Lovin' Life After 50 - Tucson - Dec. 2022

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

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

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

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

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 The company is trailblazing the medical industry by replacing outdated drugs and symptomatic reprieves with an advanced machine that targets the root of the problem at hand.

1. Finding the underlying cause

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

1. Increases blood flow

2. Stimulates and strengthens small fiber nerves

3. Improves brain-based pain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Effective neuropathy treatment relies on the following three factors:

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

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Opinion

Leibo At Large Arizona knew Lake’s BS when they heard it

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

You work close up to elections for 30 years, you have the chance to learn some things about candidates and campaigns. The most important one is this: Many people vote with their gut, not their head.

In the end, that’s what did in one of the most arrogant candidates ever to grace an Arizona ballot, Republican governor hopeful Kari Lake.

Before her midlife conversion to politics, Lake spent two decades as a news anchor, a job whose main quali cation is the ability to read aloud text prepared at a low high school level. This translated into high name identi cation, which Lake translated as ardor for her as a human being.

On the campaign trail, she spoke about “being in your living room” for decades, about how we knew her so well, about how much she loved Arizona and how much Arizona loved her back.

All I can say is, it looks like she got that half right.

35 will revile her.

The last 30 — the ones caught in between — will end up trusting our guts. And most of them will end up saying, “Boy, that Lake is really nasty.”

If the candidate herself read this column, she’d surely insult me right back, the way she told reporters, “I’m going to be your worst fricking nightmare for eight years,” or her closing night spiel to voters, where she crowed at the media, “The bastards back there don’t want us talking about stolen elections. Well, it doesn’t matter what they attempt tomorrow, because we’re going to show up like our lives depend on it.”

Republicans did show up by the hundreds of thousands statewide in this election.

The GOP took six of nine Congressional races, and the party built majorities in both houses of the state Legislature.

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In the end, it was Lake’s seething hatred that sunk her campaign — moments like the Thursday before the election when, standing before a roomful of Republicans, she again attacked the late Sen. John McCain, a politician whose skill as an Arizona campaigner she could never touch.

“We don’t have any McCain Republicans in here, do we?” Lake demanded. “All right, get the hell out,” she ordered. Then she added: “Boy, Arizona has delivered some losers, haven’t they?”

I guess we have, Kari. Except John McCain never lost an election in this state, and you’re zero for a lifetime.

In the days before the election, a conservative consultant told me Lake could be the perfect vice president for Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential run — Robin to Trump’s red, white and blue Batman.

In retrospect, I get the enthusiasm: Lake is smooth with a microphone in her hand, polished delivering Trump’s talking points.

Put her in a crowd of 100 people and 35 will gobble up her act. Meanwhile, another

But atop the ticket, the Trump-endorsed statewide candidates mostly got beaten — Lake, Blake Masters and total wingnut Mark Finchem.

As I write this, the attorney general race remains too close to call with only about 700 votes separating Abe Hamadeh and the Dem, Kris Mayes.

The shining star for the GOP this cycle in Arizona? It was incumbent Treasurer Kimberly Yee, who easily won a second term by notching the most votes of any Arizona candidate in a competitive race.

Notably, Yee was not endorsed by Trump. She campaigned without an incessant focus on the 2020 election and Trump’s grievances. And Yee accepted her victory with grace, thanking Democrat Martín Quezada “for running a professional campaign.”

Lake, locked in her “war room,” where the toadies were reportedly beginning to ee, responded by tweet to news reports of her loss. “Arizonans,” she wrote, “know BS when they see it.”

Yes, we did, Kari. Yes, we certainly did.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

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Ring in the NEW YEAR

Celebrate around Tucson this December 31

BY LAURA LATZKO

New Year’s Eve and Day can be a time of celebration, reflection and resolutions. These events in and around Tucson were designed to bring merriment, laughter, music, exercise and joy.

Consider one of these events to ring in the New Year.

Rick Braun’s New Year’s Eve

Each year, jazz trumpeter Rick Braun holds a star-studded two-day New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, a gourmet meal, beverage and appetizer stations, a champagne toast, dancing and a charity golf tournament. Braun will host the “Last Dance”-themed night and will be joined by musicians Richard Elliot, Dave Koz, Mindi Abair, Chris Walker and Rebecca Jade. This year, the event will benefit the Autism Training Program at Marshall Uni versity. Formal or cocktail party attire is encouraged, and guests are asked to not wear jeans or T-shirts.

WHEN: Golf Tournament and Start the Party Early Optional Events Friday, De cember 30; New Year’s Eve show is 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, December 31

WHERE: JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort and Spa, 3800 W. Starr Pass Boulevard, Tucso

COST: Tickets for New Year’s Eve start at $231 per person; proof of vaccination with booster required within 24 hours of ticket purchase

INFO: rickbraunnewyearseve.com

Miss Olivia’s New Year’s Eve Celebration

Good food, live music, and time with friends can make New Year’s Eve a special occasion. Miss Olivia’s New Year’s Eve Cel ebration offers a five-course meal, live and

DJ’d music, dancing, a candy table and a themed photo booth. The energy will remain with live music from Chalako, an eclectic Latin band with blues, rock, pop, jazz, Tejano, cumbia and salsa vibes, and the soulful blues/rock/soul group Miss Olivia and the Interlopers. DJ Kadetree will also look to get partygoers dancing. There will be a variety of food options, in cluding vegetarian items, sliders, cookies, banh mi and hors d’oeuvres. Attendees will receive swag bags with items from local businesses such as Pop-Cycle, Barrio Bread and St. Charles Tavern. Guests can ring in the New Year with a champagne toast on the rooftop patio or in the out door courtyard. Semi-formal attire is en couraged.

