Magazine - On-Line News Feature about five of our speakers at the Green Day on Earth Day Conference & Trade Show.

Click Here for Event Solutions - Article...

Click Here to visit Green Day on Earth Day!

Got Amazing Shots of your Green event?

2009-03-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

CALLING FOR ALL GREEN PHOTOS!

If you've produced an amazing Green event and have great photos, we'd like to include them in our lunch educational session for the Green Day on Earth Day Conference & Trade Show! We will be presenting a collage of awesome Green events - low budget to high budget.... we want to share the wealth! We are all about folks learning, innovating and tweaking the ideas they see to make them fit their meetings & events!

If you think you qualify, please email us! joella@cal-greenpages.com. Here's what we need, photos, description on what's green, your name, company and website. We'll publish all of your info as credit!

We look forward to hearing from you!

ANNOUNCING: "Green Day on Earth Day" Conference & Trade Show

2009-03-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow Green Friends! In case you haven't heard the California Green Special Events & Meetings Resource Directory is putting on it's first Educational Conference & Trade Show. For local and regional "Greenies". Please visit our website and check out the event. Prices are reasonable and the education will be great. Plus, we will be networking with other like parties!

www.Cal-GreenPages.com and click on the Conference & Trade Show menu item.

Strategic Partner: Byway Productions: Brings Eco-Friendly to Aids Assistance Program Gala

2009-02-24T13:12:00.000-08:00

CAL-Green Pages Strategic Partner: Byway Entertainment brings Eco-Friendly elements to annual Gala for the Aids Assistance Program.

AIDS Assistance Program’s annual Evening Under the Stars benefit gala will count itself among one of the top green events in the Coachella Valley due to a major effort to make the event more eco-friendly. The emphasis on reducing waste and using recycled materials is being spearheaded by Richard Byford of Byway Events & Entertainment Inc., who has produced the event for the past nine years. Evening Under the Stars, now in its sixteenth year, is A.A.P.’s major benefit fundraiser, and will take place on Saturday, April 25, on the green of the O’Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs.

“We’re very supportive of Richard’s efforts to make Evening Under the Stars more green,” said Steve Pougnet, Mayor of Palm Springs. “If you think about it, with a thousand people having dinner and enjoying the wonderful entertainment outside, it makes a big impact on the local environment. I’m really pleased with how Richard has incorporated so many sustainable aspects into the events he produces, and I think that his efforts with so many local vendors and event companies will encourage them to make all of their events more sustainable.”

For the past two years, Byford has been working to ‘green up’ the events he produces after reading that the special events industry was ranked as the second most wasteful industry in the country. In his contracts with local event supplier and vendors, he consistently chooses options that reduce the environmental impact of his events and the overall carbon footprint.

“There are so many green things that we can do in our every day lives that just make common sense,” said Richard Byford. “Simple things that really do not cost any more or take more time. Recycle, reuse & reduce – we all know the mantra, but I produce large events with lots of potential impact, so I’m working to take this to the next level and convince my vendors that going green is not only the way of the future, but crucial to our survival on the planet.”

For Evening Under the Stars, Byford has included the following green components:

Culligan Water is sponsoring a portable water filtration system to supply all of the drinking water for the tables, eliminating the need for the more than 4,000 water bottles that were used at last year’s event.

Palm Springs Disposal Services, one of the City of Palm Springs’ major partners on the Mayor’s Path to Sustainability, will be supplying dumpsters and receptacles to recycle all plastic, glass, paper, cardboard and food waste.

Classic Party Rentals, a longtime sponsor of Evening Under the Stars and friend of A.A.P., will be providing all of the equipment for the event. Classic is committed to developing and implementing comprehensive recycling, energy and water efficiency, sustainable purchasing, and waste disposal programs. Wherever possible, Byford will be using sustainable rental items from Classic.

Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services is supplying solar-powered executive-style bathrooms for guests at the event.

Invitation and programs will not only be printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks, but also only 500 programs will be printed – approximately 1 per couple.

Just like at last year’s event, centerpieces for the tables will be a decorative table number printed on recycled card stock, rather than flowers and holders that can only be used once.

Power needs for the event will be provided by bio-diesel generators that will help reduce the event’s carbon footprint.

The linens and cloth napkins to be used are made of durable fabric with a longer life, and they will be laundered with eco-friendly chemicals.

