HEALTH + WELLNESS
CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER BRIDGES FROM CHILDHOOD TRAUMA TO RECOVERY
EDUCATION
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LEARN WITH THE YOUNGEST
FOOD + BEVERAGE THE FOWL WE LOVE!
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We have helped preserve the legacies of tens of thousands of families for over 50 years.
We have compassion and empathy for our clients and build lifelong relationships.
We listen and care for the people we serve, providing plans for protecting them, their legacies, and their families.
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Get to Know Your Estate Planning Attorney
I love Tucson. I love Oro Valley. I was born and raised right here in Tucson. I come from a family of artists. We had some acreage on River Road near La Cañada and lived next door to my grandparents.” Sharolynn Griffiths graduated from Amphi High School and took classes from the University of Phoenix and then University of Arizona. Being a Tucson native, Sharolynn loves the outdoors, she loves hiking and is getting back into mountain biking. She described herself as loving the ‘openness’ of Oro Valley as well as our monsoons. Sharolynn had a successful solo law practice here in Tucson. She admits that she has coveted a position at Morris Hall for years. When the opportunity presented itself, earlier this year, she jumped at it, and is now the primary attorney for their Tucson and Oro Valley offices. “I am embarrassingly excited to be part of this team,” she confides. “I genuinely believe that Morris Hall is the best in Arizona at what they do. They have an amazing commitment to their clients. They are dedicated to a comprehensive, client-centered approach to estate planning. Morris Hall’s solution based approach has protected so many people, families and businesses.”
Sharolynn agreed to answer some questions for our readers. What sets Morris Hall apart from other trust/estate law firms?
“We have helped preserve the legacies of tens of thousands of families for over 50 years. We listen and care for the people we serve, providing plans to protect them, their legacies, and their families. We have compassion and empathy for our clients and build lifelong relationships.” Did you know that Morris Hall is one of only three law firms that are members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys in Arizona?
“As members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, our firm offers a wide range of advantages and benefits that place us in a unique position to handle the most complex estate planning and financial matters. Also, it gives Morris Hall access to attorneys that specialize in Tax Law and how the changing tax landscape can impact your business, your family and your living trust or estate.”
Is there some kind of minimum estate value?
“No. Estate planning does not require you to be elderly or wealthy. A living trust protects your assets and legacy well into the future while avoiding probate.”
Why is MH the best option?
“It is our comprehensive approach to taking care of people’s needs. When someone comes in to learn about estate planning or a living trust, we can guide them to the best possible solution. It is a comprehensive solution-based approach. It’s not just for today, but it’s for tomorrow and into the future.”
Is an estate plan or living trust a one-and-done thing?
“Not at all. It is a living document. It changes to fit one’s family, tax law, estate law and new legislation can also impact how your plan works for you and your family. We recommend that your estate plan be reviewed every 3 to 5 years.”
How long has Morris Hall been around?
“The firm has been in Arizona for over 50 years. For 30 years they have focused exclusively on estate planning.”
Do I need a trust?
“Don’t make the mistake of believing that a trust or estate plan is only for the elderly or the very rich. If you have questions, we would be glad to talk about your specific needs, and how you want to leave your legacy. It’s about protecting what is important to you, to your family, and business.”
What do you do outside the office?
“I love being outside and here in OV it’s such a great place to enjoy the outdoor experience. There are so many trails, the mountains, and ghost towns. I’m somewhat of a rockhound too. I just love it here in Arizona but, I must admit that I have never been to the Grand Canyon. I now declare that I am going there this year!”
An interesting factoid about Sharolynn: she and her family grew up on the set of Little House on the Prairie in Old Tucson. She also appeared in a string of movies including Tombstone (no speaking lines) and stood in for one of the Earp wives.
Her favorite breakfast?
2 eggs over easy, bacon and toast. Or French Toast. “I really think it’s possible that bacon is the secret to a long life. Or I hope it is. If it was breakfast cereal it would be Lucky Charms.”
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Falling Into Autumn
And so it ends. And so it begins. Summer is out, and Fall is in.
This is a particular month for many reasons. The A/C is now off, and school is now on. A warm sun meets a cooler breeze.
