Lovin' Life After 50 - Tucson - November 2021

November 2021

Some Like It Hot

The Estate Planning Journey

Tucson is home to a bevy of barbecue joints

Being proactive pays off

Riding the Wave The Beach Boys haven’t stopped making music This issue sponsored by

Tucson Edition

Gabriel Iglesias’ tour brings him ‘Behind the Fluff’ Page 15

The latest news and top local stories!

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An Ageless Attitude Since 1979

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Opinion

Leibo At Large

Getting older has made me look differently at aging

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ The first time I poked fun at the Rolling Stones for being too old to rock ‘n’ roll was in 1997. The band, led by then54-year-old Mick Jagger, was in Tempe to play at the Sun Devil Stadium.

Lead guitarist Keith Richards was a few weeks shy of turning 54 — a couple years younger than I am today. The Stones must have torn it up that night, because news reports from the concert indicated that sparks from their pyrotechnics set off a huge blaze in some bleachers behind the stage.

So much for my jokes about that being The Depends Tour.

I raise the point out of a desire to clarify some things concerning the concept of old age.

One, despite having multiple college degrees by the time I reached my thirties, I was still a naive jackass. Retrospect is startling that way, helping you know what you don’t know.

Two, the older I get, the more distant old age feels. Part of that is wishful thinking. But also, it seems to take longer to get old in the 21st century, with all our technology and science, than it did back a couple decades ago. Or so I’ve deluded myself.

In addition to swabbing away some of my naivete, aging has also increased my tolerance. One example is the newfound respect I have for Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, who at 44 is leading the National Football League in passing yards and completions while chasing an unfathomable eighth Super Bowl ring.

For context, Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray was 3 when Brady made his NFL debut.

Brady peaking again this late in athletic life makes you wonder how long he can go without a noticeable decline in performance. I had the same thought a few weeks ago while listening to Don Henley, lead singer of the Eagles, hit www.LovinLife.com

some impossibly high notes on classics like “One of These Nights” and “Desperado.”

At age 74, Henley sounds no different than he did back in the day. If his voice is being helped along by autotune or technical wizardry, I couldn’t tell. What’s more, I didn’t care.

On a Saturday night in September in Downtown Phoenix, surrounded by 15,000 other lunatics who also knew every lyric — and didn’t mind coming out in the midst of a pandemic — you could close your eyes and be transported back to 1977, when “Hotel California” first hit FM radio and shot up to No. 1 on Casey Kasem’s American Top 40.

That’s something age has taught me about music, movies, television and books: The best art not only captures a unique story, it helps us capture a unique state of self. Great songs are like thumbtacks affixing certain moments in time in our minds and hearts.

It’s a quality that my older self appreciates, in the same way I have a new appreciation for the Rolling Stones. I plunked down a small fortune the other day to see them in Las Vegas next month, nearly 24 years to the day after I skipped them in Tempe.

Jagger is 78. Richards and Ronnie Wood are 77. Drummer Charlie Watts passed away in August at age 80.

Used to be, I found something mortifying about the idea of Mick cavorting about bare-chested in leather pants, singing “If you start me up, I’ll never stop” at an age when most of his peers were worrying more about sitting up.

Not anymore. Now I get it.

Whoever barked “act your age” was some know-it-all in his 30s who’d read a bunch of books but hadn’t really lived at all.

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November Calendar

Have events for the calendar?

Send entries to christina@timespublications.com

skewers politicos of the day, bringing his most viral video song parodies to life onstage. Featuring live accompaniment, the show will include personal stories, an audience Q&A, and new original songs written by Rainbow with Marc Shaiman (“Hairspray,” “Mary Poppins Returns”) and Alan Menken (“Little Shop of Horrors,” “Beauty and the Beast”).

Atlanta Rhythm Section and Firefall Friday, November 5

Two 1970s mainstays come together for a night at the Fox Tucson Theatre.

Atlanta Rhythm Section found success with hits like “So Into You,” “Champagne Jam,” “Spooky” and “Imaginary Lover.”

Meanwhile, Firefall has enjoyed a career that spans more than 40 years, thanks to “You are the Woman,” “Strange Way,” “Just Remember I Love You” and “Cinderella.”

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., $32 to $82

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., sold out

Sara Evans Blue Christmas Tour Friday, November 26

Multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans is at the top of her game. Evans’ discography includes the platinum-selling studio albums “Real Fine Place” and “Restless,” as well as the gold-certified projects “Stronger” and “No Place That Far.” She’s bringing Christmas to the stage.

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., $42.50 to $87.50

Jake Shimabukuro: Christmas in Hawaii Saturday, November 27 four RIAA Gold records with career sales topping 3 million units. All 11 tracks on his latest album, “Solid,” were produced and written or co-written by James.

The first adult urban single, “Be Here,” was co-produced by Boney’s longtime collaborator Jairus “J -Mo” Mozee (Anderson.Paak, Nicki Minaj, Anthony Hamilton). “Be Here” features vocals and lyrics by R&B star Kenny Lattimore, best known for his Top 10 R&B hit “For You.”

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7 p.m., $29 to $55

Tommy Emmanuel Saturday, November 6

‘Whose Live Anyway’ Saturday, November 20

The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” bring their new improv tour “Whose Live Anyway?” to the stage. The 90-minute show is based on audience suggestions given to Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis and Joel Murray.

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., $25.50 to $75.50

Ukulele master and jolly ambassador of aloha Jake Shimbukuro will bring joy to the world this upcoming 2021 holiday season by delivering a special gift for all with the debut of his highly anticipated holiday show, Jake Shimabukuro: Christmas in Hawaii. In addition to his signature show favorites, this special show will draw on a vibrant catalog of holiday classics such as “We Three Kings,” “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” “O Holy Night,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and selections from his “Jake & Friends,” which is set for release this month.

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., $25 to $42.50

Two qualities define Tommy Emmanuel — his guitar playing and his joyful music.

He’s bringing both to the Fox.

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, 547-3030, foxtucson.com, 7:30 p.m., $44.50 to $59.50

Boney James

Thursday, November 11

Sunday, November 7 One of the most successful instrumental artists, Boney James has accumulated

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On The Pink Glasses Tour, the three-time Emmy-nominated singer, writer and comedian takes the hottest topics and www.LovinLife.com

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News Briefs

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Brnovich: Hearing device company misled customers Attorney General Mark Brnovich obtained an assurance of discontinuance against Budget Hearing Aids and its subsidiary, Audien (Budget), to stop the company from misleading consumers about over-the-counter hearing devices.

