Lovin' Life After 50 - Southeast Valley - March 2022 by Times Media Group

March 2022

Tips and Trends

Realtors offer their thoughts on the housing market

Responsible Renovation

Standing the Test of Time

Making ‘cents’ of redesign budgets

Nick’s Italian Restaurants bring the real thing

‘Leading with

Intelligence’ ‘Four Women’ challenges racial stereotypes Southeast Valley Edition

Grand Funk Railroad stops at Good Life Festival Page 18

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MARCH 2022

Get Lucky On The Green

inside THIS ISSUE

10 Tips and Trends

Realtors offer their thoughts on the housing market

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E-Z-GO Express L6

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Leibo At Large Ask Marisa

Features

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Opinion

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Responsible Renovation

Making ‘cents’ of redesign budgets

From Basketball to Mirror Ball

‘Leading with Intelligence’

Iman Shumpert is coming into his own ‘Four Women’ challenges racial stereotypes

Casinos

No Pressure

Queen Nation doesn’t want to stop now

Free Relief at Your Fingertips

Some Kind of Wonderful

Revamped Public Health Department website offers 1,500 social services

Grand Funk Railroad stops at Good Life Festival

20 Events Calendar 25

Casino Calendar

Standing the Test of Time Nick’s Italian Restaurants bring the real thing

What’s Cooking? with Jan D’Atri

Columns

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Hospice Is Hope The Healthy Geezer

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A New Look

Entertainment

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MARCH 2022

Opinion

Leibo At Large

Legislature outdoes its usual nonsensical self with sex ed BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

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When I was a kid, the fastest way to get me to read a book was to tell me it was too mature for my young eyes. I passed many nights sneaking peeks at my mom’s Harold Robbins novels to find the sexy parts. And there wasn’t a kid in my middle school who couldn’t recite by heart from Page 85 of Judy Blume’s teen lit classic, “Forever.” You know, the page where Michael introduces Katharine to his manhood, which he has inexplicably named … Ralph. Speaking of members, this brings us to the Arizona Legislature, which may have done more to encourage teen reading than any governmental body in America. Last year, it passed House Bill 2035, a racy little number that made Arizona the fifth state in America to mandate parents opt-in to sex education for their kids. Had the measure stopped there, I would have been OK with it, but this being our Legislature – where common sense is not so common – they had to go just a bit further. HB 2035 also requires school governing boards to “adopt procedures to notify parents in advance and provide them the opportunity to withdraw their children from any instruction or presentations regarding sexuality” – even outside sex ed class. Which brings us to one local school district’s strenuous efforts to warn parents – about, among other things, kids cooking chicken breasts. Times Media reporter Ken Sain detailed The Great Poultry Alert. To comply with the state edict, the Chandler Unified School District Governing Board in December passed a new opt-in policy concerning materials that might be deemed sexual. Sain quoted Chandler High teacher Caroline Sheridan, who told the governing board: “I teach English and I teach criminal justice,” she explained. “Somehow I found out I need permission slips before I can teach, ‘Of Mice and Men,’ ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ ‘Othello,’ ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’ I can’t teach about Emmett Till without a permission slip. Of course, this makes no sense.”

In January, the Permission Slip Police also sent home an opt-in form to parents of cooking students learning to prepare chicken breasts. District spokesman Terry Locke told Sain this was “a misinterpretation of the legislative statute” which “was corrected and did not apply to the context or content.” Thank goodness the curriculum didn’t include a recipe for sticky buns. Of course, the Legislature is hardly done with the issue. This new session has seen a number of sex education bills, including a measure to change the opt-in requirement back to an opt-out requirement. There’s a bill that will require a parent’s written permission before a student can participate in “any school student group or club involving sexuality, gender or gender identity.” And there’s a bill – no doubt dead on arrival – that not only would make sex ed an opt-out class, but would also allow teachers to “discuss populations that historically have been more vulnerable to sexual abuse and assault, such as the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community and the disability community.” Finally, there’s a bill that would forbid educators, restaurant workers and grocery store employees from “referring to certain foodstuffs and edible materials using language that may be construed to convey a sexual connotation.” Among the terms set to be joining “chicken breasts” as no longer be permissible, as spelled out in statute? Chicken “breasts.” Pork “butt.” Hot dog “buns.” The phrase “finger foods.” And Denny’s has been put on notice that diners will no longer be allowed to order the “Moons Over My Hammy.” OK, I made that last bill up. But with this group of elected geniuses, it absolutely could have been real. They’re just that … nuts. David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

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MARCH 2022

Ask Marisa

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Late in her career, reader has time to find her purpose

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN WARNING! Our clinic is taking every precaution and we follow strict CDC guidelines to ensure that our patients, clinic and staff are SAFE! Mesa, AZ — The most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your chronic pain and/or neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce your symptoms. These drugs have names such as Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin, and are primarily antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs. These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side effects. Chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow.

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BY MARISA PEER

I’m at the age where I’m thinking about retirement and my children are grown up and are, more or less, out of the house. While I’m grateful to have had a stable career that’s provided for my family — if I’m honest with myself (and you) — I’ve never felt like I was really living my passion or dream. For years, I ignored thoughts of those feelings that I could be more fulfilled, thinking they were unrealistic or for younger people. I’ve always been very practically minded, something that when looking back, I realize was instilled in me by my parents when I was a young girl. So many people talk about having a “purpose” in life, but I’ve never felt that. Having a family and raising kids has certainly been meaningful and gratifying, but it doesn’t feel like it’s scratched that itch. I fear it might also be too late to figure it out. What would your advice be for someone who is winding down their career but still searching for their purpose? Is it too late for me? Signed, Searching

Dear Searching, I have great news for you: It’s not too late and you are in a perfect position to find your fulfilling life purpose as you embark on retirement. One of the most common causes of depression I’ve seen in my years as a therapist is people who don’t follow their purpose or deepest desires. Of course, this doesn’t mean everyone should quit their jobs to pursue a career as an actor or musician or pilot; sometimes, as you’re well aware, that’s just not feasible. But we limit ourselves when we think that “finding our purpose” has to equal a full-time, salaried career. Our careers are certainly one way to find our passion and purpose, but far from the only way. I assume, because you mentioned a stable career up until this point, you are relatively set up financially for the next phase of your life, which is wonderful. But

before I give you advice on how to figure out what you’d like to do next, I want you to open yourself to a concept from Zen Buddhism known as “beginner’s mind.” Beginner’s mind is an attitude of openness, eagerness and curiosity we can bring to everything we do. It’s something children naturally possess, but we tend to lose it as we get older — which only makes us age even faster. If the practical mind says, “I can’t do that, I’ve never tried it before and I’ll surely look like a fool,” then the beginner’s mind says: “I wonder what interesting and exciting thing might happen if I tried that for the very first time. Perhaps I’ll give it a try without expectations.” Even if it feels uncomfortable and unfamiliar to you, try to embark on this next stage with this mindset, and let your practical self take a bit of a rest. When it comes to finding what you might be interested in doing next, ask yourself: What did you love to do as a child? Often, the activity, hobby or thing we spent our time doing between the ages of 7 and 12 says something about our core, intrinsic nature and desires — in other words, what we loved before we got bogged down by expectations and responsibilities of society and adulthood. You may think, “well, I’m looking for my purpose, not a mere hobby!” But that’s just it, very often the things we’re curious about and enjoy lead us down an unexpected path to what we’re passionate about. My advice is that you don’t set out to find your one true passion right away and expect to pursue it single-minded zeal. It rarely works like that. Instead, use beginner’s mind to explore several things that pique your interest and curiosity. Allow yourself to fail, to be surprised, to change your mind. In other words, allow yourself not to be practical. Secondly, expand your definition of what purpose might look like. I once had a client who longed to be a doctor and

Marisa...continues on page 9 www.LovinLife.com

Marisa...continued from page 8 help others but was never able to go to medical school and make her dream come true. Later in life, she studied aromatherapy and was able to provide treatments in a care home for elders and in a hospice. The caretaking and tenderness she always longed to bring to a medical career came out in this new practice — and her lifelong depression lifted. Similarly, my grandmother always wanted to be an actress. That was not available to her, but when her children left home, she became a dresser at the Royal Theater and absolutely loved it. She was in the theatre working with actors on stage, so she fulfilled her dream in a different way that brought her great joy. Going back to that beginner’s mindset one more time: Your purpose and passion may not look how you always imagined it, and the more you can accept and even revel in that, the more likely it is that you will find it. When in doubt, follow your curiosity — it always knows where to lead you next. The word “cure” actually comes from curiosity. When we are open and curious, we find our answers. See your children leaving home as a gift of time for you to follow your passions and find and live your purpose. Many people just like you (and indeed me) find our true passion when our children leave home, and we enter an exciting third stage of our life I wish you so much success, Marisa “Tell Yourself a Better Lie: Use the Power of Rapid Transformational Therapy to Edit Your Story and Rewrite Your Life” is available on Amazon.

