Purveyors of Change

How Will You Change the World in 2012?

2011-12-19T07:23:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season hustle and bustle begins to slow, we are getting ready to enjoy time with family and friends, we have been thinking about what 2012 will bring. What are our promises for the New Year? How will we make the world a better place?

This beautiful infographic, originally created by Francesca Ramos, captures the essence of what the new year can hold with Gandhi's Top 10 Fundamentals for Changing the World.

May you find much love, joy, and magic in 2012. Happy Holidays!

Barbie Ditches Malibu Home and Goes Green

2011-11-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

Barbie's dream house goes green.
Photo by Inhabitat.

So, Barbie has not always been the beacon of role models or sustainability but she aims to change that. Last year, we wrote about Mattlel's "I Can Be____" campaign that encourages girls to pursue careers not typical of girls such as engineering, science, and architecture.

And, like many of us who have discovered a greener and more practical lifestyle, Barbie has ditched her Malibu mansion and has moved into a smaller, more sustainable home. Her new home was created by Minilo, modern dollhouse designer. Her new home is sustainably crafted and is made by hand from wood, metal, stone, and a few other non-toxic materials. The house exterior is finished with natural beeswax.

You can learn more about Barbie's new home and see more images at Inhabitat. Read Full Article.

Book Review: Brains on Fire

2011-11-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

Image Borrowed from Brains on Fire

Well, first of all any company called Brains on Fire sparks my interest and one that writes a book by the same name on how to create a social movement is even better. Before starting Mindswing Consulting I managed affinity programs and a customer relationship management division.

One of the first lessons in the affinity business is to learn what motivates and inspires your customers. For other industries it could be what motivates and inspires your students or your fans. What drives them? This motivator can be a number of different things. As marketers, educators, non-profit leaders, etc, it is our job to discover what that is. You can discover this by building a relationship, asking questions, and finding their passion which many of us know. But how do you that?

What I like about "Brains on Fire," is the different and creative approach. They provide a new perspective, plus they work on projects such as the Rage Against the Haze, Park Angels, and Fiskars.

A few of the key lessons include:

1) It's about People
2) Find the Passion
3) Empower People
4) Movements Live Online and Offline (A Facebook page is not a movement but can be a useful tool similar to other social media technologies and tools)

I recommend reading "Brains on Fire" and using it to spark your imagination when creating your next marketing campaign, workshop, movement, etc. Get your copy Here!

Saying Goodbye

2011-10-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I was in the Bay Area and while in town, I stopped by the Apple headquarters to say goodbye to Steve Jobs. People really did love what he created and how he changed the way we communicate. Thank you and God Bless.

Here are some photos (taken with my iPhone) of the memorial.

New Everyday Energy Video Complete

2011-10-06T08:00:00.004-07:00

We are very excited to share our latest video project for our friend's at Everyday Energy. This the first in a series of 4 videos we are making for them.

Take a look as we talk about what the folks at Everyday Energy are doing to reduce their client's energy costs and make a positive environmental and community impact. We'd also like to give a special thank you and shout-out to Everyday Energy's clients and partners for participating and to Chris Giles Photo for the awesome shooting, directing, editing, and vision of this piece.

I've been infographic'ized

2011-09-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

The following is an infographic of Mindswing's Twitter profile. I was able to create this using Visual.ly, a great resource for sharing, creating and finding infographics.

PV101: Introduction to Solar Installation Course

2011-09-26T08:00:00.001-07:00

Last month we had the opportunity to develop and co-teach an Introduction to Solar Installation Course for our friends at Everyday Energy and San Diego Community Housing Corporation.

The course covered the basics of solar photovoltaics and safety, and included a day of hands-on training where participants installed over 100 solar panels.

Congratulations to our participants!

The following are some pictures from the workshop.

Fall Programming Returns

2011-09-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

Much like your favorite television shows that took the summer off it appears that our blog took the summer off as well. But as Fall quickly approaches it is time to kick off the season with another brilliant video by the gang at Sesame Street featuring one of my favorite shows and letters, G.

We hope you enjoy!

Sesame Street 'Glee' Spoof

Movie Review: The Economics of Happiness

2011-07-11T08:00:00.002-07:00

When given the opportunity to watch and write about the documentary film, The Economics of Happiness, by Helena Norberg-Hodge, Steven Gorelick & John Page, I was delighted. I had watched the trailer and had heard excellent reviews and was ready to take it all in.

I watched as the film examined how fewer and fewer people are finding happiness in a world of materialism, perceived image, and wealth. It also took a deeper look into the concept of localization and how we have moved away from local economies and are losing site of our communities and our cultures in addition to wasting valuable resources in the process.

The film proved to be a little heavier then I had expected and I actually watched again to get a better sense of how I felt about it.

Had I fallen victim to today's world of materialism and was I truly happy?

What I discovered from this excellent and thought-provoking film was something that I had known all along but needed to be reminded. There is a very fine balance between happiness and getting lost in the shuffle of life, materialism, image, and wealth.

For those of you who are looking for a thoughtful and emotionally charged film, I recommend watching "The Economics of Happiness" and hearing from leaders in the field of economics and psychology as well as regular people who tell you what motivates and inspires them. You might discover something new.

Watch Trailer | Visit Website

Purveyors of Hope

2011-06-08T09:30:00.001-07:00

The starting line for the 2010 Rock 'n' Roll Marathon.
Credit: irene/Flickr.com/Creative Commons

When we talk about Purveyors of Change we are talking about the people who are doing amazing things to help make someone's life or even day a little bit better. You are probably a Purveyor of Change in someone's life and may not even know it. A simple smile can brighten a day plus when someone smiles at you it is contagious you can't help but smile back.

But speaking of smiles, its hard not to smile when you think about 32,000 Purveyors of Change or more like Purveyors of Hope who ran the Rock'n'Roll marathon in San Diego, this past Sunday. They started at 6:15 AM and began there 26.2 mile journey through downtown San Diego and finishing at Sea World.

What's even more amazing about these 32,000 runners, is a large number of them chose to run the marathon with Team and Training and to raise money towards cures for blood cancers like leukemia -- the No. 1 disease killer of children -- lymphoma and myeloma. In addition to Team and Training there were many runners who raised money for various other causes including diabetes, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and even personal causes.

Please join Mindswing Consulting in congratulating and thanking these amazing, runners, bands, volunteers, spectators and Purveyors of Change for making someone's like just a little bit brighter. Thank you!!!!

Some of us have run marathons with Team and Training and found it to be an awakening experience. If you are interested in running, walking, biking, hiking for a great cause check out Team in Training.

Happy Running.

Films to Inspire and Motivate You

2011-03-21T10:10:00.004-07:00

Join one of our favorite non-profits, Pro Peninsula at the Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM at the Town & Country Hotel in San Diego, CA.

This year's festival will support Pro Peninsula and their conservation efforts. It will feature award-winning films including Willem and the Whale, The Majestic Plastic Bag narrated by Jeremy Irons, The Story of Bottled Water by the folks who brought us The Story of Stuff, and Truck Farm from the creators of King Corn. Schedule of Films

In addition to the full night of films, the festival also includes a Community Fair and Silent Auction on April 13th, a VIP Party at Point Loma Outfitting on April 14th, and two Sunday Film Night Socials at El Take it Easy Restaurant on April 3rd and 10th.

Click Here to Order Tickets

We look forward to seeing you at the event.

About Pro Peninsula
Pro Peninsula is a fund within The Ocean Foundation, a US based 501(c)3 nonprofit, dedicated to strengthening individual and community efforts to protect the natural environment throughout San Diego and the Baja California peninsula.

