Green Living May 2017

May 2017

Women’s

Beauty & Sty le

Issue!

Five Expert Hot-Weather Hair Tips US $5.95

Moms Clean Air Force: Empowering Parents to Fight Air Pollution

Managing Water for a Better Arizona Future

Spa Escape Package $99 1 Hour Massage 1 Hour Facial Celebrating

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SPeCIAL ADVERTISEMENT

McDowell Mountain Music Festival Surpasses 90% Waste Diversion!

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Did you know that the McDowell Mountain Music Festival (M3F) is Arizona's only 100 percent nonprofit music festival? Founded in 2004

by Wespac Construction, M3F is an annual three-day music festival featuring some of the best in musical talent. Recent performers include The Shins, Grouplove, Beck, Kid Cudi, Porter Robinson, Flume, and many more.

M3F donated all $150,000 of festival proceeds to two local nonprofits this year: Phoenix Children’s Hospital and uMom New Day Centers. “It’s amazing how our fan base has grown to support this event,” said John Largay, Founder of M3F and CEO of Wespac. “We are excited to give back to the community each and every year.”

Why would a construction company create a music festival, you might ask? “The circus goes in, and the circus goes out,” said Largay. “It’s no different from a job site. Our logistical minds are what make it successful,” he continued. They focus on leaving no trace and treating the M3F site with care.

Not only does M3F bring together the community to experience music, culture, art and food, sustainability is also a large focus of the Festival. By partnering with the community, M3F was able to achieve 90.92 percent diversion from landfill (compost and recycle) this year!

“It’s an educational process,” said JJ Stewart, Project Manager, Wespac Construction. “Getting the right products in the food vendors’ hands, getting the information out to the festival-goers, setting up the festival with the right tents and dumpsters. It’s a progression and an education to have everyone involved understand the ultimate good.

This year was our best year ever.”

Additionally, Wespac practices sustainability and recycling diversion on all of their construction projects. “Sustainability is a social conscious. You have to think it’s important and make it part of your life,” said Largay. “Is it mandated? No. But is it important? Yes.” Thank you to the following partners who helped us achieve 90.92 percent waste diversion at this year’s festival: Wespac Waste Management / GRO-WELL Zero Hero Quality Building Maintenance Singh Farms Green Living Magazine Leafware, Unlimited Bag, and Sunlight Sales Volunteers and festival goers Stay tuned for next year’s festival dates! Visit mmmf.com for more.

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71.8 recycle

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Diversion from landfill (compost and recycle) at just over 90.92%

May 2017 | greenliving

3

Spot Someone Tossing Litter From Their Car? Call the Statewide Arizona Litter Hotline at 1-877-3LITTER (877-354-8837) or Report online at kazb.org

A joint program of: &

Yours in practicing a greener lifestyle PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR COPY EDITOR

Dorie Morales Amanda Harvey Misty Voitovski Rachel Luman

ADVISORY BOARD Veronica Bahn Ken Edwins Jon Kitchell Eric Olsen

Valerie Crosby William Janhonen Mary McCormick Thomas Williams

CONTRIBUTORS Rosanne Albright Jill Bernstein Kathy Brown Jennifer Burkhart John Burkhart Dawson Fearnow Aaron Fernando Tanya Glos Kamilla Graham Susan Lanier-Graham Tracey Martin Voncelle Mull Loren North Gretchen Pahia David Schaller Ashley Schimke Katherine Smith May Michelle Talsma Everson Julia Wright

MEDIA CONSULTANTS Susan Breakstone Joel Dawkins

EDITORIAL/SOCIAL MEDIA INTERNS Amanda Gardley Riley Hoffman Emily Powell Bharat Venkatesh GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN Veronica Wierer

We at Witnessing Nature provide whole organic food through personal chef services. Don’t have time to cook but still want to provide guests with healthy, delicious options at your next party? Want to learn how to cook amazing new meals? I cook in your home or cater, and provide wonderful cooking classes for everyone looking for a nice healthy meal.

Download the new free app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store! Search “Chef Jennifer”

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Main: info@greenlivingaz.com Advertising: sales@greenlivingaz.com Editorial: editor@greenlivingaz.com 480.840.1589

7575 E. Redfield Road #219, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 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 unsolicited or contributed manuscripts, photographs, artwork or advertisements. Entire contents © 2016 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 $39 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. Green Living magazine is printed on recycled paper.

4 greenliving | May 2017

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departments features

16

Brain Fitness

May 2017

on the cover

32

4 Communication Tips for Challenging Conversations

To celebrate our May Women’s Beauty & Style issue, we featured Miranda Y., a 20-year-old Arizona resident who loves to write and perform music and goes green by recycling and gardening.

Photo by Heidi Mixon Imagery.

38

Issue!

Five Expert Hot-Weather Hair Tips US $5.95

Moms Clean Air Force: Empowering Parents to Fight Air Pollution

Managing Water for a Better Arizona Future

40 Master Gardener Monthly: A Letter to the Black-Thumb Crew

8 Take the First Step Toward a Healthful, De-Cluttered Kitchen NOW 10 5 Expert Hot-Weather Hair Care Tips 11 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Personal Care Products 12 7 DIY Health, Beauty and Wellness Tips to Try this May 14 2017 Spa Trends from Washington Spa Alliance Symposium 19 Sustainability Growth in Developing Countries 20 Did You Know? Fun Green Facts 21 Actress Clarissa Burt on Empowering Women and Clean Beauty 22 Climate Change Series: Pima County 24 Managing Water for a Better Arizona Future 25 10 Native Edible Plants & Flowers 26 Arcosanti: Living in Synergy with the World

41

Now is the Time to Discover the Benefits of Memoir Writing

42 Moms Clean Air Force: Empowering Parents to Fight Air Pollution

25

BEAUTY & STYLE GIFTS: 28-29

44 43 Launch Party Photo Collage 44 Girl Scouts Gain Sustainable New Space 46 Birdseeds of Knowledge:

work green

A Nature-Observing Activity

30 Women in Leadership 34 Local Banking Roundup: Infusing Capital Into Arizona With Sustainable Practices

37 Land Recycling is the Ultimate in Sustainable Development

36 greenlivingaz.com

Women’s

Beauty & Style

play green

Mother’s Day Retreats

live green

37

May 2017

for Environmental Understanding

48 Mother’s Day Recipes 50 Green Scenes Calendar of Events

48

54 Green Champions 55 He’s Green, She’s Green 56 Cool Outrageous Stuff

May 2017 | greenliving

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May 2017

“

B

Publisher’s Note

eauty is defined as: the quality or aggregate of qualities in a person or thing that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit.” Enjoy our Women’s Beauty & Style issue.

We are in the season of new beginnings! Now is the time to try something new. Here at Green Living magazine we believe living eco-consciously is a needed staple in life. It is not just about talking about climate change, asking people to join our tribe, and hugging trees. Take this opportunity to make one eco-conscious choice in the month of May. There are many things to discover in your journey to a conscious lifestyle.

There are important questions to ask yourself when you use beauty products: How, where, why and by whom was the product made? What footprint is left behind and what imprint is made? Can I make the product myself instead? View our infographic on page 11 and be aware of 15 harmful chemicals that could be in your cosmetics, and check out pages 12 and 21 for some DIY beauty recipes.

The world is rapidly changing. How can we incorporate sustainability effortlessly into our daily lives? It is about a global world of fashion, beauty and lifestyle creating change and conservation, awareness, action, ethics and esthetics which are sustainable to the people who live on this planet. There are many choices.

Please enjoy our Women’s Beauty & Style issue and be educated, inspired and empowered to be the change you wish to see in the world. Please share this print edition with a family member or friend and ask them to pass it along to someone else or recycle it. Let’s keep the message moving forward! People, Planet, Profit!

Warmest,

“

B

Editor’s Note

ut behind all your stories is always your mother’s story, because hers is where yours begins.” – Mitch Albom

None of us would be here today without our mothers.

They give us life, and Mother Earth gives us a home. Don’t forget to cherish your mother and your Earth Mother this May, along with all the other stellar women in your life.

In our May Women’s Beauty & Style issue, we honor mothers and women all over the world. Don’t miss our roundup of women in traditional men’s roles; plus local Mother’s Day retreats; an article on the Moms Clean Air Force; brain fitness; beauty ingredients to stay away from; communication tips for challenging conversations; a look at the Girl Scouts’ sustainable new space; DIY beauty tips and recipes; summer hair tips to keep your locks luscious; the newest spa trends; and much more. Also learn how to declutter your pantry, start your memoir, and the benefits of banking locally.

Surprise Mom this Mother’s Day and make her something scrumptious and healthy! Check out our Mother’s Day recipes on page 48 for inspiration. Or, take her to a fantastic outing and create lasting memories. Visit our Green Scenes calendar of events on page 50 for ideas.

Shoutout to all the mothers out there who motivate and support us, and a remembrance to the mothers we have lost. Hug a special woman in your life this Mother’s Day and let her know how much she means to you. Mom, I love you!

Amanda Harvey Associate Editor

Dorie Morales Publisher and Editor in Chief

I LOVE TO HEAR FROM OUR READERS! Email me at editor@greenlivingaz.com

PG. 16 Communication Tips

PG. 32

Photo by Vince Alfaro

Brain Fitness

Visit our Facebook page and tell us your favorite natural beauty products for the chance to win a prize!

Mother’s Day Retreats

PG. 38

Follow @greenlivingaz and stay in touch with the newest topics on sustainability!

6 greenliving | May 2017

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May 2017 | greenliving

7

REDUCING WASTE

BY TANYA GLOS

T

he boxes on your spring cleaning to-do list are almost completely checked off. You’ve de-cluttered closets, desks, drawers, the garage and the attic. You’ve even made a choice to clean up your diet by making healthier food choices. But did TANYA GLOS you realize that all that organization you worked to achieve throughout your home should include your fridge, freezer and pantry?

Organization and healthy eating are intimately related and need to be done simultaneously to be effective. When a home is organized, people function on a higher level. Decisions are made easier because the mind has fewer options through which to sort. The mind feels more peaceful, relaxed and equipped. That same feeling should be felt in the kitchen, where we make many important choices for our health.

The absolute first step to take once the decision is made to commit to a new lifestyle or eating plan is to take an inventory of what “fits in” with the new, and what absolutely does not.

Here are some kitchen decluttering steps to take, and which to avoid, NOW!

DO NOT:

WAIT UNTIL THE PERFECT TIME. There is never a perfect time.

It won’t come after the holidays (have you noticed there are holidays, events, and special occasions all year round?), or after vacation, or after school is out. Those are all excuses not to do it NOW.

8 greenliving | May 2017

WAIT UNTIL ALL THE SNACKS, DESSERTS, SODAS, OR OTHER TEMPTING ITEMS HAVE BEEN CONSUMED. They’re always around, especially in a busy household. However, you can control where those treats are and whether or not you open the cabinet where they will be placed. Yes, it takes self-control, but you can do it NOW. READ, RESEARCH, AND ENDLESSLY DISCUSS EVERY NEW AND FADDISH “DIET.” Don’t get caught up in the hype of a new fad. Speak to a nutritionist, health coach, dietitian, or someone you know who lives the lifestyle you’d like to be living. Ask NOW. ANNOUNCE TO THE WORLD THAT YOU ARE BEGINNING A NEW “DIET.” Announcing blindly to everyone only keeps you focused on your plan beyond mealtimes. Who cares? Don’t make it the focus in every conversation. Stick to telling the people who are in your home or are living the same lifestyle as you. And do it NOW.

DO:

OPEN ALL OF YOUR CABINETS THAT CONTAIN FOOD. Pull out everything that is a temptation for you, and put it in a pile. This applies to your utensil drawers, cooking gadgets, and appliances (like the seldom-used ice cream maker).

Similar to clothing, cooking items that haven’t been used in a year can be safely donated and most likely will not be missed.

Donate the pile, give it to a neighbor, or empty an out-of-theway cabinet and place the tempting items inside if there are other members of the household who will eat it. YOU will not open that cabinet again starting NOW.

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REDUCING WASTE

MAKE A SHOPPING LIST FOR ONE OR TWO STORES KNOWN FOR HEALTHIER AND ORGANIC OPTIONS. Farmer’s markets and health food stores make healthy shopping easier. Stick to your list and include healthy foods that you look forward to cooking with.

CLEAN AND ORGANIZE WHAT’S LEFT, PLACING YOUR HEALTHIEST OPTIONS AT EYE LEVEL. Use attractive baskets and other organizational containers. Make it appealing, sensible and accessible.

Following these simple steps could make all the difference in helping you stay on track and committed to your new lifestyle. Imagine your kitchen as a refuge and a positive place!

It’s not where temptation lurks. You’ll open an organized refrigerator and be inspired and at peace with your decisions.

But please, do it NOW! Tanya Glos helps people gain the benefits of a lifestyle filled with healthful, whole, organic foods. She has a degree in Dietetics and Nutrition Care and has practiced what she’s preached to individuals, families and groups since 1994.

For more articles about reducing waste visit greenlivingaz.com/waste

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Organization and healthy eating are intimately related and need to be done simultaneously to be effective.

May 2017 | greenliving

9

FIVE EXPERT HOT-WEATHER

HAIR CARE TIPS

BY DAWSON FEARNOW

M

ay is a beautiful time of year here in the Valley, but it also kicks off another four months or so of sunbaked, sizzling triple-digit weather. As you prepare yourself for the long hot summer ahead – firing up your air conditioner and digging out your car’s sunshade – here’s another thing to think about: is you hair hot weather ready? We all know to slather on the sunscreen to protect our skin from the intense heat and sun, but what about protecting our luscious locks? Here are some tips from Mane Attraction Salon owner Kendall Ong to keep your hair protected, and looking great, during the hot summer months.

Shampoo Less Between the hotter weather, pool season kicking into high gear, and all the strong sun, summer in the Valley can really dry hair out. It’s important to protect summer hair just like you’d protect your skin, and make sure you’re not stripping out needed oils and moisture by over-shampooing. One of the best things you can do is to simply stretch out your shampooing schedule. That said, if you are someone who just can’t stop shampooing regularly, you’ll need to switch to summer-ready hair products.

Shampoo Smarter If you feel you need to shampoo every day, try a sulfate-free shampoo that combines a mild surfactant or cleanser with a blend of lightweight oils. Bumble and bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Cleansing Oil Crème Duo provides an instant transformation for anyone who suffers from dry scalp or hair, or is a frequent shampooer, because the oils work on the cuticle layer to seal in moisture and lipids to create a noticeable different feel. It’s a summertime must for heavy shampooers.

