Pusch Ridge December 2015

Pusch Ridge

DECEMBER 2015

PuschRidgeLifestyle.com

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‘Tis the Season of Giving

THE SALVATION ARMY CELEBRATES 150 YEARS LOCAL DENTIST GIVES THE GIFT OF EXCEPTIONAL CARE FEED THE HUNGRY THROUGH THE COMMUNITY FOOD BANK

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Best Wishes for the Holiday Season

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Lifestyle Letter

Christmas Moments

DECEMBER 2015 publisher

“I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

- Henry Wadsworth Long fellow

Renaissance Publishing, LLC editor

Janice Henry | Janice.Henry@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Apryl Barnhart, Thomas Curtis, Janice Henry, James Jansen, Terry Leary, Tom Strongman

It's the holiday season once again -- my favorite time of year. I love the decorations, the music, the church services and the search for the perfect gift for each person on my list.

What are your special Christmas moments, the ones that get your anticipation building for the big day? For me it’s seeing boxes of cranberries and bulging nets of chestnuts and clementines in the shops, frosty mornings with a sense of promise rather than November grayness, the buttery, spicy aroma of mince pies baking, Christmas cookies covering every counter in my kitchen and mulled wine warming on the stove.

contributing photographers

Tom Strongman

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker

COPY EDITOR

We are grateful for our readers, our advertising partners and the wonderful community we call home.

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

ART DIRECTOR

Christmas is a time for giving, and as we reach out to family and friends, I hope we will also open our hearts to those who are lonely and in need, citizens less fortunate than ourselves, brave soldiers and our community heroes.

| Steven Schowengerdt

| Kendra Mathewson

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

A little smile, a word of cheer, a bit of love from someone near, a little gift from one held dear, best wishes for the coming year, These make a Merry Christmas!

See you around town this holiday season!

Janice Henry, Editor Janice.Henry@LifestylePubs.com

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Pusch Ridge Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Pusch Ridge’s 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 Pusch Ridge Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2015

Departments

26

10

Around Town

14

Financial Fitness

18

Giving Back

32

History 101

38

Locally Owned

46

Healthy Lifestyle

48

Family Feature

52

Driver’s Notebook

54

Lifestyle Calendar

58

Parting Thoughts

26 Clang, Clang, Clang

The bells of the Salvation Army ring in the season.

38 The Gift of Good Dental Care

Meet Dr. John Yu and Smile More Dental.

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Around Town HAVE YOUR CHILD MAIL THEIR OWN LETTER TO SANTA Did you know that Santa Claus has an official North Pole mailing address? Every year children write a letter to Santa and not knowing where exactly to send it, ask their parents to mail it to the North Pole for them. Why not create even more magical memories and have your child stamp and address their very own letter and mail it to the big guy directly? This way they will know that their parents didn’t forget to send it out, and you will not have to keep hearing the question, “Did you send it?” Children enjoy sending mail as much as they enjoy receiving it, and having a physical address to mail their letter for Santa will further guarantee in their continued belief in Santa Claus.

So make sure that you take the time with your children, go over their Christmas wish list to ensure that their grammar is correct (and so you know what they are wishing for) and have your child send their letter to Santa by themselves. Not only will they be completely thrilled with the idea of being able to mail their own package but they will also be assured that you didn’t mess things up. Please take note of the mailing address now because you are going to need it before you know it.

Santa's Address Santa Claus 325 S. Santa Claus Lane North Pole, Alaska 99705

EGG NOG JOG January 1, 2016 - On your mark, get set , goooooooooooo! Run, walk or jog in to the New Year at the 9th Annual Egg Nog Jog. Kickoff your fitness resolution, or have fun with family and friends at this popular event on the very first day of the New Year. The sanctioned 5K route begins at Continental Reserve Park and loops through the beautiful Reserve neighborhood. Pre-registration runs through December 28th and costs $15. Event-day sign-ups are $20 and can only be made by cash or check. The first 250 to register receive an event shirt. Register at Marina.com/recreation or by calling 520.382.1950.

HOLIDAY NIGHTS AT TOHONO CHUL Celebrate the holidays surrounded by a million twinkling lights and glowing luminarias at Tohono Chul on the first three Saturdays in December. Stroll around the lighted gardens and enjoy complimentary cookies and hot cocoa. Beer, wine and additional snacks will be available for purchase. Entertainment venues throughout the gardens will host different performances each weekend. Decenber 5, 12, 19, 2015. Location 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, Tucson, AZ 85704

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Financial Fitness

Active vs. Passive PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT ARTICLE THOMAS CURTIS, CFP, AIF

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ne of the longest-standing debates in investing is over the relative merits of active portfolio management versus passive management. With an actively managed portfolio, a manager tries to beat the performance of a given benchmark index by using his or her judgment in selecting individual securities and deciding when to buy and sell them. A passively managed portfolio attempts to match that benchmark performance, and in the process, minimize expenses that can reduce an investor's net return. Each camp has strong advocates who argue that the advantages of its approach outweigh those for the opposite side. A great example of this debate can be found in the Bogle household. Dad, John Bogle, the founder and former head of The Vanguard Group is considered to be the godfather of passive investing. However son John Jr. is an active portfolio manager. No doubt there are some lively conversations around that dinner table.

