NCW PET MAGAZINE by NCW Magazine

INTRODUCING

NCWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 2014 MODERN PET MUST-HAVES SOURCEBOOK The 1st ever A to Z bible on the latest and greatest in healthy and sustainable products for your pet, from food, to furniture, to fashion, to natural remedies, and more curated by the NPW editorial team.

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Coming May 2014!

Reserve yours today at www.ncwmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Adelia Ritchie With a doctorate in organic chemistry and decades of experience raising and showing dogs, Dr Adelia Ritchie is an expert in animal skin problems and how to eliminate them. After solving a would-be terminal skin ailment in one of her own dogs after the vets had given up, she founded DERMagic Skin Care for Animals, Inc., a company dedicated to natural and organic, made-in-USA products that work. www.dermagic.com

Holly Montgomery I pride myself on creating portraits that exemplify the relationships shared between animals and their people. When the needs and boundaries of each pet are respected, and the session experience is a positive one, the resulting images exude love and happiness. It is my wish for every family to have images like these of their pets to cherish for a lifetime. www.brindleberrypetphoto.com

theFAMILYNOSE It’s a collective enterprise.

Parents. Kids. A Menagerie of Pets.

Kathryn Walter

Kathryn Walter just released her new book, “Babette’s Pack”, illustrating these very medical phenomena’s. Four years ago, while recuperating from a double knee replacement, she came to know Babette who provided Kathryn comfort, affection, and joy during the long months of convalescence. She holds a master’s degree in healthcare administration, a bachelor’s degree in nursing and is a certified physician assistant. Over the past 25 years Kathryn was the director of a university student health center, has practiced family medicine as a licensed physician assistant, and is now practicing pediatric medicine for a primary school district. She currently lives in Chino Hills, CA with her beloved husband, daughter and her two adorable Shih Tzu dogs, Esmeralda and the star of the book, Babette. To find out more about her visit http://www.babettespack.com/ Her book is available at www.xlibris.com, www.amazon.com, and www.barnesandnoble.com

The creators and recipients of life’s daily stream of aromas — some more enjoyable than others! It gets quite a workout. And yet, all the family nose wants is a pleasant balance of olfactoryness. What’s the best way to achieve this? With Zero Odor®. A remarkable product that permanently eliminates odors at the molecular level. When sprayed in the air or on surfaces, Zero Odor® seeks out and bonds with odor molecules and turns them into non-odor molecules. The odor is gone, permanently and won’t return. All you’re left with is clean, crisp smelling air. The family nose can breathe a collective sigh of relief. Anytime an unwanted or unwarranted odor lingers in your home, use Zero Odor® to eliminate it.

Shannon Johnstone

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Shannon Johnstone, a tenured Associate Professor at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, received her BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and MFA in photography from the Rochester Institute of Technology. She is the recipient of awards such as Pause, To Begin artist, Honorable Mention in Lens Culture’s 2010 International Exposure Awards, and the Photographic Resource Center at Boston University selected her work for a Staff Picks Award in the Exposure 2013 competition. In addition, she recently became one of Photolucida’s 2013 Critical Mass Finalists. To learn more about Landfill Dogs visit landfilldogs.com

Diane Smith Applying her professional dental hygiene background, motherhood and common sense, Diane found her inate sense applicable to the animal world, remarkably similar, and profoundly fulfilling. From zookeeping at Oglebay Park, reptile keeper at Reptiles Alive, naturalist for the Northern Virginia Park System, a liscensed wildlife rehabilitator and teaching preschool at the National Zoo, she has continued to enhance her needs to teach and heal, the fascinating, beautiful creatures that have been created for our enjoyment and sustainability.

Nursery, General, Pet, Litter, Stain & Odor formulas available.

zeroodor.com Available at Bed Bath & Beyond, Walgreens and other fine retailers

spring issue 2014 8 CONNECTION Get an inside look on the sad reality of Killer Whales in captivity for entertainment purposes.

14 LIFESTYLE This dedicated sanctuary is continuously taking action to stop animal cruelty while providing a safe home for rescued animals to heal and live happily and comfortably.

Daily Essentials

BIXBI says YES to 100% USA sourced whole muscle meat, but they say NO to preservatives, fillers, salt, and sugar. The company’s new Daily Essentials jerky is packed with antioxidant-rich cranberries, blueberries and organic reishi mushrooms. Also try their Hip+Joint and Skin+Coat formulations. Your dog will be glad you did! 5oz - $9.99 www.BIXBIPet.com

18 WELL-BEING After reading about these therapy/response dogs, it’s possible that man’s best friend just became his life-saver as well. 28 SPOTLIGHT Brandon McMillan, animal expert and trainer, talks about his hit show and his wild life animal encounters.

Fluval Spec Aquarium

The perfect aquarium for a small space, the five-gallon Fluval Spec Aquarium is a perfect desk top aquarium. The contemporary design of the etched-glass and aluminum features as well as the sleek overhanging LED lighting system will be sure to fit into your modern home. The included pump and 3-stage filtration system are located in a separate chamber for easy maintenance. $83.99 www.fluvalaquatics.com

20 EDITORIAL SPREAD With her remarkable photography, Elena Shumilova portrays the sweet relationship between animals and children in front of gorgeous, calming landscapes.

32 SELECTED FOR YOU For all the love your pets give you, return the favor with a few of our favorite pet beds.

40 HOLISTIC VET The dangers, warning signs, treatments and preventions for your pets’ painfully itchy hot spots. Dog Games Slo-Bowl

45 RESCUE SPOTLIGHT See the faces of the adorable dogs from shelters that are no longer homeless thanks to Shannon Johnstone’s project, “Landfill Dogs”.

This slow feeder helps slow down dogs’ eating habits by turning mealtime into a fun game. It requires dogs to forage for every bite, resulting in a healthier, more balanced meal. Dogs learn to “chase” their food through a maze of ridges and valleys, which makes dinnertime feel more like a hunt. $24.99 www.kyjen.com

Sojos Lamb Mix

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Sojos new Lamb mix is an all-natural RAW meal for your dog. Sojos pet food mixes combine the convenience and affordability of kibble with the natural nutrition of fresh, RAW pet food. Sojos Complete with Lamb is made with gently freeze-dried RAW lamb. There are no GMOs, fillers, preservatives or artificial colors. It’s RAW, made easy. $89.95/ 8lb bag www.sojos.com

Loop

No more tangled up poop bags in a twisted mess. The Loop poop bag dispenser opens and closes with a twist of a cap. Its smart dispensing technology allows you to pull out one bag at a time, clamping down on the rest for safekeeping. You can attach it to a carabiner, handbag or thread the leash through both loops. $20.00 www.loft312.com

By Jessica Gagliardi

KILLING THE KILLER WHALES

FROM SHAMU TO BLACKFISH: THE HARSH REALITY OF ANIMAL CAPTIVITY By Garrett Smith

emember the day your Mom, or Dad told you that you were going to SeaWorld to see Shamu? You had no idea it was a possibility, until that moment. Your unconscious dream became a reality in a matter of seconds. You were headed to see a real live killer whale, a whale who even did tricks! Shamu was the first orca to survive more than thirteen months in captivity and the star of a popular killer whale show at SeaWord in San Diego in the mid-sixties. Over the years, well over 70 orcas have been taken from the Pacific Ocean for the same purpose: entertainment. Animal captivity has been a daunting and uncensored 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

subject for years. From activists, to zoologists, to politicians, to the general public, many people have been making their voice heard on the subject, but a clear resolution has yet to be found. Since the premiere of the critically acclaimed documentary Blackfish on CNN last October, animal captivity has been a very hot topic. Especially, in regards to the captivity of the film’s stars, orcas, more commonly known as killer whales. The documentary explores the real cost of “captivity entertainment”. It revisits the four deadly incidents that have been the result of an aggressive killer whale and the misfortune >> 9

ORCA

“Do you really want to teach your kids its ok to keep animals in captivity.” Do you want to teach them that it is ok to use these animals for entertainment?”

of their trainers. However in parallel, it also exposes the live captures which started the industry; the physical and social stresses the animals endure; the separation of calves from their mothers; and the aggression that sadly occurs between killer whales and their trainers. “At the end of the day trainers get to go home to their families, they get to eat what they want to eat, do what they want to do, sleep where they want to sleep. These animals don’t. They are put on a schedule that we decide; they really are animal slaves to our entertainment industry,” says Dean Gomersall, ex-SeaWorld trainer and marine conservationist seen in Blackfish.

A SAD REALITY Most people may not know that killer whales are very intelligent animals. With the second largest brain of all marine mammals, killer whales have shown capacities in problem solving, memory retention, and understanding symbolic language. There are three main groups of orcas - Resident, Transient, and Offshore. These three groups have very different diets, languages, hunting techniques, and behavioral methods. Within these groups there are pods, or families of killer whales that learn and speak a dialect unique to their pod. Similar to how there are a multitude of dialects spoken between friends and family throughout the US, even though English is the primary language. For orcas to have the capacity to do such a thing is simply remarkable. 1 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“They [SeaWorld] think that they can throw all of these killer whales in a pool, but none of them speak the same language. They don’t have the same dialect. It’s like kidnapping a young American and throwing him in the middle of China. How would you feel?” says Gomersall. “The extreme stress that you would feel in that situation is the same stress these orcas feel. You could see the desperation in their eyes, how sad they were.” This, according to Gomersall, has led to shortened life spans, vulnerability to disease, and violence towards cage-mates and trainers. Although, it is not solely the unique social structures that are stirring aggression for these captive mammals, it is the size of their habitats. It is conclusive that man-made tanks are not conducive environments for orcas. Wild orcas are known to swim up to 100 miles a day; meanwhile captive orcas are forced to do a few laps in their 48-foot long tanks. One can only imagine the repressed energy the orcas build up daily.

FROM ENTERTAINMENT TO EDUCATION When asked about the future of zoos and aquariums, Gomersall sees the opportunity to evolve from shows into real education saying, “ Many animal captivity programs have excellent animal rescue initiatives. If only they could teach true education that is based in actual science, not theme-park science. And stop the breeding of large animals in captivity, like whales, seals, sea lions, walruses, elephants, etc…” He

ORCA

proceeds to preach about the ingenuity of sea pens, an ocean cove cornered off with nets, where they retire whales under supervision, and how it should be adopted by all parks. “The way to learn about wild animals is to see them in the wild,” says Adam Roberts, newly nominated Born Free USA CEO. “Wildlife safaris, whale watching tours. If it’s not possible to see them in the wild, then at least to look at films, books, the internet - images of wild animals living free. This is infinitely more educational than seeing animals clinging to life in unnatural settings that are dangerous for both animals and people. Captivity cannot teach people about wild animals since they, by definition, should be living in the wild.”

HOW FAR WILL THE BLACKFISH EFFECT GO? “Perhaps the most significant meaning of the Blackfish documentary is that it brought these important animal welfare issues to the general public, not just to animal advocates already familiar with the cruelty involved in commercial captivity,” Roberts concedes. One hundred and fifty nine captive orcas have died since the animals were captured for public display in the 1960s. All of them died before reaching the midpoint of their life expectancy. There are four total incidents of human deaths resulting from orcas. The orcas involved in these incidents were all in captivity. It is known that no killer whale in the wild has killed a human, nor has there been any documentation of a killer whale killing another of it’s kind.

The question now is: what will happen next?

How can you help? • Decide not to take part in shows that display wild animals in captivity • Educate yourself and your family about the negative consequences of keeping animals in captivity • Take a trip to see wild animals in their habitat (wildlife safari, whale watching tours etc.) or watch documentaries and online eco-tours • Volunteer or donate to organizations that work to protect animal welfare • Write a letter to your representatives to ask to end wild animal captivity

“They really are animal slaves to our entertainment industry”

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IS MAN’S BEST FRIEND THE KEY TO RECOVERY? HOW THERAPY RESPONSE DOGS WILL SAVE OUR LIVES By Kathryn Walter I listened intently as the lovely young woman with thick curly brown hair sat before me explaining how her treasured Golden Retriever dog, Brandy, had for the last two months continually nudged at her left chest area. When you work in family practice medicine as a physician assistant for Kaiser Permanente, you hear a lot of strange things. She was genuinely distraught so though I was bemused I decided to do an exam to reassure her. When I discovered the contours of what I believed to be a tumor in her left chest area, precisely the area that had so concerned her dog, my blood ran cold. After receiving the results of a fine needle biopsy and ultrasound my 1 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

worst fears were confirmed. This healthy appearing young patient had a deadly, aggressive form of breast cancer. So aggressive that had we discovered the mass even as little as six months later it may well have claimed her life. She was convinced that Brandy had somehow known and alerted her to the devastating tumor causing her to seek help and in the end saving her life. I was skeptical, so I began to search the internet for information related to stories or claims of unusual canine abilities and learned that for some time now, the scientific community has been conducting studies on the premise that dogs have the ability to sniff out cancer cells. Surprisingly, there is a body of

evidence that our canine friends can somehow perceive malignant cells that cause a myriad of cancers: Breast, prostate, bladder, colon, and ovarian cancers well as skin cancers such as malignant melanoma. Investigation of dogs’ medical potential began in England in the late 1980’s. It was a stretch for the scientific community, but in an online article presented by www.healthypursuits. hubpages.com, the repeated accounts by individuals like my patient simply couldn’t be ignored. This intriguing research is now conducted in almost every developed country. In 2001, the Pine Street Foundation, recorded impressive results in clinical trials showing that dogs successfully detected breast cancer 88 percent of the time without false positives. Repeated studies support the find-

ings to an astonishing degree. One theory for this amazing finding is something researchers call “Dognosis.” It is known that a dog’s sense of smell is a thousand times more sensitive than that of a human’s. There are 220 million olfactory sensors in a dog’s nose compared to a human’s mere 5 million. Due to this sensitivity, a dog trained to identify cancer cells can detect the most miniscule Volatile Organic Compound (VOC ) emitted by these cancer cells. This same canine ability to sniff out tiny alterations in a human’s scent has now been attributed to saving people’s lives from many medical conditions; this service is provided by an inspirational army of angels known as Therapy/Response Dogs. For example, at the onset of a heart attack, enzymes are released into the blood stream that foretell the event. These enzyme changes are picked up by the dog who alerts 15

“This same canine ability to sniff out tiny alterations in a human’s scent has now been attributed to saving people’s lives from many medical conditions.”

Pasado’s Safe Haven

Pasado’s Safe Haven is one of the leading animal protection organizations in the United States dedicated to ending animal cruelty. Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, Pasado’s is an 85-‐acre sanctuary that’s home to hundreds of animals, including dogs, cats, and farmed animals, most of whom were rescued from abuse and neglect.

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We work tirelessly on behalf of animals to: Investigate and expose cases of animal cruelty, while serving as a resource to law enforcement and animal control Provide sanctuary and rehabilitation to dogs, cats and farmed animals who have suffered from cruelty or neglect Advocate for better laws to protect animals and promote enforcement of existing laws Educate the public about animal cruelty and what they can do to help end animal suffering Would you like to help? Visit here: pasadosafehaven.org/ways-‐to-‐help

pasadosafehaven.org

facebook.com/pasadosafehaven twitter.com/Pasados

their human. Imagine how invaluably gratifying it would be to someone who has a heart condition to know that they can rely upon the sensitive nose of their trusted companion to protect them against an unsuspected attack. Additionally, it is found that about one in 10 dogs can predict the onset of a seizure in an individual. A seizure patient’s life is dictated by the unpredictability of a possible attack. Many simple pleasures that we take for granted are fraught with terror for the seizure patient. Walking alone on a mountain path, going shopping, and even just day to day activities have the potential to be fatal if a seizure were to strike. The seizure patient can turn to one of the many organizations that train

“Response Dogs” to have a dog that can not only successfully predict an impending seizure but is trained to protect the person during the seizure, turn them on their side to protect the airway, and alert emergency personnel and stand down during the rescue. These conceded canine abilities are opening up whole new fields of canine use in the medical arena. These amazing feats notwithstanding dogs play a great role in our health and wellbeing by providing us with fierce loyalty, unconditional devotion, and an unquestioning bond. Their capacity to calm, to serve us and their human-like instinct to protect us provides us with the best and healthiest defense against sickness of all - love. 17

A SAFE HAVEN

A LITTLE SANCTUARY THAT’S DOING BIG THINGS FOR THE ANIMALS By Tracy Campion

Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, Pasado’s Safe Haven is an 85-acre sanctuary that’s home to hundreds of animals, including dogs, cats, and farmed animals, most of whom were rescued from abuse and neglect. A tall black gate is tucked among tall evergreens and as it opens slowly into Pasado’s Safe Haven’s sanctuary, you’re welcomed into a place of healing and hope. Pasado’s is a non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to ending animal cruelty – and it’s a place where true healing and change begin. In addition to rescuing animals who were victims of abuse and neglect, the organization advocates for better treatment of animals by society and promotes laws and personal choices that eliminate suffering for animals. Pasado’s Safe Haven was founded after a beloved donkey named Pasado was brutally beaten and killed by 1 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

three teenage boys in 1992. Countless people had cherished him for decades – and he was a gentle soul who truly loved and trusted everyone. While Pasado’s death stunned the local community, this horror was compounded by the minimal penalty that his killers faced. The prosecutor charged the three boys with breaking and entering because it carried a heavier sentence than beating an animal to death. Somehow, Washington State’s anti-cruelty laws had gone unchanged for more than a century. What happened to Pasado was unforgivable. Pasado’s death left many people shocked, angry, and with a hole in their hearts. But fortunately this senseless, devastating act wasn’t the end for what Pasado represented – it was really just the beginning. Pasado’s death ignited a fierce desire within the community to do more on behalf of animals. And thus out of tragedy, Pasado’s Safe

Haven, and its commitment to ending animal cruelty, was born. Since Pasado’s death in 1992, Pasado’s Safe Haven has helped pass five key animal cruelty laws to better protect animals in Washington State. And the organization continues to work tirelessly on behalf of the animals. The organizationPasado’s has already participated in several rescues this year and recently spearheaded a protest that put an end to a “donkey basketball” fundraising game in Anacortes, Washington – offering a humane fundraising solution that yielded triple the funds that the donkey basketball game would have netted. Pasado’s Safe Haven investigates and exposes cases of animal cruelty while serving as a resource to law enforcement and animal control. Day after day, Pasado’s staff hear stories of innocent, trusting animals who were tortured, beaten, or simply left to fend for them-

selves in the elements. Inspired by the desire to right Pasado’s injustice, they take on their cases, one by one. Pasado’s Safe Haven is these animals’ hope – and often, it’s their only voice. In addition to providing sanctuary for many of the animals it rescues, the organization also supports proactive spay/neuter efforts with state-of-the-art mobile spay stations, and provides educational outreach to teach the public about animal cruelty and what they can do to help end animal suffering. Pasado’s offers volunteer and internship opportunities for those who would like to learn more about sanctuary operations and animal advocacy and how they can directly help the animals. If you can’t volunteer or intern, the organization also has a wish list for their animals and you can also donate at www.pasadosafehaven.org.

