Gilbert, AZ April 2020

APRIL 2020

LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert

HORSE SENSE

BY THE FARM

ISAGENIX’S ECO MISSION

THIS IS

HOME. We believe that every client should feel

strive to elevate the standard in our profession by providing exemplary service and improving our reputation one client at a time. We are client focused and results driven.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Robin Belley | robin.belley@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@lifestylepubs.com

Spring Into Action DO YOU HEAR THAT? It’s the sound of nature springing to life after a wetter and

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

MacKenzie Belley | mackenzie.belley@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall

colder winter than usual. Quoting my editor, “If I wanted cold rain, I would live in Seat-

LAYOUT DESIGNER

tle”… I guess we should really feel bad about complaining about how the uhm..uhm

Jayme Emery

“COLD” Thank Goodness we can start dipping our toes in the Salt River now. Birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and children are playing outside as the warmer weather has arrived and the days are growing longer.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MacKenzie Belley, Kristy Belley, Staci Hauk CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

This month at Gilbert Lifestyle, we are happy to bring you our Eco issue in honor of Earth Day on April 22. Inspired by the infinite beauty of our state—and our desire

MacKenzie Belley, Drew Hastings, Shannon Hastings, Brent Shetler, George Walsh, Pat Walsh.

to preserve and protect it—we compiled an array of eco-conscious and eco-friendly people and places making a difference right here in the East Valley. From ecominded artists and businesses, to families making sustainable changes that affect our planet around the world, this issue is a celebration of all things Mother Nature.

Throughout this issue, you’ll find simple ways to be more eco-friendly, it is as easy as choosing the right straw, or maybe going straw free, or eating great meatless options just one day a week. Whether or not you have a green thumb, we hope the stories in these pages invoke feelings of gratitude for the wonderful world we live

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

in—and the wonderful people in our community who strive to sustain it.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Not sure where to start? When you’ve finished enjoying this issue, we encourage

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

you to recycle it so it can be turned into future magazines, or better yet, re-use it by

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

sharing it with a friend. After all, that’s what makes the world go ‘round!

Happy Spring, Gilbert,

Thank you again for allowing us into your homes each month

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK

Robin & Kristy Belley

NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

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LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert ON THE COVER Salt River Prince PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENT SHETLER 4

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 Gilbert Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Gilbert areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Gilbert Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020

FEATURES 10 Isagenix’s Green Corporate Culture The Coover Family implements big changes to help the planet

14 Wildlife Photographers Meet our Local Wildlife Photographers whose passion is to share the beauty of our planet

20 Horse Sense The Salt River Wild Horses surviving with a little help from their human friends

24 By the Farm Agritopia preserves the community

20 14

farming tradition as our town becomes more urban

10

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

9

Around Town

10

Giving Back

14

Artist’s Palette

18

Healthy Lifestyle

20 Animal Kingdom 24 Locally Owned 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Culinary Creations

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7

GOOD TIMES

Gilbert Girlfriends Xanadu Glow Party Gilbert Girlfriend's events can be found almost every week. Looking for a place just to make some new friends. More than an online community, it is an opportunity to share friendship and fun with other ladies in the East Valley.

At Isagenix, we’re passionate about sustainability. We’ve reduced our impact on the environment in several ways, including converting millions of canisters to 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. We’ve also committed to sourcing ingredients sustainably and ethically, and we offer several plant-based products, including a plant-based version of our popular IsaLean® Shake. Whether you’re enjoying a vegetarian, vegan, or flexitarian lifestyle, we can help you achieve healthy change!

ISAGENIX.COM

8

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

AROUND TOWN and Aji Spa at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler – have earned the 2020 Forbes Five-Star award. The rating, given to just 85 spas worldwide this year, is presented for extraordinary facilities and design while emphasizing an uncompromising and virtually flawless service.

