Green Living Magazine - April 2021 by Green Living AZ magazine

your conscious life

GREEN LIVING April 2021

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Creating Change Rob and Melani Walton’s innovative Urban Garden with St. Vincent de Paul impacts a community

30 easy ways to help the Earth The latest in interior design Cool products made from ocean waste

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because these tiny bubbles are negatively charged, and act as continuous cleaning particles in the water each and every day. When dissolved ozone is added to the mix, we get the strongest and most efficient natural oxidizer and disinfectant on the planet. This is the same ozone that keeps the air we breathe safe and sanitized each and every day. Ozone is 20 to 3,000 times stronger than chlorine alone! It is also 10,000 times more efficient at killing microorganisms in the water, as well. This is why we choose to use natural products to keep our friends, families, pets, and surrounding environment safe and healthy. Exceptional Water Systems, providing the healthiest experience for the water we depend on. Experience the many benefits of UltraFine Oxygenated water today to see what you’ve been missing. Contact us at www.exwsystems.com or 480-694-4709.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Gro-Well Partners With SRP The collaboration aims to find new ways to reuse locally derived compost BY KYLEY WARREN

SRP and Gro-Well are working together to enrich Phoenix’s landscaping and gardens through sustainably focused techniques that recycle tree waste and improve the lives of Valley communities in the process.

The partnership between the two green giants comes about at a time when companies are increasingly looking for solutions to becoming more sustainable and limiting their waste. With SRP being the largest electricity provider in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, the company often has to trim trees that are growing near power lines, which can contribute to power outages and other safety hazards. Now, with help from Gro-Well, SRP can turn leftover tree trimmings into compost and mulch, which is then later redistributed throughout the community.

“One of the most valuable ways SRP is redistributing the mulch developed with Gro-Well is back to SRP customers who take advantage of SRP’s Shade Tree Program. Customers who participate in this program receive two free trees they can plant in energy-saving locations around their homes, helping them save energy and cut down energy bills,” says Erica Sturwold, spokesperson for SRP. This initiative exemplifies the value and purpose in a product that might otherwise just be considered as “waste,” and it even helps to improve existing customer programs that SRP had already implemented. The partnership was developed as a result of SRP’s longstanding environmental commitment, as well as Gro-Well’s

Sean Tebbe, VP of new business development for Hub Environmental Group.

ability to sustainably process green waste. “Gro-Well has the ability to assist SRP by ensuring the circular loop is being completed. As Gro-Well’s representative, Hub Environmental Group is excited to be able to connect these two great companies and help develop this partnership,” says Sean Tebbe, vice president of new business development for Hub Environmental Group. Beyond finding new ways to reuse locally derived compost in the community, both companies also hope that their green-centric collaboration will incite others to do the same. Seeing a major utility company like SRP find adaptable solutions to becoming more sustainable can help others understand its feasibility. “Companies looking to become more environmentally conscious can look at the waste they produce and identify how they may be able to recycle this to develop new products, contribute to existing company or community programs, or develop improvements around their surrounding communities,” says Sturwold. Contact the Hub Environmental team at stebbe@ hubenvironmentalgroup.com for more information on this partnership and process.

HEALTH &

Wellness

Essentials for an Outdoor First Aid Kit Do you have what you need? BY ROBERT SQUIRE, PHARMACIST AT SPOTRX

As the weather turns to ideal temperatures for exploring our great outdoors—camping, hiking, and discovering the parks—packing a first aid kit with supplies for simple cuts, scrapes, blisters, bug or animal bites, and splinters is a must.

Begin by first ensuring the kit itself is waterproof. Make use of assorted sizes of resealable plastic bags and bottles while organizing your kit essentials into clearly labeled sections. Although prepackaged kits are widely available, you may need to supplement your kit with additional items, such as prescription medications, and/or medications for conditions specific to anyone in your group—an epinephrine pen for severe allergies, or glucose tablets for diabetics, for example.

• Assorted gauze pads and bandages;

No matter how careful you are in the wild, you will find some of the items inside the kit will be used regularly and should be replaced often, and some may expire before you have the chance to use them. These items include:

• Medications: ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antihistamine, aspirin, and anti-diarrheal.

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• Tape—typically 1-inch in width with at least 10 yards; • Wound strips such as butterfly closures of assorted sizes; • Alcohol wipes and antibiotic ointment; • Moleskin for blister care;

Other items that may rarely be used but are critical in an emergency:

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• ACE wrap/athletic tape: great for stabilizing mild to moderate injuries or sprains; • Trauma pad: used to cover most large wounds to minimize blood loss when applying pressure and to keep wounds clean; • Tweezers/nail clippers: essential for accidental encounters with native cacti or removal of insect stingers, ticks, or debris from a wound;

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• CPR barrier and nitrile gloves; • Duct tape: handy for injuries and repairs of equipment; • Malleable splint: lightweight, foam-covered aluminum, such as a SAM splint; • Tourniquet: for hardy hikers who find themselves heading to extremely remote areas; • A multi-use tool; • Trauma shears: ensure they can cut into clothing such as a T-shirt to wrap a wound or tie up a splint.

The best first aid kits have manuals or booklets and patient assessment forms that can be filled out and provided to emergency responders or a doctor once the injured reaches a point of care. Even if you are trained, references such as the American Red Cross First Aid Fast provides emergency action information and basic caregiving steps for a range of situations, including first aid, cardiac emergencies, stroke, burns, choking, allergic reactions, and more. Aside from the very basic essentials any given first aid kit provides, the appropriate kit scope depends wholly on the trip length, group demographics, and size. When in doubt, a pharmacist at your local pharmacy can help answer questions and provide guidance on what to include.

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APRIL 2021

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HEALTH &

Wellness

Isagenix

The global well-being company is on a mission to take care of people and the planet BY KYLEY WARREN

Maintaining personal health and wellness isn’t just about nurturing your body and mind—it’s also about understanding your impact within the greater world and taking the necessary steps to be intentional in how you exist within it.

This belief, in particular, is one that’s held by Isagenix International—a global well-being company that offers nutritional products that support the nourishment and empowerment of people worldwide. While the company has always exhibited a commitment to science-backed health practices, it’s also evolving to place more of a focus on holistic, sustainable approaches to wellness.

“We’ve always been focused on doing the right thing, and it’s been clear for a while that doing the right thing means taking better care of our planet. As a health-minded business, it’s our responsibility to take a close look at the health of not only people but also the Earth,” says Erik Coover, Isagenix's

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chief visionary officer. “We feel a deep responsibility to do everything we can to be a more sustainable company so we can make a positive impact on the planet. We’re far from perfect, but we are making progress.”

"We’re far from perfect, but we are making progress." This sustainability focus touches multiple areas of the business, and includes an ambitious initiative that aims to have zero-waste packaging in place for the company by 2028.

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“At the end of the day, we’ve got one planet that we all call home, and collectively, we need to do a better job working in harmony with nature. We owe it to our children.”

This will involve the conversion of all packaging components to be made with recyclable, reusable, compostable, or recycled materials. To assist with this mission, Isagenix has partnered with a certified carbon-neutral manufacturing facility that’s helping to produce the brand’s Collagen Elixir™.

focus includes prioritizing sustainable shipping practices, ethical sourcing, expansion of its plant-based products, and green efforts at its corporate headquarters in Gilbert. For example, in 2020, Isagenix began using cardboard trays instead of boxes when moving shake canisters from third-party manufacturers to distribution centers. This move has reportedly saved 1 million square feet in cardboard. At its headquarters, Isagenix installed solar panels on its parking structures, providing enough clean energy to power 25% of its building.

Through its green-minded packaging focus, Isagenix has already seen key successes. According to the company, 75% of its packaging components are sustainable, meaning the components meet at least one of its sustainable packaging criteria: recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable; two products are zero-waste (the Whole Blend IsaLean® Shake and Collagen Elixir); and, as of this year, Isagenix has started transitioning to 100% biodegradable fiber scoops in its Whole Blend Shakes in all markets.

“At the end of the day, we’ve got one planet that we all call home, and collectively, we need to do a better job working in harmony with nature. We owe it to our children,” Coover says.

In addition to packaging changes, the brand’s sustainability

Visit www.isagenix.com for more information.

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APRIL 2021

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HEALTH &

Wellness

Stop Sleeping With Dirty Chemicals

Could your mattress be making you sick? BY KAREN LANGSTON, HOLISTIC NUTRITIONIST

Could you be harming your health when you sleep? Maybe—are you sleeping on a conventional mattress, or an organic one? Did you know conventional mattresses are loaded with chemicals? Some of these chemicals can make you downright sick. This is what happened to Sheila, who, for the last nine months, felt unwell. She complained of low-grade headaches and of feeling tired no matter how much she slept. She just always felt zapped of energy.

She figured it was the stress of the move, but in her gut, felt something was just not right. During a series of questions, Sheila’s face went white—we hit the right question. Sheila had purchased everyone new mattresses.

Her husband also complained of low energy, as well as allergy symptoms, and developed dark circles under his eyes. Their kids’ behavior and moods changed, too. Oddly, they were both diagnosed with asthma, which required steroidal medication.

The stress of moving, chemicals in and around the home, and the lack of a good diet and sleep, all wear on the immune system. It could have been that the chemicals in the mattress were the tipping point for already-stressed immune systems.

Together, Sheila and I went through a timeline to try to pinpoint when this all began.

Did you know you could be sleeping with lead, mercury, formaldehyde, arsenic, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, boric acid, antimony, and an array of other chemicals?