ACTIVE INVESTING: ATTEMPTING TO ADD VALUE

Proponents of active management believe that by picking the right investments, taking advantage of market trends, and attempting to manage risk, a skilled investment manager can generate returns that outperform a benchmark index. For example, an active manager whose benchmark is the Standard & Poor's 500 Index (S&P 500) might attempt to earn better-than-market returns by overweighting certain industries or individual securities, allocating more to those sectors than the index does.

Or a manager might try to control a portfolio's overall risk by temporarily increasing the percentage devoted to more conservative investments, such as cash alternatives. An actively managed individual portfolio also permits its manager to take tax considerations into account.

For example, a separately managed account can harvest capital losses to offset any

capital gains realized by its owner, or time a sale to minimize any capital gains. An actively managed mutual fund can do the same on behalf of its collective shareholders. However, an actively managed mutual fund's investment objective will put some limits on its manager's flexibility; for example, a fund may be required to maintain a certain percentage of its assets in a particular type of security. A fund's prospectus will outline any such provisions, and you should read it before investing.

PASSIVE INVESTING: FOCUSING ON COSTS

Advocates of unmanaged, passive investing--sometimes referred to as indexing—have long argued that the best way to capture overall market returns is to use low-cost market-tracking index investments. This approach is based on the concept of the efficient market, which states that because all investors have access to all the necessary information about a company and its securities, it's difficult if not impossible to gain an advantage over any other investor. As new information becomes available, market prices adjust in response to reflect a security's true value. That market efficiency, proponents say, means that reducing investment costs is the key to improving net returns. Indexing does create certain cost efficiencies. Because the investment simply reflects an index, no research is required for securities selection. Also, because trading is relatively infrequent—passively managed portfolios typically buy or sell securities only when the index itself changes--trading costs often are lower. Also, infrequent trading typically generates fewer capital gains distributions, which means relative tax efficiency.

Whichever tactic appeals to you, the bottom line is that investors with a well thought out plan tend to do better than those without.

Note: Before investing in either an active or passive fund, carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses, which can be found in the prospectus available from the fund. Read it carefully before investing. And remember that indexing--investing in a security based on a certain index--is not the same thing as investing directly in an index, which cannot be done.

Any opinions are those of Thomas Curtis and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Investing involves risk and investors may incur a profit or a loss. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Thomas Curtis CFP®, AIF® Managing Partner Wealth Management Partners – An Independent Firm 1980 E River Road Suite 120 Tucson, AZ 85718 520.297.7999 WMPAZ.com December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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Giving Back

The Community Food Bank of

Southern Arizona ARTICLE APRYL BARNHART

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magine not knowing where your next meal might come from. Imagine not being able to feed your children on a nutritious and consistent basis. This is the life of a “food-insecure” individual, and it’s more common than we might think. The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona (CFBSA) covers five counties in Arizona, and out of an estimated 1.3 million inhabitants, 14 percent don’t know when and where their next meal is coming from. There are almost 200,000 people in our community who are going hungry tonight. The CFBSA is doing all they can to fight this growing epidemic, but they still need help.

The first official food bank in the U.S. began in Phoenix as St. Mary’s Food Bank. As other states took notice and established their own food banks St. Mary’s founder, Van Hengel, created the national organization now known as Feeding America. This is the umbrella charity over most food banks in the United States (including CFBSA).

Officially food banks have been around for 36 years, but CFBSA’s CEO Michael McDonald says, “Food pantries and meal sites have been a part of U.S. civil society since before the founding of our country.

Most were founded and initially run (like St. Mary's) by faith communities.” He refers to current and past research from Dr. Lester Salamon at Johns Hopkins University and French historian Alexis de Tocqueville for commentary on “our country’s unprecedented civic voluntarism.” “Civic engagement and volunteerism - including food banking - has now spread across the globe, albeit with varying degrees of participation and impact.” This means that the philanthropic attitude of the human spirit isn’t present in any one person, country or nationality; it’s in everyone, and has been for some time.

It’s interesting to find out how much charities work together. For example, The Salvation Army, among many other charities, receives food from the CFBSA, and the CFBSA works with other nonprofits, schools, businesses, churches, and neighborhoods, such as the Winterhaven Festival of Lights, to collect their nonperishable items CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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Giving Back

(CON TI N U ED)

and donations. There is an entire web of connectivity going on behind the scenes; everyone is helping each other to feed, clothe and shelter those less fortunate. McDonald says, “Here in southern Arizona, the CFBSA partners with 250+ agencies to distribute some 23 million pounds of food.” They are working with communities and partners across the nation to take care of our people and help other food banks take care of their citizens, too. With so many people and businesses working together you might think the whole system could fall apart, but McDonald assures that the while there might be some hiccups here and there, this network of partners can get the job done. “Across such a distributed network of hunger-relief partners, communication and coordination of services, product, and information is challenging but nonetheless functional.”