Waterless Wonder Another great option to keep your hair from over-drying is to alternate between traditional shampoo and dry shampoo. That way you can get that clean, manageable feel without having to shampoo daily. Even better, try a combination dry shampoo and styling product like Bumble and bumble’s DrySpun, which adds texture and thickness without weighing hair down.

Go Deep No matter what shampoo routine you settle on, it’s critical to quench your summer hair with deep conditioning. If you normally use a protein-based conditioner, think about switching to a deep moisturizing conditioner, or even a preshampoo masque to help lock in moisture before you start cleaning and styling your hair.

Drop the Dryer Speaking of styling, another summer survival tip is to back off on the heat tools, including flat irons, curling irons and even hair dryers. Try putting product directly into wet hair, use your fingers to push and style the hair, or even bobby pin it in place, and then let it air dry. To add curls, simply wrap random sections around your finger, then bobby pin in place, air dry, and shake and tousle with your fingers to create the final look. Just don’t forget to use product first though, it won’t work as well with just water.

Dawson Fearnow is a marketing copywriter and an award-winning freelance reporter based in Phoenix. A longtime architecture aficionado, travel junkie and food fanatic, when he’s not crisscrossing the state in search of his next favorite dish, Dawson is daydreaming about scuba diving in far-away places. Read Dawson’s latest at fearnowink.com.

Pictured: Mane Attraction Salon owner Kendall Ong. Photo by Rick Carter.

For more articles about beauty visit greenlivingaz.com/beauty

10 greenliving | May 2017

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phthalates cancer, toxicity, endocrine disruption, allergies

Ingredients to avoid in your personal care products and their top concerns triclosan

persistence, bio accumulation, organ system toxicity, endocrine disruption, eye, skin and lung irritant

formaldehyde cancer, toxicity, immunotoxicity, irritation and endocrine (hormone) disruption, mutagenic

allergies, toxicity, skin sensitivity, dermatitis, immune toxicant, cancer, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity

coal tar derivitives cancer, toxicity, allergies, immunotoxicity, endocrine (hormone) disruption, organ toxicity

fragrance propylene glycol cancer, toxicity, allergies, hives, eczema, irritation (eyes, skin, lungs), enhanced skin absorption, dermatitis, sensitizing, organ system toxicity, dryness

parabens endocrine (hormone) disrupter, cancer

hydroquinone developmental & reproductive toxicity, allergies, immunotoxicity, cancer, organ system toxicity, neurotoxicity

octoxynols cancer, toxicity, endocrine disrupter, human skin toxicant

mineral oil petrochemicals

sodium laureth sulfate 1-4 dioxane contamination, cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity

cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity

dea & tea cancer, neurotoxicity, irritation, organ system toxicity, developmental & reproductive toxicity

ethyl acetate

immunotoxicity, organ system toxicity, allergies, cancer

aluminum cancer, rash, irritation, immunotoxicity, endocrine disrupter, impaired kidney function, bone disease, tissue damage

developmental & reproductive toxicity, allergies, immunotoxicity, endocrine disruption, enhanced absorption, organ system toxicity, ecotoxicology, bio chemical & cellular level changes

oxybenzone

greenlivingaz.com May|2017 | greenliving 11 Courtesy of Candice Drake Hopkin | Candice Drake Cosmetics | Tuscan Soul Skincare HUGS Foundation

BEAUTY

7 DIY

HEALTH, BEAUTY &

WELLNESS TIPS

BY TRACEY MARTIN

W

e often believe that we have to purchase the most expensive creams and get the most expensive treatments for an effective beauty regimen. However, the easier and more simplistic your routine, the more you will keep it TRACEY MARTIN up – and consistency is the name of the game for lasting results. Rethink your complicated beauty system. Your next beauty secret may already be in your pantry.

1

A healthy morning glow

Add 1 Tbsp of organic baking soda to your morning cleanser by sprinkling the baking soda over the gel in the palm of your hand and rubbing into a lather. Massage your face and neck using circular motions, being careful to avoid the eye area. Leave the solution on your skin for about two minutes, and then rinse with cool water. Pat dry and apply your normal daily hydrating cream. This gentle scrub helps to remove dead skin layers, leaving behind a healthy glow. For a powerful pick-me-up, replace the baking soda with organic coffee grounds and be ready to face the day!

2

Instant face lift

Whip one egg white into a small bowl, then chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. After cleaning your face as normal, take a soft makeup brush (use an old one) and paint the egg white on your face and neck. Once the mask is completely dry, use a warm, wet washcloth to wipe off. Rinse with cool water, then apply makeup as normal.

12 greenliving | May 2017

3

Edible brightening mask

You probably have four or five healthful ingredients in your kitchen to create a fabulous enzyme mask. Here is a great skin brightening mask recipe:

• 2 Tbsp organic pumpkin • 1 tsp organic honey • 1/2 tsp turmeric Mix ingredients into a paste. Paint the mixture on a clean face and leave on for about 15 minutes. Rinse off with cool water. Pumpkin is an enzyme that will promote skin brightening.

4

Healthy hair growth and shine

Create your own hot oil hair treatment by combining 2 Tbsp castor oil, 2 Tbsp coconut oil (used as a carrier oil) and 4-5 drops of rosemary essential oil. Heat the castor and coconut oils together until they are completely melted.

Add in 4-5 drops of rosemary essential oil. Let the mixture cool to a comfortable temperature. Work it into the hair and massage into the scalp. Wrap your head in a shower cap and leave on for about 15-20 minutes, then shampoo as usual.

5

Beauty from the inside out

Adding in some plant adaptogens to your daily routine will boost your glow and overall wellbeing. Some of my favorites are Moon Juice Shop and Sun Potion. Start by making some green tea, then add a teaspoon of Moon Juice Shop’s “Beauty Dust” or Sun Potion’s “Wildcrafted Astragalus.”

Stir until dissolved.

greenlivingaz.com

BEAUTY

The benefits from most adaptogens are internal. However, these three powerhouses can promote the health of your skin, leaving a youthful glow and even skin tone:

GINSENG ROOT: Helps against photo aging and promotes the metabolism of skin cells. These cells are called keratinocytes. They form the first line of defense for the skin and also enable the synthesis of collagen.

LICORICE ROOT: This ingredient can inhibit an enzyme that breaks down collagen. It also acts as an antibacterial, which blocks the cause of acne.

ASTRAGALUS ROOT: This is similar to the ones above except there is a bonus.

This little gem promotes wound healing.

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Achieve your health and fitness goals and reach your peak performance at Bauman’s. We specialize in intense fitness and strength training that increases tone and strength without extreme heavy lifting. We offer one-on-one training or unique group classes that never repeat the same class and include cardio, self-defense, boxing and martial arts. And help your kids develop lifelong nutrition and exercise habits with martial arts, sports training and more fitness classes designed just for them. We also offer a world class nutritional program and counseling. Come to Bauman’s and take your fitness to a new Xtreme.

NW corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Lincoln (602) 418-1792 | baumansxtremetraining.com

All Concerts are FREE!

6 7

Morning gut boost

Add lemon to a glass of warm water and drink it before eating breakfast. This sets your gut right first thing before food and has great immune boosting properties.

Your chosen skin

Your personal style should be comfortable and chic, speaking to your individual personality and lifestyle.

Refuse to follow trends and what the fashion industry sets as the “next big thing.” Not everything is meant for everyone.

Stay true to who you are. Learn to buy less and buy better. We live in such a disposable world that we need to rethink our purchasing and consuming habits.

Sunday, May 21st - 4:00-6:00 pm Scottsdale Bible Church

7601 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Bach – Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 Rossini – La Gazza Ladra Overture Mendelssohn – Fingal’s Cave Offenbach – Barcarolle, Tales of Hoffman VIP Preferred Seating available with a $15 donation ScottsdalePhilharmonic.com or call 480-951-6077

Felix Mendelssohn

Tracey Martin is a Sustainable Living Strategist. Learn more about her at her website threadsofevolution.com. She is available for one-on-one sessions now through fall 2017.

For more articles about beauty visit greenlivingaz.com/beauty

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May 2017 | greenliving

13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

2017 SPA TRENDS FROM WASHINGTON SPA ALLIANCE SYMPOSIUM

BY VONCELLE MULL

E

ach spring, regional, national and international spa industry leaders gather in the nation’s capitol for the Washington Spa Alliance’s (WSPA) Annual Symposium.

This year’s interactive conference took place at the historic Watergate Hotel located in the Foggy Bottom VONCELLE MULL neighborhood of northwest DC. Now in its seventh year, the Washington Spa Alliance has proven to be a vanguard organization that works to promote the exchange of ideas, education and innovation in the wellness industry. They ensure the highest spa ideals are met through policy and interaction.

The symposium theme, “Connect, Engage, Deliver,” highlighted the Seven Timeless Truths of Spa: Community, Quiet, Nature, Fitness, Water, Food and Sleep. These were presented by Mary Bemis, co-founder of WSPA and editor of Insider’s Guide to Spas. Sharing correlating trends for each timeless truth was international spa consultant Mia Kyricos of Kyricos & Associates. These truths are the capstone to creating spa experiences that transcend the demands of wellness consumers who are now looking for more authenticity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported more than 300 million people are living with depression, which is an increase of more than 18 percent between 2005 and 2015. This could be a direct link as to why today’s wellness consumers desire interconnectedness along with a deeper sense of self. Spa goers are longing for a comprehensive

14 greenliving | May 2017

approach to wellness that incorporates personalized experiences and restoration.

According to Kyricos, the spa trends for 2017 include sleep programs, adult play activities, digital detox and unplugging, smart-water based treatments, continuation of fad diets (i.e.

Whole30), active meditation, and conscious communities that shift their focus from healthcare to “wellcare.” Other distinguished symposium speakers, like editor-in-chief of Organic Spa Magazine Rona Berg, echoed the message of renewing the mind, body and spirit.

Encouraging communities to promote healthy sustainable living as a part of national wellness is a growing campaign in the spa industry. Organizations like Wellness Warriors attended the WSPA symposium for their Annual Day on the Hill, in which spa industry leaders speak to members of congress and advocate for good health and wellbeing for all Americans.

Originally founded by Deborah Szekely (who opened North America’s first health and fitness resort), Wellness Warriors is addressing all major health issues that threaten large sectors of the population like chronic disease, sustainable food systems, and exposure to toxic chemicals.

Their Policy Well initiative was developed to make wellness policy a national voting issue and to hold legislators accountable for their commitment to wellness.

“The U.S. wellness economy is now worth $14 billion dollars a year,” said Damon Cory-Watson, Wellness Warrior’s Executive Director. “Policymakers have not yet grasped the significance and potential of this economy to significantly shift our nation’s health outcomes. We have an opportunity

greenlivingaz.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

to strengthen the wellness community, while positively impacting our nation’s health.”

Although there is room for improvement with wellness legislation in our state, the spa and wellness industry in Arizona continues to thrive. Local spas and wellness facilities are creating experiences that focus on creativity, mindfulness and community.

The Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa currently offers journaling classes taught by luxury travel journalist and wellness writer Dena Roche. Roche’s company, Journaling Atelier, teaches participants to disconnect with the outer world to unleash their inner muse. Roche says, “Writing gives wings to our thoughts, feelings, emotions, dreams, and goals. The simple act of writing can empower or depower something; can take a dream to a concrete goal.”

To combat restlessness and embrace the healing powers of sleep, the Four Seasons at Scottsdale Troon North offers Sleepytime services that help guests prepare for bed, like the Dream Weaver Massage that begins with guided relaxation to promote restfulness and calm. Guests also receive bath salts to continue the relaxation in their room or at home.

The Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North is also staying on top of spa trends with their Wine & Unwind series. This healthier version of happy hour begins with a yoga flow class.

Guests enjoy incredible views of the Valley on the resort’s outdoor lawn while local guitarist Alex Hristov provides live music during

PROBLEM-SOLVER ECOLOGIST RISK-TAKER NATURE LOVER LEADER

the hour-long yoga practice. After the session, participants mingle with friends over a glass of red or white wine.

Canyon Ranch in Tucson is offering residents a life-changing experience with their Life Enhancement Program. The week-long journey to wellness gives guests an opportunity to concentrate on interests, concerns and intentions that deserve their full attention. There is a generous allowance of health and healing consultations, spa services, lab testing, and meeting with Canyon Ranch physicians.

Although consumers are still interested in the most popular wellness services like massages and facials, the new direction of wellness is taking the client out of the treatment room to assist with connecting and healing on a deeper level. Whether locally or nationally, the timeless truths of spa and wellness will continue to adapt to active pursuit of a lifestyle that leads to holistic health.

For more information on the Washington Spa Alliance, visit washingtonspaalliance.com. For more on the Policy Well initiative, visit policywell.com.

Voncelle Mull, LE, is a licensed aesthetician and spa industry expert.

She is the owner of Well Served Media LLC and co-founder of the Southwest Spa Alliance. She hosts annual community wellness events that create rewarding experiences which provide useful health and lifestyle information to financially disadvantaged families and communities.

Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health

Girls thrive when they have a safe place to be themselves, make friends, and have fun! Girl Scouts teaches girls practical life skills, resourceful problemsolving and helps develop them into self-confident, capable leaders, firm in their values.

Isn’t this what you want for your daughter?

JOIN. VOLUNTEER. DONATE.

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What do you want for your daughter? greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

15

HEALTH & WELLNESS

THE “BRAIN BUTTONS”

ACUPRESSURE POINTS FOR RELEASING STRESS

BY KATHY BROWN

I

magine having one simple movement that you could do almost anytime to bring more clarity to your vision and the feeling of energy and coordination to your whole body. You do – and it’s right at your fingertips!

KATHY BROWN Take a moment and notice how you’re feeling right now. Is your body tense, or relaxed? Are your thoughts restless, or calm? Is your breath shallow, or slow and deep?

Now I invite you to experience what comes of massaging your “Brain Buttons” – one of 26 movements from the Brain Gym® program.

At the top of your ribcage are your collarbones. Find these horizontal bones and then let your fingers slip downward about an inch or so, until they’re resting over your uppermost ribs, just on either side of your sternum, or breastbone. These spots may feel like slight indentations, or softer than the surrounding area.

