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T
he stories in this issue make my heart soar. I am inspired and I hope you will be too. After meeting some phenomenal women in the May issue, I thought it might be difficult for the men to measure up. Boy, was I wrong! So who are these amazing men who promote sustainability? You can meet a few of them in the following pages. This issue is dedicated to men, and celebrates the stories of some who are championing sustainable living way beyond their own lives. You will meet two Swiss innovators who are traveling across America in an aircraft powered by the sun. Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg are on a mission to increase awareness and get people excited about renewable energy. They are carrying their message through the clouds, some 27,000 feet above land, in a silent fixed-wing solar airplane that is in the middle of a record-breaking cross-country tour. The duo stopped in Phoenix by way of San Francisco and will continue soaring across the nation to a final destination in New York. Back on the ground in Phoenix, we meet Derrick Hall, CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and champion for the environment. He strives to influence the players, fans, employees and corporate partners, through a variety of sustainability initiatives and by giving back to the community. There are others featured in these pages who are giving back to the community—three more LEED homes have been constructed by Habitat for Humanity, an organization that relies on the generosity of many, both in financial terms and in the sheer manpower (and womanpower) needed to erect walls, top roofs and complete these energy-efficient homes for those who otherwise couldn’t afford them. For our fitness enthusiasts, we share some insights to maximize your workout. Once nutritional needs are met and exercise routines are
refined, we thought you’d like a few more tips to keep your skin healthy too. We suspect there are a few do-it-yourselfers out there who, after taking some time to green the pool, might want to kick back with a cold one. We will introduce you to a home brewer who shares your passion. But no man can live on beer alone—even if it is home brewed—so, to go along with that frosty mug, we have some fabulous barbecue recipes. For the dads out there looking for something fun to do with their children, we say it’s as easy as stepping outside. Learn how walking out the front door at night can turn into an after-dark adventure. The memories you make sharing nature with your children will last a lifetime. Dads, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for all you do for your families. “A truly rich man is one whose children run into his arms when his hands are empty.” -author unknown. I wish for you all the richness that life can bring and a very Happy Father’s Day.
Cheryl Hurd Editor-in-Chief
Note: It seems these days that tragedies are more commonplace than ever before. Fires, bombings, shootings, hurricanes, tornadoes, the list continues. In every situation, our hearts go out to those grieving and to those rebuilding their lives. Part of our mission at Green Living magazine is to inspire, but again, I find myself inspired, this time by the compassionate and generous people of Arizona. In the past year, our state has contributed to the American Red Cross more than $2 million in donations for disaster services, countless pints of blood, and more than 50,000 volunteer hours. If you would like to help, you can contact the American Red Cross at redcross.org.
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5
feature
sWiss innovators defY tHe impossible
SOLAR PLANE VISITS VALLEY OF THE SUN DURING RECORD-BREAKING TOUR BY KATIE PEIGE
D
uring the early hours of May 4, as many Star Wars fans were sending tweets, texts, and digital wishes of “May the Fourth be with you!” a small group of reporters gathered at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport with an array of tripods and long telephoto lenses to welcome a Swiss innovator to the Valley of the Sun. It was dark. The lights of the runway twinkled in an almost melodic sequence beckoning the guest of honor. After much anticipation, a strange string of blue lights drifted in on the western horizon. The flying apparatus did not make a sound, and its eerie descent, with those blue lights spaced evenly across the 208-foot wingspan, would make any unaware bystander think this was indeed a close encounter of the third kind. This was not a scene from a sci-fi flick but rather the product of a daring question: What would it take to develop a plane that could fly day and night without using one drop of fossil fuel? That’s what a group of Swiss environmental engineers and aeronautical experts wanted to know when they took on the challenge to build the world’s first 24/7 solar plane. The result of their $140 million, multi-year effort, sponsored by some of the world’s top corporate leaders in sustainability, is the Solar Impulse. Solar Impulse, a feat in sustainable innovation and Swiss pioneering, is on a quest to spread the hope of renewable energy by completing a never-before-seen journey across the United States. This coast-to-coast renewable energy crusade aims to spark interest in and inspire innovation for a future that is not filled with doom and gloom of a climate crisis, but one that is sustainable through great feats of technology, collaboration, and the question, “Is it possible?” Powered entirely by the sun’s energy thanks to the airplane’s 11,628 solar cells, the Solar Impulse defies the “impossible.” The solar cells are incredibly thin, measuring 135 microns, about the thickness of an average human hair, and are 22.7
26 greenliving greenliving || June June 2013 2013
percent efficient—cutting-edge in the solar industry compared to the efficiency of residential solar panels, which are about 16 percent efficient. The plane is light, weighing in at 3,527 pounds—the weight of a car. MEET THE INNOVATORS Solar Impulse is piloted by its founders Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg. Each of these men has not only extensive and well-decorated aviation experience but also résumés that redefine the term over-achiever. Piccard, for example, is not only a medical doctor, aeronaut, author, and lecturer, but also a goodwill ambassador to the United Nations and chairman of the humanitarian foundation Winds of Hope, which he co-founded. Piccard comes from a famous family of scientists and underwater and atmospheric explorers and has been flying since his teens. In 1999, Piccard established seven world records as he captained the Breitling Orbiter in the first non-stop around-the-world balloon flight. Borschberg, CEO, co-founder, and pilot of Solar Impulse, is a graduate engineer in mechanics and thermodynamics, and holds a Master’s in Management Science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Borschberg also started flying in his youth and was trained as a fighter pilot in the Swiss Air Force. Over the years, Borschberg served as a business consultant, and as an investor and entrepreneur for various technological projects. Together, Piccard and Borschberg make an incredible team. Piccard, the visionary, dreamed of flying a plane around the world with zero emissions and envisioned such a mission would uplift a spirit of pioneering for the renewable energy industry. To assist in turning the dream into reality, Borschberg brought his entrepreneurial skills to the project, assembled the technical team, and led the construction of the first prototype. The men will take turns piloting the Solar Impulse across America.
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THE JOURNEY Piccard was first in the cockpit as he took off from San Francisco and landed in Phoenix. The plane taxied to the welcoming committee with the use of a bicycle brigade. After all the hugs and photo opportunities, Piccard was finally hoisted from his perch, and was able to make his first steps on solid ground after a nearly day-long journey over the southwest. He greeted the press with his colleague, Borschberg, and proceeded to answer questions from the media. When asked why Phoenix was chosen for the first stop, Piccard replied, “Because the enthusiasm of the people when we suggested different possibilities was overwhelming, and immediately we thought, ‘OK, the people here would like to see this airplane, so let’s start here.’” “I think it’s the Valley of the Sun, no? That’s what you call it. It’s a good reason also to be here,” Borschberg added. At one point, a fuel truck passed between the plane and the press audience, to which someone exclaimed, “We do not need any fuel, thank you!” In fact, the airplane had plenty of power left even after landing. “I have three-fourths of the batteries left. We could plug in an electric car on the airplane and go back to the hotel…. It’s amazing technology,” Piccard said. Both pilots are in excellent shape and have trained themselves to withstand extreme conditions and fatigue with various meditation and hypnotic techniques. Up in the air, there is a constant strain on the pilot’s endurance as they fly, without auto-pilot, for such prolonged periods of time, which leaves one to question how enjoyable the flight actually was. “You know, I had my period of flying just for myself. Now if we fly, it’s because we really believe in something, we like to share it—we like to spread this vision about clean technologies for the future.” Since ultra-light weight is the goal for the airplane to be as efficient as possible, the flying accommodations are far from luxurious. Depending on the altitude, the pilot, who is alone and confined to the cockpit for each 20-hour leg of the journey, is either sweating or freezing. Food and water are precisely calculated based on need and weight. “It’s obvious it’s not the most comfortable way to travel,
but we believe it’s the most powerful way to speak about new technologies and energy efficiency, because normally when we speak about the protection of the environment, when we speak about climate change—it’s really boring. It’s all the problems and nobody knows what to do. So we try to see it the other way around—what are the solutions that we can do that simultaneously protect the environment and also create jobs and sustain profit for the industry? So Solar Impulse, for this, is a good demonstration that renewable energies can achieve incredible and ‘impossible’ things.” Two and a half weeks later, it was Borschberg’s turn to pilot the plane to Dallas, Texas and attempt to break his own world record—693 miles traveled by a solar airplane. On the morning of May 23, Borschberg landed successfully in Dallas, after his 830 mile flight from Phoenix, thus establishing a new world record for solar aviation. They expect to reach their final destination of New York City sometime in July. The team plans to complete another prototype by 2015 that will be able to fly around the world. To learn more about the pilots, the engineering, and to track the Solar Impulse project as it continues its journey across America, visit solarimpulse.com. opposite left: Solar Impulse landing after midnight at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Photo by Fred Merz opposite right: André Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard just after the landing. Photo by Fred Merz top: Solar Impulse in Phoenix. Photo by Katie Peige
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Health & Wellness HealtH
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YOUR MUSCLE BY CHERYL HURD
Y
ou are committed to getting in shape. So you set your sights on a gym and vow to go every day. When you walk in, you see a row of muscle-bound men hefting monster-sized weights and wonder how long it will take you to join their ranks. Day after day you return to the gym and although you see some changes, you can’t seem to achieve the results you want. So you lift more, invest more time, and still, your workout isn’t working. Don’t get discouraged. Take a break, go get a healthy snack, and read on. There are many opinions about muscle building and how to get results, but most agree that muscles need nutrition and rest. Health enthusiast and celebrity fitness chef Jen Arricale echoes that philosophy and shares steps to maximize muscles, naturally: BEFORE YOU BEGIN It’s not just what you eat but when you eat, Arricale says. You need to properly fuel before a workout. About 30 to 60 minutes before you exercise, have a meal that includes carbohydrates for energy and
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protein for muscle support. Suggestions: Meals that include oats and egg whites, or sweet potatoes and chicken breast. DURING YOUR WORKOUT For intense workouts, it is important to fuel during exercise as well. “I would suggest a natural sports mix you can drink that includes: whey protein, carbohydrates, glutamine, and branch chain amino acids,” Arricale says. If you are working out for 30 minutes or less, you can skip the mid-workout fueling. The most important meals are before and after a workout. AFTER YOUR WORKOUT Within 30 minutes of completing your workout, you want to feed your muscles again. The meal should include protein and carbohydrates. If you skip fueling during exercise, Arricale suggests adding glutamine and branch chain amino acids to your post workout meal. She explains that they are single-ingredient supplements that you can get at health food store. Glutamine and branch chain amino acids work together to repair muscle breakdown. A post workout meal could include lean red meat and brown rice, or cottage cheese and chicken. Vegetables are encouraged, especially spinach, which is a musclebuilding vegetable.