Nine months ago, Sheila’s family purchased a new home.

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Could that really be the root cause? Perhaps. Or, the final straw.

In fact, it is estimated that 90% of conventional mattresses contain harmful toxins and carcinogens that pose serious health risks. Boric acid is a toxic chemical used to kill cockroaches. It is also used in the lining of mattresses. Chronic low-level poisoning can happen from inhaling boric acid. Antimony is a metal alloy used as a flame retardant in mattresses. Exposure over time, through skin and inhalation, leads to problems with fertility; miscarriages; eye, skin, and lung irruption; liver and heart damage. Some research has associated it with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Formaldehyde is quite common, especially in memory foam. Chronic exposure to formaldehyde can cause a burning sensation in the eyes and nose, nausea, coughing, and skin problems, according to the National Cancer Institute. Over time, as these chemicals break down, we breathe them in more and more. Since, on average, we spend 2,627 hours a year sleeping, how is this affecting our health? Some of these volatile organic compounds, as they break down, release harsher chemicals that can linger for years in our systems. The question is, how is this affecting our health? Sheila replaced all the mattresses in her home with organic. Within a month, everyone’s symptoms had disappeared. Think about newborns and infants. Studies have found that the chemicals found in mattresses, crib bedding, and upholstered furniture also make their way into our system. These chemicals have also been found in the blood and breast milk of nursing mothers. As consumers, we have the power. If we start putting our health first and purchase organic mattresses, it will force the industry to change. We have seen this change happening in the food industry. Think back 15 years ago—could you purchase organic milk, ketchup, and peanut butter in a

regular grocery store? We changed this. Look for certified organic mattresses, which are typically a mixture of layers including natural wool and/or organic cotton, along with natural organic latex. For organic mattresses, check out Organic Living, Scottsdale Bedrooms, Brooklyn Bedding, and Avocado Green Mattress. When looking for an organic mattress, look for certifications such as Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), Rainforest Alliance-Certified, Rainforest Alliance-Certified Dunlop latex, Certified 100% organic wool fiber from New Zealand, USDA Organic label for cotton, USDA's National Organic Program, Forest Stewardship Council, or FSC forest management certification. Flame retardants are achieved with wool. Wool fibers are also a natural allergen retardant containing scales, which transports moisture and allergens away from the body. It also prohibits dampness, thus eliminating mold and dust mites. Wool and latex mattresses help reduce back pain, improve respiratory health, and lead to a better night’s sleep. Love your memory foam? Instead of synthetic toxic latex, opt for organic latex, which is required to meet the 1633 fire retardant laws and comply with the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). There are two types; Dunlop is denser and firm, and Talalay has a softer, pillow-like surface. The environmental footprint of an organic mattress includes renewable organic, sustainable, biodegradable, durable textiles, which also creates a longer life expectancy and fewer landfill trips—not to mention eliminating toxic chemicals that would leach into the soil. Sleep is one of the most important things we must do. How are you sleeping? Are you suffering with mystery symptoms? How about testing out an organic mattress? Sweet dreams!

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APRIL 2021

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STYLE

Beauty

Spring Awakening Hop into the season’s freshest and most natural makeup products BY KYLEY WARREN

Clean Concealer The “Un” Cover-up Foundation from RMS Beauty is a concentrated cream concealer that helps in covering under-eye circles, imperfections, and other blemishes via a lightweight formula. The 16-shade product uses autoadjusting minerals rather than weight to cover any pigment. And, the flexible formula is well-reviewed for its natural and sheer concentration that’s composed of living ingredients like organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and cocoa seed butter. $36 at www.rmsbeauty.com

Spray Salvation All of Tower 28’s products are dermatologist-tested, gluten-free, and non-comedogenic. One of the brand’s most popular products is the SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, which is a soothing and repairing daily rescue spray for stressed-out skin. The concentrated formula is 100% natural and clinically proven to purify all skin types. SOS has also received the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance™. $28 at www.tower28beauty.com

Vivacious & Vegan The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette from Ilia Beauty is a sixpan, talc-free, and beautifully developed powder eyeshadow palette that’s hailed for its lightweight, effortless texture and clean composition. The powder provides full eye coverage thanks to its clean, active ingredients, including honeysuckle flower extract, vitamin E, and jojoba seed oil. Plus, the eyeshadow is completely vegan, cruelty- and gluten-free. $38 on www.iliabeauty.com

Luminous Lip Juice Beauty produces first-class, antioxidant-rich skincare and plant-based makeup products that are fully vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable. The brand’s PhytoPigments Luminous Lip Crayon provides the emollients of a moisturizing balm along with the pigment and bold color of a traditional lipstick. The crayon is composed of certified organic ingredients that work to protect the planet, and even the packaging is sustainable with the use of FSC paper. Juice Beauty has transformed both the beauty industry and the chemistry of makeup with its plant-derived Phyto-Pigments, which are used in place of artificial dyes. $22 at www.juicebeauty.com

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C R E AT I N G A BETTER TOMORROW

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THEIRS

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HOME

Products

From the Earth

Products made from natural resources BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

Your Favorite Straw Made ethically by fair trade artisans in Vietnam, this straw set is made from sustainable bamboo that's treated with boiling water and salt. There are five reusable bamboo straws and a natural coconut cleaner in a handwoven, organic cotton bag. $14 at www.fairanita.com/sustainable-bamboo-straw-set/

Bowl-ed Over These hand-carved Mohini Bowls from YaYa & Co are made from fallen wood from the Brazilian Amazon Forest by local indigenous tribe members. Use them as serving trays, bed trays, on ottomons, or as home décor. For every item sold on its website, the brand plants trees in the Amazon to help bring back some of the vegetation damaged from wildfires. $49-$59 at www.yayaandco.com

Basket Case This versatile, 2-Tier Woven Wall Hanging Baskets for Storage and Plant Pot Holder, hand-made in Vietnam from natural seagrass, is a stylish storage solution. $25.95 at www.madeterra.com

The Perfect Serve Made from biodegradable bamboo fiber, Bamboozle's nesting salad bowl set includes three separate bowls and a pair of bamboo grabbers. Available in pastel and thistle color schemes. $50 at www.bamboozlehome.com

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A STATE OF MIND & A WAY OF LIFE

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Rob and Melani Walton at St. Vincent de Paul's Urban Farm.

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Melani and Rob Walton are champions of sustainability— and that starts at home, at St. Vincent de Paul BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOS © ROB AND MELANI WALTON FOUNDATION

The Waltons don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk. When they see a need, they address it. We sat down with Melani Walton to talk about one of their local projects, The Rob and Melani Walton Urban Farm at St. Vincent de Paul, which began as a concrete parking lot and now helps people facing food insecurity. Here, how the Waltons are helping organizations working to save the planet.

You are very involved with sustainability through the Rob and Melani Walton Foundation (RMWF) and the Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service (WS3) at Arizona State University (ASU). Why is this a cause to which you’ve devoted yourselves? A sustainable future for the planet is a sustainable future for all of us. We are just inhabitants on Mother Earth, and I'm sure you've heard the old saying, “If mamma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.” Rob and I, along with the RMWF, have been exploring ways to better realize sustainability efforts in the world through a “feet in the mud, head in the sky” approach. By creating several outreach programs through a solutions service locally at ASU, along with national and global partnership organizations, we started planting seeds of sustainability in our community and beyond. Through our WS3 work at ASU, we are investing in innovative ways to help organizations and individuals make the transition to a more sustainable way of life—sustainable for the planet and sustainable in terms of our ability to continue new habits and practices.

Locally, one of your projects is the Rob and Melani Walton Urban Farm at St. Vincent de Paul. How did you become aware of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) and the opportunity with the farm? St. Vincent de Paul in Arizona is well-known since it is the largest St. Vincent in the nation, serving around 150,000 clients each year. Our first interaction may have been when I was asked to speak at their morning Never Give Up program, when clients were coming in to receive breakfast. Later, a colleague on The Nature Conservancy board, Craig Weatherup, asked if I’d join him on St. Vincent’s advisory council, where I have served since 2013. I’ll never forget when Rob and I toured St. Vincent. Rob was chairman of Walmart for 23 years, and he was so impressed by their warehouse operations. You don’t get the organizational systems St. Vincent has in place without solid leadership. They have all heart in the front of the house, and a well-oiled machine behind the scenes. Rob and I had many discussions with St. Vincent’s Steve Zabilski and Shannon Clancy looking for alignment with our Foundation’s mission to elevate people, planet, and purpose. We noticed the large and mostly unused parking APRIL 2021

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lot, and thought how great it would be to have farm-to-table healthy options on site. Steve, Shannon, and their team (at SVDP) made it a reality. We were excited to involve the ASU - Walton Sustainability Solutions Service (WS3) students, who were pursuing sustainability degrees and needed experience in the field. They were able to provide several options and “green” possibilities that were implemented in the urban farm. Dozens of local businesses stepped forward with in-kind donations—from the irrigation systems to project design. Joni Mitchell sang about how “they paved paradise to put up a parking lot.” Together, we did the opposite. It’s a Garden of Eden in a concrete jungle. What drew you to the project? Rob and I both grew up in families that believed in the saying, “Grow where you are planted.” We were attracted to the opportunity to make a difference here in our own backyard. I grew up in a farming and ranching family in Montana, where we got our food from the source. Helping strengthen the connection people have to where their food comes from is important for creating connections back to nature and an opportunity to educate about healthy food choices. When we watch the children and young adults interacting in the garden, we see hope. We are very excited to be part of the St. Vincent community

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in realizing this tangible and sustainable benefit. Our collaboration further inspired us to have WS3 students work on sustainable building designs for The Rob and Melani Walton Campus of Liberty Wildlife just down the road in Phoenix. As a result, solar power meets 80% of energy demand, and cisterns harvest more than 56,000 gallons of rainwater on this campus where more than 9,000 animals receive care each year. To date, SVDP’s Urban Farm, and its two additional farms inspired by the initial project, has harvested more than 51,000 pounds of fresh produce that has been prepared and served to people experiencing food insecurity. Why is that so important to you? By helping meet a basic human need, St. Vincent and all its volunteers are making our community stronger, more tightknit, and more secure. We also are looking out for our little ones—making sure they can develop in a healthy way with regular access to wholesome, nutritious foods, and helping make sure they grow up with an awareness of from where their food comes. Particularly during the pandemic, when so many are struggling, it is incredibly meaningful to connect with our community and our shared humanity. Neuroscientists will tell you one of the best things we can do for our own mental health is to take selfless action to help others.

