Lovin Life After 50: Tucson February 2020

February 2020

Renaissance Festival

Performers show their unique skills at annual event

Bayou Bandits

Singer Joshua Strickland remembers late colleague on album

International vendors aim to educate guests at showcases Switzerland

Charlie Chaplin was happy at Corsier-sur-Vevey

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Inside This Issue 4

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LECTURES

WORKSHOPS

LOVE YOUR

SPECIAL EVENTS

MONTH

Please join us for lectures from cardiologists and other experts. You’ll hear the latest information to make sure you know how to keep you heart healthy.

February 11 | 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Tips to Reduce Stress and Help Your Heart, Gulshan Sethi, MD February 13 | 10-11:30 a.m.

Learn Hands-Only CPR Gary Brauchla February 18 | 10-11 a.m.

Women and Heart Health Susan Smith February 19 | 12- 1 p.m.

Love Your Expo: Assessments, Resources, Refreshments and More

February 20 | 2-3:30 p.m.

Interventional Cardiology: Latest Procedures, Thomas Waggoner, DO, Pima Heart & Vascular

PREVENTION S A T U R D A Y

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Gem and Mineral Season

10 Off the Vine

February 27 | 10-11:30 a.m.

Heart Failure: Causes & Treatment, Nader Makki, MD, Pima Heart & Vascular

Note for Note

Classic Albums Live recreates albums for hardcore classic rock fans

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Medieval Talent

Performers show their unique skills at Renaissance Festival

Arizona wine growers show off their stuff in Oro Valley

12 Top 15 Things To Do

News

14 Community Calendar

Arts 15 Renaissance Woman

Renee Fleming showcases versatile musicality in Arizona

16 Puzzles 17 Arts Events Calendar

Dining 18

Courting with Calories

Here are some cozy restaurants to get your romance on

Sports

20 Dining Events Calendar 20 Sports Calendar

Music 22 Independent Minded

24 A New Mission

23 Eclectic Reggae

25 Music Calendar

Saturday, April 4, 2020 8 - 11:30 a.m.

International vendors aim to educate guests at showcases

February 26 | 10-11:15 a.m.

Nutrition: Getting to the Heart of the Matter, Zoe Schroeder, MS RD and Mary Vikupitz

REGISTRATION REQUIRED Call (520) 324-1960 or visit us online at tmcaz.com

Str ke

Upfront

26

Ani DiFranco continues to pave her own path in music Iration spans different genres by blending musical styles with reggae

The Bayou Bandits’ Joshua Strickland remembers late colleague on album

Travel Switzerland

Charlie Chaplin was happy at Corsier-sur-Vevey

Columns

32 Ask the Expert

34 Ask Gabby Gayle

Publisher

Copy Editor

Cover Photo

Vice President

Graphic Designer

Contributors

Executive Editor

Senior Account Executives

Travel Editor

Administrator

Steve T. Strickbine Michael Hiatt

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Ed Boitano

April Morganroth

Courtesy Aerolite Meteorites Inc.

Meghan Quinn

Lou Lagrave, Gordon Wood Courtney Oldham

Please allow 60-90 minutes for screening Proud Member of Arizona Newspapers Association

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FEBRUARY 2020

Connor Dziawura, Gayle LagmanCreswick, Laura Latzko, Randy Montgomery, Eric Newman, Bridgette Redman, Alan Sculley, Octavio Serrano, Valerie Vinyard

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©2020 by EOS Publishing, LLC. Lovin’ Life in Tucson is a monthly publication dedicated to informing, serving and entertaining the active adults of Arizona. It is published by EOS Publishing, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company.

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Upfront Gem and Mineral Season International vendors aim to educate guests at showcases

BY LAURA LATZKO This time of year, Tucson is in its gem and mineral season, when the city is abuzz with gem, fossil, bead and mineral activity.

The annual showcase caters to people of all ages and interests, with educational and retail opportunities.

Known as the world’s largest gem and mineral show, the Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase brings together vendors from around the world with selections of gemstones, jewelry, lapidary equipment, beads, textiles, apparel, mineral specimens and fossils.

Most of the shows fall between February 1 and February 16, in different settings—warehouses, local businesses, hotel event spaces and rooms, and large convention spaces such as the Tucson Expo Center.

Visit Tucson’s Director of Convention Services Jane Roxbury says the city has offerings throughout the year, but the winter has a wider selection.

“You can always find something in Tucson—a treasure to take home—but this is the time of the year when we shine gem-, mineral- and fossil-wise,” Roxbury says.

The show brings 65,000 visitors to Tucson and has an economic impact of $131 million, she says.

“It is a terrific experience to see the tremendous amount of growth, not only in the total number of shows but in the economic impact, the number of people coming to the shows, the increased number of vendors and the expansion of shows,” Roxbury says.

This year, the event has 50 different shows, with free shuttle service between most of them. Roxbury says because the show has become so large that it is important for attendees to have a plan in place for what shows to see, as well as where to stay and dine.

The event started on a much smaller scale in 1955, with one show, put on by the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society at the Helen Keeling Elementary School. It has grown, though, to include more ven-

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dors and spaces.

As the audience grew, the events did as well. Food trucks are found at some of them. About half of the vendors own a business or building in Tucson.

The city also has a growing mineral district along Oracle Road. Some of this year’s shows will take place within this district. Certain shows will have more specialized products or vendors, while others have a wider variety.

The African Art Village showcases art from 125 vendors from February 1 to February 16 at 279 S. Linda Avenue. The American Indian Arts Exposition at the Quality Inn Flamingo ballroom, 1300 N. Stone Avenue, will have a rotating lineup of 40 Native American artists as well as art demos and performances. The event runs through February 16.

The shows vary in size, with some having only one vendor and others featuring hundreds of vendors.

VARIETY OF SHOWS Over the years, it has become common for local shops, such as Kent’s Tools, to put on their own shows.

Its owner, Kent Solberg, has participated in shows for 25 years. For the last four years, he has hosted shows at his storefront at 2745 N. First Avenue. Before this, he took part in the Kino Gem and Mineral Show.

Although the shop is open year-round, the show runs through February 17.

“Once we moved into this permanent location, it was a no-brainer to have our show in our own building, cut down on the overhead, cut down on the staff requirements,” Solberg says.

“It is permanently set up. We don’t have to tear down, and we bring in a lot of inventory just for the show.”

In his shop, he offers a variety of equipment. Each year, he tries to add innovative products such as specialty pliers and bezel cutters.

He started the business after coming into an inventory of jewelry and lapidary equipment. Not long after, his wife Salle

FEBRUARY 2020

During the Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase, vendors will have different types of specimens.

(Photos courtesy of Visit Tucson)

Hunter, a textile and watercolor artist, started in the bead and jewelry business after purchasing a storage unit with beads from the Tucson show.

“The product line was new to us, so we had to learn about the product line,” Solberg says. “We had to research it. We had to research the value of the tools and machines we got in.”

There’s a community within the gem and mineral shows. Solberg says he looks forward to seeing longtime friends and

acquaintances.

“The vendors in particular shows tend to form a bond with each other. They are supportive, and they watch over each other,” Solberg says.

Put on by the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society at the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Avenue, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show from February 13 to February 16 will showcase more than 160 items from mineral museums and collectors. www.LovinLife.com

The items on display this year include the world’s largest gold and silver specimens, the Paloma Picasso kunzite necklace and a 30-foot aquatic dinosaur.

The event also offers lectures, a lifesize video presentation of the Cave of Giants in Mexico, and junior education and mineral areas.

Collectors, ages 8 and older, can display and have their work judged as part of the show’s annual competition. There are different categories, including junior divisions for children 18 and younger.

The show is $13 for adults and free for children 14 and younger with a paying adult.

Engaging the public is important to many of the vendors, but some take it a step further. They offer educational displays for the public.

Each year, Aerolite Meteorites Inc. excites visitors about the sciences through its exhibits and displays, located inside the Showcase building at the 22nd Street Mineral, Fossil, Gem and Jewelry Showcase.

This year’s show runs through February 16 at 600 W. 22nd Street. Admission is free but parking is $5.

OUT OF THIS WORLD During the last 23 years, Aerolite Meteorites has taken part in hotel and convention center shows at the Tucson event.

It also participates in gem and mineral shows in Denver and Edison, New Jersey.

Geoff Notkin, CEO of Aerolite Meteorites, says that through educational displays he hopes to make meteorites more meaningful for show attendees.

Notkin is a meteorite expert, an author, a photographer, an art director, a TV and film producer and the star of the TV show

“Meteorite Men.” During the gem show, he shares his knowledge with the public individually and through different educational displays and films.

“People of all ages share a wonder in these items. Why is that? Because they are from out there. They are visitors from space who land on the Earth,” Notkin says.

“It is a wondrous experience to encounter them, especially when somebody takes the time to explain to the visitor exactly why the rock they are looking at is so special, and that’s my job.”

Notkin’s love of rocks, fossils, meteorites and astronomy started as a child, when his parents took him on adventure holidays. He was especially influenced by his dad, who was an amateur astronomer.

This year, his company will offer video learning stations with educational short films on meteorite history and origins, produced by Aerolite Meteorites. Signage within the booth will also provide further information about the meteorites on display.

The booth will have a living room display with tables, chairs, bookcases and artwork to show what a meteorite display inside a home looks like and to give visitors a place to take a break.

The Tucson company partners with Colorado-based Dinosaur Brokers.

For the first time, the Science Arts and Space Institute, a nonprofit affiliated with Dinosaur Brokers and Aerolite Meteorites, will have its own educational exhibit space at the show.

Being part of the Tucson gem and mineral show has been truly life changing for Notkin.

The show encouraged him to move his company from New York to Tucson, where his international business has thrived.

“Aren’t I lucky to have been a little boy fascinated by science, growing up in rainy old England, to have found my way to Arizona to a city really welcoming me, encouraged and supported me with my work and given me the opportunity to grow my business in a field I loved as a kid?” Notkin says.

Each year during the Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase, Aerolite Meteorites Inc. sells different types of meteorites and related products. (Photo courtesy Aerolite Meteorites Inc.)

www.LovinLife.com

Aerolite Meteorites Inc. CEO Geoff Notkin travels to different parts of the state, country and world in search of meteorites. (Photo courtesy Aerolite Meteorites Inc.)

He first attended the event in the 1990s as a collector and enthusiast.

“I try to never lose sight of the fact it was my delight in the experience of attending the gem show that caused me to move here,” Notkin says.

During those early shows, he was impressed by the vendors’ hard work and dedication. Many of them incur large expenses to ship their products to Tucson.

“Recognizing in the people I see here from all over the world, the hope and the enthusiasm they have for their work, it is very uplifting,” Notkin says.

During the show, his company sells and shares information on different types of meteorites and features such as chondrules, tiny spheres within the meteorites formed during the early days of the solar system.

In recent years, the company has branched out by offering unique products such as T-shirts made with meteorite dust.

This year, Notkin will have for sale his new documentary on identifying meteorites, “The Expert Guide to Meteorite Identification in the Field and in the

Laboratory,” and his latest book, “How to Find Treasure from Space: The Expert Guide to Meteorite Hunting and Identification.”

During his time with the Tucson show, Notkin has made friends and business contacts from all over the world. He describes it as being like a “get-together of old school chums.”

He says the global community the event fosters is inspiring to him.

“You see people from different countries working next to each other, and somehow through their shared enthusiasm of natural history they overcome all boundaries, whether it’s language or cultural barriers,” Notkin says.

MORE INFO

What: Tucson Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase When: Various times through February 16 Where: Locations throughout Tucson Info:1-800-638-8350, visittucson.org

FEBRUARY 2020

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Note for Note Classic Albums Live recreates albums for hardcore rock fans LAURA LATZKO For many music fans, albums become soundtracks of their lives. They know their favorite songs by heart and connect to the songs on a deeply personal level.

Classic Albums Live recreates beloved albums, note for note, for diehard fans of classic rock music.

On Saturday, February 8, Classic Albums Live will visit the Fox Tucson Theatre to perform its rendition of The Eagles’ hit album “Hotel California.”

Founded in Los Angeles in the early 1970s, The Eagles reached the top of the Billboard charts with hit songs such as “Hotel California,” “Best of My Love,” “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town,” “Heartache Tonight,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” “Life in the Fast Lane” and “Take It Easy.”

They won multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “Hotel California” and Best Arrangement for Voices for “New Kid in Town” in 1977.

With its rendition, Classic Albums Live pays tribute to The Eagles by performing the group’s music in the most authentic form possible.

Craig Martin started Classic Albums Live in 2003 to present albums as closely as he can. The members don’t dress up in costumes or try to impersonate members of groups such as The Eagles but instead focus on the music.

Musicians within Classic Albums Live perform different albums throughout the year, by artists and bands such as The Eagles, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Jimi Hendrix, Billy Joel, David Bowie, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Queen, The Who and Pink Floyd.

For more than a decade, different groupings of musicians have played “Hotel California” for Classic Albums Live.

Ron Phillips, the lead singer and guitarist for The Eagles “Hotel California” show, helped to put together this arrangement.

It was during the early days of Classic Albums Live.

“There was still a bit of a learning curve to how to take apart these albums. I actually put the headphones on one night in a fit of inspiration and spent a few days working on all the songs, doing the vocal arrangements myself,” Phillips says.

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Classic Albums Live’s musical director, Phillips says with The Eagles’ music, the vocals are the hardest part to tackle.

“For The Eagles, obviously vocal harmonies are a big thing. The same with Queen, but also guitar harmonies are big with Queen, too. It puts twice the work on all of the guitar players/singers in the band, which I’m also one,” Philips says.

The Eagles’ album gives Phillips a chance to play the slide guitar on songs such as “Victim of Love,” something he doesn’t get to do very often.

