Zรณcalo TUCSON ARTS, CULTURE, AND DESERT LIVING / JULY/AUGUST 2017 / NO. 87
Haunted Hands Studio & Gallery
“Blurring the line between tattoos and fine art” Appointment only, artwork on display every full moon open studio night at the Metal Arts Village.
Betina Fink and Maria Arvayo Painting in oils and pastel Studio work and classes
Betina Fink Landscape oil paintings from the southwest. Studio “e” open daily by appointment 520-240-7461 www.BetinaFink.me
Maria Arvayo Artist Maria Arvayo creates paintings of the regional southwest as well as intimate still-lifes. Original work is available in encaustic, pastel and prints.
www.HauntedHands.com Lisa@HauntedHands.com
www.JasonPedersen.com text: 201-283-0740
3230 N. Dodge Boulevard • Tucson, Arizona In the Ft. Lowell Furniture and Arts District MetalArtsVillage.com
For more information: www.mariaarvayo.com
N Ft. Lowell
Alvernon
Jason Pedersen
Dodge
Lisa Cardenas
Join Us Sunday , July 30, 9 to 2,
for
Dancing in the Rain Cactus Wren Artisans In Cat Mountain Station 2740 S. Kinney Rd. (520) 437-9103 View our art on
www.cactuswrenartisans.net
Open 7 days a week 9am to 3pm
Come meet our 20 local artists Enjoy demonstrations & refreshments
4 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
PETER CONNER PHOTOGRAPHY peterconner.com
On permanent exhibit at: Cactus Wren Artisans Cat Mountain Station 2740 S. Kinney Rd. Tucson, Arizona 85735 (520) 437-9103 cactuswrenartisans.net Open seven days a week
inside
downtown | central | east featuring ®
July/August 2017
new $55/month unlimited classes
Photo by Jade Beall
@ downtown
yogahour=$5*(cash only please, or $6 for credit cards) , intro2yoga=$7
07. Events 17. Sport 21. Shop Local 25. Desert 31. Arts 34. Art Galleries & Exhibits 36. Performances 36. Tunes 44. Scene in Tucson 46. Poetry
check online for most updated schedule!
MON
12:15 - 1:15 4:15 - 5:15 5:30 - 6:30 7:00 - 8:00 8:15 - 9:15
PM
TUE
12:15 - 1:15 5:30 - 6:30 7:00 - 8:00 8:15 - 9:15
PM
WED
9:00 - 10:00 12:15 - 1:15 4:15 - 5:15 5:30 - 6:30 5:45 - 6:45 6:45 - 8:00 8:15 - 9:15
AM
THU
PM
yogahour yogahour yogahour yogahour
Grace Sultan Dani Schiess Andréa Renée Robert Paul
yogahour yogahour yogahour yogahour intro 2 yoga
Alexandra Roush Anjani Visan Jess Holzworth Alexis Finley Jess Holzworth Robert Paul Shawn Asplundh
yogahour PM
5:30 - 6:30
FRI
Alexandra Roush Hanna Naegle Kanoe Gantz Jess Holzworth Shawn Asplundh
yoga4sobriety (donation)
10:30-12:00 12:15 - 1:15
yogahour yogahour yogahour intro 2 yoga yogahour
9:00 - 10:00 12:15 - 1:15 4:15 - 5:15 5:30 - 6:30 6:45 - 8:15
AM
SAT
9:00 - 10:00 10:30 - 11:30
AM
SUN
9:00 - 10:00 10:15 - 11:15 7:15 - 8:15
AM
PM
PM
245 E. Congress, Suite 101
yogahour+meditate
Darren Rhodes Andréa Renée Hanna Naegle
yogahour-give!
yogahour yogahour yogahour
yoga4sobriety (donation)
Grace Sultan Savannah Martin Kanoe Gantz Dani Schiess Travis Arnold
yogahour 101 yogahour
Savannah Martin MiLo
intro 2 yoga yogahour yogahour
Lori Huggins Adam Rinder Alexandra Roush
yogahour yogahour
|
NW corner of Congress & 5th Ave.
On the Cover:
Lightstorm over Tucson, 3 Hour Timelapse Montage from A-Mountain, photo © William Lesch. Read about the summer monsoon on page 25.
Zócalo Magazine is an independent, locally owned and locally printed publication that reflects the heart and soul of Tucson.
PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Olsen CONTRIBUTORS Jefferson Carter, Abraham Cooper, Bill Hakanson, Carl Hanni, Irene Jagla, William Lesch, Jim Lipson, Jamie Manser, Troy Martin, Gregory McNamee, Janelle Montenegro, Amanda Reed. LISTINGS Amanda Reed, amanda@zocalotucson.com PRODUCTION ARTISTS Troy Martin, David Olsen AD SALES: frontdesk@zocalotucson.com CONTACT US:
frontdesk@zocalotucson.com P.O. Box 1171, Tucson, AZ 85702-1171 520.955.ZMAG
SUBSCRIBE to Zocalo at www.zocalomagazine.com/subscriptions. Zocalo is available free of charge at newsstands in Tucson, limited to one copy per reader. Zocalo may only be distributed by the magazine’s authorized independent contractors. No person may, without prior written permission of the publisher, take more than one copy of each issue. The entire contents of Zocalo Magazine are copyright © 2009-2017 by Media Zoócalo, LLC. Reproduction of any material in this or any other issue is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Zocalo is published 11 times per year.
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 5
Susan Denis + Darci Hazelbaker
Specializing​in Tucson’s historic neighborhoods, vintage homes, and exceptional design!
Susan Denis + Darci Hazelbaker
520.977.8503 susan.denis@gmail.com
events Z
july-aug
SUMMER SAFARI NIGHTS EVERY FRIDAY UNTIL AUGUST 4 6:00 - 8:00 pm Reid Park Zoo 520-791-3204 ReidParkZoo.org Tickets: $9 adults, $7 seniors, $5 kids age 2-14, members receive $2 off prices.
Reid Park Zoo’s Summer Safari Nights continue through August 4. Enjoy the Zoo each Friday during cooler evening temperatures with live music, family-friendly animal features, special dining options and gift shop discounts. Each night will feature facepainting, glitter tattoos, enrichment making stations, artifact stations, carousel, camel rides and animal encounters. Bring a blanket and purchase your dinner or snacks, or even a cold beer or glass of wine, then relax and enjoy a picnic concert. Wander through the Zoo for keeper chats, animal encounters, sponsor booths, and wildlife activities. Live music and animal themes change every week. More information at ReidParkZoo.org.
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 7
HealthOn Broadway is Fantastic!
“The physician I chose is not only a great doctor, she has office hours in the early morning and evenings here at HealthOn Broadway. I’m just a block & a half away, which is great! Last week I went down there. It took 5 minutes and I was back at work. They’re bringing care into every part of our community, and that’s what makes El Rio Health and TMC wonderful health care providers.” –Janos Wilder, Owner, DOWNTOWN Kitchen + Cocktails
HealthOn Broadway is an integrated health and wellness collaboration between Tucson Medical Center and El Rio Health, and is now open at One West Broadway. Now you can access medical care from 7am – 9pm weekdays and 8am – 5pm Saturdays.
For a list of primary care doctors and health & wellness classes (including yoga!) call or visit: 1 WEST BROADWAY • 309 - 4200 ELRIO.ORG/LOCATION/HEALTHON-BROADWAY
events Z
july MON 3 - WEDS 5
FRI 14
SAT 22 - SUN 30
INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH TUCSON SAGUAROS BASEBALL CLUB Catch an Inde-
SUMMER SAFARI NIGHT Enjoy cooler temps
LOFT KIDS FEST Let the summer film fun begin
at the zoo with the theme “Prowling with Predators”, bring a blanket and have a picnic with food for purchase, live music and entertainment, zookeeper chats, live animal encounters, sponsor booths, and wildlife activities. 6-8pm. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 seniors, $5 kids age 2-14, members receive $2 off prices. Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court. 520-791-3204. ReidParkZoo.org
with kid friendly films, animated shorts, games, live performances, and free popcorn. Free admission. Doors at 9:15am, films at 10am. Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 520-795-7777. LoftCinema.org
FRI 14
of strange, unusual cacti, succulents, and euphorbia with over 20 specialty growers showcasing their most bizarre botanicals. Free admission during the sale. Hours: 3-7pm Friday, 8am - 1pm Sat. Tohono Chul Park, 7366 Paseo del Norte. 520-742-6455. TohonoChulPark.org
pendence Day pro baseball showdown between the Tucson Saguaros and the Monterey Amberjacks, both of the Pecos League. Gates open at 6pm, game starts at 7pm. Kino Sports Complex, 2500 E. Ajo Way. 520-909-5600. SaguarosBaseball.com.
TUE 4 “A” MOUNTAIN FIREWORKS The City of Tucson hosts the 21st annual “A” Mountain celebration with fireworks starting at 9:15pm. Suggested viewing areas: TCC Parking Lot B, The 22nd Street Lot, The Mercado San Agustin West End Lot, The City/State Parking Garage at 498 W. Congress, or see website for more information. 520-791-4101. DowntownTucson.org.
JULY 4TH: STAR SPANGLED SPECTACULAR Celebrate the holiday in Marana with live music, food trucks, inflatables for kids, beer gardens, and a firework display. Event begins at 5pm, fireworks at 9pm. Free and open to the public. Crossroads at Silverbell District Park, 7548 N. Silverbell Rd. 520-382-1946. MaranaAZ.gov
RED, WHITE & BREW A BBQ picnic with live
ANIMAL PARTY RECORD SWAP All are welcome to sell or swap records at this fun event with live DJs, cold brews, and food. 9:30-11:30pm. La Cocina, 201 N. Court Ave. 520-365-3053. LaCocinaTucson.com
SAT 22 NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY A celebration of preserving pioneer heritage and cowboy culture, with a docent led tour, brown bag lunch at noon, dessert, and other activities. Please bring your own lunch. 11am-2pm. Empire Ranch, E. Empire Ranch Rd. 888364-2829. EmpireRanchFoundation.org
NIGHT WINGS Explore 80 acres with over 300 his-
music, an array of tasty all American dishes and cool brews. Tickets: $55 per person, $40 (without alcohol), $27.50 kids 7-14, under age 7 are free. Hacienda Del Sol, 5501 N. Hacienda Del Sol Rd. 520-529-3500. HaciendaDelSol.com
torical aircrafts at one of the world’s largest aerospace museums until sundown. Hands on kids activities in the hangars and the Flight Grill will be serving dinner. $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free. 5-9pm. Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Rd. 520-574-0462. PimaAir.org
FRI 7
SAT 22
COX MOVIES IN THE PARK Beginning at 6:00
INSECT INSANITY - COOL SUMMER NIGHTS Celebrate Incredible Insects and Amazing
pm, spread out a blanket, peruse food vendors, and once it gets dark, enjoy the movie The Secret Life of Pets on the big screen at Demeester Outdoor Performance Center, Reid Park, 920 S. Concert Pl. Free admission. 520-797-3959.
SUPERHERO SOCIAL Come dressed as your favorite superhero for this action packed event. Decorate your own superhero mask and cape or make recycled comic book collages. Free event, 10-11am. Bookmans Northwest, 3733 W. Ina Rd. 520-579-0303. Bookmans.com
SUN 9 SECOND SUNDAZE
A free family program with gallery activities and special performances, centered around a theme of exploring shapes. Noon-5pm. Free admission for Arizona and Sonora, Mexico residents. Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave. 520-624-2333. TucsonMuseumofArt.org.
