Geneva shop owner thinking green with recycled toys
The Peaceful Parlour wasn't too peaceful when we visited during the eco-friendly shop's grand opening week in Geneva. But a few kids combined with some of the shop's "green" toys were likely to make some noise.
It didn't deter owner Shari Ralish from providing information last week about the unique products her shop at 212 S. Third St. offers to those who are "green" conscious and those who would like to learn more.
"Many things in the store are made from things saved from going into the landfill," Ralish explains, showing hammocks made from hemp or recycled plastic bottles; door mats created from wasted fishermen's ropes; and organic, cotton shopping bags that are alternatives to plastic bags.
The "green" toys in the shop are made from recycled plastics and have no small parts that could be dangerous to children.
"The toys in here are 'Alexander approved,' " Ralish said, referring to testing the products on her son Alexander first.
Rainwater diversion kits for creating rain benches or rain barrels are also on display, along with various cream moisturizers, oils and mists that are targeted for different sensations, from calming to energizing fragrances.
The store has been open a few months and visitor response has been positive.
"We are hoping as more people learn about us, they will stop in for a visit," Ralish said.
Screaming for ice cream: With temperatures sizzling lately, Heather Knight figures to be busy scooping ice cream at a new venture on Third Street in Geneva.
When Past Basket owner Dan McFadden wanted to introduce something unique at his store, Marta's Ice Cream stand was created on the wooden deck next to Past Basket.
Knight has been serving some delicious ice cream and frozen dog treats for pets at Marta's since Swedish Days.
"It's a nice, quick little stop here," Knight said. "And people think the ice cream is delicious, and the treats for their dogs are great."
As well they should. Marta's is serving Homer's Ice Cream, a popular brand from Chicago's North Shore.
I tried the Strawberry Lemon Basil Sorbet, and the Chocolate Caramel flavors. Write those down - and give them a try the next time you are in the 200 block of South Third Street.
It was inspirational: Jackie Olson has noticed a very rewarding offshoot from helping organize a 3-on-3 soccer tournament to benefit the Fox Valley Special Recreation Association.
The tournament takes place July 31 at the Stuart Sports Complex on Jericho Road in Aurora, and organizers are expecting up to 1,800 kids and their families to be involved - and Olson has noticed a big change in her family.
"This has inspired my family," Olson said. "All four of my kids are playing soccer, and since this tournament has come up, my oldest son has been volunteering to teach kids with disabilities how to play.
"If I can inspire my own son to do this, I can inspire any kid to be part of helping the community," Olson said.
Teams can register for the tournament right up to the night before, Olson said. Teams can register on the kickerssoccerclub.org website.
dheun@sbcglobal.net