Budget owns several websites and advertises “FDA approved” or “FDA registered” hearing devices, even though the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any over-the-counter hearing aids.

The attorney general’s office claims Budget’s use of these terms conveys a message to the public that the FDA favors or endorses a particular product or service.

As a result of the settlement, the attorney general’s office required Budget desist from using this deceptive tactic and to remove the FDA logo and the terms “FDA approved” and “FDA registered” from any of its advertising. This injunctive term promotes truth in advertising in this burgeoning marketplace.

“My office will continue to be vigilant in protecting consumers by holding companies accountable for their misleading tactics,” Brnovich says. “Consumers looking for an affordable over-the-counter hearing device should do their homework before making a purchase.”

Last year, Brnovich was the country’s first attorney general to warn Arizona consumers about the misleading tactics being utilized by the flood of over-thecounter hearing device companies that entered the market when the FDA relaxed restrictions on hearing amplifier devices.

Brnovich offers the following consumer tips when buying over-the-counter hearing devices: • FDA guidance for the over-the-counter hearing device market does not exist.

These devices may not work for those with significant or severe hearing loss.

• Always check the Better Business Bureau and other objective consumer review websites before buying.

• If you choose to buy, always price shop and review the product details carefully.

If the product could be of use, you often can find the same or similar product at lower prices.

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NOVEMBER 2021

• Carefully read the timeframes and conditions for refunds before you buy. If you agree to an upgrade on your original purchase, be sure to clarify the time remaining during which you may request a refund.

Assistant Attorney General Jane Fallon handled the case for the state.

Those who feel they have been victims of consumer fraud should call 628-6648.

UA College of Medicine names new surgery chair Dr. Geoffrey Gurtner has been named chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, effective January 10.

“We conducted a national search and found Dr. Gurtner’s skills and experience to be exceptional,” says Dr. Michael M.I. Abecassis, MBA, dean of the UA College of Medicine-Tucson.

“He possesses a unique combination of clinical excellence, an aptitude for educating and training students, residents and fellows, and an outstanding track record of conducting research that not only advances the science of medicine but benefits people through real-world applications.”

Gurtner joins the college from the Stanford School of Medicine, where he is the Johnson & Johnson Distinguished Professor of Surgery, co-director of the Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, professor of bioengineering, professor of materials science and engineering, executive director of the Stanford Advanced Wound Care Center, and inaugural vice chair for Innovation in the Stanford Department of Surgery.

Gurtner graduated from Dartmouth College and earned his medical degree at the University of California, San Francisco.

He completed his internship and surgical residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, followed by a plastic surgery residency at the Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery at NYU Medical Center and a fellowship in oncologic microsurgery at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Gurtner is internationally recognized as a highly accomplished clinician and prolific researcher, author, inventor and entre-

preneur. He has been awarded more than $27 million in federal research funding and holds 35 patents. He also has founded three venture capital-backed life sciences companies.

SAACA, Oro Valley partnering for photo contest The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) and the town of Oro Valley are partnering up once again to capture the essence of Oro Valley life, animals, outdoor spaces, urban and residential life, and experience of life within the community with the inaugural Oro Valley Community Photography Competition.

The competition aims to reveal the essence of Oro Valley through the lens of a camera.

Online submissions are open through 11:59 p.m. February 10.

The 2022 competition will provide three main categories for submission, including major themes of People, Places & Nature, and Animals & Wildlife. More information on these category descriptions can be found on the competition website, orovalleyphotos.com.

Cash prizes will be provided in each of the categories for first, second and third place, and two honorable mention ribbons in each category. A special youth category has been established to encourage participation from entrants younger than the age of 18.

The community can submit up to three entries through orovalleyphotos.com.

Photographs will be judged on originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact and artistic merit from a panel of emerging and established professional artists and editorial contacts.

The town of Oro Valley and the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance will host a collaborative winners’ presentation award ceremony in the spring. Details will be announced through the website.

Oro Valley wins statewide ‘Project of the Year’ The Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association has named Oro Valley winner of the 2021 Project of the Year for Transportation Projects $5 million to $25 million for its project La Cholla Boulevard: Overton to Tangerine roads.

The La Cholla project is one of the approved projects in the 2006 Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) plan to widen La Cholla Boulevard from Magee to Tangerine roads. Phase I, Magee to Over-

ton roads, was completed and managed

by Pima County. Phase II, Overton to Tangerine roads, was managed by the town of Oro Valley.

The improvements provide traffic capacity and all-weather crossings, improve user safety and operations, and increase mobility. The project completes a vital connection between two completed RTA projects: the 600-foot bridge structure over the Cañada Del Oro Wash to the south and Tangerine Road improvements to the north. Safety upgrades include widening, roadway profile, bicycle lanes, separate path/sidewalk, turn lanes at intersections, signalized pedestrian crossings, an equestrian crossing and stormwater conveyance under La Cholla Boulevard that also provides safe animal crossings. The project was designed by AECOM, with construction provided by Hunter Contracting.

“This was a remarkable project to complete,” says Paul Keesler, Oro Valley public works director and town engineer.

“With nearly a year of the construction work taking place during the pandemic, it was through an extraordinary effort that we were able to maintain the progress and cost to deliver the project on schedule and on budget. My eternal thanks to the team of fantastic professionals who accomplished this feat.”

Throughout the design and construction, the town of Oro Valley partnered with Pima County and the RTA. These partnerships allowed the town and county to pull assets and expertise together to form an excellent project team.

Tucson man accused of taking money from vulnerable adults Hector Andres Aleman was indicted by a state grand jury with 20 criminal charges, including fraudulent schemes and artifices, forgery, computer tampering, and taking the identity of another, according to Attorney General Mark Brnovich.

The charges stem from Aleman allegedly using a position of trust to take advantage of three vulnerable adults by gaining access to the victims’ funds and transferring the money to himself.

The indictment alleges that from March through November 2018, Aleman applied for loans in the name of two victims without their authorization or knowledge and kept the cash for himself. Additionally, Aleman is accused of falsifying probate documents for a recently deceased victim so Aleman could direct the estate’s assets to himself. www.LovinLife.com

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Features

The ESTATE

Journey PLANNING

Being proactive pays off

BY LAURA LATZKO Estate planning may seem like a grim topic that can be put off until it is necessary.