WHEN: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, December 31

WHERE: Sea of Glass Center for The Arts, 330 E. Seventh Street, Tucson COST: $75 plus fees per person

INFO: eventbrite.com

Monterey Court NYE Gala

Sometimes, New Year’s Eve can be spe cial because of the experience. During Monterey Court’s NYE Gala, partygoers have a chance to ring in the new year at a historic motor court from the 1930s, which has been turned into a live mu sic venue, artist enclave and restaurant. Throughout the evening, the Coolers, an eight-piece R&B/blues/soul band, will perform. Attendees can purchase food a la carte or choose a prix-fixe dinner with soup or salad, an appetizer, an entrée, a dessert and after-dinner coffee. The din ner comes with party favors and a compli mentary champagne toast. An East Coast New Year’s toast will be held at 10 p.m.

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, December 31

WHERE: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile, Tucson

COST: $20 general admission, $60 for dinner and entertainment INFO: 520-207-2429, montereycourtaz.com

Alex Elkin at Laffs Comedy Café

Laughter has become even more im portant these days in taking people away from their troubles and giving them shared experiences with others. On New Year’s Eve at Laffs Comedy Café, come dian Alex Elkin will headline two shows. The comedian started doing comedy in 2016 after winning the San Francisco Comedy Competition. He also won the Hard Rock Casino’s 2018 Comedy Cage Match and has traveled to Iraq and Syria to bring laughter to the troops. He has appeared on Netflix’s “Trinkets,” the NBC show “Grimm” and E!’s “The Simple Life.” During the late show, there will be a mid night countdown.

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Saturday, December 31

WHERE: Laffs Comedy Café, 2900 E. Broadway Boulevard, Tucson COST: Visit website for information INFO: 520-323-8669, laffstucson.com

Hot Cocoa 5K Run/Walk

The holidays can be a time of indul gence. Those who want to start their New Year’s resolutions off on the right foot can get out and be active during the Hot Cocoa 5K Run/Walk. The professionally

timed run/walk was designed for peo ple of all ages. It takes participants on a loop through Steam Pump Ranch, on a shared-use path along Oracle Road, past Pusch View Lane and back around. The top female and male runners will receive $50 gift cards to Fleet Feet. There will be age group categories, broken down from 0 to 4 to 85 and older. First- through third-place winners in each category will receive medals. Kids will get “good job” medals. After the race, families can enjoy a steaming cup of cocoa and snacks like fruit, granola bars and fruit bars. Proceeds from the race benefit Oro Valley’s RoundUp for Youth recreation scholarship pro gram.

WHEN and WHERE:

Packet pickup: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 31. Fleet Feet, 7607 N. Oracle Road, Suite 121, Oro Valley

Race day number pickup and registra tion: Starts 9:30 p.m.

Run/walk starts 11:23 a.m. Sunday, Janu ary 1

Steam Pump Ranch. 10901 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley

COST: $30 before race day, $35 day of race, children 12 and under free with paying adult

INFO: orovalleyaz.gov

Lights Up!

A Festival of Illumination

The chance to see lights doesn’t end

Hot Cocoa 5K Run/Walk. (Submitted)

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Dinner and a Discount

Seniors can eat for less at these chains

BY KAREN SCHAFFNER

Things are getting more expensive, and food is no exception. Just to make life a bit easier, what follows is a list of lo cal restaurants that may give a senior dis count. Generally speaking, seniors have to ask for it.

Applebee’s

2230 W. Ina Road 5870 E. Broadway Park Mall, Building E

Arby’s

Some Arby’s locations offer a discount of 10%, but it is not a chainwide policy, so ask.

Boston Market

Varies by location for those 65 and older, so ask.

Burger King

Varies by location for those 60 and older, so ask.

Dunkin’

Get a free doughnut with the purchase of a large or extra-large coffee and an AARP card, but it varies by location.

Einstein’s Bagels

10% off for seniors 60 and older

El Pollo Loco

10% off for seniors 60 and older

Golden Corral Buffet and Grill

For 55 and older

$11.49 for lunch and $15.99 for dinner, beginning at 4 p.m. 4380 E. 22nd Street 6385 S. Midvale Park Road 6865 N. Thornydale Road

IHOP

Has a 55-and-older menu 4187 N. Oracle Road 1500 W. Grant Road 8445 N. Cerius Stra

Outback Steakhouse

10% with an AARP card 4871 E. Grant Road 2240 W. Ina Road

Papa John’s Pizza & Delivery

20% but you have to ask for it and at some outlets it’s for carryout only.

Sonic

10% on single items; cannot be applied to combos

NYE Roundup...continued from page 6

with Christmas. Visitors can see the Tuc son Botanical Gardens’ new lights show Lights Up! A Festival of Illumination through Sunday, January 15. The display will be open on New Year’s Eve and Day and will offer six themed zones. Guests will feel in the holiday spirit when they go experience 50-foot light tunnel, cho reographed cypress trees, giant chande liers adorned with luminarias and a spiral luminaria tree. The botanical gardens are decorated with a million lights, spread out throughout the trees.

WHEN: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Four timeslots available starting at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. six days a week through Sunday, January 15

WHERE: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way, Tucson COST: $30 for nonmember adults 18 and older, $28 for nonmember children 4 to 17, $28 for adult members, $26 for child members, free for children under 4 INFO: 520-326-9686, tucsonbotanical.org

Roaring ’20s NYE on Congress

time of flappers. The event will start with solo ragtime music on the piano, followed by 1920s music from the seven-piece Original Wildcat Jazz Band. Guests will hear a cornet, a trombone, a banjo, a bass, the piano, the drums and a clarinet. At 10 p.m., there will be a New York champagne toast. Guests are encouraged to dress in period attire or black tie.

