Loving Life After 50: Scottsdale December 2019 by Times Media Group

December 2019

Wine for the Winter

A Virtual Eggs-plosion

A breakfast scene is booming in the Valley

Some bottles are perfect by the fire

Staging a Comeback

Entrepreneur opens Estate Sale Outlet

‘Scrooged’ Local theater producing ‘A Christmas Story’ musical

Scottsdale Edition Mailed toYour Home Monthly

Charlie Daniels comes to Wild Horse Pass Page 24

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DECEMBER 2019

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DECEMBER 2019

“You will LOVE your life”

inside THIS ISSUE

10 ‘Scrooged’

There’s nothing cold hearted about actor Mark Kleinman

Opinion

6 12

Ask Gabby Gayle

News Briefs

Features

Warming Wines

Staging a Comeback

The Right Way

Wickenburg’s Premier Independent and Assisted Living Community

Scottsdale fitness studio breaks dietary misconceptions

Entertainment

For the Grace of God

Myron Sommerfeld thanks one person for his musical stylings

18 Calendar of Events 20 Tinseltown Talks

A Lassie Christmas with Jon Provost

Bottles best enjoyed with friends by the fire and for the holidays Mesa entrepreneur Anna Marie Stone opens Estate Sale Outlet

Studying The Beatles

Chicago’s Jason Scheff joins an all-star lineup to celebrate ‘The White Album’

After a bus crash, The Duttons are preparing to return to Mesa

Charlie Daniels brings the ‘Devil’ to Wild Horse Pass

22 The Show Must Go On 24 Christian First 31

Puzzles

Travel

26 The Good Life

Living the ‘Pura Vida’ in Costa Rica

32 Ahoy There!

Los Angeles-based cruises offer access to beautiful beaches and slick amenities

Dining

34 A Virtual Eggs-plosion

Breakfast joints are sweeping the area

36 What’s Cooking?

Holiday Cookie Platters

Columns

40 Hospice Is Hope Publisher

Steve T. Strickbine

Senior Account Executives

Vice President

Lou Lagrave, Gordon Wood

Executive Editor

Courtney Oldham

Travel Editor

Tonya Mildenberg

Michael Hiatt

Surprisingly Affordable Surprisingly Fun

42 The Healthy Geezer

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Administrator

Contributors

Alison Bailin Batz, Kristine Cannon, Cicetti, Lin Sue Cooney, Jan D’Atri, Gayle Lagman-Creswick, Octavio Serrano, Nick Thomas

Graphic Designer

Ed Boitano

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Opinion

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BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

Dear Gabby: I’m writing because I remember a while back, an article you had written about people who don’t want to continue to seek invasive and ridiculous health tests anymore. I agreed with you 100% and have felt that way for some time. The problem I am having is with my insurance company. I am 67-years-old and a single woman, without any family and friends, except my dog, and she is the last of my pets. I am not fond of doctors, but I like the security of having health insurance in case of an emergency. Twelve years ago, I was almost wiped out financially by a serious bicycle accident that shattered my elbow. My insurance company kept calling me to make wellness checks. I don’t want them or need them. Please help, I don’t know who to contact, or who to tell. I feel I am being harassed and bullied into having things I do not want or need! Thank you so much, I feel better telling you. Signed, Medicare Rebel

Dear Rebel: First of all, any health care is a personal choice. So, you have the right to refuse any treatment you desire. However, I may have led you astray with my column. I was talking about the medical merry-go-round of propping people up to live another day without consideration for the quality of life. Quality of life, in my opinion, may differ from what you see as quality. In my life, I want to live to the best of my ability. I exercise, try to eat healthily, I volunteer, I have a part-time job, I listen to my doctors, who are excellent, and I have a good social life. They understand how I feel about certain treatments and support me in my decisions. You are only 67-years-

old and I hope you will do all preventive treatments such as wellness checks to avoid chronic or debilitating diseases. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!” Then, when that doesn’t work anymore, you begin refusing treatments. And why not get another dog? You are young! And get a living will and durable power of attorney, so well-meaning medical folks don’t prop you up just to live another day. Good luck. Signed, GG

Dear Gabby: My husband and I are 55 years old and very close. My husband has been diagnosed with ALS and he doesn’t want to have treatment. We have no children. He wants hospice and to die as fast as he can. I am sick thinking about life without him, but at the same time, I might make the same choice if it were me. I know you have discussed these things in your column. Any advice would be appreciated. By the way, his priest seems to think what he is doing is akin to suicide. What do you think? Signed, GL

Dear GL: I do not believe that dying by the natural course of a disease is akin to suicide, although I am aware some people feel that way. I believe this is your husband’s choice and it should be honored. Hospice staff can help you both with information and support. Hospice is also a choice. My heart goes out to both of you, and I commend you for supporting the love of your life with his choice, even though it may be the most difficult thing you have ever done. Signed, GG If you have questions for Gabby Gayle, please send them to “Ask Gabby Gayle” at lagmancreswick@gmail.com.

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DECEMBER 2019

News Briefs

annual summer community puzzle. The library repeated the honors by taking the APRA Best Senior Program Award for the virtual reality program. Every year, Kauzlaric and the Friends of the R.H. Johnson Library bring in a variety of speakers, authors and programs for patrons. This included efforts that resulted in receiving an Arizona Humanities Council grant in 2016, which made it possible to offer even more presentations.

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Learn benefits of clinical trials, get free dinner and health screenings Valley residents will learn how to get involved with clinical medical trials on Thursday, December 5, at the inaugural Phoenix AWARE-for-All event. Here local community members, patients and research professionals will gather to share information about the value of clinical research. The free educational session will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Biomedical Campus, at 435 N. Fifth Street, Phoenix. Free parking is offered. Attendees will get nocost health screenings, like blood pressure testings, flu shots, dental checks, and HIV and STD screenings. Plus, participants will hear from physicians, patients and patient advocates about the value of partaking in clinical trial programs. A free catered dinner will also be served. AWARE-for-All is a free education program providing valuable information and resources to help people make decisions about participating in the clinical research process. The event offers an informal dialogue between patients, physicians and research professionals. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and engage in the process. The Phoenix event is supported locally by Biogen, the Lupus Research Alliance and the Alzheimer’s Association, and is hosted by CISCRP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and informing the public and patients about clinical research opportunities and its benefits. CISCRP is committed to providing services to help professionals engage patients as partners in the clinical research process, which can have a lasting and positive impact on patients whose options are limited. To sign up, visit ciscrp.org/event/awarefor-all-phoenix/. For additional questions, contact awareforall@ciscrp.org or call 617725-2750.

Robson Reserve fetes new community in PebbleCreek Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek, a Robson Senior Living Community, hosted a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 23 to celebrate the opening of its independent and assisted living communities.

DECEMBER 2019

Desert Valley Orchid Society hosting annual show

The Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Aneil Koerper, Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek’s lifestyle and enrichment director; Goodyear City Councilwoman Sheri Lauritano; Goodyear City Councilman Brannon Hampton; Goodyear City Councilman Joe Pizzillo; James Robson, Robson Communities’ Robson Senior Living vice president; Robson Communities’ Chairman Edward J. Robson; Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord; Tom Dorough, Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek executive director; Goodyear City Councilwoman Laura Kaino; and Colleen Johnson, Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek community relations coordinator. (Photo courtesy Robson Communities)

The event began with opening remarks from Robson Communities Chairman Edward J. Robson, Vice President of Robson Senior Living James Robson, and Executive Director Tom Dorough, followed by city council members, local dignitaries and guests enjoying hors d’oeuvres, music and community tours. “The official opening of this beautiful new community and the broad range of activities, amenities and services being offered here, will fulfill a vision by the Robson team to provide luxury senior living to those living in Goodyear and the surrounding area,” James Robson says. “We are truly honored so many people joined us to celebrate the opening of Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek”. Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek adds 224 well-appointed senior residences; 129 independent living and 95 assisted living. The three-story, nearly 337,000 squarefoot community features a theater, internet café, bar and lounge, art gallery, game room, resort-style pool, fitness center, a full-service salon, bark park, dining, courtyards and an on-site physician office. In addition, Robson Reserve at PebbleCreek provides a robust activity program including on- and off-site events and activities. Info: 623-440-6800, robsonreserve.com.

Longtime RHJ librarian announces retirement Jane Kauzlaric, director of the R.H. Johnson Library in Sun City West, is retiring Saturday, December 14.

Kauzlaric has been the librarian since September 15, 2010. Previously, she volunteered at the private library in its data resource center and adult reference areas since 2008. To thank her for her service, the library will host an open house from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, December 5, at the library. Members are R.H. Johnson Library in Sun City w e l c o m e . West is hosting an open house with Jane Kauzlaric from noon Light refresh- to 2 p.m. Thursday, December 5, ments will be before she retires. (Photo courtesy R.H. Johnson Library) served. Under Kauzlaric’s watch, the library has greatly expanded its digital footprint and welcomed new services to patrons, including the virtual reality program. Its DVD/Blu-ray collection is the Southwest’s largest private video library. The library was renovated in 2017, and it continues to be one of the busiest facilities in Sun City West. Its check-out collection includes more than 45,000 titles, but the library also offers a digital collection, as well as space for a variety of interest groups including chess, poetry, writing, Lego and scrabble. In 2016, the R.H. Johnson Library earned the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association’s Best Senior Program Award for its

Desert Valley Orchid Society will hold its annual orchid show at Berridge Nurseries, 4647 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 4, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 5. There will be American Orchid Society judging on Saturday, many displays and a large selection of premium flowering orchids for sale. Raffle tickets to win one of several blooming plants will be on sale. Workshops on various orchid-related topics are planned for noon and 2 p.m. Saturday, and noon Sunday. Society members will be in the greenhouse to answer questions. The Desert Valley Orchid Society is dedicated to the love and advancement of orchid growing in the Valley. The group meets at 6:45 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at The Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 3641 N. 56th Street, Phoenix. Visit dvos-az.com for more information.