Please take note of one thing: we, as a community, can help the youngest among us transition from a life of terror and abuse to a world where hope is possible and recovery is close at hand. We are talking about the Children's Advocacy Center of Southern Arizona, a quiet powerhouse that helps hundreds of young people find safety and peace. Please check in with the executive director, Marie Fordney, starting on Page 18. Their job is never done, but every day brings another opportunity to help these kids. Is there something you can do to help this vital mission for the littlest among us? That is worthy of action. And thanks.
You might notice we offered up a few more recipes in this issue than usual. It’s time to start cooking with gusto! We enjoyed some novel and main-stream recipes that were shared with us recently. We hope you enjoy them!
Meanwhile, we also reflect on the immense beauty of our desert world—so many things to be thankful for.
JEFF HERR, PUBLISHER
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Jeff Herr | jeff.herr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Ewing | megan.ewing@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION MANAGER
Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angela Broockerd, Megan Ewing, Jeff Herr, Nicole Smith, Sybil Velarde
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Nicci Radhe, Catalina Foothills School District, Julie Farbarik
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
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Bridging From Trauma to Safety
CHILDRENS' ADVOCACY CENTER HELPS KIDS
FIND RECOVERY AND A PATH TO HOPE
With a safe space and caring advocates, kids from all over southern Arizona find a path to safety and happiness.
This month, we caught up with Marie Fordney, Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southern Arizona, to learn about significant advancements in their work to help children and their families heal from abuse. Here is our conversation:
Marie Fordney
Q: HELLO MARIE. THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO SHARE WHAT IS GOING ON THESE DAYS AT THE CENTER. WOULD YOU DESCRIBE SOME RECENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES THAT HAVE ALLOWED YOU TO EXPAND YOUR SERVICES FOR AT-RISK CHILDREN?
In the last couple of years, we’ve had the opportunity to build our prevention programs. When I started here, we had one prevention program to go into schools to teach children how to stay safe and teach staff how to recognize and report abuse.
We now use about a dozen approaches, from parent classes and support groups to a Book Club. We know it would be better if child abuse didn’t even happen, and you actually can prevent abuse by strengthening families and giving them the resources and support they need.
Q: WHAT ARE ALL THE SERVICES -- INCLUDING THOSE SERVICES RECENTLY ADDED – CURRENTLY OFFERED BY THE CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER, AND HOW DO THEY ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES?
The Children's Advocacy Center has been helping end abuse for children for nearly 30 years, and we’ve learned that children and families need holistic support and a wide range of services. Primarily, we support the criminal investigation by collecting evidence in a trauma-informed way. But our ultimate goal is not necesssarily to put someone in jail but to help the child and their family heal. So while the child is getting their interview and exam, our Advocates help their family work through their own emotions, which are often shock,
ARTICLE BY JEFF HERR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICCI RADHE,
guilt, and concerns about the future. We help them think through everything they’ll need, from groceries, gas, and clothing that we gave her right then and there to outside resources like the food bank and help get a better job. We stay on the healing journey with these families, who join our support groups and work with their Advocate for as long as they need us.
Q: HOW MANY CHILDREN DOES THE ORGANIZATION SERVE EACH YEAR, AND WHAT IMPACT HAVE YOU SEEN FROM THE EXPANDED SERVICES? WHAT PERCENTAGE OF ALL SOUTHERN ARIZONA CASES ARE HANDLED BY THE CENTER IN A TYPICAL YEAR?
In Pima County, there are about 9,000 investigations into child abuse every year. We only work with about 1,000 families (about 11%) because we only collaborate when there is a criminal investigation or the child may need to be removed from their home. The worst of the worst, so to speak. Through our new prevention programming, we are helping over 13,000 children and adults before a crisis arises and an investigation occurs. Eventually, that will lead to fewer instances of abuse, but for now, it is giving children the support they need to report what is happening.
If we can help these kids before it gets that bad, they will have better outcomes in the future. This first part of the investigation is so important because the way you do it can impact how completely the child heals. Without the proper support, these children grow up to struggle with addiction, mental health, and even their physical health because of the toll that toxic stress has on their bodies.
Q: WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY SOURCES OF FUNDING FOR THE CENTER? HOW HAS THAT SHIFTED IN RECENT YEARS?
