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March 2016
Editor’s Note
A
nd just like that, we’re three months into the New Year and Phoenicians are trading in their scarves and boots for flip flops and shorts. Spring is here! In addition to the warmer weather, I’m celebrating my one-year anniversary as the Associate Editor of Green Living magazine. Our awesome social media intern had the idea to spread out the 12 issues I’ve worked on and have me pose with them for a post about my anniversary. It was strange seeing all the issues laid out and recalling memories from each: interviewing green pioneers and celebrities; eating Thai food on press night while tirelessly reviewing the final pages; the feeling of joy when a new issue arrives and I see it put together for the first time…I was feeling a lot of emotions, but the main one was pride. I’m so proud to work for Green Living magazine, to be a part of its process, and to play a role in spreading the word on making our world a better place. Is it a lot of work? Of course. Is it sometimes stressful? You betcha! But seeing a whole year’s worth of work divided into 12 gorgeous magazine issues is very thrilling. I can honestly say I love my job, and I’m excited to see what these next 12 issues will bring.
But enough about me! I need to tell you what’s so great about this issue. For our Family and Kids issue, we have an article on eco parenting tips; an update on the Kid Against Chemo’s inspirational battle; young yogis at the Sedona Yoga Festival; a spotlight on a local family-run business that focuses on recycling and reusing glass; the First Lady of Kenya’s trip to Arizona; our annual environmental camp guide; recipes for the upcoming March holidays; and much more! March is also National Nutrition Month and we have an article from a holistic nutritionist on ways you can spruce up the healthy food in your kitchen this spring break, in addition to an article from the Cancer Treatment Centers of America on conflicting health advice. I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Green Living as much as I enjoyed putting it together!
Amanda Harvey Associate Editor
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March 2016
on the cover We’re celebrating our March issue with this gorgeous nature shot of a pollinating bumble bee at the ArizonaSonora Desert Museum.
March 2016
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play green
live green 6 Ensuring Nature’s Needs in an Era of Less Water 8 Young Yogis at the Sedona Yoga Festival 10 Feature Update on the Kid Against Chemo 12 Cut Through the Contradicting Health Advice 14 4 Eco Tips for Healthy Parenting 16 Get Outdoors and Explore Your Great Arizona Adventure 17 Spring Break Family Kitchen Makeover 18 Everyday Food from my Yard: From Urban Farm to Table 19 Environmental Stewardship Through Continuous Improvement 20 Eco-Friendly Tips to Keep Your Pets Healthy and Happy
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Green Living magazine is printed
32 Wild Crossings: Creating Passageways for Animal Migration
34 Environmental Summer Camps Guide 36 Vail School Makes Sustainability a Priority
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work green 22 Recycling is King 24 Germany’s Energiewende to Build the U.S Green Energy Market
26 Project C.U.R.E. Brings First Lady of Kenya to Arizona
28 Meeting Arizona’s Ecological Needs Through PublicPrivate Partnerships
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40 March Holiday Recipes & Fun Kid’s Recipes 42 Green Scenes 46 Green Champions of the Month 47 He’s Green, She’s Green 48 Cool & Outrageous Stuff March 2016 | greenliving
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WATER
ENSURING NATURE’S NEEDS IN AN
ERA OF LESS WATER BY DAVID SCHALLER
A
rizonans driving around the state in January were treated to flowing washes, creeks and rivers for the first time since the summer monsoon. Courtesy of the El Niño phenomenon, generous winter rains turned usually dry stream channels into living river ecosystems once more. A broad array of environmental benefits accompanied the flowing water, reminding us how important it is to include ecological values among those we protect in an era of less water. Our southwest waters carry out a number of important ecological functions, such as trapping sediment, filtering pollutants, and aiding groundwater replenishment. These are in addition to the more obvious benefits that accrue to the fish, birds, and other wildlife that depend on a functioning river ecosystem. To sustain the ecosystems of our limited surface waters, and the human economy dependent on these ecosystems, adequate water flows are crucial. The quantity, quality and timing of water flows needed in each river will be different, but each stream requires what scientists call an “environmental flow.” The pattern of environmental flow that water managers seek in any given river is aimed at protecting values beyond strictly potable water supply, energy, recreation or flood control.
The benefits of maintaining an environmental flow in a river are not readily transparent. It is easier to understand the importance of water to growing crops, making hydropower, or serving municipal and industrial water needs. This creates a constant struggle to protect the benefits realized via the protection of minimum flows. Yet the science of environmental flows is growing rapidly. To help everyone better grasp how much water is needed to maintain riparian and aquatic species, the Desert Landscape Conservation Cooperative provided support to the University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC) and Northern Arizona University to create a compendium of data. The resulting Desert Flows Database summarizes key data from more than 400 studies on riparian and aquatic species, and provides users with a one-stop-shop for available (published) information. The database is publicly available at wrrc.arizona.edu/desertflowsdata. In another effort, the Arizona Land and Water Trust sponsors a Desert Rivers Program that aims to secure water to sustain riparian habitat and cultural landscapes around threatened river ecosystems. The Trust uses short-term environmental water transactions to redirect water to rivers, riparian corridors and depleted shallow groundwater tables.
PHOTO TAKEN DURING A RECENT DESERT LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION COOPERATIVE TRIP TO AQUAS CALIENTES, MEXICO.
6 greenliving | March 2016
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WATER
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The Trust has successfully implemented six water leases on the Gila and San Pedro rivers, moving it closer to the goal of developing markets that include environmental and water supply values. Those values were highlighted in remarkable fashion along the lower Colorado River in 2014 when a “pulse flow” – an experimental release of over 100,000 acre-feet from an upstream reservoir – took place. For the first time in decades, water from the Colorado reached the Gulf of California. It flushed the estuary in the river’s delta with much-needed fresh water just as spring runoffs used to do. The timing allowed germination of self-sustaining willow and cottonwood trees, valuable to local and migratory birds. The results also hinted at how a healthy lower Colorado River ecosystem would translate into rural economic activities, specifically job opportunities for local people including river restoration, tourism and commercial fisheries. So as competition for water intensifies in our drying southwest, and with climate change adding further unpredictability, it will be all the more important to include environmental flows in the mix of values to be protected as we go forward. David Schaller is a retired environmental scientist living in Tucson where he writes on climate, water and energy security.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
YOUNG YOGIS SEDONA YOGA FESTIVAL OFFERS FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
T
he Sedona Yoga Festival (SYF2016) takes place this month, March 10 through 13. The event is popular among yogis from across the globe and, this year, is welcoming even the youngest yoga enthusiasts. “Sedona Yoga Festival is an international destination event held annually in the spiritual center of the American West: Sedona, Arizona,” explained Heather Sheree Titus, producer of SYF2016. “Our presenters are chosen for their unfailing commitment to raising consciousness and for their authenticity. They teach at all levels and all styles. We are committed to providing a conference that offers attendees the opportunity to deepen their practice, whether they are seasoned teachers or absolute beginners. It is important to us that the conference schedule has something for everyone.” The annual event, which is in its fourth year, is now offering a kids yoga experience for youth ages 6 to 13. “Many of our presenters offer kids yoga classes at their home studios, and they have graciously added this to their offering at SYF2016,” said Titus. “We will have a drop-in and a day pass rate and are offering mandala coloring, kirtan, acro, hatha and other yoga
8 greenliving | March 2016
related activities for kids’ enjoyment.” “On the main conference schedule there are many sessions that are family oriented, and these are searchable on our website by the ‘family tag,’” Titus continued. “There are performances and a conscious expo to enjoy throughout the weekend, and the conference center is surrounded by family friendly trails so parents and children can get out onto the land together.” What’s important about getting the next generation interested in yoga during their youth? Titus says there are many benefits of the practice for people in all stages of life. “Learning to look within is valuable to everyone of all ages,” she explained. “Culturally, the tools we provide young people in the
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
public sphere are not cultivating connection and selfreflection. Yoga provides the tools to self-regulate at the level of the nervous system and to create space for thoughtfulness... the pause. [It] helps us to know how to act rather than to react.” In addition to the young yogis and their families, SYF2016 also benefits its educators. “Yoga teachers have the opportunity to participate in our preconference trauma sensitive yoga training intensive, and to earn CEUs [continuing education units] all weekend,” Titus said. “Day passes are available as a convenience to regional yogis, and with something on the schedule from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. each day, they can get a lot out of that!” To learn more about the Sedona Yoga Festival and see the full line-up of events, visit sedonayogafestival.com. Michelle Talsma Everson is a freelance writer, editor, public relations consultant and mom based in Phoenix. With degrees in both journalism and PR from Northern Arizona University, she writes for several Valley publications. Find out more at mteverson.com. Photography by Robert Sturman and Charlie Van Block Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health
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March 2016 | greenliving
9
HEALTH & WELLNESS
FEATURE STORY UPDATE
BIG CHANGES FOR KID AGAINST CHEMO BY “ALISHA BEE” FORRESTER SCOTT
I
n the cover article of the February 2015 issue of Green Living magazine, you met Jared Bucey, a 17 year old who replaced chemotherapy treatments with holistic home care after being diagnosed with Stage-4 Lymphoma. Today, the selfproclaimed Kid Against Chemo has an excellent bill of health, strong energy levels, and a complete lack of pain. Jared is now a public speaker who focuses on improving post-diagnosis education for children and their parents. Jared’s mother Lisa, who became her son’s de facto holistic health advocate after his decision, now practices as a certified nutritionist and is aligned with several major professional health advocacy groups. In a new interview with Jared and Lisa, I see that now they are individuals who
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have made it to the “other side” of a grave health crisis. The effects of his healing are apparent, but the remission of his cancer without chemotherapy is no longer the whole story. I have discovered that they have each since found their unique life missions. GL: Jared, are there any exciting plans on your horizon? JARED: I’m currently writing my autobiography. I’m working towards my dream of opening a natural wellness clinic, so kids and people can slow down to actually enjoy the process of healing. My mom got her nutritionist certification, and we have a new website where we offer monthly cooking classes. We regularly talk to people from all over the world, and we have met many great people.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
TRANSFORMATION | YOGA | MEDITATION | KIRTAN ENERGY MEDICINE | NUTRITION | CONSCIOUSNESS
GL: Lisa, what is an average day of detox wellness like at your house? LISA: You’ll find us rebounding on the trampoline to move lymph, and venturing outdoors for walking and hiking. We use the far infrared sauna, eat organic food, stay hydrated, and enjoy daily meditation. Jared says that he likes eating “real food.” He gets out into nature daily, and meditates to keep himself grounded.
Photo: Robert Sturman, Asana Artist: Katie White
GL: Are you continuing the treatments you were doing when you were battling cancer? (ie: juicing, sauna, massage therapy, etc.) How are you feeling since your 1-year anniversary of being cancer free? JARED: I am feeling fantastic. I do all the same treatments that I did while I had cancer, and I’m following my doctor’s recommendation to continue on it for two years. I will continue to live like this, because it’s a lifestyle change and really isn’t an inconvenience. This nourishing lifestyle has become a series of good habits.
