Explorer News 06/28/2023

BY MARY GOLDMEER Tucson Local Media Sta

ro Valley’s annual July 4th Celebration is returning, and town official Matthew Jankowski said the event is important to many residents.

“Seeing the community come together, as a whole, is one of my favorite parts of the event,” said Jankowski, the town’s parks and recreation deputy director.

see FESTIVAL page 17

BY DAVE PERRY Tucson Local Media Contributor

unanimous Oro Valley Town Council approved on June 21 the town’s $148.49 million budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1. The budget, months in the making, “reflects the careful allocation of available resources,” the town of Oro Valley’s chief financial officer Dave Gephart said in his presentation before a public hearing that Wednesday. No one from the public commented on the spending plan. Among its highlights, the spending plan:

• Anticipates $47.77 million in capital project spending, just under one-third of all spending;

• Expects general fund revenues of $57.49 million, up from an estimated $54.21 million in the current fiscal year. Next year,

Oro Valley's annual July 4th Celebration offerrs plenty, inlcluding a patriotic giveaway. (Town of Oro Valley/Submitted)

WARNING!

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 o en 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 o en 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!

Hot Picks

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Sta

ARTS

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 is 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

restrained and steeped in contemplation. Songwriters Bill Lennox and Bobby Colombo expanded their ongoing collaboration to include drummer Jake Kmiecik and bassist Joshua Brooks. From there Bonny Doon took form, developing a sound indebted as much to musical touchstones like Neil Young and the Silver Jews as it was to the emotional landscapes of their always-changing hometown of Detroit.

Hotel Congress’ Club Congress, 311 W. Congress, Tucson, tickets start at $15.45, 8 p.m., hotelcongress.com

Deja Crue JULY 8

Well known throughout Phoenix, the Motley Crue tribute band hits the Gaslight Music Hall stage for the first time.

Gaslight Music Hall,

see HOT PICKS page 4

5-DAY

EXPLORER

The Explorer and Marana News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the Northwest Tucson. To nd out where you can pick up a free copy of the Explorer and Marana News, go to www.TucsonLocalMedia.com

STAFF

ADMINISTRATION

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EDITORIAL

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Karen Scha ner, Sta Reporter kscha ner@tucsonlocalmedia.com

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PRODUCTION

Courtney Oldham Production/Design Supervisor production@timeslocalmedia.com

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Aaron Kolodny, Circulation Director, aaron@phoenix.org

ADVERTISING

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Leah Pittman, Account Executive lpittman@tucsonlocalmedia.com

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

Zac Reynolds, Director of National Advertising Zac@TimesPublications.com

EDITORIAL

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 July 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.

Cool Summer Nights TO AUG. 26

Every Saturday night, the Sonora Desert Museum celebrates summer with families.

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road, tickets start at $20, free for members, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 520-8331380, desertmuseum.org

MUSIC

Bonny Doon

JUNE 30

Bonny Doon emerged in 2014, its four members pivoting away from their punk origins to create something

13005 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, $27, with discounts for children and military, 6 p.m., gaslightmusichall.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Star Spangled Spectacular

JULY 4

Marana’s largest Signature Event is nestled behind the Arizona Pavilions shopping center and within the Continental Ranch neighborhood, making it the perfect event for residents to walk to or enjoy the fireworks from many vantage points. Residents and visitors spend the day shopping and eating at the nearby stores and restaurants before coming over to enjoy an evening in the park.

Crossroads at Silverbell District Park, 7548 N. Silverbell Road, Marana, free, 5 to 9:30 p.m., maranaaz.gov

July 4th Celebration

JULY 4

Celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks in Oro Valley. This year’s event is emceed by Frank Powers, with special guests Heart and Soul.

James D. Kriegh Park, 23 W. Calle Concordia, Oro Valley, free, 5 to 9:15 p.m., orovalleyaz.gov

classes are complimentary. Guests should bring their own yoga mat and water bottle. Presented by Lululemon, in partnership with Yoga Loft Tucson.

La Encantada, 2905 E. Skyline Drive, Tucson, free, 6:30 p.m., laencantadashoppingcenter.com

“Mary Poppins”

JULY 9

In addition to the movie “Mary Poppins,” attendees can do crafts, hear the Fox Tucson Theatre’s historic organ, celebrate summer birthdays and sing along.

Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, Tucson, tickets start at $2.50, 2 p.m., foxtucson.com

Biosphere

2

DAILY

La Encantada + Lululemon

Present Moon Glow 520

JULY 7

Join the group in the courtyard for Moon Glow 520. These Friday evening yoga

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, 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. Biosphere 2, 32540 S. Biosphere Road, Tucson, $25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., biosphere2.org

PEACE OF MIND LIVING AT ALBUM MARANA

55+ Active Adult Community

Greystar is excited to bring their newest Album community to Tucson. The Album lifestyle is highly sought after by young at heart, 55+ active adults. It’s perfect for those looking for more in life, style, community, and activities.

Welcome to a carefree, maintenance-free living in a controlled-access community designed to be empowering as well as peaceful. Lead your life, as you see fit, and with time to spare, in a place where the feeling is one of excitement for what the future holds.

At Album Marana, you’ll find sophisticated residences with modern features in

AlbumMaranaPoolCourtyard

addition to stimulating onsite offerings and beautiful social spaces to enjoy. They’ll be conveniently just outside your door; no need to drive anywhere! Your day might begin with coffee with new friends and then to the activities calendar to decide how your day will take shape. There is so much to do here. Each day will be full of variety and fun.

Album is the perfect place to share your passions, find new ones, and make friends easily along the way. What truly sets Album apart is the opportunity to have a real say in the active lifestyle clubs and events. Residents will create, contribute their talents, and run the clubs/events

they want. Examples include teaching a cooking class, meeting up for happy hour (and yappy hours), walking club, flower arranging, movie/game night, and seasonally inspired events. The only limit is your imagination.

The Album Marana leasing center is now open and located at 7620 N Hartman Lane, Suite 172 Tucson, AZ 85743. Our team will be happy to provide you with more information on available apartment homes that will be move-in ready Summer 2023. Whether you are considering downsizing yourself or have a loved one far away that you want close, Album is an exciting option right here in Tucson!

WELCOME TO A FRESH IDEA IN FEEL GOOD LIVING

• Celebrate an active lifestyle

• Share rich social experiences

• Enjoy maintenance-free living

• Valuable promotions for a limited time*

Schedule a personalized appointment with the Album Marana team to learn more!

Tree planted to honor Henry Zipf

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

Amesquite tree has been planted at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley to honor Henry King

Zipf, a fifth-generation Tucsonan and great-grandson of George Pusch, Oro Valley’s first non-native pioneer.

Zipf, who served as president of the Oro Valley Historical Society, died May 7 after a fight with cancer. He was 66.

The town of Oro Valley’s Parks and Recreation Department purchased the tree, and it was planted with the aid of historical society members. Zipf’s longtime partner, Debra Hoag, thought it appropriate to plant a thorny desert native in Henry’s honor.