WHEN: Doors open 7 p.m. Sets at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Saturday, December 31

WHERE: Century Room, Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress Street, Tucson COST: $50, which includes the champagne toast

INFO: hotelcongress.com/family/ century-room

NYE Party at Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch

There’s no better way to ring in the New Year than with dinner, dessert, danc ing and drinks. During the NYE Party at Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch, guests can enjoy a dinner buffet, which comes with salad, seafood, antipasto, vegetarian and pasta options. There will also be a dessert buffet with options such as blueberry lemon opera cake, mimosa cake truffles and chocolate raspberry bubbly fudge. Connie Brannock and the Little House of Funk will keep up the energy, playing R&B favorites sure to get listeners danc ing. The night will end with a champagne toast with party favors. The night is open to those 21 and older.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 31

Chick-fil-A

10% off for those 50 and older

Chili’s

10% discount

5150 E. Broadway Boulevard 1640 W. Valencia Road

Dairy Queen

Varies by location for those 55 and older, so ask.

Denny’s

Offers a 55-plus menu and 15% off with an AARP card.

Taco Bell

A 16-ounce drink for 75 cents

Village Inn

You have to request it, but it’s 10% for those 55 and older. 9560 E. 22nd Street

Wendy’s

A free value drink; just ask for it

Whataburger

A complimentary senior drink

There’s just something about the 1920s that still has an intrigue. During Hotel Congress’ Roaring ’20s NYE on Congress Prohibition-era jazz party, patrons will feel like they have been taken back to a

WHERE: Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch, 5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Road, Tucson

COST: $125 for buffet, dinner, dessert and dancing and $35 for dessert and dancing

INFO: 520-526-9345, haciendadelsol.com

‘Doo Wopified’

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

With credits like “Jersey Boys,” “Motown: The Musical” and “A Bronx Tale,” a group of charismatic Broadway actors wanted to fill their off time with a special project that utilized their talents.

They founded the Doo Wop Project, which blends the classic sounds of acts like Frankie Valli and the Drifters with the 2000s’ Maroon 5 and Jason Mraz. In June, they were featured on PBS.

The Doo Wop Project will play three shows in Arizona in December — Tucson, Wickenburg and Chandler.

“We love coming to Arizona,” singer Dominic Nolfi says.

“Everyone’s ready to party when we come to Arizona. They’re ready to have a good time, and we love that kind of energy. We’re high energy.

“We come from a Broadway background, so we’re used to performing a lot of shows in a week — sometimes eight in a week.

“When we started this group, we were doing three a weekend, maybe four at the most. We’re just full of energy, and we leave people surprised. There is a lot more action and energy than people maybe expect.”

Back with its new holiday show, the

Doo Wop Project traces the evolution of doo wop from the classic sound of five guys singing harmonies on a street corner to the biggest hits on the radio.

With Nolfi, Charl Brown, Dwayne Cooper, Russell Fischer, John Michael Dias and Sonny Paladino, the set will also feature nonholiday tunes.

For a taste of the show, visit their website at: https://bit.ly/ DooWopProjectHoliday.

“The holiday songs we do are vintage, with the exception of the ‘doo-wopified’ George Michael’s ‘Last Christmas,’” Nolfi says. “But we do the Drifters’ ‘White Christmas,’ which has a doo-woppy feel.”

As a child in San Francisco, singing came naturally to Nolfi. His mother choreographed musicals and is a dancer, so he grew up in rehearsal studios, he says.

“When they needed kids to be in the show, my brother and I were always volunteered,” he adds with a laugh.

“We liked it. We ended up enjoying it.

Both of us went on to do it professionally. My brother went on to a more lucrative field, but it’s in my blood these days.”

He went on to study youth acting at the acclaimed American Conservatory Theatre. He studied voice at the San Francisco Conservatory and attended the Boston Conservatory on scholarship, where he graduated with a BFA in theater.

Upon graduation Dominic joined the European production of “Grease.” It was there that he met his future wife Sonia Iannetti; they have a daughter, Vivienne.

Nolfi most recently performed on Broadway in Chazz Palminteri’s “A Bronx

Tale – The Musical,” directed by Robert De Niro and Jerry Zaks.

When the men formed the Doo Wop Project, it was just for fun. Nolfi says he’s pleasantly surprised at how it took off.

“This was an idea where we said, ‘We’ll do this a couple times for fun,’” he explains.

“Then people were like, ‘Can you do this here?’ So we got an agent who said we could go all over the country if we did it right. We started with 10 gigs, and three years later we’re doing 60. That’s a huge

Broadway veterans pay tribute to the greats — on their terms

Santino Paladino, Charl Brown, John Michael Dias, Russell Fischer, Dwayne Cooper and Dominic Nolfi are The Doo Wop Project. They have three Arizona shows in December. (The Doo Wop Project/Submitted)

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They’re Back!

Lovin’ Life expos offer a wealth of info

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

The Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo is returning to the Double Tree Resort Reid Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 11, with exhibitors ready to talk about tour and travel, retirement living, health care, financial matters, leisure and more.

The Tucson event is part of Lovin’ Life After 50’s cadre of events, which are Arizona’s longest-run ning expos for the after-50 market.

“The Tucson Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo is still the most well-attended event for those over 50 to en joy in all of Arizona,” publisher Steve Strickbine says.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to meet new friends, network with peers, and build new rela tionships. There will also be raffle prize giveaways, live entertainment, and a $100 cash prize each hour.

Entertainment includes Ms. Senior Arizona con testants performing throughout the day.

“I have been working the Lovin’ Life After 50 ex pos for over 16 years now and have watched them grow and also watched our Arizona seniors flock to each expo all over the Valley,” says Herme Sherry, executive director of Ms. Senior Arizona.

“The expos bring so much information to our se niors. They are there waiting for the doors to open

Doo Wop...continued from page 10

jump. Now, this year, we might break 70.” He says it works out nicely.

“We researched other groups that do this,” says Nolfi, who is writing and helping develop Broadway shows. “We thought if they could do it, we could, too. We have a Broadway pedigree that can help sell us, too.”

and always leave with a bag full of information to maybe help them in some areas of their lives. The expos have grown each year, and we look forward to working them and meeting and getting to know so many of our seniors we see year after year.”