Arthropods with a bugs eye view of the many species that make the Sonoran Desert their home. Regular admission rates apply. 5-10pm. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 520-883-2702. DesertMuseum.org
TEEN DIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT Watch Doctor Strange at this free summer movie series, along with fun pool games. Ages 13-19. Free. Gates open at 7:30pm. Oro Valley Aquatic Center, 23 W. Calle Concordia. OroValleyAZ.gov
SUN 23 I LOVE THE 90’S - THE PARTY CONTINUES TOUR A step back in time featuring TLC with special guests, Biz Markie, Coolio, C&C Music Factory and Montell Jordan. Tickets: $37-$375. 7pm. AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Rd. CasinoDelSol.com
FRI 28 - SAT 29 MONSOON MADNESS PLANT SALE A sale
SAT 29 BREEZE IN THE TREES 5K Run beneath the shade of pecan trees on dirt roads and trails in this 5K in Green Valley. $30. 6:30am. Day of registration begins at 5:30am. Green Valley Pecan Company, 1625 E. Sahuarita Rd. 520-820-6447. Taggrun.com
HARVESTFEST
Wine tastings with food pairings, horse drawn winery and vineyard tours, and grape stomping competitions. $25-$85. 10am-4pm. Sonoita Vineyards, 290 Elgin-Canelo Rd. Elgin. 520-455-5893. SonoitaVineyards.com
MOCA’S 20TH BIRTHDAY BASH
MOCA is turning 20 and wants to celebrate with you, 90s style. It’s going to be all that, with free art making activities from 12-3pm, including the opportunity to make your own slap bracelets; screenings of 90s hit movies, Reality Bites and Singles; cake and ice cream served, screen printing demos; and from 7-11pm break it down at the 90s dance party with DanH and Tucson’s 90s cover band, The Lollapaloozers. Museum of Contemporary Art, 265 S. Church Ave. 520-624-5019. Moca-Tucson.org
SAT 29 - SUN 30 METEOR MANIA AT KITT PEAK
A special viewing of the Delta Aquarids meteor showers. Refreshments will be provided. Reservations required. Tickets: $46.95-$55. Tohono O’odham tribal members free. Arrive before 9pm. Viewing 10pm-3am. Kitt Peak National Observatory, 520-318-8726. NOAO.Edu
JULY 15-16, 22-23, 29-30 SWEET CORN FESTIVAL AND PEACH MANIA Enjoy freshly picked roasted corn at the peak of season or peach pancakes at the all you can eat breakfast. Free wagon rides, pick your own fruits to take home or purchase delicious homemade peach pies. Apple Annie’s You-Pick Orchard, 2081 W. Hardy Rd., Wilcox. 520384-4685. AppleAnnies.com
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 9
TWO EAST Congress LOFTSDOWNTOWN
TUCSON’S HOTTEST
URBAN LOFTS ±398 sf to ±845 sf $916 - $1755 per month Rent yours today 520 792 4000
events Z
august FRI 4
SAT 12 - SUN 13
COX MOVIES IN THE PARK Beginning at 6:00 pm, spread out a blanket, peruse food vendors, and once it gets dark, enjoy the movie Zootopia on the big screen at Demeester Outdoor Performance Center, Reid Park, 920 S. Concert Pl. Free admission. 520-797-3959.
FIRST FRIDAYS Learn about a true man of the Renaissance, Father Kino: Journey to Discovery at this free program included with First Fridays discounted admission. 4-8pm. Arizona History Museum, 949 E. 2nd St. 520-628-5774. ArizonaHistoricalSociety.org
SUMMER SAFARI NIGHT Enjoy cooler temps at the zoo with the theme “Scales and Feathers”, bring a blanket and have a picnic with food for purchase, live music and entertainment, zookeeper chats, live animal encounters, sponsor booths, and wildlife activities. 6-8pm. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 seniors, $5 kids age 2-14, members receive $2 off prices. Reid Park Zoo, 3400 Zoo Court. 520-791-3204. ReidParkZoo.org
SAT 5 ARTIVITY!
Experience arts and crafts for all ages, make wacky portraits or glass art magnets at this creative event hosted by Children’s Museum Tucson, Sonoran Glass School, and Tucson Museum of Art. Food trucks and lively music on site. Free activities and activities offered at an additional cost ($3-$10). 10am-2pm. Sonoran Glass School, 633 W. 18th St. 520-884-7814. SonoranGlass.org
WEDS 2 - SAT 5 SOUTHWEST WINGS BIRDING & NATURE FESTIVAL Guided bird, butterfly, bat, and night sky tours, special programs, and a keynote dinner. See website for more information and locations. Sierra Vista. 520-266-0149. SWWings.org
FRI 11 ADULT COLOR CLUB
Color away your stress at this relaxing event. Supplies provided. Free. 6-8pm. Bookmans East, 6230 E. Speedway Blvd. 520-748-9555. Bookmans.com
SAT 12 SECOND SATURDAYS Stroll around downtown at this free, family friendly event where you can enjoy food and street vendors, see live entertainment and bands, and enjoy specials offered by local restaurants and shops, along with a free movie at the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum. 5-10:30pm. Downtown Tucson. 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com
BAD DECISIONS CAMP OUT
AUG 30 - SEP 3
An overnight campout with bacon, chocolate, wine and beer, food trucks, live bands and an opportunity to view the Perseids meteor shower. $25 tickets available online or $35 day of. AZ Hops & Vines, 3450 Highway82, Sonoita. 301- 2376556. AZHopsandVines.com
HOCO FEST A Labor Day festival with over 40 na-
THU 17 - THU 31
ONGOING
PRICKLY PEAR HARVEST
Learn about harvesting and processing prickly pears, partake in cooking demos, and receive a prickly pear shirt during this special event or enjoy one of many family friendly activities such as horse back rides, fishing, or a BBQ cookout, with three hearty meals daily. Lodging rates start at $375 per night. Tanque Verde Ranch, 14301 E. Speedway. 866-4133833. TanqueVerdeRanch.com
SAT 19 TEACHER APPRECIATION NIGHT
Spend the evening learning about biology, geology, and astronomy at Cool Summer Nights with live animal presentations, mineral, rock, and science activities. PreK-12 grade teachers, in deep appreciation of their important work, will be admitted free with valid ID. Regular admission rates apply for others. 5-10pm. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 520-883-2702. DesertMuseum.org
SAT 26 TEEN DIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT
Watch Guardians of the Galaxy 1 at this free summer movie series, along with fun pool games. Ages 13-19. Free. Gates open at 7:30pm. Oro Valley Aquatic Center, 23 W. Calle Concordia. OroValleyAZ.gov
NIGHT WINGS Explore 80 acres with over 300 historical aircrafts at one of the world’s largest aerospace museums until sundown. Hands on kids activities in the hangars and the Flight Grill will be serving dinner. $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free. 5-9pm. Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Rd. 520-574-0462. PimaAir.org
SAT 26 - SUN 27 SPACE NIGHT
Spend the night at the Children’s Museum Tucson and learn all about our incredible universe with Planetary Science Institute. For adults and kids ages 4-12, families will get a camp site in the museum, enjoy a Pizza Party for dinner, have breakfast in their jammies, and enjoy all kinds of spacey fun in between. See website for ticket info. 200 S. 6th Ave. 520-792-9985. ChildrensMuseumTucson.org
tional and regional acts. Tickets: $15-$60. Early bird 5 day passes are available for $40 for a limited time. Check website for updated lineup information. Hotel Congress, 311 East Congress St. 520-622-8848. HotelCongress. com
TUCSON FOOD TOURS
Tucson’s only walking food tour. Combination of foods and a little history of downtown Tucson. Takes you through the historic downtown and 4th Avenue districts of Tucson. See website for dates. 520-477-7986. FoodToursTucson.com
PLANETARIUM SHOWS
Explore the stars and beyond every Thu-Sun with a laser light show on Fridays and Saturdays. $5-$7, kids under 3 are free. See website for program times. Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University. 520-621-7827. Flandrau.org
MONDAYS MEET ME AT MAYNARDS
Southern Arizona Roadrunners’ Monday evening, non-competitive, social 3-mile run/walk, that begins and ends downtown at Hotel Congress, rain/shine/holidays included! Free. 5:15pm. 311 E. Congress St. 520-991-0733, MeetMeAtMaynards. com
THURSDAYS SANTA CRUZ RIVER FARMERS’ MARKET Locally grown foods and goods with live music. 4-7pm. Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida Del Convento. MercadoSanAgustin.com
MINOR MUTINY
An after school program for high school students, with a range of activities such as creating a zine, watching art videos, or receiving help with homework, while supervised by artist mentors. 3:30 - 5:00 pm. Free. Museum of Contemporary Art, 265 S. Church Ave. 520-624-5019. Moca-Tucson.org
SUNDAYS PINTS & POSES
This laid back yoga class takes place every Sunday at Pueblo Vida Brewing Company. $5 includes a pint. 10:30 - 11:30 am. 115 E. Broadway. 520271-8174. PuebloVidaBrewing.com
Z events
THE PRODUCERS AUG 19, 20, 26, 27 Arizona Onstage Productions presents The Producers by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks’ 1968 film of the same name, lyrics written by Brooks and music composed by Brooks and arranged by Glen Kelly and Doug Besterman. The plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! The antics of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as they maneuver their way fecklessly through finding a show (the outrageously offensive “Springtime for Hitler”), hiring a director, raising the money, and finally going to prison for their misdeeds is a lesson in broad comic construction. At the core of the insanely funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends. Five shows only. Saturday, August 19 at 7:30pm and Sunday, August 20, 2:30pm; Saturday, August 26 at 2:30 and 7:30pm; Sunday, August 27, 2:30pm, at the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway Blvd., with free, secured, well-lit parking. Tickets available at ArizonaOnStage.org. Student/teacher: $25.00; Senior/military: $35.00; General admission: $42.50
12 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
Coming Soon! Tucson Mountain Desert Minimalist Modern Custom built by Architect William Peterson in 2004 $850,000
3125 E. 5th St. c.1929 Spanish Colonial Revival beautifully renovated. 3 bedroom 2 bath main house and guest house $460,000 MLS 21715764
Tim Hagyard Susie Deconcini 520.241.3123
242 E. 5th St. c. 1935 Bungalow with guest house. Great rental property or home Main house 4 bedroom, 3 bath, Guest house 2 bedroom, 1 bath $450,000 MLS 21716357
1919 Bungalow and Guest House in Dunbar Spring 133 W. 2nd Street Native gardens, grey water systems, small footprint living awaits! Walk or Bike to UofA, Historic Downtown and Street Car. Offered at $249,000.00. Call Patty Sue for personal showing and open house schedule.
Coming Soon! 725 N Belvedere Ave Perfect little midtown bungalow! 2 b / 1 ba offered at $130,000. Big shady back yard and large storage shed. Freshly painted, mex tile floors throughout - ready to go!
New Construction! 236 W. University Blvd. In Dunbar Spring - Modern bungalow with beautiful concrete floors open living kitchen and outdoor courtyard. 3b / 2ba 1750sf - Ready September 2017. Call for plans and price.
august
events Z
Hush, by Isadora Hale
ARTIST RECEPTION: ISADORA HALE AUG 5 (SHOW RUNS THROUGH AUGUST) Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress Street. Tucson artist Isadora Hale exhibits her work at Hotel Congress in the month of August, with an artist reception August 5. About her work, Isadora says, “In my art I explore the concept that there are no absolutes in life. Good, bad, beautiful, ugly… these are words we hear every day, but I don’t believe any of those absolutes actually exist on their own. My art challenges a simplified view of the world. It encourages people to find real beauty in the co-mingling of opposing forces and seemingly divergent entities. While there is no pure good, there is good in bad and vice versa. Something ugly has very real beauty in its qualities. Something unknown may be familiar upon further investigation. These juxtapositions fascinate me, and through my art I hope to encourage people to look deeper at their environments, and both discover and appreciate these wonderful complexities all around them.” More information at ArtByIsadora.com
Unbound, by Isadora Hale
It’s A Boy, by Isadora Hale
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 15
NEW LOCATION OPENS THIS SUMMER! (CORNER OF INA & ORACLE)
TUCSON’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR & BOTTLE SHOP(S) CRAFT BEERS ON TAP / WINES ON TAP / OVER 600 BOTTLES TO ENJOY IN-HOUSE OR TO-GO!
7254 N. ORACLE • 403 N. 6TH AVE • OPEN 7 DAYS • THETAPANDBOTTLE.COM 20172018
Summer Highlights!
2017-18 SEASON SPONSOR
LIVE MUSIC & MORE AT THE CROWN JEWEL OF DOWNTOWN! STARR ING TONY KISHM AN!
CLASSIC summer movies! SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN !! JULY 1 • 7:30 PM
E FRE
TICKETS GOING FAST!
