Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway

02/01/2026

Free Fitness Classes. Every Week. 🏃

In partnership with Pierce County Parks, we’re hosting weekly opportunities for Parkland and Spanaway residents to Move Naturally!

Whether you like high-energy classes or blissful moments of reflection, we have something for you.

Our event schedule is officially updated for 2026 - make sure you register to secure you spots today!

🔗 To learn more, visit the link in our bio or check out the event schedule on our website: www.bzp-ps.com

Classes de fitness gratuitas. Cada semana. 🏃

En colaboración con Pierce County Parks, ofrecemos oportunidades semanales para que los residentes de Parkland y Spanaway se mantengan activos de forma natural!

Tanto si te gustan las clases de alta intensidad como los momentos de relajación y reflexión, tenemos algo para ti.

¡Nuestro calendario de eventos para 2026 ya está actualizado oficialmente, así que asegúrate de registrarte hoy mismo para reservar tu plaza!

🔗 Para obtener más información, visita el enlace en nuestra biografía o consulta el calendario de eventos en nuestra página web: www.bzp-ps.com

19/12/2025

As we close out 2025, we want to take a moment to wish our Parkland and Spanaway communities a peaceful and meaningful holiday season 🎄

We know this time of year can look and feel different for everyone. With recent flooding across Western Washington, some Pierce County families may be navigating unexpected challenges. If this season feels heavy, please know you’re not alone.

These next few weeks can still be a time to pause, reflect, and spend time doing things that brings you comfort, connection, and joy! 💙

This year has been a busy and inspiring one for our team, and we’re already gearing up for an even fuller 2026. From community events and new moai groups to volunteer opportunities and neighborhood connections, there’s so much ahead and we can’t wait to continue building a healthier, more connected Parkland-Spanaway, together!

Reminder: Our team will be out of the office from December 22 through January 5, taking time to downshift, be with loved ones, and reset for the year ahead. If we’re slow to respond during that time, we appreciate your patience and look forward to reconnecting in the new year.

Wishing you warmth, rest, and moments of peace as we head into 2026. 💫

To stay connected and receive updates about what’s coming next, be sure to join our newsletter!

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17/12/2025

🌞 Rise and Shine Cabaret Café is officially Blue Zones Project Approved!

Since earning their approval in June, has continued to light up the heart of Parkland with its eclectic, fully vegan/vegetarian menu and vibrant, wellness-focused atmosphere.

Known for flavor-packed dishes, creative expression, and deep community connection, Rise and Shine brings major vibes to the local dining scene — all while making healthier choices feel joyful and accessible.

“Part of the reason why I opened this café was to be more health conscious, to provide healthy options along with education about eating better and being better. You can eat well and still eat delicious food,” says owner Tonee Giacalone — a vision that aligns powerfully with Blue Zones values.

Join us on January 22nd, from 6–7pm, at Rise and Shine Cabaret Café (401 Garfield St S, Parkland) for their official Restaurant Approval Celebration!

Enjoy free samples, giveaways, and a special ribbon cutting as we honor their commitment to helping Parkland-Spanaway live better, longer.

✨ Save the date and bring your loved ones — this family-friendly celebration is open to all!

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17/12/2025

Our collaboration with Pacific Lutheran University and Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway was featured in King 5 News! Read the full article via the link in our bio!

17/12/2025

📣 Calling all artists and muralists in Pierce County!

Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway is accepting portfolio submissions to be considered for the creation of two murals in Parkland, WA!

Both murals will be located on property that has high visibility from Pacific Ave (SR-7). The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit qualified artists or teams of artists to submit a portfolio for consideration.

This RFP is brought to you by 'Parkland With Purpose' - a community-led effort to increase pride and sense of belonging throughout Parkland, WA.

Virtual Info Session: December 18th @ 12pm PST
Deadline for Submissions: January 12th, 2026

Questions? Drop them in the comments below or reach out to our Public Policy Lead at kristatimm@bluezones.com

🔗 Learn more + apply today by scanning the QR code or using this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf7HrANADLfG7I83aClP5MXyB7NgdVqaCMeT5F08E-0tmJ6iQ/viewform?pli=1

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12/12/2025

Support Health, Hope & Hunger Relief This Holiday Season 🎄

At Blue Zones Project, we believe that when a community thrives, everyone thrives. That means ensuring every family has the fuel they need to move, connect and live well especially during the holidays!

This holiday season, join us in supporting Emergency Food Network (EFN). When our community members face barriers to health and well-being, EFN is a lifeline. Their work ensures our neighbors have access not just to food, but to dignity, stability and the comfort of knowing they are not alone. 🤝

The holidays should be a time of joy, connection, and abundance instead of stressing about where the next meal will come from. Our team is stepping up so that more families can experience a season filled with warmth and nourishment.

This fundraiser reflects the heart of our mission: neighbors supporting neighbors, building a community where everyone can live better, longer.

📣 HOW YOU CAN HELP:

No gift is too small. Every dollar stretches far through EFN’s efficient distribution system and helps ensure that children, seniors, and families throughout our community have access to healthy, reliable food.

🔗 donate today and learn more about campaign: https://give.efoodnet.org/fundraisers/blue-zones-project-parkland-spanaway-holiday-giving-campaign

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08/12/2025

Young people deserve a real seat at the table — and Pierce County wants to hear directly from you. 💬

Pierce County Councilmembers Rosie Ayala (District 4) and Chair Jani Hitchen (District 6) are exploring the creation of a Young Adult Commission, and your insight will help shape what this new leadership space could look like.