SARSEF FAIR, A TUCSON TRADITION IN SCIENCE EDUCATION, TURNS 65 March 11 through 14, students from many Gilbert schools, Pre-K through high school, eagerly shared their research projects at the Tucson Convention Center. They were taking part in a Tucson tradition by representing the top 15% of all student research proj-

KALEIDOSCOPE JUICE OPENS IN THE HERITAGE DISTRICT

ects in southern Arizona at the 65th Annual SARSEF Science and Engineering Fair powered by TEP. What started as a small regional science fair of

The options for clean eating will soon be easier

200 students in 1955 has grown to be one of the

in the East Valley. Kaleidoscope Juice, an inno-

largest science fairs in the world 65 years later. The

vative health and wellness company, is thrilled to

SARSEF Science and Engineering Fair is the signa-

announce that it will open a new shop in Gilbert.

ture event of SARSEF, an Arizona nonprofit inspir-

Kaleidoscope aims to help its guests love them-

ing students to think critically and solve problems

selves from the inside out by using the highest

through science and engineering. SARSEF pro-

quality ingredients in its fresh-pressed juices,

gramming includes outreach in schools, teacher

nourishing smoothies, salads and health-con-

professional development, a student research lab

scious, gluten-free sweets. Located at 60 W.

at the University of Arizona, and a solar go-kart

Vaughn Ave. suite 105.

program called Racing the Sun. sarsef.org

BANNER DESERT MEDICAL CENTER IS SEEKING VOLUTEERS

GREAT WOLF LODGE IS NOW OFFERING DAY PASSES

Cardon Children’s Medical Center and Banner

Great Wolf Lodge is now offering day passes and

Desert Medical Center are seeking volunteers in

half day passes to its waterpark, which was previ-

customer service, “Ambassador” and “Comfort

ously only available to guest staying on property.

Care” areas with excellent communication skills.

The day passes will start at $50 per person. The

Certified dog therapy teams and certified Reiki

number of day passes will be monitored daily to

alternative healing applicants are also needed.

ensure the number of visitors at the waterpark is

Ambassadors greet and escort all patients, families,

actively managed. The quantity of available day

visitors and staff, and provide assistance to locations

passes will be based on the number of rooms that

within the hospital. Volunteer positions are available

are filled at the resort on any given day. To check

7 days a week from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Volunteers

availability visit greatwolf.com

must be at least age 16 upon application, and are expected to serve at least one 3-hour or 4-hour shift per week for a minimum of 100 hours.

A background check and health screening is required. For information, contact Volunteer Resources at 480-412-3258 or www.bannerhealth.com

THREE ARIZONA SPAS RECEIVE 2020 FORBES 5 STAR RATING Three Arizona spas – The Phoenician Spa in Scottsdale, The Ritz-Carlton Spa in Tucson

We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert.

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

9

GIVING BACK

isagenix’s

eco mission IN 2002, SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEURS JIM AND KATHY COOVER PARTNERED WITH FORMULATOR JOHN ANDERSON TO CREATE WHAT WOULD BECOME ISAGENIX; A GLOBALLY RESPECTED AND TRUSTED HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMPANY. Although the

quality of products due to a yearning for lower cost. After

Coovers were retired from the direct selling industry, they

all, maximizing formulation potential directly relates to

were intrigued by Anderson’s incredible product formulation

real results amongst customers. The Coovers appreci-

background. Anderson had found frustration in bringing his

ated this sentiment, feeling similar unease with direct

products to market, as he did not want to compromise the

selling and having a passion for those in the industry to not only love the products, but be able to earn an income

from home as well. For them it was all about the people; which led to taking reign as the faces of Isagenix – a company that is focused on its independent distributors, called “associates,” and employees.

Isagenix has grown exponentially since the early 2000s. An expansion into multiple markets translates to a realized mission of ‘impacting world health and freeing people from physical and financial pain’.

“That statement guides our decision making in all of our executive meetings. We’ve done over 7 billion dollars in cumulative sales as an incredible global brand but we’re just getting started. We offer targeted nutrition

ARTICLE STACI HAUK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED COURTESY OF ISAGENIX

10

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

Chief Visionary Officer Erik Coover

Inside Global Headquarters in GIlbert

designed to nourish and energize the body with nutrient dense superfoods. We want people to have a better relationship with food so we cover all the bases. Isagenix is truly a one stop shop for personalized wellness,” said Isagenix’s Chief Visionary Officer Erik Coover.

Coover shares that along with the Health and Wellness impact Isagenix has on the world, the company is also focused on eco efforts.

“Two years ago we really started to examine our footprint and how to make more sustainable choices in our products, packaging and in the way we approach practices at our world headquarters office in Gilbert.”

Coover notes that the Isagenix team began to tackle large issues one at a time to make a firm impact.

“We eliminated all plastic water bottles in our Corporate Headquarters, decreasing our purchase of water bottles from 180 thousand per year to zero. We offered employees a reusable hot/cold thermos, and set up refill stations around the office. The employees have their names engraved on the bottles – a special reminder that we are all taking part in helping the earth.”