MARTINA MCBRIDE JULY 6 • 7:30 PM
WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE AUG 13 • 7:00 PM
LIVE & LET DIE - A PAUL MCCARTNEY TRIBUTE AUG 19 • 7:30 PM
DISNEY’S JUNGLE BOOK JULY 4 • 2 PM & 5 PM
CLASSIC CARTOONS 1 HOUR BEFORE MOVIE!
FUNNY FACE
BENEFITS ANDRA’S HEART FOUNDATION
E !! FRE
JULY 7 • 7:30 PM
SING! | JULY 14 • 10 AM
CLASSIC CARTOONS 1 HOUR BEFORE MOVIE!
THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS JULY 15th • 7:30 PM HILARIOUS COMEDIC FUN!
LATE NITE CATECHISM AUG 20 • 3:00 PM
KANSAS LEFTOVERTURE TOUR SEPT 6 • 7:30 PM
TICKETS AT FOXTUCSON.COM 16 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
LEGENDARY ROCK BAND
THREE DOG NIGHT SEPT 17 • 7:00 PM
E !! FRE SOUTH
PACIFIC AUG 12 • 7:30 PM ALL THAT JAZZ AUG 26 • 7:30 PM
• BOX OFFICE: 17 W. CONGRESS • 520-547-3040
photo: Alethea Photography
sport Z
Tucson’s Fastest and Fiercest The Women of Tucson Roller Derby by Irene Jagla
I
t’s 100 degrees and the hot desert sun streaks across a concrete rink near Catalina High School where the women of Tucson Roller Derby are starting a late afternoon practice with laps and stretches. They chat nonchalantly as they glide around the rink, appearing to float on their skates with each lap. This is a mixed-level practice, and the 15 skaters participating range from relative newcomers to seasoned veterans. Dewey Decimatrix, a long-time skater for the Copper Queens team, meets me at the rink and explains the philosophy behind this practice strategy: “Beginners can learn from intermediate and more experienced skaters. It keeps everyone competitive, challenging the veterans to hone their skills as they teach and it helps the beginners observe how the more experienced skaters refine their skills.” This kind of cooperative strategy is emblematic of how roller derby as we know it today first formed as a sport in Austin, Texas in 2001, when a group of women banded together to form a roller derby league and directed all aspects of running it, from financial management and governance, to event set-up, promotion, and recruitment. Its meteoric rise in Austin inspired other cities across the United States to start their own teams. Phoenix and Tucson became the second and third such cities, respectively, to establish their own leagues.
Since its inception in 2003, Tucson Roller Derby has the honor of being the first league to organize a state conference competition in 2005 and it’s the first to start its own junior league. The first team established in Tucson is the Furious Truckstop Waitresses (known for their pink skating outfits and take-noprisoners attitude on the rink), followed by the Iron Curtain, Vice Squad, and the Copper Queens. Tucson Roller Derby also includes The Bandoleras, a team in which beginning skaters hone their skills, and the Saddletramps, the all-star traveling team that competes in Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association tournaments. Tucson Roller Derby currently holds the 30th spot in the WFTDA rankings, and the Saddletramps are ranked 43rd in the world. Tucson Roller Derby’s current success comes on the heels of significant changes to the league as a whole. Since the early 2000s, roller derby has evolved from the WWE-inspired shenanigans of its roots to a more organized, streamlined form of skating. That’s not to say that the sport has lost its toughness. Every bout is an action-packed display of strength, stamina, and agility with enough full-speed spills and crashes to rival a football game. While WFTDA rules still allow for a good amount of physical contact, they are in place to ensure players’ safety. In the early days of roller derby, it wasn’t unheard of continues...
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 17
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photo: Alethea Photography
for skaters to suffer major injuries, especially when competing in unsanctioned spaces (for some gruesome examples, check out the roller derby documentary Hell on Wheels). During its evolution as a sport, roller derby has become successful in Tucson because it manifests many of the values Tucsonans hold dear. “The grassroots spirit is very Tucson. Women run everything, set up the events, design the posters, and run the social media,” comments Dewey. The inherently DIY nature of roller derby parallels Tucson’s own individualistic vibe. After getting to know the skaters a little better, I can also say that they reflect the wide swath of people you find in Tucson, from stay-at-home moms and military personnel to academics and artists. Although the skaters of Tucson Roller Derby hail from diverse backgrounds, they’re bound by the belief in roller derby as a form of women’s empowerment. This common thread, according to Dewey, makes roller derby an inherently political act in our male-dominated world. Roller derby developed as a women-run enterprise and its growth is due to the literal blood, sweat, and tears of thousands of women who have trained, competed, and volunteered to make roller derby popular for audiences in major cities across the United States. For such an undertaking to succeed solely due to the efforts of women collaborating with other women and giving voice to women’s goals as athletes, there must be a powerful impetus for gender equality and women’s empowerment. But, perhaps, roller derby’s most powerful political statement can be heard in what it doesn’t say. Dewey observes that “it’s one sport where you don’t have to say ‘women’s’ in front of. People know that it’s a women’s team, not like ‘women’s basketball’ or ‘women’s soccer.’” Regardless of where the skaters fall on the political spectrum, roller derby is a significant part of each skater’s life and each skater was drawn to it for different reasons. For Katie, AKA Katie Kaboom, jammer for the Furious Truckstop Waitresses and two and a half year veteran of Tucson Roller Derby, it was the draw of meeting new people: “One of my friends heard about the roller derby orientation and she wanted to check it out with me. I was new to Tucson and looking for my ‘thing to do’ and we both joined and ended up loving it and found a great group of girls.” Finding a new community was a common refrain amongst the skaters I spoke to, but still others mentioned life stressors like loss and abuse as catalysts that led them to find a positive, healthy outlet for negative emotions. Natasha, AKA Mad Madame Maim, a May graduate of the Fresh Meat Orientation, explains the benefits: “It’s a therapeutic thing for me. If I’m having a crappy day, I can skate my ass off and get knocked over and knock people over and always feel better afterwards. After practice it’s not a bad day anymore because I’m with women who are supportive and encouraging.” One thing that all the skaters agree upon is that roller derby is, indeed, a sport and should be recognized as such. After you’ve attended a bout or a practice, it’s not hard to understand why. After a few minutes of warm-ups and stretches in the desert heat, drops of sweat scatter across the concrete rink as skaters drill defensive tactics like flanking, triangle formation blocking, 18 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
and juking—a way of faking out an opponent by passing her not at shoulder level but by squatting down so she can’t block you. During practice, skaters learn how to get hit and fall down correctly, and hone balance and agility skills, like waltz jumping. Dewey explains it as “getting around someone by pivoting on one skate because sometimes you don’t have room to plant two feet while getting around another skater.” Skaters need to know how to manipulate their bodies into getting wide and low, or small and narrow, depending on the play and their position as blocker or jammer. Although Tucson Roller Derby has not yet reached the level of popularity as other Tucson sports (think University of Arizona basketball and football), it may get there even if its goal isn’t popularity. Next to rugby, soccer, and lacrosse, roller derby is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Katie Kaboom believes that more people need to rethink their views on roller derby: “They hear roller derby and think of old school fights and fishnets and putting on a big show, but it’s more an athletic sport now—it’s not what it used to be.” As a sport, roller derby’s future goal is to be included in the Olympics, but this possibility evokes discussions of how it can appear more legitimate to mainstream audiences. During a recent ESPN3 roller derby broadcast, commentators wondered about the kinds of changes that roller derby may have to endure to become recognized as a more mainstream sport. “They were talking about skater jerseys and how they should list the skater’s last name and a number, as opposed to the nicknames that skaters come up with themselves now.” For many current fans of the sport, as well as skaters themselves, this individualistic element of roller derby is what makes it so fun. There’s a story behind the name you see on each jersey. Andy, AKA Real Nasty of Vice Squad, explains that her name is a tribute to her profession: “I’m a nurse and wanted to incorporate something that meant something to me, something I could do with the ‘RN’ initials and incorporate red cross into it, while sounding cool when the announcers say it.” Katherine, AKA Mad Hater, elaborates on the importance of these creative liberties to roller derby’s reputation as a sport for everyone. “It’s a sport you can be yourself in, whoever you are. Growing up people would describe me as a girly-girl because I did ballet, but I really felt I was a tomboy. I like dressing up and I like being tough. Society is always trying to sort us [women] in some way, but I’m unsortable.” This year may not be the year that roller derby and its unsortable skaters make it to the Olympics, but it’s not stopping any of the skaters from giving 100% on the rink. As the sun sets, it gets cooler but practice doesn’t slow down. The all-star from Furious Truck Stop Waitresses leading practice, Midnight Crasher, blows her whistle and shouts, “It’s 7:35, if you’re skating get out here!” The skaters rush into formation to begin their scrimmage, working together and against each other. The jammer drifts past trio of blockers who are struggling along in choppy stops and starts punctuated by the dull scrapes of their skates’ rubber brakes. One of the skaters hits the concrete and the whistle blows as another skater stops, helps her up, and the scrimmage continues into the calm, Tucson night. n
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photo: David Olsen
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The Book Stop With Age Comes Wisdom
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By Abraham Cooper
alking around downtown, one may have difficulty remembering the location of certain places which have closed over the years. Take for instance Grill and The Red Room – the neighborhood’s beloved, all-night diner and music venue formerly located on Congress St. near Stone Ave., or Biblio – an eclectic bookstore once located opposite Ronstadt Transit Center. One may also recall The District Tavern, home of “The Special,” located on Congress St. near Arizona Ave., or Preen, the highly nuanced vintage boutique on Fourth Ave. near 9th St. In some cases, businesses like these change ownership and location, while others suffer excessive rental costs leaving owners no choice but to downsize or close altogether. Such changes to downtown’s landscape are inevitable as the economy continues to expand. When one contemplates the terminality of small businesses downtown, it is impressive that any of them should last more than a decade. The Book Stop on 4th Ave. appears to have transcended those challenges and remains alive and well. This year marks the 50th anniversary of The Book Stop’s opening and the tenth anniversary at its current location – a remarkable achievement for any small business, in particular a bookstore. The Book Stop was opened in 1967
by Bill Merrick and was originally located at 2504 W. Campbell Ave, between Baskin Robins, and later, Hear’s Music. Laurie Allen, an employee, bought the store from Bill in the early 70s after he decided to move to Guatemala where he opened another bookstore. Tina Bailey, an art student at the time, was eager to find work and had applied to a variety of places. She came into The Book Stop somewhat whimsically and was hired in 1977. About the same time, Claire Fellows began working there as well. Tina and Claire bought the business from Laurie in 1992 and have co-owned it ever since. Don Hummel, who served as Tucson’s mayor from 1955 to 1961, owned the strip mall in which The Book Stop was originally located. Tina recalls their relationship with Mr. Hummel being very positive. He eventually sold the property to an investment company that raised rental costs to an exorbitant rate before ultimately deciding not to renew the Book Stop’s lease. In 2007, the owners moved the store into the Tophoy Building at 214 N. 4th Ave., where it is today. Tina admits that although the move was in their best interests, they were immediately met with new challenges. The Book Stop was to take over the building which The Drawing Room had occupied for twenty years, however, The Book Stop’s lease ended in May continues...