Sherry shares the expos are a “blessing” to the senior community.

“We get to know so many of them year after year,” she adds. The Lovin’ Life After 50 expos are something we look forward to each year also.”

Strickbine is proud of the variety of vendors, in cluding OptumCare.

“A wide spectrum of exhibitors and thousands of attendees are at the Lovin’ Life Expos each year,” he says. “There’s bound to have something for anyone over the age of 50.”

Lovin’ Life After 50 Expo

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 11

WHERE: Double Tree Resort Reid Park, 445 S. Alvernon Way, Tucson COST: Free INFO: lovinlife.com

The Doo Wop Project

WHEN: 8 p.m. Thursday, December 15

WHERE: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street COST: Tickets start at $25 INFO: 520-547-3040, foxtucson.com

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, December 16

WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler COST: Tickets start at $32 INFO: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 17

WHERE: Webb Center, 1090 S. Vulture Mine Road, Wickenburg COST: Tickets start at $45 INFO: dewpac.org or thedoowopproject.com

Calendar of Events

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1

Madaras Gallery Holiday Sale, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays through Sunday, December 11, Madaras Gallery, 3035 N. Swan Road, free admission, madaras.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2

Reveille Men’s Chorus presents “The Gift,” 7:30 p.m., repeats December 3, 2 p.m. December 4, Leo Rich Theatre, 260 S. Church Avenue, $25, reveillemenschorus.org

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

The Music of Neil Diamond, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., The Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road, $31, gaslightmusichall.com

Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Avenue, $50 includes up to four guests, childrensmuseumtucson.org

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4

Oro Valley Festival of the Arts, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, saaca.org/ovholidayfestival. html

Scoundrel & Scamp Theatre presents “Pooh,” various dates and times, Sunday, December 4, to Sunday, December 11, Scoundrel & Scamp Theatre, 738 N. Fifth Avenue, Suite 131, $30, $28 age 65 and older, $15 student, scoundrelandscamp.org

MONDAY, DECEMBER 5

First Aid/CPR Training, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., PCOA Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center, 600 S. Country Club Road, free, pcoa. org

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6

36th Anniversary Screening of “Howard’s End,” 7:30 p.m., The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Boulevard, free, loftcinema.org

Dementia Friends Information Training, 1 p.m., Pima Council on Aging, 8467 E. Broadway Boulevard, free, pcoa.org

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Abstract Perspectives in Contemporary Art, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, through March 25, University of Arizona Museum of Art, 1031 N. Olive Road, $8, $6 seniors 65 and over, artmuseum.arizona.edu

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8

Wholly Cats Swing Club, Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, free, saaca.org/ovconcertseries.html

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Harry Connick Jr., 8 p.m. Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, tickets start at $50, arizonaartslive.com/harry-connick-jr

An Irish Christmas, 8 p.m. The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress Street, tickets start at $32, rialtotheatre.com

Antsy Nancy Crafting Club: Holiday Ornament Wreaths, 9 a.m., TMC for Seniors, 2695 N. Craycroft Road, $18 includes supplies and instruction, tmcaz.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

The Tucson Boys Chorus Holiday Concert, 7:30 p.m., University of Arizona Crowder Hall, 1017 N. Olive Road, $15, $20 premium seating, $8 children under 12, boyschorus.org

Arizona Opera Presents “Ariadne Auf Naxos,” 7:30 p.m., repeats 2 p.m. December 11, The Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Avenue, tickets start at $30, azopera.org/ performances/ariadne-auf-naxos

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

Mavis Staples, 7 p.m., The Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, tickets start at $42.50, foxtucson.com

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12

Visit Biosphere 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily except Christmas Day, Biosphere 2, 32540 S. Biosphere Road, Oracle, $25, $23 senior, $15 child ages 5 to 17, biosphere2.org

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13

Winterhaven Festival of Lights, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily through Monday, December 26, free, winterhavenfestival.org

Mindfulness Chair Yoga with Connie Lucas, 10 a.m., TMC for Seniors, 2695 N. Craycroft Road, $5, tmcaz.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14

“It’s a Wonderful Life”: A Live Radio Play, various days and times through Saturday, December 24, Saguaro City Music Theatre, Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Boulevard, tickets start at $25, saguarocity.org

Meditation 101: Simple Tools for Peace of Mind, 10 a.m., TMC for Seniors, 2695 N. Craycroft Road, $5, tmcaz.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

Very Merry Christmas Sing-Along Spectacular, 7 p.m., The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Boulevard, $15, $10 children under 12, loftcinema.org, admission includes a “goodie bag” of props to use while singing

Pima Council on Aging Winter Party, 2 p.m., St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 8051 E. Broadway Boulevard, free, pcoa.org

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul Gardens, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., repeats Saturday, December 17, Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte, $20, $6 kids 3 to 12, tohonochul. org, reservations recommended

Ethan Iverson Trio: Every Note is True, 7 and 9 p.m. repeats, Saturday, December 17, Hotel Congress, The Century Room, 311 E. Congress Street, tickets start at $25, hotelcongress.com/family/century-room

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

“The Polar Express,” 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street, $8.80, $16.60 under age 16, foxtucson.com, includes a short, pre-movie concert on the theater’s “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ

Arizona Women’s Chorus Holiday Concert, 3 p.m., St. Francis in the Foothills, 4625 E. River Road, $20, azwomenschorus.org, free for children age 12 and younger

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

Hanukkah Hot Chocolate Fun Run, 8 to 9:45 a.m. Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road, $35 for 1K; $65 for 5K, less for members, tucsonjcc.org/fun-run

David Fitzsimmons’ “The Arroyo Café at Rialto Theatre” Holiday Variety Show, 1 p.m., “The Arroyo Café at Rialto Theatre,” 318 E. Congress Street, $20, rialtotheatre.com

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19

Zoo Lights at Reid Park Zoo, 6 to 9 p.m. nightly through December 30, Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, $12, $10 over 62, $8 child 2 to 14, reidparkzoo.org

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20

Hanukkah Happening, 5 to 6:30 p.m. El Con Center, 3601 E. Broadway Boulevard, tucsonjcc.org

Learn to Play/Practice Native AmericanStyle Flute Online, 1 p.m., Zoom, email azaarp@aarp.org

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21

Richard Avedon: Relationships (at Palazzo Reale in Milan, Italy), 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, closed December 23 through January 2, University of Arizona, Center for Creative Photography, 1030 N. Olive Road, ccp.arizona.edu

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22

Saguaro National Park , Rincon Mountain District, East, offers lots of flat trails with great views, 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily for vehicles, 24 hours daily for walking, hiking and bicycles, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail, $25 per vehicle, nps.gov/sagu/index.htm. Lifetime senior pass to all the national parks, $80, store.usgs.gov/senior-pass.