Logging sustainable emissions has been another goal for Isagenix in recent years. The installation of solar panels in the headquarters parking lot was completed in 2018 and provides approximately 463

Erik Coover

thousand kw hours – enough clean energy to power one fourth of the office’s overall needs.

“We offer electric vehicle charging stations, and a trip reduction incentive program. Employees who use alternative transportation for their commute each week can turn in paperwork and receive a $25 ride share incentive for the month.”

CONTINUED >

reusable employee water bottles help reduce waste

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

11

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

12

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

“ T W O Y E A R S A G O W E R E A L LY S TA R T E D T O EXAMINE OUR FOOTPRINT AND HOW TO M A K E M O R E S U S TA I N A B L E C H O I C E S I N O U R P R O D U C T S , P A C K A G I N G A N D I N T H E W AY W E APPROACH PRACTICES AT OUR CORPORATE O F F I C E I N G I L B E R T.” - CHIEF VISIONARY OFFICER ERIK COOVER

Isagenix is known for its delicious and nutritious IsaLean

additionally absorbing the cost per unit to help the envi-

meal replacement shakes and bars, so Coover notes that

ronment with no customer upcharge. Every month we

making strides to incorporate plant based formulas and

report to our associates, employees and customers, letting

eco-friendly packaging were key.

them know how we’re moving closer to our ultimate goal.”

“Our #1 seller is our IsaLean Shakes and we now offer

Isagenix recently acquired Zija International, a com-

an alternative plant based IsaLean Shake in chocolate,

pany that has a 100% plant based product line. “Zija offers

strawberry or vanilla. They offer a huge source of protein

incredible products and what attracted us was cultural

derived from pea protein and brown rice. We even offer

synergy and the plant based approach.”

an entirely plant-based option for our newcomer system.”

Coover feels that having Isagenix’s headquarters in

Coover shared additional efforts, such as Isagenix’s

Gilbert is ideal, as the Town’s green efforts blend well with

goal of zero waste in product packaging by 2028. “When

the ideals of the company.

we launch or revamp products we task our packaging ven-

“When we had our daughter and then with our second

dors to bring us the most sustainable packaging options

who is 8 weeks old, I saw the world differently. We want our

out there. Zero waste to us means recyclable, compostable

kids to have the best life possible and have a thriving earth

or reusable. That’s our #1 sustainability goal. Most of our

to live on. We put our headquarters in Gilbert because it’s

packaging is recyclable. With our IsaLean Bars, we are

a youthful, growing area. We’re a family owned company

exploring compostable bar film options, and we no lon-

and having the family dynamic amongst our employees

ger use plastic shrink wrap in packaging our Chocolate

as well, aligns perfectly with Gilbert. We want to be an

Decadence and Lemon Passion Crunch IsaLean Bars. We

example for other companies in Gilbert, and throughout

were selling 8 million canisters of IsaLean Shakes a year

Phoenix to go green; just as we are inspired by other com-

and used virgin plastic canisters which have recently been

panies doing even more. Gilbert can be a shining example

transitioned to post-consumer recycled plastic canisters

of what a community can do to be an example in moving

-- these come from recycled plastics so no new plastic

toward green efforts.”

is being created and you can recycle them again. We are

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

13

ARTIST’S PALETTE

ARTICLE KRISTY BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY G P WALSH PHOTOGRAPHY, ERIC HASTINGS

MEET OUR LOCAL WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS WHOSE PASSION IS TO SHARE THE BEAUTY OF OUR PLANET

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS 14

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

GEORGE & PAT WA L S H + wildlife & landscape photographers OUR GOAL IS TO BRING A PART OF OUR WORLD INTO YOURS THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS & WORKSHOPS AS WELL AS FINE ART PRINTS.

