"Contrary to its symbolism, the reality of a cut flower's life is not nearly so romantic [as one might believe]. No where is this dichotomy between beauty and danger more evident than in the Smith River flood plain along California's North Coast. Nearly 200,000 pounds of pesticides are used annually in the 11 square mile growing area. Many of the chemicals used are probable human carcinogens, highly toxic to fish, or known to contaminate groundwater" (Center for Ethics and Toxins).
With more than 43,000 floral retailers are gearing up for the Valentine's Day season in the United States alone, the potential impact of this industry one the health of the natural environment is staggering.
The International Labor Rights Fund has found that the rampant overuse of chemical pesticides (including some that restricted by law in the United States and Europe) in the cut flower industry is having detrimental effects on the health of field workers responsible for growing and harvesting.
Green Lifestyle Magazine reports that, in the flower industry, "pesticide poisoning is responsible for neurological problems, birth defects, miscarriages, and more. The combination of toxic exposure, human rights abuses, and environmental contamination in the flower industry is a sad and ugly example of greed and mistreatment."
The magazine goes on to state that, "the International Labour Rights Forum created the 'Fairness in Flowers Campaign' back in 2003 to combat the problems that have plagued workers in the cut flower industries in Columbia and Ecuador."
from Environment & Wildlife
Want To Be Sweet? Skip The Flowers This Valentine's Day
Of all the commerically-fueled holidays, Valentine's Day continually wins the...
by: Beth Buczynski
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Healthy ideas, how about a basket of lovely healthy snakes, my preference.Make sure to add some ginger.Ginger may act as a natural anti-inflammatory and reduce joint and muscle pain; crystallized ginger treats. The healthful fats in nuts and flaxseed fight inflammation and muscle soreness, and they're also good for your heart. Flax also contains alpha-linolenic acid which may possibly boost endurance! Magnesium, found in almonds and chocolate, helps ease muscle cramps, aches, and pains. Almonds, Dark Chocolate,
Cherries also contain tough anti-inflammatory compounds, and may even be more effective than aspirin in fighting pain and inflammation.
I see online some of these kinds of baskets sell for up to $150.00, putting one together at home, would be much less and say a lot more.
In-Joy...Ana
How colorful>>
Grand prize: the basket of love,

at: www.elizadomestica.com/.../
I like this one, the weave on the basket is nice.