Lovin Life After 50: West March 2019

Changing Times

Upgraded amenities at many 55+ communities around the Valley

Meet Steve Fish

Lovin’ Life After 50’s founder shares publication’s storied past

March 2019

Chef to the Stars

Robin Murphy has cooked for Madonna and Mariah Carey

Where to nd Kirsch, stout, wine and whisky

Resources to Help You Care for Mom & Dad

Finding the best senior care option for Mom and Dad, knowing when it’s time – and even starting that conversation – can be really hard. Navigate this challenging time with our podcast and article series featuring Donna Taylor, COO of LifeStream Complete Senior Living and hosted by Jayme West of Arizona’s Morning News KTAR 92.3 FM.

Episode 1 - How to Start the Conversation

It’s hard to talk to your Mom and Dad about senior living options. Listen to our tips on what to do and what NOT to do!

Episode

2 - Understanding Your Options

Navigating the many living options can be a challenge. Learn what each o ers and which is best for your Mom or Dad.

Episode 3 - Making the Decision

These decisions are hard. Find the best place for your Mom or Dad - as well as help them plan financially.

Passionate About Serving Seniors!

Passionate About Serving Seniors!

Opinion

Leibo At Large It pays to be skeptical about outrageous claims

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

Maybe you’re shocked that the Jussie Smollett hate crime tale appears to have turned into a hoax, but I’m not. I wish I could say it’s because I’m some 21st century Sherlock Holmes. I’m not. But here’s what I am when it comes to everything I see and hear, especially in the news.

Skeptical.

Skepticism has been around since the old Greeks. Skeptics believe that absolute truth is tough to ascertain, so it’s best to apply a healthy sense of doubt to most stories and propositions. Having been around journalism for the past 25 years, I can say that skepticism has become increasingly helpful over time because it has helped me avoid embarrassing public mistakes and heartbreak. When I rst heard that Smollett, an actor and singer who is black and gay, claimed to have been beaten by two white men who shouted racist and homophobic slurs, tied a noose around his neck, then doused him with bleach while screaming about “MAGA country,” my reaction was … skeptical. I didn’t shout, “Wow, that’s a hoax.”

Rather, I thought, “Hmm, if that story is true, it’s awful. And if it’s not true, it’s equally awful. I’m going to wait for all the facts before I make up my mind.”

In retrospect, that turned out to be wise, at least in contrast to Democratic presidential contenders Kamala Harris and Cory Booker – who both immediately labeled Smollett’s case a “modern-day lynching” – and director Rob Reiner, who laid the “attack” at the feet of President Trump.

“Homophobia existed before Trump, but there is no question that since he has injected his hatred into the American bloodstream, we are less decent, less human, and less loving,” Reiner tweeted.

My thought: When a Hollywood celebrity claims to be walking to Subway alone at 2 a.m. in downtown Chicago on the coldest night of the year, take a deep breath before hitting send on that tweet.

Point being, skeptics don’t assume ev-

erything is fake. Cynics do. Cynics believe everyone is inherently awful, everyone is out to screw everyone, and everyone is a self-interested liar.

I only believe that about most politicians, lawyers and car salesmen.

For the rest of mankind, I believe the truth is slippery and complex, so I seek a high degree of proof before buying in to anyone’s claims.

One of the great rewards of skepticism, besides avoiding looking silly?

You’ll have lots of chances to say, “I told you so,” which you can then pass up to much self-acclaim.

Recently, a researcher friend emailed me a front-page story from a Phoenix newspaper claiming “thousands of people may have been exposed to dangerous levels of radiation” emanating from three big buckets of uranium ore stored for almost 20 years in a museum at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. His point: “This ‘scoop’ doesn’t quote a single scientist about the relative safety of uranium. It’s mostly premised on some email from a serial whistleblower who sounds like a nutjob.”

The next day, I emailed my friend the paper’s “skin back” – journalism slang for a follow-up story that basically says “whoops” about the original story.

The funniest line? “It’s just a bucket of rocks,” said a health physicist who disputed the whistleblower’s allegations. “I wouldn’t line my baby’s crib with it but …” My buddy emailed back a “laughing so hard I’m crying” emoji and one line: “Score another victory for skepticism.”

A much smarter fellow than most of us, the astronomer and author Carl Sagan used to say, “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.” That was true in Sagan’s time, but not so much nowadays. Today, sadly, saying, tweeting and emailing is believing.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

Pacific Coastal - 7 Days

March 10, 2019

Circle Hawaii - 15 Days

March 24, 2019

Mexican Riviera - 7 Days

April 6, 2019

Alaska from LA - 12 Days

April 23, 2019

September 17, 2019

Ask Gabby Gayle That rst ‘frog’ may be the right one

BY GAYLE LAGMAN-CRESWICK

Dear Gabby Gayle:

Alaska from LA - 12 Days

Panama Canal - 19 Days

September 29, 2019

Baja Mexico - 10 Days

October 4, 2019

November 9, 2019

Pacific Coastal - 7 Days

Circle Hawaii - 15 Days

November 19, 2019

I have read quite a few complaints about dating sites. I had a great experience. I thought your readers should hear it. My very rst acquaintance on the dating site was a nice man who thought we should have co ee. I met him and we have been together for over a year and are planning our marriage. We are going to have a service by a chaplain, but we are not making it legal – except in the eyes of God. We are in our 80s, and feel because of our nancial situations and our pre-nup, it would simplify things. Tell your readers you “don’t always have to kiss a lot of frogs before you nd your prince!”

Signed, Happy Camper

Dear Happy:

Thank you for writing. It is good to hear dating site successes! Best wishes for a happy life.

could greatly improve. If he will not go to the doctor, please go to the doctor for professional advice for him.

GG

Dear Gabby Gayle:

I have a delicate problem. My 19-year-old granddaughter, whom I love dearly, has asked to borrow money from me but says she cannot tell me why she needs it. She also says her parents cannot know about it. She said she needs $1,000. She seems rather desperate, and I have plenty of money, but I told her I would have to think about it. Meanwhile, I am asking Gabby Gayle! Help!

Signed, ???

Dear ???:

GG

Dear Gabby Gayle:

My husband is retired now, and I still work part time. I am younger than he, and I am very active with our church and my friends. My dear husband does not want to do anything. He acts hurt when I leave him home alone, but he won’t go with me. I urge him to volunteer or get a hobby. Any ideas you or your readers have to get him going would be appreciated. He is a good husband, not a drinker. He has had a successful career. I don’t want to sit around myself!

Signed, BL

Dear BL:

It sounds to me like he may be depressed and need professional intervention. Depression is a mysterious malady and is serious. We think our urging and coaxing will snap them out of it, but it does not work that way. They simply cannot get out of it without help. Please get help for him. Approach this in a loving way, and I would not leave him alone for long periods of time until he gets help. Let me know how it goes.

With medication and counseling, he

You realize when you ask me for help you are getting one person’s opinion, and I can only tell you what I would do in this situation. I see several problems if it were my problem. I have given small amounts of money to grandchildren from time to time. Like gas money or something like that. I don’t believe I would give $1,000 to one without their parents’ knowledge, and I am certain the parents would want to know why she needs it. With my limited knowledge I would suspect she might want it for an abortion or some cosmetic thing, or even a gambling debt. If that were true, think of the consequences if something went wrong and you were found to be the money lender! I would try to talk to my granddaughter about the fact that there is nothing so bad that you should be afraid to tell your parents or grandparents. Nothing is so bad it cannot be xed. I would say that I would be glad to help out with her parents’ approval. Explain the consequences of deception in your own life (if there are any...I have some). I might even say if she doesn’t tell them, I might feel obligated to tell them about the request. You might offer to go with her to tell the parents. Although she may lose trust in you, if you were to do this without her. You have to weigh the situation for yourself. Good luck.

GG

News Briefs

COMPILED BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Sun City man wins Super Bowl trip

Sun City resident/veteran Joseph Billingsley won a trip to the Super Bowl, thanks to Desert Financial Credit Union. His prize included two plane tickets to Atlanta, a hotel stay, $5,000 cash and tickets to the Super Bowl. He took Susan Rinaldini.

The “Big Kickoff Sweepstakes” from Desert Financial Credit Union was part of a 2018 “Year of Giving,” with a goal of investing $7 million in the community and its members, and offering chances to win experiences, support education and improve the community.

“Giving back to the members we serve is a core part of our business,” says Desert Financial Credit Union President and CEO Jeff Meshey. “It was a pleasure for both myself and our entire company to be able to treat Joe, a 13-year member of Desert Financial, to such a special event.”

Florence celebrating G.I. Bill of Rights’ anniversary

American Legion Post 9, in conjunction with McFarland State Historic Park and the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, is hosting the 75th anniversary celebration of the G.I. Bill of Rights from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 30.

The event honors the legislation that has helped millions of veterans since 1944, and Ernest “Mac” McFarland, Arizona statesman and one of the bill’s authors.

The free event starts with a parade on North Main Street. A ceremony of celebration immediately follows at 11 a.m. at Padilla Park, 440 N. Main Street.

For more information, call 520-868-4496 or 520-868-9433, email florencevisitorcenter@gmail.com or visit ewmcfarland.org.

Simply A Cappella headed for convention

Simply A Cappella, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, will compete during Gateway to Harmony, Region 21, convention and competition on Saturday, April 6, at the Orpheum Theater in Phoenix.

This women of all ages are committed to four-part a cappella harmony.

The chorus and double quartet Simply Singin’ is available for performances in the Phoenix and East Valley areas.

Topher Keene is the director of this vocal chorus, which entertains at churches, adult community villages and assisted living facilities.

Additional voices and venues are always needed. The rehearsals are 7 p.m. Thursdays at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Avenue, Mesa. For more information, call 480-969-5517.

Roger’s Tom Jones returns to Tempe Center for the Arts

Roger’s Tom Jones and the Motown Blossoms will play a benefit for Valley of the Sun United Way at the Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 17.

This all-ages show also features performances by Sister Sledge’s Amber Dirks, with a special tribute to veterans by Nisha Kataria. Tickets are $29 and $40.

For more information, visit rogerstomjones.com/events. Senior and veterans discounts are available by using the code “TOM” at checkout online. The TCA box office number is 480-350-2822.

Carstens honorary grandparent chairwoman

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix appointed Deborah G. Carstens as honorary grandparent chairwoman of its 2019 gala,

“…And the Beat Goes On,” set for Saturday, March 9. The appointment underscores the museum’s recognition of the vital role grandparents play in children’s lives. The museum has over 5,000 member families, 11.5 percent of which are grandparent memberships. Carstens is the head of Carstens Family Funds, a philanthropic organization active in Arizona, California and Colorado.

The gala begins at 6 p.m. with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction inside the museum. Festivities continue outside with a live auction and dinner. Entertainment will include interactive music from Frank Thompson of AZ Rhythm Connection. The evening will be emceed by auctioneer Bobby D. Ehlert of Call to Auction.

Proceeds directly benefit the museum’s Every Child Program, which provides free or reduced rate museum access to families battling financial, emotional or circumstantial challenges.

Tickets are $275 and available at tinyurl. com/cmopgala or by calling Tenneille Choi at 602-648-2761.

Sun City Rotary Club hosting spaghetti dinner fundraiser

The Rotary Club of Sun City Del Sol is hosting its 29th annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at Fountain of Life Lutheran Church, 15630 N. Del Webb Boulevard, Sun City.

Besides the unlimited dinner with dessert, there will be a live auction and a silent auction with the ability to purchase gift baskets with various themes. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. The proceeds benefit many Rotary projects. For more information, contact Carol Steficek, president of the Rotary Club of Sun City Del Sol, at 623-200-7280.

The Rotary Club of Sun City-Del Sol meets 7 a.m. Thursdays at the Salvation Army Sun Cities Valley Corps, 17420 Avenue of the Arts, Surprise.

Sun City West veteran honored

Military and Veterans Liaison Chuck Byers from the office of Rep. Debbie Lesko presented Ret. Col. Larry Leighton of Sun City

West with Arizona’s District 8 Congressional Recognition at the Corte Bella Veterans meeting.

“After serving the country for over 28 years, Larry has become an active member of Arizona’s veteran community,” Lesko says. “Larry founded the Corte Bella Veterans, which has over 200 members and has helped raise over $100,000 for Arizona veterans charities and other veterans in need.”

Tropical Caribbean cruise, conference focuses on caregivers

A new cruise and conference designed for caregivers and their loved ones living with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease is set to sail to the Caribbean in April.

“The theme is ‘Connecting Circles of Care and Building Bridges of Hope,’ and the goal for this unique cruise and conference is that it will inspire, educate and empower caregivers and their family members on many levels,” says Lisa Marie Chirico, cruise and conference producer and founder of nursinghomeology.com, where she serves as a nursing home navigator coach.

As a former caregiver for her father, who battled Alzheimer’s disease, Chirico knows the multiple challenges that families and their loved ones face, at home and in a skilled nursing environment.

A panel of dementia and senior care practitioners and professionals join Chirico for this conference. The “Connecting Circles of Care and Bridging Bridges of Hope” cruise and conference also features an opportunity aboard for attendees to find support during their journey from memoirs and handbooks written by dementia caregivers offered through a new program created by AlzAuthors.com called the AlzAuthors Inspiration Library.

This seven-day cruise and conference sails to the Caribbean on Holland America’s MS Oosterdam and departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 6, with stops in Key West; Turks and Caicos; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; and Holland America’s private island Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Prices start at $909.

All cruise reservations are required to be made by Jody McShea at DePrez Travel Bureau Inc., at 585-442-8900, ext. 208, or via email at jmcshea@depreztravel.com.

Sun City resident/veteran Joseph Billingsley won a trip to the Super Bowl, thanks to Desert Financial Credit Union. (Photo courtesy Desert Financial Credit Union)

Features Changing

Times

BY ALISON STANTON

Traditionally, 55-and-older communities are synonymous with bingo and golf cart parking.

To say times have changed is probably the understatement of the year.

These days, a number of 55-and-older communities around the state offer their residents a number of attractive and resortstyle amenities – everything from bistros and day spas to breweries and state-of-theart fitness centers.

For example, the following 55-and-older communities are definitely part of the trend of providing residents an amenity-centric experience. From assisted living options to 55-and-older neighborhoods filled with single-family homes, these communities offer something for everyone – and plenty of activities and features:

Trilogy 55+ Communities

Shea Homes offers four Trilogy communities that are 55 and older or all ages with 55-and-older neighborhoods. They are: Trilogy at Vistancia in Peoria; Encanterra in the San Tan Valley; Trilogy at Verde River in Rio Verde; and Wickenburg Ranch.

“Today’s buyers are interested in resort clubs that feature more than a few treadmills, free weights, monthly game nights and a multi-use room,” says Hal Looney, Arizona president of Shea Homes Active

Amazing amenities await residents of many 55-plus communities

Lifestyle Communities.

Today’s buyers are looking for a wellrounded approach when it comes to creating an edgy, fun lifestyle, he says.

For example, all Trilogy communities feature a signature resort club, Looney says.

“The club is designed to feel like an extension of your own home,” he says.

Amenities at each community complement the surrounding area, Looney says, and usually feature a championship 18hole golf course, three or four restaurants – which include a signature restaurant led by an executive chef – a full bar and poolside dining, and cafés.

Trilogy 55-and-older communities also include a resort pool, fitness and lap pools, a market place with gourmet and everyday grocery items plus locally-made gifts, a day spa, a culinary studio, a fitness center, outdoor sports courts with pickleball, bocce and tennis, and an event center.

“We’ve also introduced culinary studios for cooking classes or private parties, wine education programs, and weekly classes and events that bring people together while educating them on art, culinary and sports, all in a spirited, joyful environment,” Looney says.

For more information about Trilogy communities, call 1-855-321-5510 or visit arizonatrilogy.com.

While golf is definitely still a popular activity at each Robson Resort Community, Alina Hushka, senior vice president of marketing, says many other world-class amenities, activities and recreation options are available.

“Amenities include resortstyle pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, gorgeous clubhouses, softball fields, creative arts centers, walking paths, dog parks, tennis and pickleball complexes, ballrooms/auditoriums, and so much more,” Hushka says.

Within the Ranch House Clubhouse, the Ranch House Brewery is a huge hit, Hushka says, and the in-house craft brews and a pizza station have already become popular with residents and visitors.

Robson Resort Communities

Robson has built a number of 55-andolder communities around the Valley and state, including PebbleCreek in Goodyear; SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch in Oracle; Robson Ranch Arizona in Eloy and Quail Creek in Green Valley.

Each Robson Resort Community also offers more than 100 clubs, organizations, classes and activities, Hushka says.