Pro Peninsula is at the forefront of the environmental movement in the region with projects focusing on sea turtle conservation, environmental education and conservation tourism, involving hundreds of volunteers in over 20 communities. We work in some of the world's most precious and threatened natural areas, including biosphere reserves, a Natural World Heritage site, national parks, essential turtle habitats and gray whale nurseries.

http://www.propeninsula.org

How to Help Japan

2011-03-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan and their friends and family members trying to recover from last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami.

Here is a list of some ways for you to help:

The American Red Cross
Visit Redcross.org or text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 from your phone.

The Salvation Army
To contribute text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 to make a $10 donation from your phone or visit salavationarmy.org

Doctors without Borders
Are sending teams of doctors to assist the victims. To learn more about their efforts or make a donation, visit doctorswithoutborders.org

Habitat for Humanity
Is accepting donations to help serve families affected by the disaster. Donate online.

I Can Be _______!

2011-03-03T11:00:00.004-08:00

Computer Engineer Barbie
Photo: Mattel

Like many little girls, I used to spend hours playing with my Barbie dolls and making different outfits ranging from simple pretty dresses to graduation caps and gowns to chef hats to roller derby jerseys but I rarely shared this with my sisters or parents. I guess these were my secret ambitions, so when I learned about the series of "I Can Be" Barbie Dolls, I was so excited that I had to share.

There is much concern in the United States about interest in science and math and an even greater concern that girls are turning away from these careers for many reasons ranging from confidence issues or well to be honest wanting boys to like them. This is why these Barbie dolls struck me when I read about them in the Daily GOOD.

They gives little girls a chance to imagine and explore while encouraging them at the same time. The series includes the traditional bride, ballerina, and babysitter but also includes a race car driver, doctor, architect, news anchor, and my favorite so far, computer engineer.

There has been some controversy over these dolls and if they can really help determine someone's career. Well, it is about more than that. It is about inspiration. Let's remember being a kid is supposed to be fun and a time to learn and discover. Of course, not everyone is going to be the next Kobe Bryant, Lady GaGa, or Nobel Prize winner but Mattel might be onto something.

Basically, we need to instill confidence, inspire hard work, and most of all the idea that kids (and adults) can be _anything_!

Read the full article on GOOD
Check out the series of Barbie Dolls

Everyday Energy supports YouthBuild

2011-02-09T08:00:00.003-08:00

Last week, our friends at Everyday Energy had the opportunity to work with YouthBuild on the installation of a 200kW DC solar installation at The Mayberry Townhomes in San Diego, California. The Mayberry Townhomes is a Multi-family Affordable Solar Housing project and is part of their continued work to bring renewable energy to the affordable housing sector. In addition, this project provided 20 YouthBuild participants with valuable solar installation work experience.

About YouthBuild
YouthBuild provides low-income young adults between the ages of 16-24 with education, job skills, and counseling services. Program participants work towards their High School diploma or GED while gaining new job skills working on affordable housing construction projects. Today there are 273 YouthBuild programs in the United States and international programs in more than 25 countries around the world.

To view more pictures visit Everyday Energy on Facebook.

Are you ready to do the Electric Slide?

2010-11-30T09:30:00.003-08:00


By frankh (Flickr User) [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

There has been a lot of talk lately about electric cars and how they are going to change the auto industry. But for the average person, more information is needed before you’ll see consumers change from their gas powered or hybrid to an electric car. To help educate consumers about electric cars, Southern California Edison (SCE) and the Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA) recently launched, GoElectricDrive.com, a new website that provides information on buying, driving and owning a plug-in electric vehicle.

Consumers can learn more about the types of electric vehicles available, environmental benefits, watch videos highlighting the technology, find incentives and even calculate their cost savings. The website also provides information on charging stations and provides links to assist you in finding local charging stations or planning a trip.

If you are concerned about being able to charge your car at home or when you are away from home not too worry. Most electric vehicles can be plugged into a regular power outlet and the U.S. Department of Energy is providing incentives and grants to encourage businesses and communities to install public charging stations. Currently, 15,000 recharging stations are planned for major metropolitan areas, including San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, Austin, Detroit, New York, Orlando, Redmond, Charlotte, and Washington, D.C.

Additional Resources

The EV Project
Clean Car Maps

Vehicle Technologies Program

U.S. Department of Energy

Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiencies

Go Solar California

You have to have potatoes

2010-11-25T06:00:00.007-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Healthy Mr. Potato Head in the 2006 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

By Sullynyflhi [Public domain], from Wikimedia Commons

Green Jobs the focus of the U.S. Green Building Council's GreenBuild Conference

2010-11-12T08:08:00.001-08:00

By Jrissman [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], from Wikimedia Commons

Next week thousands of green building professionals, educators, and non-profits will be in Chicago for the U.S. Green Building Council's GreenBuild Conference being held at McCormick Place West. The main conference will run November 17-19, 2010 and will feature General Colin Powell, Paul Hawken, and the Honorable Shaun Donovan and many more.

There will also be a Green Jobs Summit and Green Jobs Fair hosted by the USGBC, Blue Green Alliance and the City of Chicago on November 16, 2010. This event will feature speakers including Manuel Flores, Acting Chairman of the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), Jane Oates, Assistant Secretary of Employment and Training Administration, and General President of the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA), Terence O’Sullivan. The summit will also include eight breakout sessions covering green job policies, green workforce development, the benefits of the green economy, and credentialing opportunities.

If you will be in Chicago for GreenBuild be sure to attend the Green Jobs Summit. There will be lots of great information and opportunities to see the future of the Green Economy and maybe even find a green job.

See you there!

For more information visit the GreenBuild web site.

There's an App for That

2010-11-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

Okay. I know this is the second video like this I have posted but I could not help myself. Its election day for one, so we can all use a laugh.

But it is also brilliant how Sesame Street continues to innovate and stays current and relevant. After 40+ years they are still educating our kids and have set the standards for children's television programs. Love it. I hope you do too.

Thanks to Sesame Street and You Tube.

Advertisers and Educators Join Together to Teach Prepositions

2010-10-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

By now you have seen the Old Spice "I am a man on a horse" advertising campaign. And if you have been following the buzz on Twitter and Facebook you know that they are some of the best ads to hit television in quite a while according to the leading advertising trade publications and groups.

But what happens when your ad is redone by Grover and the gang at Sesame Street? Even better, what happens when it can teach you something at the same time?

Thanks to my friend Lisa from high school for sharing this. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

Additional thanks to Grover, Gladys, Sesame Street, Isaiah Mustafa, Old Spice, Wieden + Kennedy, and You Tube.

Green Building Workshops in San Diego

2010-10-06T08:30:00.003-07:00

If you are interested in learning more about Green Building, earning continuing education units, or preparing to sit for your Green Associate or LEED AP exam you might be interested in the following workshops being offered by the United States Green Building Council San Diego Chapter.

October 28 – 29, 2010
REGREEN 301: Implementing Residential Remodeling
Register

November 4, 2010
ID+C 301: Implementing the Interior Design + Construction LEED Rating System
Register
November 11, 2010

O+M 301: Implementing the Building Operations + Maintenance LEED Rating System
Register

December 2, 2010
BD+C 301: Implementing the Building Design + Construction LEED Rating Systems
Register

Register by October 31, 2010 and save 20% on workshops and user guides with Promo Code FALL2010.

Michael Franti Partners with Soles4Souls

2010-10-04T09:00:00.004-07:00

Last week I had the opportunity to see Michael Franti and Spearhead at House of Blues in San Diego, CA. As always, the show was incredible with everyone grooving and tons of positive energy.

