GREEN LIVING your conscious life
DECEMBER 2024
greenlivingmag.com
Nature’s Holiday Decor Where Wilderness Meets Wonder
Shop Small, Gift Green 10 Arizona Businesses for Thoughtful and Sustainable Holiday Giving
Ethical Elegance
Where to Shop Sustainable Styles for New Year's Eve
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Support local farms. Get local produce. This holiday season, join Mill and R.City to help Phoenix Valley farms thrive — and receive a farm box of fresh produce in return.
The food waste problem
Feed our land and our community Every month, R.City collects Food Grounds from Valley homes, schools, and offices — turning them into compost for local farms.
Over one-third of the food produced in the U.S. goes uneaten. Most of it ends up rotting in landfills, releasing greenhouse gasses. Meanwhile, local farms face increasing challenges to sustain their land and provide fresh, healthy food to our communities.
Join Mill and R.City to receive a box of farm-fresh produce or a bag of compost for your garden — fresh from the Valley to your doorstep, every quarter.
Prevent food waste at home
Try Mill for 30 days – no strings attached
Mill turns your kitchen scraps and leftovers into nutrient-rich Food Grounds. It works automatically while you sleep, takes weeks to fill, and has state-of-the-art odor filtration to keep your kitchen stink-free.
JD Hill R.City owner and farmer
Farm boxes to your doorstep
Visit mill.com/greenlivingmag — or email billfrommill@mill.com to learn more.
Experience a Chemical-Free
Utilizing natural elements to balance water.
Swimming Environment
Benefits of Healthy Water
BY MICHAEL GEYER
Every time we immerse ourselves in water, a profound exchange of essential elements occurs.
healthy, prevents kidney damage, and helps keep us hydrated with every encounter.
The connection between water and human beings is both powerful and fundamental. Our bodies, which are about 70% water, depend on it for survival, yet it raises the question: Does the quality of the water we drink, bathe in, and use daily really matter? What is this exchange that happens, and is it truly essential?
Our skin, the body’s largest organ, serves as a barrier and a gateway, absorbing nutrients and minerals from water that contribute to our overall health. However, this same ability to absorb can work against us when water is contaminated with harmful chemicals and pollutants. Every exposure to treated or contaminated water means our skin can take in substances like chlorine, heavy metals, or other unwanted residues, which may accumulate over time, impacting skin health and potentially affecting our overall well-being. This makes the purity of the water we use not just a preference but a necessity for long-term health.
Unfortunately… not all water is created equal. Around the world, as rainwater seeps into the ground, it journeys deep within the earth, becoming enriched with minerals and nutrients from the surrounding environment. It is naturally restructured by the natural vortex it creates while moving effortlessly through the many rocks, stones, and minerals it encounters. When it resurfaces, this revitalized water nourishes life in countless ways. One of water’s most critical traits is its ability to absorb and hold minerals vital to our health, which vary based on the land it flows through. Every natural spring offers unique benefits, making this exchange between humans and water so remarkable. There’s another essential component for balanced water – oxygen, found in the very air we breathe. Oxygen helps transport minerals throughout our bodies, making water complete as a source of life. And what does water provide for us in return? Water helps flush out our toxins, lubricates our joints, cushions our brain and spinal cord, regulates our body temperature, helps keep our cardiovascular system
Clean, balanced water, free from harsh chemicals and enriched with beneficial minerals and oxygen, helps ensure that what our skin absorbs nurtures rather than harms. This underscores the importance of reliable, natural water treatment solutions that provide safe, nourishing water for our daily use. Exceptional Water Systems has dedicated years to developing Highly Dissolved Oxygen Systems for natural water treatment. By harnessing elements like oxygen, ozone, and CO2, we create a balanced, chemical-free swimming environment for families seeking a natural, healthy experience. For more information on how we can enhance your water, reach out to us at sales@exwsystems.com or call 480-694-4709. At EWS, we’re committed to providing Healthy Water for Humanity—without compromise.
Visit EXWSYSTEMS.COM to learn more! Call today at 480-694-4709 451 East Juanita Avenue, Suite 20, Mesa, AZ 85204
SPONSORED CONTENT
Turning Passion into Purpose with Aaron Blackburn and Epi-Hab by Cruz Esquer
In Creating Cash from Trash, Aaron Blackburn has
pieces, all with the goal of helping people to see
found a way to combine art, sustainability, and
waste differently. Creating Cash from Trash is more
social impact. His partnership with Epi-Hab shows
than just a book! It’s an inspiring guide to turning
the potential of what can happen when businesses
everyday stuff into amazing creations. Aaron breaks
and creatives work together to make a difference.
it down with photography tips, AI, and advice on
Whether you’re an artist, a recycler, or someone
broader thinking. You don’t have to be an artist
eager to make a positive change in the world,
to benefit from his perspective. This book has
Aaron’s work is a reminder that sustainable living
something for everyone!
can be beautiful, fulfilling, and even profitable!
The best part is, Aaron’s work isn’t just about
Growing up on a small farm in Idaho, Aaron
making money: it’s about building community, being
Blackburn developed a deep love for the
inclusive, and making a real impact. One of the
environment early on. Over the years, he’s turned
coolest parts of his journey is his partnership with
that passion into creation by making extra money
Epi-Hab Phoenix, an amazing organization that
through upcycling. His work ranges from edgy
creates meaningful jobs for adults with epilepsy,
steampunk jewelry to colorful repurposed art
autism, ADHD, and other unique challenges.
Coloring Books that Inspire and Empower As Aaron’s book reached readers, his vibrant photography and creative vision inspired a new project: coloring books designed for adults with autism, ADHD, and other cognitive challenges. These books are therapeutic tools that encourage mindfulness, stress reduction, and focus. With Epi-Hab’s help, these coloring books have become widely available, allowing adults and seniors alike to experience the mental benefits of coloring!
COLORING BOOK for all ages and experience levels COLORING BOOK for all ages and experience levels
AL PH AB ET AND NUM B ERS
COLORING BOOK for all ages and experience levels
AL I E NS AN D SYM B O LS
Epi-Hab: Focusing on Abilities, Not Disabilities Epi-Hab was founded in 1958, originally focusing on creating jobs for adults with epilepsy. Over time, it expanded to support individuals with diverse special
Images inspired from the book Creating Cash from Trash, written and created by the award winning photographer Aaron Blackburn.
Images inspired from the book Creating Cash from Trash, written and created by the award winning photographer Aaron Blackburn. Images inspired from the book Creating Cash from Trash, written and created by the award winning photographer Aaron Blackburn.
needs, offering services like fulfillment, mailing, printing, and assembly to businesses across Phoenix!
With the holidays right around the corner, give a gift
They recently expanded again by launching an Etsy
that’s thoughtful and meaningful. Aaron’s coloring
store to sell eco-friendly products and recycled items.
books are perfect for anyone who loves stress relief
Epi-Hab isn’t just about jobs: it’s about showing what people can do, not what they can’t. They focus on helping neurodiverse adults make a real impact at work. Aaron teamed up with them to print and ship his book, Creating Cash from Trash! This is amazing because it ties together their goals of helping people and also promoting environmental awareness.
and mindfulness! Not only do they offer hours of creativity and relaxation, but what makes them even more special is that by purchasing or sponsoring these books, you’re also supporting Epi-Hab’s amazing mission of providing rewarding work for adults with special needs. This is more than just a gift; it’s a way to make a real difference!
Epi-Hab also just launched an Etsy store to sell eco
For more information, visit
continuous items like LED lights and water saving
AaronBlackburn.com
shower heads at below average price.
or EpiHab.org
CONTENTS
December 2024 GOOD
18 Child Crisis Arizona
The first net-zero nonprofit campus in Arizona
20 Circular Impact
How ADEQ’s recycling grant awardees are transforming Arizona communities
HEALTH & WELLNESS
22 The Whole-Body Smile
How holistic dentistry and better breathing can transform your health
STYLE
24 Ethical Elegance
Where to shop sustainable styles for New Year's Eve
HOME
26 Lights, Camera, Compost!
How a Hollywood environmental designer transformed disposable dining
40 FEATURES
28 Nature’s Holiday Decor Shop Small, Gift Green 32 Where wilderness meets wonder
10 Arizona businesses for thoughtful and sustainable holiday giving
38
Wrapping Up a Greener Holiday Season
40
Global Gifting
SAVOR
44 Savor the Season Sustainably M Culinary’s secrets to an eco-friendly holiday celebration
46 From Skyscrapers to Wellness 48 Recipes The rise of Jill Portman and GOOD Pharma The Thirsty Lion’s Black Cherry BBQ Pork Tenderloin + Marquise au Chocolat
TRAVEL
50 Meet the Makers
Tupelo, Mississippi, is home to a growing number of entrepreneurs who are strengthening the city’s social fabric
DESIGN
54 Pioneering Sustainable Change Anthony Floyd's journey in green building
Your post-holiday clean up guide
Terrapass offers carbon offset credits to reduce harmful impacts to the planet
On the cover: The holiday season brings an opportunity to celebrate with warmth and joy, and what better way to elevate your space than through nature-inspired decor? Photo by Erinn Valencich
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IN EVERY ISSUE
8 8 10 12 14 16 56 58
Publisher’s Letter Contributors On the Web Trending Green Cool Outrageous Stuff Event Recap She's Green/He's Green Green Scenes
PUBLISHER'S
Letter
Contributors
Happy Holidays!
The holidays also mean family, friends, and quality time. This sentiment is always sprinkled with parties, gifts, and so many fun activities. Juggling everything during this time of year can be stressful, and the extended darkness can bring out the less-than-stellar side of people. I often have to remind myself to stay patient, meditate daily, and maintain a level head. It’s important to remember that we don’t always know what someone else—whether a stranger or a peer—might be going through. This season is a time for sincerity and respect; and for good measure, let’s sprinkle in a little compassion and kindness.
Tyler Butler, writer A trailblazer in ESG and corporate citizenship, Tyler Butler has led Fortune 500 sustainability programs, contributed to two IPOs, and founded Collaboration for Good. With degrees from ASU, Boston College, and Cornell, she writes for top publications and serves as Head of Public Affairs for Phoenix Rising FC.
Photo by Sara Hanna Photography
I am filled with excitement and joy for the holidays. The holidays mean something different to everyone, and I can certainly appreciate that: diversity always keeps it interesting. For me, the holidays start with Christmas music, decorating, thinking of unique experiences that you can do over the holidays, or what I can give someone that is a DIY gift or an eco-friendly gift. It’s been fun to experiment with Do-It-Yourself (DIY) decorations, such as wreaths made of fresh pine tree branches and pine cones, or dehydrated orange ornaments made by hand.
This holiday season, I challenge you to: Buy less by making a DIY gift for your family and friends! Experience more with a loved one and get outdoors! Take a breath of fresh air and connect with nature this holiday season!! Please send me a note and let me know what you did to consume less, what DIY project you created, or what experience you enjoyed, Eco-consciously yours,
♥
Dorie Morales Publisher Got a burning question or comment? Reach out at editor@greenlivingmag.com.
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Beth Weitzman, writer A luxury travel and lifestyle specialist with over 20 years of experience, Beth embraces clean, organic living. Formerly Vice President of Editorial at Modern Luxury Media, she oversaw more than 60 titles nationwide and served as National Travel Editor. Now running her own consultancy, she offers expertise in communications, storytelling, creative ideation, and marketing. Beth is also a licensed REALTOR® in Arizona and California, dividing her time between Scottsdale and Los Angeles.
your conscious life
GREEN LIVING greenlivingmag.com
PUBLISHER MANAGING EDITOR ONLINE EDITOR ART DIRECTION & DESIGN DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS GRAPHIC DESIGNER COPY EDITOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Dorie Morales Shelby Tuttle Shelby Tuttle Sly Panda Design Karin Harris Melat Alebachew Erin Wilson Brett Prince
CONTRIBUTORS Alison Bailin Batz Tyler Butler Anna Dorl Angela Fairhurst Dr. Ingo Mahn, DDS, AIAOMT
Misty Milioto Voncelle Mull Abbey Scott J.B. Shaw Beth Weitzman
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & PARTNERSHIPS Aaron Blackburn - aaron.b@greenlivingmag.com Nubert Boubeka - nubert.u@greenlivingmag.com George Heussner - george.h@greenlivingmag.com Dorie Morales - sales@greenlivingmag.com
INTERNS Yula Armstrong Reagan Shoemake
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MAGAZINE
Please recycle this magazine Green Living magazine is a monthly publication by Traditional Media Group, LLC. Periodical rate postage paid at Scottsdale, AZ. Publisher assumes no responsibility for contributed manuscripts, editorial content, claims, reviews, photographs, artwork or advertisements. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the company or official policies. Entire contents © 2022 Traditional Media Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of content in any manner without permission by the publisher is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in signed columns and articles do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Submissions will not be returned unless arranged to do so in writing. One print subscription is $25 per year or digital subscription is $12 per year. Canadian orders please add $13 per year for shipping and handling. International orders add $22 per year for shipping and handling. Bulk and/or corporate rates available. No representation is made as to the accuracy hereof and is printed subject to errors and omissions.