“When designing active adult communities, we put ourselves in the mindset of our customers. Our goal is to create a community that embodies the classic favorites, while still incorporating innovation in everything we do,” she says.

In addition, Hushka says, Robson Ranch Arizona has expanded its Creative Arts Center by adding approximately 5,000 square

Every few years, Hushka says, new amenities are built at Robson’s 55-andolder communities, based on the needs and wants of active adults.

“For example, SaddleBrooke Ranch just opened the new Ranch House Clubhouse, featuring a gorgeous ballroom and auditorium, private dining room, climate-controlled wine wall, outdoor terraces, as well as a U-shaped bar with views overlooking the lake,” she says.

feet of space, giving additional room for a variety of clubs. The center consists of a ceramics studio, art gallery, painting studio, sewing and craft room, and a wood shop.

“Increasingly, we are seeing the 55-plus community becoming more interested in living an active lifestyle, nurturing their well-being and enjoying life to the fullest,” Hushka says.

The Grand Living Room at Encanterra in the San Tan Valley

The Club House at Encanterra and The Vault, a private wine dining experience, in the San Tan Valley (Photos special to LLAF)

The Ranch House patio at Robson Resort Communities

For more information, call 1-800-7329949 or visit robson.com.

LifeStream Complete Senior Living

LifeStream Complete Senior Living has four 55-and-older communities, notes Donna Taylor, chief operating officer of LifeStream. Three of them have independent living options that include all the benefits of retirement living in a cozy, maintenance-free apartment, duplex or patio home.

“These independent living communities are conveniently located in the north and Northwest Valley and feature full-size kitchens, community pools/spas, beauty salons, chapels, dining rooms and plenty of social outings and activities to help residents build new and lasting relationships.”

As Taylor notes, many senior living communities like LifeStream Complete Senior Living are offering new amenities to try to appeal to younger prospective residents.

“Too often, many of these services or activities aren’t what the seniors want; it’s what their adult children want because they think it will help their parents stay active,” Taylor says.

“In our 40 years of experience serving seniors at LifeStream, we have found the most important benefit to nurturing seniors’ minds, bodies and souls is to provide environments that foster new relationships. Whether that is through daily activities or day trips with a group, we have found that the personal friendships, and even some that can grow into something more, are what keep seniors feeling young, independent and active.”

As Taylor explains, LifeStream’s goal is to provide a comfortable and thriving environment that promotes genuine human connections so residents can find meaning and purpose. Every activity and amenity they offer centers around this approach.

“For example, our art classes, exercise programs, video game competitions and daily Bible studies encourage community and interaction. We also offer planned group trips and ‘Random Trips of Fun,’” she says.

For these enjoyable adventures, residents load into an air-conditioned bus to

go shopping, or see spring wildflowers or holiday lights.

“These trips are great for building relationship with other residents.”

In addition, one of the 55-and-older communities, LifeStream at Thunderbird, offers all-day dining.

“Residents can get a late dinner or afternoon snack whenever it fits in their schedule. We also know how important pets are, so we welcome them at several of our independent communities and provide amenities such as water bowls, treats and areas to play,” Taylor says.

“We’re finding that the more mature buyers are attracted to our secure lockand-leave living and resort-style amenities that keep them active and engaged within the community,” Mann says.

The Statesman Group is constructing almost $300 million in residential real estate across the Valley.

• Professionally trained caregivers 24 hours a day.

• Customized care plans to meet your individual needs.

• Restaurant-style meals all day everyday, housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance taken care of.

• Compassionate team members you can count on.

For more information, call 623-512-4567 or visit lifestreamliving.com.

The Manor Village at Desert Ridge

Although it is not open yet – the target completion date is in mid-2020 – The Manor Village at Desert Ridge in North Phoenix will feature a large number of attractive amenities.

Alana Mann, president and owner of The Statesman Group, the developer of the community, says The Manor Village at Desert Ridge will be comprised of 196 apartment-style, independent-living, assisted-living and memory-care suites that feature a variety of floor plans ranging in size from 446 to 1,043 square feet.

When completed, The Manor Village at Desert Ridge will offer a wide variety of amenities, Mann says, including the Apple a Day Bistro, full-service day spa, theater, pool, wellness center and a fireside lounge and bar.

“That’s what makes The Manor Village Life Centers so unique. We’re able to apply our expertise in multifamily real estate to create a state-of-the-art senior living community complete with the same design standards, amenities and services that our luxury apartments and condominiums have.”

As Mann notes, when older buyers are ready to make the transition into senior living like The Manor Village at Desert Ridge, they will enter into a community that has the same level of amenities, activities and services they were previously used to, just with a little more care.

While resort-style amenities and chefdriven dining are “must-haves” for current and incoming residents, Mann says a caring and personable staff is still an important feature.

“At The Manor Village, we understand the importance of creating amenity and service-rich communities for our valued residents and design our communities accordingly with the best team members,” she says.

For more information about The Manor at Desert Ridge, call 480-767-7646 or visit themanorvillageusa.com.

Residents enjoy chef-inspired fine dining at The Manor Village at Desert Ridge.

Downsizing 101

BY MIRANDA CYR

Downsizing has been a hot topic in media as of late, with books, articles and shows popping up across the board.

With larger homes and lifespans, seniors are finding themselves in an unforeseeable situation in which their houses have now outgrown them.

“When people hit 50, they just get stuck,”

Prepare, prepare, prepare

Interior designer and co-author of “Design Your Retirement Lifestyle” Jeanette Knudsen says the most important aspect of downsizing is planning ahead.

“Sometimes people get in a big hurry, and they just start pitching and tossing things,” the Mesa resident says. “To down

Planning ahead can ensure downsizing isn’t overwhelming, which is easy to do in a large home with excess clutter. By thinking about the space available in the new or current home, a plan can be created to help accomplish all the goals.

Knudsen also says it’s helpful to plan the layout of the new space. She has drawn blueprints to designate which furniture will fit. The plans can also help movers set up the desired layout of each room.

“Don’t guess, calculate,” Knudsen says. “Space plan your new space with your existing furniture.”

By taking trivial material objects that have less emotional connection, such as kitchen supplies, the process can start at a

“I might start with something like something simple like kitchen utensils,” Metzler says. “To work through that without getting overwhelmed and knowing that you’re making the right decisions, is to literally clear off a countertop, clear off a dining room table and take all of your utensils and lay them out.”

Downsizing...continued on page 19

Canyon Winds Now Open!

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Independent Living

Canyon Winds is proud to offer an Independent Living community that will be sure to impress! Let our team at Canyon Winds do all the work, while you enjoy a resort style community with amenities to include:

• Restaurant style dining room with world class food • 2 spacious activity rooms that will host many daily events

Indoor & outdoor entertaining areas

Knudsen,

Meet Steve Fish

Former publisher reflects on 40 years of Lovin’ Life

BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

Someone once likened a publication to a three-legged stool, with each leg being a different component: Editorial, distribution and advertising.

To this day that metaphor sticks with former Lovin’ Life After 50 publisher Steve Fish, who spent nearly three decades with the after50-marketed publication.

“If any one of those is weak, then the stool’s going to fall over,” Fish explains.

Tempe office. The company acquired the senior-focused publication in 2009, with Fish remaining on board.

“I had a great team,” Fish reflects. “When we made the transition, I think my newest employee had been with me 13 years.”

The thing that I enjoyed most, I think, about it was all of the employees and getting them involved. I had a great team.

- Steve Fish, Former publisher of Lovin’ Life After 50

As such, in his many years with the brand, Fish always made sure to have a good team behind him. And perhaps those memories remain the closest to him all these years later.

“The thing that I enjoyed most, I think, about it was all of the employees and getting them involved,” Fish ponders from a conference room at Times Media Group’s

Long before it became the No. 1-ranked free circulation publication in the state, however, like everything else it had small beginnings.

Fish was raised on a ranch in West Texas. Though he wound up in the newspaper business, journalism wasn’t his background. But he did have business acumen.

Fish earned his undergraduate degree in agricultural economics from Texas Tech University in Lubbock. After that, he pursued a graduate degree from The Univer-

sity of Texas at Arlington and switched his focus to accounting.

“When I graduated from college, I decided to make a change, so I got into accounting,” he says. “I was with Price Waterhouse for about three years, and then I went to work for Harte-Hanks Communications, which at that time was primarily a newspaper company that had recently gone public and was expanding. But from the business side, I was the internal audit manager, and then became vice president of a San Diego group of publications.”

As Fish tells it, part of Harte-Hanks’ commercial work in the 1970s included the San Diego-based Senior World Publications. That brand expanded to Arizona in 1979. Fish ultimately left Harte-Hanks and bought into Senior World Publications. But when he intended to close the failing Arizona edition, he “got enthused.”

“What does a person who doesn’t know what he’s doing do? He bought it from the parent company and took it over in August of 1980,” Fish adds with a laugh. “That’s when I actually became the owner of what was then Arizona Senior World.

“The first issue was 12 pages and had less than $5,000 of ad revenue in it. And it was a combined August/September issue, which was the only combined issue we ever had in the 40 years.”

But with hard work, Arizona Senior World grew.

At one point, Fish remembers, there were as many as 17 editions, from the Metropolitan Phoenix area to Yavapai County, Tucson and even Las Vegas, Nevada. The largest issue was about 104 pages, he estimates, and at one point he had around 12 sales representatives working for him.

“We tried different things and some of them worked and some of them we backed off of,” Fish says, calling 17 zones “too much” with a laugh. Nevada Senior World, in particular, he acquired in the 1990s; Times Media Group discontinued it. But why did Fish become enthused in the first place? According to him, he saw Phoenix had a large senior population and there were changes that could be made. But while the news business had its ups, it also had its downs.

“It was a tough go back then. People thought that seniors all lived in nursing homes, and they didn’t then and they certainly don’t now,” Fish says, adding that it was difficult to acquire advertisers targeting seniors then.

Early on, Arizona Senior World was in Phoenix and Tucson, but circulation was pulled back. In 1984, Fish says, it reopened in Tucson and expanded Phoenix-area circulation. In fact, the Tucson edition was already making revenue by its second issue.

“We just about tripled revenue in ’84, over ’83, and that was the first year that I was here on a full-time basis, because I had taken another position in San Diego to put food on the table,” he adds.

There were several factors in Arizona Senior World’s turnaround, Fish says. First, there was his heavy work load, alternating between the paper here and work in San Diego. Then, he feels “people started understanding a little more about the senior market.”

During Steve Fish’s tenure as publisher of Lovin’ Life After 50, the magazine had as many as 17 editions, from Metropolitan Phoenix to Yavapai County. (Photo by Kimberly Carrillo) San Diego company Senior World Publications expanded to Arizona in 1979. Steve Fish bought the Arizona edition in 1980. Today, it is known as Lovin’ Life After 50.

Various events have long been tied with the publication. Lovin’ Life After 50 has sponsored the Ms. Senior Arizona Pageant during its 30 years. This year’s pageant is Saturday, March 30, at the Valley Vista Performing Arts Center in Surprise, and rehearsals have already started.

“Working with Steve Fish was just absolutely wonderful,” says Herme Sherry, executive director of the pageant, who likens Fish to a mentor. “He was always there to help. I could call him at any time. We started working with the expos, the Lovin’ Life Expos, and whatever we needed he had it there.”

She adds, “Steve Fish is one of the hardest-working guys, and I can understand why Lovin’ Life lasted so long … He was much like a second father to me, as far as business.”

Perhaps the magazine’s most notable contribution is its Lovin’ Life Expos. Now 31 years in, they didn’t always succeed. In fact, everything went wrong the first time, Fish says. Guests were charged for entry and parking, there were issues with the organizer, and more than 100 exhibitors signed up but very few guests attended. It was held in a barn at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, alongside a home show, which had even fewer guests, Fish recalls.

Feeling obligated to give it another go, he held it the following year at the Phoenix Convention Center. Alas, it still didn’t perform up to snuff. So, they kept trying, and, well, the rest is history. Today, the expos are Arizona’s longest-running expos for the after-50 market. Now, there are five: East Valley, Mesa, Sun City, Tucson and West Valley. Set during the fall and winter months, they accommodate exhibitors in the businesses of tour and travel, retirement living, health care, finance, leisure and education.

According to Fish, like the once-diverse zoning, there were at one point as many as eight expos.

“One of the great things about the expos was talking to the readers of the paper and all of the positives that they had to say,” he says. “Very, very seldom do we hear anything negative as far as the publication. They liked it.”

In 2004, Arizona Senior World changed its name. At first it became Lovin’ Life News, but then it changed to Lovin’ Life After 50 so the target market would be clearer. The name was inspired by the expos. Though Fish felt the negative connotation some Baby Boomers derived from the word “senior” was unnecessary, and he didn’t want

to change the publication’s name, he ultimately feels they made the right decision.

While things were “great” for much of the ’90s and early 2000s, according to Fish, he eventually sold it to Times Media Group.

Initially, it was just a meeting of minds between Fish and Times Media Group publisher Steve Strickbine, who hadn’t set out to acquire Lovin’ Life After 50.

“I just hit it off with him,” Strickbine says of Fish. “He’s one of those guys that I felt we had a connection because we had been through a lot of the same wars in terms of just publishing and some of the challenges of starting a publication. He understood very, very well. So, we almost had just kind of a fraternity feeling right out of the gate.”

In fact, business acumen was a shared trait, with both publishers coming from accounting backgrounds.

“The one thing we had in common, I think, that was odd is – and I’ve never had this since, and I may never have it again –that we were both CPAs at one time in our careers. So, we were publishers but CPAs, and that’s an odd coincidence,” Strickbine notes.

“We had a lot in common in that regard, I think from just the standpoint of understanding the language of business well and being a man of high integrity. Because I think accountants go through pretty rigorous ethics training. So, we always had that kind of, I guess just ability to shake hands and agree on things, and I think that really had served us well for a long time after I bought the papers.”

But with the recession hitting, Fish and Strickbine say merging Times Media Group and Lovin’ Life After 50 was a viable solution to increasing difficulties at Lovin’ Life.

Strickbine calls it a “powerhouse publication” and estimates it having once hit a peak circulation of 200,000 copies every month. He observes a bright future in the after-50 market.

After the acquisition, Fish remained at the company until September 2017.

Still living in the Valley, Fish now does consulting and also serves as treasurer on the board for the Arizona Senior Olympics.

Though he is no longer with the publication he helped build over several decades, through good times and bad, Fish looks back fondly on his time in news – and the decision to continue its legacy in a new light.

“It was probably the best thing that either one of us (Fish and Strickbine) ever did as far as a business decision, when we combined efforts,” he says.

Age of Elegance

Ms. Senior Arizona ready to crown a new winner

BY OLIVIA MUNSON

Ms. Senior Arizona 2018 Cheri Seith nds it bittersweet that her year-long reign is coming to an end.

However, the Surprise resident knows her experience does not end with the 2019 pageant, set for Saturday, March 30. She will continue to support and work with Ms. Senior Arizona; its sponsor, the Cameo Foundation, and its organizers, Herme and Ken Sherry.

“Herme and Ken Sherry are the glue that holds the foundation together,” Seith says. “Everyone is so appreciative. It is a wonderful place to be as we age.”

The Cameo Foundation provides “programs and opportunities that allow senior citizens to demonstrate and share their talents, skills, resources and experiences with people of all ages,” according to its website. In addition, proceeds from the pageant go to survivors of domestic violence.

Herme Sherry says the foundation does everything it can to help shelters. Cameo

works with smaller shelters to give aid and attention toward the topic of domestic violence.

Three decades

Ms. Senior Arizona is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year at the Valley Vista Performing Arts Center.

According to Sherry, the pageant director and Ms. Senior Arizona 2004, the event is “not what people think of as a pageant atmosphere.”

It has four categories. Contestants will be interviewed on Friday, March 29, by a panel of judges. On the pageant day, contestants will recite their philosophy of life in 35 seconds or less, model an evening gown and perform a talent of no more than 2 minutes and 45 seconds.

Sherry says the women have myriad talents, ranging from dancing to a jazz routine to “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” to monologues. Other talents include a

hula-hoop routine to “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’” as well as an American Sign Language performance.

For five weeks, the 20 contestants will rehearse with the hopes of becoming Ms. Senior America. Over that short time span, the contestants bond and form friendships. Sherry says she enjoys the women’s camaraderie.

Looking back on her reign, Seith says it was overwhelming, but she was excited to hold the title.

“I love my age now,” she says. “It really does get better with age; it’s more of an attitude than a number.”

Seith says Sherry was right in saying, “You may never know who you have touched; your life will be touched in so many ways by so many people.”

As a former winner, Sherry says the pageant goes beyond a crown and sash. Even if a contestant does not win, Sherry says it is a life-changing experience.