By kallerna [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], from Wikimedia Commons

During the show Michael Franti announced that he has partnered with Soles4Souls, an international shoe charity dedicated to providing free shoes for people throughout the world. The goal of the partnership is to raise awareness of the need for footwear both nationally and internationally.

He has committed to collecting both gently worn and funds to provide shoes to 100,000 people.

If you are interested getting involved here's how:

1) Donate gently worn shoes by bringing them to a local drop-off. Find your drop-off location here.

2) Donate funds at www.michaelfranti.com and www.Soles4Souls.org

3) Donate via text message by texting keyword "FRANTI" to 20222.

Click to learn more about this campaign.

Kid's say the darnest things

2010-09-06T09:00:00.002-07:00

Well in this case Willem tells it like it is--- simply and clearly. We just need to listen. I had the pleasure of watching the short film "Willem and the Whales" created by the Marine Mammal Conservation Through the Arts at the Blue Ocean Film Festival.

Willem explains why commercial whaling is unacceptable and encourages you to act now before a 25 year moratorium is lifted. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) vote to suspend the 25-year ban on commercial whaling has been put on hold for a year following a breakdown during talks in June 2010.

Please take a moment and watch this short film.

There is still time to make a difference. Sign the NRDC petition and tell President Obama to keep his campaign promise of strengthening the global moratorium on commercial whaling!

NRDC Petiton: secure.nrdconline.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1831

Video produced by Marine Mammal Conservation Through the Arts.

Do you love the Ocean?

2010-08-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com

For me, this is a pretty easy question to answer. It is yes! I have had the honor of living close to the ocean almost all of my adult life and could not imagine life without seeing the ocean or better yet touching the ocean everyday.

Last week I had an opportunity to attend the 2nd Annual Blue Ocean Film Festival in Monterey, CA. This festival brought together oceanographers, scientists, film makers, photographers, policy makers, foundations, educators and artists to celebrate our ocean and learn how we can work together to save it. Attendees included Jean-Michel Cousteau, Fabien Cousteau, Celine Cousteau, Sylvia Earle, Carl Safina, David Doubilet and many other leaders in ocean conservation.

Over the next few blogs I will be sharing links to some enlightening films and resources as well other ideas and ways you can get involved.

The first initiative I wanted to share with you is a program called Blue Marbles. This program is the perfect example of an idea or concept going worldwide or as marketers like to say "viral."

photo courtesy of NASA

In honor of Jacques Cousteau's 100th birthday and to raise awareness of the challenges our ocean faces, Blue Marbles is giving away blue marbles to symbolize what our planet looks like from outer space. But this is not just about getting a marble and keeping it on your desk or a drawer somewhere the rule is you have to pass it along. Yes, you have to pay it forward. So here's how it works.

When someone gives a blue marble take it and pass it along with the caveat that you tell a story of your love of the ocean and do something good for the ocean (everyday). The recipient of the marble has to do the same. Once you have passed your marble along Blue Marbles is asking you to share your stories of love and acts of ocean kindness in images, writing and recorded messages on their website, on their Facebook page or on Twitter.

For more information on getting involved and how you can share the love of the ocean with your family and friends visit Bluemarbles.org.

Summer is Delicious

2010-06-24T21:22:00.007-07:00

Growing up in Virginia, summers were always really, really hot but by far the best time of the year. No school, sleeping in, swimming in the pool until you were completely pruned, riding bikes with your best friends and watching fire flies.

Another great thing about summer was coming home to find grocery bags filled with fresh fruits and vegetables from the neighbor’s garden. You just knew you were in for a treat whether it was my mom’s strawberry and orange juice dessert, watermelon, peaches and cream or corn on the cob. Delicious!

As we enjoy the tastes of summer this year be sure you are enjoying the sweet tastes of summer and not the taste of pesticides and herbicides.

Even if you wash your fruits and vegetables many still carry much higher pesticide residue then others. Of course we’d all like to buy organic all the time but sometimes organic varieties are not available or to be honest, too expensive. It is however recommended that you always buy organic for certain fruits and vegetables.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a research and advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C., have developed the “dirty dozen” fruits and vegetables to help minimize exposure. They recommend that you always buy organic versions of the following 12 fruits and vegetables.

The “Dirty Dozen”:

Fruit
    •    Apples
    •    Cherries
    •    Grapes, imported (Chili)
    •    Nectarines
    •    Peaches
    •    Pears
    •    Raspberries
    •    Strawberries

Vegetables
    •    Bell peppers
    •    Celery
    •    Potatoes
    •    Spinach

To learn more about the benefits of eating organic visit the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website.

Happy Eating!!!

References:
The Environmental Working Group. http://www.ewg.org.

Industry Experts Share Expertise

2010-04-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about the work Mindswing Consulting does is getting to work with industry experts and helping them share this expertise with others. I am currently working on several new programs for the Workplace Learning Resource Centers that do just that.

Beginning in May we will be rolling out a series of Webinars for community college faculty focused on technology in the classroom and teaching techniques. We are also planning to use Facebook and email marketing to solicit ideas for other webinar topics.

The first two webinars will feature Marsha Chan, leading ESL and technology instructor, author and industry expert. Marsha brings 25 years of teaching and curriculum development expertise as well as a unique way of integrating technology to enhance learning activities.

The webinars are free and the topics are as follows:

Voxopop for Speaking, Pronunciation and Listening
Students develop their speaking, pronunciation and listening skills by sharing their voices in Voxopop, a free online discussion site. Join Marsha Chan, leading ESL instructor, author and communications expert, as she demonstrates teaching and learning oral skills in a global online community. She'll share student`s recordings, pedagogy, lesson plans, process, follow-up activities, and lead participants in using the tool.

Thursday May 6, 2010
2:00 - 3:00 PM

Using YouTube to Engage Learners and Enhance Learning
Our students are more technology savvy then ever before. Therefore finding ways to reach them through their preferred media outlets is critical. YouTube provides faculty with a wealth of content choices, ranging from music videos, movies, television shows and other online resources that can be integrated into traditional lessons to engage students and enhance learning. Join Marsha Chan as she provides a brief overview of YouTube, shares her experiences and provides you with tips and ideas for how you can use YouTube in your classroom.

Friday, May 21, 2010
2:00 - 3:00 PM

Register Online

We hope you can join us!

Teaching Students on their Terms

2010-03-18T17:15:00.005-07:00

Today I had the opportunity to hear Don Shalvey, Director of US Education Programs for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, speak. I suspect all of the attendees at the CCCAOE conference in San Francisco were as excited as I was when he talked about the efforts and the investments of $34 billion they have made for new education programs and resources to drive learning, increase High School graduation rates to 80% by 2025 and make sure our students are ready for college.

As part of these programs he also shared the importance of educating students on their terms. This means finding ways to reach them through their preferred outlets such as social media, games and simulations, and new technology.

Take a look at the latest "Did you know 4.0" video to see what he means. (If you're like me, I just love how numbers tell a story)

Great Events from Surfrider

2010-03-15T13:54:00.000-07:00

Surfrider is one of my favorite non-profits and I really enjoy working with them. I wanted to share some information about two events that they have coming up.

"The Cycle of Insanity - The Real Story of Water"

Join Surfrider for the premiere of "The Cycle of Insanity - The Real Story of Water" film on Monday March 22, 2010 at The Loft at UCSD.