Avoiding it, however, can have financial and emotional implications. Deb Smith and her family have been proactive about wills, trusts and power of attorney documents.

lowed to act on my behalf and do these things on my behalf,’ that’s a big deal. … That’s an extreme example, but why gamble?” Smith says.

“The medical side of things, being able to have access to their medical records, to know what is going on with them, to be able to assist and direct them, that’s important.”

The whole family

Estate planning considerations

Smith, her husband, their daughters and parents have taken steps to protect their assets and/or name powers of attorney in case anything happens to them.

The Chandler resident even teaches juniors and seniors in high school about estate planning through her company OutLoud Marketing Studio.

She is following her parents’ example, as they are on top of their documents.

“My mom is remarried to my stepdad,” Smith says.

“It is important when you have mixed families like that, being specific on how things are inherited, if one person dies, making sure that kids aren’t cut out of the wills. It goes back to general financial planning and retirement planning. My parents have been a really good example.”

Smith wants to set a similar example for her 14- and 19-year-old daughters.

Her oldest daughter arranged power of attorney documents before she entered college at age 18.

Smith says it’s difficult to imagine her daughter being ill or injured, but she feels more secure knowing power of attorney documents are in place.

“Let’s say she is incapacitated and she can’t get to the bank, and she has bills to pay or I need access to her ASU college stuff online. I don’t have that password. I wouldn’t have access to that. So, if I didn’t have paperwork that says, ‘My mom is al-

There are several steps that can make the process easier.

James A. Whitehill of Whitehill Law Offices P.C. recommends that people inventory their assets, beneficiaries and other issues.

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Lessening the burden Estate planning puts less of a burden on families when they are grieving.

“There’s all of the emotional stuff that comes with it, like what would they want, how they want to be taken care of and remembered. It’s less stressful for people to have that taken care of ahead of time,” Smith says.

Smith has a good friend whose fatherin-law unexpectedly died with no estate-planning documents in place.

“He was dying in the hospital,” Smith says. “He couldn’t speak for himself.

They had to go through that whole thing of, ‘What do you think he would want?

Would he want to be a ventilator? Would he not want to stay on a ventilator?’ It was just a terrible time for them. Who wants to have to do that? Nobody. Just being proactive with your medical directives and having a living will, it’s really important.”

Asset value Starting the estate planning process may take some time at the beginning, because families need to find out what

James A. Whitehill of Whitehill Law Offices P.C. recommends that people inventory their assets, beneficiaries and other issues. (Submitted photo)

assets they have.

Whitehill says this can involve taxes, car registrations, and insurance and bank statements to arrive at the value of homes, cars and accounts.

“They should take stock of all of their assets. So, they need to think about homes, other real estate they might own, bank accounts, brokerage accounts, vehicles, boats, motor homes, personal property and insurance policies,” Whitehill says.

“If somebody doesn’t know what they own, how it’s owned and the value of the assets, then it’s very difficult to help them plan for the future.”

Whitehill says that while many spouses will leave everything to each other, multiple marriages and children from those unions can complicate matters.

Real estate considerations With trusts, families should make sure property, such as real estate, isn’t left out.

While this may not seem complicated, many individuals forget to update their trusts to include new houses or properties.

Smith’s family organized estate planning documents after her second daughter was born. They update regularly, like when they moved to Arizona a few years ago.

One issue that can arise with estate planning in Arizona is owning real estate in a retirement community such as Sun City.

“A lot of times, they will have age restrictions,” Pennington says.

“So, you can’t leave the home to somebody who is not that age or a fee has to be paid. So, then all of a sudden, the estate pays this fee for no reason. The person still can’t live there, and now they have to sell it.”

Often with wills and trusts, real estate can make planning a little more complicated.

Whitehill says when thinking about real estate, couples should consider whether their children would want to hold on to the property or sell it.

“Every child is in a different place.

Some children want the home. Some children want the money. Some children want the money over a period of time.

So, from my perspective, parents ought to be thinking about what they want to do but not trying to force an outcome on their children,” Whitehill says.

Power of attorney documents An estate plan generally includes a health care power of attorney and a durable general power of attorney to handle financial matters.

Having power of attorney documents in place can ensure that if individuals Estate...continues on page 11 www.LovinLife.com

Estate...continued from page 10 aren’t able to make decisions for themselves, people they trust will be able to act on their behalf.

Other considerations There can also be other considerations that families need to look at when estate planning, such as making provisions for grown children with special needs or setting up their wills to include charitable gifts.

In her estate-planning documents, Smith has included provisions her funeral arrangements and for her dogs. She says that these little details, such as who pets will go to, can be overlooked but need to be considered.

“You should definitely make sure that you advocate for them and have them in your estate plan. They need to be cared for, too,” Smith says.

Because their children are young, Smith and her husband specifically set up their trust so that their daughters would receive funds over time.

“We put some rules in place about them getting money over time and to earn that money through specific things, like they have to finish school. If they don’t want to go to school, then they have to be involved in some sort of a trade,” Smith says.

“Part of me, if you told me that 20 years ago, I would have thought that was mean. But I actually think that this is important because you aren’t going to be around to take care of them, God forbid anything happens. So, you need to make sure that they are in a position to take care of themselves.”

Whitehill says with estate planning, people really need really consider and to

address “what if” scenarios.

“That’s why I say to people estate planning is much more complicated than simply saying, ‘Well, I want everything to go to my spouse, and if something happens to my spouse, give it to my kids.’ What happens if something happens to one of your kids? Do you mean it should go to your grandchildren? And what if your grandchildren are young? How should it be treated?” Whitehill says.

Personal possessions Some families look at how to divide personal items such as family heirlooms.

Under Arizona statutes, it is possible to change lists of tangible personal property without visiting an attorney.

Smith made sure to include certain personal possessions, such as jewelry from her grandmother she wanted to leave to her daughters.

Effects of COVID-19 Many families have begun to consider wills, trust and POA documents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whitehill says he has noticed an influx of clients since the quarantine eased up.

“Some people have called me and said, ‘I need to update my documents because COVID has brought that to the forefront.’

Other people have said, ‘I need documents if something were to happen to me. I don’t have them.’ That’s the way that COVID-19 has presented itself in conversations. It is because of the randomness of COVID-19 and the severity of COVID-19,” Whitehill says.