After winning the Ms. Senior Arizona title, Seith competed in the Ms. Senior Pageant in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

“I have nothing but positive praise for my experience in Atlantic City,” she says. “They really treat you like a queen.”

She says she feels she gained “sisters” from around the United States through participating in the Ms. Senior America Pageant.

“A humble queen is the best kind of queen there is,” Sherry says.

MORE INFO

What: Ms. Senior Arizona 2019 Pageant

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, March 30

Among Seith’s favorite moments was visiting the veterans hospital. She saw how being there and making a di erence in someone’s life is so precious.

Where: Valley Vista Performing Arts Center, 15550 N. Parkview Place, Surprise

Cost: Tickets are $15; $25 for VIP Info: msseniorarizona.com

A Surprise resident, Cheri Seith, was Ms. Senior Arizona 2018. (Photo courtesy Ms. Senior Arizona)

Seeing the progress of emptying and organizing drawers and cabinets in a specified area can boost confidence in the tender beginning stages.

“Getting started is a lot harder than finishing,” Metzler says.

Keep useful belongings

Metzler’s philosophy is to look at the process as “rightsizing,” not “downsizing.”

“Rightsizing is basically just envisioning the possessions and space that perfectly fit your needs today, not yesterday or what you might have in the future,” Metzler says. “It’s all about today.”

Keep in mind the most-used objects, and separate belongings into things used in the past year. This will give an accurate representation of what to keep and what to toss.

Metzler recommends creating a staging area that is out of sight, like a dining room, and lay out one specific project to organize at a time, such as kitchen utensils, blankets or mugs.

“Walk down the line with a bin and pick out the (things) that are your go-to or that meet the types of cooking that you’re doing today, not that you might do in the future, or not that you would have done in the past,” Metzler says.

Don’t lose the vision

By setting an end goal, it becomes more apparent what steps need to be taken to accomplish it.

“We run all the decisions through what the future holds for them,” says professional organizer Andrea Brundage of Mesa. Keep the original goal in mind to provide a motivation to complete tasks. Setting deadlines and appointments keeps the task in mind as a priority, according to Metzler.

Why downsize?

Nancy Tossel, who worked on “Design Your Retirement Lifestyle” with Knudsen, says, “Boomers have not been good savers,” and because of lengthening life expectancies, seniors are at risk of running

out of money.

“I think we’re going to be forced into a lifestyle where we’re going to have to do with less and live as economically (efficient) as we can,” Tossel says.

But due to emotional attachment to belongings, the downsizing process can be painful, according to Brundage.

Brundage says the key is to start now because it only gets more difficult as time passes.

“We’re all going to have to downsize at some point,” Brundage says. “Start sooner rather than later. One of the things, as we age, we are very afraid of is control and not being able to make decisions for ourselves. This is a good place to make decisions, and it supports the family if you don’t have children bickering because you didn’t decide who gets what. It’s actually a gift of love to make decisions for your family.”

Downsizing can lessen the burden of cleaning out a loved one’s belongings after they pass, Knudsen says. She says giving out heirlooms can not only reduce clutter, but bring joy. Brundage echoed similar sentiments.

“Being able to pass things on while you’re still alive is such a great thing because you get to experience the joy of seeing the receiver receive those gifts, and you don’t have to be gone to pass things on,” Brundage says.

“I had a lady tell me her granddaughter always loved her wedding ring. She said, ‘It gives me so much joy to see her with that ring on.’ I’m so glad that I gave it to her now instead of waiting to pass it on to her until I died.”

Entertainment

Saluting a Friend

Guitarist Jeff Dayton has a bit of Glen Campbell in each performance

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Guitarist Jeff Dayton has spent years backing artists like Kenny Chesney, Toby Keith, Gene Autry and Mac Davis.

Now he’s finding time to pay tribute to his good friend, the late Glen Campbell. Whether it’s his solo show or “Salute to Glen Campbell,” there’s a bit of the country superstar in every gig.

“I can’t perform without telling stories about him,” Dayton says.

Dayton will play a handful of March shows in the Valley, some solo and others “Salute to Glen Campbell.”

“For ‘Salute to Glen Campbell,’ I bring as many of the old guys from Glen Campbell’s band as I can,” he says. “We tell stories. We do the hits. We talk about how the songs happen, what he was like on the golf course. There’s a song called ‘Long Slow Train Out of Town.’ That’s a metaphor for him losing his memory.”

bum, “Sip It Slow,” which will be available at his Valley shows in March.

MORE INFO

Dayton has been playing guitar since he was 9, and he immediately formed his first band, The Emperors. From there, he played local clubs and concerts in Minnesota, paying his dues and working with musicians who became sidemen for Prince and Bob Dylan.

He moved to the Valley, got his first Nashville song contracts and played in a handful of bands, including the Jeff Dayton Band. He met Campbell, and it set the stage for his move to Nashville in 2000.

In 2003, Dayton toured the world with Chesney.

“It was really a thrill,” he says. “Kenny has amazing energy. The crowd was pumped. The energy level was so high in the room. It’ll give you goosebumps before you go on stage. You go out there and they love you. I respect the heck out of him.”

Now he is a music producer, songwriter, session guitarist, recording artist and educator.

Dayton is preparing to release a solo al-

FRIDAY MARCH 1

Vegas Jubilee, 5:30 to 7 p.m. (buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, $45. Most recently from Las Vegas, Patrick Mahoney brings his Vegas-style variety show and, with the Rhythm Cats, will provide classic tunes from the greats, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley and Sammy Davis Jr.

Vegas County Concert: A Tribute to Shania Twain and Tim McGraw, 7 p.m., Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Road (enter off Main Street and Quinn Circle), Mesa, 480-832-3844, $15$20.

SATURDAY MARCH 2

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Center, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, 605-430-5337, hillcrest.scwclubs.com, $4 members, $5 guests. Bobby Freeman and Charlene provide the music.

New Image Fashion Show, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Greenfield Village RV Resort (enter off Main Street and Quinn Circle), Mesa, 480-832-3844, call for charge.

Mark Lucas and The Wild Bunch, 11:30 a.m. (lunch), 1:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480288-0300, silverstartheater.com. Grand buffet dinner followed by great music and great laughs with Mark and his Wild Bunch.

“‘Sip It Slow’ is all original,” he says. “I’m doing some bluegrass, some Caribbean, some Latin, and some pretty straightahead country and modern stuff. Some of the album is in Spanish.

“The Caribbean stuff is fun. It’s inspired by a trip I took to Turks and Caicos this winter. Then there’s the bluegrass stuff. We have tremendous players in Nashville. I have four songs with banjo, mandolin, dobro and fiddle.”

The album took some time, he says, primarily due to a death in his family.

“I lost a brother a year ago,” Dayton explains. “It was out of the blue and really quickly. I thought I needed to do what I wanted to do now rather than wait until I’m 80. I did a three-week trip to Hawaii. I went to Turks and Caicos last month for a month, and met some good people.”

He’ll play songs from his album at a variety of gigs, including The Listening Room Phoenix, a venue for the diehard music fan who doesn’t want distractions.

“It’s a cool room,” he says. “There’s nothing like it. It’s a great spot. It’s not a noisy bar. People actually listen to us.”

What: Jeff Dayton shows Info: jeffdaytonmusic.com When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 1, Palm Ridge Recreation Center, 13800 W. Deer Valley Drive, Sun City West, 623-544-6000

4 and 7 p.m. Saturday, March 2, Renaissance Performing Arts Theater, PebbleCreek, 16222 Clubhouse Drive, Goodyear, robson.com

Noon Sunday, March 3, Glendale Folk and Heritage Festival, 9802 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, glendaleaz.com

7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, Fountain Hills Presbyterian, 13001 N. Fountain Hills Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480-837-1763

7 p.m. Thursday, March 7, The Listening Room Phoenix, 4614 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix, thelisteningroomphoenix.com

7 p.m. Friday, March 8, Canyon Vista RV Resort, 6601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon, 480-288-8844

2 and 6 p.m. Saturday, March 9, Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road, Suite 165, Tucson, 520-529-1000

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com. Something for everyone, with music from every decade and genre. Tickets include buffet dinner and great music from rock ‘n’ roll to country, big band to Broadway, and blues to pop favorites.

SUNDAY MARCH 3

North Dakota Picnic in Arizona, 10 a.m., Red Mountain Park, 7745 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 701-222-8349, https://ndcf. net/learn/nd-picnic.html, $5. This picnic is a gathering of current and former North Dakotans who now live either permanently or temporarily in Arizona. There will be a live band, vendor booths and food trucks.

Apache Junction Rock and Gem Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., repeats 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 4, Skyline High School, 845 S. Crismon Road, Mesa, ajrockclub.com, tickets start at $1.

Malt Shop Oldies 2 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (grand buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing favorite rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Jeff Dayton will perform around the state this month.

(Photo courtesy Jeff Dayton)

MONDAY MARCH 4

Phoenix Suns vs. Milwaukee Bucks, 7 p.m., Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, nba.com/suns, tickets start at $18.

TUESDAY MARCH 5

Malt Shop Oldies 1 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing familiar rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Knitting Circle at the J, 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org.

Bright Health Table Presentation, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 6

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com. Something for everyone, with music from every decade and genre. Tickets include buffet dinner and great music from rock ‘n’ roll to country, big band to Broadway, and blues to pop favorites.

Blood Pressure Checks, 10 a.m., repeats March 13, Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705.

It’s Not Just Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-481-7033, $5 suggested donation. In partnership with Smile on Seniors.

Current Events Discussion Group, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org, free. Bill Adler leads the discussion each month on current events.

East Valley Friends and Neighbors, 9:30 to 11 a.m., repeats the first Wednesday each month, Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University (at Gilbert Road), Mesa, 480-848-5146, evfanaz.org, evfanaz@gmail. com. A nonreligious and nonpartisan group, East Valley Friends and Neighbors welcomes those who wish to get better acquainted with others and to participate in social and charitable activities.

THURSDAY MARCH 7

Malt Shop Oldies 1 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing familiar rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

“Mexican Oaxacan Wood Carvings” Lecture, 2 p.m., Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-9834888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com, $7 members, $8 nonmembers. Julie Lee and White Rose Band provides the music.

FRIDAY MARCH 8

Legends of Country Music Dinner Show, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater. com, $42-$45. Dinner and great hits, and back stories from big-name country legends like Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, Willie Nelson, George Jones, Conway Twitty and Patsy Cline.

Mardi Gras Party, 5 to 8 p.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, $5, 623-333-2705. Party features New Orleans-style dinner and dancing. Adults are encouraged to wear masks and party attire.

“Magic of Mexican Artistry,” 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., repeats March 9 and March 10, Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Ostrich Festival, 2 p.m. to midnight, repeats 10 a.m. to midnight March 9, and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. March 10, Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler, 480-963-4571, ostrichfestival.com, tickets start at $7.

SATURDAY MARCH 9

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Center, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, 605-430-5337, hillcrest.scwclubs.com, $4 members, $5 guests. Michael and Manuel provide the music.

Myron Sommerfeld, 7 to 10 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-3571148, $10.

Domingo DeGrazia and Spanish Guitar Band Concert, 5 p.m., Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Trilogy at Power Ranch Quilt Show and Country Store, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Trilogy, 4969 E. Village Parkway, Gilbert, free admission. Quilts and other handmade items will be for sale. All proceeds go toward the purchase of fabric for charity quilts. There will be a quilt raffled at 2:30; guests need not be present to win. The winner will have their choice of one of the two quilts on display. The café will be open from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The car show returns 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enter Village Parkway on south side of Queen Creek Road between Higley and Power roads.

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com. Something for everyone, with music from every decade and genre. Tickets include buffet dinner and great music from rock ‘n’ roll to country, big band to Broadway, and blues to pop favorites.

Malt Shop Oldies 2 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (grand buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-2880300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing favorite rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

SUNDAY MARCH 10

1970s Rock ‘n’ Roll Lunch Show, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Grand buffet followed by a Rhythm Cats performance of Billboard chart hits from 1965 to 1979.

TUESDAY, MARCH 12

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Something for everyone, with music from every decade and genre. Tickets include buffet dinner and great music from rock ‘n’ roll to country, big band to Broadway, and blues to pop favorites.

Sun Lakes Republican Club, 6:30 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club’s Arizona Room, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Boulevard, Sun Lakes, 480-802-

0178, slgop.org, free. The club will discuss “The Southern Border Crisis” with Border Patrol Agent Art Del Cueto. Also, Sen. J.D. Mesnard will provide his perspective on the state legislative session.

Discussion with the Rabbi, 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 602-492-7670, chani@sosaz. org, free. Gather with Rabbi Levi Levertov for stimulating discussion on an issue relevant to Judaism in contemporary society. Bring questions.

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s Alzheimer’s and Caregiver Educational Conference, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., The Marriott Tempe at the Buttes, 2000 W. Westcourt Way, Tempe, alzfdn.org, free. The conference is open to the public and designed to connect people with information about Alzheimer’s disease, brain health and dementia caregiving. Participants have the opportunity to interact with Alzheimer’s experts, ask questions, network and obtain a free memory screening.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13

Mark Lucas and The Wild Bunch, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Grand buffet dinner followed by great music and great laughs.

Meet the Author: “The Eddie Cantor Story: A Jewish Life in Performance and Politics,” 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, vosjcc.org/ cantor, $5 members, $15 guests. Author David Weinstein documents theater, film and radio star Eddie Cantor’s extraordinary life, including his courageous campaign against the Nazis in the 1930s. The multimedia presentation will include rare photos, songs and film clips.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14

Malt Shop Oldies 2 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (grand buffet), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-2880300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing favorite rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Variety Show Spectacular, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, Calendar ...continues on page 22

Calendar of Events

5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Something for everyone, with music from every decade and genre. Tickets include bu et dinner and great music from rock ‘n’ roll to country, big band to Broadway, and blues to pop favorites.

“Crazy Arizona Legends” by Bob Boze Bell, 2 p.m., Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-9834888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

“Front Row at Nuremberg and Miraculous Escapes from Germany,” 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, vosjcc.org/Nuremberg, $5 members, $15 guests. Singer, composer, pianist and actor Lori Rosolowsky shares poignant and humorous stories of her relatives’ unlikely escapes from Nazi persecution and her aunt’s role as a translator at Nuremberg.

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com, $7 members, $8 nonmembers. Tuxedoe Junction provides the music.

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

Myron Sommerfeld, 7 to 10 p.m., Venture Out, 5001 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480-832-9000, $8.

Cash & King, 7:30 p.m., Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main Street, Mesa, 480-644-6500,

mesaartscenter.com, $48-$68. Steven Kent and his band are accomplished performers, providing audiences with their rendition of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley songs.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club’s St. Patrick’s Day Theme Dance, 7 p.m., Palm Ridge Recreation Center, 13800 W. Deer Valley Drive, Sun City West, 605-430-5337, hillcrest. scwclubs.com, $4 members, $5 guests. Soul Impression provides the music.

Resort Wide Patio Sale, 9 a.m. to noon, Green eld Village RV Resort, 111 S. Green eld Road (enter o Main Street and Quinn Circle), Mesa, 480-832-3844, free admission.

Desert Safety and Survival Class, 9 a.m. to noon, Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-9834888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Country Dinner Show, 11:30 a.m. (lunch), 1:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater. com, $42-$45.

1970s Rock ‘n’ Roll Lunch Show, 5:30 p.m. (bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45.

Navajo Sand Painting Workshop, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., continues March 17, Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Spring Arts and Crafts Fair, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., R.H. Johnson Recreation Center, 19803 N. RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, 623-5446135, info.suncitywest.com, free admission. This event features the work of hundreds of artisans from 20 local clubs.

Anthem Gem and Mineral Show, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., continues 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 17, Boulder Creek High School, 40404 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem, 978-460-1528, dmrmc.com.

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

Malt Shop Oldies 1 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing familiar rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Luck of the Irish Concert, 7 p.m., Green eld Village RV Resort, 111 S. Green eld Road (enter o Main Street and Quinn Circle), Mesa, 480832-3844, $15-$20.

Roger’s Tom Jones with the Motown Blossoms, 3 p.m., Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480-3502822, tempecenterforthearts.com, $29 and $40.

MONDAY, MARCH 18

Phoenix Suns vs. Chicago, 7 p.m., Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Je erson Street, Phoenix, nba.com/suns, tickets start at $18. It’s APS Los Suns Night and the rst 2,500 fans will receive a Los Suns Night Light.

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

Malt Shop Oldies 2 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (grand bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing favorite rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Art All Around Us, 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-481-7033, harrietc@vosjcc.org, free. Share the world of art with docents from the Phoenix Art Museum. This month, explore “Buenos Aires, Tango and Impressionism.”

