Foothills News 05/17/2023

INSIDE INSIDE

Senior Spotlight

Class of 2023

Special section

| Page 10

Capriotti's Sandwich Shop comes to Tucson | Page 6

Pusch Ridge junior drums his way to Carnegie program | Page 8

Summer is fun but beware these hazards | Page 13

PCC students showcase fashion designs at show

By Laura Latzko Tucson Weekly Staff

Each year, the Pima Community College fashion design department spotlights student-created outfits by hosting a runway show.

This provides an opportunity for beginning-level to more advanced students to present pieces they have been working on for a semester or longer.

This year, the fashion show is Friday, May 19, at the Leo Rich Theater in the Tucson Convention Center.

It will also be livestreamed for audiences who are unable to attend.

VIP tickets are available in a limited number and include a reception with light bites, a swag bag with items from sponsors, early access to the silent auction and photo booth and seating in the first two rows.

This year’s fashion show is themed “A New Aesthetic, Presenting a Wardrobe that is Anything but Subtle.”

Show director Savannah Franco said this year’s runway show allows the designers to highlight what makes them distinctive.

“We wanted to showcase every student’s personality that they showcase within their garments,” Franco said.

“Everyone’s style is different, and I think with today’s fashion industry, you don’t really need to necessarily be on trend. Anyone’s garment or wardrobe can be anything they want. That’s what we want to try to focus on. Some people’s style is more eclectic and more flashy than other people’s. There will be a nice variety on the runway.”

Franco, who is also the social media specialist and lab assistant for the fashion depart-

See FASHION Page 4

Kalistica Luevanos modeled her own design in Pima Fashion’s 2022 runway show. (Dan Quiñones/Contributor)

Tours share accessible farming practices in Vail

BY VERONICA KUFFEL Tucson Weekly Staff

On one of his farm tours, Michael Ismail bent down to check on a rainbow cactus starting to bloom. He explained there weren’t many when he moved to the property, but after implementing his water basin system, native plants have popped up all around and created a desert oasis. He pointed to the string of small pits along the watershed, connecting down to the farm.

“By doing this all around the property, you essentially create this lens of water in the ground,” Ismail said. “It moves down the slope and ends up benefitting the ecosystem all the way down.”

Ismail and his team at Thrive and Grow Farms host tours at their property in Vail to teach about regenerative farming. Neighboring Cienega Creek Preserve, this farm will soon be a demonstration of its new business model, where they develop land to prioritize a regenerative ecosystem and sell the final

product to farmers. Ismail calls their new model turnkey farming.

Ismail is an agricultural entrepreneur, expert and educator with a focus on land conservation. He was raised in a homestead near Tucson, where his family turned a patch of desert into a thriving farm.

“I grew up growing a lot of food and learning permaculture practices,” Ismail recalled. “My father taught me land devel-

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Hot Picks

ARTS

“Woman-Ochre” TO MAY 20

Willem de Koonig’s “Woman-Ochre” was stolen in 1985 from the University of Arizona Museum of Art. It’s returned home and on display through May.

Tickets for “Restored: The Return of Woman-Ochre” are $8 general admission; $6 seniors 65-plus and groups of 10 or more; and free for students with ID, museum members, UA faculty, staff, military personnel, AAM members, visitors with a SNAP card or Tribal ID, and children.

The University of Arizona Museum of Art, 1031 N. Olive Road, Tucson, various pricing, artmuseum.arizona.edu

Linda McCartney Retrospective TO AUGUST 4

to explore childhood memories through a series of miniatures. They’re artifacts of his Ontario, California home, but their resonance with childhood reveries is universal. Farley’s youth included a fondness for building miniature models. As an adult, he’s an artist and graphic designer renowned for public murals. He found that creating these tiny structures helped to ground him in the social and emotional upheaval that accompanied our months in lockdown.

Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, 4455 E. Camp Lowell Drive, tickets start at $8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Thursdays, theminitimemachine.org

MUSIC

George Howard Celebration of Life

To start or stop delivery of the

The North American premiere of the Linda McCartney Retrospective comes to the University of Arizona Center for Creative Photography, now through Friday, Aug. 4. Spanning McCartney’s entire career from 1965 to 1997, this exhibition features 176 photographs and archival materials, including Polaroid images and presents three sections such as family life, photographic experimentation and artists. The exhibit will recur weekly from Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The exhibition will also feature various community events inspired by the collection. Center for Creative Photography 1030 N. Olive Road, Tucson, various times and pricing, ccp.arizona.edu

Mini Time Museum: Steve Farley’s “Dowdytown” TO AUG. 20

Pandemic isolation inspired artist, graphic designer and former Arizona State Sen. Steve Farley

MAY 21

Join the Tucson Musicians Museum for a Memorial Concert celebrating the life and music of George Howard. Performers include Tunesmith, Mojo & the Zydeco Cannibals, R.Carlos Nakai / Amochip Dabney, Tucson Jr. Strings, Jame Pak, Drew Nickles, Znora, Midnight Blue, Soaring Hawk & Midnight Blue, The Coolers, Should Essential, Bad News Blues, Neon Prophet and Blackcatbones.

Hotel Congress Plaza, 311 E. Congress Street, Tucson, $10 suggested donation, 2 to 9 p.m., hotelcongress.com

Bastille

MAY 24

Bastille’s international hit “Pompeii” drove the band to become 2013’s breakthrough act, with more than 1 billion Spotify streams and earning them British Breakthrough Act at the 2014 Brits. They divert from their tour with Duran Duran to play a spe-

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Tucson Local Media Staff

cial headlining show at the Rialto. Rialto Theatre, 318 Congress Street, Tucson, tickets start at $46, 8 p.m., rialtotheatre.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Biosphere 2 DAILY

We may have experienced an earlier iteration of the Biosphere as something like a passive “zoo” of biomes, but now the focus is on climate change and sustainability research. Interdisciplinary scientists from all over are finding ways to “increase resilience and sustainability of Earth systems and human quality of life.” Ecosystems under glass include the world’s largest controlled tropical rain forest, desert, savanna, mangrove, and ocean biomes. Eye-popping fact: 7.2 million cubic feet are sealed within 6,500 windows. Those systems have now seen 30 years of evolution.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, Biosphere 2, 32540 S. Biosphere Road, biosphere2.org/visit/visit-biosphere-2, $25, reservation recommended, find a virtual tour on the site.

Reisen Winery Tour (Sonoita-Benson) THROUGH JUNE 3

Owned and operated by a third-generation Tucsonan, Reisen tours are laced with inside knowledge and informed by decades of family memories. Sonoita is rolling and wheat-colored this time of year. Its terrain eases the way of the desert into the surrounding high country. The land and climate are ideal for boutique wineries. Taste wines at four of them on Reisen’s six-hour winery tour itinerary.

