Explorer News 05/24/2023

Summer Survival Guide

Savanna wants to raise chickens

BY DAVE PERRY Tucson

Media Contributor

avanna Randall, age 9, is seeking legal permission to raise chickens, and maybe a few miniature goats, on her family’s 1-acre piece of land in Oro Valley. Currently, Oro Valley’s zoning code says “no.” Farm animals may be kept only in two Oro Valley zoning districts, with minimum lot sizes of

3.3 to 10 acres.

Savanna and her dad Ben approached the town staff, wrote a letter to the Oro Valley Planning & Zoning Commission, then appeared before P&Z on May 2 to request a change in the allowances. The commission has agreed to begin the process of a potential zoning code amendment.

BY DAVE PERRY Tucson Local Media Contributor

Acomprehensive study of Oro Valley’s housing inventory and future needs is “definitely a sign of a community that’s maturing,” Town Planning Manager Bayer Vella said he believes.

“We’ve been in the adolescent phase, with a lot of very fast growth” in the last 25 years, said Vella, who has worked for town government since 1999.

“We’re starting to enter a period of refinement. There’s not much land left, and it’s important for the town to be strategic on what we might do with it,” he said.

The long-anticipated housing study is under way. Its public introduction is a series of surveys concerning housing. The surveys, to be completed by residents, people who work in Oro Valley, and owners of businesses within the community, are open online through May 31 (see related story).

When tabulated, results of those surveys will be shared with the Planning and Zon-

Savanna Randall, 9, holds a package of range-free eggs in front of the egg case at Safeway in Oro Valley's Rancho Vistoso community. She’d like to raise chickens at home for their farm-fresh eggs, but current Oro Valley code doesn't allow it. (Dave Perry/Contributor)

Hot Picks

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

ARTS

“You Gotta Have Heart: Gershwin & Porter, Too! MAY 28

The show features Armen Dirtadian and Betsy Kruse Craig, who bring the Great American Songbook to life. Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road, Suite 165, Oro Valley, $27 with discounts for students, seniors children and military, 520529-1000, gaslightmusichall.com

Intro to Glass Cutting

JUNE 10

Scoring, breaking and nipping are skills essential to many forms of glass art, including fused and stained glass and mosaics. This workshop provides an overview of glass-cutting tools and their functions, as well as hands-on practice using the Morton System for straight cuts; a glass square; and circle and lens cutters. Sonoran Glass School, 633 W. 18th Street, Tucson, $50, 1 to 4 p.m., 520-8847814, sonoranglass.org

Linda McCartney Retrospective TO AUG. 4

The North American premiere of the Linda McCartney Retrospective comes to the University of Arizona Center for Creative Photography, now through Friday, Aug. 4. Spanning McCartney’s entire career from 1965 to 1997, this exhibition features 176 photographs and archival materials, including Polaroid images and presents three sections such as family life, photographic

experimentation and artists. The exhibit will recur weekly from Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The exhibition will also feature various community events inspired by the collection.

Center for Creative Photography 1030 N. Olive Road, Tucson, various times and pricing, ccp.arizona.edu

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

Pandemic isolation inspired artist, graphic designer and former Arizona State Sen. Steve Farley to explore childhood memories through a series of miniatures. They’re artifacts of his Ontario, California home, but their resonance with childhood reveries is universal. Farley’s youth included a fondness for building miniature models. As an adult,

see HOT PICKS page 4

5-DAY

EXPLORER

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EDITORIAL &

LIVING LIFE AFTER COVID

LIVING LIFE AFTER COVID

"Covid was rough on everybody, but I was one of those unlucky ones and my cough caused me to tear muscles in my chest and side. I've pulled muscles before, but never had I been in so much pain, and the area was really swollen. Obviously I kept coughing, so I imagine that didn't help because long after my Covid symptoms disappeared, I was still in pain. Months went by and I wasn't healing, how do you rest an area that you use to breathe?"-

"Covid was rough on everybody, but I was one of those unlucky ones and my cough caused me to tear muscles in my chest and side. I've pulled muscles before, but never had I been in so much pain, and the area was really swollen. Obviously I kept coughing, so I imagine that didn't help because long after my Covid symptoms disappeared, I was still in pain. Months went by and I wasn't healing, how do you rest an area that you use to breathe?"-

Joseph M.

Joseph M.

Kari Hahn, L.Ac. at Oro Valley Acupuncture has been successfully treating Covid "long-haulers" since the early days of the pandemic.

Kari Hahn, L.Ac. at Oro Valley Acupuncture has been successfully treating Covid "long-haulers" since the early days of the pandemic.

"I have protocols for headaches, fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and other symptoms associated with long-haulers syndrome. In addition to acupuncture, I use adjunct therapies to help combat lasting effects of Covid. Joseph was the first person I saw whose infection caused a severe injury," shares Kari Hahn, L.Ac. "Normally with acute injuries, I instruct my patients to rest, take ibuprofen, and come see me if the pain persists for more than a week or two. Joseph had been suffering for months, his body simply refused to heal."

The human body is a self-healing organism. When you scrape your knee, your blood will quickly

The human body is a self-healing organism. When you scrape your knee, your blood will quickly

work to clot and scab. Your liver has a unique ability to regenerate after injury. If you break a bone, there are specific cells that immediately begin to knit the edges back together.

work to clot and scab. Your liver has a unique ability to regenerate after injury. If you break a bone, there are specific cells that immediately begin to knit the edges back together. Unfortunately, there are also a number of factors that inhibit those regenerative cells from completing the tasks they were designed to do including stress, age, not getting enough quality sleep, and suffering from serious infection or disease.

"I have protocols for headaches, fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and other symptoms associated with long-haulers syndrome. In addition to acupuncture, I use adjunct therapies to help combat lasting effects of Covid. Joseph was the first person I saw whose infection caused a severe injury," shares Kari Hahn, L.Ac. "Normally with acute injuries, I instruct my patients to rest, take ibuprofen, and come see me if the pain persists for more than a week or two. Joseph had been suffering for months, his body simply refused to heal."

Unfortunately, there are also a number of factors that inhibit those regenerative cells from completing the tasks they were designed to do including stress, age, not getting enough quality sleep, and suffering from serious infection or disease.

Kari Hahn shares her expertise. "In Joseph's case, his battle with Covid really afftected his muscle tissues and their ability to heal and repair. Beyond the body just being terribly fatigued from fighting a very challenging infection, his cells were nearly depleted of oxygen. At Oro Valley Acupuncture, I have several cutting edge solutions that I use to treat injuries of this nature and at the forefront is O3 Regenerative Therapy™."

Having used acupuncture to heal her own longtime ailments of asthma and fatigue, she saw the power that this ancient medicine has on many issues that people are told they "just have to live with".

Kari Hahn shares her expertise. "In Joseph's case, his battle with Covid really afftected his muscle tissues and their ability to heal and repair. Beyond the body just being terribly fatigued from fighting a very challenging infection, his cells were nearly depleted of oxygen. At Oro Valley Acupuncture, I have several cutting edge solutions that I use to treat injuries of this nature and at the forefront is O3 Regenerative Therapy™."

"I'll be honest, I was skeptical at first," said Joseph. "But I was out of options and too many people have had such incredible success at her hand that I just couldn't say no. With each treatment I felt better and better. It wasn't 2 weeks into treatment before I was once again playing pickle ball!"

"I'll be honest, I was skeptical at first," said Joseph. "But I was out of options and too many people have had such incredible success at her hand that I just couldn't say no. With each treatment I felt better and better. It wasn't 2 weeks into treatment before I was once again playing pickle ball!"

Kari Hahn has been treating complex, chronic conditions in Tucson for nearly two decades.

Kari Hahn has been treating complex, chronic conditions in Tucson for nearly two decades.

Having used acupuncture to heal her own longtime ailments of asthma and fatigue, she saw the power that this ancient medicine has on many issues that people are told they "just have to live with".

At Oro Valley Acupuncture, Kari uses acupuncture in combination with adjunct therapies to break through the patterns in longstanding chronic issues. "Those conditions that Western medicine professionals deem 'untreatable,' and then send you on your way with a prescription in hand - that's where we do our best work." There are real solutions to your suffering. Kari Hahn works to create those solutions based on the successful treatment of seemingly chronic cases over the years.

"I've seen Kari Hahn for almost every ailment and condition since, " tells Joseph. "Now I check in every few weeks for maintenance. I know I make it sound like changing the oil in your car, but that's exactly what it is. Unfortunately I don't have the luxury of ordering custom new parts for my body, so I plan on taking good care of the one I've got!".

At Oro Valley Acupuncture, Kari uses acupuncture in combination with adjunct therapies to break through the patterns in longstanding chronic issues. "Those conditions that Western medicine professionals deem 'untreatable,' and then send you on your way with a prescription in hand - that's where we do our best work." There are real solutions to your suffering. Kari Hahn works to create those solutions based on the successful treatment of seemingly chronic cases over the years.

"I've seen Kari Hahn for almost every ailment and condition since, " tells Joseph. "Now I check in every few weeks for maintenance. I know I make it sound like changing the oil in your car, but that's exactly what it is. Unfortunately I don't have the luxury of ordering custom new parts for my body, so I plan on taking good care of the one I've got!".

If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a new patient consultation, please call. Mention this ad for a consult fee of $30 for our New Patient Offer.