DECEMBER 2024
| GREEN LI V I NG 9
ON THE
Web
This month on greenlivingmag.com and social media. /greenlivingazmag
@greenlivingmag
@greenlivingaz
@greenlivingmag
EVENTS
GOOD
Alma del Jaguar Tequila Brings the Spirit of the Southwest to Tucson’s Moto Sonora Brewery
Kind Traveler Launches “Every Stay Gives Back” Program on Oregon Coast
On Saturday, November 16, Alma del Jaguar Tequila hosted Southwest Spirit, a benefit for the Northern Jaguar Project (NJP), at Moto Sonora Brewery. The event featured a tequila tasting with expert Jay Baer, cocktails, live music, a raffle, and a silent auction. Proceeds supported NJP’s conservation efforts. Founded by Rick Williams, NJP works to protect the northern jaguar's habitat. Alma del Jaguar Tequila, founded by McCauley Williams, emphasizes sustainability and local support.
Kind Traveler has teamed up with the Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) to launch the Every Stay Gives Back program, empowering travelers to support local communities and environmental conservation along the Oregon Coast. By staying at participating hotels, guests contribute to vetted nonprofits focused on climate action and equity. This initiative has raised over $300,000 in donations since its launch. The partnership highlights Oregon’s commitment to responsible tourism, providing transparent, real-time, impact reporting.
Green Living had the honor of attending the screening of Beer Saves The World! — a refreshing and eye-opening documentary that celebrates Kernza, the world’s first trademarked perennial grain.
Green Living publisher, Dorie Morales and George Heussner, Business Development, had the privilege of presenting the Best of Arizona Awards to some incredible local businesses in Sedona that make the community shine.
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TOGETHER, WE CAN REDUCE WILDFIRES. Join SRP, the U.S. Forest Service and Arizona municipalities to combat catastrophic wildfires. srp.net/healthyforest
632225_FY23_HealthyForestInitiative_GreenLivingMagazine_3.4375x4.625_PROD1.indd 8/19/22 1 11:13 AM
DECEMBER 2024
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TRENDING
Green
Damilola Ogunbiyi Named to the 2024 TIME100 Climate List
Prepare the Grid Now, Save Money Later
Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO of Sustainable Energy for All and Co-Chair of UN-Energy, has been named to TIME’s 2024 TIME100 Climate list. Known for championing the Global South, Ogunbiyi’s advocacy and leadership have driven global efforts to decarbonize energy systems and combat energy poverty, earning numerous awards.
A new study by the Environmental Defense Fund and Black & Veatch shows that proactive grid investments for electric trucks and buses save money for ratepayers. Anticipating future demand, rather than waiting for it to materialize, reduces costs—by up to $20 million in some regions. The study emphasizes that early grid planning is more costeffective than reactive approaches, supporting a cleaner, more sustainable energy transition.
Green Spaces Continue to Decline Husqvarna Group’s 2024 Urban Green Space Report reveals a concerning global decline in urban green spaces, with 75% of 344 cities across 62 countries losing green areas. While 95 million m² of new green space was added, 158 million m² was lost due to urban expansion. Despite this, 25% of cities managed to increase green spaces, proving reversal is possible.
Tyvek with Renewable Attribution DuPont has launched Tyvek with Renewable Attribution (RA), a sustainable healthcare packaging solution that reduces carbon emissions by using bio-circular feedstock in production. This innovation lowers CO2 output compared to traditional Tyvek products and integrates seamlessly into existing packaging systems. Certified by ISCC PLUS, Tyvek with RA supports DuPont's commitment to reducing Scope 3 emissions and advancing circular economy goals, contributing to a sustainable healthcare packaging future.
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Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity Whirlpool Foundation has renewed its support for Habitat for Humanity’s BuildBetter program with a $2.5M commitment to build 50 net-zero-energy-ready homes over the next two years. This partnership advances Habitat's goal of providing stable, affordable housing while reducing carbon footprints.
Triple Play
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DECEMBER 2024
| GREEN LI V I NG 13
CoolOUTRAGEOUS Stuff BY ANNA DORL
No matter whom you’re shopping for this holiday season, chances are your loved ones would appreciate a gift that’s thoughtful for them and kind to the planet. Most people appreciate a gift that’s both fun and practical, and it’s even better when your purchase benefits not just the recipient but also the world we share. This winter, choose gifts that keep on giving by making eco-conscious choices. From green thumbs to homebodies and beyond, there’s something sustainable and meaningful for everyone on your list.
Socks That Plant Trees by Conscious Step Conscious Step’s Socks That Plant Trees are crafted with GOTS Certified Organic Cotton. These soft green ankle socks are also vegan, Fairtrade certified, and part of 1% for the Planet, a global certification that donates towards preserving our Earth. Seventy-five percent of these socks’ composition comes from fair trade organic cotton, with the rest made from recycled polyester and elastane. The brand proclaims that “every step feels like walking on freshly mowed grass.” As of April 2024, the company had planted 703,194 trees in partnership with nonprofit organization Trees for the Future. www.consciousstep.com
Bluebird House in Recycled Blue Plastic by Birds Choice As winter continues, our outdoor feathered friends will be looking for more warm places to hunker down and having a home like this from Birds Choice would most certainly be helpful. From the company’s Green Solutions line, this Bluebird House is built from 95% recycled poly lumber (repurposed plastic) material. Its round entrance hole allows birds to enter, and its side door opens for convenient cleaning and to let humans see what’s going on in there. If blue isn’t your favorite, these simple and chic bird houses are available in a multitude of colors. www.birdschoice.com
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Beige Organic Cotton Couple’s Ugly Christmas Sweater While one of the most sustainable options for an ugly holiday sweater would be to thrift it, sometimes making an ecoconscious choice for a new item can be nearly as good. As a company, Ugly Christmas Sweaters focuses on sustainability through the use of organic materials. This unisex sweater, a creamy beige decorated with a wintry pattern, is woven with 100% organic cotton. This aspect allows it to meet the rigors of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which recognizes ethically sourced and 100% organic fibers. The turtleneck boasts a true-to-size fit, with sizes from XS through 4XL, allowing you to find the perfect one for anyone on your list. www.uglychristmassweater.shop
The Growing Candle by Hyggelight The Growing Candle from Hyggelight serves as two presents in one — a decadent soy candle with an eventual second life as a planter, with seeds included! Available in a myriad of different scent varieties and even an unscented option, The Growing Candle’s unique styles are known by different first names, like Edith, a speckled cream terracotta pot with a green stripe, or Clara, a simple and chic white ceramic pot with thick metallic gold rim. Each candle’s label is made with seeds inside it, so when you burn the last of it, bury the label inside the pot and watch your new plant come to life. Growing Candles are made from soy wax and use cotton wicks and non-toxic fragrance oils. www.thegrowingcandle.com
Quick Recovery Face Mask Sampler by FarmHouse Fresh While winter can be a beautiful time of year, that isn’t always the case for our skin. Thankfully, the Quick Recovery Face Mask Sampler from FarmHouse Fresh is here to save the day, no matter what your countenance may need. This unique trio includes the hydrating Guac Star Avocado Mask, the nourishing Splendid Dirt Organic Pumpkin Mud Mask, and the exfoliating Pudding Apeel Tapioca Glycolic Mask. Each mask is cruelty free, over 95% naturally derived, and free from gluten, parabens, and sulfates. Besides being a skincare powerhouse, FarmHouse Fresh is also a nonprofit farm animal sanctuary. You can even get to know the animals that you help save through your purchase by tracking your batch code through the company’s website. www.farmhousefreshgoods.com
DECEMBER 2024
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EVENT
Recap
Green Living’s Best of Arizona 2024 Photos by Brett Prince
Green Living’s third-annual Best of Arizona 2024, held on October 14 at SRP’s Pera Club in Tempe, brought together Arizona’s leaders in the green community to honor excellence in sustainability, wellness, and eco-conscious living. The evening also honored Indigenous Peoples’ Day by featuring vibrant performances and artistry by Indigenous creators. Highlights included a water blessing by Sarita Marquez Eto, hoop dancing from Shikeyah Torres, and live painting by Jim Covarrubias. Live drumming from Ken Koshio punctuated important moments within the live awards ceremony and added to the overall mystique of the evening. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and green Realtor Tammy Bossee were in attendance, accepting awards for Best Green Leader in Public Service and Best Green Realtor, respectively, for the third consecutive year. The evening also spotlighted stunning artistic works from Indigenous fashion designers and their lines, including Ruby Farias Designs, Mayume, DaWoozhii Designs, Devennsew, Calandra Etsitty, Norma Baker-Flyinghorse, and Loren Aragon. The evening recognized winners across 30 Best of Arizona categories, recognizing their exceptional contributions to sustainability, wellness and eco-conscious living across the state. Special thanks to event vendors and sponsors SRP, Denali, Urban Farming Education, Creating Cash from Trash, Green Light Solutions, Sustainability Advisors, PBC, Full Time to Travel Time Podcast, and RDT Worldwide for making this event possible. Arizona Wilderness Brewing Owner Jon Buford and Green Living Publisher Dorie Morales. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and green Realtor Tammy Bosse.
Model Felia Claw wears the design of student designer Deven Tso of Forge.
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Scottsdale Mayor Scott Ortega and Lexy Romano.
Page Springs Cellars Owner Eric Glomski and Green Living Managing Editor Shelby Tuttle.
USDA Farm Service Agency State Executive Director Ginger Sykes Torres addresses the crowd.
Jim Covarrubias paints live at the event.
Shikeyah Torres performs a Native American hoop dance.
Beautiful models showcased gorgeous designs from a myriad of Indigenous designers.
DECEMBER 2024
| GREEN LI V I NG 17
GOOD
Child Crisis Arizona
The first net-zero nonprofit campus in Arizona BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Photos courtesy of Child Crisis Arizona
I
In January 2023, Child Crisis Arizona, whose mission is to provide children and youth in Arizona a safe environment, free from abuse and neglect, by creating strong and successful families, joined with CHASSE Building Team and Architectural Resource Team (ART) - as well as local dignitaries like Mesa Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia, and major funders including Janis Merrill, Kathye Brown, Erik Olsson, and Thunderbird Charities - to break ground for its 38,000-square-foot, climate-friendly, net-zero campus in Mesa.
On September 25, 2024, the 2.4-acre, two-story campus opened its doors as one of the first nonprofits in Arizona to be sustainably built for future generations. According to Torrie Taj, CEO of Child Crisis Arizona, the space enables Child Crisis Arizona to provide myriad services and facilities, including foster care and adoption licensing services; family education; community rooms for instruction, mentorship, and collaboration with partners like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona and New Pathways for Youth; expanded children’s counseling featuring sensory and play therapy rooms; a multi-purpose space to accommodate community and employee health and wellness needs; a zero-carbon centralized industrial kitchen supplying healthy meals for
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children in Early Education, Shelter, and Group Home, plus food box distribution with support from United Food Bank; a resource distribution center; courtyard and rooftop gardens; expanded foster teen programs with job skills training and financial education workshops; a car seat safety installation station; collaborative studio space in partnership with Ballet Arizona, Free Arts of Arizona, and Gabriel's Angels; volunteer and staff training space; and centralized administration. Additional partnerships are planned with Friendly House, Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona, and Prevent Child Abuse Arizona, as well as eight art-inspired spaces that connect visitors to the natural elements on display within the building.
