sip the world

Glass Straws and the Beauty Connection

2012-02-08T20:49:00.000-08:00

First encounters with a GlassDharma Glass Straw will often produce an expansion of ideas about the many benefits that these products have for straw users. Not only does the environment benefit, but the beauty and function of Glass Straws attract creative minds.

Meet Adeline Chan, Nutritionist by day, Beauty Blogger by night. Adeline stopped into Eco Existence in Toronto on her way home from work and bought herself a GlassDharma Glass Straw. She was so excited to share the news with her readers and fans that she immediately tweeted a video to show her ideas about glass straws and the benefits of keeping her teeth whiter.

The more she used her new straws, the more she came to love them. Here is what she has to say about Glass Straws:

You can visit Adeline’s blog, “Adeline al a Carte” to see the latest products and tips to maintain beauty and healthy living.

Jars & Straws

2012-01-23T13:08:00.000-08:00

hot cinnamon tea

Reuse, the very idea behind the creation of glass straws is the ultimate eco act. What we reuse, we will not throw away. Reuse it, and there is no need to recycle or repurpose it. Millions of “disposable” items will no longer have importance once one makes the choice toward reusing items as a daily habit.

Glass jars are once again the popular choice for food storage and as drink-ware. The Mason canning jar is seen on elegant table settings for special events, even weddings! What a great way to use… and reuse. Once you have finished the contents of your home canned goods, you might serve your guests (and yourself) your favorite beverages using these sturdy glass vessels time and time again.

If parties and social gatherings no longer “required” single use cups, bottles and cans for beverage service, there would be a huge revolution in awareness of how many objects we carelessly toss into the trashcan! The years have brought about these conveniences with little thought to the long term picture of where the excess trash accumulates and how it might change the way nature works.

Setting up your party will be a cinch with bowls of ice and your own individually “bottled” beverages! Put out a basket for the empty jars and lids and put out the reusable straws in glasses, vases or straw dispensers. The elegance of this simple idea will be noticed and the ideas about reusable drink-ware will branch out through your guests. Examples of this type will show a new earth friendly way to be stylishly trendy while have some fun with your décor and display.

Enjoy your gatherings and keep your venue Earth-friendly. Each of your guests will benefit and so will you! We all live on this one Planet together and the care we take depends on each of us - and all of us collectively.

Party On!

Secure Your Straw

2012-01-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

Glass Straws are rapidly gaining in popularity. Proper handling ensures that your glass straw will last a lifetime. Reusing the same straw repeatedly is key to reducing the need for plastics and the perils that they cause in our environment.

Glass Straws placed in the dishwasher are able to withstand the temperature changes. This method of cleaning is recommended for optimum sanitation practices. The clear glass of GlassDharma straws allow you to see inside the straw. There is no guesswork about something being stuck inside your straw!

The silverware baskets on different dishwashers do vary and some reports of the 7mm (dia.) “Sipper” size straw slipping through the openwork of the basket have caused incidences of the straw jamming the slide-out rack. GlassDharma is known to manufacture the most durable glass straws on the market, but no glass is totally unbreakable, so solving this issue will be in your straw’s best interest.

One tried and true method is to line your basket compartment with openwork rubberized shelf liner. This should keep the straws form sliding through the bigger holes, yet allow the water and soap to properly reach and clean your straws.

A better method avoids plastic product altogether and uses stainless steel screening. The first thing you will want to do is measure the space that compartmentalizes your glass straws. Many tea strainers on the market are available in different sizes shapes and depths. Some are easily bent with a pair of pliers to accommodate the space in question. This solution is an easy fix, just make sure you place your glass straws in the appropriate section each time you load your dishwasher!

Speaking of Glass

2011-11-28T19:48:00.000-08:00

FaceBook is a valuable tool that many of us use to stay connected with each other and the establishments we patronize. Businesses and their customers now have a social forum to interact and exchange information and ideas. As the GlassDharma community grows on FaceBook, it is apparent that GlassDharma customers want more than a product that helps to save our planet from excessive waste. The world becomes a little smaller as we can easily converse with other Facebook users and answer questions as they are asked.

Recently, a discussion was initiated by “Angie”. She was curious about where our glass comes from. Not just the location of the supplier we use, but where exactly our materials were manufactured. She explained that she has some concerns about buying serve-ware and drink-ware that was made from materials that originated in China. She had read about colored glass tubing coming from Asian markets and wanted to be sure of the origin of the products she was contemplating purchasing.

It is important to note that once upon a time, during the beginning of GlassDharma’s existence, colored glass straws were offered as part of the product line. They were made of the same colored tubing that Angie spoke of. It was soon decided by GlassDharma management that the quality and availability was too inconsistent for quality control purposes. Some of the colored tubing shipments had come into the loading docks at GlassDharma only to be returned due to surface scratching imperfections.

clear glass tubing

Some of the tubing that was received was out of round, they were actually oval shaped. Also, a full palette of color was brought into stock in several sizes that were needed only to discover that a certain color in a particular size would be unavailable for months at a time. They also discovered that what was called “heavy-wall tubing” was actually a medium wall thickness as compared to other brands on the market.

Moreover, the biggest concern was not being able to verify that the glass was being manufactured under ethical working conditions. Needless to say, these were unsatisfactory standards for GlassDharma, so the line was eliminated.

Angie’s FaceBook questions made their way to GlassDharma Owner/Founder, David Leonhardt who expanded on the fact of where GlassDharma glass materials originate. David explains, “There is not any borosilicate tubing manufactured in the USA. Simax is made in the Czech Republic. Pyrex is made in Japan. Schott is made in Germany, etc.” With a sigh in his voice, he declares, “yes, we have done a good job of sending work outside of the USA.”

Angie was particularly interested in the origin of the colored glass used to create the “Decorative Dots” that are fused to the outside of the straw. The “Decorative Dots” line is a signature line of GlassDharma straws.

David continues his explanation, “Colored tubing is made exclusively in China. Colored borosilicate (solid rod) is made by about 6 or 7 companies located in the USA, Australia and Canada as well as several other countries, including China. For GlassDharma Decorative Dots, we select the colors according to the color palette needed by our design. Each company that makes colored borosilicate rod makes anywhere from 12 to 120 colors and there is very little overlap, so our options are severely limited.”

Quality Control at GlassDharma

“GlassDharma recognizes that trade with China is the wave of the future, but it is also part of the present – just look at how much of the computer you are reading this on comes from China. However, until we can verify the working conditions there, we are doing our utmost to minimize and eliminate our use of glass from China. At this point in time, the only color that GlassDharma uses that comes from China is the amber color used for the Decorative Dots. We are currently looking at new colors that are being developed and manufactured domestically as a suitable replacement.”

Angie thanks David for the information but is still leery of buying beverage-ware with the possibility of Chinese manufactured glass.

She lets GlassDharma know this through the comment thread, “I really don't like to use anything from China that I will be eating off of or drinking out of, but would have loved to get your straws to reuse.”

Angie is urged to look into the ‘Beautiful Bends’ or the ‘Simple Elegance’ styles that require no use of colored glass in their making. The discussion continues and Angie asks, “Which country does your clear glass come from?”

GlassDharma buys clear borosilicate tubing from a supplier in California, the brand of tubing GlassDharma has been using until recently is Simax® from the Czech Republic. They have now switched over to Schott® which comes from Germany.

Angie concluded the discussion thread with the fact that she had decided to ordered her GlassDharma Straws!

"Decorative Dots" made with clear Glass

Friends of Glass

2011-11-13T12:46:00.000-08:00

When David was a young boy, he remembers his mother putting away leftovers in a serving bowl. If there was not a matching lid, a dinner-plate was used to cover the food contained while stored in the refrigerator. It was a time when the milkman left milk on the porch in thick glass bottles and condiments, foods and beverages were packaged in glass. If you were thirsty, you had a “glass” of water. Even small children learned to drink from glassware, there were no sippy cups.

As the years rolled by, David Leonhardt began to pursue his interest in lampworking glass. His hobby soon became his profession and his passion. The beauty of the glass caught his attention at a time when glass products were quickly being replaced with more and more plastic. After 10 years, he changed careers to business accounting only to find, seven years later, that a purposeful change of location led him right back to his craft as a lampworker.

“I started doing some work for a local glass shop in town and noticed that the owner had glass drinking straws for sale,” states David in his website. “I had never heard of these before and I am always intrigued by something made out of glass that I hadn’t thought of. I was struck by the unique elegance in such a simple item.”

“I immediately recognized that here was a partial solution to our “plastics problem”. So, I created the GlassDharma line of glass drinking straws and the GlassDharma website to contribute one solution to the overabundance of single use plastics in our society.”

The quest to formulate the most durable glass products possible led David straight to the technical support staff at Corning, Inc. where he found answers, backed by science, to the “art” of the annealing process.

Baffled by the variety of answers he had received from other lampworkers about the annealing process, David implemented what he learned from Corning, Inc. and subsequently developed an annealing process, “which has been one of the cornerstones of our Company’s success”. Simply by focusing on durability.

Did you know GlassDharma Straws are guaranteed for life against breakage?! Also the taste of drinking though glass straws versus reusable straws made from other materials has been a big convincing factor to those who have tried GlassDharma glass straws for the first time. They are easy to clean, suitable for hot and cold beverages, and have a smooth feel to your lips thanks to their fire-polished finish.

David Leonhardt and Gail Johnson, owners of GlassDharma since 2007 are committed to the environmental mission behind the manufacturing and sales of their products. Each time someone chooses to reuse their glass straw, one more single-use plastic straw is not made. As one takes a baby step by applying this idea to one small, ordinary item, it ignites the spiraling thought process… and the idea of choosing to re-use takes on an application to bigger things.

Note for the Editor of "Blog in a Bottle":
"David and his wife, Gail are also ambassadors of Friends of Glass who help us spread the positive word. We couldn’t be any prouder."

Message On a Straw

2011-09-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sip The World. Taste The Difference!

GlassDharma – The Original Glass Straw, handmade in the U.S.A
(Fort Bragg – CA) –September 28, 2011 – Custom Etching is now available on GlassDharma Glass Straws. Personalization brings new possibilities to this latest eco-trend to carry your own reusable glass straw so you can say, “No Thanks!” to single-use plastic straws.

The Statement of a Glass Straw
Corporate logos and Wedding mementos spell out a double message when elegantly etched onto a glass straw. Companies known for their commitment to environmental concerns will send their powerful message when their logo is clearly displayed on these beautiful straws. Planning a green wedding? Include Bride and Groom names and the special date showing your Love and Commitment for each other and for our Planet. Etched glass straws add the detailed touch to the signature cocktail, customizing your barware service or as an elegant favor for special celebrations.

Purchasing Etched Glass Straws
Set up costs include a 50 straw minimum to qualify for best pricing. Unique requests may vary so please contact GlassDharma for details and recommendations. Orders will typically ship within a two to three week timeframe. Please let our staff know how we might assist you with your special requests.

GlassDharma Straws are Durable, Sustainable and Elegant
GlassDharma straws are made from borosilicate glass, the safest and strongest glass commercially available; they are even dishwasher and microwave safe! The GlassDharma Quality Control department ensures the quality of each and every straw. Offering an unprecedented lifetime guarantee, GlassDharma stands behind their product, and promises that if it breaks, it will be repaired or replaced. Although every straw we make comes with our Hassle-Free Lifetime Guarantee against breakage, due to the high setup costs, we cannot guarantee the etching on the straw. If your etched straw should ever break, we will gladly replace it without the etching. If you want to have your replacement straw etched, you would need to pay the setup cost.

Garnish your Glass
GlassDharma straws not only replace their plastic and toxic counterparts, but their beauty and style lend to compliments and conversation.
• Great for all hot or cold drinks
• Perfectly stages specialty drinks – bubble teas, iced drinks, shakes and smoothies
• Beautiful in cocktails – great accessory for stemware and martini glasses
• Concerned about staining your teeth? Use for wine, coffee and teas
• Kid friendly and safe
• Elegance at its best

One for Everyone
GlassDharma straws are available in three collections: Simple Elegance, Beautiful Bend, and the color accented Decorative Dots. Offered in many lengths and widths, GlassDharma straws are available individually or in sets. The accessory line includes cleaning brushes and hemp soft sleeves for carrying your straws on the go.

GlassDharma Glass Straws bring the new eco-definition to “Sipping Responsibly”.

For more information on GlassDharma, please visit www.glassdharma.com.

For high-resolution images, samples, and to learn more…

David Leonhardt, Pres.