Children’s Advocacy Centers have historically relied on government funding through grants. We still get about 80% of our funding from grants, but we’re fortunate that more concerned individuals in the community have been choosing to donate to us. They send their AZ tax credit donations, give a small monthly gift, write us into their wills, or support our events.
Sometimes a child is brought in and all
they want is a quiet safe place to collect themselves.
Sometimes, a case is so hard that you want to go home and hug your kids or snuggle your dog.
This first part of the investigation is so important because the way you do it can impact how completely the child heals. Without the proper support, these children grow up to struggle with addiction, mental health, and even their physical health because of the toll that toxic stress has on their bodies.
Working at CAC can be tough, but seeing smiles makes it all worth it.
It might look like any old building. But kids soon discover it is a safe place to begin healing from abuse.
We just finished our Annual Golf Tournament, and in November, we have our Balloon Fest (Note: see event details in this month’s calendar on page 50). My hope is that these events not only raise money but also ensure that people know we’re here to help if they ever need us.
Q: HOW DO YOU ENSURE THAT THE CARE PROVIDED TO CHILDREN IS EFFICIENT AND MINIMIZES THEIR STRESS DURING SUCH CHALLENGING TIMES?
Having us collect the evidence means that these beautiful kids don’t have to be interviewed by a scary police officer in the back of a squad car; they don’t have to go to the emergency room, and our amazing medical team can provide their medical care in our bright, stress-free Center. We try to give that child a sense of control every step of the way. We follow their lead when they come back to the playroom, letting them choose the game or activity. Older youth especially appreciate knowing they can sit quietly if that’s what they need. But most often, they come in as little balls of stress, and while they’re here, they melt back into children who want Hot Cheetos and try to beat you at Connect Four.
Q: CAN YOU DISCUSS ANY COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS OR AGENCIES THAT ENHANCE THE CARE PROVIDED TO THESE CHILDREN?
I’ve been in the nonprofit community for a long time, and this is by far the most collaborative organization I’ve ever experienced.
for Executive Director
Thankful
Marie Fordney and team as they help traumatized children.
We work very closely with law enforcement and the Department of Child Safety, but that’s just the beginning. We also work closely with Jewish Family & Children’s Services and Arizona’s Children Association, which provide Crisis Counselors housed at our Center who only see our clients.
There are too many deep collaborations like that to list, including over 25 organizations that work with us as part of our Child Abuse Prevention Council and our partners in the Pima County Domestic Abuse Coalition. I think it’s important to recognize that no one organization can do everything, especially when you’re talking about the complex needs of families who have experienced violence.
Q: WHAT INITIATIVES OR PRACTICES DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE TO SUPPORT YOUR STAFF AS THEY NAVIGATE THE EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES OF WORKING WITH FAMILIES IN CRISIS?
We have an amazing team that truly cares about one another, and we make sure they know they have the freedom to support one another emotionally. They can take a moment after a tough case to talk it through and even cry together. We always make sure our insurance plan covers counseling without a copay so they can get the outside help they need without worrying about the cost.
Q: HOW DO YOU ADDRESS POTENTIAL BURNOUT AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS AMONG YOUR TEAM MEMBERS?
We are such a close-knit team, and we all know how hard this work can be. Leaders are empowered to give their staff time off at random if they need it. Sometimes, a case is so hard that you want to go home and hug your kids or snuggle your dog, and we allow everyone the flexibility to do that.
Q: WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WEEK LOOK LIKE FOR A STAFF MEMBER AT THE CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER? CAN YOU SHARE SOME INSIGHTS INTO THEIR DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES?
Like many jobs, there are heavy days and slow days, but we always get to interact with children and their families. We get to help end abuse, and sometimes, we’re doing that in
the middle of the night because we’re on call 24/7. And we try to insert some silliness whenever we can. We have Spirit Week, like you might remember from school: crazy hair day, pajama day, and favorite color day. Laughter helps bind us together.
Q: LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTER IN THE COMING YEARS, AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO CONTINUE IMPROVING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES?
We have a strategic plan with some key goals. One that is very important to me is to continue our work to disrupt systems of oppression. Abuse is itself an act of oppression, so we have to be certain we encourage diversity of background and diversity of thought in our staff and Board of Directors. We can always be learning and growing in the way we see and respond to people who look or think differently than ourselves. The rest of our goals can really be summed up as expanding our reach. We want more people to know about us, for more partners to engage with our work, and for more local elected officials to understand the importance of our services. And we’re working to ensure services like ours are available in remote areas of Southern Arizona, so families don’t have to drive all the way to Tucson to find safety.