“There were times he was kind of prickly!” she said. And the ranch is the ideal location, because it sits below his beloved Pusch Ridge, Debra added.

George Pusch, a German immigrant, built and operated Steam Pump Ranch, along what is now Oracle Road, from the late 1800s until his death in 1921. Zipf’s family owned the Pusch Land and Cattle Company, and contributed significantly to the early development of the Tucson region. Features, roads, and institutions, most prominently Pusch Ridge on the Santa Catalina Mountains, are named for George Pusch.

Zipf was deeply proud of that heritage, had a great deal of knowledge about Oro Valley’s early years, and worked to preserve it at Steam Pump Ranch by giving years of activity, time, and resources to the historical society.

“Henry was full of entertaining stories that included ranch life and his lifetime in the Tucson area,” the historical society said in a release. “The society is grateful for Henry’s dedication to our mission.”

Zipf “generously donated many Pusch family heirlooms and archival material to the society for its collections,” the release continued. “He was intent on preserving the Pusch family history at Steam Pump Ranch, somewhat as a personal legacy, but

more so, for the benefit of Oro Valley history and the community. The Oro Valley Historical Society will do its best to continue to carry out Henry’s wishes in that effort.”

Sue Chambasian, a member of the OVHS board, said Henry’s leadership and enthusiasm were “both motivating and commendable.

“But his mischievous sense of humor, his contagious laugh, his gracious manner and

giving spirit, will live on in all who knew him,” she added. “He will be missed.”

Zipf “gave so much of himself to make Oro Valley what it is,” Oro Valley Town Councilmember Dr. Harry “Mo” Greene II said at the June 21 council meeting. Along with Hoag, Henry Zipf is survived by his sons, Nolan and Stephen. Donations can be made in Zipf’s memory to the Oro Valley Historical Society, P.O. Box 69754, Oro Valley, AZ, 85737-0021.

Members of the Oro Valley Historical Society paused after planting a mesquite tree, purchased by the town of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Department, at Steam Pump Ranch to honor Henry Zipf on what would have been his 67th birthday. Participants were Oro Valley Town Council member Dr. Harry “Mo” Greene II, OVHS treasurer and former Oro Valley Mayor Paul Loomis, and Oro Valley Historical Society member Teri Colmar, Shirley Pinkerton, Twink Monrad, vice president Denzil Walker, secretary Devon Sloan, director Sue Chambasian, and members Bob Kellar and Jim Skalicky. (Sherri Graves, Sherri Graves Photography/Contributor)

MOVIES on the LAWN

Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center, 10555 N. La Cañada Drive

A FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT

Bring a blanket or chairs and enjoy a movie under the stars! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Please be courteous to others and leave your pets at home. Movie begins a er sundown (approx. 7:30 p.m.) No registration required. Event is located at the backside of the facility, near the golf driving range.

UPCOMING MOVIE SCHEDULE

July 15 ....... The Bad Guys

Aug 19 ........ The Mitchells vs the Machines

Sept 16 ...... The Little Rascals

For more information, scan the QR code or visit www.orovalleyaz.gov

Oro Valley expects to receive $25.63 million (45% of general fund income) from local sales taxes, and $22.95 million (40%) from state- and county-shared sources;

• Distributes $55.4 million in estimated general fund expenditures. Within that budgeted sum, Oro Valley’s largest expected expenses by department are $20.4 million for police, $6.77 million for public works, $6.27 million for innovation and technology, $5 million for contingency reserves, and $4.67 million for parks and recreation;

• Anticipates $9.7 million in revenue to the community center fund, to include $5.76 million in charges for services through golf and recreational offerings, and $3.73 million from a half-cent sales tax put in place in 2014, when the town council decided to buy the former El Conquistador Country Club and related facilities. Community center fund expenses are estimated to be $8.94 million;

• Budgets $43 million in total estimated personnel compensation, with $30.34 million in salaries and hourly wages, $6.03 million in retirement benefits, $3.56 million in health care benefits and $3.17 million in

OV plans to spend nearly $48M on capital projects

BY DAVE PERRY Tucson Local Media Contributor

Nearly one-third of Oro Valley’s $148.49 million fiscal 2023-’24 budget — $47.77 million — is intended for capital investment in the 12 months that begin July 1.

This will be “a heavy capital year,” Acting Town Manager Chris Cornelison told the council this spring. The Oro Valley Town Council unanimously adopted the budget following a June 21 public hearing.

reconstruct and expand the parking lot at the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center;

“other” benefit costs for 423.71 full-time equivalent employees.

At a May 10 budget work session, Mayor Joe Winfield expressed his appreciation to then-Acting Town Manager Chris Cornelison, the town’s executive leadership team, and everyone who helps build the budget.

“It’s a long process that began many months ago,” the mayor said in May. “We’re coming to the culmination of that process.”

Major capital line items within the spending plan include:

• $17.07 million for parks and recreation improvements funded through the town’s $25 million parks bond issue, to include $13.6 million to implement the master plan at Naranja Park, $2 million for the second phase of golf course irrigation replacement on the Canada course, $677,590 for the first phase of a multi-use path along La Canada from Lambert to Naranja, and $600,000 to

• $14.07 million for the Oro Valley water system, to include $3.7 million to expand a booster station at La Canada, and three projects totaling $7.2 million that are part of the Northwest Recharge, Recovery and Delivery System effort among the Oro Valley, Marana and Metro Water systems. Those projects are $3 million toward construction of a “forebay” reservoir, $2.8 million for a Shannon Road booster station, and $1.4 million for a Shannon Road reservoir. The Shannon Road facilities benefit existing customers, Water Utility Director Peter Abraham told the town council in May, and they are “mission critical” to Oro Valley’s future ability to “bring additional (Central Arizona Project) water into our service area;”

• $6.39 million for public facilities, vehicles

Dave Gephart is the town of Oro Valley’s chief nancial o cer. (Town of Oro Valley/ Submitted)

AGING WELL

Embracing Change: One Woman’s Journey

Aging well is, in large part, about trying new things and pursuing your passions. It’s also about sharing those things with others. All of this can be found at Splendido, a Life Plan Community for those 55 and better in Oro Valley, where residents can explore, learn and connect. That’s certainly been the case for Janie Jones, who moved to the community two years ago. After living in southeast Tucson for seven years, she moved to be nearer to her three sisters—one of whom also lives at Splendido. “Moving here made a huge difference in my mental state,” she says. “Not only am I able to see more of my sisters, but I feel like Splendido is my family!”

While Janie says that she considers herself an introvert, she enjoys being able to walk out of her apartment home to be with other people. “I can be as social as I like, and then go back

into my apartment when I’ve had enough,” she says. “It makes a huge difference in my life.”