GETTING CLOSE TO THE EASTER BUNNY

On the onset of a timid Russian spring, nature and children pose to create a mystical canvas lost between art and magic. Photos by Elena Shumilova

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For more photos and a Q&A with the photographer visit ncwmagazine.com 2 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Brandon McMillan Animal Expert, Trainer, and Host of the Hit CBS Show Lucky Dog by Ariane Moore photo courtesy of Brandon McMillan

Lions, tigers, bears…Oh, my! Brandon McMillan isn’t your ordinary dog trainer, this animal expert has encountered some of the world’s most exotic and wild animals, including great white sharks and giant squid. Having worked with animals all of his life McMillan was the perfect choice for the CBS show Lucky Dog. This latest endeavor allows McMillan to rescue dogs from certain death, and give them a second chance with a loving family, further proving that shelter dogs are not damaged goods to be discarded. Excited to know more, we caught up with the busy trainer to talk Lucky Dog and find out the secret to McMillan’s animal connection and training. NCW: How did you become an animal expert? BM: All of my immediate family members were wild animal trainers, so it just came naturally to me. I was raised in an environment where taking care of wild animals was just another day at the office. It’s the only thing I was ever really good at so of course I wanted to keep doing it. NCW: You have worked with all kinds of animals. What are some of the most exotic animals that you have worked with, and were you scared in any of those situations? BM: I’ve worked with everything from lions, to bears, to elephants, to marine animals. The time I was most scared in any situation was when I was diving with the Humboldt Squids in Mexico. These things are 8 ft. long, pushing 300 lbs. I ran out of air when I was 50 ft. down, and my life flashed before my eyes as the squids were grabbing every limb of mine and pulling me back down. I kissed the deck when I made it back to the boat. NCW: Tell us about your show Lucky Dog on CBS. BM: Lucky Dog is a show where I prove that shelter dogs are just as trainable and lovable as breeder bought. In every episode of Lucky Dog I rescue one dog from death row, take it back to the training facility and transform the unruly and untrained into amazing dogs that now serve a purpose in someone’s life. Every episode has a happy ending as I find the perfect family for the dog. Just a week earlier the dog had no hope and now their future is bright as day. I believe every dog deserves a second chance. That’s exactly my goal on Lucky Dog. NCW: Do you have a training philosophy? Does it differ depending on the type of animal? BM: My philosophy with training is very simple and fair to the animal. I find out what it’s naturally good at and capitalize on it. If the animal is a good jumper I’ll train it to be a 2 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

phenomenal jumper. I just capitalize on their hidden talents. They’ve all got them and my job is to find out what they are. Furthermore, I have a very simple dog obedience training system that I call: The Seven Common Commands (Sit, Stay, Down, Come, Off, Heel and No). Instead of training my dogs to do twenty commands kind of well, I train them to do the seven most important commands that we consistently use every day, and I make sure they’re remarkable at them. I’m a firm believer in dog training less is more. NCW: What is the most common problem that people encounter with their dogs? What is the most common mistake by their parents? BM: The most common problems people seem to encounter with their dog is leash walking. It sounds like the simplest thing to just walk your dog on a leash, but we quickly forget the world is full of distractions. A trained dog is only as good as the distractions they were trained under. The most common mistake I see by dog parents is rewarding the dog for bad behavior. It’s the most common way to start a dog off with bad habits. For example, people always think it’s so cute when their puppy jumps on them. They pet and give them treats over and over when they’re puppies doing this. What they’re slowly doing is teaching the dog every time it jumps it’s gonna get rewarded. Well that cute little puppy is now a big dog that can’t stop jumping on people. NCW: What sets you apart from other trainers? BM: I’d like to say experience. There are lots of trainers out there but many haven’t been doing it for that long, and in turn they haven’t seen what I’ve seen. I’ve learned from some of the world’s best trainers. I’ve taken a little piece of pie from every one of them and formed my own training system. I always recommend for people to learn from other trainers, mainly because they’ve been around the block and seen every problem under the sun with animals. Problem solving is the most important area in animal training. Problems will come when you’re training, and if you’re not experienced at solving that problem you can easily regress that animal, making the situation worse. An experienced trainer has seen these problems before and can quickly fix them. NCW: What is next for you in the New Year? BM: I’m gonna keep saving and training dogs on Lucky Dog for starters. That’s one of my biggest passions in life and I’m so fortunate to have Litton Entertainment and CBS behind me on the project. To catch more from my interview with Brandon McMillan visit ncwmagazine.com. Be sure to check out Lucky Dog on CBS. 29

HAPPY SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIPS 1 By Diane Smith

Elephants can live up to 70 years old. Individual herds are ruled by the matriarch (older female), who is responsible for making all the “family” decisions. The basic familial group is made up of 6-12, made up of the matriarchs female offspring and her young and sometimes the matriarchs sister and her young, forming a very close relationship, raising the calves together for up to three years. Because they consume up to 400 lbs. of food per day, the herds are nomadic. Their family group often splits because of lack of food supply. They always communicate however, by sound, using infrasound or seismic communication when at great distances, touching trunks, for petting and discipline, tails and feet, is important in mother-calf communication, sight and smell. They bang their trunks on the ground, when danger is near. Forming circles, encompassing the young and sick, facing outward, against predators, is natural instinct.

Geese The graceful flight, the V-formation, and morning song of the Canada goose, is recognizable by all. Mating for life, they live in multiple family flocks. Communicating by neck motions, powerful wing displays and sound, the gander protects his female and nest, lined with down, voraciously. A month later, after a few hours of hatching, the goslings learn to recognize their parents through sight and sound. As a “community”, geese will observe others and will “adopt” goslings, recognizing inept parenting, loss of a parent or parents unable to produce offspring of their own. Thus we see 10 to 12 goslings in tow.

Bats

tionships, as do all other mammals. Mating takes place in the spring, or in the season when food is plentiful, and the normally segregated males and females find a mate in their particular colony. Once pregnant, the multiple pregnant females, form their own maternity colony. Only one young will be born at a time. Newborn bats, pups, do not have fully developed wings. They must cling to the furry belly of the mother, where they drink her milk and sleep upsidedown and in the folds of her wings. It is not uncommon for multiple mothers to huddle together for extra warmth. Should they be separated, the pups and mothers communicate through their own specific high pitched clicking sounds and echolocation. Because, depending on the species, bats can mature at 6 weeks to 4 months. Many species can successfully reproduce several times a year, depending on substance availability. For more “Good To Know” facts and visit www.ncwmagazine.com

Mysterious, nocturnal, the only flying mammal, and often feared, a colony of bats has its own familial rela3 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Being “Man’s Best Friend” is a tough job that comes with many responsibilities. Some of which include protecting the house, being a good listener, and playing fetch. Performing such an important role and always giving their best, our pets deserve a few job perks. A beautiful and luxurious bed where they can relax and unwind after a long day, is sure to be a special treat, that they will enjoy and you can enjoy looking at.

SELECTED FOR YOU

Catching Some Zzzz’s

Bumper Bed with Hemp by West Paw Design

• From $70.00 • Made with hemp, which is grown without chemicals, pesticides, irrigation, or harvesting equipment • Naturally odor resistant and anti-microbial • Filled with 100% Recycled IntelliLoft® Polyfill • Made in the USA shop.naturalchildworld.com

Distressed Canvas Bed in Vintage Post by Houndworthy

• $206.00 • Made from reclaimed military-grade canvas • Proprietary tubular fill material that won’t collapse over time • Zippered removable cotton canvas cover • Made in Germany www.houndworthy.com

Fofo Bed by Sasha & Me

• From $199.00 • Soft and luxurious faux fur • Insert filled with 100% PET fiber from recycled water bottles • Fibers are non-allergenic, antibacterial, and easy to clean • Made in Australia shop.naturalchildworld.com

Billie Jean Bed Reverse Denim by See Scout Sleep

• From $145.00 • Outer cover made of 55% Hemp / 45% Organic Cotton Denim, and 100% Hemp Canvas • Inner bed made of 100% unbleached cotton muslin, and stuffed with recycled fiber-fill made from recycled plastic bottles • Great for dogs, cats, and even kids! • Made in the USA www.seescoutsleep.com

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SELECTED FOR YOU

Urbanest Pet Bed by Love Thy Beast

• $180.00 • Made from classic linen/cotton canvas cover that is topstitched for durability • Eco Insert for fill • Made in the USA www.lovethybeast.com

Bambu Hammock II by Pet Lounge Studios

• $249.99 • Made with a sustainable and solid bamboo frame • Cushion fill made from discarded, shredded remnants of orthopedic bed mattresses shop.naturalchildworld.com

Divano Blackberry Box-Bed by MiaCara

• From € 229 Photo copyright 2013 © MiaCara • Filled with high quality Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 certified foam • Mattress is filled with viscoelastic foam, which adapts perfectly to the dog’s body, and provides optimum support for the spine and relieves joints. • Made in Germany www.miacara.com

Indoor/Outdoor Pillow by Jax and Bones

• From $169.00 • Filled with signature eco-friendly fiber, Sustainafil • Allergen-free • 100% washable • Water resistant and tolerant to sun, with 500 hours of UV protection. • Made in the USA www.jaxandbones.com

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4 4 Paige Denim Stripe Bone Dog Toy by Mungo & Maud. $38.20

1 www.mungoandmaud.com

Dog Bed by Muovo. $210.00

2 www.finnishdesignshop.us Dog With Earphones Pillow by SNIFF. $17.00

3 www.sniffpetproducts.com

Nerd Tote Bag by Modko. $18.00

4 www.modko.com

ThunderToy by ThunderShirt. From $12.95

5 www.thundershirt.com

Dog Carrier by Cloud 7 For Tumi. $375.00

6 www.TUMI.com or www.CLOUD7.de

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8 Rope Dog Leash by Grey Paw Design. $42.00

7 www.greypawdesign.com

For Gimli Dog Den by Gamla Studio, From $950.00 (CAD)

8 www.gamla.ca

60 Unscented Compostable Bags by Earth Rated. $8.99

9 www.earthrated.comwww.foundmyanimal.com Dog Mat by Chilewich. $35.00

10 www.allmodern.com

Extinction Collection - Single Hand Painted Plate by Rachel Kozlowski. $24.00

11 www.rachelkozlowski.com Skinny Bakes by Zuke’s. $6.99

12 www.zukes.comwww.petplay.com Willow Bowls by Simply Fido. $24.99

13 www.simplyfido.com

Rubb ‘n’ Roll 4.5” Cirque Rubber Toy by Simply Fido. From $10.00

14 www.simplyfido.com

10 12 9

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THOSE ITCHY HOT SPOTS

By Adelia Richie If you have a pet, dog or cat, you are familiar with the word Hot Spot. Hot spots are described as an inflammation and infection of the skin, sometimes caused by self-trauma such as what happens when a dog scratches or bites at the irritated area. Hot spots can arise from a flea bite, an allergic reaction, from an underlying infection, or just from a dog biting and scratching at an itchy place. Often a hot spot is complicated by secondary infections, most commonly yeast. A hot spot is NOT the same as a rash or itchy area, which can be inflamed and feel warm to the touch. When you see raw exposed flesh with the skin open and oozing, that’s a hot spot. Most often these occur on the feet or legs where a dog can chew on them easily. A large percentage of so-called “hot spots” are really rashes or other inflammation. Pet parents misuse the term often. Nevertheless, actual hot spots are very common, especially in larger breeds, because they generally spend more time outdoors and are exposed to more insect pests and allergens, and also have more opportunities to injure their feet (small cuts, thorns). A normal dog is host to an enormous population of yeast and bacteria on their skin, even the cleanest dogs, and if ever there is an imbalance, a drop in immunity, or an opening in the skin, these organisms will immediately move in and start to infect. Often this will cause the spot to sting or itch and this starts the chewing cycle, potentially worsening and widening the infection.

CAUSES Hot spots seem to arise out of nowhere, but often it’s a flea bite that starts it. Dogs are programmed to “worry” an irritated area by chewing on it or scratching at it. Presumably this chewing and biting would remove a thorn or a biting pest 4 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

and end the itching. But if the itch doesn’t stop, the chewing will continue until there’s open, bleeding skin. This can happen in just a few minutes! Another “cause” is a yeast infection in the feet, between the toes. A dog will lick and chew until they create a terrible wound, and this will never heal without treatment with a topical anti-fungal. This problem is most often mis-diagnosed as “allergies.”

TREATMENTS Typically, antibiotics will be prescribed to treat any bacterial infection and steroids will be given to treat the symptoms of itching and inflammation. Avoid steroids whenever possible. With hot spots, it is safe to assume that there is a yeast infection present, and steroids will make this much worse. Also avoid antibiotics until you (and your vet) are certain that there’s a bacterial infection present. If there is one, there will usually also be yeast. If there is yeast present, these medications will make the situation worse by upsetting the body’s natural balance between yeast and bacteria, and the yeast infection will progress. The most effective way to treat these is with a topical product like DERMagic Hot Spot Salve, which kills yeast on contact.

PREVENTION Skin problems in general often arise from an animal being in less-than-ideal condition from a diet full of grains and starches like potato. A healthier diet for the skin would be a balanced raw diet containing meat, broccoli, carrots, apples, etc. But in general, hot spots are difficult to prevent. What is most important is recognizing the issue right away and knowing how to treat it using a proven topical product.

TREATS

“The FDA allows 4D animals, including roadkill, dying or diseased animals, disabled, and spoiled or contaminated meat to be used in pet treats and food.”

KILLING ME SOFTLY By Tracy Campion Many do not realize that behind the colorful packaging and clever slogans of pet treats, there are dangerous, carcinogenic substances, masked by vague wording like “natural flavors” and “meat.” Wolves in captivity live for 20 years or longer, but dogs frequently die at far earlier ages. Cancer is the #1 killer of our dogs; 25-50% of them die from it by some estimates. The toxins in their food are arguably a significant contributing factor. Our pets cannot tell us that they feel ill – experiencing headaches, itchy skin, gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and weakness – after ingesting the treats that are intended to act as a reward. Author and natural pet food entrepreneur Amy Renz set out to investigate the truth behind the label and found astonishing and disturbing results. According to Renz, pet treat labels often include BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin, Sodium Metabisulfite, and TBHQ among the ingredients. Renz notes that major brands routinely use these chemical ingredients, which are known to be carcinogenic and can also cause liver and kidney problems, loss of consciousness, brain damage, and life-threatening asthma. In addition to being in the top-selling dog treats, these chemicals are also used to manufacture rubber and petroleum products, including embalming fluid. Many pet treats list Ethoxyquin on their label. Ethoxyquin is so toxic that the FDA prohibited it from human consumption except for minute quantities in certain spices. Despite the behest of veterinarians, the FDA has done nothing but suggest to pet product manufacturers that they reduce its usage. Sodium Metabisulfite is harmful if ingested or inhaled. It reacts with water and acids (like those in your dog’s stomach) to release toxic sulfur dioxide gas. It can cause life-threatening asthmatic reactions after ingestion as well as gastrointestinal, circulatory, and central nervous system problems.

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SAY YES TO Organic Human Grade Home Made Fresh Fruit Fresh or Frozen Vegetables

SAY NO TO BHA, BHT, TBHQ Ethoxyquin Sodium Metabisulfite Glycerin MSG Yellow #6, Blue #1 and #2, Red #3, Green #3 Titanium dioxide

BHA and BHT are banned in England, Japan, and numerous European countries. BHA is thought by the National Institutes of Health to cause stomach cancer. BHA and TBHQ are classified as non-genotoxic (not directly affecting DNA) carcinogens. A Consumer’s Guide to Food Additives stated that TBHQ can cause death from ingestion of as little as 5 grams. Ingestion of one gram causes nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, delirium, a sense of suffocation, and collapse. The FDA puts strict requirements on all of these toxic chemical preservatives in human food, but pet foods have few if any requirements and often contain much more. Why are companies allowed to place these dangerous substances in our pets’ food? There are natural solutions for preserving food, such as dehydration. Taking the moisture out of a food ensures that bacteria cannot grow. Vitamin E and Vitamin C also make effective natural solutions. But dehydration is more expensive than using sodium metabisulfite, BHA, BHT, TBHQ or ethoxyquin. Many pet food labels vaguely list “meat” as an ingredient…but what does this really mean? The FDA states that “meat” for animal feed comes from “independent plants that obtain animal by-product materials, including grease, blood, feathers, offal and entire animal carcasses from the following sources: butcher shops, supermarkets, restaurants, fast-food chains, poultry processors, slaughterhouses, farms, ranches, feedlots, and animal shelters.” AAFCO, the organization that works with the FDA to standardize definitions of ingredients and other things for the pet food industry,

broadly defines “byproducts.” Poultry byproducts, for instance, can include: “the carcass of slaughtered poultry such as necks, feet, undeveloped eggs and intestines exclusive of feathers except… as might occur unavoidably…” The FDA also allows 4D animals, including roadkill, dying or diseased animals, disabled, and spoiled or contaminated meat to be used in pet food. The effect of ingesting these toxic substances is drastic. Many young and middle-aged dogs are developing myriad medical issues, including skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues. The reason behind their symptoms is that dogs cannot digest what they are eating. Many dogs cannot digest components like wheat, corn, and soy. Some dogs are allergic to these ingredients, but they are included in dog food because they are economical. MSG, an addictive substance, is included in pet food but not listed on the label. When a protein is listed as “hydrolyzed,” it likely contains MSG. MSG is likely a causal factor in pet obesity because it can more than triple insulin levels. More than 50% of dogs and cats in the U.S. are reportedly obese. Refined sugars are added to pet treats because dogs can taste sweetness. Sugar can cause obesity, dental problems, and diabetes. The FDA still allows cancer-causing saccharine to be sold to humans and genetically modified ingredients to be undisclosed on labels. Glycerin is a sugar substitute and filler and hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is an artificial sweetener with a similar chemical compound to Xylitol, which is a known pet toxin. Wheat, which can be difficult for dogs to digest, is frequently identified as an allergen. Titanium dioxide, copper sulfate, calcium proprionate, sodium bisulfite, propylene glycol, and zinc sulfate are toxic, commonly used food additives. Food colorings Yellow #6, Blue #1 and #2, Red #3 and Green #3 are linked with cancer in animal testing. Titanium dioxide is a widely used white food coloring that is suspected of causing genetic disorders and lung tumors and has caused emphysema-like lung injuries in mice. Sulfate is an herbicide, fungicide and pesticide that’s also a known toxin. What I have noticed are healthier choices coming from new companies,” she stated. “These are products that contain what the industry strangely doesn’t like us to call ‘human-grade’ ingredients. They’re products from companies like my company, Goodness Gracious, or The Honest Kitchen, or Primal Pet Foods. The ingredients they use are fresh, wholesome, USDA certified, and nutritious for dogs and cats. They are the same ingredients you’d buy in a grocery store and feed all members of your family. Consumer awareness has grown over the last couple years and that is encouraging. People are reading labels, asking educated questions, and finding a lot of good information on-line. Just like they do with their children, parents need to take an active role in guiding their pet’s nutrition. A trip to McDonald’s will always be cheaper than a trip down the produce aisle of the grocery store. But there’s a reason the parent does the latter. The same rule applies to our pets. I’m often asked to recommend a healthy, cheap treat. They don’t exist. Quality ingredients and careful preparation costs money. The better choices are more expensive. So don’t sweat it. Just give your pet one healthy piece of jerky over five or ten junk-food biscuits. Your dog will make up the difference by living longer.

Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner by Harry Barker. $14.00 each www.harrybarker.com

Kitty Litter Treatment by Earth Friendly Products. $10.49 www.ecos.com

No Time to Waste

Fresh In A Flash Cleansing Spray by TrueBlue. $11.99 www.truebluepets.com

by Joelle Shelton photos by Shannon Johnstone

DERMagic Hot Spot Salve by DERMagic. $15.95 www.dermagic.com Friends To The Rescue Aromatherapy Room Spray by SNIFF Pet Products. $14.00 www.sniffpetproducts.com 4 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Freshen Up! Coat Mist with Sweet Almond by Fresh Dog. $12.00 www.freshdog.com

JULIUS

Tea Tree Conditioning Spray by John Paul Pet. $9.95 www.johnpaulpet.com

| impoundment #89205 | adopted 11/16/13 after 128 days in the shelter.

Organic Ear Wash by Opie & Dixie. $10.99 www.opieanddixie.com

Every day, dogs are prematurely euthanized due to overpopulation in pounds and animal shelters across the nation. These beautiful photographs, taken at a landfill, symbolize the hope that remains in an area of desperation. The energetic and affectionate dogs in these photographs bring light to a location that will be their dark future if they are not saved. Through rescue and adoption, there is still time to change the course of their lives and the lives of the lovable dogs in shelters all over the country. Out of the 87 dogs Johnstone has photographed, 64 have found homes. To learn more about Landfill Dogs visit www.landfilldogs.info

GABBRIEL

4 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

| impoundment #86162 | adopted 8/16/13, after 138 days in the shelter.

| impoundment #85173 | adopted 11/16/13, after 258 days in the shelter.

MACEDONIA

MIMI

adopted 1/13/13

adopted 11/13/13

| impoundment #82263 |

| impoundment #88880 |

Ice Frosting

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BOOK REVIEWS

We Animals by Jo-Anne McArthur. Published by Lantern Books $40.00

Equine Beauty: A Study of Horses by Raphael Macek. Published by teNeues $75.00 Dedicated solely to the beauty and magnificence of horses’ bodies, minds, and souls, this book is a collection of stunning photographs by Raphael Macek. The photographic range of close-ups and full-figure shots against breath-taking landscapes will be sure to leave you amazed by Macek’s artistic eye and passion for horses. If you love animals, and especially if you share Macek’s appreciation for all things equine, this photographic collection is a must-have for your home.

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The New York Dog by Rachael Hale McKenna. Published by Abrams $29.95

Dog-lovers beware - this book is for you! Take a peek inside and discover that bestselling author Rachael Hale McKenna has captured the canine kings and queens of the Concrete Jungle. The talented photographer manages to portray both the lively atmosphere of cities all over New York as well as the wide variety of lovable pups that inhabit them. From pooches relaxing in upscale apartments to those taking a cab ride downtown, a variety of breeds are portrayed in this sweet and spirited photographic collection.

Through her work, Jo-Anne McArthur strives to break down the barriers between humans and non-human animals and put an end to the cruelty and abuse happening every day. In this book, the kind-hearted and award-winning photojournalist has portrayed a range of animals in human environments to encourage the equal treatment that they deserve. Flip through over 100 photos and uplifting stories and you’re sure to become truly inspired by the beautiful words and images.

Groomed by Paul Nathan. Published by Pelluceo $35.00 Be at once amused, delighted, and intrigued by the photographic portrayal of freshly groomed show dogs in this creative collection by Paul Nathan. Not only does Nathan flawlessly capture the immaculate work of some of the world’s top dog groomers, but he also seems to capture each canine’s unique personality as well. Gain exclusive insight from the Foreword, written by Jorge Bendersky, International Certified Professional Master Groomer. The dog-loving duo makes an ideal team for this playful masterpiece.

My Pet Chicken Handbook by Lissa Lucas & Traci Torres. Published by Rodale Books $17.99 Guys Can Be Cat Ladies Too by Michael Showalter. Published by Abrams $14.95 Watch out dogs, you might be tied for first as “man’s best friend” after your humans read this! Michael Showalter has created an insanely comedic, yet insightful, guide to the feline heart for men everywhere. The how-to for kitty companionship offers help and reassurance to those men looking to understand and bond with the feline species. Showalter tackles a range of lessons and topics such as the ever-lasting myth, “Is it true that they have nine lives?” Dive in and discover the answer to this and many other questions regarding all things cats.

Whether you’re new to owning chickens or an old pro, this guidebook will surely help to keep your chickens happy and their eggs yummy. Chicken owners and experts Lissa Lucas and Traci Torres show the way to sustainable environments and proper care of backyard chickens in their five-part handbook. The book includes 50 fun and unique egg recipes for all meals of the day as well as a “Breed Selector Guide” to help you choose the right breed for your needs. through each hilarious photograph.

Can your dog discern the subtle difference between tap water and bottled water? Then the Fatboy® Doggielounge Stonewashed has their name written all over it. Literally. Made with a comfortable stonewashed cotton fabric, it’s still sturdy enough to stand up to the test of your pup’s shakes, sits, and rolls. The lounge can be personalized by attaching the name of your dog to the pillow and is available in two different sizes. Your doggielounge can be wiped clean or the cover can be removed and machine-washed. Fatboy® originated in Europe just over ten years ago and now brings energizing comfort to people in over fifty countries worldwide with a growing line of lifestyle products

The AquaFarm by Back to the Roots is a self-cleaning fish tank that grows food. It combines a 3 gallon fish tank on the bottom (perfect for a betta) with a grow bed up top that’s perfect for fresh herbs. The fish waste becomes a great organic fertilizer for the plants, and the plants, in turn, clean the water for your fish. The AquaFarm comes with everything you need to get started including organic seeds, a water pump, and a coupon for your own betta fish from Petco!”

P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle and You, based out of San Francisco, is redefining the pet bed experience by providing pet owners with comfortable, durable and environmentally-friendly products. Designed to fit any stylish home, these designer dog beds have covers that are machine washable, durable, made with either 100% cotton or upholstery-grade premium fabrics. With exclusively designed graphics created by artists in San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles and a super posh fill made from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, we deliver a look and feel that will leave tails wagging and wallets intact.

www.fatboyusa.com

www.backtotheroots.com

Check out our newest selection of dog beds and an exclusive NCW/NPW special offer at www.PetPlay.com/NCW.

by NCW MAGAZINE™

Busy pet-owner lifestyles demand products that are not only versatile but also exceptional enough to baby the pets that mean so much to us. Sleepypod understands the importance of pets in their owners’ lives and that’s why safety is our top priority. To protect the joy of driving with pets, Sleepypod crash tested its entire line of dog harnesses and pet carriers at the standard set for child safety restraints. From the BPA-free silicone in Yummy Travel Bowls to the 100 percent organic Little Germs line of cleansers, Sleepypod devotes careful and caring attention to every detail in each product. Thoughtful design features are the hallmark of every Sleepypod product. www.sleepypod.com

resources

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You love hammocks, right? Why wouldn’t your dog? There is no need to sacrifice your finely planned home décor any longer while trying to integrate your pet into your home. Pet Lounge Studios philosophy is to showcase the natural beauty of eco-friendly materials used with simplicity, and create the most refined pet furniture. Modern clean lines, combined with ultra-suede cushion provide a stylish bamboo spot for your furry friend to relax. Now available at THE SHOP shop.naturalchildworld.com

Fresh Dog® is a new line of innovative products designed to keep best friends smelling as fresh as they feel. The signature product is a 100% natural deodorizing powder. Featuring a refreshing scent, it instantly freshens your dog – the ultimate fast fix for dirty fur! If you prefer a traditional shampooing experience, Fresh Dog also offers its bestselling, irresistible moisturizing shampoo, which is perfect for best buddies bothered by dry and itchy skin. Crafted from Natural Colloidal Oatmeal and pure extracts of Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut and Echinacea, it promotes healing and naturally disinfects. The gentle ingredients combine for an aroma-therapeutic experience that calms, cleans and soothes. Is your dog a FRESH dog?® Visit FreshDog.com.

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US $ $10.99 / CAN $10.99 THE SPRING ISSUE 2014

Classic Contemporary Home Furnishings Fort bunk bed $1499; Sullivan end table $ 549; Percale bedding $42- $149; all items priced as shown. roomandboard.com | 800.952.8455

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Proud Suppliers of Urban Life

Introducing an exciting collaboration between a carmaker and a furniture manufacturer, both known for their expertise in innovative urban design. As authorities on stylish, space-saving solutions for urban life, BoConcept and smart joined forces to bring urbanites a new high quality, cutting-edge collection. The smartville furniture and accessories are all available in our wonderful remodeled Santa Monica store. Come visit us and be inspired by our beautiful designs.

NEW BoConcept collection for smart BoConcept Santa Monica · 328 Santa Monica Boulevard · Santa Monica, CA 90401 · (310) 866 5177 · info@boconcept-santamonica.com · www.boconcept.us

spring issue 2014 25

INTRODUCING NCW’S 2014 MODERN FAMILY MUST-HAVES SOURCEBOOK

24 DESIGN We take a tour of two uniquely striking, yet very different, homes to explore the beautiful side of sustainability. 34 FASHION Anne Gorke’s journey ti find balance between innovation and sustainability.

THE BOOK

40 LIFESTYLE So, you have all the modern furniture and decor your heart desires - here’s how to fit it all into your dream home just right. 44 WELL-BEING With the threat of kidnapping and sex-trafficking continuously haunting our nation’s youth, one man strives to save lives and make a difference. 50 EDITORIAL: ROOMS WE LOVE Relax, play, sleep, and dream in style. See the latest in innovative trends for every room in your contemporary home.

60 DESIGN PORTFOLIO Take a look at this one-stop shop featuring a goldmine of innovative, beautifully crafted and sustainable cribs for your modern nursery. 68 SECOND THOUGHTS Editors picks for the latest and greatest sustainable shopping trends 74 SELECTED FOR YOU For parents on the move, we’ve found the safest and most reliable (not to mention the coziest) car seat styles for your little one’s transportation needs.

2014 NCW’S MUST-HAVES FOR THE MODERN FAMILY

The 1st ever A to Z bible of the latest and greatest in sustainable lifestyle, from furniture to fashion, to natural remedies, specialty websites, and more curated by the NCW editorial team.

Coming May 2014!

Reserve yours today at www.ncwmagazine.com 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

t lid So r be im fra me

spring issue 2014

Lucia Convertible Plus

™

78 COOKING BY DESIGN It’s about to get sweet and steamy in your kitchen this Valentine’s Day with this irresistible recipe for Sweetpolita’s Love Letter Cookies. 82 BEHIND THE LABEL Peel back the label on feminine hygiene products and learn more about potentially harmful ingredients in the brands you buy. 84 SPOTLIGHT Tiffany Shlain wears many hats in her daily life. From filmmaking to motherhood, find out how she balances it all. 86 FROM THE WORLD See how modern and innovative design projects have improved the future for Cape Town, South Africa.

88 88 PARTY IDEAS Throw the perfect, gender-neutral baby shower with this fun and unique tea-party theme idea. 93 WHO’S YOUR DADDY An inspired father tells us what he learned, and continues to learn, from his daughter’s difficult start in this world.

94 INSPIRED BY FATHERHOOD How one gay man’s difficult journey to fatherhood led him to the doors of equality, and what he’s doing to help others traveling the same path.

Contemporary and simple

98 WELLNESS FOR LIFE Are your kids sensitive to gluten? Learn the facts and warning signs to keep your family happy and healthy.

With its classic, geometric lines, the Lucia collection, from Urbane by Boori, will give your new nursery a sense of understated serenity.

Convertible Plus™ Converts to

Toddler bed*

Full size platform bed with sofa*

See more online at www.boori.com 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

* Toddler guard rail and conversion kit sold separately

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Barbara Manconi barbara@greenstepsmedia.com PHOTO EDITOR

Barbara Manconi EDITOR

Ariane Moore ariane@greenstepsmedia.com JR. EDITOR

Jessica Gagliardi jessica@greenstepsmedia.com PHOTOGRAPHERS

Thomas McCaffrey, Paul Bielenberg, Clark Dugger, Marco Ricca , Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen, Marjon Hoogevorst, Marla Aufmuth, Kate Noelle, Rosie Alyea, Shannon Johnstone, Elena Shumilova, Bill Timmerman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rosie Alyea, Melissa B. Light, Christin Wilson, Dr. Susanne Bennett Anita Rosenberg, Jeff Garner, Chris Faulkner, Henry Amador, Diane Smith, Kathryn Walter, Adelia Richie GRAPHIC DESIGNER / PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Tina Lauchengco tina@greenstepsmedia.com

ADVERTISING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Garrett Smith

garrett@greenstepsmedia.com Melissa Spielman melissa@greenstepsmedia.com MARKETING MANAGER

Tonia Ioannidou tonia@greenstepsmedia.com INTERN

Joelle Shelton PUBLISHER

Green Steps Media LLC; Los Angeles, CA-US Cover Photo courtesy of Elena Shumilova. Printed in USA. All rights reserved. Natural Child World Magazine is quaterly. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, by photocopying, recording or otherwise without prior written consent. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the publishers assume no responsibility for errors or omissions or any consequences of reliance on this publication. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, the publisher or the publication. Contributions are submitted at the sender’s risk. Please retain duplicates of text and images. Letters to the editor are welcome and may be edited for clarity and length. Submissions should be emailed to editor@naturalchildworld. com © 2013 Green Steps Media LLC

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EDITOR'S LETTER

AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR READERS

hen I began writing this letter for our Spring Issue, I was in the midst of what we in the industry call “Planning Season”. At NCW, we as well as our advertisers, other publications, and countless businesses were busy closing the past year, and planning for the year ahead by evaluating performance, goals, revising projections and creating a road map for the future. The publishing industry is a very tough one, print is drastically transforming and reinventing itself as new ways to communicate information are developed on a daily basis, not to mention the costs of paper and shipping are rising faster than ever.

for life’s expected and unexpected moments naturally-derived laundry care

Sometimes I can’t help but to ask myself, What were you thinking? Why are you doing this? So I set aside the pages of financial reports that were in front of me, and I decided to answer these questions. Maybe the answers will I find will help me attribute a different value to the numbers. When I started this magazine almost three years ago I wanted to make a change. I had just left a prestigious job in one of the biggest corporations in the world and promised myself that never again would I sit in a meeting where I was asked to continue to pollute the people and the environment for as long as the law allowed it. As overrated and egotistical as it may sound, I wanted to create honest and unbiased information that would matter. I wanted to give a voice to small companies, and the heroes behind them who are truly making a difference, but may not have the big budget or celebrity status that other publications require in order to promote them. I wanted to show the attractive side of sustainability to a new generation of parents. I wanted to defeat the stereotypes of green equals granola, and socially responsible equals hippy. I was sure then, as I know now, that social entrepreneurship could drive profitable growth, while supporting social well-being and environmental responsibility. So I created a beautiful magazine with stunning photography, thought provoking content and a progressive editorial direction. For the first time ever on a national parenting magazine, I put an interracial gay family on the cover; I got an exclusive interview with the former EPA Administrator, Lisa Jackson, before she left office; I created an online marketplace for small entrepreneurs to be seen and distributed; I have engaged street artists and unknown visionaries to grace the pages of our publication; I have built an Ambassador Network that enables us to skip the newsstands and put parents in control of the information provided to them.

After three years, there still isn’t anything like NCW.

Sometimes I feel that the difference between a successful business and one that fails is the unconditional willingness of the people involved to make it work, no matter what. This is me. This is us.

Thank you for proving that the decision to leave my job was the right one. Thank you for showing us that you care. Thank you for reading NCW.

Works safely and effectively on all of your laundering needs. The aden + anais® detergent, fabric softener and chlorine-free bleach truly offers a fresh approach to family laundry. free of: petroleum + dyes + SLS + harsh chemicals + phthalates + tallow

CONTRIBUTORS

Christin Wilson Christin Wilson is the creative planner and coordinator behind Christin Wilson Events. A love for weddings and special events started at a young age and developed into a passionate career in the industry. Christin delights in bringing her clients’ visions to life, as well as infusing ideas together to create a cohesive concept. Equipped with a decade of experience and impeccable attention to detail, Christin turns every event into a custom, stylized celebration. www.christinwilsonevents.com

Kate Noelle Kate Noelle is an international wedding and portrait photographer based out of Orange County, California. She likes sunsets, traveling, her cat Hugo Flash, dessert before dinner, hot yoga, learning, loving, and the color gray. When Kate’s not taking photos, she enjoys spending time with her husband pretending to be home-bodies. www.katenoelle.com

Rosie Alyea Rosie is the cake maker, writer and photographer behind the sugar-filled blog, Sweetapolita. Clad in candy-shoppe colors and boasting delightful desserts, Sweetapolita is like a virtual trip to a baking boutique in a magical land. Rosie has a special love for layer cakes, pastel sweets and sprinkles. She is currently writing her first baking cookbook to be released in 2015. When she’s not frosting layer cakes, she’s likely frolicking with her two cakelets, Reese & Neve. www.sweetapolita.com

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Melissa B. Light Melissa B. Light is the founder of Light Family Acupuncture, a thriving private practice in Austin, TX that focuses on treating the entire family from preconception through pregnancy and parenthood. She has spent over a decade empowering women and children through education, counseling, nutrition, movement and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Melissa holds her Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from the AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine and also has national certifications in Asian Bodywork, Chinese Herbology, and Oriental Medicine. www.lightfamilyacupuncture.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Patsy Moore Patsy Hopkins Moore is a Los Angeles based freelance writer and lover of design. Inspired by her daughter’s career as an interior designer, Patsy began exploring the world of design and décor as a way to provide a creative outlet and happy counterbalance to her work in children’s law. Every space has a story to tell, and Patsy enjoys uncovering these stories and the influences behind them.