2022

Best In

Wealth

created by SHOOK Research. Presented in April 2022 based on data gathered from June 2020 to June 2021. 19,640 Advisors were considered, 6,500 Advisors were recognized. Advi sors pay a fee to hold out mar keting materials. Not indicative of advisor’s future performance. Your experience may vary. For more information, please visit www.forbes.com

2022 Women’s Choice Award, created by Women Certified Inc. Presented on a rolling ba sis based on data as of Dec. 31, annually. 603 advisors were considered, 221 advisors were recognized. Advisors pay a fee to hold out marketing materi als. Not indicative of advisor’s future performance. Your experience may vary. For more information, please visit www. womenschoiceaward.com

2022

, created by Five Star Profes sional. The 2022 award was presented in September 2022 based on data gathered within 12 months preceding the issue date. 2,290 advisors were considered, 89 advisors were recognized. Advisors pay a fee to hold out marketing materi als. Not indicative of advisor’s future performance. Your experience may vary. For more information, please visit www. fivestarprofessional.com Tucson Office 1627 N. Swan Rd. Suite 125, Tucson, AZ 85712 Phone: 520-733-0004 www.kdiwealth.com

Forbes

State

Advisors,

Five Star Wealth Manager Award

Calendar...continued from page 13

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23

Watch Raptor Free Flight, 10 a.m. daily except Wednesday, Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road, $29.95, $26.95 over 65, desertmuseum.org, reservations recommended

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24

“The Nutcracker Ballet” featuring Ballet Tucson and the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, 1 p.m. Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, ballettucson.org/ the-nutcracker

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Revue, 2 p.m., The Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, $27, gaslightmusichall.com/blog

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

Merry Christmas! Also, Happy National Pumpkin Pie Day! Zoom with friends and family, then share some pumpkin pie and break out the jigsaw puzzles.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26

Boxing Day. Drink Earl Grey tea in memory of Queen Elizabeth. (It was her favorite.) Then think about tidying up. Is all that stuff really bringing you joy? If not, box it up for Goodwill.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27

Walk the Turquoise Trail of Tucson History, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday, Presidio San Agustin del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Avenue, tucsonpresidio.com/

turquoise-trail. Pick up a free map or check times for a guided tour.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28

Colonial Art/Arte Colonial, from the museum’s collection of art from the Indigenous Americas in the European colonial period, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday to Sunday, ongoing, Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, 140 N. Main Avenue, $12, $10 seniors 65 and over, tucsonmuseumofart.org

Cafe at the Katie, 10 a.m., PCOA Katie Dusenberry Healthy Aging Center, 600 S. Country Club Road, free, pcoa.org

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29

Fellini’s “Roma,” 7:30 p.m. The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Boulevard, $10, $7 seniors over 65, loftcinema.org

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30

The Sonoita-Elgin Wine Tour, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., pickup and drop off at your location, $139, fareharbor.com

Senior Olympics 50+ Registration Deadline, all day, Morris K. Udall Center, Carol West Senior Addition, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road, tucsonaz.gov

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31

New Year’s Eve Party at Hacienda del Sol, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., Casa Luna Ballroom, Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, 5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Road, $35 dessert and dancing, $125 includes dinner, haciendadelsol.com

Pink Martini featuring China Forbes with Tucson Symphony Orchestra Evan Roider, Conductor

Matthew Whitaker Quintet

Casinos

Casino Calendar

John Tesh: A Jazzy Swingin’ Christmas

8 p.m. Friday, December 2, Desert Dia mond Sahuarita Diamond Center, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, tickets start at $49.50, ddcaz.com

ZZ Top

8 p.m. Friday, December 2, The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $45, 480850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

DSB: An American Journey

7:30 p.m. Friday, December 2, and Saturday, December 3, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, sold out, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona.com

KC & Moonshine Band

8 p.m. Friday, December 2, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Re sort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort. com

One of These Nights: Tribute to the Eagles

8 p.m. Friday, December 2, Wild Horse

Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

Desert Diamond Band

9 p.m. Friday, December 2, and Satur day, December 3, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Mike Epps

8 p.m. Saturday, December 3, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $65, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

Dynamite Draw

8 p.m. Saturday, December 3, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Powerdrive

8 p.m. Friday, December 9, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Cheap Trick

8 p.m. Friday, December 9, Desert Dia mond Sahuarita Diamond Center, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, tickets start at $40, ddcaz.com

Tracy Lawrence w/ Randy Rogers Band

8 p.m. Friday, December 9, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 Maricopa Road, Maricopa, tickets start at $65.50, caesars. com/harrahs-ak-chin/shows/calendar

Mick Adams and the Stones

7:30 p.m. Friday, December 9, and Saturday, December 10, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $20, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona. com

Country Image Band

9 p.m. Friday, December 9, and Satur day, December 10, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Yuyines de la Sierra

9 p.m. Friday, December 16, and Sat urday, December 17, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Harry Luge

8 p.m. Saturday, December 17, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Matt Farris

8 p.m. Friday, December 23, and Saturday, December 24, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Priminition