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Sadly, even with the amount that the CFBSA contributes (63,000 meals a day) throughout southern Arizona and others across the nation, there is a growing need for more. “After 40 years of foodbanking's hunger-relief, we're not successfully feeding our way out of hunger or poverty,” McDonald says. The amount of food-insecure people is expanding every day everywhere in the world, but it has gotten particularly worse in southern Arizona. McDonald believes this is due to the rate of poverty in our community. “Poverty has remained persistent - and has actually deepened in southern Arizona.”

The CFBSA does have several programs installed to combat the rate of hunger in southern Arizona. They have several branch locations throughout the region--two in Tucson, one in Marana, Nogales, Green Valley--Sahuarita, and Amado--that each must

service their outlying neighborhoods, as well as the city they’re located in. They also have self-sustainment programs. Ever heard the proverb “teach a man to fish, and he’ll never go hungry?” That is exactly what the CFBSA lives by with their education programs. The Caridad Community Kitchen offers a 10-week culinary program that will teach and certify its participants as well as help to feed more people. Those enlisted in the program work Monday thru Friday throughout the day preparing meals for the hungry while learning the culinary arts. The CFBSA also offers education programs for families and children. Their Child Nutrition Programs and Farm To Child Program offer many ways to learn about healthy food options, including teaching parents and teachers how to grow gardens.

There is a deep-seated need to help our fellow man however we can, and the CFBSA can be one of those ways. McDonald says, “Our volunteers and donors would say we serve them too, by providing them a meaningful way to give back and help neighbors in need.” The need for volunteers and donations, for any charity, is vital.

Giving back to your community, however possible, can be very fulfilling, and that positivity will spread out not just to the population at large, but in your own personal network. Lending a helping hand serving someone less fortunate and seeing their smile of thanks; donating goods, money or time and knowing it will help to fill someone’s empty belly; these are only a few ways we can spread a message of positivity and faith throughout southern Arizona and the world.

Check out CommunityFoodBank.org for ways to donate and volunteer.

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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The Salvat Celebrates 26

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

tion Army s 150 years!

CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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Share.

Care.

The "miracle" of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of sharing and caring.

The traditional red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors and the homeless.

Donations and financial assistance provide Christmas dinners, clothing, and toys for families in need, including families of prisoners. To donate, please go to donate.salvationarmyusa.org

SALVATION ARMY

(CON TI N U ED)

ARTICLE APRYL BARNHART | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

C

lang! Clang! Clang!

The familiar sound of the bell outside the grocery store helps us ring in the holiday season. The large Christmas tree in the mall with angel tags reinforces the generous spirit of the season. The Adopt-A-Family program reminds us not everyone has it as well as we might. These charitable programs and more are all integral cogs in The Salvation Army. This year the nonprofit organization celebrates its 150th anniversary, and it’s continuing to look toward the future.

The international charity known as The Salvation Army has grown exponentially since it was established 150 years ago in London. Growing from littered backstreets and the poor alleyways of London, The Salvation Army now has a presence in 127 countries with more than 15,000 centers across the globe. Yet it still maintains its humble mission of “Soup, Soap and Salvation” started by its founders William and Catherine Booth.

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In 1852, William Booth, a minister in London, withdrew from the conventional church and took the gospel of Jesus to the streets.

He preached to any who would listen, no matter their past, and those shunned by the churches--thieves, prostitutes and gamblers--were among the first to be converted to Christianity. In 1865, William and his wife Catherine founded what would eventually become The Salvation Army. The charity grew in just 10 years to include more than 1,000 volunteers and soon jumped the Atlantic Ocean over to America in 1880. The Army continued to grow and soon a chapter opened in our humble town of Tucson in 1893.

The Tucson chapter has done a lot in 120+ years. It has four Corps (or churches), an Adult Rehabilitation Center, a Service Center in Green Valley, three thrift stores in Tucson and one in Sierra Vista; and don’t forget the Hospitality House Shelter near downtown.

This two-story, tan and brown building was a project 20 years in the

making. The previous building was falling down and unlivable, but through donations and eventually having to dip into their reserve funds, the Hospitality House Shelter was opened and dedicated in December 2014.

The Shelter building houses the administration, Family Services, emergency and transitional housing. Family Services helps with rent and utility assistance, transitional housing, Christmas toy distribution and the Adopt-A-Family program. The Shelter, open 24/7, provides emergency housing for the homeless and sick, including a room reserved for veterans. There is a full kitchen, laundry facilities, showers and lounge areas with books, television and a computer for job searching and research. The entire building is open and clean; it feels new and welcoming to everyone who enters, and, according to Public Relations Director Shawna Kroh, “Our door is always open for those seeking help.” Help could be in the form of a temporary home, food, clothes, school supplies, employment programs and spiritual services. Whatever is needed, the ultimate goal, according to Shawna, is “To encourage people to get back on their feet.”

Disaster Relief Services is an important program within The Salvation Army. “We’re the first on-scene and last to leave during disasters,” says Shawna. The Disaster Relief Services is a volunteer program, but not for the faint of heart. There is specific training to handle these disastrous situations, and, as Shawna puts it, “You go out there and live in tents, and are in the trenches with these people.”