Anita Rosenberg Anita is the go-to expert in Los Angeles, Aspen, India and Panama for Classical Feng Shui and BaZi Chinese Astrology. With degrees from the Western School of Feng Shui and Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics, Anita has over sixteen years of experience. Award-winning author and International Speaker, Anita brings her unique blend of Western and Classical Chinese Metaphysics along with timeless Hollywood glamour to transform and illuminate. www.anitarosenberg.com

Jeff Garner Romantic visual artist, pioneer, unconventional designer, and father, Jeff Garner and his sustainable, eco label Prophetik are on a path of transformation, leading the evolution of fashion and changing our perception of luxury. Mr. Garner was just named one of 40 top artists in the US, and works were placed into the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery for the 40 Under 40 Exhibition. Garner’s vivacity and his commitment to creating distinctive, sustainable, eco-friendly fashion is a reflection of his environment. Born in Franklin, Tennessee, and raised on a horse farm, Garner grew with a connectedness to nature and a peaceful understanding of the world. The Prophetik label’s genesis came once Garner made the decision to combine his love for his surroundings, with his artistic desires. www.prophetik.com

Chris Faulkner Chris Faulkner is the Founder, President and CEO of Breitling Energy Corporation (OTC: BECC), based in Dallas, Texas. Named Industry Leader of the Year in 2013 by the Oil & Gas Awards for the Southwest Region and recognized in the “Dallas Who’s Who in Energy” in 2012 and 2013, Mr. Faulkner is an outspoken advocate for safer and greener practices in the oil and gas industry. www.breitlingenergy.com

To Improve Your Life with Feng Shui

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art that has been around for 4,000 years. NCW caught up with Anita Rosenberg, the Feng Shui and BaZi Chinese Astrology expert in Hollywood, to find out how to use design to improve more than just your home décor. Here are 10 ways on how to raise the vibration of your interior in a holistic and balanced way. 1. It Takes Two To Tango - Spice Up Your Love Life With

The Duality Of Pairs. Attract a mate by simply following Feng Shui tips. Love and passion involve the dance between two people; it’s the tango of two souls. By decorating with “pairs of things”, you will stir up your love life. Two pictures, two lamps or matching items reinforce this dance. Even if you are single, displaying pairs honors relationships in general and will help you with family, friends and work associates.

2. Cover Televisions When Not In Use-Televisions And

Computers Emit Unhealthy Energy. Televisions are our windows into the world and computers are how we communicate. They make us happy, but they also possess strong electromagnetic frequencies that are harmful in large doses. Whether turned on or off, there are rays of energy we cannot see and they negatively affect our health. In Feng Shui, it is suggested they be placed inside closed cabinets when not in use. Bedrooms are controversial, because some people can’t sleep without their television. This is actually the reason they can’t sleep.

3. Bring Out The Welcome Mat - Opportunity Knocks At The Front Door. Who meets your guests and opportunities when they come

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calling? The front door is your mouth of Qi and whether you enter through the side door or garage, opportunity enters through the front. This is why we add greeters that bring fortune. A welcome mat, bamboo shoots, bubbling fountain, spiritual statue, a bench or a mirror (as long as it’s not facing the door) makes a great first impression.

4. Light My Fire - Balance The Fireplace With A Mirror

Over The Mantel. Whether you turn on the gas or light up a log, the hearth is a warm and cozy place for romance. The fireplace is the fieriest area of the house and you need to balance it with the water element. Mirrors, glass and metal objects balance the fire. Family photographs and paintings do not. The fire will symbolically burn wood elements, like a plant. Never place family photos on the mantel.

Always Sit In The Power Position - No One Wants Their Back To The Door. At a restaurant, who wants to sit with their back to the action? Everyone wants a view of the room. You should always have a commanding view of the room. Those in cubicles facing the wall are at a disadvantage. Place a small mirror in front of you to reflect anyone who comes up behind.

6. Art That Inspires - Lift Your Spirits With Positive Artwork.

Art symbolism is more powerful than you can imagine. Romantic imagery goes in the master bedroom, playful art belongs in children’s rooms, food-related and people-oriented visuals are best in dining rooms and kitchens, while the entry is for important pieces that set the tone for your entire home and your life. Office art empowers your career. And when it comes to bathrooms, nudes and intimate images work best.

7. Romancing The Bedroom - Bedrooms Are Private

Sanctuaries and Passionate Playgrounds. Bedrooms have only two purposes, one is to recharge your battery through sleep and the other is to rejuvenate your spirit through love and romance. Keep exercise bikes, children’s toys, and laundry baskets out. The goal is to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere with soft and earth- tone bedding. The number one rule is, no mirrors in the bedroom because they stir up too much energy.

8.Treat Yourself To Flowers-Fresh Flowers Bring Prosperity.

Flowers are said to be good fortune, plus they look really nice around your home or office. Buy a big bouquet of red Gerber daisies, put them on your conference desk and see pending deals coming through. Some people prefer silk and dried floras, but be aware that they have a short shelf-life. After three months

they become dusty and lead to negative energy. When flowers wilt or fade, replace them immediately.

9. Hang Art Feng Shui Style - Break The Heaven & Earth

Line. Anita’s tips for hanging art are to look at the heaven and earth line. You want to hang large pieces breaking the line to lift the energy in the room. Once you have hung your main piece, everything else in the room gets hung according to the midline of that piece. This makes sure all art has balanced focus as your eye moves around the room.

10.

Family Wall Of Fame - Qi Gets Stuck In Long Hallways, Stir It Up With A Family Wall Of Fame. Energy gets stuck in long hallways and that’s where hanging a wall of family photos can make a big difference. Only hang photos on one side of the hallway. Salon-style is a European way of installing an exhibition where you pitter-patter the wall with photos or paintings. Tips are based on Anita Rosenberg’s book, Feng Shui Luck. Her new books Practical Magic & Household Luck, Feng Shui Luck and Heavenly Luck are available on-line at the Good Karma Shop - www.AnitaRosenberg.com.

Essential Detergent - Sweet Tea

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A laundry detergent created for all typical laundry needs such as sheets and towels. Specially formulated for all types of washing machines, including High Efficiency HE. Perfect for machine and hand washing. Contains purified water, non-hazardous biodegradable surfactants, non-hazardous biodegradable salts, 100% pure essential oils. No artificial fragrances, additives or dyes. Color and consistency may vary. $14.99 per 16oz bottle www.rouxmaison.com

LifeIce

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Health Warrior expands its line of delicious, nutritious and convenient snacks by introducing Chia Bars. Stacked with good-for-you antioxidants, omega 3’s, fiber and plant-based protein, it’s much more than just a bar – it’s nutrition, satisfaction and energy that last all day. And just 100 calories, gluten, dairy and soy free, 100% vegan, 100% natural. $23.50 per 15-bar box www.healthwarrior.com

The first all natural, freeze & eat, bite-sized ices. These “Cubettes” are specially formulated with premium ingredients that both nourish and delight. With a unique freeze-at-home delivery system, and a texture similar to mini-popsicles, LifeIce is The New Frozen Way to Snack Healthy(R). $6.99/box of 48 Cubettes. www.lifeice.com

Charlie Banana

Discover one of Charlie Banana®’s latest pack of 6 named “Sassy “ with its Blooms and Fish Stick latest fashionable prints in a pallet of purple pink and lavender colors. Blooms and Fish Stick patterns will be the favorite of each little girl and offer something classic with a twist. Cloth diapering has become so popular. $119.88 Now available at https://www.charliebanana. com/Whats-New_c_72.html

Quinoa Chips

Loft & Bunk Beds

Need Space? Bedroom Makeover! Custom made unfinished wood Loft & Bunk Beds for youth, tween, teen and college. Is your child in need of more creative space, a large desk for studying or an arts & crafts table? Loft beds make agreat gift and a fun family project to set up, paint and decorate together. Available in Ready-To-Assemble Kits. Custom Made and Hand Crafted in the USA. Mention this ad for a 5% discount. 866-739-2331 YouthBedLofts.com/ncw 2 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Simply7® is expanding its product line of great tasting, wholesome snacks for every lifestyle, Simply7®is proud to introduce its line of Quinoa Chips. A great standalone snack or the perfect complement to a homemade dip, kids and adults of all ages will live the taste and nutritious benefits of the newest “better for you” chip. Available in 4 tasty flavors including Sea Salt, Cheddar, Barbeque and Sour Cream & Onion. MSRP $2.50-$3.49 www.simply7snacks.com

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Intuition+ : Mom’s Personal Assistant Expressly designed for busy moms, Intuition+ allows you to organize with one hand, while juggling everything else with the other. Even the busiest of moms can make it all look easy with features such as Mom’s Toolkit – which provides mom-focused articles and tips; The Personal Assistant - keeps you organized and will even deliver motivational messages to make you smile; Smart Grocery Lists which will save your grocery lists by store; and Smart Calendar - with sync capabilities to your Google calendar. Price: FREE ; $2.99 for ad free version www.iconapps.com

Numberoo This visually engaging app teaches toddlers to count from one to ten with the help of friendly, recognizable animated animals narrated by a rambunctious two-yearold. Starting with a menu with large icons, kids can start at the beginning or start at any number by pressing one of the eye-pleasing icons. Numberoo is ideal for parents who are looking for an app that links counting with great design and simple, toddler-friendly navigation. PRICE: $.99 w w w. t e i t h i o k i d s . c o m / numberoo

IN THE DIGITAL WORLD EXTRA

Axel’s Chain Reaction Storybook App In Allison Pomenta’s new storybook app, Axel’s Chain Reaction, Axel Jansen has a hard time connecting with his peers. Axel struggles with challenges that many children face: clumsiness, making friends, and on top of it all, Daniel, the class bully.

Pandora iBooks Inspired by timeless classics and a love for fantastical storytelling, Pan tells the story of Pandora “Pan” Beribolt, a young purple panda in the clouds, and her merry band of friends as they go on a quest to find her family. Pandora stories will captivate your little ones and have them engaged and excited in a matter of seconds. With a fantastic storyline and adorable characters, your children are sure to fall in love. Price: $.99 www.hullabalu.com 2 2 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

In an attempt to win over his classmates, Axel strives to create an impressive moving sculpture. However, in the end, it is his cheerfulness, generosity, and ability to create something beautiful out of a giant mess that changes the way others perceive him. Price: $2.99 www.axelschainreaction. com

GO GREEN WITH REPREVE

Baby Timer With this easy to use app parents can keep track of an infant’s diaper changes, feedings, naps and more! Baby Timer also allows you to track pumping, baths and other activities, as well as add descriptions, comments or notes to any entry. In addition, you can easily export the data from Baby Timer into a spreadsheet or word document to share with your doctor during checkups. If you have more than one baby, not to worry, Baby Timer can support multiple babies at once. Price: $4.99 www.earlybirdsoftware. com/babytimer/

INSPIRATION

ROOMS WE LOVE

More and more companies are aiming to spread awareness about recycling and join the sustainable movement. This month we are highlighting the successful effort to go green by ESPN’s X Games Aspen! With the support of Volcom and REPREVE, Elena Hight, a SuperPipe professional athlete, is now the proud official brand ambassador for REPREVE. Visit NCW’s website to learn how you can make a great impact even by recycling just one plastic bottle!

We are known for our endless commiment to modern and innovative design. We never stop looking for extra inspiration, and this time we found it in nursery rooms. Spy additional images of the “Rooms We Love” and create your own whimsical corner!

ncwmagazine.com

CONTEST

WIN THE LATEST COLLECTION FROM CHARLIE BANANA AND A ONE-YEAR UBSCRIPTION TO NCW MAGAZINE We’ve teamed up with Charlie Banana, and we are giving away their new Peony Blossom Collection and a one-year print subscription to NCW magazine. Don’t miss this opportunity Visit our website to learn more and enter the contest.

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BECOME A NCW AMBASSADOR! DEMAND HONEST AND UNBIASED INFORMATION. TAKE CONTROL OF HOW THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED TO YOU: We have decided to revolutionize the industry and put moms and dads in charge of the information that is provided to them. Check NCW’s pledge to offer honest and unbiased information and become an NCW ambassador to help us spread the word. ncwmagazine.com

by Barbara Manconi

NATURAL FOREST FUN

FOR YOUR LITTLE SNUGLLE BUNNY Give your child a new fluffy friend that he or she will never want to put down. This handmade and super soft Snuggle Bunny is made of 100% organic cotton and low impact dye, making it safe for every child. Easy to love and easy to clean, machine washable. www.taneorganics.com

REWARD YOUR PERSISTENT PET Provide your lovable pup with the endless entertainment of an interactive toy that involves his or her favorite thing: food! The Wobble Ball is a uniquely shaped and challenging toy that dispenses food and treats during relentless playtime. It’s made with tough and durable Polycarbonate and ABS thermoplastic and is 100% dishwasher safe for long-lasting, easy-to-clean fun! www.petplay.com

This fun, handmade, wooden toy set comes with a little boy or girl and a group of forest friends. Each piece is made from black alder wood and is completely natural and untreated. These safe and simple figurines will keep your young ones entertained with hours of forest time fun. www.sarahandbendrix.com

THERE’S ALWAYS TIME FOR STYLE Show off your unique style with a fun, fresh, and eco-friendly watch. The eye-catching owl graphic is made with 38 clear, lead-free ADVANCED CRYSTALS by SWAROVSKI. The case, caseback, bracelet, and movement holder are all made with white corn resin and the battery is mercury free. The engraved teakwood bezel adds the prefect accent around the mineral crystal lens and natural mother of pearl dial, making it easy to accessorize with any look. www.sproutwatches.com

PLAYTIME SPACE OR HIDE INSIDE NEW HEIGHTS OF STYLE Need a few extra seats around the kids’ table? These stackable stools are designed for easy addition or removal of the non-toxic, 100% recyclable cork and foam pieces. This creates simple height adjustment to enable children to sit comfortably anywhere, any time. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind, multi-functional and transformable piece of furniture that complements any style. www.madedesign.es

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Whether it’s time to play or time to unwind, the Cocoony keeps it simple. This transformational, two-dimensional play mat easily becomes a three-dimensional pod-like structure. Lay it flat on any ground surface for ample room for activities, or zip it up into a cozy cave for a secluded retreat. The soft felt material and fun colors make it a comfortable and exciting getaway for children to feel safe and secure. www.margotstummer.com

Photo by Thomas McCaffrey / Architecture Firm: PUNCHouse Eco Design Group

SUSTAINABILITY BY DESIGN

FROM CALIFORNIA TO ARIZONA, NCW VISITS TWO VERY DIVERSE HOMES TO DISCOVER HOW THEY MARRIED WHAT’S GOOD WITH WHAT’S BEAUTIFUL By Ariane Moore

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Photo by Paul Bielenberg

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

Architecture Firm: PUNCHouse Design Group

From child trafficking in Ghana, to the drug war in Columbia, journalist Lisa Ling is no stranger to tackling social issues head on. Ling has reported all over the world for National Geographic Explorer, the Oprah Winfrey Network, and CNN. In 2008, Ling was one of the hosts on CNN’s Planet in Peril: Battle Lines, a documentary examining the conflicts between humans and nature. So it was no surprise that when she was ready to build her own home, she was determined to find solutions that would result in a minimum impact on the environment. “CNN’s Planet in Peril was a fantastic opportunity for me to investigate the condition of this planet. A natural question comes from such a journalistic piece. ‘What can I do in my life to start to turn this around and be more thoughtful of my choices?’” Ling goes on to say, “I wanted to do my part to set an example for others that choices we make in our lives can add up. Think locally, act globally. What choices we make right here at home do affect people that live in distant countries and vice versa.” Both Ling and her husband, Dr. Paul Song, had a very distinct sense of what they wanted their home to be, and when they met principal designer, Marco DiMaccio of PUNCHouse Design Group, they knew they had met their man. At the time, Ling was preoccupied with some of the most stressful events in her life, including her younger sister, journalist Laura Ling, being held captive in North Korea. As a result, her time and attention were understandably limited, and she and Dr. Song 2 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

needed someone they could trust the project with, who understood exactly what they wanted to achieve. “It’s their home, nothing is more important than to listen to the type of life the client wants to have in it,” says DiMaccio.