Start times vary Saturdays through June 3, reisenarizona. com/#day-tours, $175, pickup is in Tucson, lunch is included.

Brew at the Zoo

MAY 20

Guests can taste a wide selection of craft beer, hard ciders, lagers, and ales from Arizona brewing companies as they travel around the zoo in this sampling event presented by Lloyd Construction. Listen to live music, enjoy games and fun photo ops, and take home a commemorative tasting glass. Pub-style food will be available for purchase throughout the zoo. This is a 21-and-older event.

Reid Park Zoo, 1030 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, tickets start at $25, 6 p.m., reidparkzoo.org

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

MAY 29

Themed “Freedom is Not Free,” Tucson Estates’ Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will feature grand marshal DMAFB Vice Commander Col. Paul E. Sheets; color guards; a submarine float from the Submarine Veterans of Tucson; antique cars; military organizations and motorcycle clubs. After the parade, a memorial ceremony will be held to honor all branches of the military in Tucson Estates Memorial Park, followed by a concert by Whisky River Dogs.

Tucson Estates, near Ajo Way and Kinney Road, Tucson, free, 8 a.m., savocaanthony@yahoo.com

“Tombstone” 30th Cast Reunion

JUNE 23 TO JUNE 25

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the film “Tombstone” with special guests, including Michael Biehn. Selection of free and ticketed events throughout Tombstone.

Tombstone, see website for locations, ticket prices and times, tombstone30th.com

AGING WELL

The Spirit of Service: Splendido Veterans

A sense of purpose, camaraderie, continual learning, and helping others—these are all keys to Aging Well. Residents at Splendido, a Life Plan Community for those 55 and better in Oro Valley, enjoy access to all of these, in part due to the efforts of a dedicatedVeterans Committee.

In a population of approximately 400 residents at Splendido, more than 100 are veterans. This sizeable percentage represents five branches of the US armed forces, and includes combat experience extending from World War II to Vietnam. This diverse group is well represented by a seven-member Veterans Committee.

Sense of Purpose

It seems natural for military veterans to have a strong sense of purpose—which research shows can support better psychological health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.Members of

Splendido’s Veterans Committee arranges for the community’s veterans—including Scott Bauman, shown waving—to sign up for a ride in an open-cockpit biplane through Dream Flights.

the Veterans Committee are dedicated to supporting all veterans in the community, and more: “Our mission is to celebrate Veterans Day and Memorial Day, and to provide residents with veteran-related historical and informational programs,” explains Richard Brinkley, the Residents Council liaison to the committee who served in the Army in Korean DMZ and Vietnam.

“In addition, the committee provides assistance to veteran agencies in the local area, as well as resident veterans’ projects.”

Camaraderie &Education

The Veterans Committee’s strong focus on camaraderie and education support residents’ social and intellectual wellness. “Every March, we invite the American Legion

officers over for an annual social gathering, as well as all veterans at Splendido and their spouses,” says Richard. The committee members also put together educational programs and impressive ceremonies each Veterans Day and Memorial Day for all Splendido residents.

A unique opportunity that the Veterans Committee supports is Splendido residents’

participation in Dream Flights. Dream Flights is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring military veterans with the adventure of a lifetime: a ride in a two-seater open- cockpit Boeing Red Stearman biplane. “This is the same aircraft used to train military aviators during World War II,” says Veterans Committee member Scott Bauman, an Air Force veteran. The committee has coordinated several rounds of Dream Flights for Splendido, offering veterans and their spouses – and even Splendido employees who are veterans, the opportunity to take flight from Marana Regional Airport. “It’s the experience of a lifetime,” says Scott. “It’s a very smooth flight.”

Charitable Work

Volunteering and doing good works are beneficial for one’s physical and mental well-being, and the Veterans Committee gets all of Splendido involved in an annual

clothing drive for veterans in need. Residents donate clothes and unopened toiletries and otherpersonal effects—typically filling a U-Haul truck with items each year. “We team up with local American Legion post 132 for this drive, and this year was even more productive than previous years,” says Scott. In March 2023, they filled a 20-foot trailer with donated clothing and personal items as part of the annual “Stand Down” event. “The entire group of veterans at Splendido is just amazing,” says Nancy Boyle, community relations manager at Splendido. “They are so involved in educating residents, supporting each other, and doing charitable work—they are just such an inspiring group that embodies the spirit of service.”

Interested in learning more about Splendido? For floor plans, photos, and information on upcoming events, visit splendidotucson.com.

YOU’VE GOT BIG PLANS. DOES YOUR MONEY?

Planning

*Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Vantage West Credit Union and Vantage West Financial Advisors are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Vantage West Financial Advisors, and may also be employees of Vantage West Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Vantage West Credit Union or Vantage West Financial Advisors. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

FASHION from Page 1

ment, started out as a student at Pima. She has had designs in the fashion show and has watched the event expand and evolve.

“My very first show was on campus. It was when they used to have it within the theater department, at the Proscenium (Theatre) on West Campus,” Franco said.

“Because the show just kept gaining interest, and people started seeing there is this fashion show that happens at Pima, it moved to the Fox (Tucson Theatre) and started getting bigger and bigger…Being in the show, just putting in one or two garments, and seeing it progress is really cool.

“Just seeing it progress over the years and continue to grow and grow has been a cool thing to see, especially for students within the program. It gives them a chance to really participate in a real fashion show of a great magnitude.”

This year, the estate of Janis Joplin donated fabric from the “Made for Pearl” collection, which was created by her niece, Malyn Joplin Dahlin, in honor of the music icon.

Pima students worked with fabric from this collection, including velvet and ’70s-inspired prints.

For the fifth year, the fashion department has partnered with Goodwill of Southern Arizona for an upcycle design project, through which students had the chance to create sustainable designs.

Students also used the Tukatech digital pattern-making program in creating looks for the runway.

Franco said it can be meaningful to see original designs once they have been printed onto fabric.

“It’s super exciting to see the fruition from just a design in your head, to being on the computer, to being a garment on the runway,” Franco said.

Franco said sustainability has increasingly become more of a focus in the fashion industry. Using donated fabric from the Janis Joplin estate and creating patterns using digital software allows the school to engage in ecologically friendly practices.

Recently, digital programs have become more prominent within the department. This is part of an effort to expose students to technologies they will see working in the fashion industry.

The fashion show is a fundraiser for the

department, which helps them to be able to purchase digital products and make further updates to the lab.

Students in the program also get exposed to different careers within the fashion industry. Franco said there are different routes that students can take after they graduate.