SedonaYogaFestival.com
GL: How much have you learned about health as a continuum since Jared first reversed his serious health condition? JARED: I have learned a lot about food and the true differences between organic and processed, and how to keep your body well as a whole. LISA: I received my nutritionist certification, and I love to be a health coach to many people. It’s exciting for me, and I’ve learned more than I ever thought possible. I’m still learning every day. GL: Three words to describe how you feel right now? What is your current personal health mission? JARED: I feel happy, excited and peaceful. My mission is to stay healthy and continue what I am doing. LISA: I feel enlightened, healthy and inspired. My current personal health mission is to continue to be in the best health I can and continue to share and help others. Since 2014, Jared’s “Kid Against Chemo” Facebook page has grown to over 17,000 likes. “Ultimately,” said Lisa, “I feel we each have to love ourselves enough to love our individual health.” For more information, read our initial story about Jared on our website at greenlivingaz.com/kidagainstchemo. Visit Jared and Lisa’s official website at loveyourselfloveyourhealthnaturally.com. “Alisha Bee” Forrester Scott is a native of Arizona and an independent writer who advocates for freedom of natural health and wellness. You can reach her at alishabee@alishabee.com. Above photo by Vince Alfaro Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
CUT THROUGH THE CONTRADICTING HEALTH ADVICE BY DR. DAVID BOYD
W
ith different health studies surfacing VITAMIN D FROM THE SUN It is commonly every day, it may be difficult to known that vitamin D is beneficial for our health, understand what often appears as which can be consumed in our diet and activated conflicting health advice. For example, should you by the sun. So how do we receive the appropriate drink wine for a healthy heart, or avoid alcohol for amount of vitamin D from the sun without the risk of increasing your odds of being diagnosed increasing our risk of skin cancer? Simple. Use with cancer? Similar questions can be asked for sunscreen, even on overcast days, with a sun soy, vitamin D from the sun, and protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Sunscreen aspirin. Each of these has been tied to blocks some, but not all, ultraviolet (UV) rays. positive and negative studies in the It is important to remember that tan skin is DR. DAVID BOYD ever-changing health environment. damaged skin. Avoid sun What should you believe? Are your current exposure between 10:00 a.m. and habits harming you or helping you? Here’s 4:00 p.m. when the sun has reached the truth: its highest intensity for the day. If you need to be outside during this time, it’s important to cover up with IS ALCOHOL BAD FOR YOU? Traditionally, protective clothing to guard your skin studies have shown that wine has been seen as from the sun as much as possible. a tool to increase lifespan, protect against certain cancers, and reduce the chances of heart disease. An antioxidant in red wine called resveratrol helps ASPIRIN According to the National increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) Cancer Institute, tens of millions cholesterol, which may protect a person’s heart against of people in the United States take artery damage. Therefore, one five-ounce glass of wine aspirin daily to reduce their risk of per day is okay. However, too much alcohol may have heart attack or stroke. But what about negative effects to the body. More than one drink per reducing colorectal cancer? Aspirin is day may lead to excess weight gain, an increase associated with a 20- to 40-percent in association for various cancers, and an reduction in the risk of colon increase in risk of dependence. adenomas, or polyps, in individuals
12 greenliving | March 2016
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
with an average risk of being diagnosed. However, aspirin has the ability to lower platelets in a person’s blood, increasing the risk of major bleeding. Prior to beginning aspirin therapy, you should check with your primary care doctor.
SOY As an excellent source of protein, soy has also been under the microscope for questions regarding its impact on breast cancer. Isoflavones, which are similar to estrogen, are found within soy. This has caused many concerns due to the fact that estrogen has been linked to hormonally sensitive cancers. Although, according to the American Cancer Society, isoflavones also have anti-estrogen properties as well. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the relationship between specific forms of soy and doses of isoflavones on cancer risk. Most importantly, remember that you are in control of your own health. If you are unsure about a recent study or conflicting health advice, speak with your primary care physician to understand what is best for you.
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Dr. David Boyd is an Intake Physician and Director of Wellness, Prevention and Primary Care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Western Regional Medical Center in Goodyear, Arizona. Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health
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March 2016 | greenliving
13
GREEN LIFE
4 ECO TIPS FOR BY NIKITA BOYER
I
t’s not always easy being green, especially with little ones. The temptation to buy into wasteful consumerism is big, but the benefits of a balanced lifestyle are plentiful and easier to attain than you might think. So hang in there, green parents, and simplify your life with these eco-friendly ideas.
1
CLOTH DIAPERS VS DISPOSABLE DIAPERS Does the concept of cloth diapering seem foreign to you, or have you heard of them and considered making the switch? The benefits of cloth diapers versus disposables are incredible, and here are just a few to help nudge you in a less wasteful direction: Cloth diapers are better for the environment. Increasing your wash load and using eco-friendly detergent is safer for the environment than stuffing landfills with bloated plastic diapers that contain – let’s face it – some pretty toxic waste. “Like most parents, I switched for environmental reasons when I learned each disposable diaper takes roughly 500 years to decompose,” said Kim Rosas of Dirty Diaper Laundry blog. “I began thinking that every diaper ever made was still sitting somewhere, and it wasn’t a thought I could stomach contributing to.” They’re cheaper than disposable. The price of the reusable diapers and covers, plus the increase in water, detergent, and electricity, brings the total cost of cloth diapers to $775 for the 30 months between birth and potty training. Using disposable diapers costs approximately $1,900 for 30 months, not including the extra cost of hauling away more bags of garbage. More information on these calculations can be found at squawkfox.com, a personal finance blog. One size fits all. Most cloth diapers are adjustable, so you can use the same diapers until your child is potty trained. At most, you might need to buy small, medium and large
14 greenliving | March 2016
adjustable diapers. Switching two times is much better than switching six times. You can also continue using them for your next bundle of joy. They are an easier transition to potty training. When your child is old enough, you can take out the lining of the cloth diaper. This provides your child with the feel of underwear, and you with peace of mind knowing the diaper shell will keep accidents contained.
2
MAKE-YOUROWN HEALTHY MEALS My children are picky eaters. Anything seasoned more than plain white rice is “spicy” and will be left on the plate. Dinner is usually a negotiation about how many vegetable bites to eat before they can have something they like. If this sounds awfully familiar and you’d like to do something to change your children’s eating habits, try this. Create a list with four to five sections labeled Protein, Grain, Vegetable, Fruit and Dairy (optional). For each section, list what you have on-hand or routinely buy. For example, your protein list will include meats, vegetable protein, beans, tofu, nut butters and so on. After you’ve made this list, talk to your children. Explain to them that for one meal a day, they can choose one item from each section to eat, but that they must eat whatever they pick. Giving children this choice encourages them to develop a healthy relationship with food and empowers them to make good decisions.
3
ECO HAIR CARE Does your kid have hair that seems to sprout knots? Do you hate the idea of wasting water while trying to untangle your child’s hair? Then you might want to consider making your own detangling spray to help get the knots out, prevent hair breakage, speed the combing process, and keep your mornings tear-free. greenlivingaz.com
GREEN LIFE
DIY Detangling Spray Ingredients 8 oz. spray bottle 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp pure aloe vera gel 6 oz. distilled water 10 drops of your favorite essential oil Directions Put all ingredients in the bottle. Before each use, shake until evenly distributed. Spray over wet or dry hair before combing. Recipe courtesy of Scratch Mommy blog.
4
GREEN CHORES It is important to give our children chores that reflect the values we want them to develop. If you want to instill green values in your children, show them that the Earth is important and that they have the power to protect it. Some green chores you can have your children do include taking out the compost bucket and turning the compost, sorting the recycling, and helping in the garden. Not only will these tasks help create responsible stewards for our planet, they also provide the opportunity for us to spend meaningful time with our children.
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For more on cloth diapers, visit dirtydiaperlaundry.com. For more DIY ideas and skincare products, visit Scratch Mommy Organic Skincare Shop and blog at scratchmommy.com. Nikita Boyer is a writer and healthy lifestyle enthusiast. She is the poetry editor for Four Chambers Press, a Phoenix literary journal, as well as a contributor to Green Living magazine. In her free time, Nikita enjoys writing stories and poems that challenge societal norms, and playing tabletop RPGs with her kids. Find more green life articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenlife
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March 2016 | greenliving
15
GREEN LIFE
GET OUTDOORS
AND EXPLORE YOUR GREAT ARIZONA ADVENTURE BY ELIZABETH HOFFMAN
A
s winter is slowly melting away, now’s the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air before the summer heat strikes. Keep reading to discover three of the top spots to visit this season for ample hiking, camping and fishing – and then start packing! NORTHERN ARIZONA / HAVASU FALLS Havasu Falls is a tranquil retreat that lies 2,500 feet below the magnificent Grand Canyon and has been home to the Havasupai tribe for centuries. The waterfalls radiate a skyblue hue surrounded by towering red cliffs and vibrant green trees. Journey through the canyon with a long hike, or swim in the cool waters. Reserve a three- or four-day trek with an experienced guide while taking several stops to admire spectacular views, tour through the ancient Havasupai tribe’s village, explore the three central waterfalls (Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and Havasu Falls), and have a peaceful lunch overlooking the vast canyon. Pack mules accompanying the trip will transport food and supplies, so all you need is your backpack and hiking shoes. For more information, visit nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/havasupai.htm or visit private guide sites like fsguides.com to book your tour. CENTRAL ARIZONA / SCHOOLHOUSE CAMPGROUND Schoolhouse Campground is located in the Tonto National Forest near the Roosevelt Dam on the largest lake in central Arizona, Roosevelt Lake. There are 211 tent-only camping areas with shade armadas available. The serene grounds include grills, restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings and more. Some activities aside from camping include day hiking, picnicking and water activities like fishing and boating on Roosevelt Lake. There is also an amphitheatre available. For more information, visit goo.gl/Whz8w.
HAVASU FALLS
SOUTHERN ARIZONA / PATAGONIA LAKE STATE PARK Built in 1975, Patagonia Park overlooks a 265-acre manmade lake. This idyllic park offers bird watching; junior ranger activities held every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at the Visitor Center; specialty hikes; family park events; and fishing, camping and picnicking. Park amenities include a beach area, picnic tables and grills, a creek trail, boat ramps, a marina, and a market where boat rentals, fishing licenses, bait, ice and more can be purchased. Campgrounds, boat-in camp sites, restrooms and showers are available. The park’s aim is to keep a clean, eco-conscious, non-littered environment. PATAGONIA LAKE STATE PARK
Patagonia also has a 24-hour online campground reservation service, so arrange your outing at your convenience at azstateparks.itinio.com/patagonialake. Elizabeth Hoffman will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Arizona State University this summer. She lives in Phoenix with her Shepkita dog and enjoys reading, writing and traveling. Find more green life articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenlife
SCHOOLHOUSE CAMPGROUND
16 greenliving | March 2016
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NUTRITION
DID YOU KNOW? March is National Nutrition Month!