Q: WHAT PERSONALLY DRIVES YOU TO LEAD THIS ORGANIZATION, AND WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED IN YOUR ROLE AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR?
The kids! It can be very heavy work hearing about the terrible and cruel things that are happening to children. But I leave the Center at the end of the day filled with hope because the kids are so resilient. When I’m having a really hard day, I just have to go into that playroom and watch the stress melt off of the kids and I know we’ve made a difference. That child is safe now. Their abuse has ended and their healing can begin. It’s an honor to be part of that. Most importantly, we are always improving by asking the survivors themselves what they need. We have two survivor councils (one for youth and one for adults), and their input guides all of our work.
Each day, working with kids to help them let go of years of stress.
AIR FRYER MAGIC
Ingredients (3)
• Two pounds of pork-belly roast, boneless with the rind scored (see note)
• Two teaspoons
• Olive oil spray
Recipe notes
• If time permits, place pork on a tray, uncovered, in the fridge for up to 2 days to dry the rind out.
• If pork starts to over-brown during cooking, cover with foil.
From Crackling Pork Belly to Lemonade Scones — Super Hot Air for the Win!
Method
Step 1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees for three minutes. Pat the with dry paper towel. Rub two teaspoons of sea salt flakes into the roast.
Step 2. Place the pork in the air fryer basket and spray with Olive oil spray. Set timer for 25 minutes and cook until the rind crackles. Reduce temperature to 320 degrees. Set timer for 30 minutes and cook until pork is tender and cooked through.
You’ve not had roast pork, until you’ve had roast pork from an air fryer....
ARTICLE BY JEFF HERR
Pork Belly - Both Crunchy and Juicy
CRISPY AIR FRYER POTATO SALAD
Directions:
• Prep 10m
• Cook 25m
• Serves 4
Did you know that you can make crispy potato salad by simply using the air fryer? Finished with a tangy sour cream and chive and mayonnaise dressing, this dish is set to be the best side at your next summer barbecue feast.
Ingredients (8)
• Two tablespoons of olive oil
• Three-quarter cups of whole-egg mayonnaise
• A packet of dried French onion-soup mix
• Two pounds of Yukon gold potatoes, halved
• Four ounces of lean bacon or panchetta
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• One half bunch of fresh chives, chopped
Step 1. Combine the oil, a 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and the soup mix in a bowl. Add potatoes and toss to mix. Place the basket in the air fryer and cook at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Shake the potatoes in the basket again to toss. Place bacon or panchetta across the top of the potatoes. Air fry at 325 degrees for another 10 minutes.
Step 2. Combine remaining mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and chives into a large mixing bowl. Season with pepper to taste. Transfer potato mix to a serving bowl. Pour over sour cream mixture. Coarsely chop the bacon or panchetta. Scatter over potatoes to serve.
• Prep 10m
• Cook 25m
AIR FRYER ZUCCHINI, CORN AND HALLOUMI FRITTERS
• Makes 30 Time to get out the air fryer! These easy fritters packed with veggies and halloumi will be your new weeknight winner. Note - Halloumi is a Mediterranean cheese (semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese) available at fine-food stores including Trader Joe’s and AJ’s Fine Foods.
Ingredients (9)
• Two medium zucchinis, coarsely grated
• An eight-ounce block of halloumi cheese
• One cup of frozen corn kernels, thawed
• Two free-range eggs, lightly whisked
• Two-thirds of a cup of self-rising flour
• Three teaspoons of fresh oregano leaves, chopped
• Greek yogurt to accompany fritters
• Extra virgin olive oil to drizzle (optional)
• Extra oregano sprigs to serve with fritters
Method
Step 1. Use your hands to squeeze out the excess liquid from the zucchini. Place zucchini in a bowl. Add the halloumi and corn. Stir to combine. Make a well in the center and add the egg, flour and oregano. Season and stir until well combined.
