RUNKA.com

SABONA OF LONDON - Therapy through Copper and Magnetics

2011-10-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

Sabona of London copper and magnetic bracelets are worn by celebrities, athletes and anyone else looking for the benefits afforded by these beautiful products. At RUNKA.com (www.RUNKA.com) we love the feel, appearance and effect of these great looking, functional pieces of jewelry.

The Copper Theory Various forms of copper have been used for medicinal purposes throughout the history of mankind. The ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Persian, Hindu and Aztec writings record various consistent medicinal uses of copper.1 Today, as more information becomes available, alternative health care and home remedies are gaining popularity. Health publications include copper bracelets as a home remedy to possibly ease the pain from arthritis in some people who seem to get an insufficient amount of copper from their food. Helmar Dollwet, Ph.D., of the University of Akron, has studied this copper connection and thinks the dissolved copper from a copper bracelet entering the body through the skin may be the only way for them to get the copper they need.2 Another study found patients wearing copper bracelets absorbed an average of 13 milligrams of copper during a month. “This could bring many people into the recommended daily intake for copper (1.5 to 3 milligrams). Copper absorbed through the skin gets into circulation very efficiently – more so than most dietary copper.” Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is one of the body’s own copper-dependent enzymes that reduces pain and inflammation. The body may use copper to make more of its own SOD.3

The Magnetic Theory Magnets have been used in different cultures over the years by those who believe magnets worn on the body promote good health. The theory is that magnet therapy may be beneficial by affecting the circulatory system, the blood flow in the body. Increased circulation is beneficial because the body gets more of the nutrients it needs from the blood.

Sabona's popular two-toned finish of matte stainless and polished 18k gold plating combined in a great style that includes the prestigious PGA TOUR logo. One 1200 magnet in each stainless steel link!

Looking for an interesting design? The Copper Barb Magnetic Bracelet is just that and with a western flair! Each tip has a 1800 gauss magnet. A Sabona copyrighted design. Various forms of copper have been used for medicinal purposes throughout the history of mankind. Today, as more information becomes available, alternative health care and home remedies are gaining popularity. Health publications include copper bracelets as a home remedy to possibly ease the pain from arthritis in some people who seem to get an insufficient amount of copper from their food.

Everyone likes this one! It is one of the most popular Sabona Bracelets ever for men and ladies! The Sabona Classic Duet is very versatile, durable, and a beautiful way to wear copper and magnets! An 1800 gauss magnet at each tip.

This bracelet has the cool, brilliant look of stainless steel with a 1200 gauss magnet in each tip. This clean-cut design has become a popular choice, as well as a signature product of Sabona.

Executive Class Duet Magnetic– This bracelet is the latest in upscale traditional design suitable for men to wear all the time, in the office, on the golf course, and on to dinner. Each link holds a powerful 1200 gauss magnet.

Go to www.RUNKA.com to see our selection of Sabona bracelets - we love 'em!

LIVITY OUTERNATIONAL - RUNKA's Favorite Accessories!

2011-10-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

Livity Outernational is a company that makes great, eco conscious clothing and accessories at fair prices. At RUNKA.com we like their products and their vision. Please go to www.RUNKA.com to see Livity Outernational items and let us know what you think!

Who We Are — Livity is a lifestyle of sustainability and unity. We live this way through the products we design and the cultures we support. By using organic, renewable and recyclable materials and engaging in fair-trade practices, Livity’s apparel and accessories are an expression of our commitment to activism through conscious living and positivity.

What We Do — We make earth-friendly apparel and accessories for the consumer with a conscience. Our hats, famous fedoras, bags, t-shirts, hoodies and outerwear are all designed with the Livity vibe and environment in mind.

A Brief History – Livity was founded in 2001 in Topanga, California by Isaac Nichelson. Isaac wanted to, “change the way the world looks at design, update the way we produce things and overhaul the way corporations do business.”

What's in a Name? Isaac’s longtime love for Reggae music and Afro-Caribbean culture is apparent in Livity’s message, designs and name. The word “Livity” is Jamaican Patois for a free, healthy and righteous lifestyle of sustainability and unity. Outernational represents a diverse world accepting of all cultures and creeds.

This is another wild color version of one of our most poular hats. Made from 100% hand woven Raffa Straw with the distinctive Fireball weave pattern with Hemp, Organic Cotton headband, binding and sweatband. Livity's foundation of headwear pieces have an originality all their own. Made from Livity Eco-Textiles and raffia straw, our collection of painter caps, fedoras, beanies, driver caps and ball caps reflect the Livity heritage and top off an individuals' sustainable style. Our products and message reflect our core values of sustainability and unity. All of our apparel and accessories are designed using organic, renewable and recycled materials and are produced in equitable trade.

The classic Fedora shaped in the style of a classic 1947 Fedora from Italy. A snappy Rust Color! Very COOL! From the Cover of Vogue Italia to the Tours of the World's Top Musicians. A classy design that will set you apart from everyone else! Made from Dog Tooth Hemp and Recycled Poly Micro Fiber Houndstooth. Livity's foundation of headwear pieces have an originality all their own. Made from Livity Eco-Textiles and raffia straw, our collection of painter caps, fedoras, beanies, driver caps and ball caps reflect the Livity heritage and top off an individuals' sustainable style. LiViTY is a positive, healthy lifestyle.

MYCELIUM PRO Immune System Boosters

2011-10-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

Do you get colds and flu easily? Did you know that your innate immune system supports 80% of your immune functions? There is no prescription drug currently on the market that can help boost your immune system.

Introducing Mycelium Pro^TM with AMFM formula, professional grade mushroom beta glucan, sold exclusively in clinics an to practitioners

10 mushrooms active extracts formula including Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Turkey Tail (Coriolus Versicolor), Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis), Sun Mushroom (Agaricus blazei), Suehirotake (Schizophyllum commune), Balin Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus nebrodensis), Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), Maitake (Grifola frondosa), Enokitake (Flammulina velutipes), Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) that provides the strongest support for overall immune health
Professional Grade Mushroom Beta Glucan Factor (MBG Factor^TM) fortified with glyconutrients, enzymes & trace minerals
Promotes wellness by replenishing energy or nutrient depleted
Provides superior antioxidant and free radical protection
Supports energy production at the cellular level, enhances quality of life

With depleted nutrients, vitamins and minerals from our food sources, our immune systems are weakened. The potent MBG factor^TM will assist the body's own immune system to be stronger and be energized, operating at optimum level of efficiency. By this activation, most people will regain their immune wellness and start to feel more energy.
In summary the key immune responses enhanced by the mushroom beta glucan factor are:

Phagocytic activity, Activation of the white blood cells /leukocytes, Regulates cell - mediated immune response

Have you ever thought about the Naturopathic approach to cold and flu? Did you know that Reishi, Maitake and Agaricus Blazei have been intensively studied in western medicine for their immunity boosting capability? Do you want to get rid of that feeling of "nearly getting sick" by giving your immune system a quick boost?
Here's the new Natropathic approach! Introducing Mycelium FIT^TM 3 in 1 formula.
Super Beta Glucan utilizes a patented biotechnology process of extracting maintenance grade Mushroom Beta Glucan from Reishi, Maitake and Agaricus blazei which helps shorten your recovery time* so you will notice the difference!

Mycelium FIT^TM Features:
3 mushrooms extracts formula including Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Sun Mushroom (Agaricus blazei) and Maitake (Grifola frondosa) that provides a quick immune boost.

Maintenance grade mushroom beta glucan that offers a quick, safe, natural alternative to the conventional approach. Unique homeopathic formula to address multiple body systems related to colds and flu. All natural, vegetarian formulation.

Mycelium FLO^TM, Cardiovascular Formula, is developed based on U.S. Patented biotechnology that extracts a novel fibrinolytic enzyme named ScFz, which has been found capable of supporting cardiovascular health during numerous studies. After devoting 20 years of studies in medicinal mushrooms, we have finally found the solution in Mother Nature that promotes & supports cardiovascular health.
The active ingredient, ScFz Enzyme contained in Mycelium FLO^TM is carefully extracted and highly purified to supplement your cardiovascular health. 7 multi-species mushroom extracts including Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), ZangZhi (Antrodia camphorate), Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinesis), Suehirotake (Schizophyllum commune), Honey mushroom (Armillaria mellea), Maitake (Grifola frondosa), Sang Hwang mushroom(Phellinus linteus) and most importantly, the Fibrinolytic enzymes. Other ingredients: Brown rice, oats, barley, vegetable polysaccharide (vegetarian) capsule, Magnesium stearate from vegetable source, enzymes, trace minerals.

Who will benefit from Mycelium FLO^TM?
Individuals who seek the advanced Natropathic supplement to support their cardiovascular health.

We love the Mycelium products and so do our customers. Go to RUNKA.com (www.RUNKA.com) and see the complete line of supplements.

DYNA FLEX FITNESS PRODUCTS - Earth and Body Friendly!

