Marana News 05/24/2024

www.Maranaweeklynews.com

development

VERONICA KUFFEL

In partnership with Ascent Companies and Vanderbuild, the company plans to break ground in a few weeks and complete the project in 2025. Northmarq’s Debt and Equity team, Bruce Harrington and Tyler Woodard, secured the funding through a senior construction loan and preferred equity with the two companies.

BY VERONICA KUFFEL

Tucson Local Media Sta

The Marana Town Council unanimously approved the tentative budget for fiscal year 2023-2024 during its regular meeting on May 16.

Weeks after discussing the proposal, the finance department presented a revised budget of around $336.3 million, an increase from the initial $247.9 million. Council will meet to review the final budget June 20 to officially adopt it for 20232024.

Hot Picks

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tucson Local Media Sta

ARTS

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

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

Intro to Glass Cutting

JUNE 10

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

Linda McCartney Retrospective TO AUG. 4

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

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

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

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

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

see HOT PICKS page 4

EXPLORER

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

STAFF

ADMINISTRATION

Steve T. Strickbine, Publisher Michael Hiatt, Vice President

Claudine Sowards, Accounting claudine@tucsonlocalmedia.com

EDITORIAL

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, Executive Editor christina@tucsonlocalmedia.com

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

Veronica Ku el, Sta Reporter vku el@tucsonlocalmedia.com

PRODUCTION

Courtney Oldham Production/Design Supervisor production@timeslocalmedia.com

Arman Olivares, Graphic Designer aolivares@timeslocalmedia.com

CIRCULATION

Aaron Kolodny, Circulation Director, aaron@phoenix.org

ADVERTISING

TLMSales@TucsonLocalMedia.com

Laura Meehan, Associate Publisher, lmeehan@tucsonlocalmedia.com

Kristin Chester, Account Executive kristin@tucsonlocalmedia.com

Candace Murray, Account Executive candace@tucsonlocalmedia.com

Tyler Vondrak, Account Executive tyler@tucsonlocalmedia.com

Leah Pittman, Account Executive lpittman@tucsonlocalmedia.com

NATIONAL ADVERTISING

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

EDITORIAL

A Senior Living Option as Unique as You.

La Posada, southern Arizona’s awardwinning Life Plan Community, is bringing its commitment to excellence to Oro Valley. Finely appointed, maintenance-free apartment homes. Stunning mountain views. An oasis of first-class amenities to enjoy with friends, old and new. All at an incomparable, wellness-centered community in the heart of nature.

Connect with our retirement counselors at an upcoming informative lunch to hear about the latest construction updates, delicious restaurant-style dining experiences and the long-term security of our Life Lease and more.

ORO VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Wednesday, June 7

Thursday, July 6

Friday, August 4

Please join us for an upcoming luncheon and informative presentation on a date and location that is convenient for you:

Tuesday, September 12

SADDLEBROOKE 2 BALLROOM

Wednesday, June 14

RSVP today by calling 520-531-3480. Seating is limited. Lunch will be served.

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

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

MUSIC

Bastille

MAY 24

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

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

Wide Awake: A Tribute to U2

MAY 27

Wide Awake brings the music of U2 to audiences throughout the Southwest. The band includes Thomas Blanco (Bono), Alan Garcia (The Edge), Heather Wannlund (Adam Clayton) and Daniel Dumire (Larry Mullen Jr.). Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road,

DEVELOPMENT from page 1

“It’s great to see this deal get closed for the Ascent/Vanderbuild team,” Harrington stated. “Amavida is going to be a great addition to the Marana and Tucson area, bringing much-needed housing to the submarket.”

Amavida will be located on the south side of West Ina Road and will feature a unit mix of 84 one-bedrooms, 104 two-bedroom and 12 three-bedroom units. According to Northmarq, the development will spread out into eight residential buildings, leaving a ratio of 1.89 spaces of parking per unit.

One highlight of the development is the planned 3.5-acre private park, which is uncommon for other multifamily properties in the Tucson area.

“Marana and the Southern Arizona corridor along I-10 continues to see strong economic development and population

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

Yachtley Crue

JUNE 3

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

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

Biosphere 2 DAILY

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

Reisen Winery Tour (Sonoita-Benson) THROUGH JUNE 3

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

Memorial Day Sunday (Honor Our Military)

MAY 28

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

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

Tucson Pops Orchestra: Memorial Day Concert

MAY 28

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

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

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

MAY 29

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

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

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

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

growth,” Harrington stated. “Amavida is situated to take advantage (of) the demand for housing in the area.”