The film is a short animated film that shows an overview of water management and look at alternative ways to improve the system and processes. It is the collaboration between several local Surfrider Foundation chapters and features actress Zuleikha Robinson of Lost.

Watch the Trailer

The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water - TRAILER 1 from Surfrider Foundation San Diego C on Vimeo.

The 10th Annual Art Gala

I look forward to this event every year. The 10th Annual Art Gala will be held at the Powerhouse in Del Mar on Thursday May 20, 2010. The event includes a silent auction of beach-themed artwork and donations as well as a great menu and an ocean view.

Tickets go on sale April 1, 2010 online at www.surfriderSD.org.

Also, if you are an artist or a business and would like to be a part of this event by donating art or other cool merchandise please email me or bill@surfriderSD.org

Wild and Scenic Film Festival Comes to San Diego March 23 and 25th

2010-03-08T08:30:00.004-08:00

If you are looking for a night out while supporting a good cause be sure to join Pro Peninsula as they host the Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival at Hazard Center’s Ultrastar Cinemas on Tuesday March 23rd and Thursday March 25th from 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM.

Chris and I are volunteering and have had a chance to preview some of films and they look awesome! The tentative schedule includes Greenhorns, Samsara and Big River on Tuesday and A Sheltered Sea and Tapped on Thursday night.

So here's the scoop:
Each evening will feature 100 minutes of film and will be accompanied by a 45 minute pre-social and intermission; a community fair on Tuesday and a Student exhibit fair on Thursday; and raffles on both nights.

Additionally, on Wednesday March 24th Pro Peninsula will host a VIP celebration at one of our primary WSEFF sponsor’s store, Point Loma Outfitting. The evening will include drinks, h'orderves, a live DJ performance, and the unique opportunity to speak with film directors from the festival.

Get your tickets Online
General Admission for one night - $15.00
VIP Membership ticket for one night, 1 raffle ticket and a PRO Peninsula T-shirt - $30.00
2 Day General Admission ticket - $25.00
2-Day VIP PASS - $50.00

For more event information, please visit www.propenisula.org/wildscenic

About Pro Peninsula
Pro Peninsula is a fund within The Ocean Foundation, a US based non-profit organization, dedicated to strengthening individual and community efforts to protect the environment throughout San Diego and the Baja California peninsula.

Solar Energy's Perfect Storm

2010-02-15T19:38:00.003-08:00

Can you imagine being able to generate the energy you need for your home, business and car all from the sun? Well, of course you can but for most of us the idea of actually being able to afford it was unheard of until now.

Two big developments that are changing the Solar Industry include the passage and implementation of PACE programs and the launch of the EV Project. Both developments are huge for the industry and for making solar accessible to the average person (plus they create jobs).

PACE Programs
Property Assessed Clean Energy or PACE programs (also referred to as AB 811 in California) allow cities and counties the ability to offer home and business owner’s low-interest loans for energy efficiency projects and upgrades and solar installations. The loans are then paid back through assessments on the property tax bills. And if the owner sells the new owners assumes the loan balance.

These programs are already available in several municipalities in Colorado and California, with dozens more in the planning phase including San Diego and Los Angeles. According to DSIRE, to date PACE programs have been adopted by 18 states.

To learn more about your state or municipality program, check out these resources:
Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy and Efficiency
PACE Now
Renewable Funding
The California Center for Sustainable Energy

The EV Project
Another program that is changing the solar industry is the EV Project. Previously when consumers considered the cost of solar they really only looked at power for their home or business but now with the opportunity to operate your car with electricity the solar equation has changed.

The EV Project is a result of a $99.8 million US Department of Energy grant awarded to Electric Transportation Engineering Corporation (eTec) to manage and implement the largest deployment of electric vehicles and charge infrastructure in history.

The Project includes the deployment of 4,700 zero-emission, Nissan LEAF electric vehicles and 11,210 charging systems to operate them. The deployment is scheduled to go live this summer in five major markets including Phoenix (AZ), Tucson (AZ), San Diego (CA), Portland (OR), Eugene (OR), Corvallis (OR), Seattle (WA), Nashville (TN), Knoxville (TN) and Chattanooga (TN).

The Nissan LEAF will be available in those same areas in the fall of 2010 to consumers and fleets.

To learn more visit the EV Project Web site.

Save Swamis

2010-01-30T22:34:00.001-08:00

Encinitas’ Swami’s Reef, while best known for its surf break, is also a popular destination for tidepoolers, divers, birders, snorkelers, and local beach goers. It is located just below Seacliff Roadside Park next to the Self Realization Fellowship Temple.

Learn more about the efforts and how you can help save this amazing ecological area and ensure the coastal waters remain healthy and productive for generations to come.

Save Swamis Reef. You can also find more information on Facebook.

Social Media: Fad?

2010-01-26T22:19:00.002-08:00

Today, I attended a seminar focused on the benefits of Social Media. As part of the seminar, the presenter shared "The Social Media Revolution" video with us. Similar to the "Did you know?" video this version is just as amazing and full of statistics that will blow your mind. Enjoy!

Special thanks to Vicki Ott who shared this video with me, You Tube and the author of Socialnomics, Erik Qualman who created this video.

Ways to help with the Haiti Relief

2010-01-13T17:40:00.002-08:00

As all of you have heard by now, a major earthquake struck southern Haiti on Tuesday, devastating the Western Hemisphere's poorest nation. My friend Jessica forwarded me an email with a list of ways to help provide some relief and I wanted to share it with you as well.

AT&T is helping channel donations to the Red Cross International Relief Fund. AT&T wireless customers can send $10 donations to the relief fund by sending a text message from their mobile device. Standard text messaging rates may apply. A customer can type the word HAITI and send it to 90999. A confirmation message will arrive within a few minutes, to which the customer should reply "yes" to complete the donation. All money donated will be passed on to the Red Cross.

Catholic Medical Mission Board is asking for monetary contributions. Donations can be made by sending checks, payable to CMMB-Haiti, to CMMB, 10 West 17th Street, New York City, New York 10011, or by calling 1 (800) 678-5659. Pledges can also be made via the CMMB Web site, or by a direct web link. Donated medicines and medical supplies are also being accepted by CMMB. To make these donations, contact Kathy Tebbett, at 1 (212) 242-7757.

National Nurses United, an organization for registered nurses based in Oakland, Calif., is seeking nurse volunteers to serve in Haiti through the Registered Nurse Response Network. Nurses can sign up at the NNU Web site, www.nationalnursesunited.org.
CARE, the international humanitarian organization based in Atlanta, has emergency personnel in Haiti. CARE is accepting donations at http://www.care.org, or donors can call 1 (800) 521-CARE.

Lutheran World Relief, based in Baltimore, Md., is accepting donations for its Haiti earthquake fund. Donations can be made by phone at (800) LWR-LWR2, online at http://lwr.org, or by mailing a check or money order to Lutheran World Relief Haiti Earthquake Relief, PO Box 17061, Baltimore, Md., 21298-9832.

Operation Blessing International, based in Virginia Beach, Va., has disaster relief teams in Haiti and more en route. Donations can be made through the group's Web site at http://www.ob.org.

Pan American Development Foundation is seeking monetary donations through a special Web site that is being set up at www.PanAmericanRelief.org. The foundation, based in Washington, D.C., is the natural disaster relief arm of the Organization of American States

Doctors Without Borders is providing emergency medical care to earthquake victims. The New York-based group is accepting donations at http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org.

International Rescue Committee is sending an emergency team to provide emergency health care, shelter and access to safe drinking water for survivors of the earthquake. The New York-based group is accepting donations at its Web site, http://www.theirc.org.