AAUW hosts new member event AAUW NWV had a new member event at the home of Sandy Vanmeulebrouck on Thursday, November 14. Nine new members were introduced by the membership team of Beryl Flathman-Braaten and Linda Styrwoll. Also present were leadership team members—Sharon Phleps, President, Rosemary Dougherty, Nancy Wilson and Stephanie Rogall. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls. Since it was founded in 1881, AAUW members have examined and taken positions on the fundamental issues of day-education, social, economic and political. AAUW advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. For more information, contact Braaten at 623-572-4676. www.LovinLife.com

Waiting isn’t easy– but if you are waiting for home care services including bathing, personal care, grocery shopping, and laundry help, any wait is too long. Area Agency on Aging provides these and other services to help older adults remain in their homes. There are more than 1,000 older adults on the waiting list for this essential assistance. With your support, we can lift the year long wait and provide critical services to more seniors in our community.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Your generous Arizona Charitable Tax Credit donation of $800 will make an immediate impact on the life of a homebound older adult by providing home care services for 10 weeks. Your $400 donation will provide those services for 5 weeks. Donating your Arizona Charitable Tax Credit to Area Agency on Aging will make a critical difference to older adults who are waiting for home care servcies.

Lifting the wait can make the difference – Your support can make the difference. Donate online: www.aaaphx.org Call direct: 602-264-2255 Mail your donation: Area Agency on Aging 1366 E. Thomas Road, Ste. 108 Phoenix, AZ 85014 *Consult your tax advisor – The Area Agency on Aging is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization qualifying for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit under the Arizona Department of Revenue. Our Tax ID number is 74-2371957. Our Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO) number is 20044.

Thank you

for investing in our community by investing your Arizona Charitable Tax Credit in Area Agency on Aging. Every dollar you donate will make a difference. For instance, your donation will help someone like Melba stay in her home as she ages. Melba is an 83 year old widow. She lost her husband 2 years ago and last year she had a stroke. She is still able to care for herself and heats her meals in the microwave. But Melba cannot get out to grocery shop, and has trouble with laundry and some household tasks. With your help, Area Agency on Aging can provide the services she needs to stay in her home for years to come.

DECEMBER 2019

11/15/19 2:19 PM

Features

‘Scrooged’ There’s nothing cold hearted about actor Mark Kleinman BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

There’s nothing cold hearted about “Scrooged” actor Mark Kleinman. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

DECEMBER 2019

Mark Kleinman and Christmas are synonymous in the Valley. Playing Ebenezer Scrooge in the Hale Centre Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol” for seven years, Kleinman moved to the Silver Star Theater in Northeast Mesa two years ago. Kleinman has plenty of reasons why he enjoys portraying Scrooge, a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. He brings his best characteristics to Silver Star’s “A Christmas Carol: A Musical.” “No. 1 the story has always intrigued me,” he says. “Even when I was a teenager, I enjoyed reading the story and always loved it. Then I got to play Scrooge’s nephew, Fred, in New York. They stuck really close to the book. I loved it. “A few years ago, when I started getting into that age range of being able to do Scrooge, the Hale opened that door to me and I tried it. I just love his arc and the transition he makes. I love the story of repentance, too. We can always look to better ourselves and make amends and become a better person.” Kleinman—whose “A Christmas Carol” at the Silver Star Theater runs through Saturday, December 28—is inspired by the other actors who are hired for the shows each year. “Scrooge is the same character and the same lines, but I’m dealing with different people,” he says. “And so, doing it with different people is fun for me. I enjoy the process of reacting and being touched by

others and how they play the role.” The dinner theater is a multimillion-dollar facility that rivals its Las Vegas counterparts. The custom-designed showroom features tiered seating with unobstructed views and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. It has ample parking for cars and buses and hosts 18 different shows. Kleinman is well versed in all-things theater. He’s a multiple AriZoni Award winner with prizes presented for best actor and best supporting actor. In addition to Kleinman’s performing acumen, he brings more than 20 years of business management, including tour manager for Des Moines Metro Opera for five years. As a member of the Silver Star’s executive management team, he helps it provide top audience experiences in the Southwest. He says it’s challenging to balance Silver Star’s multiple shows; sometimes two different shows are staged in the same day.

Mesa ties Kleinman’s family helped found Mesa. He and his parents moved to Casa Grande early on so his father could take a basketball coaching job there. He attended the University of Arizona and studied vocal performance. From there, he sang in various opera companies around the world, including those in New York, Des Moines and Orlando. Kleinman returned to Arizona when touring became too arduous. www.LovinLife.com

Mark Kleinman portrays Scrooge in the Silver Star Theater in Mesa through Saturday, December 28.

Kleinman is enjoying his role as Silver Star’s general manager and resident actor. He and the staff have big plans for the theater including possible summer shows to help get year-round residents out of the house and into Silver Star’s “great air conditioning,” Kleinman says. “They can watch a good family show and bring the kids and grandkids,” he says. Silver Star is owned by Mike Todd, who also has the Desert Star Playhouse in Utah. His children “He’s a great owner,” Kleinman says. “He understands theater inside, outside, backward and forward. It’s good to have

a boss who knows what’s going on. “He wants us to put our best foot forward at all times and makes sure it looks professional and we act professionally.”

MORE INFO

What: “A Christmas Carol: A Musical” When: Various times until Saturday, December 28 Where: Silver Star Theater, Alta Mesa Plaza, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa Cost: Tickets start at $37.85 Info: 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com

‘Tis the season to be jolly!

www.LovinLife.com

DECEMBER 2019

The Right Way

Alex Selak is on his way to 250 pounds. (Photos by Kimberly Carrillo)

Scottsdale fitness studio breaks dietary misconceptions BY OCTAVIO SERRANO Alex Selak walked up a small hill and was out of breath. The weight of his 500-pound body was too much for him to handle. In that moment, Selak knew he needed to make a drastic life changes, but it was a challenge to find the right diet. Some would only temporarily help and cause him to gain it back. The Mesa resident found his solution in Transform Scottsdale, a private fitness studio tailoring its dietary and physical program to the client’s needs. Open since 2018, Transform Scottsdale has offered personal training in close-group settings and nutritional coaching. To Selak’s surprise, the system proved to be easier and more effective than other diet and fitness programs he tried. “It’s actually been the easiest thing I’ve ever done,” Selak says. “He made a meal plan. So, it hasn’t been hard at all and it’s just been week after week.” It has taken Selak more than a year to get to where he is. His weight-loss process has been gradual, but with the right results. He says he saw improvement within just a few months. “When I started with them (Transform Scottsdale), I was 500 pounds and I was prediabetic and within three months I was no longer at risk for diabetes,” Selak says. “I didn’t expect to come back with

my numbers that good, within three months.” Transform Scottsdale’s owner Matt Hoodie was living similarly to Selak. He knew he needed to make a change. “While I was doing my first year of culinary school is when I was diagnosed as a prediabetic and I was over 300 pounds at about 19 years old,” Hoodie says. “Transform Scottsdale was born out of my own experience.” After he was diagnosed, Hoodie says he went home and researched the dangers of diabetes and where he was headed. That’s where his fitness path began. Hoodie attended ASU, where he earned a degree in dietetics, but soon realized the nutritional field was saturated with misconceptions and false information. One misconception was no-carb diets help. He wanted to teach people “the right way” to lose weight. “I didn’t want them caught up in a tornado of misinformation,” Hoodie says. “If I can reach those people early on in the process, I can save them a lot of time and heartache.” To do so, he created a system catered to the client. “The clients receive what we call ‘nutritional coaching’ and they receive a nutritional blueprint, which is a personalized nutritional program that changes weekly along with their workouts,” Hoodie says.

Transform Scottsdale’s Matt Hoodie works with Alex Selak in his battle to lose weight.

DECEMBER 2019

“Probably one of my big things is to not “What sets us apart is the time and the care we put into people’s training and have to shop at a big-and-tall shop store,” Selak says with a laugh. “That’s one of my their nutrition.” Hoodie stresses the importance of favorite things, but also to be healthy and creating obtainable goals for its clients have a better quality of life. “At over 50 years old and 500 pounds, to increase productivity. He says people are often surprised by the diets Transform Scottsdale recommends, as they are normally avoided by other nutritional programs. “The biggest thing that surprises people is the structure of the nutrition we put them on,” Hoodie says. “Every single client here is on what would be considered a high-carb diet and it just makes it a lot more realistic when you’re not making these extreme changes and when something is more realistic, it’s more sustainable and you see long-term results.” Now 29 and about 200 pounds, Hoodie is always excited when Transform Scottsdale gives clients specialized pro- Matt Hoodie started Transform Scottsdale after his own battle with weight. grams and see improvement. “Being able to really personalize every- I wasn’t sure if I was destined to be this thing is really my passion because people way for the rest of my life. Anybody can are ultimately going to see the best re- do it. It doesn’t matter how old you are sults from it,” Hoodie says. “The amount or how heavy you are, you can make a of work people are willing to invest is so change today.” much greater when they feel like something has really been designed for them.” Transform Scottsdale In the last year, Selak is about 58 pounds 20831 N. Scottsdale Road, short of his 250-pound goal. Of all the Suite 111, Scottsdale things his new physique will allow him to 602-536-5095, do, he is most excited about changing his personaltrainer-scottsdaleaz.com shopping habits. www.LovinLife.com

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DECEMBER 2019

Warming Wines Bottles best enjoyed with friends by the fire and for the holidays BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ November saw temperatures mostly in the 80s – and even a few days in the 90s. Similarly, past few Januarys have seen unseasonably warm days. But, like clockwork, for about four weeks each December the Valley of the Sun gets chilly— and downright freezing at night. As such, here are some warming reds that make the perfect pours by the fire as well as the perfect gifts for friends and family during the holidays:

2017 Cooper & Thief Red Blend This is a bold red blend wine aged in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart soft, velvety tannins and a subtle heat, resulting in robust flavors with a long, lingering finish. A bonus: it is packaged in a nontraditional bottle and boasts hallmark whiskey tasting notes, unlike any other wine. $24.99

Antinori 2016 Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG To share this bottle is to share the spirit of Tuscany with those you love. A perfect Italian varietal, the ultra-pleasing flavors of cherries, vanilla and a bit of balsamic reduction make this a treat for any holiday or winter occasion. $35

