August 2011
Your conscious life
M a g a z i n e
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August 2011
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August 2011 Live Green
4 Editor’s Note 53 Green Scenes
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Environmental Education
55 Green Directory
Vitamin C for a Healthier Future
54 Green Pages 56 Q&A with Joe Abraham
5 Yoga Practices for Mind-Body Reduce your CO2
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Green Kids Brain Food Guide Dogs Backyard Wildlife Habitat
ENERGY EFFICIENCY 101 STAYCATIONS
Work Green Schools Going Green
Corporate Social Responsibility University Innovations The Greenest Lodge in America What is Old is New Again
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August 2011
Editor’s Note
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They understand that if we want to work together to create a sustainable world, we have to start with the children. Thank you, teachers, for all you do.
Back-to-School!
I love the sound of that phrase. To me, it means a few things: The kids are going back to school; the phrase, “Mom, I’m bored,” will be gone; and more importantly, it’s time to get those brains pumped full of new and exciting knowledge! I’m blessed to say that education runs thick in my family – from my father, a retired professor from ASU; to my mother-in-law, an elementary school teacher for over 30 years; and myself, a former professor. My family has a motto: “There is always an opportunity to learn, and to teach.” I’ve grown up with, and taken to heart, one of my father’s favorite phrases: “You can learn something from anyone.” Think about it – someone you interacted with today knows something you don’t! As the Editor-in-Chief, it is so exciting to talk to and learn something new from people living and working in the world of sustainability. This month is dedicated to teachers, who devote their hearts and minds to bettering students. It’s not easy, at any level, to make an impact with a student, and despite budget cuts and the pressure to teach to AIMS tests, teachers around our state are integrating environmental education into their lesson plans and exposing our children to the wonders of our Earth. From gardens to geology, teachers do it because they are passionate.
Photography by Kate Larson
4 greenliving | August 2011
We begin our issue with our feature on environmental education (EE), “Reading, Writing, Arithmetic…Mother Earth,” by Aimee Welch. Find out how EE is making its way into the system, and learn that we still have a long way to go. Find out what you can do to get EE into your children’s school. Did you know there are signs your child’s eyesight could be in jeopardy? Read “5 Signs That Your Child Could Need Glasses,” by Abigail Gilmore to learn more. If one of your own is going off to college, learn some tips to Feng Shui a dorm room and bring harmony to their new space, check it out on our GLAZ Website. We are excited to have the Chopra Center partner with Green Living for 2011 and share knowledge about balancing life’s stresses – this month Dr. David Simon shares “5 Yoga Practices for Mind-Body Balance.” In WORK, we continue our education theme and discover how schools are building green. Discover which Arizona school is LEED certified in “Schools Going Green,” by Kristi Eaton. What about our colleges? We asked our colleges what sustainable initiatives they were spearheading for this school year – check out “University Innovations” to see what the big three are up to. If you are planning to escape one of these hot weekends, consider a bed and breakfast. The cozy B&Bs mentioned in “Stay Green, Go Local at Arizona’s Bed and Breakfasts,” by Barbi Walker, will treat you right – and you’ll be supporting local businesses too! Pork chops, bruschetta and fruit salad – this month we’re sharing our favorite dishes with you. Finally, if you are thinking about what healthy snacks to fix for the kiddos, our green couple, the Burkharts, reviewed organic snacks fit for a lunchbox. This month, I challenge you to learn something new, to be open to new information or learn a new way of doing something. “You can learn something from anyone,” if you allow it. GOOD READInG,
Tishin Donkersley, M.A., Editor-in-Chief
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“To waste, to destroy our natural resources, to skin and exhaust the land instead of using it so as to increase its usefulness, will result in undermining in the days of our children the very prosperity which we ought by right to hand down to them amplified and developed. “ ~ Theodore Roosevelt BY AIMEE WELCH
T
imes were different when President Theodore Roosevelt delivered this insightful statement during his Seventh Annual Message to the country on December 3, 1907. Preserving the environment was gaining importance, but existed farther down on the world’s priority list. Global warming hadn’t crossed our minds, rain wasn’t considered a limited resource, and rainforests were still considered exotic – not rare. Mother Earth was thriving and sustainability still came easily, yet Roosevelt’s prudent foresight couldn’t have been more accurate. Our children have been handed a monumental challenge— preserving the health of the planet. It is now their responsibility to share, but it is our duty to give them the tools and the education needed, so that a century from now they can hand their children and grandchildren a more prosperous environment than the one we left them.
The delicate balance between Nature and knowledge Raising environmentally astute citizens capable of sustaining the planet is the task at hand. One aspect of this charge is to get kids back outside, where they learn to question, understand, appreciate and respect nature. The number of kids and hours spent in front of computers and TVs is steadily climbing, at the expense of bike riding, fishing and collecting bugs; yet the American Academy of Pediatrics says those bug-catching kids are happier, healthier and more relaxed. Go outside and play…checkmark. Secondly, we have to teach the concept of sustainability—the cause and effect of our actions (or non-action) on the planet and its resources… that is how we turn our little nature lovers into a generation of environmental stewards with a holistic view of the world, armed with the skills to make it a better place. The question then becomes what is the best way to combine nature and knowledge—demonstrate the power, impact and consequences of their actions? That depends on who you ask. But the infusion of Environmental Education (EE) in K-12 classrooms is a cause being championed on national, state and local fronts, and a growing number of children are getting the message. “The goal of environmental education is to develop a world population that is aware of, and concerned about, the environment and its associated problems, and which has the knowledge, skills, attitudes, motivations, and commitment to work individually and collectively toward solutions of current problems and the prevention of new ones.” – The Belgrade Charter
8 greenliving | August 2011
Getting from there to Here While it’s been a slow and rocky road, EE is steadily making its way to our children in the classroom—a few steps forward… and sometimes a few steps back at a time. Environmental Education concepts are currently well represented in most states, but exactly how to introduce them into lessons plans throughout the year, for different age groups, and in alignment with state academic standards remains a challenge. Yet, the increasing number of teachers using programs like Project WILD and Project Learning Tree to incorporate EE indicates they’re doing just that. An abundance of online resources (see “teacher resources” section below), grants, nongovernment organizations and willing volunteers are helping educators provide the hands-on opportunities kids need to better understand their environment, and the importance of sustainability. Before the 1970s, EE in K-12 classrooms was virtually nonexistent. Then, in 1970, with the celebration of the first official Earth Day and the passing of the first National Environmental Education Act (NEEA), the EE movement began to gain awareness. The following year, the NAAEE was created, which is one of the key organizations providing resources for educators to promote EE programs and improve environmental literacy in K-12 schools today. Support at a national level waned over the years, but Congress passed the National Environmental Education Act (NEEA) of 1990, which renewed the role of the federal government by reestablishing the Office of Environmental Education, this time within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The reauthorization allocated funding for EE programs to provide teacher training, education and grants to the public and private sectors in an effort to increase environmental literacy. Due to budget constraints, the EPA was only able to fund 1,200 of the 10,000 grant applications received between 1991 and 1996 local schools and educators accepted the onus of bringing EE to the classroom, relying heavily on financial and educational resources provided by nonprofits and other nongovernmental organizations. And while the Obama Administration’s Blueprint for Reform promises a stronger focus on EE on a national level, state and local educators are already two steps ahead, working diligently on Environmental Literacy Plans (ELP) to facilitate information sharing and provide access to quality resources and support for the integration of EE across all K-12 curricula, and creatively implementing sustainability lessons in and out of their classrooms. greenlivingaz.com
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When it comes to driving the EE initiative forward, Arizona is on board. The Arizona Association for Environmental Education (AAEE) recently formalized its ELP for K-12 schools and received the largest single state grant ($75,000 from a foundation) to carry out the programs in the plan. Robert Kelty, Superintendent of Schools for Coconino County Regional Accommodation School District in northern Arizona, and former Arizona Teacher of the Year, is using grant money he’s received to lead by example, creating greener schools and spearheading innovative Sustainable Demonstration Projects that enable students to get hands-on experience.
By 2012, Kelty’s district—which includes two high schools serving at-risk youth—will be 70 percent green in their electrical consumption, thanks to 1,500 square feet of outdoor solar structures. Additionally, an adjacent greenhouse was converted to 100 percent wind and photovoltaic power. By demonstrating EE-in-action through these types of projects, Kelty believes his passion for a “hands on” approach will inspire teachers and students to learn more about EE. Aside from federal stimulus money, Kelty hasn’t seen a lot of progress on the national front. But he isn’t concerned. “There’s always more power at the local level,” Kelty passionately explained, as he discussed Arizona’s unique ecosystems, and the many ways kids are learning sustainability through school gardens utilizing native species, and beautification and restoration projects across the state. Kelty views the localization of environmental education as a benefit. “You can’t advocate for the environment unless you’re connected to it,” he said. Changing behaviors is another simple and effective (but often overlooked) way to drastically reduce energy costs in schools. But that’s just what Washington Elementary School District in Northwest Phoenix and Eastern Glendale did, and now the district leads all other school districts in Arizona in reducing energy consumption - to the tune of approximately 17 million kWh over a two-year period. This savings equated to a 25 percent reduction in electrical energy and approximately $4 million in avoided electrical energy costs! Sue Pierce’s consulting firm, Pierce and Associates, provides energy management services to K-12 school districts and worked closely with Washington Elementary School District to
10 greenliving | August 2011
implement their energy behavior plan and positively influence conservation habits of staff and students. Students serve as energy “police,” write songs about conservation and recycling, write skits, perform energy audits and use science and math skills to monitor energy data, according to Pierce. But she emphasizes that, to implement a successful program, top-down support is necessary. “Administration must lead this effort and not default to others. Their leadership (or lack of it) will make or break the energy behavior program,” Pierce said.
Teachers making a diffErEncE The bottom line is this—today, the level at which a child is exposed to EE in the classroom depends entirely on the state he/ she lives in and his teachers’ prerogative. EE is not yet weaved into the core curriculum, and funding opportunities are limited, so state and local educators are currently leading the charge. For many educators, sustainability has always been a cause to be championed and, regardless of “requirements” or lack thereof, they utilize every resource possible and selflessly give their personal time to bring environmental education to the classroom, or to 3,600 square feet of dirt outside the classroom if you’re Elaine Watson from Sedona Red Rock High School. Watson is one of four K-12 teachers in Northern Arizona recently recognized by the Northern Arizona Sustainable Economic Development Initiative (SEDI) for the “outstanding development and implementation of lessons, units or projects that reflect and reinforce the principles of sustainability.” Watson and her students constructed a garden and park setting near their school, reclaiming a 3600-square-foot parcel of land, which now produces the ingredients for Garden Organics —the students’ very own product line—which produces organic salads mixes, homemade lip balms, pumpkin butter, zucchini bread, jams and more. Watson is a bit of anomaly at her high school, with regard to her passion for EE, but her excitement about the many students and teachers the garden has inspired is evident. She believes full integration of EE across the curriculum is the way to go. She points out an ongoing movement in Verde Valley to diversify its economic base and provide food security by using local agriculture, identifying a perfect example of how EE combines knowledge and nature to develop those environmentally astute citizens we mentioned earlier. Verde Valley wants to develop local agriculture... Watson’s high school students are outside learning to grow a garden, market and sell their products. “This moves EE from simply being ‘green’ to making sense on a jobs level. Our high schoolers are developing marketable skills that they could use working for a vineyard, an organic farm, a farm-to-table restaurant, or at a market,” Watson said. “I feel it is an important aspect of my teaching to teach awareness of the Earth and respect for resources and the effects of human consumption.” – Craig Bowie, Puente de Hozho Craig Bowie and Anna Brown of Puente de Hozho are two other recipients of SEDI’s award this year. Brown’s pre-K special needs class learn to identify the recycling symbol and gain a broader understanding about waste and recycling through her snack time greenlivingaz.com
Feature program “Let’s Recycle.” With the help of their teacher and more than 300 individual cans, Bowie’s students—first- through fifth-graders—used recycled materials students brought from home to construct totem poles reminiscent of Native tribes for the Annual Recycled Art Show at the Coconino Center for the Arts. Bowie’s “Respect the Earth” project included a history lesson about old Native American cultures, and encouraged students to set up a permanent recycle bin at home. “Students are interested in the world around them, they deserve the opportunities to explore their local environments and learn how to be active and responsible community members.” – Amy Larson, Flagstaff Junior Academy Amy Larson’s seventh- and eighthgraders collect data and monitor field states throughout Coconino National Forest through her “Forest Health/ Climate Change” curriculum, which teaches about forest health in northern Arizona, including the impacts of forest management, wildfire and climate change effects. Larson says her students are excited about participating, and are able to observe how interconnected humans are to ecological systems.