“The design and construction revolved around the International Living Future Institute’s Living Building Challenge, which aligns with Child Crisis Arizona’s vision for ‘Safe Kids, Strong Families’,” said Ben Shunk, commercial business unit leader at CHASSE Building Team, noting that the design of the building itself focuses on showcasing the foundational earth elements of earth, water, and air. The building is a Certified Living Petal Project Facility, which indicates that it meets at least three of the Living Building Challenge’s seven performance
areas or “Petals,” and signifies a commitment to sustainable design practices in the areas of energy efficiency, materials selection, water usage, and site impact. The guidelines focus on the seven petals of Place, Water, Energy, Health & Happiness, Materials, Equity, and Beauty. “It also meets the highest level of standards for Indoor Air Quality, making it truly one of the most ambitiously sustainable buildings in Arizona,” said Shunk. Visit www.childcrisisaz.org for more information.
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wtmconservancy.org DECEMBER 2024
| GREEN LI V I NG 19
GOOD
Circular Impact
How ADEQ’s recycling grant awardees are transforming Arizona communities BY J.B SHAW
A
After a decade-long hiatus, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) relaunched the Recycling Grant Program in 2024, offering $1 million to help communities and organizations create or expand recycling initiatives. Grants were awarded in three key areas: Waste Reduction Assistance, Education, and Recycling Research & Development. Guided by the Arizona Recycling Advisory Committee (ARAC) — comprising experts from government, education, business, and nonprofits — grantees were chosen for their innovative waste reduction and public education efforts.
grant awardees for 2024: Arizona Students Recycling Used Technology ($77,900), Borderlands Produce Rescue ($139,661.65), Brophy College Preparatory ($27,371.50), City of Avondale ($64,000), City of Bisbee ($133,000), City of Mesa ($135,500), City of
The reemergence of this grant program isn’t just about distributing funds — it’s about empowering communities to rethink waste, embrace sustainability, and create lasting environmental change. The ADEQ Recycling Grant program offers businesses and communities across Arizona the opportunity to tackle critical waste issues while also promoting innovative ideas and fostering a circular economy that keeps resources local — marking an exciting new chapter for our state. “The relaunch of the Arizona Recycling Grant Program has sparked great excitement and showcases our communities’ dedication to protecting our beautiful state,” says ARAC Chair Joe Giudice. “The 12 projects we selected are creating jobs, improving recycling access and education, and recovering valuable materials. This is just the beginning of the positive impact we can achieve together!” From a pool of 61 applications, ADEQ’s Arizona Recycling Advisory Committee, along with ADEQ’s director, narrowed down the field to 12 outstanding
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Brophy Cardboard Bailer.
Sedona ($53,650.02), Bold Reuse ($208,000), Let’s Go Compost ($45,000), Nackard Pepsi ($66,916.83), Northern Arizona University Board of Regents ($43,000), and Rim Country Senior Center ($6,000). Arizona faces significant waste challenges, with only 21% of materials recycled, while over 10 million tons end up in landfills each year, according to The Recycling Partnership. This ‘trash’ represents
Borderlands Pig on Ranch. Bold Reuse Reusable Cups at Diamondacks Game.
untapped resources that can be repurposed to benefit our communities. For every 1,000 tons of materials recycled, 1.17 jobs are created, and every ton of waste recycled equates to $65.23 in wages and $9.42 in tax revenue, showcasing both economic and environmental gains by recycling. ADEQ’s recycling grants help turn these challenges into opportunities, funding innovative projects that reduce waste, create jobs, and support a more sustainable future for Arizona. In the first six months of funding, the 12 grantees diverted over 640,000 pounds of waste from landfills, created nine new jobs across urban and rural communities, and engaged thousands of students in sustainability education to help shape the environmental leaders of tomorrow. BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE FOR ARIZONA
Recycling Coordinator J.B. Shaw (who is also the author of this article). “These grants empower local organizations to bring their big ideas to life, creating jobs and ensuring materials retain their highest value. Without this financial support, many of these critical initiatives would struggle to get off the ground or make meaningful progress." With more funding, ADEQ can continue to support nonprofits, cities, and businesses leading the way in sustainability — growing programs, creating jobs, and reducing landfill waste. ADEQ is committed to pushing forward with the Solid Waste Management Plan and promoting a thriving circular economy, where waste becomes a resource. For more information on the 2024 ADEQ Recycling Grant awardees, check out our expanded coverage at www.greenlivingmag.com/ADEQ-2024-grants. City of Avondale Recycling QR Codes.
As Arizona advances toward a sustainable future, these grantees show that community-driven initiatives can make a significant impact. ADEQ is committed to fostering recycling innovation and preparing for another round of funding to support local businesses and strengthen the circular economy. A new statewide Solid Waste Management Plan aims to secure funding for creative waste diversion and new product development that benefits Arizona communities. "The demand for more funding is there to help businesses develop circular economy solutions for Arizona’s 'waste' — or as we prefer to call it, 'resources,'" says ADEQ DECEMBER 2024
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HEALTH &
Wellness
The Whole-Body Smile
How holistic dentistry and better breathing can transform your health BY DR. INGO MAHN, DDS, AIAOMT
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When you think about achieving optimal health, a trip to the dentist is probably the furthest thing from your mind. After all, aren’t we just talking about things like fillings, cleanings, and braces? Well, as it turns out, the oral cavity has a significant impact on your overall health. Enter holistic dentistry — a refreshing approach that connects the dots between your mouth and the rest of your body. For years, holistic dentists (also known as biological dentists) have known about the health impact of toxic metals (like mercury in silver fillings) and bacteria from gum disease and infected root canals. More recently, the dental profession has discovered the impact of improper breathing on good sleep. Let’s take a look at exactly what holistic dentistry is and why it’s a game-changer for improving your health.
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BEYOND THE DRILL: THE MAGIC OF HOLISTIC DENTISTRY Holistic dentistry is all about treating the mouth as a gateway to overall health. It’s not just about fixing teeth but also about identifying how oral health influences your entire body. In the early 1900s, a group of 100 German physicians spent 40 years researching this connection. They came to the conclusion that “80% of all disease was either directly or indirectly related to disease of the oral cavity.” In fact, they even developed a chart that showed a connection between all the teeth and specific organ systems!
It is unfortunate that in the past, holistic dentistry was ridiculed for this philosophy. Interestingly enough, though, these concepts are now widely accepted in the conventional dental community. ADVANCED TECHNIQUES IN HOLISTIC DENTISTRY While the term “holistic dentistry” may sound oldfashioned, it should really be considered the dentistry of the future. Just as in medicine, we have discovered many of our “modern” dental techniques to be detrimental to the health of our patients. Here are some of the advanced techniques used by biologic dentists: • Safe materials: In addition to removing toxic materials safely, they ensure that the replacement options are highly biocompatible. There are even non-metallic dental implants. • Ozone Therapy: A natural yet powerful way to kill disease producing organisms. • Low-dose x-rays: These minimize radiation exposure through digital technology and by reducing frequency. • No Fluoride: Safer alternatives to fluoride, like hydroxyapatite, are used to help keep teeth strong. BETTER SLEEP WITH HOLISTIC DENTISTRY Nothing is more impactful on our health than proper breathing and sleeping. Unfortunately, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent problem in our country. A milder version of
OSA, called sleep disordered breathing (SDSB) is even more common and just as detrimental to well-being. Due to our soft modern diet and other environmental factors, our jaws are underdeveloped (there is a reason kids need braces and wisdom teeth extracted). This leads to a smaller airway and creates resistance to airflow. During sleep, when our bodies should be regenerating, we instead are in fight or flight mode — not a recipe for good health! AN ALTERNATIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR ZZZs Traditional medicine and dentistry do not have a good solution for this problem. They wait until the problem becomes critical and then prescribe a CPAP machine to force air into the lungs, or provide an appliance that holds the jaw in an abnormal, forward position. Alternatively, a device called the Homeoblock has been shown to be highly effective in treating the root cause of SDB by toning the muscles that support the airway and also calming the nervous system. THE MOUTH-BODY CONNECTION Holistic dentistry reminds us that our mouths are more than just a smile — they are a window into our health. By choosing this approach, you’re not just protecting your teeth but also setting the stage for a healthier and happier you!
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STYLE
Fashion
Ethical Elegance
Where to shop sustainable styles for New Year's Eve BY TYLER BUTLER
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With the holiday season in full swing, New Year’s Eve will be here before you know it! It’s time to find those standout outfits that bring style and sparkle, in addition to making a positive impact. Choosing sustainable fashion this season not only reduces waste but also adds unique charm to your wardrobe.
The Valley is home to an incredible array of boutiques dedicated to eco-conscious style, each offering something distinct — from high-end designer vintage to affordable, trendy consignment. For every gathering, celebration, or cozy night in, here’s your guide to the best spots in town to find sustainable, stylish looks that help you shine with purpose for the biggest night of the year. FASHION BY ROBERT BLACK Known for its curated collection of designer and high-end vintage fashion, Fashion by Robert Black delivers classic glam with a sustainable twist. Their selection offers stunning pieces that elevate any evening look while embracing the allure of quality and timeless style. 7144 E. 1st Ave, Scottsdale (480) 664-7770 www.fashionbyrobertblack.com MY SISTER’S CLOSET & WELL SUITED This upscale consignment duo specializes in stylish and affordable pre-loved women’s and men’s fashion, making it easy to assemble a head-to-toe sustainable look. With rotating collections of designer pieces, shoppers will find something unique for every festive occasion.
VINTAGE BY MISTY A go-to for fashion-forward vintage, Vintage by Misty celebrates eclectic New Year’s Eve style with iconic pieces from past eras. Known for bold colors, statement accessories, and unique finds, this boutique adds flair and a sense of nostalgia to sustainable fashion. 7046 E. 5th Ave, Scottsdale | (480) 522-6875 www.vintagebymisty.com BUFFALO EXCHANGE A pioneer in the resale fashion scene, Buffalo Exchange has a treasure trove of pre-loved finds to build a holiday wardrobe with character. With a commitment to sustainable fashion, each boutique offers everything from cozy layers to stand-out party outfits for an eco-friendly evening. Multiple locations statewide www.buffaloexchange.com TO BE CONTINUED
With a focus on high-end luxury resale, To Be Continued carries curated collections from top designers: perfect for the most elegant evening out on the town. Dolce and Gabbana swing dress and Shoppers can indulge in luxurious jacket with fur. My Sister's Closet pieces without compromising on Three Valley locations | www.mysisterscloset.com
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sustainability, making every “look” both chic and conscious. 6137 N. Scottsdale Rd #106, Scottsdale (480) 699-2700 | www.tbcconsignment.com habitatcaz.org/cars
POOR LITTLE RICH GIRL This trendy boutique offers gently worn designer and contemporary styles, ensuring holiday shoppers find unique, sustainable options. From statement dresses to understated staples, Poor Little Rich Girl makes it easy to look good without negative environmental impact. 1582 E Bethany Home Rd #101, Phoenix (602) 342-7575 | www.poorlittlerichgirlresale.com UPTOWN CHEAPSKATE Uptown Cheapskate provides a budget-friendly approach to sustainable NYE fashion with its wide selection of trendy and classic pieces. Shoppers can build stylish looks for every kind of event without breaking the bank or compromising on sustainability. Multiple locations, check website for details www.uptowncheapskate.com By choosing sustainable holiday fashion, you’ll be stepping into 2025 with style and purpose. Whether you're seeking classic elegance, bold vintage, or trendy-yet-affordable looks, these Valley boutiques make it easy to find something unique, chic, and environmentally friendly. Fashion by Robert Black Buffalo Exchange
Designed by Emanuel Ungaro
every day
is earth day Donate your vehicle today and let’s give Arizona a hand up!
When you recycle your old vehicle, you help Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona build more homes in your local community. Learn more at habitatcaz.org/cars DECEMBER 2024
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HOME
Lights, Camera, Compost!