Step 2. Preheat an air fryer to 400 degrees. Drop tablespoonfuls of the zucchini mixture onto the air fryer rack. Cook for 8 minutes or until crisp and golden. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining mixture in two more batches.
Step 3. Arrange warm fritters on a serving plate. Place yogurt in a small serving bowl. Season the yogurt with black pepper and drizzle over olive oil, if using. Serve scattered with extra oregano.
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In a Fowl Mood?
BRISK NOVEMBER IS A PERFECT TIME TO REVISIT THE WIDE WORLD OF POULTRY
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE -- WWW.ATSYBILSKITCHEN.COM
Slow Roasted Ducklings
Serves 4 ingredients
• Two 5-6 pound ducks, preferably Peking ducks
• Freshly ground black
• Pepper to taste
• Three tablespoons of dried thyme, crumbled
• Four bay leafs
• One cup cider vinegar directions
Step One - Preheat oven to 375F.
Step Two - Sprinkle ducks inside and out with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Three - Put 1.5 tablespoons of thyme and two bay leaves in the cavity of each duck.
Step Four - Pierce the skin of ducks all over with a fork to allow the fat to drain and help the skin become crisp.
Step Five - Arrange ducks In a roasting pan without a rack, breast sides down, and roast until they begin to brown-about 30 minutes.
Step Six - Reduce temperature to 325F. Turn the ducks over and brush carefully with some vinegar (vinegar will splatter).
Step Seven - Roast duck, brushing with vinegar every 15 minutes, to keep the meat moist and produce crisp skin while rendering most of the fat. Roast for 90 minutes.
Step Eight - Let the ducks stand for 15 minutes. Cut into thick slices, discarding bay leaves, and serve with pineapple chutney.
Rare is where it's best!
Pineapple Chutney
Makes about 4 cups ingredients
• One pineapple
• One tablespoon of unsalted butter
• One red onion, diced
• Half a cup of diced red bell pepper
• Three tablespoons of freshly chopped ginger root
• One teaspoon of chopped garlic
• Three-quarters of a cup of firmly packed brown sugar
• Half a cup of white wine vinegar
• Half a cup of raisins
• Half a teaspoon of salt
• Half a teaspoon of cayenne
directions
Step One - Heat a well-seasoned ridged grill pan over moderately high heat until hot and grill pineapple (peeled, cored, and quartered lengthwise), turning it until lightly browned for about 4 minutes. Cool pineapple and cut into 1/2 inch cubes.
Step Two - In a large saucepan, heat butter over moderately high heat until foam subsides. Sauté onion, bell pepper, ginger root, and garlic, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Step Three - Add brown sugar and vinegar and bring to a boil. Add pineapple and remaining ingredients and simmer for 25 minutes, or until thickened. Cool chutney.
Pineapple chutney brings on the flavor
Cornish Hens Roasted with Chili Butter
Serves 2 ingredients
• Two Cornish hens (1.5 pounds apiece) split lengthwise
• Two tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
• Two and a half teaspoons of chili powder
• Half a teaspoon of fresh lime juice
• A quarter teaspoon of cayenne
• A quarter teaspoon of salt
• A pinch of sugar
directions
Step One - Preheat oven to 450F.
Step Three - In a small bowl, stir together butter, chili powder, lemon juice, cayenne, salt, and sugar.
Step Four - Arrange hens on a rack in a broiler pan, skin sides up.
Step Five - Loosen the skin near the breastbones and rub about one teaspoon of chili butter under the skin of each breast. Rub the remaining butter on the skin.
Step Six - Roast hens in the middle of the oven until juices run clear when the flesh of a thigh is pierced. About 25 minutes. Use an instant thermometer to be sure. Let hens rest for 15 minutes.
Quail Grilled Salad
Serves four as a first course or light main course
ingredients for marinade
• Eight boneless quail
• One cup of orange juice
• One lemon quartered
• Two bay leafs
• One teaspoon of dried thyme, crumbled
• One teaspoon of juniper berries, crushed
• Two tablespoons of molasses
• Two small chiles, each about 1 inch long or one half teaspoon of dried hot red pepper flakes
• Two garlic cloves, crushed
directions for marinade
Step One - In a bowl or baking dish, stir together the marinade ingredients until combined.