Unfortunately, at any point in time there is probably a disaster happening in the world, whether it’s a hurricane, an earthquake, fires or some other emergency. The Salvation Army is always ready to lend any and all support it can to help those survivors cope with their loss.

The calling to help the less fortunate has led to The Salvation Army’s biggest fundraiser, the Red Kettles. Just before Thanksgiving and through Christmas Eve, the Red Kettles and Bell Ringers are one of the most recognizable and influential aspects of The Salvation Army. In 1891, Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee made a promise to provide a free Christmas dinner to San Francisco’s poor and homeless. He racked his brain trying to figure out a way to fund this immense project until he remembered a dock he’d visited in Liverpool, England. On this dock was a large, iron kettle in which those passing by tossed in coins for the poor. McFee replicated the idea and was able to meet his goal of feeding 1,000 people that Christmas. Since then, McFee’s idea has become a holiday tradition and spanned the globe. Red Kettles can be found as far as Korea, Japan, Chile and Europe. This time-honored tradition is The Salvation Army’s biggest fundraiser, helping to supply the charity’s other programs year-round.

The Kettle fundraiser wouldn’t be possible without volunteers.

Volunteers are essential for any charity, but they are the backbone and foundation of The Salvation Army. In fact, it was once called A Volunteer Army until William Booth’s son, Bramwell, opposed the wording of volunteer. He believed he was following God’s Word

and work and, therefore, was not a volunteer. William crossed out “volunteer” and replaced it with one of his three Ss. And so The Salvation Army was officially born.

The need for volunteers as well as donations in Tucson is crucial.

Shawna says that last year alone the Tucson chapter was able to save $37,000 on volunteers. “That was $37,000 put in the Kettle and not spent on salaries.” This money is able to feed the thousands of less fortunate on Tucson’s streets and go toward the programs and facilities, such as the Hospitality House that can help put Tucson’s homeless back on their feet.

Despite the success of the Bell Ringers and their Red Kettles, the need for donations is essential and urgent in Tucson. “It’s very hard to find donors in Tucson. We’re struggling,” says Shawna. This is a simple statement compared to the 20-year endeavor to build the new Hospitality House. The amazing and vital House took so long to build because there wasn’t enough money. It took 20 years for The Salvation Army Tucson chapter to find donations and even then they had to supplement the cost from their own reserves with the hopes that it would soon be replenished. There are two areas of remembrance showcasing those in Tucson who donated large amounts: outside of the building is a small area of engraved bricks laid into the concrete patio, and inside is a spectacular “Tribute Tree” with engraved, golden plaques representing the leaves. Underneath the tree is a quote from the Bible: “...Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.” Matthew 25:40 (NIV) The Salvation Army is an army of love, life-giving, and a calling to God. Part of its mission statement is “to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” The Salvation Army is not just an organization; not just a building; not just its army of volunteers, but a movement of hope.

Hope can only grow with the help of others, whether that is through volunteering, donations or a friendly ear. Tucson needs hope. Her people need hope, and that can start with The Salvation Army.

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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History 101

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Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

Dreidel Rock of Ages Song ARTICLE APRYL BARNHART

O

h dreidel, dreidel, dreidel I made it out of clay… Even if you’re not Jewish you’ve probably heard of the “Dreidel Song.” Have you ever heard of “Maoz Tzur,” sometimes translated as the “Rock of Ages” song? These are two popular Hanukkah songs often sung by children as they spin the dreidel and light the menorah. Like many holiday songs and stories these two have their own legends of how they were written and what exactly they mean.

CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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History 101

(CON TI N U ED)

The “Dreidel Song,” also known as “I Have a Little Dreidel,” is attributed as being written by Samuel S. Grossman and composed

by Samuel Goldfarb during the 1920s. It was based on a game children played with the spinning top involving candies or pretzels. Origins of the dreidel and its meaning are up for debate. Spinning tops, which is what the dreidel is, have been around almost as long as humans. These toys have been found at archaeological digs all over the world. The dreidel has a special place in Jewish custom, though. On its four sides are the Hebrew letters: Nun, Gimmel, Sin, Heh. These letters stand for the words Nes Gadol Hayah Sham which means “a great miracle happened there,” the Jewish victory over their Greek oppressors in Jerusalem. The game is played with any sort of small game piece from pennies to raisins. Each side of the dreidel signifies a different move for the player to do; e.g. nun means the player does nothing; gimmel means the player gets everything in the pot, and so on. The “Dreidel Song” is simple and repetitive, but catchy, and details the different materials dreidels have been made out: clay, wood, glass, and gold. It’s fun for children to learn along with the game.

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Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

“Maoz Tzur” is another Hanukkah song usually sung as the menorah is being lit. It’s translation from Hebrew is “Stronghold of Rock,” which is a reference to God. The lyrics were composed as a poem in the 13th century, detailing historical victories the Jewish people had over their various oppressors. It’s not definitive who wrote the poem, but the first letter of the first five stanzas form an acrostic device revealing the name Mordechai in Hebrew. This is the only evidence we have of its authorship. The current English version was written in the 19th century by American Jewish rabbis Marcus Jastrow and Gustav Gottheil. The tune is attributed to an old German folksong that found its way into the Jewish culture during the 15th century.