GEORGE AND PATTIE WALSH. Husband and wife wild-

seeing a lioness with her one month old triplets cubs. Especially

life and landscape photographers with a passion for

when you look around and it feels like no one else has ever been

nature for more than 15 years. "Our goal is to bring a

there." For some, joining them on a tour is not a possibility but

part of our world into yours through photography tours

they still want a piece of nature. That is where Fine Art Nature

& workshops as well as fine art prints. " shared Pat. "On

Photography has a place in your home. Fine Art Nature Prints

our photo tours & workshops not only do we provide tips

have a special place in a person's heart. Whether they share a

for improving your photography but we pass on a wealth

glimpse into their travels around the world through still images

of information about the landscape and the wildlife we

or with an exciting photo tour or workshop, the goal is to give a

encounter. We have a passion for all things nature and

moment of awe and wonder at the beauty the world has to offer and

love to share it with others." The Walsh's hope is to

hopefully the opportunity for you to share it with others. Lifestyle

inspire others to enjoy nature, get outdoors and experi-

readers... We encourage you to join the Walsh's either online or

ence it, but to respect the land and wildlife while doing

in person for local photography instruction or a photo tour of the

so. "There is nothing like standing beneath a waterfall, or

Salt River Wild Horses, Bears in Alaska, African wildlife, and more.

in the natural habitat of an Alaskan Brown Bear while she

gpwalshphotography.com We look forward to sharing your

is nursing her cubs, watching a wild horse being born, or

future adventures.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

15

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

WE HAVE BEEN AROUND THEM COUNTLESS TIMES, BUT EACH EXPERIENCE AT THE SALT RIVER HAS BEEN UNIQUE.

DREW & SHANNON HASTINGS + wildlife photographer Drew Hastings and his wife, Shannon, have been photographing

where else in the world can you see so many wild horses in a place

the wild horses at the Salt River for years. The Hastings are passion-

as extraordinary as Tonto National Forest." shares Drew. "Imagine

ate about these horses, because they are incredible animals that are

a fiery sunset behind Red Mountain reflecting off the flowing Salt

both beautiful and interesting. "We have been around them count-

River. Now imagine a band of wild horses running by. That is a reality

less times, but each experience at the Salt River has been unique.

at our river, and you just can’t find that anywhere else in the world."

We’ve even been blessed to witness a wild horse being born. We feel

The Salt River Horses are a hidden gem of the United States, the

incredibly fortunate to live just a half hour from the river, because no

most remarkable part of their story is the unbelievable passion tens

16

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

of thousands of people have for these horses. Just a few years ago,

Arizona was a state. Do we choose to lose these horses and only

the government saw these animals as a liability that needed to be

have them as memories, or do we decide to cherish this extraordi-

removed. Today these horses are protected by the State, even on

nary gift in our own backyard for generations to come?"

federal land; however, this did not happen by chance. Our represen-

Support the wild horses at srwhmg.org and tell your govern-

tatives heard the extremely loud and passionate call to action by tens

ment representatives that you care about these amazing horses.

of thousands of supporters around the world. Drews passion for the

Lifestyle readers please check out more of the amazing photos at

horses is evident in each picture. "These horses were here before

saltriverart.com

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

17

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

your UNDERSTAND WHAT’S IN YOUR FOOD FOR MINDFUL EATING

nutrition

body + soul

MINDFUL EATING MEANS KNOWING WHAT IS IN YOUR FOOD, HOW IT IS AFFECTING YOUR BODY AND TAKING THE TIME TO FULLY APPRECIATE THE NUTRIENTS AND FLAVORS YOU ARE TAKING IN. Whether or not you are trying to lose, gain or maintain weight, reading labels and understanding nutrition facts will help you make better choices for your body and ultimately feel better in your day-to-day.

PROTEINS Protein makes you feel full longer. If you eat a meal with little protein, you’ll feel hungry again pretty quickly, and it can be discouraging. But you don’t have to eat a huge steak to get enough protein. You can find it in cheese, nuts, seeds, spinach, eggs, avocados, broccoli, hummus, lentils—the list goes on and on! Mindful eating means taking note of how hungry you feel and eating enough protein to satisfy that hunger in a way that will last.

C A R B O H Y D R AT E S Carbohydrates are not your enemy. But, it is important to pay attention to how you feel when you eat them. If you eat a lot of carbs in one sitting, it can cause your blood sugar to spike, and when it drops back down, you can feel lethargic and maybe even irritable.

By spreading your carbohydrate intake throughout your day and always pairing it with a protein, you can help your body regulate your blood sugar more effectively and feel more alert all day long.

F AT S Fats also help slow carbohydrates down so they don’t instantly turn into sugar in your bloodstream. Fats are important for energy, and it’s especially important to eat the right kinds of fats for your ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

18

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

brain. For better concentration and memory, try to incorporate foods like salmon, avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil.