“You could be a pattern maker. You could be a designer. You could be alterations. You could be a textile designer. You could be a stylist. You could work in retail in merchandising. There are different avenues. It’s not just about being a designer and having a brand. There’s a lot of different jobs and aspects that go into a brand,” Franco said.

During the fashion show, around 45 students will be presenting anywhere from one look to as many as five or six.

Some students have taken part in the show multiple times. Franco said it can be exciting to see the growth in these students over their time at Pima.

“You can see their skills set is evolving. They are venturing and trying to figure out what is my style? What do I want to create and how can I evolve that?” Franco said.

The garments featured in the show are mainly produced within fashion design classes.

“It can be from beginning sewing classes, where they are learning to make pajamas, skirts and shirts, all the way up to advanced, where it could be much more tailored garments, more difficult fabrics. We even have a bridal gown in the show this year. So, most of the garments come from projects they submit in class, learning techniques to perfect their sewing skills,” Franco said.

Students within the program are also allowed to showcase designs they worked on at home.

Franco said there will be a variety of different styles, including ready-to-wear, evening wear and street wear fashions.

The show attracts students who have a goal of working in the industry as well as those who are pursuing fashion design as a hobby.

Along with students, two alumni will present collections. Franco will bring looks from her Zabana Clothing brand, and faculty member Lisa Olson will pres-

opment methods through a lot of passive rainwater retention. We were very mindful of the way we existed in our little ecosystem.”

As an adult, he noticed most people believed they had “brown thumbs” and couldn’t care for plants, let alone gardens or farms. Ismail decided to use his knowledge and experience to create the Thrive and Grow brand. The company’s goal is to develop a stronger, local regenerative food system, developing land and infrastructure for farmers to walk into and succeed.

Ismail defined regenerative farming as a practice that goes beyond sustainability, it’s farming the land the way nature does. It focuses on the health of the soil and the conservation of resources, eliminating harmful traditional methods like tillage. Especially in the desert, the priority is water retention, and he develops each farm based on water flow and keeping it in the ground.

His system not only focuses on conservation tactics but limits the amount of water used in overall farming.

“Agriculture is one of the largest uses of water throughout Arizona,” Ismail said. “The fact that we can put more water into the ground with our demonstration than we take out is a really important step.”

Their turnkey farming project is in its initial stages of funding. Through WeFunder, Thrive and Grow Farms has raised over $125,000 to develop its properties and continues to receive support.

As Ismail and his team receive money, they will develop their 32 acres in St. David into four turnkey farms. Once the farms are complete, they hope to sell each within six months. Ismail stressed the importance of developing the land and infrastructure to make it easy for farmers to conduct their business.

“We wanted to ensure people could walk into this and have a bright future in agriculture,” Ismail said. “It’s important to have a solid business plan and to know what to expect with all of the procedures in farming.”

Along with providing the land, Thrive and Grow Farms will also include their connections with local food markets and key business infrastructure. Any extra crops may be sold to the company to be

WARNING! PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!!

freeze-dried, which will prevent spoilage and optimize sales for farmers. The company will sell the food under its new food brand, Truly Regenerative.

Ismail foreshadowed an upcoming trend toward regeneratively farmed products, much like the craze for organic foods. His mission is to help farmers see the value of these practices, not only to meet public demand but to create longterm profitability.

“One thing I believe is a common misconception is to do things right, you have to sacrifice a profitable business,” Ismail said. “We’re actually finding that it’s the opposite. These methods can create more stability for farmers and a better product for consumers.”

He noted the power of regenerative farming and its impact on the land. Along with examples of improved crop growth, Ismail’s demonstration farm is flourishing with a variety of native plants and animals.

Though in its initial stages, Thrive and Grow Farms is an opportunity for people to see the long-term benefits of regenerative agriculture, especially in a droughtprone environment. Ismail encourages those interested in recentering their business or starting new to come out for a tour and see the impact in person.

“It’s scary for a farmer to make changes and create any sort of uncertainty with growing crops and providing for their families,” Ismail said. “By demonstrating some of these practices, we can show people it’s very possible. They can create more resilient businesses while using less water.”

Oro Valley AZ – When it comes to chronic pain and/ or neuropathy, the most common doctor-prescribed treatment is drugs like Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin. The problem with antidepressants or anti-seizure medications like these is that they offer purely symptomatic relief, as opposed to targeting and treating the root of the problem. Worse, these drugs often trigger an onset of uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes harmful side effects.

The only way to effectively treat chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is by targeting the source, which is the result of nerve damage owing to inadequate blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This often causes weakness, numbness, tingling, pain, and balance problems. A lack of nutrients causes the nerves to degenerate – an insidious and often painful process.

As displayed in figure 1 above, the nerves are surrounded by diseased, withered blood vessels. A lack of sufficient nutrients means the nerves

cannot survive, and thus, slowly die. This leads to those painful and frustrating consequences we were talking about earlier, like weakness, numbness, tingling, balance issues, and perhaps even a burning sensation.

The drugs your doctor might prescribe will temporarily conceal the problems, putting a “BandAid” over a situation that will only continue to deteriorate without further action.

Thankfully, Oro Valley is the birthplace of a brandnew facility that sheds new light on this pressing problem of peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. The company is trailblazing the medical industry by replacing outdated drugs and symptomatic reprieves with an advanced machine that targets the root of the problem at hand.

Effective neuropathy treatment relies on the following three factors:

1. Finding the underlying cause

2. Determining the extent of the nerve damage (above 95% nerve loss is rarely treatable)

3. The amount of treatment required for the patient’s unique condition

Arrowhead Physical Medicine in Oro Valley, AZ uses a state-of-the-art electric cell signaling systems worth $100,000.00. Th is ground-breaking treatment is engineered to achieve the following, accompanied by advanced diagnostics and a basic skin biopsy to accurately analyze results:

1. Increases blood flow

2. Stimulates and strengthens small fiber nerves

3. Improves brain-based pain

The treatment works by delivering energy to the affected area(s) at varying wavelengths, from low- to middle-frequency signals, while also using Amplitude Modulated (AM) and Frequency Modulated (FM) signaling

It’s completely painless!

THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT THIS TREATMENT IS COVERED BY MEDICARE, MEDICAID, AND MOST INSURANCES!!

Depending on your coverage, your peripheral neuropathy treatment could cost almost nothing – or be absolutely free.

The number of treatments required varies from patient to patient, and can only be determined following an in-depth neurological and vascular examination. As long as you have less than 95% nerve damage, there is hope!

Arrowhead Physical Medicine begins by analyzing the extent of the nerve damage – a complimentary service for comprises a detailed your friends and family.sensoryEach exam evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and comprehensive analysis of neuropathy findings.