Y OUR G REEN C ONNECTION
RESTING YOUR MUSCLES Muscles get bigger during the recovery process. When you are lifting, you are causing little tears in the muscles. Rest and the proper nutrition help speed up recovery so you will see results sooner. “If you are working out too often,” Arricale says, “muscles continue to tear down and you can actually lose muscle from working out too much.” The general rule of thumb is to rest groups of muscles for 72 hours before working them again. OTHER IMPORTANT TIPS No matter what your workout schedule is, you should give your body one full day of rest. Arricale suggests active rest. “Ride a bike, walk the dog, play with the kids, hike a mountain.” All three meals need at least 16 to 20 ounces of water. Water is critical to shuttling vital nutrients to your muscles. She also recommends eating six times a day to increase muscle and to lose weight. Eat six smaller meals a day, to get all of your calories in. This keeps your metabolism and insulin at steady levels which are vital to muscle regrowth and fat loss. Now that you have some basic knowledge to maximize your muscles, when you return to the gym, properly fueled and rested, consult with a trainer to create a personalized program that includes the exercises, proper amount of weight and repetitions needed to achieve your desired results. For more information, visit jenarricale.com.
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June2013 2013 | | greenliving greenliving 93 June
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MEN’S HORMONAL CHALLENGES male menopause + loW testosterone levels BY GARRY F. GORDON, MD, DO, MD(H.)
A
re your testosterone levels optimal? Dr. Eugene Shippen, author of “The Testosterone Syndrome,” says most of ours are not. Men’s testosterone levels peak in their early twenties, and then begin to decline—men lose up to 1.5 percent of their testosterone production each year beyond age 30. The Alliance for Aging Research conducted a study showing that one third of American men over the age of 39 have reported two or more symptoms of low testosterone including low libido, lack of energy, loss of muscle, weakened bones, increased belly fat, and depression. Too many men will just suffer through these symptoms, believing they are a normal and unavoidable part of aging. What is not well known or reported in the media is that men with low testosterone levels have an 88 percent higher risk of premature death compared to men with normal levels. You may have heard that testosterone replacement leads to prostate cancer—that is a complete myth. Dr. Abraham Morgantaler, associate clinical professor of urology at Harvard Medical School, says that testosterone replacement is absolutely necessary for men’s health. Author of “Testosterone for Life,” Morgantaler was recently interviewed in Suzanne Somers’ latest book, “Bombshell: Explosive Medical Secrets That Will Redefine Aging.” His research has shown that testosterone replacement not only restores energy and libido, but also changes the body’s composition from fat to muscle, helping with blood sugar metabolism and atherosclerosis. Optimizing testosterone levels in men requires a multifaceted approach like my F.I.G.H.T. for Your Health program that includes proper lifestyle, nutrition, nutritional supplements, daily detoxification and exercise. We are becoming increasingly aware of serious adverse effects on our hormones from pollution, toxins and chemicals, which are found heavily concentrated in many tissues throughout our bodies. The most affected areas are the prostate, breast, brain and bone. Bisphenol A (BPA), dioxins and PCBs function as endocrine disruptors or “mimics.” Artificial sweeteners and chemical food additives in our over-processed and fast foods are known as neurotoxicants and have been shown to severely damage nerve cells in the hypothalamus, our master hormone regulator. With increasing age and accumulation of these toxic endocrine mimics occurring in everyone, hormone
210 greenliving greenliving| |June June2013 2013
optimization or replacement is critical. Unfortunately, due to insurance company regulations, many doctors are limited when it comes to ordering the proper screening tests. But there are simple and affordable salivary hormone panel tests that can be ordered and completed in-home, and then mailed in for analysis. I personally use a topical testosterone creams such as Beyond GHS, Maca root and other herbal approaches to optimize internal testosterone levels. Beyond GHS contains all natural ingredients with an advanced blend of Tribulus terrestris, Moomiyo and amino acids that can raise testosterone levels safely, by as much as 50 percent. They’ve also been shown to improve stamina and increase and maintain muscle tone. Another staple in my daily health regimen is Maca, a highly nutritious tuber that contains high amounts of minerals, vitamins, enzymes and all of the essential amino acids. Maca is a hormone balancer, protecting against toxins and endocrine disruptors. It stimulates and nourishes the hypothalamus and pituitary glands which are the “master glands” in the body. In addition to providing these significant benefits, Maca is also reported to increase libido. DHEA, Melatonin, and H.R.T. Plus® containing Purestrol® are also important components of my anti-aging, hormone optimizing, F.I.G.H.T. For Your Health Program. For more information on any of these nutritional supplements, or about hormone test panels for both men and women, please visit the Gordon Research Institute website at gordonresearch.com.
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GREENING YOUR POOL BY KIMBEL WESTERSON
N
ot long ago when someone mentioned a green pool, they were probably referring to an algae overgrowth. Now, having a green pool can also be a good thing— that is, when it refers to an eco-friendly pool. But how do you make your pool really green? Here are some ideas. PUMP IT UP According to Don Siekawitch at Express Pool Care, the pump should be one of the first things to consider when greening your pool. An energy-efficient pump, built with the same technology that’s used in hybrid cars, can reduce your electric bill. “The feed can be adjusted so that you might need to run it at a higher speed for the cleaning system, but after that, you can reduce the speed of the motor. It can save you as much as 80 to 90 percent on your energy usage, depending on the pool. You can have a very significant savings and energy cost.” Larger pools that have several pumps—one for the waterfall, one for the pool, one for the heater—can enjoy savings, too. Computer-controlled automation systems eliminate the need for some of those pumps by shutting off one feature to turn on another, rather than having a separate pump for it. Any electricity saved is always better for the environment. Passive solar pool heaters also reduce electricity use and come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from covers that look like a big blanket made of bubble wrap to ring-shaped heaters that can be removed easily. Some systems are now effective enough to allow pool use 11 months of the year. Solar heating systems are fairly easy to install too, but working with your pool professional will ensure that it’s done right the first time.
KEEP IT CLEAN One of the primary concerns of a pool owner is keeping the water crystal-clear. Usually, that’s achieved by putting in any number of chemicals, especially chlorine, which has been implicated in contributing to conditions such as asthma in children. Converting your pool to salt water is one way to avoid using chlorine. A chemical reaction generated by a salt cell or generator breaks down the salt and produces chemicals similar to chlorine. The advantage is that chlorine and all the unpleasant things that go along with it—odor, eye irritation, hair like straw—are reduced or completely eliminated. Siekawitch says that fresh water systems are also available, but still relatively new on the market. These systems have a sanitizing effect by producing an electrode that gives a low-level charge and changes the chemical composition of the water to kill bacteria. SWITCH IT OUT Retrofitting is another way to turn your pool green. A simple plumbing retrofit is easy and provides owners with significant savings. Variable-speed pumps generally have a one- to two-year payoff, with a savings of $600 to $1200 per year—that’s nearly the cost of a new pump, and it is money in your pocket.