How a Hollywood environmental designer transformed disposable dining BY ANGELA FAIRHURST
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In an industry dominated by disposable plastic, Lauren Gropper saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact on both the environment and consumer habits. As an environmental designer working on Hollywood sets, Gropper was struck by the stark contrast between the sustainable practices she implemented behind the scenes and the mountains of plastic waste generated during production breaks. This disconnect sparked an idea that would eventually revolutionize the disposable tableware industry.
"My background is in environmental design," Gropper explains. "I was working in the green building space in New York City when I had an opportunity to go to Los Angeles to bring sustainable design principles to film and television sets. It was on those sustainable sets when I noticed that although I was doing my best to create an eco-friendly environment, the sets were filled with single-use plastic." A GREEN VISION IN A PLASTIC WORLD Before Repurpose, eco-conscious consumers had limited options when it came to disposable tableware. While natural alternatives existed for products like cleaning supplies and baby food, the tableware aisle remained dominated by plastic giants like Solo and Dixie. Gropper recognized a critical gap in the market for environmentally-friendly disposable products that could cater to busy parents, party hosts, and anyone seeking convenient, guilt-free alternatives to traditional plastic items. "I knew there had to be a better way, but at the time, there were no sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic tableware available at mainstream retailers,"
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Gropper recalls. "So, I took matters into my own hands, and the idea of Repurpose was born." FROM HOLLYWOOD SETS TO SUSTAINABLE STARTUPS In 2010, Gropper took a bold step, pivoting from her career in Hollywood to launch Repurpose, a brand dedicated to producing plant-based, compostable alternatives to everyday disposable products. "I launched Repurpose in 2010 in response to a problem, not a trend," she states. "We were the first brand to launch compostable tableware at retail in the U.S., making it mainstream and accessible to people everywhere." PIONEERING A NEW CATEGORY Launching Repurpose was no small feat. As a female founder in the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) industry nearly 15 years ago, Gropper faced significant challenges in securing funding and establishing her brand in a market dominated by legacy players. The journey was fraught with obstacles, from convincing retailers to stock her products to competing with wellestablished brands with deep pockets.
Despite these challenges, Gropper's persistence and unwavering belief in her products paid off. Repurpose became the first brand to bring plant-based compostable tableware to mass and mainstream retail. The company's innovative approach and commitment to sustainability began to resonate with consumers, gradually changing the landscape of the disposable products category. INNOVATION IN MATERIALS AND DESIGN One of Repurpose's key innovations lies in its material composition. The company's cups, which look deceptively like plastic, are actually made from plant-based materials. These include upcycled molded fiber, PLA (a bioplastic derived from corn starch or sugarcane), PHA, and PBAT. These materials are designed to function similarly to conventional plastics while being more environmentally friendly. It's important to note that while Repurpose products are certified as commercially compostable, they require specific conditions typically found in industrial composting facilities to break down properly. This distinction highlights the ongoing challenges in the sustainable products industry, where proper disposal infrastructure plays a crucial role in realizing the full environmental benefits of these innovations. SUCCESS THROUGH INNOVATION AND PERSISTENCE Today, Repurpose stands as a testament to Gropper's vision and determination. The company owns one-third of the eco-compostable tableware category and has established itself as the leading brand in natural and specialty tableware. Repurpose products can be found in over 12,000 stores nationwide, including major retailers like Whole Foods, Albertson's, Kroger, and Costco. Repurpose's success is built on a foundation of continuous innovation and a commitment to quality. The company uses renewable ingredients like corn, upcycled wood pulp, and sugar cane to create products that are not only environmentally friendly but also durable and functional. This approach has allowed Repurpose to compete effectively with
traditional plastic products while maintaining its ecofriendly ethos. EXPANDING THE ECO-FRIENDLY HORIZON Not content with revolutionizing the tableware industry, Gropper has expanded Repurpose's product line to include a wide range of compostable household goods. The company now offers bamboo toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, and even compostable cling wrap. This expansion reflects Gropper's ongoing commitment to providing sustainable alternatives for every aspect of daily life. A MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS Lauren Gropper's journey with Repurpose serves as an inspiring example of how entrepreneurship can drive positive environmental change. By identifying a critical need in the market and leveraging her expertise in sustainable design, Gropper has created a brand that not only offers eco-friendly products but also educates consumers about the importance of sustainable choices. "Ever since I was a teenager, I've been curious and passionate about sustainable solutions," she shares. "I earned my bachelor's degree in geography and environmental studies, then went on to earn a master's in sustainable design. I then worked in the green building space for many years before starting Repurpose.” As climate change concerns continue to grow, Repurpose's mission becomes increasingly relevant. The company's success demonstrates that it is possible to build a profitable business model around sustainability without compromising on quality or convenience. With Repurpose, Lauren Gropper has not only created a successful brand but has also paved the way for a more sustainable future in household products. Gropper concludes with a powerful statement that encapsulates her mission: "I truly believe that embracing sustainability does not mean sacrificing convenience."
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Where wilderness meets wonder BY BETH WEITZMAN PHOTOS BY ERINN VALENCICH
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The holiday season brings an opportunity to celebrate with warmth and joy, and what better way to elevate your space than through natureinspired decor? Designers Erinn Valencich and Susie Crouch share their expert insights on how to blend sustainability, creativity, and elegance to create stunning holiday displays using nature’s bounty.
Erinn Valencich is a celebrated designer, influencer, and entrepreneur who founded her design firm, ERINN V. Design Group, at the age of 24. With a portfolio that includes her eponymous furniture brand; seven licensed collections, including Hollywood Hills with Baldwin Hardware; furniture collaborations with Universal Furniture and Ambella Home; and the innovative software platform StyleRow, Valencich’s award-winning work has graced numerous magazine covers. She has even been tapped to decorate the U.S. Department of State in Washington D.C. for past holiday events. Valencich has taken her design style and turned it into a masterclass on her website (www.erinnvdesign.com/interiordesign-masterclass) for anyone looking to upgrade or remodel their home. Susie Crouch, an “almost Arizona native,” comes from an Italian family where celebrating was a weekly tradition, complete with beautifully set tables and formal Sunday dinners. With over 35 years of experience designing homes, holidays, weddings, life
celebrations, and charity events, Susie maintains her passion for bringing beauty into people's lives through her company EverythingSusie. While she enjoys working with extravagant budgets, she embraces the challenge of creating magic from simple materials — her work ranges from villa weddings in Italy to newlywed tiny houses and designing tumbleweed Christmas trees. THE ART OF WINTER GREENERY Valencich brings an intentional, sophisticated approach to natural materials. “Winter greenery of all sorts is great: cedar, fir, juniper, spruce, pine, and boxwood all look great. Many times, you may have some of this growing naturally in your garden — don't be afraid to cut some branches and bring them inside,” she says. “Even magnolia is a gorgeous greenery to use for the holidays. Adding some winter greens to hang from a vase with cut flowers is a really nice and easy way to get a festive look without going overboard.” Crouch orchestrates natural elements with theatrical DECEMBER 2024
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and magnolia leaves make beautiful wreaths and last so much longer outdoors." THE PINE CONE CHRONICLES Who knew these humble seed carriers could spark such creativity? Valencich elevates them to art. "I love to use pinecones of all shapes and sizes. They look great in a glass vase alone, or you can lightly glitter them for some sparkle, or even paint them in metallic gold or silver for some added glamor,” she advises. “I have used them sprinkled down the center of a table, or [you can] attach a small ribbon to one end with a hot glue gun and they look great adorning a package or hanging from the tree." Crouch takes the humble cone to new heights, literally. "Pinecones are easy to find in neighborhoods, and I love covering styrofoam or cardboard with cones and tucking in red berries, velvet ribbon and twinkle lights. They can be small for placards on a dining room table or three to four feet tall on fireplace mantles,” she says. INCORPORATING NATURAL ELEMENTS WITH TRADITION Both designers know that holiday magic lies in the perfect blend of old and new. Valencich confesses, "I love to mix natural elements with some sparkle. To me, flair, suggesting creative placements. She says, "[I] love to tie them to an expansion rod — like a shower curtain rod – with berries, ribbon, or ornaments in door jams or down the center of a dining room table with votives and pinecones nestled in or draped over a chandelier — so romantic.” FROM LIVING ROOMS TO LANDSCAPES Nature’s rules shift between indoor and outdoor spaces, a concept our designers understand well. Valencich brings her expertise to creating stunning indoor settings. "Surprisingly, curly willow and grape vine can be a fun natural material to use indoors, either in vases, or even around your tree,” she notes. “I have used them to bring volume to a sagging tree, in vases with some greenery for height, and also in garland to bring texture." Crouch, meanwhile, brings her desert wisdom to outdoor decorating. "As an Arizona native, my father would take us to the desert to look for tumbleweeds to make snowmen to line the driveway,” she muses. “Anything that sheds is great in the yard – just don't bring it inside. Citrus leaves
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it's not the holidays without some glitter — somewhere! But that doesn't mean that it needs to be everywhere! Putting lights in a natural garland adds to the charm in the evening, but I opt for non-colored lights to keep it a bit toned-down. Ornaments and glass balls can be a gorgeous way to add that sparkle to a flower arrangement made with natural materials." "While some designers dash to department stores, Crouch prefers a different kind of shopping spree. "I would drive in the desert or woods and look for beautiful branches of every kind — pine branches to eucalyptus,” she reveals. Another of Crouch’s tips: leave them natural or spray them with metallic paint or snow. SUSTAINABLE STYLE: THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING Even gift wrapping turns into a creative masterpiece with these two designers, and Valencich’s practical flair adds a touch of magic. "I always save my ribbons and re-use them year to year. If you buy real ribbon, it's very easy to save in a bag for gift-giving all year and certainly easy to reuse them from holiday to holiday. I have a cloth drawstring bag that I keep them in with my wrapping items, and keep that all in a big drawer in my laundry room," she says. Crouch turns wrapping into its own gift. She notes, "I love thrifting to wrap gifts in jars and hat boxes, and use scarves and ties to make
bows and they become gifts as well." THE SECRET LIFE OF NATURAL DECOR Before you rush out to gather nature's bounty, however, heed Crouch's wisdom. "Keep them outside till the bugs crawl out or they dry or shed so you don't assemble and then it sheds or disintegrates," she advises. Crouch also recommends preservative spray to treat natural items so that they last throughout the holiday season. NATURE'S SYMPHONY Integrating natural elements into holiday decor can deepen the connection to the season. For Crouch, Erinn Valencich. Photo by John Russo decorating with nature creates a multi-sensory masterpiece. "For me it is all about sights and smells. I love the look and smell of pine needles and cinnamon sticks and dried oranges, so even if you have a commercial holiday, bring in those natural sights and smells of pine!” THE LAST BRANCH As our designers remind us, nature's beauty knows no ZIP code. Crouch puts it perfectly: "Depending on where you live - mountains, country, or desert – there will always be the charm of using natural elements." Whether you're foraging in the forest or desert, seaside or city park, nature's holiday treasures await, ready to transform your space into something magical. This holiday season, maybe the best decorations aren't in stores after all — they're just waiting to be discovered, right outside your door. DECEMBER 2024
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Shop small, Gift Green
10 Arizona businesses for thoughtful and sustainable holiday giving BY ABBEY SCOTT
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As the holiday season draws near, the search for meaningful, eco-friendly gifts begins. Finding the perfect present can sometimes feel daunting, but Arizona’s small businesses make the search both easier and more enjoyable. These local gems offer unique and memorable gifts, while also emphasizing sustainability, ethical practices, and supporting the local economy. We're highlighting ten businesses that are perfect for green-minded holiday gift-givers.