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Z shoplocal while the Drawing Room’s ended in August. Tina and Claire had to temporarily store their inventory in a warehouse behind what is now Johnny Gibson’s Market until the move could happen. Meanwhile, the 4th Ave. underpass had just started being torn up in preparation for the new streetcar tracks. Nevertheless, The Book Stop reopened that September. Tina explains that their ability to survive throughout the following years required working many unpaid hours and becoming more restrictive with what books they chose to take in. Business from loyal customers from the previous location also helped ease their transition onto 4th Ave. Tina recalls even working with her brother-in-law for a time, selling plants to local businesses in order to supplement income. Many surrounding shops dwindled while The Book Stop remained afloat. Now in its tenth year on 4th Ave., The Book Stop has had time to reflect on its condition and its future. Tina describes growing up in Tucson at a time when there was a prominent resale culture. Indeed, businesses such as Bookman’s and Buffalo Exchange, which emerged around the same time, adopted similar business models. The buy, sell, trade aspect provided these companies with unique stock and perhaps made them resistant to larger trends in the market, but not without struggling. “I think most of the difficulties experienced by little bookstores, are the same ones experienced by most small businesses,” Tina explains. “High rents and changes in the way people shop, instant gratification with on-line shopping, often at much cheaper prices that a bricks and mortar store can’t afford to compete with, and still pay rent, taxes, insurance, etc.” Despite these hindrances, Tina has learned to adapt. “I think you can compensate for both, to an extent, with good service, knowing your stock and your customers.” There is a distinction to be made between bookstores which selectively fill their shelves with books directly obtained through personal relationships with individuals, and those behemoths such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble which offer a seemingly limitless inventory, yet lack a certain human element. In this internet-dependent era, it’s inspiring to be able to walk into a place like The Book Stop and find something so scarce that it has managed to slip through all digital indexes, only to be discovered through physical contact with it. We can have a conversation with the owner about how it was acquired; discuss its history, and go home feeling much more connected with our purchase. Although the store is not as successful as it had been on Campbell, Tina explains that business overall has improved while neighboring stores such as Isabella’s Ice Cream reinforce a dynamic familiar to them at their old location. She recalls how customers would buy ice cream at Baskin Robins and wander into her bookstore, enjoying dessert as they perused the shelves. A similar effect seems to occur on 4th Ave. Tina also appreciates the variety of people that Ermanos draws to the 200 block which she calls “The Bowery”. Overall, she prefers this location because of the stronger sense of community and the diversity of people who come into the shop. When asked what she thinks the future holds for The Book Stop Tina quips, “Depends on what day you ask me.” Rather than dwell on the vagueness of the future, Tina and Claire have proven that success can be reached by mitigating hardship as it arrives and knowing what to invest in. They confirm a truth that similar businesses may find guidance in: sustainability, in part, relies on personal relationships with customers. Rather than viewing themselves as strictly a store where people come in solely to make purchases, Tina thinks of The Book Stop more as an “entertainment” environment; a place where experiences can occur. No business should expect to last forever, but the opportunity for longevity must concern the value we as a community place on our daily, face-to-face interactions with each other. The Book Stop creates a space for this. n The Book Stop is located at 214 N. 4th Ave, phone at (520) 326-6661.
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Lightstorm over Tucson, 3 Hour Timelapse Montage from A-Mountain, photo © William Lesch.
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Mysteries of the Monsoon by Gregory McNamee
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cumulus cloud ambles northeastward from Mexico, bearing water from the Gulf of California and the streams and rivers of the Sierra Madre that tumble down to meet it. Along its route it collects more water, wringing the desert dry. After the march of a day or two, it stumbles into the 7,000-foot-tall Mogollon Rim, the great rock escarpment that looms over central Arizona and western New Mexico. Diverted by air currents, the cloud turns southward, growing. Cumulus cloud becomes cumulus congestus, then cumulonimbus, the towering anvil-head formation that marks a midsummer’s skyscape in the desert – and now it looms over Tucson, having slipped over Redington Pass or up the south side of the Rincons, ready to deliver a walloping rain. Powerful things are happening within that mixture of rising air and moisture. At the top of the cloud, 30,000 feet in the air or even higher, the temperature is -60 degrees Fahrenheit. There ice crystals, carrying a positive electrical charge, float and collide. At the much warmer bottom, particles of water, also positively charged, swirl about. Somewhere in the middle lies a zone, at about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, made up of hail and negatively charged graupel, snow pellets coated with water, that rise and fall with the air currents. Lightning follows, then thunder. Within the lightning channels of such a cloud, temperatures can climb to 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit, five times hotter than the surface of the sun. The force of a storm’s worth of explosions can equal those of ten Hiroshima-sized atomic bombs. This booming fireworks show is the herald of the monsoon, which comes roaring into the American Southwest in early summer, cooling down the baking deserts and plateaus with its dark clouds and torrential rains. It inaugurates a blessed time of year, one that proves the old adage that Arizona really has two summers. The first one is the piercingly, ferociously hot time that runs from mid-May until late June. Traditionally, the second season, the one where the heat of day is broken every afternoon along about 4:00 by a drenching rain, begins on June 24, the feast day of Saint John the Baptist, the patron of life-giving water. In the last few decades, though, that stormy season has come later and later, so that typically the big booms of thunder have come to accompany the booms otherwise provided by fireworks on the Fourth of July. But years ago, you could practically set your watch by that June 24 date and that 4:00 hour, when the heavens would open up, the sky would cry down, and the streets of Tucson would run up to the curbs with dusty brown water. It was a wonderful thing to behold, one as if written to a very strict script, one that included the certainty that a car would be flooded out under the Stone Avenue railroad bridge downtown or carried down the Santa Cruz or Cañada del Oro for a few hundred feet after some unwary driver decided to test his or her luck in crossing a trickle bucking to become a flash flood. The monsoon is changing, its arrival a touch less predictable than in the past, but with a growing intensity when it does come. Splitting the difference continues...
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between Saint John’s feast day and Independence Day last year, a not-quite-monsoonal “wet microburst” visited Tucson late last June, dumping a whole thunderstorm’s worth of water down on midtown in the space of just a few minutes. It took out fifteen paloverde, mesquite, and tamarisk trees at my house, and we got off pretty easy compared to the folks across the river at Winterhaven. Like so much else storm-related in this time of a changing climate, meteorologists are projecting that such events are likely to get both more intense and more frequent, so batten down the hatches. The drama and vibrancy of the monsoon – particularly in the form of lightning – are so otherworldly that many indigenous traditions hold that a monsoon storm contains a coiled, worlddevouring serpent. “One cannot listen to the continuous crashing of the thunder without shuddering,” wrote Ignaz Pfefferkorn, a missionary of the Spanish colonial era. “At times such thunderstorms bring with them a damaging hail, which destroys all growing things in the field and garden; or there may occur a ruinous cloudburst . . . called culebra de agua, or water snake, which will flood over country and villages, devastating them. Sometimes the thunderstorms are accompanied by violent windstorms and whirlwinds, which lift the sand in a very thick, twisted column almost to the clouds. Nothing these whirlwinds seize can withstand their power.” Big Jim Griffith, Tucson’s treasure vault of folklore, tells a story of a cowboy working the northwestern coast of Mexico, where the monsoon storms first hit land. He was out riding fences one day when lightning blew a leg off his horse. The horse keeled over, of course. So the vaquero held up a slab of white cheese and waited for the next stroke of lightning, which immediately followed – since, as it happens, lightning always strikes twice in the same place. The lightning melted the cheese, which he applied to the horse’s leg, gluing it back onto the unfortunate steed’s body, and off the two rode to shelter. The story is humorous and apocryphal, but it well illustrates the hazards of being outdoors at the unpredictable time of storms – a time in which, the Apaches say, one must not work on anything of significance, lest the storm demons come to destroy it. Though the weather systems have much in common, the monsoon of the Southwest is not as vigorously drenching or as long as the monsoon of the Indian Ocean, marking the monthslong rainy period there (and their name derives from the Arabic mawsim, meaning simply “season”). Many Southwestern oldtimers refer to the desert version of the monsoon by the Spanish term chubasco, “squall,” although that isn’t quite correct, either, since it properly refers to the typhoons of the western Pacific and still more properly means a single, violent storm and not a whole system. Meteorologists, for their part, refer to the monsoon as the “Mexican monsoon,” since it is generally more intense in Mexico than north of the border, or, more formally, the “North American precipitation singularity” or “North American monsoon.”
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The terminological inexactitude is fitting, for until the beginning of this century the climatological mechanism that drove the monsoon was not well understood. Long-term studies of tree rings, for instance, have showed broad variability over a period of hundreds of years, but with a strong correlation of the monsoon’s arrival with dry conditions over the southern Great Plains. During this time, upper-level moisture is drawn up from the Gulf of Mexico, while lower-level moisture tracks northeastward from the Gulf of California by a mechanism called the “gulf surge event.” Both bodies of water, in other words, contribute to the summer storms of the desert interior. Other broad-scale relationships are at work. One is the interaction of low-pressure and high-pressure systems, accompanied by the formation of an upper-level ridge over the Four Corners region that encourages moisture to track northward from Mexico. Another is the interaction of land and air temperatures; the latter, particularly in the belt from 9,000 to 19,000 feet, must be sufficiently warm to allow water-laden cumulus clouds to rise into cumulonimbus columns – but not too warm, lest those columns be suppressed by desiccating heat. The temperature of the Gulf of California is also critical to the monsoon’s formation. The water there is always relatively warm, owing to temperate currents that flow along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. When surface temperatures reach 79 degrees Fahrenheit, the storms begin to form; when they reach 84 degrees Fahrenheit, then those storms rise and head inland, crackling with lightning and taking with them great quantities of oceanic moisture to drop on the ever-thirsty continental interior. Dew point, too, was long used to predict when the monsoon rain would fall. Dew point refers to the temperature to which air must be cooled to allow dew to form, which, in the arid Southwest, is about 55 degrees Fahrenheit, corresponding to an inch of precipitable water. For years, when the average daily dew point hit 55 for three days in a row, the U.S. Weather Service office in Phoenix would declare the monsoon season open. In 2008, the office announced a set opening date of June 15 and a closing date of September 30 for what it now calls the “Arizona monsoon season.” A lot of ingredients go into the making of a monsoon storm, and somehow, thanks to the grace of the universe, they all manage to come together – most years, anyway. Those new dates for the monsoon season make sense, historically and meteorologically, though they have as much to do with public awareness and public safety as with weather strictly speaking. The new term, though, leaves out a big chunk of the territory the North American monsoon reaches, and it has yet to catch on with the public, whose members continue to call a monsoon simply a monsoon – or, if you’re a crusty old cuss, a chubasco. It may take years before the region’s language catches up to the science, and Tucsonans, it seems, are just fine with that. Meanwhile, we watch the skies, and we pray for rain. n
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Summer Thunderstorm near Catback Mountain, Tucson Mountains, photo © William Lesch.
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A Sting to Forget by Bill Hakanson
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ek
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ei Claws and a stinger -- who wouldn’t run in fear? Ma rty no Nearly 2000 species strong; only about 30 have v venom capable of killing a human. Scorpions are burrowing arachnids (not insects in the literal sense) and can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Those with deadly venom are found in Africa, South America, and western Asia. The scorpions found in and around Tucson are only harmful to infants and older adults with weaker immune systems. That’s not to say you won’t feel the sting. According to Gene Hall, Manager of the University of Arizona Insect Collection, “Unless you like severe pain, you’ll never forget the sting of a scorpion.” You can treat a sting with a cold compress or soothing salve, but a scorpion is not likely to attack unless threatened. Like the honey bee and most other stinging creatures, they’ll only sting if you bump into, lay on, or squeeze them – they sting to protect themselves. With a severe reaction that is very rare, young children can develop symptoms that look very much like a seizure – eye rolling, drooling, involuntary movement of arms and legs, thrashing and bronchial spasms. If this happens, call Arizona Poison & Drug Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. The existence of these little creatures dates back 400 million years. Astrologically, Scorpio occupies the eighth sign of the zodiac. Those born under this sign are said to be strong, commanding, intense, passionate and zealous with a love of a good fight and can give intensity a run for its money. While there may be up to 30 scorpion species in the Tucson area, the Arizona Bark Scorpion, a straw-colored two and a half to three inch long specimen, is the most common. Among all the human habitation in Tucson, unless a scorpion has taken a wrong turn or been brought into town, most are found only in pet stores and the foothills, where the desert has been developed. They eat spiders, crickets, and roaches so if you control and minimize these in and around your foothills home, your chances of attracting scorpions is minimal. Additional ways to shun them include physical barriers…walls, closed or screened doors and windows, seal all perimeter cracks, and avoid openings to attics. They are nocturnal, finding shelter during the day in the relative cool of underground holes or undersides of rocks, brush piles, firewood, and emerge at night to hunt and feed. Scorpions hide from light, primarily to evade detection by predators such as birds, centipedes, lizards, mice, opossums, and rats. It’s fun to inspect them under an ultraviolet light because they glow a vibrant blue-green.