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MARCH 2022

Features

Trends TIPS and

Realtors offer their thoughts on the housing market BY JUSTIN LIGGIN The Phoenix 50-plus community is leading the way with their homebuying habits and interests, changing the way we see the hot housing market. Whether you are looking for a retirement destination or just eager to move, identifying the tips and trends of homebuying can put you on the path to owning the perfect home. For homebuyers looking to find somewhere that can best accommodate them and their needs now that the kids have moved out, the search for the perfect-sized home is at the forefront of the 50-plus homebuyer. “Many are doing something that I call

‘right-sizing,’” says Sindy Ready, 2022 Arizona Association of Realtors treasurer. “This means that the buyer is not necessarily looking for a smaller house or bigger house as tradition would suggest but are instead seeking homes and backyards that require less maintenance and are adapted to their interests.” The Arizona Association of Realtors represents more than 50,000 members who hold active real estate licenses and subscribe to a strict code of ethics and standards of practice established by the National Association of Realtors. In addition to providing a number of member benefits and services including risk management, education and a legislative voice,

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Arizona Realtors is Ready explains dedicated to the that even though protection of private 50-plus homebuyers property rights for all may be buying smallArizonans. er homes, they still This could mean seek luxe features insearching for a space side and out. that is single story Thanks to the panrather than a home demic, proximity to with stairs or findthe workplace is less ing a home that has important. room to create your “With open floor personal space, such plans and the option as a den, office, “man to create a workspace cave” or “she shed.” at home, placing an Those unsure emphasis on creating about options to Sindy Ready of RE/MAX Excalibur in Scotts- a comfortable office dale is the Arizona Realtors 2022 treasurer. consider, Realtors (Submitted photo) inside, and when the have in-depth marweather is spectacuket analyses and knowledge of current lar here in the Valley, looking at creating market trends that will equip buyers with an outdoor patio space that is conducive the correct information. to working as well,” Ready says. Open floor plans are popular among Instead, they want amenities. Drawthe 50-plus community. The need for a ing on this desire, many in Phoenix who more formal living and dining room may are 50-plus are moving into active adult not be as great as it once was. communities, which are designed to help Given that, great rooms are trendy, as residents maintain active lifestyles with the space combines traditional rooms likeminded people. With so much time spent at home the such as the living room, dining room and study to entertain small groups of friends past couple years, the demand for fitness or relax and enjoy movie night. amenities in Phoenix has never been An often overlooked feature — but one greater — why not live in a place that has that should be at the top of the list — is them a short walk from home? “Whether it is golf courses, spas, tennis an upgraded en-suite bathroom. Whether you are looking for a spa-like feel with and pickleball courts, or pet parks, these waterfall showers and natural lighting or amenities are attracting homebuyers and require accessible showers or a freestand- have become a top selling point for these ing tub, there are many ways to upgrade communities,” Ready says. the bathroom to suit your personal tastes. Like elsewhere, Arizona’s market is seeEven though 50-plus homebuyers may ing a lower inventory. As a seller’s market, be buying smaller homes to better ac- it is imperative, as a buyer, to be prepared commodate them, they are still looking to to make a quick decision with the help of get the most out of their homes with luxe a professional Realtor. features both inside and out. “As a Realtor, I am constantly looking Thanks to the pandemic, there is less out for the best of interest of my clients, emphasis on the proximity to workplace. communicating directly with the listing And that might mean relocating to warm- agent, finding out what the seller is looker climates like Tucson. ing for and making sure my client’s offer As the distance to the workplace can fully accommodate it. This will help lessens, prioritizing proximity to family you make a clean offer that is more likely and favorite entertainment and activity to be chosen by the seller,” Ready says. locations is becoming more important. Above all, what matters most in your “For many of my clients in the Valley, home search is patience. the great room concept is perfectly suit“While you may not get the first house able for their everyday lives but with plen- you make an offer on, know that your Rety of room to entertain,” Ready says. altor is always looking out for you. Don’t One necessary feature is an upgraded be discouraged. You are sure to find sucen-suite bathroom featuring waterfall cess if you stay in the game and fight for showers and natural lighting, or accessi- your dream home,” Ready says. ble showers or a freestanding tub. www.LovinLife.com

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Responsible Renovation Making ‘cents’ of redesign budgets BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ The COVID-19 pandemic made plenty of homeowners think it was time for a redesign. Thus, the demand for home renovation has skyrocketed. “Unfortunately, the extraordinary demand coupled with labor and supply shortages has also resulted in skyrocketing prices for those looking to remodel,” says Michael Obenauf of Wilde Wealth Management Group. Given this, here is a look at ways to responsibly renovate without having to liquidate a life’s savings.

Know the limits

According to Obenauf, owners wouldn’t want to spend more than 10% to 15% of their home’s value on a single room. “Anything over and above this amount likely won’t add enough value to your home to make the expense worth it,” Obenauf says. For example, if your home is worth $500,000, the maximum you should spend on any room — even big-ticket spaces like the kitchen — is $75,000. “Completely outside-of-the-box renovations — such as converting an unfinished basement to a man cave complete with wet bar and movie theater — should technically follow this rule of thumb as well, unless there is disposable income or cash involved,” Obenauf says.

A renovation is not an emergency

Speaking of cash — it is king. “That being said, one of the biggest mistakes someone can make when paying for costly renovations is to pull cash reserves from emergency and retirement funds,” says Jim Stark of JRS Wealth Management. “As we’ve seen over the past few years, emergencies can come in all forms, and you need those funds to ensure you are comfortable with all bills should the worst happen.” Often, according to Stark, unforeseen

issues arise during a remodel or renovation. This could include the discovery of mold or water damage, broken pipes, rotted wood and even structural issues not up to code. If you have already drained your reserves, there is no additional cash on hand, meaning you could be left with a half-done home for months or even years.

DIY the demo

Even if not handy, there are likely small things that can be done to lower the base cost of some renovations. “Certainly, this doesn’t mean you need to take a sledgehammer to your walls — especially load-bearing ones — but things like moving furniture or changing out showerheads are fairly easy to do with the help of a friend or two,” says Michael Self of Self Wealth Management. Self also advises on some other “basics” that can help to cut down on time and labor, including selling old appliances and fixtures online and paying for an architect’s one-time consultation versus full-scale involvement.

Shop around for talent

“Always tap your network, both for recommendations as well as to see who might have a side hustle willing to help at a reduced cost,” Obenauf says. “Your network can also help determine a good deal versus something too good to be true.” A good rule of thumb is to tap at least three contractors and get three bids before making any decisions. And don’t just go for the lowest cost. Vet based on references, cost, visuals from past work, and estimated time to complete.

Spread the work love

While it may seem obvious to find a one-stop shop for all the work, often a contractor might actually be subbing some of it and marking up the cost. Therefore, sit with a trusted contractor or even your network and determine who is the best direct fit for what, meaning per-

Jim Stark

JRS Wealth Management

Michael Self

Self Wealth Management haps one person for paint and another for design, even a third for technical work. Get bids for every piece of the puzzle as well as the all-in cost to help make a decision that works for you and your budget.

Consider the right loan

“While you should never use a high interest rate, unsecured personal loan or credit card to pay for extensive renovation costs, there are some loans designed to help homeowners,” says Rob Huish of Huish Wealth Management. Among them, says Huish, is a home equity line of credit, or HELOC. “This type of loan is underwritten using your home’s current equity,” says Huish, noting that the funds from the loan may be used at your discretion and at different

Michael Obenauf

Wilde Wealth Management Group

Rob Huish

Huish Wealth Management times, for example a portion on a renovation and then later a portion for new furniture or appliances once the renovation is complete. The interest rate is often significantly less than other options, and with many you only pay interest on the funds you actually draw during the repayment period.

Musts versus wants

Finally, when the costs outweigh your budget, you must make some decisions. “At the onset of planning, prioritize the most important rooms — those that must get done,” Huish says. “If your kitchen takes priority, but also your entire budget, stick to just that one room for now. It doesn’t mean you can’t do others down the line.”

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A New Look River of Time Museum reveals new interactive exhibits BY AMY WOLFF The global pandemic took its toll on many organizations across the Valley, including the L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum & Exploration Center in Fountain Hills. The museum was closed for nearly two years. But in late March, the doors of the interactive, family-friendly museum will open to the public again. While the closure was difficult on the nonprofit museum, the organization made good use of the COVID-19 downtime by embarking on a significant remodeling project. The center, which is named after one of Fountain Hills’ early residents and owner of the local newspaper, completed a nearly $100,000 renovation. Grants and support from donors helped revitalize the museum, which now features updated interior space, interactive displays, more interpretive elements, and expanded stories of the area’s earliest inhabitants. “After more than 18 months, and lots of construction, we are thrilled to announce our facility has been reimagined and enhanced with even more interactive components and exhibits that tell a colorful story of the region and the people who inhabited what is now Fountain Hills,” says Cherie Koss, the museum’s executive director. “We are proud to welcome back patrons to share the remarkable history of the Lower Verde River Valley through creative exhibits, our remarkable art displays and docent-led group tours.”