These two popular Hanukkah songs have origins steeped in history. A small toy used by cultures all over the world influenced an entire culture and religion. A poem detailing the harrowing history of a nation affected generations to come after its creation. These songs fill people with joy and remind them of the power of faith and tradition, not just throughout the holiday season, but year round.

Locally Owned

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Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

Making Dental Care Enjoyable DR. JOHN YU AND SMILE MORE DENTAL

ARTICLE JAMES JANSEN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

T

aking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is a worthy goal in and of itself. Good oral and dental hygiene can help prevent bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease – and can help you keep your teeth as you get older. Researchers are also discovering new reasons to brush and floss regularly. A healthy mouth may help you ward off serious medical disorders. The flip side? An unhealthy mouth, especially if you have gum disease, may increase your risk of serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, poorly controlled diabetes, and even pre-term labor. The case for good oral hygiene keeps getting stronger as it has been clearly found that the health of your mouth mirrors the condition of your body as a whole.

However, as important as good oral hygiene is, a substantial percentage of the population has some kind of fear, trepidation and or anxiety about going to the dentist; some at such a level that prevents them from even going at all, even though they know how important it is. Dr. John Yu and his staff at Smile More Dental are working very hard at making dental care a far more pleasant and enjoyable experience.

Born in South Korea, Dr. Yu emigrated with his family to the United States when he was 1 year of age. Upon arriving in the United States, the family put down its roots in their new country in the city of Las Vegas. It was there Dr. Yu stayed, excelling in academics and athletics all the way through high school. Upon graduating from high school, Yu did both his undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Washington. While attending UW, an event occurred that steered him towards dentistry. As a general rule, Yu CONTINUED >

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

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always had his routine dental check-ups and exams done when he went home to Las Vegas on break. However, one day he had a terrible toothache that would not wait for his next trip home and it needed immediate treatment. Not knowing whom to call in Seattle, Yu simply called a dental referral line to find someone that could see him as soon as possible.

The dentist he was referred to did an excellent job and upon completing the task inquired of Yu how things were going for him at UW and what was he studying. Yu replied that he was a pre-med major. The dentist proceeded to talk with Yu about dentistry – that it is a form of medicine but a type that allowed one to develop quality personal relationships with patients over time. Yu was very impressed with the dentist – his overall demeanor, his skills and his passion for the field of dentistry. So much so that Yu decided to pursue a career in dentistry.

It was a change that has had a big impact on his life and certainly on the many patients that Dr. Yu has cared for since 2007. Going all the way back to the impromptu meeting with the dentist while a student at UW, Dr. Yu has endeavored to change much of the way dentistry is practiced. He works very hard at treating every patient with the same care, concern and compassion as if they were a member of his own family. Dr. Yu says, “We set expectations prior to a new patient’s first treatment, then strive to deliver care and treatment that is far above such expectations.” Taking a “family approach” provides Dr. Yu the opportunity to get to know his patients more than just in the sphere of dentistry, and in many cases form life-long 42

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

relationships. He has seen some families covering three generations.

He loves the opportunity to use his skills to have a positive impact on people’s lives. With great joy, he tells the story of recently helping a man smile for the first time in 15 years. He and his staff love to help people smile confidently, chew comfortably and talk without any hesitation or embarrassment.

Dr. Yu is committed to quality care without compromise and works hard to provide such care in an environment of insurance company dictates. He feels blessed to work with a great team that shares his commitment to quality care and helping his patients to realize the importance of preventative care. In order to provide the best of care to his patients, the office is equipped with state of the art capabilities such as same day crowns and x-ray imaging. Given his expertise in the area, he also teaches and lectures on CAD/CAM dentistry (single-visit dentistry) and 3D imaging for dental implants.

Given his commitment to excellence and providing quality care, Dr. Yu has been recognized for his quality work. He has been named as one of the “Top 40 Dentists Under 40” nationwide by his peers, industry representatives and vendor reviews. Dr. Yu has been regarded and recognized as one of Tucson’s top dentists each of the previous six years by his peers (local dentists and specialists) and Dr. Yu and his team were honored and presented the Copper Cactus Award for being a business that is technology-led to solve problems and increase efficiency.

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle thanks Dr. Yu and his team for providing exemplary dental care to the Pusch Ridge area and congratulates him on his many achievements of recognition for his provision of excellent dental care. Congratulations on your great success to date and best wishes for great success going forward.

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

43

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Healthy Lifestyle

Movement is Medicine ARTICLE TERRY LEARY

46

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

I

love chocolate. I love me some junk food. I went to a movie theatre recently and held back on my buttered popcorn (about 1,000 calo-

ries) and started thinking about the upcoming holiday hog-heaven eating season. Now, in my mind, one thousand calories translates to

two-hours of aerobics, fifteen push-ups, and five minutes of planks.

That's how I roll.

Here it is, the beginning of the holiday season, the beginning of the next eight weeks of food. No easier way to put it. We are at the recipe-searching, food sampling, internet ideas for that perfect appetizer, Bunco recipe, family crockpot meal, or crazy dessert.