2011-10-04T09:38:00.000-07:00

At RUNKA.com we search for anything that is eco friendly, ergonomically sound, healthy, good for our planet and for people. One of the best products we have come across that fits this criteria is Dyna-Flex fitness products. They look and work great and are not physically taxing while still working out targeted areas of our bodies. Dyna-Flex is used by NASA, the military, Chiropractors, Doctors and Fitness Trainers! Here is some of their information from the Dyna-Flex website:

10 Reasons why you should GYRO!

1. They give you FAST, FUN & EFFECTIVE workout in just a day.

2. They give you GREATER RANGE OF MOTION, grip strength, flexibility, quickness, balance & endurance!

3. They are FUN! Just take a Dynaflex Gyro for a spin and see for yourself!
4. They allow you to workout at your OWN PACE! Speed it up, slow it down, it's up to you!
5. They provide an IMPACT-FREE, yet powerful dynamic resistance workout.
6. They FIT ANYWHERE! Keep one in your desk, laptop case, your purse, glove compartment, etc.
7. They can be USED ANYWHERE, such as watching TV, on your CELL, on a walk, even while surfing the net.

8. They give you MORE ENERGY! Skip the coffee and spin your PowerBall!
9. They are so FAST, FUN & EASY they're almost addictive.
10. They will JUMPSTART your fitness program! Just 5 minutes a day is all it takes!

Hundreds of chiropractors and physical therapists across the country have chosen Dynaflex gyros for the gentle rehabilitation of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), Arthritis, Tendonitis, Golfers and Tennis Elbow. Its silky smooth, non-impact workout makes it the perfect strengthening, conditioning, relaxation and recovery tool.

You name the sport -- golf, bowling, baseball, dirtbike riding, tennis, raquettball, even computer gaming -- and the Dynaflex lineup of fitness gyros will help you get more "game" out of your game. Thats because our gyros deliver up to 200 pounds (depending on the model) of impact-free, silky smooth dynamic resistance to strengthen your grip, tone your arms and wrists, build muscle, increase flexability, quickness, range of motion, endurance, and even help prevent and rehabilitate certain conditions, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Get A Grip on Motorcycling!
Weekend dirt bike enthusiasts, BMX riders and professional motocross riders all share one thing in common -- a fatiguing phenomenon known as "arm pump." If youve ever felt like your arms were going to fall off after a long day of riding, weve got great news! DynaGrip is a hand-held gyroscopic exercise device that will strengthen your wrist and forearms, and help keep arm pump at arms length.

Get A Grip on Music!Do you tinkle the ivory, pluck a guitar, or dazzle people with your drum solos? Many musicians are using our lineup of fitness gyros to get the most from their instruments of choice. Who would have thought that a gyroscope and banjo could make beautiful music together? Play longer with greater dexterity and less fatigue by using a Dynaflex Fitness Gyro for just 5 minutes a day.

Get a Grip on Gaming!
The top gaming superstars in the world use DynaFlex Gyros to help take their gaming to the next level! Whether you are an up-and-coming superstar, or just enjoy competing against your friends on the weekends, the Dynaflex lineup of gyros are the hot ticket to becoming top gun on your block. By simply using one of our fitness gyros a few minutes a day before firing up your computer, you will be able to play longer with less hand and arm fatigue. Your game will also benefit from greater range of motion, flexibility and more hand speed as you lay waste to the neighborhood.

Get a Grip on those cubical blues!Stuck in a cubical behind a computer for eight hours a day? Are you bored, sleepy and you feel like youre fingers are turning to stone? Here is a tip that will work wonders for your work day. Take a few minutes to spin your Dynaflex Gyro. Its true. Youll feel the gyros energy from your fingers and into your shoulder.

Get a Grip on being a senior!Maintaining flexibility and good range of motion is important at any age, but especially as we grow older. The Dynaflex lineup of fitness Gyros is ideal for seniors interested in maximizing range of motion, improving muscle tone and staying active.

As you can see Dyna-Flex work out items look good and work great. Check out the Dyna Flex line on www.RUNKA.com.

XYLEM CLOTHING - Soy, Organic Cotton and Hemp Clothing

2011-10-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

Xylem clothing is a fantastic clothing line that we have been carrying at RUNKA.com for quite a while. Our customers love it because it looks and feels great, is completely eco friendly and it priced fairly. We will let Xylem tell you their story about why and how they got involved in the "green" clothing industry.

At Xylem Organic Clothing, founders and seamstresses Danielle Brodsky and Jazzi Januari combine their passion for designing comfortable organic apparel and stylish clothing with their passion for environmental sustainability.

As members of Co-op America, a not for profit organization that helps ensure the bounty of the Earth is preserved for all the generations to come, Xylem respects and practices their high standard for a truly green and eco friendly business.

The organic fabrics used by Xylem Clothing are always produced ethically and sweatshop free. They are meticulously selected for comfort, beauty, and sustainability from the finest providers of eco-friendly soy, organic cotton, hemp, and silk materials.

By working together with a local team of seamstresses, we are able to maintain a fine handmade quality of organic clothes. Each garment is hand colored in small batches, using custom mixed, low-impact dyes, and all waste is reduced and recycled responsibly.

Xylem Organic Clothing prides itself on creating eco-friendly fashion that is organic and elegant and universally accessible. Utilizing stretch comfort, our materials gracefully embrace, accentuate, and complement the unique and true form of a woman's body.

Organic Apparel MISSION

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Organic Apparel

The beauty, elegance, style and comfort of Xylem organic apparel is sourced from the purity of Nature. We are dedicated to using the finest natural eco-friendly fibers to create earth and community conscious clothing for the dynamic modern woman who chooses to embody her beliefs.

WE BELIEVE IN:LIFE• Quality organic apparel enhance the quality of your life.

• Embodying your beliefs inspires you to aspire and achieve.

COMMUNICATION• Sharing our experiences with each other is essential

for a fulfilling life.

• By doing so, you create connection, relationship and community.

COMMUNITY• Change and transformation begins in your own community.

• Each choice you make impacts everyone and everything around you.

THE WORLD

• It is our responsibility to choose organic clothing products that are renewable and sustainable.

• By doing so, we truly can re-make the world for all of us.

Organic Clothing Materials - Cotton, Hemp, Silk and Soy

Eco-Friendly Organic Clothes

Xylem's fabrics are meticulously selected from the finest providers of organic cotton, hemp, silk and soy materials. Each garment is hand colored in small batches, using custom mixed, low-impact dyes, and all waste is reduced and recycled responsibly. Our stretch fabrics embrace and enhance your body and offer infinite fashion combinations, allowing you to express your unique self in a different way every day.
That's why Xylem features unique fashionable clothing designs made from Soy "Kashmere", Organic Cotton, Hemp, silk and Tencel which creates clothing that is both rich in style and environmentally sensitive.

Soy "Kashmere" Clothing

Soy Kashmere" is the world's first cloth made from soybeans. This exceptional eco-friendly fiber is made from the renewable natural resource of unused protein remaining from the production of soybean oil, tofu and soymilk. Soy fabric is being referred to as vegetable "Kashmere" because of its incredible luster, loft, drape, and durability. All byproducts of soybean fiber production are of a harmless nature and are completely recyclable. The soy is non-gmo and is blended with organic cotton and spandex.

Organic Cotton Clothing

Cotton is the most used fabric of the conventional clothing industry. It is cool, comfortable, and breathable. We use the organic version of this well-known textile, which is grown without the use of toxic pesticides or fertilizers, and supports healthy agricultural practices.

Hemp Clothing

Hemp has a sensuous drape and hang, similar to that of linen. It is also extremely durable, yet insulating making it desirable for both blistering-hot summer and bitter-cold winter wear. We use 100% pure hemp, as well as tencel, wool, and silk blends.

Tencel Clothing

Tencel is the trade name for a human-made, natural fabric called "Lyocell" that is cool and breathable, like rayon, with a gorgeous, flowing drape. Tencel is made from the cellulose of farm-raised trees, grown on land that has been deemed unsuitable for food growth or animal grazing.

Take a look at RUNKA.com (www.RUNKA.com) to see the sull line of Xylem Clothing.

PURE GREEN 24 - Safe and Effective Green Cleaning Products

2011-09-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

At RUNKA.com we are constantly on the lookout for green products - clothing, pet items, skin care products - you name it! Environmentally friendly cleaning products are now a large and popular segment of the green marketplace. As we all know "green washing" - claims of natural, eco friendly or green with little substantive evidence - is a rampant marketing practice. Labeling something as natural is as much a marketing tool as an informational element of the packaging. While we are hopeful that this issue is in the process of being addressed by educated consumers and governmental agencies we believe it is our responsibility to look beyond the hype and locate high quality, environmentally safe products for our customers. We are confident that we have found an excellent cleaner that is safe, free of toxins, highly effective and affordable for our customers.

Pure Green 24 is a cleaning agent that is not only effective and but eco friendly as well. Here is some information from their website that may be helpful:

The Invisible KillersWith worldwide pandemics looming (Norovirus & Influenza A), and antibiotic resistant superbugs (MRSA & CA-MRSA) on the rise, institutions, companies and individuals are faced with the dilemma of how to protect their employees, families and pets from infectious disease without exposing them to toxic chemicals such as bleach or ammonia.