SPRING BREAK FAMILY KITCHEN MAKEOVER BY KAREN LANGSTON
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child’s body uses nutrients from food to grow, learn, be active and to stay healthy. Without the right whole foods, poor nutrition can cause health problems such as obesity, behavioral problems, inability to concentrate, diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Teaching your child healthy eating habits can help to prevent these problems. So how do you engage with the picky eater, the I only-eatone-thing eater and the color-coded eater? Lead by example. Even if your eating habits have not been great lately, March is a new month, and it comes with two free weeks of fun – Spring Break! Why not spend some quality time with your child and plan a “family kitchen makeover.” Pop on iTunes’ Top 100 Kids Songs to set the tone, and roll up your sleeves. First, take inventory of what is in your cupboards, refrigerator and freezer. Take everything out and look at the ingredients of each food; if you can understand and pronounce the ingredients, then it goes into a “keep” pile. If you cannot understand the ingredients but really love that item, take a picture of the package and ingredients and list it on the “shopping list.” The rest can be donated to your local food bank. Next, you and your kids can become “the food investigators.” Grab your grocery list and photos and head to your local health foods market. Look for the products you love in the organic or health food sections. If your children are old enough to read, this is the perfect way to involve them! Find comparable foods to your favorites – your cereal or baking mix may be a different brand, but you can usually find a delicious upgrade. Once you are done shopping for your staples, keep the adventure going! Visit a local farmers market and purchase your produce. Most farmers markets also carry honey, eggs and other homemade treats. You can make this a fun weekly habit. You will find that making this a family outing will have a positive impact on your children, and they may open up and try new things.
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Now it’s time to choose your favorite recipes and cook together as a family. Make snacks and meals that can be divided and used for school lunches. How can you keep this new healthy lifestyle going long after Spring Break? Prepare food ahead of time and incorporate fruit, veggies, nut butters and smoothies into your snack routine. Always have cut-up veggies ready to go, along with your child’s favorite nut butter and low glycemic fruits like apples and berries. A smoothie is the perfect after-school treat. Add coconut milk, half an avocado, half a banana and a tablespoon of pure cocoa powder to your blender with a little water and ice – your little ones will smile, and you’ll provide them with the nutrition they need. Your children’s nutrition is a team effort. The more involved and fun you make it, the more it will become part of their regular healthy lifestyle. This adventure is rated A+. To find a farmers market near you, check out Arizona Community Farmers Markets at arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets.com. Karen Langston is a certified holistic nutritionist who trains healthcare practitioners and health advocates the keys to preventing and reversing symptoms by having a good poop. healthygutadvisor.com Kids photos by Michael Moriarty. For more articles about nutrition visit greenlivingaz.com/nutrition
March 2016 | greenliving
17
GREEN THUMB
EVERYDAY FOOD FROM MY YARD:
FROM URBAN
FARM TO TABLE T BY GREG PETERSON
here is something to eat in my yard every day, 365 days a year. Last Thanksgiving, it was a wonderful salad that included six different greens, including Nasturtium leaves and sorrel (a surprise find growing in the back “wild” area); ruby red pomegranate seeds; an incredible citrus called limequat that was sliced up – peel and all – for a tangy/sweet sensation; a little bit of tarragon and fennel; and a smidgen of that pretty little three-leafed clover you see growing in some yards called sour grass. The flavors were so diverse and striking that I chose not to add any dressing at all. I have spent a large part of the past 26 years integrating edible plants into my landscape, from the Thanksgiving salad and my farm soup, to the occasional snack as I work through my weekly urban farmer tasks. All the hard work and experimentation has netted an incredible, edible yard and a hard-knocks education about how and what grows best in the desert. When I was in the eighth grade, my family moved into a home with a very large yard where the back 1/3-acre became our garden. We planted, the seeds grew, and a spark ignited inside of me: I decided to become a farmer. Over time, my dream became to farm 200 acres. Then a few years ago, I went back to school for my bachelor’s degree where I was required to write a vision for my life. In that vision, “farmer” showed up, but with a twist, and The Urban Farm was born. My gardening hobby became my reality through urban farming, an incredible canvas on which to paint my dream. One outlet for my passion has been to re-landscape my entire yard with the notion that everything that I grow is either edible or supports the plants that are edible. Over the past 27 years I have planted trees that produce edible fruits, nuts and beans such as mesquite; perennial herbs including basil and oregano that I use a hedge trimmer on periodically; along with the standard annual vegetables like broccoli, snow peas and cucumbers to name just a few. Because of our name, visitors to The Urban Farm have an expectation that they will see a full working farm with long rows of corn and beans. To the contrary, much of what we have accomplished lives in standard garden beds, and if a person visiting did not know
18 greenliving | March 2016
any differently, they would just see a nicely landscaped yard. Magic happens when I stand back and watch the natural processes that exist in my yard. A couple of decades ago, I was fighting a basil plant – it wanted to bloom, I wanted the basil leaves – as if I knew what was best for it. After a long battle, which I finally learned that I could not win, I gave up and let the basil bloom, and boy did it bloom. What happened next was one of those secrets that nature only whispers if you stand back and watch. The bees arrived by the hundreds, and since then pollination has not been a problem on The Urban Farm. My job these days is helping others learn to transform their outdoor living spaces into edible wonderlands. Offering a plethora of classes on a diverse list of topics is yet another way for me to express my passion. Topics such as “Jump Start Your Urban Farm,” desert gardening, edible landscaping, fruit trees, and the always popular “Keeping Chickens in Your Yard” have begun to reconnect Valley residents to the roots of where their food comes from, creating the possibility that urban farms can pop up anywhere in the Valley. Farming the city spaces around us presents a whole new paradigm for growing our own food and reigniting our connection to nature. The tools are here, and the knowledge is available; you can kindle your desire by getting your hands dirty, taking a chance, and spreading some seeds. The fruits of your labor are much tastier than what you find in the grocery store, and they come along with the satisfaction that you grew them. Many people tell me of their “black” thumbs as they admire what is grown on The Urban Farm. I reflect back to them the years of experimenting that I have done, noting the many plants that did not make it under my care, and reminding them that that is how I learned.
For more information, visit urbanfarm.org. Greg Peterson owns The Urban Farm in Phoenix, and is the president of Urban Farm U, an online urban farming education platform that provides knowledge and inspiration for both aspiring and seasoned food growers. He is also an active member of the Maricopa County Food System Coalition. Read more gardening and urban farming articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenthumb
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ENVIRONMENT
RURAL SPOTLIGHT:
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP THROUGH CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
BY JILL BERNSTEIN
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n 2012, the Arizona in measureable improvements to state legislature passed the environment. Communitystate statute (A.R.S.) based groups, schools, and 49-192, enabling the Arizona even individuals are eligible Department of Environmental for recognition at this level. Quality (ADEQ) to develop Previous recipients of CopperVESP – the Voluntary level recognition include the Environmental Stewardship City of Tempe’s innovative Program. The creation of the Grease Cooperative and Sequoia bill was driven by the Arizona Village School in Show Low Chamber of Commerce, (pictured). Sequoia was the first who wanted a state-based school in the state to receive mechanism for recognizing the VESP award for its efforts as companies and organizations of an environmental steward and all sizes that go above the legal source-water protection site. requirements to have a positive The Bronze tier is available to Byron James, ADEQ’s Northeast Liaison, presents the ADEQ VESP environmental footprint. Ian regulated facilities for a three-year certificate to Sequoia Village School principal, Mindy Savoia. Bingham, ADEQ’s Ombudsman term only. It recognizes facilities and manager of VESP explained, “Previous recognition that have had no violations by a regulatory environmental programs have been policy-driven, but Arizona wanted agency for three years, and it requires that they maintain that to create a program that couldn’t be easily erased and that standard during their three-year membership in VESP. promotes a philosophy of continuous improvement.” The next levels – Silver, Gold and Platinum – are open to all How does a company or organization begin to wrap their facilities or organizations (both regulated and nonregulated). head around this notion of continuous improvement? The Each level has a three-year term and moves the organization VESP program breaks it down into four specific focus areas closer to having a functioning environmental management that help organizations examine all the ways in which their system (EMS). The VESP members at these levels include business or service interacts with the environment: small and large businesses, utilities and municipalities. Businesses can sometimes feel that environmental UPSTREAM. What kind of products are used in your business compliance is onerous and expensive, but ADEQ’s Bingham or services? Where do you procure your materials? What is points out that “an underlying goal of the VESP program is to the environmental performance of your suppliers? showcase companies and organizations that understand the positive impact that a thoughtful, proactive environmental INPUT. How are materials being used in your business? Where management system can have on the environment, the are the opportunities for energy conservation? What are your community and business.” As more businesses become land use practices? members of VESP, their successes will illustrate how empowering everyone to take an active role in improving NON-PRODUCT OUTPUT. How does your business or service our environment is good for the environment, good for the impact air emissions, discharges to water, waste generation, community, and good for business. noise and vibration? DOWNSTREAM. Where do your products/services end up? Are they reusable, recyclable, or can they be repurposed? There are several tiers upon which a company can be recognized. Copper is the entry-level tier, focused on projects. It allows for one-time recognition of partnerships or collaborations on an environmental project that has resulted
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Learn more about how your community, school, business or organization can participate in the Voluntary Environmental Stewardship Program at lists.azdeq.gov/vesp.html or email vespapply@azdeq.gov. Jill Bernstein is the Executive Director of Keep Arizona Beautiful, a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities to take care of their environment through litter abatement, recycling and beautification. Read more environment articles at greenlivingaz.com/environment
March 2016 | greenliving
19
PETS
BY ERIN TERJESEN
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dding a new pet to your home is a big responsibility, and even more so when you consider that the green habits you have instilled in your home should also include your new furry family member. Americans choosing natural, sustainable or eco-friendly pet products is proving not to be a passing fad; and thankfully, pet manufacturers are taking notice, providing mindful alternatives to traditional pet care options. Here are some eco-friendly tools and tips to keep caring for and loving on your pet fun for your family and healthy for your four-legged friend. TOYS It is important to keep pets engaged, healthy and happy. Toys are a great way to form a bond with your pets through play, as well as keeping them (and the whole family) active. • Make sure that toys are appropriate for your pet’s size. Toys and balls that are too small can easily become swallowed or lodged in your pet’s throat. • Remove all ribbons, strings, eyes and other parts of toys that could be chewed off and/or swallowed. • Check labels of stuffed animals and toys to make sure they are safe for children under three years of age and don’t contain any dangerous fillings. Organic cotton toys are available! • Be mindful of toy recalls. BEDDING Nothing is more critical than getting a good night’s sleep, and that should be said for the entire household. • To control odors, dander, dirt and fleas, it is imperative that you