Building the future

The L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum & Exploration Center, which opened in 1989, explores the rich history of the Lower Verde River Valley and strives to educate patrons about the history of region and how present-day lives are connected to the past. As visitors journey through the museum, its exhibits showcase the ways desert dwellers — from the ancient Hohokam and Yavapai to early ranchers and modern-day settlers — found ways to create an oasis in the Verde Valley, which is now Fountain Hills. The timeline of the museum begins before humans inhabited the area and extends to the future, including the impact of scarce water resources on the densely populated desert environment. “Our ultimate goal with the remodel was to introduce a facility that reaches beyond the traditional concept of a ‘museum’ and engulfs the visitor in experiences designed to entertain while sharing the multitude of stories that depict life in the Lower Verde River Valley and emphasizing the role of water in supporting that life,” Koss adds. The museum’s mission is to inspire people across the state to explore and learn more about an important piece of local history through relevant topics and experiences. Using the natural and social sciences of the region, museum leaders are focused on preserving and interpreting the past to understand the present and promote future sustainability.

hallway exhibit showcases the Smithsonian Traveling Poster Exhibit titled “Journey Stories,” which explores how movement has shaped the nation. The display takes a broad look at expansion and migration from earliest settlers and Native American displacement to the effects advancements in transportation have had on mobility. Visitors are challenged to Ca

rpe t

~ Tile

The L. Alan Cruikshank River of Time Museum & Exploration Center will reopen in late March. (Submitted photo)

compare their personal “migration” stories to those depicted in the exhibit. Interactive displays include a one-ofa-kind, augmented reality sand table. The tactile exhibit can be manipulated

Museum...continues on page 14

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As part of the renovation, the museum was updated to include an art gallery and exhibition space that features stunning works by Fountain Hills’ first resident, Sally Atchinson. The gallery’s contents will change several times throughout the year and will feature a selection of artists and exhibits related to the Southwest. The museum’s first gallery Part of the remodel included adding interactive displays such as the “Pack Your Trunk” activity. (Submitted photo) www.LovinLife.com

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Museum...continued from page 13 to create topographic representations of mountains, streams and various weather patterns. Visitors can play archaeologist, digging in the sand to uncover dinosaur bones. “The changes made to the museum are the result of numerous discussions with our members, volunteers and community stakeholders, plus the inspired work of Michelle Reid and the Museum Pros team,” says Annette Mary, board member at the River of Time Museum. “Building a place where locals can come and experience how cool Arizona history can be is my passion project. I want to expose as many people as possible to the cultural asset and interactive educational journey the museum provides.” The museum also introduced several pre-human residents in the remodeled layout including Arizona’s official dinosaur, Sonorasaurus, a previously unknown brachiosaurid sauropoda, and a bat cave exhibit featuring local bats and research currently being conducted by the local McDowell Sonoran Conservancy field team. Partnerships with neighboring organizations like these will allow for up-

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“Our mission is to engage, entertain, educate and inspire people from across the state about the importance of the Lower Verde River Valley, which includes the community of Fountain Hills, through ever-changing, relevant topics and experiences,” Koss adds. “While the last couple of years have been trying, we know the newly remodeled facility will provide visitors an eye-opening view into the region and a new appreciation for what our ancestors encountered as they worked to develop a new life in the Valley.”

Upcoming events John William “Jack” Swilling and the Big Redwood Pipeline. (Submitted photo)

to-date and ever-changing information on research to be incorporated in future exhibits. For those who have visited the museum before, local favorites can still be seen in the creatively enhanced exhibits. Jack Swilling, known as the “Father of Phoe-

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nix” for his work in rediscovering the Hohokam peoples’ canal system and “Tacky” the P-Bar ranch horse, will still be on hand to greet patrons. New vignettes add dimension and character to the dramatically reimagined gallery space and include a life-size Sonorasaurus painted on the east wall, a mountain lion perched on a rock wall, a trapper working at collecting beaver pelts and archaeologists examining recently unearthed pottery. The Riverbanks Gift Shop has also been updated and will offer locals and visitors a place to shop for unique, locally sourced gifts for every occasion. Relocated to the former Pattea Gallery, the expanded shop space is an extension of the gallery’s exhibits. Each item is curated to connect to a story in the River of Time.

Join the River of Time for a McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Exploration Tour. Twice a month from March to May, the River of Time Museum, in conjunction with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Tour, will host the Fantastic Foragers tour hike to the overlook portion of the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead in Scottsdale. Participants will discover how ancient people of the region sourced their food in the desert. Following the hike, travel to the River of Time to discover the ancient peoples in the Hohokam and Yavapai exhibits. Lunch provided. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit riveroftime. museum. The museum is located at 12901 N. La Montana Boulevard, Fountain Hills. It is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $12 for adults; $10 for seniors 65 and older; and $7 for children 6-18, veterans and health care workers. Members, Fountain Hills students with ID, and children under 5 are admitted free. For more information, call 480837-2612.

The museum covers the history of Arizona from before human settlement onward. (Submitted photo)

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Free Relief at Your Fingertips Revamped Public Health Department website offers 1,500 social services BY JORDAN HOUSTON The Maricopa County Department of Public Health is revolutionizing the ways in which it supports its aging residents. The department has improved and redesigned its social services website, FindHelpPhx.org, which connects the community to essential services like housing, utilities, parenting, health care, dental, food, clothing, transportation, domestic violence, legal and more. Launched in 2012, FindHelpPHX has evolved into a “versatile and comprehensive site,” according to Maricopa County Department of Public Health Healthy Aging Manager Laurie Thomas. The site, available in English and Spanish, now boasts over 1,500 free and almost-free services across Maricopa County. “I feel like it’s more relevant than ever before — partly because of COVID-19 and partly because of our recent increase in inflation in food and housing,” Thomas says. “Residents have been affected in so many ways by COVID, whether it’s loss of employment and health care benefits or all kinds of needs. Also during COVID, there was quarantining that brought about a lot of social issues, including domestic violence and loss of social support for children such as school.” The one-stop shop site also features links for the latest COVID-19 information and a more responsive website design for Android and iOS mobile devices, Thomas continues. FindHelpPHX is divided into multiple categories of services, ranging from medical to legal and affordable housing. Each search provides the location, description of the service, cost, and a phone number or website link to make contact. The healthy aging manager notes the most requested categories are housing/ utilities, health care, food, clothing and transportation. “Where we get the most hits are housing and utilities. That one is the most,” Thomas says. “Health care is another one that is high up there, and then there is dental, because that is something that falls in the cracks.” Thomas cited several examples of uswww.LovinLife.com

ers who have already benefited from the site, including a Glendale mother who landed low-cost eye exams and glasses for her three children and husband, who is diabetic and in his 50s. Another is a single mother who found low-cost braces for her 17-year-old son, paying only one-third of the price compared to other options. “We do try to keep it to those who are offering free, or almost-free, services,” Thomas shares. “It’s community agencies, so there are no ads on this and there aren’t many things that you would be blindsided by.”

aligns with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health’s mission, Thomas expresses, which is to protect and promote the health and well-being of its residents and visitors as well. “We are trying very hard to reach the vulnerable populations and to provide equity for all,” she says. “We all need as-

sistance at some time in our lives.” To request an in-person website demonstration of FindHelpPHX.org, or to pitch a nonprofit resource not included in the directory, email amanda. lopez-molina@maricopa.gov. FindHelpPHX is also available in Spanish at Encuentraayudaphx.org.

How it works

FindHelpPHX allows users to create their own personal social service directory, according to the website. Individuals can create lists of their favorite FHP services. To do so, click on “Create New List” to title the new section. The heart icon to the right of each listing allows users to save the FHP service to their list. Services not listed on FHP can be added to a user’s list by selecting “Add My Own Services,” Thomas emphasizes. Users can add as much or as little detail as desired. Below the heart icon is a flag, which encourages users to flag or report feedback regarding a specific service. “We still want to know if there is a problem with the result that you called, so we love to hear (feedback),” Thomas explains. Accuracy is a top priority for FindHelpPHX, the healthy aging manager adds. The website is vetted and updated three times a year by the Solari/Crisis Response Network, she says. “211 is a crisis response network, and they will refer you to a service of whatever you are needing. So, we cross reference and they do the vetting to make sure these services are still accurate,” according to Thomas. First Things First, a statewide organization that partners with families and communities to fund early education and health programs, funds the social services directory. The Arizona voter-created initiative MARCH 2022

Entertainment

From Basketball to Mirror Ball Iman Shumpert is coming into his own BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI When free agent basketball star Iman Shumpert watched “Dancing with the Stars” co-star JoJo Siwa, he thought there was no way he was going to win the season 30 mirror ball trophy. “I don’t go into stuff trying to lose, though,” Shumpert says with a laugh. “I felt like it would be tough. Anybody who saw JoJo dance would have felt the same: I couldn’t beat someone who could go so seamlessly from ballroom female to male style. That takes talent. “To watch that live, I would get lost in her dances. I thought I couldn’t give a better show than that. I’m not dipping my back, for example.” Week six was a game changer for him and his professional partner, Daniella Karagach. “Dani incorporated lifts into the choreography, and we found our niche. It was then that I thought we had a good chance,” Shumpert says. The partners will show off their mirror ball trophy at “Dancing with the Stars Live!” at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 12, at the Arizona Federal Theatre in Phoenix. The tour will feature dancers from the TV series, including Karagach, Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Artem Chigvintsev, Sasha Farber, Pasha Pashkov, Gleb Savchenko, Emma Slater and Britt Stewart, performing the cha cha, foxtrot, salsa and tango. “The tour is a lot of fun,” Shumpert says. “It’s nonstop dancing. I never thought I’d see an audience who could watch so much dance. ‘Dancing with the Stars Live!’ has a little Broadway to it, a little acting to it. It’s serious. It has its vulnerable moments and its funny host moments. Emma (Slater) is one of the best people I’ve ever heard on the mic. She has the (English) accent, and she has great crowd control.” Shumpert says it’s been nice to get to know the dancers on a personal level — beyond the 5-second responses to Tyra Banks’ questions on the air. “We do meet and greets,” he says.