All food waste will be collected and shipped to Bio-Mass in Thermal for composting.

Wherever possible, Energy Star light bulbs and LED units will be used for décor, as well as production lighting to reduce the amount of power consumed.

This year’s Evening Under the Stars features a Motown theme with emcee Della Reese, famed actress and Motown vocalist, and headliner Mary Wilson of The Supremes. This year’s honorees include Craig Simrell and Mark Greganti, Tami Low, The Bottom Line Magazine, and Jay Horwitz.

Tickets for Evening Under the Stars are $395 per person and can be purchased by contacting the AIDS Assistance Program at 760/325-8481. Program ads may be reserved/purchased by calling Raymond Smith at 760-778-4536. For more information about Byway Events & Entertainment Inc., please contact Richard Byford at 760-320-9054 or richard@bywayentertainment.com.

Since its founding in 1991, the AIDS Assistance Program of Palm Springs remains dedicated to providing comfort and support to improve the quality of the lives of those surviving HIV/AIDS. Initiated by a small group of concerned citizens, led by the late Gloria Greene and Jeannette Rockefeller, AAP provided meals to members of the community with low incomes and suffering with HIV/AIDS. Since then, the AIDS Assistance Program's client roster has grown from approximately 20 to 530 people. For more information please contact the AIDS Assistance Program at 760/325-8481.

CAL-Green Pages, Marketing Director, Being Inducted to Events Hall of Fame!

2009-02-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

Bob Estrin, Marketing Director at the CAL-Green Pages, has been selected as a 2009 recipient of “The Event Industry Hall of Fame Award. Mr. Estrin will join a handful of luminaries who have achieved this recognition for their lifetime achievements in the field of Special Events. This prestigious award will be presented by Event Solutions Magazine.

Mr. Estrin was selected for this top honor by a committee of peers who have already been admitted to the Hall of Fame. The award presentation and ceremony will take place during The Catie/Spotlight Gala Awards to be held during The CaterSource /Event Solutions Conference in Las Vegas NV February 22-26, 2009.

Please join us in congratulating Bob and his family for his many years of dedication to the advancement of the art and science of Special Events.

Our Next Audit!! Good Gracious!

2009-02-10T17:23:00.000-08:00

We (CAL-GreenPages) performed our next audit this past January. Bob Estrin, Marketing Director, had the opportunity to visit with Pauline Parry at Good Gracious! Here's his report!!!

Good Gracious! was started in 1988 by Pauline Parry , within a year they moved from a home based operation to a full fledged commercial kitchen and have been growing ever since then. They are currently based in the Pico / Fairfax area in a building they renovated on Pico. The full time staff of 27 works out of a highly efficient space with, offices, conference/tasting room, warehouse and full commercial kitchen all in one building.

Pauline outlined to me the business philosophy and practices that make Good Gracious! the stand out company they are. The catch phrase that defines their business is “It’s all about Food, Fun and Love “. Having had the opportunity to sample their food at numerous association events and client projects over the years it is an accurate description of how they do things. While many businesses’s try to get to the cutting edge Good Gracious! , is the leading edge in Buffet design and food presentation.

The main focuses of the business are Catering, Event Design and Coordination, and Wedding planning. While they offer Green options to all their clients, they do so with out being aggressive about it. Even if clients don’t opt for Green the daily operating process of Good Gracious! make a portion of all their events green.

Good Gracious! Green Practices:
· Shop Local Certified Farmers markets for herbs and Vegetables
· Use local in season whenever possible
· Sort and recycle all waste
· Paper
· Cardboard
· Metal
· Cooking Oil
· Left over food at kitchen is available for staff to take home
· Excess food at Events is donated to local agencies for distribution
· Electronic communications as much as possible with clients and Vendors
· In house inventory of unique serving pieces that is reused
· Composting of food waste when possible

The staff of Good Gracious! Participates in many educational events each year. The Green message is always present in these presentations. Good Gracious has found that Green practices also make economic sense in the highly competitive Southern California catering market.

They are very deserving of a three leaf rating.

CAL-GreenPages helps publicize it's members! Green Lab Designs

2009-02-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

The California Green Pages helps publicize it's members! Green Lab Designs just sent out their latest newsletter. Remember, patron Green Business.