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CAYLA GRAY Fragrance and sustainability come together beautifully in Cayla Gray’s collection of clean perfumes and candles. With a commitment to non-toxic ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, these products are a thoughtful choice for holiday shoppers seeking mindful gifts. For the season, the brand features holiday gift sets perfect for the occasion. Among the highlights is the Holiday Archive Set, a limited edition collection featuring five best-selling collaboration fragrances, each in a convenient 7.5ml perfume spray. Another favorite is the Undeniable Gift Set, which includes a sleek black journal with two metallic pens, a 5 oz candle, matches, and a 5ml Undeniable Perfume Spray. Photo by Daryl Bland
Photo courtesy of OliveSpa
OLIVESPA For those seeking locally-crafted gifts, OliveSpa, a Phoenix-based business, brings the amazing benefits of olive oil to skincare. Their chemical-free, handcrafted products, sourced from the Queen Creek Olive Mill, are deeply nourishing and perfect for holiday gifting. “Our most popular items during the holidays are gift boxes and bundles, which come ready to give,” shares Brenda Rea, co-owner of OliveSpa. Top sellers include lip balms, face oils, and olive oil soaps, which not only nourish the skin but also honor the time-tested tradition of using olive oil as a natural moisturizer. This holiday season, OliveSpa is celebrating the opening of its new Phoenix store on 24th Street, just south of Thomas. “This location allows customers to shop locally without having to travel to Queen Creek,” Rea explains. OliveSpa products are also available at the Queen Creek Olive Mill and Kierland Commons store. For those unable to shop in person, OliveSpa offers online ordering through its website, making their beautifully crafted, natural products accessible to everyone. Whether it’s a thoughtfully curated gift box or a luxurious face oil, OliveSpa’s offerings make for heartfelt, meaningful presents this holiday season.
Located at The Churchill in Phoenix, Cayla Gray’s shop also offers gift wrapping services, adding an extra touch of ease to the shopping experience.
2701 N. 24th St., Phoenix | www.olivespa.com
901 N. 1st St., Ste. 108, Phoenix | www.caylagray.com
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HUMMINGBIRD MARKET For the bird lover on your list, Hummingbird Market offers a meaningful and sustainable gift option. Specializing in premium feeders and expertly crafted nectar, this local business is dedicated to supporting the well-being of Arizona’s avian wildlife. Hummingbird Market’s nectar stands out for its unique formula, which replicates the nutrition hummingbirds naturally obtain from flowers. “We studied 237 flowers to replicate what hummingbirds consume in nature,” shares Douglas Everett, founder of Hummingbird Market. Their kits, featuring the Aspects Mini Feeder and proprietary nectar, are customer favorites. Designed to prevent leaks, deter pests, and ensure bird health, these kits make feeding hummingbirds both easy and responsible. Everett underscores the importance of proper feeding practices: “A good feeder is important, but keeping it clean and providing fresh nectar is essential.” By supporting Hummingbird Market, you’re not only giving a gift that delights bird enthusiasts but also contributing to the preservation of Arizona’s vibrant wildlife. For a holiday present that brings joy to people and supports nature, Hummingbird Market is an excellent choice. Multiple locations statewide | www.hummingbirdmarket.com Photo courtesy of AspectsUSA of Rhode Island
Photo courtesy of Lectric eBikes
LECTRIC EBIKES For adventure seekers and commuters alike, Lectric eBikes offers a practical and sustainable gift option. These foldable electric bikes make a thoughtful gift for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while exploring Arizona on two wheels. With a variety of models and accessories from which to choose, Lectric eBikes is a standout choice for a green and thoughtful holiday gift. 2311 W. Utopia Rd., | www.lectricebikes.com
STINKWEEDS For the music lover on your list, a gift from Stinkweeds record store in Phoenix is sure to surprise and delight. Specializing in vinyl records, this iconic shop offers a carefully curated selection to suit every taste. “If you come into the store equipped with bands that you know the person likes, we can find something similar, we can find something rare,” says Stinkweeds owner Kimber Lanning. “We can even introduce you to an artist or album you might not know about—there’s always something that will surprise and delight.” Founded in 1987, Stinkweeds has become a beloved local landmark, known for its thoughtful inventory and community-focused approach. “We’re a store for and by music lovers,” Lanning explains. “Unlike large chain stores, we live and breathe music every day, and our staff’s knowledge is key in helping customers find the perfect gift.” Beyond vinyl, Stinkweeds carries CDs, cassettes, and DECEMBER 2024
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brand is perfect for those with sensitivities to artificial fragrances or for anyone seeking cruelty-free, toxinfree options. The journey of Tracy Perkins, the owner of Strawberry Hedgehog, began in 2002 following a partial lung lobectomy due to health challenges. “I have a history of health challenges and a passion for smelly things,” she explains. “At the time, I worked part-time at ASU and a mall shop. I noticed my symptoms were far worse at the mall. I decided to avoid the things I’d been breathing in, but to do so, I felt like I needed to DIY. I started putting together body care for myself, and I felt so much better.” Over two decades later, she’s still crafting those same nourishing recipes for her loyal customers. Photo by Tracey Perkins
Photo by Kimber Lanning
music-inspired merchandise such as books, apparel, and unique gift items. Their used record section is especially prized for its high-quality, hard-to-find albums and rarities. “Shopping locally at Stinkweeds means more than just finding great music,” Lanning adds. “When you support us, you’re supporting the local economy. You’re also choosing a more sustainable option since second-hand stores are great for the environment.” During the holiday season, Stinkweeds elevates the shopping experience even further. “On Black Friday, we’ll have hundreds of limited edition vinyl releases from some of the biggest names in music,” Lanning shares. “We’re even setting up tents outside and opening early to make sure people can get their hands on these rare finds.” With its unique inventory, expert guidance, and dedication to the local community, Stinkweeds is a must-visit destination for gift-givers and music enthusiasts alike this holiday season. 12 W. Camelback Rd., | www.stinkweeds.com
STRAWBERRY HEDGEHOG Strawberry Hedgehog, a Phoenix-based vegan soap and body care brand, creates thoughtful, sustainable holiday gifts using unique natural ingredients. With vibrant hues derived from minerals like hematite and lapis and aromatic scents from pure essential oils, each product is crafted to delight the senses. The
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For the holidays, Strawberry Hedgehog offers themed soaps like Forest Chai, Candy Cane, and Yule Fire. Standout gift options include the best-selling Pink Soap Sampler Box, which comes in a bakery-style box with eight luxurious soap bars, and sample bags featuring six quarter-sized bars. Every item is handcrafted by Perkins herself, including intricately painted specialty soaps like the Green Man and Krampus. 1501 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix | www.strawberryhedgehog.com
pasture-raised pork, lamb, chicken, bison, venison, and elk—all reflecting a commitment to ethical farming practices and transparency.
CHANGING HANDS BOOKSTORE Changing Hands Bookstore, an iconic Arizona institution celebrating 50 years, offers a meaningful and engaging shopping experience this holiday season. With locations in Tempe and Phoenix, the store embraces the idea that books are the ultimate gift. “Books are entertaining, an escape, and an essential presence in humanity,” says co-owner Cindy Dach.
With exceptional customer service, the team happily provides cooking tips and custom cuts. The market also features fresh produce from local farmers and shelves stocked with other locally sourced foodie finds. For added convenience, they offer pre-prepared options alongside custom gift boxes and holiday packages. Perfect for those who value top quality, ethical eating, and supporting Arizona’s agricultural community, a gift from Arcadia Meat Market is as meaningful as it is delicious.
Books make timeless presents, connecting readers through shared stories and knowledge. Whether it’s an inspiring novel, a guide to mastering a new skill, or an invitation to escape into a different world, the store’s knowledgeable booksellers specialize in helping shoppers find the perfect match, making holiday gift-giving effortless. Beyond its extensive literary selection, Changing Hands also curates a variety of unique gifts, including puzzles, candles, handmade mugs, and toys that pair beautifully with their book offerings. At the Phoenix location, the wine and coffee bar adds another layer of charm, with their signature coffee blends available for purchase as thoughtful gifts.
3950 E. Indian School Rd. #130, Phoenix | www.arcadiameatmarket.com
LAUNDRY SAUCE Yes, even laundry can be transformed into the perfect holiday gift. Laundry Sauce proves that premium laundry care can be both luxurious and eco-friendly. Their high-quality Photo courtesy of Changing Hands detergent pods are crafted with biodegradable formulas and minimal packaging to prioritize sustainability. With elegant, sophisticated scents, Laundry Sauce turns a mundane chore into a small indulgence, making it an unexpected yet practical gift for the eco-conscious household.
Shopping at Changing Hands is about more than just finding the perfect present. “By shopping with us, you're supporting local businesses, keeping dollars in the community and engaging with like-minded people,” Dach notes. The store also enhances the holiday spirit with events like kids’ crafting workshops and pictures with the Grinch, making every visit a memorable experience. Locations in Tempe and Phoenix | www.changinghands.com
ARCADIA MEAT MARKET For the foodie in your life, Arcadia Meat Market offers a sustainable and thoughtful gift option. This whole-animal butcher shop specializes in pastureraised, all-natural meats sourced from the finest family-run farms and ranches across Arizona and beyond. Their wide selection includes grass-fed beef,
www.laundrysauce.com
CSA SUBSCRIPTION A subscription to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box is the ultimate gift that keeps on giving. Local Arizona farms like Singh Farms, Crooked Sky Farms, R.City, and Agritopia Farm deliver fresh, seasonal produce directly to your doorstep or set pick up location, making it a perfect choice for promoting healthy eating. By subscribing, you’re also supporting small-scale farmers and their dedication to fostering sustainable urban agriculture in Arizona. By choosing thoughtful, eco-conscious options this holiday season, you’re not only giving a gift but also making a meaningful impact on your community and the planet.
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Wrapping Up A Greener Holiday Season Your post-holiday clean up guide BY SHELBY TUTTLE
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The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also generate a significant amount of waste. With sparkly ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, tinsel, and ornaments aplenty, it can be tough to know what should go in the trash and what can be recycled. Spoiler alert: The holiday season can create a lot of extra work for our friends at the recycling center when we “wishcycle” holiday materials that can’t actually be recycled. By making conscious choices to sort our holiday waste responsibly — and repurpose items for later use — we can reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable season. Here are some quick tips:
tree recycling and composting programs, with information readily available on city websites. Flocked trees might not be accepted, so if you celebrate the season with a tree donned with faux snow, make sure to double check the guidelines.
PACKAGING AND WRAPPING
Artificial Trees: While artificial trees can be reused, they are not typically recyclable. If your artificial tree has seen better days, consider donating your old artificial tree to a charity or selling it online.
Cardboard Boxes: Break down cardboard boxes and flatten them to maximize space in recycling bins — this reduces space not just in your bin, but the recycle truck itself. Flattening your cardboard reduces the need for the recycle truck to expend more fuel and make extra trips to get all those Amazon Prime boxes to the plant. Remember to remove any plastic tape or labels before recycling. Wrapping Paper: Plain wrapping paper is recyclable. However, paper with glitter, foil, or metallic finishes cannot be recycled. You don’t have to get all the tape off before tossing it in the bin, but try to remove as much as possible. Gift Bags: Reusable gift bags are a fabulous alternative to wrapping paper, as they can easily be reused for years to come. Fold them up and store them away in a handy gift wrap organizer for future use. If you must toss them, do so in the recycle bin and follow the same rules for wrapping paper. Be sure to remove any fabric or plastic handles. Ribbons and Bows: Gift bows with paper backing are not recyclable, and neither are the pretty segments of ribbon used to decorate your packages. Ribbon can be an especially big problem for the commercial sorters used in recycling plants, getting tangled in the mechanisms. Consider reusing ribbons and bows for future gift-wrapping or crafting projects – or even skipping them altogether this season. CHRISTMAS TREES Real Trees: Many communities offer Christmas
CARDS AND DECORATIONS Cards: Plain paper cards can be recycled. However, cards with glitter, foil, or other non-paper elements should be thrown in the trash. Ornaments and Lights: These items can be reused or donated to charity. Broken or outdated ornaments can be recycled through specialized programs or disposed of in the trash. Tinsel: Tinsel is often made of plastic and poses the same threat to recycling equipment. Dispose of it in the trash or skip it altogether (especially as it can be a serious hazard for pets if they ingest it). Candles: Although there isn’t a need to recycle Hanukkah or Kwanzaa candles, you can do your part to make Hanukkah or Kwanzaa celebrations more sustainable by skipping traditional paraffin wax candles and opt for those made from natural materials like beeswax or soy. Menorahs and Kinaras: Opt for eco-friendly menorahs and kinaras made from sustainable materials — or make your own from repurposed materials — and reuse them for years to come. By incorporating these simple tips into your holiday routine, you can make a positive impact on the environment and enjoy a more sustainable holiday season. DECEMBER 2024
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Global Gifting Terrapass offers carbon offset credits to reduce harmful impacts to the planet BY MISTY MILIOTO
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According to The Nature Conservancy, the average carbon footprint — or the amount of greenhouse gasses that an activity, product, company, or country adds to the atmosphere — for a person in the United States is 16 tons — one of the highest rates in the world.