Arrowhead Physical Medicine begins by analyzing the extent of the nerve damage –a complimentary service for comprises a detailed your friends and family. Each sensory exam evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and comprehensive analysis of neuropathy findings.

Arrowhead Physical Medicine will be offering this free chronic pain and neuropathy severity evaluation will be available until December 31st, 2022. Call (520) 934-0130 to make an appointment

Arrowhead Physical Medicine will be offering this free chronic pain and neuropathy severity evaluation will be available until April 30, 2023. Call (520) 934-0130 to make an appointment

Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this offer to the first 10 c allers Y OU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE, CALL (520) 934-0130 NOW!!

We are extremely busy, so we are unavailable, please leave a voice message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Arrowhead Physical Medicine 10425 N Oracle Rd., Suite 125 Oro Valley, AZ 85737

934-0130*

Michael Ismail stands along the border between his demonstration farm and Cienega Creek Preserve (Michael Ismail/Submitted)

Capriotti’s brings ‘fanatically delicious’ sandwiches to Tucson

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

After 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, Jose Alvarez moved to Tucson, ready to start his next business venture.

He noticed a lack of food diversity in the area and that inspired him and his friend, Ed Mingus, to open Tucson’s first Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, 1830 E. Broadway Boulevard. Two more locations are slated to open in the city.

Capriotti’s is known for its wide array of sandwiches, including The Bobbie, made with oven-roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing and mayo.

“I say it’s Thanksgiving in your mouth,” Alvarez said with a laugh.

“It’s turkey, cranberry and stuffing. You can have Thanksgiving year-round.”

“Our classic cheesesteak has American cheese, grilled onions, mushrooms and steak,” he said. “We also add hot and sweet peppers, which makes it a total game changer of a sandwich. This sandwich is totally amazing.”

Alvarez also enjoys the chicken chipotle crunch, made with grilled chicken, American cheese and topped with lettuce, tomato, crispy cheddar onions and chipotle ranch dressing; and the American Wagyu Slaw Be Joe, with American Wagyu beef, coleslaw, provolone cheese, Russian dressing and mayo.

Prices are reasonable — the Slaw Be Joe starts at $7.99 — and Alvarez chalked that up to a direct purchase from Snake River Farms, eschewing third-party pricing.

“We get to sell Wagyu beef at a cheaper price to the customers,” he said. “The

Other menu offerings include the Capastrami, with hot pastrami, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing and homemade coleslaw; and the cheesesteak with premium steak, chicken or Impossible plant-based meat and melted cheese plus hot or sweet peppers.

Wagyu is delicious.”

Tucson Capriotti’s fans can download the CAPAddicts Rewards app on iOS and Android to earn and redeem rewards and score free food. Capriotti’s in Tucson offers catering for any event, from corporate events to birthday parties, with items such as party trays with cold subs, box lunches, or a hot homemade meatball bar.

ny inspector.

Open since mid-April, the Tucson Capriotti’s offers an order-ahead option, in addition to third-party delivery services. The new shop brought 20 new jobs to Tucson.

Alvarez was born and raised in Southern California and joined the Air Force in 1997. One of his last tours before his 2017 retirement was a year and a half in Turkey.

“I was tired of working for other people,” he said. “I thought, ‘Let me see what I can do for myself.’ I had a good idea. I sold my rental home in Idaho and used that money as a down payment to open the business. I sold my house and used the equity to open Capriotti’s. I just couldn’t help myself. When we were hungry in Vegas, Capriotti’s was our go-to. I hope people in Tucson think the same way about it.”

“I requested to come back to Arizona to retire,” he said. “Luckily, I got Luke Air Force Base, near where my brother and parents live. I got to retire close to family.”

Since he retired, he worked as an airline mechanic, truck driver and utility compa-

FASHION from Page 4

ent designs from her Lisa Christine brand. Franco sells her designs at markets around town.

Her brand tends to feature ready-to-wear designs inspired by space and aliens. She said her clothing is meant for the “young at heart.”

“I always feel like no matter what your age is, fashion should be fun. It should be your personality. It should just showcase you,” Franco said.

During the fashion show, designs will be modeled by students, professionals, friends and family members of designers and the designers themselves.

The fashion show has a following in Tucson.

In 2019, it drew a sold-out crowd and raised around $30,000.

In 2022, the show returned with an intimate in-person audience of around 50 people and a livestream that drew over

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop 1830 E. Broadway Boulevard, Tucson 520-771-8069 capriottis.com

1,200 viewers.

This year will be the first big show back with a full audience since 2019.

Franco said the event allows people in Tucson a chance to experience a runway fashion show while supporting local students.

“There’s an interest in fashion within the community. The fact that they show up in support and come to the shows is really great. Our little program is small but mighty,” Franco said.

PCC Fashion Design Department’s Fashion Show: A New Aesthetic WHEN: 6 p.m. VIP reception. 7 p.m. general admission doors open. 7:30 p.m. fashion show begins. Friday, May 19

WHERE: Leo Rich Theater, Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Avenue, Tucson PRICE: $25 general admission, $60 VIP admission

INFO: pimafoundation.org/event/fashion

Local Kitchen Tune-Up wins system award

Scott and LeeAnn Shaff, owners of Kitchen Tune-Up Tucson-Marana, recently received the Fast Track Award at the Home Franchise Concepts Owners Conference in Orlando, Florida.

“We love to recognize and honor the achievements of our ‘Tunies’ — and each year they never fail to amaze us,” said Heidi Morrissey, president of Kitchen Tune-Up.

“Each location puts so much into

“Everybody’s working from home, staying home and actually cooking. I’m sure that had a lot to do with it. The franchise has been in business for 30 to 35 years. You have your ups and downs economy wise. The system is pretty consistent all the way through.”

their business and strives to make every project their best yet. It’s a joy to meet with them every year and acknowledge those who stood out in 2022. We are so grateful for the dedication and enthusiasm of our Tunies and their teams, and we greatly appreciate their continued commitment to creating dream kitchens for their clients.”

The Shaffs earned the award for achieving the largest sales increase in Kitchen Tune-Up franchise system in 2022.

“It was a great year for us last year,” Scott said. “We mainly attribute that to our team. We have a great team, so that’s the main thing. We’re a small team, but once the installation team gets in there and starts doing their work, they’re artists. Projects

come out beautiful and customers are happy.”

Scott said the pandemic actually helped their business, as the public was working at home, looking at their home’s design.

“Everybody’s working from home, staying home and actually cooking,” he added. “I’m sure that had a lot to do with it. The franchise has been in business for 30 to 35 years. You have your ups and downs economy wise. The system is pretty consistent all the way through.”