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Scorpions are opportunistic predators of small arthropods, although the larger kinds have been known to kill small lizards and mice. The large pincers are studded with highly sensitive tactile hair, and the moment an insect touches these, they use their chelae (pincers) to catch the prey. Depending on the toxicity of their venom and size of their claws, they will then either crush the prey or inject it with neurotoxic venom. This will kill or paralyze the prey so the scorpion can eat it. Scorpions have an unusual style of eating using their small claw-like structures that protrude from the mouth. These “chelicerae” are used to pull small amounts of food off the prey item for digestion into a pre-oral (outside their mouth) cavity. Interestingly, scorpions can ingest food only in a liquid form – they have external digestion. The digestive juices from the gut are egested onto the food and the digested food sucked in liquid form. Any solid indigestible matter is ejected by the scorpion. They are gorge eaters and can go for up to 12 months without eating, and they excrete very little. To reproduce, the male courts a female, then deposits sperm on the ground or exterior surface; then works to maneuver the female onto it. This maneuvering make take several hours. The young are born alive and remain on the mother until one molt is completed. The average littler size is 8. But this varies depending on the species. The average scorpion molts five times before reaching adulthood. Molt frequency depends on growth; i.e., consumption of food. To avoid scorpion sting it is recommended you wear long sleeves and trousers, leather gloves when gardening and doing other yard work, and shake out clothing or shoes before putting them on. Workers with a history of severe allergic reactions to insect bites or stings should consider carrying an epinephrine auto injector (EpiPen) and should wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace stating their allergy. Again, if you are stung by a scorpion, tough it out, or call Arizona Poison & Drug Information Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. To get up close and personal with specimen scorpions, you’ll want to attend the University of Arizona’s FREE Insect Festival. October 1, 2017. For more info, visit: www.arizonainsectfestival.com. n
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Savor culinary delights, outdoor adventures, and small town charm in this gem nestled against the Gila National Forest. With a Wild West past, a air for arts and culture, and cool, mountain air, you will want to plan to stay an extra day! Check out some of our upcoming events below to start planning your trip. July 4 - Independence Day Parade July 4 - Ice Cream Social July 22-30 - CLAY Festival August 5-6 - Hummingbird Festival August 11 - Welcome Back Bash August 19 - Copper Country Cruizers Car Show Funded by Silver City Lodger’s Tax
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Michael Wells’ puzzle, A Thin Veneer of Consciousness, was one of the first Cherry Art Editions.
Art for Everyone Cherry Art Editions
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by Irene Jagla
n July 9 from noon to 2 p.m., Yikes! Toys will host the second Cherry Art Editions Release Party, which will celebrate five artists—Diane Bombshelter, Danny Martin, Caleb Guttierez, Jeff Lownsbury, and Wendy Lee Gadzuk—whose designs are incorporated into playing decks, memory games, and puzzles. The artists will be available to answer questions from visitors who want to learn more about their inspirations while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Elizabeth Cherry, the founder of Cherry Art Editions, will also be in attendance and visitors can find a memory game, puzzle, or playing deck to take home and enjoy. Visitors can also get to know Patricia Katchur, owner of Yikes! Toys. Katchur bought Yikes! Toys in 2010, and since then the store has grown from selling mainly novelties to including more art pieces and science-related educational toys. Katchur observes that the store has “taken a more artistic bent while still supplying the same novelties and games that Tucsonans have grown to love.” Cherry Art Editions is the brainchild of Elizabeth Cherry, a fixture of the Tucson arts community for over two decades and former director of the Museum of Contemporary Art. In an effort to make art more affordable and
accessible, Cherry established Cherry Art Editions in 2016 with the goal of incorporating art into playing card decks, puzzles, and memory games. By doing so, Cherry Art Editions challenges the standard art experience that most people are accustomed to: passively observing a painting on museum or gallery wall. With playing decks and memory games selling at $50, and puzzles selling for $60, Cherry Art Editions makes it easy for customers to find new ways to interact with art and make art a part of their lives. Elizabeth Cherry explains that the inspiration behind Cherry Art Editions stems from the combination of her artistic background and experience in social work. “I went into social work at Primavera and when I came out I wanted to do art again, but wanted to do something different, not just putting stuff on walls, that challenges the artist and encourages the viewer to interact with pieces. For example, the December 2016 release featured a puzzle from Michael Wells that’s so detailed it forces people to look at all facets of work.” All five artists benefit in different ways from their involvement with Cherry Art Editions. According to Katchur, the artists get the advantage of “making their art more affordable and accessible for people. The playing cards and memory continues...
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1. Jeff Lownsbury’s playing cards. 2. Diane Bombshelter’s memory game, Skullture. 3. Caleb Guttierez’s memory game, Solo Colores. 4. Danny Martin’s puzzle, Romance Western. 5. Wendy Lee Gadzuk’s puzzle, Madonna and Child.
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games sets allow people to have a more fun and interactive art experience.” Aside from Cherry Art Editions being a fun and interesting way of getting people into art, Katchur adds that the featured artists “benefit from being part of a larger group, a part of a community.” Cherry echoes Katchur’s sentiment: “The artists benefit because they can make their work more accessible at a different price point so people can take the art home and live with it. It helps people approach artwork differently and see it in different light.” Cherry Art Editions offers a lot for customers, too. Katchur says that the editions are “great for people coming to or leaving Tucson. And it’s good for your mind! Some people just love playing games and collecting things, and it’s great to collect art from people you know. It’s cool to have art from community members. These playing cards and memory games give you a different way to think about art and be part of the art community.” The artists featured in this release include four Tucson-based artists and one mixed-media artist from Los Angeles. Diane Bombshelter is an expert in black velvet painting and her 20 painting series titled Skullture has been transformed into a memory game. Her work has been shown in Bisbee, Tucson, Phoenix, Mexico, Colorado, Los Angeles, and Miami. Although Bombshelter began experimenting with velvet painting in 2007, she was inspired to dedicate herself fully to the artform after a 2008 visit to the Velveteria, the museum of velvet paintings in Los Angeles. Her work has since been shown at the museum, and she continues to find joy in the plays of texture and light that make velvet painting such a fascinating medium. Danny Martin’s black and white puzzle Romance Western is not for the faint of heart. With no other colors to work with, puzzle enthusiasts must put in some serious work to assemble this piece. The reward, though, is worth it: the completed puzzle reveals a calavera couple bound with rope using a knife to escape. This puzzle fits neatly within the context of Danny Martin’s previous work, the Cowgals and Dudes Coloring Book. Along with his Tucson Neon Coloring Book, which features drawings of historic neon signs around the city, Martin’s books have gained success with over 3,000 copies sold. Caleb Guttierez’s memory game Solo Colores is 20-card memory game filled with whimsical, colorful sketches that, according to Katchur, “capture the mood of Tucson today.” The vibrant colors of Guttierez’s memory game feature images of skateboarders (Caleb is a skateboarder himself) and parallel the aesthetic of his February 2016 show at DeGrazia’s Little Gallery. Jeff Lownsbury’s playing cards are a fantastical journey into the mind of the artist. Katchur comments that Lownsbury’s deck introduces players to “his own little wonderful, colorful, and wacky world” through through innovative interpretations of traditional playing deck images, like the joker and ace of diamonds, which is represented by a shiny diamond ring in a jewelry box. Katchur describes Wendy Lee Gadzuk’s puzzle as “the shrine of the Madonna and child with a baby doll head—it’s her own take on religious imagery that others can relate to.” Inspired by mysticism, Catholic imagery, and found objects, Madonna and Child invites players to interact with the darker nature of religious iconography. Although she’s not based in Tucson, Gadzuk’s work aligns well with the rest of the Tucson-based artists’ conceptions of beauty and the profane. Cherry chooses artists to feature in her editions based on “the people I know whose work I think would lend itself to that medium.” Her favorite part of doing these editions is “the challenge of watching artists trying to produce something in this vein away from the norm. I don’t censor the artists; I let the artists do whatever they want. It’s a free platform within confines of medium.” In the future, Cherry says that Tucsonans can expect more opportunities to engage with art through fun puzzles and games, along with a larger push towards “producing more, trying to come up with different ideas for branching out and new ways to do different editions.” n
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 33
Z art galleries & exhibits
july-august ARIZONA HISTORY MUSEUM Wall of Faces: A Grateful Nation Thanks and
PHILABAUM GLASS GALLERY & STUDIO New Works by Tom Philabaum
Honors You is on view through July 4. Hours: Mon & Fri 9am-6pm; Tues-Thurs 9am-4pm; Sat & Sun 11am-4pm. 949 E. 2nd Street. 520-628-5774. ArizonaHistoricalSociety.org
featuring rock sculptures and fused glass is on view to Sep 30. Tues-Sat 11am-4pm. Call for glassblowing viewing. 711 S. 6th Ave. 520-884-7404. PhilabaumGlass.com
ARIZONA STATE MUSEUM Snaketown: Hohokam Defined is on view through
PORTER HALL GALLERY Frida: Portraits by Nickolas Muray, presented by Por-
Sep 23. Long term exhibitions include, Woven Through Time: American Treasures of Native Basketry and Fiber Art; The Pottery Project; and Paths of Life. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am5pm. 520-621-6302. 1013 E. University Blvd. StateMuseum.Arizona.Edu
ter Hall Gallery and Etherton Gallery continues through Aug 31. Hours: Daily 8:30am4:30pm. 2150 N. Alvernon Way. 520-326-9686. TucsonBotanical.org
SOUTHERN ARIZONA WATERCOLOR GUILD
on view through Nov 25. Hours: Tue-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 1-4pm. 1030 N. Olive Rd. 520621-7968. CreativePhotography.org
Summer Solstice is on view to Jul 16. The exhibition Monsoon Madness is on view Jul 18 to Aug 20 with a reception on Jul 20 from 5-7pm. Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-4pm. Williams Centre 5420 East Broadway Blvd #240. 520-299-7294. SouthernAzWatercolorGuild.com
CONTRERAS GALLERY Tucson opens July 1 with a reception from 6-9pm and
SOUTHERN ARIZONA TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM Dinner in the
is on view through July 29. Hours: Weds-Sat 10am-4pm. 110 E. 6th St. 520-398-6557. ContrerasHouseFineArt.com
Diner is currently on display featuring original china and silver service from the named first class Pullman trains. 414 N. Toole Ave. 520-623-2223. TucsonHistoricDepot.org
DEGRAZIA GALLERY IN THE SUN
TOHONO CHUL PARK
CENTER FOR CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY Wynn Bullock: Revelations is
The Way of the Cross continues through Aug 30. Hours: 10am-4pm daily. 6300 N. Swan Rd. 520-299-9191. DeGrazia.org
DESERT ARTISANS GALLERY Desert Dazzle and Kitchen Crazy Miniatures continue through Aug 6. Trunk Show: Nancy Cressler, Pamela Howe & Susan Libby is July 8 from 10am-1pm. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 10am-1:30pm. 6536 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 520-722-4412. DesertArtisansGallery.com
DRAWING STUDIO Celebrating 25 Years of Artistic Excellence is on view through Sep 30 in the law offices of Mesch Clark & Rothschild, 259 N. Meyer Ave. 520-620-0947. TheDrawingStudiotds.org
ETHERTON GALLERY In the main gallery, Present Future, a career survey of photographer Danny Lyon is on view to Aug 31. Tue-Sat 11am-5pm or by appointment. Main Gallery: 135 S. 6th Ave. Temple Gallery: 330 S. Scott Ave. 520-624-7370. EthertonGallery.com
EVERYBODY Wall of Text: Matt Magee is on view through July 9. Hours by appointment. 101 W. 6th St. Studio Q. Everybody.Gallery
IRONWOOD GALLERY
Cory Trepanier, Into the Arctic is on view to Aug 20. Hours: Daily 10am-4pm. 2021 N. Kinney Rd. 520-883-3024. DesertMuseum.org
MADARAS GALLERY Annual Summer Print Sale is July 1 - 31 and throughout July, the exhibition Hot Sun will be on display. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am5pm. 3035 N. Swan Rd. 520-615-3001. Madaras.com
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Summer exhibitions include: Virginia Overton; Chuck Nanney | Selected Ambient Works, Volume II; Tucson John | Tucson Nights: After Dark in the Naked Pueblo; A Night on the Edge of Forever: The Art of Midnight Films, Free Theater and the Psychedelic Underground San Francisco 1969-1973. Hours: Weds-Sun 12-5pm. 265 S. Church Ave. 520-624-5019. MOCA-Tucson.org
