Pocono Record SUNDAY January 28, 2001 Business News Close the Loop open for business By Susan Koomar Pocono Record Business Editor Jonas mom starts Internet store with a mission: Wares are born from recycled trash Rita Lacey's products seem like examples of modern-day alchemy: Old windows transformed into vividly colored glass boxes and trinkets. Tires shaped into whimsical playground swings that look like horses and dinosaurs. Plastic soda bottles crushed and spun into snugly fleece fabric. Lacey has assembled an array of unique items made from recycled materials for her new home-based business called Close the Loop. She started the venture last August after admiring a fleece pullover made largely from recycled plastic. Lacey was told she could buy one on the Internet, but the product was tough to locate. A longtime advocate of recycling, Lacey decided to surf the 'Net in search of other recycled items. "You have to work hard to find these things, but it's amazing. Once you start looking, you find so much," she said. Lacey put her 14-year career in computer systems and drafting behind her when she had a daughter, who is now 5. Lacey's husband is an engineer for Lucent Technologies in Allentown. They moved from suburban Philadelphia to a rambling farm near Jonas four years ago. As her growing daughter became more independent, Lacey wanted to start her own business. The idea clicked when she discovered the scattered but interesting assortment of items made from recycled materials. She has carved out space in her 100-year-old farmhouse for a small office and sewing nook. Lacey is known to get up in the middle of the night to jot down ideas when inspiration strikes. She designed her own logo and has assembled inventory in less than six months. |
Close the Loop sells recycled tire chips for playgrounds and equine areas, as well as Pennsylvania-made rubber doormats. The rubber chips for playgrounds are safer and more economical than wood mulch because they absorb impact better and do not deteriorate, she said. Glass goblets crafted in South Africa out of recycled whiskey bottles and jewelry made from recycled silverware are also featured by Lacey's business. She also offers pens, pencils and piggy banks made from recycled money and denim jeans. Lacey offers two- to four-week delivery on most items. She is enjoying the combination of environmental stewardship, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit wrapped up in her new business. Visit Rita Lacey's site at www.close-the-loop.com or to request a catalog, call 1.570.629.8414 |