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June 2013greenlivingaz.com | greenliving 13
pets
dogs, cats & needles, oH mY! ARIZONA VETS DISCUSS THE BENEFITS OF PET ACUPUNCTURE BY HEATHER FINN
C
an you imagine taking Buster to the vet just to have him stuck head-to-toe with nearly 20 needles? Yes. We’re talking about acupuncture, the Chinese medicinal practice of using needles to stimulate different points on the body—for your pets. It might sound like something a pet wouldn’t enjoy at all, but Dr. Randy Aronson, veterinarian and owner of Partners in Animal Wellness Services in Tucson, says your pup probably doesn’t mind. “In the United States, we’re needle-phobic—we see needles and we get really upset,” Aronson says. “But these are incredibly sharp Chinese needles that rarely cause pain, and so our animals tolerate them beautifully.” Turns out the acupuncture treatment that pets get isn’t all that different from what their owners get, either. “Some of it is just based on how humans are upright and animals are on four legs, but most of the points are the same and have the same function as they do on people,” says Dr. Betsy Hershey, owner of Integrative Veterinary Oncology in Phoenix. Acupuncture may help with pain, however, it can be used to treat your furry friends for a lot more. Hershey uses the treatment to help with ailments ranging from arthritis to heart and kidney conditions. “Certainly most people think about it primarily for pain, but it’s got so many more uses—although it does help with that, as well,” Hershey says. But why would someone turn to acupuncture for their pet rather than simply utilizing traditional Western medicine? Is acupuncture any more beneficial? “A lot of Western medications kind of put a Band-Aid
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on the problem, but don’t really solve the problem,” Hershey says. “That’s where acupuncture, I think, helps the most, because we can actually rebalance the patient and treat the root of the problem instead of just masking the symptoms.” Aronson agrees. “A lot of times, when you use your Western medicine, you create two more problems,” Aronson says. “When you give an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) to a dog, you can unfortunately affect his kidneys and liver really adversely.” Aronson says the use of acupuncture versus the use of traditional Western medicine is not an either/or situation, however. “It’s not to say that we don’t use Western medicine, but we treat areas locally [with acupuncture] because we can get a local effect and a systemic effect with the needles, which allows us to use a lot less in the way of medication,” Aronson says. “We’ll use them together as a combination modality or treatment.” It seems an owner has nothing to lose by adding acupuncture to Buster’s healthcare regimen. Hershey tends to agree, and says the only downside may be the time commitment— before being put on a monthly schedule, owners must initially bring in their pets once a week.
“If an owner can make that time commitment, there are absolutely no downsides,” Hershey says, adding that her practice’s $65-per-treatment fee makes acupuncture cheaper than some Western treatments. “There are no side effects of the treatment—if it’s performed appropriately—and in most cases, it helps improve the quality of life.” According to the P.A.W.S. website, the knowledge and expertise of the vet is the most important thing to look for when searching for the right acupuncture treatment for your pet. So, next time you take your pup to the vet, don’t be afraid to ask about acupuncture treatments. Buster just might thank you. Photos courtesy of P.A.W.S.
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health & wellness
HealtH & Wellness
natural skincare for men EXPERT SKINCARE ADVICE WITH AN ECO-FRIENDLY TOUCH BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
W
hen Stacey Grondahl, a Valley-based aesthetician, laser technician and massage therapist, set out to create her own spa, she decided to change things up a bit and target a population who might not consider the usual spa treatments—men. Grondahl founded Simplicity, a Male Concept Spa, in Scottsdale, in August 2012. The spa is tailored for men, but welcoming to women as well. Utilizing ingredients and treatments that are both natural and masculine, Simplicity offers the male set a place to rejuvenate and experience skin care treatments created with their specific needs in mind. We asked Grondahl some of her top skincare tips for men. Here’s what she had to say. ON MEN’S UNIQUE SKINCARE CONCERNS Grondahl says that men are often concerned about the skin around their eyes, including dark circles and crow’s feet. Often, clinical treatments or over-the-counter products can help with those. She advices seeing a skincare professional before starting any work on the areas surrounding the eyes. She also notes that men are also more prone to skin cancer than women—and advises them to use sunscreen daily. DAILY SKINCARE FOR MEN Three words—cleanse, tone and protect. She encourages men (and ladies too!) to find products that multitask; for example, a moisturizer that is also a sunscreen, etc. She adds that men should keep it simple, and that less is more when it comes to the amount of products used. “You need to make daily skincare easy, super easy, something they’d be willing to do,” she says. THE DIFFERENCE How do men’s skincare needs differ from women’s? From her own experiences, Grondahl says she has noticed that men’s skin is more “acidic,” meaning it can be thicker and take on pigment faster. She adds that their hair—especially facial hair—tends to be more resilient as well. Also, while women may age slowly, “men hit a wall, and then age rapidly from there,” she notes. “We can do skin maintenance that helps and slows down the look of the aging process,” she adds. “You can’t prevent aging, but you can slow it down.” NATURAL TREATMENTS At Simplicity, Grondahl uses a lot of ingredients that are indigenous to the Southwest, including cacti, blue agave tequila, and others. She also insists that men look into products that contain aloe vera because of the “protecting, healing and preventative” properties of the plant. Her spa also uses RAW Skincare for Men, a line that uses organic and plantbased ingredients. 2greenlivingaz.com greenliving | June 2013
Photo by Rosemary Woods, Desertrose Images
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SPA Grondahl says men should do their research first and find a comfortable spa with highly qualified people. “Are you looking for relaxation or for long-lasting results? Do you want a private area only for men? Also, make sure to keep the season in mind; summer is the time for maintenance treatments, winter is when you want to do more clinical treatments,” she adds. simplicitysimpleskincare.com myrawmethod.com
RAW ELEMENTS USA SUNSCREEN Daily sun protection is necessary here in the Valley. A must-have product is Raw Elements USA Sunscreen, a “highperformance, chemical-free, eco-friendly sunscreen developed by a lifeguard and avid surfer.” All of the sunscreens in the Raw Elements line provide excellent protection and are highly rated by national environmental groups. Made out of certified organic ingredients, and the packaging is always eco-safe, reef-safe and biodegradable. Available in a lotion ($18.99) or stick form ($15.99). rawelementsusa.com For more skincare product information go to greenlivingaz.com
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Feature feature
D-BACKING GREEN ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS PLAY IN SEDONA RED COLORS BUT THEY PRACTICE GREEN
DAVID M. BROWN
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he 2001 World Series champions of Major League Baseball have been winning for years in sustainability initiatives through the team’s Playing for the Planet—a commitment not only to monitor and improve the organization’s environmental performance but also to influence players, fans, employees and corporate partners to effect environmental change. “About five, six years ago, we realized, although we were making solid efforts in our environmental programs—we were one of the pioneers for professional baseball—that we had a lot of room for improvement,” says Derrick Hall, Diamondbacks president and CEO, now in his seventh year with the team. “We knew that we had to take more of a leadership role, a visible one, of setting an example for sustainability, giving back even more to the community that supports us,” he explains. “We began focusing our best practices on reusable recyclable bins, on
cutting down on the food that was being wasted, on using CFL bulbs and other strategies.” The D-backs Green Initiatives & Practices component has included efforts at Chase Field, the team’s home in downtown Phoenix, and elsewhere in the Valley of the Sun. The spring training facility of the Colorado Rockies, located on the Salt River Pima Indian Community in the north Scottsdale area, is a world-class practice and playing center comprising multiple game and practice fields, work-out facilities and areas for fans. In planning Salt River Fields at Talking Stick with the Rockies more than five years ago, the D-backs ownership prioritized a strong environmental component. Soon after the facility opened for the 2011 season, Salt River Fields received LEED GoldCertification for New Construction—the first sports venue of its kind in the United States to be so acknowledged. Leadership in Environmental Engineering and Design (LEED), managed by the United States Green Building Council, Chicago, is a program that awards and inspires sustainable construction. Green elements include siting for shade, using native vegetation and grass-covered parking lots, minimizing stormwater runoff and maximizing fresh air through the HVAC systems. To further its environmental mission, the D-backs have
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partnered with a number of organizations, including memberships in the Green Sports Alliance and Arizona Businesses Advancing Sustainability. A star individual player is Arizona Public Service (APS), the state’s largest electricity provider. Through APS, for example, the team purchases enough “Green-e Certified” energy—wind, solar and other renewables—to power the ballpark for several games. Since 2009, the “Green Series,” scheduled every year when the Los Angeles Dodgers are visiting Chase Field, promotes environmental stewardship by suggesting to fans how they can increase energy efficiency, and offering other tips for sustainable lifestyles. This year, that event was April 12–14. “We choose the Dodgers because when they are in town, those series are always so highly attended,” Hall explains. “It’s a great time for us to drive energy awareness.” A major investment is the APS Solar Pavilion at Chase Field, a partnership between the D-backs, Maricopa County Stadium District and APS. Dedicated April 28, 2011, the 17,280-square-foot structure shades the plaza outside the stadium, and its 336 roof-mounted solar panels generate 75 kilowatts—enough electricity to light Chase Field for 11 games each year or 8–10 homes for a year. That power, though, is directed to three electric-vehicle charging stations, available first-come to fans who hook up their electric vehicles and attend the game while their cars recharge. “Under the leadership of Ken Kendrick and Derrick Hall, the Arizona Diamondbacks set the standard for community involvement and support,” says John Hatfield, vice president of communication for APS, which serves more than 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state’s 15 counties. “The D-backs are an important partner for APS, and we look forward to working with them for years into the future.”