GlassDharma Head Office
info@glassdharma.com
707.964.9350

Gail Johnson, V-Pres.
Partnerships and Promotions
gail@glassdharma.com
707.964.9350

Cheryl Newcomb, PublicRelations
cn@glassdharma.com
209.406.2881

New! Packaging for Store Display!

2011-09-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

"She got me on the plastic tape!" declared David Leonhardt during a staff meeting in 2008. His exclamation was in reference to Beth Terry's Blog review of GlassDharma Glass Straws. David saw this strike against his trying to become totally environmentally freindly with his business as an opportunity to learn and take his own eco-minded attitudes to the next level.

Shipping GlassDharma Glass Straws with priority on the ecological effect of the packaging is a number one priority! Many ideas, designs and recommended options were scrapped during the process of finding packing friendly, user friendly and store/shelf ready options that keep our environment's well-being in mind. Numerous consultations with many experts in the area of eco options and packaging have taken place over the span of time since GlassDharma Glass Straws made their debut. The careful weighing of materials and costs have produced some exciting discoveries and results.

Coming Soon!!
Are you operating a brick & mortar storefront?
GlassDharma is going to make it easy for glass straws to fly out the door!

Starting in October, GlassDharma will be shipping with new packaging designed to be displayed with standard peg hook, slatboard display systems.

We are taking pre-orders for our display system and here is what you get:
248 Straws
64 Cleaning Brushes
36 Hemp Sleeves

= $1481.50 Total value, plus freight

Here’s how GlassDharma will sweeten the deal for wholesale accounts. Pre-order the complete display system by October 1st and you will receive:
-$181.50 Discount
-$100.00 No charge for the display rack
-$75.00 Free freight (estimated) (US only, international orders receive a $75.00 credit)
-$356.50 Total estimated savings (approx 22.5%)

= $1200.00 Total cost for display rack and inventory shipped to you

You say you prefer our online shipping friendly packaging we have now? No worries – our current packaging will still be available for online retailers.

Or methods of keeping EarthCare forefront as we pack our reusable Glass Straws for transport are described below:

• Corrugated cardboard: 40% recycled content, 15% post consumer content (We just can’t get any higher recycled content without jeopardizing package stability.) Chipboard boxes/sleeves: 100% recycled 97% post consumer content.
• We use organic cotton balls when packaging the shorty straws for online shipping.
• We use a spray glue on packaging that is water based and non-toxic. The can, including the cap and nozzle is completely recyclable.
• Shipping filler: We design our packing for minimal if any filler. When filler is used, used newspapers plus any compostable reused paper products are used.
• Shipping tape: Paper shipping tape.

We are happy to manufacture and pack our products while keeping eco-mindful of our beautiful surroundings that we share with each of you, our customers from around the Globe.

"I Love My Straws!"

2011-07-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

You might think that GlassDharma straw users would would be somewhat disgruntled if their glass straw accidentally breaks. Thanks to the GlassDharma Lifetime Guarantee Against Breakage, this occasional occurrence will bring the broken straw back “home” to the GlassDharma manufacturing facility for repair or replacement. The unprecedented GlassDharma Guarantee applies as a means of Quality Control - as well as making sure loyal glass straw users will continue to choose reusable over single-use and plastic straw options.
GlassDharma Glass Straws have a special claim to fame. One exceptional variable is GlassDharma’s specific formula used in the annealing process that produces the highest tensile strength possible for their Borosilicate Glass Products. The durability of GlassDharma straws will not deem them totally unbreakable, however. Some sippers may be tempted to “test” the durability factor and if they do, they are often surprised. But, please know that this type of experimentation may exclude you as a recipient of the Lifetime Guarantee Against Breakage.

There are two main reasons that a GlassDharma straw might break:
1. They are made of “real” glass.
2. Glass Straw care handling may vary.

Sipper Safety is a main concern of David Leonhardt who makes sure that the GlassDharma Guarantee process is followed through as quickly as possible. “I would never want someone to be tempted to keep using a cracked or chipped or defective straw. We offer this Guarantee to ensure 100% quality.”

Unlike many other companies, The GlassDharma Guarantee Against Breakage does not require a special replacement fee or the typical customer paid shipping cost for the replacement straw. Simply send the broken straw back to GlassDharma following the instructions on the website.

Many customers that return a broken straw for repair or replacement include a note that often contains three components:
1. An apology for not being more careful in handling choices.
2. Expression of gratitude for the quality of the product and its function.
3. The all-inclusive phrase, “I love my straws!”

“I can’t think of a business or product that honors a guarantee to replace a broken item that the feedback is so positive,” exclaims Gail Johnson as she tacks another “I love my straws” testimonial to the bulletin board. “Many of our customers express compliments to us about the product and appreciate the guarantee and customer service. How many people joyfully return a product to a company for replacement with positive testimony to the product’s worthiness?”

http://www.smallstepsonourjourney.com/

In response to an email from a customer asking about appropriate ages for children using glass straws, David writes, “As for children, we have a very large customer base that includes kids (even toddlers). We always advise age appropriate supervision. We have not had a single report of any injuries. If they can learn to drink out of glass (instead of a sippy cup), they should be able to learn to handle glass straws – the danger factor in my mind would be the same. Obviously, if a straw becomes chipped or broken it should not be used. This is one reason we offer our Lifetime Guarantee against Breakage. Return any broken or chipped straw made by GlassDharma to us and we will gladly replace it.” Gail adds, “No sword fights - please”.

GlassDharma maintains the highest integrity sales and service, honoring customers with a superb product and rapid delivery. Each step taken is to make sure that sipping through glass straws is safe, enjoyable and a step toward learning how to say no to single-use plastics.

If you have not yet joined the “I Love My Straws” Club, consider this post an open invitation!

---------------

Some Testimonials from our growing “I Love My Straws” Club.

“I just can’t tell you how much I am enjoying the glass straws. When my friends and I meet for dinner, I pull out a clean straw for everyone and we enjoy our drinks and dinner in style, refusing the plastic straws offered. I had never realized how many straws that we use… at work, getting drinks at fast-food places and at restaurants. Just one person can use several in one day and never give it a thought! I am becoming aware of how wasteful we all are.

"Thanks again for a great product and your awesome customer service. I will continue to pass your information on to others.” – Joy L.

And from Texas-
"My glass straws remain my very favorite 'green' purchase" – Sheri F.

From FaceBook:
Meagan wrote: "Wow!! I love it! Congrats David! Can't wait to see where you go with it. My straws you made are indispensable :)"

“Love them! Thanks!” L.M. Seattle, WA

“Mr. Sippy took a 2 ft dive out of a water glass and much have hit his ‘head’ just right….): But we love (triple underline) these straws!!!! (:” A.F. Green Bay, WI

“Love your straws; they just can’t quite handle a fall from our kitchen counter top to the tile floor. We’ll be more careful!” M.V. Norman, OK

“My husband bought me 2 of these – I love them. I use them for tea drinking. Please send me another straw soon!” S.D. Lake Wales, FL

“My husband broke his straw. Thank you for replacing it”. D.S. Tucson, AZ

“Please replace. Can’t live without it!!!” M.M. Placentia, CA

“I want to say thank you in advance for replacing my straw. Unfortunately it fell on the tile floor after my glass tipped over. I used this straw everyday since I received it and have to tell you I think it is great! Thanks again for replacing it.” J.K. Palm Springs, FL

“The straw was part of a gift to me from a past boyfriend… He gave me two sets of four Decorative Dots straws, and I absolutely LOVE them. I was hoping to get more for Christmas or my upcoming birthday, but if not, I will be purchasing more!” S.W. Pensacola FL

“P.S. Love your straws!” D.P. Pinellas Park, FL

“Dear GlassDharma,
Apologies but one of our lovely new glass straws has broken. We are returning it for repair/replacement. We love the straws. They are brilliant. Thank you so much” G.Q. Wales, Britian

“I love the set of 4 I bought….Thanks so much!!” S.R. Kamuela, HI

“Thank you – my toddler & I LOVE your straws and use them daily! (:” N.C. Orlando, FL

“…Love your straws & so do my readers!” B.M. Portland, OR

“Thank you very much. Your straws are great. We use them to avoid plastic leaching into our drinks.” P.F. Camarillo, CA

“Sorry ): We love our straws…” K. C. Goleta, CA

“Love your product and have turned lots of others on to it.” C.V. Livermore, CA

“Hi! Love the set of four straws that I bought…..Please repair or replace..Thank you! L.B. Delray, FL.

"I went to the PO the other day and got my straws. I LOVE THEM! I wasn't totally convinced that I would use them, as I don't normally use straws, but they are great with the latest 'cocktails' that I am drinking." D.E. Stockton, CA

Press Release - June 2011 - Sip The World. Taste The Difference!

2011-06-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sip The World. Taste The Difference!

GlassDharma – The Original Glass Straw, handmade in the U.S.A

(Fort Bragg – CA) –June 3, 2011 – Glass Straws are the latest eco-trend with GlassDharma leading the way as more and more people across the globe say “No Thanks!” to plastic straws. Known for their uniqueness, strength, and beauty, GlassDharma straws are about the best life has to offer - healthy living promoting a healthy world with a “touch of glass”.

Glass Straws – Reuse and Reduce
David Leonhardt, founder and master lampworker at GlassDharma, believes in the mission behind his exquisite glass straw product line. David explains how Reusing glass straws Reduces the waste that shows up in our landfills and the oceans. “My commitment is 3-fold - creating the highest quality, most durable glass straws, having them be elegant and stylish and for them to serve an important purpose! As I work with other people in the sustainable living community, educating people about the benefits of glass and the negative effects of plastic, I benefit in return, by learning more about living with a greener footprint.”

GlassDharma Straws are Durable, Sustainable and Elegant
The GlassDharma Quality Control department ensures the quality of each and every straw. Offering an unprecedented lifetime guarantee, GlassDharma stands behind their product, and promises that if it breaks, it will be repaired or replaced. GlassDharma straws are made from borosilicate glass, the safest and strongest glass commercially available; they are even dishwasher and microwave safe! The GlassDharma team is so confident with their product, that they will extend a full refund if a customer is not satisfied. When asked how reusable steel straws compare to GlassDharma glass straws, David states, “We have been told that people don’t like the metallic taste, and that they love the ability to see that their GlassDharma straws are sparkling clean on the inside especially when they use our stainless steel cleaning brushes! Try them and let us know what you think!”

Garnish your Glass
GlassDharma straws not only replace their plastic and toxic counterparts, but their beauty and style lend to compliments and conversation.
• Great for all hot or cold drinks
• Perfectly stages specialty drinks – bubble teas, iced drinks, shakes and smoothies
• Beautiful in cocktails – great accessory for stemware and martini glasses
• Concerned about staining your teeth? Use for wine, coffee and teas
• Kid friendly and safe
• Elegance at its best

One for Everyone
GlassDharma straws are available in three collections: Simple Elegance, Beautiful Bend, and the color accented Decorative Dots. Offered in many lengths and widths, GlassDharma straws are available individually or in sets. The accessory line includes cleaning brushes and hemp soft sleeves for carrying your straws on the go.

I Love My Straws!
The most common phrase heard at GlassDharma from their customers. Create your own GlassDharma Experience and you too will become a member of the “I Love My Straws” fan club! Take your GlassDharma straw in your favorite GlassDharma Hemp Sleeve on the go and taste the difference while you are making a difference!

GlassDharma Glass Straws bring the new eco-definition to “Sipping Responsibly”.

For more information on GlassDharma, please visit www.glassdharma.com.

For high-resolution images, samples, and to learn more…

David Leonhardt - President
GlassDharma Head Office
info (at) glassdharma.com
http://glassdharma.com/

Gail Johnson - Vice President
artnerships and Promotions
gail (at) glassdharma.com

Cheryl Newcomb - PR Dept.
Public Relations & Marketing
cn (at) glassdharma.com

600 LETTERS!

2011-04-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

Wow! over 600 letters have been mailed to favorite restaurants asking them to look into ways to reduce their trash - specifically - straw trash!

Why straws?

Think how many you have used in a lifetime ... where do they go once you have finished your beverage?

Earth Day 2011 - GlassDharma "write a letter for a free glass straw" campaign continues through April 30th. There is still time to get a free straw! - But wait - There is a momentum that seems not so much about getting a free glass straw... might the letters continue and multiply?