PureGreen24 completely Kills Staph & MRSA in 2 minutes

Antibacterial • Antiviral • AntifungalPureGreen24 is your only choice for a proven hard surface antimicrobial disinfectant and deodorizer that offers rapid efficacy. PureGreen24 kills the most deadly of superbugs, yet also kills everyday household germs.

The 24 Hour SolutionPureGreen24 is an EPA registered, broad spectrum antimicrobial
disinfectant and deodorizer with unique 24 hour residual effectiveness*.

You are Protected with PureGreen24PureGreen24 has an EPA IV toxicity rating; the lowest rating assigned by the Federal EPA. PureGreen24 is non-flammable, non-corrosive, and odorless without the fumes or skin irritation associated with traditional disinfectants. PureGreen24 is strong enough to kill the most dangerous viruses (Norovirus) and bacteria (MRSA) in a hospital environment, yet EPA registered for use on children’s toys at home.

PureGreen24 Odor ControlEliminate odors and disinfects in one-step. Remove odors without the use of Toxic Chemicals. PureGreen24 works by killing the bacteria that causes the odors, not just covering them up. Use for Pet Odors including urine, gym bags, sports gear and shoes, lockers, carpets, diaper pails, laundry baskets, sewer spills, autos & RV's, and marine use too. PureGreen24 will get rid of the odors without damaging fabrics or carpet.

Why PureGreen24?PureGreen Technology: PureGreen24’s active ingredient, SDC, is comprised of silver ions and citric acid.

PureGreen Manufacturing: The manufacturing process produces zero discharge with no waste or byproducts. PureGreen24 is manufactured from Silver Ions, Citric Acid and Purified Water.
PureGreen24: Contains no alcohol, bleach or other toxic ingredients.

Please visit RUNKA.com (www.RUNKA.com) to see the full line of Pure Green 24 - a fantastic product that you can feel confident is safe for you and your family.

DEPRESSION - KPFA radio and La Onda Bajita present the Traditional Healers Forum

2011-09-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

Depression is an issue that affects almost every one of us whether it is personally, a family member or a friend. Depression can be debilitating, complicated and confusing. There are many different types of depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder, Panic Disorder, Postpartum Depression and Childhood Depression.

The Human Brain

      The medical profession addresses depression with a familiar array of medications: Adapin, Cymbalta, Elavil, Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft among others.  These are powerful chemicals which have many strong side effects associated with their use. When the medicine can be as impacting as the disease itself we must ask ourselves if there is a different way to heal.

      On Friday, September 30th, from 8 to 10 pm, KPFA radio and La Onda Bajita will present the Traditional Healers Forum, hosted by David Kukkola and Norma LaBrava, which will address a holistic way to bring healing to the epidemic of depression. This will be the third in a series of live, on site broadcasts from Living Medicines (www.livingmedicines.com) in Fairfax, Ca.

      Joining David and Norma will be Bruce Elijah, Francis Weller, Teya Valentina and Rob Allbee with music from Marshal McKitrick. At the end of the show they will take calls from the listening audience. Please join the Forum for an insightful discussion about an important and sensitive topic. Special thanks to Miguel Molina and his crew from La Onda Bajita for all of their hard work and effort to make this evening possible.  At RUNKA.com (www.runka.com) we are proud to be one of the sponsors of this event.

Elephant Dung - yes, we said Elephant Poop!

2011-09-21T14:44:00.000-07:00

What does Elephant dung/poop/feces/crapola (choose your own word) have to do with a green products blog and website? Excellent question, especially since it has lots to do with an eco friendly website. Here's the story and it's a good one:

Mr. Ellie Pooh LLC is an eco-friendly Fair Trade company making
exotic gifts and paper made partially out of elephant poo!
Elephants in Sri Lanka are being killed at an alarming rate.
Humans are encroaching on elephant habitats and cutting
down trees. When elephants come looking for food, they are
shot and killed.

Our mission is to is to reduce some of the Human/Elephant conflict that is ongoing.
We plan to open handmade paper facilities in rural areas, train local villagers to
make paper and hire artisans to embellish our goods. We believe that this newly
created industry can directly contribute to the local economy. Our hopes are that
such an initiative will self educate the villagers into living, working and respecting
the elephant. Have them look at the elephants more as an asset instead of as a
threat.

According to “The State of the Paper Industry (2007)” a report by the Environmental
Paper Network, 50% of the world's forests have been cleared or burned, and 80% of
what's left has been seriously degraded. If the United States cut office paper use by
just 10% it would prevent the emission of 1.6 million tons of greenhouse gases --
the equivalent of taking 280,000 cars off the road.

Compared to using virgin wood, paper made with 100% recycled content uses 44%
less energy, produces 38% less greenhouse gas emissions, 41% less particulate
emissions, 50% less wastewater, 49% less solid waste and -- of course -- 100%
less wood.

Mr. Ellie Pooh’s paper products are 100% recycled. They are made up of 50% fiber
from elephant dung and 50% post consumer paper. There are no toxic chemicals
used in our paper making process. Natural vegetative binding agents, along with
water-soluble salt dyes for coloring are used. Mr. Ellie Pooh’s papers are
handmade, acid free and as organic as it gets.
Since an elephant’s diet is all
vegetarian, the waste produced
is basically raw cellulose.
Thoroughly cleaned and
processed, the cellulose is
converted into a uniquely
beautiful textured product,
marketed as “Ellie Pooh Paper”.
This acid free, linen-like
papyrus-type paper can be
formed into art and construction
projects, notebooks, cards and
assorted gift items where the only
limitation is ones imagination.
These products have proved
extremely popular among many
in the local population and among
foreign tourists.

Although this paper may not
completely resolve the ongoing
human-elephant conflict in
Sri Lanka, its use for the benefit
of the farmers who suffer from elephant depredations will certainly go some way
in raising the tolerance of the farmers towards the elephant. If the elephant is used
as an economic asset that contributes meaningfully to the welfare of the
people, then the people themselves will not want to see it disappear from their
area. In the final analysis, all of our conservation efforts will be futile if we do not
have the support of the local communities. “Ellie Pooh Paper” can play an
important role in the conservation of its provider.

Is that an awesome story or what! How could we not carry Ellie Pooh products on RUNKA.com? We had to - for our buddies the elephants, the people in Sri Lanka that benefit from these products and to make these great, unique items available to our customers.

Note Pads

Greeting Cards

Mini Scrapbook/Photo Albums

I know. You're thinking these products can't be made from Elephant dung - but they are! And they really do look and feel fantastic and people love them as gifts because they are so unique. Go to www.RUNKA.com and see the whole line of Mr. Ellie Pooh's products. By the way they look even better in person.

Float like a butterfly...sting like - BEESWAX!!!

2011-09-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

Beeswax - we know it's good for us. It comes from our buddies the bees who work awfully hard to produce just a tiny amount for us. At Honey House Naturals, a favorite of RUNKA.com, they use beeswax along with several other natural ingredients to make their products.

"Natural, Nurturing, Unique" - This has been the motto of Honey House Naturals® since our beginnings in 1994 and remains our core focus today. As a 100% woman-owned company, we embrace the purest values of skin care: integrity, purity, reverence and health.

As stewards of the environment, Honey House Naturals is committed to the conservation of natural resources and respect for our planet. Our products are made with wholesome ingredients either found in or derived from nature. Honey House Naturals uses only the very highest quality ingredients – no cheap fillers, always petroleum free and never tested on animals. Out of respect for our planet, we strive to employ reusable and recyclable materials in the packaging of our products.

Here are a few "beeswax facts" that you might not know:

It is estimated that bees fly 150,000 miles, roughly six times around the earth, to yield one pound of beeswax.

Honey bees use the beeswax to build honeycomb cells in which their young are raised and honey and pollen are stored.

Beeswax is known to lock in moisture, foster cells, and protect skin from damaging environmental factors. It also is a naturally nourishing moisturizer and its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-allergenic, and germicidal antioxidant properties make it beneficial for wound healing.

The Mayo Clinic recommends lip balm made from beeswax for chapped lip care and prevention.

The people at Honey House Naturals know about the benefits of beeswax and use it as one of their primary ingredients for their excellent products.

Lotion
Marvelous and healing, our lotions come in a variety of sizes and fragrances to meet every need. These lotions are loaded with shea butter, nature’s powerful moisturizer, as well as other exotic butters. Our new Bee Bar® Cream with Shea, Aloe and Royal Jelly is so thick and concentrated, that just a little smidge is enough to last you all day! The remarkable Belly Bar®, containing five butters, has been specially formulated to relieve even the itchiest skin.

Lip Butter

Rich in anti-oxidants, Pomegranate Seed Oil, Shea Butter, and other exotic oils, our Lip Butter® will drench dry, cracked lips in soothing moisture. Soothe, Moisturize and Protect.

