The Mirror 4.27.08

Green Gifter

by Diana Wing

April McCrumb, owner of the Catching Fireflies gift shops in Berkley and Rochester, is doing her part to reduce the stores' carbon footprint by offering more eco-friendly products and packaging options. She has a line of lightweight, super-strong, nylon reusable bags that are easily compacted and less bulky than canvas totes.

"They're very useful. I use them regularly," she said. "What I like about these is since they're nylon and they have a big gusset in the bottom, they hold a lot, 25 pounds, which is great for groceries and whatnot. You can stuff one in your purse, or if you're going grocery shopping you can stuff a bunch of them into one."

McCrumb sells the sustainable shopping bags at cost with purchases over $30. She also offers incentives when customers bring back the store's paper bags and boxes.

"We feel we should be a leader in the community and if we start promoting this kind of thing then it will trickle down and our customers will go, 'Ah ha, all those things make a difference."

Catching Fireflies has always carried works by local artists, but I didn't know that about one-quarter of the stores' products are locally made - reducing shipping and freight distances, and carbon emissions.

You'll find beautiful tiles by Royal Oak artist Gretchen Kramp, whimsical clocks by Duane Scherer of Lathrup Village and recycled goods (angels made from old bowling pins) from Royal Oak artist Marsha Filipiak, known for her attractive stained glass art.

The shops also carry some unique wine glasses made from reclaimed materials, and gadgets, like bottle openers and business card holders, created from old bicycle chains.

"Berkley has a green committee which is awesome," said McCrumb of the new Environmental Advisory Committee that will look for ways to reduce city-generated pollution. "It's really neat to see the community getting involved."

Check out the green options at www.catchingfireflies.com, or visit the shops at 3117 W. 12 Mile in Berkley and 203 E. University Drive in Rochester.