MARCH 2022

“We’re taking a bus. There are a lot of Instagram stories about the bus. It’s always a lot of fun. I’ve enjoyed it more than I thought I would. “It’s been especially cool to link up with Jimmie (Allen) again. It gave me comfort just knowing I’m not the only one on the tour trying to figure it out.” Country star and Grammy nominee Allen appeared on a few dates during the tour. This is a busy year for Shumpert. He’s dropping an album and slowly rolling out his record label and associated artists and producers. He’s considering a podcast because, when he appears on other shows, the comments are favorable. Shumpert is reviving his clothing line and rebuilding it with “prestigious” high designers. “It’s nice having been able to dive all the way into it,” he says. “It’s also nice coming home and being around the people who really, really know me.” As for the album — which Shumpert has tentatively dubbed “This Car Ain’t Stolen” — he says the music will resonate because of his honesty. “I used a car because getting pulled over is such a common ground for Black men in America,” Shumpert says. “When you talk about that idea, you can play on that in a lot of different ways, especially with rap. I just wanted to give that little snapshot to open people’s minds. I used to be the kid who was in the van with slider doors. People would think that because I’m riding with my brothers, we’re looking for trouble, whether it’s a drive-by or a joyride.” Shumpert says the album will address sheltering himself from trouble, how his mother speaks to him, his grandmother and what upsets him. “I never really broke things down that raw before,” he says. “Before, everything has been an EP or a mixtape. This is me owning all the beats and all the rights to everything. I’m going to present it, shoot the videos and see where it goes.”

Free agent basketball star Iman Shumpert and professional dance partner Daniella Karagach won season 30 of “Dancing with the Stars” and will perform as part of “Dancing with the Stars Live!” Saturday, March 12. (Submitted photo)

“Dancing with the Stars Live!” WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, March 12 WHERE: Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $38.50 INFO: 602.379.2800, arizonafederaltheatre.com, dwtstour.com www.LovinLife.com

‘Leading with Intelligence’ ‘Four Women’ challenges racial stereotypes BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN When challenged, American singer-songwriter and civil rights activist Nina Simone said she didn’t lead with anger, she led with intelligence. It is part of what has attracted Tiffany Nichole Greene to direct the show “Nina Simone: Four Women” at the Arizona Theatre Company. The Christina Ham play with music will run in Tucson through March 19 and pick up in Phoenix from March 24 to April 10. The show casts a light on the musician’s life and work. It draws its name from a song Simone wrote after the 1963 Ku Klux Klan bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, that killed four little girls. “Four Women” was a tribute to those children. She sang about herself and three other Black women from various backgrounds with various looks. The play imagines a conversation between them and addresses their fight to overcome second-class status, racism and the stereotypes that seek to define them. It is told with Simone’s songs and covers along with traditional hymns. Greene, who earned an MFA in acting from Brown University, is the resident director of “Hamilton” and directs shows across the nation. She is a two-time Drama League finalist and an alumna of the Lincoln Center Directors Lab. She specializes in developing new works. Greene worked with Arizona Theatre Company’s artistic director, Sean Daniels, before he returned to the state in that role. They collaborated with the same playwright when Daniels was out East. He reached out to her and asked if she was interested in directing “Nina Simone: Four Women,” which was slated to be staged last year; the pandemic delayed it. Greene says she is attracted to the possibilities inherent in this show and to the way the story is told. “I’m drawn to the poetry of this piece — and I don’t mean polite poetry,” Greene says. “When we think of poetry, we sometimes think flowery and polite and still. In this, there is an attack that lives inside of this piece if you let it. There is something poetic in that it is able to live in the past, present and future. www.LovinLife.com

“It is able to live in realism and then bubble into something that feels like we are not where we think we are.” She says that while Simone has her flaws, she is a thinker, someone who is extremely intelligent and open minded. “The things I want to celebrate about her are her courage and freedom,” Greene says. “The ways in which she frees herself — freedom is something she offers herself. It’s not something she asks the world to give her. I’m very inspired by that mentality.” Simone was born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933 in North Carolina, the sixth of eight children in a poor family. She wanted to be a concert pianist and, with help from supporters, she enrolled in the Juilliard School of Music in New York for a summer. She changed her name so her family wouldn’t discover she was playing in nightclubs in Atlantic City to make a living. It was then that she began singing professionally. She recorded more than 40 albums between 1958 and 1974. She used her Juilliard education to combine classical music with gospel and pop. In 1964, she began focusing on protest songs, starting with “Mississippi Goddam” in response to the murder of civil rights activist Medgar Evans. She advocated violent revolution and a separate Black state. She became friends with many Black leftists and activists who would influence her, none more so than playwright Lorraine Hansberry (“A Raisin in the Sun”). She also engaged with such luminaries as James Baldwin, Stokely Carmichael and Langston Hughes. She left the country, relocating to Barbados and then to Liberia. In the 1980s and beyond, she moved between Liberia, Barbados, Switzerland, France, United Kingdom and the Netherlands. She died of breast cancer in 2003 in France. Greene said Simone was once asked during an interview if she was leading with anger because so much of her work was meshed with violence and revolt against injustices. “She said, ‘No, I’m leading with intelligence,’” Greene quoted Simone as saying. “Anger has its place. I want to show the

audience that I know who they really are.” Greene plans to reflect this in direction of “Nina Simone: Four Women” and in her vision of the four women who make up this narrative. “I’m showing these four women and leading with intellect — I don’t mean in terms of who is the smartest, but in terms of strategy, the ways in which these four women maneuver through life in America as Black women,” Greene says. “I am interested in exploring not the stereotypes of four Black women but four different paths carved out for Black women and the ways in which they must maneuver in pursuit of survival or peace or prosperity or any sort of advancement, and the sacrifices that we learn these women must make.” While the song “Four Women” centers on events in 1963, Greene said the themes are relevant. “I think it is commentary on the struggle that something put out in 1963 is in any way, shape or form relevant today, is not shocking, but it is alarming,” Greene says. “Hopefully this play will reignite a fire in all of us to keep fighting for and pushing for those things we say we believe in.” Greene says she is pleased with the four actors. “These four women are very complementary to one another,” Greene says. “I wanted to make sure that we are representing different skin tones and different body types, representing different African backgrounds. Then, for me, I wanted regional diversity as well. All four actors are from different areas. They currently live in and are from different states.” Candace Thomas is Simone, while the other women are played by Deidra Grace, Katya Collazo and Kia Dawn Fulton. The lone male character, Sam Waymon, is played by music director Dante Harrell. In technical terms, “Nina Simone: Four Women” will differentiate between what is real and not real through lighting by Philip S. Rosenberg. When patrons see the show in either Tucson or Phoenix, she hopes they will be mindful of the message and music. “It is truly a play,” Greene says. “It is driven by relationship and dialogue between these women, and it is truly a play with

Candace Thomas plays Nina Simone in “Nina Simone: Four Women.” (Photo by Tim Fuller)

music. We are not leading with song. We are leading with thought. Songs grow out of the pressure being put on a moment.”