2018 Barsotti Vineyard Cabernet Franc For this truly beautiful bottle, the winemaker let the fruit hang a bit longer to see what expression this vineyard would make with slightly riper fruit. The magically delicious result is a lovely shade of pale purple and dances on the mouth with flavors of plus and black tea. $35

2015 Mountain Peak Rattlesnake The name alone makes it the

DECEMBER 2019

perfect wine for Arizona imbibing. But beyond the clever moniker and label, this Zinfandel will make everyone’s mouth water with its robust flavors of blueberries, blackberries, cherry jam and fig all tied together by a brambly undertone. $48

One Hope Limited Edition Bronze Glitter Pinot Noir Like all One Hope wines, this glittery eye-catcher gives back, specifically supporting pet adoptions in this region and beyond. Expect some major black and red berry flavors here, as well as hints of cinnamon and a silky finish. $49

2014 Trésor Sonoma County Named for the French word for “treasure,” this is San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition medalist is a Bordeaux-style blend with primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, but also touches of Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot and the slightest hint of Cabernet Franc. It is equal parts lush and ripe with concentrated fruit aromas and flavors. $50

2016 SHIFT A daring combination of Zinfandel, Barbera, Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Carignane, this warming wine has already earned a 93+ by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, and that was only from a barrel sample. This one makes

as good a gift as a bottle to keep for one’s self given its cutting-edge, metal label that resembles a vintage, gated shifter. $56

2016 Carmel Winery Limited Edition Certified kosher, Carmel Winery works with 108 families of winegrowers to nurture some 3,500 acres of top vineyards in Israel. This is the group’s flagship and annual limited-edition offering, available now. It is a Bordeaux-style blend and extremely full-bodied, bursting with ripe plum, cassis, violets mint and even a touch of cigar. $68.99

2016 APEX To a race car driver, the apex is the optimal line of the corner. Winning often depends on hitting it just right. Named on homage to this fine line, APEX is a beautiful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Petite Sirah with a stunning metal Apex curbing on the bottle. It is dark, rich, and smooth in texture, with aromatics of fresh blueberries, roasted coffee, anise and caramel. $76

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DECEMBER 2019

Cameo Foundation’s 31st Annual MS. SENIOR ARIZONA

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Staging a Comeback Mesa entrepreneur Anna Marie Stone opens Estate Sale Outlet

The First & Foremost Pageant to Honor the “Age of Elegance”

Saturday, March 21, 2020 6:00 p.m.

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DECEMBER 2019

Anna Marie Stone’s career in staging homes led to her store, Estate Sale Outlet in Apache Junction. A Northeast Mesa resident, Stone enjoys sharing her “finds” with customers. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Northeast Mesa resident Anna Marie Stone has done plenty in her life. She’s owned a cleaning business in Atlanta, worked with the likes of Don Williams and Mickey Gilley on fundraisers and staged homes for sale. Now she’s hosting customers at Estate Sale Outlet in Apache Junction, selling items on consignment from sales she organized. “We had so much overflow from the estate sales. We had people say, ‘Can you take this on consignment?’ Finally, it clicked. “I said, ‘Let’s just see if we can open a store because there are so many nice things here.’ I have a lot of leftover items because I don’t have long to sell it—two to three days max.” Stone’s store is charming, filled with a fun collection of memorabilia, furniture, vintage lamps and china and artwork. Recently, her store was damaged from the late November rains, but she’s hoping to have regular business hours soon. Stone got her eye for design and collectibles from her 90-year-old mother, Marjorie Cassella, who lives in Georgia but visits frequently. “Everybody knows my mom,” Stone says with a laugh. “I have a lot of close relationships with my customers. When they come into my store, they always get a hug. “I had three Italian girls come in and

they are a hoot. We’re always laughing and we hug. I’m Italian and Italian people are amazing.” Estate sales are just associated with people who have passed. One of Stone’s clients was downsizing so he could move into an RV and travel. “We get a lot of people who are maybe in their fifties or early sixties and they’re just selling everything and going into RVs,” she says. “One of our clients had these huge columns, probably 12 feet high. I ended up buying them for my house. He had the nicest stuff there.” Stone also owns Staging Pays Off LLC, a professional home staging, interior design, organization and photography business. Hosting estate sales was a natural progression from staging. Because of the sales, she continues to conduct throughout the Valley, the Estate Sale Outlet store’s inventory changes regularly. “I find real gems and it’s a pleasure to share them through Estate Sale Outlet,” she says.

Estate Sale Outlet

2114 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction 480-383-3823, stagingpaysoff@aol.com, stagingpaysoff.com, facebook.com/estatesalesaz www.LovinLife.com

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Entertainment For the Grace of God Myron Sommerfeld thanks one person for his musical stylings BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

the FOS Lions Club. “It’s a show and dance. We’re going Myron Sommerfeld was driving a tractor in his home state of North Dakota to set up chairs in front of the stage and have room in the back for those who when he had a thought. “I looked up and said, ‘God, if you get want to do a little dancing,” Sommerfeld me off this tractor and let me do some- says. The other gig is a free, Out to Lunch thing else, I’d sure appreciate it,’” recalls Sommerfeld, the-then teenage son of Concert at the Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. musician-farmers. Thursday, February 13. Call 480644-6500 or visit mesaartscenter.com for more information. “We’re doing more concerts, than we are dances, these days,” he says. “A lot of our dancing friends have lost their spouse or have problems with their legs. People still like the music, though. “The Out to Lunch series does a really good job with sound and set up. They have chairs and I bring the whole band.” Sommerfeld, a retired schoolteacher, plays a variety of big-band standards—Gershwin, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin— as well as patriotic songs. “We concentrate on the ‘Great American Songbook,’” he says. “They stand the test of time. Most songs like that never die. What people call ‘music’ today will not stand the test of time. “However, Garth Brooks, TrBig-band leader Myron Sommerfeld has two Mesa shows that will isha Yearwood and Bob Dylan feature his favorite songs. (Photo by Pablo Robles) all have something in comSince that time, Sommerfeld has been mon: They all love the ‘Great American on a musical journey and explored rock Songbook.’ They’ve recorded it and per‘n’ roll and big-band music with his var- formed it. Frank Sinatra is their favorite singer.” ious acts. At 81 years old, Sommerfeld remains Now living in East Mesa, Sommerfeld is inspired, thanks to God. preparing to host two special shows. “God keeps giving me the gift of writFrom 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, January 5, Sommerfeld will perform at Fountain ing music,’ he says. “I keep arranging of the Sun, 540 S. 80th Street, Mesa, as music. My vocals aren’t as good as they a benefit for the United Food Bank. The were. I have to lower the key. But I feel like show is free with a nonperishable food I have to continue for the love of music. “People enjoy it—no matter what age. item, but tickets are required. Call 480357-9128. The show is in partnership with God has blessed me.”

DECEMBER 2019

Calendar of Events SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

Artists of the Superstitions Holiday Art Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Gold Canyon Golf Resort, 6100 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon, free admission, artistsofthesuperstitions.com. This diverse group of more than 30 artists represents all types of art media, including painting, photography, wood, jewelry, pottery and glass. Rhythm Cats Christmas, 5:30 p.m. Sundays (11:30 a.m. as well on December 15), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2

Bible Club, 10:30 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705. Masato Tachi, noon to 1 p.m. Mondays, Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. “A Christmas Carol: The Musical,” 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays in December, Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3

Let’s Knit, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. All About Arizona Tax Credits Workshop, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Hellen and John M. Jacobs Independence Plaza, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, reservations required, 623-5844999. Community Choir at Estrella Mountain Community College, 7 p.m., Estrella Mountain Community College’s Performing Arts Center, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, free, 623935-8000. The group will perform “Holiday Harmonies” featuring newer renditions of familiar songs. Kent Schmitt, noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. Rhythm Cats Christmas, 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays in December, Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4

It’s Not Just Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $5 donation, 602-4927670, chani@sosaz.org. Let’s Talk: Current Events Discussion Group, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, reservations required, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. Jocelyn Obermeyer, noon to 12:30 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

Sunland Village Bingo, 4:30 p.m. doors open, 6 p.m. cards sold, $7 play begins, Sunland Village, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, charge for cards, 480-832-9003. AAUW December Rummage Sale, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., repeats December 6 and December 7, private home, 14217 W. Via Tercero, Sun City West, free admission, 785-213-6396, sharon.astle1963@ gmail.com. The AAWU is raising general revenue funds to support its mission of “gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.”The sale will feature household goods, sports gear, books, clothing, jewelry, collectibles, furniture, tools, games and toys and holiday décor. Ken Frerichs, noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays, Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

AAUW December Rummage Sale, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., repeats

December 7, private home, 14217 W. Via Tercero, Sun City West, free admission, 785-213-6396, sharon.astle1963@gmail.com. The AAWU is raising general revenue funds to support its mission of “gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.”The sale will feature household goods, sports gear, books, clothing, jewelry, collectibles, furniture, tools, games and toys and holiday décor. “A Christmas Carol: A Musical,” various times, Fridays in December, except December 27, Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater. com. Art, Wine and Conversation: Bus Trip to the Phoenix Airport Museum, 11:30 a.m., Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th Street, Scottsdale, email for charge, artbus@azfcf. org. The Phoenix Airport Museum has become one of the largest art programs in the country. It boasts 900 works, more than 40 exhibit spaces in six buildings to showcase Arizona’s artistic and cultural heritage. All in Cash—Johnny Cash Tribute with Steve Christiansen, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. Rolf Benson, noon to 1 p.m. Fridays, Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Songsters Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., repeats 2 p.m. December 8, Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $7, 480-832-9003. Colour Blinde, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. AAUW December Rummage Sale, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., private home, 14217 W. Via Tercero, Sun City West, free admission, 785213-6396, sharon.astle1963@gmail.com. The AAWU is raising general revenue funds to support its mission of “gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy.” The sale will feature household goods, sports gear, books, clothing, jewelry, collectibles, furniture, tools, games and toys and holiday décor. Sun City West Beaders Bling Fling, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sun City West Beardsley Recreation Center’s Sagebrush and Agave rooms, 12755 W. Beardsley Road, Sun City West, free admission, 623-606-0840. More than 40 beaders will be displaying and selling their bracelets, necklaces and earrings. “A Christmas Carol: A Musical,” various times Saturdays in December, Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com. Rhythm Cats Christmas, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Art Appreciation 101 Field trip, 12:30 to 2 p.m., Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, museum entrance fee may apply, reservations required, 480-481-7033, harrietc@ vosjcc.org. Through the Valley of the Sun JCC. Learn about art from Leia Steingart on a fieldtrip to the Phoenix Art Museum. Steingart has been teaching fine art, art theory and art history for more than 10 years. Meet at the museum inside the main entrance. Arrive 15 minutes early so the tour can begin at 12:30 p.m. Songsters Christmas Concert, 2 p.m., Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $7, 480-832-9003.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

Unorthodox Podcast Live at the J!, 7 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $30 members, $45 guests, $18 under 30, register by December 2, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. The West Valley Genealogical Society & Library Meeting, 1 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 12225 N. 103rd Avenue, Sun City, free, 623-933-4945, azwvgs.org. The guest speaker is Kathleen Goodrich and her topic is “Maybe I’m Amazed: My Love Aﬀair with Family History.”