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lifestylepubs.com/gilbert April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

19

ANIMAL KINGDOM

Horse Sense THE SALT RIVER WILD HORSES SURVIVING WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THEIR HUMAN FRIENDS ARTICLE MACKENZIE BELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY DREW HASTING, G P WALSH PHOTOGRAPHY, BRENT SHETLER

photo credit Drew Hastings

photo credit G P Walsh Photography

photo credit Brent Shetler

20

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

photo credit Drew Hastings

STANDING ON THE SHOULDER OF RURAL BUSH HIGHWAY

to come help the wild horses. Sometimes even as early as 2 a.m.

JUST OUTSIDE OF MESA, ARIZONA BREN SCHULTZ, DIRECTOR

“It’s lot of work, you have to really be invested you know,” Schultz

OF THE SALT RIVER HORSE MANAGEMENT GROUP, WATCHED

said. “You have to be dedicated that’s for sure.” The wild horses are

OVER A GROUP OF THREE WILD HORSES AS CARS SPED

a feature of Arizona, drawing people from around the country to

PAST, SOME GOING UP TO 60 MILES PER HOUR. Wearing a

the area in hopes of catching a glimpse of their beauty. “I think the

neon reflective vest over her clothes and holding a white stop sign

Salt River horses showcase the beauty Arizona has to offer,” Oliver

Schultz and her husband spend the warm Sunday afternoon as

Pemberton a student at Arizona State University said when describ-

horse crossing guards. “So right now what we’re doing is we’re

ing his experience on seeing the wild horses for the first time. The

strategically placed (along the highway),” Schultz explained. “I’m

Salt River wild horses have been in the area of the Tonto National

diagonal from him so that he can alert oncoming traffic once they

Forest as early as the 1700’s. They have roamed the area long before

get closer to crossing and I’ll alert traffic on this side.” The horses

The Tonto National Forest was created but they have not always

on the other side of the highway grazed peacefully even with the

been wanted there, according to Simone Netherland a founder of

blaring sound of the highway. Once they had finished they calmly

the Salt River Horse Management group. As recently as 2015 the

walked to the opening made for them in the guardrails and began

National Forest Service issued a removal order for the wild horses

to cross. This is where Schultz stepped in. She held up her white

since there were no government protections for the horses at the

stop sign and stepped onto the highway. Speeding cars came to a

time there was nothing to stop their removal from happening, until a

stop as two of the horses lazily crossed the road. The third horse, a

group of local photographers stepped in. “We’d been watching and

younger brown mare with white marking on her legs which looked

monitoring the horses for a very long time as just a bunch of photog-

like long socks, was more cautious. The horse waited on the side of

raphers,” Netherland said. “Then when we found out that the forest

the road making sure all the cars were stopped before crossing the

service didn’t like the horses there.” The group began to hold large

roadway and disappearing into the desert bushes. Schultz job was

protests, calling local representatives, and sued the forest service

done for the moment but it wouldn’t be long before she would have

until they got the results they wanted. Governor Doug Ducey signed

to do the whole thing over again. She could be called at any time

protections for the Salt River wild horses and stopped the removal CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

21

ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED) photo credit Drew Hastings

photo credit Drew Hastings

photo credit G P Walsh Photography

think hitting them with the cars is intentional I just think people are careless when they are driving down here they speed, some are drunk,” Schultz said. The Salt River Horse Management Group is working to protect the wild horses from these problems while maintain the nature of the wild horses. Feed programs, crossing guard duty order in 2018. “The governor really wanted to see

and even birth control are all ways that the group

the horses protected,” Netherlands said. Along with

is maintaining the herd population. Although it is difficult to get

the protections signed into law the Salt River Horse

an estimate of the Salt River horses population size due to intermin-

Management group received an official contract with

gling from horses from two reservations that move in and out of the

the government to care for the horses. Although the

area, data from the Salt River Management Group shows the the

horses are no longer facing removal from the Salt

herd is increasing its population by about 12 percent per year. Wild

River area there are other issues threatening them.

horses are crucial part of Arizona culture and history, they are beau-

Drought’s in the area have left food supply low,

tiful animals that look like they just trotted out of a scenic painting

Shootings often take place killing horses every year

but still they face one big problem. “The biggest problem we have

and speeding cars colliding with the horses. “I don’t

is people,” Schultz said. The public is at once the horses biggest supporter and their biggest enemy. When you see a Salt River horse in person it is best to keep in mind that these are wild animals not domesticated livestock.