We want to thank our dedicated Blog Team for helping us get word out that each of us is able to do something to improve our Home Planet that we all share together. Yes, we are all roomates - sort of..... we need to get along and keep things cleaned up! :)

Introducing our Earth Day 2011 Blog team:

Safer Choices

My Plastic Free Life

It Starts With Me

Sip The World

Retro Housewife Goes Green

Clean Eating Chelsey

Seven In The Ocean

Recycle Your Day

It’s not the destination

The Green Phone Booth

That’s The Spirit

More importantly, We thank YOU! Over 500 letter writers that approached their favorite Establishments asking them to lead the way to better future......

Not everyone was so excited about the 2011 Earth Day Capmpiagn.

David Leonhardt recieved this email from Ginger:
"I came upon your website and found it interesting. The concept seems fine but I don't see how it would work. Are you suggesting that people bring their own glass straws to the restaurant? I can't see the restaurant providing these since they seem to be pricey.

I don't really think that I would have a use for them. I am concerned about the cleaning and breakage issue and what if the children chew on these. I do not think this is something that I would trust for use with my little grandson. I can see that over time there could be an issue with chipping and that could lead to something serious. I think that this is an expense that people could do without. Thank you for your time."

His response:
"Thank you for your concerns and comments.

I am not a big straw user either except when it comes to thick shakes or smoothies (My wife Gail is though). Yes, why do we need a beverage delivery system, anyway? Well the fact is, is that there are plenty of folks out there that do use straws. And they might as well be sustainable if they do. McDonald’s serves over 60 MILLION meals a DAY!! How many do you thing were given plastic straws? Straws are here to stay – we just need to make them more sustainable. And, yes, many folks do carry their straw with them. Sometimes with their To-GoWare or similar paraphernalia similar to folks that bring their own grocery bags when shopping.

As for children, we have a very large customer base that includes kids (even toddlers). We always advise age appropriate supervision. We have not had a single report of any injuries. If they can learn to drink out of glass (instead of a sippy cup), they should be able to learn to handle glass straws – the danger factor in my mind would be the same. Obviously, if a straw becomes chipped or broken it should not be used. This is one reason we offer our Lifetime Guarantee against Breakage. Return any broken or chipped straw made by GlassDharma to us and we will gladly replace it.

As for the cleaning; we offer cleaning brushes and for carrying your straw with you, we offer hemp sleeves.

As for pricing, yes 1 glass straw costs much more than a plastic one, but the plastic one is used once and thrown away (BTW - where is away?). We have reports of folks that buy plastic straws by the box repeatedly. A glass straw will last a lifetime – much cheaper in the long run.

All in all, our society has a disposable mentality and plastic has certainly filled that mind set. However, we are just now finding out how damaging plastic is to the environment and to our bodies. If you have not heard much about this, I recommend Beth Terry’s blog “myplasticfreelife.com”. She is an excellent writer and researcher on the subject of plastic and entertaining as well.

My hope is that I have alleviated at least some of your concerns as stated in our email. I welcome civil conversations with differing viewpoints and if I have not addressed your concerns to your satisfaction, I invite you to continue this conversation."

Sip The World recieved so many comments so quickly that the comments section got all jammed up (a nice problem to have)! If you are having trouble posting in the comments section, please use this post or any of the above mentioned posts. Your letter counts!

We are all in this together!

Now here is a very cool part of the whole story: Through this campaign, GlassDharma has connected with Milo Cress! It turns out that Milo and GlassDharma community members were doing the exact same thing!

See this video --> http://www.wptz.com/news/27123771/detail.html

Check out some more suggestions from Milo. Thank you, Milo!

Happy Earth Day - Please Sip Responsibly!

Earth Day 2011 - Free Glass Straws!

2011-04-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

David Leonhardt walks along the beaches of the Mendocino Coastline, occasionally bending down to pick up a piece of trash to carry away with him in an effort to preserve the beauty of this magnificent area. He realizes how futile some would think this simple act is to remove a couple of pieces of trash, when the problem of more trash seems so daunting. Yet, most of David’s philosophies about making the world a better place start with a simple item, a simple act, a simple change in habit. He believes in the power of just starting somewhere… and how a simple, small act can gain momentum and become the catalyst for greater solutions that have a huge impact!

David and Teddy on Mendocino Beach - David is holding a broken plastic oar that he found lying on the beach.

David founded his Company, GlassDharma on the idea and principle of starting with something small, simple and ordinary, a drinking straw! This example of replacing an everyday single-use plastic item with a reusable straw has become a “teaching tool” that inspires many to make a switch toward reducing waste and eliminating the need for plastics in general. His vision of a clean Planet and Healthy environment for all who live here is only attainable if we just start somewhere. Awareness is the key toward action.

For Earth Day 2009, GlassDharma gave away Free Glass Straws. Determined to get 500 free glass straws into the hands (or lips) of those who never considered the impact of “throw away” straws, was David’s goal and he succeeded well beyond that number. Earth Day 2010, he and his wife, Gail Johnson approached Café Gratitude with the idea to co-brand 1000 Glass Straws to give away at their locations. The successful Earth Day project brought together ideas and philosophies of Food and Gratitude linking to a desire for Planet Care.

As Earth Day 2011 draws near, David turns to his trusted friends and mentors, the Blogger Community who faithfully promotes his Company and products. The group quickly brought forth ideas to expand on the idea of giving away free glass straws and how the “gift” might produce the most impact.

You are invited to participate in The GlassDharma Free Glass Straw Giveaway for Earth day 2011!

To enter, simply choose a restaurant and write a letter to the managers/owners suggesting they take responsibility for the growing amounts of single use straw trash that is clogging waterways, choking wildlife and littering our entire Planet. The letter is intended to spur thought and contain helpful suggestions of how they can be leaders in the changes that will heal our Earth’s trash problems. Keep in mind there are many people that do not even give a thought to where plastic straws might go to once they are “thrown away” or just how many accumulate over time!
This link will show some example suggestions to restaurants. http://glassdharma.blogspot.com/2010/11/whats-on-menu.html

Here are the steps to take to win a your free GlassDharma Glass Straw and qualify for the Grand Prize of $100.00 Gift Certificate for GlassDharma products:
1) Write and send a letter to a restaurant -- (up to 5 different restaurants for up to 5 free straws)
2) Copy your letter (please include full contact information of the restaurant) into a comment on this blog.
3) Send an email to earthday@glassdharma.com with a copy of your letter and please include the contact info of the restaurant AND your personal contact info so that a free GlassDharma Glass Straw can be mailed to you.
Note: *Contact information for entrants and restaurants must include, full name, mailing address and email address.

A GlassDharma Simple Elegance Glass Straw (SE9.5NA8) will be mailed to each participant directly from the GlassDharma manufacturing facility in Fort Bragg, CA for writing the letter and including the contact information. Yes, each participant gets a free glass straw! One free straw per entry (limit 5 per participant, one for each letter/restaurant).

GlassDharma will award one Grand Prize Winner a $100.00 gift certificate coupon code. There will be a few bloggers involved in this project, but only one Grand Prize Winner. Entries will be received through 4/30/2011 and all straws will be shipped between May 2nd and 4th. The Grand Prize drawing will be held on May 4, 2011.

*Participants from USA and Canada only will be eligible for this contest.

Some additional Earth Day 2011 promotions hosted by GlassDharma include:

Earth Month Special Buy a “Shorty” bamboo straw case and a cleaning brush to receive a free 12mm X 6.25” Shorty” Glass Straw!

Finally, but more importantly GlassDharma reaches out to Japan in this time of great need. David Leonhardt and Gail Johnson are designating 100% of your purchase dollars for a SE9.5x8 inch glass straw to be sent directly to the city of Otsuchi, sister town of the GlassDharma manufacturing facility location - Fort Bragg, California.

Together – we make the difference!

- Happy Earth Day 2011 – from GlassDharma -

note: As the days near the end of our campaign, our comments section has been so busy that there are a few bugs being reported. If you are having trouble posting in our comments section there are more options: Please see --> http://glassdharma.blogspot.com/2011/04/500-letters.html
You might want to post your letter in the comments sections of either of these posts OR in any of the featured Bogs listed. Your letter counts!

Rethinking Plastics

2011-04-10T17:04:00.000-07:00

David Leonhardt and Gail Johnson, owners of GlassDharma attended the “Rethinking Plastics” seminar on March 25th . The event was held in Fort Bragg, CA and featured Stuart Moody of Green Sangha who spoke to their own local community about the effects of plastics in our oceans and on our planet.

Their interest in this topic is at the core of why their company is manufacturing Glass Drinking Straws, presently sold in over 30 countries around the globe. Promoting the idea of reusable glass straws is a powerful tool to teach the idea of choosing reusable items vs. single use plastics. One small item like an ordinary drinking straw can spur a much broader thought process, which is applicable to other choices that are environmentally sound. David is seen in this photo with "Teddy" as they scour the Mendocino coastline beaches for trash.

Moody is a representative and advocate of Green Sangha, an Oakland-based spiritual group dedicated to environmental activism. The philosophy of inspiring “awakened” action has helped create several active chapters in Marin, Sonoma and the East Bay. In is talk, Stuart Moody inspired Mendocino Coast residents to increase their awareness of using single-use plastics by keeping track of how much they actually use in a year.. “This includes everything from dental floss to the stickers from your organic fruit, he said. “Save it up and weigh it at the end of a year,”

He spoke of fellow Green Sangha member Beth Terry who is also a friend of Gail and David’s. Beth Terry, Founder of “My Plastic Free Life” (formerly fakeplasticfish) began with her quest by simply tracking the plastic in her life. .

Moody isn’t a plastics hater. He started the presentation by laying out the history of innovation and adaptation that made plastics one of the most amazing products in human history.

Moody spoke at the meeting, detailing the downward spiral of harm this ingenious product is causing and will continue to cause. Ideas that other communities have developed with the help of Green Sangha include setting up meetings with merchants that track the costs of single-use plastics, not just bags. Other ideas include special beach cleanups and getting people to see how long they can stick to the pledge of not buying any single-use plastics.

The event, sponsored by ‘Mendocino Coast Transition Towns’ Recycling and Reuse Working Group was co-sponsored by MendoPower Employment Services. MendoPower offered a barter pile during the meeting where people brought one or more reusable items and in return, they were invited to take an equal number away. “Reuse is really important. Recycling is often just a fancy way of throwing things away,” said Moody.

During the meeting, MendoPower detailed plans for its April 2 “Whale-of-a-Sale” Live Auction to be held at the Senior Center. Whale-of-a-Sale will raise money for both the Senior Center and MendoPower and will help to create a community recycling and reuse center as well as temporary employment services. Co-sponsor Mendocino Coast Transition Towns is part of a national and international movement to recreate new regional economies so that they are local, sustainable, and resilient.

If you were unable to attend, and would like to get involved, please email us at info@transitionmendocinocoast.org
or call Charles Cresson Wood at 707-937-5572.

Stay connected:
Join our Mendocino Coast Transition Towns listserv:
http://mcn.org/listpages/subscribe.php

Follow us on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Mendocino-Coast-Transition-Towns/146910462016439

Save Our Beach

2011-03-07T16:34:00.000-08:00

The production of GlassDharma Glass Straws was just beginning when David Leonhardt was contacted by Kim Masoner from save ourbeach.org. Her inquiry included a plan to use a single glass straw with a bamboo carrying case for the purpose of her introductory talks to groups of volunteers who gather for Beach Cleanup sessions on Seal Beach, CA. Not only does Kim organize these groups, she uses the opportunity to suggest ideas that help us all consider our own impact on the environment.

Kim’s story:
“We started ‘Save Our Beach’ because we live along the ocean (it's literally our backyard) and we take long walks and pick up trash along the way. We were asked many times if we had any extra bags as people would see us pick up trash and they thought they'd like to help, so we started carrying extra trash bags on our walks. Then we started carrying a box of trash bags with us and setting it on the sand and people would pick up a trash bag and help out. And then we decided if there is that much interest in people that want to help, we'll just make it easier for them by conducting a Beach Cleanup on a monthly basis.”

I asked Kim about the volunteers that are involved in her beach cleanups:
“A few years ago a young man and his three young daughters participated in my beach cleanup and the dad was smoking and dropping his cigarette butts in the sand the entire time while they were participating. His youngest daughter (after being fed up with having to pick up not just trash, but her very own dad's cigarette butts) finally said "Dad, please don't drop your butts in the sand - the beach is not your ashtray!"

We didn't know about this until a few months later when the dad and his 3 daughters came back again to a cleanup and the dad confessed to me that he didn't even realize what he was doing, it was just a habit and that everyone dropped their butts along the highway or in the sand at the beach. He was so touched by his daughter letting him know that it was not okay and that she hoped that someday soon he would quit smoking.

A month later, he stopped smoking and they continue even today, participating in our cleanups to see what other habits they might be able to change.”