What other benefits does the farm provide, and how can people get involved? In addition to providing locally grown, healthy food, the farm has become a community gathering space (with appropriate social distancing). There is educational programming, from learning about the garden’s water recycling system to teaching about the importance of composting. We want all visitors to have the opportunity to interact with nature and gardening. St. Vincent’s mission is “Feed. Clothe. House. Heal.” This project started with the intention to feed and heal; over time, once the food production and operations were worked out, we were able to expand and ask, “How can this be a place for respite and renewal?”

For me, conservation has always been a humanitarian effort. I believe compassion is our most accessible and achievable sustainability plan. The leaders, staff, and volunteers at St. Vincent demonstrate compassion on every level. What are some of the other organizations you’re passionate about? Conservation International. My husband and I spent our first 20 months together traveling to 22 countries with scientists and conservation leaders. These travels were to

Today, you can find yoga classes, art therapy, and farm-to-table cooking demonstrations. The garden has grown into this outdoor place of connections that is welcoming to everyone. What motivates you to give back? Both Rob and I grew up in small towns with families that were involved in the community. Giving back was a way of life, and that work ethic and those lessons instilled in us from childhood remain. By investing in leaders who are making a difference and growing a vision together, we are able to build something greater than could ever be achieved alone. This garden delivers a very real return on investment in terms of community impact—and the ability to sustain and grow that impact over time. Only through strong leaders and partnerships, along with the support of our amazing team at RMWF, are we able to realize our foundation’s vision to Bring Life to Possibilities and Make It Matter. We are grateful to Sandy Nickerson and the team around her who manage our operations for the foundation. With your focus on sustainability—what changes do you hope to see in the world? Rob and I, like so many around the world, would like to see a more sustainable future for all life on Earth. Recently, I’ve had the honor of working closely with Emory University and His Holiness the Dalai Lama on #TheCompassionShift. His Holiness has written a book called Our Only Home, which makes the case that sustainability is for people and the planet. These interests are one and the same.

distressed corners of the globe, where we worked to help identify the top hotspots in need of immediate intervention. Rob has served on the board for 18 years and been instrumental in their board operations and development. We are both heavily involved in African Parks. I presently serve on their board. Rob and the late Paul Fentener van Vlissingen were founding benefactors in 2000. Serving as the honorary president, Prince Harry is very proud of the organization’s accomplishments. African Parks now manages 19 parks in 11 countries covering approximately 35 million acres—roughly half the size of all national parks in the U.S. Currently, we are realizing the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, where I serve on the board. The Library will be in the Badlands near the site of the Elkhorn Ranch, Theodore Roosevelt’s home ranch known as the “Cradle of Conservation,” which is now part of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Theodore Roosevelt was the original conservationist president—and it is an honor to work in his name for the future of conservation. This first fully digitized presidential library will represent the fulcrum of “The Hero’s Journey.”

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Theodore Roosevelt set aside over 230 million acres of public lands. “Leave it as it is. You cannot improve on it,” Roosevelt said right here in Arizona upon setting aside the Grand Canyon. “What you can do is to keep it for your children, your children’s children, and for all who come after you.” In 2018, I was appointed by the National Park Service to the National Park Foundation board, and prior had served on The Nature Conservancy board for several years. Within the Valley, other boards I have served on include Arizona Women’s Board, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, The Phoenix Symphony, and Arizona Science Center (ASC). Within ASC, we created The W.O.N.D.E.R. Center (Walton Optimal Neurological Discovery Education & Research Center), and initially partnered with Barrow Neurological Institute and The Walton Outpatient Neuro-Rehabilitation Gym.

Our local W.O.N.D.E.R. Projects include Phoenix Theatre’s Partners That Heal, where actors create joy through performing arts for patients, such as those in The Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and Phoenix Symphony’s B-Sharp Music Wellness, where musicians perform in medical centers, as well as venues such as the Urban Farm at St. Vincent. Through our Walton Sustainability Solutions Service at ASU, seven initiatives were created for both local and global reach. One example is the Sustainability in Science Museums program, where museum educators can participate in content-rich trainings on bringing sustainability into

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people’s everyday lives; the initiative now reaches 200 museums in 32 countries and impacts over 75 million people. Rob and I also support the Earthshot Prize, initiated by Prince William, which is modeled on President Kennedy’s Moonshot goal. This is the largest global prize that seeks to inspire ingenuity and collective action that can, by 2030, improve life for generations to come. Anything else you’d like to share? Our biggest concern when the Urban Farm was just a vision was how to make sustainability… sustainable! This takes a lot of work, volunteers, and leadership. The team there— Dave Smith, Taylor Scarpelli, Nika Forte, and Mary Ann Ricketts—are making it happen day to day. Because most every dime of support goes right into helping people, the garden would not function without its volunteer

network. It would not exist if so many local businesses had not given so generously of their time, expertise and resources. And, the community engagement with groups such as Pathways to Work, the Girl Scouts, LDS Youth, B-Sharp Music Wellness, and Leadership in Action adds a whole extra dimension to the impact. It took a community to create this oasis in the desert, and it takes a community to sustain it, enjoy it, and share in its growth. Rob and I are grateful to be part of this community.

Take the quiz and find out! 1. Which industry is responsible for 10% of annual global carbon emissions—more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined? A. Transportation B. Fashion C. Agriculture D. Manufacturing 2. How much of the United States’ total food supply is wasted each year? A. 5%-10% B. 55%-65% C. 30%-40% D. 15%-20% 3. One of the fastest ways to cut your energy bills is… A. Check the seals on your windows and doors B. Take shorter showers C. Replace your showerhead D. Switch to energy-efficient lighting 4. What percentage of the world’s ocean surfaces is currently floating plastic? A. 40% B. 25% C. 10% D. 60% 5. What amount in health and climate costs each year are caused by gasoline vehicles? A. $658 million B. $53 billion C. $15 billion D. $84 million Answers on page 41 APRIL 2021

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BY DAVID M. BROWN

“Do we want a civilization that will move toward some more intimate relation with the natural world, or do we want one that will continue to detach and isolate itself…”—Joseph Wood Krutch, The Great Chain of Life (1957) Our country has progressed since the first Earth Day 51 years ago, cleaning our air and water, for example. And globally, we have set our future with battery and fuel cell technologies, solar energy, and “green” hydrogen produced without fossil fuels. In this way, we can avoid devastating climate change and achieve a net-zero-emissions economy. Both organizations and individuals must commit to doing more. The EPA, for instance, is finalizing revisions to the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR) Update to help areas affected by pollution emitted by power plants to meet the 2008 national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ground-level ozone (or smog). And, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has affirmed that renewable power, green hydrogen, and modern bioenergy must dominate our future. Carbon capture and removal technologies will also further CO2 reductions. “The window of opportunity to achieve the 1.5°C Paris Agreement goal is closing fast,” says Francesco La Camera, its director-general. “We need a drastic acceleration of energy transitions to make a meaningful turnaround.” The group’s “1.5°C pathway” envisions a trebling of global power dominated by renewables in 2050. It also sees a decline in fossil fuel use by more than 75% during the same span, with oil and coal consumption shrinking fastest. And, IRENA expects a continuing movement of capital away from fossil fuels and into renewables. All of us must help, such as reducing our water usage; turning off the lights when not in use; and retiring energygulping, fossil-fuel technology. In this spirit, we spoke to 10 people from different industries and life experiences about the meaning of Earth Day, held April 22, and what we must do to make the day even more significant. Mark Candelaria, AIA, is guiding his Scottsdale-based Candelaria Design Associates through its third decade, creating award-winning luxury with business partners Vivian Ayala, Meredith Thomson, and Evelyn Jung.

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Mark Candelaria and Vivian Ayala help with the frame-up for a Desert Mountain home, July 19, 2013. Photo courtesy Candelaria Design Associates

“We have a big role in this, in that we can inspire our clients to make use of current technology and sustainability. This awareness includes the use of energy-efficient products and building materials and knowing how these all come together in the creation and construction of a home. “The entire LEED program is dedicated to this principle. Sponsored by the World Green Building Council, Leadership in Energy, and Environmental Design is based on the idea of a holistic concept that starts with the understanding that the built environment can have profound effects, both positive and negative, on the building’s surrounding natural environment, as well as an impact on the people who inhabit buildings every day. Green building is an effort to amplify the positive and mitigate the negative of these effects throughout the entire life-cycle of a building.”