16 greenliving | May 2017

Make a large “U” with your hand and place the thumb on one of the spots, and the fingertips on the other. Massage these points firmly as you rest your other hand over your navel, and allow your eyes to track gently side to side. Do this for perhaps twenty to thirty seconds. (If you experience tenderness, rub gently until it is released or reduced.) Then switch hands for another twenty to thirty seconds.

What do you notice now in your body – your thoughts – your breathing?

The Brain Buttons are potent spots in the world of acupressure. They’re the “K-27s” – the 27th points on the Kidney Meridian; massaging them can help to correct imbalances in the entire meridian system, and bring more active communication between the two hemispheres of your brain, which enhances all kinds of cognitive functioning.

When I rub my Brain Buttons on a stressful day, I often find myself exhaling deeply as I feel my body relax. I may notice my shoulders dropping and my posture straightening.

Sometimes I feel a release of tension at the back of my neck.

Then even my eyes relax, and it’s easier to scan lines of print,

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

or more fully see the world around me. Typically, I feel more awake and focused.

One evening, after a very demanding day, I was sitting in a theater with my husband, listening to a classical chorale performance. It was wonderful – and long. And the room was dark. Before long, my head was nodding and I was struggling to keep my eyes open. Then I thought about Brain Buttons.

I quietly brought my hand up and gave those spots a bit of a rub and instantly found myself wide awake! I felt completely alert and refreshed throughout the rest of the evening.

While a truly remarkable occurrence like this may not happen every day, I continue to experience smaller, helpful shifts all the time. I often use this movement during long meetings, and in a wide variety of similar situations, to maintain a clear focus and remain at my best.

I hope it will be helpful for you, as well!

This article is a modified portion of “Educate Your Brain,” Kathy Brown’s book about the basics of the Brain Gym® program.

Kathy Brown, M.Ed., has been a Licensed Brain Gym® Instructor/Consultant since 1998. She teaches courses and workshops, consults with school districts, writes books and articles, and sees private clients in her office in Phoenix, Arizona. centeredge.com Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health

greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

17

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CERULEAN is here to supplement and augment existing lifestyle goals and is not a replacement for medical care or physical training. Our goal is to help our multifaceted clientele maintain, regain or augment a vibrant lifestyle for themselves regardless of age, predisposition or aspiration.

Our approach aims to align our client’s cellular level health with their overall health, wellness, fitness, performance or longevity goals, whatever those are. We complement traditional physical training, exercise, conditioning, rehabilitation, dieting programs and any other programs that focus on strengthening the body physically. Whether the objective is to improve day-to-day living, physical performance or improve the condition of a person with compromised health, CERULEAN can help.

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GIVING BACK

SUSTAINABILITY GROWTH IN

DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

W

hile debates over healthcare, insurance and other medical issues continue to rattle throughout the U.S. and certainly here in Arizona, there are many people around the world who are left without any health GRETCHEN PAHIA options whatsoever. However, thanks to organizations such as the local nonprofit Esperança, there is help available and on the way. Esperança is a Phoenixbased nonprofit with a global mission of sustainable disease prevention and treatment for the poorest communities in the world.

The doctors, volunteers and others who help contribute time and money to Esperança are also supporting the mission and purpose of the organization, which is to promote sustainable global health through access to clean water, safe housing, nutritious food, disease prevention, treatment and education.

According to Valley OB-GYN and Esperança board member Dr. James Foltz, the work is certainly rewarding. “Esperança is staffed by exceptionally skilled, committed and compassionate people,” said Dr. Foltz. “The group always partners with other organizations in the host countries, which is particularly important in creating a safe, efficient and productive surgical mission environment. We as surgical volunteers can always trust that our missions will run smoothly and as a physician, there are no questions that this experience can change your life.”

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In all of Esperança’s activities, sustainability is of prime importance. Building a village will provide one water well, but teaching local villagers how to build a well can provide several wells throughout the region. Dr. Foltz adds that it isn’t just about building. “Education in nutrition and safe food storage for people living in these underdeveloped areas has more value than one shipment of food,” he explained.

Esperança volunteers do their work in several countries, including under-privileged areas in the U.S., Mozambique, Bolivia, Nicaragua and Peru. The organization was incorporated in Phoenix in 1970 by Father James Tupper and his brother Jerry.

Dr. Foltz says during his 12 years with the organization, he has learned so much and is excited to continue pursuing his passions in order to help others in need. “The heart of Esperança is its dedicated, compassionate and committed staff. They have impeccable education and credentials and could make much more money in the private sector but prefer to work in this organization for the betterment of some of the poorest people in the world,” Dr. Foltz continued.

For more information on Esperança and how you can help, visit esperanca.org.

Gretchen Pahia has 15 years experience in both media and public relations and is an award-winning television news producer in Phoenix, Las Vegas and Portland. Gretchen is a native to Arizona, born and raised in Phoenix, and a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She lives in the Phoenix metro area with her husband, their two children and their dog.

Read more giving back articles at greenlivingaz.com/givingback

May 2017 | greenliving

19

GREEN LIFE

DID YOU KNOW ?

FUN GREEN FACTS

Green Living magazine has a new section! Check here every month for some fun facts and stay green! This month we focused on clothing and beauty tips. This month’s tips are from Loren North, a local personal stylist.

1

STOP DRYING YOUR CLOTHES

Your dryer is your most energy-intensive appliance. Reduce utility bills, save energy and save your clothes by avoiding drying your clothes in the dryer. That lint in the collector? It’s your clothes falling apart. Get an outdoor line or clothing rack. Take advantage of nearly year-round ideal conditions to dry your clothes outside.

3

SHOP LOCAL

5

Buy less and buy better. Before you buy something, ask yourself if you can wear it at least 30 times. This will help you buy less, buy better quality and hold onto your clothes longer. Why does this matter? The EPA estimates in 2014 that approximately 24.5 million tons of textile waste was generated with approximately 20 million tons landfilled or combusted. This is a recycling rate of less than 20 percent (consider that we have a paper recycling rate of almost 50 percent). Source for #30wears: Ecoage.

Yes, this is a natural fabric but traditional cotton is a water- and pesticide-intensive crop that typically requires labor under non-ideal conditions. Look for garments made from organic cotton. If you can, look for the GOTs (Global Organic Textile Standard) logo, which is a textile processing standard for organic fibers, including ecological and social criteria.

4

Before you head out to a big box retailer, consider a local boutique. Local First Arizona estimates that when you spend $100.00 with locally owned businesses, $43.00 stays in the state, versus $13.00 from a big box store.

Local boutiques will have a more unique offering, be able to offer personalized service and you will be making a difference with your purchase.

#30WEARS

2

SHIFT YOUR COTTON BUYING HABITS

FIND A COBBLER

When you find a high quality pair of shoes, make them last! Support a local business, keep your items out of the landfill and keep your shoes for as long as you can. If you aren’t sure if something can be repaired, take it to a local cobbler and ask! You will be surprised what they can do.

6

BUY NATURAL FABRICS

Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, silk, linen and hemp are self-cleaning.

This means that after wearing them, you can hang them outside (overnight typically works best) and they will smell fresh and clean in the morning. I​f the garment is wrinkled, simply spray with water before hanging up. Consider how your polyester workout clothes smell over time versus a cotton shirt (polyester is not self-cleaning).

7

SHOP SECONDHAND

When purchasing clothes, consider a locally owned consignment store.

There are approximately 80 billion garments produced worldwide each year. Play a role in reducing this consumption by buying secondhand. Keep clothes out of the waste stream and save some money too!

P​ ersonal fashion stylist Loren North is a former environmental consultant who traded in her steel-toed boots for high heels to pursue her passion for sustainability and secondhand shopping. She is on a mission to change the world by changing how we shop for and treat our clothes. Her company Through the Closet Door is a personal styling consultancy focused on helping professional men and women improve their appearance. Send Loren an email (loren@throughtheclosetdoor.com) to learn more about her styling services.

20 greenliving | May 2017

For more green fun facts, visit greenlivingaz.com/ greenfunfacts

greenlivingaz.com

GREEN LIFE

ACTRESS CLARISSA BURT ON

EMPOWERING WOMEN

AND CLEAN BEAUTY

BY KAMILLA GRAHAM

C

larissa Burt lives a whirlwind life in the media as an awardwinning actress, supermodel, producer, author, public speaker and beauty editor. Clarissa is also the founder and CEO of EnvelopHer.com, a website that builds a community of empowerment for women. Clarissa’s philosophy is: LOOK GOOD: “When you look good, you know it! It’s that feeling, and it shows. It does wonders for your self esteem!”

FEEL GOOD: “You can’t look good if you don’t feel good, right?” Nutrition and living a healthful lifestyle are important to leading your best life.

BE GOOD: “We all want to be our best in our business and personal lives.”

Thoughtfulness and inspiration for relationships, business and personal.

GREATER GOOD: “There is no greater esteem boost you can do for yourself than doing something good for someone else!”

Clarissa’s vision includes empowering women to love themselves and to step into their place of power, and she is currently developing products that are inspired by that philosophy. Living a clean lifestyle and reducing her own carbon footprint while looking and feeling her best are major motivators in her newest endeavor. Clarissa began having fun in her kitchen, and it has evolved into a line of “clean” cosmetics.

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On average, women use between 25 and 27 different cosmetics per day before leaving the house. The FDA does little to regulate the cosmetics industry, and there is a culture of “green washing” labels. This is the term applied to products that use phrases like “natural” or “green” without actually meeting those consumer expectations. In fact, there is no regulation for how those words are actually used in the cosmetics industry. Many cosmetics contain heavy metals, such as lead, zinc or cadmium, which are known to cause cancer and other illnesses.

With this in mind, Clarissa is working to develop new formulas for nontoxic cosmetics. She concedes that sometimes her kitchen creations don’t work out, but often she develops a product that she is excited to share. Among her most notable creations are mouthwash, peppermint toothpaste, and a scented milk bath.

Clarissa is developing more than a better way to look and feel good. She is developing a lifestyle community to empower women to do good and be part of the greater good. When asked what her vision for the future holds, Clarissa says, “Taking the toxicity out of life.

External and internal. Outside, inside, head and heart.”

For more on Clarissa Burt, visit envelopher.com.

Kamilla Graham is an Arizona native and avid NPR listener who enjoys rediscovering the world with her kids and husband.

Read more green life articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenlife

CLARISSA’S DIY RECIPES MOUTHWASH • 1/2 cup aloe vera juice • 1/2 cup distilled or filtered water • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda • 2 drops peppermint essential oil • 1 drop tea tree oil (optional) Mix together all ingredients and keep in an airtight jar.

Shake before using.

PEPPERMINT TOOTHPASTE • 3 Tbsp baking soda • 3 Tbsp coconut oil • 5-10 drops peppermint essential oil • 1/2 tsp zylitol or all-natural stevia Mix together all ingredients and keep in an airtight jar or tube.

LUXURIOUS SCENTED MILK BATH • 2 cups whole powdered milk • 1/2 cup cornstarch • 1/2 cup baking soda • 10 drops essential oil of your choice, such as lavender Mix together the dry ingredients in a large mason jar. Close lid and shake well. Add essential oil and mix. Let sit for 24 hours before using so the oil completely combines. Pour 1 to 2 cups under hot running water and enjoy in the bath.

May 2017 | greenliving

21

ENVIRONMENT

CLIMATE CHANGE SERIES:

PIMA COUNTY

BY DAVID A. SCHALLER

W

ith Tucson as its county water practices soon made an alternative to ground water seat, Pima County has critical. The Central Arizona Project (CAP) entered the picture grown from a fairly in the 1980s, bringing new water resources to the county and sleepy desert town at the end of relieving stress on depleted aquifers.

World War II to a major hub of Soon, climate change arrived with a fury as a 17-year government, academia and tourism. drought and 18 straight years of above-normal temperatures With a population now topping one parched urban and rural areas alike. While Tucson’s annual DAVID A. SCHALLER million, the county’s eastern reaches rainfall is frequently cited as being “about 12 inches,” over reflect a sprawling landscape of urban development bounded the last decade the National Weather Service shows the by scenic mountain ranges, Native annual average to be 9.7 inches, almost American reservations, and an expanse 20 percent less than the historical average. of desert lands where critical habitats Regional drought has raised the prospects and cultural resources are now protected of declining flows in the Colorado River; from development by the award-winning and with demand exceeding supply below Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan.

Lake Mead, Tucson and Pima County will In a livable but occasionally unforgiving feel the first cutbacks of CAP water under Sonoran Desert environment, Pima County future shortage scenarios. has been continuously inhabited for over Ultimately, all water users in the 4,000 years. For millennia, the Santa Cruz county will need to pay more if desert and Rillito rivers drained the surrounding communities are to remain tolerable in watersheds and their flowing water allowed the face of water shortages. University of permanent habitation to flourish. Less than Arizona law professor Robert Glennon, a century ago, that all began to change who serves as Water Policy Advisor to as continued growth dried the rivers and Pima County, notes that “quite simply, we sent aquifer levels plunging from 30 feet to are not paying the true cost of water” and Pima County is highlighted in red 300 feet. Population rise and unsustainable that with rare exceptions the water itself

22 greenliving | May 2017

greenlivingaz.com

ENVIRONMENT

is free. Well, almost. My own March 2017 Tucson Water bill totaled a mere $20.00 and included a consumption charge of but $4.65 for the 2,244 gallons used, a cost of $0.00207 per gallon (two-thousandth of a cent) – hardly a price signal to change behavior.

Meanwhile, spring arrives earlier each year and record high temperatures in Pima County are no longer reserved for the summer months nor measured in tenths of degrees. In March of this year, Tucson experienced an average temperature almost eight degrees above normal, making it the warmest March on record.

Notwithstanding the array of climate challenges faced across Pima County, its non-governmental, academic and community sectors remain arguably among the leaders in climate change action anywhere in Arizona. Regional organizations like the Sky Island Alliance and Watershed Management Group work on multiple fronts, from accelerating use of rain and stormwater collection to the development of new science to support climate change adaptation at a landscape level. Another bright spot in the county is the University of Arizona’s Institute of the Environment (IoE), a national center of excellence in climate change science and outreach.

One of the many successful climate adaptation efforts in the county includes work by the Tohono O’odham Tribe to divert some of its CAP allocation and help restore a small segment of

the Santa Cruz River, reminding themselves and others what a living river and desert riparian ecosystem looks like. In the public sector, Pima County itself has developed a range of metric-driven goals for decreasing energy and water use and increasing the use of renewable energy. The IoE is helping the county quantify these climate and energy goals so it can mark implementation progress, report back to the public, and budget appropriately. Elsewhere, the County Health Department continues preparing to respond to the worst-case effects expected under future heat emergency scenarios.