Kim explains how she starts each Beach Cleanup:
We currently conduct monthly Beach Cleanups in Seal Beach and in Long Beach and recently added a Los Cerritos Wetlands monthly cleanup.

At every Beach Cleanup I show my participants all the changes I've made in my day to day routine and I also tell them where to get them”. And if you want to have your own beach cleanup during the week, I can arrange for this on any beach anywhere from San Diego to Santa Monica. I supply everything – all you need to do is have participants show up!

This is where I like to show off my story boards at my beach cleanups in hopes that participants will take my lead and change everyday things in their own lives and it's been working so far!

I show off my glass straw and bamboo case from GlassDharma and let them know I will never need to use another plastic straw as I keep it in my glove-box of my car and I let participants know that if they break their glass straw, that Glass Dharma replaces them for free!
I'm collecting the cigarette lighters and straws for Algalita in Long Beach so they can make a paddle boat out of them! They've already sailed a boat from San Francisco to Sydney Australia that they made out of plastic bottles.
I collect foil juice packets and send them to http://www.terracycle.net/ and they send me 5 cents per packet - they recycle them into backpacks and purses.
I take bottles and cans to Cal State Long Beach for recycling.
I also show off my reusable bags from “ The Tote Buddy ” so now I never forget to bring my bags at the store - I keep them in my car.
And I show off my towels that I keep in my car peopletowels instead of using paper towels.
We now give participants Botanical Interests vegetable and herb seeds to help them start their own garden (they are donated by BI - and the participants get to choose from hundreds of varieties).

Kim continues as she shares this story:
Two years ago Phonna, a young mother of a 5 year old named Paris, emailed me. She asked if there was a way that I could possibly help her daughter have her own Beach Cleanup in Long Beach since they live in Signal Hill. Paris had seen a movie at school about how our beaches are so dirty, so she decided she wanted start her own “Go Green” campaign. So Phonna helped Paris create Evites and they sent them out to everyone they knew: classmates, teachers, relatives, neighbors and friends. And by the time the Beach Cleanup date rolled around, there were over 89 RSVPs! (How can you say no to a five year old that is asking you to join her in her own Go Green Campaign!) It was a wonderful day for all! Paris and her entire family still continue to attend my Beach Cleanup in Long Beach, CA.

left to right: Kim, Milan (Paris' younger sister), then Paris

HERE ARE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP: It's very easy - just take a good look at your trash. Pick one item to eliminate, and figure out how to do it. Repeat as often as you can and we well all make a big difference! Before throwing anything away, ask yourself if it could be recycled, reused by someone else , donated or composted.

"We are inspired by many people and we guarantee that if you participate in one cleanup, you'll be inspired too!" - Kim Masoner

Straws left on beaches suck!

2011-01-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Within the offices of GlassDharma, communications from across the globe contain daily reminders that just one simple idea can resonate through countless communities… just one simple glass straw can be the catalyst for uniting causes and creating bridgework for thoughts about planet-care.
Just one idea, one person, a passion for clean beaches and thriving Marine life … meet Christina from Eco Maniac Company. She loves Sea Turtles and has agreed to guest post for “Sip the World”

by Christina Trapani -

Three years ago, I started Eco Maniac Company, an online retail business offering reusable bags with fun designs. Why? Well, in the famous words of the Zombie Boy, “I like turtles.” And the beach, and the ocean, and all animals really, but especially Sea Turtles. I started Eco Maniac Company because I was sick of seeing so much trash on the beach: plastic bags, balloons, plastic drink bottles. And if it’s on the beach, even though most of us can’t see it, it’s in the ocean, and it’s affecting the animals that live in the ocean, including the charismatic Sea Turtles.

Sea Turtles have been around for millions of years, wandering the world’s oceans, many travelling thousands of miles every year. As we enter into 2011, six of the seven sea turtle species on this planet are considered either threatened or endangered. Many young turtles spend their first years drifting with sea grass in warmer waters, often miles away from human civilization, feasting on small critters living in those grasses with them. Throughout their lives, they survive on crabs, shellfish, jellyfish, sea grass, etc., depending on species, age and location. They live in the sea, and that is all they know. So when our trash finds its way into their garden, their buffet, they don’t know that it can kill them.

Loggerhead Hatchling by Barbara Bergwerf - http://bergwerfgraphics.com

So many pieces of trash, especially single use plastics, end up in our oceans and float into convergence zones, also often referred to as garbage patches. As plastic degrades, it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces, and often gets caught up in the sea grass.What do these little pieces look like to a hungry Sea Turtle? They look like they are edible! Too much plastic in a gut can cause a blockage and inevitable starvation. With any luck, it will pass through, surely leaching non-turtle friendly chemicals along the way. Watch Synthetic Sea 2010 for some great information on this problem. Seaturtle.org is a great resource for anything sea turtle. So look at these photos and see if you see anything familiar. It is a global Sea Turtle problem. Moreover, the problem expands as plastic are often found inside or wrapped around sea birds, whales, dolphins and fish.

Several days ago, while walking my three dogs, I came across a plastic straw that was on the verge of making its way into the storm drain. Despite being pulled in three different directions by my happy mutts, I picked it up, because I know that once it enters that drain, it is destined for the ocean. Ironically enough, later that day I was asked to write a blog post for Glass Dharma. As I began to really look around for straws as pollution, I began to find them; in the woods, in the marsh and on the street.

Straws made the top ten list of items picked up off beaches during the International Coastal Cleanup . Over 400,000 plastic straws and stirrers were picked up internationally. How many straws did you use last year? How many plastic straws with plastic wrappers did you use last year?

I am so excited about the Glass Straw! Thank you Glass Dharma for creating it. Eco Maniac Company is expanding its product line to include reusables other than bags. What a great opportunity the glass straw will be to strike up educational conversation! My job at Eco Maniac Company will be to help get the glass straw out to people who have been using plastic straws all along (including me). Educating and changing habits, that’s what it’s all about. This will assure the survival of my favorite critter, the Sea Turtle!

National Wildlife Refuge – Virginia Beach

footnote: every time a Sea Turtle product is purchased from Eco Maniac Company a monetary donation goes to http://seaturtle.org/

New Year 2011

2010-12-29T19:49:00.000-08:00

An Irish Blessing:
May the blessing of the rain be on you—
the soft sweet rain.
May it fall upon your spirit
so that all the little flowers may spring up,
and shed their sweetness on the air.
May the blessing of the great rains be on you,
may they beat upon your spirit
and wash it fair and clean,
and leave there many a shining pool
where the blue of heaven shines,
and sometimes a star. – unknown author

Keep it green.

Keep it sustainable.

Keep it reusable.

Treat the Planet as though you intend to stay. (We are all in this together)

Best of the Best this New Year from GlassDharma, manufacturer of the “Original Glass Straw”!

Happy Holidays to All!!

2010-12-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

GlassDharma drinking straws are the risk free option for your holiday gift giving:

• Unbelievable Lifetime Guarantee Against Breakage

• Satisfaction Guarantee (if they don't like it, they can return for a full refund -less shipping)

• Save and get sets of 4 or 6 straws with a cleaning brush (10% savings included in the price)

• Perfect for the person who has everything

• Now you can be green and help those you care about to be green too! (without preaching!)

• Can't decide? In a hurry? Go with Gift Certificates! You get the code you can email or print out immediately even on Christmas Day!

REMINDER: Order your GlassDharma straws by 12/16 for delivery by Christmas (within the US). We ship within 24 hours (Often same day!!)

* * * HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ALL OF US AT GLASSDHARMA!! * * *

GlassDharma - local news:

2010-11-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

What's on the Menu?

2010-11-13T09:41:00.000-08:00

Dining out in a favorite Restaurant establishment is an event enjoyed by most everyone. For some, the experience is saved for special occasions, but for many this routine of “eating out” is incorporated into weekly or daily routine. The social element of this practice meets with an ambiance of pleasures including the setting, wonderful smells and delicious food.

Not all of the portions served in Restaurants are eaten at the table. Taking home leftover portions of uneaten food from the plate has become an acceptable practice. Days gone by one might ask for a “doggie bag”. Over time, Styrofoam cartons and boxes designed to carry home servings of food that guests had not finished eating during the mealtime replaced the “bag”.

Awareness of the mounting piles of trash accumulating all over our Planet has spurred a new trend; to rethink the impact of what gets used and what is thrown away. Gratefully, many restaurants and their customers have chosen to move away from using single use cartons and carriers for small bits of food left upon one’s plate. The idea? Choose to re-use.

Customers might opt to bring their own food containers. Establishments might find ways to reward diners that bring their own re-usables with special menu items or special prices for participants. Providing retail space for the purchase of reusable food containers and serve-ware will also encourage this practice. Check out TakeOutWithout.com for some new ideas that are worth considering.

Restaurant Owners and Chefs often approach our Company about the use of Glass Straws in their businesses. Some have concerns about serving beverages with glass straws due to the incidence of theft. Unfortunatley, a public clientele often includes some that are tempted to take and keep the serve-ware provided which cuts deeply into profits of these businesses.

The solution?
Menu Upgrades!

Reusable containers and serve-ware can be included right into the restaurant menu choices! This idea brings a convenient option with an eco-conscious focus. It encourages personal choices to reduce the incident of excessive waste. Adding a reusable glass straw as a beverage upgrade for a special price will promote the reuse of that same straw by the consumer. Likewise, upgrading the size of a beverage to those that bring their own reusable straw will reward and encourage eco-responsibility.

Many people still find the practice of re-use as a new frontier of thought. However, as time moves forward there are sure to be many more ideas on the horizon that will flow together and become a beginning of a solution to pollution.

The Sipping Solution

2010-10-22T15:41:00.000-07:00

Why use plastic straws when there is something healthier?
by Dr. Heather Manley, N.D.

If you are a friend, family member or patient of mine you will commonly hear me say, “The solution to pollution is dilution.” It’s a common phrase referring to the environmental industry - as the avid use of water and air is commonly used to dilute pollution (harmful chemicals) that is present on earth. But in my case, I refer it to our bodies. This is why:

Environmental pollution is not only a problem on our planet but it may pose many health issues. Many decades ago, diseases were mostly due to poor hygiene and now, our society has moved into a new generation of diseases that are chronic and long lasting - such as obesity, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, depression. We tend to overeat (mostly highly processed foods), barely exercise, work far too many hours, take too many pharmaceuticals, and rely a great deal on harmful household chemicals. There are many approaches to help prevent these and one being – hydration. One simple solution to helping our bodies avoid these chronic diseases is drinking water. Keeping our body’s cells fueled increases circulation, which in turn helps the body’s elimination pathways in flushing out toxins.

And we need to think about our kids. We want them to drink more fluids and one of the most enticing way to do that is with a straw. However, most straws are plastic which may contain BPA ( bisphenol A) a known toxic chemical. I am not a huge fan of plastic straws in general because...

a) you can not recycle them
b) washing them is pretty impossible

And with the possibility of the presence of BPA, well, we need to make a switch because BPA may be doing this in our bodies:

1. It plays havoc on our own hormones which may lead to some very unpleasant effects - especially on the thyroid gland.
2. May possibly effect the brain development in children.
3. With over exposure of BPA, obesity may increase.
4. There is a possible risk of an increase in cancer rates with BPA exposure.
5. Increased body levels of BPA are associated with diabetes and heart disease.

I am not indicating that BPA is the main cause of any of the above, but it definitely, I believe, is a contributor. And the best way to reduce any BPA in your daily life, if you are or your kids are straws users, is to make a switch to glass straws - especially the amazing Dharma Glass Straw. My kids love them. I love how easy they are to clean and that they are natural.

Simple, Easy and Inexpensive.

Now doesn't that make you feel like having a nice cool refreshing glass of water?...with a GlassDharma Glass Straw!

PS If you are not a water drinker try to incorporate my Dr.Heather’s health tip:

• Infuse you purified water with lemons, oranges or cucumbers, or drink herbal teas. The golden rule is to drink half your body weight. If you weigh 100 pounds, then drinking 50 ounces of water can be quite beneficial.

Dr. Heather Manley, who in 2001 received her medical degree from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, is a practicing physician whose primary interest is preventative healthcare for families. She is the author of Human Body Detectives, her educational series of story-telling audiobooks and accompanying activity workbooks. She also promotes wellness and naturopathic healthcare on her website drheathernd.com. She lives on the Big Island of Hawaii with her husband and two daughters, and is currently at work on the next Human Body Detectives adventure.

BYO and "Dress" your Glass Straw with Colors!