Gregg Greene manages the retail store of Phoenix-based IRCA, International Reupholstery Corporation of America, which refurbishes resorts nationwide and in the Caribbean, focusing on 4 and 5 Star resorts. His father, Wayne, started the company from the back of his pick-up in 1971, picking up a chair at someone’s home, reupholstering it, and redelivering it. The family business now provides all areas of refurbishing, liquidating, reupholstering, refinishing, flooring and window treatments, and installs furniture, fixtures and equipment for residential and commercial properties.

Stephanie Pressler begins a hike at the Peralta Trailhead in the Superstition Mountains. Photo courtesy Stephanie Pressler

buildings, Scottsdale has long been mindful of protecting and preserving our natural environment. That deep-rooted commitment to sustainability is also part of Scottsdale’s tourism industry.

Gregg Greene and son Chad at Cliff Lake in Montana. Photo courtesy Gregg Greene

“Before we opened our retail store, most of the furniture removed from resorts ended up in landfills. Now we reduce that wasted amount and give the items a second life. Helping the environment is great by helping reduce this waste, and it adds comfort and quality to your home. “The ideals of Earth Day are best represented by how we reduce the waste that both companies and households throw out. Reuse or repurpose these items. Extending the life of items helps lower the waste going into landfills. We also must continue our commitment to teaching others that it is better to look for ways to reuse, repurpose, recycle, and not throw out, items.” Stephanie Pressler is director of Community Affairs for Experience Scottsdale, which promotes the city as a tourism destination throughout the world. “Whether protecting thousands of acres of the Sonoran Desert or building gold-level LEED-certified municipal

“Scottsdale’s hospitality businesses invest in environmentally friendly initiatives, uncovering new ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. For Scottsdale’s tourism industry, ‘going green’ is an economically and socially responsible way to help our destination and community thrive. Our hotels find new life for their linens and toiletries; our golf courses are among the most progressive in terms of water conservation; our restaurants rely on local producers for their ingredients; and more. Even our largest event, the Waste Management Phoenix Open, is committed to operating a zero-waste and carbon-neutral event. “And, Experience Scottsdale’s promotions help educate visitors about the beauty and opportunity of our Sonoran Desert environment, including reminding them to always leave the desert as they found it.” Marc Campbell is manager of Sustainability Policy and Programs at Salt River Project, the state’s largest provider of water and the largest supplier of electricity in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The utility is invested in many environmental/sustainability efforts, including healthy forests, through strategic thinning; avian protection on power lines; and electric vehicles. “SRP’s goal is to enable 500,000 EVs [electric vehicles] in our service territory by 2035, but today we have only 16,000 in use here, so there’s much to be done. “For their vehicles, our residential customers can save APRIL 2021

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through programs such as the SRP Plug In and Save EV Rebate™. That means $1,000 back when customers buy or lease a new EV from a local dealership through the end of December 2021, or until the program funds have been depleted. In addition, customers can take a $250 instant rebate on Level 2 chargers purchased from SRP Marketplace. And, EV drivers also can save money by charging their cars during off-peak hours. “Business customers can enjoy rebates up to $50,000 for the electrification of work equipment such as electric forklifts and truck-charging bays. In addition, SRP’s Business EV Charger Rebate offers savings when installing Level 2 networked charging station ports for use by tenants, customers, employees, or fleet vehicles.

Karin L. Harris is the owner of eGreen IT Solutions LLC. Photo courtesy Karin L. Harris

“Education about what happens to the items that consumers recycle would be beneficial. Many people wonder if they are really making a difference. If they do not feel the importance of what they are doing, then most likely they will not participate. The recycling industry should educate the consumer of the products that are not environmentally safe and why. Advertising education materials, whether digital or hard copy, can go a long way in providing information.” Rick Carter is a former Honeywell employee who is living in Denver with his wife, Marta. When he’s snowbirding in Phoenix, he takes photos at Green Living get-togethers. Marc Campbell is SRP's manager of Sustainability Policy and Programs. Photo courtesy SRP

“Also, SRP’s ENERGY STAR® Homes program partners with homebuilders throughout the Valley to ensure new homes are EV-ready and equipped with 220-volt outlets needed for Level 2 EV chargers, which are twice as fast as Level 1 units. Builders are offered a $300 incentive for each home wired for electric vehicle charging along with marketing support to advertise these communities to potential buyers.” For more information on these and other programs, visit www.srpnet.com, and, for the most recent version of SRP’s Sustainability Report, visit www.srpnet.com/sustainability. Karin L. Harris owns eGreen IT Solutions, LLC in Phoenix, an eSteward Certified electronic disposal company that provides technology disposition services and/or e-waste recycling for businesses and residents. The company specialties are secure technology recycling and risk management.

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Rick Carter hikes the Mason Creek Trail in Colorado. Photo courtesy Rick Carter

“For the first Earth Day, as a freshman in Ann Arbor at the University of Michigan, we celebrated in the Diag, dancing and carrying signs and flowers. [The Diag is an open space at the university originally known as the Diagonal Green because of the many sidewalks running diagonally near or through it.] We assumed the Vietnam War would be over soon, and the environmental problems would surely be fixed in the next few decades. “We were wrong. “Today, as older individuals, we still try. The COVID-19 global pandemic has kept us inside and focused on our day-to-day activities. We reminded ourselves to turn off the water when brushing our teeth and fix those leaky faucets and toilets. A la John Lennon, ‘Well, you know, we’re all doing what we can,’ but the big environmental problems like climate change, fossil fuels and alternative energy are facing big political headwinds, and success is not guaranteed. “Vote Wisely.” Tanya Shively and her associates at Sesshu Design Associates, in their new Downtown Scottsdale office, focus on implementing her holistic WELL Designed™ interior design methodology.

than that. Buildings are responsible for a huge percentage of our overall carbon footprint, so making even small improvements in the process adds up to big changes. “As a designer, I always present sustainable, eco-friendly, energy- and water-efficient choices in all the materials and fixtures we specify. When the health and wellness benefits are explained, people frequently are receptive and excited about using those options. “I have moved my eco-conscious focus to the wellness aspects of green design, as that is the area I feel I can really make a positive difference in my clients’ lives. It is about air quality, nontoxic materials and finishes, and efficiency, but it’s also about comfort and well-being, serenity, and a connection to nature that we all crave. Being more connected to nature is likely to lead to a more caring attitude toward our Earth, which is the main objective of Earth Day.” Solange Whitehead serves on the Scottsdale City Council and is a former McDowell Sonoran Preserve Commissioner. She and her husband, Mike, raised their three children in Scottsdale, and spend a lot of time outdoors. “Cities are playing an outsized role when it comes to tackling climate change. They have adopted practices that align environmental and financial objectives, and are creating jobs and healthier communities in the process. In short, cities are changing the world while still serving individuals. “The City of Scottsdale, where I proudly serve, offers many examples, starting with sewage. Most of us are satisfied to flush the toilet and never think about it again. Yet 20 years ago, Scottsdale Water saw value in waste and today craft

Tanya Shively, with Sesshu Design Associates. Photo courtesy Tanya Shively

“The design and construction industry together have a huge role to play in protecting our environment and resources. Education is key. Homeowners need to know that building sustainably and responsibly is only a tiny bit more expensive up front, but the dividend in energy savings, health benefits, and long-term stewardship of our resources will repay them over the lifetime of their home and often much faster

Solange Whitehead enjoys one of the many bike trails in the Scottsdale area. Photo courtesy Solange Whitehead

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beer is one of the byproducts of Scottsdale’s recycled water. Now that’s value! Scottsdale Water serves as a blueprint for water conservation that is being replicated around the globe. “And, while Scottsdale embraces technology, we also rely on old-fashioned common sense. When a recently approved road extension threatened mature trees, I met onsite with a neighbor and the project engineer who proposed a simple ‘bend in the road’ to save the trees. A few hours later, city staff approved the change. Cities like Scottsdale move fast, are connected with real people and are making the world a better place.” Deborah Jordan is the acting regional administrator for the EPA Region 9 in San Francisco. The region implements and enforces federal environmental laws in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, the Pacific Islands and 148 tribal nations.

with U.S. laws, strengthening partnerships with state and local governments as well as communities, cleaning up water and land contamination, combating poor air quality, and advancing public health in the face of challenges ranging from lead to fraudulent disinfectants to wildfire smoke.” Visit the new EPA Climate Change website at www.epa.gov/ climate-change. Stephanie Marie Seferian is the author of Sustainable Minimalism, which is available at www.mamaminimalist.com and www.mangopublishing.com.

“Here in EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region, we’ll be working to protect the environment and public health across multiple fronts. Our agency will conduct our work under the new administration’s framework for environmental protection, which prioritizes climate action, environmental justice, and restoring the central role of science.

Stephanie Marie Seferian enjoys her garden in Massachusetts. Photo courtesy Stephanie Marie Seferian

“Earth Day is the only day of the year dedicated to environmental action, and community cleanups, treeplanting ceremonies, and more are standard Earth Day occurrences. But in order to further the ideals of Earth Day beyond April 22, we must be active environmentalists for the remaining 364 days each year. Be vocal, engage in civic discourse, and support candidates up and down the ticket who make environmental issues their top priority. Deborah Jordan is the acting regional administrator, EPA Region 9. Photo courtesy EPA

“In January, President Biden signed executive actions tackling climate change, creating jobs, advancing environmental justice, and strengthening scientific integrity. The president took these actions in his first few days in the White House to ‘supercharge’ the administration’s work on these fronts. “We at EPA will play a key role in these efforts. In this diverse, vast region, our work includes ensuring compliance

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“Lead by example, too, by homing in on the four actions that will make the biggest positive impact on the planet: prioritize grains and produce in your diet; drive less, fly less; and commit to conscious consumerism (which often means buying less). Finally, be inclusive as you seek to bring others into the environmental movement, as it will succeed only if it includes people with distinct voices and diverse backgrounds. We all must get on board in order to make significant change.”