Candles

100% natural beeswax with its own natural honey fragrance, our beeswax candles burn bright and clean. Sold in a set of three, each tea light will last up to four hours. Enjoy the warm ambiance and sweet aroma of these appealing tea lights as they naturally purify the air.

Room Mist

New! We are pleased to introduce a natural room mist that is powerfully effective in removing unpleasant odors from the air. The lovely fragrances linger long enough to remove the odor and then they are gone, leaving your surroundings as fresh as before!

Honey House Naturals products also contain shea butter (anti-oxidants and essential fatty acids), honey (anti-bacterial and anti-aging), royal jelly (an abundance of vitamins and minerals), cocoa butter (high in vitamin E which aids in skin repair and high in anti-oxidants), pomegranate seed oil (promotes re-growth of skin cells), kukui nut oil (helps to heal burns, acne, scars, rashes and chronic skin conditions) and jojoba oil (good for sensitive skin).

Let's see - 100% women owned, all natural, healthy ingredients, eco friendly packaging and great products that are good for you. We love it at RUNKA.com and we think you will too! Take a look at the full Honey House Naturals product line at www.RUNKA.com.

HOW DO YOU RECYCLE A BICYCLE?

2011-09-19T12:38:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love their bike? They bring back child hood memories, help us to stay in shape, get us outside and are a great, eco friendly method of transportation. But if they are wrecked or worn out what can you do with the old parts to make them useful? One great approach comes from RUNKA.com's friends at Resource Recovery:

Resource Revival Recycles Bicycle Parts into Art

We create fun, functional products from recycled bicycle parts. Every year, bike shops all over the United States send us tons of tons of greasy used bicycle parts. Then our team of artists tinkers with them until new products are born. We call this Rebicycling!

Passionate About Rebicycling Since 1991

The idea for Resource Revival came to Graham Bergh in 1991 when he got a flat tire biking to his recycling job in Portland, Oregon. Today Graham is still actively involved in new product development and customer service, as is Jim Hassert, artist and philosopher, who joined Resource Revival in 2002. All of our products are unique and original designs, and they are all made in Oregon, not mass produced.

Here are a few of the great ideas and products that Resource Revival has come up with:

Hybrid Wall Clock

Made from a recycled bicycle sprocket and recycled computer hard drive.

Bike Chain Bowl

Our gorgeous bowls are made from the most unlikely medium, recycled bike chain. With a great weight and classic shape they are perfect on an entry table for your keys etc. at the end of the day.

Double Sprocket Mirror

This beautiful mirror is made from a pre-consumer recycled bicycle chainring pair and adds a flair of eco-coolness to any room.

Bicycle Chain Frame 5x7

Made from recycled bicycle chain with an easel back/stand.

Bottle Opener - Orange

Flexible recycled bike chain handle and colorful anodized aluminum head.

Resource Revival has solved the problem of what to do with old bike parts when they are unusable for their original purpose. They have given them a new life as funtional and beautiful products - recycling at it's best. Look for all of Resource Revival's items on RUNKA.com

CHICO BAGS - A GREAT IDEA!

2011-09-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

DID YOU KNOW?

"Solid materials, typically waste, that has found its way to the marine environment is called marine debris. It is known to be the cause of injuries and deaths of numerous marine animals and birds, either because they become entangled in it or they mistake it for prey and eat it."²
At least 267 different species are known to have suffered from entanglement or ingestion of marine debris including seabirds, turtles, seals, sea lions, whales and fish. The scale of contamination of the marine environment by plastic debris is vast. It is found floating in all the world's oceans, everywhere from polar region to the equator."²
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch has mistakenly been referred to as the largest landfill in the world, a floating island, and a trash vortex. According to the Algalita Marine Research Foundation, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is most accurately represented as a "plastic soup" where the plastic is distributed throughout the water column.⁹
Of more than ten million pieces of garbage picked up on ocean beaches in 2009 during International Coastal Cleanup Day, 1,126,774 were plastic bags. Plastic bag debris was second only to cigarette butts/filters (21%) in number and accounted for full 11% of ALL marine debris picked up.

Re-useable bags aren't big news anymore; we all know the downside of single use bags. But CHICO BAGS makes re-useable - and recyclable bags - in ways that are big news. Here is some background on the company from their website:

In early 2004, Andy Keller, now ChicoBag™ president, took a trip to his local landfill after spending the day landscaping his backyard. He was horrified by what he saw. Single-use bags were visually the dominant article at the landfill that day, blanketing the landscape in a thin mix of white and beige plastic. On his way home he began to notice plastic bags everywhere, caught in trees and on fence posts, half drowned in gutter puddles and blowing in the streets like urban tumbleweeds. That day Andy vowed to stop using single-use bags. Inspired, Andy dropped a few bucks on a second hand sewing machine and began sewing what would ultimately become the first ChicoBag™ brand reusable bag.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus and the Bag Monster

Our mission at ChicoBag™ is really quite simple - we want to provide best-of-class products and services that result in the significant reduction of single-use bag use. We believe we can best achieve our goal by delivering a wide array of reusable bags that deliver solutions to every lifestyle. Our commitment to the environment is what motivates us to come to work every day and drives us to provide a trusted brand and a portfolio of quality products aimed at helping humanity solve the environmental challenges ahead.

In order to truly provide quality products we know we must consider every stage of our product lifecycle. ChicoBag™ believes in implementing programs designed to reduce waste through-out our entire supply chain. From manufacturing to office administration, our waste reduction goals lessen our impact on the planet. We also provide our customers with the resources necessary to become involved in the reusable bag movement. Our goal is to not only provide best in class products but to also be a hub of information regarding re-useable bags.

Like the Bag Monster says - 1 Year, 1 Shopper, 500 Bags. Don't do the math - it will give you a headache. Go to RUNKA.com and take a look at the full selection of CHICO BAGS. And at RUNKA we love the fact that they use their old, worn out bags to make rugs and encourage their workers to bike to work!

The Bag Monster and Kyle Massey

Each one of us has to do something about all of those deprerssing facts at the top of this blog. Our thanks to CHICO BAGS for giving us an environmentally safe, attractive and economical way to be better citizens of our planet.

TRADITIONAL HEALERS FORUM - KPFA RADIO BERKELEY

2011-06-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

RUNKA.com recently attended the first Traditional Healers Forum radio show in Berkeley, Ca. on KPFA. The experience was tremendous and RUNKA was honored to be one of the sponsors. Miguel Molina of La Onda Bajita produced the show, which will be recurring every three months on KPFA.

The show was hosted by David Kukkola of the Living Medicines Traditional Healing and Cultural Center in Fairfax, Ca. Ron San Miguel opened the evening with beautiful live music and he played several more times during the course of the show. Here is some information about David from the Living Medicines (www.livingmedicines.com) website:

David Kukkola, a Shiatsu Master, Medicinal Herbalist, and published poet, brings 25 years experience as a practitioner of traditional healing to his private practice. He was a founding partner in a herb company in San Francisco, a source of handcrafted herbal remedies drawn from select plant medicine traditions. He co-authored Roots of Healing~a practitioner's manual to herbal medicine.

David has studied and worked with healers from traditions around the world, including Native American, Asian, African, and European cultures. The foundation of his healing practice was established at the Namikoshi Shiatsu College; Tokyo, Japan, 1982-1983, where, while living in a Buddhist temple, he studied under the tutelage of Shiatsu Master, Tokujiro Namikoshi.

David then presented a taped interview he did with Dennis Banks of the American Indian Movement (AIM) concerning the high level of diabetes within the Native American people. Dennis, who was diagnosed with this disease, was in the middle of his 2011 Long Walk for Diabetes. He has a tremendous respect for the approach traditional healing takes with diabetes and supports the efforts of indigenous healers.

Dennis Banks 2011 Long Walk for Diabetes

LEAVING: Huntington Beach, California, February 14, 2011
ARRIVING: Washington DC, July 14, 2011
ROUTE: states we will be traveling thru are as listed:

CALIFORNIA
ARIZONA
NEW MEXICO
OKLAHOMA
ARKANSAS
LOUISIANA
MISSISSIPPI
ALABAMA
GEORGIA
FLORIDA
SOUTH CAROLINA
NORTH CAROLINA
VIRGINIA
Starting out in Huntington Beach with a pipe ceremony, and other events, we will be bringing awareness to let America know that this deadly disease can and will be stopped.
The walk will consist walking/running 5,000 miles or more and Educating all communities we travel through about Reversing Diabetes, and education about Heart Disease.
We will have walkers walking a total of 15 miles daily or more, and runners running a substantial amount more.

Miigwetch for your time!!
Dennis J. Banks

     After the interview with Dennis, David had Bruce Elijah of the Oneida tribe join the program by phone. They had an excellent conversation about traditional medicines and the role that elders and children play in our communities. David and Bruce took some calls from the listeners and the questions and answers were fascinating.

     Rob Allbee of Inside Circle joined David in the studio and read several of his poems; Rob's words were delivered with emotion and impact. Rob teaches writing to prisoners at Folsom Prison and if you would like to read some of his work please go to www.insidecircle.org.