Pima County is of course not alone among Arizona counties in needing a more aggressive response to the onset of climate change. To date, its efforts have been largely led by the nonprofit and university sectors, neither of which has the ultimate muscle to force bold changes in public policy. Public sector responses are needed on a scale to match the urgency of risks faced, before the full force of climate change arrives.

For Green Living’s climate change series, each month we will focus on one of Arizona’s 15 counties and how climate change is affecting it specifically.

Next month’s installment will focus on Pinal County.

David A. Schaller is a retired environmental scientist living in Tucson where he writes on climate, water and energy security.

Read more environment articles at greenlivingaz.com/environment

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May 2017 | greenliving

23

WATER

MANAGING WATER FOR A BETTER ARIZONA FUTURE

BY JILL BERNSTEIN

W

ater is life, and as desert dwellers it is especially important that we make the most of this precious resource. To do that, we need to understand and work with the basic fact that water flows. Where and how it flows – from our yards, to the gutters in our streets, the washes running through the desert, and the streams flowing to the rivers, lakes and oceans – is determined by geography of the setting and the watershed, the area bound by a divide that directs that flow.

Luckily, Arizona is home to the Watershed Management Group (WMG), a Tucson-based nonprofit organization that works throughout southern and central Arizona helping individuals, businesses, schools, community groups and water advocates develop community-based watershed management solutions. These solutions include programs for individuals who want to transform their yards; businesses that want to create sustainable landscaping; educational programs for schools that range from students to teachers and maintenance staff; and community workshops for neighborhoods who want to create community gardens, pocket parks, or improve their local streetscape. WMG also works with diverse community stakeholders to develop stormwater resource plans and infrastructure, stream restoration, and sustainable policies and codes to help move them toward a healthier, more waterresilient future.

There are a variety of ways to get involved with WMG. You can supply much-needed donations, sign up for the newsletter and weekly email, or become a “get your hands dirty” volunteer by joining either the Phoenix or Tucson Co-op, taking classes and tours, and more. You can also join the Monsoon Squad, WMG’s on-the-ground task force caring for community rain gardens in Tucson. If you’re looking for a more serious commitment, become a Living Lab & Learning Center Docent by participating in a 50-hour program that provides you with the skills and knowledge to lead tours and

24 greenliving | May 2017

spread the WMG mission through Living Lab & Learning Center projects. Docents make a 5-10 hour a month service commitment for one year.

In 2017, WMG is focused on watershed unity, which includes advancing women through safe and encouraging learning environments and new “women build” workshops; embracing diversity both in their staff and programs; redoubling their efforts to serve low-income communities through partnerships and development of environmental literacy curriculum for teachers in areas that suffer from chronic flooding and urban heat islands; and building political bridges across party lines to restore Arizona rivers.

To forge a new path for Arizona’s water future, in 2013 WMG launched the 50-Year Program to “restore the heritage of year-round, free-flowing rivers in southern Arizona.” Until the 1950s much of the Santa Cruz River and its tributaries flowed year round. Today, springs throughout southern Arizona have diminished, and many creeks and rivers flow only after heavy rains. You can learn more about efforts to make these rivers flow again by joining the River Run Network, becoming a river advocate, and learning about WMG’s hydro-regional policy platform developed in concert with the Community Water Coalition.

Water is life. Understanding how to best manage this precious resource is key to building a healthy, sustainable future for our desert state.

Learn more about Watershed Management Group and the important work they are accomplishing at watershedmg.org, or call 520-396-3266 (Tucson) or 602-618-6650 (Phoenix).

Jill Bernstein is the Executive Director of Keep Arizona Beautiful, a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities to take care of their environment through litter abatement, recycling and beautification.

Read more water articles at greenlivingaz.com/water

greenlivingaz.com

10 NATIVE

EDIBLE PLANTS

& FLOWERS T

he Arizona desert is bursting with edible native plants and flowers. There are hundreds of edible plants in the Sonoran Desert and Native cultures have been harvesting them for food and medicinal purposes for centuries.

Below are 10 varieties of edible plants and their properties.

1 BELOPERONE (Justicia californica) The flowers are edible either raw or cooked.

2 CANADIAN WHITE VIOLET (Viola Canadensis) The tender young leaves, flowers, and flower buds are edible either raw or cooked. The leaves can also be used to make tea or to thicken soups. The flowers also make a great addition to salads.

3 CHIA (Salvia columbariae) Native Americans have long cultivated these plants and used the seeds for food, beverages, and for medicinal purposes. The seeds are edible and form a thick mucilage in water, making an unusual but healthful drink. The seeds are currently being studied for their role in treating diabetes.

4 DESERT HORSEPURSLANE (Trianthema portulacastrum) The young leaves are edible and were gathered as summer greens by the Tohono O’odham.

5 HOPI TEA GREENTHREAD (Thelesperma megapotamicum) The flowers and foliage are edible and can be used to make a flavorful, medicinal tea.

6 OCOTILLO (Fouquieria splendens) The flower buds, the sweet, nectar-filled flowers, and the seeds are edible. greenlivingaz.com

7 SIERRA MADRE YUCCA (Yucca madrensis) The flowers, young flower stalks, and the fruits are edible and were eaten by the Native Americans.

8 SKUNKBUSH SUMAC (Rhus trilobata) Native Americans used the fruits for food, beverage, and medicine and the pliable young stems for making baskets. The red-orange ripe fruits are edible and can be soaked in water to make a refreshing, lemonade-like drink.

9 UPRIGHT PRAIRIE CONEFLOWER (Ratibida columnifera) Native Americans made tea from the leaves and flower heads and used the stems and leaves for medicinal purposes. The leaves and flower heads are also edible.

10 WOODS’ ROSE (Rosa woodsii) Native Americans used the flower petals, fruit, seeds, leaves, stems, and roots for food and medicinal purposes. All parts of the plant are edible except for the highly irritating hairs around the seeds.

The ripe rose hips are tart, flavorful, and a good source of vitamin C. The flower petals can be added to salads, but the bitter, white base of the petals should be removed first. Tea can be made with the dried fruit, bark, young stems, or leaves.

ENVIRONMENT

1

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3

4

5

6

7

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Information courtesy of Southeastern Arizona Wildflowers and Plants, fireflyforest.com.

Read more environment articles at greenlivingaz.com/environment

10 May 2017 | greenliving

25

ENVIRONMENT

ARCOSANTI: LIVING IN SYNERGY

WITH THE WORLD

BY BHARAT VENKATESH

Y

ou may have heard of Arcosanti, the “urban laboratory” located 70 miles north of Phoenix.

Intended to be a demonstration of the late architect Paolo Soleri’s ideas about architecture and city building, it began as an ideal that reimagined the relationship between humans and the natural world.

“It was the time of the first Earth Day, the end of the war in Vietnam, Americans were landing a man on the moon, a moment of great student unrest in the U.S. and in Europe… a very different era – though not so long ago – in which everything seemed possible,” said Jeff Stein, architect and co-president of the Cosanti Foundation.

Arcosanti may not fit in with your impression of the future, and one reason for this could be that construction on the project began almost 50 years ago in 1970. The dissonance could be because the expectation is that of a completed city; but Arcosanti

A performance in 2010 during the annual Italian Night, in the Colly Soleri Amphitheater. The amphitheater is surrounded by the East Crescent Complex, which consists of 10 living and working units, currently under construction. When completed, the East Crescent will provide housing for approximately 60 residents.

26 greenliving | May 2017

is only a “base camp” exploring Soleri’s ideas, an evolving process that continues to re-examine the original models and develop derivations based on the original design principles.

Another possible explanation could be that the vision used to build the city differs from what we perceive as modern or futuristic.

Arcosanti follows the principles of “Arcology,” a mashup of the “If you had told me fifty years ago words Architecture and Ecology, that I would build my activities from the proceeds of windbells, I essentially a methodology that would have said you were crazy.” integrates urban design and life on — Paolo Soleri Earth. Cities play a central role in the lives of humans and in our future, especially considering that over half the human population now lives in them. As such, Arcosanti’s design is of a three-dimensional, dense, integrated and walkable urban landscape, akin to all the other forms of organic life on Earth. Unlike other cities, it is built “up” rather than “out,” made compact rather than sprawling, and interacts with the Earth’s ecosystem sustainably rather than separating from it.

“Arcosanti has developed from a question: ‘What if…?’ What if the city were the newest form of organic life on Earth? If that were true, or even if cities were able to insert themselves seamlessly into the web of the rest of organic life, their forms would need to be designed the way all the other organisms are: compact, complex, three-dimensional,” Stein said.

As far as sustainability and energy efficiency goes, Arcosanti’s architecture does most of the work. With around 85,000 enclosed square feet at Arcosanti at present, it uses about 1/5 the electricity that a conventional city would per square foot. The shape and structure of the buildings gather the sun’s heat in winter when it is most required, while providing shade during the summer. The compact design of the city also allows everything you need to be within walking distance, eliminating the need for cars. Modeled to use as greenlivingaz.com

ENVIRONMENT

few resources as possible, Arcosanti also takes the long view instead of purely focusing on energy efficiency.

Apart from the architectural aspects of Arcosanti, its compact construction also meant that there would be closer interaction between its inhabitants and a communal style of living. With people of all ages from all around the world continuing to take part in and learn from the construction effort by enrolling in the Arcosanti Workshop Program, the community is active throughout the year.

Fortunately, Soleri’s strong belief that the performing arts should be central to urban life ensured that Arcosanti possesses a number of entertainment options, with each building doubling as a stage for performance. Due to the city’s architecture and its inhabitants’ willingness to show how it works in real life, Arcosanti is now one of the hubs for performing arts in the state.

Arcosanti is not perfect, and it is probably not the city of the future either. It is a city intended to demonstrate that humans can live in harmony with the ecosystem of the planet of which we are a part, a city that Stein hopes will “inspire research that can foster a kind of cultural transformation in that direction.”

As its epithet “urban laboratory” aptly conveys, Arcosanti is an ongoing experiment that seeks to show the values of ecological accountability, limited footprint for building, and resourcefulness. We can learn much from it.

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For more information about Arcosanti as well as upcoming performing arts events, visit arcosanti.org.

Bharat Venkatesh is a journalist living in Tempe, Arizona, who feels spreading awareness about the importance of sustainability should be a part of every journalist’s ethical goal to seek the truth and report it.

Main photo by Chris Ohlinger; Page 26 photo by Young Soo Kim; Page 27 photo by Tomiaki Tamura, inset by Chris Ohlinger.

Read more environment articles at greenlivingaz.com/environment

The outside shell of the ceramics apse was shaped over a form carved of fine silt. The apse faces south, allowing for shading in the summer from the sun straight overhead. In the winter month the sun is at a low angle, warming the interior of the apse.

To advertise, host a show, or for more information: Call (602) 277-1100 or visit our website: www.1100kfnx.com greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

27

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May 2017 | greenliving

29

LEADERSHIP

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP F

BY EMILY POWELL

or our May Women’s issue, we bring you a roundup of local women in traditional men’s roles. Find their inspirational stories below.

Jeri Williams PHOENIX POLICE CHIEF Jeri Williams spent two decades with the Phoenix Police Department before becoming assistant chief in 2009. She was sworn in as chief in late 2016 and oversees 4,000 employees and a $475 million operating budget. She strives JERI WILLIAMS to continue a legacy of peace-making through community-based policing.

Rita Cheng PRESIDENT, NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY A first-generation, non-traditional college student, Rita Cheng holds a Ph.D. in management from Temple University and has spent more than 25 years in teaching and administrative RITA CHENG roles at University of WisconsinMilwaukee and Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

30 greenliving | May 2017

She became President of Northern Arizona University in 2014 and strives to develop an accessible and affordable college education through student-centered teaching, a robust research environment and inclusive support services.

Kara Kalkbrenner PHOENIX FIRE CHIEF After 32 years of service with the department, in 2014 Kara Kalkbrenner was sworn in as Phoenix Fire’s firstever female Fire Chief. Kalkbrenner leads 2,000 members and an operating budget of over $300 million. She is KARA KALKBRENNER one of only six female Fire Chiefs of large metropolitan fire departments in the country.

Amy Hillman DEAN, W.P. CAREY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

AMY HILLMAN

Amy Hillman has earned numerous national awards as an outstanding reviewer, researcher, and professor and has been featured for her research in USA Today, The Washington Post

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LEADERSHIP

and U.S. News & World Report. She now serves as Executive Dean of one of the most highly-esteemed business schools in the nation and plays a key role in promoting entrepreneurship among ASU students.

Debra Weisberg FOUNDING PARTNER, DESIGNLINK ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING Debra Weisberg has 26 years of experience in municipal and civic projects. As founding partner of DesignLink Architecture, she has DEBRA WEISBERG developed an esteemed reputation for skillful, creative, and decisive design in all projects. Weisberg is also a LEED AP certified architect.

Barbara Brockett VP OF ENGINEERING, HONEYWELL AEROSPACE Working up to an influential management position at Honeywell in Phoenix, Barbara Brockett leads and develops a community that fosters women’s professional development.

BARBARA BROCKETT She has championed initiatives like the Aero Women’s Council, Women and Honeywell Engineering Network, and the corporate engineering diversity organization recruiting program. She was recently recognized by the Society of Women Engineers for her outstanding accomplishments and continued dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Leah Huss CO-OWNER, HUSS BREWING After more than a decade working as managing partner at Papago Brewing Company, Leah Huss now works alongside her husband at their homegrown brewery, Huss Brewing.

She graduated from Scottsdale LEAH HUSS Culinary Institute with a degree in Culinary Arts, where her passion for craft brewing was born.

Jill Williams DIRECTOR OF WOMEN IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA With a Ph.D. in Geography from Clark University, Dr. Jill Williams has worked extensively to increase diversity in the field of geography and JILL WILLIAMS promote feminist geographic research.

As Director of WISE (Women in Science and Engineering), she manages programs such as Girls Who Code, promoting confidence in advanced STEM skills among females. Her personal motto is “Go big or go home,” and her female role model is her mother, who passed away in 2013 but continues to inspire her.

Emily Powell is an Arizona native pursuing Bachelor’s degrees in Sustainability and Geography at Arizona State University. A self-described “wilderness junkie,” Emily aims to develop sustainable solutions for wilderness preservation and management by promoting human-to-nature connection through creative storytelling.