Click here for full article. www.greenlabdesigns.com/newsletter/february2009

CAL-Green Pages is now on Twitter!

2009-02-02T21:14:00.000-08:00

We're on Twitter! Follow Us! Let's Green the Special Events & Meetings Industry!
Our call sign: CALGreenPages

We you on the Tweet!

The Ethics of Sustainability... A different discussion

2008-11-03T17:26:00.000-08:00

Another NEW Green Event - EcoGift Festival in Santa Monica

2008-10-28T21:32:00.001-07:00

Hey all - So check out this new event - EcoGift Festival.

Their Mission:
Our mission is to produce large-scale eco-conscious gift shows that provide people with an uplifting experience and a solution to the difficult emotions, inconveniences and terrible waste associated with the holidays and holiday shopping.

Philanthropy:
Each of our expos will directly benefit at least one non-profit organization whose work aligns with our company’s desire to address the problems facing humanity and the Earth. This year, Eco Gift Expo will donate 10% of its gross proceeds to The Whole Planet Foundation and Global Green USA. All Eco Gift Expo vendors have the opportunity to participate in our philanthropy program, known as The Book of Giving and Receiving. By opting in, our vendors agree to donate 10% of their sales at Eco Gift Expo to the expo’s charities, The Whole Planet Foundation and Global Green USA. Participating vendors are recognized in our event program.

Opportunity Green - UCLA November 7 -9

2008-10-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! This sounds like such a great conference... Check them out. www.OpportunityGreen.com

We're listed as a Resource in Smart Meetings!

2008-10-27T18:17:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody. How exciting... We (CALGreen Pages) are gaining exposure and to prove it, we are listed in THE GREEN ISSUE of SMART MEETINGS magazine. How cool is that?! We're listed on page 52. On-line you can see was on the Green Article - http://www.smartmeetings.com/issues/october-2008/articles/shades-of-green-the-future-is-now

CALGreen Pages Rep speaking at NACE LA re Going Green

2008-10-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Late notice, but I just realized that I didn't post about tomorrow's speaking engagement at the Marina del Rey, Ritz Carlton at the October NACE (National Association Catering Executives) LA event. We (California Green Special Events & Meetings Resource Directory) will be speaking on Going Green in the Hospitality Industry. Check us out!

Here's the site... http://www.nacechapters.com/chapters/la/

Agenda XPO Hall - 10.29.08

2008-10-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody! You've got to come out and see us at the Agenda XPO on October 29, 2008. It's going to be a great day of networking and professional development. PLUS, us - the California Green Special Events & Meetings Resource Directory will be in the XPO Hall. Come by and visit!

STRATEGIC PARTNER: Speaking at Event Solution's CaterSource

2008-09-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody. One of the CalGreen Pages Strategic Partner's - Simply Mumtaz Events will be speaking at CaterSource in Feb 09. The topic is: Simple Green: Eco-Friendly Event Tips and Tricks You Can Implement Today. Check out the conference link! It's a great conference to attend AND it's in Las Vegas.

BuFest Music Festival "A Green Music Event" March 09

2008-09-26T18:10:00.000-07:00

Hey all. So, we (CalGreen Pages) just came across a really cool site and what sounds like an awesome event! We've got to support Green business and events... So, here's the site - http://www.bufest.com/. Below is some immediate info on the event.

Great Artists
BuFest™ offers a full line-up of today's best musical talent. With three stages and over 50 acts over the two day period.

Green EventBuFest™ strives to insure we have zero impact upon the environment. In addition to biodegradable and recycled supplies, BuFest™ uses the most technologically advanced generators and materials to make certain we have the lowest carbon output possible. We support The Green Living Expo's held throughout the nation as a way to educate the public about ways they can "Go Green."Beautiful LocationThe Paramount Movie Ranch is a California State Park located in the heart of the Santa Monica mountain range. Just 10 minutes drive from the 101 freeway, this historic western town has been the home of countless television and movie productions.Socially ResponsibleBuFest™ supports the Cancer Hope Foundation. The mission of Cancer Hope Foundation is to enhance the lives of people affected by cancer. Their energies are currently concentrated on Camp Keepsake, a program which offers a cost-free camp retreat for adult cancer patients/survivors, their children and friends. Camp Keepsake provides support in an energetic and fun atmosphere.

