“Land of extremes. Land of contrasts. Land of surprises. Land of contradictions. A land that is never to be fully understood but always to be loved by sons and daughters sprung from such a diversity of origins, animated by such a diversity of motives and ideals, that generations must pass before they can ever fully understand each other. That is Arizona.”
— “Arizona: A State Guide,” compiled by Workers of the Writers’ Program of the Work Projects Administration in the State of Arizona, 1940
I love Arizona because it is an amazingly beautiful state. I am thankful and grateful to live, work and play here. February is a joyous time to remember our statehood as Arizona’s birthday is February 14, 1922. Arizona will be 106 this year! Did you know our state motto is “Ditat Deus?” It means “God Enriches.”
I enjoy connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors. There are 31 state parks and natural areas that preserve our state’s natural, cultural and recreational resources. A few of my favorites are Canyon de Chelly National monument, Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Park, Tumacacori National Historical Park, and the Arizona Sonoran desert where the iconic saguaro cactus grows. I encourage you to get out and explore some of our state parks, National State Parks and natural areas this year.
There are sustainable, cultural, educational and informative events happening in February, including the American Indian Arts Exposition January 28 through February 11; the Waste Management Open January 31 through February 4; GreenBiz 18 February 6-8; Celebration of Art now through March 25; the 28th Annual World Championship Hoop Dance February 10 and 11; and the Tucson Gem and Mineral show January 26 through February 11. We also hope that you can attend Green Living’s first Eco Event at F.A.B.R.I.C in Tempe on February 8.
Our February issue contains all of your favorite columns, like Green Champions, Cool and Outrageous Stuff, He’s Green She’s Green, and delicious recipes. We’re also featuring an article about a winemaker who is using technology to grow greener crops; the Tonto National Forest; and an article about Grand Canyon Youth and how they are connecting kids with nature. Read on to learn about Meal Planning 101 and heart-healthy habits.
Please make one Simple Solution to get outdoors in February. Take a walk, hike, skateboard, roller skate or bike to connect with the natural world. We’d love to know about your favorite state park or natural area, so be sure to visit our Facebook page and tell us all about it!
To educate, empower, and inspire,
Dorie Morales, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