Exploring Creativity

Another di erence that Janie discovered at Splendido was ways to explore her creative side. “When I moved here, I hadn’t gotten into art yet, but I’d always wanted to,” she says. “That was one of the first things I did.” After

participating in many classes and workshops, Open Art Studio, and other o erings, Janie says, “I’ve worked with all sorts of media—acrylics, clay, watercolor, chalk painting—and it sure is fun to play.”

While she has grown to especially enjoy painting with watercolors and acrylics, Janie has a new passion: “I discovered Brusho, and I talked about it so much

that Splendido bought some, and we all used it in a recent project. It’s a crystal, and you sprinkle it on paper then spritz water on it and the color just explodes.”

That project was a creative collaboration based on images from the James Webb Space Telescope, in which Splendido residents and staff submitted artwork for a virtual exhibit to mark the debut of Cosmic

Cycles by the National Philharmonic in Tysons, Virginia, and Bethesda, Maryland.

Focusing on Fitness

In addition to exploring her creativity, Janie indulges her enthusiasm for exercise. A former teacher, she explains, “I didn’t have much time to exercise while I was teaching, but as soon as I retired, I started lifting weights and using weight machines. It was amazing to me how I transformed my body—I developed muscles and lost weight.”

Already a regular fitness center user, Janie says, “I was delighted when I moved here. I thought ‘I have my own gym!’ I have a weight routine where I go to our fitness center three times a week. I also have a treadmill in my home that I walk on.” She’d like to spend more time on fitness, but she has too many other interests vying for her time.

Enjoying Plentiful Pastimes

Janie was also delighted to discover that Splendido has a billiards table. “I started playing pool when I moved to Tucson, and since I came here, I play all the time,” she says. “With all that practice, I got so good that I was asked to teach a class.”

Janie also likes her downtime. “I’m a reader and a binge-watcher; I like sci-fi a lot. I also play cards, and introduced some of the residents here to Samba, which is like canasta on steroids.”

From the card table to the art studio to the fitness center, Janie is taking advantage of Splendido as the community is designed to be used: to enrich her life by exploring passions and opportunities with new friends. Interested in learning more about Splendido? For floor plans, photos, and information on upcoming events, visit splendidotucson.com.

Melatonin: Helpful or hazardous?

BY MIA SMITT Tucson Local Media Columnist

Many people swear by melatonin for a good night’s sleep or to reset circadian rhythms after a journey across several time zones.

This is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the pineal gland that helps to regulate night and day cycles. Melanin production kicks in when it is dark and signals the body to sleep. Light decreases melatonin production, signaling the body to wake up. Melatonin supplements are made in laboratories.

The Journal of the American Medical Association (April 23) published a study showing that more and more people in the United States are using melatonin supplements in an attempt to improve sleep.

Both the use and amount taken more than doubled between 2008 and 2018. The Academy of Sleep Medicine, in a 2121 consumer survey, found that 51% of people responding reported that they used supplements, prescription medication, or other substances to help them fall asleep. About 68% of those using the sleep aids said they used them more frequently during the COVID-19 pandem-

ic. Some melatonin users are using very high amounts for many days at a time. Headaches, irritability, depression, dizziness and confusion can be symptoms of melatonin overdose.

Unfortunately, over-the-counter melatonin products, like other supplements, are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Melatonin receptor agonists such as ramelteon (Rozerem) and tasimelteon (Hetlioz) are FDA-approved medications for the treatment of insomnia.

Research led by Dr. Pieter Cohen with Harvard Medical School and Cambridge

Health Alliance in Somerville, Massachusetts found that most of the melatonin gummies sold in the United States may contain far more melatonin than is listed on the label. Some products also contain cannabidiol (CBD).

“The results were quite shocking” Cohen said.

Using some of the melatonin products as directed on their labels could mean that consumers could be getting doses that are from 40 to 130 times more than recommended.

“Melatonin gummies contains up to 347% more melatonin than what was listed on the label, and some products also contained cannabidiol; in one brand of gummies, there was zero melatonin, just CBD,” Cohen said.

This increased use included children and might explain the large increase in pediatric overdose hospitalizations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, June 3, 2022, reported that the number of children who unintentionally ingested melatonin supplements (gummies taste like candy) increased 530% from 2012 to 2021. More than 4,000 children needed hospitalizations, 287 children required intensive care and two children died.

the Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders at Boston Children’s Hospital and professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School. She gave a presentation on melatonin use at a sleep conference in Indianapolis June 3 to June 7.

She remarked, “I think it’s become fairly obvious that melatonin is the ‘go-to’ pharmacologic intervention of insomnia in children, and that is a worldwide phenomenon. The CDC’s MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report) in 2020 noted that 1.3% of children in the United States used melatonin for “sleep, stress, and relaxation.”

A child who takes as little as .1 to .3 mg will have a concentration the same as a normal nighttime range. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises parents to talk with their child’s health care provider before giving melatonin for sleep issues. Cohen, in his research summary stated, “Given new research into the excessive quantities of melatonin in gummies, caution should be used if considering their use.”

Cohen analyzed 25 brands of melatonin gummies available online. The quantity of melatonin ranged from 1.3 to 13.1 milligram per serving. The amount of melatonin ranged from 74% to 347% of what was labeled. Twenty-five products were analyzed and 22 of these were inaccurately labeled and only three had the quantity listed on the label.

Five products listed CBD as an ingredient and these amounts ranged from 104% to 118% of what was listed on the label. One product contained only CBD.

A Canadian study published in the Feb. 15, 2017, issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine showed an analysis of 31 melatonin supplements. The melatonin content ranged from 83% of what the label indicated to 478%. Even the same product varied by lot with a variability as high as 465%.

Dr. Judith Owens is the director of

For many people, melatonin helps with insomnia. It is legal and readily available without a prescription in the United States but melatonin can have adverse effects. Excessive lethargy, low blood pressure, irritability and headaches can occur with excessive or long-term use.

Non-pharmacologic approaches should always be considered for anyone with sleep problems. A restful environment without lights and electronics, such as phones, televisions and computer screens should be turned off. These lights can affect natural melatonin production.

A consistent sleep schedule should be adopted. Regular physical activity during the day can promote better nighttime sleep. A snack before bed is OK if you feel hungry but avoid a large heavy meal within a few hours of going to bed. Be aware of stressors that can cause a disruption in sleep and seek help if you are not able to resolve the stress.

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

Health & Wellness

Acupuncture is a well-rounded treatment option

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Sta

When Kari Hahn was growing up in Connecticut, she was plagued by allergies and asthma.

“I was sick all the time. I just didn’t feel well,” Hahn said. “ e doctors said I was going to be on inhalers for the rest of my life. In my mind, I thought that couldn’t be true, but I didn’t know what the answer was.”

She discovered the “answer” when she was in her twenties: Acupuncture. Within a year, she was o all her medications.

“I was able to hike with my friends,” Hahn said. “My brain worked better. My digestion was better. My sleep and hormonal cycles were more even. is is how I was supposed to feel, as someone in their late twenties.”