To put that number into perspective, globally, the average carbon footprint per person is closer to four tons. To have the best chance of avoiding a 2ºC rise in global temperatures, the nonprofit organization reports that the average global carbon footprint per year needs to drop to less than two tons by 2050.
Then, in 2007, Terrapass expanded its offerings to provide carbon offsets for individuals in other important areas such as air travel and home-energy consumption. The company also expanded into the business sector by offering a rental car offset program with Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
In addition to taking small actions, like eating less meat or line-drying laundry, another good way to reduce your carbon footprint is to purchase carbon offsets. Enter Houston-based Terrapass, a company formed in 2004 by Dr. Karl Ulrich, a professor at The Wharton School of business at the University of Pennsylvania, and a group of his students.
Today, the environmental company offers carbon offsets through the Terrapass Global Portfolio of projects. The portfolio is based on the Oxford Principals for Net Zero Aligned Offsetting, including engineered projects with strong permanence and quantification paired with nature-based projects that create additional benefits like: protecting valuable species and ecosystems; carbon reductions that prevent new carbon dioxide emissions from entering the atmosphere and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon society; and carbon removals that remove carbon dioxide emissions from the atmosphere.
“Terrapass was formed in the class, Problem Solving, Design and System Improvement, a second-quarter class in Wharton’s MBA program,” says Sam Telleen, president of Terrapass. “By the end of the class, Terrapass had acquired a couple hundred customers, and 41 students elected to retain equity and continue working on the business.” At that time, the company allowed individuals to offset their carbon emissions from driving. “The original Terrapass website would prompt users to enter the make, model, year, and annual mileage of their car in order to calculate their annual carbon emissions from driving,” Telleen says. “Then customers [had] an option to offset those emissions by purchasing carbon credits.” Within its first year, Terrapass registered more than 2,400 members and reduced 36 million pounds of carbon dioxide.
The well-established and proven project types are highly regarded by sustainability reporting agencies globally. Key project types include landfill gas destruction, industrial emission reduction, afforestation/reforestation/revegetation, improved forest management, and reduced emissions from deforestation and degradation. Examples include Capricorn Ridge 4 Wind Farm, the Doe Mountain Forestry Project, and the Maple Hill Landfill Project, among many others. Terrapass also develops custom project portfolios for commercial clients. “Our sustainability advisors help businesses find projects that are meaningful for their industry,
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operations, customers, and employees,” Telleen says. In addition to the company’s global portfolio for standard online purchases, Terrapass typically offers a few specific projects that online customers can choose to support. However, the company is currently expanding its strategic relationships with several projects, so this option is temporarily paused. Starting Jan. 1, Terrapass customers will see several exciting new projects from which to choose. “Many of these will be available to both individuals and businesses,” Telleen says. “These include smalllandowner forestry projects that help families protect and preserve their forest lands by preventing the need for logging to generate income. They also include projects that plug old abandoned oil wells that leak methane into the air and create pollution risks for local air and groundwater.” Every project that Terrapass chooses to support must meet certain criteria. For example, the company only offers carbon offsets that are sourced from projects that are reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the present day. “Carbon reduction projects fund their construction and ongoing operation by generating and selling carbon credits for 20-plus years,” Telleen explains. “While these older credits were created from valid carbon reductions, they can divert funding away from active carbon reduction projects that are issuing new credits into the market. Sourcing carbon credits from projects that are actively reducing carbon dioxide emissions ensures that Terrapass and our customers are supporting projects that continue to operate and reduce global carbon emissions every day.” Additionally, Terrapass’s carbon offsets are certified by set industry standards and verified by an independent, accredited third party.
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“In order to achieve the climate goals of the Paris Agreement, carbon offsets must achieve significant scale and a consistent level of high-integrity climate impact,” Telleen says. “This cannot be accomplished with organizations and projects all over the world acting independently and inconsistently. It requires strong and consistent global governance to ensure market fairness, efficiency, transparency, and fraud prevention.” Terrapass projects operate under registries approved by the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM), the leading global standard for effective governance, tracking, transparency, and robust independent third-party verification. “Currently, 100% of our carbon credits are verified by Gold Standard, Verified Carbon Standard, the Climate Action Reserve, and the American Carbon Registry,” Telleen says. ICVCM-approved registries adhere to several standards: effective governance (to ensure transparency, accountability, continuous improvement and the overall quality of carbon credits); tracking (to uniquely identify, record, and track project activities and carbon credits issued); transparency (providing comprehensive, transparent, and publicly available information on all project activities); and independent third-party validation. Terrapass projects also adhere to industry-leading standards to ensure that carbon credit purchases drive clear and impactful climate benefits. “This includes our commitment to continually grow our offering of ICVCM-approved project methodologies that are assessed for compliance with ICVCM Core Carbon Principles,” Telleen says. These project standards include what’s called additional (the carbon reduction would not happen
without sustained carbon credit funding); permanence (the carbon reduction cannot be reversed, or it is protected for at least 40 years); no double counting (the carbon reduction funded by a customer's purchase is theirs and theirs alone); rigorous and accurate quantification (carbon reductions represent genuine atmospheric impact that is determined in a transparent and replicable manner using robust, credible methodologies and baselines); and sustainable development benefits and safeguards (project activities follow industry best practices on social and environmental safeguards, while delivering positive sustainable development impacts). Terrapass also performs its own project-specific due diligence in addition to the project methodology and registry standards enforced by ICVCM. “We evaluate features that are unique to each project, including ownership, history, additionality, permanence, current operating status, site inspections, independent third-party assessments, and public information,” Telleen says.
In order for customers to decide how many carbon offset credits to purchase, Terrapass offers an emissions calculator on its website. The company also has a blog on its website that has an extensive library of topics to help customers with a wide variety of sustainability needs. While it’s always a good idea to purchase carbon offset credits, December is an important time of year for sustainability. “It is a time to reflect on what we accomplished and what we can still accomplish before the year is over,” Telleen says. For those on your holiday gift list who appreciate environmentally conscious ideas, you can give the gift of Terrapass through a downloadable Terrapass gift certificate, available on the Terrapass website. “The gift of Terrapass is special because it allows us to give to the planet on behalf of our family, friends, [and] clients. It is an opportunity to help someone end the year with hope and good feelings for our planet.” For more information, visit www.terrapass.com. DECEMBER 2024
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SAVOR
Savor the Season Sustainably M Culinary’s secrets to an eco-friendly holiday celebration BY TYLER BUTLER
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Creating a holiday party that’s both chic and eco-friendly is simpler than you think! The experts at M Culinary share their top tips for hosting a celebration that delights your guests and supports the planet. CRAFT A CONSCIOUS MENU Use Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporating seasonal produce not only enhances the flavors of your dishes but also reduces your event’s environmental impact. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, like winter greens and root vegetables, minimize energy-intensive transportation while delivering fresh, farm-to-table flavors your guests will love. Offer a Plant-Based Spread: Plant-based dishes are a win for both taste and sustainability. M Culinary’s chefs create vibrant, plant-forward
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menus using locally sourced vegan and vegetarian ingredients. From roasted vegetable medleys to hearty plant-based entrées, these dishes are as satisfying as they are eco-conscious. DESIGN FOR A GREEN GATHERING Ditch Single-Use Items: Replace single-use plastics with elegant, reusable serving ware. Glass, ceramic, and metal options add a sophisticated touch while reducing waste. For leftovers, provide compostable to-go containers that are eco-friendly without compromising style.
Opt for Reusable Linens and Décor: Reusable tablecloths, napkins, and decor not only elevate your party’s ambiance but also reduce landfill waste. Highquality cloth linens and sustainable decor make a big impact while emphasizing your commitment to sustainability. GIVE BACK AFTER THE EVENT Compost Food Scraps: Turn your party’s food waste into something valuable by composting. Partnering with organizations like the Arizona Worm Farm ensures that scraps are transformed into nutrient-rich compost or chicken feed, supporting local communities in the process. Donate Leftovers: Spread holiday cheer by donating safe, unused food to local shelters or food banks. It’s a meaningful way to give back during the season of giving. Be sure to check with local organizations in advance for donation guidelines or enlist your catering vendor to help with logistics. With these expert tips, your holiday celebration can be as thoughtful to the planet as it is memorable for your guests. Cheers to a greener, more festive season!
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SAVOR
From Skyscrapers to Wellness
The rise of Jill Portman and GOOD Pharma BY VONCELLE MULL
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Born and raised in Chicago, Jill Portman began her career as an interior architect and designer, immediately making her mark right out of college by constructing massive skyscrapers. In a male-dominated field, she distinguished herself with her ability to see the world in three dimensions and her unparalleled problem-solving skills.
For more than seven years, Jill thrived in this challenging environment, driven by her passion for making things bigger and better. However, amidst her professional success, Jill felt a growing need to reflect on her humanness and how she saw the world. She had always led a healthy lifestyle, frequenting independent health food stores to create her own vegan meals long before it became mainstream. This commitment to health and wellness would later become the foundation of her future ventures. THE TEA HOUSE VISION Jill's global travels and market studies revealed a significant insight: while coffee dominated the American beverage landscape,
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tea had the potential to be the next big enterprise. Inspired by the cultural richness she experienced abroad, Jill envisioned blending Eastern and Western traditions to create a unique tea concept in the United States. This idea led her to leave her career in architecture and design, and open a tea house in San Francisco, which eventually evolved into her first brand, Mighty Leaf. Mighty Leaf quickly gained popularity, and Jill successfully scaled the business until 2014, when she sold it to Peet's Coffee. Reflecting on this period, Jill said, "When I sold it, I believe I slept for two years because of the stress."
This hiatus allowed her to rebuild her health and gather inspiration for her next venture. THE BIRTH OF GOOD PHARMA With a wealth of knowledge from partners and herbalists worldwide, Jill embarked on a new journey to create a brand that would marry Eastern modalities with tea. She assembled a handful of brilliant scientists, and over four years, they developed a product line that stands out in the crowded wellness market for several reasons. Unlike many tea brands, GOOD Pharma’s infusers are made from corn, and its high-quality, globally sourced ingredients are free from GMOs while ensuring an unparalleled taste experience. Each of the four offerings – Brain Gain, No Worries, Resilience, and Rest Assured — offers distinct health benefits, making them a staple for wellness enthusiasts. Each proprietary blend is packed with full spectrum herbal and/or mushroom extracts and amino acids for a wide range of needs, including cognitive support, stress relief, sleep support, and stamina support.
today that wellness is being embraced and understood at a level that is well beyond, and people are recognizing that they do need to slow down." GOOD Pharma’s innovative "Meetings that Matter" pairings allow resorts and hotels to elevate their banquet and catering experiences with wellnessbased beverages. This integration of wellness into various aspects of hospitality enhances the overall guest experience, making it a key differentiator for businesses in the industry.