If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a new patient consultation, please call. Mention this ad for a consult fee of $30 for our New Patient Offer.

he’s an artist and graphic designer renowned for public murals. He found that creating these tiny structures helped to ground him in the social and emotional upheaval that accompanied our months in lockdown.

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

MUSIC

Bastille

MAY 24

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

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

Wide Awake: A Tribute to U2

MAY 27

Wide Awake brings the music of U2 to audiences throughout the Southwest. The band includes Thomas Blanco (Bono), Alan Garcia (The Edge), Heather Wannlund (Adam Clayton) and Daniel Dumire (Larry Mullen Jr.).

Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road,

CHICKENS

from page 1

Suite 165, Oro Valley, $27 with discounts for seniors, students, children and military, 520-529-1000, gaslightmusichall.com

Yachtley Crue

JUNE 3

The Ventura, California-based band plays “soft rock”—or “yacht rock”—tracks, coupled with a stellar live presence, on-stage banter and antics.

Rialto Theatre, 318 Congress Street, Tucson, tickets start at $30, 9 p.m. rialtotheatre.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Biosphere 2 DAILY

We may have experienced an earlier iteration of the Biosphere as something like a passive “zoo” of biomes, but now the focus is on climate change and sustainability research. Interdisciplinary scientists from all over are finding ways to “increase resilience and sustainability of Earth systems and human quality of life.” Ecosystems under glass include the world’s largest controlled tropical rain forest, desert, savanna, mangrove, and ocean biomes. Eye-popping fact: 7.2 million cubic feet are sealed within 6,500 windows. Those systems have now seen 30 years of evolution. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, Biosphere 2, 32540 S. Biosphere Road biosphere2.org/visit/visit-biosphere-2, $25, reservation recommended, find a virtual

“I told Savanna we would either have to break the rule, change the rule, or move” to have farm animals on their property, Ben told P&Z commissioners. The Randalls don’t want to move. “Then we have to change the law,” father told daughter. Savanna, a redheaded fourth-grade student at Innovation Academy in Oro Valley, wrote down 25 reasons why farm animals should be allowed on Oro Valley residential properties. Without hesitation, Savanna recited them to commissioners with little reference to her sparkle-bound notebook, because “I’m better off the top of my head than...if I think about it,” she said later. Among those reasons – “more outdoors and less screens” for young people; “good for weed and insect control;” “honors culture and cultural people;” “teaches emotional strength and resilience;” and “aligns with the town motto (which is “It’s in Our Nature”).

“I agree with all the reasons,” Ben Randall said. Animals could give Savanna “a lot of responsibility, and good lessons, some hard, some easy. And there’s nothing like farm-fresh eggs.”

Ben, his wife, Melanie, and children, Savanna and her brother Lucas, 12, have lived in their home on a 1-acre lot south of Tangerine Road for six years. Their property is outside any homeowners association. It has “beautiful views of the mountains, which is why we moved there,” Ben said. There’s more space and more freedom, he added... but not the freedom to raise farm animals.

“While there are a small percentage of properties that retained the right to keep livestock as part of a translational zoning following annexation, most residentially zoned properties in town do not permit the keeping of any farm animals,” town staff writes.

Those rules have not been updated “since

Reisen Winery Tour (Sonoita-Benson) THROUGH JUNE 3

Owned and operated by a third-generation Tucsonan, Reisen tours are laced with inside knowledge and informed by decades of family memories. Sonoita is rolling and wheat-colored this time of year. Its terrain eases the way of the desert into the surrounding high country. The land and climate are ideal for boutique wineries. Taste wines at four of them on Reisen’s six-hour winery tour itinerary. Start times vary Saturdays through June 3, reisenarizona.com/#day-tours, $175, pickup is in Tucson, lunch is included.

Memorial Day Sunday (Honor Our Military)

MAY 28

Honor those who served with the congregation of Tucson Central Church of the Nazarene.

Tucson Central Church of the Nazarene, 404 S. Columbus Boulevard, Tucson, free, 10:45 a.m. to noon, tucsoncentral.org

Tucson Pops Orchestra: Memorial Day Concert

MAY 28

Khris Dodges, music director/conductor, will be joined by the Tucson Latin Jazz Nonet. The program includes traditional patriotic songs, “The Official West Point March,” “Hymn to the Fallen,” and other numbers.

at least 1981,” said Michael Spaeth, a principal planner with the town.

Most homeowners associations in Oro Valley have restrictions regarding farm animals, Spaeth said, “so any potential allowance for the keeping of small farm animals would mostly apply to larger lot developments, or where there are no homeowners associations.”

The city of Tucson recently updated similar standards, enabling “limited small animal husbandry with appropriate mitigation to limit impacts,” the staff report said.

Commissioner Anna Clark said the Tucson code does not allow roosters, and she asked for similar stipulation.

“We will conduct the research, and do all the analysis,” Spaeth said after Savanna spoke, and the commission gave its approval for further inquiry.

“A lot of people were giving me compliments on how well I did for my age,” Savanna said.

DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, Reid Park, 900 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, visit website for charge, 7 p.m. tucsonpops.org

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

MAY 29

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

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

“Tombstone” 30th Cast Reunion JUNE 23 TO JUNE 25

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of the film “Tombstone” with special guests, including Michael Biehn (Johnny Ringo); Dana Wheeler-Nicholson (Mattie Earp); Joanna Pacula (Kate); Christopher Mitchum (Hooker’s Ranch foreman); John Philbin and Robert Burke (Tom and Frank McLaury) and Peter Sherayko (Jack Vermillion). Selection of free and ticketed events throughout Tombstone. Tombstone, see website for locations, ticket prices and times, tombstone30th.com

“She doesn’t have a lot of fear in her,” Ben said.

“My favorite roller coasters are the scariest ones,” Savanna allows.

“Savanna, good job,” commissioner Kimberly Outlaw Ryan said. “It’s very nerve-wracking getting up in front of us, so awesome job.”

“We were assured it would be pretty easy” to change the rules, Ben said. “Come to find out it wasn’t.”

The Randalls intend to see it through, because Savanna is “a really big animal lover.” Animals love her, too. “Sometimes, if I lay down, all my dogs will come around and kiss me,” she said. Birds flock and chirp when she’s nearby, as if she’s a princess. Miniature goats caught her fancy when she accompanied her cousin to a goat yoga session, where the goats walk on people’s backs.

And, she said, “they are soooo cute.”

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND

CHRONIC

PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!!

Tucson, 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 anti-depressants 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 and numbness.

As displayed in figure 1 above, the nerves are surrounded by diseased, withered blood vessels. A lack of sufficient nutrients means the nerves cannot survive, and thus, slowly die. This leads to those painful and frustrating consequences we were talking about earlier, like weakness, numbness, tingling, balance issues, and perhaps even a burning sensation.

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

(above 95% nerve loss is rarely treatable)

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

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

1. Increases blood flow

2. Stimulates and strengthens small fiber nerves

3. Improves brain-based pain

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

It’s completely painless!

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

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

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

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

Effective neuropathy treatment relies on the following three factors:

1. Finding the underlying cause

2. Determining the extent of the nerve damage

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 May 31st, 2023. Call (520) 934-0130 to make an appointment.

Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this offer to the first 10 callers. YOU 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.

ing Commission and the Oro Valley Town Council later this year. Plans are to post the results on the town’s website, orovalleyaz. gov. And they’ll be part of the housing study, which in turn is going to be used by citizens crafting Oro Valley’s next 10-year general plan, slated to go before the voters in 2026. Oro Valley has not previously undertaken a comprehensive housing study.

Several years ago, town staff conducted a “very focused apartment study,” Vella said. But “we’ve only studied slivers of this. We’ve never really taken a step back and done the comprehensive deep dive to address all the factors associated with housing, where are we today, and where are we going.”

Traditional single-family housing, “the bread and butter of Oro Valley since its in-

corporation” in 1974, is near maximization, Vella said. As Oro Valley nears build-out of land suitable for development within its borders, new subdivisions are being built toward the outskirts, in places like the La

Cholla corridor and the few remaining parcels within Rancho Vistoso.

Since 2010, three major apartment communities have been built along Oracle Road, two more are approved for Oro Valley Mar-

ketplace, another one-level apartment community is nearing completion at Oracle and Linda Vista, and more apartment proposals are coming.

Oro Valley is “going to stop growing in the same manner the town has grown in the last 20, 25 years,” Vella said. “The next phase of growth has already started.”

New growth comes in the form of infill projects, the repurposing of larger, empty storefronts, and “uses on sites that are new to the market,” Vella said. “Landowners are making more and more requests relative to higher density.”

Infill development is “very challenging,” Vella said, because it can involve more difficult infrastructure access and terrain...and neighbors. “That’s in every community, cer-

Town seeks opinions on housing needs

BY DAVE PERRY

Tucson Local Media Contributor

Town officials are urging Oro Valley residents, nonresidents who work in Oro Valley, and owners of businesses within the community to take one of two 10-minute online surveys about the town’s current and future housing needs.

The surveys, conducted by consultant WestGroup Research, are part of the town’s first comprehensive housing study. Surveys opened May 9, and remain available online through Wednesday, May 31. Oro Valley wants to “ensure everyone has an opportunity” to share their views, it said in a release.