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20

Lunch and Learn at The J: Male Fitness After 65 – Myths, Facts and Solutions, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, free, vosjcc.org/ t65, reservations required by March 18.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

Mature Mavens Dinner, 5 p.m., address and cost given when making reservations, 602-3713744. Make new friends during dinner.

“Rock Art” by David Morris, 2 p.m., Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com, $7 members, $8 nonmembers. Manuel Dorantes provides the music.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

Vegas Jubilee, 5:30 to 7 p.m. (bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, $45. Most recently from Las Vegas, Patrick Mahoney brings his Vegas-style variety show and, with the Rhythm Cats, will provide classic tunes from the greats, such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley and Sammy Davis Jr.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club, 7 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Center, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, 605-4305337, hillcrest.scwclubs.com, $4 members, $5 guests. Howard Schneider Variety Band provides the music.

Dutch Oven Cooking Class, 9 a.m. to noon, Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, call for charge.

Gardening Class, 11 a.m. to noon, Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, free.

Malt Shop Oldies 2 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (grand bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-2880300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing favorite rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Sun Lakes Arts & Crafts Association’s Spring Show and Sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oakwood Country Club, 24218 S. Oakwood Boulevard, Sun Lakes, slaca.net.

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

Super Show Finale, 5:30 p.m. (grand bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. End the season with a musical lineup chosen by fans.

Marty Robbins Tribute, 6 to 9 p.m., Carriage Manor RV Resort, 7750 E. Broadway Road, Mesa, 913-683-3510, 315-373-3049, $12 reserved seating. Roger Wade, who formerly performed at the Mining Camp, pays tribute to Marty Robbins.

MONDAY, MARCH 25

Enjoy breakfast! It’s National Wa e Day!

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

Nutrition with Savannah, 10 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

Malt Shop Oldies 1 Dinner Show, 5:30 p.m. (bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Enjoy dinner and The Rhythm Cats performing familiar rock ‘n’ roll music from the 1950s and 1960s.

“Love, Bill: Finding My Father Through Letters from World War II,” 11 a.m. to noon, Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottdale, vosjcc.org/bill, 45 members, $15 guests. Author Jan Krulick-Belin’s awardwinning memoir is a love story and war story. Join the group as she shares the journey that led her to learn about the history of the Jews

in the Maghreb and France, and the man who she thought she would never get to know.

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

Super Show Finale, 5:30 p.m. (grand bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. End the season with a musical lineup chosen by fans.

Merrymakers Ballroom Dance, 7 p.m., Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Road, Mesa, 480-654-1994, dancemm.com, $7 members, $8 nonmembers. Easy Sounds provides the music.

“Arizona Reptiles and Snakes” by Richard Lapidus, 2 p.m., Superstition Mountain Museum, 4087 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org, free.

UnitedHealthCare Visit, 11 a.m., Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street, Avondale, free, 623-333-2705.

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

1970s Rock ‘n’ Roll Lunch Show, 5:30 p.m. (bu et), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Hillcrest Dance and Social Club Dance, 7 p.m., R.H. Johnson Social Center, 19803 R.H. Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West, 605-4305337, hillcrest.scwclubs.com, $4 members, $5 guests. The Breeze provides the music.

Day of Dance and Local Vendor Fair, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Kaleidoscope Dance, 2848 S. Carriage Lane, Mesa, 480-692-0332, kaleidoscopedance.com, free admission. Day of Dance features complimentary, 30-minute dance classes; local vendors selling handmade, unique gifts; and light refreshments.

Falcon Field Open House, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Falcon Field, 4800 E. Falcon Drive, Mesa, 480644-2450, falcon eldairport.com/home- a, free admission. The open house will focus the future of ight with new and unique aircraft and prototypes, such as unmanned aerial vehicles/drones, heli-taxis and personal ight vehicles.

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

Mark Lucas and The Wild Bunch, 5:30 p.m. (dinner), 7:30 p.m. (show), Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Road, Mesa, 480-288-0300, silverstartheater.com, $42-$45. Grand bu et dinner followed by music and laughs.

Have an event to share?

Send the details before the 15th of the month to christina@timespublications.com Walk-through tours are $15 for adults and $5 for children 12 yrs. and younger. Bomber Flight Experiences in the B-17 or B-24 are $450. B-25 flights

Tinseltown Talks

Carl Reiner says keeping busy keeps him going

BY NICK THOMAS

Turning 97 in March, Carl Reiner shows no sign of slowing down. “I wake up with ideas!” the veteran actor, writer, director and producer says from Los Angeles says.

One of those ideas was to colorize episodes of his crown television jewel, “The Dick Van Dyke Show.” Two color episodes were produced in 2017 and last year Reiner selected a couple more favorites, with plots loosely based on his family’s experience, which aired on CBS over the holiday season.

“I’ve done a lot in my life but have to say that show is what I’m most proud of,” Reiner says. “We couldn’t afford to shoot it originally in color and make a profit, but I’m so pleased with the colorized episodes – they look fantastic.”

In “Where Did I Come From?” young Richie (Larry Matthews) questions his par-

ents about his birth, much like Reiner’s own children did, while in “Never Bathe on Saturday,” Laura (Mary Tyler Moore) gets stuck in a hotel bathtub, ruining a vacation for hubby Rob (Dick Van Dyke).

“I wrote that based on the time my wife and I were away, and she noticed the faucet dripping while taking a bath and wanted to get a plumber,” Reiner recalls.

Reiner says it was important to produce colorized versions close to the originals.

“Luckily some enterprising photographers were on hand during the original filming and took color photos of the set and actors,” he notes. “So some colors are very accurate, like the rooms. Colorization has come a long way and I wish we could do all 158 episodes, but it’s very expensive.”

Reiner’s 2017 HBO documentary “If You’re Not in the Obit, Eat Breakfast,” in

which he narrates a series of interviews with active nonagenarians, was also recently released on DVD.

“In my opening section, I’m reading the newspaper obituary section and remark if I’m not in it, I’ll have breakfast,” he says. “They thought that would make a good title.”

The documentary features 90-plusyear-old guests still active in areas such as sports, fashion, music, comedy and acting such as Dick Van Dyke, Kirk Douglas and Reiner’s longtime cohort in comedy, Mel Brooks. “Truly a collection of remarkable people,” Reiner says.

the most extraordinary woman I ever met and could do everything better than anyone else. I think about her every night I go to bed, so she’s still alive in me, no question.”

But of all the people Reiner has known, he has the highest praise for his late wife, Estelle, to whom he was married for 65 years.

“While you do live in your memories as you get older and especially after losing a spouse, if you’ve had a good marriage it sustains you,” he says. “She was perhaps

A prominent comedy writer throughout his career, Reiner also continues to work on new book projects this year.

“If you have something to do every day, you’ll hang around,” he says.

Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery and has written features and columns for over 700 magazines and newspapers.

Carl Reiner has a laugh with George Shapiro, Mel Brooks and Norman Lear.

Carl Reiner with Betty White (Photos courtesy Nick Thomas)

Bingo Events

Beuf Senior Center

Moneyball, 10 regular games plus double action.

WHEN: Mondays and Thursdays, sales start at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: Beuf Senior Center, 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Phoenix

COST: Starts at $4/pack, City of Phoenix

Membership card or $5 guest

INFO: 602-534-9743

Brentwood Southern

There is a money ball; 17 games include three that are percentage payout.

WHEN: Mondays, hall opens at 4:30 p.m., sale starts at 5:15 p.m. and bingo starts at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Brentwood Southern, 8103 E. Southern Ave., Mesa

COST: Varies according to games and number purchased

INFO: 480-306-4569

Chandler Senior Center

Bring a friend or make some new ones while enjoying some fun and prizes.

WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.

WHERE: Chandler Senior Center, 202 E. Boston St., Chandler

COST: 50 cents per card. No limit on cards purchased.

INFO: 480-782-2720, chandleraz.gov/ senior-adults

Community Bingo

200-seat bingo hall open Wednesdays through Sundays in Goodyear. Ana’s dinners and desserts inside.

WHEN: Wednesdays through Sundays at 6:30 p.m.; Fridays at 10:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 2 p.m.

WHERE: Community Bingo, 3690 S. Estrella Pkwy., Suite 108, Goodyear COST: $21 (includes progressive) for 18 games; $14, late night and matinee for 13 games.

INFO: 623-512-8878

Devonshire Senior Center

Money ball, 10 regular games plus progressive coverall. Split-the-pot games are early birds and double action.

WHEN: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, sales start at 12:15 p.m.

WHERE: Devonshire Senior Center, 2802 E. Devonshire, Phoenix COST: Starts at $2; must have City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation membership card to be eligible to play. INFO: 602-256-3130

FCF-Holland

Community Center

WHEN: Thursdays at 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: FCF-Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale, AZ COST: $13 and up INFO: 480-488-1090 or azfcf.org

Games: 15 games of Bingo with a minimum of $375 prize money weekly

Fort McDowell Casino

Experience bingo in Fort McDowell Casino’s state-of-the-art and awardwinning 1,700-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times

WHERE: Fort McDowell Casino, 10424 N. Fort McDowell Rd., Fort McDowell COST: Charge for cards INFO: 800-THE-FORT, ext. 4380, fortmcdowellcasino.com/bingo.php

Granite Reef Senior Center

Everyone welcome. Enjoy 20 games of bingo with prizes.

WHEN: Tuesdays from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale COST: $1 per card; three-card minimum. No limit on cards purchased. INFO: 480-312-1700, scottsdaleaz.gov

Las Palmas Grand Bingo

WHEN: Monday Night

WHERE: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa, AZ

COST: $21 buy-in INFO: 480-357-1148

Snack Bar: Opens 5 p.m.

Early Bird Session: 6:30 p.m. Games: Double action, Betty Boop, $1,000 progressive jackpot with additional number added each week, with a $300 Consolation Prize. Pay out $70, Early Bird; $100 Regular Game

Lone Butte Casino

Spacious bingo hall features 850 seats with morning, matinee and evening sessions. The morning sessions include five regular games and two specials, with three for $10 and $1 specials.

WHEN: Seven days a week, times vary WHERE: Lone Butte Casino, 1077 S. Kyrene Rd., Chandler

COST: $2 to $32

Mesa Adult Center

Twenty-one games, win up to $500 in losers’ bingo, social bingo and big game bingo.

WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m.

WHERE: Mesa Adult Center, 247 N. Macdonald St., Mesa COST: Various costs, call for pricing INFO: 480-962-5612, mesa.evadultresources.org

Palmas del Sol

Come join the group to play Bingo weekly. Bingo doors and snack bar open at 5:15 p.m.

WHEN: Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Palmas del Sol, 6209 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa

COST: Charge for cards varies according to number purchased.

INFO: 480-528-4689

Peoria Community Center

Prize money will vary based on attendance.

WHEN: Tuesdays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson, Peoria COST: 25 cents per card; 50 cents for overall INFO: 623-979-3570

Red Mountain Active Adult Center

Bingo seating begins at 12:50 p.m.

WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1:15 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Red Mountain Active Adult Center, 7550 E. Adobe Rd., Mesa COST: Tuesdays there are various prices; Thursdays the cards are 25 cents INFO: 480-218-2221 or rm.evadultresources.org

Social Bingo

Join others during social bingo. WHEN: Mondays, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Apache Junction Active Adult Center, 1035 N. Idaho Rd., Apache Junction

Sun Lakes VFW Post

8053

The organization holds bingo for up to 230 people. Payouts are based on sales; total may reach $900. All proceeds go to veteran needs, including homeless veterans, disabled veterans and military families.

WHEN: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Sales start at 6 p.m.

WHERE: Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes COST: $7 minimum for play of all 19 games INFO: 480-895-9270

Sunland Village

Auditorium doors open at 4:30 p.m., cards are sold at 6 p.m. and play begins at 7 p.m. There’s a $900 progressive pot.

WHEN: Thursdays

WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies according to number purchased INFO: 480-832-9003

Sunland Village East Prize money will vary during the year based on attendance.

WHEN: Sundays, at 6 p.m.

WHERE: Sunland Village East Auditorium, 8026 E. Lakeview Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies to number purchased INFO: 480-986-9822, 480-313-7033

Sunrise Village

Join the group to play Bingo weekly. The cards start selling at 5:45 p.m., early bird at 6:45 p.m., and regular bingo at 7 p.m.

WHEN: Fridays at 5:45 p.m.

WHERE: Sunrise Village, 5402 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa

COST: $13 minimum buy-in INFO: 480-985-0548

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino

Gamers who stop by Bingo Park enjoy picturesque National Park views in the state-of-the-art, 550-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times

WHERE: Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, 15091 S. Komatke Ln., Laveen

COST: $2 to $32

INFO: 800-946-4452, ext. 1942, wingilariver.com/index.php/vq-veequiva-hotel-casino/gaming/bingo-park Call to confirm, as information may change.

INFO: 800-946-4452, ext. 8928, wingilariver.com/index.php/lone-butte/ gaming/bingo

COST: 25 cents per card INFO: 480-474-5262, aj.evadultresources.org

Thank You for the Music

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Amy Edwards was exposed to ABBA as a child; singing and dancing her way through the Swedish band’s catalog.

“I remember singing ‘Dancing Queen’ wearing my mom’s high heels when I was 5 years old,” she says. “My love for their music grew.”

Decades later, she has found her way to ABBA Mania, which plays the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix on Sunday, March 10.

“There were so many songs that I hadn’t heard,” she says in her Australian accent. “It was great to learn di erent songs. I had my favorites in the beginning, but that’s all completely changed. I love ‘Chiquitita,’ ‘Name of the Game’ and ‘Take a Chance on Me.’ My love for them has grown so much.”

ABBA Mania formed in 1999 and the show has been selling out theaters and concert halls internationally since. ABBA Mania has previously grossed over $1 million AUD at the box o ce in Sydney, Australia. The show has ventured to France, Denmark, Belgium, Spain, South Africa, New Zealand, Singapore, Australia and South Korea as well as the United Kingdom.

With 30 shows in more than six weeks, ABBA Mania’s tour is its eighth. Edwards,

who now lives in Las Vegas, is excited about this run.

“We take you through the iconic eras of ABBA,” she says. “We wear the iconic costumes they wore in videos. We play all the songs everybody knows and loves.

“We take you back to that time when they reigned in the music world. Even if someone wasn’t the biggest fan, they will still have the best time. You’ll be on your feet dancing and singing.”

This is right up Edwards’ alley. She’s been singing and dancing since she was 6 in Australia. When she was 21, she moved to London to perform in West End shows.

“We perform all over the country and all over the world,” she says. “It’s de nitely in my blood.”

What: ABBA Mania

When: 7 p.m. Sunday, March 10

Where: The Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams Street, Phoenix

Cost: Tickets are $29-$49

Info: 602.262.6225, phoenix.ticketforce.com

ABBA Mania brings its tribute act to The Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix on Sunday, March 10.

(Photo courtesy ABBA Mania)

Casinos

Apache Gold Casino

Highway 70, San Carlos (928) 475-7800

www.apachegoldcasinoresort.com

BlueWater Casino

11222 Resort Dr., Parker (800) 747-8777 www.bluewaterfun.com

Bucky’s Casino

Highway 69 and Heather Heights, Prescott (800) 756-8744 www.buckyscasino.com

Casino Arizona at Salt River

524 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale (480) 850-7777 www.casinoarizona.com

Casino Arizona at Talking Stick

9700 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale (866) 877-9897 www.casinoarizona.com

Casino del Sol

5655 W. Valencia Rd., Tucson (520) 838-6506 www.casinodelsol.com

Casino of the Sun

7406 S. Camino del Oeste, Tucson (520) 879-5450 www.casinosun.com

Cliff Castle Casino

555 Middle Verde Rd., Camp Verde (800) 381-7568 www.cliffcastle.com

Cocopah Casino

15136 S. Avenue B, Somerton (800) 237-5687 www.wincocopahcasino.com

Desert Diamond Casino I

7350 S. Nogales Highway, Tucson (866) 332-9467 www.desertdiamondcasino.com

Desert Diamond Casino II

1100 W. Pima Mine Rd., Sahuarita (866) 332-9467 www.desertdiamondcasino.com

Fort McDowell Gaming Center

Beeline Hwy (SR 87) and Fort McDowell Rd. (800) 843-3678 www.fortmcdowellcasino.com

Golden Ha:sañ Casino

Highway 86, Why (520) 362-2746 www.desertdiamondcasino.com

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

15406 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa (800) 427-7247 www.harrahs.com

Hon-Dah Casino

777 Highway 260, Pinetop (800) 929-8744 www.hon-dah.com

Lone Butte Casino

1200 S. 56th St., Chandler (800) 946-4452 www.wingilariver.com

Mazatzal Casino Highway 87, Payson (800) 777-7529 www.777play.com

Paradise Casino

540 Quechan Dr., Fort Yuma (888) 777-4946 www.paradise-casinos.com

Spirit Mountain Casino

8555 S. Highway 95, Mohave Valley (520) 346-2000

Vee Quiva Casino 51st Ave and Estrella, Laveen (800) 946-4452 www.wingilariver.com

Wild Horse Pass Casino

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler (800) 946-4452 www.wingilariver.com

Yavapai Casino

1500 E. Highway 69, Prescott (800) 756-8744 www.buckyscasino.com

ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY

— Don W., Sherman, TX

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study by the National Institute on Aging suggests older individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. They suggest that an intervention — such as a hearing aid — could delay or prevent this by improving hearing!