Read more leadership articles at greenlivingaz.com/leadership

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May 2017 | greenliving

31

BUSINESS

4 COMMUNICATION TIPS

FOR CHALLENGING CONVERSATIONS

BY AARON FERNANDO

N

o matter who you are, conflict between people and interpersonal challenges will always be a part of life. Working through these issues by having challenging conversations may not seem like an exciting experience, but AARON FERNANDO it is possible to turn interpersonal challenges into opportunities to move forward in a positive way. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.

1

USE I-STATEMENTS This advice is often offered by therapists and marriage counselors but it is applicable to any conflict, including professional ones: use I-statements instead of you-statements.

When addressing an issue, expressing how you feel with a sentence beginning in “I” or “I feel” will set you up for success in communicating a pain point.

For example, “You ruined our weekend plans” is phrased in a way that seems hostile and accusatory. The same message can be better conveyed by saying, “I felt upset and disappointed when you cancelled our weekend plans last minute.” This comes across as less aggressive and helps the listener understand your perspective. Because of this, the I-statement is likely to be well-received, significantly reducing the risk of escalating an already emotional conversation.

32 greenliving | May 2017

2

BE RESPECTFUL OF EMOTIONS, EVEN UNPLEASANT ONES Although we like to place logic and reason on the highest pedestal in society, emotions are a significant and necessary part of the human experience. For those on either side of a conflict, emotions are usually grounded in some valid grievance of miscommunication.

When someone is upset, asking questions conveys concern and can calm the person. Questions like “How can I help?” or “Is there anything I can do?” not only convey empathy, but also can provide information about how to go about addressing the issue.

3

FRAME A PROBLEM AS A COLLABORATIVE CHALLENGE Demanding that another person change their behavior can seem rigid or pushy, especially if you are unwilling to put in your own effort or change something. Though it can be hard to see (or admit), the best way to address an issue may require action on both sides.

Instead of offering demands, try framing problems as an opportunity to work together toward a better outcome.

This approach not only addresses the current issue in a more effective way, but it also builds trust and a sense

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BUSINESS

of togetherness for the future. According to Aristotle, “A common danger unites even the bitterest enemies,” and a common challenge can do exactly the same thing.

4

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR VOICE AND BODY LANGUAGE If you are worked up and angry, the person you are talking to is more likely to get worked up and angry. But if you remain calm and composed, the person you are talking to you will also feel calmer, even if it takes some time. Though it can be difficult to slow down and breathe when dealing with emotional or high-stakes issues, the communication rewards are worth it. And as with anything, this gets easier with practice.

Maintaining positive body language alone has enormous effects on communication. This in itself can tip a conversation in the desired direction. People subconsciously mirror speech patterns, behavior, and body posture, so keeping an open body language will communicate all the correct nonverbal cues. If you have the luxury of doing so before a challenging conversation, take a moment to relax, become aware of your body, and breathe. The rewards are almost instantly noticeable and will allow you to start the conversation on the right foot.

Aaron Fernando is freelance writer with a passion for working on projects that strengthen communities and regions in innovative ways. He writes about local movements, new economy initiatives, and behavioral economics. Aaron grew up in the Valley, lives in Upstate New York, and can be reached at aarondfernando@gmail.com.

Read more business articles at greenlivingaz.com/business

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May 2017 | greenliving

33

FINANCIAL

INFUSING CAPITAL INTO ARIZONA’S ECONOMY

WITH SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES 1 2

How much capital has your bank infused into the Arizona community from small business loans and others?

What are some of the sustainable practices you promote to your customers and employees?

Read their responses below and find out how much of a difference banking locally makes.

ED ZITO, PRESIDENT ALLIANCE BANK OF ARIZONA In 2016 alone, Alliance Bank provided approximately $28 million in a variety of community investments and donations. We funded $180 million in community development loans. Approximately 31 percent of our small business lending activity goes ED ZITO into low and moderate income areas.

As a preferred SBA (Small Business Administration) lender, we serve the small business market by diligently providing larger deals to small and mid-sized businesses that qualify for SBA guaranteed lending as well as other products and services such as overdraft protection lines.

1

2

Alliance Bank employs several sustainable practices, including recycle bins in every office and embracing technology that lowers paper use and the need for customers to come to the office physically. The bank looks for and favors sustainable and customer-conscious businesses. Our sister bank in Northern California has an entire division focused on renewable energy, performing a significant amount of lending and relationship solicitation with the renewable energy sphere.

34 greenliving | May 2017

JAMES CHRISTENSEN , PRESIDENT/CEO, GATEWAY BANK We book $20-24 million in loans per year. We had our nine-year anniversary in December 2016 so we have made in excess of $180 million in loans.

Ivan Martinez Photography

W

e asked the presidents of local Valley banks the following questions:

1

2

We program thermostats to only heat/cool at comfortable temperatures during working hours, we recycle cans, we turn lights off in all parts of the bank that are not being used (I am notorious for turning lights off in rooms with no people). We planted heavily around the bank and are getting the benefit of shade now after being in this building for almost eight years.

JAMES CHRISTENSEN

STEPHEN P. HAGGARD, DIRECTOR/PRESIDENT/CEO, METRO PHOENIX BANK Metro Phoenix Bank (MPB) is in business because of small businesses.

Since the bank’s inception, we have lent close to $200 million to small businesses and are committed to helping our community thrive even STEPHEN P. HAGGARD more. Unlike large national and regional banks that take deposits out of the local community and lend in other markets, we survive by infusing local deposits into the community through various loan products and services, including SBA lending.

1

2

Since inception, MPB established bank-wide procedures for recycling. When documents need to be shredded, MPB employs a locally owned and operated shredding service that securely destroys data then routes it to a local Arizona paper mill where it is transformed into everyday consumer products such as paper towels, napkins, and packaging. MPB has also lent to sustainable industries such as waste disposal and green builders, plus offers clients the option of receiving online statements instead of traditional paper copies.

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FINANCIAL

MICHAEL J. THORELL, PRESIDENT/CEO, PINNACLE BANK Since 2011, Pinnacle Bank has made over $225 million of loans to more than 250 small businesses in our community. This has had the direct impact of preserving and creating over 5,000 skilled jobs. Many economists claim that one skilled labor job creates MICHAEL J. THORELL 2.5 jobs in the local goods and services sectors, and an additional unskilled job in the local nontradable sector. Pinnacle Bank’s focus on meeting the needs of small businesses within our community has had a profound impact on the local economy.

1

2

At Pinnacle Bank, we believe that banking locally is banking better. We provide a more personal approach to banking with comprehensive personal and small business services focused on meeting the needs of our neighbors in our community. Colleagues recognize each other quarterly for their contributions to the bank that go above and beyond their normal job description. This creates an environment of sharing and teamwork built on integrity and laser-like focus on niche services to meet our clients’ needs.

JULIE FLETCHER, ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT AND BUSINESS BANKING SPECIALIST, ENTERPRISE BANK & TRUST Since Enterprise Bank became active in the Arizona market, the bank has extended more than $200 million in loans to small and mid-sized business in the Valley. As Enterprise Bank JULIE FLETCHER continues to grow and expand its operations in Arizona, we fully expect these investments to continue.

1

2

Enterprise Bank encourages our employees and our customers to practice sustainability whenever possible.

Internal best practices include regularly scheduled paper shredding and recycling, using energy-efficient LED light in our branch lobbies, occupancy sensors to manage electricity usage and efficient energy management of air conditioning during non-use periods. For our customers, we encourage sustainability through paperless banking, mobile deposits and other services that always keep sustainability at the forefront of our business.

See more financial articles at greenlivingaz.com/financial

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URBAN DEVELOPMENT

LAND RECYCLING IS THE ULTIMATE IN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

BY ROSANNE ALBRIGHT

P

ersistence, perseverance and tenacity are required attributes for success in the field of real estate development. Multiply these by 10 when you are working to clean up and redevelop former industrial sites that have left behind toxic waste, unpaid property taxes, and blight in a neighborhood as the result of abandonment and bankruptcy. The city of Phoenix reached out to federal, state, county and local government agencies to ask for help and it was that collaboration that proved to the private sector that redevelopment of this complex site was possible and profitable.

The Fifth Street & Buckeye Road Project is the poster child for brownfields redevelopment. The history of the site reads like a great mystery novel that is solved by characters from many different places, with twists and turns and roadblocks throughout the 30-year history of the property. The story begins with the property being used for auto shredding and salvage operations in the 1970s and early 1980s, a time when environmental regulations were in their infancy. The operation included dismantling cars and placing the material – affectionately referred to as “fluff” – in the ground, the same way you might create a landfill. Also, transformers containing PCBs (a carcinogen) were dismantled and salvaged at the property. When the ground below the surface was filled up on the 10-acre property, fluff piles were created on top of the surface, some 18 feet high.

Then in 1986, the owner of the property filed bankruptcy and walked away, leaving the hazardous fluff behind. It was a call about criminal activity that brought the Phoenix Police Department to the site, who then contacted the city’s Office of Environmental Programs to ask whether the site was safe to enter. Quick research by environmental staff indicated that there was a high potential for hazardous substances to be on the ground and police were outfitted in protective gear to enter the property.

The site was fenced and in 1998, with the arrival of the federal Brownfields Redevelopment initiative, city staff asked for help from the Environmental Protection Agency, Arizona

Department of Environmental Quality, Arizona Department of Health Services, and Maricopa County. These agencies worked together to conduct environmental investigations, cleaned up surface waste, placed a protective cap to prevent exposure to the hazardous waste, and addressed delinquent property taxes to bring this property back into productive use.

Harrison Properties purchased the property in 2006 through a county auction and approached the city for assistance in 2014.

“We have a strong commitment to the inner city industrial market and are pleased that we have transformed these 10 acres into a modern industrial complex,” said Jim Harrison, owner and developer, Harrison Properties. The city of Phoenix provided a $250,000 grant from the Brownfields Program to help offset the additional costs related to the environmental conditions of the property as well as technical assistance during construction of the site. A special unit of the Phoenix Police Department is a tenant onsite, and it is befitting that they now occupy space in the new development that they visited years earlier.

Innovative construction methods using helical piers were used to build safely on top of the protective cap with minimal disturbance to the hazardous waste below the surface.

Harrison also commissioned local artist, Joe Willie Smith, to design a sculpture that depicts the history of the site and the challenging building conditions; a perfect homage to the restoration of this once blighted, hazardous property into an economic development success story.

For more information on the Phoenix Brownfields Land Recycling Program, visit phoenix.gov/oep/environment/brownfields.

Rosanne Albright, Program Manager, Brownfields & Food Systems, has 19 years of experience managing the $4 million, municipally-funded Phoenix Brownfields Land Recycling Program, which has cleaned up and redeveloped over 300 acres, created 3,000 jobs, and realized $325 million in private investment. She has secured more than $2.5 million in EPA brownfields grants, including the Brownfields to Healthfields Project, focused on the integration of brownfields redevelopment, food, and health.

Read more urban development articles at greenlivingaz.com/urban

From left to right. David Rousseau, Cody Williams, Kenny Harris, Mindy Clements, Jim Harrison, Kate Gallego, Laura Malone, Rosanne Albright.

greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

37

TRAVEL

THIS MOTHER’S DAY

BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

T

SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

his year for Mother’s Day, take a break away from home and experience some of what makes Arizona such a special place.

Not only is this a great way to see the state, it’s an ideal way to spend time with the entire family and tell mom, “I love you.”

JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson is on 50 acres at the foothills of Tucson National Park. When you arrive at the resort, you find yourself completely surrounded by saguaro-covered desert, with the city in the distance.

There are guided hikes on the trails, pools and lazy rivers for relaxing, and the elegant Hashani Spa that features ancient traditions inspired by the indigenous people of the region.

The spa pool is perfect for yoga or some quiet relaxation.

The resort is known for its complimentary daily rituals.

Start each day with the Mitakuye Oyasin ritual on the Salud Terrace. Set to Native American flute music, greet the sunrise by creating your own intention, burn a sage prayer tie, and

receive an eagle feather blessing in the centuries-old tradition.

Each evening, head back to Salud Terrace for a tequila toast along with stories of Tucson’s colorful history. Mom will thank you as she sips tequila and watches the sun slowly set behind the mountains. jwstarrpass.com

Wine Weekend in Jerome Jerome is a historic copper mining town south of Flagstaff that sits about 5,200 feet above sea level. Some say the entire town is haunted, and it is certainly one of the most unique towns in the state. Enjoy local wineries, art galleries in converted garages, and a selection of restaurants and cafés.

Book a stay at The Surgeon’s House, originally built in 1917 for Jerome’s Chief Surgeon, but lovingly maintained today

by Andrea Prince, who will whip you up a healthy breakfast each day using fresh ingredients from her own cookbook. The gardens at The Surgeon’s House are relaxing spaces, perfect for reading or reflecting. If you can tear yourself away, amble down the hill into the small shops and boutiques that offer everything from antiques to handcrafted items.

Check out the tasting rooms for some great Arizona wines.

Stop by Caduceus Cellars and sample their Nagual Del Marzo Sangiovese Rosé from Yavapai County. Another fun tasting room is Cellar 433 that features bottled microbrews, tasty cheese trays, and fabulous valley views. azjerome.com

Mother’s Day Celebration in Historic Downtown Glendale Every year, Historic Downtown Glendale celebrates mothers with a special event on the Saturday before Mother’s Day. This is a great way to honor Mom with a day of special meals, great deals, shopping and fun activities. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on May 13, families are encouraged to spend quality time exploring the historic downtown together – and celebrate with this year’s Aloha theme.

Clockwise from top: JW Marriott Star Pass; Historic Downtown Glendale; Queen Creek Olive Mill; The Surgeon’s House in Jerome.

38 greenliving | May 2017 greenlivingaz.com

TRAVEL

Begin your day with a visit to the Glendale Visitor Center to pick up an event map. Many of the area restaurants and shops will feature sales and discounts. The first 250 moms will receive a beautiful Hawaiian flower lei as a way of saying thanks. visitglendale.com

Brunch at Queen Creek Olive Mill Share brunch with Mom in the grove at Queen Creek Olive Mill in Queen Creek, south of Phoenix. This family-owned olive farm grows more than 7,000 trees organically, producing olive oil that is available for purchase along with vinegars, olives, and tasty olive tapenades. There will be a special Mother’s Day Brunch menu served all day on Mother’s Day, May 14, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Moms will get chocolatecovered strawberries as well as complimentary wine tastings.