8 p.m. Friday, December 23, and Sat urday, December 24, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

The

Mavericks: Very Merry Christmas w/JD McPherson

8 p.m. Friday, December 9, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scott sdale, tickets start at $30, 480-850-7777, talkingstickresort.com

Voyager: A Tribute to Journey

8 p.m. Friday, December 9, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $25, 1-800-WINGILA, playatgila.com

T-Pain and Rick Ross

9:30 p.m. Saturday, December 10, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $69, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila. com

Diamond Rio: Holiday & Hits

8 p.m. Sunday, December 11, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $40, 1-800-WIN-GILA, playatgila.com

Mogollon

8 p.m. Friday, December 16, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Pat Benatar Experience

7:30 p.m. Friday, December 16, and Saturday, December 17, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480-850-7777, casinoarizona. com

Arizona Blacktop

8 p.m. Friday, December 30, WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480-789-4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Hit Squad 17

9 p.m. Friday, December 30, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Ring in 2023 in the Showroom

9 p.m. Saturday, December 31, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $50, 480-850-7777, casi noarizona.com. Hosted by MEGA 104.3’s The Manic Hispanic. Entry includes a com plimentary champagne toast at midnight, balloon drop, party favors, and a chance to win cash prizes.

David Voss and Big Country

9 p.m. Saturday, December 31, Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, visit website for charge, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Glitter & Glow New Year’s Eve

9:30 p.m. Saturday, December 31, Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $150, 480850-7777, talkingstickresort.com. Per formers include George Michael Reborn from 9:30 to 11 p.m. and Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience from 11:20 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets include four drinks, entertainment, party favors, and a celebratory toast at midnight.

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

THIS WEEK H H

Lake Geneva

BY REGINALD DOMINIQUE

Arriving at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, guests are immersed in a grandeur society as it propels them into a Renaissance-like world.

Located 80 miles from Chicago and 40 miles from Milwaukee, Lake Geneva is known as one of the most stunning lake destinations in the country. It’s been historically known as a permanent xture of wealth and hosting the upper-echelon society.

Known since the 1880s as the “Newport of the West” and the “Hamptons of Chicago,” the small lake town hosted summer retreats for prominent families like the Wrigleys, Wackers, Chapins, Drakes and Schwinns. This drove many to want to see the Southern Wisconsin lakeside retreat for themselves.

More than 100 of those homes are still standing in their Gilded Age glory; however, today Lake Geneva is known for more than its star power. The four-season resort town is a favorite for families with young children, friend getaways, chef-driven cuisines, trendy shopping, and tons of water activities.

A grand welcome to Lake Geneva is a stay at a AAA, Four-Diamond resort like the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. Opened in 1968 as the Lake Geneva Playboy Club Hotel — yes, that’s right — this property o ers luxurious guest rooms, suites and opulence.

Decadent dining options include the Geneva Chop House specializing in hand-selected, custom-seasoned steaks prepared to perfection by executive chef

Dustin Urbanik and his sta . The Iberico pork and Japanese whisky porterhouse are highly recommended and can be paired with the perfect wine by the resident sommelier Andy Kulakowski.

Although the lake experience is amazing, the adventures go far beyond. The Yerkes Observatory is a must. Known as the birthplace of modern astrophysics, Yerkes Observatory has welcomed astronomers and astronauts to its majestic and iconic location of scienti c discovery and education of space since 1897.

It is most famously known as the home to the world’s largest refracting telescope and was one of the two places Albert Einstein asked to see on his 1921 tour of America. Today, Yerkes is owned by the Yerkes Future Foundation. With restoration and revitalization, the nonpro t is taking Yerkes Observatory to new heights.

Returning from space at the Yerkes Observatory, guests can experience the pristine waters of Lake Geneva by way of the mail delivery by boat.

Since 1916, the town of Geneva has been delivering its mail via boat on the lake, which is a rarity now. This two-anda-half-hour cruise around the entire lake is exciting and scenic. It gives passengers the chance to learn more about the estates’ history and get close to the properties as the mail carriers deliver mail.

Working up an appetite is no problem in this town. Dining options are aplenty, but PIER 290 serves up Lake Life as the only waterfront restaurant on Lake Geneva. The friendly restaurant boasts beautiful lake views in its large dining room,

front deck or covered canopies.

The menu features casual American fare for lunch, dinner and boozy brunch on the weekends. Along with dining options, guests can also sit with a drink in their hand on the lakefront beach and their toes in imported sand around re pits. The fun doesn’t stop when summer ends; PIER 290 is a year-round spot for weekly specials, lakeside dining, live music and fun.

Although Lake Geneva is known for its beautiful waters, there is more beyond the lake shores, including several wineries for sipping and savoring. A day of wine tasting starts at Hill Valley Dairy, which o ers great wines and small-batch, high-quality cheeses with locally sourced milk. Growing up on a dairy farm, Ron Henningfeld loved working alongside his family members, caring for the animals and farmland.

That passion remains, as he and his wife create a variety of artisan cheeses with Romari Farms fresh milk. He remains passionate about making quality cheeses using quality milk and connecting local people to local food products. Make sure you try the black pepper cheddar, whiskey gouda and cheese curds.

Fruit wine lovers should check out Apple Barn Orchard and Wines. This fourth-generation farm invites parents to bring the kids for strawberry picking in June or apple and pumpkin gathering in autumn. Or, just leave the kids at home to enjoy wine.

Their bakery uses seasonal fruits in delicious goodies like apple cider doughnuts and strawberry/rhubarb pies. Taste the

selections outside, under their beautiful 140-year-old maple tree.

Magic in Wisconsin may not be the rst thing you would consider during a visit to Lake Geneva, but here is where that may change. While it may not be the typical thing on your to-do list, you will want to get tickets for a show at the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre. The shows are clever, funny, engaging and ba ing.