Phillips says The Eagles’ music has a timeless quality appreciated by audiences of different generations.

“The Eagles were a great band. They had great songs. They were great players, and they were great singers. They were just fantastic. They were really just masters of their craft,” Phillips says.

Phillips has met one of the engineers who worked on “Hotel California.” He gave him insight into the meticulous process of creating the album.

“The album is really well done. It’s obviously why people want to hear it, and there was a reason it was popular,” Phillips says.

During his 15 years with Classic Albums Live, Phillips has performed more than 60 different albums.

He takes on different roles based on the shows. For example, for Pink Floyd albums, he tends to be lead guitarist and singer, but he only plays and sings lead on Beatles albums for George Harrison songs.

He says being versatile has helped him.

“I can fit in a lot of places in the band, which is how I got this position, really. I just kept saying, ‘Oh yeah, I can do that,’” Phillips says.

When recreating albums, it is important to capture what makes each band and singer unique.

“Like Brian May from Queen, he’s a really unique player. To listen to the way he plays versus Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac, they have very different styles, but you have to sound like them,” Phillips says. “It’s always been a natural thing for me to mimic. I’ve done voices ever since I was a kid. So, when I started playing guitar, it was a natural progres-

FEBRUARY 2020

During an upcoming performance in Tucson, Classic Albums Live will perform songs from the The Eagles’ album “Hotel California.” (Photo courtesy of Classic Albums Live)

sion to hear if I turn my pick like ‘this,’ it sounds just like it.”

Some of the singers’ voices naturally lend themselves to performing certain parts.

“We generally use the people we’ve already got. Some people just have similar vocal characteristics. Once you are using the same phrasing and singing the same words, it really brings out those vocal characteristics,” Phillips says.

The lineup for Classic Albums Live has changed over the years, as some musicians have left and others have come in. Sometimes, performers will have to step in for a part when there are multiple shows the same night.

The musicians perform “Hotel California” about every six months. Phillips says although he knows the albums, it is important to keep practicing them.

“You always have to go back and play through everything and make sure you’ve got everything up to speed,” Phillips says.

The musicians don’t try to impersonate the original members, although they may inevitably mimic small facial expressions or gestures.

“Sometimes, when you are in that headspace, you channel them a little bit,” he says. “I play a lot of Pink Floyd, so to get this David Gilmour sound—David Gilmour sucks in his cheeks when he’s playing; his sound is very tight—I find myself doing it when I’m playing it because playing

the guitar is a full-body experience.”

When they rehearse together, the musicians work collaboratively to make sure the songs sound right. Sometimes, this can be a challenge when they don’t know exactly how a sound was created, but they try to get as close as possible.

Fans either listen to the albums a few times or avoid hearing the album at all before going to the show, Phillips says.

This gives fans a new perspective on the music.

“They want it to be a fresh experience, hearing us play. Sitting in a theater listening to the album, it’s almost like listening to it for the first time,” Phillips says.

As a music lover, Phillips can identify with fans who are listening closely to their rendition and comparing it to the original.

“I can remember when I was younger, just sitting in school all day, and I couldn’t wait to get home, put my headphones on and listen to an album,” Phillips says.

MORE INFO

What: Classic Albums Live: The Eagles’ “Hotel California” When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 8 Where: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street Cost: $27.50 to $49.50 Info: 547-3040, foxtucson.com

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Medieval Talent Performers show their unique skills at Renaissance Festival

BY CONNOR DZIAWURA Renaissance fairs around the nation are breeding grounds for people with interesting talents. From unique skills to thrilling performances, these popular events tap the best they can find in medieval entertainment.

The Arizona Renaissance Festival— open Saturdays and Sundays from February 8 to March 29, as well as on Presidents Day, Monday, February 17.

On this year’s docket are talented folks like Adam “Crack” Winrich, who developed a skill working with flaming whips; The Angels, who fuse their vocal talents with the thrill of sword-fighting, all put through a comedic lens; Cirque du Sewer, the acrobat with rats and cats; The Danseries, a historical dance crew; and The Jousters.

Quick thinking has been handy to performer Terry Foy, better known as Zilch the Torysteller, who will return for this year’s festivities. Known as a master of spoonerisms and storytelling, Foy has a knack for reconstructing words on the spot.

“If you’re doing a whole story like ‘Little Red Riding Hood,’ it comes out, ‘Rittle Led

Hiding Rood, the gittle lirl in the ced roat, went out for a falk in the worest, met a wig wad bolf,’ and so on and so on and so on,” he explains.

The term “spoonerism,” he says, is named after 19th and 20th century Oxford don William Archibald Spooner, who was known for this “art of switching.” Using his mastery of the skill, Foy tells tales such as “Parunzel” and Spilliam Wakesheare’s “Jomeo & Ruliet.” He mixes in music, too, and is experienced with the mandolin. He has also played viola, violin and guitar.

“I found out when I was 12 years old I had a facility for this citching of swonsonants,” he says, adding with practice, “I’ve been able to put these stories together and use my rather odd sense of humor to present a comedy routine.”

He credits elementary English for teaching him about spoonerisms, malapropisms and pig Latin, as does he his dad, who loved comedian Archie Campbell on “Hee Haw.” Campbell has done spoonerisms.

“I’m not the first; I won’t be the last to do this kind of thing,” Foy says. “I happen to

Another festivalgoer favorite, Lord Robert Chessman, the queen’s royal falconer, is also returning to the Gold Canyon event.

(Submitted photo)

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FEBRUARY 2020

Zilch the Torysteller, known for his “spoonerism” - the art of switching constants and vowels, and a crowd favorite returns this year to the Renaissance Festival. (Submitted photo)

be pretty good at it.”

Talented bunch Modeled as a 30-acre, 16th-century European village, the Arizona Renaissance Festival has 14 stages boasting talented acts like Foy. Medieval enthusiasts can wander the festival grounds and check out all sorts of other performances, activities and arts and crafts, maybe even picking up a turkey leg along the way.

As is tradition, the king and queen will be paramount to the yearly festivities.

Robby Sinkler knows this all too well, as he serves as Lord Robert Chessman, the queen’s royal falconer.

Festivalgoers can check out his Art of Falconry show. In this show, which he calls a “family affair,” he is aided by his wife, his daughter and local volunteers. Together, they work with a variety of birds of prey—from eagles to owls, vultures and falcons—showing their natural behaviors while explaining the medieval history of falconry.

This includes flying over the audience, or even just groundwork. In one display, Sinkler has a vulture trained to spot a particular egg based on its color; in another, he demonstrates an eagle’s speed with an amphitheater fly-by.

“We don’t have them ride a bicycle or anything like that like you might see in a parrot show,” he says with a laugh. “It’s really a close encounter of animals you usually see at a distance.”

Sinkler heads up Wild Sky Productions, through which he acquires birds from zoos, rehabilitation centers and captive-breeding projects. He says his organization is a last resort for nonreleasable birds.

“They may have handicaps or mental disabilities,” he admits. “Depending on the year, there’s a lot of different types of birds we might work with.”

The Florida native and 30-plus-year falconer remembers gaining an appreciation for animals from his father at a young age, before doing zoo work in college. There he learned about falconry and birds of prey. He first signed on to a Renaissance festival gig around 25 years ago, at the Georgia one. www.LovinLife.com

Wild Sky has also worked with theme parks and other attractions, with wildlife celebrities like Jack Hanna and Jim Fallor, and on music videos and movies, he says.

“It’s such a unique opportunity,” Sinkler says. “For me, it’s (the appeal) bringing the wilderness to a unique type of venue where we get up-close and meet a lot of people. We actually—at the end of every show—have a meet-and-greet and we take pictures with the guests, and it’s an opportunity to hear stories.”

Just as he loves sharing his knowledge with audiences—he tries to make it a “positive experience” and even talks about conservation—he loves hearing from audience members about their own experiences with birds and other wildlife.

“I think it’s (the appeal) about meeting the guests and really making that connection so they have a greater appreciation of the wildlife,” he says.

For Foy, who is also a teacher, Renaissance festival work is a lifestyle. He says he has been performing in Arizona since 1989, but he got his start in Minnesota in 1975.

“Like many kids who were interested in theater when in high school, my friends and I heard an audition notice on a radio station and went, ‘Renaissance festival?

Hey, we’ve been there! Let’s try it!’” he recalls. “There were three of us who went Lord Chessman, whose real name is Robby Sinkler, acquires his birds from zoos, rehabilitation centers and captive-breeding projects many of his birds have handicaps or disabilities. (Submitted photo)

to go audition together, and one fellow saw what the audition entailed and went, ‘Nope, I’m out of here,’ and the other two of us auditioned and got hired.”

He eventually branched out beyond his initial one in Minnesota, and he’s a busy man for it. He expects to visit states like Texas, Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota and North Carolina by next Thanksgiving.

While he can’t speak as to why festivalgoers are drawn to his performances— aside from those who have told him they feel smarter after checking out a show— he says his own personal appeal is entertaining others.

“I have always been a laugh junkie,” he says. “To get people laughing has always been sort of my reason for living. It’s what makes life worth living.”

MORE INFO

What: Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Presidents Day February 8 to March 29 Where: Renaissance Festival Grounds, 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon Cost: $15-$18, with discounts online and at Fry’s Info: 463-2600, renfestinfo.com

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520-445-6784 FEBRUARY 2020

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Off the Vine

Arizona wine growers show off their stuff in Oro Valley

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN Before 2006, there were only 12 wineries in Arizona.

This year, there are more than 125, and a portion of them will showcase their goods at the seventh annual Off the Vine Festival at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley on Saturday, February 15.

“We were looking for

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wineries to showcase in different parts of the state,” says Paula Woolsey, event organizer for the 85085-based Arizona Wine Growers Association. “Off the Vine was an attempt to share the wealth and bring in people from all around the state.”

This one-day event offers 27 of Arizona’s best wines, giving attendees an opportunity to interact with the participating winemakers. Tickets start at $25; nondrinkers and kids are invited at no cost. Off the Vine also offers live music by the Pete Swan Trio, food trucks and artists.

“Off the Vine has quickly become one of our biggest events of the year, and after seeing record-breaking attendance

FEBRUARY 2020

in 2019 we’re expecting an even bigger crowd for 2020,” says Kris Pothier, president of the AWGA and owner of Chateau Tumbleweed. “Steam Pump Ranch and the surrounding mountains provide such a beautiful setting for wine lovers to experience wines from across the state and even meet the winemakers themselves, who are often in attendance.”

Among the wineries will be Carlson Creek Vineyard, Burning Tree Cellars, Golden Rule Vineyards and Laramita Cellars.

“We encourage people to buy wine and take it home with you to support the local wine industry and use the wine throughout the year,” Woolsey says.

The 1800s historic ranch provides a rural setting in Oro Valley and showcases a southern farmers market selling goods during the event. The wellstaffed ranch allows participants in the festival to not get stuck in long lines.

Robert Carlson III, owner of Carlson Creek Vineyard, has been a part of the wine-growers association since its founding. Eleven years ago, Carlson and his brother, John, cleared out and planted the first vines in the initial 6

acres of land they bought in Willcox.

Now with 280 acres, the Carlson family offers a wide array of grapes made into wines, from, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc to Malbec and Grenache.

“When we came to Willcox we noticed it was smack dab in the middle of agriculture,” Carlson says. “We’re surrounded by pistachios, pecans, corn and cattle. There’s so much agriculture out here.”

The Carlson family chose Willcox because of its weather and the elevation, as it sits on Willcox Bench.

“We’re at 4200-foot elevation,” Carlson says. “Weather conditions are warm days and cool nights, similar to what you would find in Argentina, Chile and the south of France, which produce thicker skins, deeper colors and more flavor on the grapes.”

Some of their best-selling wines include Sweet Adeline, a Moscato named after their grandmother, and Rule of 3, a blend of three wines named after the three Carlson siblings.

“I think the major thing setting us apart is we focus on the vineyard first and foremost,” Carlson says.

Burning Tree Cellars in Cottonwood is participating in Off the Vine Festival www.LovinLife.com

as well. Mitch Levy, its co-owner, wanted to start in the wine industry in the ’70s, but his career took him in a different path.

After retiring from a career in finance, Levy met his business partner, Corey Turnbull, and they started the company in 2007. They became AWGA members in 2009, when they opened their tasting room. Levy graduated from the Yavapai College Southwest Wine Center.

“I never wanted to be in the vineyard. It was never my bag,” Levy says.

“I never wanted to be a farmer, but I have actually fallen in love with it. It’s a great program.”

“Burning Tree” was named as such because as vines burn they become dormant and through the circle of life they are reborn and provide grapes once more. Burning Tree Cellars makes reds, whites and a few rosés, each of which has a unique label.

“We are known for our labels,” Levy says. “I believe we are the first winery or one of the first (in Arizona) to use nontraditional labels. All of the labels have a story of why we called them what we did.”

For example, “Trademarked” was originally called “Matriarch,” but a cease-and-desist order forced the name change. A California winery was using the same name.

“It’s a picture of an elephant and it’s our homage to women because more women drink chard than guys,” Levy says.

Levy is the activities director for the Verde Valley Wine Consortium, which allowed him to help fellow wine growers for the past eight years.

“In the wine business, I could pick up the phone and ask for help and I know people would help us,” Levy says. “It’s a big family. It’s a wine family.”

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Top 15 Things to Do

February at Hon-Dah

Big Bowl Bash Sun. Feb 2, 2020 Pizza, Wings, Chili & more

In the Conference Center $15.00 at the Door includes

Valentine’s Day Dinner Come play our 50 new Slot Machines including the Walking Dead!