Step Two - Add quail, turning to coat. Marinate quail, covered and chilled, turning occasionally, for at least 3 hours or overnight.
ingredients for dressing
• Three tablespoons of tarragon white wine vinegar
• On tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• One-half cup of olive oil
• Two navel oranges peeled and with pith cut away
• One mango, peeled, pitted, and sliced
• One-half cup of pepitas, toasted lightly
• Two cups of packed mesclun, washed and spun dry
directions for dressing
Step One - In a bowl, whisk together vinegar and mustard and add oil in a stream, whisking until emulsified. Add orange segments, mango, and pepitas.
Step Two - Chill dressing covered for about 3 hours to blend flavors.
Step Three - Fire up the grill.
Step Four - Grill quail on an oiled rack set 5-6 inches over glowing coals for five minutes on each side, or until juices run clear when a fleshy part of the thigh is pierced. (Alternatively, you can cook quail in batches in a cast iron skillet over moderate heat, turning frequently to avoid burning, about 10 minutes).
Step Five - Let quail stand for three minutes. Toss mesclun with dressing and divide among four plates. Top each salad with two quail.
Marinated quail on a bed of fresh greens and an amazing dressing!
Roasted pheasant, fit for a queen. And maybe for a very lucky king.
Roasted Pheasants with Apricots and Dates
Serves 4
ingredients
• Two three-pound pheasants
• A half cup of dried apricots
• A half cup of dry white wine
• A quarter cup of Grand Marnier (or other orange liquor)
• A quarter cup of fresh lime juice
• Two tablespoons of sugar
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Two teaspoons of dried thyme, crumbled
• Two bay leaves
• Vegetable oil for brushing pheasants
• One half cup of pitted dates, chopped.
directions
Step One - In a small heatproof bowl, cover apricots with boiling water and soak for 10 minutes. Drain apricots and cut them into quarters.
Step Two - Preheat oven to 375F.
Step Three - In a small saucepan, simmer wine, liqueur, lime juice, and sugar for five minutes.
Step Four - Sprinkle the pheasants inside and out with pepper and salt to taste. Put one teaspoon of thyme and one bay leaf in the cavity of each pheasant and close cavities with skewers or toothpicks so that pheasants hold their shape.
Step Five - Brush pheasants with oil in a roasting pan and arrange, breast side down. Roast pheasants for 20 minutes. Discard any fat in the roasting pan.
Step Six - Turn the pheasants over in the pan. Add apricots, wine mixture, and dates.
Step Seven - Roast the pheasants (adding about .5 cups of water if all liquid evaporates) for 25 minutes more, or until the thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the breast registers 160F.
Step Eight - Let the pheasants rest for 10 minutes. Then, transfer pheasants to a cutting board and cut each in half long ways. Serve pheasants with apricot-date sauce and garnish with thyme.
Learning to journal is a skill that comes early.
ARTICLE BY NICOLE SMITH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATALINA FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
OLDER STUDENTS CONNECT WITH THE YOUNGEST
The youngest and the oldest students in the Catalina Foothills School District are learning together through a collaboration between the Valley View Early Learning Center (VVELC) and the Early
into learning a subject, fueled by their own natural curiosity. For example, a parent purchased the book Superbat, by Matt Carr, at the bookfair for the classroom. This read-aloud book
STUDENTS EXPLORE ELEMENTS WHICH AFFECT BEHAVIOR, PHYSICAL, SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT
Childhood Education (ECE) Program offered at Catalina Foothills High School.
A house behind the high school on Valley View Road served as the initial location of VVELC when it began in 1998. VVELC combines the concepts of several leading early childhood development philosophies to offer an emergent curriculum, as defined on the school website:
“Emergent curriculum arises naturally from adult-child interactions and situations that allow for “teachable moments.” It connects learning with experience and prior learning. It includes all interests of children and responds to their interests rather than focusing on a narrow, individual, or calendar-driven topic. It is process rather than product-driven. The curriculum is typically implemented after an idea or interest area emerges.”
VVELC offers an immersion curriculum in both Spanish and Mandarin. Children are encouraged to dive deeper
served as the springboard for related art, language, and science units about bats, culminating in the students constructing a bat cave in the classroom.