Event Dates
May 30 & 31, 2009
Paramount Ranch
Malibu, CA

Our showcase at the ISES JAM

2008-09-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we showcased / previewed our Green Pages at the International Special Events Society Los Angeles Chapter's Joint Allied Mixer. The event was held at the Pasadena Convention Center. It was great speaking with so many interested people. I was a bit concerned about talking for 3 hours, but we had so much interest I had a total of 10 minutes down the whole evening.

AUDIT: The Spiraled Stem - Three Leaf Rating

2008-09-11T17:19:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Today the California Green Special Events & Meetings Resource Directory conducted it's first audit. Our first "victim" was The Spiraled Stem. They are also one of our Strategic Partners. The audit overall went great. Here are some photos and updates about our audit and how The Spiraled Stem qualifies for its Three Leaf Rating.

In order to qualify for the CALGreen Pages Three Leaf Rating your company must do all three of the following items 1) Have established green business practices into your daily operations 2) offer a green product and 3) contribue in some way to the hospitality industry.

Spiraled Stem's Green Business Practices among others...
1) Worked with the City of Anaheim to install T8 Lighting. It's more energy efficient than standard lighting.
2) They have two skylights and a big wharehouse door that they use to provide natural light and the T8 lighting serves to supplement natural day light.
3) Recycling Program
4) Install Bamboo floors
5) Walls are painted with Earth Care Low VOC paint
6) Office decor / furniture - Habitat for Humanity's Restore
7) Swanstone sink - qualifies for LEED Cert.

Spiraled Stem's product...
1) Veriflora Certified Floral Arrangements... What is Veriflora? Certified Sustainably Grown. VeriFlora is a sustainability certification program for fresh cut flowers and potted plants. The "VeriFlora" Certified Sustainably Grown" label is your guarantee that flowers and potted plants have been produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner and meet the highest standards for freshness and quality. They address these key issues: crop production practices, ecosystem protection, resource conservation, emissions and waste production, fair labor practices, healthy communities, product integrity and product purity.

Plus, she uses these super cool bloom boxes for the bases of centerpieces.. Please check her site out to see the top quality product she provides!

Spiraled Stem's commitment to promoting Green in our industry...
1) Spiraled Stem has showcased at the ISES LA Green Luncheon
2) Presented at South Coast's Spring Garden Show - Educational Seminar of Green Florals
3) Featured at NBC Philly's "How to Green your Wedding Flowers"
4) Participate among a group of local florists where they share ideas, provide rentals and product to each other rather than consistly buy more product.

In addition to the above The Spiraled Stem's home base also serves as the Green Event Studio. She has opened up her reception space to serve as a home and resource for Brides & Planners to come in and learn how they can go Green. It's by appointment - but check it out. http://www.greeneventstudio.com/.

These are just the highlights that I learned about today from Christine Saunders at the Spiraled Stem. Overall it was a very insightful visit and a great audit! Thank you for participating with the CALGreen Pages and we hope that our readers patron your Green Business!

Southern California - Santa Monica - The Ambrose earns LEED EB Cert.

2008-09-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Ambrose wins LEED Silver Certification for Existing Buildings.

Upscale tranquility meets affordable luxury at Santa Monica's only award winning sustainable boutique hotel. Created to pamper health-minded guests, the hotel's Arts and Crafts inspired design and state-of-the-art amenities provide guests with truly holistic hospitality. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, The Ambrose is ideally located only one block from the Wilshire business district, and just a 5-minute drive from the Pacific Ocean and the pedestrian entertainment street, "Third Street Promenade." For comfort conscious business and leisure travelers alike, The Ambrose, with its 77 guest rooms, is a uniquely crafted oasis with refined modern style.

http://ambrosecollection.net/

http://www.mimegasite.com/mimegasite/destination_guide/west/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003835035

Gorgeous Showcase!

2008-08-20T09:47:00.001-07:00

So, last night we co-sponsored a terrific event with Nomad Catering and Vacation Village a Joie de Vivre Property. It was an absolutely gorgeous evening. Nomad did a terrific job with the food, we heard nothing but terrific comments regarding their passed yummies. The venue was in a terrific spot in Laguna Beach. The other vendors that showcased were Vida (you can see some her her floral arrangements below), Waiwera (Artesian Water), Environmental Nature Center, VEEV, and a few others. Our event flyer was posted earlier.