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Celebration of Fine Art

Jake Potje and Susan Morrow Potje connect artists and collectors

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

For almost 30 years, the Valley has hosted one of the country’s premier art events: the Celebration of Fine Art. Sprawled under white tents in Scottsdale from January to March, this juried, invitational show and art sale showcases over 100 artists from around the country, who continuously create and sell their pieces from within personal open studios.

Patrons are free to wander about, chat with artists and experience the artistic process while seeing new pieces come to life. The creativity is entrancing; even artists agree, saying the collaborations are fulfilling.

Visitors can also learn about the inspiration, techniques and stories behind mediums during the Friday afternoon one-hour Art Discovery series, from blown glass and jewelry to steel sculptures and impressionistic influence.

Arts & Antiques Magazine called the Celebration of Fine Art, “One of the West’s Premier Art Events” – and much of these accolades come from the work of Susan Morrow Potje, the second-generation owner of the Celebration of Fine Art. Along with her husband, Jake, she’s increased the annual revenue to over $6 million and is known for her unique approach to connecting artists and their customers.

Woven glass artist Mark Lewanski is a firsttime participant who quickly learned the effect he and his peers have on guests who walk through the 40,000-square-foot space.

“A guy broke down and cried when he saw my weaving,” says Lewanski, a Michigan native. “People see my weaving and sometimes think of a rug, which I understand. I

don’t take it in a bad way, considering the size of the fibers and the color.

“But a man saw my weaving and it brought back such a strong memory of his grandmother making these rugs. It brought him back. It was such an emotional response and a moving moment.”

He was referred to the show by his friend and fellow artist, Carlos Page.

“We’ve been friends for 12 years now, so I trust him,” he says. “It’s completely lived up to all the promises he made. It’s been really good. Usually, your first year in the market, you have to establish yourself. But we hit the ground running, really.”

Anthony Barbano is another newbie to the Celebration of Fine Art. Barbano, a Tempe resident, is so well regarded that Potje wears one of his glass pieces on a chain around her neck.

“I enjoy the camaraderie of the artists and there are a lot of collaborations,” he says. “The owners, they do an amazing job curating the show. There are a few other glass artists here, but none of us has a similar style. They have an amazing following, too.”

The colors of Barbano’s glass is achieved through gold and silver, with the orange color being 24K gold. Some of the pieces have opals in the middle which reflect nicely.

Modest beginnings

The Celebration of Fine Art’s roots are in the late-1980s, when the founders, Tom and Ann Morrow – Potje’s mother and father –spent time in Laguna Beach visiting three art shows, which ran for eight weeks during the summer.

experience for artists and visitors/collectors.

“It is a true community that fosters a sense of excitement and joy, and enthusiasm is shared freely,” Potje says.

Potje and her husband have been involved in one fashion or another since the beginning of the show. Jake built the display walls for the artists’ studios prior to the opening in 1991. In 2004, the couple became partners and took over ownership a few years after that.

The Celebration of Fine Art has become an integral part of Scottsdale’s art experience. It is a juried and carefully curated show limited to around 100 artists. The jury looks for a variety of things including quality of art, variety of styles and mediums, ability for the artist to be present during the 10 weeks and ability to connect with visitors.

Walking through the show, Potje says when guests enter the white tents, any misconceptions they have are dissipated.

“Each season we have people who tell us they have been driving by for years and finally decided to stop in and see what it is all about,” she shares.

It occurred to them that Scottsdale would be a perfect spot for an extended art show in the winter. There was a learning curve, but over the years, the show evolved into a magical

“Although we might be known as the ‘big white tent art show,’ people literally forget about the tent once they take a few steps into the show. Everything about the Celebration is a transformative experience, starting from the fact we turn an empty lot into an extraordinary art community. The show is thoughtfully curated throughout the year to offer an extraordinary art collection as well as kind, giving and enthusiastic artists willing to share their gifts with the visitors. We also have a cafe and courtyard where people can relax.”

Relax is a key phrase to the Celebration of Fine Art. Comfortable chairs greet guests upon entry, and the setup works. Potje heard

a visitor say he would rather sip his coffee in the exhibit than Starbucks.

Another aspect that makes the show special is the Artist Discovery Series, held from 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays. During the talks, guests can discover inspiration, techniques and stories behind the creation of art while enjoying wine and cheese. For more information or to reserve your spot, call 480-443-7695 or email info@celebrateart.com.

“Even though I know more about most of the artists than probably anyone here, I always learn something new myself,” Potje says.

Clearly, Potje loves what she does.

“Buying art is usually an emotional response to the art and how it makes a person feel,” she says. “It is impossible to leave here without feeling better than you did when you arrived. Art lifts spirits. Connecting with others lifts spirits. This truly is a Celebration of Fine Art and a celebration of life.”

MORE INFO

What: Celebration of Fine Art

When: Various times through March 24

Where: Southwest corner of Hayden Road and the Loop 101 Cost: $10; free for children 12 and younger Info: celebrateart.com

The totems in “Forest Fantasy” by Vicki Grant are each based on a different children’s book.

Jake and Susan Morrow Potje pose in the studio of artist Kathleen Hope. (Photos by Kimberly Carrillo)

Honoring Tom Jones

R&B/soul revue bene ts United Way

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Roger’s Tom Jones knows how to put on a show.

To raise funds for the United Way Valley of the Sun Chapter, the band is bringing along The Motown Blossoms, Amber Dirks and Nisha Kataria for a gig at the Tempe Center for the Arts on Sunday, March 17.

“We’ve been doing the Tom Jones tribute for a couple of decades,” Roger says. “We had the good fortune of doing performances in Asia, Europe and America. We had a little thing at the Luxor in Las Vegas not too long ago.

“This time, we’ve teamed with the Motown Blossoms. They are three ladies bringing all those Motown hits, which people like. It’s a nice combination, if you say.”

The Motown Blossoms perform a string of classic Detroit hits by The Marvelettes, The Supremes, Aretha Franklin, The Shirelles, Martha Reeves and The Vandellas.

Amber Dirks

A national and international recording artist, Amber Dirks has performed solo and occasionally with Sister Sledge.

“I’ve been able to travel the world be-

cause still, to this day, Sister Sledge is a well-respected group,” Dirks says. “We have sold out many audiences and big events since 1994.”

Dirks was born in Holland and raised in New York before her family moved to Phoenix, where she attended Washington High School. She speaks uent Dutch.

At the Piper Repertory Theatre, Dirks will sing solo hits like “Dominate My Love” and “This is My Life,” along with covers of Gladys Knight songs.

“These rehearsals (with Roger’s Tom Jones) have been so much fun,” Dirks says. “They’ve been phenomenal. I wish I could be in the audience and just watch. There’s tremendous talent here.”

Nisha Kataria

Nisha Kataria is pop’s unsung hero. The Phoenician has been

singing since she could walk, she says, but in her teens, she learned how to moonwalk.

When she was 17, she visited the Arizona State Fair with her family. As Kataria walked through the parking lot, she sang a short tune, which was heard by a Michael Jackson acquaintance. Her father gave him a live demo and subsequently handed it to Jackson’s manager.

After singing “I Will Always Love You” for Jackson’s manager, she was introduced to the King of Pop.

“I skipped

school and drove to California to Neverland Ranch and it all felt like a dream,” she says. “I went in alone, with my family outside, and Michael hugged me. He was very warm. We had a nice conversation and he asked me to sing to him.

“I stood up and sang ‘I Will Always Love You;’ a good portion of it was a cappella. He applauded me. He says I had the voice of an angel. Not a lot of people could do what I did – stand up and sing to the king of pop.”

He decided he wanted to make Kataria “a star.” Jackson moved Kartaria and her mother into a guest suite at Neverland.

“It was nothing short of a dream,” she says. “In between recordings, we would enjoy Disneyland, life, horseback riding and going to the movies. We recorded a song that is unreleased called ‘Wonderful World of Candy.’ I wish I had that track in my hand. I would be golden.”

Kataria only knows the masters are in Jackson’s house – somewhere.

“I don’t know where it could be,” she

Roger’s Tom Jones and the Motown Blossoms headline the Tempe Center for the Arts on Sunday, March 17.

(Photo courtesy Roger’s Tom Jones)

says. “He wanted the public to see me for the rst time next to him. The entire plan was stopped when he went in for the case and was acquitted and then his untimely passing.”

After Jackson’s death, Kataria performed in Germany and in the United Kingdom with Westlife.

“I was launched overseas, and I was growing a nice following,” she says.

She gave it up to return to Phoenix and open a dog grooming boutique called Doggie in the Mirror, a play on Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror,” in Uptown Phoenix.

“Dogs are my favorite creatures on the planet and music is my rst love,” says Kataria, who was born in Canada but attended Shadow Mountain High School in Phoenix. “Music and doggies go so well together. We have a music video screen, a golden gate that says ‘Doggieland’ instead of ‘Neverland.’

“Michael has blessed me in so many ways. Even to this day I’m still paying homage to him; not only his legacy but our legacy. His

legacy is staying alive through my doggie boutique.”

Kataria, 32, is slowly returning to music after pausing to open Doggie in the Mirror.

“It was something to cherish for the rest of my life,” Kataria says. “I don’t say that lightly.”

What: Roger’s Tom Jones with special guests

When: 3 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe Cost: $29 and $40 Info: 480-350-2822, tempecenterforthearts.com

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SeniorLiving Checklist

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

SUDOKU TIME

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

Unscramble

The

SCRAMBLERS

by Linda Thistle

GO FIGURE!

In Search of Kirsch, Stout, Wine and Whisky Travel

BY ED BOITANO

Dettling Kirschwelt

For many, kirsch is simply a sharp-tasting liqueur that is used in a pot of fondue.

For the Swiss it is its national drink. For me it was an excuse to tour the Dettling Kirschwelt distillery. To be honest, just the hour-long boat ride from Lucerne to the idyllic village of Brunnen on Lake Lucerne would have been worth it. But the location of Dettling Kirschwelt was not chosen for its setting on the lake; rather for its proximity to native black mountain cherries.

Glenora Distillery

Located on Nova Scotia’s spectacular Céilidh Trail the Glenora Distillery is the first single malt whisky distillery in North America. The distillery rests on a rural 300-

Dettling Kirschwelt

Kirsch, once called Kirschwasser in Switzerland (cherry water), is a clear brandy made from double distillation of the juice of small black cherries. The five-generation Dettling Kirschwelt was established in 1867 and has the distinction of being the only large distillery in the world to specialize exclusively in the use of cherries.

Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

“Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the Bible says love your enemy.” – Frank Sinatra

The 45-minute visitor’s center tour is an insightful journey into all-things kirsch. The taste is indescribable and, like the finest cognacs, must be felt and tasted. I left Dettling Kirschwelt with a solid kirsch education, and glad I was taking a boat back to the city of Lucerne, rather than driving.

acre site with buildings housing malt, kiln, milling production, warehouses, bottling and lodging facilities, constructed in a traditional style, similar to distilleries found in Scotland. Tours are offered, as well as a sampling of their 12-year-old heather and honey tasting “uisge beatha ” (Gaelic for “water of life”).

Single malt is a whisky produced exclusively from malted barley that is not blended with another whisky. After my

Glenora Distillery

Single Malt Whisky, Nova Scotia

“Always carry a flagon of whisky in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake.” – W.C. Fields

Guinness

St. James’ Gate Brewery, Dublin, Ireland

“Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” – Benjamin Franklin

tour, I was told to expect something special, for there was to be a céilidh in the distillery’s pub. A céilidh is a traditional Gaelic musical social gathering that originated in Scotland. Céilidhs flourished in Nova Scotia, where Scottish immigrants meet with friends for an evening of song, dance and, generally, strong drink. Everyone in the room is invited to participate in the fun.

I was pleasantly surprised to see one of the men sharing my table stand up and sing a song in Gaelic. It was the perfect setting to enjoy a wee dram of Glenora’s water of life. I decided it best, though, to book a room for the night in Glenora’s inn.

Guinness

“Guinness is good for you” might be the ultimate self-fulfilling prophecy. When Arthur Guinness borrowed money from his wealthy aunt in 1759 to establish a brewery, it was with the strict condition that it be a healthy beverage, unlike the gin mills that were ravaging 18th century Dublin.

Arthur took it a step further, even suggesting that his brew was so healthy that pregnant women should drink a pint of it daily. Although the theory has never been proven, a perfectly poured pint of the black stuff has always worked wonders for me. Guinness brews more than 20 varieties of beer but is best known for its stout – an extra dark, almost black, top-fermenting beer, made with highly roasted malts. On the days of its roasting, Dublin takes on a

fragrance that’s paradise to the Guinness connoisseur.

The best way to learn about Guinness is a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, located at the original 64-acre St. James’ Gate Brewery in the heart of Dublin. The journey begins at the bottom of the world’s largest pint glass and continues up through seven floors filled with interactive experiences that fuse the long brewing heritage with Ireland’s rich history as you walk through each stage of the brewing. And, yes, the tour ends at the rooftop at the Gravity Bar with 360-degree views across the city’s magnificent skyline with a complimentary pint of the black stuff.

Roskamp Vineyard

The stars above and the lights below best describe Roskamp Vineyard’s enchanting position on top of Snipes Mountain in Washington State’s Yakima Valley. With the majesty of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams in the distance, the vineyard was the brainchild of Herman Roskamp (1922-2002) and his wife, Gay. They diligently dedicated themselves to the labor-intensive work and patience of creating a world-class vineyard from scratch.

The Yakima Valley has long been an abundant produce belt for the Pacific Northwest – not to mention its golden hops are exported to the Guinness brewery in Dublin. It only made sense that vineyards

Nova Scotia’s Glenora’s Distillery is the first single malt whisky distillery in North America. (Photo by Deb Roskamp)

Arnold Dettling offers a hands-on approach to his world-famous Dettling Kirschwelt Kirsch. (Photo by Deb Roskamp)

A trip to Dublin is not complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. (Photos courtesy Guinness Storehouse)

would soon follow.

Mr. Roskamp knew his vineyard would be a smashing success, for the Yakima Valley is blessed with 300 days of annual sunshine and enjoys the same latitude as the great wine-producing regions of France. When the Washington wine explosion hit the market, Roskamp Vineyard was at the forefront, with his grapes widely sought after from major wineries.

Recently, two Roskamp Vineyard wines received national attention: The Co Dinn 2014 Roskamp Vineyard Block Two Syrah,

which emotes an intense and distinctive bouquet of dark raspberry, herb and plum, and the premium Co Dinn 2015 Roskamp Vineyard Chardonnay that features a unique delicacy and complexity. Today, Washington State is the second-largest wine producer in the United States. Mr. Roskamp was selected as Yakima Valley’s rookie wine grower in 2001 at the age of 78 years old.