Answers to the quiz 1. B. Fashion According to www.worldbank.com, it’s the fashion industry. In fact, they note that, “At this pace, the fashion industry’s greenhouse gas emissions will surge more than 50% by 2030.” How can you help? Buy clothing from brands that have commitments to sustainability, repair clothing, donate clothing rather than throwing it in the trash, and shop in second-hand stores.

2. C. 30%-40% The United States is the global leader in food waste, with almost 40 million tons of food wasted each year. That equals 30%-40% of the country’s food supply, according to RTS. That’s 80 billion pounds of food, and equates to more than $161 billion.

3. D. Switch to energy-efficient lighting While all of the answers are ways to reduce your energy bill, one of the fastest is to replace your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs that have earned the ENERGY STAR—a move that will also allow you to light your home using the same amount of light for less money, according to Energy.gov. And, that simple fix can save a homeowner up to $45 per year they say.

4. A. 40% Billions of pounds of plastic are currently floating in the oceans, currently making up about 40% of the world’s ocean surfaces, according to the Center for Biological Diversity. They predict that, “At current rates plastic is expected to outweigh all the fish in the sea by 2050.”

5. B. $53 billion “Gasoline vehicles are responsible for $37 billion in health and climate costs each year,” says Energy Sterling, who goes on to share that, “If electric vehicles represent 65% of all vehicles in only 10 states by 2050, these costs would drop by $21 billion.” Questions on page 35

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Got Water? BY NICOLE SILK, RIVER NETWORK

Water is special. It sustains life and our bodies. It flows through our homes, brings us electricity, informs where we live, and supports what we eat and drink. In the arid West, we know water is precious. Most of us do what we can to reduce home water consumption, including installing water-smart devices in our sinks and faucets, converting landscapes to less thirsty species, and other measures. Indeed, household water use is continuing to go down across the United States. Yet, our personal water footprints are actually much larger than just the water inside our homes. Because water is bound up in everything we touch and interact with on a daily basis, virtual water expands our individual water footprints exponentially.

The premise behind the concept of virtual water is to consider how much water is in any product, article, or service you rely upon. For example, instead of looking at your morning cup of coffee as containing 8 ounces of water, the true amount of water in your beverage is closer to 37 gallons, once you consider growing and processing the coffee beans, market access, and transportation. Your cell phone? Over 3,000 gallons. Your favorite pair of jeans? Over 2,000 gallons. A hamburger? 660 gallons. An orange? 55 gallons. Taking into consideration virtual water, the average person uses about 2,000 gallons of water a day.

YOUR WATER JOURNEY As the saying goes, the first step toward change is awareness. While none of us need to carry a calculator around and weigh every decision, adding inquiry and curiosity into our daily decisions can help us move toward reducing our water footprint and living in a more sustainable manner. Once we become aware of the water in our lives and daily routines, the next step is to figure out where your water

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comes from—particularly the water that flows into your home—and what sustains and threatens it. For example, for people who live in Phoenix, their drinking water may come from as far away as Colorado or Wyoming, or as near as the hills outside of Flagstaff, carried to their home through a complex weave of canals, pipelines, and exchanges. Learning where our water comes from gives us a direct connection to these local water sources and features, including opportunities to explore what you can do to protect, restore, and improve these areas. These places are also an oasis for a myriad of species seeking refuge; a critical habitat for their various life stages; and sustenance, too. In short, these water sources are treasures for both people and nature. In the Southwest, water is perpetually out of balance and typically over-allocated (this means more water is being withdrawn than brought to the river from precipitation and return flows). Much of the water that is withdrawn from rivers for our use in cities and on farms is returned to the river after use. In short, we are consumptively using water faster than it can be naturally replenished with rain or snow, or artificially refilled with imported water or desalted ocean water. We never seem to quite balance our water account, resulting in a gradual dewatering of many Southwestern rivers. What we know for certain is that these systems are infinitely complex. Not only do they connect different ecosystems, but they also cross into and out of a wide variety of legal jurisdictions and regulatory authorities, as well as public and private lands. They literally connect us to cities, farms,

forests, and grasslands hundreds of miles in each direction. These systems are also the tip of the spear for climate change. As precipitation patterns become increasingly erratic, dynamic, and unpredictable, these systems receive the brunt of that impact, carrying too much water too fast downstream, or depriving people and fish of the water necessary for survival. We also know some neighborhoods and populations are disproportionately impacted by too much or too little water, resulting in economic hardship and consequences to personal health. The challenge is this: how do we do a better job, investing in both social and ecological resiliency, to support more sustainable and equitable solutions that do not sacrifice ecological health or human well-being? For example, equitable solutions in the water arena are those that do not result in fees and assessments that disproportionately harm those who can least afford the impact of such expenses, do not result in property damage to low-income and Black and brown neighborhoods, and do not reduce access to outdoor spaces and experiences that help us remain healthy. Solutions that are more equitable are, by their nature, more durable, since they address the needs of more people, particularly when combined with agreements, regulations, and other protections.

LET’S GET LOCAL Fortunately, local engagement is on the rise across the Southwest and around the country to safeguard these precious resources and work toward a future that includes healthy rivers and clean water for all. Today, this effort

includes over 8,500 nonprofit organizations, tribal entities, and local government agencies. These efforts exist in every state, region, basin, and political and regulatory jurisdiction from coast to coast, and mobilize tens of thousands of people to take a stand. If you are curious about who this includes, visit www. rivernetwork.org for an interactive map and you will have a sense of the potential power of this network. This map reveals who is making a difference at the local level. Other organizations focus more on regional and national efforts. One organization exists to connect all these efforts, delivering training, tools, resources, and mentoring to help local leaders thrive: River Network. It is also important to note, female leadership is strong throughout this community as explained by this year’s trends report. This is particularly true in the West. Take time to discover who is protecting your water locally and leading change nationally. Where do you go if you want to get involved? Consider volunteering for a local clean-up effort or contact your local utility or a local nonprofit organization to explore your options. For example, a river clean-up event is planned for the Tempe area on Sat., April 24, in collaboration with local organizations, Arizona State University, and the City of Phoenix, among others. Visit www.rivernetwork.org for more information about how to sign up to volunteer at this event. If the timing of this event does not work for you, look for other options that fit your schedule, or consider learning more through River Network.

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Leading for Change:

ASU’s EMSL Sustainable Professional Development BY SUZANNE PICKETT MARTINSON, MMC, M.ED

Since its inception in 2006 with the first sustainability program in the United States, Arizona State University’s (ASU) School of Sustainability has been offering individuals the opportunity to become leaders for change in the field of sustainability through its varied and comprehensive academic programs. The school’s undergraduate and graduate degrees, professional certificates and customized training for businesses and organizations continue to mark ASU’s School of Sustainability as a global leader and innovator. It was for this reason that Warren Gorowitz, then vice president of sustainability at Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply in Phoenix, was attracted to ASU’s Executive Master of Sustainability Leadership (EMSL) program.

Gorowitz, now the director of corporate social responsibility at Hunter Industries in San Marcos, California, credits the EMSL experience for preparing him to further his career and sustainability leadership within his profession and community.

“This degree was not a typical canned master’s degree; it was truly unique,” says Gorowitz, who graduated from the program in 2016. “It was designed and instructed by practitioners who had experience in different parts of the business world. The curriculum was fast-paced, dynamic, and included current events. And, I was able to be a student while working full-time and traveling frequently for work.”

“Sustainability can be challenging to integrate into an existing business, and it requires persistence and patience— things that don’t happen overnight,” he says. “Sustainability leaders are often pioneers in their companies and, using the lens of sustainability, they inspire others.”

The year-long EMSL program is based online with an on-campus component and immersive one-week cohort experience in Washington, D.C. Requirements of 30 credit hours include core courses, electives, the immersive, and a capstone culminating experience. Students also have the opportunity to engage in monthly individual-faculty coaching sessions to support professional and career development.

“The cohort was one of the best parts of the program. We came from different walks of life, backgrounds, and varying knowledge and experiences within sustainability. I have made lifelong friends,” he says, also noting that the program staff worked tirelessly to ensure a positive experience. “The instructors were outstanding. They pushed us out of our comfort zone, but they also knew how to give us the confidence to succeed. Each of their backgrounds was unique in regard to their sustainability experience, but they were masters of the course threads they were teaching.”

Designed for professionals with five or more years of work experience, the EMSL program prepares participants to meet the challenges of achieving the three pillars of sustainability—economic, environmental and social—within their businesses, organizations, and communities. EMSL students strengthen their skills in organizational leadership, communication, collaboration and the process of solutionbased change.

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EMSL benefits continue to impact Gorowitz today.

For more information, visit ASU’s School of Sustainability at https://schoolofsustainability.asu.edu.

A-Authentic Garage Door Service Sustainable living begins at home BY KYLEY WARREN

When you think of all of the ways to “green” your home, the possibilities are pretty endless. And thanks to the work of A-Authentic Garage Door Service Co., even something as simple as replacing your garage door can be sustainably minded too.