LEEDING THE WAY With Ling’s inquisitive nature and her strong belief that education is the best tool for becoming more sustainable, it didn’t take too long before she and Dr. Song learned the benefits of building a sustainable home. That is when they learned about LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification: “That meant for me peace of mind knowing that the home is clean for my daughter, and low to no VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) materials were used; and being less dependent, and maybe even energy independent, is something that all people would love to be.” She goes further to say, “People want to know how to become energy independent so that they can then feel the freedom of not being tied to public utilities so much. I feel that our home helps to show that one can have it all in a very stylish package.” To that end, DiMaccio worked tirelessly one day at a time, not to reach a LEED certification, but to make the smartest and most efficient decisions that he possibly could throughout the design process. DiMaccio stated, “most important to me was to keep focused on the task of the day and not get caught up

Photo by Thomas McCaffrey

Executive Producer and Host of the OWN Network’s Our America, Lisa Ling, and husband radiation oncologist, Dr. Paul Song, open up their Santa Monica home to share the beautiful side of sustainability.

in trying to achieve some goal that’s far off…if we achieved anything of significance in terms of certifications or awards then I wanted it to be because we had earned it from daily hard work.” There are many homes, especially in the California area that are sustainable or have reached a LEED certification. Although impressive, the fact that Ling’s home achieved Platinum LEED certification is not what makes this house unique. But achieving 100% recycle/reuse on a deconstructed home in conjunction with achieving the highest level of LEED certification makes this home very special, and the first of it’s kind. Every piece of the home that stood on the lot before Ling’s home, including the nails, were recycled or reused. With the help of Habitat for Humanity and Waste Management, DiMaccio was able to figure out how to use all of the materials. DiMaccio and his team even found a way to recycle and reuse the toxic, petroleum based roofing material by locating a company that would use it to make parking lots, or asphalt for roads. The reuse of materials didn’t stop there. The signature five-foot diameter ball light in front of the house was constructed out of a few thousand plastic Chinese takeout containers. DiMaccio’s smart and efficient design included more than the reuse and recycling of materials. He also paid close attention to efficient heating, cooling and water irrigation by using large overhangs to keep the house well shaded, while

at the same time using large windows to bring reflective soft light into the space. He included a central atrium open from the first floor that extends through the roof, bringing extra light to the center of the house, while allowing the hot air to be pulled up and out of the house by remote controlled skylights. In addition, the house has solar panels and a 5000-gallon rainwater tank buried in the front yard. More often than not, open spaces, clean lines, and a modern aesthetic can equal cold and uninviting - not comfortable. However, DiMaccio listened to his client and created a warm and welcoming space where Ling and Dr. Song could feel their most relaxed. A space where they could gather and enjoy the company of friends and family, a place where they could laugh and play with their daughter and watch her grow. When asked what her favorite part of the house was, Ling replied, “Wherever my husband and daughter are is my favorite part of the house. But my particular favorite part is the front grass amphitheater. It is so cool and will be the largest playpen for my daughter. My whole family can sit in that grass amphitheater and talk and see each other. Nothing makes me and Paul happier than to be with our family and our little daughter Jett.” When asked the same question DiMaccio answered, “I was hired to create a happy space for them to live in. That smile is my favorite part.” To see more of the Lisa Ling and Dr. Paul Song’s beautiful home, visit ncwmagazine.com , or visit www.punchouse234.com 29

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN

Getting back to his roots Dr. David Francis stretches his creative muscles with architect Cade Hayes to create a Tuscan retreat worthy of it’s surrounding environment. Photos by Bill Timmerman Architecture Firm: DUST

As the warm glow of the sun slowly rises and paints the desert sky vibrant shades of orange and pink, a custom soundtrack performed by the Sonoran Desert wildlife begins to play. The majesty and magic of the Arizona landscape is no surprise to Tucson native Dr. David Francis, rather it’s one of the many reasons he fell in love with it. So much so, that he dreamed of one day being able to buy a pristine piece of the land that he and his family could enjoy. Needless to say, when Dr. Francis ran into an old friend who not only happened to live in the Sonoran Desert, but also informed him that his neighbor was putting his land on the market, he didn’t hesitate to make his dream a reality.

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A LOVE FOR THE LAND When Dr. Francis and his wife, Dr. Karen Francis, began what ended up being a four-year journey, to create a dream desert mountain retreat, they created a list of must-haves, for their architect Cade Hayes of Tucson based DUST Architecture, but made sure to preface that by saying As someone who appreciates fine craft, Dr. Francis wanted to actively participate in the design process. “Every decision made was collective,” says Hayes. The area around the house is unique for many reasons, including the fact that it is largely surrounded by government

owned land, which will never be built on, including almost 900 feet of common border with the Sonoran National Park. Dr. Francis’ love for the land and it’s natural beauty really drove the entire project. Hayes remembers one of his first conversations with Dr. Francis, “His initial statement was that he loved the land and that’s why he was doing this project. So I said okay, let’s talk about that, and let’s give you every opportunity to step outside and experience the desert and the landscape.” To that end, almost every room has one window wall that is basically open to the desert. In the living room, you can open the window walls, and enjoy the breeze that comes down off of the Tucson Mountains. “My favorite part of the house is… the outside, right around the house, and the fact that you really feel like you are part of the desert,” says Dr. Francis. The design of the house was very well thought out, carefully planning every detail. In considering smart and efficient solutions to cool and heat the house, Hayes chose to use the same wall material used to build parts of the Great Wall of China, known as rammed earth. The striated earthen walls are not only striking to look at but they also absorb heat, which in turn slows heat gain in the house. “We knew we were going to use rammed earth. We really just wanted to use common sense strategy, and think about how to live in the desert…

and just be really sensitive to the land, so there is minimum impact.” Hayes also incorporated deeply set porches, double pane glass, heavy roof insulation, no windows on the east/ west walls, a 30,000-gallon auxiliary water storage tank, and 25,000-gallon cistern that catches rainwater off the roof.

NOT JUST A HOME BUT A PIECE OF ART Every part of the house is a new opportunity to engage and interact with the beautiful surrounding environment, which couldn’t be more evident than in the decision to locate the parking 400 feet away from the house. “You turn your back to the city. You’re walking towards your house, through the desert, along the path and hearing your footsteps on the gravel. Arriving at this sculpture that is also the entry to your home, and in the process of climbing those steps, there is definitely an engagement of the body…its easy to forget about other things you are thinking or worrying about,” describes Hayes. The overall design includes a bevy of custom elements. Hayes explained that he wanted to spend a lot of time on the things that would be touched, such as the front door, which is an 8-foot by 8-foot custom steel door, on a one-foot pivot. >> 31

“My favorite part of the house is… the outside, right around the house, and the fact that you really feel like you are part of the desert.”

“It’s a nice experience when you get to the front door … I feel like that whole entry experience is a hand shake, it’s where the building is meeting the desert, and the desert is meeting the building,” says Hayes. The most controversial, and most raved about custom material used on the project is the cedar that was used to clad the bedroom walls and bedroom entry. It was burned through an ancient Japanese technique known as Shou-sugi-ban, or burnt sugi board, where the cedar is burned until carbonized at the surface. Traditionally it was used as a way to resist fire and rot, because it is flame retardant and insects don’t like it. “It’s Pretty magical when you see it in person, everyone wants to touch it…anyone who comes over raves about the burnt wood walls,” says Dr. Francis. The burnt wood is the perfect complement to the organic feel of the rammed earth. They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and in the 3 2 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

case of the spiral staircase which leads to the roof deck, it’s true. Inspired by the skeleton of the native Prickly Pear Cactus leaf, Hayes commissioned the perforated staircase design. It is a great visual experience leading you up to the roof deck, which includes a 360-degree view, dumbwaiter to the pantry, and space for a Moroccan palette bed - a great place for friends and family to gather. The overall house is a piece of art, a sculpture in itself. The way the beautiful design aesthetic and custom craftsmanship blend seamlessly into the natural environment. The way the space changes with the light, the peaceful stillness that washes over you, even though you can hear the wildlife that surrounds you - There are so many moments to enjoy and experience, and that is the real magic. To see more of the Francis’s gorgeous home, visit ncwmagazine.com , or visit www.dustdb.com 33

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ANNE GORKE

FINDING INSPIRATION FOR A FASHION-ABLE FUTURE By Jessica Gagliardi

ne could almost picture Anne Gorke, with her sweet face and feminine grace, sitting in a small side street restaurant enjoying lunch with a friend. As she pulls at the petals of an artichoke, the artist in her finds it hard not to notice the strong green hues and soft golden accents of natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edible flower. But her journey into the fashion industry began long before this day. Born in Weimar, Germany, Anne earned a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in media culture from the cultural and design hub of Germany, the Bauhaus University Weimar. With a mix of clean architectural lines, sophisticated elegance and a bit of femininity, her designs stand head and shoulders apart from many of the collections on the runway for Spring and Summer 2014. 3 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

”People die while working and nature is damaged in an irreparable way. Sooner or later the industry has to face this.” nature and humans involved in the whole process.” She goes on to say, ”People die while working and nature is damaged in an irreparable way. Sooner or later the industry has to face this.” For Anne Gorke, the choice to use sustainable practices was second nature. Even from her earliest beginnings, sustainability was never even a question. “We know exactly where our fabrics come from, we know what is in them and where they were made, same regarding zippers, buttons and lining,” said Anne, “Everything is produced close to our headquarters and atelier in Weimar, our production facilities are not more than 500km away from us. And we personally know the people that work for us.”

“GOLDEN KHAKI, COOL SILK AND BOLD WOMEN.”

HOME IS WHERE THE HE(ART) IS Often the origin of one’s roots, play a significant role in passions and career choice. Founded in 1860 as the Great Ducal Saxon Art School, the Bauhaus University Weimar has established itself as the place to be for students seeking the company of the creative. “[The Bauhaus Scene has] inspired my practice probably most by the form follows function aspect,” said Anne, “Overly designed objects I do not like at all, and this I transfer into my own designing process. I prefer visually calm surfaces and a certain elegant aesthetic. All this I learned during my time at Bauhaus University, and from growing up in Weimar.” Being engulfed in creative energy and experiencing several years of fashion retail, led Anne to the nexus of an idea. She decided to tackle her dream of launching her own collection, and in 2003 this dream began to take shape into reality. Anne had great success at fashion shows across Germany and Austria, leading up to the eventual creation of her label ANNE GORKE in 2012.

DESIGNS FOR THE FUTURE However what Anne does, goes far beyond drawing pretty things on a piece of paper. In addition to stunning and bold designs, it is well known that her collections are 100% earth friendly, using organic and fair trade materials. Feeling that this is absolutely necessary for the future of the fashion industry, Anne says “Anything else is unrealistic. I really do not understand how the industry can just go on even though everyone knows about the lack of responsibility towards 3 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

The ANNE GORKE autumn/winter 2013 collection, “Nightingales”, was the first and only sustainable collection at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, paving the way for the spring/summer 2014 collection “Artichokes”. “Our second show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin was a great moment because we made it to the stage a second time.” She added, ”We were not the sustainable label that only made it once on the runway. We came back and did it again.” While most of her inspiration is drawn from photography and film, she has found that a moment of revelation can come from anywhere. The most recent “Artichokes” collection was spawned from a small, seemingly insignificant moment, when sitting and eating one. Out of a single thought she develops a mood, or an emotion that is carried deeply into her main creative outlet, fashion design. But fashion isn’t the only conduit for expression. When not drawing and preparing for the runway, she often spends time on film sets and with movie production companies. “I feel very much at home when it comes to film,” said Anne.

ON BEING ANNE GORKE The future of ANNE GORKE is bright green, with discussions of creating brick-and-mortar locations on the table, but the focus doesn’t end there. “To me it is important to stick to my beliefs and go my way,” says Anne, “You receive a lot of mean comments when you bring your sustainable label into competition with “normal“ brands. But I do not mind because I know that there are more and more labels following: having their own design, and their own aesthetic language and yet working sustainably. “ With the idea of building a strong brand and a healthy company, Anne urges any blossoming fashion designer to always make very good choices with regards to whom you are listening to in the industry, and never let go of your personal vision. 39

PICCHIO PACCHIO

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“To me it is important to stick to my beliefs and go my way. You receive a lot of mean comments when you bring your sustainable label into competition with ‘normal’ brands. But I do not mind because I know that there are more and more labels following.”

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www.picchiopacchio.com

THE QUEST FOR A BALANCED HOME HOW FENG SHUI CAN HELP YOU DESIGN THE PERFECT SPACE By Patsy Moore

he remembers feeling that something was not quite right about the space, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. “I didn’t think I would ever feel at home there,” explained homebuyer Susan Stallworth, so she proceeded to walk away. What was wrong with the home? Why couldn’t Susan pinpoint the cause for her discomfort?

LISTEN TO YOUR INTUITION “We all want a safe place,” said Peter Lung, a feng shui master and owner of the World of Feng Shui USA. “And to get that, we should listen to our intuition as Susan did.” Lung goes further to ask, “If you stand at the road looking at the place and you are not comfortable, how will you be comfortable in the home?” According to Lung, the design of your home, apartment or workplace can impact your life in both big

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and small ways, whether it is doubling clutter reflected by a mirror’s placement, or increasing the positive energy indoors by opening your entryway. Homebuyers should look for more basic shaped homes such as square or rectangle. “L” shaped homes, for example, are not preferred because they are missing a section. Lung explains that depending on where the missing section lies, that could affect different areas of your life. If a section is missing in the north part of the home, it might negatively impact your career or job search, if missing in another area, it might affect your family or health. Casinos, such as the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, place water or fountains around their property, and Lung suggests > >

homeowners do the same and run water around their home, stating “You need water for cash flow.” In addition, if you can see the back door or window from the front door, Lung advises placing plants in front of them to block the flow of “chi”, or those currents of energy that run through the universe, from leaving your home. While you cannot see them, they are always there and always changing, much like the winds and water currents for a sailor at sea. The quest is to balance the yin and the yang to improve your well-being.

WHAT IS FENG SHUI? Feng shui is one of the eight tenets of Chinese medicine, which include food, acupuncture, exercise, massage, and herbal medicine. Manu Butterworth, founder of the Golden Gate Feng Shui School in Berkeley, California says, “Feng shui looks at how the building relates to the environment – what is the relational quality of the building to the land? Is it in harmony?” Feng shui masters have known for centuries ….. that by allowing energy to flow freely in our homes, we create balance and our lives become more harmonious. According to Butterworth, all buildings have a resonance, and because of that, he recommends learning the history of a place before you move in. If prior residents moved quickly, you might question why and reconsider your lease. Butterworth’s holistic approach assists his vision to reconnect clients with a place of home – a place where you are comfortable cooking a meal or visiting with friends. One question to ask, is how easy is it to get to the front door? If the front door is hidden behind bushes and gates, the home may be more reclusive, 4 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

and residents may find that friends don’t come over as often as before.

A TOOL FOR BALANCE AND HARMONY Both Lung and Butterworth see feng shui as a tool to make your home or workplace more productive and comfortable, to bring harmony and balance to your life. It has to work with your life, and should not be used to instill fear, says Butterworth. Instead it should improve the quality of life so you feel at home every time you walk in the front door. Butterworth’s tips for families are to look at their children and their bedrooms. What’s going on in that room that may be contributing to poor sleep for the child? He recommends that parents turn electronics off at night, or at least turn them down to help balance the room for better sleep. For adult bedrooms, Butterworth asks if it feels comfortable. Masculine styles with sharp edges and hard textures look good, but may not be comfortable. A bedroom that is softer and more nurturing is cozier, leading to the comfort that improves sleep. Butterworth and Lung agree that feng shui can improve all aspects of your life by working with your life, your personality, and your relationship to your home to reach harmony in your life. Butterworth said, “It’s being true to yourself, being authentic. It should feel right for you.” To find out how to improve your mood with feng shui and color therapy visit www.ncwmagazine.com 45

NOT FOR SALE

UNCOMFORTABLE FOR ALL THE WRONG REASONS, BUT AS WITH OTHER DIFFICULT TOPICS, ACKNOWLEDGING THE PAINFUL TRUTH DEFINES OUR HUMANITY. By CC Xander

arrying a faded machete scar across his face, Ty Ritter hosts more bullet wounds than any man should. Ritter is tough in ways that make even brave men flinch. Cornered-dog tough, ruthless enough to stare death in the eye and wait for it to back down, a fellow who takes a bullet and merely sneers at the wound, the kind of tough that the world’s criminals simply don’t understand. He is the man you want to go into battle with. For Ritter, however, resolve was never a goal, merely a consequence of life.

THE DARKEST PLACE ON EARTH

Thirty years ago, Ritter was working executive security when a friend asked him to help find his daughter who’d been kidnapped. He was fortunate enough to locate and rescue her before any malevolence occurred. That was Ritter’s introduction into what he considers the darkest place on Earth, sexu-

“In just a handful of Los Angeles counties, four hundred children disappear annually.” -Los Angeles Bureau of Statistics Originally from the United States, these girls range in age from three to fourteen years old. Their days used to consist of playgrounds and classrooms, their young lives filled with am-

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al slavery. Annually, tens of thousands of children are taken, disappearing from major cities, populated suburbs, and small towns. At present, the market is willing to pay up to $100,000 for a blond-haired, blue-eyed child – it used to be $17,000 but traffickers target all ethnicities. Humanity’s depravity is not limited to certain colors or wealth, and as difficult as it is to hear, no one is safe.

bition, joy and imagination - And then victimization brought life’s cruel reality. Over a seven-month period, they’d all been kidnapped, stolen from various cities throughout the U.S., gone without a trace. Their families emptied their bank accounts, built search parties, gave press conferences, checked in hourly with the police, and suffered the guilt and pain of not being able to protect their virginal daughters. With each passing week, they stared at the empty seats beside the dinner table, growing more despondent and less hopeful, eventually falling into a numb acceptance that their children may never be returned to their arms. Each girl suffered a similar fate. A scream-stifling weathered hand wrapped strongly across her mouth, her eyes blindfolded with thick, dark black cotton, her hands yanked harshly behind her back and lashed together with duct tape. Until she yelled, they left her mouth

unblemished, fearing a bleeding lip or a broken tooth might make her less valuable to her next owners. At times, she recoiled from the callous hands upon her shoulders. Hearing the first desperate shriek, they applied a small needle into her arm, turning her virtually catatonic for the remainder of the journey. She maintained her wits and senses, acutely aware of her circumstances, yet unable to make a sound. When the girls awoke, it was in the claws of another individual, of Spanish descent, surrounded by green jungle, and chained to the wooden slats of a free standing cabin in the middle of nowhere. The men were dark, bare-chested, often wearing rough beards, and soaked through to the bone with their own perspiration. The chains themselves were black iron, a single cuff attached to one ankle, and unless one had 47

“In just a handful of Los Angeles counties, four hundred children disappear annually.” the self-cannibalizing desire of a trapped coyote, virtually inescapable. The first time was always delicate, but horrible – children are not made for violation –spending their first night in tears, physically exhausted and hurt, emotionally destroyed, and wondering how this happened. There were no beds to run to, no parents to crawl between, and here, the monsters did not hide in closets. Repeated violations were a regular occurrence, the sweaty masculine beasts shoving them roughly up against the wall, the brutal thrusting and tearing of their tiny bodies mixed with the aggressive grunting and hot breath of unrestrained animals. At night, when the men slept, the tears rolled quietly for fear of awaking their predators. As the months wore on, they’d become objects, and the men didn’t

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bother being delicate. The girls sat in stark terror, dreading each minute of their crumbling lives, awaiting the inevitable pain and torture and desecration of their very selves, with no hope for escape and no opportunity to take their own lives. “In 1982 a reported 154,341 were trafficked for sex. By 2000, the number was 876,213.” – US Justice Department

A CALL TO ACTION Back in America, Ritter had heard the stories of the South American drug runners and their sex-slave trade. He’d witnessed a young girl, courageously escape the clutches of traffickers and make the decisive journey across many borders to arrive back to her family’s doorstep, bruised,

beaten and battered, to live a post-traumatic life of guilt and remembrance and wonder at what might have been. Ritter visited that girl, and listened closely to her descriptions of the wretched jungle life she lived for six months. He’d seen the unreturned look in her eyes, as though her body had made it home but her soul was still there - as if she’d left her spirit in the jungle to provide hope for the other victims. To know there are children being destroyed while their parents suffer the indignity of not being able to help them, drove Ritter to start Project Child Save. On the first rescue mission, Ritter took six girls from their captors. When he and his team arrived in the middle of the night, camouflaged in fatigues, green face paint and boots,

they were carrying twelve-inch corrugated steel knives. After quick medical attention, the men got out, returning to the U.S. to begin the process of reuniting the girls with their families. Repatriation took time. One does not take a wounded animal from the jungle into suburbia without incident. Psychologists worked slowly, delicately restoring trust and courage and some semblance of humanity to the children. They started with puppies and furry stuffed animals. They listened to the haunted cries echoing through the night. Doctors spent hours performing vaginal repairs, straightening broken bones, redefining lips and teeth and violated rear-ends, but some scars never heal. Over the next thirty years, Ritter would undertake many

by NCW MAGAZINE™

shop.naturalchildworld.com 5 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“In 1982 a reported 154,341 were trafficked for sex. By 2000, the number was 876,213.”

rescue missions with one rule, “Never leave a child behind.” Lack of funding is a consistent source of frustration Ritter explains, “We’ve rescued over five-hundred children. At present, we have thousands of emails from desperate parents around the world asking us to recover children. We have intelligence indicating the locations of many of these children, however, we require airplane fuel, tactical gear, and training for each operation…The moment we have enough money for a recovery operation, our team gets on a plane. For thirty years, this has been our creed – To be willing to give all of our tomorrows for one child’s today.” To date, although there had been

occasions when Ritter was tempted to take their successes and go, he upheld that promise to himself and his team, and most importantly, to the children. Many years ago, Ritter buried his son and it is the one wound in his body that will never heal. He is a father and a man who understands loss, as well as a hero, silently performing duties few Americans would ever consider, taking no credit, no money, and no reward for his acts, aside from the personal satisfaction that comes from keeping the promise he made to a brave little girl long ago. 51

ROOMS WE LOVE PLAY. GROW. DREAM.