20 greenliving | March 2016
are able to wash your pet’s bed and/or the bed cover regularly. Weekly or twice a month is ideal. Look for options that have removable covers or are able to withstand your washing machine cycle. • Eco-friendly selections such as TrustyPup’s Memory Dreamer use repurposed proprietary MemoryMix (excess pieces of the same memory foam as human bedding) that offers the same level of therapeutic support, comfort and style. POTTY TIME Since bathroom issues are one of the top reasons cats are surrendered to shelters yearly, it is critical that your cat’s litter space be an inviting one. Choosing the right litter is essential, especially since two million tons (approximately 100,000 truckloads) of traditional non-biodegradable clay litters fill our landfills every year. • Healthy Pet’s all-natural litter and bedding solutions, such as ökocat Natural Cat Litter, are eco-friendly, biodegradable and made of antibacterial coniferous woods, which not only closely mimic cats’ natural habitats, but also inhibits the growth of bacteria and germs, unlike those made of wheat and corn. • Dust-free litters are another option for those with allergyridden pets or family members. They are also among the cleanest options for your home. greenlivingaz.com
PETS
MEALTIME Americans’ buying habits for their furry friends closely mirror human trends, with purchases of gluten-free, wheat-free, no sugar added, reduced calorie and organic options. Providing healthy, wholesome meals and good nutrition is a very important part of your role as a pet parent. • Learn to read labels. If you don’t know what an ingredient is, chances are it is not good for your pet. • Nutrition starts from the inside out, with human-grade meats, fruits and veggies sourced in the U.S. • Keep them hydrated, which is especially important in warmer climates like Phoenix. In addition to always having a full, clean water dish available to your pet, incorporating healthy canned foods are also a way to provide more water to their diet over feeding dry food alone. • If you’re really concerned about what’s in your pet’s food, make it yourself! You can easily make dog food and treats using only the best ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
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ORAL HEALTH Chew on this: According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. • Forming a daily brushing routine with your pet is important to lay the groundwork for good habits. • Brushing your pet’s teeth is always best, but if you can’t brush, giving your pet a highly digestible and natural dental chew, specifically designed to maintain healthy gums and teeth, can be beneficial and fun. It is estimated that in 2015, $60 billion was spent not only on the purchase of pets, but on food, supplies, overthe-counter medications, vet care, and grooming and boarding services. When considering the cost of pet ownership, it is important to be mindful not only of your household’s health and wellbeing, but Mother Nature’s as well. As the Principal of Propel Communications, Erin Terjesen and her small but mighty pet-loving communications team support over 45 different CPG brand categories through strategy, media, engagement marketing, and creative solutions. Get more ideas for your pets at greenlivingaz.com/pets
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March 2016 | greenliving
21
BUSINESS PROFILE
RECYCLING IS KING BY STEPHANIE FUNK
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kid collecting cans and bottles for cash is as ubiquitous as the “lemonade stand” for first business ventures, but Mesa’s 27-year-old Blake King and his mother Rose King have tapped into the real moneymaking potential of recycling. Blake has done his homework on the subject; when you talk to him, he lays down numbers. For example, he cited that the United States throws away 25 million tons of plastic every hour, plastic is valued at 2 cents a pound, and 18 bottles makes a pound. “I mean, do the math,” Blake said, “You’re throwing away thousands and thousands of dollars every hour.” Blake and Rose are the forerunners of their company GlassKing Recovery and Recycling, which is comprised of only a few other family members, and through their glass pickup service and interactive recycling programs for schools and businesses, they hope to cover their three Ps: People, Planet and Profit. Blake first started thinking about recycling when he was 21 and worked booking tables for a nightclub. The number of glass bottles thrown away each night troubled him and compelled him to start collecting glass from his apartment complex. When he wasn’t able to find a local facility that performed the right service, he began to devise the business model that became GlassKing. GlassKing performed its first official glass collection in January 2015 with six recycling partners, a pickup truck, and a bunch of milk crates. Blake and Rose’s goal for the year was to recycle 201,500 bottles. “We crushed that in six months,” A family affair! Pictured from left to right: Blake King, Jeff King, Rose King, Danny Montoya, Avery Montoya, and Christian and Raul Guevara of Enactus Arizona chapter.
said Blake. In fact, GlassKing diverted 100 tons of glass in that first year. Current recycling partners include La Bocca in Tempe, The Raven Café in Prescott, Sheraton Crescent Hotel in Phoenix, among a growing list of many others. After their own recycling epiphany, the business quickly became about more than just diverting recyclables from the landfill and moving that valuable material into their pockets – it became an educational campaign. “We want to send a really strong message: If you’re not separating, you’re not recycling,” says Rose King. “We need to make some serious moves, starting with our kids.” Inspiration for GlassKing’s interactive recycling program came when Blake attended a basketball game at his high school alma mater and noticed that the trash was comprised solely of recyclable water and sports drink bottles. At the time, GlassKing was looking into a reverse vending machine in which people can deposit plastic, glass and aluminum and receive a coupon in return. Blake, a former high school basketball player, and Rose, a former active booster mom, knew well the difficulties of fundraising in schools. The resulting project was a “no-brainer,” said Blake. Sponsor the Kids, Sponsor the Future is a collaborative fundraising program that utilizes the “King Machine,” the recycling reverse vending machine. Instead of students selling popcorn or cookie dough, they collect plastic, glass and aluminum from their neighbors and deposit the materials into the King Machine. As they do, the interactive touch screen on the machine gives sponsored messages from local businesses. At the end of the fundraising drive, GlassKing sells the materials and donates the rebate back to the school. Blake and Rose use the word “relevance” a lot when talking about the program. “It’s a whole new outlook on recycling than just the blue bin,” said Blake. “That’s what we’re trying to change – what happens to [the material]. Is there value behind it? Could you direct it somewhere else?” That is, could you turn trash into new jerseys for the team? “Let’s take those recyclables that do have value, let’s redirect them, and let’s do something together,” said Rose. The program is also more beneficial for local business sponsors, whose alternative is to hang a banner in the school gym. After all, “It’s the digital
22 greenliving | March 2016 greenlivingaz.com
BUSINESS PROFILE
age,” says Blake, and businesses want to deliver targeted, digital messages. “If they can do it through recycling, it’s a sustainable wheel all together.” Last year gave GlassKing plenty of opportunities to prove that the program works, including a stint at the Phoenix Zoo. The company is also collaborating with the Arizona State University chapter of Enactus, an organization that connects students with businesses and encourages sustainable entrepreneurship. The goal is to get at least one King Machine on one of the college campuses this year. Blake and Rose have more big plans for 2016. They hope to begin recycling auto windshields (which happens to be an enormous problem in Arizona with no current outlet, said Blake). They also hope to work with waste providers and expand their glass recovery service to residentials as well as more small businesses and grocery stores. Said Rose, “It’s going to be a really exciting year.” GlassKing knows it’s possible to make money from trash, but the Kings’ goals are centered on making recycling relevant and lucrative for everyone. “We have to do our part, and it’s only a small part. It’s going to take a village,” said Rose. After all, said Blake, “There’s enough trash to go around.”
WWW.PILLSBURYWINE.COM
For more information on GlassKing Recovery and Recycling, visit glasskingrnr.com. Stephanie Funk is a recent Arizona State University graduate with a degree in Creative Writing. She lives in Mesa with her husband and Yorkie pup. Photography by Johanna Campbell For more business profiles, go to greenlivingaz.com/bizprofile
greenlivingaz.com
March 2016 | greenliving
23
INNOVATION
PETER ALLTSCHEKOW
WENDY JAMESON
ANGELIKA GEIGER
GERMANY’S ENERGIEWENDE TO BUILD
THE U.S GREEN ENERGY MARKET BY KIANNA GARDNER
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s the surge towards mitigating climate change becomes a global issue, Germany’s blueprint for environmental innovation is perhaps the most ambitious. The plan, known as Energiewende, aims to completely replace the country’s nuclear plants and fossil fuels with renewable resources. With the implementation of Energiewende, Germany has already seen impressive and diverse growth in its energy market – a market that is creating business opportunities here in Arizona. On January 28, dozens of business representatives gathered in Phoenix for a clean technology seminar as industry experts from Germany Trade and Invest (the economic development agency of the Federal Republic of Germany), Arizona State University and Colnatec spoke on the energy market revolution and what that revolution means for U.S. businesses. “Germany’s plans for sustainability have opened up incredible opportunities,” said Angelika Geiger, the director for Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI) in San Francisco. “A large number of German businesses are looking for innovative technology solutions from all over the world.”
24 greenliving | March 2016
By 2050, the industrial country aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 80 percent, reduce energy consumption by 50 percent, and phase out all nuclear power plants by 2022. Fossil fuels and nuclear plants will be replaced primarily by wind, solar and biomass energy expansion – all of which are areas of green energy growth in Arizona. Germany is home to 25 percent of the world’s total solar energy; the country currently boasts more than 1.5 million installations. As Germany begins its environmental energy transition, research and development locations have been tremendously welcoming to new sustainable technology from other countries. “Germany has been instrumental in helping us get our products tested and launched out into the field,” said Wendy Jameson, co-founder and CEO for Colnatec, an Arizonabased high-tech industrial instrumentation manufacturing company. “No matter the size, you can be a very small company and do very big business in Germany.” Colnatec, which began manufacturing in 2010, now has products in 37 countries. Colnatec works closely with the German research facilities on primarily solar and clean
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INNOVATION
energy initiatives for products such as OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes), which can be found in common merchandise such as cell phones. Unlike many technology-testing facilities, Germans will pay to test various products. As international businesses benefit from German engineers, the Germans in turn are creating some of the most remarkable sustainable technology through their research. “The Germans have a strong sense of community mindedness and have always been incredibly open with their information and feedback,” Jameson said. “They can easily translate our difficult technology questions into a language of business that we can all understand.” Colnatec collaborates with distinguished German research institutions such as Fraunhofer and Novaled, and also has a current ongoing research project with the Technical University of Dresden. “There are many reasons to invest in Germany: they have one of the highest productivity rates in the world, they have a well-trained and highly motivated workforce, and the
transportation infrastructure is second to none,” said Peter Alltschekow, managing director of Eastern Germany’s GTAI. Alltschekow also noted Germany’s leading economy and the country’s part as a “global player.” Currently, more than 55,000 foreign companies are already operating in Germany, providing over three million jobs. In addition to Colnatec, GTAI is currently collaborating with dozens of Arizona partners on green initiatives including SRP, Arizona State University, the Phoenix Suns and Maricopa County. “Germany offers a high quality of life and can support your interests whether they be culture, sports, and scenic or business destinations,” Alltschekow said. “Germany has it all.”