But Hahn took it further, going to school to study acupuncture to help others who are ill or in pain. Practicing Chinese medicine since 2004, Hahn founded Oro Valley Acupuncture a er working for Miraval Ar-

izona Resort & Spa. Opening the practice was a natural progression for Hahn. When Miraval’s spa closed due to COVID-19, clients still sought her treatments.

“When I worked at Miraval, I would see people once a year,” she explained about tourists.

“ ey would feel so much better, but I wouldn’t be able to follow up. Now I see people regularly. I watch them change.”

At Oro Valley Acupuncture, Hahn specializes in tough cases of chronic pain, failed back surgeries, menstrual irregularities and fertility issues and neuropathy. Hahn o ers $40 consultations, and she will come up with a therapy plan using acupuncture, Life Fertility Bio erapy, electroacupuncture (acupuncture needling), ATP resonance biotherapy and/or O3 ReBoot erapy.

ATP resonance biotherapy (works) with the body’s energy building blocks to help reduce in ammation and pain, the Oro Valley Acupuncture website reads.

“We speci cally tailor the program based on your individual needs. It is also especially e ective on acute injuries as well as to enhance emotional well-being. It’s similar to a reboot for your brain and nervous system.”

O3 ReBoot erapy “mixes gas naturally found in the Earth’s atmosphere with oxygen to create a treatment with powerful healing capabilities,” the Oro Valley Acupuncture website reads. “O3 has been used by practitioners for more than 150 years with benets shown for autoimmune diseases as well as many other health issues.”

“I treat a lot of peripheral neuropathy,” she said. “A er they come for a few sessions, they’ll walk in the door and my employees and I will say, ‘Oh my gosh, that person was always looking down, so unhappy and just

not feeling well.’

“ en their energy just shi s. ey’re enjoying their lives in a di erent kind of way. It’s so awesome. e chronic pain just wears people down. Sometimes surgeries work, other times, as we know, they don’t. To get them to feel better, sometimes it takes natural medicine.”

She’s a consultant and national and international teacher of Chinese medicine and therapeutic bodywork as well. She admitted that sometimes clients are skeptical.

“ ey think it’s ‘woo woo’ or ‘voodoo,’” she said. “I honestly don’t mind. I know, in a few months, they’ll be feeling better. A lot of people think it’s like massage, though. You have one treatment and you’re better. It’s not like that. It’s scienti c. If you were to go to the gym, you wouldn’t sign up for a gym membership and a er two times of working out wonder why you didn’t notice a change.

A er the rst couple of weeks, though, clothing is looser.”

She chalked up her success to the late Vince Black, whom she met at the Arizona School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine at 2856 E. Fort Lowell Road.

“It was so awesome and inspiring,” she said about the school. “My second year of school, I met my teacher, Vince Black, who was into traditional medicine and martial arts for many years. Traditionally, the two go hand-in-hand. I worked for him for 15 years. I’m very fortunate to have been able to train with him.”

Oro Valley Acupuncture

190 W. Magee Road, Suite 142, Oro Valley 520-532-2012 orovalleyacupuncture.com

Kari Hahn specializes in treating tough cases of chronic pain, failed back surgeries, menstrual irregularities and fertility issues and neuropathy. (Noelle Haro-Gomez/Contributor)

Kari Hahn is founder of Oro Valley Acupuncture. (Noelle Haro-Gomez/Contributor)

Cardiac ultrasound program accepting applications

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

The Arizona Heart Foundation is set to open the second location of its School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound in Tucson this summer, helping fulll a growing need for skilled sonographers in Arizona and throughout the nation.

Slated to open at 310 S. Williams Boulevard, the foundation will welcome its rst students on Tuesday, Aug. 1. e 12-month accelerated program prepares professionals for cardiac sonography work in a variety of medical settings. e program includes 1,678 clock hours, 800-plus of which take place in a clinical environment. ere’s an 88% placement rate for graduates.

Established in 1982, the Arizona Heart Foundation’s School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound has produced more than 500 graduates since its inception, with graduating sonographers going on to earn an average of $70,000 per year.

Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and licensed by the state of Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education, the school prepares students for work in hospitals, clinics, and medical and diagnostic laboratories, with employment opportunities for graduates expected to increase by about 14% between 2018 and 2028.

“Arizona Heart Foundation’s School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound o ers one of the nation’s premier echocardiography programs, helping students launch rewarding careers in just one year,” said Paula Banahan, Arizona Heart Foundation’s president and chief executive o cer.

“Because non-invasive ultrasounds are safer and more economical for patients, the need for these services will continue to grow, especially as the baby boomer generation ages and more older adults develop heart disease. e opening of our Tucson school will help ful ll an ongoing need for cardiac sonographers, not only in southern Arizona, but statewide.”

To apply for upcoming Arizona Heart Foundation School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound programs in Tucson or Phoenix, visit azheartfoundation.edu/ apply. For more about the School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound and career prospects for program graduates, visit azheartfoundation.edu.

Students from the Arizona Heart Foundation School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound scan human models on the rst day of the program. (Arizona Heart Foundation/Submitted)

Arizona Heart Foundation School of Cardiac & Vascular Ultrasound students partake in a hands-on class about the anatomy of pig hearts. (Arizona Heart Foundation/Submitted)

"SHE SAVED MY LIFE"

Oro Valley resident Dawn R. had been experiencing the painful side eff ects of Peripheral Neuropath y. "My feet and legs were extremely painf ul and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do, and that I would have to take Gabapentin for the rest of my li fe." Then she met Oro Valley's very own Kari Hahn, L.Ac.

Peripheral Neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused b y nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Dawn explained that daily tasks like opening doors and using the bathroom were overwhelmingly painful. "How can you live for the next 30 years when you don't even want to get out of bed to do simple things?"

She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling and sharp pains that those suffering with neuropathy often describe. "The way that I would describe it, it's equivalent to walking on glass." Dawn hadn't worn socks in five years and was wearing shoes two sizes too big so that nothing would 'touch' her feet.

Unfortunately Dawn's story is all too familiar for the over 20 million people in the U.S. suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy.

If you're unfortunate enough t o be facing the same disheartening prognosis, perhaps you're not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You may have difficulty walking, shopping or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You're possibly struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor may have told you to 'just live with the pain' and you may be taking medications that aren't working o r have uncomfortable side effects.

Fortunately, four months ago, Dawn read an article about Kari Hahn and the work she was doing to treat those suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy, without invasive surgeries or medications.

Kari Hahn, founder of Oro Valley Acupuncture, is using the time tested science of Acupuncture along with other modern therapies to assist in increasing blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.

"Now when I go to bed at night I don't have those shooting pains. I don't have that burning sensation. I don't have pain coming up my legs," Dawn enthusiastically describes life after receiving Kari's treatments. "I can wear socks and shoes!"

Dawn and her sister now operate a successful dog walking business, sometimes covering up to 5 miles a day.