2010-10-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

GlassDharma introduces 100% Hemp sleeves in an Ocean Palette of Colors!

BYOS – "bring your own straw" takes a new fashion turn with a new colored hemp sleeve line. The “Ocean Palette Collection” is offered in addition to our popular undyed, Natural Hemp Sleeves. The new Colors include: Ocean Blue, Purple Dawn, Deep Moss and Back Pearl.

This new collection was created to add to the demand for fashion and fun while practicing the eco-responsible trend to carry your own reusables. "Just say no" to plastic straws in restuarants, coffee shops and cocktail lounges!

The new hemp sleeves are offered in three sizes to fit every style and size in the GlassDharma line of Glass Drinking straws.

Hemp Sleeves in the Ocean Palette collection are made of preshrunk 100% Hemp Twill Fabric. Each sleeve is constructed in a double thickness and sewn with reinforced stitching of 100% cotton thread. These glass straw carrying cases are durable and made to last after multiple machine washings.

Choose to Reuse!

2010-09-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

This is a guest post from Caroline Smith, who runs a website all about couch slipcovers and believes the concept of reuse is very important when it comes to looking after our environment.

Going Green: Great Ideas for Reuse

It is time for everyone to stop and dwell on what we can do to take care of our home planet. Most people want to help save the earth’s resources, but they feel helpless when they consider the big picture. The big picture, however, is not the problem. It is the smaller wasteful habits which are multiplied by the millions each day which are making the biggest impact on rising pollution and overflowing landfills. The solution to this lack of understanding is to spread the word about easy steps that anyone can take to limit the use of disposable items.

Replacing Plastic with Glass

Replacing plastic straws with the glass variety is one way we can all make a difference. This seems like such a small change to most people, but if they could just follow the path of millions of plastic straws on the way to the landfill each year, they might get a different vision of this eco-friendly product.

The glass straws from GlassDharma offer a lifetime guarantee against breakage. GlassDharma straws are strong enough for children to use and are easily cleaned in the dishwasher. If you prefer to hand wash the straws, you can purchase special brushes to insert through the straw in order to remove food particles. These brushes are included in the four or six pack sets of GlassDharma straws. These clear glass straws are stylishly elegant and can even be purchased with a slight bend to allow for easier access. Just the paper saved by not having to wrap plastic straws could make a considerable difference over time.

Considering Other Ideas for Reuse

Some other reusable products that aim to decrease waste are the following:

• Reusable snack bags made of washable fabrics to use for lunches away from home

• Reusable filters for coffee makers

• Reusable cleaning cloths made from worn out towels or wash cloths

• Reusable grocery bags to take on each shopping trip

• Reusable water bottles for lunches, sporting events and athletic activities

What about Slipcovers?

Another idea is to use slipcovers on old couches and chairs instead of replacing them with new ones. This helps prolong the useful life of furniture and prevents the landfills from filling up as quickly, and slipcovers offer these added benefits:

• They are hide existing damage and stains.

• They are easy to install.

• They can easily be removed for cleaning.

• They are much less expensive than purchasing new furniture.

Finding ways to help the environment by reusing items may actually help the family budget as well. If we all consider the little picture which involves making these small changes, the big picture will take care of itself.

GlassDharma Straw Review by Natalia

2010-09-08T14:08:00.000-07:00

Check out Natalia's new book on her website: http://glowingtemple.com/

Sippers are Saying...

2010-07-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

Love your straws!

We have been using your glass straws daily in our house now for one year. My girls (now ages 2.5 and 4.5) have astonished me with how carefully they handle their "favorite straws." Sure, they have acted their age and played pretty rough with them as well. The only breakages we have had occurred when they were dropped from a height onto our hardwood floors. I emailed David and had them replaced within 2 days! Glass Dharma honors their lifetime guarantee! I love using my simple elegance straws for smoothies and water kefir. They clean up beautifully in the dishwasher. I highly recommend them to friends!

Here is a pic of my daughter, Juliana, drinking with her green dot straw:

Christina Byard
Co-Leader and Membership Coordinator
Holistic Moms Network of San Jose, CA

Searching Our Oceans

2010-07-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

(GlassDharma is privileged to welcome the contribution of this guest post from Ryan Elizabeth Cope, a recent graduate from the School of Marine Sciences at the University of Maine. May we keep perspective about the Youth of our society and what we are leaving behind for them to manage in this place we ALL call "Home".)

Everyone always told me that when I got to college, my mind would be opened to all these great ideas and philosophies and that it was going to be a totally liberating experience. Well, having just graduated college, I have to say that they were completely right. Looking back on myself four years ago, I’m not a completely different person but my ideas about the world and my place in it have certainly shifted dramatically. I’ve become more aware of my surroundings and have learned the true meaning of the words “conservation” and “sustainability”. The most important lesson I’ve taken away from my education is that we have an impact on this earth, whether it be positive or negative.

The turning point of my education came during the summer of 2008, when I participated in the Sea Education Association summer program. Among other things, it included a four-week sail from Honolulu, Hawaii to San Francisco, California on the tall ship research vessel Robert C. Seamans. At the start of the program, we were asked to choose a group research topic and my group chose to analyze plastic density in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (the area of ocean we would be sailing through). We were expecting to see an increase of plastic debris as we reached the center of the gyre and were not disappointed. A gyre is an oceanographic term for a collection of rotating currents that come together, with the center being a collection area for anything and everything floating in that part of the ocean. Mid-way through the journey, we were collecting plastic in every single tow (to see just what this means, see the Plastics at Sea expedition videos! And at one point, our vessel actually became ensnared in a bit of stray netting!

Most people know of the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre by its more popular name, the Eastern Pacific Garbage Patch. In actuality, the accumulation of plastics in all major gyres is more like a soup, with small bits floating just below the surface, barely visible. There are no islands of plastic floating out in the big blue, which unfortunately means that the problem is larger than the naked eye can see.

Propeller Foul (courtesy of Patrick Curran)

Synthetic rope w. goose barnacles Mahi Mahi w. previously ingested plastic grid

The point of that story was that after this experience, my way of life literally changed. Seeing plastic, a product produced and used by humans, just floating in the water in the middle of the Pacific Ocean was astounding and disgusting but also a huge motivator. I had realized my passion: studying marine debris and figuring out ways to stop the problem in the first place! This all came together nicely during my senior year of college in the form of my capstone (senior project). I decided to look at how recycling could be a potential solution to the marine debris problem. Along the way, I learned a lot about plastics and their detrimental effects on not only us humans but also on all marine life. Two of the biggest problems associated with plastic pollution in the marine environment are entanglement and ingestion. Seabirds, sea turtles and all sorts of fish species can get caught in derelict fishing gear and because of this, often have shorter life spans.

Marine organisms also ingest plastic, mistaking it for other, edible prey and either choke on the debris or starve to death. Chris Jordan, a visual statistics artist documented some of these effects on Laysan Albatross on Midway Atoll, an extremely remote land formation located halfway between Tokyo and Honolulu, Hawaii. His images are stark and 100% real; to see these magnificent birds having died with plastic in their guts is sickening and enough to make someone want to give up plastics all together.

photo by Ryan Cope

What I also learned through months of research was that it’s not all bad news. Sure, people will say that there’s no solution, or that we will never be able to truly get away from plastics or that it just doesn’t matter. But there is hope! We as a community can prevent and solve the plastics pollution problem, and we can do it through small steps. I recently saw a screening of the movie “Climate of Change,” and the message it sent was this: something bad is happening and we as a people have to rise up and do something about it. The people at Glass Dharma are the embodiment of this message and I am so thrilled to be a part of their empowering campaign.

My senior project was about plastics recycling and although every marine debris expert on the planet will say that it’s not a viable solution, it has the potential to become one. It’s better than nothing. We are constantly being bombarded with bad news these days (the BP oil spill and a faltering economy come to mind…) but these things shouldn’t be seen as hindrances. Rather, they should be taken as a motivation to make a change and do something different. Something as simple as bringing a bag to the store, saying no to plastic flatware, even or drinking your favorite iced beverage through a beautiful glass straw. All of these options are attainable and working together, we can do our part to stop the plastic pollution problem. We exist in a climate of change and now it’s our chance to do something positive for the Earth we call home!

Sipping Responsibly

2010-05-16T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Season of Graduations is now upon us and with it brings the excitement of accomplishments, open doors and new beginnings. This year’s Graduates will filter into our society ready to make responsible decisions as they move on to new chapters of higher education or into the workforce.

The High School Graduate hears a lot about “drinking responsibly” as celebrations abound and the door to College opens before them. Responsibility is an important thing to consider knowing that each action has its own consequence.

GlassDharma representatives speak a lot about “sipping responsibly”. This term has a double meaning. First, it is important to make good choices about what we are sipping. That our chosen beverages are good nourishment for our health in content and amount. Second, that we be mindful about what vessels we use to sip from. Where will that cup or straw end up? Will you choose single use cups and straws? Or, will you choose reusable drink-ware options?

It is important to know the consequences of the choices we make, every day. Armed with the knowledge of the impact of plastic waste, please choose wisely!

Congratulations to Graduates near and far…

sip the world. it’s worth it.

SEVEN IN THE OCEAN

(this poster was a Senior Project by Graduate Ryan Elizabeth Cope)
Congratulations, Ryan!

Glass Straws for Mother's Day!

2010-05-02T20:11:00.000-07:00

Mother’s Day – a day just for Moms. Paying honor to those that love and nurture and care creates a desire for wanting to find something very special for that one person we count on for so many of our own needs.

All Mothers drink beverages! What Mom would not be delighted to receive Glass Straws for Mother’s Day? A gift for that special Mom in your life while giving the gift of earth-care to “Mother Earth” as well. For every Mom that uses (and reuses) her Glass Straw, think how many single-use straws will not be added to our Planet’s pollution problems.

Glass Straws are durable – GlassDharma’s special annealing process ensures their straws are of the highest quality tensile strength. Each straw comes with a Manufacturer’s Guarantee Against Breakage. (This really could be your Mom’s “last straw!”)

Glass straws are easy to clean – Dishwasher cleaning is recommended while often just a simple soak in water will remove dried on residue. GlassDharma makes Glass Straw cleaning brushes available and will often include the brush with sets of four or six Glass Straws on their website. The straws are clear so Mom can see how clean they truly are!

Glass Straws are beautiful – nothing matches the beauty and elegance of sparkling, clear glass! The smooth glass edges of the straw brings her beverage right to her lips with ease… from a straw that maintains its shape and temperature, transforming the simple act of sipping to an experience beyond simple thirst quenching. Mother will love the classic design of this gorgeous, little utensil.

Here are few simple beverage ideas for Mother’s Day 2010:

“MamaMimosa”

Champagne and Orange Juice give way to this non-alcoholic version:

1 part Orange Juice to 1 part sparking Apple Cider served over crushed ice.

Serve in a tall glass with a 10 inch long Glass Straw.

“Mom’sMochaMint”
Simply mull or crush fresh Peppermint Leaves and place in a cocktail shaker with Ice and

2 parts Starbuck’s bottled Starbuck's Frappuccino Mocha to 1 part Chocolate Almond milk (Almond Breeze)

Shake vigorously and strain into a mug over crushed ice.
Garnish with Whipped Cream and fresh Mint Leaves.
Serve with Beautiful Bends or Decorative Dots “Ice Tea” (9.5mm) Straws to fit your preferred mug size.

“MangoMommyMartini”

1 part Mango – Blood Orange Italian Soda to 2 parts Vodka with a splash of Dry Vermouth!

Shake in a Cocktail shaker with ice and strain into your favorite Martini Glass.

“Sipper” size glass straws work well for this fine cocktail.

Have a wonderful Mother’s Day!

... and remember to nurture “Mother Earth” on this day … and every day!

In Celebration, with Gratitude, Earth Day 2010

2010-04-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

40 years ago, the first Earth Day started a revolution of change. Each Earth Day we focus on ideas of EarthCare and how our choices can change and affect the world we live in. Each of us make decisions every day about how our routine practices will affect our planet, a place we will one day leave behind.

“Partnerships and Promotions” have taken on a special energy at GlassDharma thanks to Gail Johnson’s inspirational direction and guidance. Her work influences every department within the company as the mission remains forefront of why a simple glass straw is so important.

“Earth Day is about awareness and about focusing thoughts on something that is important to us.” Gail continues saying, “I believe Earth day and the many related activities have made a huge difference in our awareness of our Planet’s needs and how we can best work and play in synergy and with gratitude. People really want to change their ways but often get overwhelmed. We are hungry for small things we can do occasionally… and then more consistently to help ourselves and our Planet Earth.”