Friday February 14, 2020

Limited Seating 3 Course Dinner $60.00 a couple (includes 2 Concert Tickets) $174.00, Dinner, Concert, Room

Tubac Festival of the Arts

FEBRUARY 5 TO FEBRUARY 9 Stroll through hundreds of exclusive galleries, studios and booths stationed along the vibrant streets ofTubac.

Skilled artisans display their original work to the public, attracting thousands of spectators. Unique artistry and quaint little shops can be found at every corner when attending Southern Arizona’s longest-running art fair.

Tubac Center of the Arts, 9 Plaza Road, 398-2371, tubacaz.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $35.

Fort Lowell Day Celebration

FEBRUARY 8 Experience a day in the old country as a cavalry regiment soldier in honor of the once-active U.S. Army Post. From lively reenactments to educational activities, folks of all ages can participate in this Westernized festival that offers home-cooked style meals as well as a nostalgic atmosphere with rustic cowboy tunes playing in the background.

Fort Lowell Park, 2998 N. Craycroft Road, 318-0219, oldfortlowellneighborhood.org, noon to 4 p.m., free.

Arizona Renaissance Festival

the weekend. Along with juicy barbecue and entertaining activities to captivate youngsters, three soulful blue bands will perform throughout the day while judges award trophies and prizes to the owners of the most prestigious cars. Reminiscence back on simpler times while celebrating the art that is the automobile.

Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road, 797-3959, saaca.org, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., $5.

Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

FEBRUARY 15 Coming to town this month is the one and only lead vocalist Frankie Valli, featuring a composition of photographs and clips that capture the most successful moments of his career. Jam out to one of the country’s most legendary rock ‘n’ roll stars as he performs hits like “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry” and “Rag Doll.”

Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, 791-4101, tucsonmusichall.org, 8 p.m., $45-$179.

FEBRUARY 20 TO FEBRUARY 29 Admire dozens of signature floral arrangements intricately designed to represent the art of traditional Japanese culture. More than 200 Ikebana vases shaped from various materials such as ceramics, bamboo and clay reflect century-old patterns as well as modern and contemporary styles. View an exclusive collection of original vases and breathtaking flower compositions as they add to the magnificent gardens of Tucson.

Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way, 303-3945, yumegardens. org, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., $5-$15.

Quilt Fiesta

FEBRUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 23 Time to take out a needle and thread as the Tucson Quilters Guild prepares to celebrate the craft of embroidery for three fun-packed days. More than 300 vendors will display their fiber-weaving talents in addition to numerous workshops and demonstrations on the proper steps to efficiently quilting. Raffles will be held and special door prizes will be given to lucky winners throughout the entirety of the shows.

Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Avenue, 791-4101, tucsonquiltersguild. com, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. February 21 and February 22, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. February 23, $10-$20.

After a day of exploring the High Country, hiking, boating or fishing, come in from the outdoors and play in our 24 hour Casino on 800 plus “HOT” slot machines or try your hand at live Blackjack or Poker. Enjoy a meal from Indian Pines Restaurant and re-energize in the Timbers Lounge with live entertainment 6 days a week.

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FEBRUARY 8 TO MARCH 29 Magic is in the air as angelic fairies glide across the stage while local knights joust in an on-going battle. With hundreds of events to participate in and enjoy, the entertainment factor is simply incessant, including a variety of acts from circus performers, horseback riders, magicians and dancing gypsies.

Dress up as your favorite characters and embark on this all-day adventure as this medieval amusement park returns this year once again.

Festival Village, 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon, 463-2600, arizona.renfestinfo. com, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., $15-$28.

Lunar New Year Celebration

& Fleetwood Mac

Asian Lantern Festival

La Fiesta de los Vaqueros

Arizona Winter Festival

Tucson Rodeo Parade

Native Nations Day at the Presidio Museum

GYSPY

Friday February 14, 2020 A Tribute to Stevie Nicks

Doors open 7pm-Show 8pm Tickets $12.50 on sale in the Gift Shop On Friday September 28, 2018 928-369-7577 Hon-Dah Resort Casino & Conference Center will host the The Run to the Pines pre-car show.

There will be a parade of pre-1970 vehicles.

In the evening there will be a BBQ dinner, entertainment and giveaways. Open to the public. The BBQ dinner is hosted by the Run to the Pines Car Club.

Located at 777 Highway 260, 3 miles south of Pinetop, Az LocatedForatmore 777 Hiingformati hway o260,n go3 tomi“Hon-Dah. les south ofcom”Pinetop, Az or callFor800-Way Hi (800-929-874 4) 928-369-0299 more iUpnformati on go to “Hon-Dah. com” (must be 21 or ol d er wi t h I D ) or call 800-Way Up Hi (800-929-8744) 928-369-0299 12

BY CARSON MLNARIK

Spring Ikebana Festival

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FEBRUARY 13 TO MARCH 29 Witness as the Reid Park Zoo comes to life in more ways than one with more than 400 new lanterns on display. Explore the zen garden, captivating activities and exercises combined with an Asian twist. In addition to the live acrobatics and oriental cuisine, a special feature has been added to the popular Expedition Tanzania exhibition you definitely don’t want to miss.

Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court, 791-4022, reidparkzoo.org, 6 to 9 p.m., $16-$18.

24 Hours in the Old Pueblo

FEBRUARY 14 TO FEBRUARY 16 Camp into the night and watch as these bikers tread through dusty trails along the Sonoran Desert in this 24-hour marathon. A simply perfect opportunity to exercise those stiff muscles and socialize with new and familiar faces. Beat the heat in these cooler conditions and witness one of the largest mountain biking events in the world.

24 Hour Town, E. Willow Spring Drive, 623-1584, epicrides.com, times vary, free.

Cruise, Barbecue and Blues Festival & Car Show

FEBRUARY 15 Rev up the old engine and drive on down to admire hundreds of traditional, classy autos for

FEBRUARY 2020

FEBRUARY 15 Join the annual festivities of Chinese culture as the Year of the Pig transitions into the Year of the Rat. An exquisite five-star course will be included as well as live entertainment from multiple Asian groups and performers. Don’t go just yet—stay tuned to win a special surprise at the end of the night by entering the massive gala raffle.

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, 3800 W. Starr Pass Boulevard, 292-6900, tucsonchinese.org, 5 to 10 p.m., $150.

FEBRUARY 15 TO FEBRUARY 23 Saddle up for one heck of a bull ride as herdsmen and ranchers from across the state meet up to compete in social tournaments consisting of steer wrestling, tie-down roping and barrel racing.

Participate in the radical sports of gritty western culture while cheering on your favorite cowboys and cowgirls as they ride head-on in an attempt to tame the wild bull.

Tucson Rodeo Grounds, 4823 S. Sixth Avenue, 741-2233, tucsonrodeo.com, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., $16-$80.

FEBRUARY 20 Walk alongside respected veterans, local cattlemen and state cavalry accompanied by more than 200 floats near the outskirts of Ajo Highway. Or, if cruising is your main mode of transportation, temporarily rent a variety of vehicles such as flatbed wagons, whimsical carriages and a collection of dune buggies. Take pride in marching with fellow Arizonians through one of the largest nonmotorized parades in the country.

Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum, 4823 S. Sixth Avenue, 294-1280, tucsonrodeoparade.com, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., $5-$10.

Apex Film Festival

FEBRUARY 22 Grab a bucket of popcorn and attend the sixth season of the annual cinema festival including live performances from local musicians. Receive access to exclusive short films and original music videos produced by filmmakers from around the globe. Plus take a look at the creative imaginations behind the screen by visiting Q&A sessions with film producers.

The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress Street, 882-0204, apexfest.org, 4 p.m., $8.

FEBRUARY 26 To MARCH 1 Watch as these horseback riders race through elaborate obstacles with enough speed and sheer power to blow audiences away. The AZ Winter Circuit hosts fierce competitions with the winning equestrian qualifying for a $1 Million Grand Prix race at Coachella. Stop horsin’ around and come on down to witness nonstop, live-action racing for five days straight.

Pima County Fairgrounds, 11300 S. Houghton Road, 762-9100, pimacountyfair.com, 10 a.m., $5-$9.

FEBRUARY 29 Discover the ancient heritage of Native Americans by learning the craft of flint-knapping in this educational-yet-exciting presentation targeted for individuals of all ages. Create stunning coil pottery and observe lectures describing the mysterious excavated pit-house located on the same ground as the Presidio foundation. Food will also be provided in addition to demonstrations from local artists on the subject of Native American culture.

Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Avenue, 622-0594, tucsonpresidio.com, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., $1-$5.

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Offer expires 2/29/20. (3) VSP® is a registered trademark of Vision Service Plan and is not affiliated with Nationwide Vision.

FEBRUARY 2020

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13

Community Calendar

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Association, Chapter 55 Meeting

FEBRUARY 10 The luncheon is open to current and retired federal employees, their spouses and guests. Visitors are welcome. The luncheon is followed by a presentation and business meeting. The meeting is in a new location.

Cattletown Steakhouse and Saloon, 3141 E. Drexel Road, 444-6970, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., attendees pay for their lunch, usually around $12.

Green Valley Stroke Support Group

Park Center Avenue, 626-2901, 10 to 11 a.m., free admission.

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Association, Chapter 1874 Meeting

FEBRUARY 17 Current and retired federal employees, spouses, guests and visitors are invited to join NARFE Chapter 1874 for its monthly meeting.

The January meeting program includes the regional transportation plan.

Golden Corral Restaurant, 6865 N. Thornydale Drive, 400-3456, 11:30 a.m., senior meals are $9.95.

Tucson Organic Gardeners Meeting

FEBRUARY 18 The Tucson Organic Gardeners Monthly Meeting will feature Kendall Kroesen’s program about growing heirloom fruits and vegetables in the desert. Programs are held the third Tuesday of each month from September to April. The meeting is in the Knox Room at the west side at the front of the church, west of Alvernon and south of Speedway.

St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church, 3809 E. Third Street, info@tucsonorganicgardeners.org, tucsonorganicgardeners.org, 6:30 p.m., free.

Southern Arizona Senior Pride Book Club

FEBRUARY 19 Tucson LGBTQ seniors will meet to discuss Karen Shiffman Lateiner’s “Timeless Dance: A Story of Change and Loss,” a mother’s memoir about her transgender child.

Ward 3 Council Office Conference Room, 1510 E. Grant Road, 312-8923, soazseniorpride@gmail.com, 2 to 3:30 p.m., free admission.

FEBRUARY 13 Facilitated by Leslie Ritter, Ph.D., RN, and supported by Banner - University Medical Center, University of Arizona College of Nursing and Sarver Heart Center. This group is for stroke survivors and caregivers to learn more about stroke, to find positive solutions to shared concerns and to unite in support of each other. Reservations required.

La Perla at La Posada’s Zuni Room, 635 S.

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Society of Military Widows Meeting

FEBRUARY 19 The Society of Military Widows is dedicated to the needs, concerns and welfare of military surviving spouses and their children.

Reservation deadline is February 9.

Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, 2720 S. Craycroft Road, 721.1688, ross2d@aol. com, noon, call for charge.

Have an event you’d like to see in our calendar?

Tell us about it! Email the complete information to christina@timespublications.com

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FEBRUARY 2020

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Arts

Renaissance Woman Renee Fleming showcases versatile musicality in Arizona

BY LAURA LATZKO

Renee Fleming made a name in opera, but she is an adaptable singer who has lent her voice to operatic, theater, film and classical music.

The soprano recently sang “Danny Boy” during a memorial service for Sen. John McCain.

During an upcoming visit to Arizona, Fleming will perform at the Tucson Music Hall with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra on Friday, February 6.

The Tucson concert is part of the Tucson

Desert Song Festival, which promotes collaboration between arts organizations and classical singers. This year, the festival is focusing on the American voice.

During her career, Fleming played major operatic roles such as the Countess Almaviva in Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” Violeta in Verdi’s “La Traviata,” Mimi in Puccini’s “La Boheme,” the title role in Dvorak’s “Rusalka,” the title roles in Massenet’s “Manon” and “Thais,” Desdemona in Verdi’s “Otello” and the Countess in Strauss’ “Capriccio.”

Fleming was recognized by President Barack Obama with the National Medal of Arts and was the first classical singer to perform the National Anthem during the Super Bowl.

The Fulbright Lifetime Achievement Medal winner had her music featured in the films “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri,” “The Shape of Water,” “Bel Canto,” “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” and “Rise of the Guardians.”

She also recorded music with singer Michael Bolton and released operatic, classical and jazz albums.

Fleming has an extensive career in musical theater. Her portrayal of Nettie Fowler in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel” earned her a Tony Award nomination.

Most recently, Fleming portrayed Margaret Johnson, a Southern woman visiting Italy with her developmentally disabled daughter, in Adam Guettel’s and Craig Lucas’ “The Light in the Piazza.”

She says with roles such as Johnson, she continues to be challenged as a performer.

“This role is really one of the most interesting roles for a mature woman, in either opera or music theater,” Fleming says.

“She’s in a complicated situation. She grows tremendously throughout the piece. She’s a mother and I can relate to her very well.”

In this role, she performs pop, musical theater and operatic pieces. She was always interested in singing different types of music.

“For singers, the more versatile you are, the better, because of the likelihood that you’ll work. But I’ve always tried to be versatile just because my taste in music is eclectic,” Fleming says.

In her spare time, she often listens to jazz music and different vocalists.

“I’m very intrigued by what people can do with the human voice,” Fleming says.

Fleming, who sings in nine different languages, tries to bring programs that appeal to audience members of different tastes.

“I really think about the audience. I want to make sure there’s something for everyone,” Fleming says. “So, I give a great deal of thought and time to my programming.

