Renew mag subscriptions online, save a tree

A thought occurred to me today, just as I was about to drop two magazine subscription renewal envelopes in the mailbox:

Why not do this online?

I subscribe to two monthly magazines, Wired and Harper's, and both have been bugging me for months to renew my subscription. Harper's even sent me a letter saying that, by renewing early, I could save them the cost of several more notices.

Now I realize what a smart idea that was. Renew early and save the company postage and printing costs AND save on the fuel it takes to ship that envelope from Red Oak, Iowa to my apartment in Jackson, Michigan. Harper's wins, and so does the environment.

But then I thought, shucks, I betcha I could do this online. Sure enough, both sites had a renewal section. All I needed was my name and address, and a debit card, and in two minutes both subscriptions were renewed. No postage needed, no mail infrastructure to engage, no check to write, no yucky envelope taste on my tongue.

I should've thought of this a long time ago...

IKEA takes CFLs.

Recycling Jackson has heard a few questions regarding compact flourescents - they do contain mercury, and aren't always easy to dispose of.

Then along came IKEA.

The Consumerist reports that the uber-furniture retailer is taking CFLs at all its giant locations.

Check out IKEA's website for details.

Here's IKEA's take on it:

Bring your used mercury containing lightbulbs to the IKEA store for free disposal. Since our CFL bulbs contain a small amount of mercury, they should not be simply tossed out. IKEA offers the perfect solution: a ‘Free Take Back’ program offering recycle bins in all IKEA stores.

So if you plan to shop for Swedish kitchen tables at Michigan's IKEA location, near Canton (and beware - the parking lot is nuts), be sure to take along your expired CFLs.

Save on energy bills with class.

[From the Jackson Citizen Patriot]

Interested in getting a $100 credit toward your energy bill?

Community Action Agency is offering the credit to eligible candidates who participate in an energy-reduction class.

Classes are offered on several dates throughout October, November and December.

For more information or to register for a class, contact Community Action Agency at 784-4800, ext. 250. Classes will take place at 1214 Greenwood Ave. in Jackson.