A 6-year-old and a 70-year-old were equally as thrilled, which is a testament to the range of illusions. Appearing birds, disappearing motorcycles, appearing helicopters, ladies cut in half — it is a taste of Vegas. The award-winning, 175-seat Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is an amazing and entertaining event and a great way to end a Lake Geneva visit.

Visitors easily fall in love with Lake Geneva, with its charming downtown district lled with distinctive shops, restaurants and entertainment venues, all within walking distance of the water.

Anchored by its history, the lakefront beckons visitors from its pristine beaches, picturesque parks and, of course, the famous Geneva Lake. From cruising the lake aboard a U.S. Mail Boat Lake Geneva tour to taking in the Yerkes Observatory, relaxing at the Grand Geneva Resort, or sipping fruity wines at Apple Barn Orchard under maple trees, it is easy to live your best lake life in Lake Geneva.

Riviera Beach. (Photo by Rachel Brockett)

Voted Best Alternative Health Center in Tucson!

84 year old Susan G. of Tucson, AZ was struggling with arthritis and poor circulation in her hands that made it difficult to complete her daily tasks, let alone enjoy her favorite hobbies - sewing and knitting. When she first came to Tucson Acupuncture & Wellness, Susan could not even close her hand into a fist.

"Before I started seeing Renée, I could only get so far through my yard work before I had to stop and run my hands under warm water to get them to stop aching."

The most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage cushion between bones wears away and causes pain and swelling within the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body's own immune system attacks the joint lining, also resulting in painful and swollen joints. Regardless of the type or cause, Acupuncturist Renée Stucklen has been eliminating the painful symptoms of arthritis for over 10 years - giving patients back the ability to do what they love free from pain!

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BY VALERIE VINYARD

Cuban food is back in Tucson.

Mojo Cuban Kitchen and Rum Bar opened October 30 on Grant Road just east of Campbell Avenue in the former Viva el Caribe.

“I love Cuban food, and Tucson needed a Cuban restaurant,” says Nick Schaffer, owner and a Chicago native who has lived in Tucson since 2006.

Scha er and his wife, Alison, had owned Jimmy John’s franchises since 2003. After they sold the last of their stores last year, Scha er says it was time to branch out.

“We were excited to do something more creative,” says Scha er, 46.

They relied on their experience in developing teams to gather a solid group of chefs, servers and bartenders. Their executive chef, Janet Balderas, previously was the executive chef at Tanque Verde Guest

Ranch. And Mojo’s sous chef, Patricia Espinosa, hails from Cuba.

“Mojo,” which is pronounced “mo-ho” and means “Caribbean garlic sauce” in Spanish, is a citrus and garlic marinade and dipping sauce that is the foundation of many traditional Cuban dishes.

“It’s authentic Cuban food in an accessible contemporary environment that’s inviting to everyone,” Scha er says of the food. “It was all about creating a great concept that people love.”

To help create that concept, the Schaffers took the general manager, chef and sous chef to Miami for a Cuban culinary tour. Scha er has hired about 30 employees to work at Mojo.

“We did our homework,” he says.

While in Miami, the team sampled dishes from well-known Cuban restaurants.

Don’t expect any spicy foods at Mojo.

Perhaps one of the most noticeable differences between Mexican and Cuban cuisine is the lack of heat in Cuban foods.

Newcomers to Cuban food won’t go wrong ordering the Taste of Havana ($22). The sampler plate comes with juicy ropa vieja, succulent Mojo chicken and lechon asado, Cuban roast pork.

The pork is marinated in a homemade mojo marinade overnight and then roasted low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender. In fact, many of Mojo’s meats are marinated and slow roasted for up to 24 hours.

The menu includes small plates ($5$16), sandwiches ($12-$14), salads ($10$11), entrees ($14-$22), and desserts ($3.50-$6). Cuban comfort dishes include ropa vieja, empanadas, fried yuca, mojo chicken and the Cubano sandwich.

Scha er says the current bestsellers are the Cuban sandwich or the Taste of Havana.

“It’s a really good value,” Scha er says of the sandwich, having worked with La Estrella Bakery to create a Cuban bread recipe. “It’s a lot of food.”

FORS Architecture and Interiors transformed the space into an inviting, comfortable and bright restaurant. People order at the counter and get a number to put on their table. The food is delivered by friendly servers.

The 3,000-square-foot restaurant seats 80 people inside and 20 outside on the patio. There’s an indoor-outdoor full bar

Mojo

that features a variety of rums. Customers can choose three selections each for a Bronze Rum Flight ($20), Silver ($40) or the top-shelf Gold Flight ($100), which also comes with a cigar.

Other drinks include wines ($8-$10 per glass; $38-$40 per bottle), six draft beers ($6), seven bottled or canned beers ($5), sangria ($12 a glass; $45 a pitcher), and seven classic Cuban cocktails ($8-$12). Daiquiris, which originated in Cuba, come chilled or frozen ($11) and are available in a variety of avors, including coconut, pineapple, lime and cherry.

There’s a walk-up window, which is convenient when ordering for pickup or when grabbing a Cuban co ee ($3) and pastelito for breakfast.

“We’re making everything in-house, including all the pastries,” Scha er says. “It’s a lot of prep.”

Luckily, there’s always a supply of Cuban co ee made by Decibel Co ee Works, a local roaster, to keep him alert.

1929 E. Grant Road, Tucson 520-690-6921, mojocuban.com

11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays

When Marjorie and Steve were young, they didn’t think about owning a home, let alone retirement!

As they grew older they wanted the American dream, owning a home. That dream for Marjorie and Steve took hard work. With a good job, paying the bills, mortgage and of course keeping up with the kids, their house is more than just a home. It is the family they’ve built and the life they have lived. It was worth it all.

Now nearing retirement age, they are looking forward to enjoying what they earned. Marjorie and Steve couldn’t wait to sit back and relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. But even with all their careful planning, unforeseen events and unexpected expenses diminished the assets they set aside for their retirement. The only realistic option they could see was to sell their retirement home in Sun Lakes. It felt like an impossible task.