Action Against Hunger, based in New York, is seeking aid for its relief efforts and ongoing programs for the impoverished. Donations can be made at http://www.actionagainsthunger.org.

Savvy Daddy is donating 25 cents to Haiti Relief for every Facebook fan that World Vision receives in the next 24 hours. www.facebook.com/worldvision

Surf Industry Cleans Up

2009-12-28T19:10:00.002-08:00

During the holiday season in San Diego we are often given the gift of waves and this year is no different. What is different-- is the surfboards that surfers are riding as they enjoy the 5-8 ft waves along the coastline today.

Historically surfboards were made from wood but in the 1950’s the surf industry was revolutionized with the introduction of foam core and fiberglass boards. These new boards were lighter then wooden boards making them easier to maneuver in the surf but unfortunately they were also more toxic to the environment and to the shapers producing them. The new boards were made from a polyurethane foam core and an outer shell of fiberglass cloth and polyester resins. All of which contain some pretty nasty chemicals. For example polyurethane foams are made from petroleum, emit volatile compounds, are extremely flammable and are difficult to recycle and reuse.

Even though most of today’s surfboards are still produced using these toxic materials, new technologies are being developed and tested as the surf industry looks for ways to produce a more eco-friendly surfboard.

One company who is working to create a “greener” surfboard among other things is San Diego based, Malama Composites.

Malama, which means “take care” in Hawaiian, provides an alternative to petroleum-based polyurethane foam for use in manufacturing of surfboards, wind turbine blades, walk-in freezers, cargo containers, etc. They are the first manufacturer of polyurethane foam made from plant-based materials. Their core technology, Ainacore, is a strong, lightweight cost-competitive product that reduces the use of toxic chemicals and can be reused and recycled.

Take a cab.... plant a tree

2009-12-23T11:31:00.006-08:00

I recently traveled to CO on an early morning flight and didn't have the heart to ask a friend to drive me to the airport at 6:00 AM and then fight rush hour traffic on the way home so I decided to take a cab instead. But this was no ordinary cab.

I had the opportunity to ride to the airport with TerraMoto Transportation Services, an environmentally friendly, all-hybrid cab and limousine company that plants a tree for every trip you take.

On the day of my trip a beautiful 4-door Toyota Prius arrived at my home at 5:50 AM and the driver helped carry my bags to the car and we were off. The driver was very nice and the car was clean and the ride was smooth and quiet. This was a perfect way to start my trip. I didn't have to worry about parking my car or asking a friend for a ride plus I got to feel warm and fuzzy by offsetting my airplane travel by riding to the airport in a hybrid and the planting of a tree.

If you are looking for a new way to travel to the airport or where ever you are going in San Diego you may want to check our Terramoto.

Photo courtesy of Chris Giles Photo.

Making it an even better Thanksgiving

2009-11-18T10:24:00.002-08:00

Thanksgiving is by far my favorite holiday. For most we spend the day laughing and enjoying the company of family and friends, football and more football, college basketball season gets underway, we play board games, challenge each other to a game of flag football and we eat and eat....

But, as we look forward and prepare to give thanks this year we need to be sure to thank the mother who makes this all possible, Mother Earth and share with those who are less fortunate. You might be surprised who could use your help this year.

Sustainlane has created a list of ideas and resources for greening your Thanksgiving Dinner including:

1) Getting there – The greenest option is to not travel at all but if you must find ways to reduce your impact. This can be done by carpooling and ride sharing, bringing snacks and reusable water bottles and coffee mugs or buying carbon offsets for your travel.

2) Decorate the Thanksgiving table eco-style - This can be as simple as avoiding plastic plates and etc. by using real silverware and plates.

3) Food and Wine – Go Organic for fruits, vegetables and wine. Serve Fair Trade coffee and chocolates.

4) Cleaning up - Be sure to share the leftovers with friends or your composter and use earth-friendly dish cleaners.

5) Afterword – Unplug appliances and turn off the lights.

If you are still looking for other ways to give thanks here are a few more ideas:

1) Volunteer at the local soup kitchen or food bank.

2) Donate food, clothes, toys and other necessities to food banks, churches, shelters and Toys for Tots.

3) Volunteer your time or donate to local non-profit groups or national groups such as Surfrider, Sierra Club, Nature Conservancy.

4) Visit the senior center or children's hospital during the holidays but more importantly visit them on regular days. Our Seniors offer some of the greatest stories and insights you could ask for and children offer a lighter perspective that can brighten any day.

5) Adopt a animal from the shelter or ASPCA. Holidays have many families bringing home a puppy but not really realizing what it takes to raise it. There are lots of loving furry friends who would love to be a part of your family.

Wishing you and your family and friends much love and joy this thanksgiving.

References:
Thanks Earth. Retrieved November 19, 2009 from http://www.sustainlane.com/reviews/thanks-earth/3JUQRBKHVT28PYFBIJTCKRFWLVUA

Turning Lemons to Lemonade

2009-11-05T14:25:00.001-08:00

When life gives you lemons what else can you do but make lemonade. At least that’s what Bicycle Lemonade a non-profit located in Durango, CO believes. Bicycle Lemonade’s mission is to refurbish used bikes and build the local biking community by getting more bikes on the road.

“This program is special. It not only advocates the biking community and gets more people on bikes but it makes them available for folks who may not afford one otherwise,” said Heather Shook, Bicycle Lemonade Mechanic and Bike Builder.

The program unofficially began over 30 years ago when Melvin T. Smylie began rescuing bikes of all shapes and sizes and then selling the refurbished bikes to local residents for a few dollars from the front yard of his home on North Main Street. When the 94-year-old Mr. Smylie passed away in 2006, the Durango Cyclery, a local bike shop, inherited a backyard filled with hundreds of frames and dozens of boxes of parts.

As the new owners of these frames and parts, Durango Cyclery owner Russell Zimmerman recruited the help of employees Jon Bailey and Bob Gregorio and the “Mr. Smylie Bike Project” (soon to become Bicycle Lemonade) was founded. During its first year the program gave away a little over 100 refurbished bikes to local residents. While this was a great start, the team wanted to create something that would really make an impact within the community.

Known for its epic mountain biking and strong cycling culture, Durango has no shortage of biking enthusiasts and people willing to get involved. The Durango Cyclery enlisted the help of local residents and volunteers and relaunched the Mr. Smylie Bike Project as Bicycle Lemonade in 2008.
Bicycle Lemonade refurbishes all types of bikes including mountain, road, kids, dirt, cruisers, townies and even a couple of tandem bikes. Bike repair services range from cleaning and retooling to building bikes from the ground up.

Today it has 3 employees, Heather Shook, Kristofer Pleszewicz and Jon Bailey and a group of dedicated volunteers who spend their time refurbishing bikes, attending local events and hosting 8-10 public bike sales annually.

Heather Shook who has been with the project for a year said, “Its really exciting to see the program begin to take shape and get closer to its goal of becoming a true Bicycle Co-op. We recently moved into a donated garage-like space that provides workshop, storage and a location for weekly volunteer nights. This spring we are planning to offer clinics and classes on bike mechanics, safety and techniques.”

If you’d like to get involved with Bicycle Lemonade used bikes and parts can be dropped off at the Durango Cyclery (www.durangocyclery.com) located at 143 East 13th Street, Durango, CO or by volunteering your time. Additional ways to help: include financial donations, tools, and new and gently used gear and equipment. For more information visit http://bicyclelemonade.blogspot.com.

Photos by Chris Giles Photo.