     When the show was over Miguel reported that there had been more than 70 callers waiting to get through to the speakers. It was a wonderful evening and David has just notified RUNKA that the next show will be on July 22 and will be broadcast live from:

Living Medicines Healing and Tradional Cultural Center
85 Bolinas Rd., Suite 8
Fairfax, Ca. 94930

     This event will be open to the public so join David Kukkola and his radio guests for this special live broadcast.  Please check back to this blog for more information - we will get it to you as soon as we have an update. We are looking forward to another inspiring time of music, spoken word and learning about traditional healing directly from the practitioners. We hope to see you there!

hellomellow - hello who?

2011-04-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

hellomellow. Is this a new greeting? A nickname for RUNKA? The name of a new drink? No! hellomellow is a fantastic skin care line that RUNKA found at the San Francisco Green Festival.

hellomellow gift pack

hellomellow products include body butters, scrubs, bath salts, lip butters, body oil, energy sprays and travel kits. They are also the only avacado-mango based line of body care products available. hellomellow chose these ingredients because they are known for their emollient properties, are a great source of essential fatty acids, contain natural antioxidants, are easily absorbed into the skin and are non greasy. Can it get any better?

arouse body scrub

empower bath salts

Yes, as far as RUNKA is concerned, and here's why: Not only is the product excellent and the packaging looks great but hellomello uses only 100% recyclable plastic and FiberStone paper for their containers. For those of you not familiar with FiberStone, there are no trees, waste products, water or bleach either used or produced in the processing of this paper. FiberStone also uses only 50% of the energy required in comparison to the production of standard paper.

kiddo diaper rash butter

preggo boobie butter

In addition to their standard line hellomellow also has specialized lines for kids (kiddo), which includes dry skin eraser, diaper rash butter, baby oil, and sleepy time spray as well as for expectant moms (preggo) that includes lip butter, boobie butter, no itch and stretch mark butter, bath salts, body scrub and body oil!

We had a chance to visit briefly at the Festival with Tracy Feldstein, hellomellow founder, and Beth Mack, the National Sales Manager. They are very committed to their skin care line and enthusiastic about the responses of their customers. It really got our attention when Beth began to explain the benefits to breast cancer patients that were undergoing the difficult treatments involved with this potentially deadly disease. Almost every one of us knows someone who has been affected by this disease - and the added complications of the side effects of treatment - so it was great to hear about a product that could bring such tremendous relief.

tracy (l) and beth (r) of hellomellow with dave from runka.com

unwind bath set

Thanks hellomellow! We love the line, what it comes in and - especially - the care and concern that you have put into your products.

GREEN CALIFORNIA SUMMIT AND EXPOSITION

2011-04-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday April 19th at the Sacramento Convention Center is the 2011 GREEN CALIFORNIA SUMMIT AND EXPOSITION. RUNKA.com will be in attendance and will bring you an update of the Keynote Speakers comments as well as full coverage of the Expo floor. We will be looking for the newest sustainable, green, recycled and renewable products as well as information that may be helpful for all of us. Here is some information from the GREEN CALIFORNIA SUMMIT website:

Green Paths to Economic Recovery

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, Keynote Speaker

Terry Tamminen, President of 7th Generation Advisors, Keynote Speaker

In California the paths to recovery and sustainability are converging. The 2011 Green California Summit will highlight innovations in policy, practice and technology that can support green growth.

From building programs to workforce development, “green” is now a given. The focus now is on identifying strategies – and technologies – that offer both economic and environmental benefits.

Led by an Advisory Board that includes leaders from government and industry, the Summit brings to life the best in green policy and practice through education sessions, keynote presentations, an Expo featuring green products and services and the Summit’s annual Leadership Awards.

The theme of the 2011 Summit is “Green Paths to Economic Recovery,” a topic that will be addressed in a variety of ways – from sessions highlighting the savings attainable through energy and water efficiency to a keynote presentation on green job creation by venture capitalist Elton B. Sherwin, Jr., author of “Addicted to Energy – A Venture Capitalist’s Perspective on How to Save our Economy and Our Climate.” General session attendees will also have a chance to get an update on the Greenwise Sacramento intiative from Mayor Kevin Johnson.

California has abundant solar, wind and geothermal resources. It also has an unmatched combination of forward-thinking green policy, technology expertise, voter support and purchasing power. Even in recession, it is one of the world’s largest economies. The right partnerships between the public and private sectors can enable the Golden State to “seize the day” and develop a high-tech, high wage green economy.

There will be more than 200 exhibitors at the SUMMIT and RUNKA will visit all of them to see what we can find for our customers.

LEAFWARE- Dinnerware from PALM LEAFS!

2011-04-14T15:54:00.000-07:00

RUNKA sees lots of dinnerware in his travels. Some is made from sugarcane, some from recycled paper and all of it is great. But LEAFWARE has taken dinnerware one step further. They gather Palm leafs and make plates and bowls in all sizes from the leafs. The products look fantastic and everyone who has bought them from us has given us very positive feedback. Go to RUNKA.com and take a look at our selection of this beautiful and functional environmentally friendly product.

Here is some information from the LEAFWARE website:

Many ancient communities in South Asia & South- East Asia have been for centuries using leaves of specific trees and vines, sewn together with bits of stem and fashioned into ‘disposable’, 'versatile' plates and bowls. This natural crockery easily decomposes, creating neither pollution nor garbage nor solid waste disposal problems! Such use of leaves inspired Leafware to produce disposable, environment-friendly dinnerware and dining accessories designed for contemporary use.

The fallen leaves are carefully harvested, hygienically cleaned and pressed to various shapes to form plates, bowls and trays. Usage of fallen leaves eases the economic pressure to cut down trees and therefore preserving our planet’s true identity. Leafware products are sustainably produced and providing source of living for many families in small communities of South Asia.

If used at home or for parties and festivals such as Christmas, Thanks giving, etc., just use and put them in the backyard compost or dispose them off as one would do with any other disposable product.

As each leaf is a singular creation from nature, their colors and hues range from whites and pearls to light beiges, browns with natural grains and silver strains running through them. Available in an assortment of shapes and sizes to suit all your food serving needs, their beauty will lend style and grace to any table or buffet. As our products are derived from a natural source, slight variations in color and thickness occur as each frond is different from every other one.

LUNCHSENSE Lunchboxes - It Makes Sense!

2011-04-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

Lunchsense lunchboxes are a fantastic, practical and renewable product that RUNKA.com has been selling for several years. We love the concept of a reusable lunchbox and containers - that come in great colors - for work, school and pleasure. Our customers only have good things to say about Lunchsense and we have had numerous repeat purchases. Here is the Lunchsense story, with some background on Nancy Myers, the founder and owner of the company, from the Lunchsense website:

Nancy Owen Myers, Lunchsense Founder

It all began with a quest for “the perfect lunchbox.”

Nancy Owen Myers, owner, founder and creator of Lunchsense, first hatched the idea of building a better lunchbox after a friend came down with a serious case of the lunch bag blues in 2006. Among other things, she complained about leaky lunch containers, smelly vinyl bags and a lack of alternatives to disposable bags and baggies.

Not one to sit by idly while a friend was in need, Myers did what any ex-bug-scientist-turned-accountant would do, she started a lunchbox company.

But first, Myers did an exhaustive search of the lunchboxes that were out there. After finding none that suited her needs and her friend’s needs, she started building prototypes, calling upon a lifetime of sewing skills. A half-dozen models later, Lunchsense came into being on paper in December of 2006. A month later, the company was born!

In creating and building her company, Myers drew upon her past experiences. Although entomology and accounting might not seem like the ideal career track for a lunchbox entrepreneur, there were some valuable lessons learned along the way.

“Accounting offered a great foundation in the language of business,” she explains.

And as a bug expert with a master’s degree in entomology, Myers worked for years to reduce reliance on pesticides in the field of integrated pest management. She says the process of designing and fine-tuning a lunchbox was not unlike dialing in the details of how to manage a piece of land and the creatures that inhabit the area.

“How do the natural sciences play into what I do, now?” Myers wonders. “It’s the same process of looking at whether something is living up to its expectations. If the results aren’t what I want or what I expect, then the process needs to change.”

While Myers’ professional career prepared her well for her current role, being a mother of three certainly didn’t hurt. Drawing on her family’s own experiences, she arrived at the perfect design for the perfect lunchbox. In 2007, she began testing the lunchboxes the best way she knew how – by sending her kids to school with them – and in 2008 she began selling lunchboxes online.

Today, thousands of Lunchsense lunchboxes are in use – not just by kids, but by business professionals, active people, travelers and others looking to make sense out of making lunch. And to think it all started with a simple desire to help a friend!

Like we said - RUNKA loves 'em and so do our customers. Check Lunchsense out on RUNKA.com and let us know what you think. If you already own a Lunchsesne lunchbox please leave a comment for everyone about your experience with them. THANKS!

GREEN FESTIVALS - Coming To A City Near You!