What you can do – advocate for EE in schools To learn more ways to support legislation for K-12 EE programs across the country, please visit NAAEE’s website, naaee.net/advocacy.
Resources for K-12 educators:
What does the Future hold? Despite challenges, EE in the United States is making great strides. Congress is currently reviewing No Child Left Inside® (NCLI) legislation which would provide funding for EE, incentives for states developing Environmental Literacy Plans (ELP), and integration of EE across core subject areas. In response to NCLI, 49 of 50 states (including Arizona) are working on or have already developed ELPs, according to NAAEE. On June 21, 2011, Maryland became the first state to approve a graduation requirement in environmental literacy, ensuring that every child receive a comprehensive, multidisciplinary environmental education approved by the State Superintendent of Schools. In September 2010, the U.S. Department of Education held a summit on Education for Sustainable Development. In a speech by current Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, he said, “Historically, the Department of Education hasn’t been doing enough in the sustainability movement. Today, I promise you that we will be a committed partner in the national effort to build a more environmentally literate and responsible society… In our A Blueprint for Reform, the Obama administration is making an unprecedented commitment to promote a wellrounded education for our children. And for the first time, we are proposing that environmental education be part of that wellgreenlivingaz.com
rounded education.” Sounds promising–whether EE becomes officially integrated into the K-12 national curriculum is yet to be seen. And maybe it doesn’t really matter–many states, local schools and educators are already moving forward with their EE agendas. “You do not need a penny to teach sustainability,” Bowie said. He encourages teachers to get on the Internet and utilize the vast resources available regarding EE-specific programs, as well as applying for grants if a project requires it. As the positive impacts of EE gain more credibility, the question is no longer whether EE should be incorporated into the K-12 curriculum, as much as how it should be incorporated. And all signs indicate we’re heading in the right direction—for the planet, and the kids who will one day take care of it.
• Classroom Earth - an online resource designed to help high school teachers include environmental content in their daily lesson plans. classroomearth.org • Environmental Education & Training Partnership (EETAP) - a national leader in delivering environmental education training for education professionals. eetap.org/pages/dynamic/web.page.php?page_id=118&topology_id=25&eod=1 • Excellence in Environmental Education: Guidelines for Learning (K-12) - provides a set of common, voluntary guidelines for environmental education, which support state and local efforts. eelinked.naaee.net/n/guidelines • North American Association for Environmental Education - an organization that provides environmental educators and the organizations that train, employ, and support those educators with professional development, guidelines for excellence, networking and advocacy. naaee.net • National Environmental Education Foundation - provides knowledge to trusted professionals who, with their credibility, amplify messages to national audiences to solve everyday environmental problems. neefusa.org • Project Learning Tree - an award-winning environmental education program designed for teachers and other educators, parents, and community leaders working with youth from preschool through grade 12. plt.org • Project Wet - a non-profit organization dedicated to educating children, parents, educators and communities worldwide about water. Provides workshops, educator guides and other curriculum and models to “train the trainers” effectively. projectwet.org • Project Wild - a wildlife focused conservation education program for K-12 educators and their students. projectwild.org Photography courtesy of Craig Bowie
For complete resources, go to greenlivingaz.com
Aimee Welch is a freelance writer, marketing consultant, and former advertising executive. She writes advertising copy, magazine and web articles for her company, 17,000 Feet; and for herself, she runs, snowboards, travels and hangs with her husband, two kids and four dogs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Ohio State University.
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Yoga is a 5,000-year-old wisdom tradition that helps us move from constriction to expansion, from fear to love, and from separation to unity
yoga Practices for MinD-BoDy Balance BY DAVID SIMON, M.D.
W
hen people hear the word “yoga,” they usually think of physical postures or asanas that offer so many profound benefits for our body’s flexibility, strength and balance. But yoga offers much more than just a way to exercise the body; it also helps us experience emotional well-being and connect to our essential self. Yoga is a 5,000-year-old wisdom tradition that helps us move from constriction to expansion, from fear to love, and from separation to unity. At its core, “yoga” means “union” – the union of body, mind, and soul; the union of the ego and the spirit; the union of the mundane and the divine. The intention of consciousness-based yoga practices such as Chopra Yoga is to integrate and balance all layers of our life so that our body, mind, heart, intellect and spirit flow in harmony. As we expand our awareness through the practice of yoga, we become more capable of perceiving the richness life offers. Over time, yoga becomes something we live, not just something we “practice.” The inevitable pressures of life have less of an impact on us as we respond in a more conscious manner. As we become balanced and harmonious, our interactions with people and situations become more deliberate, calm and relaxed. We bring union and harmony to every encounter, whether it’s a random meeting on the street, a talk with our child or a family reunion. When our inner world begins to change, our outer world shifts to reflect our new perspective.
16 greenliving | August 2011
Here are a few suggestions for cultivating mindful, yogic awareness in your life: 1. Daily yoga Practice Establish a regular yoga practice. Keep in mind that it is more powerful to practice each day for 10 to 20 minutes than to do much longer sessions only once or twice a week. If you’ve never tried yoga, explore a variety of styles and teachers to find one that feels right for your own unique needs. If you practice at home, create a sacred space for yourself. Find a time when you won’t be interrupted, turn off your phone, and move through your practice, focusing on the inhalation and exhalation of each breath. “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga Guidebook” by the Chopra Center offers more information about the practices.
2. MeDitate Meditation and yoga are two complementary practices with the same purpose: to experience the union of body, mind and spirit. Meditation helps you go beyond the mind’s busy thought traffic into the stillness and silence of pure awareness. You can practice meditation right now by closing your eyes and observing the inflow and outflow of your breath for a few minutes. If thoughts arise, just let them go and return your attention to your breathing. One of the most important things to remember about meditation is that we’re not trying to get rid of thoughts – we’re just becoming aware of them, letting them go, and returning to the silent space beyond. Be gentle with yourself and don’t judge your meditation practice. Try this practice for a few minutes each day, gradually extending the time.
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Health & Wellness
3. Practice NoN-JudgmeNt At the beginning of the day, tell yourself, “Today I shall judge nothing that occurs.” Throughout the day, remind yourself of this statement whenever you catch yourself judging. Judgment comes from the ego’s need to control and is based on fear. Your true Self is completely free of these things because it recognizes that everyone is the same spirit in different disguises.
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4. FiNdiNg comPassioN oN the road Driving is an excellent laboratory for self-awareness – and an ideal place to cultivate equanimity and calm. Before you start the car, give your body a good stretch to each side and set your intention for a peaceful, safe journey. As you drive, relax your grip on the wheel. Keep your tongue at fire point (the spot on the roof of your mouth just between your two upper front teeth) to keep your jaw relaxed. Be aware of situations that cause you to become frustrated, such as slow traffic or someone cutting you off. When these situations arise, see if you can focus your attention on your breath and put your awareness in your heart, letting go of the story you’re telling yourself about “the jerk” in the other car. Advanced yogis can practice feeling compassion for the other drivers as well. You can silently repeat, “Just like me, they want to feel happy, peaceful, and loved.”
5. cultivate Witnessing awareness Throughout the day, practice shifting into a witnessing mode of awareness. Turn your attention to the silent witness within – your soul – and take time to commune with the intelligence in all living things. listen to the crash of the ocean waves, see the smile of a loved one, or watch a beautiful sunrise. established in the peace of your inner silence, you will experience joy and reverence for nature and life in all its manifestations. Any reason for practicing yoga is a good reason. enhancing mind-body balance and releasing stress are as noble a purpose for performing yoga as the awakening of spirituality. This is the great gift of yoga. It serves and nourishes us at every level of our being and spontaneously contributes to greater well-being in all domains of life. Yoga will help you discover gifts within yourself that have remained unopened since your childhood – the gifts of peace, harmony, laughter and love.
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Carbon Footprint
reduce your BY ABIGAIL GILMORE
A
ccording to the Energy Information Administration, transportation accounts for 33 percent of CO2 emissions in the U.S. Luckily, there are easy ways to reduce the amount of CO2 you emit through transportation.
CO2
1. Find out the size of your carbon footprint. The Nature Conservancy website offers a carbon footprint calculator that allows you to analyze you and your household’s carbon footprint. Simply enter details about your living arrangements, transportation, eating habits and more, and it will calculate your carbon footprint. nature.org/greenliving/ carboncalculator.
2. Change your commute. According to TransportationSolutions.org, if you try an alternative form of transportation just one day per week, you can prevent the release of more than 1500 pounds of CO2 per year. Consider taking public transportation, walking, biking, carpooling or even telecommuting.
3. Maintain your car. Believe it or not, keeping your car tuned and running well can impact the environment. Stay on schedule with regular maintenance like replacing your air, oil and fuel filters, and closely monitor your tires’ air pressure. According to Carbonfund.org, a nonprofit organization committed to fighting against global warming, keeping your tires properly inflated can save about 400 to 700 pounds of CO2 a year.
7. Buy local. Monetary and environmental costs are incurred when products are brought into our state. Ever consider how much CO2 a plane emits traveling overseas to the U.S. to transport goods? Every 2062 miles traveled by plane accounts for 1 ton (2204 lbs) of CO2 emissions per person – that’s over one pound per mile. If you commit to buying local, it puts money back into the local economy and cuts down on the emissions from out-of-state transport. As we use some form of transportation daily, consider choosing alternative forms of transportation that are good for you and the environment! SOURCES carbonfund.org nature.org/greenliving/carboncalculator TransportationSolutions.org
4. Improve your driving. Carbonfund.org cites studies showing that driving habits can alter fuel economy by up to 30 percent. To decrease CO2 emission, they recommend driving at or below the speed limit, accelerating and braking efficiently, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding sudden starts and stops.
5. Plan a green vacation. For your next getaway, book nonstop flights, find the best ground transportation available and stay in eco-friendly hotels. Before you lock your door, don’t forget to turn everything off and unplug anything you don’t need power for over that timeframe. Make sure to turn your thermostat and water heater to an energy-efficient setting.
6. Walk, bike, skateboard, rollerblade, etc. In most cases, using our own energy to get from point A to point B is more efficient than driving. Even a Toyota Prius – one of the greenest cars – can emit more than 3 tons of CO2 a year. If you’re going a short distance, consider using alternative forms of transportation. greenlivingaz.com
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August 2011 | greenliving 19
Green Kids
Wicked Bugs BY AMY STEWART
You are much smarter than the ants, spiders and beetles that live and lurk near your house. You’re way bigger than they are, and bigger means stronger, right? If only that were true - in Amy Stewart’s book “Wicked Bugs,” we learn how insects have changed the course of history. “[Insects] have halted soldiers in their tracks. They have driven farmers off their land. They have devoured cities and forests, and inflicted pain, suffering and death upon hundreds of millions,” Stewart says. Take, for instance, bees, hornets and wasps. Getting stung is an annoyance (at best) and a life-or-death matter (at worst), so imagine dealing with an entire nest of ticked-off stingers flying over your head, courtesy of enemy catapults. Or imagine the buzz you’d get when downing “hornet juice,” an amino acid sports drink that mimics the aggression of the insects.
Did you know that a relentless hoard of black flies can kill a large animal in a couple of hours and persistent mosquitoes could drain half your blood faster than that! On the other hand, creatures with more than four legs can be benign. Parasitic wasps munch on tomato hornworms. Spiders eat filthy, germspreading houseflies and ladybugs will dine on aphids if you invite them into your garden. Are you a catch-and-release-the-spider kind of person? Or do you suffer from Dead Insect Syndrome (in which you “respond to insects almost automatically by killing them.”)? Either way, you should fly to this book. Author Amy Stewart gleefully makes readers shiver and scratch as she teaches us about biting spiders, hanging centipedes, egg-laying flies and other bad-boy bugs. You’ll learn about the hot fad of beetle collecting in Darwin’s time and how termites played a role in the damage of Hurricane Katrina. This book may make you shudder, but you’ll definitely be fascinated. “Wicked Bugs” is, in fact, perfect for gardeners, nature-lovers, and worms of the bookish sort.