Two upcoming listening sessions are designed for youth and young adults (ages 15+) to share what they need, what they care about, and how local government can better support their future:

📅 Saturday, December 13
1:00–3:00 PM
Sprinker Recreation Center – Rainier Room
521 Military Rd S, Tacoma, WA 98444

💻 Wednesday, December 17
6:00–8:00 PM
Virtual via Zoom

Whether you’re already civically engaged or just curious about how decisions get made in your community, your voice matters. These conversations will help inspire legislation that reflects the hopes, challenges, and lived experiences of Pierce County’s young people.

Want to stay involved as this effort moves forward?
Follow Pierce County Councilmember Rosie Ayala, Pierce County Council member Jani Hitchen, and Pierce County for updates and next steps.

02/12/2025

Last night, KING 5 shared a full feature on the campaign and we couldn't be more thankful!

Throughout the Fall, we spotlighted 8 student-athletes at Pacific Lutheran University who each shared their reasons for steering clear of distracted and impaired driving. You can find each of their stories on our page.

We'll be closing out 2025 with a few more messages and resources to help keep the roads in Parkland and Spanaway safe for all to travel this holiday season. Stay tuned for updates and make sure you sign-up for our newsletter if you haven't already.

None of this is possible without the amazing work of Moststeerclear, Target Zero, PLU Athletics, and the Pierce County residents who call Parkland and Spanaway home.

Stay safe. Drive sober. Steer clear!

02/12/2025

Powered by Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway, Pacific Lutheran University and Moststeerclear, the campaign encourages Pierce County residents to protect one another by making safe decisions behind the wheel.

Thank you KING 5 for amplifying this project and the work we're doing in Pierce County!

Student-athletes at Pacific Lutheran University partnered with the organization the Blue Zones Project Parkland/Spanaway to discourage impaired & distracted driving.

21/11/2025

Meet Jaden Saucelo, a Nursing major from the Class of '27 and final student-athlete spotlight. ⚽️

Driven by her aspirations for life after college, she approaches each day knowing that the work she puts in now will shape her destiny. As a member of the PLU Women’s Soccer team, Jaden brings her goals and treasured memories with her every time she steps on the field.

For Jaden, joining the campaign is about protecting her future and the people she loves:

“I steer clear for my loved ones as well as my future. I make safe choices to make sure I am present for my family as well as my future self. There is still so much that I have yet to accomplish and experience.”

She also shared that soccer has always been her outlet, offering a sense of joy even in the toughest moments.

“Playing soccer has always been a way for me to put my work aside and have fun. Even when injuries make it challenging, the friendships and resilience I’ve gained from sports have helped me grow and face obstacles with strength.”

⚠️ 92% of young adults in Washington steer clear of driving under the influence. The Lutes Steer Clear campaign, a partnership between Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway, , and , highlights young leaders like Jaden who are modeling safe decision making for all.

Thank you, Jaden, for reaching for the stars and staying committed to the bigger. Although this concludes our student-athlete spotlights, we have more announcements to share throughout the holiday season!

🔗 Visit moststeerclear.org for more info + follow for upcoming match days and campus events!

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19/11/2025

Meet Mason Taylor-Wells, a Biology major minoring in Chemistry and Religion from the Class of '27. 🏈

Thoughtful in his approach to both academics and athletics, Mason brings intentionality to every play. On the PLU Football team, he sees the field as a place where pressure meets purpose and hard work shapes who you become.

For Mason, joining the campaign comes from understanding how much is at stake:

“I choose to steer clear because the risk is simply not worth it. I could seriously hurt myself or others, face legal trouble, lose my license, or lose my eligibility to play the sport I love. My entire future can fall apart in one night. It’s not worth it.”

He also shared about how football helps him manage stress, offering a space where he can reset and regain clarity.

“Sports help me deal with stress by acting as an outlet. I can leave my frustrations on the field, and it's helpful to have a healthy escape from school work during football season.”

⚠️ 92% of young adults in Washington steer clear of driving under the influence. The Lutes Steer Clear campaign, a partnership between Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway, , and , highlights young leaders like Mason who are modeling safe decision making for all.

Thank you, Mason, for showing how holding yourself accountable leads to safer communities! Stay tuned as we continue spotlighting PLU student-athletes who are leading this movement!

🔗 Visit moststeerclear.org for more info + follow for upcoming game days!

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17/11/2025

Meet Allie Weishaar, a future Social Work major with plans to minor in Nonprofit Business from the Class of '29. 🥍

Community-minded and full of energy, she’s known for the positivity she brings to every game and every interaction. On the PLU Women’s Lacrosse team, Allie plays with heart— seeing each practice as a chance to grow and live out the values she hopes to share with others.

For Allie, joining the campaign is a way to live out that belief.

“I steer clear because I’m a firm believer in what you give the world, the world gives back to you. I choose not to participate in distracted or impaired driving to keep my community safe for my family and friends.”

She says lacrosse helps her stay centered, manage stress, and channel her emotions into something positive:

“Lacrosse gives me an outlet to leave behind every nerve, insecurity, or doubt and clear my head. Sports and exercise help me channel my emotions in healthy ways. Even after coming back from an injury, being with my team reminds me of how strong I am and what I’m capable of.”

⚠️ 92% of young adults in Washington steer clear of driving under the influence. The Lutes Steer Clear campaign, a partnership between Blue Zones Project Parkland-Spanaway, , and , highlights young leaders like Allie who are modeling safe decision making for all.

Thank you, Allie, for showing how mindfulness can make our roads and our communities safe. Stay tuned as we continue spotlighting PLU student-athletes who are leading this movement!

🔗 Visit moststeerclear.org for more info + follow for upcoming game days!

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