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 www.LovinLife.com

Discussion with the Rabbi, 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, reservations required, 602-492-7670, chani@sosaz.org. League of Women Voters, Northwest Maricopa County Meeting, noon, Universalist Unitarian Church, 17540 Avenue of the Arts, Surprise, free, lwvnw19@gmail.com. The organization is a nonpartisan political group that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The league also welcomes men as members. The Northwest Maricopa County chapter meets twice a month, on the second Tuesday of the month at noon, and the fourth Monday of the month at 6 p.m. between September and April. Scottsdale Civil War Roundtable, 5:40 p.m., Scottsdale Civic Center Library Auditorium, 3839 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, Scottsdale, free, 480-699-5844, scottsdalecwrt.org. The speaker is Dr. Peter Carmichael, director of the Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College, will discuss “The War for the Common Soldier.”The Scottsdale Civil War Roundtable meets the third Tuesday of every month (except July, July and August). The group supports battlefield preservation. Sun Lakes Republican Club Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 S. Sun Lakes, free, 480-802-0178, slgop.org. The meeting’s guest will be Dr. Craig Idso, who will discuss “CO2 and the Climate Crisis: The Greatest Scientific Fraud of Our Day.” Sen. J.D. Mesnard will discuss the 2020 state legislative session.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11

Senior Fair and Blood Drive, 2 to 7 p.m., Westchester Senior Living, 6100 S. Rural Road, Tempe, free, 480-831-8660, or 1-800733-2767, redcrossblood.org. Vendors include Area Agency on Aging, Jackson White Law, Arizona Medicare, Covenant Home Health, The Doctor is In, Aviant Hospice, AZ MediQuip and Bayada Home Care. Appointments encouraged for blood drive; use the keyboard Westchester. City of Avondale Neighborhood and Family Services Department Active Adult Program Holiday Luncheon, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, $2 suggested donation for seniors, $5 other guests, 623-333-2705.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17

Semiformal, 7 to 9:30 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Hall, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 Hillcrest Dance club members, $6 SCW nonmember with valid rec card, $6 Sun City members with SC reciprocal dance club membership, $8 other guests, 303-6185243, john.ashton11142@gmail.com. Dancer-furnished cheese and crackers; BYOB.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18

A Christmas Special by John Hodgson, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623584-0065, birtsbitro.com.

Early New Year’s Eve with Tom LaGravinese, 1 p.m., Center for Senior Enrichment in The Palazzo, 6250 N. 19th Avenue, Phoenix, free, reservations required, 602-943-2198, carol.goldstein@jfcsaz. org.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28

residents of Sun City, Sun City West, Sun City Grand and Corte Bella. Nutrition Bingo, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705. Music with Zack, 10:30 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705. Wii Bowl, 8:30 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19

Let’s Eat: Mature Mavens Dinner, 5 p.m., restaurant revealed upon reservations, 602-371-3744. Desert Valley Orchid Society Meeting, 6:45 p.m., The Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 3641 N. 56th Street, Phoenix, free, dvosaz.com. Home Instead Care’s Alzheimer’s Support Group, 12:30 to 2 p.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705. Group meets the third Thursday of the month.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20

Sunland Village Winter Dance, 6 to 9 p.m., Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $7 in advance, $8 at the door, 480-832-9003. Marlin Zimmerman and His All-Star Band perform. Third Street Jazz, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. Hanukkah Lunch, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Center for Senior Enrichment in The Palazzo, 6250 N. 19th Avenue, Phoenix, $10, 602-9432198, carol.goldstein@jfcsaz.org. The lunch will be coupled with a menorah lighting with Rabbi Nitzan Stein Kokin from Beth El Congregation and musical entertainment by Gal Drimmer, an Israeli guitarist and vocalist. Reservations required.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club’s Holiday Dance

Happy Hanukkah!

MONDAY, DECEMBER 23

Nails with Vivian, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705. League of Women Voters, Northwest Maricopa County Meeting, 6 p.m., Universalist Unitarian Church, 17540 Avenue of the Arts, Surprise, free, lwvnw19@gmail.com. The organization is a nonpartisan political group that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The league also welcomes men as members. The Northwest Maricopa County chapter meets twice a month, on the second Tuesday of the month at noon, and the fourth Monday of the month at 6 p.m. between September and April.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24

1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705. Todd Kruger and John Hodgson, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-5840065, birtsbitro.com.

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club’s Early New Year’s Party, 7 to 9:30 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Hall, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, $4 Hillcrest Dance club members, $6 SCW nonmember with valid rec card, $6 Sun City members with SC reciprocal dance club membership, $8 other guests, 303-618-5243, john.ashton11142@gmail.com. Club-furnished cheese and crackers. Pre-New Year’s Eve Bash with John Leo Group, 5 to 8 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, $5, 623-5840065, birtsbitro.com. Reservations required.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29

Jim Brickman, through December 31, Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, tickets start at $48.50, mim.org.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 30

Have a Merry Christmas Eve

New Year’s Party, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31

Merry Christmas! THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26

Sewing Club, 10 a.m. Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705.

New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance, 6 p.m. dinner, 7:30 p.m. dancing, Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Avenue, Mesa, $50, 480-832-9003. The theme is “Roaring into the ’20s,” with music by Gordy and Debby. Crochet and Knitting Club, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27

Movie at the Center, 9:30 a.m., Avondale Community Center,

When is the Right Time Workshop, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Hellen and John M. Jacobs Independence Plaza, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free, reservations required, 623-584-4999. Discussions include when to move a loved one to independent, assisted or memory care living facilities.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12

Blood Pressure Checks, various times, Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

Christmas Craft, 9:30 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, call for charge, 623-333-2705. Priscilla Rose Band, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Hometown Christmas Parade, 11 a.m., Historic Downtown Glendale, free, hcparade.org. Al McCoy is the grand marshal. Sentimental Journey, 5 to 7 p.m., Birt’s Bistro, 16752 N. Greasewood Street, Surprise, free admission, 623-584-0065, birtsbitro.com. Rhythm Cats Christmas, 5:30 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, starts at $37.85, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com.

Looking for an easy way to help this year? If you are 70 ½, you may roll over up to $100,000 from your IRA to charity without paying any federal income tax on your gift.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

Hearty Instant Pot Recipes, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, $45 members, $55 guests, reservations required, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org. Register by December 12 for this program.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16

The Sun Cities Saddle Club Meeting, 10 a.m., SCW Christian Church, 20803 N. 151st Avenue, Sun City West, free, 319-560-1768, suncitiessaddleclub.com, suncitiessaddleclub@gmail.com. This trail riding and social club is for seniors who love horses. The trail rides— using rental horses or personal horses—are held every Thursday at stables around the Valley. Horse ownership is not required. Ride schedules are available at the meetings. Membership is open to

www.LovinLife.com

Visit childcrisisaz.giftlegacy.com or call 480.834.9424 for more information. childcrisisaz.org DECEMBER 2019

Tinseltown Talks

A Lassie Christmas with Jon Provost

Jon Provost, June Lockhart, Hugh Reilly and Lassie pose for a Christmas photo. (Submitted photos)

BY NICK THOMAS During the seven years Jon Provost starred as little Timmy Martin in the CBS TV series “Lassie” from 1957 to 1964, several end-of-year Christmas episodes aired. Most still stand out in Provost’s mind for one reason. “The crazy thing is we would be filming a Christmas episode during summer in Southern California where it was 90 degrees,” says Provost from his home north of San Francisco. “We were all bundled up like it was 30 degrees and just dying from the heat. But of course, you kept acting and did what had to be done for the episode.” In the 1961 episode “Yochim’s Christmas” where Timmy, Lassie and a friend rescue a man trapped under an overturned sleigh, there was plenty of “snow” used for the scene.

“It was fake, of course,” Provost explains. “For snow on the ground, a machine almost like a fire truck was used to spray soap suds all over the hillside. We would have to shoot scenes before the suds turned back to liquid. Knowing that, if you go back and look at the episode again, you’ll notice it’s not really behaving like real snow.” A different technique was employed for scenes depicting snowing. “They would use little shreds of white plastic dropped from above that would appear like snowflakes coming down or landing on our clothes. That was the magic of Hollywood before computer-generated images.” A frequent guest at autograph shows and classic film/TV events, Provost says he still gets asked the same questions

about “Lassie.” “People have the perception we had three or four dogs on the set at the same time to do different things, but that was not the case,” Provost says. “Rudd Weatherwax, Lassie’s owner and trainer, would only allow one real Lassie on the set at a time, although Lassie did have a double that was used for long shots like running, climbing, or swimming.” Provost worked with three different Lassies during his time on the show and all were males rather than the females portrayed in the series. Then there’s the running joke of Timmy falling down a well and being rescued by Lassie. It remains one of those Hollywood legends that just doesn’t seem to die, even after Provost penned his 2009 memoir with its tongue-in-cheek title “Timmy’s in the Well: The Jon Provost Story” disproving the myth his character disappeared down a well (see jonprovost.com). “When I wrote my autobiography with my wife, Laurie, I looked

through the synopsis of all 249 half-hour episode scripts and there was no mention of Timmy ever falling into a well,” he says, adding its origin remains a mystery. “But that one will follow me forever.” Although it’s been six decades since the series first aired in 1954, reruns of the adventures of Lassie and Timmy still air in dozens of countries, including the United States on cable. As for the Christmas episodes, stories typically tugged on viewers’ heartstrings such as “The Christmas Story” from 1960 where Timmy helped a homeless family. “People tell me all the time about growing up with ‘Lassie’ and the warm feeling they still have about the show,” Provost says. “The stories had morals and values attached to all the episodes which are lacking in today’s television. I think that’s the reason it has retained its appeal.”