5 Signs That Your Child Might Need Glasses
Homework Before Play Door Sign
BY CHRISTINA LUND
Does your child complain of headaches, or have their grades suddenly dropped? It can be hard to spot when your child may or may not need glasses. look for these five signs before you schedule your child’s visit to the eye doctor. 1 Does your child experience frequent headaches? Many optometrists say if your child experiences headaches while reading, watching TV or using the computer, you should schedule a visit to get their eyes checked. Watch whether your child frequently rubs their eyes – this is a sign of eye fatigue. Blurred and double vision may also occur. 2 When your child reads, do you notice them closing one eye to see better? Closing one eye to read, squinting and even tilting one’s head to the side are all signs that your child’s vision should be tested. 3 Do you notice your child’s grades have dropped in school? It may be a good idea to talk to your child’s teacher. If you or their teacher cannot figure out why your child’s grades have dropped, their vision may be the culprit. If your child cannot see the blackboard or what’s written on it, they may have difficulty producing their best work in class.
BY AMANDA FORMARO
MATErIAlS Shirt-shaped paper mache sign (Michael’s Craft Stores) liquitex Basics Gesso (craft or hobby stores) Black craft pen Medium flat brush large scruffy paintbrush Acrylic sealer spray, matte Acrylic paint: red, yellow, white
4 Is your child sitting too close to the computer or TV screen? Your child may not be sitting so close to the tube because they’re really interested in the program – they just might not be able to see the screen well. If your child is sitting closer than an arm’s length from the screen, they are too close. This is often a sign of nearsightedness.
InSTruCTIOnS Paint the entire sign with one coat of Gesso. If you don’t have Gesso, you can find it in the art department of any craft or hobby store, or you can use a coat of white acrylic paint. Allow to dry completely.
5 Does your child lose their place while reading? If your child skips lines or loses their place while reading, this could be a sign of vision problems. An astigmatism, an eye or lens defect caused by deviation from the eye’s spherical shape, could be the cause.
Paint the entire sign with yellow acrylic paint. let dry and repeat with a second coat of paint. let dry.
In general, if you sense something may be wrong with your eyesight, consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist. SOurCES associatedcontent.com kellogg.umich.edu
20 greenliving | August 2011
use a medium flat brush to paint wide red stripes, starting at the bottom of the shirt and working
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your way upward. The stripes do not require a pattern – uneven lines add to the character of this project. Paint a red collar band and sleeve bands. repeat on the other side. Allow the whole shirt to dry completely before moving on. use a large scruffy brush to dab on a white oval in the center of the shirt. let dry, then repeat. let the second coat dry completely. use a black craft pen to write “outside playing” on one side and “doing homework” on the other side. Spray both side with acrylic sealer spray and let the signs dry overnight.
DESIGNED BY AMANDA FORMARO Amanda is a mother of four and the craft expert for Disney’s Kaboose. com. Find more crafts, recipes and activities at craftsbyamanda.com. Have a fun craft to share? Send it to us at info@greenlivingaz.com.
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Green Kids
Brain Foods
For Kids
BY DR. SANFORD J. SILVERMAN
I
t’s back-to-school time, and you’re headed out to buy school supplies and filling up the fridge for lunches and snacks. Do you know what foods will really boost your child’s brain power? Studies have found that certain “brain foods” can help boost a child’s brain growth and improve brain function, memory and concentration. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins and whole grains will keep kids’ brains and bodies healthy. Below are some of the best foods to strengthen your kid’s brain and help them focus this upcoming school year.
5. Yogurt enhances learning Studies show that children eating high-calcium foods, such as yogurt, for breakfast have enhanced behavior and learning ability. Calcium also helps strengthen bones.
1. Oatmeal for breakfast Oats are one of the most familiar hot cereals for kids and are a very nutritious “grain for the brain.” Loaded with fiber, oats keep a child’s brain fed all morning. Oats are also a good source of E and B-vitamins, potassium and zinc — which make the body and brain function at full capacity.
6. Eggs for remembering Eggs are one of the few sources of choline that boosts memory and brainpower, and are rich in protein that can provide energy to help the brain stay alert longer. Choline is essential for brain development in children.
2. Nuts and flaxseed for smarts Nuts, such as walnuts, almonds or flaxseed, are great sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is one of those Omega-3 fatty acids, and is the primary structural component of brain tissue. It stands to reason that a deficiency of DHA in a child’s diet could translate into a deficiency in brain function.
3. Strawberries and blueberries for concentration Fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants, have been linked to improved memory and brain function. Studies have shown that strawberries and blueberries are especially effective in improving coordination, concentration and short-term memory.
4. Dried fruit keep to kids alert Dried fruit is high in iron, which improves mental alertness and energy levels. A great suggestion for parents is to pack some trail mix containing raisins and dried cherries as an addition to their child’s lunch. greenlivingaz.com
Kids’ brains are high-performance engines. If we want our children to excel in school, we as parents need to provide them with clean, high-quality fuel. For children, this means a balanced diet of delicious whole foods, grown without toxic pesticides, and prepared in a healthy manner that preserves nutrients. You may ask, what are the worst foods for the brain? The answer: anything that is very high in refined sugars and carbohydrates. According to The Journal of Pediatrics, there is a more pronounced response to a glucose overload in children than in adults, resulting in altered thinking, irritability and hyperactivity. The problem with highly refined sugars and carbohydrates is that they quickly enter the bloodstream and produce more rapid fluctuations in blood glucose levels. If the brain doesn’t get its steady fuel supply, kids’ behavior and learning could become more erratic. Dr. Silverman is a licensed psychologist who specializes in helping children, adolescents and adults in both the diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit disorder, learning disorders, autism, anxiety, depression and other clinical and behavioral disorders. He is the founder of the Center for Attention Deficit and Learning Disorders and the Center for Peak Performance in Scottsdale. centerforadd-az.com, peakperformanceaz.com
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August 2011 | greenliving 21
Pets
EDWARD’S EYES
From owner to Guide doG BY ABIGAIL GILMORE
G
raham Waspe of Stowmarket, Suffolk, England, and his guide dog Edward spent six great years together, but were recently faced with a challenge like no other, as Edward developed cataracts, The Daily Mail Online reported.
On the other hand, “Guide Dogs for the Blind in California and Oregon uses food rewards and their training lasts two to three months,” she said.
Luckily, Opal, Waspe’s new guide dog, is a real gem – and helping both Edward and Waspe get around together. Opal was introduced to Waspe last November after Edward’s eye problem worsened and resulted in an operation that removed both of Edward’s eyes. “Opal’s been great for both of us. I don’t know what we’d do without her,” Waspe said to The Daily Mail Online. And Waspe’s wife, Sandra, told The Daily Mail Online that though Edward has lost his eyes, she doesn’t think he will be slowing down anytime soon, as he still enjoys lots of attention. While Edward is known in schools and community groups in Suffolk, Opal has become pretty popular as well, as both Graham and Sandra give talks about the Guide Dogs charity, training and the many ways guide dogs are helping their owners, The Daily Mail Online reported. There are similar local organizations spreading the same message and providing guide dogs to people with disabilities in Arizona. Terri Hedgpeth, President of Guide Dog Users of Arizona (an affiliate of Guide Dog Users Inc.) said she loves what she does, as it allows her to promote positive attitudes toward guide dogs being active in the community. Hedgpeth said there are about 14 schools in the U.S. that train dogs to be guides, and the way dogs are chosen to be trained varies for each school. One school, Seeing Eye, where her dog is from, “has an extensive scientific breeding program that looks for genetic traits that are most desirable for a guide such as no hip dysplasia, temperament, lower incidence of cancer, and other longevity factors,” she said. “Seeing Eye also purchases some dogs from reputable breeders for breeding stock.”
And though the way the dogs are found and trained varies, one thing is for certain:
these dogs are a part of the community and helping those with disabilities.
If you are interested in getting involved with Guide Dog Users Inc. or a local state affiliate, you can join the organization and volunteer, Hedgpeth said. She said “you may be able to help with fund raising, vet connections, advocacy for legal access to public places and conveyances, help with transportation to and from dog walking events and other dog guide activities, and in so many ways.” SOURCES dailymail.co.uk Guide Dog Users of Arizona: gdua.org thesun.co.uk
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Additionally, some schools have their own breeding programs, she said, while some dogs are taken from animal shelters and trained, and some people train their own dogs. Dog training also varies by school, Hedgpeth said. “Seeing Eye trains using verbal praise, repetition and humane correction (verbal scolding), and showing the dog how to find a curb or other obstacle,” she said. “[Seeing Eye] trains their dogs for four to six months.”
22 greenliving | August 2011
Photography by © Albanpix.com
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Green Thumb
Creating a Backyard Wildlife Habitat
Attracting the wildlife you want
here are many reasons for creating a wildlife habitat. Personal enjoyment, protection of birds, animals and endangered species, improved curb appeal, and building community with neighbors are some of the reasons. One of the biggest benefits is the positive impact it has on the environment. Many people spend too much money eradicating creatures from their yards. However, when you create a back or front yard habitat, you eliminate the need to artificially control it. What can you do to bring nature back into balance and encourage wildlife to become part of your outdoor environment? It’s easy – go natural! By adding native plants (bushes and trees) to an existing landscape and providing four essential elements necessary to create a habitat, you will encourage the birds, bees, butterflies, insects and other creatures to return to your yard.
To attract wildlife, plant a butterfly garden of wildflowers, grasses and shrubs near a shallow pool or install nest boxes and feeders in existing trees and near shrubs or flowers. The Audubon Society web site has useful information about feeding and landscaping to attract birds. What about pest control? Consider installing bat boxes or a bee block – bats can eat 3,000 mosquitoes each in one night! Use high-quality bird seed or suet to help prevent birds from kicking the “bad seeds” to the ground, and remember to keep your pet’s food indoors. Generally I prefer growing nectarproducing flowers for hummingbirds and butterflies. These include penstemon, Indian paintbrush, honeysuckle, lantana and columbine. But don’t forget about the not-so-welcome visitors. Javelina, rock squirrels, rats and mice are attracted to spilled seed from bird feeders and outside pet food. In the wild garden, human habitat merges with the native landscape, restoring the balance to the ecological community we embrace ourselves as one of the species, not just as separate individuals or families. Re-creating this balance will encourage a more natural solution to the problems you once had in the garden. You will use less outside resources, spend less time and less money overall by embracing a natural landscape. Let nature provide what is necessary to create a bio-diverse ecology in your yard. You and Mother Earth will benefit!
How to create a habitat
SOURCES az.audubon.org extension.arizona.edu
BY DOREEN POLLACK
T
Habitat is defined by four essential elements: food, water, shelter and space. The foundation of the habitat is the vegetation type that exists on the site. Food sources can include plant material (including roots, pollen and nectar), insects or other animals. If preferred food sources are not available, some species will seek out new sources, such as your pet’s food, your prized tomatoes, bountiful apricot tree, or shrubs. So be sure to plant native species to provide food for the wildlife while keeping them away from your favorite flora. Using native plants takes less watering, fertilizing and mowing and allows you to feel more connected to your native environment. Once established, many native plants can survive on your area’s annual rainfall. By leaving fallen leaves to decompose around your plants, you might not need to add fertilizer. To attract small creatures and insects, these leaves create shelter, as do vegetation, large rocks, prickly pear cactus, standing dead trees – even debris piles.
Doreen Pollack is the Garden Goddess and owner of Down 2 Earth Gardens, providing garden consultations and coaching. Get gardening tips at monthly workshops, on her blog or newsletter. Visit down2earthgardens.com to learn more.
Deciding what to plant
Consider your yard’s assets before you purchase any new plants. Make note of shady and sunny areas, spots with good or poor drainage, and challenge points in your landscape. When you shop, look for native plants adapted to those areas. As you create, don’t forget to include places for humans in your backyard wildlife habitat – perhaps a bench near the pond or large rocks to provide a spot for relaxing and watching wildlife, or creating viewing areas from windows or patios. A great resource is the local university’s Cooperative Extension Office to guide your selection.