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Another trio of charging stations is a block away from the stadium, also powered by APS solar arrays sited elsewhere in the Valley. The APS Solar Pavilion is also an educational forum, offering exhibits on renewable energy, energy efficiency, recycling and other alternative forms of transportation such as carpooling, light rail and biking. “It’s been a real big success,” Hall says. So, too, have been the team’s other efforts. Employees are rewarded for using alternative transportation; otherwise voluminous printed media guides are available electronically; and most marketing collateral is printed on FSC-certified products. Grease from concessions is recycled into biodiesel fuel; recycling containers have been placed throughout the stadium concourse, administrative office and press box; season ticket holders are given reusable “loyalty cups”; and “Bike to the Ballpark” bike racks have been installed. A recent program is donating leftover concession items to “Church on the Street” for the homeless and hungry. “Last year, we donated more than five tons of food—3,200 unused meals—to this commendable recovery program,” explains Hall, who began a vegan diet following his prostate cancer diagnosis in late 2011. In the future, the D-backs will be playing on the same field but promise that it will be even greener. “I’ve always wanted our video board to be powered by solar energy, and I know we have the room for the arrays behind the ballpark,” Hall notes. “We are very committed to environmental responsibility to the two million fans who so passionately support this baseball team.” Brown is a Valley-based freelancer, azwriter.com Photo by Christina McMaster
June 2013 2013 || greenliving 17 June
business business
THE poWer OF THE sun
THE POPULARITY OF SOLAR COOKING HEATS UP BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
C
hrystalyn Trimble, a Valley mom of three, grew up eating wholesome, homemade foods—a tradition she happily passes along to her own children. She loves baking bread and, instead of eating out, the Trimble family enjoys homemade dinners most nights. What’s interesting, though, is how their meal makes it to the table—Trimble prepares most of her family’s meals utilizing the power of the sun. Solar cooking is gaining popularity and, with an average of 200 sunny days a year, Arizona is one of the leading markets for this type of eco-friendly food preparation. One of the leaders in the solar cooking market is Sun Ovens International, Inc., which has produced the popular Global Sun Oven for nearly 30 years. Trimble says she has been using her Global Sun Oven for about 5 or 6 years and couldn’t be happier. “I’ve always been very energyconscious and, when I first started looking into solar cooking, I did some research and discovered the [Global] Sun Oven,” she explains. “The first time I used it consistently through the summer, the utility company sent me a letter complimenting me on reducing my energy usage, and all I had done was started using the Sun Oven.” While the Sun Oven is often seen as strictly an oven, Trimble says it can be used for stovetop foods as well. “When I first started, I was really surprised at what it [the Sun Oven] could do,” she notes. It can be used like a slow cooker, too. What’s it like switching from a traditional oven to a Sun Oven? Trimble says that she used it without any instruction at first, but then she eventually took some classes. Now, a few years later, she teaches solar cooking classes at Honeyville Farms in Chandler. “There’s a small learning curve, but it’s easy to learn,” Trimble assures.
2 greenliving 18 greenliving | | May June2013 2013
Paul Munsen, president of Sun Ovens International, Inc., says that those interested in solar cooking will now have an easier time learning, as the company recently unveiled its first new product in nearly 30 years—the All American Sun Oven. Recently, Munsen was on hand at Honeyville Farms to demonstrate the new Sun Oven. “The reason for the new oven is because we’ve been trying for a long time to get more Americans to understand the benefits of solar cooking,” Munsen says. “The All American model is more user-friendly…the goal is to really mainstream solar cooking into American society.” The All American Sun Oven reaches temperatures of 360400 degrees Fahrenheit, and can be used to bake, boil and steam foods as well as to pasteurize water, says a company spokesperson. Munsen adds that the All American model is designed more for American cookware and can be more easily adjusted to meet the sun, even if there is wind resistance. He says that a portion of the proceeds from the sales of Sun Oven products goes toward implementing solar cooking practices in developing countries—a cause the company is passionate about. Like many Sun Oven users, Trimble is excited about the new product. She assures those interested in solar cooking that it’s “more forgiving than a traditional oven” and can be fit into any lifestyle. “The Sun Oven is not hard to use and I am really even more eco-conscious now,” Trimble says. “Using it reminds me to be more aware of my impact on the environment, and it’s motivating. It feels good to know that I’m not using electricity.” To learn more about local solar cooking classes, visit local.honeyvillegrain. com/chandler-retail-store.html. Learn more about the new All American Sun Oven at allamericansunoven.com. Photos courtesy of Sun Ovens International.
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How many light bulbs does it take to change an American?
It’s no joke: climate change is a critical issue for all life on Earth. But can the actions of one individual really make a difference? Visit nature.org to calculate your impact on the world around you and learn about steps you can take to make the world a better place for us all. nature.org/calculate Photo Š istockphoto.com / Color of Time
financial HealtH health
A FINANCIAL CHECK UP BY CHRISTINE OPHEIM
I
t is likely that you recently took a look at your finances as you prepared for tax season, however, there still may be some items that could use attention. The following list touches on some commonly neglected areas that are a good starting point to a sound financial plan, which needs to include much more than just your investment portfolio. CREDIT CARDS Recent legislation caused credit card companies to alter their business practices with regard to the terms and conditions of credit cards. Interest rates on credit have increased and some credit limits have dropped. In addition, some card companies have begun to charge additional transaction fees and service charges. These changes can add up to real money, so you should be aware of them and review your statements regularly. If you discover that you’re not happy with the terms of some cards, your first instinct may be to terminate the agreement, but be careful about hastily closing accounts that could impact your credit score. In some instances, you may be able to negotiate better terms. Check with your provider to find out. BANK FEES AND SERVICES Banks have new rules limiting what they can charge for certain services (e.g., overdraft protection and transaction fees). As a result, many have instituted new charges or increased others. Similar to credit card companies, you must be notified of changes prior to enactment, but if you are like many people, these notices can be overlooked. Review every account, even if they all reside with the same bank. The terms can vary from institution to institution and from account to account within the same institution. In addition, many people do not balance their checkbook on a regular basis, or even record their daily transactions. It is highly recommended that you review and reconcile your accounts at least monthly. This may be difficult at first, but the benefits of staying on track with expenses, minimizing costly errors, and potentially eliminating fraud, which is becoming more and more prevalent, will make it well worth your time. CREDIT REPORT AND SCORE Building and maintaining a good credit rating can be critical, and impacts your finances in many ways: setting the interest rate you pay for loans and credit cards, your insurance rates, even evaluation for new employment or renting a home. With so much in the balance, it is important to check your credit report for accuracy at least annually for errors and to watch for credit fraud. Fortunately, it’s easy to check your report,
220 greenliving 2013 greenliving| |May June 2013
as you are entitled to one free annual report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies—Equifax, Transunion, and Experian. INVESTMENTS As the cornerstone to a sound financial plan, be sure to review your investment accounts regularly. This includes reviewing your insurance policies, annuity contracts, retirement plans, and educational savings accounts. Are you on track to achieve your goals? Do you need to make adjustments? Discuss your investment allocation, risk tolerance, and objectives, and all accounts with your financial professional. EMERGENCY FUND If you don’t have one already, starting an emergency fund, or savings account, should be first on your to-do list. While there are a variety of opinions, the amount to keep in your savings is personal and depends on a variety of factors such as family size, current debt, and insurance coverage. For further guidance, discuss the amount and how to invest your savings with your financial professional. This check list may take some time initially, but going through the process will be a great start to a sound financial foundation and could save you some real green! You’ll feel relieved knowing that you’ve taken some important steps in helping to secure your economic future. Christine Opheim is a Financial Advisor practicing at 8180 N. Scottsdale Road., Suite D203, Scottsdale, AZ 85258. She offers Securities and Advisory Services as a Registered Representative and an Investment Advisor Representative of Commonwealth Financial Network®, a member firm of FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Adviser. She can be reached at 480.283.9544 or copheim@rocfs.com.