“Germany’s plans for sustainability have opened up incredible opportunities. A large number of German businesses are looking for innovative technology solutions from all over the world.” ~Angelika Geiger
Kianna Gardner is a recent graduate from the University of Arizona where she studied journalism, marketing and environmental sciences. She is passionate about the environment, particularly water resources, and would like to one day be editor of her own environmental magazine. Read more articles on innovation at greenlivingaz.com/innovation
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March 2016 | greenliving
25
LEADERSHIP
PROJECT C.U.R.E. BRINGS
FIRST LADY OF KENYA TO ARIZONA BY AMANDA HARVEY
I
n the African country of Kenya, 36 babies born out of every 1,000 will not live to see their first birthdays. This number has been steadily decreasing for the past few years, but compared to the U.S.’ mortality rate of only six babies per 1,000, Kenya’s number is still far too high. The First Lady of Kenya, the Honorable Margaret Kenyatta, is on a mission to continue to decrease the infant mortality rate, in addition to decreasing the spread of HIV from mother to child. The First Lady will visit Arizona this month as the guest of honor at this year’s Project C.U.R.E. First Ladies Luncheon. Project C.U.R.E. (Commission on Urgent Relief and Equipment) was founded by Dr. James Jackson in 1987 to help bridge health resources gaps by shipping unused medical supplies to developing countries in need. Currently, three large cargo containers filled with medical supplies are shipped every week from Project C.U.R.E.’s distribution centers in Colorado, Texas, Tennessee, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Arizona. As the world’s largest medical supply and recovery organization, Project C.U.R.E. has delivered medical supplies to over 130 countries.
Claire Eblovi, executive director of Project C.U.R.E. in Chicago, launched the annual First Ladies Luncheon event in 2006, with the intention of bringing awareness to the humanitarian efforts and fundraising opportunities lead by First Ladies all around the world. This year, First Lady Margaret Kenyatta will be the honored guest. “I’ve worked in Africa for many years and it is my pleasure to welcome the first Lady of Kenya to Arizona and help raise awareness and needed funds for Project C.U.R.E. to deliver life-saving medical equipment to hospitals in severe need in Kenya,” said Cindy McCain, philanthropist and humanitarian, of the event. More than 1,000 participants will attend the luncheon to raise money to deliver much-needed medical supplies to Kenyan hospitals and clinics, with 100 percent of the donations received at the event going to these efforts. “This annual event has resulted in the delivery of more than $17 million dollars in medical relief to developing countries,” stated Katie Mabardy, executive director of Project C.U.R.E. in Phoenix. In response to the goals of this year’s event, Mabardy said, “In partnership with Arizona communities, we aim to deliver over $2 million in critically needed medical supplies and equipment to the people of Kenya.” In addition to joining forces with Project C.U.R.E., the First Lady has also created her own initiative, called the Beyond Zero Campaign. “I am deeply saddened by the fact that women and children in our country die from causes that can
“I am deeply saddened by the fact that women and children in our country die from causes that can be avoided. It doesn’t have to be this way.” ~ First Lady of Kenya, the Honorable Margaret Kenyatta
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be avoided. It doesn’t have to be this way,” said Kenyatta in a January 2014 interview when she first launched Beyond Zero. The campaign “will bring prenatal and postnatal medical treatment to women and children in our country,” said Kenyatta. There is a focus on five key areas: accelerating HIV programs; influencing investment in high impact activities to promote maternal and child health and HIV control; mobilizing men as clients, partners and agents of change; involving communities to address barriers to accessing HIV, maternal and child health services; and providing leadership, accountability and recognition to accelerate the attainment of HIV, maternal and child health targets. “The mission of the First Lady to impact the health of mothers and children in Kenya is not only important, but imperative,” said Mabardy. “The doctors and nurses Project C.U.R.E. has worked with in Kenya are skilled and motivated to serve their communities. Many of them work seven days a week with limited access to basic medical supplies and equipment. In partnership with the First Lady, we are here to change that and advance access to quality healthcare for the people of Kenya.”
Beyond Zero, in partnership with Friends of Africa International and Project C.U.R.E., recently set up a mobile clinic to improve medical infrastructure in Kenya. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone in Kenya, wherever they live, can have access to medical facilities,” said Bonnie Bishop, co-founder and chairman of the board of Friends of Africa International and its Kenya Medical Project. The project commenced in 2012 as an extension of Friends of Africa’s education and development project in East Pokot, a remote region of Kenya where nearly one million people have little to no ready access to medical care. Organizations like Project C.U.R.E., Friends of Africa International and Beyond Zero make it possible to change and update the medical landscape of developing countries such as Kenya. Arizona is proud to host this year’s First Ladies Luncheon, and we welcome First Lady Margaret Kenyatta to the state. Like McCain said, “As Arizonans, we strengthen our global reach by supporting the great work of Project C.U.R.E. around the world.” Read more about Project C.U.R.E. on our website at greenlivingaz.com/projectcure. For more information about the First Lady Luncheon, visit projectcure.org. For more on the Beyond Zero Campaign, visit beyondzero.or.ke. For more on Friends of Africa International, visit foafrica.wpengine.com. Read more articles about leadership at greenlivingaz.com/leadership
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27
BUSINESS
MEETING ARIZONA’S ECOLOGICAL NEEDS
THROUGH PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS BY HAMIK SEBKARSHAD
P
ublic and private partnerships have served as a magnificent option to fund projects that normally would not get off the ground without a unique combination of forces. These partnerships combine government entities with private companies, as well as groups of generous volunteers, in order to complete important social projects. Here in Arizona, there are several public-private partnerships that are in operation and have achieved great success in the areas of ecosystem protection and sustainability.
CENTRAL: Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department Maricopa County Parks and Recreation are also no stranger to public-private partnerships, with private partners contributing about 20 percent to Maricopa’s park system operating budget. These private partners also handle approximately 24 percent of the Park’s annual 2.1 million visitors. RJ Cardin, director of
NORTHERN: Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project The protection of the Coconino National Forest is one example of a phenomenal public-private partnership initiative that is protecting sensitive forest areas from fires and the possibility of flooding. Located north of Flagstaff by the Dry Lake Hills and south of Lake Mary, the project
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28 greenliving | March 2016
has set up a fund through public and private sources that cleans, protects and restores the area, essentially producing a firewall that saves the natural ecosystem from fires or flooding. The hilly area contains much natural vegetation, and the steepness of the slopes increases the possibility of forest fires. The Flagstaff Watershed Protection Project, which began around a decade ago, has restored hundreds of thousands of acres of Flagstaff ecosystems.
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the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department, said public-private partnerships help supplement their operating budget and, subsequently, enable them to offer recreation facilities and services that they could not otherwise provide. Cardin said they look to private providers to not only provide service but also to invest in the parks by putting in capital development, which benefits residents and visitors through additional amenities and in turn generates revenue to be used for other programs and services. SOUTHERN: University of Arizona Compost Cats The “Compost Cats,” a Students for Sustainability organization at the University of Arizona, are a team of students and non-students working together to ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions through composting. The Cats work with private restaurants and food retailers
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such as Bashas’ and Food City, which donate expired or unsalable foods. The food is picked up by the City and taken to the Tohono O’odham reservation to be composted by the awaiting Compost Cats. The compost material can subsequently have landscaping and agricultural uses. Now in their fourth year, the Cats were named the official composting service for the City of Tucson in 2015. Public-private partnerships in Arizona, which only became legalized recently in 2009, are continuing to move forward by procuring agreements with both citizens and sustainability in mind. Hamik Sebkarshad is a local freelance writer and avid sports fan. In his spare time he enjoys reading and spending time with his pets. Read more business articles at greenlivingaz.com/business
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29
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
2016 Heavy Medals
Awards Luncheon Recap
E
stablished in 1994, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to a prosperous and sustainable future for our nation through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. The USGBC’s mission is to engage, educate and encourage the Arizona community to choose to live in and support the advancement of a sustainable, environmentally responsible and economically prosperous built environment. The USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification program, robust educational offerings, a nationwide network of chapters and affiliates, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. On Wednesday, February 24, the USGBC Arizona chapter held its fourth annual Heavy Medals Awards Luncheon at the City of Phoenix Civic Plaza from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Jim Hansen, an adjunct professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Columbia State University and an outspoken, dedicated climate change activist.
Pat McReynolds, CBS 5 Morning’s host, was the Master of Ceremonies for the fourth year in a row, and entertained everyone in attendance with his witty banter. Big winners include Habitat for Humanity, Verizon and Wells Fargo, with multiple project wins. Three school districts were also recognized for their ENERGY STAR efforts: Green Schools: Cartwright School District, Marana Unified School District, Washington Elementary School District. ALL WINNERS FROM THIS YEAR’S LUNCHEON INCLUDE: 102493 Pinnacle Peak Operations Center 1853 W. Rio Salado Parkway 24th at Camelback 43rd Avenue Logistics Center American Airlines Building Arizona State University, Manzanita Hall Army Papago Park Readiness Center 2 Bell Lexus North Scottsdale City of Maricopa, Fire Station 575 Converse Outlet Store: Phoenix Fort Huachuca Two-Company Fire Station GateWay Community College Project Owner Gateway Green at Old Town
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Your conscious life
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31
WILDLIFE
BY ROSEMARY J. PRAWDZIK
C
onserving open spaces and preserving wildlife habitats are among the most important components of sustainability. The creation of Yellowstone as the first national park in 1916 brought this concept to national attention. The many state, regional, county and city parks that exist today provide animals with safe habitats in which to live. Yet while the protection of animal habitats is important, the protection of animal gene pools is equally so. As the human population grows and urban sprawl expands, open lands have become disconnected, keeping animal groups separate and isolated from each other. The inherent nature of animals drives them to migrate to find food, mating partners and hospitable areas to raise their young. Migration and relocation are nature’s ways of maximizing genetic diversity within a species. Major roadways and interstate highways, while great for commerce, have created major barriers to animal migration corridors between reserved lands. Departments of transportation work with a variety of conservation organizations to find ways to mitigate this dilemma. Wildlife “linkages” are being created that connect isolated open spaces to one another so that animals – and humans – can pass safely. “Arizona, California and Washington state are at the forefront of this trend,” said Jessica Moreno, conservation manager at the Sky Island Alliance, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to restore and protect Arizona’s sky islands – isolated mountains surrounded by lowland environments. “Countries around the world are seeking out Arizona’s experts to help facilitate similar projects,” Moreno added. The first roadway
32 greenliving | March 2016
crossing in Arizona, intended to facilitate elk migration, was built near Payson in 2009 on SR 260. The largest wildlife crossing project in southern Arizona is slated for completion in April 2016 on SR 77 north of Oro Valley. The crossing connects the Tortolita Mountains with the Santa Catalinas and consists of one underpass and one overpass. “The overpass on SR 77 is the only one of its kind in the Sonoran Desert habitat,” stated Kathleen Kennedy, program and development coordinator at the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection. Two underpasses were previously built near Kitt Peak in 2014 in partnership with the Tohono O’Odham Nation. Two more overpasses in this area are also planned for construction in 2017 to accommodate Bighorn sheep. “Overpasses are essential for Bighorn migration, as sheep rarely use underpasses,” Kennedy said. So what are the keys to building these passes? As outlined in the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s field notes on the SR 260 project, there are several essential elements including partnering with local organizations to identify the most likely crossing points; reviewing topography to determine whether an under crossing or over crossing is required; and the construction of “funnel fencing” to encourage wildlife to use the intended crossing points. “There are two other key elements to the success of these crossings, not just for the existing structures but for future ones as well, including working with the Department of Transportation on roadway construction projects in the pre-planning process and, even more essential, securing funding for monitoring use of the crossings,” said Moreno. “Post-construction modifications are comparatively much more expensive.” One possible future project in the pre-planning stages involves construction along I-10 near Texas Canyon. “Interstate 10 is the single greatest barrier, other than the
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WILDLIFE
border, to north-south animal migration between Mexico and Southern Arizona,” Moreno explained. A crossing at this location would allow for a great variety of animals to safely cross this barrier, including big cats. While funding the projects is fairly straightforward, identifying funding sources for ongoing monitoring is more difficult. This is where individuals committed to sustainability can make a serious impact. There are a variety of ways citizen volunteers can provide assistance, particularly with monitoring and reporting wildlife sightings and activity to ensure the use of these passes. According to Hannah Stitzer, program and outreach associate at the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, there is already a group of 30 volunteers utilizing 17 cameras to track wildlife activity near the SR 77 crossings. “The information they gather will be critical to evaluating the success of the crossings,”
Stitzer said. “Their findings will generate recommendations for modifications for the future, ensuring the crossings are as effective as they can possibly be.” For more information on animal crossings and how you can help, visit skyislandalliance.org and sonorandesert.org. Rosemary Jane Prawdzik is a marketing and public relations consultant and freelance writer LOS MORTEROS SIERRA SETUP and editor living in Tucson. She has a degree in Communications from Miami University and has been published in several regional publications. She is currently working on her first book. Photos courtesy of Sky Island Alliance, Rancho Vistoso Wildlife Camera Project and Chuck Graf. For more articles about wildlife visit greenlivingaz.com/wildlife
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33
GREEN KIDS
ENVIRONMENTAL SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE BY HUNTER KOSSODO
I
t may seem early to start making summer plans, but there’s no better time than now to get a jump start on your kids’ warm-weather activities. Summer camps are a great way for children to learn about new things in fun and exciting ways. In Arizona, there are plenty of camps dedicated to teaching kids about the environment and the importance of taking good care of it. Here are a few of the top choices for upcoming eco summer programs in northern, central and southern Arizona that are worth checking out before the school bell rings.