2011-04-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

RUNKA.com just visited the San Francisco Green Festival (www.greenfestivals.org) this past weekend (April 9 - 10) and, as always, we had a great time. Many of the Expos and Conferences that we attend are closed to the public but Green Festivals are open to everyone. Here is the 2011 schedule for upcoming Festivals: Chicago - May 14 and 15; Seattle - May 21 and 22; New York - October 1 and 2; Los Angeles - October 29 and 30; San Francisco - November 12 and 13.

With 10 years of history and over 1,000,000 attendees during that time hosts Green America and Global Exchange do an excellent job of presenting a fun, educational and sustainable event. There is a Sustainable Home and Garden Pavilion, Green Building and Renewable Energy Pavilion, Community Action Pavilion, Mother Earth News Pavilion, a Green Business Pavilion and a Green Kids Zone.

At the San Francisco Festival people enjoyed their lunch while music groups played in the Food Pavilion all afternoon. The food and the music was fantastic - make sure you don't miss the Organic Beer and Wine Garden!

With 125 speakers and 10 stages there were plenty of seminars and discussions to choose from as well as several book signings.

The best part for RUNKA was the 300 green exhibitors to speak with about products to bring back for our customers. We found several great new items that should be available in the next few weeks. Check back and we will blog about the new products listed from the Festival.

If you attended this event or have ever been to a Green Festival please leave a comment with your experience. We want to know if you enjoyed it as much as we did. Thanks!

The International Green Industry Hall of Fame Ceremony

2011-04-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

Master of Ceremony Bob Hilton (Voice of The Price is Right, The Newlywed Game and Let's Make a Deal) gets the festivities rolling

RUNKA.com had the pleasure of joining about 200 attendees and nominees at the inaugural International Green Industry Hall of Fame ceremony at UC Merced at the end of March. The theme for the day was "Honoring Green Heroes" and everyone had a great time. The event was an excellent opportunity to meet and speak with many eco friendly business owners and fellow "greenies".

Larry Morris of RUNKA discusses our products with the attendees...

...and answered lots of excellent questions

As one of the finalists for induction RUNKA.com hosted a booth at the Hall of Fame Expo. We were visited by quite a few attendees and had a great time meeting and talking with so many people committed to a healthy environment. It was very encouraging to see the large number of young adults from the local high schools interested in an eco friendly lifestyle.

Getting ready for the Big Moment!

UC Merced Campus Architect Thomas Lollini spoke on the Universities commitment to achieving Zero Net Energy, Zero Waste to Landfill and Zero Carbon Emissions by 2020. Mineta Transportation Institue Executive Director Rod Diridon gave an excellent speech on the status of High Speed Rail, both internationally and within California.

Hangin' with the Greenies

Thanks to Shauna, Brenna and Ashleigh for making it all work so smoothly

After the ceremony everyone went back to the main area for lunch and more viewing of the Expo.

Congratulations to the winners of the RUNKA.com give away!

RUNKA.com held a drawing and gave away several prizes to attendees including the Grand Prize, a backpack made from hemp!

Sam Geil, IGIHOF President, presents David Nuss of RUNKA.com with the Award of Excellence

Finally - the drum roll please - was RUNKA.com inducted into the International Green Industry Hall of Fame? Not this year - but we are very proud to announce that we did receive the IGIHOF Award of Excellence.

Thanks again to Sam Geil, the IGIHOF Board of Directors, staff and Sponsors for a fantastic event and congratulations to the inductees. We can hardly wait until next year!

HEMP - IT'S WHAT'S FOR DINNER (and skin care and supplements and ...loin cloths?)

2011-03-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

Hemp. For most people that word represents only one thing - think Cheech and Chong. But industrial hemp is becoming a big player in the green products arena with over 25,000 different applications! Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L. subspecies sativa) is bred to maximize fiber, seed and oil. Marijuana (Cannabis sativa L. subspecies indica) maximizes THC (delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol) the primary psychoactive ingredient.

Industrial hemp is a very durable product that is produced by the Cannabis plant. Cannabis, in all of its strains, is one of the fastest growing plants known, which qualifies it as a renewable resource.

Hemp is naturally resistant to most pests, precluding the need for pesticides. It grows tightly spaced, choking out weeds, so herbicides are not necessary. Hemp can be used in clothing as an alternative to cotton, which is usually grown with massive amounts of chemicals harmful to people and the environment. It can also be pulped using less chemicals than wood and the long fibers allow the paper to be recycled several times more than wood-based paper.

Hemp oil is the richest known source of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (the "good" fats). It's quite high in some essential amino acids, including gamma linoleic acid (GLA), a very rare nutrient also found in mother's milk. Here are a few thing you may not know about hemp:

The version of the Declaration of Independence released on July 4, 1776 was written on hemp.

George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both grew hemp.

Benjamin Franklin operated a paper mill that used hemp.

The original Levi Strauss jeans were made from hemp.

Until 1883, 75-90% of all paper in the U.S. was made with hemp.

In 1941 Henry Ford built a car with a plastic parts made from hemp and wheat straw.

In 1942 the U.S. government strongly encouraged hemp cultivation to help with the war effort, going so far as to produce a film entitled “Hemp For Victory“.

Robes for Buddhist Monks and loincloths for Sumo Wrestlers are made from hemp.

Today cereals, milk, cream, butter, supplements, sunscreen, diapers, clothing, carpets, construction materials, paper products, diesel lubricants and thousands of other products are made with hemp, either as the primary ingredient or an additive.

We have found some great hemp products that are available on RUNKA.com. Take a look and check back often - we are searching for more all the time!

IT'S SPRING! Time to Plant with the Environment in mind

2011-03-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

It's Spring and that means it's time to garden. We all want to make wise environmental choices in every area of our lives and gardening is no different. In our search for eco friendly products we found something that is a 100% natural alternative to peat based soil mixes. Peat moss is taken from peat bogs and these bogs take thousands of years to develop. It also takes them many years to recover and, subsequently, peat is not a renewable resource.

Coco Garden Coco Fiber is a 100-Percent natural eco-friendly alternative to peat based potting mixes. Coco Garden Coco Fiber is a completely renewable resource made from 100-Percent natural recycled fibers of the coconut husk. Coco Fiber's micro sponge effect dramatically increases the water retention of soil and improves aeration, ensuring optimal root growth and maximum water and nutrient uptake for lawn grasses and container and garden plants. Coco Fiber is excellent for use as a seed starter, planting seedlings and transferring plants. It can also be added to dry soil conditions to improve water retention and also for soils high in clay to improve aeration and root growth. When compared to conventional potting mixes compressed coco fiber lasts longer, requires significantly less packaging material and has a lower shipping weight and volume which greatly reduces its impact on the planet.

One 1.43-Pound (650-Gram) brick makes 2-2.5-Gallon (8-9l) of potting medium

Sponge effect boosts water and nutrient retention
Reduces odor improves decomposition
Prevents the leaching of valuable compost nutrients
Dimensions: 4" H x 8" W x 2" D

One 3.7-Ounce (105-Gram) disc makes 2-Quart (1.89l) of potting medium
Dimensions: 0.75" H x 3.75" W x 3.75" D

We have tried this product it works great. If you have used it let us know how you like it; if not go to RUNKA.com, give it a try and let us know what you think. Happy eco friendly gardening!

SOLMATE SOCKS - What Is A Recycled Sock and Do I Want One?

2011-03-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

Well, actually, you don't want one sock - you want two. But, as we all know, socks seem to have a mind of their own. They get lost in the dryer or the sock drawer and we end up matching them with a different sock or not wearing them at all. Then RUNKA came upon Solmate Socks and found that no two of their socks are alike! You can lose, misplace or mismatch as many Solmate Socks as you want and still have a pair! They look and feel great and are all made out of recycled cotton! As you could imagine RUNKA fell in love with them.

The genius behind this particular brand of madness is Marianne Wakerlin, the Socklady of Vermont and here is her story. We really like her line "mismatched with care".

Marianne Wakerlin, the Socklady is the founder and owner of Solmate Socks. The company is named after her mom, Sunny, who taught Marianne how to knit when she was nine years old. Marianne continued a life long enthusiasm for knitting, but it wasn't until she started knitting socks that her real passion was born.

Over the years Marianne knit over one hundred pairs of socks for family and friends. She then decided to turn her hobby into a business and in the year 2000 Solmate Socks was born. Her colorful and complex patterns are knit in the USA at a family owned knitting mill, hand finished and then "mismatched with care."

The company is run in a small town in central Vermont, where the Socklady is surrounded and inspired by the woods, brook, gardens and hills of the countryside.

Social & Environmental Responsibility

Solmate Socks is proud to be an official Vermont Business Environmental Partner (www.vbep.org). We are, and always have been since the company started in the year 2000, committed to protecting the environment, the health and safety of our employees, and the community in which we conduct our business.

In line with Vermont Business Environmental Partnership standards:

Solmate Socks continuously seeks out improvements throughout our business operations to lessen our impact on the local and global environment by conserving energy, water, and other natural resources; reducing waste generation; recycling and purchasing recycled products; and, reducing our use of toxic products. We are committed to pollution prevention, continual improvement and meeting or exceeding all environmental regulatory requirements.