Just as Jill and the team were ready to launch, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed unexpected challenges. During this period, the wellness and spa community emerged as a significant supporter of GOOD Pharma. "The spa community is amazing, and their hearts are so open," Jill remarked. Spas and resorts began using GOOD Pharma products as welcome teas for relaxation, immunity boosts, and post-treatment detoxifying mocktails. This acceptance paved the way for GOOD Pharma to expand its reach into hotels and other businesses in the hospitality industry. EMBRACING WELLNESS IN HOSPITALITY GOOD Pharma's expansion into the hospitality sector is a testament to its versatility and appeal. Recognizing the growing demand for wellness amenities, hotels have embraced GOOD Pharma's products as part of their offerings. Jill highlighted this trend, stating, "We recognize
THE FUTURE OF GOOD PHARMA Jill Portman's journey from constructing skyscrapers to building a wellness empire is a story of vision, strength, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Her ability to foresee trends and her commitment to health and wellness has positioned GOOD Pharma as a leader in the luxury wellness beverage market. As GOOD Pharma continues to grow, consumers can look forward to more innovative products that combine the best of Eastern and Western traditions. Jill's dedication to creating exquisite, health-focused beverages ensures that GOOD Pharma will remain a staple for those seeking both luxury and wellness. DECEMBER 2024
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SAVOR
Recipes
The Thirsty Lion’s Black Cherry BBQ Pork Tenderloin Ingredients 2 cups apple brine marinade (recipe below) 1 lb trimmed pork tenderloin 1 ½ tablespoons of BBQ seasoning rub of your choice Black cherry barbeque sauce
Apple Brine Marinade Ingredients ½ gallon apple cider or apple juice 1 gallon water ½ cup salt Directions
Directions Prior to cooking, marinate the pork tenderloin in apple brine marinade for 24 hours. Remove tenderloin from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Thoroughly coat the pork tenderloin with a BBQ rub of your choice. Place the meat in a cold smoker with the setting at 200°F and turn it on. Place wood chips in the smoker box. Place the seasoned pork onto the cooking racks while the smoker is still cold. Let it cook for 60 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees, remove from the smoker, and let it cool. If the pork does not reach the desired temperature within 60 minutes, remove the meat from the smoker and place it into a 300-degree oven until the internal temperature reaches 130 degrees. Once the temperature is met, place the tenderloin on a char-broiler until lightly charred. Continually baste with the unused apple brine marinade to prevent drying. Continue cooking to achieve an interval temperature of 145°F and baste with the black cherry BBQ sauce. Remove meat, let it rest, and cut into half-inch slices.
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Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Black Cherry BBQ Sauce Ingredients 1 cup bourbon 8 ounces sun-dried cherries ⅓ cup cherries (pitted) ½ cup lemon juice 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 ½ cups water 4 cups barbeque sauce of your choice 1 ½ cup cornstarch Directions Place cherries and bourbon in a pan and cook on a medium heat until the bourbon is absorbed and begins to evaporate. Add lemon, cinnamon, and water to the pan and bring mixture to a boil, then add the BBQ sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Add cornstarch and mix to thicken. Remove from heat and let sauce rest in the refrigerator.
Marquise au Chocolat
A FRENCH FROZEN CHOCOLATE MOUSSE WITH SOME CRUNCH – DECADENT AND GLUTEN FREE A FRENCH CHRISTMAS RECIPE SHARED BY THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF GREATER PHOENIX WWW.AFPHX.ORG “I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS RECIPE THAT WAS MY GRANDMA’S FAVORITE DISH TO MAKE FOR CHRISTMAS!” – BLANDINE, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF PHOENIX
Ingredients for the marquise 8 oz bittersweet chocolate (min 52% of cacao) 6 oz butter, softened 4 large eggs (separate yolks and whites) ½ cup powdered sugar ½ cup sliced almonds ½ cup chopped pistachios ¼ cup of finely grated orange peels 1 tbsp of coffee (liquid, the stronger the better) 1 tbsp of rum (optional, for the kick) Ingredients for the topping ¼ cup chopped pistachios ¼ cup sliced almonds Few glazed orange peel strips Edible Christmas decorations can be used for toppings. Directions Using a double-boiler, melt chocolate and butter together until smooth and shiny. Turn off heat, add rum and coffee, mixing with spatula. Let it cool down. In a dry skillet, toast the almonds and pistachios over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and just beginning to brown slightly. Break the eggs, separating the white and the yolk. Add the yolk and powdered sugar to the chocolate mixture, mixing constantly. Then add the grated orange peels. In a separate bowl, or mixer bowl if you own one, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks. When you lift the whisk, the peaks should hold their shape. With extreme gentleness, fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in stages, using the spatula. Mix gently until the mixture is well-combined. Line a rectangular dish (like a loaf pan) with parchment paper, cutting the corner so it doesn’t leave any wrinkles on your frozen dessert. Pour half of the mousse mixture into the dish. Add on one layer of the toasted almonds and pistachios. Then, pour the rest of the mousse mixture on top of it. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for at least 6 hours. The good thing about this dessert is that you can prepare it weeks in advance. Take it out of the freezer one hour before serving. Remove from the pan and place in a serving dish. For decorating, extra crunch, and taste, sprinkle almonds, pistachios and glazed orange peels on top of it. French people like to serve it with whipped cream or custard.
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TRAVEL
Meet the Makers
Welcome to Tupelo Mural.
Tupelo, Mississippi, is home to a growing number of entrepreneurs who are strengthening the city’s social fabric BY MISTY MILIOTO
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Tupelo, known for being the birthplace of Elvis Presley, is a small town in northeast Mississippi that’s brimming with culture. While Tupelo definitely still has small-town charm, it’s also bustling with hip hotels, street murals, farm-fresh restaurants, and plenty of entrepreneurs who are making their mark on the city. No matter where you decide to explore, you’re sure to find friendly faces and a warm welcome. WHERE TO STAY HOTEL TUPELO
Located in the historic Fairpark District, Hotel Tupelo is smack dab in the middle of Tupelo’s dining and shopping scene. This boutique hotel features sophisticated design thanks to mid-century modern furniture, mood lighting and unexpected touches like sheet music on the walls. The two Premier Suites
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(the Tupelo Suite and the Elvis-inspired King's Suite) are the largest of the room offerings at 912 square feet. They also boast Main Street views, one king bed, two oversized TVs, double bath vanities, a separate parlor with a dining table for six, a living area with queen-sized sleeper sofa, a wet bar, and another half bath. Hotel Tupelo also offers ADA-accessible rooms with features like audible or visual alarms, closed captioning on TVs, grab bars in the bathrooms, and
enlarged door openings. All rooms feature plush platform beds with cozy custom throws, wallmounted reading lights, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, Muro bath products, and local coffees and teas. Pet-friendly rooms are available. Be sure to stop by the lobby restaurant and bar, Jobos, which serves modern coastal cuisine for breakfast and dinner and a specialty weekend brunch. Meanwhile, the bar serves up fantastic cocktails. Try The Daisy, made with Lunazul Tequila, Triple Sec, and citrus juice. 314 E. Main St., 662-362-6200, www.hoteltupelo.com WHAT TO SEE ELVIS PRESLEY BIRTHPLACE & MUSEUM Upon arriving at the Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum, visitors will first notice a 1939 green Plymouth sedan (a replica of the car that the Presley family drove on their move from Tupelo to Memphis). From there, it is recommended to start the tour at the Walk of Life, a scored concrete circle surrounding the house where Hotel Tupelo.
Elvis Presely Birthplace & Museum.
Elvis was born, that denotes each year of Elvis’ life from 1935 to 1977. In the middle of the circle stands a statue, “Elvis at 13,” which memorializes Elvis in his youth. From there, take a step back in time while visiting the modest two-room house where the King of Rock & Roll was born. Also make time to see Elvis’ childhood church where he was first introduced to Southern gospel music. Meanwhile, the Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel, also on the museum grounds, features beautiful stainedglass windows and serves as a place for meditation. Finally, be sure to check out the museum, featuring artifacts, audiovisual presentations, and more. 306 Elvis Presley Drive, 662-841-1245, www.elvispresleybirthplace.com NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY Located along the Natchez Trace (one of the nation’s top 10 national parks), the Tupelo-headquartered Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile tree-canopied route dotted with picturesque views of hardwood forests, wetlands, waterfalls, and overlooks. While visitation to Natchez Trace is primarily by car, the park winds through three states (Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee), and it has 25 nature and guided trails totaling more than 60 miles. The park also doubles as a historical site due to the various landmarks that can be accessed by trail throughout the park. www.nps.gov/natr DECEMBER 2024
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TALBOT HOUSE BAKERY & CAFE As a social enterprise of Talbot House (a safe, stable, and supportive living environment for women transitioning from a drug and alcohol treatment program to independent sober living), Talbot House Bakery & Cafe (and Talbot House Production Kitchen) provides employment and job readiness to women in early recovery. The bakery is known for its enormous cinnamon rolls, handmade with love and loaded with ooey-gooey icing. 101 N. Industrial Road, 662-260-4318, www.talbothousetupelo.org/bakery Quenn's Reward Meadery.
Natchez Trace Parkway.
THE MAKERS BLUE DELTA JEANS Offering bespoke men’s and women’s jeans made from raw-denim, Blue Delta Jeans employs more than 70 local artisans and seamstresses. Each pair of jeans goes through a unique 16-step process, and seamstresses hand sew each and every garment locally in the Tupelo shop. Stop by for a fitting with a stylist, then choose from more than 40 pant colors across seven materials, along with your thread, cut, fit, and monogram — and voila, you have a pair of custom jeans that fits your size, shape, and style to a T. 1318 Palmetto Road, Verona, MS 38879, 888-963-7879, www.bluedeltajeans.com LOST + FOUND COFFEE CO. What started as a small pop-up coffee bar has now grown into a full-service brick-and-mortar coffee shop. Lost + Found Coffee roasts its own specialty Tupelo coffee, and the team focuses on coffee education so that guests leave with more than just a tasty cup of java. Try the lavender latte, or be spontaneous and order a drink from The Lab (a selection of drinks that changes every few weeks). Food items — like pizza bagels and cake truffles — also are on the menu. 910 Robert E. Lee Extended, 662-269-3675, www.lostandfoundcoffee.co
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QUEEN’S REWARD MEADERY Founded by Jeri Carter, this woman-owned business first began making mead (a combination of honey, yeast, and water) as a hobby. After two of her meads won in national competitions, she decided to bring the full experience of mead to Mississippi. Not only does she solely use honey produced in Mississippi, she also crafts each bottle with tender-loving care. Try a mead tasting to discover all of the current meads and to get a sense of the range that Carter produces — from dry to sweet. Drop in during one of the regular events (such as the Mead & Read Book Exchange on Dec. 13) and spend some time in the honeycombinspired space. 1719 McCullough Blvd., 662-823-6323, www.queensreward.com
searching for a way to generate extra income. While brainstorming ideas with friends, the idea of a custom charcuterie business was born. Today, Hall designs gorgeous charcuterie boards using repurposed wood. She offers lunch, grab-and-go charcuterie boxes, specialty orders (like cheeseballs, Mississippi caviar, and turkey sliders), classes and events, Saturday brunch, and a gourmet food retail section. 603 Clayton Ave., 662-350-3164, www.charcutie.online RAW WICK & WOOD
CharCutie.
CHARCUTIE
Founded by Michael and Andrea Gibson, RAW Wick & Wood was born from a dream to build a pole barn for their family home. Michael, who had no experience in barn-building, studied and built the barn from scratch. Finding a new love of building, he tried his hand at building furniture for their home. One thing led to another, and the couple opened RAW Wick & Wood to offer custom-designed hand-made furniture, candles, and more. For a truly bespoke piece of furniture, simply choose your species of wood, design style, size, color, and finish. Meanwhile, Andrea offers hand-poured soy candles made in-house using all-natural ingredients produced by American farmers. 120 W. Main St., 662.321.9388, https://sites.google.com/view/rawwickandwood
An adorable concept kitchen located in the heart of Tupelo, CharCutie came about during the summer of 2020 when single mother Stephanie Hall was RAW Wick & Wood.
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DESIGN
Architecture
Pioneering Sustainable Change Anthony Floyd's journey in green building
Beaulieu Residence.
BY TYLER BUTLER
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In green building, few are as influential as Anthony Floyd. With a career rooted in sustainability, Floyd has transformed environmental practices in Arizona and beyond. As a licensed architect and senior green building and energy code consultant for the City of Scottsdale, Floyd has been instrumental in positioning Arizona as a leader in sustainable construction. Through initiatives like Scottsdale’s Green Building Program and the adoption of the International Green Construction Code (IgCC), Floyd has reshaped urban development, fostering a more sustainable future and inspiring the next generation of green innovators. Floyd’s journey into sustainability was sparked in the 1970s during the environmental awakening of that era. Studying civil engineering and architecture while influenced by groundbreaking works like Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring, he became deeply aware of the dangers of unchecked industrial growth. A pivotal moment came during a visit to an autonomous house in the Virgin Islands. This innovative home – which generated its own electricity, harvested rainwater, and recycled wastewater – left a lasting impression, solidifying Floyd’s lifelong commitment to sustainable living and design.