Communication Breakdown

2009-10-31T11:22:00.007-08:00

On Wednesday and Thursday I attended a conference where much of the conversation focused on the CA budget and how it will impact education. On Friday I attended a Green Building Workshop where that conversation focused on processes and project management. During both of these events, presenters showed the same image and what happens when we forget to communicate. I hope you enjoy!

(Click to enlarge)

Rerip Gives Surfboards New Life

2009-10-15T09:00:00.001-07:00

Rerip was founded by Lisa Randall and Meghan Dambacher, avid surfers and residents of North County San Diego with the intent to help the environment. They were already actively involved in organizing beach clean-ups and recycling but they wanted to do more.

Aware of the amount of energy and waste involved in creating new surfboards and gear and the number of perfectly good boards sitting unused in garages they knew there had to be a way to connect individuals looking for new equipment with individuals owning old equipment.

Today, Rerip provides an easy and convenient way to buy and sell used surf, skate and snow boards online. They also sell a wide range of other items including gear, parts, accessories, photography equipment and artwork.

In addition to the online store that gives old surfboards new life, Rerip.com works with the community to keep surfboards out of the landfills, and to reduce the amount of waste from new surfboard construction through their board recycling program.

Rerip.com accepts surfboards in any condition. Boards are divided into three different piles. Pile one is for boards that are still surfable. Typically they need some TLC and ding repair. Pile two is for boards that are not surfable and beyond repair. These boards are sold to artists and used in various art projects. Pile three is for boards that are unsurfable and damaged. These are the hardest to reuse and are currently being used in filler concrete however they are always looking for other ways to reuse them and are open to suggestions.

To learn more about Rerip or buying and selling a used board visit their web site at www.rerip.com.

To recycle your board, Rerip has two drop-off location in San Diego County or you email partners@rerip.com to find other locations.

Patagonia Cardiff By The Sea
2185 San Elijo Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007

Miramar Landfill
5165 Convoy Street, San Diego, CA 92111

Logos courtesy of Rerip.

Wine Drinking May Cause Nudity

2009-10-04T12:30:00.002-07:00

Wine drinking may or may not cause you to shed your clothes but it did for 713 French wine lovers on October 3, 2009. In an effort to raise awareness of climate change and how it impacts the wine industry wine lovers dropped their trousers and posed nude for a group portrait.

The campaign was developed by American artist Spencer Tunick and Greenpeace to encourage the French government to approve strong global climate change legislation at the United Nations climate summit scheduled to be held this December in Copenhagen.

Climate change in wine regions is a big problem and failure to cut greenhouse gases will devastate the industry worldwide. As temperatures continue to rise grapes mature more quickly causing higher sugar content, less acid and more alcohol making it unpleasant to drink.

In addition to the environmental damage the economic impact will be significant. For example in the United States the wine industry according to The Wine Institute:

Generates $121.8 billion for the U.S. economy
Creates a total 820,000 jobs nationwide
Pays $25.8 billion in wages nationwide

To learn more about the campaign visit Greenpeace.

Watch the days events here. Please note, this video contains Nudity and may not be appropriate for small children or those easily offended.

700 personnes nues pour le climat
by gpfrance

Video provided by Greenpeace and Spencer Tunick. Statistics provided by the Wine Institute.

Cruise for a Cure

2009-09-21T11:37:00.007-07:00

It is estimated that about 1.5 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2009. Cancers of the prostate and breast will be the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men and women according to the American Cancer Society. Of that 1.5 million, 600,000 will be fatal with 90,000 deaths from breast cancer alone.

These numbers are staggering and unfortunately few of us can say cancer has not touched our lives in some way or another. These facts alone support the need for more research and with that comes the need for more funding. There are several groups working tirelessly to raise money for cancer research and patient support including The Leukemia Society, Susan G Komen and The American Cancer Society.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October), I wanted to share another group doing their part in a very unique way. Campus Cruisers a company that makes bicycles under license for universities including USC and UCLA has created the Komen Cruiser.

This special edition pink ribbon cruiser bicycle was designed with the Komen spirit in mind and includes streaming ribbon graphics, a stylized K head badge and customized pink ribbons on the fenders. The Komen Cruiser is available in two models- a one-speed and a the three-speed.

The bikes are available October 31, 2008 - December 31, 2009 at Amazon.com or by ordering directly through the Campus Cruisers website, www.campuscruisers.com, or by calling (303) 442-0280. Campus Cruisers donates $25 from each sale to Komen with a guaranteed donation of $25,000.

Facts and figures courtesy of the American Cancer Society. Campus Cruiser Logo and photo courtesy of Campus Cruisers.

Give for Back to School

2009-09-01T09:00:00.005-07:00

Over the next few weeks Americans will emerge on the malls and office supply stores to purchase new clothes, shoes and school supplies for their children as they prepare to go back to school. With that in mind we have provided some options for you to give a little back by sharing your back to school purchases with students in the U.S. and around the world.

SUNNAN Solar Work Lamp
IKEA has partnered with UNICEF to provide light to children in developing countries allowing them to study once the sun goes down. For every SUNNAN solar-powered lamp sold in IKEA stores worldwide, one lamp will be given to UNICEF to be distributed to children in developing countries.

The other cool thing about these lamps is that they are solar powered. Running on 3 rechargable AA batteries and include an LED light which uses 70% less energy then incandescent bulbs in similar lamps. They also come in a number of bright colors and sell for about $20 at IKEA stores. To learn more visit ikea.com or UNICEF

TOMS Shoes
In the United States we tend to take shoes for granted while many in developing countries have never owned a pair. For the people in these developing countries especially the children this can be a challenge ranging from limited ability to get from place to place since walking is the primary mode of transportation, to exposure to soil transmitted parasites, to dangerous cuts and wounds that left untreated can become infected and deadly, to not being able to attend school because shoes are a required part of their uniform. Fortunately, there are company's like TOMS Shoes who want to make sure children in developing countries have shoes to wear and can go to school.

With every pair of TOMS Shoes you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need as part of their One for One program.

So if you are looking for a hip, comfy and functional pair of shoes plus you want to give a little back, now is your chance. Get your pair at TOMS Shoes.

Operation Backpack
As children in the U.S. prepare to go back to school, many families lack the funds needed to provide basic school supplies and other materials students require. An organization dedicated to making sure these students get the supplies they need is Volunteers of America. Each year they host Operation Backpack, a program organized by volunteers across the country to provide school supplies and book bags to children who's families cannot afford them. Click here to learn more about Operation Backpack efforts in your area.

If you missed this year's drop-off deadline you can still make donations online at Volunteers of America or learn how to start an Operation Backpack event in your area.

Images and videos courtesy of IKEA, TOMS Shoes and Volunteers of America.

Let's Make a New Sound

2009-08-12T12:53:00.008-07:00

I am currently taking a class in Sustainable Urban Planning and Development at University of California San Diego. One of the core elements of planning we have been discussing includes the need for social equity and consideration of lower income populations and the potential impact development may have on them.

I think we would all agree that this is an important factor as we try to not have the "Not in my backyard" attitude regarding where to build that manufacturing facility, place the landfill or even build a power plant.

With that in mind, could there be another way? Are there options for power or waste disposal that may not have such a negative effect? We think so and so does Green For All an amazing group founded by Van Jones, Special Advisor on Green Jobs for the Council on Environmental Quality.

Green For All is dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans through a clean energy economy. They focus on providing education, training and community outreach to low income populations to engage and involve them in the "green" economy in turn providing them with career opportunities and a way out of poverty.