Let's get serious for a minute. Eight weeks. Some studies want us to believe that normal weight gain is 5-7 pounds during the holidays. If that is the case, we all need to stay on track with our exercise programs. The past 10 months have conditioned us, refreshed us, and showed us that we can endure that extra push-up. Women's Health Magazine says hold on to your hard-won endurance (women can lose up to 20 percent of their cardiovascular fitness if they quit exercising cold-turkey between Thanksgiving and New Year's). Come on guys, this goes for you, too.

Movement is Medicine and I want to share a few exercises to get

you through this holiday season.

WALK - No need to grab the closest parking space in the mall. Park that car a few spaces further in the parking lot and burn a few calories before you shop.

STAIRS - Find the stairs for fitness. I love counting them on the way. I stayed in a rental house on the beach in St. John's Virgin Islands once, and counted 88 steps down to the beach. Coming back up was an incredible 1,102 steps. Or, so it seemed.

PLANKS - Start out with 20 seconds on each side. Every third day, add an extra 10 seconds until you can do 60 seconds on each side.

Great way to build up the core muscles.

AEROBICS - Find a fitness class near you. There can be many specials going on this time of year, so call around.

WEIGHT TRAINING - Grab a pair of weights. A 3 pound weight can do wonders for your triceps and biceps.

Enjoy that office party, those fantastic buffets, and endless sweets.

It's the holidays after all.

Treat yourself to a healthy smoothie! My personal favorites are green drinks, but hey, let's have fun for the next eight weeks! Pinkies Up! HOLIDAY BLISS

1 cup of almond milk (chocolate, vanilla or unsweetened) 1 scoop of protein powder 3 T almond butter 1/2 c strawberries or blueberries Ice Blend until smooth Terry Leary is a manager for Oro Valley Jazzercise and is an avid proponent of healthy living.

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

47

Family Feature

48

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

Christmas Cookies COMFORT, JOY AND TRADITION ARTICLE JANICE HENRY

R

emember December... picture in your mind's eye the smell of cinnamon in your mother's or grandmother's kitchen and recall the warm scent of dough baking in the oven. Imagine opening the oven door and, with assistance, taking out the heated cookie sheet. Devour the small works of art with your eyes: gingerbread, painted cookies, sugar cookies... With each bite, taste your childhood and family history. You can trace your blood and traditions not by DNA, genealogies and family heirlooms, but by recipes given from one generation to the next, like oral histories handed down in clans.

It's a miraculous event when generations gather around the stove to spend a day together, getting their hands dirty and sharing of themselves. It is miraculous because those memories are irreplaceable. It's miraculous because children get curious and ask, "Why are the Christmas cookies German? What was Christmas like when you were my age?

Did Santa Claus visit you?"

They represent home, family, comfort, joy and tradition.

Christmas cookies are a thread to Christmas past, not only our past, but long past. The word cookie came about thanks to Dutch settlers in North America during the 1700s to 1900s. Koek is Dutch for cake, so koekje, later "cookie" in English, means "little cake." Christmas cookies like German Springerle continue the custom of serving Christmas baked goods started by the Romans, and other pre-Christian civilizations. Christian religions sanctified these symbols of worship of the harvest gods by adding a "J" on the top to mark the breads as offerings to Jesus Christ. Ancient European peoples ate gingerbread at Winter Solstice feasts. When you bake gingerbread and Springerle, you're participating in a tradition that endures.

In that spirit, here is a recipe for successful cookie-making: Start with 1 family, 1 kitchen, and a box of recipes. Add an uninterrupted period of time. Subtract phone calls, televisions, or any other distractions.

For best results, sprinkle with laughter. Add amusing family stories with a lavish hand. Fold in 1 cup patience and understanding, blended with 1 gallon youthful enthusiasm and a pinch of baking know-how. Eat your mistakes with joy. Bake lovingly and well. Enjoy warm, delicious, Christmas miracle cookie-baking memories for years to come!

CHRISTMAS SUGAR COOKIES! Ingredients • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 1/4 cups butter • 2 cups white sugar • 2 eggs • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1/4 cup white sugar for decoration Directions • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

• In a large bowl, cream together the margarine and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then the vanilla. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just blended. Roll the dough into walnut sized balls and roll the balls in remaining 1/4 cup of sugar. Place cookies 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets and flatten slightly.

• Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, until lightly browned at the edges. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

49

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Driver’s Notebook

2015 Mercedes Crossover THE GLS IS MERCEDES' SMALLEST CUV ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY TOM STRONGMAN

C

ompact crossovers continue to populate the automotive landscape.

These scaled-down utility vehicles are primed for urban use because they are small enough to slip easily through congestion, haul various kinds of cargo and do so while returning good gas mileage.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic is one of the newest and it’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 208 horsepower.

The base price of $33,300 puts it squarely in the sight of young buyers. The all-wheel-drive GLA is related to the CLA sedan. A frontwheel-drive GLA will be available next spring for about $2,000 less.

52

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

Styling makes the new crop of compact crossovers appealing, and the little Benz is one of the best looking of its kind. It has a bold nose and a low, sleek roof that ends in a large tailgate.