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Floyd’s commitment to sustainability deepened during a summer apprenticeship at Arcosanti, an experimental town envisioned by architect Paolo Soleri in Yavapai County. Designed to harmonize architecture with ecology, Arcosanti’s philosophy profoundly resonated with Floyd. While there, he attended a seminar exploring the evolution of Earth and human civilization, juxtaposing untouched nature with modern urban life. This transformative experience instilled in him a lasting appreciation for the delicate balance between development and conservation—a principle that has guided his career ever since.
In 1988, Floyd joined the City of Scottsdale as a building official, embarking on a journey that would reshape the city’s approach to building regulations and sustainability. His impact was first felt in 1998 when he launched Scottsdale’s Green Building Program, making Scottsdale the first city in Arizona, and only the fifth in the nation, to implement such a program. The initiative, aimed at advancing environmentally responsible building practices, featured a comprehensive rating checklist, builder incentives, and public outreach efforts such as lecture series and home tours, all designed to increase awareness and adoption of sustainable practices. This program laid the groundwork for Floyd’s next major achievement: Scottsdale’s adoption of the IgCC, a comprehensive building code that mandates green construction practices. Championing the IgCC positioned Scottsdale as a trailblazer in sustainable urban development. Implementing the IgCC required reconciling differing views among Scottsdale’s advisory groups, but Floyd’s commitment to collaboration ultimately brought stakeholders together, enabling Scottsdale to set a national example. Floyd’s impact extends far beyond Scottsdale, shaping sustainable building practices on a global scale. As a committee member of the International Code Council’s Sustainable Building Technology Committee, he helped draft the IgCC and the National Green Building Standard. He also served as Vice Chair of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Green Codes Committee, working to remove barriers to sustainable building methods. His expertise has garnered speaking invitations at international conferences, including the World Organization of Building Officials in Dubai. One of Floyd’s recent accomplishments is his pivotal
role in Scottsdale’s LEED Gold mandate, which requires all new city buildings and major renovations to meet rigorous sustainability standards. As a liaison with Scottsdale’s Public Works division, Floyd ensures that new projects are designed with sustainability at their core, positioning Scottsdale as a model in environmentally conscious urban planning. In addition to his professional work, Floyd shares his expertise with students and aspiring architects as a faculty associate at Arizona State University and Scottsdale Community College. Through courses on green building codes and sustainability practices, he emphasizes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and resource management, preparing the next generation to drive sustainable building innovations forward. Looking ahead, Floyd envisions tremendous potential for innovation in renewable energy, heat island mitigation, and construction waste management, particularly in the arid Southwest. He believes that by embracing these opportunities, Arizona can further minimize its environmental footprint and become a model for regions facing similar climate challenges. Floyd’s impact on sustainable building in Arizona has been transformative. Through Anthony Floyd. his groundbreaking work with Scottsdale’s Green Building Program, his leadership in implementing the IgCC, and his dedication to education, Floyd has established a benchmark for environmental responsibility that resonates well beyond Arizona’s borders. His journey is a testament to vision, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to building a more sustainable future. Floyd’s career stands as an inspiring example of how one individual’s dedication to sustainability can spark meaningful change and leave an enduring legacy.
DECEMBER 2024
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She’s GREEN He’s GREEN BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART
She
She Said: I was surprised at how many people filed into the studio. Maybe dance class is the new thing to do because it was FULL. I also noticed that if I had worn the dress I was considering, I would have looked like I actually knew how to salsa. There wasn't a dress in sight. The wardrobe ranged from Converse and jeans, to dance shoes and leggings. Thank goodness, because I wore converse to avoid breaking my ankle in dress shoes. Our lovely instructor, Sarah, curated a very welcoming space, encouraging the beginner group of various-aged singles and couples to have fun, relax, and “make mistakes here and not out on the dance floor.” She began class with an interesting history lesson on the origins of salsa dance. Her passionate energy for all things dance really loosened up the crowd, so I felt encouraged to try my best and enjoy learning something a bit out of my comfort zone. I loved the music.
Dance class: Beginning Salsa Ward away those winter blues, try a new idea for date night, or give a creative gift this season with a dance class! From ballroom dancing to bellydancing, there's something for everyone, and it's pretty much guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It certainly did for us! With its origins in Cuba and influences from mambo,cumbia, swing, and jazz, Salsa sounded like a fun choice for our first dance class experience.
It's the type that your body just responds to – you can't sit still. John and I were definitely dancing like we had two left feet though (or would that be four? Hmm), but we laughed, and Sarah was there to coach our form in a sweet way with lots of smiles. I felt like I was grooving fairly ok, until a quick glance in the mirror. Eek. My mind and muscles were at odds, apparently, because I looked more stiff than spicy. I'll just up my collagen intake and keep practicing. I'd like to take a few more classes so we could actually go out dancing at a salsa club. Maybe even try country dance classes as well (seemed like John is a natural at 2-step anyway). It was a fun date night to shake things up (literally!). I'd highly recommend trying a dance class, especially if you get a fun instructor who clearly loves people and dancers as much as ours.
He
He Said: We got spicy this month and decided to take a salsa dancing lesson. I totally walked into the dance studio with some false bravado. See, I grew up surrounded by this kind of music and dance. My mom taught Salsa and African dance for most of my childhood. When I was little, I used to fall asleep in her classes and then wake up when the drumming stopped. So I thought all that experience was going to make it easy to learn the beginner salsa steps...wrong! We started in lines learning a simple three step pattern, and I immediately started wishing there weren't mirrors on the walls. Seriously, I looked like Frankenstein doing the twostep. We practiced a forward step and a side step, and then it was time to partner dance. We decided that I would lead and Jen would follow, which was a mistake because Jen was already way better at this than I was. We got into the groove a few times, but for the most part we were like a couple of awkward middle schoolers dancing offbeat. I stepped on Jen's foot more times than I would like to admit.This was definitely a humbling experience, but we still had fun! And it was really nice just to be out dancing with my wife.
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Your Key to the Community Community, Philanthropy & Lifestyle
The Spring Issue 2024 frontdoorsmedia.com
Community, Philanthropy & Lifestyle
The Holiday Issue 2024 frontdoorsmedia.com
Community, Philanthropy & Lifestyle
FALL 2024 The Arts & Culture Issue frontdoorsmedia.com
THE HOLIDAY ISSUE! + Festive Fashions + Jackson Hole Travel + Pratt Brothers’ Dazzling Lights + More!
Black Theatre Troupe
‘We Love
A Season of
Leadership
This Community!’
10 things to know about Steve and Ardie Evans FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE
|1
Pamela Overton Risoleo talks law, philanthropy and tradition
Building, Surviving, Thriving
THE ARTS & CULTURE ISSUE! + Childsplay + Heard Museum + Phoenix Gay Men’s Chorus + More!
Community, Philanthropy & Lifestyle
DECEMBER 2024
| GREEN L IV I NG 57
GREEN
Scenes
December Events Throughout Arizona THROUGHOUT ARIZONA December 14 through January 4 Arizona Christmas Bird Counts Join the Maricopa Audubon Society for the annual Christmas Bird Count, a cherished tradition for bird enthusiasts of all levels! Help observe and count local birds within a designated area on the day of your choice. Your count data will help conservationists monitor the health of Arizona’s avian population. Beginners can take an Arizona Field Ornithologist online workshop and the eBird Essentials course, which offer tips and instructions on how to get started. There is no cost to participate. Dates and times vary, multiple locations statewide.
December 11-12
December 13
Indoor Farming Workshop
Seed Pellet Workshop: Estrella
Discover the future of agriculture at this two-day workshop presented by Arizona State University. The hands-on workshop includes presentations and training designed to help attendees build skills in indoor vertical farming, nutrient and lighting management, and hydroponic installation. Lunch and a parking pass are provided. Free. Pre-registration is required due to attendance capacity. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 850 N. 5th Street, Suite 130, Phoenix.
Learn how to create seed pellets that help distribute indigenous plant species back into the desert. Seed pellets reestablish natural ecosystems and prevent invasive species from taking over. Bring your snacks and water, and wear long sleeves, pants, gloves, and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself from spiky desert plants. Families are welcome, with a recommended age of five years or older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard Avenue, Goodyear.
December 19 Sunset & Sips
December 12-14 Phoestivus 2024 Celebrate community and creativity at this festive event with over 200 local vendors offering unique gifts, delicious food, and seasonal drinks, including the famous Phoestivus Ale. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and the quirky Phosestivus Pole. Support local businesses, shop sustainable and creative products, and embrace the fun energy inspired by the Seinfeld holiday, Festivus. Dogs are welcome! Suggested donation of $5 per person upon entry. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday/Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 720 N. 5th Street, Phoenix.
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Unwind with breathtaking views at Taliesin West. Dress in your festive cocktail attire and listen to music as you explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic architecture. Enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset and participate in holiday activities such as creating an ornament to hang on the Dining Room’s Christmas Tree. Don’t miss this joyful blend of art, design, and nature. Charcuterie boxes are available for purchase. Ticket includes one drink. $37/$42 adults, $33.30/$37.80 members, $20 youth (20 and under). 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Scottsdale.
For information and links about these events and others, visit www.greenlivingmag.com/calendar
NORTHERN ARIZONA December 5-31
SOUTHERN ARIZONA
Magical Christmas Journey All aboard! Experience the wonder of the holiday season with a train ride through an illuminated wonderland with Verde Canyon Railroad. Revel in music, hot chocolate, and festival lights as you hang out with Santa and his elves. Visit the North Pole village featuring Santa’s Workshop, the Reindeer Barn, and the Elf School. Perfect for families, this enchanting adventure brings holiday magic to life. Choose from multiple dates and departure times throughout December. $60 (ages 11 and older), $40 (ages 10 and under). 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale.
December 9, 11, 14 The GIANT Cactus Walk Join a Saguaro National Park (East District) ranger for a short walk to visit giant saguaros and learn about these Sonoran Desert icons. The saguaro cactus, a keystone species, is a marvel of resilience and ecological significance, providing shelter and food to desert species. Hiking boots are recommended for this flat, ¾ mile hike. Remember to bring sunscreen and water. Free. 9 a.m., Rincon Mountain Visitor Center, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson.
December 13-15 55th Annual Winter Street Fair
December 7 Sustainable Gift Making
Enjoy a day in Tucson’s historic district at this bi-annual winter fair on Fourth Avenue. This renowned event attracts over 350,000 visitors! Bring the family to enjoy live entertainment, over 40 food vendors, and original artwork from hundreds of artists. Free. Friday/ Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fourth Avenue between E. University Blvd and E. 8th Street, Tucson.
Bring your kids to Science Saturday at the Willow Bend Environmental Education Center for a fun, hands-on holiday activity! Families can explore creativity while crafting unique, sustainable gifts from eco-friendly materials. It is a fantastic way to learn about environmental responsibility while creating gifts that friends and family will cherish. Free. Drop-in between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m., 703 E. Sawmill Road, Flagstaff.
December 15 Geology Hike Explore Sedona’s stunning geology with a guided Red Rock State Park hike. Learn how millions of years of erosion along the Mogollon Rim resulted in colorful formations and landscapes. The afternoon begins with a presentation in the theater before setting out with volunteer guides to hike the park’s scenic trails. Expect to spend two hours at the park. Remember to bring sunscreen and water. Wear your hiking boots. Free. Reservations are required. 1 p.m., 4050 Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona.
December 14 30th Annual Downtown Parade of Lights Celebrate the holidays at this parade and festival in downtown Tucson. Enjoy a delightful procession of colorful floats, baile folklórico dancers, mariachis, and a visit from Santa at the end of the parade! Food trucks are available throughout the parade route. Free. The festival is from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and the parade starts at 6:30 p.m. Armory Park, 220 S. 6th Avenue, Tucson.
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