They recently released a video, New Sound, that shows the impact of the past economy and the hope of the future economy. I hope this video inspires you as much it did me.

Watch, Share, Get Involved.

Learn more about Green For All.

Video Courtesy of Green For All.

Riding a Bicycle 100 Miles to School

2009-08-10T08:08:00.010-07:00

On September 12, 2009, 100 people will ride their bikes from the bright lights of New York City to the sandy beaches of Southhampton, Long Island to benefit 100 qualified NYC inner-city students. This year the 100 Mile Man Foundation has partnered with the Fund for Public Schools to provide full college tuition for 100 kids.

Learn more about the ride and the 100 Mile Man Foundation.

Additional programs and organizations that let you put your athletic skills to the test or just provide a great way to have some fun for a cause include:

National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National MS Society works to raise awareness and get people involved to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. The National MS Society hosts walks, bike rides and other events throughout the country year round. Learn More.

Team In Training - The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training® (TNT) provides training and raises money for cancer. First timers to seasoned athletes, can train for marathons, half marathons, triathlons, 100-mile century bike rides and hiking adventures. Learn More.

"I ran my first marathon with TNT about 7 years ago. If you want to have fun while making a difference this might be the program for you. It not only helped me reach my goal of running a marathon but I raised money for cancer and made some great friends," Barbara Fanning, Owner, Mindswing Consulting.

Energy Options that won't make you cry

2009-07-27T14:49:00.003-07:00

I wanted to share a unique story about a company that understands how to make recycling work for them plus you will never think of onions the same way again.

On Friday, July 17, 2009, Gills Onions of Oxnard California received a $2.7 million incentive check from Southern California Gas Company as part of the state’s energy self-generation incentive program. Gills Onions began trying to find ways to reduce waste coming from their onion processing plant about 10 years ago. Today they have a process that allows them to create juice that is converted to BioGas and then to electricity from 75% of the onion by products (skins, tops, etc.) and create press cake (cattle feed) out of the other 25% of the onion waste.

Currently, they have one of the largest self-generation incentive program projects and save over $400,000 in waste disposal costs and generate approximately $700,000 worth of energy with BioGas.

Learn more about Gills Onions.

Give me an RC Cola and a Moonpie

2009-07-20T08:20:00.009-07:00

For those of us who grew up in the South we have all eaten our share of MoonPies and have danced to the song RC Cola and a MoonPie by NRBQ. But who would have thought as our country celebrates the 40th Anniversary of landing on the moon, that NASA would celebrate with a giant MoonPie.

You have to admit, this is pretty clever marketing. Fun, engaging and Yummy!

The MoonPie was donated by Chattanooga Bakery, the original maker of the MoonPie, was 40 inches in diameter, six inches high and weighed 55 pounds. The mix of marshmallow between two round graham crackers dipped in chocolate included six pounds of chocolate and 14 pounds of marshmallow.

The MoonPie was given to visitors at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Cape Canaveral, Florida on Monday in honor of the celebration.

Image courtesy of Chattanooga Bakery, Inc.

Putting People to Work

2009-07-02T09:36:00.014-07:00

As a consultant I have the opportunity to work with an amazing group of people from various backgrounds and industries but all with the same goal in mind of "making the world a better place." Whether you are helping one person or millions, its really a rewarding experience to see my clients, colleagues and friends succeed. I wanted to take a few moments and share some stories with you about that type of success.

I have been working with the California Community College Department of Economic and Workforce Development for the past 2 1/2 years on a the Workplace Learning Resource Center Initiative (WpLRC), a statewide grant that provides businesses with customized training in Basic Math, English as a Second Language, communication, leadership and a wide range of other workplace basic skills that ensure people are able to find work and be successful on the job.

The following are three video success stories we developed at Mindswing Consulting to highlight just a few of the successes of the Workplace Learning Resource Centers. There are many more and I suspect more to come.

Oxnard College and Deckers Outdoor Corporation

Oxnard College and the U.S. Navy

El Camino College Customized Training Programs

To learn more about the Workplace Learning Resource Center initiative visit www.wplrc.org.

If you like what you see and need assistance marketing or managing some of your projects, you can reach us at info@mindswingconsulting.com.

The Power of Communication

2009-05-13T21:09:00.011-07:00

I don't know about you but I think its pretty cool to receive an email from the President of the United States. Regardless of your political views or beliefs it is refreshing to see our government taking advantage of technology not only to communicate but reach out and actually engage us in the decisions that impact our lives. The following is a copy of the email I received from President Obama today discussing the status of health care reform. I hope you find this information useful.

Letter from President Obama

Good afternoon,
You are receiving this email because you signed up at WhiteHouse.gov. My staff and I plan to use these messages as a way to directly communicate about important issues and opportunities, and today I have some encouraging updates about health care reform.

The Vice President and I just met with leaders from the House of Representatives and received their commitment to pass a comprehensive health care reform bill by July 31.

We also have an unprecedented commitment from health care industry leaders, many of whom opposed health reform in the past. Monday, I met with some of these health care stakeholders, and they pledged to do their part to reduce the health care spending growth rate, saving more than two trillion dollars over the next ten years -- around $2,500 for each American family. Then on Tuesday, leaders from some of America's top companies came to the White House to showcase innovative ways to reduce health care costs by improving the health of their workers.

Now the House and Senate are beginning a critical debate that will determine the health of our nation's economy and its families. This process should be transparent and inclusive and its product must drive down costs, assure quality and affordable health care for everyone, and guarantee all of us a choice of doctors and plans.

Reforming health care should also involve you. Think of other people who may want to stay up to date on health care reform and other national issues and tell them to join us here:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/EmailUpdates

Health care reform can't come soon enough. We spend more on health care than any country, but families continue to struggle with skyrocketing premiums and nearly 46 million are without insurance entirely. It is a priority for the American people and a pillar of the new foundation we are seeking to build for our economy.

We'll continue to keep you posted about this and other important issues.

Thank you,
Barack Obama

P.S. If you'd like to get more in-depth information about health reform and how you can participate, be sure to visit http://www.HealthReform.gov.

Its a new world!

2009-04-30T13:18:00.007-07:00

When my grandmother passed away she was 96. She was born in Italy and moved to the United States when she was two years old. My great grandmother stayed behind in Italy for a short time and then with 7 children in tow, including my grandmother she boarded a boat for Ellis Island and was reunited with my great grandfather in New York. I remember the stories she would tell us about being a kid in the early 1900's and think WOW.. can you imagine everything she saw, heard and experienced in her lifetime? It makes me think about everything I have seen and the new world that kids today are experiencing. It truly is amazing how technology has changed the world and as Thomas Friedman said, "The World is Flat."

The following video is a fantastic video and to quote my friend Bruce Whistler, "It puts it all in perspective."

Enjoy!

Specials thanks to YouTube and researchers Karl Fisch, Scott McLeod, and Jeff Brenman

Taking the Show on the Road

2009-04-06T14:45:00.008-07:00

Last weekend I traveled to Durango, CO to visit Chris Giles and had the chance to take my office on the road. Mind you, the Mindswing Consulting office in Encinitas, CA is very nice. You can usually have a big dog at your feet, hear birds singing, enjoy the views of green plants and flowers and even occasionally hear the little girl next door singing.

But this week I had the chance to join Chris in his photography studio. Located in the Smiley Building in downtown Durango, CO., his office offers views of snow capped peaks and the lush greenery of the La Plata mountains and you can often spy families having a picnic on the lawn or dogs enjoying a game of fetch. From inside the office walls you can hear the bustling activity of businesses and organizations ranging from dance, martial arts and yoga to ceramics, photography, web design and the national park service.