Document updates It is as important to look back at estate planning documents as it is to establish

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them.

Whitehill recommends doing this when there is a change in circumstances or every five years.

“If somebody has passed away, it is important to look at estate-planning documents. If somebody is divorced, it’s important to look at estate-planning documents. If somebody has prepared them and hasn’t looked at them in 15 years, it’s time to pull them back out and take a

look,” Whitehill says.

Whitehill says changes aren’t as easy as crossing out information and scribbling new information. The documents need to be formally amended.

Whitehill says that estate planning often involves making updates because situations can change.

“Estate planning is a journey. There are twists, turns and detours along the way because life is like that,” Whitehill says.

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Casinos

The Beach Boys are heading to Casino Del Sol on November 29 as part of the “Feel Flows World Tour.” (Submitted photo)

Riding the Wave The Beach Boys haven’t stopped making music

BY MADISON PERALES The Beach Boys’ Mike Love played a couple drive-in shows during the pandemic, but nothing comes close to hitting a proper stage.

The band will perform at Casino Del Sol on Friday, November 12, as part of its 29date “Feel Flows World Tour.”

“We are so happy to be able to get back out and do concerts,” Love says. “Live music with real people is great because we were unable to for a year and a half or two.”

Like everyone around the world, the pandemic had an adverse effect on the Beach Boys, who were forced to cancel their tour.

“We had the biggest tour of our career lined up, then COVID-19 hit, and it all went away,” Love says.

But that didn’t stop them from making music. “We were able to do a song called ‘This Too Shall Pass,’” Love says.

Even though the members were unable to meet in person, they recorded Lead singer Mike Love says the group is back and better than ever, despite COVID-19 hurdles. (Submitted photo)

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NOVEMBER 2021

their parts with microphones, computers and phones and sent their recordings to actor/drummer John Stamos, who created the video.

“I wanted to say something positive to look forward to,” Love says. “We’re actually performing it every night in our concert. We do the encore, then we finish up with our classic ‘Fun, Fun, Fun.’” COVID-19 is lingering, but Love isn’t too concerned about touring during the pandemic. “I was vaccinated months and months ago, so that’s no problem,” Love says.

The Beach Boys started the “Feel Flows World Tour” in May. These past five months created noteworthy moments for Love, like when the audience reacts to the hit “Kokomo.”

“We have several big singalongs, like ‘Help Me Rhonda’ and ‘California Girls,’” Love says. “But ‘Kokomo’ is by far the biggest singalong, and to me, that’s the most special part of the concert.”

The band kicked off the tour on May 29 in San Diego, where it spiced up the show with special guests Stamos and Mark McGrath of Super Ray. “I just think it’s special for John and Mark to show up because it’s unexpected and it gives us a whole other element of surprise,” Love says. “They’re both so engaging and add so much positive energy to our performances.”

McGrath will also appear on the Beach Boys cruise from Miami to Nassau, Bahamas, in March.

“We have the Temptations, the Monkees, and a Beatles tribute band called A Hard Day’s Night,” Love says. “It’s going to be nonstop music on that cruise.”

The Beach Boys were formed in 1961.

Love says the Beach Boys were founded on lyrics about romance, California girls and the beach life.

“That still exists in little pockets in Southern California,” Love says.

While the lyrics from some of their hits still resonate with listeners, the touring environment has changed a lot since the ‘60s.

“COVID-19 doesn’t have that much of an effect on the audience response,” Love says. “But technically, the performances are better these days because the sound is better, the production is better, and the venues are great.”

As for the Tucson show, fans can expect nostalgic songs from the ‘60s. “Expect all the hit singles you can associate with the Beach Boys catalog and some songs that are more so perhaps,” Love says.

The set list includes “God Only Knows,” which was sung by Carl Wilson, who died in 1998 from lung cancer. Love’s son, Christian, takes over vocal duties.

“He does a beautiful job on that song,” Love says. “It’s almost as if it was written for him.”

A tribute to George Harrison, “Pisces Brothers,” is also featured. Love and Harrison’s birthdays are in February and March. He references Hari Krishna, meditation, “Here Comes the Sun” and other subjects that Love holds dearly to his heart when he thinks of Harrison.

“It’s a very sentimental song, because George passed away, and when he died, I was feeling pretty sad about it,” Love says. “I did the song as a combination of things that George really loved and things we both appreciated.

“That song (‘Pisces Brothers’) wasn’t a hit, but it’s very sentimental and a really nice moment in the show.”

MORE INFO

What: The Beach Boys When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 12 Where: Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road Cost: Tickets start at $30 Info: casinodelsol.com www.LovinLife.com

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NOVEMBER 2021

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15

Go Big or Go Home

Gabriel Iglesias made it a point to bring his family, friends and dogs for “Beyond the Fluffy World Tour – Go Big or Go Home.”

(Photo courtesy of Paul Mobley)

Gabriel Iglesias’ tour brings him ‘Behind the Fluff’

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN Comedian Gabriel Iglesias says “it’s everything” to him to perform again after a yearlong COVID-19 hiatus.

He hits the stage at the AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol Saturday, November 13.

“I’ve been doing this for almost 25 years, and I’ve started getting into a routine where it becomes so normal that you forget how special it is until it gets taken away,” says Iglesias, who is nicknamed “Fluffy.”

“I could basically do this anytime I wanted to, anywhere I wanted to, and then it gets taken away to where I can’t even go to the other side of the planet to do it — where as that has always been the option. My favorite thing in life got taken away from me for over a year, so the fact that I can do it again is like wow.”

Iglesias says following every show, he thanks the crowd for filling the seats, “because I don’t know when they are going to pull the plug again. I enjoy every single night like it is the last.”

Iglesias has a number of comedy specials: 2007’s “Gabriel Iglesias: Hot and Fluffy”; 2009’s “Gabriel Iglesias: I’m Not Fat…I’m Fluffy”; and his Netflix show “Mr. Iglesias.” He has lent his voice to a variety of movies, including “The Nut Job,” “The Book of Life” and “Ferdinand.”

Iglesias’ current tour is called “Beyond the Fluffy World Tour – Go Big or Go Home,” and he does just that.

“We’ve got four semitrucks and four tour buses,” Iglesias says. “It is honestly the biggest comedy tour that has ever happened, and I made it a point to (do it that way).

“I’ve got the receipts to prove it. It’s stupid; it’s so stupid. It’s like WWE meets the Food Network.”