“We need all folks to participate in the survey,” said Bayer Vella, the town’s planning manager. “There are so many folks in Oro Valley who we have not reached to learn what their perceptions, needs and wants are. We really want to understand what the community, overall, perceives as housing needs and wants, and expectations.”

To create a statistically valid query, residents are also being surveyed by telephone. As of May 18, 200 of those interviews had been completed, Vella said. “You are most assured a truly random sample of Oro Valley residents through a phone survey. It’s awfully hard to achieve through a web-based survey.”

One online survey is for residents, a second for business owners and their employees. Through May 18, a total of 802 survey

responses have been received from residents, and 45 online responses have come in from business owners and employees.

“There’s a very focused desire to know what residents feel,” Vella said. “They’ll be voting on the upcoming general plan. It’s important to make sure we have a group of data we can entirely represent as (from) residents.”

Understanding the needs and wants of employees and business owners “is also incredibly important,” Vella said.

The resident survey asks respondents their length of residency, how old they are, whether they live in the community full-time or part-time, and within which of Oro Valley’s five overlying ZIP codes they may reside.

It asks residents for “level of agreement” responses to questions about more options for single-family homes, apartments, condominiums or townhomes; whether Oro Valley has “a balanced housing mix that includes a wide range of types and prices;” whether it’s important to have financially attainable housing; whether more high-density housing is needed; where high-density housing should be located; and whether apartments “detract from the character of Oro Valley.”

It asks preferred number of stories in an apartment building, and relative taste for single-family homes, townhomes or duplexes, manufactured homes, “tiny” homes, secondary residential units on existing lots, mobile homes and RV parks, apartments, and condominiums.

The survey for business owners and employees asks demography, business size and type, number of employees at a business, what percentage of employees live in Oro Valley, and similar ranking questions regarding housing attainability, balance of housing mix, and the need for more high-density housing. It has a specific section about apartments. And it asks those individuals what types of housing Oro Valley needs.

Individual survey responses will not be shared with other parties.

Oro Valley residents can go to this link to complete the survey: https://bit.ly/OVHousingResidentsExp

Business owners and nonresident employees can complete this survey: https://bit.ly/ OVHousingNonResidentExp

When the survey period ends, results “will be analyzed and compared to create a report that will be used to help identify the community’s housing goals and policies to create an actionable plan,” the town said. The survey report, as well as the town’s housing study, will be available on the town’s website later this year.

Anyone with questions, needing assistance, or seeking a paper version of the survey can contact Jessica Hynd at 520-229-4711, or email Hynd at ask@orovalleyaz.gov.

A sample housing survey question

A housing survey of Oro Valley residents asks their response to this question:

“Many communities face the following housing challenges. Please provide your level of agreement with the following challenges as they apply to Oro Valley: The choices are:

Children who grow up here cannot afford to live in Oro Valley as adults. There is a lack of financially attainable housing in Oro Valley for seniors, veterans or persons with disabilities. There is a lack of financially attainable housing in Oro Valley for teachers, police, first responders, retail or service employees, or entry-level professionals. There is a lack of adequately sized housing options for multi-generational living, such as living quarters for close relatives or extended family in Oro Valley. There is a lack of adequately sized housing options for those who are interested in downsizing.

Oro Valley housing study is open online through May 31. (Town of Oro Valley/Submitted)

OV speeds process for rooftop solar review, permitting

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

In 2022, the town of Oro Valley issued 704 permits for the installation of rooftop solar electricity systems on single-family homes. Typically, those customers had to wait up to 10 business days for staff to complete the permit review and issuance processes.

Now, as one of 12 communities across America to potentially earn a $15,000 prize from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Oro Valley has implemented SolarAPP+, a third-party, webbased application that automates the permitting process, and can result in an approved permit within 24 hours of application, the town of Oro Valley has announced.

The “more efficient permitting process” is being administered through Oro Valley’s Community and Economic Development Department. SolarAPP+ “automatically performs a compliance check based on inputs supplied by the contractor to ensure the proposed system is safe and code-compliant,” the release said. That results in “efficiency and savings for both the customers and the Town.”

“The town of Oro Valley prides itself on continuous improvement to help save residents time,” said Larry Merrell, Oro Valley building official. “SolarAPP+ is a streamlined process that provides solar benefits to Oro Valley homeowners with the same high-quality review and inspection process in a fraction of the time.”

Oro Valley implemented SolarAPP+

after learning about a nationwide competitive program hosted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. The 2-step contest was open to all counties, cities and towns across America. Oro Valley has been selected as one of 12 communities to participate.

Step one of the competition consisted of submitting information about Oro Valley’s current solar permitting process, solar permit volume, building code requirements, and how SolarAPP+ would help achieve community goals and priorities. In step two, the town developed a new streamlined permitting option, integrating its current software with the SolarAPP+ process. Oro Valley then had to submit proof the SolarAPP+ program was adopted and successfully implemented.

The town has met all the requirements for the $15,000 prize; however, the money won’t be officially awarded until the step two implementation deadline at the end of June, the release said.

To learn more about the program, visit orovalleyaz.gov and type SOLARAPP in the search bar.

SolarAPP+ (Solar Automated Permit Processing Plus) was developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in collaboration with local governments, code development organizations, and industry stakeholders to help communities adopt an automated process for solar permits, lower costs and make solar more accessible to homeowners.

Oracle Road’s medians getting a scrub

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

Medians on Oracle Road are targeted for a thorough cleanup the week of May 22.

Crews working on behalf of the Town of Oro Valley began semi-annual maintenance of Oracle’s medians on Monday, May 22. The work continues through Friday, May 26, a town release said. Median maintenance includes tree trimming, weed control, dead plant and trash removal, and raking.

The “moving operation,” which requires some lane closures, began at Ina Road, and is proceeding through Oro Valley’s entire south-north length, ending just north of Big Wash Overlook Place.

Various sections of the northbound left lane starting at Ina are closed each day from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. “Construction signs, arrows, message board and traffic control will be in place during work hours,” the release said. “Drivers are asked to pay attention and use caution while driving in the work zone.”

Outside construction hours, all north-

bound lanes of Oracle are going to be open.

Oracle Road, State Road 77, is managed by the Arizona Department of Transportation. Since 2010, the town of Oro Valley has had an intergovernmental agreement

with ADOT for median landscape maintenance on Oracle within town limits.

“The town of Oro Valley appreciates your patience and attention to safety as staff works to beautify Oracle Road,” the release said.

Barro’s hosting pediatric cancer fundraiser

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

Family-owned and -operated Barro’s Pizza and Pepsi are teaming up for the eighth year this June to raise funds for the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, a local nonprofit whose mission is to help Arizona families with the high costs and challenging logistics while caring for their children during cancer treatment.

With its continued commitment to helping the local community, throughout June all Barro’s Pizza locations in Arizona will donate to the foundation proceeds, up to $40,000, from the sale of any lunch special. Guests can choose from a selection of specials. Lunch hours vary by location.

“We look forward to this fundraiser every year,” said Ken Barro, co-owner of Barro’s Pizza. “Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children has been instrumental in helping so many Arizona families during a very trying time. Thanks to our loyal customers, we’ve raised more than $221,000 to date and are excited to

support them again this year.”

Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children was founded in 2013 by Chrisie Funari after she lost her young daughter, Ava, to cancer. Funari traveled the country seeking the best treatment and care for her daughter. Knowing the struggle and the toll it takes on the family, Funari started the organization to empower families by ensuring they have a secure place to live, access to medical treatment and continued support. They have since helped hundreds of local families and will continue to help more and more families each year.

“We are so grateful for Barro’s Pizza’s continued support,” said Funari, president and founder of Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children.

“Their contribution has had a significant impact on our ability to provide critical services and support to children and their families affected by cancer. We can’t thank them enough for their commitment to our cause and for making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. We are proud to

have partners like Barro’s Pizza in our community.”

Barro’s Pizza has several Arizona locations,

“Julianna

including 410 N. Wilmot Road, Tucson, and 5884 W. Arizona Pavilions Drive, Tucson. For more information, visit barrospizza.com.

Last year, Barro’s Pizza donated $40,000 to the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. From left are Mike Barro, Ken Barro, Chrisie Funari and Bruce Barro. (Barro’s Pizza/Submitted)

Gyro Shack piles meat high on pitas

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Staff

Boise, Idaho-based Gyro Shack has brought its Chicago/Greekstyle dishes to Tucson, marking the brand’s first Arizona location.

Located at 5775 E. Broadway Boulevard, Gyro Shack serves the authentic Greek street food for which founder Gus Zaharioudakis was known.

“He wanted to take the food that he remembered growing up on and spread it around to the people of Idaho,” said Matt Lord, Gyro Shack’s director of operations. “We didn’t have anything like that available to us at the time.”

Gyro Shack was acquired by Boise-based entrepreneurs Mark Urness and Matt Jeffries in 2000. They launched an aggressive franchising strategy.

“My bosses, the current owners, worked with him and bought him out when he wanted to semi retire,” Lord

said. “Since then, we’ve tried our best to maintain his vision, which is serving affordable Greek food to the masses.”

Gyro Shack celebrated the grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 12. The brand donated 20% of all sales to the Wounded Warriors Project on May 11 and May 12.