“Always stay 50 feet away from wild horses and always act calm,” Netherland advises. “To not influence their behavior people should never feed wild horses.” The Salt River has been the horses home longer than Arizona has been a state it is the public’s job to help them protect it. “The public can take of these horses,” Netherlands said. “The public can support these horses.”

22

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

photo credit G P Walsh Photography

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

23

LOCALLY OWNED

BY THE FARM

AGRITOPIA PRESERVES THE COMMUNITY FARMING TRADITION AS OUR TOWN BECOMES MORE URBAN

ARTICLE MACKENZIE BELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

24

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

Grape vines mentioned in story

GILBERT HAS GROWN OVER THE PAST

crops. In the fall ans winter they focus on leafy

FEW YEARS. We’ve watched fields turn into

greens as well as broccoli, cauliflower, beets,

developments and tractors turn into bulldoz-

and carrots. As part of their mission all crops

ers. While the town is moving away from the

grown on the property are grown organically.

rural lifestyle, there is one place that remains

Farm director and 16 year resident of

a sanctuary to nature and to Gilbert's history.

Agritopia, Katie Critchley, makes it her mis-

Agritopia came from the visionary Joe

sion to keep the products from the farm in

Johnston who wanted to preserve the feel-

Agritopia to be used to supply the 4 restau-

ing of “the country” while being an innovator

rants on property. While they can’t fully meet

and practicing sustainable farming. His goal

the high demand of each location when you

was to create a community that embraced

eat at any of the restaurants in Agritopia

the farm and thrived from it.

chances are you will order a meal with ingre-

You might not realize it when you eat at

dients grown just a few feet away.

Joe’s Farm Grill but around you stretches

“The farm is not only meant for produc-

11 acres of urban farm. Just steps from the

tion, but as a place of beauty and to enjoy

back of the Farm Grill you’ll find the beautiful

urban agriculture in Arizona.”

community gardens and planting fields.

The farm includes fields that grow sea-

The farm functions independently from the

sonal veggies, community gardens, orange

restaurants in Agritopia, growing seasonal

and peach orchards, date trees and 14 bee CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

25

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED) Community Garden

Farm Store

hives of over one thousand bee’s. Agritopia harvests over

who came out to help will be invited back to enjoy the

400 pounds of honey each year.

tomato harvest this summer.

“We see a lot of bee activity in our farm proper” Critchley

Community dinners are hosted in the orchards to show-

explained “they’ll travel up to five miles but their lazy they’ll

case local chefs and ingredients and to share the beauty

go closest location.”

of nature and culinary experiences. The events are a major

While some things remain the same at Agritopia, they have

undertaking for the farm. They are planned for months in

seen changes over the last few years. The farm is no longer

advance around watering and harvest schedules . You can

home to chicken or sheep, many of their peach trees are at

even have your dream wedding in the orchard; just be sure

the end of their life span, and most notable construction has

to contact the farm team well in advance.

begun on the final expansion of the Agritopia community.

expand the production potential. She looks forward to the pos-

that will follow the values of Agritopia. The center will focus

sibility of people eating more locally sourced food and knowing

on health, wellness and food. The plan is for the center to be

not only where their food comes from but how it’s grown.

built and ready for new families within the next two years.

26

Katie Critchley has big plans for the farm and wants to

Epicenter will be a mix of retail and apartment housing

“I think we could grow a lot more food,” Critchley said

The farm relies heavily on community volunteers to keep

“would love it if people would start coming to us as an

the farm running. The volunteers help manage the farm and

alternative to a grocery store in order to get their vegeta-

work on big projects around the property. Anyone can vol-

bles” Starting in early April, Gilbert residents have access

unteer at the farm, Agritopia even holds events to get the

to share in a part of the farms Spring/Summer harvest by

community involved, recently volunteers teamed up to plant

becoming members of the Agritopia Community Supported

the seeds for the upcoming tomato season and everyone

Agriculture Program (CSA). agritopiafarm.com

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

orchard

“ THE FARM IS NOT ONLY MEANT FOR PRODUCTION, BUT AS A PLACE OF BEAUT Y AND TO ENJOY URBAN AGRICULTURE IN ARIZONA.”

bee hives mentioned in story

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

27

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APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

DUE TO MANY JUST-IN-TIME CANCELLA-

TIONS OF PUBLIC GATHERINGS AFTER

WE GO TO PRINT, PLEASE RECOGNIZE THAT THESE EVENTS MAY CHANGE; PLEASE CHECK THE ORGANIZATION’S WEBSITE FOR CURRENT DETAILS