Jon Provost displays a copy of his autobiography with the help of a couple of four-legged friends. |

DECEMBER 2019

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Studying The Beatles Chicago’s Jason Scheff joins an all-star lineup to celebrate ‘The White Album’ BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Chicago’s Jason Scheff admits he’s a little young to fully recall when “The White Album” was released in 1968. “I’m 57, so when ‘The White Album’ came out, I was 6 years old,” he says. “It really wasn’t on my radar.” The San Diego-born Scheff is older now, and he’s landed his “dream job”— celebrating the collection’s 50th anniversary with the “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today Tour.” The band is Scheff, Micky Dolenz, Todd Rundgren, Christopher Cross and Joey Molland. The 2 1/2-hour show—with an intermission—is theatrical (thanks to Dolenz and Rundgren, Scheff says), fun and eye-opening. “We’re performing the music and each one of us has a distinct personality,” Scheff says. “Christopher Cross stands and delivers. He’s not animated—we have Mickey and Todd for that. Joey is this regal royal British statesman. Me, I’m in the middle. I like to move, but I’m really

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Jason Scheff, who played with Chicago, is rediscovering The Beatles through his latest tour. (Photo courtesy Jason Scheff)

focusing on the music.” The concert begins with “Back in the U.S.S.R.” and “Dear Prudence,” the latter

of which features Scheff. “I’m playing the bassline and singing,” he says, “That’s what Paul did and does and that’s what I get to do. It’s challenging, but I love that stuff. It’s an intricate bass part, but I’m singing and playing the whole time. Peter Cetera really set the bar with playing spirited basslines in the early Chicago records. I’ve always enjoyed that kind of thing.” Scheff joined Chicago in 1985 after Cetera left the group to pursue a solo career. Scheff was noted for his uncanny vocal resemblance to Cetera. His lead vocals were debuted on the 1986 single “25 or 6 to 4,” a remake of

their 1970 hit, then followed up with “Will You Still Love Me?” Scheff, who says he was inspired by Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” as a youngster, recently released his own album, “Here I Am.” Produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts, “Here I Am” is available on Scheff’s website, jasonscheff. com/hia. He doesn’t play those songs on “The White Album” shows, but he does do “25 or 6 to 4,” which, he says, ties everything together. “It’s fun to see everybody connect the dots,” he says. “It’s fun to be part of this tour.”

MORE INFO

What: “It was Fifty Years Ago Today” When: 8 p.m. Friday, December 6 Where: The Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix Cost: $40-$299 Info: celebritytheatre.com

DECEMBER 2019

The Show Must Go On After a bus crash, The Duttons are preparing to return to Mesa BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI The Duttons will soon return to Mesa to play their winter shows, ending a year wrought with heartbreak and celebrations. After being invited to tape a nationally televised series for Nickelodeon, the family of musicians were involved in a serious accident when its tour bus flipped on its side while the driver was negotiating a dangerous section of an Ohio highway. All 23 family performers were on board, as well as instruments, equipment and costumes. The bus was totaled. Two performers had to be extricated and all the performers were transported to several nearby hospitals. “I have seen way too many of these cases and they don’t have happy endings,” says Sgt. Joe Curmode of the Columbus Police Department. “But this was a happy ending.” None of the family members sustained serious injuries. “We will never quit thanking God for his

protection,” says Dean Dutton, the family’s patriarch. “It is our joyous privilege to continue doing the work which we started almost 30 years ago.” Two days after the accident, the family headed to a cruise where it was scheduled to perform. “We looked terrible,” says Abby Dutton, violinist and singer. “The right side of my face and my eye were black and blue. The left side of Amy’s face was also black and blue; she was on crutches; she had a broken nose; and a broken toe. We were pieced together with staples, stitches and bandages. We were a mess.” Singer Judith Dutton, who also plays keyboards and dances, was kept in the hospital the longest, with damaged veins on her neck, leaving her susceptible to a serious stroke. But, she too was released from the hospital in time to meet the cruise ship. “Our fans lovingly wrapped their arms around us and supported us, as our inju-

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ries began to heal during the next week,” Sheila says. “But it wasn’t easy.” Months before the accident, a casting company in Los Angeles contacted The Duttons, asking them to appear on “America’s Most Musical Family,” a new show on Nickelodeon. In addition to maintaining their regular performance schedule at their theater in Branson, Missouri, they went through rounds of interviews; studio recording sessions; submitting new songs, and performing live with the show’s writers and producers. Them, only one month after the accident, The Duttons were informed that they had risen to the top of hundreds of family acts to become one of the show’s finalists. In spite of a near-tragedy that could have claimed their lives, The Dutton “younger generation” set an example of fortitude and positivity. “It was an incredible summer,” Selena says. “We spent the whole summer practicing instruments and learning new songs and dances. We loved going to Los Angeles and being on national television. And, it was fun to discover that the studio where we filmed the new show was the same stu-

dio where our parents filmed ‘America’s Got Talent,’ and where they were named a ‘Top 10 Finalist!’” For The Duttons, the saying, “the show must go on,” has taken on new meaning as they experienced, in one summer, a devastating tour bus accident; the exciting honor of being a finalist on Nickelodeon’s new show; and the fulfillment of sold-out shows in their Branson theater. As they bring their shows back to Arizona, beginning January 19, they are excited to share a fresh, new look with Arizona audiences. “Every night in Branson, audience members are amazed at how much the grandchildren have grown in their talents and how our performances are truly like whole new shows!” Amy says. “We know that’s how our Arizona audiences will feel, as well.” The Duttons open their 2020 Arizona schedule at the Dutton Theater, in Mesa, on Thursday, January 19. The series runs through March 28. Eight different guest artists will appear with them on selected weeks. For more information, call 480-840-6874 or visit theduttons.com/arizona/

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The Duttons perform in Mesa from Thursday, January 19, to Saturday, March 28. (Photos courtesy The Duttons)

The Duttons’ bus flipped on its side while the driver was trying to negotiate a dangerous curve.

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DECEMBER 2019

Christian First

Charlie Daniels brings the ‘Devil’ to Wild Horse Pass

Charlie Daniels previously had a home in the Biltmore area. (Photo courtesy Charlie Daniels)

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

DECEMBER 2019

Charlie Daniels says he has fun wherever he plays. Whether it’s in Arizona or the East Coast, Daniels just enjoys his time on the stage. “We were in New York City last weekend and there were people, people, people all over the sidewalks and tall buildings,” he says. “It’ll be nice to get out to the desert. There’s something relaxing about it.” He would know. “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” singer formerly own a condo in the Biltmore area but sold it after only having spent a handful of nights there. Daniels and his band are returning to one of their favorite stops—Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino on Thursday, December 5. Fans can expect the favorites like “The Legend of Wooley Swamp,” “Long Haired Country Boy” and “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” “We play the songs people expect us to do,” he says. “That’s what they hear on the radio and we always have new songs. “We’ve been around for so long and people have seen our show through the years. We change it. The first part of the show is not hard to put together. It’s pretty obvious. We fill in between with the new stuff.” Sometimes he throws in special tributes. “Last night, we were in Albany, Georgia, the hometown of Ray Charles,” he

says. “I wanted to do a tribute to Ray so I did ‘Georgia on My Mind.’ “When I have an occasion to do something like that, I do. Sometimes there’s a song of ours that’s not particularly well known, but if it does well in one certain area, we’ll do it. Whatever entertains people, we’ll do it.” Daniels’ next project is a gospel album, which is particularly special to him. He has songs in the vault that haven’t been shared yet, and new tracks he recorded years ago. “I wanted for a long time to do a gospel album because I was always on major labels,” he says. “When I was on Capitol Records—they’re owned by EMI. Sparrow (Records) was looking over the roster at Capitol to see who would make a good gospel record. “When they asked, I said, ‘I thought you’d never ask.’ I don’t think I’ve ever worked harder than that particular time. I was dealing with a special subject. Being a Christian, I wanted to get my meaning across.”

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What: Charlie Daniels Band When: 8 p.m. Thursday, December 5 Where: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler Cost: Tickets start at $40 Info: playatgila.com www.LovinLife.com

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Puzzles

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

ANSWERS ON PAGE 43

ACROSS 1 5 9 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 21 22 24 27 28 31 32 33 34 36 37 38

Zinger Nuisance Oprah’s network Chills and fever Viscous Dove’s call Short musical works “Hail, Caesar!” Yule quaff Fairy tale villains Chic Island porch Formerly Evergreen type Break suddenly Tasseled topper Lobe locale Gorilla Dread Attempt Car sticker no. Batman’s pal

16 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 35 37 DOWN 39 1 Foundation 40 2 Enthusiastic 41 3 Ladder step 42 4 Cap with a propeller 43 5 Bluenose 44 6 A billion years 45 7 Hot tub 46 8 Mike of the ring 9 Simple wind instruments 49 50 10 Used a loom 11 Vetoers’ votes 40 41 43 47 48 51 52 53 54 55 56

Proceed Dishes Commercial song Scoot Varieties of wheat Carte lead-in Handle Point Clear the tables Stitches Wan

Heavy weight Petrol Memorize Distorted Vacationing Born Ivan’s and Peter’s wives Bigfoot’s cousin Spring mo. Vigor Director Howard “Friends” role Soaks up some rays Hodges of baseball lore Seafood entree Streaming video giant Apple co-founder Wildebeests Whip Catch sight of Away from WSW Do some lawn work

Resources to Help You Care for Mom and Dad

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

SUDOKU TIME

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

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

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DECEMBER 2019

Travel The Good Life

On the northwest Paciﬁc coast, Tamarindo Beach can be crowded, but there are still wide-open spaces for a tranquil stroll on the beach. (Photos courtesy Deb Roskamp)

Living the ‘Pura Vida’ in Costa Rica

BY ED BOITANO I’ve been reveling in the warmth of my recent trip to Costa Rica, and not just because of the heat and humidity. This alluring Central American nation of 5 million ticos (citizens), roughly the size of West Virginia, consists of just 0.03% of the earth’s landmass but is home to 5% of its biodiversity. My checklist included hiking misty rain and cloud forests, strolling pristine beaches, witnessing an active volcano, touring a coffee plantation and experiencing unique plant and wildlife – which included my first encounters with a viper and boa constrictor. Yes, there were bad dreams that night. When booking trips to the rain and cloud forests, a guide is necessary to point out important sightings. To prepare for a Costa Rican journey, you will undoubtedly see numerous guidebooks with colorful wildlife photos. You will be lucky if you manage to see a few. The rainforests and cloud forests are not a zoo, and the animals are on their own time table. For example, the only time I spotted a toucan was outside my cabin in my own

ticos’ philosophy of a simple life, free of stress and a positive, relaxed feeling. It can be used as everything from “hello” or “awesome” to “all is well?”