It’s one of the hardest things I do. I have classical works that go through multiple centuries of music and multiple languages. I’ll typically put in some musical theater and film.”

While in Arizona, she will perform differThroughout her career, Renee Fleming has been a versatile singer, doing jazz, operatic, classical, musical theater and film music. (Photo by Andrew Eccles)

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ent programs in Tucson and Mesa.

The Tucson concert will feature music from Ruggero Leoncavallo’s “La Boheme,” “Carousel,” “The Shape of Water and Puccini’s comic opera “Gianni Schicchi,” as well Richard Strauss’ “Four Last Songs” and Bjork’s “All Is Full of Love.”

Music was a part of Fleming’s life since she was a youngster in Pennsylvania with two music teachers as parents. She and her siblings were exposed to music early on in their lives.

“We all sang. We had no choice. I stuck with it thank goodness,” Fleming says.

In college, Fleming performed jazz music, which she says helped her in her career.

“It was really terrific training for me,” Fleming says. “You have to really develop your ear to sing jazz because of the freedom, the improvisation. I was performing for the same audience every weekend, which required another skill set. For me, it was a very important piece of my education.”

Fleming says finding success and carving her own path depended on different factors.

“Some of it is being in the right place at the right time, sorting out what kind of singer I would be and how to master it,” Fleming says. “I was very lucky with my first voice teacher, who was brilliant. There’re so many different elements. Talent is 10%.”

Fleming says female singers have the added pressure to maintain a certain image.

“In my generation, it really became important. People buy CDs with their eyes, especially before they really know you and become a fan,” Fleming says. “I think the expectation from the audience, because of film and television, became if you’re telling us a story about young love or X, Y and Z, we want you to represent those characters.”

As a singer, she continues to evolve and constantly performs different music.

“The vocal repertoire is centuries old.

That’s completely endless. I could never make a dent in it, in terms of learning and then I love doing new pieces,” Fleming says.

MORE INFO

What: Renee Fleming When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 6 Where: Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue Cost: $59-$179 Info: 882-8585, tucsonsymphony.org

FEBRUARY 2020

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15

Puzzles ANSWERS ON PAGE 33

ACROSS 1 Variety of lettuce 5 “Eureka!”

8 Book of prophecies 12 Lotion additive 13 Chaps 14 Toothpaste container 15 Anger 16 Conventional 18 One up?

20 Western occurrence 21 Leopold’s codefendant 23 Four qts.

24 One of Monopoly’s light-blue avenues 28 Speech impediment 31 Great noise 32 Disrobe 34 Female deer 35 Bird of peace 37 Decoration 39 Finish

11 Send a naughty message 17 Embrace 19 Billions of years 22 Wilkes- --, Pa. 24 Peculiar 25 Brazilian tourist mecca 26 Lure 27 Ache aid 29 Junior 30 Teacher’s -33 Rid of rind 36 Put in a box DOWN 38 Threaten 1 Zinger 40 Novelist Brown 2 Pelvic bones 42 Unsliced bread 3 Nut partner 43 Seed coat 4 Pvt. Bailey 44 Owl’s perch 5 Cherub, in art 46 PC picture 6 The girl 47 Magazine contents 7 Picnic invaders 48 Meadows 8 Musically keyless 9 Flood aftermath, perhaps 50 Menagerie 10 Reed instrument 41 Ireland 42 Secular 45 Servile 49 Form a union 51 Top 52 Isn’t well 53 Calendar abbr.

54 Prolonged sleep 55 Run away 56 Automaton, for short 57 Slaughter of baseball

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

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

SUDOKU TIME

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

DIFFICULTY THIS MONTH H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

DIFFICULTY THIS MONTH H H H

H Moderate HH Difficult HHH GO FIGURE!

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

Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

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FEBRUARY 2020

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Arts Calendar

BY RANDY MONTGOMERY

“La Boheme”

FEBRUARY 1 AND FEBRUARY 2 To be an aspiring artist in the 1830s. Paris was to be poor, but happy. When Mimì enters the poet Rodolfo’s apartment in search of a flame to light her candle, the pair ignite a romance that burns brilliantly through the ages. The passion and struggle of Rodolfo and his fellow bohemians come to life in Puccini’s timeless masterpiece, one of opera’s most popular and engaging stories. Presented by AZ Opera.

Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, 293-4336, azopera.org, times vary, $64$120.

With its seductive movement, scintillating music, vibrant costumes, sets and lighting, Grupo Corpo reflects the amazing diversity and rich color of its native Brazil. This dance troop offers a stimulating mix of street dance, ballet and contemporary Afro-Brazilian movement. A double bill of two wildly different works showcases the 21-member group’s extraordinary range. Note: there will be an appearance of partial nudity. Presented by UA Presents.

Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, 621-3341, uapresents.org, 8 p.m., $24-$60.

“Molly Sweeney”

Second SundAZe Family Day

FEBRUARY 2 Told in a riveting series of monologues, a blind woman living in Donegal, Ireland, undergoes a revolutionary operation to restore her sight.

This staged reading is a part of the John and Joyce Ambruster Playreading Series.

The Rogue Theatre, 300 E. University Boulevard, Suite 150, 551-2053, theroguetheatre.org, 2 p.m., $17.

“God Dress America”

FEBRUARY 6 AND FEBRUARY 7 Get ready for an evening of drag and bizarre historical fashion trends with Tempest DuJour.

The production combines song, history and entertaining exploration of the wackiest fashion trends of yesteryear. Lock up your chastity belts and strap on your codpieces for this rollicking ride as the origins and eccentricities of dressing to impress are explained. Presented by Arizona Theatre Company.

Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Avenue, 622-2823, arizonatheatre.org, 8 p.m., $25.

FEBRUARY 9 Visit the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block for free. Residents of Arizona and Sonora, Mexico, can visit at no charge on the second Sunday of each month. In addition to exploring the galleries, visitors can attend educational programming, and enjoy art-making activities and special performances.

Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, 140 N. Main Avenue, 624-2333, tucsonmuseumofart.org, times vary, free.

“The Book of Mormon”

FEBRUARY 11 TO FEBRUARY 16

“The Beauty Queen of Leenane” FEBRUARY 27 TO MARCH 15 Aging Mag and her spinster daughter Maureen’s comic and appalling lives are brought to a head as a romance develops for Maureen that Mag resents.

The Rogue Theatre, 300 E. University Boulevard, Suite 150, 551-2053, theroguetheatre.com, times vary, $32$42.

Mini Paintings on Clayboard and Coins

TO APRIL 26 A part of the “Community Corner” exhibit, painters Lee Roy Beach and Bryanna Marie, present the landscape genre on diverse miniature supports, clayboard and pennies, using two diverging styles: abstract interpretation of the landscape and traditional atmospheric perspective. Experience this exhibit during the museum’s 10th anniversary.

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, 4455 E. Camp Lowell Drive, 881.0606, theminitimemachine.org, times vary, free-$10.50.

consisting of literally thousands of original source drawings shown in three distinct gallery spaces. Museum of Contemporary Art, 265 S. Church Avenue, 624-5019, moca-tucson.org, times vary, free-$5.

Toscana Studio & Art Gallery

ONGOING While nature and time collaborated to create the splendor outside of the Toscana Studio & Art Gallery in Oro Valley, the gallery artists are engaged in crafting beauty inside. The fine art gallery showcases world-class professional art from dedicated artists in multiple media. You may find artistic gems in corners, uncommon grace on pedestals, or the unique gazing back at your eye level. Toscana Studio & Art Gallery, 9040 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, 575-1445, toscanastudioandgallery.com, times vary, free.

Diana Shpungin: Bright Light / Darkest Shadow TO MAY 3 Diana Shpungin’s body of work reimagines standard notions of drawing practice through painstakingly made hand-drawn animation.

In this solo exhibition, the artist displays nearly 10 years of hand-drawn animation works

First Friday at Catalyst Arts & Makers Space

FEBRUARY 7 The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance made its largest community investment project with its Catalyst collaborative arts and maker space at the Tucson Mall. Visit during First Friday for a variety of activities, which may include concerts and art exhibitions within the crafts and crafts studio, teaching kitchen, robotics and engineering lab, and music and digital arts studio.

First Friday at Catalyst Arts & Makers Space, Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road, Suite 110, saaca.org, 5 p.m., free.

Critics rave and audiences cheer for the ninetime Tony Award-winning “Best Musical,” which follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of Mormon missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. See the international sensation for the first time or experience it all over again. It contains explicit language. Presented by Broadway in Tucson.

Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, 903-2929, broadwayintucson. com, times vary, tickets start at $35.

Grupo Corpo

FEBRUARY 19 Step into a wondrous musical time machine and celebrate the 75th anniversary of the music that ended World War II. Featuring the iconic tunes of Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Jordan, the Andrews Sisters, Danny Kaye, Dinah Shore, and more, Davina & The Vagabonds and The Hot Club of Cowtown bring to vibrant life the sounds that filled 1940s dance halls. Presented by UA Presents.

Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Boulevard, 621-3341, uapresents.org, 7:30 p.m., $24-$50.

FEBRUARY 8

www.LovinLife.com

“The Finest Hour”

FEBRUARY 2020

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Dining Courting with Calories Here are some cozy restaurants to get your romance on

BY VALERIE VINYARD Let’s face it: Valentine’s Day is one of the craziest days to visit a restaurant.

Like New Year’s Eve and Mother’s Day, Valentine’s ranks as a night to avoid dining out among veteran diners. However, it is a special day, and special days should be celebrated.

So, we’re going to offer up five restaurants—no matter the day—serve up a healthy dose of romance. Even if you choose not to brave February 14, these spots always offer an aura of love.

Café Poca Cosa, 110 E. Pennington Street Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tuesdays through Saturdays Information: 622-6400 or cafepocacosatucson.com If you ever have read a travel story about Tucson, Café Poca Cosa is sure to be mentioned. The Mexican restaurant is helmed

by Executive Chef Susana Davila, the sunnily effusive and often-present owner.

Davila, a former model, has been focused on providing impeccable service and unforgettable food to the masses for decades. If you have visitors to Tucson, this is the place to take them.

Newbies who visit are enthralled by the twice-daily-changing menu of Mexican dishes, which are presented by savvy, efficient servers.

However, don’t expect tacos or combination dishes on this menu: On these menus, you won’t find popular Sonoran dishes, such as enchiladas, burritos or tacos. Instead, you’ll discover a variety of savory, complex dishes to include moles, such as the ever-popular Pollo en Mole Negro, and vegetarian-friendly sweet green corn tamales with a variety of fruit or vegetable toppings.

Each meal comes with a leafy green salad with fruit or veggies; rice and charro beans served family style; corn tortillas; and an incredible roasted salsa with chips. In other words, a feast.

The best thing to order is the Plato Poca Cosa, which is the chef’s choice of three smaller portions of the day’s entrees with all the accouterments. If more than one person

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orders the Plato, everyone will receive three different items. This means there’s more to share.

Le Rendez-Vous, 3844 E. Fort Lowell Road, 323-7373 Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 5 p.m. to close Tuesdays through Sundays Information: rendezvoustucson.com In a way, it’s not fair. The French always get kudos for being romantic.

But hey, when the shoe fits … Le Rendez-vous is the essence of romance. Whether it’s dining on escargot (which whether or not you like snails, anything with copious amounts of garlic and butter has to be delicious) or choosing a safer, but equally delicious meal of Chateaubriand or beef wellington, Le Rendez-Vous is an exquisite location for delectable French food.

The service is solid, the food is fantastic and the experience is memorable. Go— even if you’re single.

PY Steakhouse, Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road Hours: 4 to 10 p.m.

Tuesdays to Thursdays; 4 to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Information: 324-9350 or casinodelsol.com/dining Casino del Sol is a prime location for people who love to gamble, watch sports, check out live entertainment and enjoy a great meal.

The greatest of the great meals at Casino del Sol is PY Steakhouse.

Executive chef and cookbook author Ryan Clark, a Culinary Institute of America graduate who has cooked at several highend restaurants, will offer a hands-on “Valentine’s Day Secrets” cooking class at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, February 11, called Valentine’s Day Secrets with Flying Aprons Tucson (call 2611996 to reserve a spot). The class will teach people dishes they can learn to cook with each other and eat.

If classes aren’t your thing, a visit to PY Steakhouse is still a romantic endeavor.

“It’s a special occasion dining experience,” Clark says of his steakhouse. “PY is a roman-

FEBRUARY 2020

PY Steakhouse

tic dining room. We have an extensive wine list of hundreds of bottles, and it’s a place to make memories.”

On Valentines’ Day, there’s a four-course prix fixe menu for $99, which includes longstemmed chocolate-dipped strawberries, a rose and a glass of champagne. Reservations are a must.

Even if you don’t make the class or Valentine’s Day, PY Steakhouse is a memorable— and romantic—experience.

Plus, Casino del Sol just finished constructing another 150-room hotel on its property, so there’s no excuse not to book a room after a memorable dinner.

potatoes.

For entertainment, the Little House of Funk with Connie Brannock performs at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the café’s award-winning desserts. A large display case in the restaurant shows the various desserts of the day, which can range from the Chocolate Bomb—chocolate ganache, chocolate mousse and chocolate cake—to the triple berry cake and other tarts and cheesecakes. For those with a tiny sweet tooth, smaller sweets include housemade cookies.

Café a la Cart, 150 N. Main Avenue Hours: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays through Tuesdays; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays Information: 628-8533 or cafealacarttucson.com

Flying V Bar and Grill, 7000 N. Resort Drive Hours: 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Sundays through Thursdays; 5 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Information: 615-5495 or loewshotels.com

This downtown gem is located across the way from the Tucson Museum of Art’s courtyard, and it’s a must visit—whether you enjoy art or not. Located in the 1865 Stevens House, Café a la Cart is a fast-casual restaurant for breakfast and lunch, which means you order at the counter and they drop off your food at the table, but the service is friendly and accommodating. The ginger-almond chicken salad croissant is a longtime favorite, and there are at least eight more sandwiches, two burgers and eight salads on the menu. Lemonade lovers will love the ever-changing flavor of the day.