A-Authentic Garage Door Service is not only the number one-ranked garage door company in Arizona, but they’ve also proven to be one of the most environmentally conscious businesses in the state, as well. The company provides high-quality garage door repair and installation services Valleywide in Phoenix, Tucson, and a number of other surrounding communities. But, what really sets them apart, is their mission to recycle what’s left of old garage doors they work to replace. Unlike other garage door companies that simply rely on individual bins to dispose of old materials—which then inevitably end up in landfills—AAuthentic separates all of the materials to ensure that anything that can be recycled, is.

also carries certain garage door design brands that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency in their own businesses, as well. Amarr Garage Doors is a worldwide leader in garage door design, and their new Carriage Court garage doors, in particular, are made with four layers of composite overlay, steel exterior, polystyrene insulation, and steel interior for advanced energy efficiency and noise reduction. For garage door replacement, A-Authentic also carries 1st United—a garage door company that promotes environmental management practices to create environmentally conscious products which minimize their carbon footprint.

“We have five separate bins for different types of materials that—when we take old doors down—we separate them into separate bins,” says Darrell Peruch, president at A-Authentic Garage Door Service Co.. “Everything possible is recycled.”

“I just think that we all need to do our part because we only have one planet. Whatever we can do to be more conscious, if it helps, why wouldn't you?”

Beyond their green-focused disposal practices, A-Authentic

Visit www.arizonagaragedoors.com for more information.

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SAVOR

Restaurants

Vegan Eats in the Valley BY EVA HALVAX

Have you been searching for the perfect vegan spot? Even if you’re not vegan, these spots perfectly reimagine classic favorites to satisfy all of your cravings. From decadent cupcakes to mouth-watering nachos, here are four vegan restaurants that will be sure to become your new favorite spots.

Nami. Photo by Emily Thomas

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www.WeAreUFE.org

/freshfoodcollab

EVERYONE DESERVES FREEDOM FROM FOOD INSECURITY No one should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from while traditional food supply chains are wasting food every day. FRESH FOOD COLLAB redirects surplus healthful food to those in need and sets them up for long-term success and independence by teaching them how to grow their own.

JOIN US! FOR FUTURE EVENTS, VISIT: www.weareufe.org/calendar-urban-farming-education

partners

Nami. Photo by Emily Thomas Everythang Vegan

Nami: At Nami, there are a variety of vegan treats to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for Nami’s infamous soft-serve ice cream, lavish pastries, or breakfast, everything at Nami is 100% vegan. Roughly 75% of the ingredients used at Nami are organic, and there are biodegradable cups, boxes, and flatware used when possible. Treat yourself to breakfast, Monday through Saturday, from 7:30-10:30 a.m. 2014 N. 7th St., Phoenix; www.tsoynami.com Everythang Vegan: Inspired by the food he ate growing up, Chef Jaliel Jordan created Everythang Vegan, where locally sourced produce comes together with plantbased Southern comfort food. From fried chicken made of mushrooms to honey barbecue cauliflower wings, Everythang Vegan has a variety of options that honor different diet preferences, along with offering meal prep services, catering, and more. 1620 S. 16th St., Phoenix; https://everythang-vegan.square.site Verdura: If you’re in the mood for a plant-based fusion eatery, check out Verdura, where there is something for everyone. The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as vegan macaroni and cheese, sandwiches, nachos, and dessert. Brunch is also available every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 5555 N. 7th St., Phoenix; www.verduraphx.com/menu Veggie Village: Are you unsure if vegan food is for you? Veggie Village will change your mind through its fresh variety of Asian dishes, both vegetarian and vegan. Veggie Village’s menu offers vegan fried rice, noodles, and more. 1255 E. Northern Ave., Phoenix, and 15577 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale. www.vegvillage888.com

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APRIL 2021

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SAVOR

Recipes

Kale and Roasted Vegetable Salad

RECIPE AND PHOTO BY EAT BY STACEY WEBER, WWW.EATBYSTACEYWEBER.COM MAKES ENOUGH FOR 10 SALADS

Maple Roasted Vegetables 2 ½ quarts butternut squash, small, diced 2 ½ quarts Brussel sprouts, halved 2 ½ quarts cauliflower, cut in florets 3 Tbsp. steak seasoning ¼ cup rice oil ½ cup maple syrup 11 ½ quarts kale, lacinato Candied Buckwheat 8 cups buckwheat kernels ¾ cup white sugar ¼ cup water

Lentil Burger

RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF PITA JUNGLE, WWW.PITAJUNGLE.COM SERVINGS: 1 TO 2 FULL-SIZE BURGERS OR 3 TO 4 MINI BURGERS

1 cup cooked lentils 1 cup cooked brown rice ¼ cup diced radish ¼ cup diced jalapeño 2 Tbsp. caramelized onion ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp.ground black pepper ½ tsp.cumin ½ tsp. allspice 1 tsp. onion powder Place all ingredients in a food processor. Pulse for 3 seconds, 3-4 times. Remove the mixture and form into ball(s). Ball(s) should be 6-8 oz. in weight, depending on if full-size or mini burgers are desired. Flatten each ball into a patty. In a pan or on a flat griddle, brown the patty with a little bit of olive oil. Select buns (or a leafy wrap) of your choice and garnish with your favorite toppings. Pita Jungle suggests thinly sliced radishes, sprinkles of sumac, mint leaves, and a couple drops of pomegranate molasses.

For more recipes and food-related articles, visit www.greenlivingmag.com/savor

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Toss the squash, Brussel sprouts, and cauliflower with rice oil, maple syrup, and steak season. Roast on a sheet pan in the oven at 450 F on convection (until vegetables have color and are cooked al dente). Mix the buckwheat kernels, sugar, and water together in a bowl. Bake on a parchment lined sheet pan in oven at 350 F on convection for 5 minutes. Rotate the pan, then cook for an additional 3 minutes.

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MatchaKari is rooted in the belief that good matcha should be accessible anywhere in the world—and they maintain this belief by only importing products that meet the company’s standards for color, aroma, and flavor. Dr. Weil, a cofounder of the brand, prefers to start the day with matcha because he appreciates the matcha’s: Beautiful color. Aroma. Complex rich taste. “Also, I like the ritual of drinking matcha. It is a relaxing and meditative time for me and I know I’m getting the health benefits from it,” says Dr. Weil. For more information on MatchaKari, visit www.matcha.com. You can also follow along with the brand on social media at @matchakari. Instructions on how to make matcha:

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TRAVEL

Borderlands

Biking in the Arizona borderlands. Photo by Sarah Swallow

Adventure and Beauty in the Borderlands

How preservation and restoration efforts can invite sustainable tourism along the U.S.-Mexico border BY CONNOR CLARK, PH.D. STUDENT AND RESEARCHER WITH THE CENTER FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

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When one thinks of the U.S.-Mexico border today, recent images of construction crews bulldozing and dynamiting pristine wilderness to put up a 30-foot bollard wall or border patrol agents speeding past in trucks and helicopters might come to mind. While such scenes do indeed form part of the reality that is to be found at the border, a distinct and more beautiful story has also been unfolding for decades that involves efforts to preserve and restore precious ecosystems and wildlife species, which just may lay the foundation for additional sustainable tourism opportunities.

These efforts to beautify and heal the land are not solely attributable to any one individual, community, or organization, but to many, and they all deserve our praise. However, one group’s actions in the region particularly stand out in remarkable ways—those by Cuenca los Ojos, a conservation nonprofit that owns land in Mexico just south of the border. Cuenca los Ojos formed in the 1990s and is seeking to restore Sky Islands, a region whose name derives from the majestic mountains that protrude from the desert valley floors and can be found across parts of the U.S. states of Arizona and New Mexico, and the Mexican states of Sonora and Chihuahua. Their efforts have brought tangible benefits to this harsh and beautiful landscape, and include boosting the deer and turkey populations through reintroducing new individuals, restoring grasslands, and replenishing the water supply through an innovative yet surprisingly low-tech method: stacking rocks. This method simply involves making small rock dams or gabions, wire baskets stacked with rocks, in dried-out stream beds, which then slows down the flow of water after monsoon rains and catches sediment which would otherwise wash away. It results in increased amounts of water seeping into the dry landscape and recharging the groundwater supplies that are the lifeblood of this area.

On this northern side of the border, where tourism is more prevalent, people are already taking advantage of these actions to conserve and restore the land and its cuddly creatures, and unlikely partnerships have been formed. One such partnership is between a group of adventure cyclists, also known as bikepackers, and private ranches dedicated to either livestock rearing or research, who previously would not have been thrilled to open their gates to visitors. Although still restrictive to many forms of recreation, these ranches have allowed large groups of these adventure cyclists to bike through and camp out on their lands, adding a new source of revenue to their operations by charging a modest fee. It is through these types of partnerships that sustainable forms of economic development can take place as natural resources are enjoyed without being consumed. South of the border, where Cuenca los Ojos has been busy at work to connect habitats between the U.S. and Mexico, recent construction has undone decades of work. There have been serious implications for the rare and endangered species like jaguars and ocelots, who have been trying to repopulate their former range in the U.S.