MEDICINE MAN GALLERY Art of the Saguaro continues to Aug 31. Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-4pm. 6872 E. Sunrise Dr., Suite 130. 520-722-7798. MedicineManGallery.com
MINI TIME MACHINE Rudy Flores and Teresa Estrella: Cultural Army of Tucson continues through Aug 27. Hours: Tues-Sat 9am-4pm and Sun 12-4pm. 4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr. 520-881-0606. TheMiniTimeMachine.org
34 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
In the Main Gallery, Arizona Abstract and Permanent Collection | New Perspectives III continue to Aug 13. In the Garden Bistro, Art du Jour / Amanda Rohrbach is on view to Sep 7. Hours: Daily 9am-5pm. 7366 N. Paseo del Norte. (520) 742-6455. TohonoChulPark.org
TUCSON DESERT ART MUSEUM
The Wayfinder’s Dilemma: Landscape Photographs by Camden Hardy is on view to Oct 1. Hours: Weds-Sun 10am-4pm. 7000 E Tanque Verde Rd. 520-202-3888. TucsonDArt.Org
TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART Continuing exhibitions include: Body Language: Figuration in Modern and Contemporary Art; Poetic Minimalism; Henry C. Balink: Native American Portraits; On the Cusp: Modern Art From the Permanent Collection; and From Modern Into the Now: Masterworks from the Kasser Mochary Art Foundation, all on view to July 9. Hours: Tues-Wed & Fri-Sat 10am-5pm; Thurs 10am-8pm; Sun 12-5pm. 140 N. Main Ave. 520-624-2333. TucsonMuseumofArt.org
UA MUSEUM OF ART Continuing exhibitions include, Visual Delights and Fanciful Flights of Imagination on view to Oct 1; The Hans Hoffmann School on view to Sep 10; Our Stories: Politeia on view to Jul 30; Fame: Paintings By Robert Priseman on view to Aug 27. Tinkerlab, a new makerspace is open to Sep 3. Hours: Tues-Fri 9am-5pm; SatSun 12-4pm. 1031 N. Olive Rd. 520-621-7567. ArtMuseum.Arizona.Edu
UA POETRY CENTER Selections from the Permanent Collection: Unique Editions is on view to Aug 11. Hours: Mon & Thurs 9am-8pm; Tues, Weds, Fri 9am-5pm. 1508 E. Helen St. 520-626-3765. Poetry.Arizona.Edu
WOMANKRAFT ART GALLERY Black and White and Shades of Grey is on view to Jul 29 with an opening reception on Jul 1 from 7-10pm. Hours: Weds-Sat 1-5pm. 388 S. Stone Ave. 520-629-9976. WomanKraft.org
WILDE MEYER GALLERY Celebrate Summer opens Jul 2 with a reception from 1-4pm and is on view to Aug 2. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5:30pm; Thurs 10am-7pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 12-5pm. 3001 E. Skyline Dr. 520-615-5222, WildeMeyer.com
YWCA GALLERIA A Moveable Feast featuring work by 13 local artists is on view to Sep 6. Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. 525 N. Bonita Ave. 520-884-7810. YWCATucson.org
Stay cool at Ghini’s this summer!! Cool misted, pet friendly patio! Brunch all day Tues-Sun
best
rosè list in tucson Fri & Sat! happy hour 4-6pm
dinner served 3-9pm
French Caffe & Bistro 1803 E. Prince at Campbell | 326.9095 www.ghiniscafe.com July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 35
Z performances
Z tunes
july-august Wilde, adapted by Christopher Johnson, July 6 - 16. The Historic Y, 300 E. University Blvd. 520-551-2053. TheRogueTheatre.org
What’s Live
CASINO DEL SOL Nick Swardson, July 9 at 8:00 pm. 5655 W. Valencia Rd. 855-
by Jim Lipson
ARTIFACT & THE ROGUE THEATRE A House of Pomegranates by Oscar
765-7829. CasinoDelSol.com
Summer Survival…Buy Local!
THE DINNER DETECTIVE Interactive Murder Mystery Show, July 8 and Aug 19 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Hilton Tucson East, 7600 E. Broadway Blvd. 866-496-0535. TheDinnerDetective.com
FOX THEATRE Singing’ In The Rain, 7:30pm on July 1; The Jungle Book (1967) free movie, 2:00 pm on July 4; Martina McBride, 7:30pm on July 6; Funny Face | Andra Heart Foundation, 7:00 pm on July 7; Margarita la Diosa de la Cumbia, 7:30 pm on July 11; SING - 2016 Animated Film, free movie, 10:00 am on July 14; There’s No Business Like Show Business, 7:30 pm on July 15; David Blaine Live, 8:00 pm on July 22; Unbreakable: Showcase of Strength, 10:00 am on Aug 5; Cesar Lozano - Mujeres Dificiles, Hombres Complicados 2, 8:00 pm on Aug 9; War on the Catwalk, 8:00 pm on Aug 10; South Pacific, free movie, 7:30 pm on Aug 12; Wynonna and The Big Noise, 7:00 pm on Aug 13; Live and Let Die: A Tribute to Paul McCartney, 7:30 pm on Aug 19; Late Night Catechism, 3:00 pm on Aug 20; All That Jazz (classic film), 7:30 pm on Aug 26. 17 W. Congress St. 520-624-1515. FoxTucsonTheatre.org
THE GASLIGHT THEATRE
Spider Guy, continues to August 27. 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. 520-886-9428. TheGaslightTheatre.com
LAFFS COMEDY CAFFE Con Barnhart, July 7 & 8; John Beuhler, July 14 & 15; Mike Stanley, July 21 & 22. 2900 E. Broadway. 520-32-Funny. LaffsTucson.com
LIVE THEATRE WORKSHOP Same Time, Next Year, July 13 - August 19, Mainstage. The Rootin’ Tootin’ Tale of Little Red Riding Boots July 23 - September 17, Family Theatre. 5317 E. Speedway Blvd. 520-327-4242. LiveTheatreWorkshop.org MYSTERY & MAGIC DINNER THEATER PLAYHOUSE Every Friday & Saturday, doors at 6:30 pm, dinner & show at 7:00 pm. Five Palms, 3500 E. Sunrise Dr. 520-861-4800. MysteryDinner.Theater
ODYSSEY STORYTELLING SERIES Emergency, curated by Tracey Kurtzman, July 6, doors at 6:30 pm, show at 7:00 pm. The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress. 520-730-4112. OdysseyStorytelling.com
SEA OF GLASS CENTER FOR THE ARTS Alexander Tentser, piano, a production of the Arizona Friends of Chamber Music, July 5 at 7:00 pm; Four Tissimo, August 26 at 7:30 pm. 330 E. 7th St. 520-577-3796. TheSeaofGlass.org
TUCSON MUSIC HALL Dancing with the Stars: Live! - Hot Summer Nights, August 8 at 7:00 pm. 260 S. Church Ave. TucsonMusicHall.org
TUCSON JAZZ SOCIETY Sunday Jam, Every Sunday from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. Brother John’s Beer, Bourbon & BBQ, 1801 N. Stone Ave. 520-903-1265. TucsonJazz.org
UNSCREWED THEATER Family friendly shows every Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 pm. 3244 E. Speedway Blvd. 520-289-8076. UnscrewedTheater.org
36 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
If you are reading this, you are hot. Even within the comfy confines of your air conditioned domicile, should you be so lucky, or the place where you work, where they probably have it ten degrees cooler than it needs to be, you are hot, or have been at some point. As we go press (late June), we are in a run of 110plus degree days that seems unprecedented in my 34 years as a Tucsonan. Two nights ago I played an outdoor gig downtown, was home by 11, took my three-and-a-half-year-old out for a walk in the stroller to get her to sleep, and it was still, as Third World once sung, “96 degrees in the shade….” It’s no wonder no one wants to bring their tours into Arizona at this time of year. There are a couple of exceptions of course. Rhythm and Roots is bringing Tex-Mex sensation Joe King Curasco on Saturday, July 8, to the Hotel Congress while Dwight Yoakam has a night booked out at the Ava Amphitheatre on, Thursday, July 27. And then there is Steve Earl on Tuesday, August 8, at the Rialto. But unless you have a jones to see the likes of Lynyrd Skynrd, Journey, or a Paul McCartney tribute, the pickings at this time of year, are slim at best. All of which makes buying local, a key component to your summer’s live music survival strategy. Of course, Tucson’s rich vein of homegrown talent is no secret to anyone. What many forget, or worse, forget to take advantage of however, are the series of regular weekly, or monthly gigs that have been sustaining so many of our best players. At this time of year, when we have no choice but to embrace the heat if we are to survive it, there may be no better time to explore the local fare, most, if not all of which is free. Here then, is but a partial compendium as to what is available on a regular basis, right in our own sweaty back yard. SUNDAYS Nancy Elliott and Friends – Monterey Court Brunch, 10 AM-1 PM – As the person behind Katy’s Cache, one of the niche boutiques at Monterey Court, Nancy spends a lot of time on site. Come Sundays however, the resident seamstress and singer/songwriter takes center stage hosting a musical brunch where she is always joined by a featured special guest of note. Hot Club Tucson – Hotel Congress, 10:30 AM-1:30 PM – This trio, made up of Nick Coventry on violin, Matt Mitchell, guitar, and Evan Dain, bass, plays a variety of gypsy jazz tunes in the tradition of Django Reinhardt. While all three are virtuosos in their own right, their ensemble playing is something to behold. Kevin Pakulis and Friends/the Sunday Sessions – Borderlands Brewery, 2:30-4:30 PM - While it seemed to take forever for this idea to fully take root, Pakulis should be credited for sticking with the notion of putting a small core
tunes Z
Mike & Randy 4:20 Show, Sundays at the Hut.
Nancy Elliott, Sundays at Monterey Court.
Tom Walbank, Fridays at Hotel Congress. group together, inviting others to just show up, and then seeing what might happen in the middle of a Sunday afternoon. Sunday regulars now include Clay Koweek, guitar, Marc Rennard, fiddle, Karl Hoffman, bass and Gary Mackender, drums. But look for any number of folks to show up and sit in. Patio Sets at the Mint – 3 pm - Greg Aiken has been hosting these acoustic sets, mostly singer/songwriter affairs, but with some small ensembles as well. Sets are at 3 and 4:15. And in case you were wondering, when it’s hot, the metaphorical patio moves indoors. An odd and interesting venue on Grant Road between Alvernon and Country Club. Cadillac Mountain – the Hut, 6 pm – If you were ever curious as to what buskers might sound like, these guys fit the bill. Joel Leland, guitar and Rudy Cortese, banjo seem like they might be more at home performing on street corners than a stage given the way they sing and play. They host an Open Mic every Sunday but often its more them than anyone else. Sometimes they have a bass, sometimes bass and violin. Whatever the configuration, it’s all good. Oh, and it’s bluegrass, sort of. Heather Hardy – Chicago Bar, 6 PM – This first Sunday of the month gig has not missed a beat since it moved here from the Boondocks. If you don’t know who Heather Hardy is by now, please, get a (musical) life. MONDAYS Bryan Dean Trio – Rockabilly Grill, 6-8:30 PM – While not really a showcase gig, you could say every time Dean straps it on is a showcase event. Having enjoyed a multi-year run of Monday evenings at the Boondocks, this train has now slowed since its move to the Rockabilly on Oracle and Prince. Look for any number of special guests to join Koko, Dean and Ralph Gilmore on stage. Petie Ronstadt, Alex Flores & Friends – Chicago Bar, 9 PM-Midnight Since the passing of Papa Mike, Petie and Alex have been holding this Ronstadt Generations hybrid band together with any number of special guests. First and last Mondays of the month and always special. TUESDAYS Tuesday Night Blues Jam - Hosted by long time rascal, the Deacon, there is no telling who might show up to the jam, although Bryan Dean is said to be a regular. Do not look for Deacon to be schilling for this on social media. Just not that kind a guy. WEDNESDAYS Nick McBlaine and Log Train – Monterey Court, 6:30-9:30 PM – This
first Wednesday of the month show features a band of all stars, including bluegrass great Peter McLaughlin, guitar and mandolin, Nick Coventry, violin, Alvin Blain, dobro and guitar and Evan Dain, bass. Because it is only once a month and because everyone has multiple other projects, there is an extra special chemistry present, especially with the many guests who show up and sit in. (Note, Monterey will be closed for the first week in July so no gig here until August) Bad News Blues Band – Chicago Bar, 8 PM – Midnight – Frequently joined or augmented by Steve Grams and Danny Krieger, a midweek dose of killer blues also featuring Hurricane Carla Brownlee on sax and Mike Blommer, guitar. THURSDAYS Neon Prophet – Chicago Bar – 9 pm - This gig wins the award for Tucson’s longest running engagement. Having survived no fewer than three ownership changes to the venue and dozens of personnel comings and goings, David Dean and Jamie Cirrito, who front this group, continue to define the words local institution through a gig that dates back to 1985. (Also plays Saturdays) Salvador Duran – Hotel Congress, outdoor patio, 7:30 PM – One of a kind troubadour. Check out why he’s so adored by the likes of Calexico and Sergio Mendoza who often include him in their gigs. FRIDAYS Tom Walbank, Hotel Congress, outdoor patio, 7 pm – Tucson seems like an odd place for a Brit to land but Walbank has adjusted to the climate quite well. A master of the blues harp/harmonica, he also plays a pretty good guitar. Who knew? SATURDAYS Mike & Randy 4:20 Show, the Hut, 4:20 – 7:30 PM – Actually, the inside joke is that sometimes it seems the starting time is 4:20 Pacific Time. But as a weekly gathering for Tucson’s Grateful Dead and all things hippie scene, nobody really cares. The show features Tucson’s premier GD tribute band, Top Dead Center, and comes complete with a featured guest soloist along with a different tweener each week. Shows are primarily acoustic with drums, save for the first Saturday of the month which is electric. Stage can be indoors or outdoors depending upon the weather. As the column goes to print, we also bid a fond farewell to Delectables, the Fourth Avenue eatery which has been hosting original acoustic music since the late 1970s. One might say, they had a pretty good run. n July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 37
#SonoranSummer
photo: John Charboneau
Zócalo Magazine wants to see how you’re spending your summer in Tucson and the Sonoran Desert. Post your photos to Instagram and tag them with #SonoranSummer for a chance to win prizes and have your photographs featured in the September 2017 print edition of the magazine. Follow @ZocaloMagazine on Instagram for details.