Last year for Earth Day, David Leonhardt gave away over 500 "Simple Elegance" Glass Straws through the GlassDharma.com website. The giveaway quickly became popular and brought together a huge gathering of people that were willing to share their ideas through emails. The common goal of EarthCare became present throughout their communications.

Gail, recognizing the power of the expression of gratitude that resulted from last year’s glass straw giveaway, felt compelled to build on the idea for this year. She chose Café Gratitude to collaborate with GlassDharma for a 1000 glass straw giveaway for Earth day, 2010!

She explains, “Café Gratitude (cafegratitude.com) is a unique company with seven restaurants in Marin County and the Bay Area, California. This establishment is known for their fun, inspiring environment and fabulous live, organic food! But, even more importantly is the ever-present environment of Sacred Commerce that has been created at Café Gratitude. They have made a commitment to hold the space for a work place that is truly supportive of their employees, customers and vendors. In their words, “Café Gratitude is a school of transformation and an experiment in sacred commerce.” Many companies have given lip service to this type of goal but this was my first exposure to seeing it in action. After being delighted after visiting the Berkeley Café Gratitude, I was able to watch a video of Terces Englehart speaking at last year’s Living Light Expo in Fort Bragg, CA. I was so heartened by her story and the process of “clearing” that they do with their employees, I immediately read their book, Sacred Commerce and consider myself a grateful student.”

“Since they do have a retail presence in their Cafes and online, I knew this was a partnership that would benefit them and GlassDharma. David and I brainstormed ideas as we wondered, what could we offer them? Together we came up with the idea of offering GlassDharma drinking straws to give away to their customers on Earth Day as a “Thank You” for supporting Café Gratitude and our Planet! We are delighted that they have accepted this gift! Café Gratitude will be adding GlassDharma straws to a few of their Café stores and will include glass straw sales on their website! So, while supplies last, each Café will be giving out a portion of 1000 GlassDharma drinking straws on Earth Day, April 22.”

1000 glass straws that will be used over and over again, eliminating so many more plastic “disposable” straws from cluttering lands and clogging our waterways. With each straw a thought goes along, and gets shared with another… and so on….

(Café Gratitude accepts reservations for six or more guests – so gather up your family and friends and make your own reservations now for Earth Day, April 22, 2010! Experience the Café Gratitude version of Sacred Commerce first hand and get your own GlassDharma drinking straw.)

Call -(415)824-4652 or email – info@cafegratitiude.com

Got Milk?

2010-03-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

Milk, that all time wholesome dinner table staple that finds its way into milkshakes, scrambled eggs and creamed soups. Or, all by itself, as in the phrase, “a glass of milk.” Other clichés come to mind, “Milk - does a body good.” “Don’t cry over spilled milk.” And the famous, “Got milk?”

Controversy exists over whether the nutritional content and processes used in milk manufacturing deem milk as the healthy beverage. Some people find they are “lactose intolerant.” Vegans do not include dairy milk in their diets, however nut milk is often substituted. This post is not so much about what’s in your milk, but rather, what’s your milk in?

Why milk? Milk is the first nourishment we know as newborns. No wonder milk gets high priority attention as a mainstay nutritious beverage. A glass of milk is often a quick stand-in for a meal. Often, our fast-paced society has us looking for that quick fix of protein to keep us sustained throughout the morning as we rush around. At night, a glass of milk at bedtime might encourage restful sleep.

Few of the generation X have memories of the milkman leaving bottles of cold milk on the front porch, hearing the clink of heavy glass milk bottles knocking against each other or the scurry to get it into the fridge before it warms. Days of late bring milk from the grocery store in plastic containers, thought to be more convenient and cost effective. Cartons that were once waxed are now sprayed with plastics as well.

Some dairies are currently packaging milk in glass bottles once again. Thinking back to when I was young, I cannot recall ever breaking a milk bottle or even seeing a broken milk bottle. The bottles were heavy enough to withstand some bumping around. What tastes better than cold milk in a frosty glass? Why, then, have we raised a generation of toddlers on plastic sippy cups mindless to the fact that children are not learning about spilling as a consequence to carelessness?

Now, I am not suggesting that the school milk carton should be made of glass. I do agree that some caution is advised giving glass to unattended children. But the truth of the matter remains; milk does taste better from a glass. Add a glass straw and you will eliminate the familiar “milk-stache” effect!

As the perils of our plastic choices reveal themselves, awareness that plastics are not the harmless, safe choices for our children or our environment have become more apparent. We now find ourselves on a new quest to seek safer alternatives for packaging and containing our foods and beverages. Clearly, milk in glass is the new “white!”

The GlassDharma Difference

2010-03-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

What Makes Us Different?

While avoiding the technical aspects of glassblowing as much as possible, this is what sets us apart from others in our field:
Techniques used to create glass sculpture using a blowtorch involve rapid heating and cooling. It is particularly the rapid and uneven cooling that induces significant stress levels in the glass that create cracks and breakage. Each type of glass has a unique temperature range in which it may be fired in a kiln. This process is called “annealing” and eliminates excessive stress in the glass.

As you may have experienced, not all glass is created equal!! Not all hand-blown glass has gone through this process and the result is sometimes seen as cracks and breaks, possibly occurring even years later. To further complicate things, the annealing process, we found, is understood “differently” by various glass artists.

At GlassDharma, we adhere to a formula for annealing our glass art with specifications and guidelines provided by Corning, Inc., (the makers of Pyrex®). I have spent hours on the phone with their technical support staff to ensure that I understood this process thoroughly. This understanding allows us to create works of art with the highest level of durability possible and insures consistency with everything we make. We anneal everything we make under computer controlled conditions.

Keep in mind how strong and durable your glass coffeepot or pie plate is. It is made from exactly the same type of glass (borosilicate) that we use in every piece we make! You will be impressed with the “forgiveness” our creations demonstrate when they encounter another object.

Another factor that will affect the strength of a glass object is the fusing technique used by the glass artist. Fusing is the joining of one piece of glass to another (i.e. adding a “Decorative Dot” on a drinking straw). Quality fusing occurs when BOTH pieces of glass are heated to a high enough temperature when joined. If this is not done, (i.e. one or both pieces are NOT hot enough) the result is an inferior joint and subject to break much more easily than when fused properly.

We take great pride in the workmanship of every piece we make. We use exclusively borosilicate glass (Simax®). Occasionally a crack may occur unnoticed before the annealing process takes place. This would significantly weaken the glass. We guarantee all of our work against such rare defects. It is also because these defects are sometimes difficult to detect that we guarantee against ANY breakage. This gives you the benefit of the doubt!
Our goal is to make dealing with GlassDharma a risk free endeavor for you. Our Satisfaction Guarantee along with our Lifetime Guarantee Against Breakage …

You have nothing to loose ! … and everything to gain. This is my personal commitment to you.

David Leonhardt, owner

Got milk-stache?

2010-02-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

Got milk-stache?

Valentine To Planet Earth

2010-02-01T09:47:00.000-08:00

It is with deepest respect for you, Planet Earth that I profess my love to you on Valentines Day. Your heart beats a special rhythm, representing the nature balance that provides for the world’s habitat.

From the highest mountaintops to the deepest currents of the oceans, natural forces working together are apparent in each moment of time. I am humbled by the beauty you show as your face changes expression, from calm seas to the fury of the storms. You are deserving of the attention you seek.

Through the ages, there is an awareness growing of how to use the materials you provide in a fashion that will support replenishment. Choosing renewable resources keeps your infrastructure intact as you constantly reproduce to sustain our needs, ensuring the continuance of sustenance for all living things. “Earth-care” is priority as we collectively move toward the days to come…

Few who walk your beaches know that the glass in my warehouse starts with the tiniest grains of sand beneath their feet. This is just one isolated example of how manmade materials are made from natural elements.

Workers within my Company are eager to learn the best practices to protect your delicate ecosystem. Careful consideration is given to products and materials that come into and leave our facility for what impact they will create. Clearly, our operation is a very small piece in a gigantic puzzle. Our customers, the recipients of our products, match the values we practice. Together we teach by example, spurring new ideas for sustainability that encourage others to make individual decisions and bear responsibility for conditions that will be prevalent through the years.

My vision consists of a future bright with hope for your oceans to sparkle in sunlight, free from the harmful plastic gyres that threaten marine life. Fresh air and clean water, for all to breathe and to drink will be plentiful. I picture roadsides and trails that are undisturbed by litter accumulations caused by thoughtless acts of leaving trash behind. I see a Universe where all living things thrive in harmonious existence.

Planet Earth, my commitment is to practice care and make wise decisions as I learn to value the mysteries within your atmosphere.

Love,
GlassDharma

Cheers!

2010-02-01T09:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Fast-Food.....

2010-01-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

Dear Fast-Food Drive-up Window Attendant,

It has been a while since I have seen you. My visits to your restaurant have decreased over time. Don’t get me wrong, I have appreciated your hard work and service through the years…

Thank you for being friendly and efficient to so many of us that are in too much of a hurry to get out of our cars and walk into your establishment. You must encounter a lot of folks that forget to appreciate the service you provide. There was a time when I could not get through a day without paying you a visit or two.

I know that you see and serve many people on a given day. It must seem like some customers do not take the time to acknowledge your efforts. Remembering days past, there were times I became angry when I got my food and drink from you, drove off in a hurry, only to find there was no straw in the bag. A seemingly small detail, but my plan was to eat my lunch while driving in my car. The oversight made my multitasking almost impossible without spilling my drink, or worse, not paying proper attention to road conditions. It happened more than once, and my irritation grew. Surely, you must deal with confrontations from customers who direct their anger at you for a similar incidence.

Times have changed and so have my habits. I have learned to slow down. I re-think what I am going to eat and consider the nutritional value of my choices. I usually pack my own lunch and drink in re-usable containers when I travel. The time it takes to do this is worth the effort when I consider the consequences of making poor choices about what I eat and what waste I leave behind.

Recently, I found myself miles from home in the midst of running endless errands and I had failed to pack my “take along” refreshments. I drove up to your window, placed my order and clearly stated, “No straw, thank you.” As I drove out of the driveway, I noticed there was a straw placed in the bag in spite of my request. The idea of me carrying my own straw may be new to you. Yes, I really do carry my own re-usable drinking straw in my handbag and in my car. Get used to this occurrence due to rapidly growing communities that practice sustainability.

Please consider your choice to stuff extra napkins and condiment packages into our bags. I know you are in a rush to meet the many demands of others, but if the extra items go un-used, where do you think they end up?

Maybe your employer will act upon these problems in the future by supplying recycling bins or even providing drive-up water bottle filling stations. As your company pursues ways to go green, I would hope that the responsibility for garbage impact management would be forefront. Possibly the current trend toward “re-think, re-use” will force an effort to continually reduce waste and improve food choices in an effort to keep customers from creating new habits that will effect your store’s sales.

Until then, I am just a small example in the decrease of your customer base as I learn to carry my own and no longer need your services. It has nothing to do with you.

I thank you for the many years you have served me. It is my hope that your company will adopt sustainable practices in the near future so that we will once again see more of each other in the years to come.

Sincerely,

A Customer Seeking Better Alternatives.

Happy "National Drinking Straw" Day!

2009-12-26T10:32:00.000-08:00

January – in all its glory, is a time for new beginnings. A time to reflect on the past and then move forward. It is now time to put the holiday decorations away and forge on toward the promise of springtime on the horizon… It’s time to re-organize and try on those new resolutions…

In 2009, the Glass Dharma office staff learned that January holds yet another significant day. Ta-da! … “National Drinking Straw Day” is January 3! Now there are other recorded anniversaries on January 3rd, but the idea of an official National Drinking Straw Day is a happy thought within a company where the invention of the drinking straw is celebrated every day!

It began in 1888 when Marvin Stone wrapped a piece of paper around a pencil to produce the first drinking straw. Marvin’s new product, patented on January 3, became his claim to fame. Prior eras were thought to have used a piece of dried rye grass (straw) for their sipping amusements but Marvin Stone goes into the history books as a first ever inventor of the drinking straw. By 1890, Stone’s drinking straw sales exceeded his previously designed product, cigarette paper holders. Since then, there are many different methods and materials used to manufacture drinking straws.

Not everyone thinks that drinking straws are a necessity. Remarks from a few online bloggers claim that one might opt to not use straws at all to be truly “eco”. Should drinking straws be completely eliminated in order to save the environment of so much plastic waste? Many people are willing and able to drink from the rim of a glass or cup. Conversely, there is a huge population of individuals who continue to use drinking straws. Some of these folks have medical difficulties. Others prefer to avoid direct mouth contact with a receptacle handled by the beverage server. Even more beverage consumers just love sipping through a straw for no other reason than pure preference!