A full-service capital markets resource, Northmarq assists commercial real estate investors in debt, equity, investment sales and loan servicing. The company works to introduce clients to a variety of development opportunities, including housing and retail.

Ascent and Vanderbuild are real estate and investment developers with locations in Arizona, both working on housing development projects similar to Amavida in and out of the state. Highlighted projects include the 156-unit Aster at Mountain Vista for Ascent and the retail and residential site of Verde Gilbert for Vanderbuild. Northmarq saw a need for a multifamily development after it was outlined as a future goal for the Marana housing market.

At the recent State of the Town last April, Mayor Ed Honea discussed the town’s re-

sponse to a decrease in single-family home purchases.

“Single-family housing has really slowed down…,” Honea began, “...but we had a backup plan: rental housing. We’re going to have about 2,500 rental properties in the next couple of years.”

With more options available, Marana is set to increase its population and draw closer to completing its goal of 75,000 residents by 2040.

Additionally, in their regular meeting on May 2, council members discussed housing needs for the next five years with their newly approved U.S. Housing and Urban Development funding.

Town staff, along with Crescendo Consulting Group, presented data from Marana residents on what they felt was needed in their community. One of the mentioned needs was housing diversity.

“On the housing side of things, we heard a lot about needs for affordable rental units,

needs for more different types of housing beyond single-family homes and some accompanying zoning changes that would allow for different types of development for Marana,” Kevin Koegel of Crescendo said. Amavida will provide residential choices alongside Marana’s popular neighborhood projects. They are a key asset to improving housing diversity, allowing a new opportunity for people looking to settle in the growing town.

WARNING!

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!!

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

The only way to effectively treat chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is by targeting the source, which is the result of nerve damage owing to inadequate blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This o en causes weakness and numbness.

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

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

(above 95% nerve loss is rarely treatable)

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

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

1. Increases blood flow

2. Stimulates and strengthens small fiber nerves

3. Improves brain-based pain

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

It’s completely painless!

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

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

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

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

Effective neuropathy treatment relies on the following three factors:

1. Finding the underlying cause

2. Determining the extent of the nerve damage

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

Arrowhead Physical Medicine will be offering this free chronic pain and neuropathy severity evaluation will be available until May 31st, 2023. Call (520) 934-0130 to make an appointment.

Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this offer to the first 10 callers. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE, CALL (520) 934-0130...NOW!!

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

Financial director Yiannis Kalaitzidis walked through the changes with the council, mentioning how they often occur after staff receives more specific information and requests from departments.

“A few weeks ago, on April 18, we presented the manager’s budget to the council,” Kalaitzidis said. “I did mention, as it is normal, between manager’s and tentative budget, we do have changes that happen. We refine our budget, but we also take another look at some of our capital projects.”

The official budget for 2023-2024 is a 44% increase from fiscal year 2022-2023 at $233.5 million. Kalaitzidis noted this change reflects updates in department and capital needs, but also as staff has projected an increased revenue that Marana can add to its initial plan.

He explained the increase came from updated tax revenues and will still balance out the increased budget, according to their plan.

“A lot of that increase is related to revenues that we will receive to cover it, and a lot of it is also carried forward,” Kalaitzidis said. “Not very much of it was truly ‘new money.’ A majority took a place toward capital projects.”

The tentative budget is spread between capital outlay at 65%, operation costs at 30% and debt service at 5%. Operating costs have increased from $97.6 million to $100.4 million, and capital outlay has increased from $205.7 million to $219.1 million.

Staff estimated the town will collect $175,681,277 in total revenues, excluding

secondary property taxes in special taxing districts.

In the proposal meeting, the director explained the town would spend more money than it would bring in due mostly to capital outlay, which took over two-thirds of the budget. Kalaitzidis also mentioned to the council that, aside from one-time investments, continuing payments are covered by consistent revenues.

“As in prior years, our budget is structurally balanced,” Kalaitzidis said. “Our ongoing revenues cover our ongoing expenses. And, as always, we make investments in a number of areas which we covered in our previous presentation and reflected in our

tentative budget.”

The newly proposed capital improvement plan is part of the outlay and will take up 62% of the tentative budget at over $209 million. The CIP includes the Community and Aquatics Center, among other town infrastructure additions and improvements.