"It's life altering. As far as I'm concerned Kari saved my life!"

Kari Hahn has been helping the senior community for over 19 years using the most cutting edge and innovative integrative medicine. Specializing in chronic pain cases, specifically those that have been deemed 'h opeless' or 'u ntreatable', she consistently generates unparalleled results. What was once a missing link in senior healthcare is now easily accessible to the residents of Oro Valley.

If you've missed too many tee times because of pain or you've passed on activities with the grandkids because you're afraid of falling, it's time to call Kari and the staff at Oro Valley Acupuncture.

It's time you let your golden years BE GOLDEN!

Oro Valley Acupuncture is now accepting new patients but only for a limited time. In an effort to protect her patients, both current and future, she has made the difficult decision to limit the number of patients seen in her clinic. Only 20 new neuropathy patients will be accepted before the end of summer, so call (520) 532-2012 now to schedule a consultation. Mention this ad for a consult fee of $30 for our New Patient Offer.

Let's not sugarcoat diabetes problems

BY DEB ARDREY Tucson Local Media Contributor

Do you feel hungry all the time? Polyphagia. Are you insatiably thirsty? Polydipsia. Are you constantly having to urinate? Polyuria. ese are referred to as the “ ree Ps,” although there are many other signs and symptoms of diabetes: Does your vision become blurred a er that daily soda or avored co ee? Gentleman, are you concerned about your inability to perform? Ladies, are you concerned about frequent UTI or yeast infections? Do you have a wound that just will not heal? en you may be an undiagnosed diabetic. Please see your primary care provider and ask to have this simple blood test completed: hemoglobin A1C. Here at United Community Health Center, we can complete this testing in-house and have a response for you during your appointment.

Deb

Ardrey is a certified diabetic care and education specialist. (Deb Ardrey/Submitted)

activity, but if mom and dad were diabetic, chances are you will be too. I would encourage you to change what you are able, as some things (like genetics) are out of your control. Check your blood sugars, but not just in the morning fasting, as that only gives us an idea of how your intake last night affected your blood sugar. Did you eat late or get up in the middle of the night for a snack? Morning fasting readings can also be a ected by hormonal shi s that happen overnight, especially if you are not sleeping well. Checking one to two hours a er eating can tell us how the intake a ected our blood sugar; are we down below 180 or still elevated above 180?

sugars, i.e., nurses, mine workers, caregivers and police o cers

• ose who have harmed their livers with excessive alcohol use or those with fatty liver, HIV or hepatitis C

• ose with uncontrolled anxiety, who are in a constant state of “ ght or ight”

What can I do? Read your labels! ere is hope for you; don’t let the manufacturers win! Don’t just look at the “sugars,” but look at the “carbohydrates” as well, as they turn to sugar in the body. Be familiar with the many arti cial sweeteners and the new research that is showing they may actually lead to increased blood sugars.

Depending on the results, it may need to be repeated in three months and again in six months to con rm diagnosis. Depending on the source of your research, the general goal is <6%, depending on your age and other individual circumstances.

Why are you at risk? Family history matters. You can change your intake habits, lose weight, stop smoking and increase your

Check your blood sugar when you are symptomatic, so you will be familiar with your signs/symptoms should you be symptomatic when you do not have access to your glucometer. It is important to know at what number do you become symptomatic when your blood sugars are low.

Set small goals for yourself and write them down. Post them in the house where you can see them. For example: I will drink one more glass of water per day. I will drink one less soda per week. I will walk for 5 minutes per day this week, 10 minutes per day next week and 15 minutes per day the week a er, and so on.

Do you live alone? Are you confused? Did a police o cer nd you slumped over your steering wheel? Did you pass out in the grocery store? Continuous glucose monitors are becoming the new normal and give us a picture of blood glucose throughout the day, rather than poking ngers regularly, so you can see exactly what those choices do to your blood sugar in real time. Unfortunately, they are not available nor a ordable to all; perhaps this will change in the future when the insurance companies see the associated health bene ts with behavioral change as a result.

Small changes over time have been shown to lead to permanent changes. Make activity part of your routine, like brushing your teeth. Go outside. Plant a patio garden. Practice mindfulness. Find a place to be quiet. Learn how to relax.

ere is hope for the future. Take control of yours!

Can I prevent a diabetic diagnosis or progression to insulin use? Yes, to some extent, if you are diligent about lifestyle changes; however, this is di cult to maintain over time and most diabetic patients will eventually be on insulin to control their blood sugars. e time it takes for you to become insulin dependent (if you are not a type 1 or 1.5 diabetic) can depend on you and your individual health circumstances.

• Some cancer patients on steroids will note an increase in blood sugar and, therefore, need insulin

• Some pregnant moms with gestational diabetes will need insulin during pregnancy to control their blood sugars to prevent having special needs babies

• Some shi workers with altered circadian rhythm need insulin to control their blood

Deb Ardrey graduated with a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Grand Canyon University’s accelerated nursing program in 2011. Prior to attending GCU, she attended Pima, Rio Salado and Red Rock community colleges completing her prerequisites for nursing school.

Before attending college, Ardrey was a stayat-home mom to her two daughters, a er her husband died in a car crash. e care that she received a er her C-sections and when she was airli ed to a local hospital inspired her to go back to school to become a registered nurse.

Ardrey joined UCHC in 2014 as a case manager. A er seeing the growing diabetic population and the need for an educator in the local community, Ardrey pursued her certi cation. She is a certi ed diabetic care and education specialist as of July 2020. She is working toward her diabetic wound certication.

To make an appointment with Ardrey, call 520-407-5900, ext. 5861.

Local pet care, adoption services abound

BY VERONICA KUFFEL Tucson Local Media Contributor

Local shelters, rescues and pet shops often go overlooked, but many Marana businesses and organizations are all paws in when it comes to ethical, sustainable and diverse pet care.

In recent years, the town of Marana has developed diverse animal resources for all breeds and sizes alike. Where Marana lacks in quantity compared to the city, it makes up in quality.

For dogs and cats, these are a few of the options to check out for adoption and care.

Hope Animal Shelter

8950 N. Joplin Lane, Tucson 520-792-9200 hopeanimalshelter.net

CEO Susan Scherl has owned and operated Hope Animal Shelter, the first dog and cat rescue in Marana, for almost 20 years. After working for corporate advertising in New York, she decided to move to Arizona and dedicate her life to the care and safety of animals.

Hope Animal Shelter was also the first no-kill sanctuary in Arizona, providing shelter, medical care and enrichment to Southern Arizona’s most at-risk dogs and cats. With weekly volunteering and adoption events, the shelter offers visitors a chance to interact with available animals in a clean, cage-free environment.

Rescue Me Tucson/Marana

6401 Marana Center Boulevard, Tucson 520-261-1616 rescuemetucson.org

Rescue Me Marana is located at the Tucson Premium Outlets but isn’t your ordinary “run-of-the-mill” pet shop. In fact, it prides itself on advocacy for animals and works against puppy mill facilities. Nancy Young Wright, board president of Rescue Me Tucson and Marana, explained the nonprofit is an epicenter for sustainable adoption and care for the Tucson area.

of premium pet products and is a testament to the pet industry’s growth in Marana.