The number of straws produced throughout the years shows that the trend of drinking through a straw is not going to disappear. Some argue that a straw represents a seemingly small example of waste compared to larger items that end up in our oceans and landfills. While a straw is small in comparison, the magnitude becomes evident by the volume of straws used each day. Figure in the large percentage of the world’s population that prefers to use straws. (Who, in the world, does not drink beverages?) If these large numbers of people are spurred to re-think their use of all “disposable” products, a profound effect may occur as we make choices and decide what we contribute to the “waste” piles that accumulate all over our planet.

The growth in sales of Glass Dharma Glass Straws suggest that there are many who wish to use drinking straws and the numbers are increasingly growing for those who wish to sip through a straw without the impact of creating unnecessary pollution. As the trend escalates, those that care about protecting our resources show that they will scout out every opportunity to find better ways of doing everyday deeds and shop for better products to serve their needs and the idea of “re-use”. This creates an energy of viral thinking… exactly the purpose of the mission!

As we enter a new decade, Best Wishes extend to you from behind the doors of Glass Dharma for a Happy, Prosperous New Year filled with Thoughtful Choices -- and may we all have a very “Happy National Drinking Straw Day!”

The Ultimate Stocking Stuffer

2009-11-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

The days of December begin with a fury of dashing about as last minute plans for Holiday gatherings take priority. Planning, shopping, wrapping and baking become squeezed into days that are already too busy. Sometimes it just seems like too much… too much food, too much activity, too much stuff... and we vow each year as we put away the last traces of Holiday décor, that next year will be different. That somehow we will simplify. The Spirit of the Season seems to get lost as the importance of having external “things” leaves us with little time and energy for the Peaceful and Meaningful Moments that we crave.

Excess… why do we let it take over?

The planning for thoughtful gift giving that takes place early in the season seems to convert into a crazy last minute pressure. Gotta go… Gotta get… Gotta have…

Suddenly, it seems that the carefully planned gift inventory caves… and we need to get more “stuff” to balance the inventory. As the hours count down, the last minute attempts to pull it all together bring about even more “stuff”. At last, we have to “stuff” those stockings – and with what? How much of what we buy to put into the stockings ends up in the landfill?

Generations before us traditionally stuffed their stockings (yes, real socks) with nuts, fruit and home baked goodies. Generation X will never know the delight of finding homemade candy in a fuzzy sock, never mind that the lint stuck on to the candy as they hung in the foggy night air. There were no wrappers, plastic toys, or “disposable” items. It was the feeling behind the tradition. It was magic!

So how about we put a little eco-thought into this process? – break some bad habits and let creative ideas flow. The Sustainable Stocking might be the new tradition. Today’s gifts might be an attitude of “less is more”. Maybe the stocking will have nuts and fruit this year… or items that are reused over and over, replacing the need for “disposable” items…

Just maybe – this is the year we will consider this path we all walk together and plan for the simple good wishes and care of ourselves and each other and where we abide. Joy, Love and Peace do not come packaged in cartons or wrappers. They are the Gifts of the truest form.

Many Thanks...

2009-11-04T19:21:00.000-08:00

The official American Holiday of Thanksgiving is approaching as the Harvest Season brings forth an array of fruits and vegetables from the farmlands to our kitchens. The bounty is plentiful as we gather around tables with friends and family mindful of the many facets of how *Thankfulness* plays within the realm of our every day experiences. The many Gifts are prevalent, but to notice and acknowledge them brings true focus to Abundant Living.

Behind the doors of Glass Dharma, *Gratitude* is the key component igniting the main workforce that thrives within company walls as everyday tasks take place. The creation of Glass Dharma Straws coupled with an amazing worldwide response of *Gratitude* for a reusable, sustainable product, lays a solid foundation for a company that continues to reach across continents, offering a solution to excessive plastic waste. This mission of mutual awareness remains forefront to all operational processes. Great care resonates throughout the departments of Glass Dharma from design and manufacturing, through shipping and customer care.

Reuse is the absolute expression of *Gratitude* for “Earth-care”. Appreciation for our lands and oceans leads us to respect the force of a nature balance that nurtures our own well-being. It is with hearts of *Gratitude* for our Planet’s resources that we carefully choose what we buy, have, use and “dispose” of.

Heartfelt *Gratitude* abounds for the news reporters and bloggers that enthusiastically help to introduce the idea of “reuse” in creative ways and with so many different perspectives. These Associates deserve credit for their own part in helping with the expansion process of Glass Dharma. Thanks to all who participate, the mission continues through shear willingness of many who embrace *Gratitude* for our Habitat in the same way that spurred the preliminary ideas that led to the beginning of “Glass Dharma” as a business.

The entire Glass Dharma Staff extends heartfelt sentiments, wishing you a Happy Harvest Season and to say to each of our many supporters, “Thank you!”

*Happy Thanksgiving*

Fresh Pumpkin Smoothie

2009-10-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

FRESH PUMPKIN SMOOTHIE

Serves 3

1 ½ t. Cinnamon

¾ t. freshly grated Nutmeg

¼ t. ground Cloves

2 t. freshly grated fresh Ginger Root

½ t. orange zest

1 t. powdered Stevia

2 t. pure Maple Syrup

(optional) scrape out contents from the inside of a Vanilla Bean

Juice of 1 Orange

2 t. Coconut Oil (blended with juice of orange)

1 small grated Apple (or Pear)

(Optional) a few frozen Grapes

20 oz. cold unsweetened Almond Milk

3 c. shredded fresh Pumpkin -

previously frozen*

This is a blender friendly recipe, the secret is to pre-freeze the peeled and shredded Raw Pumpkin and grated Ginger Root. Spread it in a thin layer on a cookie sheet, freeze for 1 hour and then break it up with a fork or knife while maintaining it’s frozen* state. This method keeps it from clumping and makes it easy to store in the freezer.

Process in blender or with method of choice.

Serve in a chilled glass with a Glass Straw.

The Cleaning Of The Straw

2009-09-25T12:54:00.000-07:00

Introducing the idea of a reusable glass straw will often bring certain questions from those people who are just beginning to wrap their minds around the concept.

Often the first question is, “Will it break?”

Glass IS what these drinking straws are made of, but this is not just any ordinary glass …. The method of manufacturing Glass Dharma straws is the result of extensive research to find the best materials available. The most stringent methods for implementation of the annealing process ensures the highest standards for a most durable product, while maintaining the purity and elegance of glass.

The strength of Glass Dharma straws surprises many once the product finds its way to beverage sippers. Glass Dharma continues to honor a manufacturer’s Lifetime Guarantee Against Breakage on every straw that leaves their warehouse.

Does this mean they will never break?

They are made of glass so break testing is not the recommended procedure upon obtaining your very first glass straw.

Thanks to Little Diva at www.purenaturaldiva.com

The second question that comes to mind as one digests the new idea of a reusable glass straw is, “How will I keep it clean?

One factor behind the function of Glass Dharma Glass Straws is sanitation. Sparkling clean glass straws that keep the taste experience as pure as the beverage itself. This is easy to attain following these simple guidelines:

v Use cleaning brushes - available in specific sizes to match your straw diameter choices. If your smoothie dried on the straw because you left it out all night, it can be soaked away or simply scrubbed off with these cleaning brushes.

v Dishwasher safe – glass straws by Glass Dharma have a very high tensile strength designed for maximum durability. This makes a dishwasher safe product and dishwasher cleaning of the straw is recommended for optimum sanitation.

v Hard water stains - A simple submerged soak in distilled white vinegar from time to time will address hard water issues if the glass appears dull or cloudy over time.

The recommended storage of your glass straws is to leave them out, handy and ready for anyone to grab and use each time a hot or cold beverage is served. A simple drinking glass might be the perfect container to keep the straws easily displayed whether you choose to keep them behind cupboard doors to keep them free of dust or left out on the table. Often these straws are used and rewashed so frequently that leaving them out on the counter is completely acceptable.

Not only does the clear glass show you just how clean it is, but also there is no surface condensation buildup as you use your straw. Similarly, the straw retains a comfortable temperature as you sip. If a hot beverage is ready to sip, the liquid makes its way through the glass straw and cools slightly more before reaching your lips, unlike metal reusable straw designs.

With these ideas in mind, one can relax about the care and ware of Glass Dharma Glass Straws and enjoy using one with every beverage, each and every day.

Sipping through the Summer

2009-08-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

The clinking of glass on ice will soon give way to the stirring of a steamy Latte… Another season is slowly slipping by as Glass Dharma continues expansion of sales, product line and the preparation for Holiday mega-sales. Known for keeping up with the rapid pace of shipping out products in a timely fashion, the staff at Glass Dharma is determined to keep their reputation of quickly filling orders and getting the purchases into the hands of customers as volume constantly increases. The minds behind the mission know that getting these glass straws into stores and households is making an impact! The idea of “re-use” is spreading. The merits to our environment, forthcoming.

Bamboo cases for glass straws are a best seller. They are made of natural bamboo poles using the natural joint of the bamboo for the bottom of the case and a cork stopper for the top. These hard cases carry your glass straws in your backpack, picnic basket or your purse safely, no matter how rugged a road they may travel. No longer is there any risk for our customers to pack their favorite Glass Dharma straw on their next hike, day at the beach or family picnic.

Bamboo is naturally hard and protective, yet extremely lightweight so you will not even notice the extra weight amongst your belongings. Bamboo’s natural properties resist mold, mildew and bacteria, so you know your straw will stay clean. The rapid growth of Bamboo ensures it can be cut and re-grown over and over, making it one of the most sustainable and renewable resources we have. Bamboo cases are available in four sizes. Each case is uniquely handmade for the best possible fit of each different style of straw. The look and exact size of each case will vary due to the natural growth characteristics of bamboo.

The first reusable Glass Bubble Tea Straw, another new product, is finally here! Designed specifically with “Boba” beverages in mind, this straw provides the proper function for the unique experience of tasting, sipping and chewing… all at the same time. The Bubble Tea Straw diameter (14mm) is the exact size needed for tapioca pearls to slide easily through the straw. Since Bubble Tea drinks do require a straw, many“disposable” plastic straws will not find their way into garbage piles and oceans!

On the opposite side of the straw size spectrum, Glass Dharma continues strong sales of our “Sippers”, a popular size for slow sipping and frequently used for shorter glassware and stemware. This design, created for serious coffee and tea sipping as well as the wine and cocktail venue, is available in “simple elegance” and “decorative dots” styles. The demand continually increases for these little straws with the thick wall design. Though the sipper may appear dainty, quality and durability are not sacrificed.

The Glass Dharma email inboxes are frequently stuffed with response expressing gratitude for the design and function of our products. Emails repeatedly express confidence in the quality and durability of Glass Dharma straws that are used daily by family members young and old. First thoughts of “breakage fear” are quickly put to rest once the Glass Dharma straws are personally “tested”.

This summer the Glass Dharma Design Team decided to take “another sip” and expand the line to include the Shorty - Short straws for short glasses (great for those short people we call kids, too!). The Shorty keeps the same Glass Dharma integrity standards and offers a choice of two new diameters - 9.5mm and 12mm to customize your sipping preferences. We know the Shorty will mean more cocktail delights (cheers!) and more kid users (hurray!). At 6.25” long, the new Shorty is the perfect length for those smaller glasses and cups.

The “Shorty” is a great choice for:

Kids
Blended drinks (think Margaritas and Strawberry Daiquiris)
Coffees and teas
Vegetable juices
Any drink that calls for a smaller glass or cup

Worldwide sales continually increase as our Glass Dharma community grows. Many of our “Made in

USA

” products embark on overseas journeys. Our oceans have no boundaries; all countries must unite in the effort to take care of our waterways. Our Planet’s survival depends on it!

If you find yourself in the company of David Leonhardt (Founder/Owner), the staff at Glass Dharma will advise you to keep mindful of certain phrases that may slip forth from your lips. David will return a question to those that absentmindedly utter the phrase “Throw it away”. With an intently quizzical expression, he will quietly ask you, “Where is ‘away’…?”

by Cheryl Newcomb

2009-06-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

Sitting out on my back patio on a gorgeous summer day, my thoughts drift… could it really be a whole year ago that I was sitting in this same spot, marveling at how the events of the previous year had quickly brought me to a new phase in my career? I reminisce, lemonade in hand and ice tinkling against the side of the glass as I stir with my glass straw. I remember the first conversation that eventually brought a multitude of ideas that continue to branch. A new career opportunity generated as the conversation continued and it became the catalyst for so many non-work related life choices!