Arizona Theatre Company’s “Nina Simone: Four Women” WHEN: Various times Saturday, March 19 WHERE: Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson WHEN: Various times Thursday, March 24, to Sunday, April 10 WHERE: Herberger Theatre, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: arizonatheatre.org; all audience must be masked and provide proof of vaccine, or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours. “Nina Simone: Four Women” can be viewed at home with ATC Shows on Demand. MARCH 2022

Some Kind of Wonderful Grand Funk Railroad stops at Good Life Festival BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Grand Funk Railroad laid the groundwork for mentees Foreigner, Journey, Van Halen and Bon Jovi with its signature rock sound and soulful vocals. The Flint, Michigan, band’s legacy lives on with songs like “We’re an American Band,” “I’m Your Captain/Closer to Home,” “Locomotion” and “Some Kind of Wonderful” — all of which have been further covered by myriad acts. Grand Funk Railroad has collected 13 gold and 10 platinum records. “I think the music we created way back in the ’70s is just honest rock ‘n’ roll,” says Don Brewer, founding member, vocalist and drummer. He wrote “We’re an American Band.” “The songs touch people. They’re uplifting, and I think people relate to that. I love the fact that we get onstage and

Shea Homes Good Life Festival schedule Saturday, March 19

Gates open at 2 p.m. with food, beverages and a boutique marketplace to enjoy. Concert lineup and schedule includes: 3 p.m.: Nate Nathan and the Mac Daddy-O’s 4:30 p.m.: Fran Cosmo and Anton Cosmo 6 p.m.: Jefferson Starship 7:45 p.m.: Grand Funk Railroad Tickets: $100 to $150 for reserved seating; $75 for general admission. VIP tickets are a $46 upgrade add-on and feature access

MARCH 2022

sing ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ every night and there are four generations of people and they’re all singing along to that song.” Grand Funk Railroad will make a stop at the Shea Homes Good Life Festival at Schnepf Farms on Saturday, March 19, along with Jefferson Starship; Fran Cosmo and Anton Cosmo, formerly of Boston; and Phoenix’s Nate Nathan and the Mac Daddy-O’s. Sunday, March 20, sees Buena Vida Festival presented by Subaru with Latin artists El Coyote y Su Banda Tierra Santa and Lupillo Rivera. Good Life Festival also features preconcert wine, craft beer and bourbon tastings, and a local food and boutique marketplace. Joining Brewer is co-founder Mel Schacher, singer Max Carl (formerly of 38 to separate bar and upgraded restroom facilities. Tickets limited at thegoodlifefest. com. Glamping: $300 (sold out); RV campsites: $150. For details, visit https://bit.ly/ GoodLifeSchnepfFarms. Beverage tasting passports: $25, available online. Passports provide 10 samples of wine, craft beer and/or bourbon tastings. Regular bars will be available for full drink purchases for those 21 and older.

Sunday, March 20

Gates open at noon with food, beverages

Special), lead guitarist Bruce Kulick and keyboardist Tim Cashion. Grand Funk will soon embark on a tour with fellow Michigander Kid Rock, who claims it’s his last jaunt. “It’s a great band,” Brewer says of the current iteration of Grand Funk Railroad. “We’ve been touring with this band for and a boutique marketplace to enjoy. Concert lineup and schedule includes: 1 p.m.: Lupillo Rivera 2:30 p.m.: El Coyote y Su Banda Tierra Santa Tickets: $60 to $95 for reserved seating; $45 for general admission; free for children ages 12 and younger. VIP tickets are a $46 upgrade add-on and feature access to separate bar and upgraded restroom facilities. Tickets limited at thegoodlifefest.com. Glamping: $300 (sold out); RV campsites:

Grand Funk Railroad is, from left, guitarist Bruce Kulick, bassist Mel Schacher, vocalist Max Carl, drummer Don Brewer and keyboardist Tim Cashion. (Photo by Allen Clark)

22 years. It’s a great show. It’s an uplifting show. It’s a very high-energy, rock ‘n’ roll show with all the Grand Funk hits, as well as song Grand Funk staples.” $150. For details, visit https://bit.ly/ GoodLifeSchnepfFarms. Beverage tasting passports: $25, available online. Passports provide 10 samples of wine, craft beer and/or bourbon tastings. Regular bars will be available for full drink purchases for those 21 and older. General parking is $10; premium parking is $40. Handicap parking is available with a valid placard or license plate. Walking distance from lots to event site can range from 100 yards to 250 yards, depending on arrival time and resulting parking location.

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Calendar of Events Sponsored by

April 6-10 2022 TUESDAY, MARCH 1

Storm Large, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac.org. Large blends smoldering seduction, edgy humor and powerhouse vocals on American classics, Broadway tunes and original compositions.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2

True Country, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3

Jimmy Fortune, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac.org. Showcasing his tenor voice, this singersongwriter performs an acoustic show blending Statler Brothers classics, gospel and original country songs. Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com. Dr. Renu Malhotra of the Phoenix Astronomical Society, 7 p.m., Zoom, email for Zoom link, axv@cox.net, free. Malhotra discusses “Migratory Planets and Chaos in the Young Solar System.”

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

International Folk Dance Ensemble-BYU Performing Arts, 7 p.m., Westwood High School, 945 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, $15, byufolkdancemesa.eventbrite.com. The international folk dance ensemble of Brigham Young University presents a spectacle of traditional music and dance showcasing exquisite costuming and beautiful choreography. The ensemble presents more than a dozen ethnic cultures, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

Friends of the Litchfield Park Library Book Sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Litchfield Park Library, 101 Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, free admission, friendsofthelitchfieldparklibrary. org, 623-935-4403. The sale coincides with the arts and crafts festival. Among the items: children’s books, fiction, nonfiction, collectibles, first editions, hardbacks and paperbacks. All monies raised go to the Litchfield Park Library to fund children’s and adult programs. Health and Resource Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., AZ Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, 995 E. Riley Drive, Avondale, free, 623-333-2703. Services include assistance with AHCCCS, food stamps, cash assistance and Affordable Care Act applications, parent education courses, support groups, rental and utility assistance, and nutrition and health education. Open house event activities include no-cost health screenings; family resource information; food pantry; facility tours; presentations; lunch; kids zone and prizes. Malt Shop Memories, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

Malt Shop Memories, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11

Marta Pereira da Costa, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac.org. The world’s only female Portuguese guitar player specializing in fado, the music of her native country. Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 7

Murder in Paradise, 6:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, contact theater for ticket information, silverstartheater.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 18

Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 19

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com. Manhattan Dolls Live, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., American Legion Post 34, 6272. E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, $15 per show in advance, $20 at the door, 480-231-7700, azpost34commander@gmail.com. American Legion Post 34 invites veterans and the public to learn about the post’s role in World War II while enjoying a barbecue from noon to 4 p.m. and the Manhattan Dolls. Shred-a-Thon, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church at 13720 W. Thomas Road, Avondale, free. The shred-a-thon, which will only take paper and have a six-box limit, is sponsored by Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Donations are appreciated. Cave Creek Museum Presents “Do You Have a Revolutionary Patriot in Your Family Tree?” 2 to 4 p.m., Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek, 480-488-2764. Presenter Sarah Ziker, a representative of Daughters of the American Revolution, will discuss how people can use free online resources to discover their ancestors’ service.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20

Country Classics, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

It’s British Pie Week! Jus-Rol, a British pastry-rolling company, invented this week in 2007, and it has been celebrated annually since then.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

Malt Shop Memories, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 21

TUESDAY, MARCH 8

MONDAY, MARCH 14

Miners’ Dinner, 4:30 to 8 p.m., Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek, $75, cavecreekmuseum.org. The museum’s fundraiser features dinner catered by Phoenix Palate, silent auction and raffles. Guests can win a chance to ride in a hot air balloon with Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co. Raffle tickets are $25. After a 4:30 p.m. check-in, guests will be treated to demonstrations of the Golden Reef Stamp Mill and blacksmithing at 5:15 p.m. Dinner follows at 6 p.m. The Cowgirls Historical Foundation and Mike Ewing and the Cowboy Balladeer will entertain.

MOMIX, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928684-6624, dewpac.org. The internationally known company of dancer-illusionists perform.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9

Murder in Paradise, 6:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater’s Marquee Room, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, sold out, silverstartheater.com.

Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

MARCH 2022

Wisconsin Picnic of Sun City, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sun Bowl, 10220 N. 107th Avenue, Sun City, $10 at the door, https://bit.ly/ WisconsinClubPicnic, 608-852-4227, 715-3089964. The picnic is open to the public.

Murder in Paradise, 6:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, contact theater for ticket information, silverstartheater.com.

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

General Family Caregiver Support Group, 10 to 11:30 a.m. the second and fourth Thursdays, Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, free, duetaz.org.

Murder in Paradise, 6:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, sold out, silverstartheater.com.

Sun Lakes Republican Club, 6:30 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club’s Navajo Room, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Boulevard, Sun Lakes, free admission, 262-880-4620, slgop.org. The meeting features guest speakers Jonathan T. Gilliam, author of “Sheep No More: The Art of Awareness and Attack Survival,” and U.S. Senate candidates Gen. Mick McGuire and former Arizona state representative and corporation commissioner Justin Olson.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10

Sun Lakes Democratic Club Meeting, 7 p.m., via Zoom, free admission, email wlkariz@aol.com for Zoom link. The speakers are Sandra Kennedy, Arizona Corporation Commission; Randy Miller, SRP board member; Rep. Jennifer Pawlik, LD-17; and Jim Hinsey and Michael Morris, candidates for LD-13 Arizona senate.

TUESDAY, MARCH 15

Beware of the ides of March.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16

Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 17

True Country, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

Yum! It’s National French Bread Day!

TUESDAY, MARCH 22

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23

Pink Martini, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac.org. A rollicking around-the-world musical adventure, the “little orchestra” transports audiences from a samba parade to a French cabaret and beyond.