Founded in 1988, Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in five ways to update kitchens and cabinetry. Services include its signature one-day tune-up; cabinet painting; cabinet refacing; cabinet redooring and new cabinets.

“It’s really exciting,” LeeAnn said. “Customers get so excited to make the change. We can transform kitchens quite easily. It’s really stunning sometimes. It’s really exciting to see.”

With more than 265 franchised ter-

ritories nationwide, Kitchen Tune-Up has been named to Entrepreneur’s

Franchise 500 list in 2023. In addition to the Fast Track Award, Kitchen Tune-Up celebrated multiple other successes from 2022, including “Franny of the Year,” the “National Customer Service Award” and the “Rising Star Award.” The HFC Owners Conference provided owners opportunities to network, learn and grow their expertise.

“Among the hundreds of dedicated ‘Tunies,’ we are incredibly honored to receive the Fast Track Award this year,” LeeAnn said. “We love the work we do, and it’s fulfilling to be recognized for our efforts. We had a great year in 2022, and we’re excited for what’s to come in 2023.”

Kitchen Tune-Up

520-222-8302

sshaff@kitchentuneup.com kitchentuneup.com

LeeAnn and Scott Shaff run the Kitchen Tune-Up in Tucson-Marana. (Scott Shaff/Submitted)

Pusch Ridge junior accepted to Carnegie program

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

Pusch Ridge Christian Academy junior Campbell Stewart was in his teacher’s assistant period when he received a text to check his email.

There, he found a note stating he was chosen for NYO2, a Carnegie Hall program with 89 young musicians who participate in an intensive summer orchestral training program.

The members of NYO2 2023 — coming from 30 U.S. states plus Puerto Rico — have been recognized by Carnegie Hall as exceptionally talented musicians who not only embody a very high level of artistry, but also come from a wide range of backgrounds including communities that have often been underserved by and underrepresented in the field.

The NYO2 program begins in early

July with an intensive two-week training residency at Purchase College, State University of New York, located just north of New York City.

James Ross, music director of the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra in Virginia, returns for the 10th year as orchestra director and, for the first time, will work closely with NYO2 to prepare its 2023 program. The faculty will oversee rehearsals during the orchestra’s residency in Purchase, also working with the musicians in master classes and sectionals, in preparation for the culminating concerts in New York and the Dominican Republic.

After performing at Carnegie Hall on Saturday, July 15, the NYO2 musicians will travel to the Dominican Republic for the ensemble’s first international residency and concerts.

NYO2 musicians will give two concerts presented by Fundación Sinfonía and take part in cross-cultural youth

exchange activities, serving as musical ambassadors for their country. Conductor Joseph Young, who previously was NYO2’s resident conductor for five years, leads the ensemble with violinist Jennifer Koh joining as guest soloist. The program includes Bernstein’s “Three Dance Episodes” from “On the Town;” Sibelius’ “Violin Concerto,” with Koh as soloist; and selections from Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

“We have to fly up to New York and we have two weeks to prepare,” Stewart said. “We’re playing ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and a piece by Leonard Bernstein; stuff that is very percussion heavy. That’s going to be a lot of fun. We get to play the violin concerto with the soloist, which is a really cool opportunity.”

Sharing the news

The Oro Valley teen plays timpani and

Percussionist Campbell Stewart, a junior at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy, is headed to Carnegie Hall. (Campbell Stewart/Submitted)

from Page 8

percussion. When he read the invitation email, he ran back to his band director’s room and shared the good news.

That band director, Carrie Hester, was just as thrilled.

“Campbell is the type of student you might get lucky to have once in your career,” Hester said.

“He is a monster player, but my favorite thing about him is that he just wants to invite other people into the music that he’s making. He loves making music with his friends and does so without an ego that could be easily justified. He is quick to point out the improvement and hard work of others around him, celebrating their achievements. Campbell is thoughtful in his craft, an absolutely excellent player, quick to make you laugh, and just an all-around delightful human. I am loving being a part of his musical journey and can’t wait to see what he will do in the future.”

The son of Adam and Raegan Stewart,

YOUTH

he has been into music since he was 6, so nearly all his life. He frequently listens to jazz, especially vibraphone players like Lionel Hampton, Cal Tjader and Bill Evans. Stewart’s father played percussion in his high school marching band but didn’t tell his son until he started playing.

“That was just a coincidence,” said Stewart, who has an older sister, Kaelin.

His resume is extensive. He performs with the Tucson Reparatory and Tucson Philharmonic Youth orchestras and serves as a music librarian for the Pusch Ridge Christian Academy band program.

His activities and awards include first place in the Civic Orchestra Concerto Competition; Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition gold medal; and All-State Band.

For 10 years, he has been under the tutelage of Tucson Symphony Orchestra percussionist Trevor Barroero.

“In 2014, during my undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona, I won the Tucson Symphony’s Young

Artist Competition and had the opportunity to perform a marimba concerto with the TSO at the Tucson Music Hall,” Barroero said.

“Campbell, a second-grader at the time, saw that performance and his mom approached me afterward to ask for private lessons. I taught Campbell to hold his first pair of drumsticks and he has studied with me regularly over these past nine years. He has blossomed into the extremely accomplished 11thgrade musician that he is today.”

Barroero has been impressed by Stewart.

“He began winning concerto competitions in the seventh grade and has since received medal placements in nearly every major competition that the state of Arizona has to offer,” he said.

“This is incredibly unique and remarkable for a percussionist. Most recently, Campbell was a gold medalist of the prestigious Tucson Philharmonia Youth Orchestra’s Concerto Competition and had the opportunity to perform a xylophone concerto with the orchestra

on their final concert of the season. It was special for me to sit in the audience and watch his performance, especially because I had performed the same concerto with TPYO, on that same stage, back in 2010 when I was the competition’s gold medalist as a high schooler.”

Stewart’s dream is to attend the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he can continue learning the Cleveland style of music.

“I would describe it as simple,” he said. “A lot of other players, the visuals get in the way of making good music. I think I would rather hear really good sound than watch it.”

And Barroero said Stewart is making great music.

“Campbell practices harder and longer than any other junior percussionist I have ever met,” he said. “His talent and dedication to his craft is only outshined by his remarkable character. He is genuinely kind and humble. He is a natural-born leader with a curiosity that encourages him to ask questions and learn from his peers.”

Senior Spotlight Class of 2023

Uche headed to Stanford after leading CFHS

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

Graduating senior Anayochukwu

Edwin Uche is a leader on the Catalina Foothills High School campus. He’s National Honor Society and DECA president, and a captain of the state champion boys tennis team. He’s a National Merit Scholarship finalist. This fall, he’s headed to Stanford University to study economics and computer science.