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June 2013 | greenliving
21
business
forces of cHange—ONE HOME AT A TIME VALLEY ORGANIZATIONS WORK TOGETHER TO “BUILD GREEN” BY TRACY HOUSE
T
he walls are up, the appliances are in place and volunteers are putting the finishing touches on three new LEED Platinum-certified houses that will be occupied by new owners in the coming weeks. Three lots of land, donated by the City of Tempe, have been developed by Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona (HFHCA with the help of the Ramsey Social Justice Foundation (RSJF), Salt River Project (SRP), and East Valley Catholic Coalition. Habitat for Humanity is an organization that builds and renovates affordable homes in partnership with families in need. Jenny Norton, co-founder of RSJF with her husband Bob Ramsey, credits Mark Mitchell, Mayor of Tempe; Cory Woods, Tempe councilman; Larry Schmoltz, Tempe city staffer, and Betsy Randolph, director of the Tempe Community Action Agency, with being instrumental in obtaining the land for the new homes. “We were just thrilled because Tempe is our hometown,” Norton said. “It was so exciting that we were finally able to build in Tempe. We look forward to building 50 more in Tempe if they’ll let us.” THE RAMSEY SOCIAL JUSTICE FOUNDATION Norton and Ramsey started their social justice foundation to serve the underrepresented in four main areas—education, health care, home assistance/affordable housing and global stewardship, or taking care of our planet. Their dedication has been instrumental in facilitating 50 green builds throughout Central Arizona.
222 greenliving greenliving| |June June2013 2013
“Habitat for Humanity and the Ramsey Foundation built the very first LEED Platinum level, completely green, sustainable, affordable home in the country,” Norton said. The City of Glendale donated the land for the home, which was built in 2008. A key component of what RSJF does is build affordable housing, but Norton said HFHCA’s plan had some challenges to work through. While the mortgage payments were affordable, utilities bills were so high during the summer months, the homeowners couldn’t afford to run the air conditioning. “We’d like to keep the utilities down to about $15 per month. That is our ideal,” she said. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY CENTRAL ARIZONA Todd Rogers, Chief Strategy Officer of HFHCA, said there is an incentive to keeping the cost of utilities down for the families. “We know our families are much more able to afford the mortgages when they don’t have to stress about the utilities,” he said, explaining that some families are hit with medical or other expenses and then must choose what to pay and what not to. Since 1984, HFHCA has built 864 homes and expects to complete 70 more this year. The number of homes that have been built to meet the criteria for LEED Silver or greater certification is 197. Because they are a nonprofit, however, HFHCA cannot afford to pay the extra funds required to get the official certification. Thanks to the generosity of donors like RSJF, 77 of those 197 homes—including the three LEED Platinum homes in Tempe—have actually been certified.
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SWEAT EQUITY PROGRAM The three new homes in Tempe, one on Stratton Lane and two located on Randall Drive, are part of the HFHCA sweat equity program. “All of our homeowners on a new build have to do 400 hours of sweat equity,” Rogers said. “Sweat equity is a component of anything we do.” Whether the home is being renovated or built, all homeowners are involved. On the Stratton Lane build, the Andrade family took part in raising every wall, and painting everything—they were there every week, Rogers said. Part of those required hours include educational classes focused on the importance of energy efficiency, including discussions from setting the thermostat to keeping doors and windows closed to increase energy efficiency when the systems are running. Going through the educational process, homeowners learn how they can save on electric bills. From low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints to Energy Star appliances, every house
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that HFHCA renovates and every house that is built qualifies for LEED Platinum Silver certification and Energy Star 3.0 according to Rogers. While the homes can’t all be certified because of the cost, hard work and dedication go into getting homes to that level. Rogers credits donors with a green passion for enabling HFHCA to attain high levels of efficiency in these latest builds. SRP and American Solar donated solar systems to enrich those achievements so that money was not taken from anywhere else, and donors like RSJF kicked it up a notch with extra funds to help achieve the LEED Platinum certification. There is a need for available lots in affordable neighborhoods for the 50 additional houses Ramsey would like to see built. She’d like to see the city, as part of the public policy, have an outreach program to obtain available affordable lots for families. Before the intense heat of summer hits the Valley, HFHCA is trying to complete as many houses for move-in as possible. Tracy House is a Valley-based freelance writer. Contact her at tracy@azmodernmom.com Photos on opposite page and top photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity. Below photo courtesy of City of Tempe.
June2013 2013| |greenliving greenliving 233 June
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rizona has some of the best resorts and vacation destinations in the world, so why not enjoy a Staycation at a Certified Green property? The Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association (AzLTA) manages the state’s only Certified Green Lodging program in partnership with the Arizona Office of Tourism and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. Certified properties must show sustainable practices in multiple areas of operations in order to achieve this prestigious status. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort experience in Phoenix/Scottsdale or Tucson or want to explore Sedona, Lake Havasu or the many other treasures our state has to offer, there is a Certified Green property nearby. stayinaz.com | azlta.com
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24 greenliving | June 2013
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25
feature name] [section
IT’S NOT rocket science, IT’S Homemade beer BY AIMEE WELCH
T
Fast-forward 9 years—Ron is still here’s a stainless steel pot at a brewing beer, and the Hawk-Meyer low boil on the stove, a giant Oktoberfest is still going strong. In orange cooler with a spigot on 2012, 160 people showed up to a short stool beneath it, a huge tub of mingle and sample the 15 homestuff that looks kind of like oatmeal, brewed beers that were on tap (plus several groups of copper coils around three more in bottles). Last year the sink, a 5-gallon bucket of light Ron’s Dock Jump Porter, named brown water with some floating after his beloved yellow Lab Midas, gadgets inside, a couple of small took second place in the Brewers’ packets, a test tube, and an Excel Choice competition, after a revote spreadsheet that made the journalism broke the tie for first place. “Always major in me recoil in utter fear. room for improvement,” says Ron, I’m in the kitchen of a real-life which is exactly what he set out to do rocket scientist, and it looks like for 2013. he might be preparing to launch something into space...from IT’S NOT AS HARD AS IT LOOKS his kitchen. Back to the kitchen…Ron is busy Nope. Ron Carter builds rockets preparing the very beer he’ll be by day but, for fun, he brews his own serving at the 22nd annual Hawkbeer. Ron, an electrical engineer with Meyer Oktoberfest this fall, which Orbital Sciences in Chandler, has will be held at his house. This been brewing at home for almost as Ron Carter hard at work in his kitchen, perfecting his is not a hands-off process. He is long as he has been building rockets. Dock Jump Porter. He admits, “I may not actually have carefully monitoring boiling points About 10 years ago Ron was on been born in a brewery but, if I’m lucky, I’ll die in one.” and temperatures, and cleaning his a business trip in California with Photo by Andy Welch. hands and every piece of equipment friend and co-worker Art “Bud” in a large bucket of iodine water in Meyer when he drank his very first between uses. While you’re technically just following a recipe, full pint of beer. He had tasted beer before, but never liked it. Ron emphasizes that keeping everything clean and sterilized “I grew up in a small farming community where people only is “major.” drank domestic beer,” he said, with a look that said “yuck.” Brewing beer is definitely a process that requires a little So, he waited until his late 20s, in a California microbrewery patience and a lot of attention to detail, but you don’t have to with Bud, to try again. Bud was an experienced home brewer be a rocket scientist to figure it out. who validated Ron’s distaste for domestic beer, then ordered a Ron says the easiest way to get started is to buy a starter sampler of microbrews and had him try each one, from light kit. Brew Your Own Brew in Mesa and Brewers Connection in to dark. By the end of the line, he ordered his first full glass of beer— Tempe are two places you can buy beer brewing kits that come with most of the supplies you need, including a recipe, for an amber. about $120. The Brewers Connection website says you’ll need That October, Ron attended Bud’s annual “Hawk-Meyer to get your own stainless steel or enamel pot (at least a 4-gallon Oktoberfest” party (named after the founders, Scott Hawkins and Bud) at Bud’s house, where home-brewed beers were being capacity) and reusable bottles to store the final product. Your kit might look intimidating with its buckets, winger served. He was hooked. Bud then taught him—along with cappers, siphons, hoses, hydrometers and packets of stuff, but several more engineers looking for a challenge (because rocket if you follow the instructions, you’re on your way. science isn’t challenging enough?)— all about home brewing Ron started brewing his batch of porter at 10 a.m. For the and, by the following October, Ron was ready to serve his own next 6 or 7 hours, he heated the warm water/grain mixture to beer at the annual celebration.