He says it is probably “bigger than 80% of the rock band tours” fully embracing the “go big or go home” mantra. Iglesias made it a point to bring along his family, friends and dogs for the tour.

“The bed on the bus is super comfortable, and I have this amazing pillow that I bought from the Sleep Number store,” Iglesias says. “It cost a fortune for the stupid pillow, but it’s so comfortable. Believe it or not, I would rather sleep on the bus than in a hotel.”

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NOVEMBER 2021

Iglesias’ style is observational yet self- deprecating, with satire and physical comedy thrown in.

On this current tour, he jokes about “things that frustrate me in life. It’s all based on issues and struggles, because the audience doesn’t want to hear about you having a great day. They don’t want to hear about how well everything is going for you. They want to hear about what you have gotten into — it’s like gossip.”

Iglesias is aware that the entertainment industry has shifted with politically driven forces regulating comedians’ content.

“I used to say (my favorite thing about performing) was to go up there and say and do anything that I want, but clearly that is not the case anymore,” Iglesias says.

He adds that “it’s a little challenging” to determine what can be said on stage and what will end his career.

“I don’t go up there trying to be divisive or preachy or whatever, but it’s at the point now where I am feeling it,” Iglesias says. “For a comic who tries not to be divisive is feeling the effects of cancel culture, ehhh.

“It does feel new again, believe it or not, but that is actually pretty exciting to see how we are going to navigate this tonight. Let’s see how we are going to share some stories but still be safe.”

Iglesias brings to the stage a variety of voices to emulate different characters.

It’s hard now because “the rules have changed for entertainers, especially comedians.”

“We (comedians) used to be able to just go up there and work and figure things out, and if we made a mistake then we could apologize then and there and just try again the next day and figure it

out until we got it right,” Iglesias says.

“Whereas now, if you have one bad show, that could be your show.”

For Iglesias, Arizona shows are meaningful.

“Arizona is actually the first place that I went to perform on the road,” shares Iglesias, who grew up in Southern California.

“My first time on the road was in Tucson.

“It was this bar, like a really nasty hole in the wall, called Bugsy’s. It was July 1997, first time on the road.”

Iglesias vividly remembers subsequent performances in Arizona during the middle of summer. A venue’s air conditioning unit stopped working once, but he forged on — with additional bottles of water.

What the future holds Iglesias was set to record his third Netflix special during the summer, but plans were halted when he contracted COVID-19.

“The original plan was to do (the recorded show in) San Antonio,” Iglesias explains.

“We were trying to do a residency because, fresh off of COVID-19, I hadn’t performed in over a year, so I needed to get warmed up before I recorded again. I figured 30 shows in 30 days and we were going to record on the last day.”

The 27th day — also his 45th birthday — Iglesias tested positive for COVID-19 and had to cancel the remaining shows and go home.

“I have not been able to record the special yet, but since then so many other things have happened,” he says.

“It’s kind of a double-edged sword, because it’s good that I have new stuff to talk. It’s bad because I had a very big bill I had to pay for canceling.”

He plans to record the special “soon,” without giving a specific date.

Four or five months later, the show will appear on Netflix.

Outside of comedy shows, Iglesias recently launched the Netflix show “Maya and the Three,” for which he voiced Picchu, a Golden Mountain Barbarian.

“I have a project that I’m working on with Jorge Gutiérrez, who is actually the one who did ‘Maya and the Three’ (and ‘The Book of Life’),” Iglesias says about an upcoming project.

“The two of us are working together on a project called ‘I Chihuahua.’ It’s something that we are working on to do for Netflix in the near future.”

Outside of Netflix, Iglesias is “really big on social media,” personally running his accounts.

“You can tell by the bad spelling or the weird messages that I post,” Iglesias says.

“I like TikTok videos, so if anyone can send me cool TikTok videos, I always love to do duets and stuff.”

MORE INFO

What: Gabriel Iglesias: “Beyond the Fluffy World Tour – Go Big or Go Home” When: 8 p.m. Saturday, November 13 Where: AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road Cost: $32-$40 Info: casinodelsol.com/ entertainment www.LovinLife.com

Puzzles

Casino Calendar

ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

00 9 $8

Kevin Costner and Modern West: Tales from Yellowstone 2021 Tour

8 p.m. Friday, November 5, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, tickets start at $40, casinodelsol.com

Dylan Scott, Parmalee and Adam Doleac 8 p.m. Saturday, November 6, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, tickets start at $25, with military discounts available, casinodelsol.com

MANAGERS SPECIAL!

The Beach Boys

BOOK NOW!

7:30 p.m. Friday, November 12, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, tickets start at $30, with military discounts available, casinodelsol.com

Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias 8 p.m. Saturday, November 13, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, $40, with military discounts available, casinodelsol.com

A Marie Osmond Symphonic Christmas with David Osmond and Daniel Emmet 8 p.m. Thursday, December 2, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, visit website for pricing, casinodelsol.com

Tamal Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, December 4, Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, free admission, casinodelsol.com

ACROSS 1 5 8 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 30 31 32 33 35 36 37 38

Tibetan monk Triumphed Used car sites Trojan War hero Lincoln nickname Taj Mahal city TV fare for a night owl Gusto Gallery display “The Raven” writer “No way!”

Sign before Virgo “Now, where -- I?” Vivaldi’s output Reveal Dating from Embrace Salty septet “Citizen Kane” sled Train tracks Observe “Ray Donovan” actor Voight Dish

41 42 45 46 48 49 50 51 52 53

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Dining

Some Like It Hot Tucson is home to a bevy of barbecue joints

BY VALERIE VINYARD Tucson boasts a slew of barbecue restaurants, each with its own spin, whether it’s St. Louis, Carolina, Texas, Kansas City or Memphis style.

Some are sweet. Some are smoky. And all of them are delicious.

We focused on three award-winning barbecue restaurants in town that are worth a visit. Each also offers takeout for those who are still hesitant to dine inside.

Ken’s Hardwood Barbeque 5250 E. 22nd Street 745-4746, kenshardwoodbbq.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; closed Sundays and Mondays Upon entering Ken’s Hardwood Barbeque, guests are greeted with a delicious aroma of smoked meat.

Pretty much everything is homemade at Ken’s. After all, he has four generations of family and their recipes to rely on.