The GLA, at 173 inches long, 60 inches tall and 71 inches wide, is the smallest crossover Mercedes offers. It is roughly 5 inches shorter and 8 inches lower than the larger GLK crossover whose base price is about $8,000 more.

Even though all-wheel drive is standard, and the car sits further off the ground (for that very occasional off-road trek), the GLA

feels and drives like a sedan. The test car’s optional 19inch wheels filled the fenders nicely and added a beefy look but the ride was often rather thumpy over expansion strips or sharp bumps. There was a fair amount of road or tire noise through the cabin at highway speeds as well.

When I pushed the GLA hard into a turn the tires felt a bit mushy.

The 2.0-liter engine is rated at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 on the highway. I only drove the car for a little more than a day, and the onboard computer read 21.4 mpg in city driving.

The twin-scroll turbo delivers decent torque, but I found that off-the-mark acceleration was a bit soft, due in part to the seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic’s tendency to shift into as high a gear as possible for optimum mileage. Mercedes says the base GLA hits 60 miles per hour in 7.1 seconds and has a top track speed of 130 mph. Switching from Eco to Sport mode brought noticeable life to the car although mileage would suffer some. The engine seemed a bit noisy at full throttle.

Performance buffs will be pleased to know that a GLA45 AMG is also available. Mercedes says it is the most powerful series-produced four-cylinder turbo in the world. It has 355 horsepower, and that’s a power output of 178 horsepower per liter. The base price for that jewel is $48,300.

The transmission has a mode for light off-road use. The DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) mode enables the car to control itself on steep descents.

The LCD screen has an off-road display that shows percent of gradient, a compass, the roll angle and DSR activation.

The GLA’s interior reflects the youthful audience for which the car is intended. Five round air vents dominate the instrument panel. A wood grain or metallic trim panel arcs across the dash behind the vents, creating a feeling of open space and style.

Mbrace2 is an infotainment system that provides emergency notification as well as on-the-go access to the Internet. Owners are able to use their smartphone to lock or unlock the car from a distance and instantly find it in a parking lot.

A 5.8-inch LCD screen (7 inches if you choose the multimedia option) sits in the center of the instrument panel. Navigation has a three-dimensional map option and a rearview camera. A mouse-like knob on the console can be used for navigation, telephone and audio settings but separate controls are also located on the instrument panel. Climate-control knobs and buttons are housed near the front of the console. Voice commands are also possible.

The front seats were nicely sculpted and comfortable for daily as well as sporty driving. Back-seat legroom was adequate, but those taller than six feet will be crowded.

The back seat folds flat and there is a central passthrough to accommodate long items such as skis without having to fold the seat. The test car had a power tailgate.

Price The base price of the test vehicle was $33,300.

Options included a panoramic sunroof, blind-spot assist, Xenon headlamps, 19-inch wheels, the premium package (Sirius satellite radio with 6 months service, heated front seats, Harman/Kardon surround sound, dual-zone climate control, garage door opener) and the multimedia package (navigation, rearview camera, 7-inch LCD screen and 10GB of music storage). The sticker price was $43,105.

Warranty Four years or 50,000 miles.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic Engine: 2.0-liter, 208-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic All-wheel drive Wheelbase: 106.3 inches Curb weight: 3,318-3,494 pounds Base price: $33,300 As driven: $43,105 Mpg rating: 24 in the city, 32 on the highway December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

53

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 4 - 23

DECEMBER 11 - 13

ZOOLIGHTS AT REID PARK ZOO

LUMINARY NIGHTS AT TUCSON

REID ZOO PARK

TUCSON BOTANICAL GARDENS

Get in the winter spirit with jingle bells, twinkling lights, lighted animal

Tucson Botanical Gardens's paths are lined with luminarias for the

sculptures, visits with Santa, and live entertainment nightly. Cookies,

holidays, and the gardens are filled with musical entertainment and

hot cocoa, and camel rides will be available for purchase. "Encore"

festive refreshments.

nights will be held December 26 and 27 (no entertainment or Santa).

For more information call 520.791.4022

DECEMBER 5 & 6

DECEMBER 11 - 13 THE NUTCRACKER BALLET UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA CENTENNIAL HALL

ORO VALLEY HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

Ballet Tucson's wonderful, traditional version of the holiday classic

ORO VALLEY MARKET PLACE

features swirling snowflakes, marching toy soldiers, giant mice, and

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance brings the holiday spirit

candy confections, along with a cast that includes children from their

every winter to the Oro Valley Marketplace during the Oro Valley Hol-

affiliated school Ballet Arts and professional dancers. This whimsical

iday Festival of Arts, with more than 150 the finest regional artists and

presentation of the Nutcracker takes place at UA Centennial Hall. For

artisans and craftspeople, exhibits, live performances on the main

more information call 520.903.1445 or 800.838.3006.

stage, and the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Sauce.org

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 12 & 13 MESSIAH-TUCSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

TUCSON TAMALE & HERITAGE FESTIVAL

HOLIDAY SPECIAL

CASINO DEL SOL / AVA AMPHITHEATER

CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

Celebrate the rich tastes, smells and variations of tamales from the

George Frideric Handel’s masterpiece is the perfect way to start the

Southwest and Mexico and discover the culinary tradition of making ta-

holiday season, creating a glorious sound experience when per-

males for Christmas. Enjoy a full day of live entertainment, art and culture

formed in one of Arizona’s most outstanding acoustical venues. For

hosted in cooperation with Food City at AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del

more information call 520.882.8585 (TSO Box Office).