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create the “wort” (basically the beer before fermenting), boiled the wort, then cooled it (easier said than done) and pitched the yeast. Before he poured it into the carboy (huge glass jug) and topped it off with an airlock to begin the fermenting process, he gave us little sample. To an experienced brewer like Ron, a taste of the wort gives you an indication of how your beer will taste. To everyone else, it tastes a little like “bread water.” Ron’s beer will ferment in the carboy for 1 to 2 weeks before being transferred to a 5-gallon oak barrel, and Ron will wait patiently for another chance for a first-place finish at Oktoberfest. While he’s hoping for the Brewers’ Choice trophy this year, Ron has stiff competition. His wife Kirsten, a graphic designer who has created labels for the couple’s “Wet Dog Brewery” name, is also a brewer, and she’ll be entering her own batch of spiced wheat beer, using a recipe from an Australian pub they visited on their honeymoon. Because her beer is lighter, she doesn’t have to start the process for a few more months. IT’S HARDER THAN IT LOOKS The above is an over-simplified version of what actually occurred in Ron’s kitchen that day, but brewing beer still looked like a lot of fun. One explanation for the home brewing fascination among these analytical thinkers is that it’s a scientific process. There are smart-sounding acronyms like IBU (international bittering unit) and OG (original gravity). There are problems to solve.
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Oh, and also sometimes things explode. Unfortunate events could indeed happen, hypothetically speaking, during the beer brewing process. Say, for instance, your beer gets contaminated somewhere along the way. While your contaminated beer is fermenting in a bucket in the bathtub, it could blow the lid so high it leaves a mark on your ceiling, and covers your entire bathroom in Blueberry hefeweizen. Hypothetically. Or, if your beer continues to ferment after you’ve bottled it and stored it in your pantry…the bottles could break. All of the bottles, all over your pantry. If the temperature isn’t just right in the place where you’re fermenting, your beer may undergo an awesome but un-tasty chemical transformation that looks like a spongy solid mass and completely destroys the entire batch, but is super-cool to watch. In Ron’s humble homebrewer’s opinion, drinking the beer is a lot more enjoyable if you haven’t contaminated it along the way. The question I didn’t ask Ron was why all of these people brew their own beer. Don’t they know there is beer at the store? It’s already made, too. But after watching him passionately at work, standing in a room full of memories centered on this hobby, and hearing the great stories he and Kirsten have shared along the journey, I didn’t have to. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out the answer.
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greentHumb thumb green
CREATING A lusH desert oasis IN THE URBAN LANDSCAPE BY HALEY PAUL
W
ith more than 200 options of desert-adapted plants to choose from, urban landscapes in the Sonoran Desert should be anything but lackluster. From groundcovers and shrubs to trees and cacti, homeowners have a myriad of choices to create an inviting and lush desert landscape. Many people mistake the term “xeriscape” (Xeri is the Greek word for dry) with the concept of “zeroscape.” Xeriscapes utilize desert-adapted plants that can withstand drought and are tolerant to the soils and climate of the desert southwest. Xeriscapes do not have to look barren and dry. “Zeroscapes” are those hot-looking landscapes with nothing but rock and cacti, and no tree in sight. IT STARTS WITH THE TREES To create an oasis using desert-adapted plants, first consider tree selection and placement. A well-placed tree or two can make a significant impact on the air conditioning bill in the summer. Providing the south-facing portion of the house with shade is critical. In addition, the western section of the house is important to shade from the long afternoon summer sun. So, consider planting trees in the landscape near the southwest and southeast corners of the house. Be sure to leave ample room for the tree’s growth at maturity. ADD SHRUBS After you have considered your tree placement, move to the next visual layer—shrubs. Shrubs in the desert can be anywhere from one to six feet tall. Consider how much biomass you want to produce in your yard, because with adequate irrigation, some shrubs will grow quickly. Water is a great growth regulator; if you want to slow the growth of your desert-adapted plants, scale back your watering routine. A little water stress on desert-adapted plants often encourages terrific flower blooms.
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ROUND IT OUT: GROUNDCOVER, CACTI, & SUCCULENTS Groundcovers fill in the blanks. Groundcovers can provide that final layer that rounds out the landscape with a trailing rosemary, a tufted evening primrose, or a striking ice plant. Cacti and succulents are also great for filling in open areas in the landscape and providing wildlife habitat. Also, do not hesitate to plant densely. In the riparian areas of Arizona, mesquites, cottonwoods, shrubs, and groundcovers all grow together and create a wonderful cooling effect with the evapotranspiration process. And finally, consider color—the desert is full of it. Different desert-adapted plants produce colorful blooms at different times of the year. Get more information on plant options for your landscape at local nurseries, municipal water providers, and your Cooperative Extension office. • To get inspired and start planning a lush desert landscape, check out landscapewithstyle.com • For a list of 200 low-water-use plants for the Arizona desert, water requirements, and size at maturity, visit amwua.org/landscape_plants_online.html • To hire a landscape professional with specific training in water-wise landscaping techniques, go to smartscape.org/directory Got a gardening question? Contact the Maricopa County Master Gardener hotline at 602.827.8200 x301. Haley Paul is an Assistant in Extension in Urban Agriculture at the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension in Maricopa County, a unit within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Find your local Cooperative Extension office at extension.arizona.edu. Contact Haley at hepaul@cals.arizona.edu or on Twitter @haleyepaul. Photo courtesy of Asset Landscaping
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book revieW
top dog: THE SCIENCE OF WINNING AND LOSING WRITTEN BY PO BRONSON AND ASHLEY MERRYMAN REVIEW BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER
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ast week marked the beginning of another sales contest at work. So far, it’s as predictable as ever. The office gogetter is at the top of her game, followed closely by the rising star of the staff, who hates being Number Two. Most of the group is bunched in the middle somewhere, moving ahead or behind on a daily basis while the usual slackers bring up the rear, content with whatever happens to them. So how can you get better results from these contests? Are some people just naturally more competitive? Find out that, and more in “Top Dog” by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman. Practice makes perfect. That’s what your mother and popular books would like you to think: sharpen your skills and you’ll come out on top. Researchers, however, know that you could practice 24/7, but what really matters is being able to perform at the right time. What you’ll do when faced with that kind of pressure largely depends on the kind of human you are. Introverts handle stress differently than extroverts; gender and situation also come into play. It also depends on whether you’re attempting something solo, or competing with others—and how many. Studies show that we tend to work harder if there are just a few competitors rather than lots of them. We also tend to reach higher if the race is closer. Overall, competition improves the output of most people, although there are those
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who decline in productivity if faced with a race. Part of that can be attributed to an individual perception of risk or chance, and part on the fact that some people thrive when under stress, while others must avoid it in order to do well. To land at the top of your game, there are things you can do: seize the home advantage as much as possible. Manage, but don’t distract, at the office. Acknowledge physiology, your Warrior/Worrier mindset, and your hormones; they all influence your ability to compete. Finally, look at your hands. The drive to succeed may literally be at your fingertips! So you’ve been doing a marathon in your career lately, but the rat is winning the race? Then it’s time for a boost, and “Top Dog” can give it to you. With advanced science, real-life examples, and stories that go off-track in a relevant way, authors Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman take readers on a short trip through what makes a winner. This is irresistible reading made even more so by subtle tips on working with individual personality types and biology to reach the top, or at least get a little closer to it. I enjoyed this book for those reasons, and because it explains the mystery of how some people conquer challenges effortlessly and why others struggle. If you’re looking to motivate your staff, your children, or yourself, you’ll find a lot of information and advice between the pages of this very fine book. For you, “Top Dog” is what you want, no contest.
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GREEN IN THE NEWS PLANT FLOWERS FOR BEES A recent survey of American beekeepers showed that nearly one third of managed honey bee colonies in the United States were lost last winter. This loss marks a 42 percent increase from the previous winter according to the study, which was conducted by The Bee Informed Partnership in collaboration with the Apiary Inspectors of America and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).The USDA says much of our food supply depends on bee pollination. To help the bee population thrive, people should avoid using pesticides whenever possible, and plant more pollinator-friendly plants like citrus and flowers.