If you decide to visit for dinner, there’s table service, and the entrees are stepped up from the usual sandwiches, soup and salads.

Try the short rib with the roasted potatoes or the herb-crusted salmon with charred tomato vinaigrette and goat-cheese mashed

Think cozy ski lodge with a roaring fireplace. Located on the grounds of Loews Ventana Canyon in Northeast Tucson, the Flying V is the resort’s flagship restaurant.

The views will not include snowy ski runs but rather stunning views of the adjoining award-winning golf course or the Santa Catalina mountains.

Impeccable service pairs with wellthought-out Southwestern fare to make this a destination restaurant. You’d be remiss not to order the tableside guacamole, where a “guacamoliere” prepares your favorite rendition of the popular appetizer.

Other Southwestern dishes dominate the menu, and a full bar—with an impressive array of tequilas—will complement anything you might order.

The best part? Book a room and you won’t need to drive home for the night. www.LovinLife.com

Scottsdale Parada Del Sol

Parade and Trail’s End Festival

Feb 8 | FREE | Old Town Scottsdale Horses, Kids Area, Food, Dancing, Bands and Entertainment • Free Family Parade (Save The Date) | 10am-Noon • Trail’s End Festival | Noon - 4pm

SCOTTSDALE scottsdaleindependent.com

arizona.newszap.com Connecting & Celebrating Our Community

ScottsdaleParade.com

Western Week Events: ScottsdaleWesternWeek.com Feb. 1 • 2pm-3pm Maynard Dixon Art & Spirit Museum of the West

Feb. 8 • 9:30am - 5pm • FREE Museum of the West Museum of the West

Feb. 5 • 1pm - 3pm Wyatt Earp: A Life on the Frontier Museum of the West

Feb. 8 • 10am - 12pm • FREE 67th Annual Parada del Sol Parade Old Town Scottsdale

Feb. 6 • 6:30pm to 9pm • FREE Gold Palette ArtWalk: Western Spirit Arts District Feb. 7 • 9:30am - 5pm • FREE Museum of the West Museum of the West Feb. 7 • 11am - 1pm • FREE 62nd Annual Hashknife Pony Express & Food Truck Round-Up Museum of the West/Marshall Way Feb. 7 • 6pm - 10pm Parada del Sol Rodeo Kick-Off Party Parada del Sol Museum, Brown & 2nd St Feb. 8 • 8am - 1pm Farmers Market Old Town-Brown Avenue

www.LovinLife.com

Feb. 8 • 12pm - 4pm Parada del Sol Parade Trail’s End Festival Old Town Scottsdale Feb. 8 • 10am - 6pm Arizona Indian Festival Scottsdale Civic Center Mall - West Lawn Feb. 8 • 10am - 10pm Parada del Sol Rodeo Kick-Off Party Parada del Sol Museum, Brown & 2nd St Feb. 8 • 6pm - 9pm Arizona Native Edible Experience Museum of the West Feb. 9 • 10am - 4pm Arizona Indian Festival Scottsdale Civic Center Mall - West Lawn

FEBRUARY 2020

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Dining Events

BY ANNIKA TOMLIN

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Hacienda Del Sol

FEBRUARY 14 TO FEBRUARY 16

Rillito Park Farmers Market

This Valentine’s Day, Hacienda Del Sol will be featuring an expertly crafted grill dinner menu with a few chef-created specials sure to wow your taste buds. Enjoy the spectacular views, romantic ambiance and decadent food with your loved one by your side Friday, Saturday or Sunday evening. Pair your dinner with a glass or bottle of wine from Hacienda Del Sol’s award-winning, 800-label wine list.

Hacienda Del Sol, 5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Road, 529-3500, haciendadelsol.com, 5 to 9 p.m., reservations required.

SUNDAYS

The Dinner Detective Interactive Murder Mystery Show SATURDAYS

Take control and tackle a challenging crime while enjoying a fourcourse meal at the Dinner Detective Show. Keep a lookout for the murderer or you may find yourself as the prime suspect! This dinner event is rated PG-13 and geared toward adult content. Children ages 15 or older are allowed in with adult supervision.

Hotel Tucson City Center, 475 N. Granada Avenue, 6223000, thedinnerdetective.com, 6 to 9 p.m., $59.95

The Rillito Park Farmers Market invites future and current farmers, ranchers and artisan foodies to check out the locally grown food in Tucson. This tight-knit community opens up every Sundays for locals and people visiting to come see the state-of-the-art permanent farmer’s space.

Rillito Park Food Pavilion, 4502 N. First Avenue, 882-2157, heirloomfm.org, 8 a.m. to noon, free.

Cruise, Barbecue and Blues Festival & Car Show FEBRUARY 15

Savor Food and Wine Festival

The event invites thousands of people out to rev up the weekend with live oldies music, kids’ activities and great food. The oneday event will feature live blues music on the main stage, classic barbecue on the grill, and an endless supply of everything you have come to love about fast cars and classic autos.

Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, 602.553.2664, saaca.org, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., $5, cash only.

FEBRUARY 8

Farmers Market at Steam Pump Ranch

It’s time to “savor” Tucson’s culinary movement. This event features more than 60 of the region’s finest chefs, wineries, breweries, local foods and restaurants highlighting exceptional menu tastings.

Tucson Botanical Garden, 2150 N. Alvernon Way, 326-9686, saaca.org, noon to 3 p.m., $79.

SATURDAYS

Dinner with Chefs & Farmers

Regional farmers, ranchers and artisan food producers will share their naturally grown veggies and fruits. Visitors will also find ranchfed beef, pork and farm-fresh eggs carrying on Steam Pump Ranch’s agricultural traditions.

Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley, 882-2157, heirloomfm.org/markets/oro-valley, 8 a.m. to noon, free.

FEBRUARY 18

Valentine’s Day at PY Steakhouse

The 2020 dinner series at PY Steakhouse features farmers from Southern Arizona partnering with Chef Ryan Clark to create menus that will include hand-picked, mindfully sourced, Arizona-grown ingredients. This month’s guest farmer/chef is Anne Loftfield of High Energy Agriculture.

PY Steakhouse, 5655 W. Valencia Road, 324-9350, casinodelsol.com/dining, 6:30 p.m., $75.

FEBRUARY 14

Love is in the air and the food is hot. Get ready for a four-course menu special that includes a long-stemmed rose and a champagne toast. Menu options include choices of filet and lobster tail, truffled lobster risotto, duo of oysters, beet salad, rigatoni pasta and chocolate desserts.

PY Steakhouse, 5655 W. Valencia Road, 324-9350, casinodelsol.com/dining, 4 to 11 p.m., $99.

Breakfast Ride

SUNDAYS AND THURSDAYS

Ride horses and enjoy blueberry pancakes, ranch-style eggs, bacon and orange juice early in the morning at Tanque Verde Ranch every Sunday and Thursday. Explore the rolling hills and towering cactus as you make your way to the Old Homestead.

Tanque Verde Ranch, 14301 E. Speedway, 800-2343833, tanqueverderanch.com, 7:45 to 10:15 a.m., $75.

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FEBRUARY 2020

National Pancake Day (IHOP) FEBRUARY 25

Who doesn’t love a warm short stack of pancakes to start off the day? On National Pancake Day at IHOP, a short stack of buttermilk pancakes will be free. Plus, guests will have a chance to win pancakes for life and help support a local charity.

Various IHOP locations, ihop.com, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., free admission.

Sports Calendar

BY CHRISTOPHER BOAN

University of Arizona Wildcats Men’s Basketball vs.

Southern California FEBRUARY 6

The Wildcats host the mighty Trojans of the University of Southern California in early February, in the first of the team’s two-game homestand against teams from the L.A. basin. The Trojans are coming off a 16-17 campaign in 2018-19, and feature three fearsome scorers in forwards Onyeka Okongwu, Nick Rakocevic and Isaiah Mobley, who are averaging 17.7, 12.5 and 8.6 points per game, respectively. The team’s tipoff against the Trojans is scheduled for 7 p.m. Arizona time, with ESPN2 carrying the contest live.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $26.

University of Arizona Wildcats Men’s Basketball vs. UCLA FEBRUARY 8

The Wildcats and Bruins have met 97 times on the hardwood, with the Bruins winning 55 of those contests.

The rivalry has become one of the premier annual (or biannual, depending on the year) showdowns in the Pac12 Conference, given both programs’ history in the sport at large. UCLA has won three of the past five showdowns with Arizona, including a 90-69 thumping in Westwood last January. The tipoff for the team’s contest is 8 p.m. local time, with either ESPN or ESPN2 carrying the game live.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 8 p.m., tickets start at $40.

University of Arizona Women’s Basketball vs.

Washington FEBRUARY 14

The Wildcats’ women’s program is ranked in the Associated Press top 25 for the first time in more than two decades, thanks to winning its first 12 contests to open the year.

Adia Barnes’ team opened Pac-12 play with a 58-53 win over in-state rivals ASU on December 29, showing the team’s resolve and improvement a year after winning the Women’s Invitational Tournament over Texas Christian University. The Wildcats return home to McKale Center in mid-February to host the Washington programs, starting with a 1 p.m. tipoff against a Washington Huskies team that’s 9-3, as of January 2.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $5.

Visit Tucson Sun Cup

FEBRUARY 15 TO FEBRUARY 22

Five Major League Soccer sides join United Soccer League squad Phoenix Rising in this year’s event, which serves as a de facto Spring Training for the league. The teams, www.LovinLife.com

which include Sporting Kansas City, Real Salt Lake, New York Red Bulls, Houston Dynamos, FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew, will play a series of friendlies in Tucson, hosted by USL League One team FC Tucson. All games will be played at Kino Sports Complex, located at 2500 E. Ajo Way, close to Interstate 10, with times and exact dates to be announced.

Kino Sports Complex, 2500 E. Ajo Way, 7245466, fctucson.com/2020suncup, times TBA, tickets N/A.

Heat at 7 p.m. local time, with Friday night serving as the team’s Rodeo Night 1, 2, 3 promotion, while Saturday’s contest is youth jersey giveaway and beach night.

Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave., 791-4101, tucsonroadrunners.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $11.

University of Arizona Women’s Basketball vs.

Washington State

The Wildcats return to McKale Center to host AP top 25 team Oregon on Saturday, February 22. The Ducks won 11 of their first 13 contests to open the season, with guard Payton Pritchard leading the charge offensively, averaging a team-high 18.5 points per game to go with 6.2 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game this year. Fellow guards Chris Duarte (12.3 PPG), Anthony Mathis (10.8 PPG) and Will Richardson (10.3 PPG) are the Ducks’ other double-digit scorers, anchoring coach Dana Altman’s fast-paced, three-point-centric offense. The game between the Ducks and ‘Cats tips off at 8 p.m. local time, with ESPN or ESPN2 carrying the contest nationwide.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 8 p.m., tickets start at $26.

University of Arizona Men’s Basketball vs.

Oregon State Beavers FEBRUARY 20

The Beavers of Oregon State are primed to reach their first NCAA Tournament since 2016, thanks to the largerthan-life exploits of forward Tres Tinkle. Tinkle, who’s the son of coach Wayne Tinkle, is averaging 20.4 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game this year, guiding the Beavers to a 10-2 start entering conference play. The Beavers have wins over Iowa State, San Jose State and Wyoming in the nonconference portion of their schedule. The Wildcats have won their last seven matchups with the Beavers, with their last loss coming in 2015 in Corvallis. Arizona’s last defeat at home to Oregon State came in 2010, when the Beavers defeated the Wildcats, 63-55. The team’s tipoff time for their February matchup is 6 p.m. local time, with the Pac-12 Network carrying the contest live.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 6 p.m., tickets start at $26.

Tucson Roadrunners vs.

Stockton Heat

FEBRUARY 21 AND FEBRUARY 22

The Roadrunners are atop the American Hockey League’s Pacific Division, with 48 points to their name, as of early January. The squad, which is the highest affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes, is seeking its first playoff berth since the 2017-18 season, after missing the postseason by a single point in 2019. The team has won 24 of its first 31 games, outscoring opponents, 12078, with forwards Lane Pederson (16 goals and 16 assists), Brayden Burke (15 goals and 14 assists) and Dakota Fasching (11 goals and 8 assists) leading the charge offensively for coach Jay Varady’s squad. The Roadrunners drop the puck on both nights against the www.LovinLife.com

Tucson Roadrunners vs.

San Diego Gulls FEBRUARY 26

The Roadrunners’ final home game of of February pits them with fellow Pacific Division rival San Diego, with the game starting at 7 p.m. The two teams share a blood feud that dates back to Tucson’s inception in 2016, with the season-long winner of the rivalry receiving the I-8 Cup, in commemoration of the Interstate highway that separates the two cities.

Fans in attendance on February 26 can purchase hot dogs for $2, or group tickets for $12, available online at tucsonroadrunners.com.

Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Avenue, 791-4101, tucsonroadrunners.com, 7 p.m., tickets start at $13.

MARCH

The Wildcats continue their home stand with a noon tip against the Cougars of Washington State, as Barnes’ team looks to solidify its positioning in March’s NCAA Tournament. Junior guard Aari McDonald has been the key cog in the team’s offense this year, leading all Wildcats, with 19.9 points per game, while averaging 5.5 rebounds as well.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, noon, tickets start at $5.