24 greenliving | August 2011
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August 2011 | greenliving 25
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION | Energy Efficiency 101
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quite a good return on investment Quite simply - Energy efficient solar/sustainable design and construction translates to a stable and less demanding building environment that requires less to achieve comfort and meeting needs. Reduced demand means less equipment needed to provide comfort. Less equipment, traditional or alternative, means less operational energy required and less maintenance. Less amount of equipment and resource demand means less cost.. Accurate and useful information is available to the public through a number of national and State resources, utilities, educational entities, solar and RE organizations, all of which are available on line, at the the Az. Solar Center website - azsolarcenter.org
Efficiency - acting effectively with a minimum of waste or effort - relates not only to current actions of increased insulation, shaded windows, etc. but also the whole of the sustainable solar building and environment. Site planning and vegetation for thermal decompression ( tempering/lessening intense heat or cold at the building shell); building design and construction for minimizing negative impacts of the desert sun or hi mountain cold; resource efficient fixtures/equipment to lessen the amount of service to make them function; the utilization of natural elements (sun, wind, earth, and water) through passive solar and sustainable strategies to meet needs and comfort with minimum use of power; in combination with man-made technology of solar and wind power generation, solar water heating, solar cooking; as well as appropriate behavior in optimizing demand conditions (i.e. thermostat control for seasonal comfort; opening windows for cooling; use of natural day-lighting, etc..
The nonprofit Az. Solar Center, Inc. , is the go-to resource for accurate and unbiased solar, RE, and sustainability information. Comprised of representation from the various arenas that make up the solar, RE and sustainability context education, government, utilities, design and construction, engineering, industry, business, and environmental non-profits, the AzSC is dedicated to the provision of salient and useful information for the general public as well as the professionals involved in the various contexts of the solar and sustainability arena.
Efficiency isn’t simply limited to equipment. It is the effective use of the resources and knowledge we have available to us all. Proper environmental design is critical to meeting needs and comforts with least negative impacts on the supporting environment, resources, and costs.
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Provided by Arizona Solar Center, Inc. Arizona Solar Center, Inc. Daniel Peter Aiello President An Az. Nonprofit Collaborative j2envarch@aol.com azsolarcenter.org
Energy Efficiency 101 | SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION
Sol ar Wate r He ate r S a give n f or a r i zo n a There is probably no more energy efficient product than a Solar Water heater; even more than a CFL bulb. It saves as much as 90% of your water heating bill and saves as much as 25% or more of some peoples yearly electric bill. Plus it’s a solar product that most can afford. And if you select the right system at the right price it will pay for itself very quickly. But to get the right system you need to choose the right company.
doing their homework and got inefficient systems and paid way too much ($7000 to $12,000).
Jim and John Combs, owners of Conservative energy Systems since 1982, have seen literally 100’s of solar water heating companies, selling dozens of different systems, come and go over the years including many in the past few years. Most were in the business to make a quick buck and used inferior products and poor installers. Unfortunately, many enthusiastic consumers bought these systems without
The Combs brothers advise homeowners to check out the OG-300 number of the system which indicates the kilowatt hours the system saves per year. APS and SrP pay fifty cents for every kilowatt hour it saves. Also be sure of the experience of people who are installing it and what the warranties are. Conservative energy gives 10 year warranties on the major components and five years on the balance of the system
including labor which is 2.5 times longer than required by APS or SrP. They do all the installations themselves and the pricing is much less than mentioned above.
SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION | Energy Efficiency 101
rosie romero of “rosie on the house” did a recent article about energy efficiency in the Arizona Republic in which he advised to, “First, invest in a solar water heater. Then get a home energy audit…” The Combs brothers of Conservative energy Systems agree. Provided by Conservative Energy Systems, Inc.
Conservative Energy Systems, Inc. 480.835.9549 866.531.2500 jcsolar@aol.com cessolar.com AZROC# 064601 C37R, AZROC# 109008 CL78
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Energy Efficiency is a Conscientious Decision Achieving high efficiency in your home is a conscientious decision. it should be considered an investment made by each homeowner to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort. Whether your motives are financial or environmental, taking the first step, whether small, such as replacing light bulbs with cFLs or large such as a whole house approach, can be a challenge. That’s why it is imperative
to have a knowledgeable and unbiased professional diagnose your home’s consumption and point you in the right direction. There are many components of an efficient home; from having the proper electric rate plan, to having energy efficient appliances, to having a proper air barrier and thermal boundary. Some components can be more
Raising Awareness for Energy Efficiency The Arizona Solar energy Association and its members fully support the path of energy efficiency. Awareness is a key element for energy efficiency. each home and business owner can start by becoming familiar with their monthly kWh consumption contained in utility bills. Many Arizona utilities have online tools which allow home owners to profile and compare their energy consumption. The result can lead to a combination of conservation techniques and replacement of less efficient systems and equipment. conservation techniques are often free and involve a change in behavior such as turning off lights or adjusting thermostats. Replacement of systems spans the gamut from lightbulbs to hvAc systems. Our homes and businesses can be made more not less comfortable through energy efficiency strategies like adding roof insulation and exterior window shades. i encourage you to read Solar Today published by our national organization, the American Solar energy Society, for more ideas on energy efficiency. Arizona Solar Energy Association Jesse Wolf Corsi Henson AIA, LEED AP, Board Vice-chair info@arizonasolarenergy.org arizonasolarenergy.org
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inexpensive and effective than others so it is important to know the return on investment of your decision. For example, repairing leaky ductwork has a fast ROi, and replacing windows has a slower ROi.
In Arizona’s hot climate, reducing heat gain is crucial. The best ways to achieve this is to shade the home from the sun (if possible), eliminate air infiltration, have the proper insulation R value, and have effective cooling systems. To help find these areas for improvement, AZ energy efficient home provides residential energy audits using the latest technologies and equipment, backed by a deep understanding of construction, design, and green building processes. President, Jonathan Waterworth is a licensed general and home Performance with energy Star contractor who is both LeeD Accredited and BPi certified. To learn more about saving energy, money and qualify for the generous rebates from APS and SRP, contact AZ energy efficient home at 480-471-0111 or visit Azenergyefficienthome.com. Right now, $99 gets a home Performance with energy Star checkup, a comprehensive report, a low flow showerhead, 3 low flow faucet aerators and 10 cFL light bulbs. Provided by Southwest Sustainable.
Southwest Sustainable Structures Inc.
Southwest Sustainable 28150 N. Alma School Pkwy. #103-307 Scottsdale, AZ 85262 480.471.0111 azenergyefficienthome.com ROC# 258383
Energy Efficiency 101 | SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION
Homeowners Rights to Install Solar is Protected by Arizona Law, but Responsibility to Work with HOA Remains Carefully considered public policy is the key to the success of the solar energy industry here in arizona. The combination of state and federal tax credits and utility incentives have driven the solar industry, reduced the cost of solar energy systems and created jobs in arizona. One other significant policy measure that arizona has had in place for many years is the protection of homeowner’s rights to install solar energy systems on their homes in planned communities. Two statutes, arS 33-439 and arS 33-1816 provide these protections and prohibit HOa’s from preventing homeowners from installing solar, a practice that was once common. In fact, arS 33-439 has been in effect for over 30 years and has been upheld by arizona Courts. These statutes also prevent HOa’s from placing onerous restrictions on solar energy systems. While these statutes provide the protections needed by homeowners to install solar, they don’t eliminate the responsibility that solar companies and homeowners have to work with HOa’s to insure that solar installations are installed in the most aesthetic manner possible. Submitting the proper applications for home improvements and obtaining approval for the installation is still necessary. While the HOas are limited in their ability to restrict the systems, they are still a part of the process of making home improvements in planned communities.
Saving you money with solar and energy efficiency
Locations in Tucson and Phoenix
Provided by Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association. Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association Michael Neary Executive Director solar-guy@cox.net
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION | Energy Efficiency 101
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Solar Myths At Arizona Energy Pros, we get many calls a day asking about solar as a way to cut most, or even all of their monthly utility bills. There is a lot of information and misinformation out there, so we want to give you the facts. Myth #1 Solar is too expensive for me. Solar is now affordable for everyone! true, if you purchase the system, you need to come up with thousands of dollars. Financing is available and you can find great interest rates for a solar loan. If you would rather not pay a large chunk of money out of your pocket, you can lease a system for zero down! You only need to pay the first month payment and a small application fee when you sign the lease. Then you won’t make any payments until the system is installed. Myth #2 If I don’t have any home equity of money to put down, I can’t get solar. Financing solar with a home equity loan can be a great tax advantage because you can deduct the interest payments on the loan. If you don’t have any equity, and we know a lot of people don’t, a lease can be a great option with zero down. Myth #3 Solar will be much cheaper if I wait a few years. It is true solar modules have come down the past few years but, the incentives continue to drop and will eventually disappear completely. If you still want to take advantage of the utility company rebates, the sooner you act the better! The rates can drop at any time and that is a potential loss of 1000’s of dollars! Myth #4 The manufacturing of solar panels creates more pollution than the clean energy they generate. This is definitely false and is backed up by a DOE study that states solar power systems have energy paybacks of 1 to 4 years (depending on the
Leasing vs. Purchasing
type of PV technology) (see Figure 2). In other words, it only takes 1 to 4 years of operating the solar power system to repay the energy that was required to manufacture the panels. In addition, panels have an assumed life of 25- 30 years and therefore 87% to 97% of the energy that the PV system produces will not result in any pollution or depletion of resources. Myth #5 I don’t think I am going to live in my house long enough to make my investment back. Actually there are studies from the US Housing Department that report that for every $1000 saved in operating costs your house value increases by $20,000. Plus you transfer the agreement with the utility company and/or leasing company to the new owner. Many new home buyers express interest in energy saving products and having solar could make your home more desirable to the new buyer! Myth #6 If I don’t have a southern roof exposure, it isn’t worth investing in a home solar system. While a southern facing roof is optimal, you can still generate plenty of energy on an east, west, or even north facing roof if you have a good designer! Our consultants can help you determine the perfect placement of your system for maximum energy production. A ground mounted system is another option if you don’t have the roof space or for the system you want. If you would like more information or a personalized system quote, give us a call today at 602-863-6900 or 520-622-5511 and we will be happy to discuss your many options in solar! Provided by Arizona Energy Pros, Inc. Arizona Energy Pros, Inc. aepros.com
Arizona Energy Pros knows that our customers have many options when choosing a solar system. The biggest option is whether or not to purchase the system outright or lease the system. There are benefits to both options.
Purchase Property Owner Property Owner
Lease Leasing Company Leasing Company
Property Owner
Leasing Company
Property Owner
Leasing Company
Up to 100% of your electrical bill with the proper size system. Monthly savings will increase with time due to utility rate increases. Cost of the electricity produced will be fixed for the life of the system.
Varies but customers will receive anywhere from $10-$60/month in savings. Amount of monthly savings will never change due to the lease payments will slightly increase each year. You pay the leasing company instead of the utility company for the majority of your energy usage.
Payback Period
Your monthly savings will eventually pay back the system cost in 4-7 years.
You will be required to pay for the solar energy equipment at the fair market value of the equipment which will be assigned at the end of the lease term.
Will the solar PV system increase the value of my property?
Yes, according to the Appraisal Institute on residential properties, your home’s value will increase $20.73 for every $1 in annual electrical savings if you purchase a home solar power system.
The lease must transfer with the sale of your home or you must buy out the lease. Buying out a lease can be costly, therefore sellers will most likely transfer the lease to the buyer as a term of the sale of the home.
Upfront Cost
Home equity lines of credit and unsecured financing options are available to allow you to finance 100% of the systems.
Zero. Leasing makes sense if you have no financial options or if you can not take advantage of the tax credits.