A couple of items stand out: billiard-size balls of fried mac and cheese and the Alabama white sauce. The crispy outside of the fried mac and cheese gives way to decadently sauced macaroni. The Alabama white resembles ranch salad dressing, but the mayonnaise-based sauce’s full flavor and subtle kick elevate it past mere ranch.

Owner Ken Alexander is often behind the counter or in the kitchen working his magic. Alexander learned how to cook at age 9 from his mother, grandparents and uncle, who owned Sadler’s Family Cafe in Nashville.

After the Raytheon Missile Systems employee left after 27-plus years in 2015, he took the advice of countless family and friends and opened a restaurant.

Alexander picked up a food truck in Georgia and drove back to Tucson, where

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the Louisville native has lived since 1984.

After that became successful, Alexander moved operations to a brick-andmortar restaurant at 5250 E. 22nd Street in 2017. The building has housed barbecue restaurants for more than 60 years, including its last tenant, Jack’s Original Barbeque.

Ken’s Hardwood Barbeque remains very much a family business, with seven or eight relatives on the payroll. On a recent evening, Alexander was in the kitchen while his granddaughter manned the counter, taking orders and dishing sides and sauces into containers.

Alexander, who has visited almost 50 countries, described his food as a compilation of flavors and styles, such as St. Louis-style ribs and Carolina-style pork and chicken.

“In order for it to be a success, you have to put some of you in it,” Alexander says.

Brother John’s Bourbon, Beer and BBQ 1801 N. Stone Avenue 867-6787, brotherjohnsbbq.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 11 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays Tucson natives John Aldecoa and his brother, David, opened Brother John’s Bourbon, Beer and BBQ in December 2015.

The partners transformed the former cavernous Wildcat House nightclub into a still large but welcoming space that includes an L-shaped bar and restaurant that includes a stage for live music.

The space is still about 10,000 square feet and has a 350-person capacity, but the brothers used some of the original cedar wood to partition off areas into a private dining room and other spaces.

They also have expanded the outdoor dining patios to accommodate about 200 diners.

“We only use fresh meats,” says John Aldecoa, noting that they source their fresh meats from co-op farms.

“What I don’t sell today, I won’t sell you tomorrow.”

Of course, the kitchen could use some of the unsold product to make other items, such as brisket jerky and burnt end nachos ($9.25), an impressive plate bursting with cheese, chives, jalapenos, meat and flavor.

Aldecoa described his restaurant as a multiconcept barbecue with Mexican influences. Brother John’s also has about 500 whiskeys and bourbons, as well as 51 beers on tap. Beer lovers should check out the $2 specials on 10-ounce beer on Tuesdays.

Its website states, “Fusing traditional Southern-style barbecue with Southwestern and Latin flavors.”

However, “we’re more than just barbecue,” Aldecoa says.

Other dishes include sandwiches ($9$14), burgers ($10.50-$14), salads ($7.50$20) and entrees ($13-$24).

The express lunch, available from noon to 3 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, includes one meat and one or two sides ($9.50 or $12.50). It’s a generous portion with well-prepared food.

Brushfire BBQ Co. 2745 N. Campbell Avenue and 7080 E. 22nd Street 624-3223 (Central), 867-6050 (East) brushfirebbq.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Besides fantastic barbecue, Brushfire BBQ Co. also makes its own creamy, rich ice cream.

The ice creamery is located at the 22nd

Street location, but 10 flavors, including Cookie Monster, Twix and Strawberry, were available at Brushfire’s original location on Campbell Avenue. There’s even a Tennessee Honey ice cream for people who are at least 21 years old.

The Campbell location is full of football memorabilia, including helmets, jerseys and photos, and a slew of awards on its wall from Zagat, Tucson Weekly and the Huffington Post. Six televisions are “dialed into sports,” according to manager Debbie Wick, who has worked for Brushfire about three and a half years.

“It’s original,” she says. “Our sauces, our rub, the way we smoke the meats.”

Much of the menu offers regular and hungry sizes.

Meals include sauce, a half loaf of garlic bread and two sides ($13.29-$20.89) and include unusual offerings such as smoked salmon ($17.39) and smoked meatloaf ($13.29-$18.79).

Sandwiches come on toasted garlic bread and range from the mild or hot sausage sandwich ($9.29 regular size) to the prime rib sandwich ($18.49 hungry size). Make it a meal and add a side for $2.50 to $6.59.

Like other barbecue joints, Brushfire offers family feasts ($49-$56), including the fantastic ($56) family ribs, which comes with one rack of sticky ribs and 1 pound of brisket, pork, chicken or sausage. All family feasts come with two sauces, two sides, four pieces of grilled garlic bread and four cookies.

The Campbell Avenue spot has a dozen beer taps, while the much larger 22nd Street location has a full bar and happy hour menu.

Wick vouched for the sign on the wall that states, “Caution – Habit forming.”

“It’s true,” she says. “We get repeat customers who come in and get the same thing all the time.” www.LovinLife.com

What’s Cooking?

BY JAN D’ATRI

Asparagus Gnocchi and My Momma’s Gnocchi

I get a big kick out of clicking on the pronunciation button on dictionary sites to hear how the word gnocchi gets pronounced. Unfortunately, they don’t often get it right (it’s pronounced Knee-OHKey).

These delicate little barrels of potato pasta are absolutely divine. The homemade version of gnocchi from my momma’s recipe below takes a bit more time but will melt in your mouth, served with butter or a light marinara sauce. The

store-bought variety is best for asparagus gnocchi, as they are not so delicate and will hold up during the cooking process. Either way, buon appetito!

JOIN US ONLINE FOR THE FOLLOWING VIRTUAL EVENTS/CLASSES

Asparagus gnocchi Ingredients • 2 1/4 cups water • 2 pounds gnocchi (2 packages) • 1 (8-ounce) container mascarpone • 2 green onions, sliced fine • 2 bunches asparagus, cut into 1-inch segments • 1 cup shredded Parmesan, plus more for topping • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon pepper Directions Wash and cut asparagus into 1-inch pieces. In a large pot, add the water, gnocchi, mascarpone, green onions, asparagus, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are cooked, stirring occasionally.

Spoon asparagus gnocchi into serving bowls and top with fresh grated Parmesan.

This recipe can be cut in half. Reduce cook time to approximately 10 minutes.