Roskamp Vineyard in all its glory. (Photo courtesy Gary Brouwer)

THE SPRING TRAVEL PLANNER

OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC TOURS, TREKS & DESTINATIONS

v Compiled by Ed Boitano

INTERNATIONAL

CruiseOne offers cruise and land vacations to the world’s most exotic destinations, including the St. Lawrence River, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, the Mediterranean, Hawaii and Caribbean. Programs range from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to river cruising and land vacations. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service. Ask about our land packages in Ottawa and Quebec City, and cruise packages on the St. Lawrence River. Contact Joni Notagiacomo in Los Angeles at (800) 600-4548 or www.luv2cruz.com

DISCOVER THE CUISINE, CULTURE AND BEAUTY OF FRANCE –Explore the Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame, and the Louvre, before journeying through Normandy and the Loire Valley, sampling local wines, cheeses, and history along the way. Join Dignity Travel on this small group tour designed for people who use a wheelchair or have difficulties walking long distances. We will discover France while cruising on the river Seine, visiting the beaches of Normandy and exploring the chateaus in the Loire Valley. Reservation deadline for this tour is Mar. 15, 2019. (877) 337-4272 or www.Dignitytravel.biz

ElderTreks is the world’s first adventure travel company designed exclusively for people 50 and over. Established in 1987, ElderTreks offers active,

Experience Paris and France

Experience the cuisine, culture and beauty of France with Easy & Accessible Tours! (877) 337-4272 • 612-381-1622 • www.Dignitytravel.biz

off-the-beaten-path, small-group adventures by both land and sea in over 100 countries. ElderTreks offers wildlife and tribal African safaris, active hiking trips to the Rockies, Himalayas and Andes, expeditions by icebreakers to the Arctic and Antarctic and cultural journeys throughout Cuba, Asia, and South America. Join ElderTreks on one of our small group adventures for travelers 50 plus. (800) 741-7956 or www.ElderTreks.com

NEW YEARS BALL IN VIENNA – Herzerl Tours invites you to celebrate the 2020 New Year’s in Vienna like the Imperial Family! If you ever had a dream to celebrate a very special New Year’s Eve in truly royal splendor, then this is for you. First, waltz lessons in Vienna’s most renowned dancing school, then the New Year’s Eve Ball “Hofburg Ball” at the Imperial Palace (the winter residence of the Habsburgs) – swaying to the strains of Johann Strauss’ waltz music. Seven day arrangements for two people or more. A once-in-a-lifetime experience! Contact Susanne Servin at 1- (800) 6848488; sms@herzerltours.com or www.herzerltours.com

POLAR CRUISES has the MOST KNOWLEDGE about small-ship

INDEPENDENT

VACATION SPECIALIST

CUBA

travel to Antarctica and the Arctic. Why? Since 1991, our staff has participated in voyages to the Antarctic and Arctic regions, every year. We know the ships, trips and polar travel options, itineraries, dates and prices. We evaluate the quality of the ships, operations, tour programs and companies, and provide polar cruise ship information and expedition trip reviews. Then we talk to you about your travel preferences and book the best vacation for you. (888) 484-2244 or www.PolarCruises.com

WESTERN EXPERIENCES

COLORADO TRAILS RANCH, COLORADO — What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in lovely Southwest Colorado.

ElderTreks' Cuba adventures offer

unique cultural experiences to this Caribbean gem.

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colonial architecture and the streets of old Havana. Be inspired by Cuba's soulful art, musical rhythms and vibrant dance.

Visit a cigar factory, white sand beaches and search for native birdlife in national parks.

Classic Cuba - 13 days from $4295 USD Havana, Viñales, Cienfuegos, and Santa Clara.

Featuring 5 nights in Havana at the famous Hotel Nacional!

Cruise Lines & Land Packages

Contact: Joni Notagiacomo Los Angeles

“Ask about our Switzerland, Nova Scotia and St. Lawrence River cruise packages.”

(800)600-4548

www.luv2cruz.com CST2006278-40

Eastern Cuba - 15 days from $4295 USD Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Guantanamo Bay, Sierra Maestra mountains, Humboldt National Park, Birán, and Gibara. Call 800-741-7956 to speak to a Trip Specialist or visit www.eldertreks.com

Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort offers lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our perfectly personalized programs. All our cabins are new over the past four years. We specialize in providing a super venue for multi-generational family get-togethers, taking care of all the planning. You just sit back and enjoy your family. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

RANCH VACATION BRIDGEPORT, CA— Hunewill Ranch is located in the Eastern Sierra just two hours south of Reno, NV. Family owned and operated since 1861. Great horseback riding, gorgeous hiking trails, stream and lake fishing, evening activities, child friendly. Working cattle ranch. Relax while the amazing kitchen crew and friendly maid staff take care of the cooking and cleaning. Rates include meals, lodging, horseback riding, & all activities. Suited to families, singles and couples. Enjoy an exciting, friendly, fun vacation with home style meals, wide open space, great riding. Make lasting friendships. (760) 932-7710 or www.hunewillranch.com

NEW MEXICO

GHOST RANCH - Take an adventure drive and see the landscape that inspired Georgia O’Keeffe, Ansel Adams and others. Renew your spirit amidst the dramatic cliff walls and red rocks. Explore the dinosaur and anthropology museums. Breathe in scenery on a hike, trail ride or an O’Keeffe Landscape Tour and visit the actual sites she painted. Overnight lodging is available. Call 505.685.1000 or visit GhostRanch.org

LAS VEGAS

OASIS LAS VEGAS RV RESORT — Experience the exciting environment of Las Vegas’ most spectacular RV resort. The Oasis Las Vegas, with its tropical “Casablanca” theme, helps guests relax in sunny Las Vegas by day and see the bright city lights by night. The resort is conveniently located just south of the Las Vegas Strip, only five minutes from the main hotels. If you are seeking an RV resort that offers numerous champagne-class amenities, affordable luxury and superb customer service, contact us today. (800) 566-4707 or www.oasislasvegasrvresort.com

SEDONA

hours from Yellowstone and 3.5 hours from Jackson and the Grand Tetons. Take your time and enjoy the journey. When you get to Logan you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to classic Americana. It’s only a 10 minute drive from the downtown theater district to hiking, fishing, or picnicking in the Wasatch Cache National Forest. Explore Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway. Enjoy our Foodie Trek, outdoor adventures, hands-on living history experiences, and fine arts. Just 90 minutes north of Salt Lake City. (800) 882-4433 or www.explorelogan.com

BEST WESTERN PLUS INN OF SEDONA — The award-winning design of this hotel, nestled in the famous red rocks of Sedona, echoes the natural features of the surrounding desert terrain, showcasing the panoramic views from the hilltop location with four large terraced balcony walks, and quintessential desert-inspired style complete with an outdoor pool and fire pit seating. The complimentary ‘About Town’ shuttle will get you to and from your Sedona adventures. www. InnofSedona.com; (928) 282-3072 or (800) 292-6344.

UTAH

LOGAN, UTAH — This beautiful high mountain valley offers unparalleled access to world class performing arts on the edge of the great outdoors. Fly into Salt Lake City or enjoy the drive through

RUBY’S INN is located at the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park and offers the closest lodging with everything from luxury hotel rooms to RV parks and campgrounds. Ruby’s Inn is open year-round with a General Store that provides fuel, groceries, camping gear, clothing and gifts. To plan your vacation, visit www.RubysInn.com or call (866) 866-6616.

SunRiver - ST. GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned active adult lifestyle community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St. George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or older. From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the active adult lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St. George is “building a lifestyle, not just homes.” (435) 688-1000 or www.SunRiver.com Los Alamos

ALASKA

ALASKA CRUISES AND VACATIONS BY TYEE TRAVEL — Specializing in adventure and yacht style small ships and mid-size luxury ships in

Alaska. Add a custom land tour to complete your Alaskan journey. For advice from Alaskans who cruise themselves, go online at www.akcruises.com or call (800) 977-9705.

CHENA HOT SPRINGS is Alaska’s only year-round natural hot springs resort. Located approximately 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, guests can choose from 80 rooms, 8 dry cabins, full service restaurant and bar. Activities include: hot springs passes, snow coach aurora borealis viewing, Aurora Ice Museum, Chena Kennel dog sled experience and summer cart rides, winter gear rental, bicycle rental, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, ATV tours, and flight-seeing over the Arctic Circle. Chena Hot Springs resort enjoys a clean, healthy and beautiful natural environment and continues to welcome people from all over the world to bathe in the curative powers of the hot waters. (907) 451-8104 or www.chenahotsprings.com

DISCOVER KODIAK — Kodiak, Alaska’s Emerald Isle, offers miles of scenic coastline for beachcombing in quiet solitude while eagles soar overhead. World-class fishing, bear viewing, whale watching, birding, and unspoiled scenery make Kodiak the best place to experience pure Alaska. Museums,

picturesque harbors, shopping, restaurants serving the freshest seafood and kind hospitality round out your experience in “the real Alaska.” Kodiak - the only way to see Alaska. (800) 789-4782 or www.Kodiak.org

GRAY LINE ALASKA has been sharing Alaska with visitors for over 70 years, offering vacation packages from 1 to 8 nights. Breathtaking scenery, wildlife, glaciers and mountains are just a few of the perks you may experience when traveling with Gray Line Alaska. Most itineraries include rail travel in our own glass-domed railcars, perfect for viewing the scenic landscape as you travel from Anchorage to Denali. Book now and save up to $500 per couple on select tours 6 days or longer! Visit graylinealaska.com or call 1-800544-2206 for reservations.

TOGIAK RIVER LODGE — Located in Togiak, Alaska, we are all about the fishing, keeping you comfortable and well fed. Yes we have the hot tub on the river’s edge, and a sauna too; satellite television for those who must catch up on their sports teams, Wi-Fi, daily room service, but it is the world-class salmon fishing, King Salmon fishing, fly fishing Silver Salmon, and Trophy Rainbow Trout fishing that people travel to Togiak for. Allow us to take care of you, your family

or friends on a remote Alaskan wilderness fishing adventure of a lifetime. (503) 784-7919; www.togiaklodge.com or llchinook@aol.com

HAWAII

CONDOMINIUM RENTALS HAWAII has been managing quality vacation condos on or across the best beaches for over 35 years. Check out new properties on both Maui and Kauai and view your condo online. Ask for promo code MS20 & get up to 20% off at select properties for your Winter stay! Call (800) 367-5242 or select your fabulous condo online at www.crhmai.com

MAUI CONDO AND HOME, LLC features over 250 studio, one-, twoand three-bedroom condos in more than 20 oceanfront, beachfront and golf course locations in Kihei, Wailea, and Kahana and Kapalua in West Maui. And now they have condos on Hawaii Island, Kauai and Oahu; so booking a multi-island vacation is a breeze. Maui Condo And Home has easy check-in. Just call ahead for your check-in information. With their Keyless entry system, you are able to go straight to your unit at check-in time. 1 (844) 567-8601 or www.mauicondo.com

NOELANI CONDOMINIUM RESORT – Welcome to Maui’s finest vacation rental resort. Away from the tour bus crowds of high rise hotels and overdeveloped resort areas, this is a unique, private haven where you can still enjoy all the peace, tranquility and Aloha Spirit of Old Hawaii. Maui No Ka Oi! Enjoy the best of Maui in our oceanfront resort condos, all of which are oceanfront, not just ocean view, like so many other Maui vacation properties. Relax in our swimming pools, Jacuzzi, private lanais and tropical island setting, just steps from the beach. (800) 367-6030; www.noelanicondoresort.com or e-mail inquiries to info@noelanicondoresort.com

CALIFORNIA

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT — Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV on 26 acres. Enjoy a general store, children’s arcade, restaurant, Laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

DOLPHIN BAY RESORT & SPA — Set along the rugged California Coast, just south of San Luis Obispo, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is centrally located in Pismo Beach. Dolphin Bay is the ideal hotel for romantic getaways or family vacations where guests stay anywhere from two nights to months at a time. With 60 spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites featuring all the amenities of a home, The Spa, award winning-restaurant, Lido at Dolphin Bay and an array of activities, guests can experience the best of the Central Coast. (800) 516-0112 or www.thedolphinbay.com

THE LODGE AT LAKE TAHOE

— Centrally located in South Lake Tahoe. Our condominiums provide ample space and comforts of home to relax after a fun-filled day. Heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our onsite resort amenities serve as the premier spot to relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com

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

TAHOE LAKESHORE LODGE & SPA is the only all lake front Lake Tahoe hotel where every room has a lake view

and fireplace. Offering both lodge rooms and condominiums. Plan your vacation in Tahoe with one of the most beautiful lakes. Hotel amenities include a private beach, seasonal heated pool and hot tub that are lakeside, a day spa and sauna for pampering. The hotel does not charge any resort fees and always has complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. Centrally located just minutes from downtown casinos, ski resorts, restaurants, marinas and area attractions. Reserve your stay at www.TahoeLakeshoreLodge.com or by calling (800) 448-4577 for the best rates and availability.

Long Beach

The long and short of California’s seaside town

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

From the Hilton Long Beach windows, container shipping ports loom over the shore. There’s more to the nation’s second busiest container port than industry Long Beach is vibrant, with a wealth of museums, murals and a relaxing waterfront. After a 5 1/2-hour drive, all we wanted to do was chill by the beach and listen to the seagulls.

This isn’t Los Angeles or San Diego, it goes much deeper than that.

From eclectic neighborhoods to sandy beaches, Long Beach is home to a 1930s ocean liner, adorable sea lions and fun ocean animals.

Where to stay

Hilton Long Beach

333 E. Ocean Boulevard westinlongbeachhotel.com

Within 5 minutes of being at the Hilton

tranquility of the Pacific Ocean. It is mere blocks from beaches, shopping, theaters and bistros.

Insider tip: Talk to the servers during Sunday brunch. They’re knowledgeable about the city, spewing tips here and there about what out-of-town guests should visit.

The hotel is pet-friendly.

Sights to see

The Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way aquariumofthepacific.org

The Aquarium of the Pacific features more than 11,000 animals in over 50 spectacular exhibits. The facility may not be fancy like OdySea in Scottsdale, but it gets to the point. The courageous can mingle with sharks and rays, or check out jellyfish. (I was stung by a jellyfish when I was 9 and it traumatized me, but this was still cool.) The world’s largest ocean aquarium boasts a replica life-sized whale hanging from ceiling.

Long Beach, I had already made a fool of myself. Heads up: You have to use your room card to access the elevator’s controls. Otherwise, the elevators close on guests. Don’t worry, you won’t get trapped. Anyway, public service announcement aside, the modern-looking Hilton Long Beach allows visitors to see every side of the city. A selection of the 469 guest rooms and 31 suites overlook the marina and

The behind-the-scenes tour is a must, but so is the gift shop, where the trinkets, T-shirts and penguin umbrellas (yes, it’s a thing!) are affordable. We came home with bags of souvenirs from the aquarium. Travel there on the last day of your trip, so you can save a little cash for the rest of the stay.

Harbor Breeze Cruises 100 Aquarium Way Dock 2 562.432.4900, tickets.harbor-cruises.com

We knew we were in good hands and the captain pointed out Parker’s Lighthouse, a recipient of Wine Spectator’s award of excellence. It’s known for its mesquite-grilled

fresh seafood and spectacular views. (More on that later.) Beyond that, we explored Long Beach’s coastline, while our apt host schooled us on the harbor’s history and the skyline. But more importantly, we saw California sea lions up close on buoys. The adorable mammals seemed just as interested in us as we were in them. The cruise also gives an idyllic view of the Queen Mary, an art-deco ocean liner in its 41st year in Long Beach. Docked alongside it was Carnival Inspiration, the closest I’ve ever been to a fantasy class cruise ship.

The Queen Mary 1126 Queens Highway queenmary.com

We were whisked back in time to the days of art deco ocean liners, men in tuxedos and women in flowing gowns on The Queen Mary. Celebrating 41 years in Long Beach, The Queen Mary is a top attraction with historic tours and special exhibits. While we were there, The Queen Mary housed a Princess Diana exhibit that was bound to make even the most heartless person weep. The ship has 347 spacious staterooms with elegant suites, fine restaurants and Sunday brunch, a spa, shops, ocean views and meeting facilities aboard and alongside for 20 to 5,000 guests.

The Museum of Latin-American Art (MOLAA)

628 Alamitos Avenue molaa.org

Founded in 1996, The Museum of Latin American Art is a cultural gem. The only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art, the MOLAA is stunning, as is the 15,000-square-foot sculpture garden. The gallery hosts works from the likes of

Tamayo and Matta to Cruz-Diez, Los Carpinteros and Tunga.

Dining

Michael’s Downtown Italian Kitchen

210 E. Third Street michaelsdt.com

Michael Dene has a must when traveling to Long Beach. The restaurateur found the perfect way to wood-fire pizza with freshly made mozzarella. That’s nothing new to Dene, as he and his staff take locally sourced ingredients and create stellar dishes like Bolognese with tagliatelle pasta with prime hand-grown beef, pork and veal sauce; and gnocchi served in a gorgonzola sauce that was impeccable. The appetizer was king here: braised beef, veal and pork meatballs smothered in red sauce that were flavorful. Also on the menu are salads, grain bowls and, of course, great wine to pair with meals.

Breakfast Bar

70 Atlantic Street

562.726.1700,

Breakfast Bar serves breakfast and lunch, along with an assortment of wines and beers, in the heart of downtown Long Beach. Family owned by Josh and Pamela Beadel, who have both worked and lived in downtown Long Beach for more than 10 years, the Breakfast Bar’s tasty menu abounds with special dishes from their family traditions and recipes.