photo: Dan Machnik
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Studebaker John Mike Hebert
Kid Ramos
Summertime Blues Two shows in August by Jim Lipson Tucson has long been a mecca for the local blues and blues players as well as for those mid-level and lesser known touring acts who are always given a warm desert reception, no matter the time of year. The Arizona Blues Hall of Fame is also dominated by southern Arizonans while Tucson’s annual Blues Festival, after some instability a number of years back, and now having transitioned from Reid Park to the Rillito Downs Race Park, remains a signature event every third weekend in October. Come August, Tucson will hold two big blues shows—one to benefit KXCI Community Radio, and one to benefit the Southern Arizona Blues and Heritage Foundation (SABHF), the non-profit that sponsors the aforementioned festival. KXCI is billing their El Casino Ballroom show on Friday, August 4, as their 6th annual Houserockin’ Blues Review. Anyone who’s been around however, knows that when it comes to El Casino Houserockin’ shows, this could easily be the 46th as these shows have a long history dating back to the late 1980s. This year’s show features Kid Ramos who will join with the 44s, a four piece out of LA featuring guitar, harmonica, bass and drums. To get an idea as to their blues-roots-rock sound, one need go no farther than the Fabulous Thunderbirds, the James Harmon Band or Roomful of Blues, all groups that have featured Ramos at one time or another on guitar, but whose music is also steeped in the tradition of elders such as Muddy Waters, Albert Collins and Howlin’ Wolf. One could go on and on about these guys but the only things you really need to know are Houserockin, El Casino and KXCI which is a sure fire recipe for success. And be prepared to dance because this music will move you. Local Mike Hebert & his Prison Band, playing songs about the rural south, Texas and southeastern Arizona will open the show. Marty Kool, host of
KXCI’s popular Saturday evening Blues Review radio program will also emcee the show. $5 discounts for members of KXCI and SABHF. On Friday, August 18, SAHBF, also in conjunction with KXCI, will hold their own fundraising event at 191 Toole with Studebaker John (Grimaldi) and the Hawks. A slide guitarist, harmonica player and singer, Studebaker John had the benefit of growing up in Chicago where he got to see and hear the blues first hand while growing up and then eventually being a part of that scene having had a chance to play with the cream of the city’s Southside crop including Buddy and Phil Guy, Jr. Wells, Jimmie Johnson, Big Walter James Cotton and Hound Dog Taylor. Other non-locals that had an important influence included the Yardbirds, early Rolling Stones, Paul Butterfield, Mike Bloomfield and the original Fleetwood Mac with Peter Green. With well over a dozen DCs to his credit, Grimaldi, who will be fronting a trio, plays mostly originals and has a wealth of material to choose from. Look for a very engaging performance within the intimate confines of 191 Toole which also offers a great house sound system as well as a space for dancing. Locals Tom Walbank and Austin Counts open the show. Each has a new CD which features each other as a backing musician. Walbank’s new CD is Dust and Stone while Counts will be playing tunes from his new offering Pima County Soul. While Counts is more Americana oriented than blues, Kool says there is a blues type chemistry that envelopes their playing when together. This show offers a $3 discount for members of SABHF and KXCI and may well be the great sleeper show of the summer, as in the one people may be talking about for some time. n July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 39
Z tunes
Cobra Family Picnic, Magnetic Anomaly.
Cover art by Italian artist Mariano Peccinetti
Cobra Family Picnic Magnetic Anomaly Sky Lantern/Cardinal Fuzz Records By Carl Hanni
Imagine a terrestrial cobra family picnic: some packrat samosas, perhaps a coconut mongoose curry and a birds egg lassi, laid out in a jungle glade somewhere, a tiger roaring in the background for atmosphere. Then imagine an extraterrestrial cobra family picnic, as papa cobra, mama cobra and junior cobra sets the controls for deep space and enjoy some freezedried something or other before settling down for a millennium long deep sleep. Wa-la! Magnetic Anomaly by Cobra Family Picnic. Cobra Family Picnic are firmly grounded here in the Tucson quadrant, but they clearly have their gaze set on distant cosmological horizons, and possibly other dimensions, as well. It’s spelled out right on the back cover of their new, full length Magnetic Anomaly release (following the Music For Lava Lamps EP in 2015), which has a song - broken into three parts - called, you bet, “Interplanetary Travel.” And the first track, “Draags,” starts out with a sample of a transmission from one of the Apollo moon missions, leaving any ambiguity about the direction the band is going behind. The four additional tracks on the LP, and five on the CD (“Elysium,” “Frost,” “Gilgamesh,” “Moody Mountain,” plus an epic, un-marked extra track) are all more-or-less cut out of the same hard crystal and titanium material of some of their musical predecessors on their own trips to the edge of the universe: the long and winding space jam. These ain’t your mama’s patchouli drenched, meandering Dead jams or Dave Matthew’s collegiate festival jams; these are more akin to the explosive, high volume jams that Can perfected back in the early 1970s, or some of Hawkwind’s more exploratory missions, and are definitely kissing cousin to Pink Floyd’s ultimate rocket-ship manifesto, “Astronomy Domine.” In other words, Cobra Family Picnic work on the dark and disorienting side of psychedelia, where achieving lift-off is more likely to involve a one way ticket to oblivion rather than incense and peppermints. Modern day psychedelia hasn’t been abbreviated to simply ‘psych’ for no reason, after all: if you sometimes feel like yr trapped in a rubber room in a psych ward at a show, well...say hi to Roky Erickson while you’re there. But perhaps it’s a disservice to called these tracks jams, a term that comes with some baggage; they may be jam-like in their winding-out, cyclical structure, but they are definitely songs. Most of the principal tracks here are built up from Boyd Peterson’s pulsating bass lines and Daniel Thomas’ hard hitting, steady drumming. Lesli Woods’ tripped-out keyboard work adds color, nuance 40 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
and texture, while echo-drenched vocalist Randall Demsey does a great job of emoting into the void (especially on “Elysium,” which also features Richard Young on guitar), although his voice is a little to low in the mix to be dominant, and functions as much as another instrument as in the traditional front man role. Wood shines on the three-part “Interplanetary Travel,” where the band’s forward thrust is dialed back to idle, and they drift into hazy, ambient territory. But enough beating around it: much of the ultimate prize and power of Magnetic Anomaly lies with Connor Gallaher’s dramatic display of electric guitar dimension-bending. Pick a song here - any song - and revel in the sweep and wide angle lens scope of his playing. It’s no news to anyone with their ear to the ground in Tucson that Gallaher is a uniquely talented and gifted string bender (including his work elsewhere on the pedal steel guitar), and this release is likely to clue some of the rest of the world in as well, certainly in psych-friendly Europe, where they will eat this up like crazy. On Magnetic Anomaly he has an apparently endless supply of new moves and shifting tonal approaches up his sleeve, seemingly tapping into the particulate flow of the universe itself. We in Tucson are lucky to count him as one of our own; at least for now. Members of Cobra Family Picnic are all veterans of other Tucson bands, several with their feet in the modern psych movement, including Wight Lhite, Night Collectors, Desert Beats, Silver Cloud Express and Saint Maybe. Following the path of other local psych acts like The Myrrors, they have their sights set on Europe, which generally has a greater appreciation for our locally grown and nurtured talent than the rest of the U.S. does. Both their Cardinal Fuzz and Tucson-based Sky Lantern labels have high profiles in Euro psych circles, so success there almost seems like a given. Magnetic Anomaly was produced by the band, and recorded at Jim Waters’ Waterworks Studios here in Tucson, with Waters doing the engineering. Just having Waters behind the board is a huge plus, and the record sounds dynamic and rich, with a pleasing depth in the mix, and so many sparks flying off Gallaher’s guitar it’s a wonder the studio didn’t catch on fire. Who can blame us for craving a little off-planet escape in these strange times? Magnetic Anomaly can take you there, even if it’s for less than an hour and you remain essentially where you started; but, like the saying says, it’s the journey, more than the destination. n
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Z tunes
LIVE MUSIC Visit the websites or call for current/ detailed information.