While you experience the beauty of the olive farm, you can take a tour of the olive oil process, listen to live music by the Chris Putrino Band, and order up a Mum-mosa, Sangria or Bloody Mary. While there is a charge for brunch, admission to the grove is free. Bring along a blanket and chair, but no outside food or beverages are allowed. This is a great event for families, and pets on leashes are welcome in outside spaces. queencreekolivemill.com Susan Lanier-Graham is a Phoenix-based freelance food, wine and travel writer. You can follow her adventures looking for “wow moments” online at wanderwithwonder.com Main photo courtesy of JW Marriott Starr Pass.

Find more travel destinations at greenlivingaz.com/travel

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May 2017 | greenliving

39

GREEN THUMB

MASTER GARDENER MONTHLY A LETTER TO THE BLACK-THUMB CREW

BY ASHLEY SCHIMKE

Dear Black Thumb Crew,

T

his letter is for those who are new to our beautifully dry and ASHLEY SCHIMKE hot climate (you’re welcome), to those who grew up with a garden but were really more consumers than tenders of said garden, and to those who have purchased many green plants only to watch them crawl to an inevitable death. Dry those eyes, dear friend; I have some advice for you.

Black Thumb, meet UA Cooperative Extension!

Congratulations, you are now friends.

Know your resources First things first: know your resources! The University of Arizona, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences’ Cooperative Extension (UA Extension) has been around since 1914.

With direction from the federal government, UA Extension conducts research to benefit Arizona agriculture and provides outreach and education about the application of that research.

Their Master Gardener Program, which is specific to each county, is a volunteer-based program that trains gardeners to review that research and help disseminate the information relative to gardening in Arizona. The Desert Institute of Gardening is a program of the UA Maricopa County Extension Office hosted by Master Gardeners for experienced and novice gardeners alike.

Start small Do not overwhelm yourself with all the really cool ‘Do It Yourself’ projects that you found on Pinterest or the dream of living off the land. Let our farmers help us live and let the Master Gardeners help you learn. Seriously, start small! Pick a plant, figure out when to grow it (pay attention to outdoor temperatures), and study up on its needs. You can start with a seed packet, or you can consult your UA Extension Vegetable Planting Guide.

40 greenliving | May 2017

Try something easy Grow a bean. Literally, pick any bean and the bigger the better. This is a first-grade lesson on germination. Growing from seed offers you the opportunity to see a variety of stages in your plant’s life. Sometimes we joke that children who grow tall and skinny are “bean poles” – that’s because beans grow quickly and they grow tall and skinny. Yes, like the story of Jack and Beanstalk. This will build your confidence as a gardener. You can do this. We believe in you.

Capture what you learn and try again We’re talking about journaling here. Get in touch with your adolescent self and write yourself some notes. When something goes wrong, write it down. When something goes right? Celebrate and then write it down. Capture what you observe: the amendments and applications that you use, the temperatures that spike or drop and the rainfall that comes.

All of this information will help you investigate what is going on beneath the surface (in the soil) and what might be attacking your plant babies (the insects or disease). In any event, there’s a publication for that. Visit the UA Extension website to help troubleshoot.

This is your year. Can you feel it?

With Love and Fresh Air, The Master Gardeners For more information and for what to plant in May, ask a Master Gardener! Call the “Plant Help Desk” at 602-827-8201 or email maricopacountyplanthotline@gmail.com. To view the upcoming schedule, visit extension.arizona.edu/calendar/month.

Ashley Schimke is a recent graduate of the Maricopa County Master Gardener Program.

Read more about gardening at greenlivingaz.com/greenthumb

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE BENEFITS OF MEMOIR WRITING

BY KATHERINE SMITH MAY

R

ecently, when I saw a bag of chips at the grocery store, I was reminded that my high school friends and I used to mash them on our tuna fish sandwiches every day for lunch. While my high school days are 50 years past, and my childhood KATHERINE SMITH MAY friends are 3,000 miles away, that memory made me smile.

A memory is a moment in time. It is often a wandering way we remember, a breadcrumb of our life’s journey. My moments include the smell of Papa’s Old Spice, the taste of Mama’s coconut cake, the pink of the lace dress I wore to prom and conversations on the ski trip where I met my late husband.

Those moments take my breath away as I search and find them again.

In an article for Psychology Today, Temma Ehrenfeld describes one benefit of writing a memoir: “Perhaps you are haunted by a mistake – writing a memoir may be a confession, and a way to give readers the benefit of your regret.”

While it may help you dissolve the hard knots of loss, betrayal, regret and guilt, memoir also captures those divine moments, allowing you to time travel back to that first kiss, college graduation, childbirth, fantasy vacation, or the cancerfree diagnosis.

Perhaps memories will spark from sifting through boxes of unsorted photographs of family and friends, neighborhood barbeques, birthdays, anniversaries, or promotions. Indeed, it may not be a memory from decades past; it may be as recent as last summer when you spent a month in another country, or it may be your dreams and aspirations coming true. No doubt, it may not be a bag of chips which sparks a memory.

Your search for story may be memorabilia: your senior yearbook, a faded corsage, an athletic jersey, service medals, or a piece of jewelry.

How close can you get to write your personal story?

Sometimes the questions and your responses may be murky and uncomfortable. Other responses may find you sitting on the floor and laughing as you did when you were a child. For me, it was the healing response from precious memories after the loss of my dog, Rhett Butler. Whatever the memory, you are the author and it is your story.

Writing a memoir is the act of believing in yourself and of valuing your life in a way that, if you choose, becomes of value to your reader. The expedition is coaxing the story out.

AS YOU SORT THROUGH THOSE BOXES OF PHOTOGRAPHS OR MEMORABILIA, PERMIT THE FOLLOWING PROMPTS TO TAKE YOU TO A MOMENT IN TIME. • Firsts in your life: first love, kiss, bike, car, job, school/college.

• Moments: most embarrassing, funniest, scariest, or most proud.

• Transitions: childhood to adulthood, moving, loss.

• Celebrations: birthdays, reunions, holidays, weddings, coming of age.

Don’t worry about punctuation, spelling and grammar. Just write. Writing about your life lets you share ideas and lessons, knowledge and wisdom to help others grow along with you.

You give a gift to your family as a meaningful, permanent legacy, as well as an appreciation for your life journey. Take the time today to find that box of photos or use the prompts above and begin to sort through the stories which celebrate your life.

Katherine Smith May is Professor Emerita with 30 years of teaching experience, currently teaching “The Art of Storytelling” and “Memoir Writing” in Phoenix and California. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, she writes memoirs of Southern culture. To reach Katherine, email her at writeyourmemoir2020@gmail.com.

Find more arts and entertainment articles at greenlivingaz.com/ artsentertainment

greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

41

GREEN KIDS

MOMS CLEAN AIR FORCE:

EMPOWERING PARENTS TO FIGHT AIR POLLUTION

BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

A

special project of the Environmental Defense Fund, the Moms Clean Air Force is a community of more than one million parents across the U.S. who are passionate about addressing air pollution and climate change to protect MICHELLE TALSMA the health of their children.

EVERSON Moms Clean Air Force arms members with reliable information and solutions through online resources, articles, action tools, and on-the-ground events.

“We work across the U.S. on national and local policy issues, through a vibrant network of state-based field teams. Our moms meet with lawmakers at every level of government to build support for commonsense solutions to pollution. Moms have passion and power – an unbeatable combination. We are harnessing the strength of mother love to fight back against polluters,” according to the organization’s website.

“I saw the need for an organization like Moms Clean Air Force after I realized there was really no effective way for parents to join their voices to fight toxic air pollution on behalf of our children’s health,” said Dominique Browning, the organization’s co-founder and senior director.

“I have always been interested in global warming; I think it is the biggest problem facing humankind. The idea of forming an organization that would both empower parents and work toward solving such a major issue really hit home,” she continued.

Using what they refer to as “naptime activism,” Moms Clean Air Force makes it easy for even the busiest of parents to make a difference.

“Air pollution is at the heart of our biggest environmental problems. Parents are such a powerful force. It seemed natural

42 greenliving | May 2017

that an organization harnessed the power of that commanding voice to fight for clean air,” Browning explained. “But, we had to do it in way that was simple, yet still effective. We know moms are really busy. So we make it easy to be engaged citizens while the baby naps. Sign a petition, make your voice heard – with enough time left over for a nap yourself! It is effective because we respect the craziness of a mom’s schedule, but we don’t count her out either. Sometimes, being a good mom means being an engaged citizen.”

On the Moms Clean Air Force website, interested parents can find petitions and other resources to share on social media.

Locally, Browning noted that, while there is no formal Arizona chapter, there are volunteers here. “We encourage parents and concerned citizens to join the force where we provide easy ways to take action and make your voices heard,” she added.

Essentially, Moms Clean Air Force is focused on political outcomes around clean air legislation.

“We are using all the tools at our disposal – letter-writing, petitioning, phoning, tweeting, office visits – to let our political representatives know that moms expect them to clean the poisons out of our air,” Browning said. “I am hopeful that we can change the way we use resources. I’m hopeful that we can clean up our mess,” she continued.

To learn more, visit momscleanairforce.org.

Michelle Talsma Everson is a freelance writer, editor, public relations consultant and mom based in Phoenix. With degrees in both journalism and PR from Northern Arizona University, she writes for several Valley publications. Find out more at mteverson.com.

Find more green kids articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenkids

greenlivingaz.com

April launch party Thank you to everyone who attended our April issue launch party at the LEED-certified Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) building in Tempe! We hope you all enjoyed the event and the launch of Candice Drake Cosmetics, a new organic, vegan mineral makeup line specially created for cancer patients.

Don’t miss our upcoming party! Thursday, May 11 at Expressions Home Gallery in Scottsdale!

Find more information and RSVP at greenlivingaz.com/party

Candice Drake-Hopkin and her son Kade Powell share their inspirational story behind creating Candice Drake Cosmetics, HUGS Foundation and Tuscan Soul Skincare.

A big shout-out to our sponsors from the party: Host :

Margo Brown and Kade Powell. Margo was the lucky winner of this amazing in-home sauna!

All raffle proceeds went to HUGS Foundation, a nonprofit that gives back to cancer patients.

Kade is the President.

Title Sponsor:

Sponsors: Advanced Mineral Makeup by Annie Mayo, Ashes to Ashes Tattoo, Green Organics Pest Control, Nekter Juice Bar, Pomegranate Cafe, Pour Masters, Recycled City, Sea of Green, Survivalist Box, Veronica Bahn Essential Oils, Witnessing Nature In Everything Nonprofit Beneficiary: HUGS Foundation Photography by Vince Alfaro

WE RAISED OVER $600 FOR HUGS FOUNDATION NONPROFIT!

Attendees loved learning about hydroponics from Sea of Green and more from all of our local vendors.

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Melanie Albert and Donna DiFrancesco.

Carmella Dodge and Jennifer Richards enjoying the great food and atmosphere.

May 2017 | greenliving

43

GREEN KIDS

GIRL SCOUTS GAIN SUSTAINABLE NEW SPACE

BY AMANDA HARVEY

I

n June 2015, construction began on what would become The Bob & Renee Parsons Leadership Center for Girls and Women at Camp South Mountain. The $18 million project is now complete, and the results are breathtaking.

Fifteen new cabins sleeping 10 girls each, three activity centers, a 500-person capacity leadership center, full kitchen and garden amenities, restored aquatic center and outdoor amphitheater, archery, fire pit and more await the Girl Scouts’ arrival for the first programs this summer.

The nearly 70-year-old campsite first began with a five-acre gift from the Heard family. It has since grown to 14.5 acres with new land acquisitions. “The land wasn’t being used to its capacity,” said Jessica Lyon, Senior Manager, Campaign for Girls, Arizona Cactus-Pine Council. “We wanted to create a space to allow more girls to experience camping and to serve the local community.”

Marlene Imirzian – founder of Marlene Imirzian and Associates Architects, one of the top 50 firms in the country for sustainability – was the lead architect on the project. Being a former Girl Scout herself, she had a passion to bring this idea to life for future generations of Girl Scouts. When you

approach The Bob & Renee Parsons Leadership Center for Girls and Women at Camp South Mountain, you are greeted with a green metal accent on the front of the building. “The Girl Scout sash was a big impact when I was a Girl Scout,” said Imirzian. “If you’re a Girl Scout, you’ll get it, and the sash is your entry to the building.”

“Every part of the camp is about building sustainably in the desert and showing how we can do that.”

– Marlene Imirzian 44 greenliving | May 2017

greenlivingaz.com

GREEN KIDS

Sustainability and the idea of building in the desert without harming the natural environment was a large part of the project. “Every part of the camp is about building sustainably in the desert and showing how we can do that,” said Imirzian.

All cabins and the walkway that connects the camp are on raised surfaces, so the wildlife and ground underneath are not affected. The roofs of the cabins are also sloped to allow for passive rainwater collection. “The water comes down from the roof and feeds the desert. The water also becomes a sculptural feature and it shows how much water is being collected. It’s a big lesson for the girls,” continued Imirzian.

The walkway and outer walls of the cabins are made from the same 80 percent recycled material. This project is the first to use the material to create walls. It’s almost indestructible; the intent was it never has to be maintained or replaced, said Imirzian. The walkways are also designed to be informal meeting spaces for the girls, and a way for them to experience the desert without damaging it or being exposed to unwelcome critters. The camp is also completely ADA accessible, with no special paths or ramps. “Everything is sloped walks, no one has to take an alternate path,” said Imirzian.

Every occupied space is designed with expertly placed skylights and windows so that lights do not need to be turned on during the day. The project is also pursuing LEED certification.

“It’s been such a privilege to think about a new way to build in the desert,” said Imirzian. “It’s very exciting.” She added that the sustainability features are not only practical but can also be used as teaching tools to explain to the girls how and why the designs benefit their surroundings.

Beginning this summer, 13 day camps, 14 hybrid programs and 14 full programs (where girls stay 4-6 nights) will be offered. Throughout the year, community groups and troops from all over can use the cabins or tent space, and leadership

and skill-building training will be offered for adults. The Arizona Cactus-Pine Council has been serving girls since 1936. Today they serve 22,000 girls, in grades K-12, with the help of 10,000 adult volunteers.

For more information on the Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine Council, visit girlscoutsaz.org. For more on Marlene Imirzian and Associates Architects, visit imirzian-architects.com.

Photos by Veronica Wierer.

