Since we can’t count on BPA and other toxic chemicals being kept out of our lives, The EWG has put together the new 2008 Pollution Solutions Holiday Gift Bag to reduce dependence on (and exposure to) plastic.

For $135 you can support EWG’s research and get these items:

u 27 ounce Klean Kanteen stainless steel bottle.

u Jumbo, recycled plastic Enviro-Tote printed with our pollution solutions.

u Pyrex glass bowl set.

u Six Crummy Brothers organic chocolate chip cookies.

u $25 in free product coupons plus popular EWG tips and tools.

u The new hardback Green Goes With Everything by Sloan Barnett (first 500 orders).



Win cash for a new no

beach littering slogan

The Beach Marine Resources Task Force is heading up an effort to keep drinking straws and lids off the beach and out of the water.

Beach residents have a chance to win $100 by coming up with a slogan to remind restaurant customers to keep the beaches clean.

The Marine Resources Task Force decided it needs a catchy slogan to remind people that plastic straws and lids are a big litter problem here, and the idea is to get merchants to cooperate with MRTF in trying to keep the litter off the beaches.

The first place slogan writer will win $100; second place $50; and the third-place winner will get $25.

“Were looking for something, at the very least, to stick up something that says, It takes a one hundred years for this stuff to degrade, please dispose of it and help us keep the beach clean,” said MRTF member Jay Light.

Residents can enter the “keep beaches clean” slogan contest as many times as they would like and should either drop off entries or mail them to Fort Myers Beach Town Hall, Marine Resources Task Force, 2523 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931. The deadline to enter is Dec. 15.



Canoe through islands

to see local flora, fauna

Canoe through islands of nesting wading birds with a Bird Patrol Guide Saturday, Dec 6.

Time: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. (all are asked to arrive by 8:15 a.m.)

Where: Lakes Regional Park is located in south Fort Myers on Gladiolus Drive west of Cleveland Avenue.

Everyone must pre-register at leeparks.org or call 533-7440 to reserve a spot.

The tour is free with parking fee.



Guided walk in the woods set for Dec. 6

Go for a guided walk in the woods with bird patrol.

When: Saturday, Dec 6.

Time: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. (all are asked to arrive by 8:15 a.m.)

Where: Lakes Regional Park is located in south Fort Myers on Gladiolus Drive west of Cleveland Avenue.

Everyone must pre-register at leeparks.org or call 533-7440 to reserve a spot.

The tour is free with parking fee.

Stroll through native habitat and see first hand the plants and birds that make this area so unique.

Bring binoculars, sun protection, water, hat, and sturdy walking shoes



Experience the birds of Bunche Beach with guide

Experience the beautiful birds of Bunche Beach with a bird patrol guide.

When: Saturday, Dec 6.

Time: 8 to 10 a.m.

Where: Meet in the parking lot at Bunche Beach (one of the best birding sites in Lee County).

Located in South Fort Myers, off Summerlin Road: Drive south on John Morris Rd until it deadends.

More information is available at 707-3015 or birdpatrol.org.

This event is free and provided in cooperation with Lee County Parks & Recreation.

Bring binoculars, sun protection, shoes that can get wet, a bottle of drinking water, your curiosity and love of nature.