Backstory

Monteverde (Green Mountain) is named for its extensive reserve of lush, verdant cloud forests. National Geographic has described it as “the jewel in the crown of cloud forests.”

private tropical rainforest, right under the Arenal Volcano. The primary colors of the toucan’s feathers, along with its yellowish-orange beak, were so mesmerizing it almost looked like a painting by Paul Gauguin. As was the active 5,357-foot volcano, which was in view every time I looked out my window. In 1968, the Arenal Volcano violently erupted, burying Costa Rica is “green” in more ways than one.

DECEMBER 2019

almost 6 square miles under rocks, lava and ash; eventually killing 87 people and destroying three small villages. Smaller eruptions continued through 1998. For the complete celestial experience, you can relax in one of Arenal’s many natural hot springs, surrounding the volcano’s base. At night, it’s just you and the stars above. But, above all, it was the ticos’ gentle charm and hospitality that affected me the most. They seem to have graciousness in their DNA. Costa Rica has literacy and life expectancy rates higher than the United States, and with no standing army. The former military budget is dedicated to providing health care services and education. This has resulted in a nationwide cultural phenomenon where ticos are uncomfortable with any form of personal aggression or confrontation. The motto, Pura Vida! (pure life), is an expression used in various contexts, reflecting the

Pre-Columbian Costa Rica was populated by 400,000 Amerindians. Columbus arrived on his fourth and final voyage in 1502; the result of repairs to his vessel, off the coast of Limón. Greeted by welcoming tribal chieftains, he noticed gold and silver worn by some. He made a wrong assumption this was a place of plenty. He proclaimed this new land as “Costa Rica” (“Rich Coast”), which led to the arrival of full force Spanish conquistadores in search of bountiful treasures. However, there was practically nothing to be found. Plus, the remaining tribal people—most had died due to warfare and the spread of European diseases—would not adhere to the usual barbarous Spanish practice of encomienda (forced labor). Costa Rica was described as the poorest and most miserable Spanish colony in the Americas by the Spanish governor. Most of the Spanish left in search of wealthier lands, while the remaining settlers headed for Central Valleys, where they found rich volcanic soil, ideal for farming, with no choice but to work the land themselves. This period of history created the foundation for Costa Rica’s development as a more egalitarian society than the rest of Central America, resulting in a rural democracy with no oppressed mestizo or Amerindian class. San José: Your journey will probably begin with a flight to the capital city of San José, because it’s accessible from many U.S. cities. Located in the center of www.LovinLife.com

the nation, populated by 1.035 million citizens, San José’s densely packed urban center almost felt like a third-world city. Many visitors use it as a one-night stopover and then head for their destinations of choice. I had been warned: as a new capital city, it is a bit charmless, with only a few examples of colonial architecture, museums, historic government buildings and grand boulevards. I took a midnight stroll on Saturday and another one the next morning. Contrary to popular opinion, it was a great experience. I felt safe and enjoyed the colorful Main Market and sense of life on the streets of Costa Rica’s largest city. Don Juan Coffee Tour: What nation leads the world in coffee consumption? Did you know the lighter the bean, the more caffeine? Or, vanilla needs to be added to the cacao bean to transform it into chocolate? All this and more is what I learned at the two-hour Don Juan Coffee Tour. Located in the rich coffee country hills of Monteverde, you’ll receive a real taste of coffee education from touring the plantation’s sprawling coffee fields to the processing of the beans. The tour also includes turning Don Juan’s cacao

In 1968, the Arenal Volcano violently erupted, burying almost 6 square miles under rocks, lava and ash, killing 87 people and destroying three small villages.

beans, whose birthplace is pre-Columbian Central America, into chocolate. Aztec Emperor Montezuma II reportedly drank 50 flagons per day of the liquid chocolate (ocōlātl), mixed with water, honey and dried chili pepper. Visitors are welcome to participate in the process from grinding coffee beans to pounding the cacao into a paste. As an extra treat, you’ll receive coffee, chocolate and limeade tastings, made from the plantation’s sugar

canes. BTW, Finland leads the world in coffee consumption per capita. This was my favorite tour in Costa Rica. Tamarindo Beach: For ocean pleasures, the surfing Mecca of Tamarindo Beach on the northwest Pacific Coast, is a prime spot for surfing schools and sport fishing charters, diving and sunning. This is a location where the locals can be a little relentless selling souvenirs, such as wooden oxcarts (a national sym-

bol), constructed with recycled wood. To the north, Playa Grande beach is a major nesting site for huge leatherback turtles and forms part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. The mangrove-lined estuary of Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge protects animals such as Howler Monkeys and crocodiles. Conchita Tours: On the last day, I booked a two-hour jungle boat tour with Conchita Tours. Floating through mangrove swamps in the safety of the boat, the highlight was finally spotting a family of howler monkeys sleeping in a forest canopy. Their unique howls had served as a soundtrack for me every night. There were a number of crocodiles lazing on the shore, which explains why the monkeys prefer the safety of the trees. In 2017, National Geographic magazine proclaimed Costa Rica as the happiest country in the world. Their article included these words: “Costa Ricans enjoy the pleasure of living daily life to the fullest in a place that mitigates stress and maximizes joy.” It sounds like “Pura Vida” to me. For further information about Costa Rica, go to visitcostarica.com/en or ticotimes.net.

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LOVIN’ LIFE AFTER 50’S BEST OF 2020

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CALIFORNIA CAMBRIA ART & WINE FESTIVAL - January 24-26, 2020. A celebration of fine wine and original art found on the exquisite California Central Coast. Only $40 per person for 3 days of multiple wine tasting venues including a two-day Artists Faire, demonstrating artists, and art auction. The seaside artist colony of Cambria hosts this event to showcase both art and the spectacular wineries of the Central Coast. Contact: Cambria Chamber of Commerce; Phone: (805)927-3624. Purchase tickets online. www.cambriaartwine.org DOLPHIN BAY RESORT & SPA — Set along the rugged California Coast, just south of San Luis Obispo, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is centrally located in

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Pismo Beach. Dolphin Bay is the ideal hotel for romantic getaways or family vacationswhere guests stay anywhere from two nights to months at a time. With 60 spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites featuring all the amenities of a home, The Spa, award winning-restaurant, Lido at Dolphin Bay and an array of activities, guests can experience the best of the Central Coast. (800) 516-0112 or www.thedolphinbay.com

133 paved sites, many pull throughs up to 80 feet in length, each with complimentary satellite TV and WI-FI, all situated on 11 beautifully landscaped acres. Go on a wine country tour, hit the beach, take a kayak trek or enjoy a relaxing dip in our sparkling year-round heated pool and spa. Family owned - we are dedicated to making your stay with us a pleasant one. (800) 404-7004 or www.PismoSands.com

multi-generational family get-togethers, taking care of all the planning. You just sit back and enjoy your family. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. Ask about discount weeks in 2020! (970) 247-5055 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT — Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV on 26 acres. Enjoy a general store, children’s arcade, restaurant, Laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

TAHOE LAKESHORE LODGE & SPA is the only all lake front Lake Tahoe hotel where every room has a lake view and fireplace. Offering both lodge rooms and condominiums. Plan your vacation in Tahoe with one of the most beautiful lakes. Hotel amenities include a private beach, seasonal heated pool and hot tub that are lakeside, a day spa and sauna for pampering. The hotel does not charge any resort fees and always has complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. Centrally located just minutes from downtown casinos, ski resorts, restaurants, marinas and area attractions. Reserve your stay at www.TahoeLakeshoreLodge.com or by calling (800) 448-4577 for the best rates and availability. Use promotion code AZ10 for 10% off your stay.

CONDOMINIUM RENTALS HAWAII has been managing the most amazing condos on or near the best BEACH locations for over 35 years. From Wailea, Kihei and Maalaea to Kapaa and Poipu. Our Maui and Kauai vacation condos are amazingly beautiful, and comes fully-furnished. Visit our website at www. crhmaui.com to see and choose your condo now . Book our affordable car/condo packages, or browse our specials. Call our reservations department at (800) 367-5242.