Find more green kids articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenkids

RUBY FARIAS DESIGNS

custom painted and embellished clothing and accessories | rubyfariasdesigns.com | 602-295-5244 greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

45

GREEN KIDS

BIRDSEEDS OF KNOWLEDGE

A NATURE-OBSERVING ACTIVITY TO FOSTER

ENVIRONMENTAL UNDERSTANDING

BY JULIA WRIGHT

B

irds are a common feature in most outdoor spaces, from tropical jungles to urban jungles. Backyard gardens, balconies and shared green spaces give both children and adults the opportunity JULIA WRIGHT to experience nature. Only about one fourth of children have regular access to a backyard space, but many can see birds outside their window or while traveling to school.

The study of birds is often the first thing that sparks a connection with nature in people. Unlike snakes or insects, people generally like birds and connect feelings of wellbeing to watching them. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service, 50 million Americans feed birds. They are motivated by a personal psychological benefit, concern about the welfare of the bird, and connection to nature. Watching birds can also foster a sense of place or emotional connection to a location. Research has found that this is an important foundation to becoming a good environmental steward.

While observing birds is rewarding in itself, even greater knowledge can be gained by collecting and analyzing data on their behavior or habitat.

46 greenliving | May 2017

That’s where the “Birdseeds of Knowledge” lesson plan comes in. Free for personal and educational use, formal educators will find that the activity is aligned to science standards and comes complete with assessment, key vocabulary, and data collection charts.

Materials needed to conduct the lesson are a bird feeder, bird food, recording device (camera or observation), tripod (recommended) and bird identification guide for your area (Phoenix is included in this lesson plan). For students Kindergarten through fourth grade, the learner will gain a better understanding of how habitat modification can affect adaptation and behavior of wildlife. For grades five through high school, the learner will gain a better understanding of large scale/global habitat disruption by observing and making modifications to a small habitat. Through the study of the effect of small-scale changes, large-scale changes can be better understood.

The purpose of the “Birdseeds of Knowledge” activity is to learn about habitat change and its connection to adaptation and evolution. It can be difficult for young children (or even adults) to visualize large-scale changes made to habitats. For example, what does the deforestation of one million acres look like? What happens to the species who live in the area?

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GREEN KIDS

Save The Date Saturday May 6th, 2017 • 6-9pm

presents

Craft and Cocktail Night at

Reserve

Paradox Distillery 1725 W Williams Dr #65 Phoenix, AZ 85027 Only about one fourth of children have regular access to a backyard space, but many can see birds outside their window or while traveling to school.

The “Birdseeds of Knowledge” lesson plan can be downloaded at the link below for free for personal and educational use.

Craft: String Art Cost: $40 + cash bar Visit thehippiehobby.com/craftandcocktail for information and to buy your tickets!

How long does it take for change to occur? This lesson starts with the very simple change of adding supplemental food for birds in a backyard or patio setting. Through the examination of this very small change, the learner in this lesson will use scientific reasoning to develop a hypothesis, record data, and draw conclusions. This lesson is hopefully just the first step on a larger journey as the learner can incorporate other variables and record the effect.

The instructions, bird identification guide and data collection charts for the “Birdseeds of Knowledge” resource can be viewed or printed at juliawrightaz.wixsite.com/azgreenresources/bird-seed-project. Also, become a citizen scientist and share your experiences at the link.

Julia Wright is completing her Masters’ degree through Project Dragonfly, which is a cooperation between Miami University and the Phoenix Zoo. The focus of her studies is the connection of educators and environmental education resources.

Photos on this page by Veronica Wierer.

Find more green kids articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenkids

greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

47

MOTHER’S DAY RECIPES

SUMMER SQUASH, LEEK

AND TOMATO GRATIN RECIPE COURTESY OF GOOD THYME KITCHEN. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE HEYMANN PHOTOGRAPHY.

PUT A SMILE ON mom’s face with this vibrantly beautiful summer squash, leek and tomato gratin.

Good Th The leek yme Tip: s can be made the day befo saver. Just re as a time allow th em to cool afte r cookin g store in airtight c and o in the frid ntainer ge.

INGREDIENTS: 2 Tbsp quality olive oil 2 large leeks, halved and thinly sliced 1 clove garlic, minced 4 medium ripe tomatoes, cored and cut into 1/4-inch slices 2 medium zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices 2 medium yellow summer squash, cut into 1/4-inch slices 1/2 cup freshly grated asiago cheese 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp kosher salt Fresh ground pepper, to taste 3 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped DIRECTIONS: For the leeks: 1. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a medium skillet over low heat. Add leeks and sauté, stirring often, until soft and light golden brown, about 25 minutes.

2. Add garlic and sauté 1-2 more minutes until softened.

3. Set aside and cool.

oil, plus shredded asiago, parmesan, salt and two turns of freshly ground cracked pepper.

5. Start assembly by layering leeks on the bottom of the gratin dish.

Sprinkle lightly with a pinch of thyme, a pinch of parmesan, and a pinch of asiago.

6. Begin by laying one row of tomatoes across the width of the pan. Be sure to overlap somewhat and sprinkle with thyme, asiago and parmesan.

7. Next, place a row of zucchini, overlapping tomatoes, and sprinkle with thyme, asiago and parmesan.

8. Repeat with yellow squash and then continue with remaining layers, sprinkling each with thyme and cheeses until the gratin is full and topped with remaining cheese.

9. Cook until nicely browned and all of the juices have reduced, about one hour.

10. Cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.

NO-BAKE

MACAROONS RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF GOOD THYME KITCHEN.

PLEASE MOM’S SWEET TOOTH this Mother’s Day with these simple no-bake and no-sugaradded coconut macaroons!

INGREDIENTS: 2 Tbsp almond milk 2 Tbsp coconut oil + 1 tsp (for chocolate) 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1/3 cup coconut manna (coconut butter) 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes 1 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat a saucepan over medium heat.

Add almond milk, coconut oil, maple syrup, and coconut manna and bring to a low simmer.

2. Remove from heat and add vanilla, salt, coconut and oats and stir to combine.

3. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper. Use a cookie scooper to scoop out batter onto cookie sheet.

4. Melt chocolate and 1 tsp coconut oil in the microwave until melted. Drizzle chocolate over the top of the macaroons 5. Freeze for 10-15 minutes to set before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

For more recipes, visit greenlivingaz.com/ recipes

For the gratin: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Lightly drizzle the bottom of a two quart gratin dish with olive oil.

3. Lay sliced tomatoes on a plate with paper towels to drain juices.

4. In a medium bowl, toss zucchini and squash slices with remaining 1 Tbsp olive 48 greenliving | May 2017

greenlivingaz.com

MOTHER’S DAY RECIPES

GLUTEN-FREE MERIDA SALAD FRENCH TOAST

RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF MODERN MARKET

RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF U.S. EGG.

DELIGHT MOM’S TASTE BUDS with this bright and flavorful salad topped with a homemade tangy vinaigrette.

THE TRIED-AND-TRUE breakfast in bed will always brighten mom’s day. If she’s gluten sensitive, whip up this homemade gluten-free batter and use gluten-free bread to make a delectable French toast! Top it with fresh berries and whipped cream, or topping of Mom’s choice.

INGREDIENTS: 8 thick slices of your favorite gluten-free bread 4 eggs, beaten 2/3 to 3/4 cup coconut milk 1 tsp brown sugar 1/4 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg Pinch of salt 1 tsp vanilla extract Vegetable oil, for frying 1 Tbsp powdered sugar for dusting DIRECTIONS: 1. Preheat a large, heavy skillet on medium heat.

2. Combine the eggs, coconut milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and vanilla in a shallow bowl and whisk until thoroughly blended.

3. Dip bread slices into the egg mixture. The bread will act as a sponge and soak up the mixture. Let it sit and soak for a minute on each side.

4. Add vegetable oil to the preheated skillet. Add as many slices of bread that will comfortably fit on the skillet.

5. As soon as one side begins to get golden brown, carefully flip over and fry the other side. This may take as short as one minute or as long as a couple minutes – just be sure to keep a watchful eye on your French toast so it doesn’t burn.

6. Transfer to plates and serve immediately with a light dusting of powdered sugar on each slice.

7. Enjoy this gluten-free French toast plain, with butter and syrup or fruit topping and whipped cream.

Whatever mom wants!

greenlivingaz.com

INGREDIENTS: Romaine lettuce

Roasted chicken Organic adzuki beans Roasted corn Pickled onion Blue corn strips Cotija cheese Avocado Guajillo lime vinaigrette (See recipe below) DIRECTIONS FOR SALAD: 1. Prepare vinaigrette.

2. Assemble your salad ingredients based on the number of people you’re serving.

3. When finished, top with vinaigrette and serve immediately.

GUAJILLO LIME VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS: 1 small, yellow onion, cut in half and peeled 1/2 jalapeño, stem and seeds removed 4 garlic cloves 0.8 oz dried guajillo chilis 1/2 cup hot water 1 lime 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 Tbsp honey or agave 1 bunch cilantro, about 1/4 cup chopped 1 tsp chili powder, dark 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp salt and pepper (or to taste) DIRECTIONS FOR VINAIGRETTE: 1. After preheating the oven broiler, place onion, jalapeño, and whole garlic cloves onto a roasting pan. Broil in oven, turning occasionally, until charred and softened.

Remove from oven and allow about 30 minutes to cool to room temperature.

2. While onion mixture is roasting, quickly toast dried chilies in the hot oven, about 20 seconds. This step makes the chilies more pliable, and intensifies the flavor.

Trim away the stem, then remove as many seeds as possible.

For the rest of the instructions for Merida Salad visit greenlivingaz.com/ recipe-merida-salad

May 2017 | greenliving

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EVENTS MAY 20

Endangered Species Day

MAY 13 World Migratory Bird Day

GREEN SCENES MAY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

5/6 Life 360 Summit

5/12 Dinner in the Park, Moon Over South Mountain

5/13 Ameri-Can Canned Craft Beer Festival

CENTRAL ARIZONA

May 6

May 11

LIFE 360 SUMMIT

GREEN LIVING LAUNCH PARTY

9:00 a.m.-noon Musical Instrument Museum 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix The Integrative Wellness Alliance invites you to the Life 360 Summit, featuring key wellness experts sharing the latest science on wellness, longevity and living life to the fullest! This energetic, informative and entertaining event will set you on a course to optimal health through more natural, non-invasive, nonsurgical, non-pharmaceutical approaches to wellbeing. Tickets cost $67.00. life360summit.com

5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Expressions Home Gallery 7550 E. Greenway Rd., Suite 110, Scottsdale You’re invited to Green Living magazine’s May issue launch party. Join us at the new Expressions Home Gallery showroom in Scottsdale for a night of fun and networking! Meet and mingle with like-minded people in the green industry, enter to win eco-friendly door prizes, and enjoy appetizers and drinks from local vendors. greenlivingaz.com/party

May 7

May 12

WANDERLUST 108 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale Wanderlust 108 is a full day celebration and unique triathlon bringing together three intentional activities: a 5K run, an outdoor yoga flow class, and a guided meditation. Following the triathlon, enjoy one scheduled activity such as acroyoga, AIReal Yoga, hooping or walking meditation. Nationally recognized teachers, spiritual leaders, and musical talent will be featured at each event to make for a fun-filled, empowering day both on and off your mat. wanderlust.com/108-events/scottsdale 50 greenliving | May 2017

DINNER IN THE PARK, MOON OVER SOUTH MOUNTAIN 6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

South Mountain Environmental Education Center 10409 S. Central Ave., Phoenix Dinner in the Park, Moon Over South Mountain is a unique and exciting event unlike any in the Valley. It serves to educate the public and showcase the many great City of Phoenix Parks and Recreational opportunities, and is also the main fundraiser for the year, which will allow the Foundation to continue supporting many parks and recreation programs. Tickets are available for $85.00. phxparksfoundation.org/events/dinnerin-the-park

May 13 AMERI-CAN CANNED CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.

Margaret T. Hance Park 67 W. Culver St., Phoenix Featuring more than 250 canned craft beers from over 100 local and national breweries across 40 states, including beers not previously available in the state of Arizona. Other highlights include live music, food, a beer science garden, seminars, beer Olympic games and a rare beer garden. Tickets start at $35.00. cannedcraftbeerfest.com

May 25 YWCA WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT SERIES 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

The Camby Hotel 2401 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix Don’t miss this inspiring event featuring author, gymnast and aerialist, Jen Bricker.

Born without legs, Jen’s biological parents left her at the hospital. One would think she would be destined for a life of hardship. However, the hand of destiny brought her an amazing adoptive family, who gave her one simple rule, “Never say the word: Can’t.” Learn more about her amazing journey at the luncheon. Tickets cost $75.00. ywcaaz.org/event/ywca-authorsluncheon greenlivingaz.com

EVENTS MAY 22

World Biodiversity Day

5/13-14 Verde Valley Wine Festival

5/18 Save the Waves Film Festival

5/26-28 Cosmic Origins

NORTHERN ARIZONA

May 13-14 VERDE VALLEY WINE FESTIVAL 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Clarkdale Town Park 1001 Main St., Clarkdale The 2nd Annual Verde Valley Wine Festival returns to the historic Clarkdale Town Park for two great days of wine, beer, spirits, food, live music and art.

The event highlights the community of Clarkdale and the Verde Valley at large with the finest Arizona wineries, breweries, spirits and restaurants committed to creating homegrown products for locals and visitors.

Tickets start at $35.00. verdevalleywinefestival.com

May 18 SAVE THE WAVES FILM FESTIVAL

COSMIC ORIGINS

6:30 p.m.

Orpheum Theater 15 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff Coastal environment activism may seem out of place in the landlocked Flagstaff but problems out of sight still exist and affect us all. The Save the Waves Film Festival is an international film tour and fundraiser for Save the Waves Coalition’s environmental programs and campaigns. With an array of local and international nonprofits and initiatives present, join in to learn more about the status of the world’s oceans. Tickets start at $7.00. savethewaves.org/filmfest2017

Various times Sedona Creative Life Center 333 Schnebly Hill Rd., Sedona Explore the questions “Who are we?” and “Where do we come from?” to truly uncover “Where we are going” at the Cosmic Origins conference. The speakers in this event will include some of the top minds in the field of ancient civilizations sharing new science about the cosmology of the world. They will discuss the Egyptian Pyramids, ancient civilizations, what lies beyond the Milky Way, and more ancient mysteries.