It was great to meet so many interested in Green. Here's to showcasing and continuing to Green our industry.

CALGreen Pages co-sponsors Green OC County Event

2008-08-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

So check this out! This is going to be a very cool event! Please come check us out as well as all of these other Green vendors... If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at info@cal-greenpages.com.

New Organization - Very Cool!

2008-08-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! We hope this message finds you well!

A new organization that some of you might be interested in... It's the Association of Green Meetings & Events. Check out their site. They will be having an annual meeting in Long Beach at the end of August! We hope that we can see you there.

Best thing - Cardboard Furniture for your Next event! AND, blogging our Vendor Audits!

2008-06-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

So, the best thing I walked away from the Green Event Summit was the Cardboard Furniture for your next event! The one listed in the photo below was from Go Green Displays. Another one I found was www.cardboarddesign.com.

AND, I haven't found it yet, but one of the best suggestions for Special Events was to make your vinyl banners for backdrops or step&repeats, there is a vendor out there that you can send your banner to and they will make them into bags for you, purses, small totes, etc.! I'm searching so I can post for you all.

ALSO, we've decided that we will be blogging about all of our Audits... You know those random picks to be audited to see if they are really green and are listed in our directory. We will be taking photos and blogging about our experience! So, stay tuned for July's visits...

CAL Green Pages at the Green Event Summit!

2008-06-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

So, we're here and publicizing our Directory. The response has been great! So, I'm sure you're asking when is the website up? Well, it's up! How exciting is that? We are stoked and busily upgrading and still tweaking here and there. Make sure you get signed up to get listed in the Green Pages!

We will post later with more details about our experience here at the Green Event Summit.

But, the coolest thing so far has been learning about the Discovery Network's launch (June 4th) of their new channel - PLANET GREEN! How exciting is that?

PS - Yes, we purchased a Terra Pass offered as part of Expedia's ticket policy to offset our carbon footprint.

Become June's Showcase Vendor!

2008-05-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

We are now searching for Green vendors to submit to be listed as the June Showcase Vendor of the Month! If you are interested please submit your "Green Release" with photos to showcase@cal-greenpages.com.

We look forward to seeing your submissions!

BioBlitz in the Santa Monica Mountains...May 31st

2008-05-27T07:13:00.000-07:00

BioBlitz in the Santa Monica Mountains on May 31st! If you have kids, this is an awesome way to join in on some green local fun!

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/field/projects/bioblitz-ca-2008.html

Sign Up!

2008-05-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

Hey there. So, we've gotten tons of feedback and it's all very exciting. We are on schedule for our June 10th launch. Ensure you are already in place per your county and category as the Green vendor to go to. This has been such a fun experience and we're almost there. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us!

We hope to hear from you soon and don't forget to sign up! This is all about Green Business working with Green Business. Let's support one another and make an impact at the same time.

Endorsements & Affiliations

2008-05-13T18:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks Paul Salinger & Dawn Hanson! They posted and emailed some great questions in...

Yes, we are actually working on getting endorsed by the GMIC, ISES, MPI and other industry associations as well as some other trade publications. We are aware of the standards the CIC is working on for all of its member orgs. We hope to bring a bit of those Green standards to our California vendors. Thanks for posting!

We've also had a few other questions come in today regarding our new publication! We are both online and printed. We'll be printed twice a year.

Our goal is to get this directory in the hands of everyone interested in Greening their meetings & special events. We are working an assertive strategy to get this directory in the hands of folks that will actually use it. We will be doing this by reaching out to all of the indsutry's trade associations, trade publications, trade conferences, and working with the CVBs from across the state.

WELCOME! June 10th Launch around the corner!

2008-05-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog for the California Green Special Events & Meetings Resource Directory aka Cal-Green Pages! We are a truly a resource directory for those planners wanting to source green vendors for products and services to make their special events and meetings more eco-friendly! We have a grading system... one, two or three leaves! Each one of our vendors will qualify for a minimum of one leaf. We are not asking all of you to be 100% Green, but by adding elements of green into both your business practices and services/products we can all help the environment.

So, please comment! Green is constant learning, we never stop! If there are any topics you'd like us to set up conversations for, please let us know...

To a greener and healthier future!