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West Maui. And now they have condos on Hawaii Island, Kauai and Oahu; so booking a multi-island vacation is a breeze. Maui Condo And Home has easy check-in. Just call ahead for your check-in information. With their Keyless entry system, you are able to go straight to your unit at check-in time. 1 (844) 567-8601 or www.mauicondo.com

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countless other artists. Enjoy our 21,000 acres of dramatic cliff walls and red rock formations. Explore the dinosaur and anthropology museums. Breathe in the scenery on a trail ride or take the O’Keeffe Landscape Tour and visit the actual sites she painted. Come for the day and take a hike or join in one of our nationally acclaimed workshops. Overnight lodging is available. 505.685.4333 or www.GhostRanch.org

UTAH EXPLORE LOGAN, UTAH — EXPLORE LOGAN, UTAH — Spend the summer in beautiful Logan as part of Utah State University’s Summer Citizens program. Beat the heat in our high mountain valley that abounds with opportunities just for you. Take your choice of more than 50 diverse week-long courses taught by area experts, enjoy socializing with your neighbors. You’ll live in furnished student housing where the rent for the entire summer is cheaper than one month of air conditioning in Arizona. Downtown Logan is only 10 minutes from the national forest that abounds with hiking trails, birdwatching, and stunning photography opportunities. Logan is Utah’s Heart of the Arts. We boast three historic theatres in one block where we host the internationally renowned Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre, the Old Lyric Repertory Company, and free performances every weekday--more than 250 arts events while you’re here. That’s not to mention community festivals, our

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farmers market, affordable restaurants and events, and about the friendliest people you’ll find anywhere. Indoors or out, it’s a few degrees cooler. Learn more at one of our upcoming presentations. Logan is just 90 minutes north of Salt Lake City. For area information, call the Visitors Bureau at (800) 882-4433 or www. explorelogan.com. For program info, see the ad. SORREL RIVER RANCH – Located in Moab, Utah, Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa, a riverside oasis situated on the bank of the Colorado River, perfectly complements the surrounding iconic arches, canyonlands, and red rock mesas. With close proximity to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, the ranch boasts 55 rooms and suites, farm-totable cuisine, adventure activities and a luxurious spa. (855) 408-6402 or www.SorrelRiver.com

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Joy is oﬃcially the largest liner to port in Los Angeles. (Photos courtesy NCL)

Ahoy There! Los Angeles-based cruises offer access to beautiful beaches and slick amenities

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ Though the Valley never experiences the dark, cold winter felt in other parts of the nation, it is certainly not bathing suit season right now. But fear not! Just an hour’s flight away is Los Angeles, which offers hundreds of cruise options to temperate climates throughout Mexico all winter long. Norwegian Cruise Line just launched

Joy and Bliss, its largest ships to sail to Mexico. Each 1,000-foot ship is less than 3 years old and can hold nearly 4,000 passengers, with Bliss being NCL’s largest ship. Now through early spring, both ships will visit Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán weekly, offering guests seven-day trips at a level not many have experienced from the line or the port.

complimentary access to Madera Spa’s thermal spa suites. Additionally, guests can indulge in the unparalleled personal service of a 24-hour butler and concierge team, who will make all on-board and on-shore arrangements, including priority embarkation and disembarkation. Haven guests can take advantage of specialty dining options, including a high-end steakhouse, sushi bar and French bistro, for no added charge and have passes providing access to beer, wine and cocktails anywhere on the ship, 24 hours a day. And for guests preferring a night in, white-glove in-room dining is just a call away. Outside the Haven, on-board entertainment abounds at all levels of accommodations on these mega-ships. Among the wow-worthy attractions on Joy and/ or Bliss are an interactive wine tasting musical; a Broadway-quality “Footloose” for the stage; a Beatles tribute band that must be seen to be believed; a go-kart race track; laser tag; a casino; mini golf; an aqua park with a waterslide that loops over the side of the ship; a teen club; a 4-D experience; and a massive spa complex offering dozens of treatments. It also features a sauna, a steam room, a relaxation pavilion, a vitality pool and salt room. And then there is the food. Each ship has more than a dozen dining options— many of them complimentary. Of particular note is District Brew

One of the ships’ coolest elements is the Haven, which takes the concept of first-class—and its associated perks—to new heights. Accessible only by key card, the Haven features the ship’s most luxurious rooms, including 45 0 - s q u a r e - f o o t penthouses and a 6,694-square-foot, three-bedroom garden villa. Depending on which ship you’re on, there are fewer than 100 Dining options at sea abound—and with hundreds of seats with views just like this. rooms available in the Haven, ensuring the ultimate in ser- House, a craft beer tasting lounge with gastropub bites; Simply Q, a Texas barvice and privacy. Haven guests have access to an up- becue joint with live music nightly; Food scale restaurant and lounge (with a wine Republic, with its fusion of foods and cullist unavailable anywhere else onboard) tures; and Le Bistro, an exquisite French as well as private courtyard, pool, fitness fine-dining venue. The ships offer excursion options in center and sun deck, all hidden from traditional guests. Some ships also offer each of the three ports, but also special private observation lounges as well as deals on ship entertainment for those

The Haven oﬀers rooms and suites one would never expect to see at sea.

DECEMBER 2019

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who prefer to stay on board. Among the best of the excursions are:

Salsa and Salsa Available in Mazatlán, this will be one of the most rollicking afternoons of your year. It is a combined experience that blends an actual salsa dancing class—all levels welcome—with a salsa-making class. Even better: The class also features a side seminar on how to make one’s own “Mazaritas.” And, yes, eating and drinking everything is highly encouraged.

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of Banderas Bay. As you cruise toward this tropical paradise aboard a first-class catamaran, you’ll enjoy the most fantastic coastal scenery that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. While there, enjoy a hammock, massage, facial, swimming and cooking lessons.

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Do not leave Cabo without snorkeling. One of the best ways to do it is via this excursion, where you can drive your own mini boat to Chileno Cove and then Santa Maria Cove for two snorkeling experiences teeming with colorful fish—and potentially even turtles and sea lions. Info: ncl.com

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Dining A Virtual Eggs-plosion Breakfast joints are sweeping the area BY KRISTINE CANNON Earlier this year, Oregon-based Biscuits Café expanded into the northern Scottsdale area. In late spring, popular Phoenix-based Matt’s Big Breakfast announced its expansion into the Scottsdale area, to take place sometime in the fall. In September, Tucson’s popular brunch hot-spot, Prep & Pastry, celebrated its grand opening at the Scottsdale Waterfront. Calgary-based OEB Breakfast—which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year— opened its first U.S. location late last month in Scottsdale. There’s been an influx of breakfast and brunch restaurants in Scottsdale and throughout the Valley in 2019. But why now? And why the Valley? “We’ve always been unique in a way that we’ve been a test market,” says Steve Chucri, president and CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association. “Because we’ve been a melting pot of California, people from the Midwest out West, people

DECEMBER 2019

from the East coast, very few people are natives here. And so as, as such, we have had ideas and concepts tested here.” The breakfast segment may be thriving now, but according to Ryan Field of Plated Projects, Over Easy was one of the first to hit the market. “And we look forward to ongoing continuous growth throughout Arizona,” says Field, Over Easy’s franchise partner. Over Easy opened its first restaurant in 2008 in Phoenix. Now, the franchise has six locations in Arizona with two more opening in Downtown Chandler and North Scottsdale this month. Over Easy also plans to expand into Flagstaff by the end of the year – and open new eateries in Mesa, Queen Creek, the West Valley and Tucson next year. According to Chucri, homegrown restaurants, like Over Easy and Wildflower Bread Company, began to expand around 2012 or 2013. This was also around the time that outof-state breakfast restaurants, like Snooze and First Watch, expanded into Arizona.

Mauro Martina is the founder and owner of OEB Breakfast Co., which opened its ﬁrst U.S. location on the southeast corner of Scottsdale Road and Chauncey Lane. (Photo courtesy OEB Breakfast Co.)

Snooze first arrived in 2013 after opening its first restaurant in Colorado in 2006; and in 2014, First Watch purchased The Good Egg and converted all 19 locations into First Watch restaurants. “Arizona was our third state we expanded to after starting in Colorado and expanding to southern California,” says Andrew Jaffe, chief marketing oﬃcer for Snooze. “Our CEO, David Birzon, had lived in the Valley for about 17 years and knew the market well as a great place for business. We understood that the Valley offered great long-term opportunities for growth.” Snooze has done so well in Arizona, it now has five locations, with a sixth to open at Circle Records and Tapes in downtown Phoenix in December. “It’s an incredibly cool building and we have wanted to bring Snooze to this neighborhood since we first began looking at the Arizona market,” Jaffe says. Jaffe says he’s seen an influx of—and emphasis on—the breakfast and brunch

businesses over the last three to five years. “I think this is a convergence of two things happening, the first one being that breakfast is part of a morning routine. I think people are wanting to start their day off right and including breakfast in that routine is important,” Jaffe explains. And he’s right. According to a 2017 report by NPD Group, a food and consulting research firm, out of the three mealtimes, only breakfast has seen a growth in traﬃc and breakfast visits for the year ending in March 2017 increased by 1%. Additionally, Technomic’s 2016 Future of FSR Consumer Report found that 22% of consumers are more likely to visit full-service restaurants in the daytime hours than they were two years ago. Further, NPD estimated that breakfast consumption, both in and away from home, would grow by 5% through 2019. Jaffe says the second, broader trend that explains the increased interest in breakfast is people seeking more meanwww.LovinLife.com

Left: Scottsdale’s OEB Breakfast Co. is a 2,900-square-foot restaurant with a menu that boasts elevated breakfast dishes, like the Holy Crab Eggs Benny made wild blue crab, fresh dill, Dijon mustard and served on a butter croissant served with duck fat fried herb potatoes. (Photo courtesy OEB Breakfast Co.) Above: Over Easy recently opened new locations Chandler and Scottsdale. (Photo courtesy Over Easy)

ingful experiences. “People are connecting with brands who provide deeper experiences and opportunities like that,” Jaffe says. What Jaffe says Snooze does differently—and well—is making its guests feel part of the Snooze family and delivering an “uncompromising guest experience.” “Our ever-evolving Snooze menu will continue to be innovative and will evolve ahead of guest needs and current food trends,” he says, adding: “We believe that continuing to tell our larger story about who we are and how we do breakfast differently from the way we think about our community and sustainability initiatives to the emphasis we put on our responsibly sourced, Snooze-approved ingredients.” But why are restauranteurs choosing breakfast? What makes opening a breakfast-centric restaurant so appealing? OEB Breakfast Co. founder, owner and chef Mauro Martina wanted to create his own schedule, one that would allow him to spend more time with his family. “I wanted to have a restaurant. I wanted something small, something cozy, something that I can make the ingredients shine. And I want to have the right hours,” Martina explains. “Ten years ago, I thought it was the right thing, and I still today think that’s the right thing to do.” Jaffe adds the advantage of owning and operating a breakfast restaurant is the ability to balance one’s career in the hospitality industry while still maintaining a personal life. www.LovinLife.com