RELAX. SHARE. LOVE.

A room is more than just a space, it’s a state of mind. The way the colors, textures, shadows, and light all come together to create balance and harmony, provide us with a source of inspiration. As part of the Special Design Edition we wanted to celebrate those rooms that move and inspire us all to live the life that we dream - what we like to call “Livable Art”.

“A chair is to have no backside. It should be beautiful from all sides and angles.” – Hans Wegner Product: The Wishbone Chair , From $599.00 | Photograph: Courtesy of Carl Hansen & Son | Designer: Carl Hansen & Son www.carlhansen.com 5 2 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“Each project truly becomes our baby, so it's hard to pick a favorite. We them all and have so much fun dreaming them up." – Chelsea Reale Project: Finn’s Nursery | Location: New York, NY | Photographer: Marco Ricca | Designer: SISSY + MARLEY www.sissyandmarley.com 53

“The clients dream was a completely minimalistic space with no nonsense and plenty of light.” – Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen Project: Hellerup Apartment | Location: Hellerup, Denmark | Photographer: Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen / Norm Architects Architect/Designer: NORM.ARCHITECTS | www.normcph.com 5 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“Oeuf’s mission is to make practical and stylish products with minimal environmental impact.“ – Oeuf Product: The Sparrow Crib, $760.00 | Photographer: Photo courtesy of Oeuf NYC | Designer: Oeuf NYC www.oeufnyc.com 55

“For more than 30 years, we’ve adhered to a simple philosophy; great design should be beautiful, affordable and long-lasting. More than 90 percent of our collection is made in the United States, which gives us greater control over the quality and costs, and reduces our carbon footprint.” - Room & Board Product: The Moda Collection, From $799.00 | Photograph: Courtesy of Room & Board | Designer: Room & Board www.roomandboard.com 5 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“Ligne Roset’s designers create with the end use in mind. Our storage items are meant to be equal parts useful and beautiful and each is customizable to fit spaces big and small, from a condo in the city to a lodge in the mountains.” –Antoine Roset, Executive Vice President - Roset USA Corp Product: Book & Look Customizable Storage System and Flax Armchairs, For pricing contact Ligne Roset Photograph: Courtesy of Ligne Roset | Designer: Book & Look by Pagnon & Pelhaître ; Flax Armchairs by Philippe Nigro www.ligne-roset-usa.com 5 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“At Creme Anglaise, we design all of our products with lots of love. We always think about making something original, and a little bit dreamy, as our kids are special, we want to offer them the best.” – Emilie Perez, Creme Anglaise Product: Lit Lune, From € 110 | Photograph: Photo Courtesy of Creme Anglaise | Designer: Jocelyn Costis, Creme Anglaise www.cremeanglaise.bigcartel.com 59

“Every little piece, detail, line, and material will have been meticulously considered to ensure that the end result will work in your home...Because we love to help you achieve all the best for your home.” - Viggo Molholm, Bo Concept Chairman Product: Cenova Corner Sofa, From $7,190 | Photograph: Courtesy of Bo Concept | Designer: Bo Concept www.boconcept.com 6 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

“We believe in always being yourself. That’s the best way to discover your strength. Make your own choices, don’t adjust to others.” Product: Bambi Poster, From $114.75 | Styled By: AnoukB | Photographer: Marjon Hoogevorst | Designer: Onszelf www.onszelf.com or www.justkidswallpaper.com For more inspiration visit www.ncwmagazine.com

Rhea Crib by Oeuf. $670.00 www.oeufnyc.com

By Ariane Moore Beautiful, modern, sophisticated, and elegant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in addition to describing your intuitive design aesthetic, these words can only begin to describe the artistry and craftsmanship found in this highly curated selection of cribs. Not only are they stunning to look at, but more importantly, these sustainably designed cribs are amongst the most innovative options available. Ensuring that your well thought-out nursery decor remains in tact, while your little one gets a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rest.

Wired Crib by NUMI NUMI. $1,790.00 shop.naturalchildworld.com

Omni Crib by Boori. $599.99 www.boori.com

Stokke Sleepi by Stokke. From $799.99 www.stokke.com

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Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib by Babyletto. $379.00 www.babyletto.com or www.themdbfamily.com

Ulm Crib by Spot On Square. $799.00 www.spotonsquare.com

Pod Crib by Ubabub. $2,100.00 www.ubabub.us or www.themdbfamily.com Dream Baby Cot by Babyhome. $299.00 www.diapers.com

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SENA by Nuna. $199.99 shop.naturalchildworld.com

breeze by 4Moms, $299.99 www.4moms.com

Dream Baby Cot by Babyhome. $299.00 www.diapers.com

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Photo Courtesy of American Outfitters 6 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Sunday Full Zip 1222 by American Outfitters, €72,00 www.americanoutfitters.be ; Denim Jacket by H & M Kids, $19.95 www.hm.com ; Goldie T-Shirt by Stella McCartney, $70.00 www.stellamccartney.com ; Graphic Tee (Grass Fed) by Goatmilk, $35.00 www.goatmilknyc.com ; Palm Sunglasses Lt. Green by Mini Rodini, $56.00 www.minirodini.com ; Girls’ Frankie Short by J.Crew, $38.00 www.jcrew.com ; Girls’ Glitter Suede High-Tops, $118.00 www.jcrew.com 69

Chevron Pillow Cover by JOYN. $24.00 www.joynindia.com Mulberry Teether by Chewbeads. $16.50

2 www.chewbeads.com

Air Purifier by Duux. $75.00

3 www.svan.com

All Of A Piece by Earnest Studio and Dana Cannam Design. â&#x201A;Ź560

4 www.all-of-a-piece.com

Tiger Rose Clutch by Tesler + Mendelovitch. From $580.00

5 www.tesler-mendelovitch.com

Matcha Green Tea Serenity Set by Breakaway Matcha.

6 $79.00 www.breakawaymatcha.com

Ceramic Speaker System by Joey Roth. $ 1,095.00

7 www.joeyroth.com

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Heart of Gold Salad Server Set by Canvas. $65.00

8 www.rodales.com

Necklace (N1512G) by Melissa Joy Manning. $700.00

9 www.melissajoymanning.com

Alpaca Infinity Scarf by Cuyana. $65.00

10 www.cuyana.com

Dipped Wine Holder by Rose & Fitzgerald. $25.00

11 www.roseandfitzgerald.com

Rain 1-Light Bath Fixture by Varaluz. $149.00

12 www.varaluz.com

Micro Carrycot by JanĂŠ. $169.99

13 www.jane-usa.com

Roma Shopping Blue Klein by ECOALF. $184.90

14 www.ecoalf.com

Little Unicorn Head by flatout frankie. $24.00

15 www.littlemodern.com

13 8

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15 73

20 Sand & Beach Chair by Jenny Pennywood. $280.00

16 www.jennypennywood.comwww.graf-lantz.com

Turbo Flyer by Tait Design Co. $18.00

17 www.taitdesignco.com

MARCH Kitchen Work Table by MARCH SF. $13,800.00

18 www.marchsf.com

Giulia by Pininfarina. â&#x201A;Ź 830

19 www.riva1920.it

Champion Adjustable Desk by Moll Desks. From $1,299.00

20 www.molldesks.com

Isometric Chair by Kalon. $435.00

21 shop.naturalchildworld.com

The Amsterdam Cabinet by This Is Dutch. $1,299.00

22 www.coolkidscompany.com

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN The weather is getting warmer and adventure is calling. Time to grab the kids, pack up the car and see where the road takes you. But before you head off on your family road trip, make sure your little one will be riding in style in one of the safest and most innovative car seats available. Whether you have an infant or toddler, a small car or large, we have you covered. We searched high and low to find the newest and most reliable options available in car seat safety. So sit back and enjoy the ride!

Infant Car Seat by 4moms. Available late 2014 • Installs itself – The 4moms Infant Car Seat auto-levels and auto-tensions so it is installed correctly • LCD screens on each side to confirm correct installation • Verifies correct base installation and carrier connection • Side impact protection bolsters • No re-thread harness www.4moms.com

CYBEX Aton 2 Infant Car Seat by Cybex. $299.00 • Lightweight design • Optimized side impact protection with Linear Side Impact Protection and optimized structure of shell • Integrated 2-position foldaway sun canopy • Extra wide 5-point harness • For babies 4-35lbs., and up to 30” tall www.cybex-online.com

UPPAbaby MESA by UPPAbaby. $279.99 • SMARTSecure™ System which provides parents with a visual confirmation that the seat is installed correctly • Adjustable headrest reinforced with EPS foam to provide side impact protection • Inserts directly into the VISTA and CRUZ strollers without the purchase of an adapter • Stroller release button built into the carry handle • For infants 4-35lbs., Up to 32” www.uppababy.com 7 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Coccoro by Combi. $239.99

Mico AP Infant Car Seat by Maxi Cosi. From $199.99

• Combi Tru-Safe® Side Impact Protection provides

• Lightweight design

deep side walls and a layer of energy absorbing foat

• Superior Side Impact Performance with

• Five-point harness with a color indicator that

Air Protect® technology to protect the baby’s head

provides a visual cue the harness is securely buckled

• Integrated canopy with flip-out visor for extra UV protection

• Built-in lock-offs for rear- and forward-facing installation

• 5-point harness

• Lightweight and compact design perfect for smaller vehicles

• From 5-22lbs. for rear-facing; Up to 29”

• From 3-33lbs. for rear-facing;

www.maxi-cosi.com

From 1yr and 20-40 lbs forward-facing www.combiusa.com

Foonf by Clek. From $399.99 • Designed with Foonf’s Rigid-LATCH system to make

NextFit Convertible by Chicco. $299.99

forward-facing installation effortless.

• Simple installation with the ReclineSure™ 9-position Leveling System

The unique design also improves rear-facing installation

• Two RideRight™ bubble levels clearly indicate the correct seat

• Built with REACT™ (Rapid Energy Absorbing Crumple

angle in both rear and forward-facing modes

Technology) safety system, and energy absorbing

• Innovative Super Cinch LATCH™ tightener to achieve a secure fit

foam-lined headrest and foam layers on both the

• Harness straps do not require re-threading and adjust to

inside and outside of the frame • Made with GreenGuard Select Certified fabrics • For age 6 months, up to 65lbs.

accommo date older children • From 5lbs to 40lbs for rear-facing ; from 22lbs to 65lbs forward-facing www.chiccousa.com

www.clekinc.com

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Signed, Yours Truly

Sweetapolita’s Love Letter Cookies

A hint of romance, mixed with a dash of sweet, topped with a drizzle of creativity...these cookies are a great way to tell that special someone exactly how much you care without having to say a word. This Valentine’s Day, give your loved one a gift that will leave them wanting more, of your baking at least.

By Rosie Alyea of Sweetapolita.com Photo by Rosie Alyea

Ingredients: Satin Ice Rolled Fondant in Ivory Sugarflair Food Coloring in Pink and Red AmeriColor Food Coloring in Mauve, Ice Teal, Electric Purple, and Super Black Icing Sugar or Confectioners’ Sugar Royal Icing Directions: 1. Using your favorite cookie recipe, take a large rectangular cookie cutter (these are 4.5” x 3”), cut out/bake/cool desired number of “letters.” 2. Color fondant (I use Satin Ice brand) for desired colors. I used ivory fondant and added the following colors (in tiny amounts): Pink: Sugarflair “Pink” and a small amount of grey petal dust Mauve: AmeriColor “Mauve” and a small amount of grey petal dust (I originally used a drop of Electric Purple, but Mauve is already muted, so it’s a better choice) Ice Teal: AmeriColor “Teal” and a small amount of grey petal dust Burgundy (for the seal): Sugarflair “Red” and AmeriColor “Electric Purple” and bit of AmeriColor “Super Black” 3. Roll out your fondant to about 1/8” thickness, one cookie at a time, keeping the remaining fondant covered. Cut a rectangle using the same cookie cutter you used for the cookie. When rolling fondant for cookies, I like to sprinkle icing sugar on the counter surface before rolling, and then let the cut-out sit for a moment or two before lifting up with an artist’s palette knife. This way the fondant doesn’t get stretched in any way. 4. Spread a very, very thin layer of royal icing onto the inner surface of the cookie with an offset palette knife, and gently place your fondant cut-out on top, gently smoothing with your fingers. 5. Cut a top flap (any style you like--I used real envelopes for reference) and adhere to your “envelope” with a dab of water. Using a knife, create two angled envelope lines. 6. For scripted detail piece: roll out ivory fondant, then press the rubber stamp firmly down upon the fondant and lift straight up. Using a knife, cut a rectangular piece, let dry for about 15 minutes, and adhere to envelope with royal icing. 7. Using a #2 tip, pipe string onto envelope. 8. Roll a small ball of burgundy fondant, and emboss with wax seal, then place in center of cookie.

Let cookies dry for several hours, preferably overnight, and enjoy! 8 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Rosie Alyea

STYLE NIGHT COMBINING WHAT’S NEW + WHAT’S HOT IN THE WORLD OF SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE

Reserve forOctober This October, 2014 Plan NowYour ForSpot NextNow Year 16, 2014 THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

FEATURED DESIGNERS: Anne Gorke

aden + anais

Pale Cloud

Ark Naturals

Prophetik

Baby Home

Tutu Du Monde

California Baby

American Outfitters

Cloud b

Aloe Tree Kids

DERMAgic

Visantine Collective

doTERRA Life Line Pet Nutrition Lille Baby

Lady BIM Dhana EcoKids FROCK L.A. by Victoria Tik

Little Green Pouch Mauro Natural Dog Care Olsenhaus

Sew Lati Eileen Fisher Oeuf

Room&Board

Charlie Banana

Sweet Virtues The Green Pet Shop The Pet Loo Unique Natural Products Waka Waka Power

Real Kids Shades Vanesa Gade Raven+Lily CRI DE COEUR Pure Country Pet Boutique 2 Hounds Design

Squishy Pet Products For the latest updates and news about NCW Conscious Style Night visit: ncwmagazine.com

Benefiting

FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS

The truth is that companies are not required to list the ingredients

CHEM FATALE

Parabens, Pesticides and Formaldehyde: Inside an Unregulated Industry By Joelle Shelton

We see the commercials every day, women back-flipping into pools and frolicking through grass fields, all because their “revolutionary” tampons allow them to do so with ease! It’s clear to see that these feminine hygiene companies will show you just about anything to sell the product - anything but the list of harmful ingredients that find their way into these products that women are using every day. Tampons and sanitary pads might seem simple enough: cotton guards for that time of the month. In reality, the materials, ingredients, and production of these items are far more complex and potentially hazardous than most people realize. The truth is that most major companies are selling products that are not made from cotton at all, but rather a synthetic blend of bleached cotton and rayon, a manufactured fiber derived from cellulose that comes from wood pulp. The extraction process and the subsequent stage of bleaching the rayon with chlorine to give it that clean, white appearance creates toxic carcinogens such as dioxin and disinfection by-products like trihalomethane. Some studies show that dioxin, even in trace levels, may be linked to disruption of the endocrine system, suppression of the immune system, and abnormal cell and tissue growth in the body. Not to mention these products leave behind fibers in your vagina that can cause bladder infections, vaginal infections, and Toxic Shock Syndrome. Tampons are also known to absorb the natural fluid and bacteria that the vagina produces to stay clean and healthy.