The menu offers a variety of gyros and pita sandwiches, including the original with gyro meat, tzatziki sauce, tomato and onion. Lord called the deluxe the stereotypical gyro with gyro meat, tzatziki sauce, tomato and onion and topped with feta cheese. The super adds bacon,

hummus, pepperoncini, kalamata olives and spicy sauce.

“It’s Chicago style,” he said. “We thin shave our meat and roast it fresh in the store. Then, we pile it up high on the pita. It’s all fresh cooked and thinly shaven.”

As for pita sandwiches, there are the chicken bacon ranch, spicy bacon avocado, Philly gyro and the “Z,” the latter of has gyro meat, tzatziki sauce, grilled onions, pepperoncini, feta and spicy sauce.

“The super gyro drags the European concept through the whole Greek concept,” Lord said. “That’s our big, fancy signature item.”

Lord said Gyro Shack doesn’t sacrifice taste for convenience. He was a fan before he started working for the company.

“I spent a lot of money going through their drive-thrus,” he said with a laugh. “I usually eat the deluxe or the Z, a gyro with grilled onions. It depends on if I want spicy or not.”

Gyro Shack

5775 E. Broadway Boulevard, Tucson 520-771-6248

gyroshack.com

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BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

Know of a student doing something remarkable? Tell us about it! Email christina@tucsonlocalmedia.com

Southern New Hampshire University unveiled its winter 2023 president’s list. The winter terms run from January to May.

eight-week terms grouped in fall, winter/ spring and summer.

Honored students from Marana include Nigina Muasseran, Carolyn Huerta, Shawn Quibell and Viridiana Martinez.

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with a 90year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults.

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Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the president’s list.

Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired

Now serving more than 170,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Info: snhu.edu

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tainly not just Oro Valley,” he said. “There are more stakeholders in designing a project to fit within the context of neighbors who have been there quite a long time, and are understandably vested in their communities.”

factors in housing demand, housing needs and supportable retail demand, and an action plan in determining how Oro Valley should meet its housing needs. It’ll touch upon the relationship between housing and employment, the relationships among housing and the retail and restaurant industries, and the need for rental housing.

Yet growth “doesn’t stop,” Vella has said repeatedly. “It just changes shape, and you can look anywhere in the country and see that.”

The housing study, then, is “an opportunity for the town to get ahead of the curve,” and think about “redevelopment, the next phase of Oro Valley’s growth.”

As a planning staff, “we’re hungry for having solid baseline data to work from, facts and figures we can present to decision makers, and they can make their decisions, one way or another,” Vella said. “Are there gaps? Are there needs? It’s all quantifiable.”

Consultant Elliot D. Pollack & Company of Scottsdale is conducting the study. The firm has worked on housing and economic market studies for Flagstaff, Glendale, Sedona and Gilbert. Oro Valley is paying Pollack and Company $58,000 to perform the housing study, according to town records.

Oro Valley is “just around the corner to reaching 50,000 population,” a figure that triggers a state requirement for a “housing element” in the next general plan, Vella said. Housing is an area “we know we’re going to need to address by state law,” it’s also a “topic of community interest,” and it’s been an action item within both the 2016 voter-approved Your Voice Our Future general plan, as well as the town council’s strategic leadership plan, he said.

The housing study is expected to analyze Oro Valley’s current housing inventory, the

The study may also inform longer-range policy decisions regarding the changing housing economy. For example, Vella said, a “significant issue in the state” is whether communities should allow accessory dwelling units to be built on a property, in the form of small guest-house structures with full kitchen facilities that can accommodate loved ones. “That’s not currently allowed in Oro Valley, or in most jurisdictions,” Vella said.

Oro Valley is going to learn “who are we, and where are we headed in terms of needs” for housing, Vella concludes. “We want to get more facts and figures behind these things we intuitively understand, but make a lot of this quantifiable.

“It’s a big deal, and definitely a milestone for the town, that we’ve reached this level of maturity, and (are) looking toward the next steps in terms of growth and development and refinement of the town,” Vella said.

STUDY from page 1

Th e cure for the summertime blues SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

There’s no reason to be blue this summer. Tucson has plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied — and cool. Here are our top picks for things to do this summer.

1.

See a movie at the Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Boulevard loftcinema.org

If you can’t find anything to do this summer, you clearly have not looked at the Loft Cinema, where even kids can get their fill of popcorn, games, prizes, raffles and, oh yeah, movies. During Loft Kids Fest they will be screening “Toy Story,” “Sing 2,” “The Sandlot” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru,” among others. The best part of this nineday fest? It’s all free.

Things kick off with a Looney Tunes Outdoor Movie Party on Friday, June 23, at Himmel Park. After that, Loft doors open at 9:15 a.m. and the movie starts at 10 a.m. Adults are not without their entertainment at the Loft. No, not that kind, just really good, sometimes kitschy, movies from times past.

Every Thursday until Aug. 31 check out the likes of Doris and Rock in “Pillow Talk,” or the amazing Marlon Brando at possibly his very best in, “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Find out what we were really afraid of in 1956 with, “The Invasion of the Body Snatchers,” or watch Jimmy Stewart become a peeping Tom in “Rear Window.” It’s all part of the Loft’s Hollywood Classics Series.

Think that’s all? This is the Loft; there’s

Last year at the Loft it was Indiana Jones. This year, the Minions and Toy Story. (Submitted) way more.

Of course, the Loft will still be showing its usual selection of interesting, bizarre and contemporary films.

Find all the featured titles, times and tickets on the website.

2. Stay in your cool house and binge kanopy.com

Because we don’t have enough streaming services, here’s one that’s free.

With Kanopy, all you need is a library card or to be a university student or professor. After that it’s classic and not-so-classic movies galore.

Didn’t see “Chinatown” the first time around? It’s here. Watch, with regret, Amy

Winehouse come apart in the documentary, “Amy.” Get some good advice from Mo Willlems when you “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus.”

There’s something for everyone.

3.

Thousands of years in the making Arizona State Museum 1013 E. University Boulevard statemuseum.arizona.edu

Across the street from Centennial Hall on the UA campus is the oldest and largest anthropological research facility in the Southwestern United States, the Arizona State Museum. Want to do some archeological digging? This is where you go to get permitted, though that happens upstairs in

the offices.

In the first-floor public spaces find a bit of the more than 3 million archaeological, ethnographic and modern objects that belong to the region’s Indigenous people.

There’s also the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of Native North American basketry with objects from more than 7,000 years ago, along with southwest Indigenous pottery that goes back roughly 2,000 years.

Right now, the museum is showing off some of its ancient and modern Southwestern native jewelry.

It’s worth your time, won’t take all day, and the gift shop is pretty good, too.

Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. Tickets start at $8, $6 for seniors ages 65 and older and free for children younger than 17.

4.

Be on a mission

San Xavier del Bac Mission 1950 W. San Xavier Road 520-294-2624

sanxaviermission.org

Drive nine miles from Downtown on I-19 and you will see a sight that has welcomed visitors to Tucson since 1797, our own San Xavier del Bac Mission. One look, even from the freeway and you will immediately see why it got the nickname, The White Dove of the Desert.

The mission is Arizona’s oldest intact European structure. It is a National Historic Landmark founded as a Catholic Mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692, though the

actual structure wasn’t completed until the late 18th century. Inside the church’s walls are original statuary and mural paintings that remember Spanish Colonial times. Here’s something to keep in mind when visiting. This is a working Roman Catholic Church, a house of worship. Mass is offered here, and people still come to pray. Be respectful of the space and the worshipers.

The church houses a small museum, which has been closed for a bit, but staff is hopeful it will be opening again by the beginning of June. Call ahead to be sure.

Still open, however, is the gift shop, where they have any number of Roman Catholic items, T-shirts and other souvenirs.

After seeing all there is to see, get native frybread hot out of the boiling oil and covered in powdered sugar. If that doesn’t do it, get it with meat. Both yummy. Fry bread vendors are in the parking lot.

5. Picture this Etherton Gallery

340 S. Convent Avenue ethertongallery.com

Catch a glimpse of some youngsters at the Reid Park Zoo. (Submitted)

Hankering to start an art collection but don’t know where to start? Etherton Gallery has an idea. Here you will find works created by the masters of the art of photography, both past and present. Pieces are available to see but they can also be available to buy. As they say on their website, “...we remain dedicated to making great works of photography accessible to novices and experienced collectors alike.”

You don’t have to buy to visit the gallery. These days see works by Wendy Schnieder and Laurie Lambrecht until Saturday, June 10.

and infrared video. Yes, it is different but make of it what you will.

6.

Yeah, but is it art?

Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson 265 S. Church Avenue moca-tucson.org

It couldn’t be the summer of art without spreading your vision a little with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson, which lets you in for free every first Thursday of the month.

Currently showing is “While Hissing,” by Raven Chacon, from Fort Defiance, the Navajo Nation. He wants to celebrate sound as a medium for resistance and connection. “Through video installation, graphic scores, and performance, Chacon amplifies Indigenous women’s voices, centering their leadership and vision both as carriers of memory and authors of culture,” according to the museum’s website. Was he successful? Visit the exhibit and find out.

Touch the edge of your memory with, “Subrosa,” by Na Mira. The exhibit showcases nonlinear film that uses radio transmissions and the color red all bleeding together. This installation uses 16 mm film

CHILLIN

MOCA’s artists are often a part of the BIPOC community and are women-identifying, giving a broader perspective to the current exhibits.