The menu is as special as it is personal. For example, a Breakfast Bar favorite is Uncle Marcee’s Omelet Casserole, which is individually baked and served with a potato pancake and fruit.

Because I’m a plain Jane, I tried the French toast, thick-cut sourdough French toast served with two eggs cooked anyway (I had scrambled) and a choice of two bacons, two sausage links, two turkey sausage or one sausage patty.

The guests at the table next to us were from Boston and were delightful. The husband had meatloaf steak and eggs and it smelled amazing. It was house-spiced and thick-cut meatloaf made with beef, pork and soyrizo, and topped with two eggs cooked any way. It was served with potato pancake and house rosemary bread.

The long and short of it is Long Beach is more than Sublime, bike-friendly streets and the ocean. It’s a respite from the Arizona heat and a place to put our feet up.

(Photos courtesy of Long Beach Convention Center)

An Oasis in the Desert

Historic Castle Hot Springs has made its grand comeback

BY SHERRY JACKSON

In the early 1900s, Castle Hot Springs, located north of Phoenix, was a luxury retreat in the desert southwest. An oasis nestled up against the towering Bradshaw mountains where the rich and famous would come to play. Families like the Vanderbilts, Roosevelts and Kennedys and western writer Zane Grey were all guests.

In the 1940s, the property served as a military rehabilitation center where future president John F. Kennedy spent three months recovering from wounds. But the resort started losing its allure in the 1960s and was closed to the public after a fire in 1976 took out the Palm House, one of the resort’s prominent buildings.

The property went through a revolving door of new owners over the years. Owners pictured the resort with several different uses such as a high-end spa, a conference

center and boutique hotel. But the remote location presented added challenges – and costs – and plans fell through until the property was purchased in 2014 by local business owners Mike and Cindy Watts. The 1,110-acre, high-end resort recently made its grand re-debut.

“We want this to be a very unique, different place,” says Steven Sampson, director of sales and marketing for Westroc Hospitality, the company managing the property. Westroc also manages the Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain, Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows resorts. Sampson says the effort is a “legacy” for the Watts and Castle Hot Springs has an emotional attachment for Westroc’s owner, Russell “Rusty” Lyon, Jr.

“The new owners are committed to restoring it to its grandeur,” Sampson says.

The main attraction, a hot spring bubbling up from deep undergroung, cascades from the mountain into several pools and streams on the property. Yavapai and Apache Indians used the springs for medicinal purposes and in the 1880s the property served as a sanitarium, touting the springs’ health benefits. Guests would travel via stagecoach, or later train, to take in the healing waters.

A 4-foot deep, natural swimming hole with crystal clear water sits at the base of the springs and is a short walk up from the main lodge. Twelve bungalows on the property are also connected to the hot springs with water pumped into an outdoor private tub in each unit. The 9-foot deep, 125,000-gallon swimming pool, once the largest in Arizona before Big Surf came along, gets its water from the springs as well.

With more than

500 palm trees onsite, many over 100 years old, the resort provides a shady haven against the Arizona sun. Peace and tranquility are the mantra here. There is no traffic or ambient city noise and the night sky is full of twinkling stars. Castle Hot Springs is meant to be a wellness re -

treat to detox and disconnect. Limited cell service and no televisions allow guests to digitally detox from the world, Sampson says.

The renovation wasn’t without its setbacks. With an initial planned opening this fall, a late July monsoon flooded the entire canyon as a 5-foot high wall of water rushed down the mountain slopes, flooding the main road and halting renovations for a few months. A second target date of New Year’s Eve 2018 had also been set, but Sampson says the team decided it would rather delay a couple more months to make sure everything is up to par.

“You only get one chance to make a good first impression,” he says.

But now, those renovations are winding down as the opening date approaches. Castle Hot Springs has 12 bungalows with an indoor/outdoor fireplace and private outdoor soaking tub; 17 Sky View Cabins, each with its own telescope and skylight for stargazing and private outdoor soaking tub; four rooms above the lodge house/ reception area and one restored, historic cottage, where Rockefeller once stayed, offering three bedrooms and two baths. A new Stone House serves as a chapel and has separate spaces for executive meetings or social events.

Another piece of history at the resort: Arizona’s first telephone, installed by territorial governor Nathan Oakes Murphy in the late 1890s, has also been restored, and guests can make calls from the rotary dial located in the lodge’s bar.

In the 1940s, Castle Hot Springs’ property served as a military rehabilitation center where future president John F. Kennedy spent three months recovering from wounds. (Photos special to LLAF)

With more than 500 palm trees on-site, the resort provides a shady haven against the Arizona sun.

Take I-17 to Highway 74 toward Lake Pleasant. That’s where things get a little tricky. After turning on Castle Hot Springs Road, the road is only paved for about 4 miles. The remaining 7 miles is a dusty, dirt road that traverses washes, with an occasional wild burro spotting.

But Sampson says they’ll accommodate guests with either personal car service from the airport, specific directions and instructions if guests are driving themselves, or, the resort also has a helipad and its own helicopters. Castle Hot Springs will only be open seasonally, October to May. To assist employees with the remoteness of the resort, an “employee village” will allow some personnel to live on-site.

The resort’s culinary offerings are on par or exceed any other high-end resort. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be harvested from the large organic garden and greenhouse located just outside the restaurant. Ian Beger, the resort’s agronomist, and Executive Chef Christopher Brugman,

most recently from Mountain Shadows, have created recipes from the over 150 varieties of rare organic fruits and vegetables grown on-site. There’s an outdoor pizza oven, smoker and grill.

The resort has partnered with local Helio Basin Brewing Company to brew its own beer. Castle Hot Springs takes its natural

spring water to the brewery, where they brew a Castle Hot Springs Lithium Lager Future resort plans include converting an original barn and stables into an on-site craft brewery later this year.

The resort works with guests to provide experiential activities and custom-tailored excursions geared to their interests. Horse -

back riding, ATV rides, yoga on the great lawn, astronomy lectures, photography workshops and culinary demonstrations are just some of the offerings being considered. A wellness village, with massage cabanas, offers on-site spa services.

Rates begin at $1,200 a night for a Sky View Cabin and $1,600 a night for a spring bungalow. The price is per couple and includes all meals and gratuities and is definitely geared toward a “very affluent” crowd. Kids aren’t allowed, and it’s not exactly kid-friendly, anyway.

Sampson expects the private and remote location to be a draw to celebrity clientele looking to get away. “It’s a bucket list destination for some,” he says.” It will be a zen, tranquil resort for all.”

Castle Hot Springs

5050 E. Castle Hot Springs Road, Castle Hot Springs 1-877-600-1137 castlehotsprings.com

Special moments, like weddings, are captured at Castle Hot Springs’ chapel.

Dining

Chef to the Stars

Robin Murphy adds her flair to Starfire Grille

BY KRISTINE CANNON

From microphone-wielding stars to pigskin-throwing players and golf club-swinging clients, chef and Scottsdale resident Robin Murphy has cooked for them all.

“It was through Arizona Catering, between 2004 and 2010,” she says. “They have a Live Nation’s contract, so every musical person that came to this town, we would cater to all of them.”

Murphy, who was also the executive chef for the Arizona Cardinals during this time, even hit the road with The Police for 19 months.

“It was back and forth, back and forth – the same songs over and over,” she says with a laugh. “They did invite me to Europe, but I declined that. I didn’t see the inside of my house for months.”

Other notable, A-list celebrities with whom she has worked include Madonna, who preferred healthy meals for herself and her entire crew of 350 people, and Mariah Carey.

“Mariah Carey likes everything that’s white – white food only – and you had to decorate the room with white everything – couches, chairs,” Murphy recalls, adding that she always served the celebrities in their dressing rooms.

Rascal Flatts, however, was her favorite client.

“I’m a country-western kind of girl,” she says. “I always like down-home food, fried chicken; they were easier.”

Following years of traveling back and forth between Phoenix and San Diego, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and seeing more than her fair share of concerts, Murphy moved on to work for Michael’s Catering, which caters to the Waste Management Phoenix Open, and then on to Terravita Golf and Country Club in Scottsdale as executive chef.

Now, Murphy has taken on a new challenge in her career: transitioning from fine dining to elevated comfort food cuisine as the executive chef of the newly renovated Starfire Golf Club’s Starfire Grille.

“I’ve fine-dined everywhere, but I also like a good dive bar and great dive bar food,” she says. “I now know what I like to do and what I like to do is fun.”

Murphy joined the team in August.

Starfire Grille has all the traditional golf food, including chicken salad, egg salad and tuna salad sandwiches. But Murphy has completely revamped the menu, putting her own twist on it.

One notable sandwich item on the menu is the BATMAN, an elevated BLT that features bacon, arugula, tomato, mozzarella and avocado aioli on naan bread.

“The funniest thing about the Batman is I was on my 110th hour in one week, and I sat down and wrote this crazy sandwich. My boss at the time told me, ‘OK, I think you’re getting a little tired,’ but as soon as I made it the next day, it sold like that,” Murphy says.

So she brought that sandwich, what she describes as a healthier BLT, to Starfire Grille, and it’s just as popular with diners.

Also new to the menu and steadily gaining popularity with guests are the pizzas made in the restaurant’s brand-new wood-fired oven.

“We have a whole new food and beverage staff, from the front of the house to the kitchen staff,” he says. “I feel we have the best team we’ve had since I’ve been here.”

Lupton has worked at Starfire Golf Club for seven years.

One strategy he has adopted to attract more new customers is hosting themed nights that fuse food and golf.

Specialty nights include everything from “pizza and putting” nights and wine and cheese boards and half-priced bottles of wine on Wednesday nights to “beers, balls and bratwurst” out at the driving range. On Sunday nights, they offer family-style salad, two pizzas and a dessert for $25.

Diners can opt for the tomato and basil, meat lovers or everything pizza, or they can build their own. Pizzas range from $10 to $13.

Starfire Golf Club General Manager Matt Lupton says the wood-fired pizza oven was strategically added to attract more families and a younger demographic.

“I’m trying to think of ways to keep it interesting and get younger people out here, people who are non-golfers, and make it more relaxed, more comfortable,” he says. “It’s more family oriented.”

Starfire Grille now offers a substantial happy hour menu as well.

The menu consists of beef sliders, buffalo and teriyaki wings, a chicken quesadilla, street tacos with your choice of meat, a meatball skillet, crispy calamari, an onion ring stack and steamed clams and mussels. Prices range from $5 to $10.

“These items sell pretty well from 3 to 6 p.m.,” Murphy says. “I think a lot of chefs are going toward that happy hour because that’s where your business is right now.”

Lupton says Starfire’s focus is on food and beverage this year.

“We’re going to keep things interesting and fresh and up to date,” he says. “There are different things going, and it’s not the same thing every week, so keep checking back to see what we’re doing.”

And that also includes wine dinners, a first for Starfire Grille.

“Matt’s let me just run myself wild with it all,” Murphy says.

They plan to host them in the future. In addition to the new menu, Starfire’s golf course was transformed into a King 18hole course and a Mulligan 9-hole course, and the driving range was expanded to over 300 yards.

The $750,000 renovation was completed and unveiled last November.

“It brings a lot of players out here that didn’t play here before,” Lupton says of the renovations. “The Mulligan 9 has been great for families, kids, beginners. I have a 6-year-old, so last night we came out to play.”

In other words, come for the wood-fired pizzas, stay for the golf.

Chef Robin Murphy has worked with Madonna, Mariah Carey, Arizona Cardinals and The Police during her career. Below, the Batman sandwich is a staple at Starfire Grille. (Special to LLAF)

Taste of Lebanon

MVPita in Northeast Mesa relies on a mother’s

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Siblings Christian and Michelle Warde are paying tribute to their mom the best way they know how: through food.

MVPita – at the southwest corner of Power and Brown roads –serves fresh Mediterranean food like salads, hummus and, of course, pitas, using their mother’s recipes.

“Our mom has always wanted to own a restaurant,” Christian says.

recipes

“This is authentic Lebanese cuisine all from our mom’s recipes.”

Their mother, Tania Warde, still resides in Illinois, from where the siblings moved three years ago.

“She’s trying to move out here,” he says. “We just want to set this up and get everybody on their feet. Tears come to her eyes

when we talk about her restaurant.

“See, our mom was the main person in the kitchen at home. My favorite part was the dolmas.”

Dolmas have ingredients like meat and spiced rice wrapped in vine or cabbage leaves.

“She used to stuff them with meat,

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rice and spice,”

Christian continues. “Over here, they’re vegetarian style. It was my favorite thing growing up. Everybody loves to cook and eat in our family. Unfortunately, we opened the restaurant away from the family.”

One of MVPita’s top sellers is the gyro pita, a shaved mixture of lamb and beef cooked on a rotisserie ($6.49).

“Everything is good here,” Christian quickly adds about MVPita. “Customers can pick multiple proteins instead of just one. It’s tough on the kitchen, but the kitchen is hard working and we like to work together to knock out orders.”

Christian and Michelle are 28 and 24, respectively. Christian refers to them as a “young family who’s looking to strive.”

“We thought if the food was good, the people would come,” he says. “That’s how we looked at it. We started a new chapter in life moving to Arizona.”

MVPita

1066 N. Power Road, Suite 103, Mesa 480-247-9399, mvpita.com

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The food at MVPita isn’t just about Lebanon. Its cheeseburger – a burger topped with gyro meat, both marinated in house – has won numerous awards.

But Lebanese food is where it’s at, he says.

“We have gyros for $3.99 Mondays and Tuesdays, which is a sweet deal for people trying to save money,” he says. “We’re trying to become the $5 gyro spot every day. Our prices are probably the best prices in town. They’re very reasonable. You get a lot of bang for fresh, quality food.”

Kendra

Lyndsey Hendrix, Christian Warde and Michelle Warde are behind MVPita.

Top: The house salad is a popular side dish. Middle: The MVP veggie sampler has hummus, baba, tabouleh salad, dolma and falafel, and is served with two Arabic pitas. Bottom: At MVPita, guests can dine on chicken or steak kabobs.

The MVPita Sampler comes with hummus, gyro, chicken shwarma and falafel. (Photos by Kimberly Carrillo)

You never really know exactly when something becomes a ritual, but we know for certain that Cactus League in Arizona is one of our most cherished rites of spring.

What’s Cooking? Spring Training sausage and peppers

BY JAN D’ATRI

Since 1900, folks have been escaping the chill and heading out west to soak up our desert warmth, hear the crack of the bat and dive into a ballpark dog or maybe peanuts and Cracker Jack.

We love Spring Training and everything that goes with it!

So, this month, it’s a tribute to one of our all-time favorites on the field and off, the grilled Italian sausage sandwich with peppers and onions. Festival style, we call it –the darling of sporting events, carnivals and street fairs.

I am often asked advice on how to cook sausage, and I’ve got to admit, that’s one thing I can do pretty well. Here’s why.

In 1957, my family opened an Italian sausage factory in Lake Tahoe using a recipe developed by my father, who was a butcher by trade. As a little girl, I remember the tiny frying pan in the break room constantly in use, as dad grilled one link after each 75-pound batch of sausage to test for quality.

The meat plant was cold, cold, cold, and that little frying pan – with its minimal output of heat – was my ever-present buddy!

Then, in 1990, I decided to carry on the D’Atri sausage tradition by opening my own factories in Phoenix and Tempe, using the same tried and true 50-year-old family recipe. For several years, our product was featured at most of the Valley’s ballparks and at the 1996 Super Bowl in Tempe.

Needless to say, I love to cook sausage on an outdoor grill or in a frying pan on the cook top. The problem is we often make grilling sausage a lot harder than it should

be. We boil, burn and burst it instead of getting that perfect brownish-black coating of caramelized goodness.

So let me share a few tips that have helped me to grill great Italian sausages!

No. 1 Look for an Italian sausage with the classic course grind. You should see little bits of fat, which will render off and add flavor.

No. 2 Don’t boil Italian sausage. You’re losing flavor that way.

Instead, pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Place sausage links on a baking sheet. Cook for about 15 minutes until links turn a grayish color. Finish them on the grill, about 5 minutes. This ensures the links are cooked inside and caramelized on the outside.

No. 3 To cook sausage in the frying pan, start with a small amount of water, about 1/4 cup per four links. On high heat, cook sausage until water has evaporated. (At this point, sausage will be light in color.) Gently puncture sausage in a few places to release juices. Reduce heat to medium high and cook sausage until caramelized. Turn occasionally for even cooking. You can also cook the sausage with a little bit of oil in the pan.

No. 4 Slice sweet yellow onions pinwheelstyle and strips of green or red peppers. (I do two-parts onion to one-part peppers.) In a frying pan or flat grill, cook in a small amount of olive oil or butter until soft and tender. Try these tips and you’ll hit it out of the park every time!