Who owns the system? Who receives the benefit of the rebate? Who receives the federal tax credit Who receives the tax benefit of depreciation Monthly Electrical Savings
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Energy Efficiency 101 | SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION
Arizona’s Solar Resource
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“Arizona’s Solar Resource” The Solar Store… but it can equally be used to characterize the owner, Katharine Kent. With more than 25 years of professional experience in sustainable energy design and installation, building design and construction, Katharine Kent is a one-woman resource for solar. “I have been in solar well before it became fashionable,” stated Ms. Kent during a recent interview. Kent’s passion for engineering and energy awareness focused her efforts on teaching others how energy is created and consumed as well as the importance of alternative, sustainable sources to offset the costs, both monetary and environmental, of traditional energy sources. That passion has garnered a whole host of awards including the American Solar Energy Society’s Solar Women of the Year in 2007 and the Department of Energy’s Energy Innovation Award in 1990. Additionally, US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords acknowledged Kent’s singular contribution in March 2010, awarding her Special Congressional Recognition “Pioneering Woman in Solar for Southern Arizona.” Kent obtained a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston and M.S. in Nuclear and Energy Engineering as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arizona. She has been employed by Dow Chemical, UofA, Vulcan Chemical and Calgon Carbon. In 1998, Kent and her father, John Wesley Miller, opened The Solar Store in Tucson, Arizona. Miller, a builder and developer who has received national recognition for his energy efficient projects, provided hands on guidance and support during the early years.
The Solar Store provides energy solutions for homeowners in both urban and rural settings as well as for commercial institutions. They offer a variety of systems including passive and active solar hot water systems, instantaneous hot water, solar hot water heating, radiant floor heating, and solar electric systems. Interestingly, Katharine Kent was the first NABCEP (North American Board of Energy Practitioners) Solar Thermal Installer in Arizona, which allowed her to become the first woman to obtain both PV and Solar Thermal Installers’ NABCEP certifications. To round out her expertise, she also holds both a commercial and residential plumbing and electrical contractors’ license. Kent recognizes, “Being a woman in a male-dominated field has forced me to work harder.” Kent has been appointed to the Arizona Solar Advisory Council. She has served on various boards and commissions including the Tucson-Pima County Metropolitan Energy Commission. She currently is the Chair of The City of Tucson Small, Minority and Women-Women Owned Business Commission. Katharine Kent “walks the walk.” Her home is an example of sustainable design including solar hot water, photovoltaic, tankless water heater, LED lighting and high efficiency appliances. Kent reports, “My average electric bill has decreased in the last 5 years from $150 per month to around $75.” As an advocate for sustainability, she is a force to be reckoned with and a woman to admire.
Miller’s nationally recognized Armory Park del Sol, ninetynine home in-filled housing community near downtown Tucson, became one of the first in Arizona to require homes to include solar hot water and photovoltaic systems.
877-264-6374 Phoenix 623-236-9167 Sierra Vista 520-515-0051 Toll Free
Tucson
Thomas Veneklasen Photography SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION | Energy Efficiency 101
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www.solarstore.com
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Feature DESERT EDgE HIgH ScHOOl
Schools Going Green BY KRISTI EATON
W
hen people visit Desert Edge High School in Goodyear, they’ll notice the school is different than traditional high schools: the landscaping is xeriscaped requiring little water, the urinals are waterless, there are low-flow bathroom fixtures and daylight sensors and controls throughout the building. These sustainable strategies have helped Desert Edge High School to become the first public school building in Arizona to earn Silver LEED certification. “The Desert Edge High School team showed some of the most forward-thinking leadership that I’ve seen to date,” said Charlie Popeck, president of Green Ideas Sustainability Consultants. “If more schools would think like the DEHS team, millions of dollars in operating and maintenance costs could be saved every year.” The utilization of various sustainable methods helped the 90,620-square-foot building become 28 percent more energyefficient, saving the district $58,000 annually. Over a 20-year period, this may translate to $1.2 million in savings for heating, cooling and water costs. On the other side of the United States, in Norwell, Mass., South Shore Charter Public School children ride to and from school via a hybrid school bus. The school received the bus after it was named “America’s Greenest School” by Illinois-based IC Bus company in 2010. South Shore Charter beat out other schools after students emphasized the school’s environmental initiatives, which include a van that runs on vegetable oil and a composting area. Across the country, more and more schools are becoming environmentally conscious as a way to help the environment and save on long-term operational costs. The U.S. Green Building Council formed the Center for Green Schools to improve efforts to design, construct and operate green K-12 schools and college campuses. There are approximately 133,000 K-12 schools across the country, and according to the Center for Green Schools, 20 percent of the population attends school every day as students, teachers, staff and administrators. The Center has listed several characteristics that make a school green. The school musT: Conserve energy and natural resources Save taxpayer money Improve indoor air quality Remove toxic materials from places where children learn and play Employ daylighting strategies and improve classroom acoustics Employ sustainable purchasing Adhere to green cleaning practices Improve environmental literacy in students Decrease the burden on municipal water and wastewater treatment
34 greenliving | August 2011
Encourage waste management efforts to benefit the local community and region Conserve fresh drinking water and help manage stormwater runoff Encourage recycling Promote habitat protection Reduce demand on local landfills Studies have shown that schools that go green can save thousands per year in operational expenses, according to the Center for Green Schools. Savings may be enough to hire at least one teacher, purchase 200 computers or buy 5,000 textbooks, depending on the state. Janice Martin, of Fort Collins, Colo., led the Bacon Elementary Energy Savings Team, or BEST, a program that educates students about the various green features at the school. Martin is working with the USGBC and the Center for Green Schools to develop a green teacher certification to help teachers better understand and identify techniques to make their school more environmentally conscious. “The teacher will be able to identify what things they can change in the school to make it healthier and save energy,” Martin said. “It’s a pretty exciting program. It seems to be real handson.”
NOW ENROLLING! Apply now to receive 100% tuition from the State Energy Sector Partnership grant! Applications for early enrollment in the September class will be accepted through August 22nd for up to 45 students - first come, first served. The Sustainable Building Advisor (“SBA”) Program is a 9 month course which teaches participants how to apply the fundamental principles of sustainability. The course offers a hands-on approach to sustainability training that challenges students to recognize and understand problems, identify opportunities, and craft innovative solutions in the built environment. Scope includes global, regional, municipal, commercial, and residential perspectives. Course participants learn and apply best practices in sustainability sciences. The class meets one Friday and Saturday per month, offering over 100 hours of both classroom and hands-on education.
Tuition assistance is available. Contact us to apply.
sonoransbap.com greenlivingaz.com
Feature Martin retired from teaching fourth grade this past June, but will continue her passion to help schools become healthier and more cost-effective through the use of sustainable practices.
Going green at a young age Even preschools are becoming more sustainable. The Goddard School, a preschool franchise headquartered in King of Prussia, Penn., has more than 370 schools in 34 states and has implemented sustainable practices such as motion-sensored lights, recycling programs, outdoor gardens and educationalbased programs to teach children about planting and supporting the environment. Some of the schools have installed solar panels with a lifespan of 25 years and reduce greenhouse gas emissions during their lifetime by 854 tons of CO2 — the equivalent to planting 34,000 trees or eliminating 1.5 million miles driving in a car, said Lisa Fisher, director of communications for Goddard Systems, Inc. Educare, which opened in July 2009, serves more than 200 at-risk children from birth to 5 years old and the Oklahoma school became the first school in the state and the first Educare school in the nation to become LEED certified. Construction for the project focused on waste conversion, recycled content material and reducing consumption in plumbing and lighting, said Gary Resetar, project manager for Flintco, LLC. The school uses dual-flush toilets, and motion sensors to automatically turn off lights if no one is in a room. Comment on this article at greenlivingaz.com
Parents going green Environmentally friendly techniques have reached beyond classrooms to the students, teachers and administrators. In some school districts, parents are getting involved. Mary Firme, who has a son entering third grade at Forest Trail Elementary School in Austin, Texas, proposed and created a school garden that was christened on Earth Day 2010. A team of parent educators create a lesson plan and bring elementary students to the garden every two weeks to plant and learn about the environment. “Each classroom has a dedicated growing space, and here in Austin we can grow year round so kids learn about seasonality, how to plant and nurture from seed, and then harvest their produce,” Firme said. “Many of the classrooms [also] incorporate nutrition exercises.” Firme’s son’s second-grade class held a garden party with parents preparing different vegetables from each part of the plant. “So the kids each tried something new — my son ate raw beets and loved them,” she said. “They learned about the parts of the plant, which supports science learning objectives for the grade. This can also be accomplished without parent docents if learning plans are developed and activities are planned ahead for the teacher to lead.”
Photography courtesy of Desert Edge High School
Looking to help gather parents for similar green-inspired activities? VolunteerSpot.com has a free online coordination tool which makes it easy for any parent leader or teacher to take on school-wide projects like recycling teams, school gardens and bike-to-school programs. SOURCES americasgreenestschool.com greenribbonschool.com
greenschoolbuildings.org usgbc.org
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August 2011 | greenliving 35
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Corporate Social Responsibility
With back-to-school on our mind, Green Living asked our local companies,
“What are you doing to enhance environmental education in the community and/or within your company?” Henkel of America, Inc. Melissa Matthews, Corporate Communications Coordinator Sustainability is one of our core company values, and we believe it’s important to lead by example by incorporating efforts in every aspect of our business. The Scottsdale office obtained LEED certification by incorporating sustainable features, such as solar panels, a graywater system and recycling programs. Our internal program, ecommittment™, engages employees to support our local community. For example, employees pledge to carpool, shut off lights and computers, and reduce printing and disposable cup usage. In addition, on Earth Day this year, information about sustainability efforts at Henkel, as well as information on how employees could do their part were on display. Henkel also collaborates with local partners to further environmental education. Employees volunteer to clean parks, host community events, and once a year they take a day to volunteer at charitable organizations. Additionally, Henkel partners with local schools, enabling employees to impact Arizona’s education system by teaching in classrooms and sponsoring science fairs. Henkel is also a research partner with the Global Institute of Sustainability and Institute of Bio-Design at Arizona State University (ASU). Employees collaborate on sustainability measurement and reporting standards with ASU, furthering their education and influencing the industry.
Republic Services Susan David, Communications Director
Two years ago, we established the Republic Services Sustainability Team to identify and share environmental best practices throughout the company. To be as effective as possible, the team’s members represent a wide variety of geographies and functions. This year we are excited to be putting the power of interns behind the establishment of a sustainability library. They are helping us go even deeper to mine information on innovative environmental projects and actions that are taking place throughout the company. We are plotting those based on cost and benefit and housing details on the projects within a searchable database accessible throughout the company. Projects range from fuel efficiency to renewable energy – including using landfill gas to power vehicles, solar projects and even a windmill. Our environmental education spans much further than our company’s operations. Since we are focused on recycling and waste reduction, we make it a point to spread information on those topics to our customers and the communities we serve. We have a recycling curriculum guide for middle school students and are very excited to be the primary sponsor of a new website just for kids and their teachers called Earth Preservers Extra. It will feature a newspaper all about what kids are doing to protect the environment, and will also include videos, games and countless activities all related to environmental issues. It’s about being part of the solution.
Cox Communications Ivan Johnson, Vice President of Public Affairs, Cox Arizona At Cox we educate by example and provide opportunities for our employees to contribute to the effort. We apply green thinking to business decisions that benefit our bottom line as well as challenge our employees to recycle in the office, support company-wide campaigns to collect recyclables and provide employees the opportunity to reduce their carbon footprint via telecommuting or participating in the “Home Start” program. This program allows field employees to take their company vehicles home at night and to start their work day from home and work in their own neighborhoods to serve our customers. We hope that our commitment to our own green business practices will serve as an example to our employees and we strive to find ways for our employees to do their own part to contribute both on and off the job. Cox is also helping to educate our customers about how to design and create outdoor landscapes that respect our desert environment and protect our precious resources. We create and air a local show on Cox Channel 7 called “Step Outside”, which provides an insider’s look at outdoor landscaping projects right here in Arizona.