Sol Resort. For more information call 520.838.6700. Admission is free.

54

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

DECEMBER 13

entertainers. Visit Santa Claus at the Historic Train Depot, shop at

TUCSON BOYS CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT

downtown retailers, or enjoy a restaurant. Mayor's Tree Lighting, pa-

UA CROWDER HALL

rade and more. Call 520.837.6504 for details.

This time-honored tradition features all levels of the Chorus from the youngest Cadet Choir through the oldest singers in the Young Men's Ensemble and highlights songs of holiday celebrations world-wide including Christmas carols, sacred songs and Hanukkah favorites, at University Of Arizona Crowder Hall. BoysChorus.org

DECEMBER 19 & 20 MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS: TUCSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TUCSON MUSIC HALL The Tucson Symphony Orchestra's holiday show this year is going to be magical when it snows in the hall. Bring the whole family to see and hear the TSO play favorite Christmas carols and holiday masterpieces, dance, sing, tell the story of Christmas, and welcome Santa, too. For more information call 520.882.8585.

DECEMBER 19 21ST ANNUAL DOWNTOWN PARADE OF LIGHTS DOWNTOWN TUCSON The Downtown Tucson Partnership presents the 21st Annual Downtown Parade of Lights, featuring holiday-themed floats, vehicles, and

DECEMBER 31 TUCSON JAZZ FESTIVAL: NEW YEAR'S EVE WITH RICK BRAUN & FRIENDS JW MARRIOTT STARR PASS RESORT The 2015 New Year's event, themed "Blue Chicago," features world-renowned trumpet player Rick Braun along with top-caliber jazz musician headliners, including saxophonists Mindi Abair and Euge Groove, and singer Larry Braggs. A casual show the night before features saxophonist Will Donato. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information call 520.219.3381

December 2015 | Pusch Ridge Lifestyle

55

business directory AD AGENCY

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

CHARITIES & FUNDRAISERS

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING

Thomae Advertising (520) 730-7603 thomaeadvertising.com Children’s Opportunity Foundation (520) 219-2521 Community Food Bank (520) 882-3321 communityfoodbank.org Salvation Army (520) 448-5494 usw.salvationarmy.org

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS SmileMore Dental (520) 531-8207 smilemoredentalaz.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Bicycle Ranch (520) 219-4311 Bicycleranch.com Freedom RV (520) 750-1100 freedomrvaz.com Hon-Dah Resort & Casino (928) 369-7574 hon-dah.com

56

Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

J Bridal Boutique (520) 577-5528 jbridalboutique.com

Keegan, Linscott & Kenon, PC (520) 884-0176 klkcpa.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Maly & Associates (520) 299-0856

HOME SERVICES

Worry Free Pool Services, LLC (520) 575-0173 worryfreepoolservices.com

INSURANCE

Vector Financial Inc. (928) 432-0437 vectorfinancial.net

LEGAL SERVICES Canavan Thomae Law (520) 730-7603

OTHER

AAA Landscape (520) 696-3223 aaalandscape.com

Beltone Arizona (520) 730-7603 beltoneaz.com SMARTT Consulting Group LLC (928) 432-0437 smarttconsulting.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Burris-Hennessy (520) 882-4343 burrishennessy.com

The Billings Team/Long Realty (520) 730-7603 thebillingstucson.com

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Parting Thoughts

O

nce upon a time, there was a man who worked very hard just to keep food on the table for his family. This particular year, a few days before Christmas, he punished his little 5-year-old daughter after learning that she had used up the family's only roll of expensive gold wrapping paper.

As money was tight, he became even more upset when on Christmas Eve he saw that the child had used all of the expensive gold paper to decorate one shoebox she had put under the Christmas tree. He also was concerned about where she had gotten money to buy what was in the shoebox.

Nevertheless, the next morning the little girl, filled with excitement, brought the gift box to her father and said, "This is for you, Daddy!"

As he opened the box, the father was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, now regretting how he had punished her.

But when he opened the shoebox, he found it was empty and again his anger flared. "Don't you know, young lady," he said harshly, "When you give someone a present, there's supposed to be something inside the package!"

The little girl looked up at him with sad tears rolling from her eyes and whispered: "Daddy, it's not empty. I blew kisses into it until it was all full."

The father was crushed. He fell on his knees and put his arms around his precious little girl. He begged her to forgive him for his unnecessary anger.

An accident took the life of the child only a short time later. It is told that the father kept this little gold box by his bed for all the years of his life. Whenever he was discouraged or faced difficult problems, he would open the box, take out an imaginary kiss, and remember the love of this beautiful child who had put it there.

In a very real sense, each of us has been given an invisible golden box filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children, family, friends and God. There is no more precious possession anyone could hold.

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Pusch Ridge Lifestyle | December 2015

The Gold Wrapping Paper WORDS JANICE HENRY

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