Rescue Me Marana provides same-day adoptions of rescued animals for lower resource areas with few potential adopters. They also sell products from local pet care vendors, like Dogs-n-Donuts with gourmet treats and other products.

Sol Dog Lodge

9665 N. Thornydale Road, Tucson

520-345-0075

soldoglodge.com

This nonprofit not only offers training, grooming, boarding and adoption services but helps with dog ownership retention. The Lodge offers affordable dog training clinics for owners, and works with shelters in the area to better prepare at-risk dogs for adoption.

Sol Dog Lodge is located throughout the Tucson metro and is building a new location in Marana. The location will include a veterinary facility, dog day camps and behavioral programs, grooming and an atrium and indoor park.

According to Shelly Harris, director of outreach and education, the expansion is to continue its high-quality care and service to Marana, just a little closer to home.

Pawsitive Vibes

8591 N. Silverbell Road, Tucson 520-344-9579 pawsitivevibestucson.com

is artisan pet store was recently opened by Bruce Caulkins, who is also the proud owner of four dogs, three cats, six ferrets, one cockatoo, three arachnids and a handful of sh.

Pawsitive Vibes carries a multitude of premium products, ranging from quality foods, toys, furniture to wellness products. It’s also the only store in Tucson that has an indoor walking pen, and holds regular adoption events in conjunction with other rescues in the area.

According to Caulkins, his shop is an “Etsy hub,” and carries items made by local and/or independent small businesses.

Pawsitive Vibes features Tucson makers like Honey Bee Bakes with hand-cra ed dog treats made with human-grade ingredients.

Town Resources

12110 N. Dove Mountain Boulevard 520-382-8020 maranaaz.gov/animal-control

e town of Marana o ers public animal services like sheltering, licensing and lost and found resources. ey are an epicenter of communication for all pet care and adoption needs, and even released a Marana Pets app available for phone download.

In partnership with Asavet Charities, Marana animal services hosts low-cost spay and neuter clinics for the community. ey plan to roll out future resources as the town continues to grow.

Working together

These are only a few of the many options available to residents, and a number of them work together to provide top-notch pet service and care.

As a community, they help address the problems associated with animals in Marana. When discussing issues that each has to deal with, most pointed to affordable spay/neuter programs.

The town and regional nonprofits are working to provide this care, but according to Young Wright of Rescue Me Marana, a common practice in rural areas is to leave animals unspayed. This can multiply the problem for pets and homeless animals alike.

“In Marana, I’d like to see more spay and neuter opportunities, and also vaccine and microchip clinics,” Young Wright said. “As a nonprofit, we really don’t have the money to sponsor those. The biggest thing I think this animal welfare community needs is for people to work together more, for rescues to work together more.”

Another main issue for the pet industry, especially for rescues and shelters, is poor funding. Many facilities cover the cost of medicine, boarding and enrichment. To continue providing quality care, they are forced to limit their occupancy.

Despite this, many shelters and services take on cats and dogs from Pima Animal Care Center, whose bout with overcrowding has forced them to create a euthanasia list. Sol Dog Lodge, for example, teaches families how to take care of their pets before they decide to surrender.

“There are pets who are dropped off at the shelters every single day, and they find it so hard to keep up with those surrenders,” Harris said. “Our services step in to try to mitigate that gap somewhat, help families so that they don’t bring their dogs back to the shelters.”

The Marana pet care and adoption industry has a long way to go to reach the resource levels of cities like Tucson and Phoenix, but so far, these businesses and others have prioritized quality service to maintain their passion for local paws.

Pawsitive Vibes has a vast selection

(Veronica Ku el/Contributor)

Phoenix Suns: The lure of a super team

BY TOM DANEHY Tucson Local Media Columnist

When I heard that the Phoenix Suns were cleaning out their cupboards, getting rid of players and what few dra picks they had le for the rest of this decade, to get another All-Star scorer, my mind jumped to the Texas Hold ‘Em scene in “Casino Royale.”

Having been beaten, humiliated (and almost killed) by the dastardly Le Chiffre, James Bond pushes his pile of chips all-in, taking the final pot to a figure over $150 million.

In dramatic fashion, the first player shows that he has a flush, a very good hand. But the next player has a full house, an even better hand. Le Chiffre smiles sardonically as he shows that he has an even higher full house. James Bond drops his hole cards on the table, showing them to be a crummy five and seven of the same suit. They turn out to be the missing pieces for a straight flush, the highest hand possible. (A Royal Flush is just a straight flush running from 10 up to the Ace.)

The scene is absurd, starting with the fact that nobody is going to hold onto a five and a seven, even if they are the same suit. But it’s all for dramatic effect and James Bond is safe because he’s James Bond and also because the scene was made up by a writer.

In real life, the Phoenix Suns have gone all-in with the acquisition of Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards. Actually, they had cleaned out the cup-

boards (trading away three players and four first-round draft picks) to acquire Kevin Durant late in the regular season, Now they’re basically getting rid of the cupboards, as well. The next person they draft with a first-round pick is spending this summer getting ready to enter middle school.

Adding an extra dash of spice to the mix is the fact that one of the pieces they traded to get Beal was future Hall of Famer Chris Paul. He was sent to Washington, which, in NBA terms, might as well be Siberia. But in just a couple days, he was back in the Pacific Division with the Golden State Warriors, one of the teams the Suns will have to get past to get to the NBA Finals. There is still a chance that Paul will end up with the Lakers for financial reasons. Either way, the Suns will see him several times a year and it should be…interesting.

Excitement ran high when Durant arrived in Phoenix, then he suffered a bizarre ankle injury during warmup for a game and had to sit out all but a couple games leading to the playoffs. The Suns got lucky by meeting (and beating) a banged-up Los Angeles Clippers teams in the first round of the playoffs. Then they ran into the Denver Nuggets.

It’s weird: The Nuggets had been in first place basically the entire season, but they had gotten no media attention. Instead, the focus was on whether the Lakers would even make the playoffs, if the aging Golden State Warriors could put together one more championship run, how big a hole would the Suns dig for

themselves with Devin Booker out with a groin injury, and is Ja Morant really that stupid? (The answer to that last question is yes.)

As it turns out, the Suns actually did the best of the four teams that Denver ran through on the way to the NBA title, but that’s cold comfort. Even though they were favored by the oddsmakers, the Suns lost the first game in Denver. Then they were leading late in the second game when Chris Paul suffered a groin pull. (You say playoffs, I say injury. That’s the Chris Paul mantra.)

Booker and Durant put on a show for the ages in Phoenix to even the series at two games apiece, but then disappointing DeAndre Ayton went down with some kinda’ owie and Denver won the next two games.