FEBRUARY 22

FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY 16

University of Arizona Men’s Basketball vs.

Oregon Ducks

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D-backs Home Game Rockies Home Game MLB4 Collegiate Baseball Tournament

All times subject to change. All times Arizona time.

University of Arizona Women’s Basketball vs.

Stanford FEBRUARY 28

The Cardinals at one point were the top-ranked team in the nation, with coach Tara VanDerveer, who is in her 34th season in Palo Alto, leading the team toward another deep NCAA Tournament run. Stanford has won two national titles, with their most recent crown coming in 1992. This year’s squad features a trio of double-digit scorers in Lexie Hull (14.4 PPG), Kiana Williams (11.8 PPG) and Haley Jones (10.8 PPG). The Cardinals have outscored their opponents by 20.9 points per game this year, thanks to a potent offense that’s averaging 79.2 points per game. A win over the Cardinals would provide a huge boost for the Wildcats’ NCAA Tournament hopes as the team tries to qualify for the first time since 2005 this spring. The Wildcats and Cardinals tip off at 6 p.m. local time, with the Pac-12 Network carrying the contest live.

McKale Memorial Center, 1721 E. Enke Drive, 621-2211, arizonawildcats.com, 6 p.m., tickets start at $5.

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Music Independent Minded Ani DiFranco continues to pave her own path in music

BY LAURA LATZKO

Making it in the music industry as an independent artist is never easy, but for Ani DiFranco, it was necessary to make music her way.

Over the last three decades, the Grammy Award-winning folk artist released more than 20 live and studio albums as an independent artist. She become an icon for not only her music but also her activism and DIY approach.

On February 13, DiFranco will visit Fox Tucson Theatre as part of a nationwide and Australia tour with up-and-coming singer Jesca Hoop.

Throughout her career, DiFranco pushed the boundaries of music by blending folk with rock, funk, hip-hop, jazz, electronica and other styles.

She worked and performed on some of the same stages as notable artists such as Prince, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Kris Kristofferson and Pete Seeger.

In May 2019, she released her memoir “No Walls and the Recurring Dream,” which shares the story of her coming of age as a woman, entrepreneur, activist and musician.

DiFranco says the book gave her a new outlet for expression.

“It was just a new way for me to write after 30 years of writing songs. I was excited to change it up. It was a crazy thing to sit at a computer for two years, as opposed to driving around the world playing guitar and singing,” DiFranco says. “It was challenging and terrifying, but I was glad to make it through. I think I learned a lot.”

She also released the “No Walls Mixtape,” a collection of reworked songs from early in her career.

“It gave me an excuse to pick up my guitar after having ignored it for so much time to work on the book and revisit some of those old songs that came up in the book and sing them in the voice I have now, which is pretty different from my voice at 25, 20 or 18,” DiFranco says.

She looks back on those songs and the era with a different outlook, as someone in a very different place in her life.

“Even singing an old song, it feels different

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because I’m different now than the person who wrote it. Definitely the process of writing the book and revisiting the old songs illuminated some things for me about what my life was back in my young adulthood,” DiFranco says.

“The book and this batch of songs make me realize in retrospect I was writing about survival and safety. There’s a lot of negotiating danger in the world, in a way I had forgotten. I am a more grounded, strong and safer person now than when I was a young woman just venturing into the world.”

Her last studio album was 2017’s “Binary,” which she worked on with sound mixer Tchad Blake.

At this point in her career, she was ready to give up some control and collaborate with others. She was impressed by the end product.

“It was such a revolution to me, how much creativity can be brought in at the late stage of the process. The whole album is recorded, but a mixer can come in with fresh ears and a new way of interpreting the material and bring something even more to the table,” DiFranco says.

During her career, she has also released albums titled “Not So Soft,” “Imperfectly,” “Not a Pretty Girl,” “Evolve,” “Educated Guess” and “Allergic to Water.”

Her albums have been released under her label Righteous Babe, which she created in 1990. This same year, she released her self-titled debut. She created her own label because the available avenues in the music industry didn’t fit her.

“It just felt like there were inherent compromises to my vision and my integrity I would have to swallow to do all that. I just made up a different way,” DiFranco says.

“The biggest reward is freedom. I’ve been free to do my art and do my career the way I wanted to. I was free to make my own mistakes and have no one but myself to blame.”

Being an independent artist has come with challenges and a learning curve. Looking back on her older albums, she says she wishes the quality was more professional.

“I didn’t have a team of professionals there to make it sound right or there to help trans-

FEBRUARY 2020

Over the last three decades, Ani DiFranco has released music as an independent artist. (Photo by Anthony Mulcahy)

late what I was doing. I was just alone in a recording studio, feeling my way through it, operating very emotionally in a moment, which doesn’t necessarily stand up in retrospect or do each song justice,” DiFranco says.

“Sometimes, I wish I had better-sounding records that could translate to more people, but I have to keep falling back on I did it the way I felt it at the time and it managed to connect with a lot of people.”

DiFranco didn’t set out to be a role model but found she inspired others, especially women.

“When other people bore witness to me trying to become myself, be unapologetically myself, feel what I really feel and think what I really think and get out from under the way I was socialized, the way I was taught and the way I was trapped in this way or that way, I think it just becomes inspiring to other people to do the same for themselves,” DiFranco says.

“My goal was never to teach anyone anything or show them. It was only to be something I wanted to be. The secondary thing that happens is it helps other people to do that too.”

Throughout her life, she has been inspired by other activists and musicians, as well as comedians.

Her life is different now than when she started in the business. She is now the mother of two children.

She has had to learn to balance her family and career, something not always easy for a musician.

“It’s hard to leave when you have two kids.

It’s hard on them. It’s hard on all of us. And it’s hard even when I’m at home to find space to make art, to write a new song, to play guitar.

I feel guilty to take the time. It’s a constant struggle, but so many parents know who

struggle, just try to strike a balance on any given day,” DiFranco says.

She says many of her fans have grown up along with her.

“A lot of them have become parents themselves like I have, so it’s cool to share the journey with people and hear back from people, ‘Oh yes, me too,’” DiFranco says. “A part of this is sharing all of the aspects of trying to be a mother and yourself.”

Her love of music started at an early age.

She was playing the guitar and busking at age 9 and writing her own songs at age 14.

DiFranco is not only a celebrated musician but a feminist icon, poet and LGBT and prochoice activist. Throughout her life, being active has been important to her.

She says with the political climate today, it is just as essential for her to speak out. She found people are more open to her ideas.

“I feel like there’s more receptiveness to my music and me wanting to talk about something like patriarchy in polite conversation. People used to just run in the other direction my whole life,” DiFranco says.

Originally from Buffalo, DiFranco grew up with politically minded parents, especially her activist mother.

“She taught me I’m a citizen and I should be accountable to more than just myself in this life,” DiFranco says.

MORE INFO

What: Ani DiFranco When: 8 p.m. Thursday, February 13 Where: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress Street Cost: $31.50 to $90 Info: 547-3040, foxtucson.com

www.LovinLife.com

Music Eclectic Reggae Iration spans different genres by blending musical styles with reggae

BY LAURA LATZKO

Reggae is increasingly becoming a more diverse genre as the style blends with other types of music. California-based Iration is a pioneer in combining reggae music with rock, pop, hip-hop and most recently soul and R&B sounds.

Iration will visit Rialto Theatre on Monday, February 10, as part of its Heatseekers Winter Tour with Ballyhoo and Iya Terra and the Ries Brothers.

Iration is made up of a group of friends who met growing up in Hawaii and started playing together while in Santa Barbara for college. Guitar player and lead vocalist Micah Pueschel, keyboard and synthesizer player Cayson Peterson, drummer Joseph Dickens, bass guitarist Adam Taylor and guitarist and vocalist Micah Brown make up Iration.

Pueschel says during the tour, audiences can expect to hear the multigenre music for which Iration is known.

“We always try to bring a show that is pretty diverse, eclectic and not just reggae or reggae rock. It is a lot of different things,” Pueschel says.

This will be their first time touring since summer 2019.

Over the last four months, they worked on their newest album, which blends reggae with ’70s R&B and soul, jazz, funk and Motown sound.

Pueschel says the album is going to be more cohesive than previous releases.

“I think it’s the first album that we’ve done in a long time that’s had a clear sound that is not so eclectic throughout the whole album. I think all the songs fit together nicely, and they all come from a similar style and feel,” Pueschel says. “It’s music that we really enjoy listening to and enjoy playing.”

The music was inspired by artists and groups such as Hall & Oates, Marvin Gaye and Al Green, who the group has covered in the past.

The new album highlights the band’s evolution but is in a similar vein as its previous work.

“I think it’s timeless. We try to make timeless music and try not to make music that is www.LovinLife.com

Iration blends reggae music with other genres, including rock and pop. (Photo by Dane Hodgson)

following a trend or going with what is popular right now,” Pueschel says.

During its tour, the group is playing some of these newer songs, along with other music from its last three albums.

Pueschel says the band has really started to find its sound over the last five to seven years. Whatever project they do, reggae is always at the center of it.

“I think that will always be a piece of what we do. We have a large portion of the fanbase that loves reggae,” Pueschel says. “We are trying to expand on it, do new things, have fun and push ourselves musically.”

Over the years, the group has changed and added new members, including California native Micah Brown.

Most recently, Iration started working with trumpet and trombone players. Pueschel says the horn section brings another layer of sound to the music, primarily on its 2018 self-titled album.

“They really add another level of tone, power and energy to the show,” Pueschel says.

The band has been influenced by different styles of reggae, including Hawaiian versions.

Pueschel says Hawaiian reggae has a different focus and sound than reggae from other parts of the world, including Jamaica.

“Bob Marley (music) had a very political and religious topical sensibility to it, whereas

the reggae that comes out of Hawaii is more towards the Gregory Isaacs and Jimmy Cliff’s sound. It’s a little bit more songs about love and songs about everyday life,” Pueschel says.

The band members grew up listening to Bob Marley; Hawaiian reggae and the English pop and reggae group UB40.

Iration has been touring nationally since 2008. They now play in large concert venues and at major festivals such as Lollapalooza, but they began on a smaller scale, performing at house parties.

FORMATIVE YEARS The musicians of Iration started playing together in a garage and slowly built up their skills and an audience.

“It’s pretty crazy we have gotten to where we are. We didn’t have a lot of experience, really didn’t know what we were doing for a long time. We just made it happen and made it work,” Pueschel says.

They grew up jamming on ukuleles and guitars for fun in Hawaii, but they were new to playing with a band when they started Iration. Pueschel says over the years, they have grown together as musicians, with the help of their business peers.

“It was everyone pushing each other. We definitely learned by playing a lot of cover songs and just learned by feeling the way that songs moved, songs that were written

by really good songwriters. We were able to work with some really good songwriters over the years that taught us the art of songwriting,” Pueschel says.

“I think it’s just another thing that the more you do, the better you get at it. Every time we put out a record, we are still getting better as songwriters, finding a voice and finding what our sound is.”

The band has developed a fan base of people of different ages and musical tastes.

Pueschel says, like him, fans of their music appreciate different genres.

Over the years, fans have shared with the band how their music has had an impact on their lives. Pueschel found it especially meaningful to hear that their music helped a soldier in the Middle East.

“It’s still surreal and crazy. It’s a song written on your couch and maybe it changes somebody’s perspective on what they are going through in life,” Pueschel says.

MORE INFO

What: Iration w/Ballyhoo, Iya Terra and Ries Brothers When: 6:30 p.m. Monday, February 10 Where: Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress Street Cost: $29.50 to $119 Info: 740-1000, rialtotheatre.com

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Music A New Mission The Bayou Bandits’ Joshua Strickland remembers late colleague on album

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Joshua Strickland sat down at his house and thought about his time with the U.S. Army. The missions in Kandahar City, Afghanistan, and the camaraderie between he and his fellow soldiers.

He couldn’t forget his Army buddy, someone who, as Strickland says, “lost his battle with PTSD.” The lead singer/songwriter for The Bayou Bandits, Strickland wrote a song called “Kandahar” set to appear on the Valley band’s self-titled debut album due out in November.

“Whether you’re a veteran or soldier or not, this still resonates,” Strickland says solemnly. “Everyone can relate to that sentiment of losing someone close to them or someone who’s dealing with depression.”

“Kandahar” includes the line: “Most of us we made it home/but we never came back.”

“After I wrote it, I knew what I was trying to say, but when I sang it and people heard it, the message was conveyed perfectly,” he says. “Someone recorded it at an open mic night, where I was just hanging out. When they posted it on YouTube, it’s since been viewed 3,000 times.”

But before it officially hits the streets, Strickland did his due diligence. He ran it by the soldier’s family and his fellow soldiers.

“I called all the members of my old team I was with in Afghanistan,” Strickland says. “I wanted their input on it. It’s such a close-tohome subject. I didn’t want them to think I

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was trying to exploit the tragedy.

“I got his wife’s blessing, too. The first copy goes to her. It’s a common occurrence with a lot of soldiers and service members coming home from the war. There aren’t a lot of resources out there to get the help they need.”

Not everything on “The Bayou Bandits” is down key, though. The band has already released the single “Take Me Back,” which has received airplay locally. Then there’s “Kiss My Dixie …”

“That was a song we wrote for some of our critics,” Strickland says with a laugh. “I’m a straightforward type of dude. That was a song about my upbringing. I’m a true Louisiana man.”

The album crisscrosses genres, with some songs taking listeners back to the swamplands of Louisiana, while others delve into Southern rock.

Strickland balanced his day job as a registered nurse with the recording sessions.

“I’d get off work at 6:30 p.m. and go straight to the studio and stay there until 10,” he says. “Then I’d go back to work at 6 a.m. It was horrible. It was worth it, though.