DISCOVERY SUMMER CAMPS Museum of Northern Arizona The Museum of Northern Arizona is offering three different camps for four to 13 year olds. Campers will learn about the amazing Colorado Plateau and Arizona’s diverse wildlife as well as its ancient people through games, songs and field trips. Options range from half-day classes to week-long camps. Camps run through June and July. musnaz.org/summer-camps-2
ORME SUMMER CAMP We invite ages 11-17
Join us for an amazing summer at Orme Camp! $850/Session
Traditional Camp Session I - July 10-16 Session II - July 17-23
Come explore unique locations around Arizona! Packed with fun activities, campfires and s’mores, this is a camp not to be missed!
Horsemanship Camp Session I - July 24-30 Session II - July 31 - August 6
Are you a horse crazy kid? This camp is for all level riders looking to sharpen their riding skills. Riders may bring their own horse or one will be provided. Beginners to Advanced welcome!
34 greenliving | March 2016
Carvan Adventure Camp July 24-30 Travel across the Arizona desert to the beautiful coast of California. Participants will spend the week camping at Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, CA exploring tide pools, studying marine biology, surfing and more!
The Orme School 1000 Orme Road Mayer, AZ 86333
928.632.7601 www.OrmeSchool.org greenlivingaz.com
GREEN KIDS SUMMER CAMPS AT THE DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN Desert Botanical Garden The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix encourages exploratory learning in the Garden’s fun and safe environment. There are two different camps available for ages five through seven and eight through 12. Through close-up observation and experiments, campers will learn about how plants and animals – including some creepy crawlies – survive in the Sonoran Desert. There are four- and five-day camps available running May 31 to July 1. dbg.org/kids-camps-programs SCIENCE ROCKS! SUMMER CAMP Deer Valley Unified School District For incoming fifth-through-ninth-grade students, Science Rocks! Summer Camp offers five different themes covering environmental science, aerospace, forensics, medical science and robotics. The week-long environmental science camp focuses on education about Arizona wildlife and its ecosystems, and will include field trips to the Phoenix Zoo and Spur Cross Conservation Area to learn about wildlife conservation. Camps run June 6 to June 24. dvusd.org/page/4625 PLANT POWER SUMMER CAMP Tucson Botanical Gardens First-through-sixth graders in the Tucson area will have the opportunity to learn about the Sonoran Desert, how to whip up some healthy meals, and run experiments to learn how plants work and how to care for a garden. Two five-day sessions are available starting June 13. tucsonbotanical.org/program/summer-camps MUSEUM EXPLORERS CAMP Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Campers from first to sixth grade will meet native wildlife at the Desert Museum and observe how plants, animals and people can live in a desert. Older kids will experiment with native plants, learn about marine life, and be introduced to scuba diving. Seventh and eighth graders will spend time outdoors in the Summer Scientists program, which includes overnight campouts and hands-on field research. There are two sessions available for first-through-sixth graders starting June 6 and one session for the Summer Scientists June 27 to July 1. desertmuseum.org/kids/camp_page ARIZONA FAMILY CAMPOUT PROGRAM For a whole family summer camp adventure, embark on a weekend-long camping crash course at one of Arizona’s state parks. The program is designed for families that have little or no experience camping. Families will be introduced to camping experiences such as setting up a tent, learning to cook outside, appreciating nature and much more. Weekends in March through June are available. azstateparks.com/family Hunter Kossodo is a senior at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University.
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35
GREEN KIDS
VAIL SCHOOL MAKES SUSTAINABILITY A PRIORITY BY MARY MINOR DAVIS
A
t Andrada Polytechnic High School when he started at the school three years in the Vail School District, things are ago that there wasn’t a recycling program. a little different than in the traditional The retired University of Arizona Facilities high school setting. Students are allowed to Manager knew recycling: U of A ranked 24 dress as they please. Chewing gum in class is among 357 peer campuses for its annual permitted. Every student is given time during Recyclemania campaign. the school day to reflect, do homework, listen Mayeux mentioned the lack of recycling to music, create or connect. to his students one day, and asked if By the 10th grade, students choose from they thought there was something that one of several career interests in the school’s could be done about it. The Recycle and Pathways training program. In addition to Sustainability Club was born. core curricula, they have an opportunity Launched last July at the beginning of to learn job skills in medical or veterinary the school year, Mayeux says they now assisting, sports medicine, mental and have nearly 30 students involved in the behavioral health, bioscience, engineering, club. In its startup phase, the students have and transportation technologies. All receive led the program’s development, mapping certifications in their fields, with the out the logistics, identifying activities exception of bioscience. Next year, the school and marketing plans to communicate the This centerpiece, made of all recycled materials, was one of 30 centerpieces made program, and assisting with educational will begin efforts to add biofuels to that list. for a recent district conference by the Vail Jim Nelson, the transportation materials about what to recycle. School District’s TSW program. technologies teacher and specialist, will With the help of the district’s Transition begin teaching classes in alternative energies, including solar, from School to Work (TSW) program, Mayeux teamed up hydrogen, wind and other topics, in the new school year with Julie Wilson, the TSW district coordinator, to build the beginning in July. He says it will take a year to build the base workforce. The TSW program helps special education students before the program is officially made a Pathway. develop job skills in real-life work programs. Wilson says this “Many of our transportation students graduate with jobs in was a perfect job for the students. “They gather the recycling the automotive industry, but the industry is changing quickly,” and take it to the recycling center, and they get to keep the Nelson said. “We need to provide education and training for proceeds. So they get a small stipend as well,” she explained. the future. And for the auto industry, that’s alternative fuels.” In its first year, the club has been able to put the basic Nelson says he believes that the Pathway should be part of infrastructure in place, with bins, a fenced area for collections, the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) focus, and a workforce to help move the material. They have a week partnering with the engineering and bioscience paths. of activities planned for Earth Day in April, and they plan to “The idea is that students would design a vehicle – perhaps adopt the highway in front of the school. a go-kart – and it would have to run on an alternative Most of the members are seniors, so Mayeux is focused fuel. The engineering students would design the vehicle, on growing the membership with more freshmen and transportation students will build it, and the bioscience sophomores next year. “As the school gets bigger, I’m hoping students would develop the fuel source.” Nelson adds that by this to be second-nature to everything we do.” combining the disciplines, students will get an understanding of others’ roles in development, which in turn helps them For more about Andrada Polytechnic High School, visit aphs.vail.k12.az.us. understand what worked, what didn’t, and why. Mary Minor Davis is a freelance writer based in Tucson. write-attitude.com. Andrada is also looking at alternatives to trash. Jason Mayeux, a teacher of senior-class Government, says he noticed Centerpiece photo taken by Mary Minor Davis Find more green kids articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenkids
36 greenliving | March 2016
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Clara and Jack Luman loved exploring the Halle Heart Children’s Museum!
February launch party Thank you to everyone who attended our February issue launch party at the amazing Halle Heart Children’s Museum in Tempe! It was a wonderful event celebrating Heart Month and our February issue. Don’t miss our upcoming parties: March 3: Copenhagen Imports, 1701 E. Camelback Rd, Phoenix March 16: Copenhagen Imports, 3660 E. Fort Lowell Rd., Tucson
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A big shout-out to our sponsors from the party: Host: Halle Heart Children’s Museum Title Sponsor: Salt River Project Nonprofit Sponsor: National Forest Foundation Sponsors: Linda Fuller, Tower Garden; Nature’s Garden Delivered; Phoenix Green Chamber of Commerce; Phoenix Vegan Food Festival; Pillsbury Wine; Pita Jungle; SanTan Brewing Company; From Tap to the Top campaign; Recycled City; Veronica Bahn Essential Oils Photography by Rick Carter and Johanna Campbell
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39
MARCH HOLIDAY RECIPES
GLUTEN-FREE IRISH FARLS RECIPE COURTESY OF JEWEL’S BAKERY AND CAFÉ | IMAGE COURTESY OF JUSTINE DACHEL PHOTOGRAPHY
FEAST ON THIS TRADITIONAL Irish dish from Jewel’s Bakery and Cafe in Arcadia. Made with organic potatoes and Jewel’s homemade gluten-free flour, this dish is sure to bring you luck for St. Patrick’s Day. INGREDIENTS 4 medium organic potatoes, peeled and halved 1 pinch salt ¼ cup Jewel’s All Purpose Flour, plus extra for dusting 1 Tbsp melted organic butter 1 organic chive sprig ¼ cup organic sour cream 1 tsp garlic salt DIRECTIONS 1. In a pot, cover potatoes with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Simmer on medium-high heat until the center of the potatoes are tender when pricked with a fork, about 20 minutes.