Luckily, their son, knowing how

hard they worked and desired to stay in their home, suggested an alternative, a reverse mortgage. Marjorie and Steve’s credit card debt were not a part of their retirement plans, but Sun American Mortgage stepped in to help turn a bad situation into an opportunity for them to stay in their home. With 30 years of experience assisting Arizona seniors in similar situations Sun American Mortgage is a leader in the Reverse Mortgage industry. Instead of selling their precious home they worked so hard for in Sun Lakes, Marjorie and Steve were able to turn to the equity in their own home to pay off their credit card debt and get back on track to retire better.

With their reverse mortgage line of credit, they can take money in and out of their home without recourse. They can make payments on their reverse mortgage if they want to, but also feel safe knowing that in a pinch, no payment is required. They pay their property taxes, homeowners’ insurance and HOA

fees as always. Marjorie and Steve have options. They can simply pay the interest, make a full payment every other month, make two payments every month, or never make a payment again for as long as they live in the house. The reverse mortgage gave them the flexibility to live the future they dreamed of, even though their retirement plans didn’t go quite as planned, they can retire better.

Call Sun American Mortgage Company (480)467-1000

or toll-free at 1(800) 469-7383. 4140 E. Baseline Rd., Ste. 206, Mesa, Arizona 85206

An equal housing opportunity company, member of the Better Business Bureau & the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association • Mortgage Banker License #BK7548 • NMLS #160265

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Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) or by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

Columns

Ask the Expert 5 ways to de-stress your holidays

BY TUCSON MEDICAL CENTER

Stress tends to show up whenever it wants, like an uninvited party guest or obnoxious in-law — especially during the holidays, when you’re trying to create magic, joy and happiness for your loved ones.

Maybe you’re frazzled by the crowded malls, planning the perfect dinner, a full to-do list or your waning bank account. Whatever the case may be, there are ways to de-stress and enjoy the season.

Celebrate the entire season

Don’t put too much stress on one day. Instead, remember the moments and kindness that have taken place all month.

Be realistic

Nobody has the perfect 1950s TV family, and that’s OK. Learn to accept (or even celebrate) your family’s quirks, lifestyles and di erences.

Have fun

Go for a hike. Meet friends for drinks or co ee. Take time to breathe. And maybe even indulge a little, but also nd balance. If you feel like you’ve eaten more than you normally would, grab a family member or friend and go for a walk. Do whatever you need to do to

feel centered.

Ask for help

When you have a million things to do, recruit help. Ask your family and friends to do the baking so you can wrap gifts. Instead of cooking an entire meal, host a potluck.

Acknowledge transitions

For some, the holidays are tough because of loss. Take the time to celebrate cherished memories, but try to be open to new rituals. If you can’t shake the sadness, though, seek help from a professional.

It’s easy to put yourself on the back burner during the busy holiday season, but make sure you are taking care of yourself. If your body is telling you something is not right, schedule a visit with your primary care provider. If you need a provider, nd one at tmcone.com.

Whitney Solis

Licensed

Medicare Specialist

520-490-1731

www.whitneysolismedicare.com service@whitneysolismedicare.com www.facebook.com/solismedicare

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Sleep apnea can be a serious disorder

BY FRED CICETTI

I’m tired most days, and I never feel rested. Could I have sleep apnea?

I urge you to get to a doctor for a diagnosis, because sleep apnea can be a serious disorder. High blood pressure is common in sleep apnea. Sudden drops in blood oxygen levels that occur during sleep stoppages increase blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system, raising the risk of heart failure and stroke.

About 18 million Americans have sleep apnea. It’s much more common in older adults and men. Apnea is Greek for “without breath.”

People with sleep apnea stop breathing for as long as 30 seconds at a time. These interruptions can happen hundreds of times a night. The breathing cessations may wake you and prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep. These awakenings usually are so brief that you don’t recall them.

There are two kinds of sleep apnea: central and obstructive.

If you have central sleep apnea, there’s a communication breakdown between the breathing muscles and your brain. It’s uncommon.

About 90% of sleep apnea victims have obstructive apnea, which is caused by a blockage in the windpipe. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax.

These muscles support the soft palate, tonsils, tongue and uvula — that doohickey that hangs in the back of your mouth. When the muscles relax, your airway is narrowed and breathing is cut o . A blockage can also be caused by a lot of fatty tissue in the throat.

The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness.

• Loud snoring.

• Observed episodes of breathing stoppages during sleep.

• Abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath.

• Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat.

• Morning headache.

• Problems associated with sleep deprivation, such as forgetfulness and mood changes.

A common treatment for sleep apnea that helps most su erers is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). You sleep with a special mask that adds pressure to the air you breathe. There are several types of air-pressure devices available.

Mild cases of apnea can be treated with dental devices that move your jaw forward to make breathing easier. In very few cases, surgery is necessary to remove tonsils or extra tissue from the throat.

Another option is upper airway stimulation (UAS). A small subcutaneous device is put in the chest. This device has an electrode that stimulates the tongue muscles to open the airway, enabling you to breathe easily.

There are some self-help techniques:

• Sleep on your side instead of your back. Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue and soft palate to rest against the back of your throat and block your airway.

• Eliminate alcoholic beverages and sleep medicines, which relax the muscles in your throat.

• Quit smoking. Nicotine is a stimulant and can interfere with sleep. Smoke is an irritant to nose, throat and lungs.

• Lose weight. A fat neck tends to narrow the airway in your throat.

(Note: In my research, I often seem to run into warnings against alcohol, tobacco and fat. Must be something to it.)

When you go to a doctor for a diagnosis, he or she may refer you to a sleep disorder center. You may be asked to undergo overnight monitoring of your breathing and other body functions during sleep. You may also be referred to an ear, nose and throat doctor to rule out any blockage in your nose or throat.

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