“Work-life balance is important at Snooze and being a breakfast restaurant allows for Snoozers to work and then be home with their families in the evening,” Jaffe says. For the most part, breakfast restaurants also have the advantage of lower cost of goods, like eggs, bacon and bread—but not at OEB. “Sure, there are huge profit margins, but that’s not who we are,” Martina says. “It’s European bacon. We’re working with truffles. We’re working with sturgeon caviar. We’re working with duck fat. It’s not cheap.” OEB’s is a farm-to-table, chef-driven concept. For example, at its Scottsdale location, OEB uses pasture-raised eggs and butter from Vital Farms based in California and Texas. “We had a pretty hard time finding the perfect egg for us because I wanted a cage-free, free-range pasture, vegetarian-fed, GMO-free egg,” Martina says. Martina says he chose Scottsdale as OEB’s first U.S. location because it’s already a year-round travel destination for Canadians. He had plans to expand into Arizona two years ago. “That sector’s exploding right now in the U.S. and in Canada, not so much in Europe, but I think it will eventually,” Martina says. “I’m not surprised. I’m actually excited because this generates interest; this generates, for anybody in this sector, to explore further, and it’s fun. An egg is not just an egg. There’s so much you can

do with it.” Chucri, however, is surprised to see the increased number of breakfast restaurant openings in the Valley. He says that while it’s unsurprising to see existing restaurants like Snooze expand, it’s concerning to see so many restaurants brand-new to a niche market open up. “That’s when you start to raise an eyebrow and say, ‘OK, this is good. However, how much capacity do we have as an industry for a very narrow niche when it comes to breakfast and lunch places?’” Chucri says. “I do get a tad concerned when I see more and more independent restaurants that are new to the marketplace opening.” Add to that the increasing minimum wage, which will lead to food-service companies responding to the higher wages via increasing menu prices. Currently, the minimum wage in Arizona is $11 per hour and will increase to $12 on January 1. “We’re keeping our eye on that because it’s not easier to stay in the restaurant industry. It’s getting harder with these labor issues,” Chucri says. He added that as the minimum wage increases, production costs will increase – then lead to increased menu prices. According to Chucri, Arizona sold just under $13 billion worth of food last year, around an $800 million increase compared to the previous year. On a national basis, the U.S. sold $863 billion worth of food last year, a 3.6% in-

crease from the year before. And of that 3.6% growth, 3% was due to menu price increases, not increased transactions, Chucri says. “So, what does that tell you? Are we going to hit a critical mass where people are going to refuse to pay $12 for an omelet?” he says. How restaurants will succeed, according to Chucri, is strong branding and distinguishing the restaurant from the competition. “If you don’t define yourself, if you don’t stand out, you’re not going to succeed — plain and simple,” he says.

OEB Breakfast Co.

17757 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 103, Scottsdale eatoeb.com

Over Easy

eatatovereasy.com Opening date - Scottsdale: Around Thanksgiving 11162 Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Suite 101 Opening date - Chandler: Now Open 140 N. Arizona Avenue, Suite 104

Snooze

Opening date: December 800 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix snoozeeatery.com

DECEMBER 2019

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What’s Cooking?

Holiday Cookie Platters BY JAN D’ATRI

Does your holiday cookie platter need a makeover? Are you looking to add a couple of delightful holiday treats to your cookie exchange? You can’t go wrong with either one of these! The M&M’s Christmas Cookie Bars

was determined by Taste of Home magazine to be the most popular cookie in America this year with nearly 400,000 pins and online shares. It’s really easy and so very festive looking! If you love Snickerdoodles, this one has loads of flavor. Happy baking!

M&M’s Christmas Cookie Bars Ingredients: - 2 sticks of butter, room temperature - 1 cup sugar - 1 cup ﬁrmly packed golden brown sugar - 3 large eggs - 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract - 3 cups all-purpose ﬂour - 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda - 3/4 teaspoon of salt - 1-1/2 cups of Christmas M&M’s plus more for topping - 1 cup of mini chocolate chips plus more for topping - 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9x13 baking dish with foil or parchment paper; leave some overhang to make removal easier. Spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. With an electric mixer, beat

butter, sugar and brown sugar together until fluff y. Add in eggs and vanilla extract. Mix well. Lower speed and add flour, baking soda and salt. Mix until combined. Add M&M’s and mini chocolate chips and give a final stir, reserving some M&M’s, mini chocolate chips and white chocolate chips for topping cookie bars. Transfer cookie dough to prepared baking dish. Press additional M&M’s, mini chocolate chips and white chocolate chips into top of cookie dough. Bake 35 to 40 minutes on oven rack in lower third of oven to prevent over browning. Let cool completely and cut.

Watch my How-To Video for Christmas Cookies: jandatri.com/recipe/christmas-cookie-bars/ www.LovinLife.com

STRESS, HORMONES & HEALTH: Tired of BELLY FAT? or just TIRED?

FREE GOURMET DINNER Immediately following our free seminar, entitled

“Stress, Hormones & Health” (The true cause of BELLY FAT) McDowell Mountain Golf Club 10690 E Sheena Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Thursday, December 12th and Thursday, January 16th at 6 PM FREE ADMISSION & FREE MEAL! You will learn how Hormone Imbalances can effect your sleep cycles, carbohydrate cravings and fat burning - Why “Counting Calories” doesn’t work for belly fat - Learn the Biggest Mistake that people make with Exercise that prevents weight loss WHAT REALLY WORKS for permanent loss of belly fat and bulges. Safely. Healthfully! (Yes, this is for you men, too!)

Presented by Leading Wellness Expert Dr. Angelina Alejandro

Please RSVP to (480) 418-2653 Feel Free to Bring a Guest!

BEFORE

www.LovinLife.com

AFTER

Seating is limited!

Free Meal!

We came to Dr A suffering from fatigue, weight issues and a host of other problems. I was under the care of a neurologist, cardiologist and urologist. Since becoming patients several months ago, I’ve lost over 75 lbs and no longer suffer from fatigue and my wife lost 60 pounds. Our diet and lifestyle have changed for the better. All of the Doctors I have seen were thrilled at my improvement and encouraged me to continue the program with Dr A. Thanks Dr A !!! DECEMBER 2019

Chocolate Symphony Gayle’s Chocolates ﬁnds new home in Cottonwood BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Louis Portnoy vividly remembers visits with Gayle Harte. The good family friend brought treats from her Royal Oak, Michigan, business, Gayle’s Chocolates, for him and his family. “Every time she would come out here, she would bring chocolate,” Portnoy says. “We loved her chocolate.” When it came time to retire, Harte did what many do. She moved to Arizona— Sedona, specifically. She sold her business to Portnoy and his parents, Michael and Andrea. Harte is a legendary Michigander. She founded the chocolates business in 1979 in her Huntington Woods, Michigan, kitchen, and moved it to nearby Downtown Royal Oak in 1985. Thirty-four years later, she retired. Before he secured his storefront, Portnoy worked out of Cottonwood Elementary School. “We were using their kitchen for about 10 months,” Portnoy says. “That’s a pain because chocolate is really temperamental with the temperature. They were using a swamp cooler over there for air conditioning. I’d make a mold and then keep my fingers crossed about if it’s going to work out or not.” There were times when Portnoy poured 15 chocolate bars and two or three would come out correctly.

DECEMBER 2019

“We were doing these Fabergé eggs, and we came in the next day and something happened to the air conditioning and all the eggs were ruined,” he says. Now that the Portnoys have a proper building and kitchen, they find the truffles and clusters are popular treats. “My favorite item is the clusters,” Portnoy says. “It’s like a turtle. I love caramel. It’s really simple. She has a great caramel recipe, though, but I honestly like everything we make. I like peanut butter, and the peanut butter cups are really good, too.” The family created its signature candy, the Sedona-inspired Vortex Crunch. Crispy rice cereal, dried Michigan cherries, almonds, cashews, toffee, glazed orange peel and toasted coconut are drizzled with a layer of semisweet milk chocolate. Besides the aforementioned candies, Gayle’s offers classic chocolates, candy bars, gift tins/boxes, seasonal chocolates, specialty shapes, celebration chocolates and business gifts. The chocolate flavors available include milk, white, dark, milk toffee, milk almond, milk cherry pecan, dark almond, dark peppermint crunch, dark orange almond and dark coffee toffee chocolate. Just like Willy Wonka, guests can walk in Gayle’s Chocolates and witness chocolates being made through large glass windows. Everything at Gayle’s is made and packaged by hand. Gayle’s makes specialty chocolates for holidays and events including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations, Mother’s and Father’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter.

“I was the production manager in Michigan and moved to Arizona when Gayle’s was sold to the Portnoys,” general manager Colleen Corson says. “I oversee the production to ensure the same quality and taste for all our loyal and new chocolate lovers.” Products can be shipped online or via the shipping kiosk at Gayle’s Chocolates’ store. To ensure flawless delivery, the chocolates are shipped in insulated boxes at no extra charge. During extreme warm weather, chocolates will be shipped next-day air unless destination falls into one-day ground with ice packs. “I love having this business,” Portnoy says. “It was meant to be.”

Gayle’s Chocolates 541 N. Main Street, Cottonwood, 1-888-761-COCO, gayleschocolates.com

Cottonwood Old Town Chocolate Walk Historic Old Town Cottonwood is celebrating the 25th annual Chocolate Walk from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, December 7. Old-town merchants, shops, tasting rooms and restaurants will participate in this “stroll” event whereby lucky ticket holders taste handcrafted chocolates up and down historic Main Street. The $25 tickets are limited for 400 guests.

Ticket/bag pick up will be at the civic center/Cottonwood Community Club House at 3 p.m. Tickets will be mailed. The merriment begins with the 65th annual Cottonwood Christmas Parade at 11 a.m. The Old Town Light Show begins at 5:30 p.m. with holiday music. For more information, visit oldtown.org/ chocolate.html. www.LovinLife.com

Happy Holidays!

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Prescott’s Premier Full Service Retirement Community COME SEE FOR YOURSELF 1035 Scott Drive • Prescott

928-445-9300 • www.lasfuentesretirement.com

www.LovinLife.com

assets and overall financial history. Not all applicants will be approved for a loan. All loan programs, Terms and interest rates are subject to change without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If you're home is currently listed with a broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.

DECEMBER 2019