The CIP will span over five years and be paid off through the strategic debt financing plan proposed by the finance department. Revenues of 2023 will also be used to pay off a portion of the larger budget, as Kalaitzidis mentioned they came in higher than anticipated and the remainder will carry over for 2024.

“We will have it paid back as soon as

we can as we raise enough funding,” Kalaitzidis said. “We are going to take steps to structure the debt in such a way that we can have an earlier payoff than the normal 20-25 years of these debt issuances.”

While staff may change portions of the plan before the final meeting, its recent decision has established an expenditure limit. The town’s budget will not exceed $336.3 million.

“After tonight, and when we come to you again… we cannot make increases to the budget,” Kalaitzidis said. “This is our ceiling for the total amount. If we do need to make any changes, we can only reallocate within this amount.”

OV speeds process for rooftop solar review, permitting

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

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

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

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

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

Oro Valley implemented SolarAPP+

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

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

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

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

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

Oracle Road’s medians getting a scrub

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

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

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

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

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

Outside construction hours, all north-

bound lanes of Oracle are going to be open.

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

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

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

Barro’s hosting pediatric cancer fundraiser

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

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

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

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

support them again this year.”

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

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

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

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

Barro’s Pizza has several Arizona locations,

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

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

Gyro Shack piles meat high on pitas

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Tucson Local Media Sta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

hummus, pepperoncini, kalamata olives and spicy sauce.

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

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

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

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

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

Gyro Shack

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

gyroshack.com

- Friday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm

9:00 am to 3:00 pm

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Student Chronicles

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Info: snhu.edu

e cure for the summertime blues SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE

BY TUCSON LOCAL MEDIA STAFF

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

1.

See a movie at the Lo Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Boulevard lo cinema.org

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

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

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

ink that’s all? is is the Lo ; there’s

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

way more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ere’s something for everyone.

3.

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

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

the o ces.

In the rst- oor public spaces nd a bit of the more than 3 million archaeological, ethnographic and modern objects that belong to the region’s Indigenous people. ere’s also the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of Native North American basketry with objects from more than 7,000 years ago, along with southwest Indigenous pottery that goes back roughly 2,000 years.

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

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

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

4.

Be on a mission

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

sanxaviermission.org

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

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

actual structure wasn’t completed until the late 18th century. Inside the church’s walls are original statuary and mural paintings that remember Spanish Colonial times. Here’s something to keep in mind when visiting. is is a working Roman Catholic Church, a house of worship. Mass is o ered here, and people still come to pray. Be respectful of the space and the worshipers. e church houses a small museum, which has been closed for a bit, but sta is hopeful it will be opening again by the beginning of June. Call ahead to be sure.

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

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

5. Picture this Etherton Gallery

340 S. Convent Avenue ethertongallery.com

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

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

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

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

6.

Yeah, but is it art?

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

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

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

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

CHILLIN

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

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

7.

Take a trip to the stars

Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium

1601 E. University Boulevard andrau.org

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

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

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

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

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

programs.

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

Check the website for times and ticket info.

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

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

8.

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

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

stream linking its three ponds. e park supports diverse wildlife from sh to animal populations and allows for birdwatching, bat sightings and idle ramblings among the acres of cool shade. Restored buildings that dot the landscape recall the property’s long history as a ranch and thousands of years beyond that. Admission is free, parking is ample, and hours are 7 a.m. to sunset. We suggest you visit the website of the Friends of Agua Caliente Park before you go. You’ll nd a video tour, information about the bats and birds and a top-line history of the property.

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

9.

Feel the breeze through a dozen species Madera Canyon

South Madera Canyon Road, Green Valley fs.usda.gov

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

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

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

10.

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

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

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

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

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

from page 14

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

11.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14.

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

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

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

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

15.

What’s zoo with you?

Reid Park Zoo

3400 E. Zoo Court reidparkzoo.org

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

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

16.

Hear the music

Fox Tucson eatre 17 W. Congress Street foxtucson.com

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

$20 Fox Fan Seats

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

Don’t worry about getting to the beach this summer, The Fox is bringing it to you! Al and his band bring all the harmonies, Fender riffs, and behind-the-scenes stories you need to transport you to days of sun, surf and legendary rock n’ roll!

Free books and other goodies Junior Brown 6/14

Cowboy Junkies 7/27

John Lodge of Moody Blues 7/26 Free Event REGISTER TODAY! Monsoon Literacy Celebration 6/11

Get ready to welcome the monsoon and remember our connections to the land, the weather, and each other!