The introduction of the idea of a simple glass straw intrigued me. The invitation to use my marketing skills to introduce this new product idea fell right into my lap. Alternately, I was still underestimating the power behind the idea of this one simple item.

Surprisingly, my newfound duties quickly began to take shape. “Purpose” started popping out of all directions faster than I could even imagine as a flood of information started to crowd my inboxes and files. Contacts made so quickly my head was spinning and invitations to provide a simple utensil and the “message” that came with it, evolved from a mere "task" to more of a *mission*. My workdays became somewhat frenzied, but always with sincere motivation spurring me on. A simple glass straw… Who knew? …

Popularity of this new idea of drinking with glass straws makes my current job of Marketing Manager at Glass Dharma an absolute pleasure. So many people are looking for plastic alternatives as the Evening News brings increasing reports about the harm to our health and our environment that occurs due to our culture’s obsession with plastics usage. The education actually becomes my own and I constantly look for new ways to eliminate plastics from my home and lifestyle.

The expansion of the Glass Dharma line of glass straws provides variety and style by a company that feels its purpose and rises to the challenge to reach out. This, in my opinion, is the most fun part of the adventure! Not only do requests come forth for specific lengths, diameters and designs, but also the carrying of the straw brings a need for accessories that now are treading into the realm of fashion! The desire to “bring your own” has been heard loud and clear at Glass Dharma as the company quickly fills requests and considers new needs and options. Each day that I bury myself into the duties at hand, I have to wonder… how many plastic straws wasted did each glass straw save? Moreover, how much plastic awareness did the idea behind the glass straw create? How many individuals reconsider plastics options? The answer to these questions speaks the power behind this journey that I have found myself on….

How to "Dress" your Glass Straw

2009-04-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Everyday I learn things from my customers as I fill orders and answer emails. Not long ago, I received an email questioning the ethics behind using fabric made from recycled post consumer plastic bottles to carry the Glass Dharma glass drinking straws. Our current line of “cozies” ranging in eight different colors and three sizes have been a strong selling item, but I took the question seriously and went to the sewers at Glass Dharma for some new ideas…

The result of that request is a product with lasting wear and I now offer this alternative to the current line of cozies - Soft Sleeves made from 100% Romanian Hemp. These sleeves are machine washable and have a superior durability factor. And they are beautiful!

Why Hemp?
Hemp is 100% reusable and renewable. An acre of hemp can produce as much fiber as four acres of trees and two of cotton. It can be cultivated in as little as 100 days. Hemp’s earth-friendly properties include a natural resistance to pesticides and can easily be grown organically. Dense planting leaves little space for light, which causes a natural form of weed control. It grows extremely fast in any kind of climate. Hemp does not exhaust the soil and uses little water to flourish.

Hemp has a longstanding American history of cultivation for different uses. President Washington grew hemp. So did President Jefferson. Americans were legally bound to grow hemp during the Colonial Era. The Declaration of Independence was written on hemp paper and Betsy Ross sewed the USA flag on hemp material!

Hemp, known for natural antimicrobial properties, is more absorbent than cotton fabrics. Deodorizing and anti-fungal properties of this fiber make it an ideal choice for picnic baskets and lunch boxes.

Why is this hemp grown in Romania? This brings interesting information to the table. Using hemp for manufacturing is certainly an earth friendly choice!

One way to ensure more cultivation of hemp for industrial purposes is to buy hemp.

I am curious to see what my customers will have to say about their own preferred way to carry their reusable glass straw…

2009-03-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have heard of few people in the world that have as much dedication and determination to live their core values as Beth Terry does. She is the "blogger of all things plastic" at Fake Plastic Fish and I am honored to have her as a guest blogger on our site. DL.

Do small changes, like switching to glass drinking straws, make a difference?

A while back, I was very happy to be the subject of an article in the Philadelphia Inquirer about my blog, Fake Plastic Fish, and my project to eliminate as much new plastic from my life as possible. The author mentioned the fact that I had given up plastic drinking straws and now carry a GlassDharma drinking straw wherever I go.

This statement became the subject of much derision on the snarky web site, Fark.com, and helped me to really ask myself, "What impact do a few drinking straws have when the environmental problems in the world are so great?"

Surely, we can't restore the ecology of our planet, our home, if the only change we make in our lives is to change the method by which we suck up our milk shakes (or other beverages of choice.) And certainly, the types of liquids, as well as solids, we choose to consume, and thereby support, have a much greater impact (pesticides, chemical additives, hormones, food miles, etc.) than the delivery system from cup to mouth.

But as I argued in my post, Obama's F---ing Lightbulbs, drinking straws, like changing light bulbs, can be a gateway to bigger changes for those who have yet to analyze their consumption. And straws, unlike light bulbs, have the added benefit of being something we take out and use frequently, a regular reminder of the choices we've decided to make for the planet.

Moreover, for those of us who have already reduced our consumption considerably, a glass drinking straw provides one more way to combat the disposable mindset of our culture and to fight the plastic plague. And they are a conversation piece. Pull one out in any restaurant while refusing a plastic straw, and see what kind of interest is created. My glass straw has provided the doorway for several great conversations with waiters about environmental issues.

Of course, buying glass straws can also be just another symptom of over-consumption if they are purchased as just another fad and forgotten about. We certainly can't buy ourselves out of the mess we're in. Green purchases need to be mindful purchases. Buying a bunch of glass straws, using them for a few days, and then forgetting about them helps no one. (Except of course for David Leonhardt, a great guy who I'm happy to support. And I'm sure he doesn't want you to buy his straws and forget about them either!)

Switching from plastic to alternative materials like glass, stainless steel, wood, and natural fibers, is a step by step process. I've been trying for going on two years and am still not "there" yet. But I think the journey is worth it, if only for the peace I feel in the present moment. Have you started? How's it been for you?
Beth.

Is it Working For You?

2009-02-25T06:37:00.000-08:00

We live near the back entrance to the Mendocino Botanical Gardens. Today, I took Teddy (our Corgi) for a short walk, or so I thought. Unless Gail and I both go, Teddy usually isn't interested in the “long walk” which consists of a 1 mile trek through the gardens and out to the the ocean. To my surprise, he not only kept going, but he was running and pulling me much faster than his usual short-legged gait. Past the vegetable garden, around the huge Christmas Heather in full bloom, and all the way out to the bluffs.

Here we stand at the edge of the continent. A shift in perspective. Teddy poking his nose into gopher holes and me - watching the waves, feeling like a part of a bigger whole. Focusing my sight on the horizon, sensing the planet – part of the solar system – part of the galaxy – part of the cosmos. I start to think about what I had read earlier in the week.

One of my favorite bloggers is Beth Terry at Fake Plastic Fish. Recently in a blog titled Saving the Planet (aka Plastic, a**holes!) she linked to George Carlin's rant about human arrogance related to our concept of “environmentalism”. Click on the link above, watch George and then read Beth's blog for perspective before reading on.

Hilarious? There must be some truth in there – why else would we laugh?

So here we have a 4+ billion old planet that is being “screwed up” by us humans who have been here a mere 100k, at most a million years. In addition, we talk about plastics lasting thousands of years (as if that is a long time). So what is the bother? In another billion (or million) years, humankind may not exist – neither would plastic. Global warming would not be an issue because there may not be anyone to make it an issue.

Teddy and I start for home. He is still full of energy – running ahead – showing me the way. I couldn't help but wonder; so what's Georges point? Is it really useless to do anything about plastics – or the environment? It seems to me that this would be an endorsement for apathy.
Apathy does not work for me, neither does cynicism.

The bigger question: What works for you in your life, and is it really working?

Acting on a Question

2009-01-31T14:51:00.000-08:00

I do my best to avoid “The News”. Our TV is reserved solely for select DVDs, it doesn't even have an antenna. I'm careful about what I let into my head. You know the “What you focus on expands” stuff. I think that is why so many boomers “got lost” after the sixties (myself included). We bought the media package and “went with the program” instead of following our hearts – at least I did.

Even still, “The News” still creeps in from time to time. Especially on the internet. I am finding more and more reports about the dangers of BPA leaching into our foods and beverages. I must conclude that using glass would be the best option for all food storage and serve-ware.

My own common sense approach to the news is that we have gradually "collected" so much plastic over the years (remember when mayonnaise came in glass jars?) that the parallel of human disease and the excessive use of plastics are a wake up call.

I do not understand the approach to avoid action because “We do not have enough evidence to be sure about the causes of”… Global Warming, Holes in the Ozone or Plastics in our Diet are real issues. To me, if it's happening, what can I do to mitigate the situation regardless of cause? What do I tell my grandchildren when we live in a toxic garbage dump? That I wasn't sure what caused it, so I did nothing? That it was too big of a problem for me to solve, so I didn't try?

No, I'm not perfect. I drive a car, I still use some single-use plastics, but in the past several years, I have been asking myself certain questions and step by step, finding ways to avoid them (the plastics, not the questions).

A quick unplanned trip to the store – yeah, I forgot to bring the bags – I got 4 items – do I REALLY need a bag? Don't my hands and arms still work? At the restaurant: “Water please, no ice, no straw”.

I cannot begin with perfection, but I can start with where I am, and with one foot in front of the other, participate in the greening of the planet rather than watching it decay. Anybody else? Hop on board – the party starts here!!

Making The Glass Difference

2009-01-26T15:50:00.000-08:00

Adventures continue as GlassDharma continues to grow, keeping me humble as I discover that this company and it’s mission to educate about the benefits of glass vs. plastic, brings education back to me, full circle. My idea to design a line of glass drinking straws and make them available became the catalyst for being able to provide information to the public about the glass difference and the effects that our plastic use has on our environment. I had no idea that such a huge response would occur, gradually changing the way I think about each simple task that I take on.

As the Customer base builds and the Bloggers and News Reporters respond to the GlassDharma website, it is my privilege to have direct contact with the caring and kindness of others. These people do not take their place on this earth for granted. They see that the planet we all live on needs great care and they are willing to play the part, and make the difference, no matter how large or small. They realize the impact that repetitive behavior has on our environment. And, how quickly the accumulation of waste can change one’s surroundings. They pay attention to safe dispensing of food and beverages and stay on top of health issues. They are nurturing individuals that place a high value on the care of themselves and all living things.

Therefore, my simple mission has expanded. Collectively the difference made becomes even more powerful….

A Touch of Glass...

2009-01-09T12:50:00.000-08:00

It was about two years ago that I noticing the glass drinking straws displayed in the GlassWorks shop I was working at since our relocation to Fort Bragg. My occupation as a lampworker for more than a decade exposed me to many new ideas in glassworking, but I was intrigued by the design of the glass straws and their elegant simplicity coupled with the idea of everyday function. I had been reading about how plastics leach toxins into our foods and knew for quite some time how plastics not only increase our landfill, but huge amounts of plastic never even make it through the recycling process. These massive amounts of plastic end up in our environment, destroying wildlife on land and in our oceans.

A plastic straw may not seem very threatening, and to be sure, there are bigger forces out there in our society that seriously need to be addressed. However, my interest was peaked. I started doing research on how many plastic straws are used on a daily basis worldwide. I saw this as having potential to make a significant difference. It is not so much teaching people how not to pollute – most of us recycle to an extent. We know the basics, but I find myself pulling “Baggies” off the store shelf and tossing them into my cloth shopping bag. What's up with that!? Just how silly is it to have so many single use plastics in our society, knowing how damaging they are? All the while, knowing that a large percentage of recyclable plastic is not being recycled and nothing is being done about it?! A moment of clarity took place when I realized that “all we need to do is change the way we think!”

My vision crystallized as I realized that Glass Drinking Straws could be a teaching tool. How easy is it to learn to say “no straw, please” when ordering drinks in a restaurant? How difficult is it to insist on a paper bag at the grocery store – or better yet, buy fabric reusable bags to bring when grocery shopping? My thought process continued… what else are we doing that negatively affects our planet just because it was the way we have always done it? What if – someday - the concept of single-use plastics becomes nothing more than a dim memory?

This was the beginning of a new idea for me and it was at this time that GlassDharma was born. GlassDharma has become the vehicle with which to implement my new mission, reducing the carbon footprint while providing a quality product that brings beauty and style to everyday experiences. Our company was founded on the belief in that we all deserve the best life has to offer; healthy living in a healthy world – with “A Touch of Glass”

I now feel myself fully coming to life again ... coming into my own. Here is where I can make a difference on this planet. Now, I am more than just taking up space and sucking air...