2 BRIGADOON

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4 GILBERT'S GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL Gilbert Civic Center North Campus -50 E. Civic Center, Gilbert

Gilbert's Global Village Festival is a multicultural celebration for all ages. The festival brings neighbors together in a friendly, educational way to learn more about each other. Community members, schools, non-profits and service organizations are invited to join us in 2020 for the 16th annual Gilbert Global Village Festival. 9:00am - 2:00pm

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WIZARD OF OZ

Studio 3 Performing Arts Academy- 511 W Guadalupe Rd Suite 12 Gilbert, AZ

Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. Purchase tickets online https://limelight.ticketleap.com/oz/

30

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

4 MODERN MEDITERRANEAN ORCHARD DINNER

Agritopia Farm - 3000 East Ray Road, Gilbert

The Johnston Boys, William and James Johnston, will create a Modern Mediterranean feast.

Using farm fresh ingredients, preparing a meal on the land that their grandfather farmed, inspired by their Lebanese heritage.

This will be an evening to remember with amazing food and drink pairings agritopiafarm.com/events

5 RACIN" FOR RESCUES Freestone Park

Join AZ Paws and Claws Pet Fostering for the Racin' For Rescues 5K and 1 Mile event! Millions of unwanted dogs and cats are put down every year in US shelters. We want to help change that! By participating in Racin’ for Rescues, you will help us find homes for these pets startlineracing.com

15 MARICOPA COUNTY FAIR Arizona State Fair Grounds

The fair is back in town! Headed to the Arizona State Fairgrounds for carnival rides and games, turkey legs and other deep-fried sweet treats, and livestock competitions. There will also be live entertainment and shows.

Admission is $9. Kids under eight are free. All shows are the fair are included with admission. April 15 - 19

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

31

16 COUNTRY THUNDER 2020

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

20585 E. Water Way, Florence, AZ

April 16 - 19

Dustin Lynch, Luke Combs, Kane Brown, and Eric Church will headline

the 2020 Country Thunder Music

Festival in Florence, Arizona. Chris

Janson, Ashley McBryde, Russell Dickerson,

Gabby

Barrett,

and

Chicks With Hits will also perform at

the four-day festival. Passes range from $75-$600 for a daily pass, weekend passes, and VIP passes countrythunder.com/az-tickets

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Gilbert.

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Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

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April 2020 | Gilbert Lifestyle

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CULINARY CREATIONS ARTICLE AUDREY HEINE

meatless monday

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED MEATLESS MONDAY IS A GLOBAL MOVEMENT WITH A SIMPLE MESSAGE: ONE DAY A WEEK, CUT THE MEAT. The rules for Meatless Monday are simple: Don’t eat meat on Mondays.. The goal is to reduce meat consumption by 15% for our personal health and the health of the planet.

Audrey Heine from We’ve Got You Covered shares a wonderful meatless option for your Monday Meal.

THE BENEFITS SEEM STRAIGHTFORWARD — IT’S GOOD FOR YOU AND THE ENVIRONMENT WITH AN ADDED BONUS OF BEING YUMMY

The deep flavor of the roasted cauliflower combined with the carrots and raisins, highlights the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This makes for a great side dish, or throw it on top of rice for a main dish

cauliflower salad with carrots and jasmine rice

INGREDIENTS

+ 2 pounds cauliflower + 2 Tablespoons olive oil + 1/2 red onion, sliced thin + 1 cup diced carrots or shredded carrots + 1/2 cup raisins + 2 Tablespoons cilantro (optional) + 2 Tablespoons lemon juice + 4 cloves garlic, minced + 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin + 1/2 teaspoon paprika + 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of spice) + 2 cups jasmine rice DIRECTIONS + Toss the cauliflower and carrots with oil and season. + (option if using shredded carrots do not add to oven but add raw with remaining agreements) + Roast on a cookie sheet or in baking dish until softened about 5 to 7 minutes. + Remove pan from oven. Scatter the onions on the pan and place back in the oven. + Roast until the cauliflower is golden brown and the onions have a slight char for about 10 to 15 minutes. + Cook the rice according to the package directions. + When the cauliflower, carrot ,and onion are done roasting, place it all in a bowl and add the remaining ingredients. + Serve on top of the rice. wevegotyoucoveredllc.com 34

Gilbert Lifestyle | April 2020

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