Calendar...continues on page 21 www.LovinLife.com

Calendar of Events continued from page 20

Malt Shop Memories, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 24

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 25

Classic Albums Live: Creedence Clearwater Revival-Chronicle. Vol. 1, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac. org. Honoring the legacy of CCR, Classic Albums Live takes classic rock albums and recreates them on stage in a note-for-note, cut-to-cut performance with world-class musicians. Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

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SATURDAY, MARCH 26

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group, 9 to 10:30 a.m. the fourth Saturday of each month, Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, free, duetaz.org.

Call or email today: 602-954-9143 (TTY:711) debbie@wecaremedicareaz.com • www.wecaremedicareaz.com

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27

True Country, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

MONDAY, MARCH 28 Appreciate your fur baby. It’s Respect Your Cat Day!

TUESDAY, MARCH 29

Dorrance Dance: SOUNDspace, 7:30 p.m., Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg, call for ticket prices, 928-684-6624, dewpac. org. Enthralling performance by the awardwinning tap dance company that explores what is thrilling, brilliant and beautiful about tap dancing — movement and music.

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• Competitive pay • Excellent health, dental and vision benefits for full-time employees

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Make a positive difference in the lives of children in your community.

Catch a Wave: Beach Boys Tribute, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com. Paperback Writer: Beatles Tribute, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, $49, silverstartheater.com.

Perks include:

• Arizona State Retirement System matched contributions

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30

THURSDAY, MARCH 31

Join the Mesa Public Schools family!

Apply today at mpsaz.org/careers or call 480-472-7200 mpsaz.org |

@mpsaz

MARCH 2022

Puzzles

GOby FIGURE! Linda Thistle

ANSWERS ON PAGE 29

King Crossword ACROSS 1 Offend 5 Vegas lead-in 8 Biting remark 12 Jacob’s twin 13 Antlered animal 14 Latin love 15 Printout 17 Earring site 18 Roscoe 19 More slothful 21 Filled fully 24 -- colada 25 Cupid’s alias 26 Street vendor’s vehicle 30 Sawbuck 31 Attorney’s load 32 Bee follower 33 Barber’s offerings 35 Panache 36 Aachen article 37 Utter impulsively

38 41 42 43 48 49 50 51 52 53

Architectural style Hero sandwich Actress Perlman Ski lodge cupful “A Room of -- Own” Prior night Not so hot? “Holy cow!” Enervate Trade

DOWN 1 “I’m not impressed” 2 “This -- recording” 3 Distant 4 Fakes, as figures 5 Author Uris 6 Jungfrau, for one 7 Urban silhouettes 8 French novelist 9 Mine, to Marcel 10 Judicial garb 11 Rabbit’s title

16 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 31 34 35 37 38 39 40 41 44 45 46 47

Cow’s chaw &&&& Actor Rogen Location Singer Braxton Stickum Hindquarters Rights advocacy org. Bring up Bivouac shelter Roman 202 Go over again Macaroni shapes Tampa Bay NFLer Pirate’s drink “It can’t be!” Golf props Dance move Eggs Cornfield noise Mouths (Lat.) Music booster

SUDOKU TIME

The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H H H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

SCRAMBLERS Unscramble the letters within each rectangle to form four ordinary words.

Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

MARCH 2022

www.LovinLife.com

MARCH 2022

Casinos

No Pressure Queen Nation doesn’t want to stop now BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Queen Nation was definitely under pressure when the tribute band was asked to play a backyard birthday party for Foo Fighters bassist Nate Mendel. The gig was a surprise for Mendel, who is a Queen superfan, according to Mike McManus, who plays the Brian May role in Queen Nation. “They set up a bunch of extra amps on the stage,” McManus recalls. “The Foo Fighters wanted to get up and play a couple songs with us. During our last song, the cops shut us down. “I was talking to (Foo Fighters’) Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins after our show. I said, ‘I’m so (mad) the cops shut us down. We wanted you guys to play a couple songs with us.’” Grohl responded with the ultimate compliment: “There’s no way we were going to go on after you guys. You would have made us look like a bunch of chumps.” Queen fans at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino can see for themselves when Queen Nation performs at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 12. For more than a decade, Queen Nation has been playing sold-out shows with songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Are the Champions,” “We Will Rock You,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Under Pressure” and “You’re My Best Friend” on its set list. Queen Nation focuses on “The Game” era, 1980-81, when Queen was at the height of its popularity in America. “A lot of British Queen tribute bands play songs from 1985-86, when Freddie Mercury was wearing his yellow jacket and they played at Wembley,” McManus says.

“They had fallen out of favor in America around that time. Just because we focus on ‘The Game’ era, that doesn’t mean we’re not going to do anything past ’81. We’ll do ‘I Want to Break Free’ and ‘Radio Ga Ga.’ The look and feel of the show are more 1980-81 at the height of their popularity in America.” Queen Nation plays the songs note for note, not taking liberties with Queen’s music. They look the part, play the instruments and cop English accents. “We want fans to think they’re coming to see a Queen show in the 1980s,” McManus says. “If a band says they’re going to play, say, ‘Under Pressure’ and put their own spin on it, nobody wants to see that. They want to hear the songs. Otherwise, you’re just a bar band hashing your way through Queen songs.” A Boston native, McManus has been into Queen since 1976, when his father introduced him to the band. His father loved the song “Killer Queen,” but when a complex single from “A Night at the Opera” came out — “Bohemian Rhapsody” — the two hightailed it to the store. “We sat there and listened to it from beginning to end,” McManus says. “I was a goner. Before I had even picked up a guitar, I played air guitar in my bedroom to Queen music.” McManus was fortunate enough to see Queen twice — in 1980 at the Providence Civic Center in Rhode Island, and 1982 at the Boston Garden. “I went with my dad and my brother, and he got us 20th row on the floor,” he says. “Tickets were $7.50. Needless to say, I remember, during that concert, Brian May walked to the front of the stage and

Queen Nation focuses on “The Game” era, 198081, when Queen was at the height of its popularity in America. (Photo courtesy of Queen Nation)

took a guitar solo. My dad knew that any thought of me going to medical school or law school went right out the window. “Who would have known that X number of years later, I would be standing in front of 10,000 people playing ‘We Are the Champions’? When we do concerts in the park, we play to that many people. Queen isn’t meant to be played for 50 people. It’s meant for huge audiences.”

Queen Nation WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, March 12 WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler COST: $30 INFO: playatgila.com

Get your copy today! 24

MARCH 2022

www.LovinLife.com

Casino Calendar Petty and the Heartshakers

7:30 p.m. Friday, March 4, and Saturday, March 5, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Mogollon

8 p.m. Friday, March 4, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Kenny Wayne Shepherd

8 p.m. Saturday, March 5, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, sold out, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

December ’63: The Music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

3 p.m. Sunday, March 6, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

Eli Young Band

St. Patty’s Day Celebration with Carl Dees Dueling Pianos

8 p.m. Friday, March 11, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $35, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

4 p.m. Thursday, March 17, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Superhero

LAvation: U2 Tribute

8 p.m. Friday, March 11, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

9 p.m. Friday, March 18, and Saturday, March 19, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, $30, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Silhouette

Andrew “Dice” Clay

8 p.m. Saturday, March 12, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Queen Nation: A Tribute to the Music of Queen 8 p.m. Saturday, March 12, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $30, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

Tennessee River: Tribute to Alabama

3 p.m. Sunday, March 13, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

BESTOF

2021

8 p.m. Friday, March 18, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $35, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Rockin’ the Paradise: A Tribute to Styx

7:30 p.m. Friday, March 18, and Saturday, March 19, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

The Wailers

8 p.m. Saturday, March 19, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $30, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Aretha: The Queen of Soul — Tribute to the Life and Music of Aretha Franklin 3 p.m. Sunday, March 20, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

Uptown: Motown and Soul for a New Generation

8 p.m. Friday, March 25, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1.800.946.4452, playatgila.com

Lexi Faust and Andy Margolis 5 p.m. Friday, March 25, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Bonfire: A Tribute to AC/DC

7:30 p.m. Friday, March 25, and Saturday, March 26, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Rhythm Edition

8 p.m. Saturday, March 26, WKP Sports & Entertainment, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

BESTOF

2021

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MARCH 2022

Food & Drink

Standing the Test of Time Nick’s Italian Restaurants bring the real thing BY ALLISON BROWN Nicky Cohen, owner of Nick’s Italian Restaurants, moved to Arizona from Brooklyn almost 30 years ago. While living here, he admittedly couldn’t find an Italian restaurant he liked. So, he opened his own. “I came in and opened this restaurant 26 years ago,” Cohen says. “I love the food industry, that’s why I opened it. I love people and good food. We have a steady customer base and repeat customers who will come two or three times a week.” Since then, Nick’s has become a staple in North Scottsdale and has been voted best Italian Restaurant in Scottsdale twice. Nick’s, located at 13910 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, serves lunch 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday; and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, and 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Lunch at Nick’s offers more than 75 menu items and dinner has more than 95 options. Wine and beer are plentiful to pair with any dish. Specialty cocktails are available too. “We have 26 different pasta dishes, fish, veal, chicken — the menu is rich, but it’s all about making the right foods so that when you eat it you really enjoy it and want to come back,” Cohen says. Nick’s started out with a small but solid menu. Over the years, however, Cohen says he has worked with the chef to develop it. They slowly added dishes as they experimented. He says if they liked it, the dish made the menu; if they didn’t like it, they tossed it and tried something else. Some might see 95 menu options as a little intimidating, but Jason Brody, direc-