“I’ve always been interested in technology, growing up with an iPhone and an iPad in my hands,” he said with a laugh. “I read the newspaper religiously, especially business publications. I realize there are people behind these products that I use every day. I want to learn more about that and be part of that. Growing up, I looked at the success that’s been had in the tech industry, like with Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates. I’ve read all their biographies.”

He’s just as influenced by his parents, Dr. Anayochukwu Uche and Dr. Judith Elango, President Barack Obama and the Williams sisters. Born in Sierra Leone, his mother is a dentist for El Rio, who formerly worked on the Navajo and Cocopah reservations. His Nigerian-born father is an infectious disease physician who serves as a medical director for Optum.

“My parents are some of my biggest inspirations,” Uche said. “My mom is the strongest person I know.”

Tennis is a longtime love of his. Uche picked up a racquet for the first time at age 5, following in his father’s footsteps.

“It’s been an opportunity to get closer with him,” he said.

When he leaves Catalina Foothills High School, he’s going to miss his classmates, but especially his tennis teammates.

“My teammates are my brothers,” he said. “Hopefully, we’ll stay in touch.”

A self-described big sports fan, he en-

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joys Formula 1 and racer Sir Lewis Hamilton, football and basketball.

After college, he hopes to collect art by the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol and Rashid Johnson.

“I’d call myself a cinephile, too,” he added. “I see a lot of movies. I love A24-directed movies, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino. The last good movie I saw was ‘12 Strong,’ which chronicles the very first boots on the ground in Afghanistan after 9/11.”

He prefers rap and R&B — Jay-Z and Drake in particular — but he’s into house and electronic music as well.

“I like Jay-Z, obviously because of his music career but also for what he stands for outside of the booth,” he said.

In his rare free time, he’s interns at the law practice of Snell & Wilmer.

Anayochukwu Edwin Uche served as president of the National Honor Society at Catalina Foothills High School. (Anayochukwu Edwin Uche/Submitted)

He joined DECA — formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America — his freshman year. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

“DECA’s been very influential,” said

Uche, who has an 11-year-old brother, CJ. “Being the DECA president taught me a lot about myself. It helped me grow. We weren’t able to compete during COVID. It was a period of growth. It was definitely tough, being a formative part of our lives.”

Spotlight performer to study tuba at Rice

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

Catalina Foothills High School senior Diego Jaquez doesn’t see music as a hobby. It’s a lifestyle.

Jaquez was recently a featured soloist in the Tucson Jazz Institute Ellington Big Band, which participated in the Essentially Ellington Regional High School Jazz Festival held at The Newark Academy in Livingston, New Jersey.

While in the area, he attended a Jazz

at Lincoln Center Orchestra concert and went backstage to meet the band members and guest artists.

Jaquez plays the trombone and tuba, but he’s headed to Rice University to study tuba performance.

“I’m really excited,” said Jaquez, 18. “The orchestra program there is really good. It’s a grad-focused program. It’s awesome that I get to play in a great orchestra with grad students.”

On May 15, members of the Tucson Jazz Institute played the Century Room.

His credits also include subbing on tuba with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra in February.

“I usually play the trombone,” said Jaquez, whose grandfather plays guitar. “I’ve played tuba, though, since the eighth grade. That’s my No. 1 instrument. There’s nothing like playing in the orchestra.”

He was turned onto jazz when he saw the Tucson Jazz Institute Ellington Big Band perform in Flagstaff.

“It seemed like so much fun,” he said. “It seemed like they were having so

much fun on stage, too. I was a freshman at that point. I played in my middle school big band, but it wasn’t that big of a priority to me until I saw them my freshman year.”

Jaquez is hoping he can make a career out of music.

“I want to be in a symphony orchestra and also be able to play jazz and go to jams in the area where I live,” he said. “Maybe I could play professionally. That would be great. The chance to play professionally is exciting for me.”

Finding a place to live is tricky in college

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN

Tucson Local Media Staff

There are two difficult decisions after high school: where to go to college and where to live while studying. Students can live in the dorm, apartment

or remain at home. It’s not the easiest to figure out, but here are four things to consider when making that decision.

Financial factors

All three options have different price points to consider. Apartments around

the college tend to be cheaper or more expensive than living in a dorm. Living at home can be free unless parents choose to ask for rent. Take the time to budget what you can afford.

Utilities are important to consider. Most, if not all, utilities are included in a dorm

and at home. The price of electricity, internet, water and sewage, etc., adds up when it comes to living in an apartment. Food costs money wherever you live. In a dorm, there are meal plans that are

See HOUSING Page 12

offered/required to use while living there. At an apartment, you can buy your own food. Your parents might allow you to continue eating the groceries that they buy, or they might ask you to start pitching in.

Don’t forget to consider amenities like a gym or pool. Dorms usually charge fees to go to both, but apartments don’t always have amenities like that. If using a gym is important to you, make sure you add gym memberships or usage fees in the budget.

Social life

One of the positive things to come out of college is new friendships — especially in the dorms. Students in apartments can meet new people, but they might not be college students. It’s hard to make new friends while you’re living at home because of commuting. It’s hard to entertain friends in dorm rooms, which don’t allow large gatherings or loud noises. Apartments allow for all kinds of entertainment at any time of day. Living at home also requires a request to have people over and less privacy when they are over.

Personal needs

If you value your privacy, an apartment might be the best option. Everyone needs alone time, but it’s hard to decide if being alone is more important than making new friends or being with your family.

Freedom is another driving factor.

Dorms have rules that will limit your freedom, but they have your best interest at heart. An apartment will offer legal restrictions, but it offers the most freedom. Parents will always have rules you must abide by if you lie under their roof. If you rely on someone taking care of you, like your mom or resident assistant, it’s probably best that you follow that gut instinct and stay with them. Living alone in an apartment is not for the faint of heart. RAs are designed to help make your college experience go by smoothly. Your parents offer a good shoulder to cry on and they’ll probably set up your medical appointments for you. Decide what’s best for your lifestyle.

Academic impact

Regardless of where you live, homework will have to be done. Determine where the best place is for you to study, write and focus. Roommates can be a distraction that can negatively affect your grade. A designated quiet space is needed to maximize work efficiency.

Living on or around campus gives you access to college resources like libraries or computer labs. Commuting to and from the library is a time-consuming hassle when you have an urgent assignment due. Keep that in mind when deciding where to live.

Choosing where to live is a hard decision and does not need to be set in stone for your entire time in college. Try living in a dorm for one year and see if it fits, and if not, choose other options until it works. Talk to friends and family to help you make the right decision.