2. Turn off heat. Drain, return potatoes to pot and allow to completely dry out over remaining heat. 3. Mash with a potato masher until smooth. 4. Place warm mashed potato in medium bowl. Stir in flour, salt and melted butter. Mix lightly until dough forms. 5. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream with chopped chive and garlic salt. 6. On a well-floured surface, knead the dough lightly. The dough will be sticky. 7. Use a floured rolling pin to flatten into a 9-inch circle about 1/4 inch thick. 8. Cut into quarters using a floured knife. 9. Sprinkle a little flour into the base of the skillet and cook the farls for three minutes on each side or until evenly browned. 10. Season with a little salt and serve with the sour cream. Yields 4 potato farls
POPPER DEVILED EGGS RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF NCOUNTER
AS PART OF HICKMAN Family Farm’s Deviled Egg Challenge, Ncounter whipped up a deviled egg recipe that is not to be missed. Try this fun take on a traditional snack for a scrumptious Easter appetizer. INGREDIENTS 1 slice bacon (or substitute) ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese 4 hard boiled eggs 1 Tbsp chipotle mayo, or to taste
1 Tbsp cream cheese, or to taste ½ jalapeño, diced 1 Tbsp sliced green onions Salt and pepper, to taste Pancetta for garnish, if desired
DIRECTIONS 1. Cook the bacon or substitute in a non-stick pan over medium heat until edges curl and bacon is crispy. Set aside. 2. Wipe out the pan and heat over medium heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar in tiny disks and cook until crispy and golden brown. Remove from heat and cool in the pan. 3. Cut the hard boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks into a small bowl. 4. Mash the yolks with a fork until fine and crumbly. Mix with the chipotle mayo, cream cheese, jalapeño, diced bacon or substitute, green onions and salt and pepper to taste. 5. Fill the egg halves with the yolk mixture and top each egg half with a bit of crispy cheese and pancetta. GREEN TIP! For natural dyed eggs, soak peeled hard boiled eggs in one cup of beet juice, 1/2 cup of hot water, and a tablespoon of white vinegar until desired color is reached. Yields 8 deviled eggs
40 greenliving | March 2016
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FUN KID’S RECIPES
RAINBOW MANGO SALAD TACO RECIPE COURTESY OF BRIONY CAMPISI, AGE 11
TRY OUT THIS DELICIOUS mango salad recipe for yourself, courtesy of 11-year-old Briony Campisi, winner of the 2016 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Walk On! Kids Cooking Challenge grand prize. INGREDIENTS 1 mango, peeled and diced 1 large shallot, diced ½ cup purple cabbage, diced 8 strawberries, chopped ¼ tsp cumin ¼ tsp chili powder ¼ tsp oregano Salt and black pepper to taste 3 limes, squeezed for juice 3 medium romaine lettuce leaves 1 sliced avocado Sprinkling of jarred medium spiced jalapeño (optional) DIRECTIONS 1. Mix the first eight ingredients together in a bowl to make a salsa mixture. 2. Lay out the lettuce leaves and top with the salsa, sliced avocado and jalapeño. 3. Add grilled chicken or shrimp, or enjoy as-is! Serves 1
BANANA PENGUINS RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF POLLACK CHABAD CENTER FOR JEWISH LIFE
THESE FROZEN BANANA PENGUINS are a fun, simple and healthy treat to make with kids, while spending valuable learning time in the kitchen. Visit the Chabad Center for Jewish Life in Chandler on March 6 to join the Kids in the Kitchen class and learn to create your very own adorable animal creations. INGREDIENTS 2 bananas 1 cup of milk chocolate chips ¼ cup of Reese’s Pieces, or your favorite coated chocolate candy 1 pack of candy eyeballs 1 bag of pretzel sticks DIRECTIONS 1. Peel and cut the bananas in half, then freeze overnight. They will gently thaw as you and your little ones work on the craft so they shouldn’t be too tough to eat when you finish. 2. Melt the chocolate chips using the microwave or a double boiler on the stove. If you microwave, add a tablespoon of water for every 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to ensure they won’t burn. Heat for two minutes or until the chocolate is melted. Take chocolate out of the microwave at the one-minute mark and stir to prevent burning, then resume heating. Be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl! 3. Carefully cut the Reese’s Pieces in half with a butter knife. Do this step for the little ones and then give them the halves already sliced. 4. Dip the bananas in the melted chocolate so that only the top and the back half are covered. Place the candy eyeballs near the top of the banana and use the melted chocolate to adhere them. Place the peanut butter pieces on the banana where the nose and feet belong using the melted chocolate to adhere. Push the pretzel sticks into the banana for wings (not pictured). 5. Place banana penguins in the freezer for 10-20 minutes to set and then enjoy! Yields 4 banana penguins greenlivingaz.com
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EVENTS
GREEN SCENES MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS
3/5-6 Tres Rios Nature Festival
3/11-13 McDowell Mountain Music Festival
3/12 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire
CENTRAL ARIZONA
March 5-6 TRES RIOS NATURE FESTIVAL 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Base Meridian Wildlife Area 7602 S. Avondale Blvd., Avondale Spend two beautiful spring days outside and learn about the ecology, wildlife and history of the Gila, Salt and Agua Fria Rivers. Activities include archery, a fishing clinic, bird watching and a “recycled” fashion show, along with many other activities for children. Visit the Green Living booth and say hi! tresriosnaturefestival.com
March 10 TALK WITH THE DOC 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Jewel’s Bakery and Cafe 4041 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix Jewel’s Bakery and Cafe is partnering with the Valley’s best health experts for “Talk with the Doc.” Every month the bakery will shut down for an evening of discussion on health related topics. In honor of National Nutrition Month in March, Dr. Ben Taati will be giving a presentation on plant-based eating. Single tickets cost $15.00, which include a meal or purchase two tickets for $25.00, which include two meals. For more information and to register, call 602-714-5241 or visit jewelsbakeryandcafe.com 42 greenliving | March 2016
March 11-13 MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN MUSIC FESTIVAL Friday, 3:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, 2:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix The McDowell Mountain Music Festival is a 100 percent nonprofit music festival celebrating its 13th year in the state of Arizona. The lineup this year includes Kid Cudi, Beck and more. Head down for great music and a zero-waste event! Green Living team members will be present to help separate compost from recycling. Ticket prices vary. mmmf.com
March 12 INVEST IN YOURSELF HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Black Mountain Elementary School 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale Enjoy the free Shape Up U.S. health and wellness expo that has something for the whole family! Experience interactive vendor booths, participate in face painting, super hero activities, have fun on inflatables, enjoy stage performances, and more. shapeupus.org/upcoming-expos
March 12 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FAIRE 10:00 a.m. 1106 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Don’t miss the 33rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire in Phoenix. This year’s theme is “Irish Centennial.” Activities include three stages of Irish music and dancers, delicious food and beverages, crafting and vendor booth exhibits, a kids area and more. Admission is $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors and military members. Kids 12 and under are free. Take the free shuttle from 1850 N. Central Ave., take the light rail to Roosevelt, or park at the free parking garage on 1850 N. Central Ave. stpatricksdayphoenix.org
March 20 UCP FUN RUN, WALK & ROLL 8:00 a.m. Kiwanis Park 101 W. Baseline Rd., Tempe Be a part of the second annual UCP 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk. Through your contributions, the lives of adults and children with disabilities will be aided by the United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Central Arizona. Also enjoy a health and wellness expo, food, kids’ activities and more! Registration starts at $30.00. greenlivingaz.com/ucp
greenlivingaz.com
EVENTS
3/10 Designing with Nature
3/12 Start Your Own Organic Garden
3/15 What is Slow Food?
NORTHERN ARIZONA
March 10 DESIGNING WITH NATURE 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Highlands Center for Natural History 1375 S. Walker Rd., Prescott Join founder/director of Ecosa Institute Tony Brown as he talks about designing homes that will have minimal impact on the environment. Topics include both the local and global effects that lowimpact living will have, and how we discuss sustainability. highlandscenter.org/events
March 12 START YOUR OWN ORGANIC GARDEN 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. One Root Tea 500 W. Gurley St., Prescott Local backyard gardeners discuss how to easily grow chemical-free food in different sized spaces in this free workshop. A limited number of people will receive a free starter kit! Contact GMO Free Prescott to reserve yours. gmofreeprescottaz.org
March 15 WHAT IS SLOW FOOD? 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Prescott College Crossroads Center 220 Grove Ave., Prescott Slow Food Prescott presents “What Is Slow Food,” a showcase of good, clean and fair food on a local and global scale. Included are products and displays from food communities and heritage food showcases, as well as a zero waste buffet (bring your own plates, cups and utensils). The event is open to the public, free for students. Donations accepted for others. For more information contact prescottAZ@slowfoodusa.org
BUSINESS EVENTS
March 9
March 22
LUNCH AND LEARN
WRRC ANNUAL CONFERENCE
12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Macayo’s 4001 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Join the Green Chamber’s monthly Lunch and Learn. This month, hear Dr. George Brooks speak on the circular sustainable food economy in Phoenix. The cost to participate is $20.00, which includes lunch and a drink. Please arrive between 11:30-11:45 to place your lunch order. thegreenchamber.org/event-2175177
8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. University of Arizona Student Union The annual University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC) conference will explore emerging technologies, policies, and practices proposed to secure Arizona’s water needs in the near and distant future. wrrc.arizona.edu/node/13376
greenlivingaz.com
March 29 STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS 10:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Online webinar Consumers are becoming more supportive of businesses that are making their communities better. Tune in to Local First Arizona’s online webinar hosted by Alicia Marseille of Arizona Women’s Education and Entrepreneur Center and learn how to focus on defining your business’ impact, ways to regularly track it, and how to effectively develop financial plans and market to your customers. The cost to participate is $8.00. greenlivingaz.com/socialentrepreneurs March 2016 | greenliving
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Photo by John Sauders
Graphic by Romina Ruelas
EVENTS
3/4-6 Desert Dwelling Design Week
3/16 Green Living Launch Party
3/30 Sustainability Series
SOUTHERN ARIZONA
March 4-6 DESERT DWELLING DESIGN WEEK Friday & Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Sunday, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Locations vary This three-day design event is open to the public and being held to increase public awareness of local American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) designers, their resources and the value of interior design in desert living, both indoors and out. Prices range from $30.00-$155.00 ddtucson.com
March 16 GREEN LIVING LAUNCH PARTY TUCSON 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Copenhagen Imports, Inc. 3660 E. Fort Lowell Rd., Tucson Join us at Copenhagen Imports, the Danish modern furniture company that also features several ecofriendly brands, for a night of fun and networking! Enjoy appetizers from Le Rendez-vous restaurant and drinks from local breweries and wineries. Enter to win eco-friendly door prizes, network with others in the green industry, and donate to our 50/50 raffle benefitting Habitat for Humanity. Please RSVP. greenlivingaz.com/tucsonparty