Side note to UA and Phoenix Suns: Has DeAndre Ayton ever failed to disappoint? The one time that he was about to live up to his potential, in the Suns’ surprising run-up to the NBA Finals in 2021, but when he got to the Finals, he didn’t just disappoint. He disappeared.

Back when LeBron James, Chris Bosh,

and Dwyane Wade formed a Super Team in Miami, it was considered to be a prototype for future championship teams. But since that time, almost all of the championships have been won by teams with one star (Dirk Nowitski in Dallas, Kawhi Leonard in Toronto) or, at most, two stars (Steph Curry and Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors).

Still, the allure of the Super Team persists and for the next couple years, Phoenix has one. What’s really odd is that back in 2018, at a time in the season when the Suns were in last place with the abysmal record of 4-15, a really young Devin Booker was quoted as saying, “I’d like to build a super team. I want the super team to come to me.”

At the time, pretty arrogant. In retrospect, absolutely prescient.

Now that he’s got what he wanted, let’s see what they do with it. The odds are slim. At best, they’ve got only a two-year window of opportunity. They all have to stay healthy (not likely). DeAndre Ayton has to improve (extra not likely).

And then there’s the defending champion Denver Nuggets…

“It has a special impact on families and becomes an annual gathering for them.”

The festival is 5 to 9:20 p.m. Tuesday, July 4, at James D. Kriegh Park, which will be divided into two sections.

The western half of the park will be a free kids’ zone with crafting, eight face painters, eight bounce houses and many booths from community organizations.

The eastern half will house 16 food trucks, including those that serve barbecue, kettle corn and shaved ice. Adults older than 21 years old can visit the fundraiser beer garden hosted by Oro Valley Sports Allegiance. Heart & Soul and DJ Frank Powers will provide the music.

Powers will host a patriotic giveaway of glow necklaces, rubber ducks and handheld flags.

The neighboring aquatic center has re-

duced admission fees to cool off community members who work up a sweat.

“We have a lot of different activities for families to do and it’s a great opportunity to support local businesses,” said Jankowski, who has worked on the festival for four years.

“While this is our largest event, it still has that small-town feel, you'll see neighbors and friends and be able to check out the whole park.”

Because of the event’s size, parking is limited. It’s offered off East Calle Concordia in the Oro Valley Aquatic Center’s eastern and western lots and Canyon Del Oro High School’s eastern lot. Jankowski encourages neighbors living within walking distance to avoid parking altogether.

“It’s really a full town effort to get this up and running and to make sure everyone gets home safely,” Jankowski said.

He suggested that guests bring water, a

bathing suit, lawn chairs and beach towels to relax and people watch on the grass. The 20-minute firework show starts at 9 p.m.

“You’re able to sit directly under where the fireworks are going off,” Jankowski said.

The Oro Valley July 4th Celebration “is our opportunity as a town to not only celebrate the nation's birthday but to celebrate the town and the community,” Jankowski said. “No matter who you are or where you’re from, July 4th is something everyone can get behind.”

PROJECTS

from page 8

and equipment, to include $2.82 million to replace vehicles, and $1.63 million toward a 2-year, $3.13 million total project to expand and improve facilities for the Oro Valley Town Court;

• $5.43 million on roads and streets, among them $2.5 million for pavement preservation on more than 80 lane miles throughout the community, $1.025 million to mill and overlay Rancho Vistoso Boulevard from Vistoso Highlands to the Honeybee Canyon bridge, and $845,534 for improvements to

Oro Valley will continue its outreach with the July 15 Movies on the Lawn night at the community and recreation center.

Oro Valley July 4th Celebration

WHEN: 5 to 9:20 p.m. Tuesday, July 4

WHERE: James D. Kriegh Park, 23 W. Calle Concordia, Oro Valley COST: Free admission and parking INFO: orovalleyaz.gov

Westward Look Drive that were promised when the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa was annexed into Oro Valley in 2021;

• $4.38 million on parks and recreation facilities, to include $1.61 million to build an elevator at the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center, $550,000 to improve pathways at the Canada golf course, $500,000 for renovations to the barbecue and bunkhouse facilities at historic Steam Pump Ranch, and $255,000 to make improvements at the Vistoso Trails Nature Preserve, acquired by the town one year ago.

Gym takes climbing to new — cooler — heights

BY VERONICA KUFFEL Tucson Local Media Contributor

Climbing and bouldering are major pastimes in Tucson, but when the weather gets hot, it can be di cult to get out on the rocks.

“During summers in the desert, it can be a little oppressive to be outside and it can isolate people,” said Cory Hanson, Rock Solid Climbing’s founder and general manager.

“Indoor climbing allows those who normally climb outside to continue that pastime. But it also allows the general public, or people who are just nding the sport, to access air-conditioned, active centers.”

Rock Solid Climbing has been open since 2020, providing an indoor facility for all levels and ages. Known for its renowned youth programs and welcoming atmosphere, the gym is determined to build a community for all things climbing.

Located at 3949 W. Costco Drive, Rock Solid Climbing is open on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with shorter hours on weekends, but members have 24 hour access to the gym. Single-day rates are from $16, and monthly rates start at $80 for individuals and families. e gym also o ers rental gear packages for daily and monthly uses.

Founded by Hanson, and Carlton and Lindsay Taylor, Rock Solid Climbing is the closest gym to those in Northwest Tucson. ey focus on providing a clean, well-maintained facility that welcomes athletes and anyone interested in climbing.

Hanson explained that at its core, boul-

dering and ropes climbing can be for anyone, and it should be for everyone. is is the atmosphere Rock Solid tries to embody.

“We have ages 4 to… I think our oldest member is 84,” Hanson said. “It serves everyone, no matter what stage of life you’re in, you can get a lot out of the sport.”

Some of the climbers the gym attracts include Mike Solot, who will turn 68 in August. Solot followed his friends to Rock Solid to take the gym’s intro class, which comes with a two-week membership.

A er the session, he came back a few times as a guest before deciding to become a member. Now, he spends a few early mornings a week “solving problems:” climber lingo for a route of holds on a wall.

“I can’t explain exactly why, I guess I liked how each time you do something, you’re challenging yourself,” Solot explained. “Another thing that keeps me going is watching other climbers, and most of them were much younger than me and much better. You can learn a lot just by watching people.”

Solot is only one of many members over 50. While he noted the median age of climbers can be around 21, Rock Solid doesn’t exclude anyone from the gym.

e gym assists and trains anyone who needs it and also o ers a range of Pilates and strength programs. But the biggest priority for any climber is safety.

“Especially for people in my age bracket, it’s important to be careful,” Solot noted. “As long as you’re careful, I think it’s something that anyone can enjoy and bene t from.”

Along with retirees and adolescents, Rock Solid is a special place for many families in Northwest Tucson. e Belangers

have been a part of Rock Solid from the very beginning, when they found out Rock Solid was opening next to their daughter’s gymnastics facility.