INTERNATIONAL GREEN INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME - A Word From the President

2011-03-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

This Friday, March 25th, the inaugural International Green Industry Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held at UC Merced. Runka.com is honored to be one of the 18 finalists for 6 spots in the Hall. If you would like to see a full list of the finalists please go to www.gogreenhall.org.

We received this email from Sam Geil, President of IGIHOF and a true visionary, and thought that we would share it with you. In particular please take note of the quote from Gandhi. Anyone who has ever attempted to promote the environment, start an eco friendly business or become a pioneer in any field can certainly relate to this statement of wisdom. Next week we will bring you a full update on the ceremony.

Dear IGIHOF Nominees:

With just under a week until we unveil our inductees, I would again like to thank each of you for your support and positive energy. It looks like we are going to sell out. We have sold out all our exhibit booths, event program ads and student scholarships (100+).

I am really excited about our student scholarship program. Area school administrators have hand selected high school students who have identified "Environmental Sustainability" as the academic track for college. You should have a very engaged audience eager to learn and willing to listen.

Roz Savage, Ocean Rower, will not be able to attend, but has graciously sent us a video, which is now on our website. Please join me in wishing Roz the best of luck and God's blessing as she prepares to row from Australia to Africa. With the pirate activity off the Somali coast line, the courage meter has jumped off the chart. The only word to describe Roz is WOW!

We will also be joined by Ray Anderson via video recording. Ray is grounded at the moment, but has graciously agreed to send his digital regards. Ray will be our first recipient of the "Lifetime Achievement Award".

We also received two congratulatory letters: One from Keegan Eisenstadt of ClearSky Climate Solutions (Nominee) and John Hofmeister (ex-CEO of Shell Oil) the author of "Why We Hate The Oil Companies" and Founder and CEO, Citizens for Affordable Energy. Many thanks for the kind message and words of encouragement.

Additionally, we have been tracking our carbon footprint thanks to Keegan's link and we will be holding a carbon neutral event once we make our modest donation to the Panama project. You can learn more at: http://www.clearskyclimatesolutions.com/

As you are aware, our event is going to be streamed live via the www. As soon as we have more information on the viewing process, I will notify you so you can pass along to your friends, family and business colleagues.

Also, the inductees and keynote speakers will be interviewed by Susan Frank, The Better World Group. Susan is ingratiating, passionate about Green and very very intelligent. I am looking forward for you all to meet her during the event.

The VIP reception and dinner is coming together nicely. We will be featuring a sustainable winery from Lodi California (Lange Twins Winery). Not only are the wines very good, but the Lange family is a wonderful partner. Steve Haworth, World Famous Auctioneer, will be conducting our live and silent auction, which promises to be fun and entertaining.

In closing, I would like to share with you a quote from Gandhi. "First, they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win". This has been a journey of legacy, love, ecology and responsibility.

I am honored and humbled to be able to share IGIHOF with you and your colleagues.

Thank you for being a part of something very special.

Love to you and your family.

Sam

HIMALAYAN SALT - What can it do for me?

2011-03-15T10:49:00.000-07:00

During the formation of the Himalayas the extreme pressure required to create the tallest mountains on earth caused the salt to take on special qualities. One quality is the beautiful, opaque, orange and reddish colors of the salt. This helps the artisans to create lovely lamps in many shapes as well as bowls, candle holders, foot therapy stones and massage stones. Another is the natural negative ion charge inherent in Himalayan salt.

Round Himalayan Salt Basket Lamp

What are “negative ions”?
Negative ions are oxygen atoms with an extra electron. Ions are charged particles that are formed by nature when enough energy acts upon a molecule. An electron is ejected leaving a positively charged ion. The displaced electron attaches itself to a nearby molecule, which then becomes a negatively charged ion. In fresh country air it is common to find up to 4000 negative ions per cubic centimeter. By contrast, it is common to find that the number of negative ions in major cities at rush hour is less than 100.

Himalayan Salt Two Candle Holder

Himalayan Salt Therapeutic Foot Blocks

Himalayan Salt Bowl Lamp

What are the effects of negative ions?
They cause harmful microscopic -particles (particulates) in the air to clump together then weigh them down to the floor. Particulates include all forms of air pollution (smoke, chemical odors, carbon monoxide, bacteria, viruses, mold, etc.) Negative ions in the environment create a powerful antidote for many environmentally induced health problems such as allergies, respiratory ailments, headaches, and infections.

Himalayan Salt Round/Flat Massage Stones

What causes negative ion depletion?
Many factors contribute to the depletion of negative ions. Any high concentration of polluted, static, or hot/dry air causes this. Examples of specific culprits include:

fluorescent lighting
high concentration of electronic equipment
static producing fibers
air conditioners
electric heaters and other heating systems
many plastics
older TVs and monitors (CRTs)
airflow from furnace ducts and HVAC systems.

Himalayan Salt Heart Candle

Himalayan Salt Natural Shape Lamp

RUNKA.com carries all of these Himalayan Salt products - and more - on our website. We bring these beautiful items to you so that you can shop from the convenience of your living room - and we always make sure that they come to you at a discount!

ELLA VICKERS BAGS - What happens when the love of sailing and recycling collide?

2011-03-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Ella Vickers Recycled Sailcloth Collection takes the old sails from yachts and boats from around the world and reuses the materials to make some of the most beautiful bags we have ever seen - and RUNKA sees a lot of recycled products. One day, during RUNKA's travels to find you the best, most unique and highest quality eco friendly, green, recycled and renewable items available, he came upon Ella Vickers Sailcloth Bags. Eureka!

The Large Open Tote

The Sailcloth Duffel

Ella has taken her love of sailing and combined it with a great idea to produce totes and duffel bags - and even shower curtains and dog beds! We love 'em and we think you will too. Here is Ella's story from her own website:

Ella Vickers

Ella Vickers Recycled Sailcloth Collection is the most refined & quality built on the market. Our pieces are made from authentic recycled/reclaimed yacht sails. They are Green/Eco Friendly, Urban Chic, and Ocean Durable. All items are handcrafted in the USA using yachts sails from around the world, saving 20 thousand yards of sailcloth from the landfill each year. Inspired by her days of sailing as first mate on a classic Americas Cup winner, Ella made herself a set of bags from a discarded sail. When regatta guests bought them right off her arm, a company was born. The durable and sophisticated designs reflect the nautical lifestyle with crisp white Dacron Sailcloth and hi-performance Kevlar Sailcloth. This gorgeous, urban-chic collection ranges from the small cocktail cache to the functional tote messenger and the ocean durable duffel. Experience the spirit of the sail reborn into fresh shapes for a new adventure!

Designer and founder Ella Vickers’ voyage to the creation of EVSC began aboard the sailing yacht Columbia, the first 12-meter vessel to win the Americas cup. While holding down the first mate position on the yacht she was inspired by the incredible power in the multiple sets of sails that have taken the Columbia to many victories. One off-season, when Columbia had her sails replaced, Vickers recycled the old ones into bags. Everyone wanted one, two or three! Ella Vickers, Inc. and the Ella Vickers Sailcloth Collection was born.

The Zip Tote

Ella's Dog Bed Cover

The Spinnaker Shower Curtain

Anyone who has ever had the chance to sail understands why Ella loves it - the wind, the quiet as the boat glides across the water, the spray, the adventure. We don't have to be on the water, however, to experience her bags and other items, all born from two of her passions - sailing and recycling.

Larry and his son Kevin

Dave with Jon and Tim

See, it's not work, work, work all the time at RUNKA.com. Here are a couple of shots of Larry Morris and David Nuss, two of the partners of Runka, with their kids out on San Francisco Bay. By the way, the next America's Cup Finals will be held in San Francisco in September, 2013. Come out and see us!

The America's Cup

The International Green Hall of Fame

2011-03-11T11:52:00.000-08:00

     We are very proud to announce that RUNKA.com is a finalist for induction into the International Green Industry Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place on Friday, March 25th, 2011 at UC Merced.   There are 18 finalists from a group of 35 original nominees and 6 of the finalists will be inducted into the Green Hall of Fame.

    The IGIHOF Ceremony and Conference are open to the public and registration is available at the Hall's website, www.gogreenhall.org. The full calendar of events will include a continental breakfast and lunch, tour of the UC Merced campus, Keynote speech by Rob Diridon on "Transportation & High-Speed Rail in California: An Insider's Perspective", VIP Reception and Dinner and many networking opportunities.

    We will update the RUNKA.com blog on Monday, March 28th with news from the event.   RUNKA would also like to thank all of the volunteers, Sponsors and IGIHOF Board Members for their efforts in this inaugural Induction Ceremony. The following is a statement from Sam Geil, Chairman of the Hall of Fame.


    Over the past century, our planet has experienced more pollution and human-inflicted damage than any time in history. Conversely, man has also recognized the need to begin the repair, healing, and conservation required to sustain our fragile eco-system. There is evidence worldwide that countries, cities, governments, and world organizations are beginning to have a positive impact on the eco-system through the efforts of individuals, corporations, and governments.