SAY YES TO

Organic cotton Chlorine & toxin free Reusable washable pads Menstruation cups Low absorbency

8 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

SAY NO TO Fragrance & perfumes Genetically modified (GM) cotton Plastic applicators Chlorine Bleach

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claims that these bleaching methods are no longer used and “rayon raw material used in U.S. tampons is now produced using elemental chlorine-free bleaching or totally chlorine-free bleaching processes.” However it is also explained that during the elemental chlorine-free bleaching process, “dioxins are occasionally detected in trace amounts in mill effluents and pulp.” The FDA also states that “no risk to health would be expected from these trace amounts.” This might put our minds at ease if the use of tampons was a rare occasion for women, however, this is not the case. It becomes a concern when we realize that the average woman will use over 17,000 tampons in her lifetime. Trace amounts or not, that is still more than enough exposure to a potentially harmful carcinogen. Aside from this issue, other harmful ingredients of tampons and sanitary pads may include dyes, preservatives, and pesticides. You should also avoid products or product wrappers with a fragrance or perfume, as they can cause further irritation to your skin. Another thing to consider besides the tampon itself, is the tampon applicator. Usually the applicators

are either plastic or cardboard. The plastic applicators could potentially be harmful to you and are most certainly harmful to our environment. The cardboard applicators most often have a glossy coat for “easy insertion” but this glossy finish actually comes from phthalates, which are chemical plasticizers. These phthalates and plastics are known to interfere with normal endocrine system function, possibly leading to other health risks. Not a fan of tampons? There are risks involving sanitary pad use as well, as most brands are not made of pure cotton either. Additionally, most pads and panty liners are backed with synthetic materials and plastic which restrict the free flow of air and trap heat and dampness. These conditions lead to increased chance of the growth of yeast and other bacteria. Other products like washes, wipes and douching are actually medically unnecessary and could also put you at risk for a bacteria infection. It is likely that potentially harmful pesticides are present in the packaging for feminine wipes, as they are used to maintain moisture and prevent bacteria growth within the package.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES? There are safe and healthy alternatives that will significantly lower harmful risks because of their natural ingredients. For example, there are products made with 100% organic or natural cotton, which is a more breathable fiber that is healthier for your body and for the environment, like Natracare. Look for brands that are chlorine and toxin free to avoid potentially dangerous chemicals. Use low-absorbency tampons and change them often to avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Avoid tampons with plastic applicators and pads with plastic backs or lining to reduce toxic waste. There are also reusable pads made from organic and unbleached cotton that can be machine-washed and used again, like Charlie Banana, which also helps to protect the environment from disposable, plastic-backed main brands. A menstrual cup is also a viable and safe alternative, a flexible silicone cup that is inserted into the vagina essentially catches all the blood and can be emptied every 12 hours during the cycle and then re-inserted. Look for brands like Diva Cup or MoonCup. While topics and concerns of feminine hygiene often get swept under the rug, it’s time to become aware of what threats are hiding behind vague labels and dramatic commercials. Make a change to protect your body, and the environment at the same time. 85

Tiffany Shlain Acclaimed Filmmaker, Founder of the Webby Awards, Co-Founder of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and Mother by Ariane Moore photo by Marla Aufmuth

You won’t see this super hero mom in a cape and spandex tights, but her signature fedora and camera in hand, are just as recognizable. Award winning filmmaker and co-founder of the Webby Awards, Tiffany Shlain, has taken the technology world by storm. Having been honored by Newsweek as one the “Women Shaping the 21st Century”, it’s no surprise that Shlain was also invited to advise former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton on the internet and technology. Now Shlain has taken the ever-evolving discussion of technology one step further as she explores what it means to be human in the 21st Century in the clever and witty AOL original series, The Future Starts Here. We were able to catch up with Shlain to discuss the new series and how she juggles it all. NCW: How did you become a filmmaker? TS: When I was a kid I always loved going to the movies with my family every Sunday night. We would have the best discussions after movies - the films were triggers for deeper conversations. I never thought I could become a filmmaker, and was actually set to be a doctor, but then I went to UC Berkeley, and had one of those professors who change your life. She was a History of Film professor and was amazing at conveying the power of film on culture, and I was hooked. I studied a lot of film history after that, then ended up doing a summer program at NYU Film School. I mostly learned how to make films by cutting old films together, because I couldn’t afford to go to grad school. NCW: Your new series, The Future Starts Here, is a hit. What about it do you think resonates with so many people? What do you hope people take away after watching it? TS: I think it speaks to people because, I hope, it makes them think about the good and bad potential of being connected in the 21st century. We’re all moving so quickly. Our first episode about Technology Shabbats is the most popular episode, and talks about how my family and I unplug one day a week. As amazing as technology is, I think we need to be more mindful about how much we use it. NCW: How did this opportunity present itself, and why did you feel it was something you wanted to explore? TS: I received a call, out of the blue, in January from a wonderful woman at AOL who loved my work and wanted me to do a show. I was apprehensive, but they offered me creative freedom! I had a great team making the films, and I think we’re up to 11 million views. I love that people don’t just want to be entertained (even though it is an entertaining show, there is a lot of humor), but also want to think about bigger ideas about society. NCW: What is a “Technology Shabbat”? How has implementing this into your life affected your family dynamic? TS: A Technology Shabbat is when one day a week we unplug from technology, from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. It’s such a wonderful thing that we just focus on each other and all distractions fall away. 8 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

NCW: What is “Tech Etiquette”, and what are some basic rules everyone should know? TS: In the series, I kind of call myself and other people out about pet peeves about technology. A couple of basics would be: 1.) Don’t write long emails. Keep them under 100 words. 2) When you’re with a circle of friends, don’t pull out your phone. NCW: What are some other topics that you plan to discuss on upcoming episodes of The Future Starts Here? TS: There are so many topics. I’d love to explore the importance of letting one’s mind wander. There’s some interesting neuroscience about how it’s good for creativity… I have a whole list of 30 topics that could be episodes. NCW: How has being a mother influenced or inspired you in your career? TS: Being a mother makes me think about time very differently. Now, I value working more efficiently, but with more impact: scaling my work down and really having a good chunk of time when I’m not working. In my 20’s, I worked all the time. But now I love having time to stare at butterflies and clouds with my kids. NCW: What advice do you have for other working moms trying to balance everything? Is technology part of the solution? TS: I think they should try a Tech Shabbat. Doing it every week makes me feel like a better mother and person, and it’s just a wonderful experience for family - one day to reconnect every week, that you know you’re going to have. It’s nice to do at the end of a workweek. Call it whatever you want, but definitely have a ritual moment when you turn off all your screens and light a candle. Just create a special space to be together with your family. NCW: What is next for you in the New Year? TS: We’re going to be doing a “Global Cloud Premiere” on Feb. 5th for our new 8 min. film, “The Science of Character,” which is perfect for families and schools to discuss the best ways to develop character strengths and best develop who you are. We are offering the film for free, with curriculum and posters for schools… and you’ll hear from experts about new ideas for character development. It will be great for kids in middle and high school! To catch more from my interview with Tiffany Shlain visit ncwmagazine.com. Be sure to check out the original series The Future Starts Here on AOL On at on.aol.com

BRIDGING THE URBAN DIVIDE

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA: 2014 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL By Jessica Gagliardi With urban sprawl present in nearly every city throughout the world, design professionals are forced to look for ways to adapt development to a changing environment. The success of each city depends acutely on those who design and manage those spaces, and how they can adjust to that growth. A few select cities are coming out on top, showing innovative approaches to urban planning and to the growth and management of their city: this year the focus is on Cape Town.

INNOVATION A TOOL FOR GROWTH Founded by the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design, World Design Capital (WDC) is a promotional project that showcases the importance of design as an indicator of social, cultural and environmental quality of life. Held biennially, it exemplifies the accomplishments of cities around the world that are using design as a tool for economic growth and development, through a year long program of design-related events. 8 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

As in previous years, the launch of WDC 2014 took place on December 31st with the New Year’s Eve of Design Signature Event that placed Cape Town, South Africa “on top of the world” of modern design, and gave Cape Town the biggest New Years Eve bash the city has ever hosted.

LIVE DESIGN. TRANSFORM LIFE. Cape Town is a rapidly growing city, which over the past few decades has established itself as a model of innovation, motivation and creativity. Between the need for modernization and a want for city improvement, the combination has fueled unique solutions to urban design, however, responses to these problems stretch far beyond the city limits. Local organizations have created plans that have put Cape Town on track to be the design hub for not only South Africa, but the African continent as a whole. Alayne Reesberg, Cape Town Design NPC CEO, launched the World Design Capital 2014 project with the announcement of the four themes that will guide and focus the year long pro-

gram. The four themes addressed are: African Innovation/ Global Conservation - African Ideas that speak to the world; Bridging the Divide - Design that reconnects the city and reconciles communities; Today for Tomorrow - Sustainable solutions for people and planet; and Beautiful Space/Beautiful Things - Inspiring architecture, interiors, food, fashion, jewelry, craft, art and creativity. Beginning with its launch back in March of 2013, there were over 1,250 proposals, which were then narrowed down to just 450 officially recognized projects and events focusing on design to be held over the next year.

A FUTURE FOR CAPE TOWN Executive Mayor of Cape Town, Patricia de Lille, has said the diversity of the final projects reflects the general determination of all Capetonians to position Cape Town as the design and creative hub of the continent. “In addition to the 450 projects,” added de Lille, ”the overall Program for the World Design Capital 2014 will also include a design project initiated by the community in each of the City’s 111 wards.”

“The central thesis of the City of Cape Town’s approach to the World Design Capital 2014 is to use excellence in design, to design the change we want to see in our city, using the very building blocks of which our city is comprised. All of these projects are united by their use of design and design-led thinking to help us drive the social and economic change we want and need,” said De Lille. A few of the projects featured this year are 1m Faces, a project in which 1 million face-only close-up portraits will be taken of South Africans which will be combined into a pixel ‘mosaic portrait’ of Nelson Mandela, Art Street, in which derelict buildings will be transformed into giant artworks where emerging artists can showcase their work, and C-BEE-D, a sustainable Urban Beekeeping project that aims to bring biodiversity and awareness to the urban environment. In the aftermath of Nelson Mandela’s death, Capetown has the opportunity to carry forth the message of social change, activism and justice, using design as a toll for progress.

Everything Stops For A Cup Of Tea By Christin Wilson Photos by Kate Noelle Customized down to the last detail, this whimsical, tea party-themed baby shower was as unique as it was fun to create. The accents of vintage décor and vibrant colors throughout, provided the perfect backdrop for this gender-neutral party. Unique elements such as guests writing on “Baby Wishes” stickers, instead of a guest book, and placing them inside vintage children’s books, created a timeless keepsake for both parents and baby. In addition, a silhouette artist provided guests with a fun activity and custom party favors. The custom tea towel favors, onesies and pillows were inscribed with quotes from the London-based classics: Alice in Wonderland, Mary Poppins and Peter Pan. The artist also created vintage silhouettes of a top hat, Little Mister, and a parasol, Little Darling, to decorate the modern venue. Included amongst the playful silhouettes was a custom profile of the Mum-to-Be. Credits: Event Design, Styling and Florals – Christin Wilson Events ; Photographer – Kate Noelle Photography ; Venue– Seventh Tea Bar at The OC Mix ; Mum-To-Be Model- Holly Clinard of Holly In Heels blog ; Tea towel favors, onesies and pillows – Saturday Morning Pancakes ; Dessert Table – Decadence Candy & Dessert Tables ; Invitations– Typologie & Co ; Linens – Designer Specialty Linens ; Décor – Your Cloud Parade ; Rentals – Classic Party Rentals 9 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

IMMUNITY BOOST: 4 WAYS CHINESE MEDICINE CAN HELP By Melissa B Light It’s been a long cold winter! After months of ice and snow and heavy clothing, we’re all ready to see the first green leaves of spring and feel sunshine on our shoulders. With all the beautiful flowers and growth of springtime comes pollen; and sneezing and runny noses can get in the way of enjoying the our time outdoors.

The five branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine – acupuncture, bodywork (tuina), nutrition, exercise, and Chinese herbology – are a terrific way to shore up our bodies’ defenses against those invasive springtime pollens and keep allergy symptoms at bay.

Tuina

Movement: Shiatsu Stretches

Chinese pediatric massage, or tuina, is an easy and fun way for parents and kids to treat allergies and knock out any lingering wintertime viruses. Just a few simple techniques will bolster your immune system and help you enjoy the beautiful spring weather!

Sit in a straddle pose, with your legs spread wide. Place your hands at the tops of your thighs, and gently rock from side to side several times. Turn to face your left leg and place your left hand on the floor. Inhale and raise the right arm high over your head, then stretch your body to the left as you exhale. Feel the deep stretch all along the liver and gallbladder meridians on the side of your body and your rib cage.

Wind Pond: Wind Pond is at the back of the head, just below the base of the skull, in the two depressions formed between the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles. At the first sign of allergies or illness, or to relieve headache, dizziness, or fever, press these points with the pads of two fingers and rotate in a small circle, 30-50 times. Three Passes: To help the body dispel irritating pollens from the system, try this easy technique! Using two or three fingers, start at the wrist crease at the base of the thumb, and then sweep along the forearm up to the elbow joint. Return to the wrist crease and sweep again - repeat 100-500 times. Gallbladder 31: This point is terrific at relieving all the itching that often comes with cedar allergies. To locate it, stand up and let the arm hang naturally at the side. Gallbladder 31 is found where the tip of the middle finger rests on the outside of the thigh. Using the pads of two fingers, press and rotate on this point 50-100 times. Chest Center: Got chest congestion or a cough? Chest Center to the rescue! This movement helps open the chest and dispel phlegm. From the chest midline at the sternum, use the palms of both hands to push apart to the sides of the chest. Repeat 50-100 times. Yintang: Yintang is located on the forehead, on the midpoint right between the eyebrows. This point is very calming and refreshing, and it can also clear up stuffy noses and dry nasal discharge! Using a finger or two, gently push from the point up to the hairline. Return to the point and continue to push upwards for a few minutes.

Nutrition: Cleansing for Spring Seasonal foods strengthen our bodies and help prevent and fight off illness. After a winter of eating rich, warming foods, spring is a time to eat more lightly. The young greens and vegetables of spring are perfect for nourishing our livers and encouraging expansive, upward energy in our bodies. Sweet and pungent-flavored foods are recommended in springtime, and preparation should focus on raw, sprouted, or lightly cooked meals. Some terrific springtime foods include:

Return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite side. Repeat the entire sequence five times on each side. To finish, inhale, raise your hands above your head, and lean forward as far as possible as you exhale. Inhale, and while still leaning forward, place your palms on the floor as you exhale. Enjoy the renewed sense of energy and space in your body!

Chinese Herbology Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years to protect bodies from winter germs! Here are a few traditional formulas we’ve made into a more modern tincture version for our ChiKids line. Yu Ping Feng San (light family acupuncture formula: B4Vax) is terrific for boosting the immune system, especially if you’re prone to allergies or colds. Bi Yan Pian: The name of this formula translates to “frontal sinus pills.” And as the name suggests, Bi Yan Pian works to clear congestion in the frontal sinuses and dry up those runny noses! Chrysanthemum: Chrysanthemum flowers are wonderful for red, itchy, burning eyes. They can be taken as an instant beverage that’s already sweetened, or you can steep dried flowers in water to make a tasty, soothing tea. Pe Min Kan Wan: This very effective herbal formula treats acute or chronic sinus congestion. It’s great for those clogged up noses with thick, yellow discharge, as well as sinus pain or headache. Of course regular visits to your friendly neighborhood acupuncturist can be a huge help! When regular treatments aren’t an option for you, you can take these easy steps to keep you and your family feeling healthy and vibrant. With just a little bit of planning, you can treat allergies, prevent viruses, and to keep your family healthy every single day of the spring season!

• Grains, legumes, and seeds, all of which are considered “sweet” • Herbs such as basil, fennel, dill, bay leaf, marjoram, and rosemary • Asparagus, celery, and lettuces • Young beets, carrots, and similar sweet and starchy vegetables • Onions and garlic 9 2 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

WHO'S YOUR DADDY

A VOICE OF SURVIVAL

One Father’s Fight To Stand Up For What He Believes In

By Jeff Garner Founder and Designer of Prophetik Photo Courtesy of Prophetik Fatherhood is earned not given. Children will constantly test us throughout our life to stimulate growth in our own world, as I came to realize when my second child, Veda Julietta Garner, was born with a heart condition that has kept us in and out of the hospital for the last eleven months. After her final surgery this past December, we hope that she is on the path to recovery.

tal’s ethics department who explained that if I could get two doctor’s to sign off on this alternative, that would bypass the administration policy of the hospital, and therefore lawyers would not need to get involved. So we did, and as a result, we were able to give Veda her mother’s (fat-free) breast milk to get her through the healing process after her heart surgery. Now, this is an option to all mothers at Vanderbilt Hospital.

Veda was born with a hole in her heart, and a blocked artery. She required surgery to widen the artery and close the hole. Once the doctors were able to fix those issues, she developed a leak on the patch that they made to cover the hole, so they had to conduct another surgery to fix it. Once the surgery was complete, the doctors discovered that Veda’s lung had collapsed. Apparently something had moved into the lung passage creating pressure and causing the collapse, so once again Veda has to endure another surgery. Unfortunately, the doctors do not know the cause of these problems, but Veda is one of a kind and has been a fighter and survivor through it all.

This experience really exposed how the hospital as a business works, and how it looks at patients. Parents are the most in tune with what their child needs, and I support the right of all parents to carefully question and challenge anything in the medical field that does not seem right with their gut or internal feelings. There is so much to be learned from natural medicine and alternative medicine solutions, which should be implemented and considered alongside traditional medicine to provide the best solution to cure those in need.

The hospital’s policy was to prescribe formula to feed Veda, because she was a heart patient and the fat found in breast milk was not good for her. However, it’s my belief that the best option for Veda, or for any child’s nutrition, is the mother’s breast milk - so, I decided to challenge this policy. Instead of using formula which contains chemicals that are not good for a baby with a heart condition, I suggested a solution: Skimming the fat off of the mother’s breast milk thus supplying what Veda needs, without the fat. At first the hospital would not allow this process, then I went to the hospi9 4 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

It’s times like these that have broken the notion of expectations, and the idea that children are just born unto us a gift to bring up. They are souls born into this world for a purpose and a destiny. It is our role as fathers to encourage their path, to guide, guard, and direct. I am proud as Veda’s father to help protect her, and guide her into this world. Veda has already been given a voice and affected many in her constant battle to survive. She will be an inspiration to numerous people in her life, and she will be a constant teacher for me in my life. Veda has taught me how amazing a gift our children are, and how resilient and well designed they are to defeat all odds. The soul is always stronger than the mind, and Veda has proven that she is meant to be here and has a very unique purpose. 95

INSPIRED BY FATHERHOOD

A RELUCTANT PIONEER

Same Sex Dads And The Journey To Adoption

By Henry Amador Founder of DADsquared Photo Courtesy of Henry Amador The first time I had ever heard the word pioneer, as it refereed to me, was in the Summer of 2009. My fiancé and I were having our first meeting with the Reverend that would be performing our marriage ceremony that coming Fall in Boston. He was proud to be officiating our wedding. He had been honored to pronounce a handful of same sex couples, spouse and spouse or wife and wife or in our case husband and husband, but not nearly as many as he had hoped since the laws had changed in Massachusetts on May 17, 2004.