HOUSING from Page 11

Be aware of these 5 warm weather hazards

BY MIA SMITT Tucson Local Media Columnist

Though we are just barely into springtime in Arizona, our weather is getting hotter by the day. Spring and summer, with the longer days and warmer temperatures, are favorite seasons for many of us. We spend more time outdoors and adopt a more active lifestyle. Walks in the park, bicycling along the Loop, swimming, barbecue parties in the back yard, and even doing our own gardening are fun and invigorating. These are seasons with many enjoyable outdoor activities, but we should be aware of the five most common warm weather health hazards.

Accumulated sunburns over a lifetime greatly increase the risk of skin cancer. Many of us boomers remember those days of youth, basking in the sun’s rays without a clue as to the risks. But as we have become aware of the danger, hopefully we have adopted the practice of regular high SPF (sun protection factor) sunscreen use. We should use sunscreen daily, not just for a day poolside or at the beach. Heat can be a health risk, especially for the youngest and oldest members of our communities. Babies and young children are not able to make behavioral adjustments to warm environments and their bodies are frequently unable to make adaptive changes due to the immaturity of the thermoregulatory system. Elderly persons are at a higher risk for heat related illness due to underlying illnesses, certain medications, and declining physical ability to regulate body temperature.

There might be poor access to adequate air conditioning, limited social support, and declining ability to care for oneself. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are risky and can lead to death if left untreated. Check on elderly neighbors and if necessary, transport them to a cooling center or senior center on those especially hot days. Avoid dehydration by sipping on cool drinks throughout the day.

A walk in the woods or along the river or estuary can be beautiful, relaxing, romantic — and itchy. The most common poisonous plans in Arizona are poison ivy, candelabras cacti, and poison oak. Poison oak is common in the western part of the

United States and can be seen as scrub brush or grow as tall as 40 feet and can be found as high as 5,000-feet elevation. There are no leaves in winter, but in the spring it sprouts three green leaves and white flowers before turning the familiar pink-red hue.

Poison ivy is a smaller plant, shrub or climbing vine and also has three distinct leaves that turn reddish pink. Remember the maxim, “leaves of three, leave them be.”

Urushiol, the oily resin in both poison ivy and poison oak leaves can remain on shoes for up to a year. The best prevention is recognition and avoidance. Treatment is usually with antihistamines and cortisone creams but may require more intensive treatment in severe cases.

Candelabras cacti can grow up to 25 feet and produce a milky white substance that also irritates the skin and can be deadly if ingested.

Food poisoning is more common in the summertime. Picnics and potluck gatherings can create that “perfect storm” opportunity for improperly prepared or stored foods to grow bacteria that can cause illness and even death. Avoid food poisoning by keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. This is not too difficult with the various insulated trays and bags available for us. Uneaten foods should be refrigerated immediately after a meal.

Insect bites are a common summer health hazard. Honeybees and bumblebees are not aggressive unless provoked. They leave their stingers embedded in the skin, so treatment consists of careful re-

moval. There is usually not a serious reaction except localized discomfort until the stinger is removed. The vespids — wasps, yellowjackets and hornets — can be more aggressive. Usual reactions include swelling up to 2 inches across within 24 hours. Systemic reactions include hives, wheezes and bronchospasm similar to an asthma attack, swelling around the eyes, and swelling and infection at the bite site. These reactions can be mild to life threatening and must be treated as soon as possible after the symptoms are felt. Anyone with an allergy to insect bites should carry an “epi-pen,” an epinephrine injection system that anyone can use to administer life-saving medication while emergency help is on the way.

West Nile virus is becoming commonplace but is no less problematic. Remove all standing water and use mosquito repellent.

We need to stay aware of the many seasonal health hazards we may potentially face as we enjoy the warmest time of year here. Good health and commonsense practices will make the season more enjoyable and safer.

Mia Smitt is a longtime nurse practitioner who writes a column for Tucson Local Media.

Water dangers finish our list of top summer health hazards. Drowning is a leading cause of death in children under the age of 5. Pools need to be fenced or otherwise inaccessible to young children unless supervised. Even adults should always swim with a buddy. Unforeseen events such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden cramping can lead to serious injury in the water or death due to drowning. Our rivers and streams are inviting and cool, but the currents can be treacherous. Swimmers’ ear is a common summer malady prevented by a mixture of (or a commercial preparation) vinegar and alcohol in the ear canal after swimming.

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The good and the bad of high school sports

BY TOM DANEHY

Tucson Local Media Columnist

The good Northwest-area schools again showed up and showed out in the various state tournaments. The softball teams from Ironwood Ridge, Canyon Del Oro, Marana, and Mountain View all advanced to postseason play, while the baseball teams from CDO, Ironwood Ridge, Marana and Flowing Wells all had a shot at a state title in their respective classes.

The CDO boys will be going for the second straight state title, while the Dorado girls faced off with their nemesis (and defending state champion) Salpointe last Saturday at Amphi High School.

The boys’ teams from Ironwood Ridge, Flowing Wells, Marana and Mountain View all advanced to state in volleyball, while the girls from CDO made state in beach volleyball.

In girls’ tennis, the CDO doubles team of Scarlett Bakken and Jordan Crawford make a strong run all the way to the final four before losing in two sets to a duo from Catalina Foothills. Bakken and Crawford are both only sophomores, so their future is bright.

The bad

I have always tried to be kind and understanding with the Arizona Interscholastic Association, which has the thankless task of trying to herd the various types of cats who inhabit the world of high school athletics in our state. There are ridiculous parents, out-of-control kids, and shady club coaches trying to skirt the rules in order to suck more money out of the wallets of gullible parents.

The AIA is usually right, but sometimes they are almost gloriously wrong. Two quick examples come to mind.

The AIA website recently had an article about how the boys’ tennis team at Catalina Foothills High School was working on an active stretch where its record was an incredible 140-1 in regular season matches. (How lousy would it be to have been a member of the team that lost that one game?)

I did some research and learned that the Foothills girls had a similar mark, having lost only once in more than 100 regular season matches. I found that loss; it was to big-school powerhouse Desert Mountain (and it wasn’t even close). Both of those teams advanced to state in their respective divisions, but while Foothills cruised to a state championship, Desert Mountain was bounced from the tournament in the second round — not by another team but by a bizarre rule in the AIA handbook.

Each high-school tennis match consists of six singles matches and three doubles matches, so a team can win with a score of anywhere between 5-4 and 9-0. For as long as anyone can remember, some tennis coaches tried to pull a fast one in order to increase their chances of winning the overall match. Say that the coach of Team B looks at the upcoming opponent and realizes that his No. 1 and No. 3 players are both likely to lose their respective singles matches. So he flip-flops them, throwing the No. 3 player to the wolves while having his top player play the opposing No. 3 player. That way, he comes out 1-1 in those two matches instead of 0-2.