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August 2011 | greenliving 37
University Innovations
Daniel Stolte, University Communications In a nationwide first, an innovative system recently installed on the University of Arizona’s (UA) campus uses the sun’s energy not only for heating but also for cooling, thanks to an innovative system completed this past May. At the heart of the solar thermal cooling and pool heating system is an array of 346 argon-filled vacuum tube solar thermal collectors installed on the roof of the UA’s Student Recreation Center. The collectors utilize heat from the sun as a free energy source to drive an absorption chilling system to help keep buildings on campus cool while also heating the Recreation Center’s main swimming pool. An absorption chiller works similarly to a refrigerator or an air conditioner, except it uses a process relying on heat, rather than electric power. “A water-glycol mix heated by the sun is pumped through the absorption cooler to produce chilled water which is then fed into the University’s main chilled water loop to provide cooling for campus buildings,” said Ralph Banks, assistant director for engineering at the UA’s Planning, Design and Construction Office and manager of the UA’s Solar Initiative Project. “A by-product of the absorption process is excess heat, which is subsequently used to heat the Recreation Center’s main pool,” Banks said. According to Banks, heating a large swimming pool, like the Recreation Center’s main pool, requires large amounts of energy for much of the year. The Solar Thermal Array provides a third of the energy needed to heat the pool and offsets the use of natural gas heating. “The benefit lies in utilizing solar energy in two ways: heating the pool and cooling buildings on campus,” Banks said. “To our knowledge, no other university campus in the U.S. uses solar energy in this unique application.” Through its partnership with APS Energy Services and Tucson Electric Power, the university is advancing solar technology awareness and education on campus and the community. fdc.arizona.edu/sustainability sustainability.arizona.edu
Bryan McLarn, Sustainability Coordinator
Michelle Schwartz and Rick Heffernon, (GIOS) An ecologist, an engineer, an economist and an ethicist all sit down at a table. What could they possibly have in common? Sustainability. While each of these experts might view a problem solely from the point of view of a single discipline — one might see it as an engineering problem, another as cost/benefit issue — the payoff is when they all get together. Then they can collaboratively learn about the multiple challenges, impacts and trade-offs involved with implementing any strategy. The result is a more comprehensive and adaptable solution. All of this sounds simple, but it isn’t easy to put it in practice. First, university learning has long followed a path of isolated disciplines intellectually and physically walled off from each other. Second, researchers from different disciplines have their own jargon, methodologies, journals and associations. To break down these barriers, ASU has pioneered a new way to transcend academic firewalls and match scientists and scholars from vastly different disciplines that are addressing the global challenges of sustainability. Through ASU’s leadership, President Michael Crow, Provost Elizabeth Capaldi, and leaders of the university’s Global Institute of Sustainability and its School of Sustainability, a formalized community of Sustainability Scientists and Scholars was established. As such, faculty and research scientists from across ASU were identified and designated a Sustainability Scientist or Scholar in an effort to recognize the significant work underway in the realm of sustainability science, foster new collaborations, and accelerate the pace of discovery. Today, this community of Sustainability Scientists and Scholars numbers almost 250. They represent a wide spectrum of disciplines in the natural and social sciences, medicine, engineering, mathematics, humanities and the arts. Sustainability science requires a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach, integrating practical experience with knowledge and action. This community continues to grow and will ultimately include members from other research institutions. The challenges of multidisciplinary collaboration are many, but the potential for discovering critical solutions is huge. By recognizing and facilitating the work of sustainability scientists and scholars, ASU is finding solutions for both local and global sustainability challenges. sustainability.asu.edu
This fall NAU will host its own “No Impact Week” challenge. The Office of Sustainability will work collaboratively with departments across the campus to educate the community on the realities of a “no environmental impact” lifestyle. The idea to host this event originated when Rebecca Campbell, Director of the NAUreads program, chose “No Impact Man” as the freshman year book for 2011. Every freshman who enters Northern Arizona University will read Colin Beavan’s book, “No Impact Man,” and will participate in NAU’s “No Impact Week” challenge. Following the “No Impact Week” challenge, the NAU Office of Sustainability will implement a mentorship council called the Student Sustainability Ambassadors Program. The Sustainability Ambassadors will meet regularly at the NAU Student Sustainability Round Table where they will communicate and strategize about the best methods to expand NAU’s culture of sustainability and continue education about the “no environmental impact” lifestyle. The mission of the Student Sustainability Ambassadors Program will be to increase student engagement in sustainability topics at NAU. The mentorship program will aim to increase students’ experience and professionalism in the growing Professional Sustainability Workforce and the Green Collar Economy. The Ambassadors will act as liaisons of our culture of sustainability and will directly support students, faculty and staff as the community moves toward carbon neutrality. nau.edu./green
38 greenliving | August 2011
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Architecture
The Greenest Lodge in America? BY DAVID BROWN
Camp Lodge at martis Camp is located within a 2,177-acre gated ski and golf community between truckee, California, and North Lake tahoe, Nevada, and surrounded by greens and greenery reaching 6,200 feet. elevations at the luxury mountain community vary from 5,900 up to 7,100 feet. rising from a 70-foot outcrop, the approximately 63,000-square-foot community lodge overlooks the 18th hole of the tom Fazio-designed golf course and thousands of acres of firs and ponderosa, Jeffrey and lodgepole pines along vistas such as the Carson range of the sierra Nevada. this lodge is unique because it was designed to be a sustainable lodge, targeting Leed silver certification through the U.s. green Building Council. architect John e. sather, aia, aiCp, of swaback partners, based in scottsdale, led the design/ build team for the four-level lodge, including John Hayhoe, principal of Hayhoe Construction, of tustin, Calif., and interior designer, Kim anderson, Vallone design, of scottsdale. the lodge held their grand opening July 1, 2011. “the Lodge at martis Camp is probably the greenest lodge in america,” sather said. “From the start, we took extreme care in protecting this spectacular site and used Leed-certified processes in building.” swaback partners also master planned the community with scottsdale architect ron todd. “the building strives to celebrate three characteristics: beauty, sustainability and longevity.” sather said. Named “top second Home Community” in the march 2011 issue of Barron’s, martis Camp was jointly developed by dmB/ Highlands group, LLC, scottsdale. the firm has also designed other Leed structures at martis Camp: the gatehouse, Family Barn and mountain Clubhouse. greenlivingaz.com
the Camp Lodge offers residents a 2,400-square-foot strength fitness and conditioning studio; a 600-square-foot yoga, pilates, aerobics and dance area; a full-service day spa with massage and therapeutic treatments; outdoor lap and jetted vitality pools; super-luxe men’s and ladies’ locker rooms among other amenities, which sather suggests may be the finest in america. the gallery Hallway holds artwork of the sierras and other original paintings.
Sustainability Lodges Here the floor plan of Camp Lodge opens out to the community and the mountains beyond. its west side stretches to the mountains over a rock outcropping, and other spaces connect themselves to the environment of Lake tahoe. “to capitalize on mother Nature’s landscape design, we created terraces that cantilever over the cliffs to give you a sensation that you are one with the view,” sather explains, noting Camp Lodge’s five patios. indigenous gray granite rock was used on the exterior, which are matched inside by 16 indigenous stone fireplaces. these as well as other woodwork and ironwork were installed by local artisans, minimizing the impacts of transportation of both resources and people. other sustainable materials include local site timber and green-stained cedar shingles, sather noted. Jason Hansford, vice-president of construction management for dmB, notes other sustainable components such as the use of low-VoC paints, glues and sealants to ensure healthy spaces; operable windows for thermal comfort; the incorporation of awnings, window shades and curtains to shield the building in the summer and admit sunlight in winter. additionally, lowwater-use plumbing fixtures, and smart lighting with timers, dimmers and occupancy sensors were incorporated. outside, August 2011 | greenliving 39
Architecture indigenous plant species in the landscaping minimize water usage, and Hayhoe Construction separated and recycled construction debris generated during the construction. Also inspired toward sustainability, as well as the arts and crafts design tradition, interior designer Anderson used reclaimed textiles inside. “We found Victorian quilts for upholstery and pillows, and the ceiling in the Cliff Dining Room has been pieced together to form a colorful patchwork quilt made of reclaimed fabrics, including even vintage men’s suits,” explained Anderson. She and her team also used antique furniture collected for several years nationwide. In addition, they collected local furniture, art and accessories from Truckee and surrounding communities, and, whenever possible, hired local craftsmen to construct interior details and furniture. Outside, more than 80 percent of the exterior furniture was made from recycled materials.
Build for a Century, not for the Moment Camp Lodge was designed to be historically sensitive and expresses responsibility toward the future - it’s built to last. Sather’s design was influenced by great National Park lodges and established clubs of the 1900s, many still serving visitors and members more than a century later. “This building will be as timeless as they are,” he said. “It is probably the finest example of National Park lodge-type construction on an incredible site that incorporates all of the needs of present-day life but respects the past qualities of fine Lake Tahoe region buildings,” he added.
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Floor Care oF arizona
Mitch Dean Proprietor (520) 349-5342 MitchellDean53@gmail.com
Floor Care of Arizona has become the leader of changing the look of dull gray concrete to a beautiful polished floor! A sustainable, low maintenance, attractive alternative to expensive carpet and tile. Concrete is the foundation of every building. By eliminating the need for manufactured floor coverings such as carpet and tile a substantial savings can be realized by the consumer. No new flooring materials need to be added to a building project. Floors that do not require stripping and waxing make diamond polishing cost effective and lessen the overall impact of harsh chemicals on our environment. Tony Vaccarro, owner of the SkyBar and Brooklyn Pizza Company, can boast about his commitment to being “green.” Included in his efforts are a 100% solar powered restaurant and bar, water harvesting, bamboo tables and an electric delivery car. Located in Tucson’s Historic 4th Avenue the property has undergone a thorough interior rehab.
Floor Care of Arizona has diamond polished the concrete floors at Sky Bar to add even more green technology. Pre-polishing repair work to the floor included treatment with Consolideck® LS® (Lithium-Silicate) Hardener/Densifier, following grinding with 80-grit metals. Two treatments of Consolideck® PolishGuard did the trick, and the formerly soft surface ended with a hard, shiny 1500 resin finish. Border Products is at the forefront in sustainable concrete products. As the number one supplier of the materials needed to diamond polish concrete, Floor Care acknowledges their support. Floor Care of Arizona Mitch Dean (520) 349-5342 MitchellDean53@gmail.com
Brooklyn Pizza 534 N. 4th Ave. Tucson, AZ 85705 brooklynpizzacompany.com
Sky Bar 536 N. 4th Ave. Tucson, AZ 85705 skybartucson.com
Prosoco prosoco.com
Border Construction Specialties 3143 N. Fwy. Ind. Loop Tucson, AZ 85705 bordercorp.com
Architecture Sather’s goal is to reintroduce hand-crafted turn-of-the-century styles with details like wood floors and wainscoting and copper exterior trim — and build with a commitment to longevity. “We looked at the quality of all the lodges. We wanted to emulate their ability to stand the test of time and be great buildings 100 years after they were built. We hope we have achieved this, [considering] the magnificent site I was offered.” Sather added.
“Our team worked hard to create an architectural design that optimizes its dramatic location, embraces the surrounding views and makes a definitive statement of grandeur and scale consistent with those historic structures that inspired it.” Photography courtesy of Swaback Partners David M. Brown is a 30-plus-year Valley resident who writes on architecture, design, the environment and other subjects. He has two grown children, who keep him young, and a Border collie, who keeps him in line. He can be reached at dmbrownone@msn.com.
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red rock #1 first car Produced in sedona Sedona is now the electric car capitol of America. Our cars are manufactured and assembled in Sedona, Arizona, by American labor using American parts, bringing the American car industry back to the USA.
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Contact Cheryl Crawford at 520.292.1020 or greeningredientsllc.om 42 greenliving | August 2011
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Technology
What Is Old Is New Again BY WILLIAM JANHONEN, LEED AP, NAHB-CGP
W
hat’s old is new again. Technology is not always about gadgets and equipment. In the case of building material, one of the newest products being used in sustainable building is also one of the oldest. According to experts, lime has been sheltering man for at least 7,500 years, and perhaps even longer. Limestone caves dating back 16,000 years in Lascaux, France are frescoed with natural iron oxide pigments applied onto damp cave walls of high calcium content. The Egyptians used lime to plaster the pyramids at Giza about 6,000 years ago. Lime was used extensively throughout the Roman Empire and can be seen in some remaining structures, including the Parthenon. Vitruvius, in his famous book, “Da architectura,” states that a structure must have three qualities of firmitas, utilitas and venustas that it must be strong or durable, useful and beautiful. One entire chapter is dedicated to praising lime.