“Having that single out for a while, it was building up anxiety from fans asking when were we going to release a record. That was really our next step as a band. It’s one thing to play covers and make a lot of money doing it, but it’s a completely different sense of euphoria whenever we get to play our own music in front of people.

FEBRUARY 2020

Joshua Strickland of The Bayou Bandits considers himself a soldier first and then a musician and nurse.

(Photos courtesy The Bayou Bandits)

“The first time I heard the final mix of the songs, my first thought was, ‘That’s sexy.

That’s the real job right there. Those are my words.’ It’s cool to see it brought to life.”

The Bayou Bandits have made a name for itself already through its cover shows, but now Strickland and his bandmates—Jeremy Madig, Paul Williams and Jason Pataska— really have something to wrap their instruments around.

“People are interested in what I have to say,” Strickland says. “They want to hear the message I’m conveying. It’s not just me covering someone else’s songs. Don’t get me wrong. We love doing it. We made a lot of money doing it, but it’s not the same.

“We put our thoughts, our feelings and our emotions in these songs.”

That especially applies with “Kandahar.”

“We went through everything together,” he says. “We ran missions every single day and every single night together. We were closer than brothers. He came back and fell on hard times. When you lose hope, you lose everything. He wasn’t able to get the help he needs, unfortunately, and couldn’t see another way out. He left behind a wife and four kids. At least, mentally, he’s at peace.”

MORE INFO

What: The Cole Trains, Drew Cooper and the Bayou Bandits When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 21 Where: Willcox Community Center, 312 W. Stewart Street, Willcox Cost: $10 at the door Info: facebook.com/ Thebayoubandits/ www.LovinLife.com

Music Events Calendar

Mik and the Funky Brunch La Cocina, 12:30 p.m., free

BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

FEBRUARY 24

Dweezil Zappa

Destroyer Club Congress, 7:30 p.m., $20$24

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m. Wednesday, February 19, $35-$70

FEBRUARY 25

Guitarist Dweezil Zappa is carrying on the legacy of his father, Frank Zappa, with a live performance of the 1969 jazz fusion record “Hot Rats,” which features such classics as “Peaches en Regalia.” Plus, Zappa will perform “other hot stuff.”

FEBRUARY 1 Femmes of Rock Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $24.50-$44.50 Gem & Jam Festival Pima County Fairgrounds, various times, $179-$379.99 John Mayall Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $28-$43

Lou Nelson: A Tribute to Tom Jones DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30 Nathaniel Burnside La Cocina, 5:30 p.m., free Pinegrove Club Congress, 6:30 p.m., $18-$22 Welty-Wilson Trio La Cocina, 8 p.m., free Wolf Parade 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $25

FEBRUARY 2 Gem & Jam Festival Pima County Fairgrounds, various times, $179-$379.99 Mik and the Funky Brunch La Cocina, 12:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 3 NO SHOWS SCHEDULED

FEBRUARY 4 Dogleg Club Congress, 7 p.m., $8-$10

FEBRUARY 5 Jasper Bones 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $12 Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield La Cocina, 6 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 6 www.LovinLife.com

Black Tiger Sex Machine Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $30-$35

Freddy Parish La Cocina, 9:30 p.m., free Grayscale 191 Toole, 7 p.m., $17 Renée Fleming w/ Tucson Symphony Orchestra Tucson Music Hall, 7:30 p.m., $59-$149

FEBRUARY 7 88 Fingers Louie 91 Toole, 8 p.m., $15 Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas Berger Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $22-$27 Greg Morton & Jim Stanley La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free Oscar Fuentes La Cocina, 8:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 8 Classic Albums Live: The Eagles’ “Hotel California” Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $27.50-$49.50 flor 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $15 George Winston Berger Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $34 Micky Dolenz Tucson Music Hall, 7:30 p.m., $31-$79

FEBRUARY 9 Micky Dolenz Tucson Music Hall, 2 p.m., $31-$79

Ezra Furman 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $15

FEBRUARY 26

Mik and the Funky Brunch La Cocina, 12:30 p.m., free Wynonna & the Big Noise Fox Tucson Theatre, 7 p.m., $29.50-$89.50

FEBRUARY 10

Iration Rialto Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $29.50-$119

Black Label Society Rialto Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $32-$62

Tucson Music Hall, 8 p.m., $45-$179 Grip Jensen La Cocina, 9:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 12

Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven & Strauss DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $30-$38

FEBRUARY 16

FEBRUARY 11

Jauz

Rialto Theatre, 9 p.m., $28-$40

The High Kings

Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield La Cocina, 6 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 13

Ani DiFranco Fox Tucson Theatre, 8 p.m., $27.50-$55 Nancy and Neil McCallion La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 14

UA Studio Jazz Ensemble DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $25

Greg Morton & Jim Stanley La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 18

FEBRUARY 19 Dweezil Zappa Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $35-$70

Chastity Belt 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $12

The Finest Hour featuring Davina & The Vagabonds and The Hot Club of Cowtown

Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

Centennial Hall, 7:30 p.m., $24-$50

Three Dog Night Fox Tucson Theatre, 8 p.m., $34.50-$79.50

FEBRUARY 28 Eugene Boronow La Cocina, 9:30 p.m., free

FEBRUARY 21

Sci Fi Country Club Congress, 7 p.m., free

Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $44.50-$124.50

Hank Topless La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free

Mitzi Cowell La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free

Greg Morton & Jim Stanley La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free

NO SHOWS SCHEDULED

FEBRUARY 15

FEBRUARY 20

Pure Prairie League w/Michael Martin Murphey Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29-$79

FEBRUARY 17

FEBRUARY 27

The Black Market Trust Hotel Congress Plaza, 7 p.m., $15-$20

Brother Ali 191 Toole, 7:30 p.m., $18-$65

Alan Parsons Live Project Fox Tucson Theatre, 8 p.m., $35-$100

Karla Bonoff Berger Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $28-$30

Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield La Cocina, 6 p.m., free

Mik and the Funky Brunch La Cocina, 12:30 p.m., free

Ward Davis Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $11.25$15

Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield La Cocina, 6 p.m., free

Greg Morton & Jim Stanley La Cocina, 6:30 p.m., free Hot Snakes Club Congress, 8 p.m., $23-$26

Steel Pulse

iLe 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $32-$42

The Lonely: Celebrating the Music of Roy Orbison Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $37

FEBRUARY 22

Tim O’Brien w/Jan Patricius Saint Francis in the Foothills Church, 7:30 p.m., $20-$22

The Chieftains Fox Tucson Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $39.50-$99.50

FEBRUARY 29

Illiterate Light 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $12

Gunhild Carling DesertView Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m., $30

Riders in the Sky Hotel Congress Plaza, 4 p.m., $10-$30

Igor & Red Elvises 191 Toole, 8 p.m., $15

FEBRUARY 23

James Supercave w/Nightweather, Moontrax Club Congress, 8 p.m., free

Dylan LeBlanc w/ Anthony da Costa Club Congress, 7 p.m., $15$18

R Dub’s Slow Jams Live!

Tucson Music Hall, 7:30 p.m., $29.50-$65.50

Maoli Rialto Theatre, 8 p.m., $10 FEBRUARY 2020

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Travel

Switzerland

Charlie Chaplin was happy at Corsier-sur-Vevey

Sir Charles Chaplin spent the happiest 25 years of his life at the neoclassical Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland. (Photo courtesy Chaplin’s World, Bubbles Incorporated, by C. Recourat)

BY ED BOITANO A warm wind blows across Lake Geneva, which I find both soothing and invigorating.

Soon I’m amidst the steeply terraced vineyards in the UNESCO region of Lavaux, the largest contiguous vineyard area in Switzerland.

Terrace after terrace of vines surrounds me. It has been said the vineyards in Switzerland’s Lake Geneva region are blessed with three forms of sun: direct sunlight, second-hand sunlight bouncing off Lake Geneva, and the warmth of the sun contained in ancient Roman walls that terrace many of the vineyards.

The Romans introduced winegrowing on the shores of Lake Geneva, with Benedictine and Cistercian monks continuing the tradition, dating back to the 11th century. My senses kicked up a notch higher, with magnificent views of the deep blue lake below and the snowcapped Alps in the distance above. Who wouldn’t want to live here? I

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was in the Lake Geneva region to explore its seemingly endless wonders. But the centerpiece of my time would be a journey to the neoclassical mansion Manoir de Ban in Corsier-sur-Vevey and the final resting place of Sir Charles Chaplin and his wife Oona in a nearby simple grave.

I once had the pleasure of meeting Chaplin’s middle son, the most gracious Eugene Chaplin. He informed me Manoir de Ban was repurposed as Chaplin’s World by Grévin and expanded as a museum showcasing Chaplin’s work and life as a family man. I was already champing at the bit to see it.

Vevey has long been popular for its sublime tranquility, not to mention its position in a nation serving as a tax haven for wealthy expats. This is where Chaplin spent his last 25 years, which were his happiest, according to the Chaplin family. I recall a scratchy home movie, where Oona, his wife of 36 years and daughter of playwright Eugene O’Neill, pushed the elderly wheelchair-bound Chap-

FEBRUARY 2020

lin along Vevey’s lakefront path, stopping to gaze at the bronze statue of the diminutive Little Tramp. Despite their differences in age, you could tell they were still happily in love.

Upon my arrival at Vevey I, too, gazed admiringly at the Little Tramp statue. Chaplin’s work as a film director and actor had an immense effect on the world, including my life as well. Now I would walk in his tracks, breathe the same fresh air and experience the same enchanting beauty as I reflected on his life.

“All I need to make a comedy is a park, a policeman and a pretty girl” - Charles Chaplin The magical name of Charlie Chaplin is known throughout the far corners of the globe. Just saying “Charlie” or “Charlo” (popular in France and Spain) is bound to elicit a smile. The positive act of smiling is

something for which Chaplin strove, and the world really did smile along with the most famous actor. Despite a horrific childhood right out of Dickens’ bleakest novels, it was his embrace of life that kept him marching onward, taking the world along with him.

His situation, according to his authorized biographer, David Robinson, was “the most dramatic of all the rags-to-riches stories ever told.”

Charles Spencer Chaplin was born into immense poverty in the slums of Victorian London. His father (who abandoned the family when Charlie was still an infant) was a successful music-hall artist. He died at age 38 from alcoholism when Charlie was 12.

His mother, Hannah, was also a professional musical-hall entertainer, whose career was plagued by ill health. She was a loving mother who performed humorous bits for Charlie and his older half-brother, Sydney.

Charlie and Sydney’s younger half-brother, Wheeler Dryden, was taken away from Hanwww.LovinLife.com

nah by his father, Leo Dryden, when he was a baby.

Hannah instilled confidence in Charlie, frequently telling him he possessed remarkable talent. She was also overtly sensitive, with a very fragile grip on life. Her health continued to decline, and she found herself making a poor living as a seamstress and eventually ending up in a mental hospital.

His mother’s tenure in asylums was a frequent occurrence throughout her life, and the children had no choice but to be placed in a series of bleak workhouses and residential schools during her bouts of ill health and psychosis, believed to stem from syphilis and malnutrition.

“There was nothing we could do but accept poor mother’s fate,” Chaplin later wrote, and “she remained in my care until her death in 1928.” Critics noted many of Chaplin’s waif-like leading ladies and wives often bore a strong resemblance to her.

The 7-year-old Chaplin took to the streets, performing ingenious comedic routines. Little Charlie’s talent was widespread throughout his neighborhood, eventually leading to stints in the theater and on the vaudeville circuit, where, despite his young years, he rose through the ranks to become a lead performer. Thanks to Sydney, also working on the stage, he was recruited by the British music hall’s preeminent impresario, Fred Karno.

His success with the Karno troupe led to two U.S. tours. Six months into the second American tour, early movie pioneer Mack Sennett of Keystone Film Company was in the audience. Impressed with Chaplin’s performance, he turned to his business partner

sitting beside him and purportedly said, “If I ever make it in this town, I’m going to hire that guy.” And Sennett’s success was achieved shortly after, with the advent of his slapstick Keystone Cops, often spelled “Keystone Kops.” Sennett’s comment became a self-fulfilling prophecy, and Chaplin was signed by Keystone Film Company in 1914.

“The clothes and the makeup made me feel the person he was.

I began to know him, and by the time I walked onto the set he was fully born.”

- Charles Chaplin

The genesis of The Little Tramp The Little Tramp was the man with the toothbrush mustache, undersized bowler hat, baggy pants, bamboo cane and funny walk, who struggled to survive while keeping his dignity in a world with great social injustice.

Chaplin created a character with a positive outlook on life, where the human spirit always reigns supreme, despite a cruel and unforgiving social order still existing in Britain’s class system today. The usual bittersweet endings in the Little Tramp films are where the character waddles down a dusty road alone, at first dejectedly and then with a familiar spring in his waddled steps. He created comedies with a deep undercurrent of pathos. At the time of Chap-

The former Chaplin Studio still rests in the heart of Hollywood. Completed in 1919 and stylishly designed by Chaplin himself as a picturesque English village street, unlike other studios which resembled factories.

(Photo by Deb Roskamp)

www.LovinLife.com

The Little Tramp statue on the banks of Lake Geneva. (Photo by Deb Roskamp)

lin’s arrival, Hollywood movies portrayed tramps as villains: housebreakers, street muggers and train robbers. It was a remarkable move to present a vagrant as a hero, or even a romantic lead.