That was very common practice for decades until the AIA addressed it. They put in measures to (mostly) keep coaches from doing that. But then they added a kicker that had a devas-

tating effect.

When Desert Mountain went to state that year, they were so devastatingly good that they knew that they would crush their first-round opponent. So, the DM coach, in a noble gesture, allowed some of his lower-level kids to play so they could say that they played in the state tournament.

When they got to the second round, he put his top six players back in the normal lineup. However, the AIA has a rule that says that the roster used in the first round must be used throughout the tournament — no changing of players (except for a verifiable injury) and no changing of the order. The coach didn’t know the rule and his team, which was two-time defending state champion, was disqualified. There was a weird echo of that rule this year. In beach volleyball, the AIA holds team championships and also holds championships for individual two-person teams. Salpointe won the Division II State championship (they belong in Division I, but you know Salpointe). The top pair for Salpointe was an odds-on favorite to win that pair's title.

Sadly, one of the players, Francesca Pieroni, suffered a broken leg the week before the tournament. But, according to an even-weirder AIA rule, her partner, Megan Muehlebach (the daughter of former UA basketball star Matt Muehlebach), was barred from selecting a different partner, even because of a broken leg!

These rules don’t just pop up out of nowhere. Obviously, at some time in the past, a coach or two have tried to pull a fast one and got caught. Still, it would be nice if rules and regulations could be tempered occasionally with a little bit of common sense.

SPORTS & RECREATION Athlete of the Week: Miguel Estrada

BY TOM DANEHY Tucson Local Media Columnist

Miguel Estrada wanted me to call him at exactly 7:40 p.m. He had had spring football practice right after school on the legendary Friedli Field at Amphitheater High School and then had hustled over to practice with his club soccer team. He was probably disappointed that he didn’t have time to go to the batting cages and get in a few swings. But finals are coming up and, well, you know.

Only a sophomore, he was a first-team all-region selection as a forward on the Amphi soccer team that reached the quarterfinals at state. Next fall, he plans on starting at wide receiver on offense and cornerback on defense for the Panther football team, plus he’s the kicker. He is also the starting catcher and leading hitter for the Amphi baseball team. Estrada wants the Panther football program to get back to the excellence that it enjoyed for decades. (There was one stretch where Amphi went to state in football 20 years in a row.) While it’s unlikely that that will ever happen again (not just for Amphi, but for any school), reaching the state tournament is a reasonable goal. Over the past few years, the Panthers have an overall winning record, including a Region championship, and they were 4-0 and rolling during the pandemic year when their season was cut short.

When asked which sport he likes the most, he gives the predictable response. “I like all of them. I guess I like the one that I happen to be playing at the time.”

While he is an all-region player in soccer (with two more years ahead of him), by all accounts, his best sport is

Only a sophomore, Miguel Estrada was a first-team all-region selection as a forward on the Amphi soccer team. Next fall, he plans on starting at wide receiver on offense and cornerback on defense for the Panther football team, plus he’s the kicker. He is also the starting catcher and leading hitter for the Amphi baseball team. (Miguel Estrada/Submitted)

baseball. Unfortunately, this season was a tough one for him and his Panther teammates. Amphi won only three games and lost several contests by wildly lopsided scores.

I asked him what it was like going from a state tournament soccer team to a baseball team that struggled throughout the season.

“You know, it’s not as bad as people think. Everybody wants to win in every sport, but you can make it into (a positive experience). None of my team-

mates quit. We showed up to practice and worked. It’s just that other teams were better.”

He said that he’s looking forward to next season, but over the off-season will work on his game by playing on a club baseball team. He would like for at least two (if not all three) of his Amphi teams to go to state next year. The football team was on an upswing at the end of last season and 16 of the 19 guys on the soccer team will be back next year.

He recently went to the prom with a four-sport star who is the best female athlete in the school. What is it like, he was asked, to be dating someone who is an even better all-around athlete than you are? Quite quickly, he made a blurt sound, then, thinking better of it, he paused, then said calmly, “Yes, she’s a very good athlete.”

Well played.

Edited by Will Shortz

HOROSCOPE

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Aspects indicate a potential for confusion or misunderstanding. Keep those lines of communication open between you and your mate or significant other.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Romantic aspects are strong, but confusing. Be alert. Use your good Bovine sense to avoid charging into something that isn't quite what it seems to be.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Working out problems with family members or others close to you should be your priority. Travel aspects are strong, especially in job-related situations.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The Cancerian Crab likes to take charge of things. But be careful you don't pinch off more than you can hold, or you might find it all slipping out of your grasp.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A new opportunity beckons Leos and Leonas who are ready to take on some tough challenges. Family matters continue to improve, but still need close attention.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) What seems to be a disappointment could be a blessing in disguise. Use that good Virgin mind to analyze the situation and learn some valuable lessons.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) There are some conflicting considerations that will need careful sorting out. Remember: You do best when you're able to balance sense and sentiment.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Aspects show conflicting signs around friendships. Be careful about taking advice from someone who might have an agenda that is not in your best interests.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Relationships are supposed to be about give-and-take, but you might find that you've been doing all the giving while getting little in return.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Sometimes indecision can be a positive factor in helping to resolve doubts about a potential commitment. Don't be rushed into acting before you feel ready to do so.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Take off those rose-colored glasses and see this new situation for what it is -- and for what it isn't. Remember: You haven't been told the whole truth yet.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Watch that you don't drain your energy reserves as you dive into a new and increasingly demanding project. Take time out for rest and relaxation.

BORN THIS WEEK: You live your life on a finely tuned balance between the perception of a Taurus and the curiositiy of a Gemini. You excel in the arts. (c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

without listening

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Caused all sorts of problems with

Kind of pickup

Mad magazine staple

14 Duct tube 20 Grubby little paws

23 Raggedy

25 Snapped out of a daydream, perhaps 27 Fast-food fare in which two pancakes form a sandwich 29 Soil-loosening tool

Resignation notice? 32 35-Across and others, in brief

Language with its own “green star” flag 36 Follow, as a lead

Large unit of computing speed

Barely rustled the net

Sort of spectacles not much seen nowadays

Forum that provides material for many BuzzFeed articles

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Fret about a fricassee? 6 Long division

7 Not stick out like a sore thumb 8 Thinks the world of

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Casino game with “hits” and “catches” 56 Patty and Selma’s workplace on “The Simpsons,” for short

57 Floors in a ring

PUZZLE BY BILLY BRATTON