Pocono News Section

"Green" Business Looks for Downtown Success

"Green" Business Looks for Downtown Success - Tuesday, August 18, 2009 at 1:05PM EST

Reported by: Eva Mastromatteo
Tuesday, Aug 18, 2009 @ 01:05pm EST
var images = new Array(); SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY - A Lackawanna County native is going green in every sense of the way.

It all started when she began making purses from a burlap sack that once held Electric City coffee beans.

Cristin Powers sells her purses in her store named, ÒGreen BeingÓ which is located at 334 Adams Avenue in downtown Scranton.

"I always wanted to be a part of the change in the downtown and I knew Scranton had potential and it just needs more younger people like myself to really step up to the plate and be the difference," says Powers.

She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan, then with a business/marketing degree from Marywood University.

Times were tough finding a job after school so she began her own business selling vintage clothing and other items.

Cristin also highlights products of local artists such as wallets, pouches, and clutches.

She sells rugs and even earrings made from recycled plastic containers.

Cristin's "green" efforts are paying off.

She's a finalist in Country Living magazine's 'Pitch Your Product' feature for her reusable burlap sleeves over hot beverage cups.

Plus, another downtown Scranton merchant is getting on board.

"The Bog" across the street now sells coffee and teas.

They also have Cristin's product on hand for the public to purchase for $10.

Brian Craig, Co-owner of ÒThe BogÓ says, ÒItÕs a great feature. Reusable coffee sleeves. Perfect. Cuts down on waste and helps the environment."

And being good to the environment is what motivates Cristin in all areas of her life.

She hopes Scranton will embrace the effort, too, and tells us she's there for good.

For more information on her products, you can log onto her site: www. shopgreenbeing. com