Award-winning animated movie, “Superworm”

Sing & Dance with Kitt the Fox Storytimes with Featured Authors Fun, hands-on literacy activities

ere’s something magical about summer concerts. And there’s something magical about Downtown’s gorgeous Fox Tucson eatre. Put them together and you have memories that will last a lifetime. is summer, you’ve got the likes of Mary Chapin Carpenter (June 10); Junior Brown w/Mark Insley and the Broken Angels (June 14); Al Jardine w/Yahtzee Brown (June 17); Graham Nash (June 20); One of ese Nights (June 23); Old Crow Medicine Show (July 19); e Robert Cray Band (July 25); John Lodge (July 26); Cowboy Junkies (July 27); and e Australian Pink Floyd Show (Aug. 23). Besides the concerts, the Fox will be doing movies, including singalongs with “West Side Story,” “Annie” and “Greatest Showman.”

17.

Tucson Botanical Gardens 2150 N. Alvernon Way tucsonbotanical.org

Tucson Botanical Gardens mission is

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

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

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

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

18.

A whole new world

e Dive Shop

1702 E. Prince Road, Suite 150 azdiveshop.com

72 Aquatics

3110 E. Fort Lowell Road 72aquatics.com

Paragon Dive Shop

2951 N. Swan Road, Suite 175 paragondivestore.com

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

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

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

19.

Introduce yourself to your town

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

Taste of Tucson tasteo ucsondowntown.com 520-904-2119

Borderlandia borderlandia.org info@borderlandia.org

Even if it is hot, take a tour that will introduce you to your very own UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Hear a di erent take see SUMMERTIME page 20

Saguaro National Park thrives in the summer

BY VERONICA KUFFEL Tucson Local Media Sta

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

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

e park’s east and west districts will complete their spring programming June 3, when the summer events are unveiled. As the season closes, the rangers will organize a list of summer programs that will prioritize safety in the desert heat. Most will be hosted toward the beginning and end of days. ey also need to be wary of the animal and plant populations that are active during mornings and evenings.

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

SUMMERTIME from page 18

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find more here: rb.gy/qpn08

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

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

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

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

20.

Be a hero

Santa Rita Park

401 E. 22nd Street

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

Season at the Lavender Farm in June!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer Safari Nights start amid zoo construction

BY VERONICA KUFFEL

Tucson Local Media Sta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

animals in that area are still visible.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer Safari Nights at Reid Park Zoo

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

WHERE: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court, Tucson

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

INFO: reidparkzoo.org

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

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

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

BY TOM DANEHY

Tucson Local Media Columnist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TUCSON POPS ORCHESTRA

Verdugo makes return to Arizona in series against D-backs

BY JORDAN ROGERS Tucson Local Media Sta

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verdugo became a first-time father in August 2021.

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

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

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

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

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

see VERDUGO page 25

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox)

Chronic pain is debilitating—mentally, physically

BY MIA SMITT Tucson Local Media Columnist

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9 Clamp on a stringed

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

23 Host’s farewell phrase

27 Multitasker’s browserful

28 Helpful connections

29 ___ the Riveter, W.W. II icon

30 Brouhaha

31 Shoe part that may develop holes

33 Reddit Q&A session

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

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

48 “Never would have guessed it!”

52 Grabbed a chair 53 Openly gay 54 Make harmonious 55 See 17-Across … or a hint to 23-, 34- and 48-Across

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

“Normal People” author Sally

Impetus behind bragging

63 Mediterranean fruit

64 British bo oms

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

2 “They got me!”

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

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

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

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

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

GEMINI (May 21-June 21)

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

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

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

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

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

Feeling of astonishment

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

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

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

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

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21)

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

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

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

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

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

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

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

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

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

PUZZLE BY MARGARET SEIKEL

Guide

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GF and Son Contractor

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GF and Son Contractor

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

Member & licensed. Specialize in all types of(New/Old) Roof repairs, Coating, Rotten Wood, Fascia Boards, Remodeling & Additions, Permit plans. Now Accepting Credit cards Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

Family Business 25 yrs. BBB

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

Member & licensed. Specialize in all types of(New/Old) Roof repairs, Coating, Rotten Wood, Fascia Boards, Remodeling & Additions, Permit plans. Now Accepting Credit cards Gary or Chase 520-742-1953

Now Accepting Credit cards Gary or Chase 520-742-1953