Natural Earth Pigments
Fast forward to today and we see the development of artificial cements in the early 19th century. Builders, in their desire to build faster and stronger, achieved these hydraulic properties from lime and birthed what we know today as Portland cement. Portland cement reversed old methods of using only pure lime. As building demands got faster and faster, society is now paying the price, as many structures made of non-permeable cements are failing before our eyes. Sadly, our faster, get-it-done-time-is-money approach didn’t produce overall sustainable structures. bioLime Bio-ecological Finishing Solutions is a fourgeneration company with humble origins in southern Italy. Today, with their offices in Bend, Oregon and Miami, Florida they have brought the old world to the new world. They bring the knowledge of how a purely natural material can bring so many benefits to create a truly sustainable structure, a phrase often misused in our country. When you compare lime paint or plaster to any other material, the benefits are astounding.
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The bioLime product allows you to build “breathable” wall systems, eliminating standing condensation because lime allows moisture to evaporate. Lime as a substance resists and prevents bacteria, mold and mildew from forming within the building structure. Lime is mold-resistant and a natural biocide because of its high pH (between 12-12.5), which also allows it to reduce indoor air pollutants, making the walls hygienically sound and easy to clean. bioLime as a product is exceptionally durable. The Parthenon, the classic temple in Rome, spans over 140 feet and still stands after 1,900 years. bioLime is a natural fire retardant and has a very low thermal conductivity, which allows people to stay warmer in cold climates and cooler in hot climates. Lime is unaffected by UVrays and will not trap the sun’s heat, crack, fade or lose color. One of the coolest attributes of correctly formulated lime structures is that lime is self-healing. The small movements subject to all buildings cause large cracks in stiff cementbound structures. In lime structures, the small movements are more likely to create crazing or fine fissures or cracks. When water penetrates into these fissures it can dissolve “free” lime and bring it to the surface. When the water evaporates, the lime self-fuses – it heals itself. If you have ever been to Tuscany you will see the proof, as many old lime structures on non-stable foundations distort with age but do not fall. I was introduced to lime as a young boy watching my father create “Venetian Plaster” walls in beautiful colors and patterns. Artisans have used lime for centuries because of its beautiful luminescence and its enhancement of comfort, tranquility and connection with the Earth. When you look at all of the tremendous benefits of using this purely natural substance to create truly sustainable structures you can understand why its time has come, again. August 2011 | greenliving 43
Staycations
Special Advertisement Section
Stay Local | Staycation
W
ith gas prices rising well above $4.00, many of us are looking for some summer fun a bit closer to home. If you are planning on hanging around AZ, consider someplace green for
your travels. Recently, the Arizona Hotel & Lodging Association (AzHLA) in partnership with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) have developed the state’s first “Certified Green Lodging” program, which streamlines the requirements for Arizona hotels to be designated as environmental stewards. In order to become “Certified,” properties must achieve a minimum of 150 points in 15 different categories. This certification is valid for two years then properties must re-apply and show an increase in green practices while scoring a minimum of 200 points. So stay in town, save gas, support local businesses and consider an environmentally-conscious accommodation. Visit StayinaZ.com for a list of hotels and lodging in this program. SOURCE: Arizona Hotel and Lodging Association Press Release
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44 greenliving | August 2011
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Staycations
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Protecting 3,000 acres of pristine Sonoran desert for nearly half a century and now doing our share to protect the environment. T Largest private solar installation in Southern Arizona T On-demand hot water heaters T High efficiency air conditioning units Full service guest ranch with lodging, meals, ranch activities and horseback riding.
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Amenities include: heated pool, redwood hot tub, lighted tennis court, sports court fitness center, recreation room and meeting facilities. Bed and Breakfast rates available.
August 2011 | greenliving 45
Feature
Stay GREEN, Go LOCAL at Arizona’s bed and breakfasts BY BARBI WALKER
N
ext time you decide to take a vacation or staycation, consider showing your community spirit by staying in one of the state’s beautiful Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs). Many now offer some of the same amenities large hotel resorts and chains do, so you can have your luxury round of golf or spa retreat and support local businesses. Whether you’re a native, or new to Arizona, now is a good time to visit all the Grand Canyon State has to offer. If you plan to stay in a B&B, start your search with the Arizona Association of Bed and Breakfast Inns (AABBI). The association has worked to develop and grow high standards in the hospitality sector, which translates to a better stay for you. “The benefits of staying in a B&B are astronomical,” said Karen McClurg, spokeswoman for AABBI. “The personal one-on-one care you receive makes you feel like a person, not just a number.” B&Bs are usually smaller than resorts and popular chain hotels, often ranging from three to 50 rooms, which allows for more personal interactions with innkeepers and staff. Today’s B&Bs range from the unique to the luxurious, with amenities like locally grown gourmet meals, shade-grown coffee, spa treatments, wireless Internet, flat screen TVs, DVD players and whirlpool tubs.
Cat Mountain Inn TuCson One such B&B, whose owner and creator kept the green factor fully in mind when designing and decorating it, is Cat Mountain Lodge in Tucson. The B&B was built with recycled cement and decorated with repurposed furnishings. This eco-driven respite uses solar power and sells back any unused electricity to the local power company. “Almost everything is recycled, reused or repurposed,” said Angel Jackson-Sly, manager and resident innkeeper. According to the B&B’s website, the lodge, completed in 2010, was built to have as little impact on the environment as possible and is the only certified green B&B listed on the Arizona Hotel & Lodging Association (AzHLA) website. Eco-savvy owner, Kerstin Block, and her late husband Spencer, wanted to create an eco-friendly retreat in the Tucson mountains. With her keen fashion sense, she created a comfortable Southwestern feel with repurposed furniture. Green cleaning is incorporated as fine linens are laundered with perfume-free, biodegradable cleaners, and rooms are cleaned with natural, chemical-free cleaning products. Native plants are used in the landscape and are maintained with organic insecticide and fertilizers. The inn also uses graywater, stored in an underground tank, to irrigate the property. Here green-minded travelers can rest in environmentally conscious style.
If you are looking for a more personal, authentic travel experience, and if you want to “do what the locals do,” a B&B is perfect for you. Many B&Bs are owned and managed by locals who know the good, the bad and the sublime places to eat, visit and shop.
Cat Mountain Lodge is a great place to use as a base while you explore the nearby Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the beautiful desert or local artisan shops, says Jackson-Sly, who is also a Tucson certified tour ambassador. There is even a privately owned observatory with personalized guided tours for stargazing.
“They live in the community and have personal relationships with other local businesses,” added McClurg. Staying with locals “in the know” gives travelers a unique perspective of their destination. Many B&Bs have rich histories dating back as far as the 1800s, which gives more depth to your stay.
And don’t worry about breakfast or lunch. It’s served from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Coyote Pause Cafe. The cafe, run by local Deb Davis, features local, fresh, native foods, such as agave and prickly pear syrups and mesquite flour. The cafe purchases fresh ingredients directly from Native American cooperative farms.
A visit to the AABBI’s website arizona-bed-breakfast.com lists 50 of the state’s B&Bs. Here you can find links to events, weather and itineraries and find something new to see or do. For the eco-savvy traveler, you can feel good knowing you are supporting locals that have kept being “green” in mind.
46 greenliving | August 2011
Rooms start at $99 per night, which includes breakfast at Coyote Pause Cafe. Cat Mountain station 2720 s. Kinney Rd., Tucson, AZ 85735 520-578-6085 | catmountainlodge.com
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Feature
Sunglow Ranch peARce Tucked away at the foothills of the Chiricahua Mountains is Sunglow Ranch. Here guests can experience a real Western guest ranch while still enjoying the comforts of a fine resort. From yoga retreats to cooking classes, Sunglow Ranch provides travelers a tranquil escape. Located on over 450 acres, Sunglow Ranch gives visitors the opportunity to hike, bike or horseback ride through the beautiful national forest. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride in the morning and later enjoy a soak in the solarheated pool, or even a massage and spa treatment. Hearty breakfasts and gourmet dinners are made from scratch with herbs from the garden and eggs from the ranch’s freerange chickens. Ranch chefs use local produce whenever possible for these delectable, fresh meals, and guests can enjoy local wines or Arizona craft beers. Rates start at $270 and include breakfast, dinner and afternoon refreshments. Sunglow Ranch 14066 S. Sunglow Rd., pearce, AZ 85625 520-824-3334 | sunglowranch.com
The coTTonwood Annabel Inn This award-winning B&B packs a powerhouse of ecosensibility into its three-room European cottage-styled inn. In fact, owner Annabel Sclippa told local business leaders her green and eco-friendly practices bring return visitors to her inn, according to the Verde Independent. Organic gourmet meals are made with vegetables and herbs from Sclippa’s garden and eggs from free-range chickens from Old Town Cottonwood homestead. Even the furniture at Annabel’s is sustainable. Last year Sclippa purchased eco-friendly, USA-made furniture from Gem Tables as way to continue her eco-friendly ambience. For green cleaning, Sclippa uses non-toxic, earth-friendly cleaning products, including a natural detergent called Soap Nuts, which has been used for centuries; and special attention is given to the rooms as mattresses are vacuumed each time the linens are changed, and there is regular cleaning of shower curtains and bath mats. Annabel’s location in Old Town Cottonwood makes visiting the town’s premier wine tasting rooms, local galleries and restaurants almost effortless.
Before you wrap up your summer holiday vacations, consider staying at a locally owned and operated B&B, where you’re not just a guest, you’re a part of the community.
Rates start at $84, and if you mention Local First Arizona you’ll receive 10 percent off any stay or package. The Annabel Inn 611 n 7th St., cottonwood, AZ 8632 928-649-3038 | theannabelinn.com
Photography courtesy of Cat Mountain Lodge, Sunglow Ranch, and The Annabel Inn
greenlivingaz.com
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August 2011 | greenliving 47
Restaurant
EnchantmEnt REsoRt ExEcutivE chEf
tEd cizma BY ABIGAIL GILMORE
A
s the son and grandson of butchers, an interest in food came naturally for local chef Ted Cizma. “I was influenced from an early age by the two most important men in my life,” Cizma said. “My grandfather taught me to respect and appreciate the food we cook and eat,” he said. “My first job cooking was in a local Italian restaurant at age 13. I fell in love with the atmosphere and camaraderie of the kitchen, not to mention the opportunity to eat good food at will.” Today, Cizma is the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Director at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, where his Southwestern inspirations shine. “I seek to use ingredients that are reflective of the Southwest and give the food a sense of place,” Cizma said. “Of course, we use the best possible products and try to keep the preparations simple, elegant and approachable.” And eco-friendly too.
“Conservation is one of my personal missions. We use only seafood that is raised or harvested in a sustainable fashion, we use locally grown and produced items as much as possible, we compost, recycle and reuse extensively,” he said. Buying locally is very important to him, as the menu is sometimes based on what is available, Cizma added. “I start with what’s available, both seasonally and locally,” he said. “Sometimes a trip to the farmers market acts as a catalyst, starting the creative process. After that I compose dishes, trying to best showcase each item and use it to its best advantage.” Cizma said he is truly enthused and inspired by his surroundings, making the Enchantment Resort a perfect place for him to practice his love of cooking. He said, “I love that I set my table, literally and figuratively, in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.”
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Gluten Free Menu
Happy Hour everyday! 3:30-6:30pm
Enchantment Resort 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona, AZ 86336 enchantmentresort.com
Never Any Antibiotics Never Any Hormones Never Anything But All Natural Feeds
Buy any 2 entrées & 2 drinks & receive $5 off your bill.
*Dine in only. Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon to redeem. Expires 8/31/11.
Home Made Veggie Burgers - Turkey Burgers - Great Salads - Fresh Fish ... The Best You’ll Just Know It!
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SW Corner Scottsdale/Shea | next to Bevmo (480) 998-2222 48 greenliving | August 2011
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Cool Outrageous
1
WEAR YOUR FAVORITE BOOKS
Bamboo Technology Now, one of the most common technology products has gone to the green side. This flash drive is made out of bamboo and part of Staple’s eco-easy line of products. They are available locally at Staples, or online at staples.com.