“You are Pioneers you know, just because a door opens not all will enter, marriage is a calling and not many gays and lesbians are answering the call, It takes courage to enter into uncharted waters, you really should be proud, proud pioneers.” I remember I quietly answered that it was not our goal to be pioneers, we just wanted to be husbands. The Reverend was right. Upon returning to our then home state of Florida, not all of our gay or straight friends met our recent nuptials with the same excitement we did. I can safely say that at the ripe old age of 46 I had never faced discrimination. I had lived as an openly gay man since my teens and it had never affected me. I never had to explain myself or my choices to anyone, yet suddenly as a married gay man disapproval was in no shortage.

Why would you want to get married? I didn’t know you could do that. But is it like a real wedding? What if you want a divorce, can you? Okay, that last question might seem silly, but what’s sillier is that some jurisdictions will marry non- residents but do require residency for divorce. You figure out the logistics on that one. Anyway we moved on and forward and eventually the gay friends that couldn’t conceptualize marriage faded away and our social circle morphed into one of more straight married friends than before, and that was just fine by us.

had decided that we wanted a child. We had been talking about it for a while and the only thing stopping us were the hows, and we certainly knew the whys. We had both always felt a strong desire to be dads. Marriage had only brought those feelings to the surface. We also both agreed that having a child that was biologically ours, was not important. Adopting a baby in need of a family resonated with us far more than creating a child. I remember we were in Spain when we heard that the adoption ban in Florida was no longer going to be enforced. Almost immediately upon our return we began the process of becoming Foster Parents. We were actually part of the first openly gay and lesbian group that the State licensed to take in children. I remember sitting in that class and the director telling us that we were pioneers, to which I quietly replied, we don’t want to be pioneers, we just want equality. A short while later, as fate would have it, we were privately introduced to a young lady that had chosen not to keep her unborn baby, we met her just before she reached out to an adoption agency. She decided that we would be the perfect family for her baby and months later, attorneys galore and with a very empty piggy bank we stood, the three of us, in front of a County Judge that declared us a legal family. As the first gay couple to jointly adopt a baby in Broward County, the Judge said we were pioneers, and that we had now paved the way for other couples like us to become families. I took a deep breath after hearing that “P” word yet again and this time, not so quietly responded by kissing my baby, my husband and by extending my hand to the Judge, thank you, I said, and yes, we are indeed pioneers, reluctant pioneers, but pioneers non-the-less. In the years following my son’s birth I founded DADsquared. DADsquared is a global community designed by, and for gay fathers. Our mission is to provide resources, guidance and direction to gay dads raising children and to those still searching for the possibility. DADsquared is the biggest online community for gay parenting. We help bring families together and make dreams come true. DADsquared, Changing the World One Family at a Time.

Now let’s fast forward about two years when my husband and I 9 6 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

GET SOME, GIVE SOME Feel Good Shopping

1. Nelson Sunglasses by WearPanda. With each purchase, WearPanda provides a free eye exam and eyewear to a person in need through the TOMA Foundation. $120.00. Type in the special discount code NATURALCHILDWORLD for a 10% discount. www.wearpanda.com 2. JAMBOX Limited Edition Wireless Speaker by Jawbone. With each purchase, $50.00 is donated towards charity: water to help fund operating costs. $199.00 www.charitywater.org

3. Banned Book Tote by Out of Print. Purchase of this tote bag sends one book to a community in need. $18.00 www.outofprintclothing.com 4. Water.org + CamelBak Groove Bottle by Water. org. With each purchase of a Groove Bottle, $10.00 is donated towards the work of Water.org to brink safe drinking water and sanitation to people in developing countries. $25.00 www.amazon.com 5. Bee Changed Aqua Bee by The Little Bee Co. For every pair purchased a Bee Changed One Size or Bitty Bee Changed Newborn Diaper will be donated to a baby in need. $18.00 www.thelittlebeeco.com

6. ONEHOPE California Brut Sparkling Wine by ONEHOPE. Half of the profits from this purchase go towards ending childhood hunger. $18.99 www.onehopewine.com

7. Envision Eau De Parfum by Pour le Monde. For every bottle purchased, 10% of the sale will benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. $95.00 www.plmparfums.com

8. Maya Yoga Bag by I AM. Every bag empowers indigenous women living in poverty to build a brighter future. $69.00 www.theiamidea.com 9. FEED + Links of London Bracelet by FEED. The purchase of this bracelet provides 50 school meals in areas with high rates of HIV/AIDS. $125.00 www.feedprojects.com 10. The Yankee by Pure Fix Cycles. With each purchase, $100.00 is donated towards charity: water to help fund operating costs. $325.00 www.charitywater.org 9 8 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

WELLNESS FOR LIFE

Are You Gluten Sensitive? By Dr. Susanne Bennett For countless Americans, wheat and other gluten-containing grains are a staple. However, over the last few years, there has been a jump in public awareness about the health issues caused by gluten consumption, and you can now find many gluten-free products at even the large supermarket chains. In this article, you’ll learn about the three different types of gluten sensitivities: gluten intolerance, gluten allergy, and Celiac disease, a harmful autoimmune disorder produced by a permanent gluten intolerance.

What is Gluten Intolerance? Gluten is a protein composite (formed of gliadin and glutenin) found in many cereal grains including wheat, barley, and rye. It gives bread its doughy texture and is extracted to be used in many fake meats consumed by vegetarians. Gluten intolerance occurs when your small intestine lack the enzymes to digest the gluten proteins. This leads to functional digestive symptoms such as heaviness, stomach pain, and constipation. As a food high in fermentable carbohydrates, wheat also relies on gut bacteria to break down completely, producing gas and bloating. Yet it’s brain fog and tiredness that are often the most noticeable symptoms. Many people think a “food coma” is a normal reaction after a dinner. It’s not! Food comas are most common after eating gluten-heavy products, and might be an indication you have a sensitivity. The inflammation caused by gluten can even make your body more reactive to allergens in the environment, such as pollen and dander. Physiological symptoms will go away once the offending agent (gluten grains) are eliminated from your diet.

What is Gluten Allergy? Gluten allergy is more severe than gluten intolerance. It is when your immune system has a true hypersensitive reaction to the specific gluten protein.Gluten allergy symptoms include rashes, hives, and itching as well as more serious reactions, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. This type of reaction can be fatal, therefore a gluten allergy person many need to carry an injectable medicine for anaphylactic emergency situation. 1 0 0 NCWMAGAZINE.COM

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder in which gluten is seen by the body as an antigen, that is, a harmful invader like a bacterium or virus. An immune response is triggered, causing inflammation in the body as gluten proteins are “attacked.” In this process, the small intestine is damaged, leading to the poor absorption of nutrients. In addition to the symptoms suffered by those with gluten sensitivity, Celiac disease can lead to anxiety and irritability, osteoporosis, and birth issues, such as infertility and miscarriage. Children with Celiac are especially sensitive to gluten, and it can cause developmental disorders. Even trace amounts of gluten can provoke intense symptoms for those with Celiac disease, and it must be avoided at all costs. If you suspect you may have Celiac disease, a blood test from your health care provider is your first line of defense. Around 1 percent of Americans are affected.

Why to Avoid Gluten

The best approach is to avoid gluten altogether. Not only is making the switch to rice, quinoa, or corn easy, but most stores have begun to carry gluten-free bread, pasta, and even cookies! Better still, avoiding wheat and other gluten products can help you include more vegetables and free-range meat in your diet. These are often less-processed, lower in carbohydrates, and higher in nutritional density than pasta, pizza, and bread. Try going gluten-free for even one week and see if you feel lighter, have more energy, experience less digestive issues and bloating, and maybe even lose a little weight. Your body will thank you! To learn more about gluten sensitivities, best strategies on how to eliminate food and inhalant allergies and restore vibrant health, Dr. Susanne’s book The 7-Day Allergy Makeover is available at www.the7dayallergymakeover.com. Don’t forget to ask for the awesome gifts!

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EARTH SENSE

Earth Day Resolutions:

Teaching Your Children Respect and Care for their Environment By Chris Faulkner, CEO Breitling Energy Corporation Childhood is a great time to instill green and sustainable practices that your children will carry on throughout their lives, creating a legacy that will pass through generations. As Earth Day approaches, now is a good time to review your family’s “greenness” and see if there are more ways you can help create a more sustainable future. Remember that you’re modeling green and sustainable practices for your children every day, and going green with your children can be like a game for them, and a timesaver for you. Let them sort the recycling and remind you to bring your reusable shopping bags, for example. Or create a game of it, awarding points for every green activity performed and rewarding them for points earned. Below are a few ways to get your kids involved in going green:

LIVE GREEN

• Teach kids to turn off lights when leaving a room—and to keep lights off until it’s truly necessary • Don’t let the water run—make sure everyone is leaving the water off while brushing teeth • Turn off computers and other electronic entertainment at night—let those overheated gizmos get some rest while the household sleeps • Use curtains wisely—during the day, leave them open to allow warm sunlight in and close them at night to insulate • Switch lightbulbs to CFLs (compact fluorescent light bulbs)—let your kids help by handing you the new bulb and holding onto the old one while you concentrate on staying balanced on the ladder

CONSUME GREEN

• Pay your bills online—your kids’ generation will pick up this habit like fish to water • Recycle—have the kids do the sorting and take advantage of curbside or community recycling programs • Buy fun and stylish reusable water bottles—your family will keep thousands of plastic bottles out of landfills while enjoying your water on ice, flavored or any way you like it

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• Keep electronics out of the trash—most electronics and batteries contain harmful toxins, so teach your children not to throw them into the trash; learn how and where to properly dispose by contacting your local waste disposal company

DRIVE GREEN

• Drive the speed limit—it’s not only more gas-efficient, it’ll model safe driving habits to your kids • Combine all your errands into one trip instead of several—have the kids help you make a list of all the stops you need to make and map out an efficient route • Carpool—share the driving with a co-workers, friends, and other parents • Telecommute—more and more employers allow people to work from home; find out if you can, too • Don’t let your car idle—if you think you’ll be parked more than a minute, turn it off • Check your tire pressure—underinflated tires create more rolling resistance and waste gas • Clean out your vehicle—every 250 pounds of extra stuff eats up an extra mile per gallon of gas

SHOP GREEN

• Stop using disposable bags—the kids can help you remember to bring your reusable bags • Shop at your local farmer’s market—you’ll support your local economy while cutting down on pollution caused by transporting grocery store produce long distances • Shop at vintage clothing and thrift stores (and donate your unwanted items, too)—teach children that you can recycle more than just glass, plastic and paper by recycling your clothing and household items • Check out the used items online—before you buy it new, see if you can buy it used

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BOOK REVIEWS

Yellow Owl’s LITTLE PRINTS: Stamp, Stencil, and Print Projects to Make for Kids by Christine Schmidt. Published by Potter Craft $21.99

Chocolate: Heavenly Recipes for Desserts, Cakes and Other Divine Treats by Jennifer Donovan. Published by Duncan Baird Publishers $16.95

Remodelista: A Manual for the Considered Home by Julie Carlson with the editors of Remodelista. Foreward by Julianne Moore. Published by Artisan $37.50

Chocolate lovers beware, every recipe included in Jennifer Donovan’s Chocolate is dangerously tempting. Whether you’re looking for something special to prepare for a dinner party, or you just have a sweet tooth, Donovan has you covered. Her collection of decadently, indulgent, yet easy to follow recipes range from cakes, to cookies, to pudding, to ice cream, and include tasty treats such as Hot Chocolate Soufflé and Frozen Chocolate Yogurt. This is one splurge that will be worth the extra time at the gym!

A must have for any design lover contemplating a décor redux, Remodelista is filled with beautiful photography documenting real examples and clever ideas. Whether you are just dreaming and need inspiration, or trying to wrap things up, Editor in Chief, Julie Carlson and the editors of Remodelista.com, have created the perfect guide to accompany you through every stage of your renovation. It even includes a valuable list of design resources to help you create a unique space that you will truly love to call home.

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Whether you are looking for crafty projects to do with your kids, decorating for a baby shower, or you just enjoy being creative, Christine Schmidt’s Yellow Owl’s LITTLE PRINTS has just what you’re looking for. Ranging from stamp, stencil, image transfer to print, Schmidt provides readers with a bevy of unique ideas with easy to follow directions. Complete with templates and resources, Yellow Owl’s LITTLE PRINTS is a great find for any design-savvy crafter.

The Good Mother Myth: Redefining Motherhood To Fit Reality by Avital Norman Nathman; Foreward by Christy Turlington Burns. Published by Seal Press, 2014. $16.00 We’ve all seen it, the unrealistic examples on TV of the ‘perfect mom’ that can do it all and juggle everything. Well, author and blogger Avital Norman Nathman is calling their bluff in The Good Mother Myth. This insightful anthology of stories from modern mothers breaks through the idyllic fantasy portrayed in the media of what a ‘Good Mother’ should be, and shows the reality, and the many different facets of motherhood. By bringing these stories together, Nathman weaves a colourful tapestry that re-defines, and beautifully illustrates what motherhood really looks like.

Thomas Pheasant: Simply Serene by Thomas Pheasant. Published by Rizzoli New York, 2013. $60.00 Award winning interior designer, Thomas Pheasant, recognized for the classicism he brings to interior spaces, is showcasing his projects in Simply Serene. Through beautiful imagery and eloquent explanation, Pheasant does more than present his work, but he also summarizes his design philosophy one fundamental principle at a time. Focusing on harmony, symmetry, order and quietude Pheasant proves to readers that traditional and contemporary styles don’t have to live separately, but can merge together to create a balanced and timeless space.

REMIX: Decorating with Culture, Objects, and Soul by Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason.Published by Potter Style $30.00 If you love eclectic design, soulful interiors and spaces rich in culture that evoke a feeling of worldly travel, then you will love REMIX. Designers and founders of AphroChic, Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason, take us on a visual tour of beautiful homes to demonstrate how the use of bold colors, unique artwork, striking patterns and handcrafted furniture can result in a global aesthetic reminiscent of the destination of your dreams.

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Say goodbye to uncomfortable tampons and plastic pads. Cloth pads and menstraul cups from GladRags are the better choice for your body and the planet. Good for you. Conventional disposable products can contain anything from plastics to wood pulp and fragrance to chemical gels – things you don’t want next to one of the most sensitive parts of your body! Choosing GladRags all-cotton pads or the medical-grade silicone Moon Cup means keeping your body free of unnecessary and harmful chemicals. And you’ll discover an easier, more comfortable period! Good for the planet. The average woman will use up to 12,000 disposable pads, panty liners, and tampons in her lifetime. That’s a lot of waste! Plus, think of the manufacturing, shipping, and packaging impact. GladRags last for years, helping you keep your environmental footprint small. As a certified Benefit Corporation, GladRags is committed to putting people and planet first in everything we do. Safe. Simple. Smart. Period.

NCW THE BOOK With beautiful photography, engaging content, and modern design NCW Sourcebook is the 1st ever A to Z Bible of Must-Haves for the modern family for parenthood and beyond. Divided per categories from nursery to fashion, furniture, alternative remedies and more, it features the latest and greatest in the world of sustainable lifestyle Orders yours online now.

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2014 NCW’S MUST-HAVES FOR THE MODERN FAMILY

An innovative video monitor featuring a revolutionary touch-screen controlled 3.5” LCD color video monitor. Parent convenience features include: recharging base for parent unit, 10-hour rechargeable battery, ability to add 3 additional cameras with auto-scan feature, power-save feature, LED sound activated lights, belt clip/flip stand and one-touch video on/off button for nighttime convenience.

This infant mattress features a certified organic coconut core layered with 1” of natural latex foam, the dual‐ sided design ensures a firm, breathable sleep space for infants and toddlers while the superior softness of the eucalyptus wrap provides comfort and convenience.

LARSEN TOY LAB Sticks and Stones WEE GALLERY Growth Chart Watch your kids grow like weeds right before your eyes with the Wee Gallery growth chart. Use the handwritten numbers to mark birthdays on the stem. Measures up to 5 feet in height. Wee Gallery Wall Graphics are made with Polypropylene, not PVC.

This toy set aims to add another educational layer to the vital learning experience that block play offers. The set comes with Cherry blocks that have a light beeswax finish and Maple blocks that have no finish at all. These blocks are all natural, hand-sanded, individually beveled, meet ASTM F963-08 safety standards, and American made.

GRO FURNITURE P.Pod 5 in 1 Companion Crib

Need Space? Bedroom Makeover! Hand crafted eco-friendly unfinished wood Loft & Bunk Beds for youth, tween, teen and college. Is your child in need of more creative space, a large desk for studying, a computer workstation or a large arts & crafts table? Are they ready for a bedroom makeover, need more room for sleepovers or ready to move into a Toddler Bed? Our selection of loft, bunk and youth beds make a great gift and are a fun family project to set up, paint and decorate together. Beds are heavy duty with 1000 lbs. of weight capacity allowing the whole family to climb into bed forbed time stories. Available in Ready-To-Assemble Kits. Custom Made and Hand Crafted in the USA. Lifetime Warranty. Mention this ad for a 5% discount 866-739-2331

Happy, healthy children need natural support to help keep them smiling and at their best. In fact, that’s exactly what led Marietta Harrison to create Soothie Suckers. She went in search of natural and gentle ways to promote the health of her five children, and in doing so, discovered a world of herbs that parents have turned to for thousands of years. Tapping into that ancient wisdom, Marietta developed Soothie Suckers – the first natural ice pop infused with herbal remedies whose herbal blends have been formulated in conjunction with the President of the American Herbalists Guild. Your kids will love the sweet taste and you’ll love that there are no artificial ingredients whatsoever!

YouthBedLofts.com/ncw

www.soothiesuckers.com

resources

NOOK SLEEP SYSTEMS Pebble Pure Mattress

2013 ECO-EXCELLENCE RETRACTION

SUMMER INFANT Baby Touch Boost Digital Color Video Monitor

Originating from the desire to provide a clean, pure crib design with the convenience, simplicity and quality to become a true heirloom, the P. Pod 5 in 1 Crib was born. Realizing that disposable furniture is anything but sustainable or affordable, the P Pod Convertible Crib provides continued useful life through its multiple uses as well as unsurpassed quality.

Submit your product for the 2014 NCW Eco-Excellence Awards™ at www.ncwmagazine.com

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