Momma’s homemade gnocchi Ingredients • 4 large baking (Idaho) potatoes, about 2 1/2 to 3 pounds • 2 large eggs • 2 cups flour • 2 teaspoons olive oil • 1 teaspoon salt • 6 quarts water plus 1 level tablespoon for the water Directions Wash and boil the potatoes until knife can be easily inserted. Don’t allow potatoes

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to break open or they will absorb too much water. Peel potatoes while still warm and mash thoroughly with a ricer into a bowl.

Do not put in food processor or blender.

In a bowl, add potatoes, eggs and oil and gradually begin to stir in one cup of flour to the potatoes. Stir until mixture binds together but is not too firm. Some potatoes will require more flour than others. Remove from bowl, and on a floured surface, continue to mix gently by hand, adding flour as needed. Gnocchi are ready when the potato mixture doesn’t stick to your hands. Add a little flour at a time as needed.

Roll into a ball and divide into four sections, covering the sections that are not being used. Roll each section into long logs, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Cut logs into 1-inch pieces. Press each piece against cheese grater or roll off of a fork.

One at a time, place about 10-15 gnocchi into gently boiling salted water. When they pop up, remove gently with slotted spoon.

Serve with butter and Parmesan cheese or with a light marinara sauce.

(To make gnocchi in advance, place the raw gnocchi on a cookie sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. When hardened, place in Ziploc bag and keep frozen until ready to cook.)

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Watch my how-to video for asparagus gnocchi here: jandatri.com/recipe/asparagus-gnocchi www.LovinLife.com

NOVEMBER 2021

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Do You Have Pain/Numbness/Tingling in the Feet/Legs???

A doctor has moved to Tucson that treats neuropathy (nerve problems), and his name is Dr Trent Freeman DC (Dr T). He has been treating Neuropathy for the last 10 years.

Maybe you have seen him interviewed on CBS by Steve Ochoa or during the Dr Oz show, maybe you saw him on NBC. He has brought this new treatment to persons suffering from neuropathy in Tucson. He uses two kinds of Light to stimulate the nerves to function better. He uses pulsed infrared technology that helps reduce the pain, and FDA approved cold lasers that help the cells function better. He offers his consultation for FREE. He looks at the interview time as a time for him to see if you have the type of neuropathy that he treats but more importantly, for you to interview him and see if he is someone that you would like to work with. His clinic is certified with the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America and he has received advanced training in the treatment of neuropathy. There are fewer than 100 doctors in America that have received this advanced training in this type of therapy. Dr T looks at neuropathy as a thief that comes to your life and starts to steal from you. If you allow neuropathy to continue, it will steal your independence (driving, walking, balance) As Dr T says “Everyday we are having more success relieving neuropathy pain, WHY NOT YOU?” Give his office a call and schedule the FREE consultation and see if you qualify for this new therapy 520-445-6784.

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Columns

The Healthy Geezer

Racing heart means sprint to the doctor

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

Whenever I drink a little too much wine, I find that I wake up at night and my heart seems to race for a while. Can wine do that?

A

The short answer is yes. But, first, it sounds like you haven’t told a doctor about this. And you should — immediately. What you’re describing could be atrial fibrillation.

The risk of atrial fibrillation increases with age, particularly after age 60.

Atrial fibrillation — also called AF or AFib — is the most common form of irregular heartbeat. It is an abnormal heart rhythm originating in the atria, the upper chambers of the heart.

The rate of impulses through the atria can range from 300 to 600 beats per minute.

Because the atria are beating rapidly and irregularly, blood does not flow through them as quickly. This makes the blood more likely to clot. If a clot is pumped out of the heart, it can travel to the brain causing a stroke. People with atrial fibrillation are five to seven times more likely to have a stroke than the general population.

Infrequent and brief episodes of atrial fibrillation can be triggered by overindulgence in alcohol, caffeine and food.

Doctors sometimes call AF “holiday heart.”

However, some of the most common causes of AF are high blood pressure, a variety of heart problems such as coronary artery disease, chronic lung disease and pulmonary embolism, which is a condition that occurs when an artery in your lung becomes blocked.

In at least 10% of AF cases, no underlying heart disease is found. In these cases, AF may be related to alcohol or excessive caffeine use, stress, certain drugs, electrolyte or metabolic imbalances, or severe infections. In some cases, no cause can be found.

Among the commonly used tools to diagnose atrial fibrillation are the electrocardiogram (ECG); a Holter monitor, a small external recorder usually worn for one to three days; and a portable event monitor that enables a patient to record an AF. Many people live for years problem free with atrial fibrillation. However, chronic atrial fibrillation can cause problems. Besides stroke, there is the danger that clots can travel to other parts of the body (kidneys, heart, intestines), causing damage. AF can decrease the heart’s pumping ability by as much as 20% to 25%. AF combined with a fast heart rate over a long period of time can cause heart failure.

AF symptoms include a racing or fluttering heart, fatigue, dizziness, feeling faint, chest discomfort and shortness of breath. However, you can have atrial fibrillation without symptoms.

Initially, medications are used to treat atrial fibrillation. There are also medications to prevent blood clots. In addition to taking medications, there are lifestyle changes you can make. These include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol and caffeine, and avoiding activities that seem related to your irregular heart rhythm.

When initial remedies don’t correct or control AF, a procedure such as electrical cardioversion may be necessary. In this procedure, an electrical shock is delivered to your chest wall to restore a normal rhythm.

Then there are devices such as an implantable atrial defibrillator that delivers low-dose therapy to convert AF to a normal heart rhythm.

Patients with chronic AF not relieved by medication or procedures are candidates for surgical treatment. Many of these approaches can be performed with minimally invasive (endoscopic or “keyhole”) surgical techniques. www.LovinLife.com

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Gadget Gossip

Mason-inspired tumblers, recycled chairs and neoprene headbands

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.

Highball Shaker Nothing beats quality time spent outdoors. Unless you can bring the pleasures of home with you. High Camp Flasks is doing just that with its newly launched Highball Shaker to continue its quest to create sweet tumblers for the outdoors.

In 2017, the disruptive drinkware startup released the first two-person cocktail flask for the outdoor bar industry.

The Highball Shaker is a Mason-inspired vacuum-insulated tumbler with a leak-proof lid and the ability to remove the strainer. This is essentially a leak-proof bar glass that can be taken anywhere tumblers are allowed. Take it camping, picnicking, to the beach or to a plethora of other locations.

The shaker stands out because it was engineered to serve as a sleek single beer cooler for when cocktails just do not fit the occasion. The Highball mode fits a 12-ounce can, while the Shaker mode fits a 16-ounce can down to the millimeter.

