Place
The “Place” pillar impacts the places close to where people live, work, and play. Schools, worksites, restaurants, grocery stores, and faith-based organizations can all go through a certification process to become “Blue Zones Project Approved,” which means they have implemented a series of evidence-based best practices to improve the well-being of their employees, students, or customers. For example, at the BZP Approved Atrium Café at Mid-Columbia Medical Center, signage and reminders nudge customers to opt for healthier fare. Café staff member Ken noticed that most customers pick salad instead of chips as a side when they are reminded of the option.
This summer The Dalles has also celebrated the restaurant
approval of
The Riv and a second café at Mid-Columbia Medical Center. Several worksites are approved too, including the Wasco County offices, One Community Health, and Meadow Outdoor Advertising.
Grocery store approvals are already part of the Blue Zones Project repertoire, but The Dalles is piloting a version of the program for corner stores, which often stock highly processed, less nutritious foods. That was the situation faced by students at The Dalles High School, where many of them purchase lunch every day at nearby corner store La Michoacana. After engaging with the Blue Zones Project, the store is working towards offering more nutritious options so students can make a healthier choice part of their daily routine.