Keep your kids busy at the weeklong kids’ art camps in June, which you will find listed on their website.

7.

Take a trip to the stars Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium

1601 E. University Boulevard flandrau.org

Even if you can’t get away this summer, take a trip that’s out of this world at Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium.

In the domed planetarium you may tour our very own solar system or visit a black hole with a film produced in collaboration with NOVA and NASA. Stay after the film for a star talk. You don’t have to be a genius or even a science geek to enjoy these

Experience works by over 100 artists from 40 countries including PichiAvo, Swoon, Banksy, Kara Walker, Warhol, Yayoi Kusama, Cey Adams, Lady Pink, Willem de Kooning, Barbara Kruger, WRDSMTH, Wangechi Mutu, Vhils, Kerry James Marshall, Tracey Emin, Keith Haring, Saber, MuckRock, Judy Chicago, CES, D*Face, Ai Weiwei, MissMe, The Connor Brothers, Li Hongbo, Martin Schoeller, LeDania, Corie Mattie, Shepard Fairey, Sofia Cianciulli, Rayvenn

D’Clark, Mando Marie, Saype, Jenny Saville…

818 Tombstone Canyon, Bisbee AZ North American Reciprocal Museum Association @artemiziafoundation

PichiAvo 2018 Orphical Hymn to the Graces Spray, Acrylic and Oil on Canvas 67” x 165” (170cm x 420cm)

programs.

There are also Laser Light Music Nights, where colorful lights dance to themed music, but you have to be quick about getting tickets. They sell out fast.

Check the website for times and ticket info.

In the science center, look for these four exhibits: “Undersea Discover,” “Wild World of Bugs,” “Sharks: Magnificent and Misunderstood” and “HiRISE: Eye in the Martian Sky.”

Plus, there’s a little gift shop, where they have every kid’s favorite, astronaut ice cream.

8.

Find Sombra Fria in Agua Caliente Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Regional Park 12325 E. Roger Road friendsofaguacaliente.org

Don’t let the name Agua Caliente, or “hot water,” sway you from this summer gem. The vast 101-acre spread of land includes a perennial warm spring and an artificial

stream linking its three ponds. The park supports diverse wildlife from fish to animal populations and allows for birdwatching, bat sightings and idle ramblings among the acres of cool shade. Restored buildings that dot the landscape recall the property’s long history as a ranch and thousands of years beyond that. Admission is free, parking is ample, and hours are 7 a.m. to sunset.

We suggest you visit the website of the Friends of Agua Caliente Park before you go. You’ll find a video tour, information about the bats and birds and a top-line history of the property.

The site also relates a cautionary tale of the human interventions that, in just the last two centuries, all but destroyed the flowing springs that first attracted our ancestors.

9.

Feel the breeze through a dozen species Madera Canyon South Madera Canyon Road, Green Valley fs.usda.gov

Throughout the summer, the canyon’s average temperature sits in the low 90s with

a typical light breeze through the opening. A few dozen species of oak trees shade the land and provide a cool, low-key adventure along the Madera Canyon Nature Trail. At 5.8 miles out and back with a 921-foot elevation gain, it’s an easy path for those interested in hiking. If you’re not the type for a hike, there are plenty of spots to bust out the cooler and camp chairs and enjoy the nice weather.

Native plant species are labeled along the trail, so it’s fun to count the kinds of oaks. Take your binoculars, too, because Madera Canyon is rated the third-best birding destination in the United States.

10.

See photos Center for Creative Photography 1030 N. Olive Road https://ccp.arizona.edu/

The UA Center for Creative Photography is home to a collection of stunning photography and is known as one of the finest academic art museums in the world. The center holds more than 100,000 works from 2,200 photographers, along with archives of major artists like Pulitzer Prize-winning

photographer David Hume Kennedy, who has created images of every president since Gerald Ford.

Check out their recent exhibit, “The Linda McCartney Retrospective,” displaying her whole photographic career from 1965 to 1997. Her work features striking Tucson landscapes and portraits of famous celebrities throughout the generations, including those of her husband, Sir Paul McCartney.

See the photographic works of Linda McCartney, an artist in her own right. (Submitted)

SUMMERTIME from page 14

The CCP galleries are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday with free admission. The McCartney exhibit will close Aug. 5.

11.

Gotta have art Tucson Museum of Art 140 N. Main Avenue tucsonmuseumofart.org

The Tucson Museum of Art, fresh from a number of recent expansions, is bigger and better than ever. The gallery specializes in curating art from Latin America, the American West, and Modern and Contemporary themes. Moreover, their mission is to celebrate the diverse culture of Arizona and the Southwest Corridor. Enjoy the renowned Arizona Biennial Exhibition, presenting the work of professional Arizonan artists chosen through a juried competition. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday to Sunday with $7 to $12 admission and free for members and specified populations. While you’re there, grab a bite at Cafe a la C’arte, which serves delicious

omelets, sandwiches and salads. Or at least get something sumptuous from their dessert case.

12. See more art DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun 6300 N. Swan Road degrazia.org

Starting in the 1950s, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun was built and curated by the late artist Ted DeGrazia. What started as a small museum in the middle of nowhere has transformed into an adobe fortress through seven decades of creative ingenuity. You can tour the wonderful gallery filled with his works and then wander the grounds to see DeGrazia’s original house, his “Little Gallery,” where he first showed his work. The galleries were designed by the artist and include the lovely chapel he built in honor of the Virgin de Guadalupe.

13.

Stop and smell the lavender Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm 1221 N. Rancho Robles Road, Oracle lifeundertheoakslavenderfarm.com

In the northern foothills town of Oracle lies a flower oasis among 100-year-old oak trees. The elevation and vast fields of lavender encourage cooler weather on the grounds of Life Under the Oaks Farm. Enjoy a tour of the farm and take your pick of lavender-induced and -themed products. Life Under the Oaks also hosts tea parties, wreath and art workshops and farm-totable meals. Plus, the aroma of lavender, we’re pretty sure, has a cool, calming effect on our fried brains.

14.

Climb a mountain, eat a cookie Mount Lemmon/Rose Canyon Lake Catalina Highway/Sky Island Scenic Byway recreation.gov, skycenter.arizona.edu

Spend a day, a weekend or the entire summer on Tucson’s most popular mountain range. Mount Lemmon is an oasis in the middle of the desert. Driving up the mountain, the plants slowly change from cacti and shrubs to oak and ponderosa pines. Its biodiverse environment also offers hiking, camping and fishing. While

swimming is not allowed, the altitude and shade leave the area 20 degrees cooler than Tucson.

Campgrounds are available for rent on recreation.gov. Consider stopping in one of the few mountain towns and visiting the Mount Lemmon Cookie Cabin for cookies, pizza, chili and sandwiches. Sawmill Run and Irondoor restaurants are also open for business. While you’re at 9,000 feet, check out the Arizona stars at the Mount Lemmon Skycenter by making a reservation.

15.

What’s zoo with you?

Reid Park Zoo

3400 E. Zoo Court reidparkzoo.org

Summer Safari Nights are back at the Reid Park Zoo. From 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 12, families and friends can explore the zoo in the cooler evenings. Every night will focus on a “Rock Star Animal,” including events themed after the chosen species from the zoo, along with the usual fun with giraffe feedings, live music from local bands and, of course, carousel rides. Tucson Parks and Rec will partner with the zoo for “Ready, Set, Rec!” games and activities.

While Reid Park Zoo undergoes expansions of its parking lot and exhibits, Summer Safari Nights will continue with little interruption. Admission ranges from $6.50 to $10.50 and is free for members and children under 2.

16.

Hear the music

Fox Tucson Theatre 17 W. Congress Street foxtucson.com

Indulge in a cuppa at Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm. (Submitted)

Co-Founder of The Beach Boys Al Jardine & His Endless Summer Band 6/17 Mary Chapin Carpenter 6/10 Cowboy Junkies 7/27

Crow Medicine Show 7/19

Don’t

Junior Brown 6/14

There’s something magical about summer concerts. And there’s something magical about Downtown’s gorgeous Fox Tucson Theatre. Put them together and you have memories that will last a lifetime. This summer, you’ve got the likes of Mary Chapin Carpenter (June 10); Junior Brown w/Mark Insley and the Broken Angels (June 14); Al Jardine w/Yahtzee Brown (June 17); Graham Nash (June 20); One of These Nights (June 23); Old Crow Medicine Show (July 19); The Robert Cray Band (July 25); John Lodge (July 26); Cowboy Junkies (July 27); and The Australian Pink Floyd Show (Aug. 23).

Besides the concerts, the Fox will be doing movies, including singalongs with “West Side Story,” “Annie” and “Greatest Showman.”

17.

Tucson Botanical Gardens

2150 N. Alvernon Way tucsonbotanical.org

Tucson Botanical Gardens mission is

to connect people with plants and nature through art, science, history, and culture. Originally founded in 1964 by horticulturist and collector Harrison G. Yocum, the gardens are now a lovely spread of pathways through gardens on the historic Porter Family property. This nonprofit organization hosts events, classes and programs, including a seasonal butterfly exhibit.

This year, it’s once again hosting Dog Days of Summer, by welcoming leashed dogs from June 1 to Sept. 30. They can accompany their parents on their strolls through the gardens. Take in the free smells, summer plants and grab a pup-alicious snack from Edna’s Eatery.