2
KIDS MAKE MUSIC
Scottsdale mobile gaming development company Faro Entertainment has designed a mobile soundboard app for your iPhone or iPad to both entertain and educate your child! This app is very easy to use; a simple swipe will take you to one of four screens to explore different sounds. Your child can choose to strum the strings on a bass, bang an assortment of drums, shake the maracas, play a variety of notes on the xylophone, and experiment with funny everyday sounds like a rubber ducky. Entertaining and composing all in one! faroent.com/games_kimm.html.
3
BIODEGRADABLE NAPKINS MYdrap created a great solution to the disposable napkin debacle. MYdrap napkins and placemats are both biodegradable and recyclable – you can even wash them and reuse them. The napkins and placemats come on perforated rolls in three different sizes and over 20 colors. They are available at buymydrap.com.
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School is just around the corner and that means back-to-school shopping. Out of Print clothing has created clothing for any type of student. Using a contemporary twist, bookworms can purchase shirts inspired by popular tales like “Moby Dick,” “1984,” “The Great Gatsby,” and many more! Out of Print also sells covers for iPhones, iPads, Nook, Kindle and totes available at Urban Outfitters. Visit outofprintclothing.com for more information.
4
5
ORGANIC PRESCHOOL FUN DOUGH
Handmade in the USA with 100% organic ingredients and nontoxic liquid watercolors, and packaged in 100% recyclable containers this dough will keep your kids creatively busy! Tired of hearing about all the recalls and toxins in toys, Miss Brittney, a former preschool teacher, wanted to develop a product that was safe and environmentally friendly for kids. To purchase or find a retail store visit missbrittanysorganic.com.
TRENDY TOTES
6
EDITOR’S PICK
Tired of having to carry multiple bags just to fit everything you need? WearEarth created a tote that is reusable, stylish, durable and can hold a lot of goodies. The totes come in a variety of colors and sizes. Available at wearearth.com.
BAMBOO BABY WIPES
7
Baby wipes are a necessity for any parent, but, like common diapers, can pile up once they’re used. Bum Boosa Bamboo baby wipes were created by mothers dedicated to changing the way people think about common disposable baby products. These bio-friendly and chlorine-free baby wipes are made from 100 percent bamboo with rayon. Bum Boosa Bamboo also sells Diaper Rash ointment and bathroom tissues! bumboosa.com.
August 2011 | greenliving 49
Annie’s Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips Serves 10
INGREDIENTS 2 kiwis, peeled and diced 2 golden delicious apples, peeled, cored and diced 8 oz. raspberries 1 lb. strawberries
2 tbsp. organic white sugar 1 tbsp. organic brown sugar 10 (10-inch) flour tortillas Organic butter 2 cups cinnamon sugar
DIRECTIONS In a food processor, thoroughly mix kiwis, apples, raspberries, strawberries, white and brown sugars together. Then cover and chill for at least 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat one side of a flour tortilla with butter. Cut the tortilla into wedges. Arrange tortillas in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle the wedges with the desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Bake tortilla in oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat this step with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow 15 minutes to cool. Serve with chilled fruit mixture. Recipe courtesy of Angela Stacy, M.A. “I enjoy making this salad in the summer time for family gatherings.”
Bruschetta Serves 10
Serves 10
Grilled Pork Chops
INGREDIENTS 4 pork chops (approximately 8 oz.) 2 large garlic cloves 1/3 cup olive oil 6 oz. beer (ale) 1/2 lemon, juiced 1/2 white onion
1 tbsp. white vinegar 1 jalapeno, sliced with seeds Garlic salt with parsley Season salt Black pepper Chili powder Lemon pepper
INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 lbs. of chopped “on-the-vine” tomatoes 1 tbsp. Italian seasoning 2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. pepper 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup olive oil French bread (sliced) Olive oil for basting Parmesan or Romano cheese (optional)
DIRECTIONS Mix all ingredients. Let stand overnight. Slice French bread and lightly brush with olive oil. Broil bread until lightly toasted. Scoop bruschetta onto bread. For an added taste, drizzle a bit more balsamic vinegar and/or shave some parmesan or Romano cheese on top. Delicious! Recipe courtesy of Tishin Donkersley, M.A. “This dish is great when you need a quick hors d’oeuvers and is one of my go to dishes for impromptu gatherings at our home.”
DIRECTIONS Place pork, garlic, olive oil, beer, lemon juice, onion, vinegar and jalapeno into a large storage bag. Let it marinate for up to six hours. Remove pork and dust with garlic salt, season salt, pepper, chili powder and lemon pepper. Save the liquid for basting. If you baste frequently, you will need to dust more spices sparingly, but don’t be shy with the garlic salt! Grill at 250 degrees for 13 to 18 minutes, or until preferred doneness. Note: To prepare more pork chops, increase the “wet” ingredients pro-rata, but 1/2 of the pro-rata white vinegar.
Recipe courtesy of Mark Morales “I enjoy making this recipe anytime, especially Sundays when I have time. It’s a great summer time, kids swimming in the pool, Jimmy Buffett in the background entree.”
50 greenliving | August 2011
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He’s Green she’s Green
She is: Jennifer Burkhart He is: John Burkhart
Just in time for summer road trips, our green couple tasted different organic snacks that will keep your family happy on the road, by the pool or at home this summer. Annie’s Organic Snack Mix Bunnies, Cheddar
He said Chex mix and Goldfish crackers just got blown out of the water! This is, without a doubt, the best snack mix I have ever eaten. Baked bunny crackers with crunchy pretzels with nice cheddar cheese seasoning over it. Mmm mmm! Fair warning though, it’s quite addictive. I’ve already gone back and bought a second box.
sHe said Ad-dict-ing! This cheesy bunny mix would be a great addition to your kiddo’s lunchbox. You might even find yourself adding some to your own lunch too! I really liked the pretzels and all of the cute bunny shapes. With a dusting of cheddar cheese seasoning on top, this one is a no-brainer! She gave it:
He gave it:
365 Chocolate Graham Bears
He said A super chocolatey graham cracker treat. It’s certified organic and tastes just as good if not better than the non-organic Teddy Grahams. They’re a touch on the dry side but would go great with a tall glass of milk or some ice cream.
sHe said These little bear-shaped snacks are chocolatey with a nice cookie crunch. I think it will win kids over, as long as they haven’t first had the other popular brand, Teddy Grahams. There is a definite taste difference, but the yummy organic ingredients makes this one the clear choice.
He gave it: She gave it:
Snyder’s of Hanover Organic Honey Whole Wheat Pretzel Sticks
He said Snyder’s of Hanover has done a marvelous job making a pretzel snack that tastes exactly like cardboard. They usually make delicious pretzels, in fact their honey mustard nibblers are one of my favorite snacks, but these honey wheat sticks are just plain bad. If you really want to experience what these taste like, tear out this page, lightly salt it, roll it up and chew on it.
sHe said I can appreciate the value of whole wheat, protein and fiber – especially in a snack food, but Snyder’s forgot about our taste buds. The pretzel sticks were dry and bland – where’s the honey? In fact, salt was the only noticeable flavor. These won’t win any kid over. She gave it:
He gave it:
Late July Organic Mini Peanut Butter Bite Size Sandwich Crackers
He said These little peanut butter sandwiches are delicious. I had to stop myself from eating the whole box, which, on the downside, isn’t very much. Late July makes these with wonderful organic ingredients, which I didn’t think was a big deal until I compared the list of enriched, hydrogenated and high fructose ingredients Ritz puts in their “peanut butter sandwiches.” Do your kids a favor, buy them the good snacks.
sHe said Yum, so satisfying! You can’t go wrong with crunchy, salty, peanutbuttery goodness. I had a hard time putting these down. Their mini size is perfect for little fingers too! Kids will love these. She gave it:
He gave it:
Clif Kid Organic Twisted Fruit Rope, Tropical Twist
He said This one takes me back to when I was a kid. They used to put these fruit snacks by the register and I would bug my mom to get me one while we waited to check out. Little did I know I was getting a full serving of fruit. These Clif fruit snacks are better-tasting than mom used to get me. They’re USDA organic, non-gmo, and have no sugar added. They’re also an easy way to get your kids to eat fruit.
sHe said Wow! This is by far the juiciest fruit snack I have ever tasted. The flavor is “Tropical Twist,” but it tasted like grape to me – so good! It is soft and chewy in a cool twisted rope shape. I don’t know any kid – or adult – that wouldn’t like these! She gave it:
He gave it:
52 greenliving | August 2011
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Green Scenes
August Events Chandler August 13 Walk with Dragonflies and Butterflies 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Tickets: FREE! Chandleraz.gov
Desert Botanical Garden
Conscious Living August 23 The purpose of the gatherings is to educate, inspire and empower. The greatest green networking event! 6-8pm at Whole Foods, Scottsdale/Mayo. 480-358-1000 thefusionfoundation.org
August 1 Tickets go on sale for the Music in the Garden Fall 2011 Concert Series Concert series are on Friday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., starting October 7. Tickets: $15, members and $21, non-members dbg.org August 28 Central Arizona Cactus and Succulent Society Meeting Encourages the study and growth of cacti and other succulents. Starts at 2 p.m. centralarizonacactus.org
Flagstaff August 3 Bookmans Back to School Party All ages are welcome to come and enjoy a magic and yo-yo show, face painting, balloon sculpting and music. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. bookmans.com
Prescott Mountain artists Guild summer arts and Crafts August 14 to August 15 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. Historic Downtown Courthouse Plaza
Phoenix Zoo August 13 Prowl and Play Come meet and greet the animals, participate in the Squirt Gun Wars, or cool off in the Zoo’s Yakulla Caverns and Leapin’ Lagoon. Guided night hikes will also be available so do not forget to sign up! 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $5, members and $6, nonmembers Phoenixzoo.org/events
SMoCA’s young@ art Gallery, Visions: Picture I.D. May 12 to September 18 Artwork featuring high school students in SMoCA’s teen program, “Visions,” as they explore the them of identity and how that relate to their artwork. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
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August 2011 | greenliving 55
Green Personalities
Joe Abraham Director of Sustainability at The University of Arizona BY CHRISTINA LUND
How are students involved with the sustainability program and projects?
What interested you about sustainability? I think I can trace my interest in sustainability back to my parents, who also care deeply about the environment and the welfare of people. We spent a lot of time outdoors and traveling around the world. My training as a geographer and environmental scientist has helped me make it part of my professional life, and I am very grateful for that.
How has the sustainability program at The University of Arizona (UA) advanced throughout the years? Sustainability has long been and remains an important focus in many parts of the UA. We are truly worldclass when it comes to interdisciplinary environmental research and education. We have a very large impact locally, regionally, and around the world. There are so many staff, faculty, students and administrators advancing sustainability through their work on and off campus, yet it’s not being driven by a directive from the top. I get to work with a lot of people who are leaders and innovators in their fields.
Students have long been a driving force in making the UA a more environmentally sustainable institution. I work closely with student leaders on a variety of projects, including our new Green Fund that a committee of students uses to support a range of sustainability projects on campus. I also have graduate assistants and undergraduate interns in my office working on several projects, including the university-wide sustainability assessment.
What excites you most about sustainability? I enjoy the fact that it’s very interdisciplinary, draws on many different fields, and brings people together to find solutions to complex problems. It’s not about doing things the same as before, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
What advice would you give someone just starting to explore sustainability? Do what you love and the job will follow, but I know that might be hard to believe with our current job market. I admire people who are able to do this. Also, talk with people in the fields you are interested in to see what their jobs are really like, what skills are needed, and where the field is headed. Creativity is also really important.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your home?
We are conducting a university-wide assessment of our sustainability programs, investments and activities that spans operations, education, research, outreach and administration. It’s part of a national assessment of higher education institutions.
We try to ride our bikes as much as possible to work and for errands. We buy some organic produce; we’re not vegetarian but don’t eat much meat. We often shop for clothes at resale shops. We own a house a couple of miles from the UA that was built in the 1950s, so we’re working on making it more energy-efficient and developing a comfortable low-water landscape. It all adds up.
What do you hope to achieve through this project?
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
In addition to gaining recognition, we’re using it in the coming year to develop a strategic plan to ensure our position as a leader in sustainability among our peers.
My family takes up most of my time, but I play ultimate Frisbee and ride my bikes when I can. I also like to cook.
Are there any major projects you are working on now through the program?
56 greenliving | August 2011
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