DECEMBER 2011
Doing Business for the Greater Good The Tenfold Fair Trade contributes to economic security and self-sufficiency for the less fortunate
By Misty Higgins Martha Ehlman’s business—
and life—philosophy is based on the idea that every good deed is returned tenfold. Having long understood the
principle of giving back, Ehl- man also understood the idea that if she gave someone a free lunch, she would have to give them a free lunch the next day. But if she gave someone an op- portunity to sell their product, she could provide a way for them to earn a living amidst the economic strife and limited resources in certain areas of Africa, Asia, Central and South America. Hence the name of her Harp-
ers Ferry Potomac Street busi- ness, Tenfold Fair Trade Collec- tion, offering a unique collec- tion of creative, fairly traded, eco-friendly products from all over the world, and dedicated to the principles of the fair trade system of exchange- or as she likes to put it, trading peo- ple to people, rather than gov- ernment to government as she sees the system of free trade. Ehlman became acquainted
with the plight of those less fortunate in developing coun- tries through her experiences with her church sales of fair trade products to fund mis-
sion programs as well as while acquiring projects as a youth outreach coordinator through her church. “It was my job to find opportunities for them,” she said. Four years ago, the Maryland
resident set about to open a business in her brother’s build- ing in lower Harpers Ferry. She immediately knew what kind of business it would be. “This was something I felt good about,” she said. “It wasn’t just about having a store, it was about the idea that I could do something good with it. I knew that when you give to others, you get so much back. I thought, what better thing could I do than to incorporate that into my busi- ness?” The small shop is filled with
fun and practical items which make creative use of many recycled materials. Ehlman’s business is affiliated with fair trade organizations that guar- antee fair wages to artisans for their work. “I rely heavily on the Fair
Trade Federation and all of my wholesalers are members of the Fair Trade Federation,” she noted. From woven children’s nov- elty hats to purses made from
pop tops, recycled VHS tapes and candy wrappers, bracelets made from sustainable items like Tagua nuts, Tenfold is filled with interesting finds that are as attractive as they are eco, global and people friendly. Showing the bracelet made of Tagua nuts, Ehlman adds, “It has a dual purpose, because it also encourages these people to protect the rainforest because they can make money from it.” Ehlman doesn’t just encour-
06
Real Estate Closings
Randall R. Conrad II Martinsburg, WV 25401 Attorney Responsible for this ad.
(304) 262-0000 or (304) 725-6000
www.theconradlawfirm.com 55 Meridian Parkway, Suite 103
The Perfect Fit & You
1. 37 Months 75 % APY*
A rate you’ll really get into!
From your Most Valuable Bank Bigger is better when it comes to saving money. If you
have an MVB Choice or Most Valuable Checking account, you
can earn an amazing rate with our new CD. Begin with as little as $1,000 and watch your money grow!
MV
ANK.COM
The Observer the largest circulation newspaper in Jefferson County.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32