“We are continuing to create products that allow us to take our favorite drinks outside, without cheapening the drinking experience,” co-founder Nic Barisone explains.

Design engineer and founding partner Whit Gautreaux elaborates on the design inspiration, “Our favorite highball glass that we reach for at home is always a wide-mouth Mason jar. We started out building a stainless steel version of a

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Mason jar and then ended up with this built-in shaker functionality. We love the symmetry on our home bar and the interchangeability to use it simply as a bar glass.”

Digging deeper into the product features, the strainer design allows for ice to be added. The lid sits directly on top of the strainer, preventing ice from getting on top of the strainer during a vigorous shake.

Barisone adds, “Yes it’s gear and yes it’s barware. It’s designed to look as badass on your home bar as it does on the table at your favorite campsite.”

The Highball Shaker will debut in three colors, including copper, gunmetal and stainless steel, with an additional option to custom laser-engrave the shaker as well.

Highball Shaker highcampflasks.com Available on website for $79 Check these out, too:

plastic bottles into polyester. Each chair helps to recycle 19 bottles.

This comes with no-sag seating for ultimate comfort, conveniently folds up for packing and stacking, and has an attached carry strap making it easy to grab and go. Don’t forget about the two mesh cup holders and carry bag.

Recycles REPREVE Fabric Dual Lock Chair kijaro.com Available at Walmart for $52.89

is exposed and the bandage needs to be changed. The perimeter gauze changes color when external fluid breeches the bandages. Additionally, the internal pad will change color when it is saturated with wound fluid. This helps take the guesswork out of trying to remember when you should change your bandage.

DrySee drysee.com Available at Amazon starting at $19.95

HeadFloater

DrySee Winter is coming, and with that a host of new arrivals will make their way to the desert for the mild winter months. While here, seniors may keep active with an assortment of activities, including tennis, pickleball, bicycling, walking or, of course, golf. Sadly, with keeping active follows the possibility of injury.

Have no fear, DrySee is here. This stateof-the-art new bandage technology is waterproof, breathable and, get this, color changing. Never worry about getting a bandage soaked while swimming or having to constantly change it because you took a shower or got too sweaty.

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Ever realized how the neck can get tight or start hurting after long hours of using a cellphone or other handheld technologies? This results in the term called “tech neck.” HeadFloater, produced by PhysicalMind Institute, eases that problem.

A neoprene headband reduces techneck symptoms by comfortably compressing the skull and relieving neck pain, head pain and stress through different neck stretches.

HeadFloater is made with internal bungee cords that connect in a figure-eight cross and attach to hand straps. The bungees compress and decompress the skull while lengthening and stretching the neck making for a pleasurable and therapeutic experience.

Users do not have to worry about craning their necks while hovering over a computer or texting too much and causing a spinal issue.

“We designed HeadFloater to work harmoniously with the anatomy, balancing the neuro-musculoskeletal and respiratory systems,” PhysicalMind Institute founder and HeadFloater inventor Joan Breibart says. “With regular use it improves alignment and posture and treats tech neck.”

HeadFloater physicalmindinstitute.com Available on its website for $30

Recycles REPREVE Fabric Dual Lock Chair Kijaro created the ultimate outdoor chair perfect for activities like sitting around a bonfire or watching a sporting event. This version of its chair is made from recycled plastic bottles so customers can sit comfortably knowing that they are helping keep the environment cleaner.

The Dual Lock Chair is outfitted with 100% recycled REPREVE Fabric, which is a textile that is created by transforming

HeadFloater www.LovinLife.com

Ask the Expert

Biz Box

5 things to know about diabetes and foot wounds Diabetics are prone to developing sores on the feet, heels or toes. Known as diabetic ulcers, these sores can lead to amputation if not cared for properly.

“It is so important for a diabetic to do a daily foot check,” says Heather Jankowski, nurse practitioner, TMC Wound Care Center. “This will help you catch problems early and get them treated right away. Early treatment greatly reduces your risk of amputation.”

What exactly is a diabetic foot ulcer?

It’s a wound that occurs on the feet, heels or toes of people with diabetes.

Many times, there is little to no feeling in the feet or the ulcer itself. A pulse is present, and the skin is normal or warm to the touch. The skin on the legs and feet may be dry and flaky.

Nerve damage puts you at higher risk for foot ulcers The loss of feeling in your feet, caused by diabetic neuropathy, means you may not notice a cut, blister or sore. These seemingly small problems can lead to foot ulcers and infections. If an infection doesn’t get better with treatment, your toe, foot or part of your leg may need to be amputated to prevent infection from spreading. Diabetes is the leading cause of limb loss.

How can I prevent nerve damage or stop it from getting worse?

• Keep your blood sugar in your target range as much as possible.

• Don’t smoke, because it reduces blood flow to the feet.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables, and eat less sugar and salt.

• Get 10 to 20 minutes of exercise every day.

• Take the medicines your doctor prescribes you.

What are some ways of preventing diabetic foot ulcers?

Most people with diabetes can prevent serious foot complications. Regular care at home and making all of your doctor’s visits are key to prevention: • Check your feet every day for cuts, redness, swelling, sores, blisters, corns, calluses or any other change to the skin or nails. Use a mirror if you can’t see the bottom of your feet or ask a family member to help.

• Never go barefoot, even indoors. This will help you avoid injuries.

• Wear shoes that fit well.

• Get your feet checked at every health care visit. And visit a foot doctor every year, more often if you have nerve damage. Your foot doctor will check for feeling and blood flow in your feet.

What should I do if I think I have a foot ulcer?

Go see your doctor. You may be referred to a wound care center for treatment. Your care team will organize a comprehensive treatment plan to help you heal.

The Tucson Medical Center Wound Care Center, managed by Healogics, provides specialized treatment for chronic or no-healing wounds, which are defined as sores or wounds that have not significantly improved from conventional treatments. Associated with inadequate circulation, poorly functioning veins and immobility, nonhealing wounds lead to lower quality of life and may lead to amputations. When wounds persist, a specialized approach is required for healing. Typically, a wound that does not respond to normal medical care within 30 days is considered a problem or chronic wound.

Talk to your doctor about a referral to our Wound Care Center, or contact us directly for an assessment. Call 3244220 for more information. Learn more at https://bit.ly/ TMCWoundCare.

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