191 TOOLE 191 E. Toole Ave. rialtotheatre.com JULY Fri 7: William Clark Green Sun 9: Inspector, Mono Ser, Santa Pachita Sat 15: Okilly Dokilly Sun 16: Naughty Professor Fri 28: Mason, Santa Pachita, Sugar Stains, Quarter Royale AUGUST Thu 10: Kap G, J.R.Donato Sat 12: Chick Magnet, The Rifle Wed 30: Sawyer Fredericks
BORDERLANDS BREWING 119 E. Toole Ave. 261-8773, BorderlandsBrewing.com JULY Fri 7: Mustang Corners Sat 8: Tortolita Gutpluckers Sun 9: Kevin Pakulis Sat 15: Bright & Childers Quartet Sun 16: Kevin Pakulis Fri 21: Eric Schaffer & The Other Troublemakers Sat 22: Rival Shapes Sun 23: Kevin Pakulis Fri 28: Caiden Brewer Sat 29: Digisaurus Sun 30: Kevin Pakulis AUGUST Fri 4: Mustang Corners
CHES LOUNGE 350 N. 4th Ave. 623-2088, ChesLounge.com JULY Sat 22: Santa Pachita
CLUB CONGRESS 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, HotelCongress.com/club JULY Wed 5: Michael P. and the Gullywashers, Half-Broke Town, Blue Mañana Thu 6: Patsy’s Rats, The Resonars, Al Lover Fri 7: Decker, Carlos Arzate & The Kind Souls, Upsahl Sat 8: Joe King Carrasco
Sun 9: Dogbreth, Nice Try, Her Mana, CTV Tue 11: Open Mic Wed 12: Street Blues Family, The Secret B-Sides Thu 13: Alex Weitz, The Gibb Mandish Quartet Fri 14: Kolezanka, Karima Walker, Lowlife Sun 16: Justus Proffit, So Many Wizards, Jess Matsen Wed 19: Cymbals Eat Guitars, Palo Duro Thu 20: Las Pinas, Eeeks, The Surfbroads Sat 22: Bidi Bidi Banda Sun 23: Sleepy Sun, Daycones, The Elegant Babies Mon 31: Alex Napping, Karima Walker, The Rifle AUGUST Tue 1: Tobin Sprout Fri 4: Jared & The Mill, KOLARS Sat 5: Zen Mother, Lenguas Largas, Vatican Ratlines Tue 8: Amigo The Devil, Wil Ridge Wed 9: Negative Approach, Sex Prisoner, Get A Grip, Disciples of Christ, TRIAC Fri 11: Lucy Dacus, Molly Burch Tue 15: Family Mansion, The Wanda Junes, Ex-Cowboy, STBWLIH Thu 24: Pelican, Inter Arma, Spirit Adrift Sat 26: Jessica Fichot Wed 30: Hoco Fest: Thundercat Thu 31: Hoco Fest: Destruction Unit & Friends
LA COCINA 201 N. Court Ave. 622-0351, LaCocinaTucson.com JULY Wed 5: Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield Thu 6: Freddy Parish Fri 7: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club Sat 8: Lord Silverplume, Cuba Libre Sun 9: Mik and the Funky Brunch Wed 12: Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield Thu 13: Louise Le Hir Fri 14: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club
42 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
Sun 16: Mik and the Funky Brunch Wed 19: Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield Fri 21: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club Sun 23: Mik and the Funky Brunch Wed 26: Miss Lana Rebel & Kevin Michael Mayfield Fri 28: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club Sun 30: Mik and the Funky Brunch AUGUST Fri 18: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club Sun 20: Mik and the Funky Brunch Fri 25: Greg Morton & Friends, Freddy Parish’s Country Club Sun 27: Mik and the Funky Brunch
FLYCATCHER 340 E. 6th St. 798-1298, FlycatcherTucson.com JULY Wed 5: Piano Lovers’ Lounge with DJPJ & Sara Mohr Sat 8: Satanik Goat Ritual, Olden, Shadows of Algol, Bloodtrail, Xiuhcoatl Sun 9: Nico Maleon, Mother’s Lament Mon 10: Belinda Esquer Tue 18: Sidewalk Chalk AUGUST Thu 17: The Sorcerers Tour featuring Milo, with Randal Bravery, SB, The Moor, Kenny Segal
FOX TUCSON THEATRE 17 W. Congress St. 624-1515, FoxTucsonTheatre.org JULY Thu 6: Martina McBride Sat 22: David Blaine AUGUST Sun 13: Wynona and The Big Noise Sat 19: Live and Let Die: A Tribute To Paul McCartney
THE HUT 305 N. 4th Ave., 623-3200 huttucson.com Sundays: Acoustic Open Mic, with Cadillac Mountain Thursdays: Mockingbirds Saturdays: Mike & Randy’s 420 Show with Top Dead Center
THE LOUDHOUSE 915 W. Prince Rd., 393-3598 loudhousetucson.com JULY Fri 7: Call The Cops, Upstart 33, Bleach Party U.S.A., O.P.U., The Sindicate Tue 11: Moonsong, Still Life Telescope, Peppermint Hippo Fri 14: The Focke-Wolves, White Demons Sat 15: Fixed Idea, Dirty Magic Fri 28: Penetrators, Southpaw, The Sindicate, Lipstick Stains, Black Bastards Sat 29: Sick Mystic AUGUST Wed 2: Justin Symbol, Sheevaa, The Few Thu 3: Suburban Hell Kill Sat 5: The Queens of Mayhem Wed 9: Lungs Thu 10: Acceptable Losses Fri 11: Doll Skin, Next To None, Divided Minds
MONTEREY COURT 505 W. Miracle Mile, MontereyCourtAZ.com JULY Fri 7: Tommy Tucker Blues, Off the Ground Sat 8: The Coolers Sun 9: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances, TKMA Presents at the Monterey Tue 11: Matthew Scott Thu 13: Oscar con di Luvio Fri 14: Giant Blue Sat 15: Little House of Funk Sun 16: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances, HeatWave–a tribute concert of Linda Ronstadt Music Tue 18: The Tucsonics–Western Swing Wed 19: Eric Schaffer & the Other Troublemakers Fri 21: Johnny Ain’t Right Sat 22: Johnnie & the Rumblers Sun 23: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances Sun 23: Glendon Gross Quintet featuring Gracie Jessop Tue 25: Ft. Defiance–Americana from Nashville
Photo courtesy foxtucson.com
Photo courtesy theseaofglass.org
Photo courtesy flycatchertucson.com
FourTissimo appears at Sea Of Glass, Saturday, August 26.
Photo courtesy rialtotheatre.com
Belinda Esquer appears at Flycatcher, Monday, July 10.
R5 appears at The Rialto Theatre, Friday, July 14.
Thu 27: The Titan Valley Warheads Sun 30: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances, Peter Dalton Ronstadt y El Tucsonense AUGUST Tue 1: Nancy McCallion & Danny Krieger w/ Heather Hardy Wed 2: Nick McBlaine & Log Train Sun 6: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances Sun 13: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances Tue 15: The Tucsonics Wed 16: Eric Schaffer & the Other Troublemakers Sun 20: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances Sun 27: Nancy Elliott & Friends– Sunday Brunch Performances
Fri 21: Blackberry Smoke, The Cadillac Three Sun 23: Playboi Carti, Young Nudy, Pierre Bourne Tue 25: Little River Band Wed 26: Taking Back Sunday, Every Time I Die, Modern Chemistry Thu 27: Reik, Diluvio Fri 28: Los Lonely Boys, Lisa Morales Sat 29: Tucson Libertine League AUGUST Tue 1: Corey Feldman & The Angels Wed 2: Amadou & Miriam, DJ Dirtywebs Tue 8: Steve Earl, The Mastersons Wed 9: 2 Chainz Mon 14: Fleet Foxes Fri 18: Dead Cross Mon 28: Residente, PJ Sin Suela Tue 29: Ottmar Liebert, Luna Negra
RIALTO THEATRE
THE ROCK
318 E. Congress St. 740-1000, RialtoTheatre.com JULY Sat 1: Deorro Fri 7: Dia De Las Luchas Sat 8: Song Behind The Story Fri 14: R5, Hailey Knox, New Beat Fund Mon 17: Game Grumps Live Wed 19: DJ Shadow Thu 20: Johnny Lang
136 N. Park Ave. rocktucson.com JULY Fri 21: Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness Sun 23: Yung Pinch Wed 26: Raging Fyah Thu 27: He Is Legend Sat 29: Contra, Somewhere To Call Home AUGUST
Martina McBride appears at the Fox Theatre, Thursday, July 6.
Tue 1: Wage War Wed 2: Memphis Mayfire, Blessthefall Sat 5: Local Showdown Round 2 Mon 7: Ted Grizzley Fri 11: Battle Royale Round 1 Sat 12: Some Men Are Evil VIII Wed 16: Myles Parish Sat 19: Local Showdown Semifinals Tue 22: The Queers, The Araris Fri 25: F*CK Cancer Benefit
SEA OF GLASS 330 E. 7th St., 398-2542 TheSeaOfGlass.org JULY Wed 5: Alexander Tentser AUGUST Sat 26: FourTissimo
SKY BAR TUCSON 536 N. 4th Ave, 622-4300. SkyBarTucson.com JULY Sat 1: Shooda Shook It, Marching Powder Tue 4: Tom Walbank, Steff Koeppen Wed 5: Open Mic Fri 7: Vinyl Wizard Sat 8: Santa Pachita, Nico Tue 11: Tom Walbank, Steff Koeppen Wed 12: Open Mic Fri 14: Vinyl Wizard, Cirque Roots
tunes Z Tue 18: Tom Walbank, Naim Amor Wed 19: Open Mic Fri 21: Vinyl Wizard Sat 22: Miller’s Planet Tue 25: Tom Walbank, Steff Koeppen Wed 26: Open Mic Fri 28: Vinyl Wizard AUGUST Tue 1: Tom Walbank, Naim Amor Wed 2: Open Mic Fri 4: Vinyl Wizard Tue 8: Tom Walbank, Steff Koeppen Wed 9: Open Mic Fri 11: Vinyl Wizard, Cirque Roots, School of Rock Summer Tour Tue 15: Tom Walbank, Naim Amor Wed 16: Open Mic Fri 18: Vinyl Wizard Tue 22: Tom Walbank, Steff Koeppen Fri 25: Vinyl Wizard, Cirque Roots
TAP & BOTTLE 403 N. 6th Ave. 344-8999 TheTapandBottle.com JULY Thu 6: Infinite Mercies Thu 13: Naim Amor Thu 20: Los Streetlight Curb Players Thu 27: Little Cloud AUGUST See website for more information
July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 43
Z sceneintucson
by Janelle Montenegro instagram / @JMontenegroPhotography
People gather at Moca for the kickoff of their free friday night screenings.
DJ Mystic 1 at Greenfeet Brewery's anniversary party.
Mike at Dragoon Brewery's tamale and beer pairing party.
Hutch's Pools in Sabino Canyon.
The Santa Cruz Summer Winds preforming on Memorial Day. 44 ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com | July/August 2017
The 2nd grand opening of Amy’s Donuts on Ft. Lowell and Stone.
Bella’s Gelato Shoppe at Moca Friday night for Frida.
Carolyn at the 4th on 44th event.
Anderson Valley Barrel Aged G&T Gose at Tap and Bottle.
Aspen Trees on Mt. Graham.
American Flying Buffalo food truck at 4th on 44th.
Alex with his dog Jake, at Moca’s friday night free screening of Frida. July/August 2017 | ZOCALOMAGAZINE.com 45
Z poetry A Brillo Lasso
How to Change Water into Wine
How could it be we never knew each other? You are so soft, yet stand in the corridor each room a memory that repeats its exuberance until you move on the corridor. Music clips your heels as it once taught you how to walk here, to dress for the weather. How could it be we never touched against the winter of our dying, the bridge choked with clouds, larks, dusty snow--the true winter of our dying we did not hold each other’s knowledge of the sea, the rambling house in reality empty of all but what the deep brown of the ocean daisies made me want to say: how could it be we never loved each other better, sang of soft things. Memory of seaweed: not like copper scrubbers, sun in brine turned to metal, but miniature queens’ & kings’ leaves colored mustard, a triton’s curl of grapes--when I was a child we took Brillo pads standing in roads wide as beaches with the bright box at our feet, unfolding hangers & securing a Brillo pad we’d light before twirling it like a lassoo over our heads, our friends’ distant faces seen to be crying gold stars, & the stars completely enveloping ourselves, a burst of luminous rain, a blind crumbling on all sides. --Nicole Broadhurst
Former student of beloved Tucson poets Jon Anderson & Steve Orlen, Nicole Broadhurst is a Christian American poet working on her 800-page-book of poetry SOUVENIR. Her poetry has appeared in The Kenyon Review, The Miami Herald, Elimae & Maverick, among others.
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First, don’t drink the water. It is contaminated with filth from everyone in your village, their livestock & each person up river, all the way to the foothills of the mountain you worship. Second, set a date to get married. There will be many friends & family members who want to attend, more people than you can afford to feed & still go on a honeymoon. Third, buy lots of fruit. Fruit is not expensive & it contains plenty of water. Folks will not get as thirsty from dancing & chasing each other around trying to collect old debts. Don’t put salt shakers on the guest’s tables. They are lethal weapons if thrown with force at someone’s head. Fourth, invite Jesus.
– Mike Casetta
Mike Casetta has one book of poetry published in 2009 by Moon Pony Press titled The Certainty of Looking Elsewhere. His poetry has appeared in numerous small
Mike Casetta, a former Tucsonan, has one book of poetry published in 2009 by Moon Pony Press titled The Certainty of Looking Elsewhere. His poetry has appeared in numerous small presses.
Zócalo invites poets with Tucson connections to submit up to three original, previously unpublished (including online) poems, any style, 40 line limit per poem. Our only criterion is excellence. Simultaneous submissions ok if you notify ASAP of acceptance elsewhere. Email your submission to poetry@zocalotucson.com. Please include contact information: phone number and email address. Notification of acceptance or rejection by email. Zócalo has first North American rights; author may re-publish with acknowledgment to Zócalo. Payment is a one year subscription. The poetry editor is Jefferson Carter.
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