FixitUp Finds

Countertops made from money.
Every morning I try to check out what’s made the front pages of the Philadelphia Inquirer–there’s something about the newspaper on my doorstep in the morning that I love. But, it’s not every day that I actually get to open all of the pages. Between my cat Rowdee who walks on the paper and wants me to crumple a paper ball for fetch, and my 1-year-old who grabs and rips the paper, well, it’s a feat to actually flip through the pages. So, on a recent morning when I found a small story ‘How to Recycle Unfit Money’ inside, I was delighted. Apparently the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia is searching for companies that can recycle or reuse some of the 40 tons of paper money they shred each week. They do wrap small packets as souvenirs for tourists, but that’s only a small amount. If you are inspired by the idea of reusing shredded money, check out Shetka Stone, a company in Minnesota that uses shredded bills counters and other custom objects.

Cool Shoe Marketing.
What’s not to like about Timberland PRO? Not sure. But, one thing I really like is the new website www.stayonyourfeet.com. There are some great resources, like a job search in construction and other trades. I searched for ‘carpenter’ in our zip code and found six. But, the part that I love is the animation of the shoe demonstrating its features. I seriously giggled like a little girl and so did my husband Mark. I won’t spoil it for you, but check it out if you have a few minutes for a smile. Click on the shoe to the left to check it out.

Pink for a purpose
I’ve heard the cry from a few women out there about tools that are made for us. Well, we’ll be tackling that in an upcoming show, because the mainstream tool makers really do have some great options inside their catalogs that work well for us slimmer-built builders. But, since this month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’d like to give my thanks to those DIY gear companies donating to breast cancer causes. One give-away on today’s show was from Little Pink Tool Kit, a company that gives 10 percent to breast cancer research. And on next week’s show, we’re sharing a Working for the Cure Pink Ribbon Toolbelt from GirlGear Industries. $10 from every sale of this toolbelt goes to National Breast Cancer Foundation. And, locally the Philadelphia 3-day was rained out into a 1-day that starts tomorrow at Fairmont Park. If you are interested in checking it out or donating to help a friend of the show Maura Manzo reach her fundraising goal, visit www.savezebra.com, it’s her funky, feminine way to promote Breast Cancer Awareness locally.