MARCH 2022

ings, it’s a big mix,” Brody says. “We’re a big business for the kids at prom, They all come dressed up, and then we’ve got guys coming in a tank top and shorts and flip-flops. So, there is a mix. There’s no dress code, it’s very casual and people just kind of relax and enjoy themselves.” Nick’s isn’t dine-in only, though. In fact, Cohen says about 40% of their business is takeout. Due to its expansive and diverse menu, Cohen says Nick’s is great for catering, too. Brody says when COVID-19 hit, Nick’s had to close the dining area for three months. Luckily, it had a well-established takeout menu. While the restaurant still took a hit, it adapted fairly seamlessly to the pandemic. Owner Nicky Cohen and Director of Operations Jason Brody hold the restaurant’s most popular dishes, the “We really appreciate our chicken Parmesana and lasagna, with a drink to pair with it. (Photo by Dennis Murphy) loyal customers and everyone tor of operations at Nick’s, says it makes 20-plus years now,” Brody says. “We at- supporting us throughout the years, esit a great place to bring the whole family. tract great clientele, we retain them and pecially during COVID,” Brody says. Picky eaters can even find something at they keep coming back. It’s about supply“It’s hard for us and getting tougher for Nick’s. ing good food that lasts, and I think we’ve everybody. But without them, we’re nothWith the myriad of options, Cohen says done a pretty good job. It’s also to make ing. Obviously, times are tough and differthe restaurant never buys frozen food, people feel comfortable, like they’re at ent, but we’re very lucky and fortunate to and everything is made from scratch. home. For the portion, the quality and the have great customers and great employ“Everything is fresh,” Cohen says. “We price, I don’t think you can really beat it.” ees and we’re happy with where we’re at. make our own pasta, bread, marinara — Cohen is a hands-on boss, and says he We hope we can continue to keep going everything is homemade basically.” works the floor every night because he for another 26 years.” He says the distinction between fresh likes to interact with customers. AccordThe restaurant’s dining area has reand frozen is apparent, which is why he ing to Brody, regulars stop by predictably opened, and Nick’s is still doing takeout always takes the extra time and money at 4:30 for their spaghetti and meatballs and catering as well. to use fresh ingredients. Even with recent or 5:15 for their cheese pizza. Because it Nick’s has two other locations, one at supply chain issues — which Cohen says isn’t a huge company, Cohen says he gets Pinnacle Peak Road and one at Tatum has had a massive impact — he refuses to know his regulars and even knows and Shea boulevards, but the location to compromise on freshness. According them by name. on Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard was the to Cohen, the kitchen staff spends four to Brody says they have such a loyal first to open. Cohen says customers can six hours prepping daily. Brody says this customer base because of the eatery’s expect the same quality of food and sercommitment to quality is a huge part laidback, homey atmosphere. Based in vice at each location. of what sets Nick’s apart from other Scottsdale and offering top-notch Italian “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” he says. Scottsdale restaurants. dishes, he says Nick’s can be a place for a “There are a ton of din- special occasion. However, it focuses on Nick’s Italian Restaurants ing options, but those are creating a comforting and welcoming at13910 N. Frank Lloyd Wright a dime a dozen. We’ve mosphere. Boulevard, Scottsdale established ourselves “We get it all. People come from the 480-314-9445, nicks-italian.com and been in business for gym, people come from business meetwww.LovinLife.com

What’s Cooking with Jan D’Atri

Classic Beef Bourguignon BY JAN D’ATRI

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Julia Child made it fancy — boeuf bourguignon. But there’s something I’d like you to know. It’s just stew. Delicious, delectable, savory and oh, so satisfying. But, it’s still just stew. So please don’t let fancy French words intimidate you. Get your Dutch oven out and make this classic comfort food while the weather is still a little cool. Oh, and bon appétit!

Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the bacon, and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is lightly browned. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon to a large plate.

Dry the beef cubes with paper towels and then sprinkle them with salt and pepper. In batches in single layers, sear the beef in the hot oil for 3 to 5 minutes, turning to brown on all sides. Remove the seared cubes to the plate with the bacon and continue searing until all the beef is browned. Set aside. Toss the carrots, onions, 1 tablespoon salt and 2 teaspoons pepper in the fat in the pan and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are lightly browned. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add the cognac and ignite with a match to burn off the alcohol. Put the meat and bacon back into the pot with the juices. Add the bottle of wine plus enough beef broth to almost cover the meat. Add the tomato paste and thyme. Bring to a simmer, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the oven for about 1 1/4 hours or until the meat and vegetables are very tender when pierced with a fork. Combine 2 tablespoons butter and the flour with a fork and stir into the stew. Add the frozen onions. In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms in 2 tablespoons butter for 10 minutes until lightly browned and then add to the stew. Bring the stew to a boil on top of the stove, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Season to taste. Grill the bread in grill pan or oven. Serve hot with the stew.

Watch Jan D’Atri’s how-to videos at https://bit.ly/JanDAtri. www.LovinLife.com

3995

Classic Beef Bourguignon (Serves 6) Ingredients • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 8-ounce center cut applewood smoked bacon, diced • 2-1/2 pounds chuck beef, cut into 1-inch cubes • 1 tablespoon kosher salt • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper • 1 pound of carrots, sliced diagonally into 1-inch chunks • 2 yellow onions, diced • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced (2 cloves) • 1/2 cup cognac • 1 bottle good dry red wine such as cote du Rhone or pinot noir • 2 cups beef broth, as needed • 1 tablespoon tomato paste • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened, divided • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 1 pound of frozen whole pearl onions • 1 pound of fresh mushrooms, stems discarded • French bread or sourdough loaf, sliced and grilled

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MARCH 2022

Columns

Hospice Is Hope

(Left) Internationally acclaimed sculptor Carl Dahl says, “Horses are beauty, power and freedom rising to complete the perfect form.”

An Art, Food and Wine Experience

(Bottom) Judy Tuwaletstiwa has spent her life exploring and expressing art as “a way to connect us to the deepest part of ourselves.” (Photos courtesy of Hospice of the Valley)

Hospice of the Valley has its ‘aaha’ moment BY LIN SUE FLOOD What could possibly top an evening of fine art, delicious food and excellent wine? Perhaps enjoying all three while supporting a cause that is near and dear to your heart. Hospice of the Valley is excited to bring back its signature fundraiser, AAHA! Art. Food. Wine. In 45 years, no one in need of care has been turned away by our notfor-profit agency, and that is largely due to community generosity. We are so grateful to local businesses and individuals whose donations make this event shine with beautiful pieces of art and memorable experiences ranging from a fabulous trip in Greece (Athens,

Crete, Santorini) to a private dinner for friends prepared by local chefs. This year’s art selection is extensive, with more than 70 pieces, including an elegant, fiery-red enamelwork horse sculpture from Carl Dahl’s private collection. Among other favorites is a stunning statement piece by artist Judy Tuwaletstiwa, a huge canvas painting adorned with hundreds of delicate feathers — bold and ethereal. The evening, at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn on Saturday, March 12, features a spectacular dinner, raffle, silent auction and live auctions conducted by dynamic auctiontainer Letitia Frye. We also pay special recognition to this year’s

PAID ADVERTORIAL

A New Reverse Mortgage from Sun American Mortgage Company Offers a Brighter Outlook on Retirement! When Jane and Larry found themselves facing a series of unexpected events that left them with credit card debt and without the money they needed to comfortably retire, they didn’t have a lot of options. Jane could go back to work - but there wasn’t much in the area. Larry tried taking on some consulting work, but it was negatively affecting his health. The only realistic option they could see was to sell their retirement home in PebbleCreek. It felt like an impossible task. Luckily, a neighbor suggested an alternative: a reverse mortgage. Jane and Larry’s credit card debt was not a part of their retirement plans, but Sun American Mortgage Company stepped in and helped turn a bad situation into an opportunity. With over 30 years of experience

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2 payments every month, or never make a payment again. The reverse mortgage gave them the flexibility to live the future they envisioned even though their retirement plans didn’t go quite as planned.

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honoree, iconic Arizona chef Mark Tarbell, for all his charitable work in our community. Proceeds benefit Hospice of the Valley patients and families who need hospice care, supportive care for chronic illness or dementia care. A portion of funds raised will be allocated to the new Dementia Care and Education Campus in central Phoenix, which offers comprehensive care for people living with dementia and vital resources for the community. This is a place where health professionals, students and caregivers learn best practices for providing exceptional dementia care. The campus is an extension of our dementia program, reaching out into our community with supportive care that is offered at no charge to families living

with all types and all stages of the condition. Dementia educators make home visits to show stressed family caregivers new ways of connecting with loved ones throughout the dementia journey. They also provide resources and support groups to help caregivers cope with inevitable challenges and practice self-care. For more information on AAHA! or opportunities to support Hospice of the Valley, contact Melissa at mecollins@hov. org, call 602-636-6380 or visit hov.org/ aaha. Lin Sue Flood is community engagement director at Hospice of the Valley. To learn about programs and volunteer opportunities, visit hov.org or call 602-530-6900.