Every Sunday June to August, from 6 to 8 p.m., guests can picnic, hang with friends or take in the garden sights as the sun goes down. Regular admission prices apply.

This community favorite is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, except for Sunday evenings. Ticket prices range from $8 to $15 and are available online. Butterfly Magic hours are 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

18. A whole new world

The Dive Shop

1702 E. Prince Road, Suite 150 azdiveshop.com

72 Aquatics

3110 E. Fort Lowell Road 72aquatics.com

Paragon Dive Shop

2951 N. Swan Road, Suite 175 paragondivestore.com

It turns out it is possible to breathe underwater. You need an apparatus, of course, but where do you get that? At any one of the three scuba shops in town.

If you’re just curious about what’s under the sea try an introductory snorkel class for about $50. For those who want to have more than just passing acquaintances with what’s under the sea, there are classes to be certified to scuba dive. Finally, for the really enthusiastic, look for classes to become PADI certified to teach scuba diving. You don’t even have to go far. At least one of the shops has an on-site pool to learn in.

Once you’ve mastered a snorkel and tank, take an organized tour to one of the many international and exotic locales that all the shops offer. Or maybe just go on a drive and dive weekend to San Carlos. There’s plenty there to see, including a newly sunk decommissioned ship.

19.

Introduce yourself to your town

Trejo Walking Tours, the real history of Tucson trejostucson.com 520-329-2639

Taste of Tucson

tasteoftucsondowntown.com 520-904-2119

Borderlandia borderlandia.org info@borderlandia.org

Even if it is hot, take a tour that will introduce you to your very own UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Hear a different take

see SUMMERTIME page 20

Saguaro National Park thrives in the summer

BY VERONICA KUFFEL Tucson Local Media Staff

The Saguaro National Park is a popular go-to destination in the spring and winter. District ranger Perri Spreiser reminds residents that park is still open in the summer.

“There’s a saying in the parks service, that, ‘This is our off-season. This is our quiet season,’” Spreiser said. “That doesn’t really happen in national parks anymore. It is busy year-round. It’s just less busy than it is in the spring. We still have thousands of people coming from all over the world, all over the country to learn about this place.”

The park’s east and west districts will complete their spring programming June 3, when the summer events are unveiled. As the season closes, the rangers will organize a list of summer programs that will prioritize safety in the desert heat. Most will be hosted toward the beginning and end of days.

They also need to be wary of the animal and plant populations that are active during mornings and evenings.

“The thing we have to tweak is how to provide programming safely,” Spreiser noted. “We don’t want people out in the middle of the day, so we need to reflect that in our ac-

SUMMERTIME from page 18

on the history of a few of Tucson’s neighborhoods, sample the wonderful food produced here in local restaurants, learn about the Turquoise Trail or spread out and tour Tubac, Tumacacori or our side of Nogales. You might even venture out for an overnight trip to learn about, and more

tions as well, which is why we shift to earlier in the morning or when the sun goes down.”

Most events, like “Secrets of the Saguaro” in the east and “Living with Giants” in the west, will continue this summer. Rangers may initiate new programs.

“They’re going to be different because of ranger preferences,” Spreiser said. “We try to keep everything very fresh and engaging, and we focus on things that are interpretively themed to the park. We allow our rangers a little bit of freedom to take their passions and,

importantly sample, bacanora. There is still plenty to see when the town slows down.

Some of the tour operators prefer to lead their tours in the early morning or evening, and some of them will give you a private tour if you prefer. Check their websites for details.

Find more here: rb.gy/qpn08

if you will, geek out on those with visitors.”

As the park transitions to summer, night programming will continue sporadically, as most of the seasonal employees and volunteers leave Tucson for the season.

Parks staff initiated their night programming in April during International Dark Sky Week, leading full moon hikes, nocturnal lectures and stargazing.

Their recent Dark Skies Over Saguaro Party included activities organized by the Tucson Amateur Astronomer Association

20.

Be a hero

Santa Rita Park

401 E. 22nd Street

Next time you visit your favorite discount warehouse, consider picking up a couple of cases of water and a bulk package of flavored electrolyte powder packets.

BLOOM Season at the Lavender Farm in June!

and International Dark-Sky Association. Saguaro rangers directed programs on Tohono O’odham sky knowledge and sound identification when visibility is low in the desert.

“We have reduced staffing even with our volunteers, a lot of them are winter residents,” Spreiser said. “As they leave, we have to alter our programming to reflect a well-balanced, manageable workload for everyone.

“We feel it’s our job, it is our duty to still provide excellent education and interactive experiences for those individuals. I encourage people who have been here for five minutes or 500 years to come out and explore their national park.”

In related news, the staff is hoping the venue will become an International Dark Sky Park, a facility that implements “good outdoor lighting and provides dark sky programs for visitors.”

To achieve this, Spreiser said the park needs to decrease light pollution.

“The park is working on changing the exterior lighting on buildings to make sure the tops of lights are protected,” Spreiser noted. “We’re going out with things like black lights and thermal imaging and night-vision goggles, tools and toys that allow people to experience the Sonoran Desert in literally a different light.”

Then round up some friends to help take it all to Santa Rita Park. You don’t have to talk to anyone you see hanging out there. If you don’t want the company, just leave your gifts on a picnic table. Folks will find and share them among your house-less fellow Tucsonans. You’ll never feel more grateful for your air-conditioned ride home.

Park staff and volunteers lead a cactus program at Saguaro National Park. (Perri Spreiser/Submitted)

Summer Safari Nights start amid zoo construction

BY VERONICA KUFFEL

Tucson Local Media Staff

Summer Safari Nights are back at the Reid Park Zoo to help beat the heat.

“During the summer, it’s so hard to spend time outside when it’s 110 degrees,” said Chelo Grubb, the zoo’s marketing and communications supervisor.

“We want to give that opportunity for people to come enjoy the zoo during the cooler evening hours and get some time outside without risking sunburns and whatnot.”

Every Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. through Aug. 12 has a theme based on a “Rock Star Animal,” a species that staff incorporate into their programming.

“We’ll do keeper chats about the specific animals we’re featuring each week,” Grubb said. “Depending on the animal, we’ll have docents out with some really cool artifacts. People will get to know the animals a little more intimately.”

Presented by TMC Healthcare, Summer Safari Nights include animal encounters, artifact stations, giraffe feedings, carousel rides and crafts.

The Reid Park Zoo also scheduled live music each night, featuring local artists

and acts that range from The Circus Academy and Mr. Nature’s Music Garden to Mamma Coal and Dry Wash Anglers.

“As opposed to later hours at the zoo, it’s a little bit more of a celebration, more of a summer festivity,” Grubb said. “We work with a number of great bands throughout the year at different events. There’s nothing more fun than taking a break from walking through the zoo.”

For a few nights, the zoo will also host a Shopping Night with Desert Peach Management. Local artisans will provide their artwork and products of varied media types for the public. Reid Park Zoo has partnered with Tucson Parks and Recreation to put on their “Ready, Set, Rec!” games and activities throughout the night as well.

Summer Safari Nights will run alongside the zoo’s current construction projects, supervised by Lloyd Construction. CEO Nancy Kluge confirmed the Reid Park Zoo will continue to be open to the public and will not affect summer programming.

“There won’t be any effect on Summer Safari Nights, so that’s the good news,” Kluge said. “We’re constructing a sloth exhibit… so there is a small portion of South America closed off, but all of the

animals in that area are still visible.”

The zoo is renovating a portion of its South America loop to welcome a new habitat for a Linne’s two-toed sloth. Kluge projected it will be completed by the end of the summer.

With development so close to existing animal enclosures, the CEO also noted the zoo puts animal well-being at the forefront.

“We monitor how our animals are doing during construction very closely,” Kluge said. “Our contractors know the animals come first here, so even if an animal looks like it’s having a difficult time with noise or vibrations, then they know they pull off that day.”

Along with habitats, a new nature playground will be constructed outside the Conservation Learning Center and will also be finished in late summer. The Angel Charity for Children World of Play Area will feature an Antarctic Ice Cave and a 30-foot manmade Sequoia tree.

Reid Park Zoo will expand its parking, allowing more visitors to the area and shade pathways with an additional 100 planted trees. After completion, developers will work on a new Pathway to Asia.

“Pathway to Asia will be a big addition, and that will open in 2025,” Kluge noted.

“That’s the one that will have red pandas, small-clawed otters, tigers and reptiles like Komodo dragons.”

Kluge said she’s proud that the building plan uses no existing green space in the zoo or park. It will add 300 trees, converting 45% of the area to green space. Kluge, Grubb and other zoo staff hope families not only have fun but leave with a new respect for nature and all of its wildlife.

“Our mission is to connect people with wildlife to inspire them to protect wild animals and wild places,” Grubb said. “We’re excited about any opportunity we have to get people to come to the zoo, to learn more about the animals in our care, to learn what they can to do make conservation a part of their life.”