Photo by Christian Bauer at cebix.net/photos/misc
PUMPING SYSTEM FOR DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix says watering its plants will be easier, healthier for the plants, and less costly thanks to a loan from the Arizona Community Foundation’s Community Impact Loan Fund. With the loan, the garden will construct a pumping system that will draw nutrient-rich water from the SRP canal to irrigate, rather than the tap water it currently uses. 602.682.2023 azfoundation.org GREEN FOOD DRIVE St. Mary’s Food Bank is asking eco-conscious organizations to help with a summer food drive being held June 17 through June 28. The food bank reports that the need for food increases during the summer months, as one in five Arizonans is forced to choose between buying food and paying increasing utility bills. Awards will be given for the most meals per capita and the most meals overall. One pound of food equals one meal and $1 equals seven meals. Winners will be showcased on social media with a logo and photo of the business, and highlighted in the newsletter. 602.343.3173 firstfoodbank.org
COFFEE GROUNDS FOR GROUNDS Arizona State University students and grounds services employees Vicente Solis and Rigoberto Polanco collect more than 500 pounds of used coffee grounds every week, and use them as a natural fertilizer and soil amendment around campus for their “Grounds for Grounds” program. They explain that coffee grounds are a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer which can bring down the pH levels of the soil and improve the availability of nutrients for plant life. Used at high enough quantities, grounds improve soil structure over time and attract earthworms, which improve the soil even more. Facilities Management Grounds Services has won an ASU President’s Award for Innovation for the program. asunews.asu.edu PRACTICE GREENHEALTH PARTNER RECOGNITION AWARD Donna Dalsing, an O.R. nurse at Abrazo Health’s Phoenix Baptist Hospital, founded the hospital’s green team, and has won the 2013 Practice Greenhealth Partner Recognition Award. Dalsing used the sturdy blue wrap material that was contributing to the surgical waste at the hospital to make a shoulder bag to hand out at the Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure. Dalsing has since partnered with the City of Phoenix to create more bags for future events. Dalsing also has worked with the hospital’s food services department to switch to ecofriendly reusable cups in the cafeteria, proposed an online local farmer’s market for employees, implemented recycling efforts throughout the hospital in each department, and is eager to work toward becoming a mercury-free workplace. Her most recent project involved converting an old smoking area into a tranquil garden. practicegreenhealth.org WIND FARM FINANCED Cape Wind, the company behind the nation’s first offshore wind farm, reports that it has secured funding to begin building 130 wind turbines in Nantucket Sound off Cape Cod, Mass., which, the company says, will generate enough electricity to power 100,000 to 200,000 homes depending on the season. 508.237.6312 capewind.org
FELLOWSHIP SQUARE INSTALLS SOLAR SYSTEM Phoenix-based Easy Energy reported in March that it completed installation of 600 solar thermal collectors at Fellowship Square, an independent and assisted living facility in Tucson, making it the largest customer site for solar water heating for the company. 602.302.7640 easyenergyweb.com Photo by Martin Pettitt at flickr.com/photos/mdpettitt
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nature AFTER dark bY sandY muÑoZ-Weingarten
If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in. - Rachel Carson
I
love nature, and all its joy, excitement and mystery. Based on Rachel Carson’s words above, I know that I was lucky enough to have received that lifelong gift from my parents, who still do not know the names of many plants, birds or insects. Both are very intelligent— my father, a retired electrical engineer who can still recite mathematical theories, and my mother, a bilingual transplant from Puerto Rico who does crossword puzzles in pen—but they just don’t have a head for such things. Nonetheless, they did expose me and my four siblings to the natural world every chance they could, through weekend trips to local lakes, museums, and zoos, and on camping trips in our small pop-up trailer. They encouraged us to be observant and ask questions about the world around us. Getting kids out in nature these days, however, is much harder than when I was a kid. “Go outside and play!” just isn’t a phrase a lot of parents say anymore. It is important to make time to connect with your child, and for your child to connect with the natural environment. Following are some ideas to get you started.
moon WatcHing The world after dark is an opportune time to experience another side of life that most of us keep at bay with bright lights, TV screens, or sleep. One way to see how the other half lives is to simply make a point to step outside at the same time every night for a month—perhaps just before bedtime—to observe the sky and the moon. Note the moon’s position in the sky, whether it’s waxing (growing) or waning (shrinking) from night to night, and keep a chart or a log of the changes. Use a lunar calendar to interpret what you see, or simply to find more information on the moon itself. Read up on full moon names, which usually designate seasons of the year. June’s moon is the Full Strawberry Moon! Encourage your children to make up some new names based on their own observations of the seasonal nature activities around them. nigHt Hike Take a hike after dark. Your route can be a walk around the block, a stroll through a city park, or a hike along an actual trail. Try to choose a place your group has never been in the daytime, and one that is away from lighted areas. If you prefer, walk the route ahead of time to familiarize yourself with the terrain and assess how long your adventure might take. June 23 is the next full moon, and would be ideal for those who might have concerns about venturing out in the dark. Your supplies should include water, sturdy footwear (close-toed shoes) and, if desired, a flashlight covered with red cellophane
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held in place with a rubber band to help maintain night vision. Head out slightly before sunset, so your eyes can adjust to the diminishing light, and so you can watch the full moon rise as the sun is setting. Encourage the group to hike quietly and listen for nighttime sounds and, somewhere along the route, stand or sit silently for a few minutes to take in the night, and its many smells and sounds. Employ a naturalist’s trick by having everyone cup their hands and place them behind their ears, palms forward, to enhance their listening ability. sound maps After your hike, discuss what sounds were heard, and what animal or insect might have made them. Did you hear coyotes, birds, crickets, or even a dog barking or a train or car going by? Talk about which sounds were natural and which were human-made, and how soothing it is to enjoy the relative silence. Have everyone make a “sound map” by using a notepad and making an “X” to place themselves in the middle of the page, and then drawing night sounds on their paper as they hear them from different directions. Compare maps to figure out which direction is the noisiest, the quietest, and why. sHadoW and ligHt Discuss what advantages desert animals gain by being nocturnal, such as exposure to cooler temperatures and greater safety due to less visibility. Notice how the full moon creates a shadow on the ground similar to those created during the day from the sun. Aside from the moon’s light, take notice of any artificial lights you can see, and discuss
play green
how it might look without those lights. For older kids, you can use this conversation to explore how artificial lights can adversely affect nocturnal animals, and find out what you can do to minimize this impact. Use the website for the International Dark Sky Association, www.darksky.org, for reference. storY time When you are ready, wind your way home, get everyone tucked into bed, and follow up with a related bedtime story. For the younger set, read books such as Desert Night, Desert Day, by Anthony D. Fredericks; Creatures of the Desert World, by National Geographic; The Bat Poet, by Randall Jarrell; Owl Moon, by Jane Yolen; A Desert Scrapbook: Dawn to Dusk in the Sonoran Desert, by Virginia WrightFrierson; or Here is the Southwestern Desert, by Madeleine Dunphy. For the older kids, read an excerpt from books such as America’s Deserts: Guide to Plants and Animals, by Marianne D. Wallace, or One Day in the Desert, by Jean Craighead George. Remember, you don’t have to travel far to find nature; just open the door and step outside! Sandy Muñoz-Weingarten served as a park ranger and sign language interpreter for the National Park Service at Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountain national parks, worked for the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and is now the Recreation Superintendent / Naturalist in the City of Chandler’s Community Services Department. Moon Photo by NASA Goddard Photo and Video Background Star Photo by ForestWander at forestwander.com
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museum eXHibits sHoWcase fine art RECYCLED ORCHESTRA AT THE MIM
ART FROM THE GROCERY AISLES
The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix has opened a Recycled Orchestra exhibit in its Latin America Gallery. Inspired by a remarkable youth group from Paraguay, the exhibit features eight of the ensemble’s innovative instruments made from trash, along with video and photography shot in their hometown. The orchestra is expected to come to the MIM Aug. 8 through Aug. 10. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix. 480.478.6000 mim.org
The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art opens a new exhibition—Stocked: Contemporary Art From the Grocery Aisles. The contemporary artists use the grocery store and its multitude of products as subjects to examine our relationship with food production, distribution, marketing, and consumption. Curator Emily Stamey said, “Each of the artists prompts us to consider the common task of grocery shopping in a new light—to consider the beauty in ordinary packaging, the surreal qualities of some of the spaces in which we buy our food, and how extraordinary it is that we can buy summer fruits in December and winter vegetables in July.” 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480.874.4666 smoca.org DREAM ON AT ARIZONA MUSEUM FOR YOUTH
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Cheryl
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COOL OUTRAGEOUS
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This thermally cooling laptop stand is not only stylish, but the perfect start to living a greener lifestyle. Made out of entirely organic material and bamboo, this stand comes with three adjustable heights, as well as a built-in fan powered simply by USB. It’s a great way to stay both in fashion and environmentally conscious. $39.99 macally.com/en
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With this creatively designed 2 GB flash drive, easily identify your flash drive amidst all others. Compatible with both Mac and Windows, this monogrammed 100 percent natural bamboo flash drive makes a great and unique gift for business travelers, students, teachers and more. $24.95 personalizationmall.com
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Jeff
He’s Green She’s Green John Burkhart
Jennifer Burkhart
Throw canned shaving cream where it belongs – in the can. This month our green couple bravely risked nicks to find out which all-natural shaving creams will make your skin, and the Earth, happy. Read on to find out which creams made the “cut.” NATURAL GROOMING BY HERBAN COWBOY He said: I’ve always been a foam or gel shave kinda guy until this Herban Cowboy came along and made me think otherwise. This stuff was super shave cream! It smelled great and left my face feeling clean but hydrated. I could have shaved with a dull spoon and been fine.
sHe said: Fluffy and thick, this luxurious cream was the perfect “pardner” to my razor. Herban Cowboy might want to create a Herban Cowgirl line, otherwise I’m going to be stealin’ this cream from my hubby! In the meantime, I don’t mind smelling like a rugged—but clean!—cowboy. Yee-haw!