Tickets start at $275.00. worldviewzmedia.com/seminars/ cosmic-origins

BUSINESS EVENTS

May 3 LUNCH & LEED SEMINAR 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Okland Construction 1700 N. McClintock Dr., Tempe The city of Apache Junction is the first municipal government in Arizona to create a City Hall complex that is the LEED-certified Apache Junction City Hall today. The Apache Junction City Hall was LEED certified in April 2006. Bryant Powell with the city of Apache Junction will discuss lessons learned during the design and construction process and the benefits of working in a LEED certified building. Ticket start at $10.00. usgbc.org/usgbc-arizona

greenlivingaz.com

May 26-28

May 6 BLACK & WHITE BALL AND BUSINESS AWARDS 6:00 p.m.-midnight Arizona Grand Resort & Spa 8000 Arizona Grand Pkwy., Phoenix Join the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC) for their 59th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards. The event honors the achievements of Arizona entrepreneurs, business leaders, and individuals who have positively contributed to the state’s social progress and economic prosperity. The AZHCC also presents awards in four other categories: Man of the Year, Corporation of the Year, Woman of the Year, and Legacy Award.

Tickets start at $300.00. azhcc.com/events

May 10 GREEN CHAMBER LUNCH & LEARN 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

FOUND:RE Hotel 1100 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Join the Green Chamber as Tim Sprague, principal of Habitat Metro, discusses the Found:RE project, upcoming Deck Park improvements, and his upcoming Net Zero project. Tickets cost $22.00 for members and $30.00 for nonmembers. Lunch is included in the ticket price. thegreenchamber.org

May 2017 | greenliving

51

EVENTS

5/6 35th Annual Solar Potluck and Exhibition

5/20-21 Willcox Wine Country Spring Festival

5/24 Sustainable Living Forum: Wastewater

SOUTHERN ARIZONA

May 6

May 20-21

May 24

35TH ANNUAL SOLAR POTLUCK AND EXHIBITION

WILLCOX WINE COUNTRY SPRING FESTIVAL

SUSTAINABLE LIVING FORUM: WASTEWATER

10:00 am-Sunset Catalina State Park 11570 N. Oracle Rd., Tucson Join Citizens for Solar at the Annual Solar Potluck and experience the flavors of solar-cooked food and learn about solar by viewing solar appliances and exhibitions (ovens, fountains, coolers, lights, electrical systems) and solar arts.

The cost is $7.00 per car to get into Catalina State Park. citizensforsolar.org

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Railroad Park 157 N. Railroad Ave., Willcox Arizona Wine Growers Association presents tastings of Arizona wines from 16 Arizona wineries, local farm and craft vendors, scrumptious food from Dante’s Fire, live music and performing artists in downtown Willcox’s historical Railroad Park.

Tickets start at $15.00. willcoxwinecountry.org

5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Laura Tanzer’s Atelier 410 N. Toole Ave. #110, Tucson Our potable water on this planet is limited, so it’s important that we work to keep our water clean! By promoting wastewater reuse, we are not only saving water but saving the embedded energy it takes to transport water from the Colorado River to our Sonoran desert. Brought to you by Green Living Magazine, Laura Tanzer, Local First Arizona, Mrs. Green’s World and Delectables Restaurant. bit.ly/2pZIopz

For more events, visit greenlivingaz.com/events

52 greenliving | May 2017

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GREEN PAGES

thank you to our partners!

WE APPRECIATE OUR READERS SUPPORTING OUR ADVERTISERS! Allstate Appliances.......................Back Cover

Glos Wellness Solutions............................... 36

Republica Empanada...................................... 36

Arizona Diamondbacks................................... 17

Girl Scouts Arizona

Ruby Farias Designs......................................... 45

Bauman’s Xtreme Training..............................13

Cactus-Pine Council......................................... 15

Scottsdale Philharmonic.................................13

Body Beautiful Spa........ Inside Front Cover

Gourmet Girls.................................................... 30

Sea of Green........................................................35

Candice Drake Cosmetics/

Keep Arizona Beautiful.....................................4

Sun Valley Solar

Tuscan Soul Skincare...................................... 28

KFNX........................................................................27

Solutions..............................Inside Back Cover

Central Phoenix Women, East Valley

Lifetime Tea........................................................ 36

The Hippie Hobby.............................................47

Women & Women of Scottsdale..............39

Local First Arizona..............................................7

Twisted Sisters’ Designs................................ 36

CERULEAN Wellness....................................... 18

Metro Phoenix Bank..........................................31

Unified Brands.....................................................53

Charles Forker Auto Group......................... 36

Modern Love...................................................... 29

Verde Dimora Apartments..............................7

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Natural Healing Garden................................ 36

Volstead Public House................................... 36

Expressions Home Gallery..............................9

Peak Scents.......................................................... 29

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Franca Amoroso-Chang,

Pomegranate Café.............................................53

Wespac/McDowell Mountain

Century 21/Toma Partners.......................... 36

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Music Festival........................................................ 3

Friendly Pines Camp........................................52

PurMaid..................................................................23

Witnessing Nature in Everything.................4

Purple Lotus Productions..............................47 For more information about our advertisers, go to greenlivingaz.com/resources

SPRING INTO HEALTH!

revitalizing food and pure flavors are at the heart of what we do

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ORGANIC LOCALLY SOURCED VEGAN/VEGETARIAN CRAFTED WITH LOVE

May 2017 | greenliving

53

G R E E N CHAMPIONS Each month in our Green Champions section we feature three people – one each in northern, central and southern Arizona – who are making strides in the green community. In our May Women’s Beauty & Style issue, we focused on local women passionate about eco-friendly and sustainable fashion design.

NORTHERN – TAWNY STAR LEWIS, OWNER, CEO AND DESIGNER, BLACK AND BIRCH APPAREL

Fashionista Tawny Star Lewis’ Black and Birch Apparel in Flagstaff is a Fair Trade garment boutique that supports economically-challenged independent fashion designers from all over the world. Rebelling against the exploitation of artisans who make hand-loomed garments in the South Pacific and Southeast Asia, whose valuable art is taken in exchange for substandard pay, medical care and housing, Star says her goal is to sell “guilt-free clothing.” Black and Birch also gives back to the local community in the form of volunteer activities, sponsorships and fundraisers.

Star hopes to someday launch her own fashion production company.

BLACKXBIRCH.COM

CENTRAL – ANGELA JOHNSON, FASHION DESIGNER, ANGELA JOHNSON DESIGNS

Angela Johnson is an award-winning fashion designer and illustrator who sells recycled clothing couture on her website and in boutiques all over the country. Among the many titles ascribed to her, she is also a fashion educator, being on the board of the Arizona Department of Education and having instructed at Arizona State University, Mesa Community College, Collins College, Art Institute of Phoenix and New School for the Arts and Academics. She is a leader and insider in the Arizona fashion industry, being the Regional Director for Fashion Group International of Arizona. She is a fashion show coordinator, having coordinated the Scottsdale Fashion Week for four years and organized events at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts. Johnson is also a fashion business consultant, having cofounded the Arizona Apparel Foundation and LabelHorde.

ANGELAJOHNSONDESIGNS.COM

SOUTHERN – LAURA TANZER, OWNER AND DESIGNER, LAURA TANZER, LLC

Laura Tanzer, LLC, a women’s clothing boutique in downtown Tucson, is the embodiment of Laura Tanzer’s intent to combine her extensive educational background in fashion, business and the sustainable business practice concepts.

An award-winning designer, her clothing is not only of high quality, fit and sophistication but also highly sustainable. Her garments are made from sustainable natural materials and she utilizes the scraps by sending them to those who can use them, such as makers of tote bags and iPad covers, which she sells along with her clothing. Instead of adding to the landfill, any waste materials too small to be used are sent to schools for use in art projects or organizations like the Girl Scouts for use in summer camp projects.

LAURATANZERDESIGNS.COM

Want to nominate someone as a Green Champion? Email your candidate to editor@greenlivingaz.com!

54 greenliving | May 2017

greenlivingaz.com

HE’S GREEN SHE’S GREEN SMART SNACKS Product reviews by our eco-conscious couple John and Jennifer Burkhart Road trip? Final picnic before the blazing temps? Memorial Day party? Whatever your reason for scouring the grocery aisles for snacks, avoid grabbing those “looks-like-food-but-made-in-a-laboratory” treats. There are many great choices to munch on that are actually healthy for you! Read on to see if these five “smart snacks” should join you on the couch with your next Netflix binge or outdoor adventure.

ANNIE CHUN’S | ORGANIC SEAWEED SNACKS, WASABI HE SAID: Seems like most people either love or hate seaweed.

I personally find its ocean-y taste delicious. I’ve had the plain, salted version of these and I quite liked them. This wasabi flavored seaweed is a spicy, horseradish kick in the teeth…and I still quite like them.

SHE SAID: I barely got half of one of these past my lips before everything it touched felt like fire! I powered through, and mercifully the pain subsided. What was left, though, was reconstituted, chewy, slimy seaweed that reminded me of sushi, but without all the fun fillings.

He gave it:

She gave it:

BRAD’S | ORGANIC CRUNCHY KALE, VAMPIRE KILLER HE SAID: These are not the first snack I’d reach for because they have a strong green kale flavor. But I admit they have a nice light crunch, and the vegan cheese flavoring was a good addition. Most importantly, however, was the fact that both of our young boys happily chowed down on these. What an easy way to get them their greens.

SHE SAID: Let’s be honest, no one’s thinking “kale!” when shopping for snacks. Though after tasting these, I think they should! The light, crispy crunch was oh-so-satisfying, while the garlic vegan cheese flavor kept me grabbing for more.

It’s virtually guilt-free noshing!

He gave it:

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DANG | TOASTED COCONUT CHIPS, ORIGINAL HE SAID: Oh boy, these are dangerous! Like, “Oops, I ate the whole bag” dangerous. I don’t know what kind of magic they use on these, but they somehow turn bland coconut shavings into lightly crunchy chips with a sweet and slightly buttery coconut flavor that made me say, “Dang!”

(You knew that joke was coming, didn’t you?)

SHE SAID: I’d bet you’ve never tasted coconut like this before. Wow! I’m not sure how these were so good, but I’m glad someone figured it out. Salt, a bit of cane sugar, and coconut toasted to perfection make quite the trio apparently.

He gave it:

She gave it:

SEAPOINT FARMS | DRY ROASTED EDAMAME, SEA SALT HE SAID: By Grabthar’s hammer, what a crunch! These dry-roasted edamame were somehow super crunchy, yet light and nutty. I bet you could use these a hundred different ways, and all would be tasty. To top it off, they’re verified non-GMO, so you know you’re not eating mutant soybeans.

SHE SAID: Whoa, these were addictive! I was shocked that something so simple like crunchy soybeans and salt would be so tasty. They had a satisfying flavor similar to peanuts, but more delicate. These also have less fat and tons of protein compared to peanuts. Yum!

He gave it:

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PRIMAL SPIRIT FOODS | PRIMAL STRIPS, TERIYAKI AND HICKORY SMOKED HE SAID: We tested two different versions of this pseudo beef jerky, and neither one had much going for it. The teriyaki had a nice sweet flavor that quickly turned into a plastic chemical taste. The hickory was like eating a perfectly smoked, lightly salted strip of bicycle tire.

This is your product if you’re a strict vegan who loves beef jerky, and my heart goes out to you because your struggle is real.

SHE SAID: As a beef jerky fan, I knew I had to keep an open mind biting into these vegan jerky strips. The soy-based hickory smoked strip wasn’t bad – tender but chewy, moist, with a robust peppery-smoke-soy flavor. The teriyaki seitan-based strip was also chewy but softer and had a savory flavor (but it didn’t remind me of teriyaki). It had slightly more protein, but I’d grab the hickory strip for my next backpacking trip…if all the other beef jerky was gone.

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See more product reviews at greenlivingaz.com/hgsg greenlivingaz.com

May 2017 | greenliving

55

COOL OUTRAGEOUS

STUFF 2

1

FOR FLAWLESS HAIR

ColorProof, a complete line of professional luxury products, provides 100 percent vegan products with biodegradable formulas that are never tested on animals.

The process in which ColorProof creates their formulas stems from innovative technology that fuses a mix of certified organic botanicals with anti-aging ingredients, a blend of superior proteins, and seven sulfate-free and salt-free surfactants. As a result, ColorProof leaves hair looking flawless, using ingredients that are not only good for your locks but that are also sustainable to the earth.

Product lines are available for every hair type. Prices vary.

COLORPROOF.COM

3

MAKE CLEANING EASIER

Bump It Off is a reusable silicone sleeve that fits on your hand in four different positions, enabling you to concentrate scrubbing power in the palm of your hand or on your fingertips. With gentle silicone bristles on one side and smooth bumps on the other, the Goddess of Gadgets product has endless cleaning applications in every room of your home, helping to minimize waste and forgo harsh chemicals. It’s also vegan, earth friendly and dishwasher safe. $9.99 each, $39.99 for a set of four GODDESSOFGADGETS.COM

4

EDITO R PICK ’S

KEEP YOUR BREW COLD

For the outdoorsy crew who enjoys camping or hitting the mountain trails, Hydroflask has the perfect temperature-controlled True Pint for easy drinking, even in the wilderness. Engineered for the perfect beer-drinking experience in all temperatures, it’s also stackable for easy storage, durable, has a sweat-free powder coat finish, and a lifetime warranty. $24.95 HYDROFLASK.COM

6

COCOA BUTTER LIP BALM

For the fashionable mom who loves makeup, give the gift of soft lips. Camille Beckman lip balm comes in a variety of unique flavors like vanilla amaretto, Moroccan spearmint and wild rose. These cocoa butter lip balms are made with fair-trade organic cocoa butter, sweet almond oil, beeswax, coconut oil, stevia and vitamins galore. $4.50 CAMILLEBECKMAN.COM

5

MINERAL DEODORANT

Respect your body and the environment with crystal deodorant.

The natural Body Deodorant Rock from Crystal contains mineral salts mined from the earth that will keep you odor free for up to a year. The rock is paraben-free and contains no harsh chemicals.

Just wet the stone and apply as needed. $6.99 THECRYSTAL.COM

WATER-SAVING GARDENING TOOL

Grow your garden smarter and with less water this spring!

Plant a Growoya, refill with water every couple of days, and watch your plants blossom. Plant roots connect with the Oya underground and take the water they need, which reduces surface water waste by up to 70 percent.

Starting at $24.95 GROWOYA.COM Find more cool outrageous stuff at greenlivingaz.com/cos

56 greenliving | May 2017

greenlivingaz.com

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