Initial conversations to involve the Pima Joint Technical Education District (JTED) ECE Program began before COVID to address the lack of early-development teachers in the field, and were quickly implemented during the 2023-2024 school year once restrictions were lifted. The collaboration attempts to “grow our own into the profession,” per Jennifer Dooley, Principal of VVELC.
The program invites male students to pursue early education as a career, which is traditionally a female dominated field. Students are also exposed to professions related to child development, such as school psychology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and school counseling.
The first-year students (ECE 1) spend time on the VVELC campus, mostly
observing, to get a glimpse of what the environment is like. “Students explore elements which affect behavior, physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of children during prenatal, infancy, and preschool age.” The ECE curriculum states, “Vivid imagination and creative skills are essential.”
Students are assigned a baby doll infant powered by artificial intelligence. The babies simulate typical scenarios such as crying due to hunger or discomfort and require soothing from the student. The students quicky grasp the constant vigilance and attention required in caring for infants and toddlers, a critical component in studying human growth and development. The system can also simulate an infant in a choking situation. Students receive a fingerprint card and TB test facilitated through the program, which makes them immediately employable. Some students have found employment with early childhood centers and may attend college to pursue an education degree.
All VVELC teachers are certified with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and an Early Childhood Education endorsement. The school holds multiple distinctions and accreditations. “Because the first five years have so much to do with how the rest turn out.”
Second-year (ECE 2) students get more involved in creating structure and activities that align with the Arizona Early Learning Standards. Third year students (ECE 3) gain internship hours in a classroom setting.
Games outside give our little ones new problem-solving skills while having fun!
And it is all woven through artistic expression.
SOME OF THE FIRST STUDENTS TO ATTEND
VVELC ARE NOW PARENTS ENROLLING THEIR TODDLERS AT THE SCHOOL.
High school students can accumulate 18 hours of college credit through the three-year program, which is in partnership with the Pima County Community College dual enrollment designation. Cari Burson, Director of CTE/JTED, said the ECE Program fills a missing niche in the JTED curriculum: “Our goal is to build capacity within the education alumni and have them come back to teach.”
There are currently 90 students enrolled in the first year of the program and 35 continuing in the second year of instruction. Under the leadership of high school teacher Brenda Cabarga, the class size doubled from three classrooms to six in a single year. Three students who graduated high school after completing ECE 1 this past Spring are enrolled in education programs at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University.
Some of the first students to attend VVELC are now parents enrolling their toddlers at the school. Current ECE high school students may be returning to their teaching roots as well as the popular program continues to evolve.
VVELC encourages families to tour the school and take note that registration for the following school year takes place in December.
Students making something gooey with teacher Brenda Cabarga.
Expression in many styles, colors, and arrangements.
High school students work with their younger peers, all with the hope to spark the career of future teachers.
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb
feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy! Why should you choose us? Dr. Chin and his team will treat you like family. He defines the top tier of dentists due to his extensive training and has been awarded Fellowship status in The Academy of General Dentistry (only 6% of dentists), the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.
NOVEMBER 1ST
All Souls Procession and Grand Finale
MSA Annex — 267 S Avenida Del Convento | 6:00 PM
The 35th Annual All Souls Procession is an independently produced, non-motorized, participant-based procession and ceremony to honor the memory of those who have passed. Myriad altars, performers, installation art, and creatives of all kinds collaborate on their offerings for this amazing event. The weekend culminates in the Procession and Grand Finale that starts at 6 PM on Sunday, November 3rd.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Ballet Tucson: Spirit Garden
Leo Rich Theater 260 S Church Avenue | 7:00 PM
Local audiences have highly anticipated the return of this Ballet Tucson masterwork by Associate Artistic Director and Resident Choreographer Chieko Imada. Spirit Garden celebrates Dia de Los Muertos, featuring original artwork by notable Southwest artist Lawrence Lee and music recorded by local legends Calexico. Shows also Saturday (2:00 PM and 7:00 PM) and Sunday (2:00 PM)
NOVEMBER 1ST
A Century of Surrealism
The University of Arizona Museum of Art — 1031 N Olive Road | 10:00 AM
In 1924, French poet André Breton published the first Surrealist Manifesto, which marked the birth of a movement. Breton defined it as “pure psychic automatism,” transcending reason to delve into the unconscious mind. In the context of visual art, it is associated with impossible images and juxtapositions, revealing personal thoughts, dreams, and intricacies of the artist’s subconscious. Daily through January.