He gave it:
She gave it:
NATURAL SKIN CARE FOR MEN SHAVE CREME BY BURT’S BEES He said: I was glad that I didn’t have to actually shave with bees because that sounded dangerous and unproductive. This experience was more like shaving with sunblock. It didn’t foam up much and, for a thick beard like mine, I had to use way too much to get a close shave.
sHe said: I’m not sure that bees have the expert opinion on shaving, but hey, they are industrious so who knows? Well, it did the job, but was a little too thin and lotion-like, and resulted in a couple nicks. Smelled nice though!
He gave it:
She gave it:
GREEN TEA & BAMBOO MOISTURE SHAVE BY KISS MY FACE He said: This one did a pretty darn good job. I had to use a ton of product to get a good lather going but, once my stubble was all covered, I had no problem shaving it off. This stuff made my old, beat-up razor feel like a brand-new one. It dried my skin out a bit though.
sHe said: You’ll literally be able to say, “Kiss My Face” after shaving with this. The pump top is ultra-convenient for doling out all the creamy, foamy salve that’ll make your razor glide like but-tah! Great fresh “green” scent, and the best value.
He gave it:
She gave it:
MANGO VANILLA VERY EMOLLIENT CREAM SHAVE BY ALBA BOTANICA He said: Call me weird but I’m not a fan of smearing a mucous-esque liquid all over my face before I shave. This was a viscous mango vanilla-y goo that did a good job lubricating my face while I scraped my hair off, but I never could shake the feeling that someone sneezed on me.
sHe said: I’m glad not all natural products have to smell like patchouli and dirt. This cream smelled good enough to eat! The thick gel-like cream provided great slickness, and you only have to use a small amount (or it gunks up the razor).
He gave it:
She gave it:
ALOE UNSCENTED MOISTURIZING CREAM SHAVE BY AVALON ORGANICS He said: Shave glue. I felt like the karate kid, putting car wax on my face for shave cream. It was so thick that it clogged up my razor halfway through and I had to switch blades. It left my face feeling nice and smooth after the shave, but what a pain during.
sHe said: This 70 percent organic cream was also thin and lotion-like, but still provided a decent shave. The key is to use less water than you think you need. A good choice for a man who doesn’t want to smell like a hippie or a fruit stand.
He gave it:
She gave it:
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recipes Cheryl
Dorie
bacon-Wrapped BBQ PRAWNS ingredients 6 prawns tail on 3 peppered bacon strips 3 oz. Newcastle BBQ sauce 3 oz. cabbage, napa slaw mix 1 oz. grain mustard vinaigrette dressing Green curly onion for garnish 1. Prior to cooking, wrap raw prawns with ½ strip of bacon. 2. Place prawns on prepared flat top in designated area. Sear quickly on each side, then move to broiler. 3. Cook prawns on broiler in a warm area, baste with BBQ sauce until prawns and bacon are finished. Prawns and bacon should be brown in color, not charred. 4. Combine Napa slaw mix with Grain Mustard Vinaigrette. 5. Drizzle Newcastle BBQ Sauce over plate horizontally going back and forth in a zig-zag pattern. 6. Mound Napa slaw mixture in center of plate. 7. Arrange cooked prawns around Napa slaw, three on each side. 8. Garnish top of Napa slaw with curly green onions. Recipe courtesy of Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill, Tempe
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Flagstaff • 928-226-1000 ~ Paradise Valley • 602-923-6001 Scottsdale • 480-990-2212 ~ Sedona • 928-282-4140 AZGL-halfh.indd 1 2380027o greenliving greenliving| |June June2013 2013
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9/25/12 7:38 AM greenlivingaz.com
Jeff
[SECTION NAME]
Efficient Efficient and resourceful. resourceful.
beer can cHicken WITH BARBECUE RUB
Dan Kalm, Agent 2654 N Kalm, Campbell Avenue Dan Agent Tucson, AZ 85719 2654 N Campbell Avenue Bus: 520-795-0231 Tucson, AZ 85719 dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com Bus: 520-795-0231 dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com
I’m eco-friendly too. I’m eco-friendly too. Whether it’s local or global, Whether global, every littleit’s bit local we doormakes a every little bit we do makes difference. That’s just part ofa difference. being there.That’s just part of being Like a there. good neighbor, Like a goodisneighbor, State Farm there. StateME Farm is there.® CALL TODAY. CALL ME TODAY. ®
ingredients 2 Tbsp. kosher salt ½ c. brown sugar 4 Tbsp. smoked paprika 1 Tbsp. granulated garlic
1 Tbsp. granulated onion 1 Tbsp. whole thyme leaf 1 3 ½ to 5 lb. chicken 1 can Heferweizen Wheat 0901000.1
0901000.1 1. Remove giblets. 2. Rinse and dry the chicken, set aside. 3. Mix together the dry rub spices. 4. Rub the chicken inside and out. 5. Open the beer, pour half in a glass (for drinking). 6. Place the half-full beer can into the cavity of the chicken. 7. Stand the chicken and beer on the heated grill away from direct flame, close the lid. 8. Cook about 1 ½ hours with medium high indirect heat. (Cooking time varies depending on the size of the bird) Thigh juices will run clear when chicken is cooked. 9. Remove from the grill, let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Efficie Efficientand E a and resou
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
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State Farm, Bloomington, IL
resourceful. re
Dan Kalm, Agent
I’m eco-friendl
Avenue Dan Kalm, Agent 2654 N Campbell I’m eco-friendly too.Whether it’s loc 2654 N Campbell Avenue Tucson, AZ 85719 Tucson, AZ 85719 Bus: 520-795-0231 Whether it’s local orevery global,little bit w dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com Bus: 520-795-0231 every little bit we do makes a dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com Dan Kalm, Agent difference. That
I’m difference. That’s just part of Dan Agent 2654 NKalm, Campbell Avenue being there. being there. AZ 85719 2654Tucson, N Campbell Avenue Like a goodWh ne Like520-795-0231 a good neighbor, Bus: ® Tucson, AZ 85719 State Farm is eve State Farm is there. dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com 1-888-369-0501 CALL ME TODAY. CALL ME TODA diff
dan.kalm.mrot@statefarm.com
Recipe courtesy of Dennis D. Martinez, Executive Chef, SanTan Brewing Company, Chandler
statefarm.com/green 0901000.1
greenlivingaz.com
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
0901000.1
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
June 2013 | greenliving
39
bei Lik Sta CA
state
recipes Cheryl
Dorie
EASY PULLED
pork bbQ 1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. 2. Cut pork shoulder meat into 2-3 inch cubes. 3. Place the meat in a large roasting pan with a lid. (Meat should have room between pieces) 4. Season with the smoked sea salt, distribute salt evenly over meat. 5. Pour half the bottle of Mr. Pineapple’s BBQ Sauce over meat, mix. 6. Place lid on roasting pan, put into oven for 5 hours. 7. Remove pan, let rest for 20 minutes with the lid on. 8. Remove lid, with 2 forks or metal tongs, pull meat apart. Do not remove meat from cooking juices. Season with additional smoked sea salt if needed. 9. Serve on grilled burger buns with mayonnaise, pickle chips and Mr. Pineapple’s BBQ Sauce.
ingredients 1 6-8 lb. boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt) 1 Tbsp. smoked sea salt 1 16 oz. bottle of SanTan Brewing Company Mr. Pineapple’s Pineapple Habañero BBQ Sauce
Recipe courtesy of Dennis D. Martinez, Executive Chef, SanTan Brewing Company, Chandler
A Fresh and Healthy Fusion of Mediterranean and Italian Food
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