March 30 SUSTAINABILITY SERIES 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Laura Tanzer Atelier 410 N. Toole Ave., Suite 110, Tucson Where does your water come from, and why do you want to know about it? Green Living magazine has teamed up with eco fashion designer Laura Tanzer, Local First Arizona, and Mrs. Green’s World for a monthly sustainability series. Join us this month as local experts in the community discuss the importance of water. Please RSVP. tucsonsustainabilityseries.eventbrite.com
For more events, visit greenlivingaz.com/events
44 greenliving | March 2016
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GREEN PAGES
thank you to our partners! WE APPRECIATE OUR READERS SUPPORTING OUR ADVERTISERS! All Natural Cosmetics.................................... 26
Fair Trade Café................................................... 26
Salt River Project
Allstate Appliances..........................................37
Friendly Pines Camp..........................................9
(SRP)...................................... Inside Front Cover
America’s Mattress............................................37
Intel Corporation...............................................31
Sedona Yoga Festival........................................ 11
American Heart Association – Halle
Karen Kalm – Senior Loan Officer
Seshi Organic Salon...........................................7
Heart Children’s Museum..............................10
Sunstreet Mortgage......................................... 15
Sun Valley Solar
Arizona SciTech Festival.................................10
Keep America Beautiful.................................... 3
Solutions..............................Inside Back Cover
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.................7
Keep Arizona Beautiful..............................2, 27
The Hippie Hobby.............................................33
AZ Shade Design & Consulting.....................9
KFNX........................................................................35
The Orme School..............................................34
Bauman’s Xtreme Training.............................. 11
Laura Tanzer Designs...................................... 24
The Melting Pot................................................ 38
City of Peoria........................................................2
Nectar Apothecary..........................................37
The Pulse Radio Station.................................27
Clean Air Cab...................................Back Cover
Pillsbury Wine Company...............................23
Tryst Café............................................................. 29
Copenhagen Imports.......................................37
PurMaid.................................................................. 21
Unified Brands.................................................... 45
Cushman & Wakefield.................................... 28
Robert Israel, Prescott’s
Verde Dimora Apartments............................33
Dan Kalm – State Farm Agent......................13
Green Realtor......................................................23
Veronica Bahn Essential Oils.......................... 3
Essential Body Pleasures................................ 12
Rock’N’Earth Landscaping.............................23
Wells Fargo Advisors.......................................25
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G R E E N CHAMPIONS Green Living magazine has a new section called the Green Champions of the Month! Each month we will feature three people – one each in northern, southern and central Arizona – who are making strides in the green community. This month we’re focusing on those who make an impact on the local Arizona food scene. NORTHERN: ALI METZGER, VEGAN CATERER AND OWNER, EAT VEGAN FOOD TRUCK
Ali Metzger was classically trained in French cuisine at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York and earned her Bachelor’s degree in restaurant management. She is also a second level certified sommelier through the International Wine Guild. In 2012, Ali created eatveganfood.com and a vegan catering business to encourage others to eat more vegan food. In 2013, she launched Arizona’s first vegan food truck. Ali loves sharing her passion for cooking and eating vegan food and also enjoys practicing yoga, hiking and advocating to end animal cruelty. Nominated by Laurel Morales
CENTRAL: PATTY EMMERT, SPECIALTY CROP MANAGER, DUNCAN FAMILY FARMS
Patty Emmert has been working with Duncan Family Farms, a 2,500 acre organic produce farm based in Goodyear, since 2010. Duncan Family Farms specializes in leafy greens and specialty vegetables, and has expanded to include locations in California. Patty has a background in food and completed a three-year term as Director for Slow Food Phoenix. She also sits on the Farm to School Advisory council for the state of Arizona and serves as a Board Member for Sustainable Arizona. Her dedication is deeply rooted in building vibrant sustainable food supply systems and making sure that everyone has access to healthy, fresh food. Nominated by the Green Living staff Photo courtesy of Arizona Farm Bureau
SOUTHERN: RENEE KREAGER, OWNER, RENEE’S ORGANIC OVEN
Renee Kreager is the owner of Renee’s Organic Oven restaurant in Tucson, specializing in delicious organic pizzas. Open since 2005, the staff enjoy creating delicious and conscientious food in their kitchen, which also incorporates locally grown ingredients when possible. A member of Tucson Originals, Local First, BALLE and on the board of the YWCA, Renee is also extremely active in the community. Renee takes sustainability to the next level by even reusing water left over in people’s water glasses when they leave the restaurant; the staff uses this to water the onsite plants so nothing goes to waste. Nominated by Gina Murphy-Darling, owner of Mrs. Green’s World
Want to nominate someone as a Green Champion? Email your candidate to editor@greenlivingaz.com!
46 greenliving | March 2016
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HE’S GREEN SHE’S GREEN SNACKS! Product reviews by our eco-conscious couple John and Jennifer Burkhart It’s March! Time to get outside for some fun before the melt-your-face-off temperatures arrive. If you’re planning a picnic or attending a spring training game, don’t forget the snacks. We sampled a few ideas for you – they may not be super waistline friendly, but they are made with organic ingredients, and everyone deserves a guilty pleasure now and then! POPCORNOPOLIS | ORGANIC KETTLE CORN HE SAID: This Popcornopolis kettle corn instantly transported me back to being 13 at the county fair. I can see myself shoveling handfuls of this crunchy, sweet and salty treat into my face while waiting in line for a ride that will try to make me lose said treat. Happy to say this kettle corn is a shade healthier than its carnival cousin with no cholesterol or trans fats.
SHE SAID: I’m usually skeptical of bagged popcorn as I believe popcorn is only really good when it’s fresh. That said, the only thing wrong with this bag was that it wasn’t big enough! The crispy, sweet kernels were absolutely addicting.
He gave it:
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SIMPLY LAY’S | WAVY ORGANIC SEA SALTED POTATO CHIPS HE SAID: I don’t know how they turn boring potatoes into these delicious chips, but I’m fairly sure there’s some sort of magic involved. These chips were light and crispy with a buttery flavor, and just a hint of sea salt. I could gain a pound a minute with a bag of these and a tub of sour-cream-and-onion dip.
SHE SAID: Yum! The flavor of these reminded me of french fries. They seemed less crunchy than regular Lay’s, but almost as addicting. True, I couldn’t eat just one, but I was able to stop after a few flavorful handfuls.
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KETTLE | ORGANIC COUNTRY STYLE BBQ POTATO CHIPS HE SAID: I’ve been eating, and loving, Kettle chips for a long time now, but they do take some getting used to. They’re not light in any way, and they are crunchier and greasier than most potato chips. This sweet, smoky BBQ flavor is one of the brand’s best, but Spicy Thai is still my favorite.
SHE SAID: These crunchy chips are just the snack for those who don’t have to worry about dental work, and they are definitely tasty! The BBQ flavor is sweet and spicy, and the perfect complement to a spring picnic lunch.
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LUNDBERG | ORGANIC SESAME TAMARI RICE CAKES HE SAID: I feel like I’m on a diet whenever I eat rice cakes. Plain rice cakes have to be one of the most tasteless foods in the world, so they dress them up with flavored glazes. The sesame tamari (soy sauce) glaze on these cakes had a nice flavor, but was a bit flat. However, I think you could make these into an amazing snack with the right toppings.
SHE SAID: I’m not a rice cake fan. What’s the appeal of stale disks with a likeness to that of a packing peanut? There are so many better ways to eat rice, like steamed in a pot. For what it’s worth, this is a convenient low-calorie snack that has fiber, protein and a light soy sauce flavor. I highly suggest topping one with a spread or veggies to make it more interesting.
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TERRA | REAL VEGETABLE CHIPS, ORIGINAL HE SAID: These Terra chips are chaos in a bag. Just when I think I’m starting to like them, I get one that tastes funky. I enjoyed the beet, taro and sweet potato chips; I could take or leave the batata and parsnip chips; and the yuca chips were...well, yuck-a. Overall a bit too hodgepodge for me.
SHE SAID: I love the idea of making root veggies, besides potatoes, into chips. Unfortunately, not all tubers should be transformed. Only half the veggie varieties in this bag were tasty, the others were hard enough to knock a filling loose. Ugh. They sure are pretty though!
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See more product reviews at greenlivingaz.com/hgsg greenlivingaz.com
March 2016 | greenliving
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COOL OUTRAGEOUS
1
STUFF
MOTHER AND BABY BUNDLE SET
Babytime by Episencial’s Bellytime! Pregnancy Care bundle includes Soothing Cream to keep Momma’s skin hydrated and moisturized, preventing stretch marks and soothing her growing belly. Babytime uses all organic ingredients like calendula, raspberry butter and tangerine oil, but keeps its products free of gluten, fragrances or allergens. The bundle also includes Cheeky Salve for chapped lips and cheeks, and Playful Shampoo, both of which can be safely used on mom and baby. $25.90 for Bellytime! Pregnancy Care EPISENCIAL.COM
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ORGANIC FARM BUDDIES BLANKIE
A baby’s blanket should be cozy, comfortable, and made with 100 percent organic cotton. Pure by She She goes a step beyond with their line of plush blankies and toys, including the adorable Boxer the Dog Organic Farm Buddies blankie. This warm blanket is hypoallergenic and wonderful for playing, cuddling, and teething. All of Pure by She She’s products are made for sensitive skin and are free of chemicals, sulfates, parabens, dyes and artificial fragrances. $12.95 for Organic Farm Buddies Blankie-Boxer the Dog; other animals also available PUREBYSHESHE.COM
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Vitamin powder from alternaVites offer a fun way for kids to take vitamins. They dissolve in the mouth without water or can even be mixed in with food or drink. alternaVites are delicious, simple to consume, and are made with no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, GMOs or sweeteners. As the company’s motto is “Think green, act green,” these melt-in-your-mouth vitamins are rich in nutrients and are eco-friendly. $15.95 for Kids vitamins; $19.95 for Kids Calcium ALTERNAVITES.COM
DIVERSIFIED DOLLS
4
PLANTABLE PENCILS
EDITOR’S PICK
6
DiverseFamilies is on a mission to lovingly reflect and celebrate the uniqueness of every family. Each readymade or customized doll is handmade in the USA from organic fabrics and can represent the members of your family down to the last beautiful detail. They’re colorful, creative, and ready to join your very own doll family. $49.00-$89.00 DIVERSEFAMILIES.COM
NATURAL CHILDREN’S VITAMINS
The Sprout pencil is the first sustainable pencil in the world that can be planted after use. Instead of an eraser, the top of the pencil holds a special seed capsule that will grow into herbs, edible flowers or vegetables. The materials within the pencils include cedarwood, clay and graphite, which means there’s no lead. $7.00-$18.09 for pencils; $19.61 for 8-pack of color pencils SPROUTWORLD.COM
HANDCRAFTED HOUSEWARES
Toockies organic cotton home products are hand-embroidered by women in Nababpur, India, who are given new opportunities from the purchase of their beautiful and beneficial crafts. Dish scrubbers, table coasters, bath loofahs and more are time-tested, practical, and made with beautiful vintage designs. Support for Toockies gives back to the environment and to the women who make these creations. Prices vary TOOCKIES.COM
Find more cool outrageous stuff at greenlivingaz.com/cos
48 greenliving | March 2016
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