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NOVEMBER 2ND
Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival
10:00 AM
It's a Western experience for the whole family! Each year more than 3,000 visitors come to the ranch to enjoy Western heritage demonstrations, arena and livestock exhibits, cowboy cooking and Western entertainment. The Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival is an annual public event celebrating Arizona's Western history and culture. Also on Sunday until 4 PM.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Dia de Los Muertos Glowin-the-Dark Musical & Dance Spectacular
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall — 260 S. Church Ave | 6:30 PM
Glow in the Dark Viva Dia De Los Muertos takes us on a dance and musical journey that showcases vibrant costumes and lively movements that celebrate life and ancestry. Music ranges from traditional mariachi bands to indigenous melodies, creating an atmosphere of joy and remembrance. And there will be dancing, with extravaganza blends of ancient traditions with contemporary adaptations.
NOVEMBER 7TH
Tucson Film Festival
The Screening Room — 127 E. Congress St. | 10:00 AM
The 20th annual Tucson Film Festival is happening downtown over four days this month. It showcases music-related films with a special nod to films and filmmakers with a connection to Arizona or the desert southwest. TFF is part of an Arizona non-profit organization dedicated to creating community through cinema, theater, and documentary filmmaking. Times vary; please check the website (tucsonfilmfest.com).
NOVEMBER 8TH
Styx LIVE!
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall — 260 S. Church Ave | 7:00 PM
Styx is an American rock band formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1972. They are known for blending melodic hard rock guitar with acoustic guitar, synthesizers mixed with acoustic piano, upbeat tracks with power ballads, and incorporating elements of international musical theatre.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Mendelssohn And Korngold
Catalina Foothills High School — 4300 E Sunrise Dr | 2:00 PM
Kerson Leong, who dazzled TSO audiences in 2022, returns to perform Korngold’s romantic Violin Concerto, written during his Hollywood years and first performed by the great Jascha Heifetz. The Hollywood-themed first half begins with Bernard Herrmann’s iconic music for the film Psycho. Conductor Nicholas Hersh debuts his Masterworks with Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5, “Reformation.”
NOVEMBER 15TH
PBR — Unleash the Beast
Tucson Convention Center Arena — 260 S. Church | 6:30 PM
Professional bull riding storms into town for a weekend of mayhem. For two nights only, the Top 30 bull riders in the world will compete in one of the most exciting live sporting events to witness. Going headto-head against the sport’s rankest bovine athletes, the tour stop will showcase the ultimate showdown of man vs. beast. Also Saturday.
NOVEMBER 23RD
El Tour de Tucson
Tucson Convention Center — 260 S. Church Ave | 6:00 AM
Another epic installment of Tucson's one-and-only El Tour de Tucson, Arizona's largest perimeter bicycling event, is a fun adventure ride
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ORO VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB
300 W. Greenock Dr.
Monday, November 4
Tuesday, November 19
Thursday, December 12
SADDLEBROOKE 2 BALLROOM
38735 S. Mountain View Blvd.
Wednesday, November 13
Monday, December 2
attracting up to 9,000 cyclists and consisting of novice, intermediate, advanced, and professional riders. The 41st El Tour de Tucson begins Saturday at 6:00 AM with a 5K fun run, followed by the Platinum and Elite start at 7:00 AM.
NOVEMBER 23RD
The Guess Who — Live!
Fox Tucson Theatre — 17 W. Congress St. | 7:30 PM
The Guess Who is a legendary Canadian band that enjoyed chart-topping hits in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its impressive catalogue of songs included “American Woman,” “These Eyes,” and “No Time.” During its career, the band released 11 studio albums and may be best known for its 1970 album, American Woman.
NOVEMBER 23RD
BalloonFest
Rillito Park Race Track — 4502 N. First Ave. | 2:00 PM
Check out this joyous celebration, which features tethered hot-air balloon rides (weather permitting), a classic car show, food trucks, and a kids' zone. The event is $10 per person with free admission for kids under six and active or retired military.
Proceeds benefit the Childen's Advocacy Center of Southern Arizona, which helps children and their families heal from abuse. Learn more about this amazing group. Please see the story starting on page 40 of this issue.