Photo courtesy Jan D’Atri

Aging Today Everybody does it Columns

in a bunch; needless worrying is just that.

BY BOB ROTH Managing Partner of Cypress Homecare Solutions

A note of caution to my devoted readers: If you normally sit down to my column while having a meal or snacking, these two activities should be enjoyed independent of one another today. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so I will dish the scoop on poop. So, don’t get ushed, pull up a stool and let’s engage in (productive) potty talk.

While I admit it is a bit unre ned and the 8-year-old little boy in me is most certainly giggling, there really is no easier way to discover what’s happening inside your body than seeing what comes out of it. It is important to pay attention to your bathroom habits. Equally important is not obsessing over them.

One of the biggest misconceptions circulated by a popular TV doctor is there is an ideal result, S-shaped and enters the water like an Olympic diver with minimal splash. The take away was anything else could indicate some kind of problem. This blanket statement is just incorrect. Everyone’s GI tract operates di erently based on genetics, hydration, dietary habits, medication and other ongoing health issues.

On any given day something may be slightly o and certain foods just don’t agree with you. If occasionally you don’t drink enough water, are on a new medication or are traveling, your rhythm is o for a short time and usually reverts back to normal in a few days. Don’t get your boxers

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Many Americans are more afraid of retirement and health care costs than they

Better bowel health heeds me to shout out to our inner caveman, a recurring theme. Our paleolithic progenitors could check o the rst four bullet points of this list of suggestions.

• Exercise regularly.

• Strive to drink 2 quarts of water daily.

• Eat unprocessed, natural foods including ber-rich vegetables.

• Avoid arti cial sweeteners, fructose, chemical additives, MSG, excessive ca eine.

• Boost your intestinal ora by adding naturally fermented foods to your diet-sauerkraut, pickles and ke r, for example.

• Add a probiotic supplement if you’re not getting enough good bacteria from your diet.

• If you use medication every day, ask your prescribing doctor if it could be a ecting your bowel movements.

• Take action to minimize stress.

Interestingly, the stone age squat is the ideal anatomical position for when nature calls. We may have won the birth lottery for living in the modern era of indoor plumbing, but your body is designed to eliminate while squatting.

Sitting on a modern toilet is designed to place your knees at a 90-degree angle to your abdomen while squatting places your knees much closer to your torso. Today’s toilet position is unnatural. Squatting changes the relationship of your intestinal organs and musculature, which allows for complete emptying without straining.

erally brown in color because of bile, which is produced in the liver. If the stool is black, it can be a sign of internal bleeding. Stool color also changes depending on the kind of foods you eat. (Before you panic, did you eat a beet salad at that trendy restaurant?) Change in stool consistency. Everyone has bouts of diarrhea from time to time. But if you are used to having solid bowel movements and now have diarrhea frequently, it could be a sign of something more serious – especially if you also have abdominal pain, bleeding and weight loss.

Constipation. This typically can be due to lack of proper hydration or side e ects from a medication. If your symptoms don’t improve in a few days after an increase in uids, see your doctor.

If you have any questions or if you are exhibiting some of the signs that I have outlined above you, please contact your primary care provider. Another great resource for you to consider is stoolanalyzer.com. What a shame this topic gets such a bum rap, glad we got to the bottom of it.

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I strongly recommend placing a stool on the oor designed to t around the base of the toilet known as the Squatty Potty. I am pretty sure the inventor of this simpleyet-brilliant device is reading this column while sipping a tropical drink on a raft somewhere fabulous.

All levity aside, it is important to be aware of how your GI tract normally functions and what typical bowel activity is for you. If you notice a prolonged change, that’s when you need to closely monitor what’s happening. In addition, if you are feeling pain or other pronounced symptoms, it’s time to call your doctor.

Signs of bowel trouble that you should not ignore:

Blood in your stool: If you see even a small amount of blood in your feces on a recurring basis, see a doctor.

Color change: Bowel movements are gen-

Hospice Is Hope The truth about hospice

BY LIN SUE COONEY

I’ve had a number of friends reach out to me in the past month, asking about hospice care for a loved one. It made me realize many of us don’t really understand how it works – or we have misconceptions about what hospice is and what it de nitely is not. First and foremost, it’s meant to be beautiful support for people facing an end-oflife journey. A terminal diagnosis is never easy to cope with, but it’s less scary with someone walking alongside you. Our goal is to support patient and family and help them make the most of the time that’s left.

You don’t lose your doctor

Hospice is about choice. If you have a doctor you like and trust and want involved in your care, you can have that. Hospice teams work alongside your primary care physician to develop the best plan of care for you. Together we support your goals and desires – it’s your journey.

Don’t worry about cost

Medicare Part A covers hospice care, medical equipment and medications needed to treat your illness. If you’re too young for Medicare, most insurance plans cover hospice. And if you don’t have insurance – not-for-pro t Hospice of the Valley will care for you regardless of ability to pay. We turn no one away – that’s been our mission for 42 years – an important distinction from for-pro t hospices.

Hospice care comes to you

Our care teams come to you, wherever you live, to deliver hospice care. We are unique in that we also have 10 inpatient hospice homes, which are used to help with short-term symptom management or provide family members a break from the stress of caregiving.

You are free to change your mind

You’re always free to leave hospice care to pursue additional treatments or try a new therapy. There is no rule requiring you to stay on hospice. Patients come on and sign o whenever they choose – it’s their

decision. Your hospice bene t is waiting for you, whenever you need it again.

All hospices are not the same

Hospices vary in their level of experience and expertise. Medicare allows you to choose your own hospice, but if you don’t make a choice, someone – a hospital, a doctor, a facility will choose for you. Fortunately, if you’re ever dissatis ed with a hospice, all it takes is a phone call to change to another.

Hospice does not hasten death

Hospice care is about controlling pain and keeping patients comfortable, not hurrying death. Our mission is to enhance every moment you have left.

Often when patients stop curative treatment and start receiving hospice care, something amazing happens. The social support and nursing care stabilize their condition and quality of life actually improves. Multiple studies show that receiving hospice sooner in the disease process can often extend life. Imagine coming on hospice to live longer!

Families feel supported, too, with education and counseling. Many tell us later that had they known how wonderful the care was, they would have chosen hospice care sooner.

There’s no crystal ball when it comes to deciding exactly when to choose hospice, but once you do, be assured that the focus is on giving you back some control on this di cult journey, and maximizing comfort and dignity in your life.

The Healthy Geezer Vision changes may be signs of eye disease

BY FRED CICETTI

Q. What kind of glasses should you get for low vision?

Low vision is a signi cant reduction in visual function that can’t be corrected by regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery. Low vision can range from moderate impairment – such as tunnel vision or blind spots – to almost total blindness. One out of every 20 people has low vision. About 135 million people around the world su er from this impairment.

Irreversible vision loss is most common among people over age 65. However, losing vision is not just part of getting older. Some normal changes occur as we get older. These changes usually don’t lead to low vision.

Low vision can be caused by diseases, disorders and injuries that a ect the eye. Many people with low vision have age-related macular degeneration, cataracts or glaucoma. Almost 45 percent of all cases of low vision are caused by age-related macular degeneration, which progressively destroys the central retina (macula) at the back of your eye. The retina is to your eye what lm is to a camera.

If you think you may have low vision, con-

sult an eye care professional who can tell the di erence between normal changes in the aging eye and those caused by disease.

There are many signs that indicate possible vision loss. Under normal circumstances, do you have trouble recognizing faces of people you know? Is it di cult for you to read, sew or match the color of your clothes? Do lights seem dimmer than they used to?

Vision changes like these could be early warning signs of eye disease. Usually, the earlier your problem is diagnosed, the better your chances are for successful treatment and maintaining your vision.

Regular eye exams should be part of your routine health care. However, if you think your vision has changed, you should see your eye care professional as soon as possible.

A specialist in low vision is an optometrist or ophthalmologist who is trained to evaluate vision. This professional can prescribe visual devices and teach people how to use them.

Devices and rehabilitation programs can help you adapt to vision loss. They may help you maintain your lifestyle.

These devices include: adjustable lighting; large-print publications; magnifying devices; closedcircuit televisions; electronic reading machines; computer systems with voicerecognition; telescopes; and telephones, clocks and watches with large numbers.

Rehabilitation programs o er a wide range of services such as low-vision evaluations and special training to use adaptive devices. They also o er guidance for making changes in your home as well as group support from others with low vision.

Fred Cicetti is a freelance writer who has covered health topics since 1963. If you have a question for him, email fred@healthygeezer.com.

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Yard/construction debris, junk, furniture, appliances, clean-outs, etc , etc , etc , Jobs both big & small

I’ m a 6th grade Mesa teacher working his 2nd job. Phone Estimates Dave 480-360-5865 or 480-360-JUNK

See my ad in the Biz Box Section

RUBBISH WORKS OF SCOTTSDALE / N. PHOENIX

YOUR LOCAL JUNK HAULER

Labor, Hauling, Junk Removal, Old Furniture, Appliances, Electronics, Moving Boxes, Construction & Yard Debris

Garage & House Cleanouts We Donate & Recycle Visit:

www rubbishworks com/phoenix Call: 480-545-1220 Email Rita at: rbrady@rubbishworks.com

HOMES FOR RENT

2

*Kitchens or Baths

*Tile/Flooring

*Garages We Do It All!

24 Hour Emergency Services

Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC#242008

SPRING SPECIAL

15% off labor on any job over $1,000

Must mention this ad for discount

Can't combine with any other offer

Call for a Free Estimate!

602-628-8735

602-323-6574 Holtzmanhomeimprovement.com

INSURANCE

HEALTH INSURANCE

For UNDER 65 YEAR OLDS National PPO'S Starting at $148 00 Call NOW A J Sagman 480-482-9949 asagman@myhst com Healthcare Solutions team

MEDICARE

MEDICARE ASSISTANCE AND DIRECTION THROUGH YOUR TRUSTED MEDICARE COMMUNITY ADVOCATE All Medicare Plan Types, All Entitlements & Eligibilities Medicaid/AHCCCS Qualifiers, Rx and Part B Premium Assistance No Cost, Complete & Accurate Medicare Guidance Call: Jim Schmidt 480-296-3900. JimSchmidt@Signature Senior Solutions

Appealing to your Good Nature

I'm hoping you and I can make a small but significant difference for our veterans and community members that are less fortunate, homeless or in shelters Should you have gently used clothing to donate to appreciative people, I would be more than happy to pick up and distribute Just give me a call Thank You! Jim Schmidt 480.296.3900

Turning 65?

Moving to Arizona? Paying too much? Need Insurance?

We can assist you. Medicare: Supplements, Advantage, Rx Plans, Dental, Vision and ACA plans too Audrey Stanford 602.799.3835

Audrey @AZStanfordInsurance (call, txt, email)

SERVICES

ASSISTING & PET SITTING SERVICES

Organize Home/Office

Packing/Unpacking for Move In-Home Pet Sitting 602-228-8413 christinahelps2012@gmail com

REAL ESTATE

Local REALTOR ® ready to serve your real estate needs Offering everything from full service to flat fee agreements, my local knowledge and experience will prove to be YOUR winning formula! Call Clark Hoppel III anytime at 480-678-9028 or visit CH3Realty com

DIVERSITY SINGLES CLUB

(AGE 60 PLUS)

Meets EVERY Monday 8:00am at JB's Restaurant, 6810 E Main St in Mesa for breakfast

Prospective Members Welcome!

DRAWER LL1027

WWM, 84yrs, 5'6", 165lbs, NS, healthy, active & good shape In search of a lady who is compatible with my ad and not older than me More details over lunch (I live in Mesa)

DRAWER LL1252

Single, Hispanic man in 60's, looking to meet a nice lady I'm kind, gentle, caring, respectful I'm also a non smoker/non-drinker

DRAWER LL1567

W

DRAWER LL1569

Are you looking for tall, smart, fun loving, spry 70 year old lady She is here in East Valley

DRAWER LL1584

Looking for a cute, fun, lady to share life with an attractive, fit, fun guy - SWM 66.

DRAWER LL1641

Attractive, white, Christian, widow, 71, healthy & retired Active, enjoys plays, day trips, concerts, cards, etc Looking to meet a nice interesting well-groomed gentleman to enjoy life with Surprise/ SunCityWest

DRAWER LL1667

WWF - 70, catholic ISO

WWM- &0+ catholic, country dancer: n/s, LTR, sense of humor, fun, romantic, affectionate and loving

DRAWER 1668

FRIENDSHIP ADS

FRIENDSHIP ADS Instructions/Info

ANSWERING ADS:

Compose your response with Drawer # and email it to address below

HOW TO PLACE:

1. Include your 30 word ad ($20); $.30 per word thereafter. Your info: Name, Address, Phone, Email address and Payment.

2 Payments can be Check/Money Order, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover Account # of your credit card, CVV code and expiration.

3 Mail everything to address below OR e-mail to class@timespublications.co m

ABBREVIATION KEY

SWM=Single White Male

SWF=Single White Female

SHM=Single Hispanic Male

SHF=Single Hispanic Female

WWM=White Widowed Male

WWF =White Widowed Female

ISO=In Search Of LTR= Long Term Relationship N/S=Non-Smoking N/D=Non-Drinking

Lovin’ Life After 50 1620 W. Fountainhead Pkwy, Ste. 219 Tempe, AZ 85282 480-898-6465

DRAWER LL1237

DWM, mid 70’ s, 6’2” , 195#

Youthful, educated, athletic, healthy, fit Wide variety of interests, including travel, sports, music, movies, etc ISO attractive lady, age and ethnicity unimportant Your

Arizona Cactus Sales

I’manad

Valley Nursery Directory

Looking for somewhere close to home for your fall gardening needs? From saplings and shovels to fertilizer and ower seeds, everything a greenthumb desires can be found at nurseries all around the Valley.

1619 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler 480-963-1061

Desert Horizon Nursery

19250 S. Ellsworth Rd., Queen Creek 480-987-3308

Green eld Citrus Nursery 2558 Lehi Rd., Mesa, 480-830-8000

Phoenix

All Season Wholesale Growers

6623 S. 32nd St. #4, Phoenix 602-276-0230

Ambius Plants

4014 E. Broadway Rd. #408, Phoenix 800-581-9946

Arcadia Color Garden Nursery 1828 N. 52nd St., Phoenix, 602-955-4500

Arid Solutions Nursery

3815 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix 602-437-5194

Moon Valley Nurseries

3775 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler 480-648-2555

Moon Valley Nurseries 1875 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler 480-648-0603

Sea of Green Hydroponics 1828 E. University Dr. #11, Tempe 480-967-2045

SummerWinds Nursery

3160 S. Country Club Dr., Mesa 480-892-1469

Berridge Nurseries 4647 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix 602-952-8080

Dig It Urban Gardens and Nursery

3015 N. 16th St., Phoenix, 602-812-7476

Dream With Colors

3635 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix 602-454-9371

Moon Valley Nurseries 14225 N. 7th St., Phoenix, 602-904-5792

Phoenix Desert Nursery

3525 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix 602-243-7064

Plant Stand of Arizona

Puzzle Answers

6420 S. 28th St., Phoenix, 602-304-0551

Shamus O Leary Tropicals

6441 S. 32nd St., Phoenix, 602-434-5641

SummerWinds Nursery

17826 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix 602-867-1822

Western Tree Co.

3401 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix 602-243-6125

Whit ll Nursery

824 E. Glendale Ave., Phoenix 602-944-8479

Whit ll Nursery

2647 E. Southern Ave., Phoenix 602-268-9096

Scottsdale

Harper’s Landscape Co. and Gardening Centre 2529 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale 480-946-3481

Moon Valley Nurseries

18047 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix 480-374-3964

East Valley

A & P Nursery

Treeland Nurseries, Inc. 2900 S. Country Club Dr., Mesa 480-497- 2525

Tropica Mango Rare and Exotic Tropical Fruit Tree Nursery 10520 E. Apache Trail, Apache Junction 602-576-6948

V&P Nurseries, Inc. 21919 E. Germann Rd., Queen Creek 480-917-9847

Whit ll Nursery 820 N. Cooper Rd., Gilbert, 480-892-2712

West Valley

A & P Nursery

2645 W. Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 480-839-5362

Elgin Nursery & Tree Farm 8606 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix 623-936-1100

Moon Valley Nurseries 11320 W. Indian School Rd., Avondale 623-242-0370

SummerWinds Nursery 6426 W. Bell Rd., Glendale, 623-979-5296

6129 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, 480-396-8800

A & P Plant Nurseries

2601 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert 480-892-7939

Arbor Care 5235 S. Kyrene Rd., Tempe, 480-491-5123