What makes this even better is that the Smiley Building is a formerly abandoned, Depression-era junior high school that has been transformed into a solar-powered, energy efficient center for arts, business and education for this mountain community of 15,000 people.

When you first enter the building you may feel like you have stepped back in time with the electric furnaces lining the walls, large paned windows and long hallways of classrooms. This time warp quickly ends as you see the walls are brightly painted in canary yellow, eggplant purple, sunny orange and sea blue along with classrooms converted to different size offices, artist spaces, dance studios, loft apartments and even a Montessori school.

The building runs completely on solar power and the owners are working towards providing a sustainable carbon-neutral facility for its tenants. As you walk down the halls the lights are motion sensitive and click on only as you approach them, the large windows provide heat as well as natural light reducing the amount of electricity consumed by its tenants, large plants are growing at the end of each hallway, there are several bike racks to encourage bike riding, and the Smiley even has a small theater that hosts town events including a recent environmental film festival.

To learn more about the Smiley Building you can visit their web site or read about them in the March/April 2009 issue of Preservation Magazine.

To learn more about Chris Giles Photo visit his web site.

Kids for Clean Water

2009-02-24T20:23:00.004-08:00

As the Native American Proverb says "We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." It is essential that we educate our children about current environmental issues and get them interested and involved. One such program focused on accomplishing this is Surfrider's "Kids for Clean Water" program (KFCW).

Kids for Clean Water is a series of interactive hands-on presentations that educate kids (and yes, adults too) about the environmental challenges facing our watersheds and oceans. The presentations are geared towards elementary, middle and high school students and educate kids about the effects that pollution, climate change, trash and other issues have on marine life and our oceans as a whole. It also provides the kids with ideas and ways for them to get involved.

As a member and volunteer with the San Diego Surfrider Chapter I had the pleasure of conducting a KFCW presentation to the Empresa Elementary School Daisy Troop. When I first arrived for the presentation a group of twelve 5-6 year old girls and two troop leaders were having a snack and sharing stories about their weekend with each other.

The girls quickly finished their snacks and formed a circle on the carpet and we began to have a conversation about the ocean and the environment. I was quite impressed with the level of knowledge of these little girls. Many of them had participated in local Beach Clean Ups and had parents who were members of Surfrider and a couple of them were already boogie boarders and even aspiring surfers. We then watched a short KFCW video and I asked the girls to pay attention to the red balloon. This is when it got interesting and you could really see the concern and excitement in their eyes. The girls were truly interested and wanted to get involved. We talked a little bit longer about the video, the oceans and how they could get involved and then I thanked them and headed home very happy that I could share this information but not sure what kind of impact I really made.

This was until I received the following email from one of the troop leaders whose daughter was a Daisy thanking me for conducting the presentation.

"I just want to thank you so much for conducting the presentation last week for our girl scout troop. This is one of the first times where my daughter, Paige was so eager to share what she had learned after a meeting. I spoke with some of the other moms on Friday and they had similar feedback. Of course the picture of turtle made a huge impact and I think may have been one of the first things they shared.

I think you did a great job at presenting the information at a level that the girls could really grasp. It really made them think about their environment and small changes that they can make. I hadn’t realized it but my daughter had never seen what a sewer drain looked like so we took a walk around our neighborhood and scoped them out. Your presentation really sparked some interesting conversations that we probably would not have otherwise had."

Her email really helped make the need for education so apparent and really made me happy to be a part of such a great program. I can hardly wait to conduct my next presentation.

If you are interested in learning more about Surfrider's KFCW program and scheduling a presentation you can visit the local San Diego Chapter web site or check out the national web site to find a chapter near you.

Mahalo!

Lemons or Lemonade

2009-02-17T19:18:00.008-08:00

Yesterday, I had tea with my friend Jon Lentz at the Pannikin, a locally owned coffee shop housed in the old train station in Leucadia, CA. While we enjoyed the winter sunshine and chatted about business and life he shared a story with me. I enjoyed the story when he told me but didn't think much more about that day.

But over the past few weeks this story has been on my mind and I realized how much it applies to all aspects of life ranging from work to politics even to relationships. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Two little boys walk into a room. The room is filled with horse poo. One of the little boys looks around the room, lowers his head and begins to sob uncontrollably. He looks hopelessly at the other little boy who is jumping up and down and is quite giddy.

The hopeless little boy asks him.... "What are you so excited about?"

The happy little boy just smiles and says "With all of this horse poo, I just know there has got to be a pony in here somewhere."

Hence the moral of the story, life really is what you make it. Lemons or Lemonade as my mom would say. So if you are feeling hopeless and overwhelmed try to change your way of thinking and remember "there has got to be a pony in there somewhere."

We want Toxin Free Toys... and other stuff

2008-12-21T18:20:00.018-08:00

I was listening to NPR and heard a story that really got me thinking about how we as consumers can protect our own safety and that of our children. The story reported that one in three toys tested by a Michigan nonprofit group contained toxins including lead, arsenic and other chemicals. The thing about this story which really drove the message home was a quote from a mother saying "she should not have to know all of the things contained in her child's toys because there are government agencies who are supposed to do this."

Yes, this is true but unfortunately for some reason these groups are falling down on the job and are allowing products that contain toxins to reach our homes and our children. Now mind you, this is not the only industry that is producing products that contain toxins. When is the last time you read a cosmetic label or found that your water bottle contains BPA (Bisphenol-A)?

So as a consumer you are wondering if the government agencies are unable to limit the use of these toxins in products, what can you do? Actually a lot. If we work together we can influence a major shift and tell these companies that these practices are unacceptable. To put it bluntly you can hit them in the bottom line and not buy their products. To say it a little nicer (which I prefer) you can reward companies that produce safe and chemical free products by supporting them instead.

Just like in the early 80's when we (well some of us) told cable operators that "We want our MTV" we can tell companies that we don't want or buy products that contain toxins!

OK.... you may say easier said then done but luckily there are lots of great resources available to help you find toxin-free and safe products. Here are just a few:

The Lazy Environmentalist, by Josh Dorfman
Big Green Purse: Use Your Spending Power to Create a Cleaner, Greener World, by Diane MacEachern
Treehugger.com
Sustainlane.com
Inhabitat.com
Green Light Magazine

If you have other eco-friendly and toxin free product resources please feel free to share.

Thank you...Gracias....Grazie...Merci....

2008-11-19T14:02:00.012-08:00

I am excited to announce the launch of Mindswing Consulting's new web site. This could not have been possible without the help and support of some great friends (who did I mention are creative types). I would like to thank Chris Giles for the amazing photos, Michelle Gutmann for the logo and web site design and AJ Cabrera for building the web site.

I'd like to invite you to check out our new web site and the work of the folks who helped make it happen.

Chris Giles Photo - www.chrisgilesphoto.com
Barefoot E-Biz - www.barefootebiz.com

Michelle Gutmann - shidesign@yahoo.com

Enjoy,
Barbara

Purveyors of Change

2008-11-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you for visiting the Mindswing Consulting Blog. I am looking forward to sharing stories, ideas, thoughts, reviews, news and even an occasional soap box rant with you...... But before we jump into that, I wanted to take a moment to tell you how Mindswing Consulting came to be.

After spending 14+ years working in marketing, training and project management for clients in the automotive, pharmaceutical, retail, sports, technology and financial industries, I found myself wanting more. I wanted to find a way that I could combine my marketing, training and project management skills with my desire to "change the world."

In June 2007, Mindswing Consulting was born.