Long-time climbers Scott and Becky Belanger have enrolled their children, Noah and Gracyn, in Rock Solid’s youth programs and teams. Both have placed in regional climbing competitions and their son, Noah, recently quali ed for USA Climbing nationals.

“Rock Solid has become a home away from home for us,” Becky said. “To have our kids loved and embraced by this community that’s not in our immediate family is just such a special thing. We’re grateful for that.”

Becky also teaches Pilates classes at Rock Solid, along with climbing with her family in and out of the gym. ey represent the rock-jock families who frequent the facility,

participating in Rock Solid summer camps, its club, team and other youth programs.

From birthday parties to competitions, the gym accommodates many levels of climbing for children. And according to Becky, Hanson and Solot, that fun and excitement isn’t exclusive to kids.

“I’ve loved the sport of rock climbing because there’s not a timestamp on it,” Becky said. “Other sports have a timestamp; you age out at a certain time. So many kids stop playing sports as soon as they graduate from high school, but climbing goes on inde nitely.”

Rock Solid Climbing

3949 W. Costco Drive, Tucson 520-222-6228

rocksolidclimbing.com

Climbers of all ages gather to hit the walls of Rock Solid Climbing. (Todd Bukowski/Submitted)

Edited by WIll Shortz

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Caring for others gives you a natural lift, as long as you keep a balance. Past a certain amount of giving, your energy will be drained instead of boosted. There's a kind of internal regulation system to set up and pay attention to here involving an awareness of your energy levels and your resources for refuelling.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

You'll once again be reminded of your core similarities in the kinship of humanity, even though you may seem to be thinking very differently from everyone you're around this week. It's not yet time to share your ideas or your unique mental process, but that hour is coming. For now, keep working with the aim of clarity and relevance.

Gymnast Suni of

U.S.A.

Plaza resident of fiction 16 What some flakes are made of

59-Across from someone who’s paying?

19 Thus 20 Feature of Jupiter’s moon Europa

21 Apple field worker?

50 Record label for H.E.R. and SZA 51 Le ers of amusement

52 Erstwhile

54 Tons o’

56 Singing rodent of cartoondom

57 Bridges in film

with “the” 44 Straight-up 45 Five-time Olympic sprinting gold medalist

23 Acronymic title for a legendary athlete

26 23-Across, in boxing

59 “Come here o en?,” e.g. … or a hint to 17-, 30-, 35- and 43-Across

63 “Frozen” snowman

64 It might include a plus one

65 Feminist assn. since 1966

66 Storage containers

67 Like matryoshka dolls

68 Speech fillers

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

27 Purchase

30 59-Across from an anxious caller?

33 Sound of intrigue

34 Thoroughly enjoy

35 59-Across from a frustrated parent?

41 “I’m ___ of you” (Valentine’s Day message for a plant lover?)

42 Mole that should definitely be removed? 43 59-Across from a carpooler?

1 Poet who wrote “April is the cruellest month” 2 “You ___!” (informal affirmative)

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay

3 Appear in public

4 “Whoa, take it easy!”

5 Prefix with rock or country

6 Neither’s partner

7 Game piece with multiple faces

8 Name meaning “God is salvation” 9 Annoy

hit song that begins with “Domo arigato”

and then some

They have issues, in brief

Certain itinerant musician

“___ Flux” (1990s animated scifi series)

25 Se ing for the “Iliad”

“E pluribus ___”

Informal affirmative

Ones being pointed to at a distance

Good, in Chinese

Certain slip-on shoe

Die-hard follower

Ambient musician Brian

A major theme this week is the search for meaning, which is an ongoing process. Does it relax you to know that what you gather from relationships, culture and even from your own stories is always changing? Self-re ection will lead you to new understanding of your purpose and a fresh way to view your history.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21)

The ancients listened their way through the wild to nd their food and avoid becoming the food of a predator. These days, listening is still one of the top skills for getting along in life, and it will be your strength this week. You'll put an ear to the "grapevine," hear approaching opportunity and sensitize yourself to nuances of communication.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

It will take time for these improvements you're making to fully blossom in your life. When results seem meager and it doesn't all line up logically, accept that as a normal part of the process and have faith as you follow the directions a little longer. Something nonsensical will sort itself out by the end of the week as deeper reasoning emerges.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

How can you answer the needs of those around you?

This is the magic question to keep asking because the discovery will go deeper and deeper. You'll also be honing social skills, especially the sort you employ for networking. Experiment with di erent approaches, topics and takes.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Managing the various components of a relationship can be more di cult than balancing on a tightrope, and for certain high-stakes relationships, the result can feel as elating, the consequences as dire. The use of a balancing pole will stabilize the endeavor. Shared routines, a mutually understood language and common goals will give you the e ect.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21)

There can be a fluidness to your beliefs. This isn't wishy-washiness, but sophistication. The reasons to believe things that aren't technically real may include optimism, grace, delusion, hope, denial, vision, to name a few. While beliefs can change, your values, like altruism and kindness, remain.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

It's all humming along this week, and your natural inclination will be to relax and let the wheels turn. Smart! If you throw on the brakes, it will be hard to get back to your current momentum. Also, attention will flow your way, and it's up to you to deflect it or use it to your advantage.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

The word "wild" is often associated with abundant energy, but in the actual wilderness, sleep is top priority. Tigers sleep 16 hours a day. Opossums and armadillos clock in 18 hours. Since the most energetic version of you will be the best rested one, make sleep more of a priority this week.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You can be who you want to be. One definition of identity: a story you tell yourself about who you are. There is not one truth, but many true options for your focus. You'll press into malleable parts of your personality and shape your thinking to align with new goals and aspirations.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

It can be daunting to try the new thing, but what you gain from daring to venture into uncharted territory is worth the risk. Another version of you waits on the other side of doing. You look forward to seeing what qualities will be acquired through the invaluable gift of experience.

PUZZLE BY LINDSAY MCBRIDE

Worship Guide

GF and Son Contractor

GF and Son Contractor

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

and Son Contractor

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.

GF and Son Contractor

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

Now Accepting Credit cards

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

GF and Son Contractor

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.

Now Accepting Credit cards

Now Accepting Credit cards

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

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

Now Accepting Credit cards

Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

Celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks in the Town of Oro Valley! This free event includes: food trucks, jumping castles, face painting, a beer garden, kids cra s and activities, lawn games and much more.

The Oro Valley Aquatic Center will be open 5 to 8:30 p.m.

FIREWORKS AT 9 P.M.

EVENT SCHEDULE

5 p.m.

Event opens

6:15 – 7 p.m.

Onstage performance by Heart & Soul

7:15 – 7:45 p.m.

Entertainment by Frank! Powers

8 – 8:50 p.m.

Onstage performance by Heart & Soul

9 – 9:20 p.m.

Firework show

CELEBRATION

5 - 9:15 P.M. | James D. Kriegh Park 23 W. Calle Concordia

For parking details or more event information, scan the QR code or visit orovalleyaz.gov