Summer Safari Nights at Reid

Park Zoo

WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 12

WHERE: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, Tucson

COST: $6.50 to $10.50 (free for members and children under 2)

INFO: reidparkzoo.org

An owl nimbus educator introduces a zoo animal to the public. (Chelo Grubb/Submitted)

Guests observe the resident flamingos as the sun sets over Reid Park Zoo. (Chelo Grubb/Submitted)

Suns are jinxed, but it’s nerve-wracking to admit

BY TOM DANEHY

Tucson Local Media Columnist

As a devoted fan of most sports, I try my best not to believe in jinxes. I would say that I don’t believe in them at all, but I’d be afraid that something bad might happen if I said that.

Real or not, jinxes are usually reserved for professional sports franchises. High schools and colleges just have bad luck. And there’s a difference between a curse and a jinx. Both the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs went a century without winning the World Series because of curses. The Cubs’ jinx was about a goat or something, while the Red Sox curse involved a showgirl (an antiquated term that I really don’t want to risk trying to update). But those two teams finally won a World Series, so they can just return to being background noise. It should also be noted that what some fans will automatically deem a jinx can instead be a series of human errors and misjudgments. Finally, once a jinx is established, the human errors and misjudgments may or may not be caused by the jinx, but they will certainly serve to perpetuate it.

Having established all that, it can be said that the Phoenix Suns are jinxed. Consider:

After their first season in the NBA, the Suns had a chance to draft Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, considered by many (including me) to be the greatest NBA player ever. It would come down to a coin toss, called heads or tails by the Suns. The Phoenix management decided to have a little fun and they had a poll of fans in the local newspaper.

The fans chose heads. Suns GM Jerry Colangelo called heads. The coin landed heads up in the palm of the NBA commissioner, who then

flipped it over onto his wrist and said, “Tails!” Milwaukee won the NBA championship just two years later.

In only their second season in the NBA, the Suns improved from 1666 to 39-43 and made the playoffs. They won the first round and then held a 3-1 games lead on the mighty Los Angeles Lakers (who had Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain and Elgin Baylor). One more win and it would have been the biggest upset in NBA playoff history.

The Suns lost three straight and didn’t make it back to the playoffs until 1976.

Then, in 1976, a member of the Suns made the most-famous shot in NBA playoff history. The Suns and Celtics were tied at two games apiece in the NBA Finals with Game 5 at Boston. With one second left in double overtime and the Suns down two, Garfield Heard caught an inbounds pass, turned and hit a shot to send it into a third overtime. (It would have been a three, but that shot didn’t exist back then.)

You figure you hit a miracle shot to send it into another overtime, you’re going to use that adrenaline to win that game. Nope. They lost that game and then the series back at home.

There are so many other times, like when Kevin Johnson got fouled by Scottie Pippen and the refs didn’t call it. Or when, over the following two years, the Suns lost by razor-thin margins in the west finals to Houston, who then went on to win back-to-back titles easily. Or how about the time the NBA commissioner suspended a bunch of Suns players (but no Spurs players) after an on-court altercation.

It was always something. In a way, it was a relief when, between 2015 and 2019, the Suns were the worst team in the entire NBA. But then

they hired Monty Williams and things turned around. They went 8-0 in that pandemic bubble in 2020, just missing the playoffs.

It gave Suns fans hope. It was the first time since 2015 that the team had even won a paltry 30 games. And the Williams-led Suns didn’t disappoint. The next year, they made it all the way to the NBA championship series.

The next year, the Suns had the best record in the entire league. They were the top-seeded team going into the playoffs before suffering a bizarre meltdown in the second round.

This past season started off badly, with all kinds of injuries, including one to All-Star guard Devin Booker. Then, the Suns got a new owner. Then, the new owner mortgaged the franchise’s future to bring in Kevin Durant. Then Kevin Durant injures himself in warm-ups!

It’s kinda surprising that they made it to the second round of the playoffs, where, playing without two of their top four players, they lost to a better team.

So, what do the Suns do? They overreact and panic and fire one of the top two or three coaches in the franchise’s 55-year history. This isn’t part of the jinx. This is a self-inflicted wound. The jinxy stuff is sure to follow.

TUCSON POPS ORCHESTRA

Verdugo makes return to Arizona in series against D-backs

BY JORDAN ROGERS Tucson Local Media Staff

Boston Red Sox outfielder Alex Verdugo grew up in Tucson watching Diamondbacks baseball.

The Sahuaro High School alumni said he would “come home from school or practice, sit on the couch, eat some food and watch baseball,” and with the D-backs being the local team, it would oftentimes be them on the TV.

“The Diamondbacks were always on in Tucson,” Verdugo said. “Like it was always playing — every one of their games. So, I was like, ‘Man, I get to watch it.’ And just ended up being a fan of the D-backs. Obviously, they won (the World Series) in ’01, and I was relatively young at that time, but I still was watching. Just kind of growing up, that’s all I did.”

“It’s just fun; it really is. It just brings back childhood memories.”

The Diamondbacks weren’t the only team he found himself watching games of. From afar, he also rooted for the team that employs him.

“My theory is, is that when I was younger, I really, really liked the color red,” Verdugo said. “So, I kind of already gravitated toward the teams that were wearing red. … I think ESPN always played the Red Sox-Yankees games, and so I was kind of always already gravitating toward that.”

Verdugo will be back in Arizona as the Red Sox are set to play a three-game series against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field from Friday, May 26, through Sunday, May 28.

He said getting to play in Phoenix is always a little extra special for him because of its proximity to Tucson.

“It’s kind of like a second home to me and my family,” Verdugo said. “My mom, my dad and my brothers — everybody — we’re all so used to making that drive and that commute that it’s not far at all,” said

Verdugo, who added he played a lot of travel baseball games in Phoenix as a kid.

He said he is looking forward to having his family come out to see him play.

“I’ll be able to have my parents come out there and watch me, and that’s just something that, being all the way over here in Boston, we don’t get to do too much anymore,” Verdugo said. “It’s going to just be nice. It’ll be really refreshing to see my family and have them go to the games.”

Verdugo became a first-time father in August 2021.

“Since we’ve been (in Boston), they (his parents) haven’t really seen my son too much,” he said. “I’m just excited to see everybody and just show up and spend some good quality family time.”

Verdugo hasn’t played at Chase Field in a Major League Baseball game since June 26, 2019, but he got the chance to play there with Team Mexico in the World Baseball Classic in March. It was the second time he represented his country and said he really enjoyed the guys he got to play with.

“The teammates that I had for Team Mexico, they were awesome,” Verdugo said. “You would have thought we played for years together. We just had a good vibe, and everybody was just happy. The way we celebrated, the way we had fun and just went about it, and then, obviously, playing well. Winning is the ultimate thing. That’s the thing that brings you the most joy.”

Team Mexico ultimately fell short in the semifinal game against Team Japan, who won the championship game against Team USA, but Verdugo said it was some of the most fun he had ever had on a baseball field.

“The emotions that you have there, it’s hard to compare,” he said. “It’s like, every single play you see guys running out on

see VERDUGO page 25

Tucson native Alex Verdugo is in his fourth season with the Boston Red Sox. (Maddie Malhotra/ Boston Red Sox)

the field yelling at a single or a base hit. It’s just like, you just lose it.”

Verdugo, who was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second round of the 2014 MLB Draft, made his debut with the team in 2017. By 2019, he had worked his way into a starting role.

“I just felt like I really progressed,” said Verdugo, who added 2019 was his “breakout” season.

“It’s just one of those things when you have a really good team like that — a really good franchise — it’s hard to make it in the big leagues and stay there and be a starter every day. I remember we had a very stacked outfield, so once there was maybe an injury…it was like that’s my opportunity.”

In his first full season in “The Show,” Verdugo hit .294/.342/.475 in 106 games with 12 home runs and 44 RBI’s.

After an oblique injury cut his season a bit short, Verdugo went into the offseason with a mindset that he was going to do some “cool things” with the Dodgers in his career, but he wound up being traded.

On Feb. 10, 2020, the Dodgers sent Verdugo, catcher Connor Wong and shortstop Jeter Downs to the Red Sox in exchange for superstar outfielder Mookie Betts, pitcher David Price and cash considerations.

“That whole trade was really weird for me,” Verdugo said. “I didn't think I was going to get traded from the Dodgers.”

Verdugo said he was mad about the situation, but being dealt, he added, was a “blessing in disguise.”

“I was just in a bad spot from when I got injured in ’19,” Verdugo said. “I just wasn’t really feeling good at all, and the training staff with the Red Sox, they were great. They had me feeling really, really good… Once I saw that, my eyes opened up and

I was like, ‘Man, this is a great organization.’”

On top of that, getting to play for the team he grew up watching on TV wasn’t such a bad thing either.

“I was already kind of happy with that,” Verdugo added. “And I knew at some point, I’m going to run into David Ortiz, and I was like, ‘That’s freaking awesome.’”

Fenway Park, the home of the Red Sox, opened in 1912. The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, the field is arguably the most storied in the league.

Now in his fourth season in Boston, Verdugo said he has felt lucky since his first season there to call that park home.

“When you go out there and you see Fenway; it’s a special place,” he said. “Historic feeling, special feeling, and it’s just one of the coolest ballparks that you’ll ever step foot in. For me, I don’t take it lightly. I’m very blessed and honored to play there.”

*Valid in-store only. Offers may vary by location. Limit 1 per person. Cannot be combined with other offers. Intended for 18+ only. See store for details.

The Saguaro High School alumni will return to Arizona for a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks beginning Friday, May 26.

(Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox)

Chronic pain is debilitating—mentally, physically

BY MIA SMITT Tucson Local Media Columnist

One person out of five adults in the United States reported chronic pain in 2021.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 20.9% of our adult population experiences daily suffering, often unrelieved; 6.9% of those have such intense pain that their daily activities are limited.

Pain is an unpleasant feeling, a signal in the nervous system of the body caused by injury or other intense stimuli. It can be an ache, burning sensation, tingle, sting, crushing feeling and can be sharp or dull. It can be constant or may come and go with regularity. For some people pain might be centered in one area of the body such as head, neck, back, abdomen, arm or leg. For others, the pain can be all over and move from one area to another. The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with actual or potential tissue damage.” The bottom line is that pain is the sensation of hurting.

Chronic pain is different from acute pain in that the acute pain lasts only until whatever caused it goes away. A broken bone, muscle strain, a cut or skin bruise are examples of acute pain; these usually heal and are forgotten within days to weeks. Chronic pain lasts for three or more months. Some examples are back and neck pain, cancer pain, arthritis joint pain, fibromyalgia and migraine headaches. Three or

more months of unrelieved pain can be debilitating and lead to anxiety, fear, depression, poor quality of life, insomnia, fatigue, job compromise, lessened community and social involvement, substance and medication abuse, higher suicide risk, and even dementia.

There are a few risk factors for developing chronic pain. Previous or traumatic injury can lead to chronic pain. Genetics may be a factor such as a family history of migraine headaches. Obesity can make certain health conditions (such as joint pain) worse. Older people are more likely to have such chronic pain conditions as arthritis and nerve pain. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often leads to physical as well as mental pain. Smoking puts a person at greater risk for many health conditions that may cause chronic pain.

In years past, treatment consisted primarily of heavy medication that may or may not have given adequate relief while

subjecting patients to such side effects as drowsiness, clouded thought, nausea and constipation.

Tylenol, nonsteroidals (such as ibuprofen and naproxen), steroids and opiates were often first choices. We added antiseizure medications and antidepressants for nerve pain. Topical preparations that could be massaged onto painful joints sometimes afforded a few hours relief for arthritis type pain and stiffness. Transdermal opiates sidestepped a few adverse side effects. Surgeries to block pinched and overactive nerve endings help some and worsen pain for others.

New medications almost yearly have not stemmed the insidious increase in the numbers of people who suffer from chronic pain. All these measures have benefits as well as burdens and need to be tailored to an individual’s need.

Chronic pain has many facets beyond an unpleasant physical sensation. Just the fear of continuing pain can stop activity and reinforce negative emotions. Unable to keep up with friends, a person can become reclusive. Depression is very common in those with chronic pain syndromes.

Negative emotions can cause a downward spiral, worsening the pain syndrome, especially when this pain is not acknowledged or dismissed by health care providers.

An effective pain management regime will address the whole person, not just a painful body part. Of course, the first step is to try and determine the possible cause of the pain. Blood tests, imaging studies such as magnetic resonance (MRI), muscle and nerve studies are often done. Sometimes diagnoses are elusive so a combination of medications, other therapies, and lifestyle changes should be evaluated.

Pain is real and for many the legitimate use of narcotic medications may be warranted but becomes a battle in our national quest to address and quell the opiate epidemic.

the many faceted aspects of chronic pain, including adequate medication. Numerous ancillary modalities such as massage, acupuncture, trigger point injections, physical therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), cognitive behavioral therapy, spiritual support and exercise trainers as well as medication should be individualized to a particular person’s need. Careful monitoring is important as needs change and therapy is modified. Pain may not be completely relieved but reduced to a more manageable level for an overall improvement in quality of life.

Daily low impact exercise, such as walking and swimming, often helps to relieve pain. A healthy diet should be balanced but with fewer inflammatory foods such as fried foods, red meat, processed meats, refined carbohydrates and soda. Foods that help to fight inflammation include fatty fish (such as salmon, anchovies, and whitefish), which are high in omega 3 fatty acids along with berries, green vegetables, and whole grains. Good sleep also helps with pain syndromes. Rest is important for good health overall and fosters tissue healing. Poor sleep is also associated with weigh gain and increased stress which certainly is not conducive to pain control. Managing stress is essential in coping with chronic pain. Meditation, music, artistic endeavors, keeping a journal, deep breathing, and Tai Chi all have been shown to reduce distress.

If you suffer from chronic pain, do not settle for inadequate relief. Seek a health care provider who will listen to and address all your concerns in a both competent and compassionate manner.

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

Health care providers in the past were too free with opiate medication and as a result many people became addicted with little to no assistance in overcoming that craving and dependence.

A good pain management medical group with have specially trained staff to address

9 Clamp on a stringed

Online

___ Thermopolis, Anne Hathaway’s role in “The Princess Diaries”

23 Host’s farewell phrase

40 Female sheep 43 Faith of Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib 46 Go on the ___ (flee) 47 Pantyhose annoyance

48 “Never would have guessed it!”

52 Grabbed a chair 53 Openly gay

Make harmonious 55 See 17-Across … or a hint to 23-, 34- and 48-Across

Glum 60 “If it ___ broke, don’t fix it”

“Normal People” author Sally

Impetus behind bragging

63 Mediterranean fruit

64 British bo oms

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

People often decide what they want and then gure out the reasons why it's a good idea -- a method that can lead to faulty logic and trouble down the line. You'll embrace the real reason for wanting a thing instead of trying to manufacture a more socially acceptable motivation. The honesty resonates, and your wish will be granted.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

You already know who you are, so when people try to tell you who you are, it's annoying. Maybe they want you to ll a role, or they'd like to understand you through their limited parameters. Whatever the reason, you are beyond de nition, and also beyond worrying about it because you're too much in your zone to let anything knock you o purpose.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21)

There's safety in numbers. People working together lend much-needed security to the picture. This is how things will get built. Since those without attachments or loyalty will behave unpredictably, every time you o er acceptance, kindness and the desire to understand others, you are enacting a power move. Uni ed, harmonious groups make things happen.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Even though you believe some of the rules guiding your group are silly, they matter to the others, so you'll be careful to stay within their bounds. The time will come for change, but not this week. There's still a lot of learning to do to get ready.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

It's a week marked by strong internal drive, narrow focus and an important win. You have your own reason for doing what you do. You would rather experience satisfaction and self-respect than get a trophy. The world's rewards and punishments matter much less to you than satisfying your own curiosity.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Because you feel an intensi ed sense of responsibility toward the group you belong to, you'll be keenly aware of how your actions and behaviors re ect not only on you but on the wider community. You may do more than you planned to as you adjust your behavior with the collective in mind.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

One thing that will matter a great deal to your satisfaction with your work is the level of autonomy you feel over when, where and how to go about it. It's annoying to have too much supervision, but scary to not have enough. You'll be lucky as you communicate your preferences and adjust until things are just right.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21)

Success will depend more on habits than decisions. This week drives the point home. Since repeated actions create neural pathways in your brain, it's important not to enact unwanted behaviors multiple times. Perform a conscious interruption of your pattern, start your groove in the way you prefer and repeat the action dozens of times.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Here's a conundrum: You have to be strong to work hard, but if you look like you're working too hard, there are those around you who will perceive this as weakness. It takes cleverness and awareness to project the image that gets people on board with what you're doing. You'll employ both and win.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Trying to control everything only drives the point home that you don't have control. You'll masterfully handle what's clearly within your capability and slightly beyond. The rest you'll let go of. Letting go is an art form, as there are many decisions and nuances to the dance between tension and release.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You'll make things. Don't wait until you're inspired. Set your aim and start to work. You may not feel like you're carrying an abundance of great ideas inside you, but that's because they are lying dormant and compact. Once you get in motion, your creativity blossoms into surprising and useful forms.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

People may withhold their opinions for one of two reasons -- either they don't feel strongly about the matter at hand, or their true thoughts don't match with what they believe others want to hear. You'll be a keen observer of human behavior, which will help you navigate with kindness and e ciency. You'll make money, too.

Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read

27 Multitasker’s browserful

28 Helpful connections

29 ___ the Riveter, W.W. II icon

30 Brouhaha

31 Shoe part that may develop holes

33 Reddit Q&A session

34 TV political drama known for its “walk and talks”

65 Anderson Cooper, to Gloria Vanderbilt Down 1 ___ Stone (British Museum a raction)

nytimes.com/wordplay

2 “They got me!”

3 “The Princess Diaries” author 4 Puts in the overhead bin, say 5 Thanksgiving mo.

PUZZLE BY MARGARET SEIKEL

Mark at (520) 991-8511 or ccbm777@aol.com

GF and Son Contractor

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Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

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Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

GF and Son Contractor

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB



GF and Son Contractor

Member & licensed. Specialize in all types of(New/Old) Roof repairs, Coating, Rotten Wood, Fascia Boards, Remodeling & Additions, Permit plans.

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

Now Accepting Credit cards

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

Member & licensed. Specialize in all types of(New/Old) Roof repairs, Coating, Rotten Wood, Fascia Boards, Remodeling & Additions, Permit plans.

Member & licensed. Specialize in all types of(New/Old) Roof repairs, Coating, Rotten Wood, Fascia Boards, Remodeling & Additions, Permit plans.

Now Accepting Credit cards

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953