Despite these setbacks, tourism can still be part of the solution to reconnect human and animal communities who have been separated by border security. Although the element of fear So, what do all these habitat and Gabion under construction. Photo by Cuenca los Ojos remains an additional obstacle wildlife restoration activities for would-be tourists to venture have to do with tourism? It’s simple. A healthier, wilder, and south of the border where drug traffickers have a dangerous more beautiful landscape makes for better ecotourism! The reputation, groups like Cuenca los Ojos and other borderlands are already a world-class birding destination, visionaries along the border still want people to know that where birders come looking to snag photos of rare birds like there is beauty waiting to be discovered here. the Elegant Trogon, Thick-billed Kingbird, and Mexican As vaccination campaigns continue to roll out and travelers’ Chickadee, to name a few. Then there is the tropical species willingness to explore increases, the lure of the borderlands of felines, jaguars, and ocelots, that tourists would likely beckons those with a taste for adventure to come, see, and never see, but whose occasional detection in the region by experience this dynamic region for themselves. way of motion-sensitive cameras holds an almost mythical appeal to anyone visiting the borderlands.

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HAPPY EARTH DAY! FROM ARIZONA’S ONLY WORKING OLIVE MILL & FARM FARM • MARKET • EATERY

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APRIL 2021

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DESIGN

Interiors

Biophilia

Welcoming nature into interior design BY BARBARA KAPLAN, IFDA, ALLIED ASID, DESIGN DIMENSIONS

Being an interior designer who focuses more on feelings and emotions in all my designs for people, I would like to discuss an important design element in the interior design world called biophilia.

If you haven’t yet heard this term, let’s start by defining the meaning. Biophilia is the “love of living things,” which is the idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature. It has become the word to best describe the innate connection between people and nature, resulting in improved health and well-being of spaces we live and work in. Psychoanalyst Erich Fromm first noted biophilia in his 1973 book The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness. He described biophilia as “the passionate love of life and of all that is alive.” The term was later used by American biologist Edward O. Wilson in his work Biophilia (1984), based on the innate relationship humans share with nature. Interior design uses the word largely when bringing green plants into interiors. We create living environments for the purpose of supporting people’s well-being, to thrive. Plants help with this in so many ways—they bring clean and healthy energy into interior spaces, and they enhance the beauty of any room. Plants clean the air we breathe by the process of photosynthesis—they take in CO2 (carbon dioxide) from the air and combine it with water absorbed through their roots. They use energy from sunlight to turn these ingredients into carbohydrates (sugars) and oxygen, and

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they release extra oxygen to the air. Then there is the psychological fact of living with plants. Living with plants can make you feel better in a myriad of ways. In particular, plants have been shown to: • • • • • • • • •

Lower blood pressure; Improve reaction times; Increase attentiveness; Improve attendance (at work and school); Raise productivity (at work); Improve well-being; Improve perceptions of the space; Lower levels of anxiety during recovery from surgery; Raise job satisfaction.

Feeling good around plants is probably not surprising. After all, we surround ourselves with plants during celebrations such as weddings and tragedies such as funerals. We also create green space for parks and community gardens in our cities and communities. Because of these reasons and many more, plants are now considered an essential part of any environment in which people live and work. Designers and architects will generally include plants in the environments they design. Plants bring a calming, relaxing energy into spaces. Plants

also bring in nature’s beauty, which contrasts and enhances easily with any style of furnishings and color schemes. Plants bring the outside in, to integrate the natural flow between people and nature.

looking for nurturing and healing from the stress of the changes. Our behaviors at home have changed and our choices may be all topsy-turvy.

To me, the operative meaning for biophilia is life! There are so many environments that are stagnant, heavy, boring, and lifeless. Simply by bringing in plants, this energy can be changed.

The experiences of peace, joy, and comfort have been turned more inward, and our homes are the place we turn to for those needs to be met. By nurturing a plant, we can nurture ourselves. I like to say, “When we water a plant, we are watering ourselves, too.”

If you just want to refresh a room without redecorating, rearrange your furniture and make space for a large plant or two. You have instantly created a shift in how you will experience the new environment.

Since we are now eating outdoors when we are with friends and relatives, our patios have become our living room for entertainment and dining. This is a perfect place to add some potted plants to make it more cozy, warm, and inviting.

Movement is such a key part of design. Plants’ leaves move outdoors with the wind and rain; indoors we can turn our plant to the light and move them closer or further away from the furnishings as balance dictates. By simply shifting a small accessory or a large piece of furniture in relation to the plant, you have changed the feeling of the space and possibly the use of the same space. Plants can fill spaces or add interest. They can either soften or bring life to inanimate objects.

And what about the entrance to a home? This is the first place to say, “Welcome.” A living part of nature is the best way to say we value life inside. Because biophilic design can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve well-being, and expedite healing, going forward there will be far greater attention given to this philosophy which articulates the relationships between nature, human biology and the design of the built environment.

As we already spend at least 85%-90% of our time indoors even before the pandemic, we once again find the need to rethink and redefine our indoor spaces.

Above all, biophilic design must nurture a love of place.

During this time of change in everyone’s lifestyle, we are

Always remember, rooms have no feelings, YOU do! APRIL 2021

GREEN L IV I NG

TIPS &

Tricks

The Beet Goes On The nutritional benefits of beets BY IVY CIOLLI

As Earth Day approaches, I am reminded to reconnect with the Earth, submerge my core in what lies beneath the dirt, and get back to my roots.

Well, let’s not “beet” around the bush—let’s explore, yes, beets. Grown from bulbs planted in soil, beets are a nutrient-dense food, to say the least. Chioggia beets are a family favorite because of their striped flesh, but we always appreciate a variety. Raw beet shavings make our salads robust and blooming with color, especially when we add beet leaves for the extra punch! Beets are also beautiful. They can be white, golden, striped, or red. Beets have been rooted in my family’s medicinal food routine for many years, but as of late, they have been presenting themselves in a new fashion—I have been craving this beet-licious juice concoction at Juice Core called Beetle Juice. It’s made with red beets, celery, green apple, ginger, kale, lemon, and parsley. Its 100% organic, raw, cold-pressed perfection has an instant grounding effect. Recently, I met the owner of Garden Goddess Ferments while exiting Juice Core with my freshly juiced bottle of ruby red greatness. I often see the Green Goddess booth at my local farmer’s market, and always stock up on a variety of her fermented kraut jars. But this day, I was reminded of

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her fermented beet drink, otherwise known as beet kvass. Pick Up The Beet is a bountiful beet tonic that is not only tasty, but spoke to my roots. I now drink 2 ounces every morning, and instantly feel submerged in the minerals of this nutrient-dense tonic that’s replenishing my blood and good bacteria. It’s undeniable—the universe was telling me I need to kick up my beet! According to Garden Goddess founder Suzette Smith, one jar of fermented veggies can replace over eight bottles of store-bought probiotics. Eating fermented foods daily is a great way to keep from getting sick and to build a strong immune system. While beet kvass dates back to the 6th century, Americans in general have lost the ancient recipes that we are now learning were good for us in many ways. Beet kvass is a fermented beet drink loaded with probiotics and all the benefits of the beet… without the sugar. The bacterias feed on the sugar of the vegetables and break down the food with lactic acid, creating a probiotic-rich environment, as well as manufacturing other nutrients not found in just the raw

vegetable. Fermented foods are a great way to repopulate your gut!

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In fact, did you know that your gut is Grand Central Station to your health? It’s the starting point for serotonin production, immunity strength, and energy levels. Brain fog, constipation, autoimmune, and inflammation all begin in the gut. You truly are what you eat, so choose your food wisely.

gluten-free and kosher available

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Suzette says it best, “You can't get all your supplements in our typical daily diet, and you can't supplement your way out of a bad diet. Eat fermented foods daily; it's a matter of life and health.” Beets provide a multitude of benefits. The red-veined green leaves of beets are nutrient-dense and provide vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, as well as minerals like iron, potassium, calcium, sulfur, copper, chlorine, and silica. Beets are believed to reduce your chance of getting cancer. They contain betacyanin, which assists in halting the growth of cancerous tumors by detoxifying the body of toxins. Beets’ bountiful blend of iron and antioxidants is also beneficial in reversing anemia.

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And, who doesn’t love a liver detoxification? The betaine in beets energizes the function of liver cells and works to protect the liver bile ducts. All the while, the fiber enhances the creation of detoxifying enzymes in the liver. As our family is always incorporating healthy habits which parlay into mental stability, core strength, preventative care, and wellness, we never miss a beet. Optimal health is of utmost importance to us, so when we are traveling, the beet root powder by The Drs. Wolfson is our go-to for on-the-go. Heart Beet is an organic beetroot-based powder containing a unique blend of beetroot, beet and carrot juices, raw organic spinach leaf, and raw organic kale sprout concentrate sourced from the best organic farms. You can can find this powder at https://shop.thedrswolfson.com

Attention to detail, flavor and service with the environment in mind.

Witnessingnature.net

From soil to soul, my health is complete when I pick up the beet!

APRIL 2021

GREEN L IV I NG

She’s GREEN He’s GREEN BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART

Spring Cleaning The heavy use of plastic packaging in cleaning products is such a strain on our planet. We've been happy to see that companies are making strides to reduce packaging by using recycled or compostable materials, and reformulating products to eliminate water. There are almost too many options, so here are a few to get you started on your Earth-friendly cleaning journey!

Nellie's

If You Care

EcosNext

Laundry Soda

Compostable Sponge Cloths

He Said: Whoa, Nellie! The styling on the bag makes this one look like it's straight out of the 1950s. But let me tell ya, Daddy-O, this detergent was the bee's knees; the cat's pajamas. Even our little curtain climbers' clothes came out clean with little to no scent.