According to Chaplin’s much-quoted recollection, he was hanging around the Keystone lot after having finished his first short film for the studio. Mack Sennett complained the film they were shooting was lacking in big laughs, so he ordered Chaplin to go to the wardrobe department and get into comedy make-up, stressing anything will do. He then returned to the set with new gags. The image of Little Tramp came to him after only a moment’s thought: “On the way to the wardrobe, I thought I would dress in baggy pants, big shoes, a cane and a derby hat. I wanted everything a contradic-

tion.” A toothbrush mustache was added to age his 24-year-old face without masking his expressions, according to Chaplin’s autobiography. Keystone employees noted when Chaplin returned back to the set in his Little Tramp costume, he started fooling around, swinging his cane and ad-libbing gags.

To cinephiles, Chaplin is more than the man who created the iconic Little Tramp, but one of the greatest filmmakers. Famed film critic Andrew Sarris places Chaplin in his pantheon of the greatest American film directors in his still groundbreaking book “The American Cinema: Directors and Directions,” which changed the course of film criticism.

Info: chaplinsworld.com/en; myswitzerland. com/en-us, travelingboy.com.

FEBRUARY 2020

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SEE THE WORLD WITH LOVIN’ LIFE AFTER 50

To advertise in this section, contact Ed Boitano at 818.985.8132 or Ed@TravelingBoy.com

OUR GUIDE TO THE WORLD’S MOST INTRIGUING TREKS, TOURS & DESTINATIONS IN 2020. v Compiled by Ed Boitano

INTERNATIONAL CruiseOne offers cruise and land vacations to the world’s most exotic destinations, including Lake Geneva, Mediterranean Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera and Caribbean. Programs range from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to river cruising and land vacations. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service. Ask about our Geneva and Switzerlend land packages.

Contact Joni Notagiacomo in Los Angeles at (800) 600-4548 or www.luv2cruz.com DIGNITY TRAVEL – From under the Tuscan sun to the antiquities of Rome – explore the art, cuisine, culture and landscapes that central Italy has to offer.

Join Dignity Travel on this exclusive, easy and wheelchair accessible tour of Italy as we begin in the eternal city of Rome and conclude our tour in pictur-

Chena Hot Springs Resort is best known for its natural hot springs, awesome Ice Museum, great aurora viewing and geothermal powered facilities.

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esque countryside and villages of Tuscany. This tour is designed specifically for people who have difficulties walking or need to use mobility equipment such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. (877) 337-4272 or www.Dignitytravel.biz ElderTreks is the world’s first adventure travel company designed exclusively for people 50 and over. Established in 1987, ElderTreks offers active, off-the-beaten-path, small-group adventures by both land and sea in over 100 countries. ElderTreks offers wildlife and tribal African safaris, active hiking trips to the Rockies, Himalayas and Andes, expeditions by icebreakers to the Arctic and Antarctic and cultural journeys throughout Cuba, Asia, and South America. Join ElderTreks on one of our small group adventures for travelers 50 plus.

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perfect vacation hideaway to experience the pleasures of Ambergris Caye. Enjoy oceanfront suites and partial ocean view rooms just onehalf mile from the world-renowned diving and snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef. The fresh water pool offers the ideal place to relax after a day of activities. SunBreeze Suites & SunBreeze Hotel are walking distance to restaurants and attractions. Ask about our full day adventure to the ancient Maya City of Lamanai Temples.

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ALASKA

CHENA HOT SPRINGS is Alaska’s only dweekyear-round natural hot springs resort. Located approximately 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, guests can choose from 80 rooms, 8 dry cabins,

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT

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full service restaurant and bar. Activities include: hot springs passes, snow coach aurora borealis viewing, Aurora Ice Museum, Chena Kennel dog sled experience and summer cart rides, winter gear rental, bicycle rental, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, ATV tours, and flight-seeing over the Arctic Circle. Chena Hot Springs resort enjoys a clean, healthy and beautiful natural environment and continues to welcome people from all over the world to bathe in the curative powers of the hot waters. (907) 451-8104 or www.chenahotsprings.com GRAY LINE ALASKA has been sharing Alaska with visitors for over 70 years, offering vacation packages from 1 to 8 nights. Breathtaking scenery, wildlife, glaciers and mountains are just a few of the perks you may experience when traveling with Gray

Line Alaska. Most itineraries include rail travel in our own glass-domed railcars, perfect for viewing the scenic landscape as you travel from Anchorage to Denali. Book early to save up to $600 per couple on select tours 6 days or longer! Visit graylinealaska. com or call 1-800-544-2206 for reservations.

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TOGIAK RIVER LODGE — Located in Togiak, Alaska, we are all about the fishing, keeping you comfortable and well fed. Yes we have the hot tub on the river’s edge, and a sauna too; satellite television for those who must catch up on their sports teams, Wi-Fi, daily room service, but it is the worldclass salmon fishing, King Salmon fishing, fly fishing Silver Salmon, and Trophy Rainbow Trout fishing that people travel to Togiak for. Allow us to take care of you, your family or friends on a remote Alaskan wilderness fishing adventure of a lifetime. (503) 7847919; www.togiaklodge.com or llchinook@aol.com

CALIFORNIA DOLPHIN BAY RESORT & SPA — Set along the rugged California Coast, just south of San Luis Obispo, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is centrally located in Pismo Beach. Dolphin Bay is the ideal hotel for romantic getaways or family vacations where guests stay anywhere from two nights to months at a time.

With 60 spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites featuring all the amenities of a home, The Spa, award winning-restaurant, Lido Restaurant & Lounge and an array of activities, guests can experience the best of the Central Coast. (800) 516-0112 or www. thedolphinbay.com.

THE LODGE AT LAKE TAHOE — Centrally located in South Lake Tahoe. Our condominiums provide ample space and comforts of home to relax after a

fun-filled day. Heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our onsite resort amenities serve as the premier spot to relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT — Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV on 26 acres. Enjoy a general store, children’s arcade, restaurant, Laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.

PismoCoastVillage.com PISMO SANDS RV RESORT is located just minutes from Pismo Beach, and convenient to all of the many activities on California’s Central Coast. We offer 133 paved sites, many pull throughs up to 80 feet in length, each with complimentary satellite TV and WI-FI, all situated on 11 beautifully landscaped acres. Go on a wine country tour, hit the beach, take a kayak trek or enjoy a relaxing dip in our sparkling year-round heated pool and spa. Family owned - we are dedicated to making your stay with us a pleasant one. (800) 404-7004 or www.PismoSands.com

HAWAII CONDOMINIUM RENTALS HAWAII, has been offering QUALITY condos at the BEST Maui and Kauai beach locations since 1892.

From Wailea, Kihei and Maalaea to Kapaa and Poipu, our Maui and Kauai vacation condos are exquisite, and are fully-furnished. Visit our website at www.crhmaui. com to see and choose your amazing condo now . Book our affordable car/condo packages, or browse our specials.

Call our reservations department at 800-3675242, ext. 1.

POIPU CONNECTION has been serving the Kaua’i vacation rental market for 20 years. We invite you to relax and play on the beautiful and sunny south shore of Kaua’i in one of our wonderful studio, one,

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two, and three bedroom rental condominiums or homes. Each of our properties is privately owned and represents unsurpassed value, comfort and amenities. Amenities can include fully equipped modern kitchens, swimming pools, Jacuzzis, tennis courts, beachfront, tropical setting, private lanais, close to all the attractions, spectacular views and more. Stay for a week or a lifetime. Our real estate specialist can also find you the Kaua’i home of your dreams.

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UTAH EXPLORE LOGAN, UTAH — Visit this beautiful high mountain valley which offers unparalleled access to world-class outdoor adventures, only 4.5 hours from Yellowstone and 3.5 hours from Jackson and the Grand Tetons. Fly into Salt Lake City or enjoy the drive through this diverse state. Take your time and enjoy the journey. When you get to Logan you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to classic Americana. It’s only a 10 minute drive from the downtown theater district to hiking, fishing, or picnicking in the Wasatch Cache National Forest. Explore Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway. Enjoy our outdoor adventures, Foodie Trek, hands-on living history experiences, and performing arts on the edge of the stunning outdoors. It’s a few degrees cooler, just 90 minutes north of Salt Lake City. (800) 882-4433 or www.explorelogan.com RUBY’S INN is located at the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park and offers the closest lodging with everything from luxury hotel rooms to RV parks and campgrounds. Ruby’s Inn is open year-round with a General Store that provides fuel, groceries, camping gear, clothing and gifts. To plan your vacation, visit www.RubysInn.com or call (866) 866-6616.

A LUXURY FISHING LODGE IN TOGIAK, ALASKA Experience A Wilderness Fishing Adventure of a Lifetime!

(503) 784-7919 www.togiaklodge.com llchinook@aol.com Explore the splendors of Rome & the Tuscan countryside

Discover Italy with Easy & Accessible Tours!

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Columns Ask the Expert

Common drug interactions you should be aware about

BY TMC HEALTHCARE When prescribed a new medication, it’s good to know how it may interact with vitamins, supplements and other medications you are taking.

Some combinations can make medications ineffective or make you sick.

We talked to Zachary Hodges, the medication safety officer at Tucson Medical Center, to share a few common combinations you should know about.

“These are just a few common drug interactions,” Hodges says. “Always make sure to read the labels and ask your pharmacist or doctor any questions you may have when starting a new medication or supplement.”

WARFARIN AND MOST ANTIBIOTICS Most antibiotics decrease the number of bacteria in the gut. These bacteria play an essential role in the processing and absorption of vitamin K. Without these bacteria, vitamin K levels drop and increase the effect of warfarin, a common blood thinner (also sold under brand names Coumadin and Jantoven), leading to increased bleeding risk.

and levofloxacin), which are all used to treat serious bacterial infections, with antacids containing aluminum, calcium or magnesium. These antacids bind the antibiotic in the stomach and intestines and do not allow the antibiotic to work.

These drugs should also not be taken with medicines or supplements containing iron or zinc. In addition, the use of multivitamins or other supplements containing calcium should be avoided within six hours of taking one of these antibiotics.

LINEZOLID AND SSRI ANTIDEPRESSANTS Linezolid is an antibiotic commonly used for hard-to-treat infections, such as MRSA. Linezolid is also in a class of drugs called MAO inhibitors which can increase the levels of natural substances in the body such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. If taken with certain antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine and citalopram) it can potentially cause a serotonin excess called serotonin syndrome, which is characterized by diarrhea, confusion, changes in blood pressure, rapid heart rate and tremors. (Serotonin is responsible for controlling mood, attention, sleep and pain.)

WARFARIN AND ACETAMINOPHEN This combination can cause increased bleeding and can slow down the blood-clotting process. While acetaminophen is safer than NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, those taking warfarin should use the lowest possible acetaminophen dosage.

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FLUOROQUINOLONES, DOXYCYCLINE, MINOCYCLINE AND ANTACIDS, DAIRY, OR CALCIUM PRODUCTS You should not take doxycycline, minocycline, or fluoroquinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin |

FEBRUARY 2020

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Ask Gabby Gayle

Cameo Foundation’s 31st Annual MS. SENIOR ARIZONA

Much ado about nothing

2020 PAGEANT

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FEBRUARY 2020

BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

Q

Dear Gabby Gayle: I read in your column about these people who find themselves in retirement and become bored and you tell them to get busy and do stuff, even suggesting getting a job! My question is this: What’s wrong with doing nothing? I have been doing nothing for five years and I think it is great. I stay up late, I sleep in late. I lunch with friends. I thoroughly enjoy myself, and I think I have earned it after all those years in the rat race. What do you think of that?

Signed, Happy Girl

A

Dear Happy: I think that is perfectly fine! My answer was to a person who felt “doing nothing” was depressing them. Whatever floats your boat is OK with me! Enjoy yourself. P.S. Just remember sitting is the new smoking—bad for your health! Sorry, I couldn’t resist.

Signed, GG

Q

Dear Gabby Gayle:I am writing to you because I am so happy. I took your advice and joined a dating site.

I kissed a few frogs, but then I met a guy with whom I clicked. We have been dating for about six months. Thank you and keep up the good advice.

Signed, AB Dear AB: Congratulations! Dating sites may not be for everyone, but glad it worked out for you.

Signed, GG

Q

Dear Gabby Gayle: I met a guy on a dating site and we had three

dates.

His profile said he was divorced. During a conversation, he indicated he was separated. Not even legally. They just weren’t living together. I asked him why and he said it was easier financially. I have a problem with that, but he doesn’t see why. What do you think?

Signed, Worried

A

Dear Worried: I am with you!

What I really think is that he “wants

his cake and wants to eat it too.” It appears he is looking for sex with no future. If you want that, I guess that is OK. Personally, I think the “gift without the giver” is boring and a waste of my time.

Good luck, GG

Q

Dear Gabby Gayle: So many men I have met say they are looking for someone to marry or they are just looking for someone to sleep with. Whatever happened to “let’s be friends and see if something develops,” and if it doesn’t that is OK, too. You can’t have too many friends!

Men really are from Mars! Thanks for letting me get that off my chest!

Signed, MM

A

Dear MM: I am uneasy dating either of those guys you mentioned.

If they are looking for someone to marry it reminds me of when I go to the meat market to pick out a good steak! And if they are looking for someone to sleep with it sounds like I feel when eating dry toast.

Yikes!

Signed, GG

Q

Dear Gabby Gayle:My dear husband was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and is having hormone treatments. Intimate relations are out of the question for us. Any advice?

Signed, Mr. and Mrs.

A

Dear Mr. and Mrs.: I have heard from my readers that there is an intimacy far greater than sexual intimacy that one discovers when faced with losing one’s life partner. They tell me it is the deepest form of love. I wish that for you.

Signed, GG Dear Readers: Because this column will be published in February, I decided to include the letters having to do with dating and love! For those of you who are not in the dating scene, I apologize. Tune in next month!

If you have questions for Gabby Gayle, please send them to “Ask Gabby Gayle” at lagmancreswick@gmail.com.

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