    It is the mission of the International Green Industry Hall of Fame to recognize those pioneers, leaders, and visionaries who have contributed to the Green movement. Additionally, we are committed to preserving the rich history of these great people and organizations by constructing a Green Hall of Fame to house the stories and share the old and the new technologies for future generations. After visiting our website, we hope that you will consider becoming a sponsor or a member. Thanks again for your interest and support… GO GREEN!

Sam Geil, Chairman of the Board
International Green Industry Hall of Fame

MARIEL HEMINGWAY: Actress, Author - and Cook! - on RUNKA.com

2011-03-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

You already know that she has the right genetic code (Ernest Hemingway was Grandpa), she's extremely talented (Oscar nominated for Woody Allen's Manhattan), beautiful (numerous magazine covers), and is a gifted writer (Finding My Balance; Mariel Hemingway's Healthy Living From the Inside Out; Mariel's Kitchen) - but she can cook, too? Mariel Hemingway can do it all. Better take her home to meet Mom.

RUNKA had the good fortune to spend some time with Mariel at our launch party last year and here's a few things we came away with: She may look great in pictures, but she is even more attractive in person. You might expect that with all of the above attributes she would be unapproachable, but nothing could be further from the truth - she was sincere, genuine and loved interacting with everybody in the room. She's fun, incredibly conversant and can tell a great story - and she doesn't shy away from the gory details!

But back to the cooking, or more accurately, baking. Mariel has developed a fantastic product - Mariel's Blisscuits. Here is what Mariel's website has to say about them:

Blisscuits™ are the first health food snack, including meal replacement and protein bars, designed to promote good health. Believing that the macronutrients supplies to our bodies influences the way we can absorb vitamins and nutrients, the Blisscuit™ was created with no sugar, no flour, and no synthetic ingredients. And they taste great - even to sugar lovers!

You can find Mariel's Blisscuits on RUNKA.com in Chocolate, Cinnamon, Orange and Lemon. We are also the only place you can buy Blisscuits in a variety pack, with 3 packages of each flavor in one box! And, as always, RUNKA brings the goodness of Mariel's Blisscuits to you at a discount.

If you want to get an update on Mariel's activities check out her website, www.MarielHemingway.com. She is also on Twitter and Facebook. If you are lucky enough to get a chance to hear her speak on the environment, food or a holistic lifestyle - go! Tell her that RUNKA sent you.

Ethletic Shoes - A Fair Trade Product on RUNKA!

2011-03-09T17:18:00.000-08:00

RUNKA.com carries Ethletic Shoes, which are a Fair Trade product from the Autonomie Company. The following is a description of their commitment to Fair Trade and eco friendly business practices from their site:

Launched in late 2007, the founders of Autonomie Project were inspired by the lack in the social marketplace of a truly wearable & affordable ethical clothing brand. Autonomie Project supplies high-quality garments at competitive prices to consumers that wish to make purchases with a social and environmental impact without having to sacrifice their own personal style, or break their wallet. We hope to inspire our consumers to take action and help us uplift the communities of workers around the world that produce our goods.

We work exclusively with small, independent cooperatives and Fair Trade-certified facilities located in developing areas of the world where we can also allot a portion of our funds to be used for initiatives that will affect their entire community, such as building a health clinic or bringing a steady water supply to a small village. We provide our workers with a fair wage so they can beat out sweatshops and enjoy a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. We assist them with the development, design, and marketing of their products so that their businesses may prosper and become thriving participants in a reconfigured global marketplace.

We use organic cotton, all natural FSC rubber, and other eco-friendly & locally-sourced materials whenever possible to lessen our environmental impact. We never use animal products and encourage cruelty-free purchases and practices.

These are the Fair Trade shoes available on RUNKA.com. RUNKA is fortunate to have the Autonomie Project as a partner in our mission to spread the word about green, eco friendly, renewable and Fair Trade products.

FAIR TRADE - Haitian Metal Art

2011-03-09T12:24:00.000-08:00

In Haiti, the traditional art of converting oil drums into wall sculptures is a true mark of both a man's imagination and his resourcefulness in the face of dire economic circumstances. Using 55-gallon oil drum castoffs, the artist first removes both ends of the drum then designs and hand carves different works of art using little more than hammer, chisel and great imagination.

Runka works directly with Beyond Borders, a Fair Trade company that insures these artists respectable working conditions and fair compensation for their work. We are all aware of the earthquake in Haiti which has devistated the country. Your purchase of the artwork from local Haitian Artisans is a tremendous way of supporting the locals in their greatest time of need.

RUNKA.com is committed to bringing Fair Trade products to the North American and world wide marketplace. We believe people have a desire to help others and, given the opportunity, will use their purchasing power to do so. We search for the finest Fair Trade products available and bring them to our website at a discount so that your shopping experience is simple, convenient, affordable and rewarding.

What is Fair Trade and Why Should I Care?

2011-03-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

    Fair Trade is a market based approach designed to help producers and farmers in third world countries promote better trading conditions while at the same time encouraging sustainability. A more direct relationship with the producers through the elimination of "middle men" allows them to recognize a higher price for their goods and keeps renewable products affordable for consumers.

    Instead of dependency on aid, Fair Trade empowers farmers to get a fair price for their harvest, helps workers create safe working conditions and provides a decent living wage. Through direct, equitable trade, farming and working families are able to eat better, keep their kids in school, improve health and housing and invest in the future. Some facts about current world trade conditions:

2.7 billion - estimated number of people in the world existing on less than $2 per day, according to the World Bank.

284,000 - the number of children in the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon working in hazardous tasks on conventional cocoa farms, according to an International Institute of Tropical Agriculture study.

2 cents - the amount farmers on conventional farms receive from the average $3 latte, according to Transfair USA.

$70 billion - the amount African countries could generate if their share of world exports increased by 1% - approximately five times what the continent receives in aid - according to Oxfam International's Make Trade Fair Report.

$13 billion - total amount required to provide basic education and nutrition in all developing countries, according to the 2005 UNICEF State of the World's Children Report.

    The Fair Trade Movement seeks to address these inequities with the power of the free marketplace. The American consumer, through their individual purchasing choices, has the ability to positively impact not only the environment but the lives of people living in poverty across the world. RUNKA.com searches for Fair Trade products and is proud to carry these items on our website. Over the next several days we will feature several Fair Trade products that can be found on RUNKA.com.

ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS - It's up to the masses!

2011-03-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

25 years ago California had a severe problem with hazardous piles of scrap tires spread throughout the state; some of these piles numbered in the millions. California produces approximately 30,000,000 scrap tires every year so the problem was not only with the existing piles but it was also growing with no end in sight. Whole tires do not decompose and therefore remain in landfills and piles indefinitely. Due to their shape tires collect and hold water which creates ideal conditions for the breeding of insects and rats. More important, tires are composed of over 26 petrochemical ingredients that emit extremely toxic smoke and hazardous waste runoff if they catch fire. Due to this chemical makeup they are almost impossible to extinguish.

    In 1985 the partners of Runka.com worked with Willie Brown, Speaker of the California House of Representatives, to assist in creating the first scrap tire bill in the United States.    Regulations went into effect governing the handling and disposal of scrap tires and new markets for recycled products from tires began to emerge. Tires were shredded or ground into a powder and consumed by waste to energy facilities, added to asphalt as a modifier, used as a cushioning agent in sports fields and equestrian arenas and blended into molded products. Once the market for crumb rubber from tires was developed tire piles essentially disappeared and a new industry had been created. Over the last 25 years the partners of Runka.com have diverted some 250,000,000 pounds (over 10,000,000 tires!) of solid waste from landfills and the waste stream.

    Many of the environmental issues faced by our planet today can also be solved, in part, through the consumption by the mainstream marketplace. Much of the desire is already there on the part of the consumer thanks to the media, environmental groups, government programs and advertising which has raised public awareness.   Most people won’t go out of their way to buy environmentally safe products but if the consumer is given the ability to make healthy choices in a simple, convenient and affordable manner they will often do so. Because the green industry uses high quality materials and ingredients and many of the items are hand crafted the products are generally more expensive. At a time when most consumers don't have extra money to spend on organic, natural or eco friendly products this can be problematic. If we are to see a significant impact on the eco system by virtue of the products we consume we must bring these goods to the mainstream market at affordable prices.

    With this in mind the partners of Runka.com launched a website that carries only green, eco friendly and environmentally safe products and we are dedicated to getting the items to the consumer as inexpensively and conveniently as possible. We travel across the country to personally source the finest clothing, household goods, pet items, baby products, health products and many other items made from natural, organic and renewable materials and ingredients by companies using Fair Trade practices.  RUNKA.com does the product research and brings these products to one website so people can shop for healthier products for themselves from the safety and comfort of home.

    We believe that the mainstream marketplace can and must play a significant role in solving environmental problems, just as it has in the case of scrap tires. We also believe that the general public wants to participate in this process and we at Runka.com are striving to support and simplify this effort for the consumer.