He Said: I can't seem to say this brand's name without the indignation. It's almost like it's guilt-tripping you as you walk down the grocery store aisle: “If you cared, you would have already bought these.” The little chamois-style wipeup cloths were super absorbent and durable... if you care.

Liquidless Laundry Detergent, free & clear

She Said: I can't help but stare at the curiously happy woman on the package. There's no way she didn't have a few margaritas before picking up that basket (TOTALLY understandable, Nellie!) But, she's crammed 50 loads worth of laundry powder in a little (plastic) pouch, and it worked great, with minimal ingredients.

She Said: I'm all about avoiding paper towel use, so these neat towels are a great idea! I've lost count how many times I've reused the first one (five per pkg). They are thick, flexible, and make cleaning less of a chore. And when one is spent, just toss it in the compost in your backyard.

He Said: I'm liking this new liquid-less laundry detergent trend (new to me, at least). Convenient, compact, with no heavy bottle to lug around. Makes me wonder why we ever did it the other way to begin with. One sheet made an entire load of my work clothes smell much better.

She Said: I know this design is catching on quickly, and I can see why! Great for small spaces, third-story walk-ups, laundromats, and, well, anyone! I can seriously carry the whole box with two fingers. The rectangle sheet of soap strangely felt like thin craft foam, but worked like a charm!

Ecover Dishwasher Powder He Said: Okay, this is going to be a no-joke review, because I know some of those dishwasher jokes can get you in a lot of hot water. Okay John, careful now… be cool. This powder had a faint lemon scent and did a great job cleaning our dishes. Phew, made it through.

She Said: I'd like to thank Josephine Cochrane for getting so sick of hand-washing dishes that she decided to do something about it! And Ecover, for making dishwasher soap that actually cleans my dishes, is safe for waterways, and is packaged in a recyclable box.

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APRIL 2021

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GREEN

Scenes

EARTH DAY EVENTS

April Events Throughout Arizona CENTRAL ARIZONA Through April 16 Keep Our Planet Neat, Recycle Your Car Seat Do you have an old or broken car seat that your child no longer uses? Instead of throwing it away, recycle it. From now through April 16, you can drop off your old car seat at participating NARPRO (Network of Auto Repair Professionals) locations to save it from the landfill. Volunteers will break down old car seats for reuse or recycling. To find a drop-off location, visit www.narpro. com/find-a-shop.

Through April 30 Spring Into Wellness Virtual Challenge

April 1-30 Earth Day Challenge Run/Walk This Earth Day virtual challenge encourages participants to get outside and walk or run as much as possible throughout the month. Register for free or upgrade your registration to include a T-shirt, medal, stainless steel straw, and wildflower seeds. The goal of this event is to see how many times all participants can run the distance around the equator (24,901 miles). Throughout the event, participants will report results to be added to the overall tally. Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/2021-earth-daychallenge-runwalk-phoenix-registration-145977772447.

Earth Day Crafts Eco-friendly and sustainable crafts are a great way for kids to learn about the importance of the environment. The Environmental Education Center in Chandler is hosting a fun and educational craft day for kids ages 6-12 to make their own reusable tote bags, seed bombs, and recycled artwork. The event will be held from 9:30-11 a.m. and starts at $9 per child. For more information, visit www.activekids.com/chandler-az/classes/ earth-day-crafts-2021.

April 17 Plant Trees with One Tree Planted In honor of Earth Month, the One Tree Planted team and Watershed Management Group will be planting a variety of tree species in the Tucson area. Trees are beneficial for the environment and aid in heat mitigation, water filtration, and carbon sequestration, as well as serving as habitats for animals. From 9 a.m.-noon, participants will be planting trees, so make sure to dress appropriately and bring lots of water. Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/ earth-month-in-tucson-plant-trees-with-one-tree-plantedtickets-145106689013.

GREEN LIVING

April 7, 14, 21 & 28 How to Grow Anything: Food Gardening for Everyone Free Workshop

April 10

Throughout the month of April, take charge of your health by participating in fun challenges in fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness! Form teams with your friends and family to compete in weekly activities. Sponsored by Mission of Mercy (MOM) Arizona, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free medical care to those in need, your participation in this challenge will support clinic operations throughout Phoenix. The registration fee is $25 and will be put toward primary healthcare, diabetes education, and chronic disease management and prevention. Registration will remain open throughout the month of April, so you can join at any time. For more information and to register for the event, visit www.momwellness.org.

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Growing your own food is a very rewarding experience, and the best way to get fresh fruits and vegetables. Gardening is something anyone can do, no matter their experience level or how much space they have available. In this free gardening workshop, learn all there is to know about starting your own garden and how to grow your own fresh food. It is also a great opportunity to meet other gardeners in Phoenix. The workshop is held weekly from 7-8 p.m. For more information and to register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/how-to-grow-anything-foodgardening-for-everyone-free-workshop-tickets-141491283237.

April 3 Spring Fairy Party and Egg Hunt With the Easter Bunny Join The Teapot for a casual picnic-style event with various spring festivities. There will be snacks, boutique shopping, and handmade crafts, as well as an Easter egg hunt with the Easter Bunny. The event will take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-fairy-party-andegg-hunt-with-the-easter-bunny-tickets-127656414773.

NORTHERN ARIZONA

BUSINESS

April 8 & 22

April 20-22

Raptors at the Rails

Arizona Good Business Summit

Visit Verde Canyon Railroad depot to attend an educational presentation about Arizona’s amazing birds of prey. Guests will have the chance to view real animals up-close through Liberty Wildlife’s educational program. Birds such as hawks, owls, vultures, falcons, and kestrels will be featured. Raptors at the Rails will take place from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and is free to attend. More information can be found at www.visitsedona.com/eventscalendar/raptors-at-the-rails/.

Local First Arizona is hosting a three-day virtual summit to discuss important topics relating to business and sustainability. Day one of the event focuses on the future of small businesses, day two will address business and justice, and day three will spotlight environmental action. Tickets for the three-day event are $45, or $25 for members. More information can be found at www.localfirstaz.com/events.

April 17 Growing Up WILD in the Verde Valley For educators or parents interested in early childhood education and development, Growing Up WILD provides a program that focuses on young children’s curiosities about nature. This four-hour training will provide educators with environmentally oriented and STEM curriculum plans that are engaging and focused on experiential learning. Invite the children in your life to explore wildlife and the world around them. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/growing-up-wild-in-the-verdevalley-tickets-137501160673.

April 22-25 Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival If you love birds and other wildlife, this birding and nature festival is for you! Hosted by Friends of the Verde River, the festival will include a variety of presentations, tours, and other activities where you can learn all about Arizona’s wildlife. This is a hybrid event which offers virtual experiences, as well as limited in-person guided tours in Flagstaff, Prescott, and Verde Valley. The virtual package is $30 per person and the limited in-person tours have an additional $40-$60 charge depending on tour length. For more information, visit www.verderiver.org/virtual-birding-fest/.

April 28 Stop Food Waste: Driving Awareness to Fight Food Waste More than 25 speakers, ranging from the head of Food for Good at Google to the chairwoman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry to the executive chef for Barilla America, join together at this virtual event to discuss the importance—and to offer solutions—to solving food loss and food waste. The event begins at 11 a.m. MST and is free to attend, but will be capped at 10,000 attendees. To register and for more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/stop-food-wastedriving-awareness-to-fight-food-waste-2021-virtual-eventtickets-142353859225.

April 29 Sip + Connect Join the Arizona Green Chamber and Green Living magazine for the Sip & Connect networking series. Connect with other business owners throughout Arizona and share your own experiences from your business this year. Bring your favorite beverage for a fun evening of networking and chatting. The event will take place from 5-6:15 p.m. Register to attend at www.azgreenchamber.org/event-4169872.

SOUTHERN ARIZONA April 7-18

April 10-11

JOGS Tucson Gem & Jewelry Show

36th Annual Tucson Folk Festival

This gem show brings together manufacturers and sellers of jewelry from all across the globe. This is a great event to see the latest designs and ideas in the jewelry and gem world. Shop for finished jewelry pieces or pick up some materials to make your own. The show’s hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., except for the last day, which ends at 4 p.m. Find more information at www.jogsshow.com.

If you are a fan of Americana or folk music—or just looking to expand your musical horizons—this is the perfect event for you! The event features hundreds of performers from various styles including American bluegrass, blues, country, jazz, Celtic, zydeco, Latin, and Mexican music. The headliner is Grammy-winning folk singer and bluegrass legend Lauri Lewis & Nina Gerber. The event is free to attend. For venue locations and the performance schedule, visit www.tucsonfolkfest.org/folk-festival.

April 10 Blessing of Sonoita Vineyards Celebrate the beginning of summer at this festival at Sonoita Vineyards. The festival will include wine tastings, a procession through the vineyard, live music, and more. The event will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, visit www. sonoitavineyards.com/events.

For information and links about these events and others, visit www.greenlivingmag.com/calendar

APRIL 2021

GREEN L I V I NG

Here for you

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Helping you focus on what matters most: Mark Morales First Vice President - Investment Officer Direct: (480) 419-2016 mark.morales@wellsfargoadvisors.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/mark.morales

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Green Living Magazine - April 2021

Articles inside

Essentials for an Outdoor First Aid Kit

Adventure and Beauty in the Borderlands

Biophilia

Isagenix

Stop Sleeping With Dirty Chemicals

Vegan Eats in the Valley

Recipes