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This material is not provided by, nor was it approved by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) or by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

MARCH 2022

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Columns

Gadget Gossip

The Healthy Geezer

Allergy shots aren’t a cure-all for some BY FRED CICETTI

Is it worth getting shots for my allergies?

www.LovinLife.com

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN Welcome back to Gadget Gossip! Here we introduce readers to gizmos that can make life just a little easier — and healthier. Have an idea? Email editor@lovinlifeafter50.com.

Bellabeat Ivy

Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots or vaccinations, can alleviate allergy symptoms. However, shots don’t work on all allergies or all people. Doctors advise against allergy shots if you take a beta blocker for high blood pressure or heart problems. If you’re considering immunotherapy, seek the advice of a good allergist. Allergy shots are a series of scheduled injections meant to desensitize you to specific allergens — the substances that trigger an allergic response. The usual schedule is a shot once or twice a week for about three to six months. After that, you’ll need a shot about once a month for three to five years. Allergy shots are commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma. Allergy shots may also control allergic reactions to stinging insects, such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets and wasps. But the shots are not effective for food allergies. If you have seasonal hay fever, you may be allergic to pollens from trees, grasses or weeds. If you have year-round discomfort, you may be sensitive to indoor allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, mold or pet dander. The common symptoms of allergic rhinitis are itchy eyes, nose, or throat; nasal congestion, runny nose, watery eyes, chest congestion or wheezing. If your eyes also become red and swollen, you suffer from allergic conjunctivitis. Before starting allergy shots, your doctor may use a skin test to confirm that you have allergies and determine which specific allergens cause your signs and symptoms. During the test, a small amount of the suspected allergen is scratched into your skin and the area is then observed for about 20 minutes.

Innovative trackers, hip hooks & fog blockers

Bellabeat Ivy is an innovative tracker and tiny wellness device for women. This wearable bracelet, which comes in four colors, is designed to look like a statement piece. With no display, Ivy’s unintrusive design keeps users’ data private and visible only when synced with the Bellabeat app.

Swelling and redness indicate an allergy to the substance. The shots won’t give you immediate relief. You’ll probably see improvement in the first year of treatment. The most noticeable improvement often happens during the second year. By the third year, most people are desensitized to the allergens contained in the shots. For some people, successful treatment leads to a life without allergy symptoms. For others, shots must continue on a long-term basis to keep allergy symptoms at bay. An allergic reaction is a complex chain of events that involves many cells, chemicals and tissues throughout the body. While there is no cure for allergic disease, there are many medications available to lessen symptoms. About 50 million Americans suffer from an allergy. Major allergic diseases include allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema), hives (urticaria), and reactions to substances such as food, latex, medications, and insect stings. We don’t know why some substances trigger allergies and others do not. We also don’t understand why every person does not react to allergens. A family history of allergies is the single most important factor that predisposes a person to develop allergies.

The Ivy is ideal for women over 50 to ensure they are maintaining a healthy

Gadgets...continues on page 30

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MARCH 2022

Gardening

Gadgets...continued from page 29

Easy Succulent Gardening Follow these tips to find success BY NATALIE GILLIILAND

Poppies Flower Shop

We just spent a wonderful weekend in Southern California in Huntington Beach. The smell of the ocean air, clean breeze and crisp mornings were exactly what we needed to recover from a busy Valentine’s Day! One of the things I enjoy about visiting other states is looking at the variety of plants and flowers they have in their climate. California has a lot more humidity than Arizona, and its succulents are incredibly beautiful. When I return from visiting the beach, I always get the urge to plant more succulents at my house. Because the heat is brutal here in the summer, I am going to talk about planting an indoor succulent garden to protect our delicate plants from our summers. There are several important factors to consider when planting any type of indoor garden, especially succulents. The common misconception with succulents is that they are low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for plants. That’s somewhat true. They just take a while to get established and into a healthy routine. Containers are important. You can select a container that has a drainage hole, or we can create our own drainage in the container. When selecting a container, I always recommend choosing one that is one size too big for your succulent or succulent garden. This way, your roots have room to grow and your succulent has room to spread its petals. Once you have your container selected, ensure there is adequate drainage for the

MARCH 2022

soil. If your container has a hole built into the bottom, then you are good to go. If it does not, you can easily create drainage by placing a layer of small rocks at the bottom. Depending on the container’s size, I would recommend at least a third of the container to be a layer of rocks. Rocks can also be used in a container that has holes, to keep the soil from leaking everywhere. After you have your drainage, keep the soil in mind. Use a moisture-control soil. Fill the rest of your container with the soil, and now we are ready to plant our succulent. When planting the succulents, squeeze its plastic container to loosen the plant. Once it slips out of the plastic sleeve, comb through the compacted soil and roots to loosen them. Plant the succulent in the new container and cover it with extra soil but ensure the petals are above the soil line. Finally, find a nice sunny spot for your succulent indoors and give him a nice drink of water — but not too much water. Overwatering is the most common way of damaging succulents. I recommend about 2 to 3 tablespoons of water per small succulent only once per week. Wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. Succulents are often slow growing, so your new container should last about six months before you should move your succulent into something bigger. Enjoy your newly potted succulent garden. Poppies Flower Shop is located at 2450 W. Happy Valley Road, Suite 1147, Phoenix, in the Shops at Norterra. For more information, visit poppiesflowershop.com or call 480-649-7100.

heart rate, sleeping well, measuring water intake to alleviate skin and vaginal dryness as well as improving their overall wellness to help combat depression with downtime. It helps women get a handle on menopausal or post-menopausal symptoms or recurring health issues. Are fitness goals overreaching? Ivy will say so. While sleeping at night, when the body is in its calmest state, Ivy measures the resting heart and respiratory rates, and cardiac coherence. Those measurements reveal a person’s bioresponse to recent activities, stress and emotions. In the morning, when synced with the Bellabeat app, Ivy calculates the readiness score from 0 to 100. With Ivy, women receive a complimentary Coach Premium membership that works as a guide, based on expert support and Bellabeat’s medical board. The coach incorporates the woman’s monthly cycle as an umbrella for its insights. These recommendations closely track the menstrual cycle to provide personalized holistic wellness content. Bellabeat Ivy bellabeat.com/ivy Available on website for $249 Check out these, too:

Mute

Give the gift of a snoreless night’s sleep with Mute, an FDA-approved nasal dilator to improve airflow. According to a recent poll, 55% of adults who live with a snorer say listening to it is as bad as listening to road construction. About 44% of the people polled sleep in separate rooms because of it. The poll also found that 36% of people will lie about their snoring on dating apps and that 26% of adults who live with a snorer say it has caused fights with significant others. Mute is available in three adjustable sizes. Mute mutesnoring.com Available on Amazon for $14.99

Hip Hook

The Hip Hook by Aletha helps eliminate tightness at its core. In a few minutes daily, the Hip Hook can provide relief in the legs, hips, lower back, knees and feet. Created by a physical therapist, the Hip Hook delivers targeted pressure to the chronically hard-to-reach psoas and iliacus muscles. By targeting these two muscles, users will quickly notice a reduction in hip, back and knee strain, plus improved posture and stability. This product is great for addressing sciatica, SI joint pain, hip arthritis and daily aches. The Hip Hook costs the same as one physical therapy appointment but can be used repeatedly. Hip Hook alethahealth.com Available on website for $199

FogBlocker

FogBlocker is a game-changer compared to older anti-fog solutions. FogBlocker dry wipes can be used more than 500 times and lasts between 24 hours per wipe. Its ultrafine microfiber cloth can be safely used on any lenses, including those that are coated. It can also be applied it to plastic guards and goggles. It’s the perfect solution for glasses that fog due to masks. This product is also available in a wet wipe and spray format. FogBlocker fogblocker.com Available on website starting at $14.39 www.LovinLife.com

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Appealing to your Good Nature I'm hoping you and I can make a small but significant difference for our veterans and community members that are less fortunate, homeless or in shelters. Should you have gently used clothing to donate to appreciative people, I would be more than happy to pick up and distribute. Just give me a call. Thank You! Jim Schmidt 480.296.3900

602.228.8413 christinahelps2012@gmail.com

Help is here: Medicare 101. Join me for a FREE seminar on

March 29 at 6PM

to learn about your Medicare plan choices. We will cover: • The latest changes in Medicare • The different plan options available to you • How to maximize your bene its while minimizing your costs • Enrollment periods, other important dates, and more!

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Lovin' Life After 50 - Southeast Valley - March 2022

Articles inside

From Basketball to Mirror Ball

Free Relief at Your Fingertips

Events Calendar

A New Look

No Pressure

Responsible Renovation